Hitachi VM-H81A User Manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1HITACHI

Instruction Manual

8mm Video Camcorder

VM-H81A

Hitachi Home Electronics (America), HITACHI (HSC) CANADA, INC. Inc. 3300 Trans Canada

Highway, Pointe Claire, 3890 Steve Reynolds Blvd., Norcross, GA 30093 Quebec, H9R1B1, CANADA Tel. 404-279-5600 Tel. 514-697-9150

HITACHI SALES CORPORATION OF HAWAII, INC

3219 Koapaka Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819 Tel. 808-836-3621

Thank you for buying a Hitachi product. You've chosen the best 8 mm video camcorder for you, and we want to help you make the most of your purchase. Please take time to become familiar with the manual and how it is set up. Keep it handy for feature reference.

QR11932 © Hitachi, Ltd. 1995 Printed in Japan KG-S(N)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS.................................................................................................... 2

For Your Safety...................................................................................................................4

MOISTURE....................................................................................................................5

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS ..........................................................................................6

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER ..............10

Read This First..................................................................................................................11

Before You Begin..............................................................................................................12

Features.......................................................................................................................12

Components and Accessories..................................................................................12

Optional RF Adapter..................................................................................................13

Water-Resistant..........................................................................................................13

Water-Resistant Structure.........................................................................................13

How to Open and Close the Case...........................................................................14

How to Open and Close the Battery Compartment Cover...................................15

How to Open and Close the Jack Cover.................................................................15

To Prevent Condensation .........................................................................................16

Getting Started...................................................................................................................17

Charging the Battery..................................................................................................17

Using the AC Adapter/Charger.................................................................................17

Using an Optional Car Adapter/Charger (Hitachi VM-CA500A).........................19

Adjusting the Electronic Viewfinder.........................................................................20

Eyepiece Adjustment.................................................................................................20

Attaching the Shoulder Strap....................................................................................20

Attaching the Optional Wide or Tele Conv er te r Lens...........................................21

Loading Batteries........................................................................................................21

Remote Control Battery.............................................................................................21

Edit Remote Control Batteries..................................................................................22

Camcorder Battery.....................................................................................................22

Removing the Battery................................................................................................23

Checking the Battery's Charge.................................................................................23

Using Alternative Power Sources............................................................................23

Using the AC Adapter/Charger.................................................................................24

Using a Car Battery....................................................................................................24

Inserting and Removing Cassettes..........................................................................24

Inserting a cassette....................................................................................................24

When the ca ssette holder marked "PUSH" is pressed: .......................................25

Removing a Cassette.................................................................................................25

Protecting Recording Material..................................................................................25

Using the Linear Time Counter................................................................................26

Using the Display Button...........................................................................................26

Using Memory.............................................................................................................26

Setting the Date and Time........................................................................................27

Correcting the Date and Time..................................................................................28

Automatic Date Recording........................................................................................ 28

Remaining Tape .........................................................................................................28

Lens Cap......................................................................................................................29

Using the Microphone Cap .......................................................................................29

Attaching the Terminal Cover...................................................................................29

Using the Remote Control Bag.................................................................................30

Getting Started - Identifying Controls...............................................................................31

Basic Techniques...............................................................................................................35

Making a Basic Recording........................................................................................35

Holding Button to Record..........................................................................................36

Playing Back Your Recording with AV Optical Link System................................36

If any abnormality or trouble occurs:.......................................................................37

Connecting to a Television with Audio In and Video In Jacks.............................37

Operations...................................................................................................................38

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Controllable Range.....................................................................................................38

Using the Mini-Tripod.................................................................................................39

Playing Back Your Recording Using AV Stereo Output Cable...........................39

Connecting to a Television with a VCR Attached..................................................39

Connecting to a Television with Audio In and Video In Jacks.............................40

Connecting to a Television without Audio In and Video In Jacks.......................40

Simple Playback (Using the Electronic Viewfinder)..............................................40

Using Still.....................................................................................................................41

Using Forward and Reverse Search.......................................................................41

Advanced Techniques .......................................................................................................42

Using the Power Zoom..............................................................................................42

Using the Digital Zoom ..............................................................................................42

Using the INST. ZOOM (Instant Zoom) Button......................................................43

Using Auto Focus.......................................................................................................43

Using Manual Focus..................................................................................................44

Using the Electronic Image Stabilizer .....................................................................44

Using Exposure Correction.......................................................................................45

Using Fade ..................................................................................................................45

Fading In......................................................................................................................46

Fading Out...................................................................................................................46

