Hitachi VM-6400A Instruction Manual

PRECAUTIONS - 1 -

HITACHI

Instruction Manual

Video Camcorder

VM-6400A/VM-7400A

HITACHI HOME ELECTRONICS HITACHI (HSC) CANADA INC.
(AMERICA), INC. 6740 Campobello Road

1855 Donroch Court, Mississauga, Ontario L5N 2L8
San Diego, California 92173 CANADA
Tel. [phone] Tel. [phone]

HITACHI SALES CORPORATION OF
HAWAII, INC.

3219 Koapaka Street, Honolulu, HI 96819
Tel. [phone]

Thank you for choosing the
simple instructions before operating your camcorder.

QR19392 ©Hitachi, Ltd. 1998 Printed in Japan KY-F(N)

video camcorder. For maximum pleasure and convenience please read these

PRECAUTIONS - 2 -

TABLE OF CONTENT

PRECAUTIONS......................................................................................................................................................................3

FEATURES .........................................................................................................................................................................4

ACCESSORIES..................................................................................................................................................................4

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS...............................................................................................................................................4

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTOR/CHARGER .................................................................7

ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER (EVF) ...................................................................................................................................8

EYEPIECE ADJUSTMENT ...............................................................................................................................................9

POWER SOURCES...............................................................................................................................................................9

CHECKING THE BATTERY...........................................................................................................................................10

CHARGING THE BATTERY ..............................................................................................................................................11

IDENTIFICATION AND OPERATION OF CONTROLS .................................................................................................12

INSERTING AND REMOVING CASSETTES..................................................................................................................15

MAKING A SAMPLE CAMERA RECORDING ............................................................................................................16

INSTANT REVIEW...........................................................................................................................................................17

PLAYBACK ...........................................................................................................................................................................17

AUTOMATIC REWIND .................................................................................................................................................... 18

DATE/TIME SETTING.........................................................................................................................................................19

DATE RECORDING ............................................................................................................................................................20

AUTO FOCUS ......................................................................................................................................................................22

DISPLAY BUTTON ..............................................................................................................................................................23

TAPE COUNTER .............................................................................................................................................................23

MEMORY...........................................................................................................................................................................24

REMAINING TAPE ..............................................................................................................................................................24

PROGRAM AE (Auto Exposure)....................................................................................................................................25

POWER ZOOM ................................................................................................................................................................25

DIGITAL ZOOM....................................................................................................................................................................25

MACRO..............................................................................................................................................................................26

QUICK EDIT (Edit Search) .............................................................................................................................................26

FADE IN/FADE OUT (Only for VM-7400A) ......................................................................................................................26

"STABLE PIX" (Electronic Image Stabilizer) FUNCTION (Only for VIVI-7400A) ...................................................28

INDEX SIGNAL RECORDING .......................................................................................................................................28

TITLE RECORDING ............................................................................................................................................................29

VIEWING THE PICTURE PLAYED BACK ON YOUR TV .............................................................................................31

CAMCORDER TO VCR DUBBING...................................................................................................................................32

ATTACHING THE OPTIONAL TELE OR WIDE CONVERTER LENS ....................................................................33

USING THE BUILT-IN CAMERA LIGHT (Only for VM-7400A).....................................................................................33

VIEWFINDER BRIGHT CONTROL ...................................................................................................................................35

HOW TO ATTACH THE SHOULDER STRAP.............................................................................................................35

TROUBLESHOOTING ........................................................................................................................................................35

PLAYBACK OF PRERECORDED CASSETTE...............................................................................................................36

CLEANING THE INSIDE OF THE ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER ............................................................................36

HEAD CLEANING ................................................................................................................................................................37

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE ...........................................................................................................................................37

SPECIFICATIONS ...........................................................................................................................................................37

For U.S.A. only .....................................................................................................................................................................38

ACCESSORIES ADD EXCITEMENT ...............................................................................................................................38

WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE
THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

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

PRECAUTIONS - 3 -

This symbol warns the user that uninsulated voltage within the unit may
have sufficient magnitude to cause electric shock. Therefore, it is dangerous
to make any kind of contact with any inside part of this unit.

