Canon ZR30MC Instruction Manual

U.S.A. CANON U.S.A., INC. NEW JERSEY OFFICE

100 Jamesburg Road, Jamesburg, NJ 08831 USA

CANON U.S.A., INC. CHICAGO OFFICE

100 Park Blvd., Itasca, IL 60143 USA

CANON U.S.A., INC. LOS ANGELES OFFICE

15955 Alton Parkway, Irvine, CA 92618 USA

CANON U.S.A., INC. HONOLULU OFFICE

1020 Auahi Street, Bldg. #8, Honolulu, HI 96814 USA

● If you have any questions, call the Canon U.S.A. Information Center toll-free at 1-800-828-4040 (U.S.A. only).

CANADA CANON CANADA INC. NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS

6390 Dixie Road, Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1P7

CANON CANADA INC. CALGARY

2828, 16th Street, N.E. Calgary, Alberta T2E 7K7

CANON CANADA INC. MONTREAL

5990 Côte de Liesse, Quebec H4T 1V7

● If you have any questions, call the Canon Canada Information Center toll-free at 1-800-828-4040. (Canada only)

● Si vous avez des questions, veuillez téléphoner sans frais au Canada 1-800-828-4040. (Canada seulement)

MEXICO CANON MEXICANA, S. DE R.L. DE C.V.

Periferico Sur No. 4124 Col. Ex-Rancho de Anzaldo C.P. 01900 México, D.F., México

CENTRO Y SURAMÉRICA CANON LATIN AMERICA, INC.

6505 Blue Lagoon Drive Suite 325 Miami FL 33126 USA

ASIA CANON HONGKONG COMPANY LTD.

9/F, The Hong Kong Club Building, 3A Chater Road, Central, Hong Kong

PUB.DIM-370 © CANON INC. 2001 0000A/ABXX DY8-9120-263-000

PRINTED IN JAPAN

IMPRIME AU JAPON

IMPRESO EN JAPÓN

CANON INC.

DIGITAL VIDEO CAMCORDER

Instruction Manual

CAMESCOPE ET LECTEUR VIDEO NUMERIQUES

Mode d’emploi

VIDEOCAMARA Y GRABADORA DIGITAL

Manual de Instrucciones

ENGLISH

FRANÇAIS

ESPAÑOL

Mini

Digital Video Cassette

NTSC

Printed on 70% reused paper.

Document réalisé avec du papier recyclé à 70%.

El papel aqui utilizado es 70% reciclado.

Introduction

WARNING:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS PRODUCT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

Important Usage Instructions

Digital Video Camcorder, ZR30 MC and Compact Power Adapter, CA-560 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two

conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and use in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. Use of shielded cable is required to comply with class B limits in Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.

Do not make any changes or modifications to the equipment unless otherwise specified in the manual. If such changes or modifications should be made, you could be required to stop operation of the equipment.

Canon U.S.A. Inc. One Canon Plaza, Lake Success, NY 11042, U.S.A. Tel No. (516)328-5600

WARNING:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK AND TO REDUCE ANNOYING INTERFERENCE, USE THE RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES ONLY.

Unauthorized recording of copyrighted materials may infringe on the rights of copyright owners and be contrary to copyright laws.

Important Warning

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure, that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the product.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.

Introduction

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

In these safety instructions the word “product” refers to the Canon Digital Video Camcorder ZR30 MC and all its accessories.

1. Read Instructions — All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the product is operated.

2. Retain Instructions — The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.

3. Heed Warnings — All warnings on the product and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.

4. Follow Instructions — All operating and maintenance instructions should be followed.

5. Cleaning — Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. The product should be cleaned only as recommended in this manual.

6. Accessories — Do not use accessories not recommended in this manual as they may be hazardous.

7. Avoid magnetic or electric fields — Do not use the camera close to TV transmitters, portable communication devices or other sources of electric or magnetic radiation. They may cause picture interference, or permanently damage the camera.

8. Water and Moisture — Hazard of electric shock — Do not use this product near water or in rainy/moist situations.

9. Placing or Moving — Do not place on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table. The product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the product. A product and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart combination to overturn.

10. Power Sources — The CA-560 Compact Power Adapter should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your product dealer or local power company. Regarding other power sources such as battery power, refer to instructions in this manual.

11. Polarization — The CA-560 Compact Power Adapter is equipped with a polarized 2-prong plug (a plug having one blade wider than the other). The 2-prong polarized plug will fit into the power outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug still fails to fit, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug.

12. Power Cord Protection — Power cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them. Pay particular attention to plugs and the point from which the cords exit the product.

13. Outdoor Antenna Grounding — If an outside antenna is connected to the product, be sure the antenna is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges. Section 810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI / NFPA No. 70—1984, provides information with respect to proper grounding of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna discharge unit, size of grounding conductors, location of antenna discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes, and requirements for the grounding electrode. See figure

Introduction

14. Lightning — For added protection of this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, disconnect it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and power-line surges.

15. Power Lines — An outside antenna system should not be located in the vicinity of overhead power lines or other electric light or power circuits, or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When installing an outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from touching such power lines or circuits as contact with them might be fatal.