Using Instant Review.................................................................................................46

Using Quick Edit.........................................................................................................48

Using Macro ................................................................................................................48

Using 16x9...................................................................................................................48

Using the Wireless Remote Control ........................................................................48

Creating and Recording A Title................................................................................49

Creating a Title............................................................................................................49

Correcting Errors ........................................................................................................50

Recording Title on a Tape in the Camcorder.........................................................50

Recording a Created Title while Transferring a Tape...........................................50

Dubbing from the camcorder to a VCR...................................................................51

Using Synchro Edit.....................................................................................................51

Simple Programmable Edit.......................................................................................52

Programming the Remote Control for the VCR.....................................................52

Operation.....................................................................................................................53

To End Programmable Simple Edit.........................................................................55

Controlling Your TV with the Camcorder's Remote Contro l................................55

Programming the Remote Control...........................................................................55

Controlling the TV.......................................................................................................56

Using Audio/Video Dubbing......................................................................................56

Recording Television Programs...............................................................................57

General Maintenance.........................................................................................................59

Cleaning the camcorder Heads................................................................................59

Maintenance And Storage after Use.......................................................................59

How to Maintain..........................................................................................................59

Storage......................................................................................................................... 59

Periodic Maintenance................................................................................................60

Troubleshooting.......................................................................................................... 60

Specifications....................................................................................................................62

Accessories Add Excitement............................................................................................. 64

To Order in the United States................................................................................... 65

HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Front).................................................................66

HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Back) .................................................................67

HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (Front) CANADA ONLY............................................69

HITACHI CANADA WARRANTY CARD (Back)........................................................71

For Your Safety

The CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch turns the camcorder on and off, leaving the date/time feature unaffected. If the unit is to be left unattended for a long period of time, turn the camcorder off and attach the lens cap and terminal cover.

WARNING: WHEN OUTDOORS, DO NOT USE AC ADAPTER/CHARGER, USE ONLY BATTERY PACK, TYPE: VM-NP500H

The camcorder has the following caution marks.

Identifications of caution marks:

This symbol warms the user that uninsulated voltage within the unit may have sufficient magnitude to cause electrical 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 to avoid any problems.

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT

OPEN.

NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

WARNING TO PREVENT FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE

BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, AND FULLY INSERT PLUG.

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

"This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the interference-causing equipment standard entitled "Digital Apparatus", ICES-003 of the Department of Communications."

This camcorder can use and video cassettes. It automatically determines the loaded cassette is or and records and plays it

back correctly.

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 appear as colored bright dots. This does not indicate a fault as the LCD panel stretches the limits of

For Your Safety

current technology.

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 of Class B digital device, pursuant of 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 receiver.

-- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circ ui t different from that to whi ch 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 manufacture could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

"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".

Notes:

 This unit uses 8mm video format cassettes.  It records and plays back in the SP mode (14.3 mm/sec).  It cannot record and play back in the LP mode (7.2 mm/sec).  This camcorder uses a Hi-Fi stereo sound system. When a tape recorded by this camcorder is played by a conventional 8mm camcorder, monaural sound is output. When a tape recorded by a conventional camcorder is played by this machine, monaural sound is output.

MOISTURE

Avoid operating your camcorder immediately after moving it from a cold place to a warm, humid place. Give the camcorder 2 to 3 hours to stabilize in the ambient conditions of the surroundings before inserting a cassette. When moved from a cold place to a warm, humid place, 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. When moisture is detected, the camcorder ejects the tape automatically to protect it, so the camcorder cannot be operated. When a small amount of moisture is sensed, "TAPE" flashes in the viewfinder. Remove the cassette and set the CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch to OFF, then wait for about one hour with the case open. Since condensation progresses gradually, the indication does not appear immediately after condensation starts. When condensation occurs, leave the case open to dry the camcorder. If the case is closed while there is condensation, it takes longer for the camcorder to dry.

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

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 Cassette Recorder 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.

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

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.

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

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

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. 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 cablesystem. This will prevent damage to the video product due to lightning and power-line surges.

USE

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.

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

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 ADAPTER/CHARGER

1. Save these Instructions -- This page contains important safety and operating instructions for AC Adapter/Charger Model VM-ACL1A.

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

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

4. Caution -- To reduce risk of injury, charge only rechargeable battery, VMNP500H. Other types of batteries may burst causing personal injury and damage.

5. Do not expose the charger to rain or snow.

6. Use of an attachment nor recommended or sold by the battery charger manufacturer may result in a risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.