This symbol alerts the user that important literature concerning the
operation and maintenance of this unit has been included. Therefore, it
should be read carefully in order to avoid any problems.

CAUTION:

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

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian ICES-003.

Warning: 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 a 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 used 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 by one or more of the following
measures:

--Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

--Increase the separation between the equipment and the 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.
Caution to the user: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the
user's authority to operate the equipment.

Caution: Avoid operating your camcorder immediately after moving it from a cold area to a warm humid area.
Give the camcorder 2 to 3 hours to acclimate to the surroundings before inserting a video cassette. When
moved from a cold area to a warm humid area, moisture may condense on the head drum inside the machine.
This moisture could cause the tape to stick to the headwheel and damage the headwheel or tape.

See the bottom of the AC adaptor/charger. The rating and caution label is located on the bottom of the AC
adaptor/charger.

WARNING: Many television programs and films are copyrighted. In certain circumstances, copyright law may
apply to private in-home videotaping of copyrighted materials.

PRECAUTIONS

Any problems that occur as a result of any of the following conditions will not be covered by our warranty.

 Be careful that no water, dust, or sand enters the camcorder.
 When you are not using the camcorder, switch off the power and attach the lens cap.
 When you shoot at a scene which contains an extremely bright object such as the the sun or a light source, a
bright vertical bar may appear in the picture.
Your camcorder is functioning properly, but the solid-state pickup device (CCD) usually causes this as an
inherent characteristic. Try to avoid shooting an excessive bright object directly.
 Be sure not to leave the camcorder in a place where the temperature exceeds 140ºF (60ºC), or the pickup
device may be damaged.

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS - 4 -

Dangerous includes:

• Inside a car with the windows closed and in direct sunshine.

• Near heating appliances.
 Do not point the electronic viewfinder to direct sunlight; it could damage the viewfinder.
 The liquid crystal display (LCD) panel is made by highly precise technology. More than 99.99% of its picture
elements (pixels) are effective, but some (less than 0.01%) may not appear as coloured bright dots. This does
not indicate a fault as the LCD panel stretches the limits of current technology.

FEATURES

• Digital zoom up to X32

• Fade in/fade out (only for VM-7400A)

• Stable pix (Electronic Image Stabilizer) function (only for VM-7400A)

• Solid-state camera pickup

•

High Quality picture technology

• Auto Focus power zoom lens with macro feature

• Full record and playback capability with standard

• Program AE (Auto Exposure)

• Color electronic viewfinder (EVF)

• Time and date

• Titler

• Index symbol recording

• Built-in automatic camera light (only for VM-7400A)

cassette

Stable Pix Function No Yes

Fade Mode No Yes

Built-in Camera Light No Yes

* This instruction manual shows the illustrations for the VM-7400A.

•

is compatible with any video cassette recorder bearing the

This video camcorder with this marking incorporates high-quality picture technology and

VM-6400A VM-7400A

mark.

ACCESSORIES

Check to make sure you have the following components and accessories (besides the camcorder unit itself)
before disposing of the packing material.

1. Lead-acid rechargeable battery

2. AC adaptor/charger

3. Shoulder strap

4. DC cord

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS - 5 -

In addition to the careful attention devoted to quality standards in the manufacture of your video product, safety
is a major factor in the design of every instrument. But, safety is your responsibility too.
This page lists important information that will help to assure your enjoyment and proper use of a Video
Camcorder and accessory equipment. Please read it carefully before operating your video product and keep it
in a handy place for future reference.

INSTALLATION

1 Read and Follow Instructions -- All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the video

product is operated. Follow all operating and use instructions.

2 Retain Instruction -- The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.
3 Heed Warnings -- Comply with all warnings on the video product and in the operating instructions.
4 Polarized Plug -- This video product is equipped with a polarized alternating-current line plug (a plug having

one blade wider than the other). This 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 should still fail to fit,
contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. To prevent electric shock do not use this polarized plug
with an extension cord, receptacle or other outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted without blade exposure.
If you need an extension, use a polarized cord.