16. Overloading — Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock.

17. Objects and Liquid Entry — Never push objects of any kind into this product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Be careful not to spill liquid of any kind onto the product.

18. Servicing — Do not attempt to service this product yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

19. Damage Requiring Service — Disconnect this product from the wall outlet and all power sources including battery, and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions: a. When the power-supply cord or plug is

damaged.

b. If any liquid has been spilled onto, or

objects have fallen into, the product.

c. If the product has been exposed to

rain or water.

d. If the product does not operate

normally even if you follow the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operation instructions. Improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to its normal operation.

e. If the product has been dropped or the

cabinet has been damaged.

f. When the product exhibits a distinct

change in performance. This indicates a need for service.

20. Replacement Parts — When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts that are specified by Canon or that have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock or other hazards.

21. Safety Check — Upon completion of any service or repairs to this product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine that the product is in safe operating order.

EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA GROUNDING AS PER NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

ANTENNA LEAD IN WIRE

ANTENNA DISCHARGE UNIT (NEC SECTION 810-20)

GROUNDING CONDUCTORS (NEC SECTION 810-21)

GROUND CLAMPS

POWER SERVICE GROUNDING ELECTRODE SYSTEM (NEC ART 250. PART H)

NEC - NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

ELECTRIC SERVICE EQUIPMENT

GROUND CLAMP

Fig. 1

Important Usage Instructions ....................2

IMPORTANT SAFETY

INSTRUCTIONS ..................................3

Thank you for Choosing a Canon ..............7

Introducing the ZR30 MC..........................8

Finding Your Way Around the ZR30 MC ..9

~ Preparations ... ~

Powering Your Camcorder ......................12

Loading a Cassette ..................................17

~ Basic Recording ... ~

Basic Recording ......................................19

Zooming ..................................................23

Using the LCD Screen ............................24

~ Basic Playback ... ~

Playing Back a Cassette ..........................27

Connections for Playback on a

TV Screen............................................31

Tips for Making Better Videos ................34

~ General ... ~

Turning the Image Stabilizer Off ............36

Using the Menus ......................................37

Using the Wireless Controller..................45

Adjusting the Selectable Color

Light-up Buttons ................................48

~ For Recording ...~

Setting the Date and Time........................49

Taking Still Pictures to a Cassette............52

Searching and Reviewing While

Recording ............................................54

Using the Various Recording

Programs..............................................55

Using Digital Effects................................59

Using the Multi-Image Screen ................64

Audio Recording ......................................66

Setting the Self-Timer ..............................68

Using the VL-3 Video Light

(optional) ............................................70

Using the DM-50 Microphone

(optional) ............................................71

~ When Making Manual Adjustments ...~

Using AE Shift ........................................72

Setting the Shutter Speed ........................73

Adjusting Focus Manually ......................75

Setting the White Balance........................76

~ For Playback ...~

Displaying Date, Time and Camcorder Data

(Data Code) ........................................78

Searching the Tape (Photo Search/

Date Search) ........................................81

Returning to a Pre-Marked Position ........82

Editing to a VCR......................................83

Dubbing to/from a Cassette with Digital

Video Equipment ................................84

Recording from a VCR, TV or Analog

Camcorder (Analog Line-in) ..............86

Recording Over Existing Scenes

(AV Insert Editing)..............................88

Audio Dubbing ........................................91

Setting the Audio Mix..............................94

Connecting to a PC ..................................96

Introduction

Contents

Introduction

Editing

Using the Full Range of Features

Mastering the Basics

Contents, cont.

In addition to the contents and index please refer to:

• Finding Your Way Around the ZR30 MC ( 9)

• Screen displays ( 137)

• Troubleshooting — in case you run into any problems ( 129)

• Menu at Glance ( 148)

Symbols used in this instruction manual:

: Reference page numbers : Functions that can be operated

from the body of the camcorder

: Functions that can be operated

from the wireless controller

: Supplementary notes for

camcorder operation

` : Operation confirmation beeps

( 22)

• Capital letters are used to refer to settings displayed in the menus and buttons labeled on the camcorder itself, e.g. Press the MENU button.

For quick reference

The serial number of this product may be found on the bottom of the camcorder. No others have the same serial number as yours. You should record the number and other vital information here and retain this book as a permanent record of your purchase to aid identification in case of theft.

Date of Purchase Dealer Purchased From Dealer Address Dealer Phone No. Model Name ZR30 MC Serial No.

Introduction

Memory Card Introduction ......................97

Recording Still Images to a

Memory Card ....................................101

Recording an Image from a Cassette as a

Still Image ........................................103

Recording from Another DV Device as a

Still Image ........................................104

Viewing Still Images..............................105

Preventing Accidental Erasure

(Protect) ............................................107

Erasing Still Images ..............................108

Combining Images and Recording Them

to a Cassette (Card Mix) ..................110

Copying Still Images from a Cassette....113

Copying Memory Card Still Images

to a Cassette ......................................114

Marking a Still Image for Printing

(Print Mark) ......................................115

Formatting a Memory Card....................116

Other Information and Precautions ........117

Preparing the Camcorder........................120

Notes on Using the Batteries..................122

Maintenance ..........................................125

Troubleshooting......................................129

The ZR30 MC System Diagram ............133

Optional Accessories ..............................134

Screen Displays ......................................137

Specifications ........................................144

Index ......................................................145

Menu at a Glance ..................................148

Contents, cont.