7. To reduce 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: A. 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 risk of electric shock, unplug charger from outlet before attempting any maintenance or cleaning.

Read This First

To guide you, we've included

 A "Before You Begin" section containing important cautions for your family's safety as well as instruction for getting your video camcorder ready for use. Please read and understand this section thoroughly before moving on.  A "Getting Started" section to familiarize yourself with the controls and prepare you for recording.  A "Basic Techniques" section to allow you to use your video camcorder quickly and confidently before advancing to the more sophisticated features of the Hitachi VM-H81A.  "Advanced Techniques" to help you with some of the exciting, sophisticated features of the Hitachi VM-H81A. We hope you will take the time to learn about these functions since they have been desig ned for y ou. You can use the video camcorder without reading this section.  A "General Maintenance" section to help keep your purchase in good repair.

We want this manual to be as helpful as possible, so it includes two easy ways to find the information you need:

 A quick index for the information you use most often (this page).  A detailed table of contents directing you to specific information quickly (page 12).

Get to know your video camcorder by using this manual, and get to know Hitachi. We appreciate your business.

Quick Index

Charging the Battery.....14

Making a Basic Recording.....32

Playing Back Your Recording.....33

Using Power Zoom.....42

Using Digital Zoom.....42

Using the Wireless Remote Control.....47

Dubbing from camcorder to VCR.....50

Before You Begin

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 shoot at a scene which contains an extremely bright object such as 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 (C.C.D.) usually causes this as an inherent characteristic. Try to avoid shooting an excessive bright object directly.  Be sure not to leave it in a place where the temperature exceeds 120° (49°C), or the pickup device may be damaged. Dangerous includes:  Inside a car with the windows closed and in direct sunshine.  Near heating appliances.  Do not leave the viewfinder lens facing sunlight for a prolonged period, or the phosphorescent surface of the cathode ray tube or the liquid crystal display (LCD) panel may be damaged.

Features

 Wat er-resistant 

 Optical link  24x zoom ratio  Instant zoom  Multi-function TV / Cam remote control  Image stabilization  Color electronic viewfinder (EVF)

Components and Accessories

Check that you have all the following components and accessories before proceeding. Accessories Chart

1. AV stereo output cable with S-VIDEO plug

2. Battery pack

3. AC adapter/charger

4. Shoulder strap

5. External power cord

6. Remote control

7. Remote control battery

8. Remote control bag

9. Microphone cap

10. Brush

11. Terminal cover

12. Lens cap

13. Edit remote control

14. Batteries for edit remote control

15. AC adapter for AV optical wireless receiver

16. AV optical wireless receiver

17. Audio/Video cable

18. Mini-tripod

Before You Begin

Optional RF Adapter

If you wish to connect this camcorder to a television that does not have audio/video input jacks you will need to use the optional RF adapter model VM-RF86A. You cannot use the optical link function with a television that does not have audio/video input jacks. The RF adapter can be purchased by calling the telephone number below. For your convenience Visa, Master Card, and American Express credit cards are accepted. The RF adapter can also be purchased by mail by sending either cheque, money order or your credit card information to the following address:

IN U.S.A. Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc. Parts Division 401 West Atresia Blvd. Compton, California. U.S.A. 90220

For more information concerning the purchase of camcorder accessories, please see the optional accessory listing found on page 69.

Water-Resistant

Water-Resistant Structure

Your camcorder uses three packings as shown below to provide a waterresistant structure.

Case

 To Check the Packing

1. Open the case so the end of the bracket is positioned as shown in the figure and pull the bracket forward to release it.

2. After checking, replace the bracket to its original position.

Before You Begin

CAUTION

 How to Handle the Water-resistant Packings  Inspect the water-resistant packings constantly to check that t here are no scratches or chipping as they could cause water to enter.  Check that no foreign matter adheres to the water-resistant packings before closing the cases. If the camcorder is used while dust, sand, or thread adheres to only one point if the packings, it could cause water to enter.  Consult your nearest dealer to replace the packings.  The Camcorder cannot be used in the following places  Under water  In a place with high temperature and high humidity such as in a sauna, bathroom, etc.  Where water would strike it violently (where water pressure is applied) Note: The camcorder cannot be used under water because it is not waterproof.  Be Careful when Opening and Closing the Sections with Packing  The camcorder inside the case is not structured to be water-resistant. Ta ke great care that no water droplets enter inside.  Check that the three sections with packing are closed tightly to ensure that it is water-resistant.