5 Power Sources -- This video product 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 video dealer or local
power company. For video products intended to operate from battery power, or other sources, refer to the
operating instructions.
6 Overloading -- Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this can result in a risk of fire or electric
shock. Overloaded AC outlets and extension cords are dangerous, and so are frayed power cords, damaged or
cracked wire insulation and broken plugs. They may result in shock or fire hazard. Periodically examine the
cord and have it replaced by your service technician if appearance indicates damage or deteriorated insulation.

7 Power Cord Protection -- Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or
pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance.
8 Ventilation -- Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation to ensure reliable operation of the
video product and to protect it from overheating. These openings must not be blocked or covered. The
openings should never be blocked by placing the video product on a bed, sofa, rug or other similar surface.
This video product should never be placed near or over a radiator or heat register. This video product should
not be placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack unless proper ventilation is provided or the
video product manufacturer's instructions have been followed.

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS - 6 -

9 Attachments -- Do not use attachments unless recommended by the video product manufacturer as they
may cause hazards.

Caution: Maintain electrical safety. Power-line operated equipment or accessories connected to this unit
should bear the UL listing mark or CSA certification mark on the accessory itself and should not have been
modified so as to defeat the safety features. This will help avoid any potential hazard from electric shock or fire.
If in doubt, contact qualified service personnel.

10 Water and Moisture -- Do not use this video product near water -- for example, near a bath tub, wash bowl,
kitchen sink, or laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, and the like.
11 Accessories -- Do not place this video product on an unstable card, stand, tripod, bracket or table. The
video product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the appliance. Use only
with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table recommended by the manufacturer, or sold with the video product.
Any mounting of the product should follow the manufacturer's instructions, and should use a mounting
accessory recommended by the manufacturer.
11A An appliance and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven
surfaces may cause the appliance and cart combination to overturn.

12 Outdoor Antenna Grounding -- If an outside antenna or cable system is connected to the video product,
be sure the antenna or cable system 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, 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 example below:

EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA GROUNDING

13 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 or approaching such power lines
or circuits as contact with them might be fatal. Installing an outdoor antenna can be hazardous and should be
left to a professional antenna installer.

14 Cleaning -- Unplug this video product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or
aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.
15 Object and Liquid Entry -- Never push objects of any kind into this video product through openings as they
may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill
liquid of any kind on the video product.

USE

16 Lightning -- For added protection for this video product during a lightning storm, or when it its left

unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or
cable-system. This will prevent damage to the video product due to lightning and power-line surges.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR
AC ADAPTOR/CHARGER - 7 -

SERVICE

17 Servicing -- Do not attempt to service this video product yourself as opening or removing covers may

expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
18 Conditions Requiring Service -- Unplug this video product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to
qualified service personnel under the following conditions.
a. When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged
b. If liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the video product.
c. If the video product has been exposed to rain or water.
d. If the video product does not operate normally by following the operating instructions. Adjust only those
controls that are covered by the operating instructions. Improper adjustment of other controls may result in
damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the video product to its normal
operation.
e. If the video product has been dropped or the cabinet has been damaged.
f. When the video product exhibits a distinct change in performance -- this indicates a need for service.
19 Replacement Parts -- When replacement parts are required, have the service technician verify that the
replacements he uses have the same safety characteristics as the original parts. Use of replacements specified
by the video product manufacturer can prevent fire, electric shock or other hazards
20 Safety Check -- Upon completion of any service or repairs to this video product, ask the service technician
to perform safety checks recommended by the manufacturer to determine that the video product is in safe
operating condition.
21 Heat -- The product should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or
other products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR
AC ADAPTOR/CHARGER

1. Save these instructions--This page contains important safety and operating instructions for AC
Adaptor/Charger Model VM-ACV21A.

2. Before using AC Adaptor/Charger, read all instructions and cautionary markings on (1) AC Adaptor/Charger,
(2) battery and (3) product using battery.

3. Also read all instructions on pages 4 and 5.

4. Caution--To reduce the risk of injury, charge only rechargeable battery, VM-BP64/BP65/BP66/BP67. Other
types of batteries may burst causing personal injury and damage.

5. Do not expose charger to rain or snow.

6. Use of an attachment not recommended or sold by the battery charger manufacturer may result in a risk of
fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.

7. To reduce the risk of damage to electric plug and cord, pull by plug rather than cord when disconnecting
charger.

8. Make sure cord is located so that it will not be stepped on, tripped over, or otherwise subjected to damage or
stress.