Using a Memory Card

Additional Information

To get started we suggest that you master the basic operations of the camcorder first, before moving on to use its full range of features.

Introduction

Thank you for Choosing a Canon

Your camcorder is supplied with the following accessories:

WL-D74 Wireless Controller

Two AA batteries

SS-600 Shoulder Strap Lens cap and lens cap

cord

S-150 S-video Cable

STV-250 Stereo Video Cable

Lithium button battery

CA-560 Compact Power Adapter (including AC power cable)

BP-511 Battery Pack

First, we’d like to thank you for purchasing this Canon camcorder. Its advanced technology makes it very easy to use — you will soon be making high-quality videos which will give you pleasure for years to come.

To get the most out of your new camcorder, we recommend that you read this manual thoroughly — there are many sophisticated features which will add to your recording enjoyment.

Getting started

WL-D77 Wireless Controller

Two AA batteries

SS-700 Shoulder Strap Lens cap and lens cap

cord

S-150 S-video Cable

STV-250N Stereo Video Cable

MMC-8M MultiMediaCard (with pre-recorded sample images)

Lithium button battery

CA-560 Compact Power Adapter (including AC power cable)

BP-512 Battery Pack

Soft case for MultiMediaCard

Lets you record vivid, virtually blurfree still images of moving subjects onto a memory card.

Introduction

Stabilizes your recordings even in long telephoto shots.

Introducing the ZR30 MC

Using a DV cable, connect the ZR30 MC to a PC equipped with a DV terminal and transfer your original images to your PC.

IEEE 1394 DV Terminal

Just press the photo button to capture still pictures.

Still Photos

Image Stabilizer

2.5” LCD Screen

A 2.5” LCD screen makes it easy for you to shoot colorful, well composed video. It is also great for playback.

Audio Dubbing/AV Insert

Editing

Add new sound to original sound, or replace original sound and images on a pre-recorded tape.

Analog Line-in Recording

Connect to a VCR or analog camcorder and record onto a DV tape in the ZR30 MC.

10× Lens and 40× (Card)/

200× (Tape) Digital Zoom

Memory Card

Record, manage and store still images on a MultiMediaCard or a highcapacity SD Memory Card. (Both cards are inserted into the same slot in the camcorder.) Combine still images recorded on the card with your original movies or still images. Also great for easy transfer of still images to a PC.

Extended Recording Time

Function

Record for 1.5×, 2× or 3× longer than when in SP mode – up to 4 hours on an 80 minute tape.

Progressive Photo

Selectable Color Light-up

Buttons

Advanced digital technology allows you to add special effects during recording or playback. Display 4, 9 or 16 still images at once with the multi-image screen.

Digital Effects

Advanced Accessory Shoe

Allows the Canon Video Light VL-3 or the Directional Stereo Microphone DM-50 (both optional) to be easily attached and powered by the camcorder’s own power source.

Mastering

the Basics

Finding Your Way Around the ZR30 MC

Easy Recording

Program AE

Program selector (p. 55)

DC IN

9.5V CHARGE

MENU button (p. 38)

LCD screen (p. 24)

FOCUS button (p. 75)/ (play/pause) button (p. 27)

AE SHIFT button (p. 72)/ (stop) button (p. 27)

BATT. (battery) RELEASE button (p. 14)

Memory card compartment cover (p. 98)

Backup battery cover (p. 124)

Battery attachment unit (p. 13)

LCD panel OPEN button (p. 24)

Strap attachment bar (p. 121)

Selector dial (p. 30, 38)

CHARGE indicator (p. 13)

DC IN terminal (p. 12)

REC SEARCH +button (p. 54)/ (fast forward) button (p. 27)

Record review button (p. 54)/ REC (record) SEARCH –button(p. 54)/

(rewind) button (p. 27)

REC PAUSE (LINE-IN)

DIGITAL EFFECTS

CARD

SLIDE SHOW /MIX

ON/OFF

INDEX SCREEN

DIGITAL EFFECTS button (p. 62)

Digital effects ON/OFF button (p. 62)/ INDEX SCREEN button (p. 106)

Self-timer button (p. 68)/ REC PAUSE (LINE-IN) button (p. 85, 87)

CARD–button (p. 105)

CARD+button (p. 105)

SLIDE SHOW button (p. 106)/ Card MIX button (p. 112)

Mastering

the Basics

TAPE/CARD switch (p. 19)

POWER indicator (p. 19)

Viewfinder (p. 120, 126)

Viewfinder protect cover (p. 126)

POWER switch (p. 19)

Viewfinder focusing lever (p. 120)

Grip belt (p. 120)

Advanced accessory shoe (p. 70, 71)

Zoom controller (p. 23)

Speaker (p. 30)

PHOTO button (p. 52, 101)

Strap attachment bar (p. 121)

Cassette compartment (p. 17)

Cassette compartment cover (p. 17)

Start/Stop button (p. 20)

CAMERA

•

OFF

•

PLAY(VCR)

•

}

AME

PLAY(VCR)

OWE

CARD

TAPE

Mastering

the Basics

SET

REW

PLAY

START /STOP

PHOTO

SELF

TIMER

SCREEN

DATA

CODE

–

CARD

AUDIO

MONITOR

REC

PAUSE

SEARCH SELECT

SLIDESHOW

ZERO SET MEMORY

AUDIO

DUB.