How to Open and Close the Case

1. Push the lever on the snap and hold it, then release the snap in the direction of the arrow.

Note: After using the camcorder, wipe off the sand or water droplets carefully from the case before opening it. Since water droplets or sand may remain under the snap, release the snap in the condition shown in the figure and wipe off the water droplets or sand carefully.

2. Open the case in the direction of the arrow.

Before You Begin

3. To close the case, hold the left and right cases tightly and close the snap until a click is heard.

Note: Lock the case securely using the snap. Otherwise, it could allow water to enter.

How to Open and Close the Battery Compartment Cover

1. Push the BATT EJECT lever in the direction of the arrow to unlock the cover. Pull the cover forward to open it.

2. To close the battery compartment cover, press both sections marked "PUSH" simultaneously and make sure that a click is heard. Also check that the BATT EJECT lever is aligned with the mark as shown in the figure below and the red mark of the lever cannot be seen.

How to Open and Close the Jack Cover

1. To open, turn the knob on the jack cover in the direction of the arrow.

2. Align the post on the cover with the hole in the case.

Before You Begin

NOTE: The plug can easily be inserted and pulled out when the post on the cover is inserted into the hole. NOTE: Release the post from the hole to close the jack cover.

3. To close the jack cover, Press the two sections marked "PUSH" and make sure that a click is heard. Also check that the knob is aligned with the mark as shown in the figure below.

To Prevent Condensation

 When the camcorder is moved from a cold place to a warm place, leave it for a while until it reaches the ambient temperature before opening the case.  Be careful that no water droplets or snow flakes enter when opening the case. If they enter, the humidity inside rises and condensation is likely to occur.  Moisture also condenses on the lens. If moisture condenses on the lens, clear pictures cannot be recorded.  If condensation occurs on the lens, open the case. After the condensation disappears, use the camcorder.  Open the case if there is condensation. Otherwise, it is hard to dry the camcorder.  It is recommended that you store the camcorder in a box with a desiccant.

Getting Started

This section guides you through the initial preparation of the camcorder. None of these processes are complex. Set aside some time, relax, and familiarize yourself with this quality instrument. Enjoy getting to know all about your Hitachi 8mm camcorder. The more comfortable and familiar you are with the machine and its features, the more you can make it do for you. Let's get started! It is crucial that you read and understand all the safety instructions before you begin. If you haven't read the safety instructions yet, please take the time to do so now.

Charging the Battery

The first step is to set the battery to charge. Once fully charged the battery will give an operating time of approximately 70 minutes, but this is reduced to half to one-third depending on how often you use zoom and stop/start functions. Charge the battery at a temperature range of 50°F(10°C) - 86°F(30°C) to prevent damage to the battery.

Using the AC Adapter/Charger

 To Charge the Battery Attached to the AC Adapter/Charger

1. Plug the AC adapter/charger power cord into an AC outlet. Make sure that the wide blade fits into the wide slot. If it doesn't fit try reversing it. If you still cannot make fit the blades into the outlet either contact an electrician to replace your obsolete outlet, or use a polarized cord or outlet accessory.

2. Push the battery till it is flush with the AC adapter/charger sliding it in the direction of the arrow as shown in the figure.

3. The CHARGE light on the AC adapter/charger lights during charging and goes out when charging is finished.

Charging Time About 2.5 hours

 To Charge the Battery Loaded in the Camcorder You can charge the battery while it is loaded in the camcorder after recording is finished, etc. (Load a battery in the camcorder. Refer to "Camcorder Battery" on page 19.)

1. Set the CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch of the camcorder to "OFF".

2. Connect the external power cord plug to the DC OUTPUT jack on the AC adapter/charger.

3. Attach the other end of the external power cord into the installation section at the bottom of the camcorder.

4. Plug the AC adapter/charger power cord into an AC outlet. The incamera battery charge light turns on (green). When charging is finished, the light turns off.

Getting Started

Note: The CHARGE light on the AC adapter/charger does not turn on. Note: The CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch must be in "OFF" position to charge the

battery inside the camcorder.

Note: The camcorder becomes warm during charging, but this is normal. Note: If the battery is left in th e camcorder, the battery power will decrease

even when the camcorder is not used. Do not leave the battery in the camcorder after charging it. Be sure to remove it.

Charging Time About 6 hours

Note: Before attaching the external power cord, check that no sand, water or

dirt adheres to the terminal of the attachment section. If anything adheres to the terminal, use the brush (provided) or a soft cloth to wipe it off completely.