9. Do not operate charger with damaged cord or plug — replace them immediately.

10. An extension cord should not be used unless absolutely necessary.
Use of improper extension cord could result in a risk of fire and electric shock. If extension cord must be used,
make sure:

ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER (EVF) - 8 -

A. That the pins on plug of extension cord are the same number, size, and shape as those of plug on charger.
B. That extension cord is properly wired and in good electrical condition; and
C. That wire size should be met below:
Minimum AWG size Length of extension cord (feet)
18 Equal to or less than 100
16 Equal to or less than 150

11. Do not operate charger if it has received a sharp blow, been dropped, or otherwise damaged in any way;
take it to a qualified serviceman.

12. Do not disassemble charger; take it to a qualified serviceman when service or repair is required. Incorrect
reassembly may result in a risk of electric shock or fire.

13. To reduce the risk of electric shock, unplug charger from outlet before attempting any maintenance or
cleaning.

"Note to CATV system installer: This reminder is provided to call the CATV system installer's attention to
Article 820-40 of the NEC that provides guidelines for proper grounding and, in particular, specifies that the
cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system of the building, as close to the point of cable entry as
practical".

ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER (EVF)

Set the viewfinder to the position shown in the figure when carrying the camcorder or storing it in the carrying
case.

Turn the viewfinder to the position shown below when shooting pictures.

1. Turn the viewfinder.

2. Turn the eyepiece.

You can adjust the position and angle of the viewfinder so you can see through it easily.

CAUTIONS:

• Do not force the viewfinder to rotate completely around. This will damage the viewfinder and/or camcorder.

• When pulling the viewfinder out or returning it to its original position, hold the viewfinder by the swivel section.
Do not hold the diopter control side.

POWER SOURCES - 9 -

EYEPIECE ADJUSTMENT

To use the electronic viewfinder without eyeglasses on, adjust the diopter control for optimum focus adjustment.

POWER SOURCES

WHEN USING WITH THE BATTERY (Provided)

• To attach, align the mark "

and slide the battery downward, as illustrated.

• To remove the battery:
Push and hold "BATTERY EJECT" lever, then slide the battery to the upside and remove.

" of the battery with that of the camcorder so that the battery fits into the grooves,

WHEN USING WITH THE AC ADAPTOR/CHARGER (Provided)

POWER SOURCES - 10 -

1. Plug the AC adaptor/charger power cord into AC electrical outlet.

2. Connect one end of the DC cord (provided) to the "DC IN 9.6V" jack of the camcorder.
Connect the other end of the DC cord to the "DC OUTPUT" of the AC adaptor/charger.

NOTES:

• The AC adaptor/charger cannot charge the battery and operate the camcorder at the same time.

• When using the AC adaptor/charger to power the camcorder, the battery level indicator may display
" ". This indicator is used for battery operation and has no meaning when using the AC adaptor/charger to
power the camcorder.

WHEN USING WITH THE CAR BATTERY (By using optional car battery cord Hitachi VM-CC70A)

1. Connect the small plug of the car battery cord to the "DC IN 9.6V" jack of the camcorder.

2. Connect the other end of the car battery cord to the car's cigarette lighter socket.

NOTES:

• The car battery cord is designed to be used only with automobiles having a 12-volt negative ground system.

• To prevent fire or shock hazard or damage to your camcorder, please use only the specified car battery cord.

CHECKING THE BATTERY

When the " " indication appears in the viewfinder and flashes while the camcorder is being operated with a
battery (provided), it indicates that the battery charge is low. Charge it or replace it with a charged battery.

Press the "DISPLAY" button. The remaining battery power level will appear in the viewfinder.
When the battery is fully charged, "
When the battery is very near empty, the symbol will change to "

alternative power source or recharge the battery before continuing to use your camcorder.

" is displayed. After several minutes, the symbol will change to " ".

" and start blinking. You should find an

CHARGING THE BATTERY - 11 -

NOTE: When a battery pack is used to power the camcorder, " " flashes even if "DISPLAY" is not pressed
to warn you that the battery power level is low.