STOP

MIX

BALANCE

ST-1

ST-2

ON/OFFD.EFFECTS

SET

ZOOM

INSERT

PAUSE

SLOW

REMOTE SET

–/

WIRELESS CONTROLLER WL-D77

IN/OUT

MIC

× 2 button (p. 29)

START/STOP button (p. 20)

MENU button (p. 38)

TV SCREEN button (p. 137)

SELF TIMER button (p. 68)

DATA CODE button (p. 78) D.EFFECTS (Digital effects)

button (p. 62)

REC PAUSE button (p. 85, 87) ZERO SET MEMORY button (p. 82)

CARD buttons (p. 105)

Transmitter

Zoom buttons (p. 23)

SET button (p. 38)

Digital effects ON/OFF button (p. 62)

MIX BALANCE buttons (p. 94)

Controller buttons (p. 38)

Search buttons (p. 81) SEARCH SELECT button (p. 81)

AUDIO MONITOR button (p. 94)

AUDIO DUB. button (p. 93) AV INSERT button (p. 90)

REMOTE SET button (p. 46)

button (p. 28)

FF button (p. 27) PLAY button (p. 27)

STOP button (p. 27) SLOW button (p. 28)

REW button (p. 27)

PAUSE button (p. 28)

PHOTO button (p. 52, 101)

SLIDE SHOW button (p. 106)

IN/OUT IN/OUT

Bottom view

Remote sensor (p. 45)

Terminal cover

Stereo microphone (p. 91)

Tripod socket (p. 34)

OPEN/EJECT switch (p. 17)

AV (audio/video) IN/OUT terminal (p. 31)/ H (phones) terminal (p. 31)

S-video IN/OUT terminal (p. 32)

DV IN/OUT terminal (p. 84, 96, 104)

MIC terminal (p. 66, 91)

u (LANC) terminal (p. 83)

Mastering

the Basics

Powering Your Camcorder

Before operating your camcorder, you will need to use the power adapter to:

Provide power from an AC outlet

Charge a battery pack

Notes:

• The power adapter converts current from a household power socket (100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz) to the DC current used by your camcorder.

• If the adapter is used next to a TV, it may cause bars to appear on the TV — move the adapter away from the TV or the antenna cable.

Connecting the camcorder to an AC outlet

Use the power adapter to provide your camcorder with instant power from an AC outlet. Always turn the camcorder off before connecting/removing the power source.

1. Set the POWER switch to OFF.

2. Connect the power adapter to the camcorder’s DC IN terminal.

3. Connect the power cable to the power adapter.

4. Plug the power cable into an AC outlet.

5. Disconnect the power adapter from the camcorder after use.

Unplug the power cable from the AC outlet, then disconnect it from the adapter.

POW

CAMERA

PLAY(VCR)

Mastering

the Basics

Attaching and charging the battery packs

Your battery pack was partially charged before it left the factory. It should have enough power for you to check that your camcorder is working properly. However, you must charge the battery pack fully if you want it to power the camcorder for more than a few minutes. Always turn the camcorder off and raise the viewfinder before connecting/removing the battery.

1. Set the POWER switch to OFF.

2. Attach the battery to the camcorder.

• Remove the battery pack’s terminal cover.

• Rotate the viewfinder upwards.

• With the triangle on the battery pack pointing downwards, align the edge of the battery pack with the line on the camcorder, press lightly and slide the battery down until it clicks into place.

3. Connect the power adapter to the camcorder.

4. Connect the power cable to the adapter and plug it into an AC outlet.

• The charge indicator flashes red to show that charging is in progress. Single

flashes mean that the battery pack is less than 75% charged. Double flashes mean that it is more than 75% charged. The indicator glows steadily when the battery pack is fully charged. If the indicator blinks rapidly and continuously (twice a second), the battery pack may be defective.

• The battery pack will also charge when the POWER switch is turned to

positions other than OFF. The CHARGE indicator may both flash or stay lit.

CAM

ERA

OFF

PLAY(VCR)

DC IN

9.5V CHARGE

Charge indicator

Mastering

the Basics

5. When charging is complete, disconnect the power adapter from the camcorder. Unplug the power cable from the AC outlet, then disconnect it from the adapter.

6. Remove the battery pack after use.

• Rotate the viewfinder upwards.

• Press and hold the BATT. RELEASE button while you slide the battery up.

Notes:

• Never connect an unspecified product to the camcorder’s DC terminal.

Likewise, do not connect the power adapter to an unspecified product.

• You can find detailed notes for using the batteries in the “Notes on Using the

Batteries” ( 122). These notes include charging and recording times and how to install the backup battery.

Specifications

Power supply 100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz Power consumption 34 W Rated output 9.5 V, 2.7 A DC Operating temperature range 32°F–104°F (0°C– 40°C) Dimensions 21/4 × 11/8 × 41/8 in (57 × 28 × 104 mm) Weight 63/8 oz (180 g) (without power cable)

Weight and dimensions are approximate. Errors and omissions excepted. Subject to change without notice.

CA-560 Compact Power Adapter

When replacement of power supply is required, please return it to the responsible nearest Canon Service Center and please replace it with the same type number CA-560 or equivalent.

The Adapter can be used with a power supply between 100 and 240 V AC. For areas where 120 V AC power is not used, you will need a special plug adapter. Contact your nearest Canon Service Center for further information.

Mastering

the Basics

The Compact Power Adapter CA-560 included with the camcorder can be used along with the CR-560 Kit for 3 different ways to power the camcorder or charge battery packs:

1. Charge the BP-500 Series battery packs with power from your car battery.

2. Operate the camcorder with power from your car battery.

3. Charge the BP-500 Series battery packs from a household AC outlet.

The Charge Adapter/Car Battery Cable Kit CR-560 includes the following:

1. Charge the BP-500 Series battery packs with power from your car battery.

1 or 2 battery pack(s) + Charge Adapter + Car Battery Cable→ car’s cigarette lighter

Using the Charge Adapter CR-560 Kit (optional)

• Fast charging for the high-capacity BP-522 and BP-535 (both optional). Fifteen

minutes of charging gives 60 minutes of recording (using the viewfinder).

Time required for full charge

from car battery or household outlet BP-512 1 hr. 20 min. BP-511 (optional) 1 hr. 20 min. BP-522 (optional) 1 hr. 40 min. BP-535 (optional) 2 hr. 30 min.

Charge Adapter

Car Battery Cable

DC Cable

To car’s cigarette lighter

CHARGE

Mastering

the Basics

3. Charge the BP-500 Series battery packs from a household AC outlet.

1 or 2 battery pack(s) + Charge Adapter + Compact Power Adapter

2. Operate the camcorder with power from your car battery.

Camcorder + DC Cable + Charge Adapter + Car Battery Cable → car’s cigarette lighter

• Fast charging for the high-capacity BP-522 and BP-535 (both optional). Fifteen

minutes of charging gives 60 minutes of recording (using the viewfinder).

To car’s cigarette lighter

Note:

• For full details of how to use the CR-560, refer to its instruction manual.

CHARGE

Mastering

the Basics

Loading a Cassette

1. Make sure that you have attached a power source.

2. Slide the OPEN / EJECT 5 switch (on the bottom of the

camcorder) to release the cassette compartment cover.

• Pull the cover fully open (while holding the button) and wait a couple of seconds for the cassette compartment to open automatically.

• The confirmation beep sounds when the cassette cover fully opens.

3. Load or unload the cassette.

• Insert the cassette gently with the window facing the grip belt, and the REC/SAVE tab up.

• Remove the cassette by pulling it straight out.

4. Press the P mark on the compartment until it clicks, and wait

for it to close.

5. Click the cover back into place.

* D is a trade mark.

Notes:

• Do not interfere with the cassette compartment while it is opening or closing automatically, and do not attempt to close the cover until the cassette compartment has fully retracted.

• After loading a cassette, use record search ( 54) to find the point where you want to start recording.

• Be careful not to get your fingers caught in the cassette compartment cover.

• Do not leave the cassette in the camcorder after use — return it to its case and store it in a cool, clean, dry place.

• When you turn the camcorder’s power on, v flashes in the display until you load a cassette.

• With some types of tapes, the remaining tape display may not give an accurate reading ( 138).

OPEN/EJECT

Only use videocassettes marked with the D logo.*

Loading and unloading

Mastering

the Basics

Protecting tapes from accidental erasure

To protect your recording from accidental erasure, slide the tab on the cassette so that it exposes the hole. (This switch position is usually labeled SAVE or ERASE OFF.) If you load this cassette and put the camcorder in record pause mode ( 19), “THE TAPE IS SET FOR ERASURE PREVENTION” is displayed for approx. 4 seconds and then the v mark flashes in the display. If you want to record on the cassette again, slide the tab back so the hole is closed.

SAVE

REC

SAVE

REC

Cassette memory

You are unable to use the cassette memory function with this camcorder.

• To protect the tape heads, transfer cassettes directly from the tape case to the camcorder — do not open the tape protect cover or touch the tape itself.

• Do not use cassettes where the tape has been damaged or spliced — they may damage the camcorder.

• Do not insert anything into the small holes on the cassette or cover them with cellophane tape.

• Handle cassettes with care — dropping them or exposing them to external shocks may cause internal damage.

• Store cassettes in the provided case, first rewinding them to the start of the tape and then storing them upright.

• A cassette with metal plated terminals may become dirty with use, affecting information transfer. Therefore, after using a tape about 10 times, be sure to clean the terminals with a cotton swab.

Handling cassettes

Mastering

the Basics

Basic Recording

Have you completed the following steps?

• Attached a power source ( 12).

• Removed the lens cap ( 120) and fastened the shoulder strap ( 121).