CHARGING THE BATTERY

1. Plug the AC adaptor/charger power cord into AC electrical outlet.

2. Attach the battery to the AC adaptor/charger. Align the mark "
adaptor/charger and push the battery flush with the AC adaptor/charger and slide it in the direction of arrow.

NOTE: You must remove the DC cord from the AC adaptor/charger to charge the battery. If the DC cord is
connected, the "CHARGE" light will not light.

3. The "CHARGE" light will be lit while the battery is accepting a charge, and will go out when the battery is fully
charged.

Charging time and operation time

Charging time about 2 hours

Operation time

NOTES:

• The operation time depends on how often you use zoom and recording pause.

• Charge the battery after use and store it at normal room temperature.

• Recharge your battery at least once every six months. The battery is a lead-acid battery. This battery tends to

discharge if not used for an extended period of time. If the battery is stored for a extended length of time without
being recharged, you may not be able to recharge it.

• A battery charged after being stored for a long period may not supply power for the specified time. Additional
rechargings will help restore the battery's operation time.

• The battery should be charged at a temperature of 50 degrees F - 86 degrees F (10 degrees C - 30 degrees C
to prevent damage.

• Do not operate the battery at temperatures below 14 degrees F -10 degrees C or above 95 degrees F (35
degrees C). The battery may be damaged if operated at temperatures above 122 degrees F (50oC). Operation
time will decrease at extremely low temperatures,

• After repeated chargings and use, the operation time will gradually decrease. When operation time becomes
too short to be useful, it is time to replace the battery.

• If the "CHARGE" light on the AC adaptor/ charger starts flashing, remove the battery and then reattach it. If
after several attempts the light continues to flash, this means your battery cannot take a charge and must be
replaced with a new one.
The "CHARGE" light will not light if a hot battery is attached to the AC adaptor/charger. Attaching an extremely
hot battery to the AC adaptor/charger is not recommended; it should be allowed to cool down before being
attached.

• Do not short the battery's terminal.

• Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the battery. There are no user serviceable parts inside.

• Throwing the battery into a fire or exposing the battery to excessive heat - over 149 degrees F (65 degrees C)

could be hazardous.

about 1 hour

" on the battery with that of AC

IDENTIFICATION AND OPERATION OF CONTROLS - 12 -

ATTENTION:

The product you have purchased is powered by a sealed lead acid battery which is recyclable. At the end of its
useful life, under various state and local laws, it is illegal to dispose of this battery into your municipal waste
stream.
Please call 1-800-HITACHI for information on how to recycle this battery.

IDENTIFICATION AND OPERATION OF CONTROLS

Click here for diagram.

Diopter Control

Use this control to focus the viewfinder.

Camera Light (only for VM-7400A)

When the "CAM/OFF/VIDEO" switch is in the "CAM" position, the camera light is turned on and off
automatically or manually in the record and record pause modes depending on the position of "LIGHT" switch.
Turn the camera light off after use.

NOTE: The camera light turns on only in the record and record pause modes.

Microphone

Sensitive to sounds coming from the direction in which the camera is pointed.

"STABLE PIX" (Electronic Image Stabilizer) Button (only for VM-7400A)

This button corrects slight shaking of an image. (See "STABLE PIX" (Electronic Image Stabilizer) on page

29.)

Lens (with Lens Cap)

F1.4 (4 ~ 64 mm) 16:1 power zoom lens features auto focus and auto iris functions.

"DIGITAL FADE" Button (only for VM-7400A)

During recording you can add a professional touch to your recordings by fading in and out of scenes.
You can select the four fade modes -- the white fade, wipe fade, zoom fade and black-and-white fade.

NOTE: When you fade scenes in and out, the sound will also fade in and out with the picture. (See page 28.)

"LIGHT" Switch (only for VM-7400A)

When this switch is set to "AUTO", the camera light turns on or off automatically according to the brightness of
the object.
When the switch is set to "ON", the camera light turns on.
Set the switch to "OFF" to turn the light off manually.

Electronic Viewfinder (EVF)

Displays what the camcorder tens sees. The electronic viewfinder also functions as a convenient monitor during
playback of recorded material.

"RF DC OUT" Jack

Connect the RF converter unit (optional) to this jack.

"AUDIO/VIDEO" Jacks