• Chosen the display: viewfinder ( 120) or LCD screen ( 24)

Notes:

• When you’re using the viewfinder, fully close the LCD or rotate the LCD so that it faces the same direction as the lens ( 24).

• When using the viewfinder with the BP-522 or BP-535 Battery Pack (both optional) attached, extend the viewfinder and rotate it to a comfortable angle.

You may also want to install the backup battery ( 124) in order to set the date and time display ( 49).

5, 6

MER

PLAY(VCR)

OWE

MER

PLAY(VCR)

OWE

CARD

TAPE

Before you start recording

To record

1. Press the small green button on the POWER switch and hold, turn

the POWER switch to CAMERA.

• The camcorder automatically sets to record pause mode. PAUSE appears in the display.

• If you haven’t set the date and time display, SET THE TIME ZONE, DATE AND TIME appears in the display. For setting the time zone, see p. 49. For setting the date and time, see p. 51.

• The camcorder power indicator lights up red.

• The confirmation beep sounds.

• The camcorder will turn itself off if you leave it in record pause mode for more than about 5 minutes. To return to record pause mode, turn the POWER dial to OFF and then back to CAMERA.

2. Make sure the TAPE/CARD switch is set to TAPE.

• For still image recording to a memory card, see p. 101.

3. Load a cassette ( 17).

Mastering

the Basics

4. Slide the program selector to [.

• This selects the camcorder’s Easy Recording program. It allows you to

simply point and shoot without making any manual adjustments ( 57).

5. Press and release the start/stop button once to begin recording.

• For still image recording to a cassette, see p. 52.

6. Press and release the start/stop button again to pause recording.

• The camcorder returns to record pause mode and PAUSE reappears in the

display.

• You can stop and restart recording as often as you like by pressing the

start/stop button.

Note:

• After loading a cassette, start recording when the tape counter has stopped.

• Replace the lens cap.

• Return the viewfinder to its retracted position.

• Return the LCD screen flush to the camcorder body.

• Unload the cassette.

• Turn the POWER switch to OFF.

• Disconnect the power source.

Notes:

• To check that the camcorder is recording correctly, make a test recording first.

• Before making important recordings, clean the video heads using a Canon DVM-CL Digital Video Head Cleaning Cassette or a commercially available digital video head cleaning cassette.

• To close the LCD panel, rotate it vertically until the screen faces you, then press the upper right corner until it clicks securely closed.

• You cannot monitor the sound from the speaker when recording.

• For tips on how to make better videos, see p. 34.

• For extra recording time, set REC MODE to any mode other than SP ( 21).

When you have finished recording

Mastering

the Basics

Choose from 4 recording modes: SP (standard play), 1.5× SP, 2× SP or 3× SP.

• Only SP and LP modes are available when the camcorder is set to CARD

PLAY (VCR) mode.

Recording times (this example uses an 80-minute tape)

Changing the recording mode

REC MODE••••SP

VCR SET UP

( 37)

Notes:

About all 3 extended recording modes

• When recording and playing back tapes in one of the extended recording modes, the nature of the tape and usage conditions may affect recording, mosaic-like noise may appear in the image and the sound may be distorted during playback. For important recordings, therefore, set the camcorder to SP mode.

• If you record in more than one mode on the same tape, the picture may become distorted during playback and the time code may not be written correctly.

• A tape recorded in LP mode on other digital equipment may produce the mosaic-like noise and the sound may become distorted when playing back on this camcorder.

• A tape recorded in LP or LP mode on this camcorder may produce the mosaic-like noise and the sound may become distorted when playing back on other digital equipment.

About SP and LP modes

• The image quality of recordings done in SP or LP modes will be lower than that of those done in SP or LP modes.

• A cassette recorded in SP or LP mode cannot be played back on a camcorder not equipped with that mode.

You can’t add sound (audio dubbing) or images (AV insert) to a tape that has been recorded in a mode other than SP mode. If you plan to use either of these functions later, record in SP mode.

To change the recording mode, open the menu and select VCR SET UP. Then select REC MODE, set it to LP, SP or LP and close the menu.

Standard recording Extended recording

SP LP SP LP

1.5× SP 2× SP 3× SP

80 min.

(120 min.) (160 min.) (240 min.)

PLAY

(VCR)

CARD

PLAY

(VCR)

TAPE

CAMERA

TAPE

In SP and LP modes, image data is compressed twice as much as in SP and LP modes when being recorded to a tape.

Mastering

the Basics

Confirmation/Warning beeps

The camcorder’s short operation confirmation beeps are indicated by ` in the illustrations. Beeps sound upon certain camcorder operations such as when you turn the camcorder on, during the self-timer countdown, right before the camcorder’s automatic shut-off, and also upon any unusual condition of the camcorder. Beeps are not recorded on the tape.

BEEP••••••••ON

SYSTEM

( 37)

To turn the beep off, open the menu and select SYSTEM. Then select BEEP, set it to OFF and close the menu.

16:9 (Widescreen TV recording)

Produces images in the 16:9 format for playback on widescreen TVs.

To switch 16:9 to ON, open the menu and select CAM.SET UP. Then select 16:9, set it to ON and close the menu.

Notes:

• “16:9” is shown in the display when you switch the 16:9 mode on.

• You cannot use the 16:9 mode with the Easy Recording program.

• You cannot use the 16:9 mode when the multi-image screen is set. The 16:9 display becomes set to “– – –”.

• If you play back a recording made for 16:9 on a normal TV screen, the image will appear to be vertically “squashed” (compressed).

• If you connect the camcorder to a TV with an S1 terminal or the Video ID-1 system, recordings made in the 16:9 mode for wide screen TVs will automatically play back in wide screen mode on the TV screen.

16:9••••••••OFF

CAM.SET UP

( 37)

CAMERA

TAPE

PLAY (VCR)

CARD

CAMERA

CARD

PLAY

(VCR)

TAPE

CAMERA

TAPE

• The recording mode might not appear in the display correctly if you switch between SP and LP while the camcorder is connected to another digital video device.

• When the recording mode is changed to SP or LP, the camcorder modifies the image for appropriate recording in that mode.

• You might not be able to do DV dubbing correctly with the camcorder set to

SP or LP mode.

Mastering

the Basics

200× digital zoom Card 40×

Magnifies the camcorder’s zoom range by up to 20× (up to 4× when using a memory card).

The zoom control continues to work as usual. You can freely zoom in and out between 1× and 200× magnification — the camcorder automatically switches between optical zooming (up to 10×) and digital zooming (10× to 200×).

Zooming

The camcorder’s 10× zoom lens allows you to choose the best picture angle for each scene:

• Move the zoom control towards W to zoom out to wide-angle.

• Move it towards T to zoom in to telephoto. You can also control the speed of zooming:

• Move the control slightly to zoom slowly.

• Move it farther to zoom more quickly. (The farther you move the zoom control, the faster the zoom speed.)

The T and W buttons on the wireless controller adjust the picture angle, but not the zoom speed.

10× optical zoom

To change the digital zoom, open the menu and select CAM.SET UP. Then select D.ZOOM, set it to OFF or 200× and close the menu.

Notes:

• When zooming, as a rule, keep at least 3 ft 33/8 in (1 m) between you and your

subject. However when the zoom is at the wide-angle position, you can focus on a subject as close as 3/8 in (1 cm).

• Image resolution is slightly lower when the magnification is greater than 10×.

• You cannot use digital zoom when the multi-image screen is set. The display

becomes “– – –”.

• The zoom indicator appears for 4 seconds. When the digital zoom is set to 40×,

the zoom indicator extends (light blue). When the digital zoom is set to 200× zoom, the zoom indicator extends again (a darker blue).

D.ZOOM••••••

40×

CAM.SET UP

( 37)

CAMERA

CARD

CAMERA

TAPE

Zoom out

Zoom in

Mastering

the Basics

Using the LCD Screen

Slide the LCD panel OPEN button and open the panel by pulling it away from the camcorder. This automatically switches the LCD screen on and the viewfinder off. When you close the LCD panel, press the upper corner until it clicks closed. The LCD screen automatically switches off and the viewfinder switches back on.

Opening and closing the LCD screen

You can choose the angle of the screen that suits you best by opening and rotating the screen, also you can rotate the LCD screen so that faces in the direction of the lens ( 26).

Changing the angle of the LCD screen

You can also push the panel flat against the camcorder until it is flush with the side, with the screen facing outwards.

90°

180°

Mastering

the Basics

Notes:

• Avoid touching the LCD screen when moving the LCD panel.

• Do not hold the camcorder by the LCD panel or the viewfinder.

• Make sure you open the LCD panel at 90°, before attempting to rotate it.

• Always rotate the LCD panel vertically into place, before closing it or pushing

it flat against the side of the camcorder.

• Always fully close the LCD panel until it clicks securely.

• Be careful not to leave the LCD, viewfinder or lens exposed to direct sunlight

outdoors or in a window. Doing so could cause damage.

• Bright light falling on the LCD screen may cause glare that makes it difficult

for you to view the image. In this case, switch to using the viewfinder. You are also able to adjust the brightness of the screen (see “Adjusting the LCD screen” below).

Adjusting the LCD screen

You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen.

Open the menu and select DISP.SET UP from the menu. Then select BRIGHTNESS, adjust the level with the selector dial and close the menu.

A bar showing the level appears in the display.

• Turn the selector dial up to make the display brighter.

• Turn the selector dial down to make the display darker.

Notes:

• The camcorder will remember your brightness setting even after you turn it off.

• The brightness of the LCD does not affect that of the recorded images or the

viewfinder.

About the LCD Screen

The LCD screen built into this camcorder is a high precision product. However, small black dots or bright points of light (red, blue or green) may appear constantly on the LCD screen. This is not a malfunction of the LCD screen and they are not recorded on the tape. (Effective dots: more than 99.99%)

( 37)

BRIGHTNESS••

DISP.SET UP

–+

PLAY (VCR)

CARD

CAMERA

CARD

PLAY

(VCR)

TAPE

CAMERA

TAPE

Mastering

the Basics

• These and all other indicators appear normally in the viewfinder.

Allowing the subject to monitor recording

When you turn the LCD panel so that it faces the same direction as the lens, you can watch yourself during recording or let your subject monitor recording. The viewfinder is also activated when the panel is in this position. (Adjusting the viewfinder,

120)

• You can choose the display style,

reversed (mirror on) or not (mirror off). The recording itself is unaffected regardless of which one you choose.

MIRROR••••••ON

DISP.SET UP

( 37)

To turn the mirror mode off, open the menu and select DISP.SET UP. Then select MIRROR, set it to OFF and close the menu.

The indicators that appear in the LCD display when MIRROR is turned on:

CAMERA

CARD

CAMERA

TAPE

Self-timer ( 68)

Recording to a memory card

No card

REC REC PAUSE EJECT

Mastering

the Basics

Playing Back a Cassette

You can use the LCD screen for instant, on-the-spot playback. The camcorder also plays back the sound track via the built-in speaker ( 30).

• When you play back a tape, you can also close the LCD panel with its screen side facing up.

• When you’re using the viewfinder to view playback, close the LCD panel.

To play back your recordings on a TV, see p. 31. To use the wireless controller, see p. 45.

Note:

• To avoid accidental recording, make sure that you slide the tab on the cassette so that it exposes the hole (the switch position is usually labeled SAVE or ERASE OFF).

1. Attach a power source and turn the POWER switch to PLAY

(VCR).

• The power indicator lights up green.

2. Make sure the TAPE/CARD switch is set to TAPE.

3. Load the cassette.

4. Press the e(play) button to start playback.

• To end playback, press the 3 (stop) button.

• To wind the tape forwards, stop playback and press the 1 (fast forward)

button.

• To wind the tape backwards, stop playback and press the ` (rewind)

button.

• If the playback picture is rough (mosaic-like noise), clean the video heads using a Canon DVM-CL Digital Video Head Cleaning Cassette or a commercially available digital video head cleaning cassette.

MERA

PLAY(VCR)

OWE

REC

FOCUS

AE SHIFT

REC

CARD

TAPE

Mastering

the Basics

Frame Advance

To play back frame by frame, press the +/ ae button repeatedly during playback pause. Press and hold to play back continuous frame advance.

Frame Reverse

To play back in reverse frame by frame, press the –/4a button repeatedly during playback pause. Press and hold to play back continuous frame reverse.

Slow Forward Playback

To play back at about 1/5 normal speed, press the SLOW M button during normal playback. Press the PLAY e button to return to normal playback.

• The camcorder automatically returns to playback after about 30 seconds of slow playback.

Special playback

Playback pause

Press the a (pause) button. To resume normal playback, press it again, or press the e (play) button. The camcorder automatically goes into stop mode after about 5 minutes’ playback pause.

Fast forward playback

To play back the recording at about 9.5 times normal speed, press and hold the 1 (fast forward) button during normal playback or press and hold the 1 (fast forward) button during normal fast forward.

Rewind playback

For reverse playback at about 9.5 times normal speed, press and hold the ` (rewind) button during normal playback or press and hold the ` (rewind) button during normal rewind.

Other playback modes

REW

– /

PAUS E

PLAY

STOP

SLOW

+ /

×2

Mastering

the Basics

Slow Reverse Playback

To play back in reverse at about 1/5 normal speed, press the –/4a button and then the SLOW M button during normal playback. Press the PLAY e button to return to normal playback.

• The camcorder automatically returns to ×1 reverse playback after about 30

seconds of slow playback.

Reverse Playback

To play back in reverse at normal speed, press the –/4a button during normal forward playback. Press the PLAY e button to return to normal forward playback.

• The camcorder automatically goes into stop mode after about 2 minutes of paused reverse playback.

Forward ×2 Playback

Press the ×2 button during normal playback. Press the PLAY e button to return to normal playback.

Reverse ×2 Playback

Press the –/4a button and then the ×2 button during normal playback. Press the PLAY e button to return to normal playback.

Notes:

• Mosaic-like noise appears on the screen during some of the special playback modes.

• There’s no audio during special playback.

Mastering

the Basics

Built-in speaker

The camcorder has a built-in speaker so you can review the sound track alongside the picture during tape playback. The built-in speaker is monaural.

Adjust the speaker volume by turning the selector dial.

• Turn the selector dial up to increase the volume, and down to lower the volume.

• A bar appears in the display to indicate the current volume. It disappears in 4 seconds.

• You can turn off the volume completely by turning the selector dial down until OFF appears.

Notes:

• Sometimes audio may sound distorted when the volume is turned up high. If this happens, turn down the volume.

• The speaker turns off when the camcorder is set to any mode other than TAPE PLAY (VCR) mode.

Using the headphones

• You can also use the headphones to monitor the sound track. Change the setting of the AV/headphones terminal through the menu ( 31).

• You can adjust the headphone volume separately from the built-in speaker, either during TAPE PLAY (VCR) mode or TAPE CAMERA mode. The volume level is the same regardless of mode.

• The levels you adjust for the built-in speaker and headphones are memorized separately. The camcorder remembers your levels even if you turn the camcorder off and back on again.

• The speaker turns off when you use headphones.

+ 121 hidden pages