 To Charge Two Batteries in Sequence

You can continuously charge the battery attached to the AC adapter/charger and the battery loaded in the camcorder.

1. Set the CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch of the camcorder to "OFF".

2. Load a battery inside the camcorder.

3. Connect the external power cord plug to the DC OUTPUT jack on the AC adapter/charger.

4. Attach the other end of the external power cord to the installation section at the bottom of the camcorder.

5. Attach another battery to the AC adapter/charger.

6. Plug the AC adapter/charger power cord into an AC outlet. Charging the battery attached to the AC adapter/charger starts first. The CHARGE light on the AC adapter/charger lights during charging and goes out when charging is finished. Charging the battery i nside the camcor der then star ts. The in-camera battery charge light lights during charging and goes out when charging is finished.

Note: Normally the in-camera battery charge light also lights when the AC adapter/charger is plugged into an AC outlet. However, this light may not light depending on the charged level of the battery loaded in the camcorder.

Getting Started

Charging time

8.5 hours (maximum) Using an Optional Car Adapter/Charger (Hitachi VM-CA500A)

1. Connect the car adapter/charger to the car's cigarette lighter socket. The power light turns on.

2. Attach the batter to the car adapter/charger. The charge light turns on and charging starts. The light turns off when charging is finished.

Note: When the car adapter/charger is connected to the camcorder via the external power cord, set the CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch of the camcorder to "OFF". Charging is not done when it is set to "CAM" or "VIDEO". Note: Read the instruction manual of the car adapter/charger carefully before charging.

Additional Information

The battery has a green charge marker on one side of the battery. When the battery is removed from the AC adapter/charger a green color marker will be exposed. When the battery is ejected from the camcorder no green marker will be seen.

Note: The marker switch does not guarantee the batteries' charge status.

With repeated normal charging and use the battery will gradually lose operating time. When operation time becomes too short to be useful, replace the battery. If the CHARGE indicator flashes during charging, remove the battery and

Getting Started

then reattach it to the AC adapter/charger. If the CHARGE light continues to flash after several attempts to attach it, the battery is unable to take a charge and must be replaced. Do not attach a hot batter to the AC adapter/charger. Allow it to cool. Do not use a battery with a crack or any abnormalities in its appearance.

THERE ARE NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE THE BATTERY

OR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER.

THROWING THE BATTERY INTO FIRE OR EXPOSING IT TO

EXCESSIVE HEAT (ABOVE 149°F (65°C)) MAY CAUSE INJURY.

SHORTING THE BATTERY'S TERMINAL INCREASES RISK OF FIRE

OR ELECTRICAL SHOCK

Adjusting the Electronic Viewfinder

The electronic viewfinder adjusts simply by pivoting it to a position where it is comfortable and easy to see through. Place the viewfinder back in its original position before storing the camcorder in its case or carrying the camera recorder around to avoid damaging the viewfinder or camcorder.

Caution: Do not point the electronic viewfinder to direct sunlight; it could damage the viewfinder.

Eyepiece Adjustment

To use the electronic viewfinder, adjust the diopter control so that the subject is seen most clearly in the viewfinder.

Attaching the Shoulder Strap

Thread the ends of the shoulder strap through the slots at the back of the camcorder and thread through the shoulder strap's buckles. Please ensure that the straps are securely fastened before using the shoulder

Getting Started

strap to carry the camcorder.

Attaching the Optional Wide or Tele Converter Lens

1. To remove the lens hood, turn it counterclockwise.

2. Remove both caps of the converter lens.

3. Screw the lens into the threads on the camcorder lens assembly.

Note: The wide and tele converter lenses (optional) are not water-resistant.

Loading Batteries

Install the remote control battery to prevent misplacing it.

Remote Control Battery

1. Push the tab to the right of the remote control and hold it, then remove the battery holder.

2. Press the PLAY button and hold it for about two seconds.

3. Insert the battery with the "+" terminal facing up as shown in the figure above.

4. Replace the battery holder with battery in the remote control making sure that it is fully inserted.

Getting Started

WARNING: KEEP THE BATTERIES AWAY FROM CHILDREN AND PETS.

IF SWA LLOW ED CONSULT A PHYSICIAN IMMEDIAT ELY FOR

EMERGENCY TREATMENT.

Note: Replace the remote control battery with 3V micro lithium cells such as Maxell CR2025 or its equivalent. Note: Dispose of battery safely in accordance with local laws. Do not dispose of in fire.

Note: Do not short circuit the battery. Note: Do not take apart the battery. Note: Do not hold the battery with the metallic tweezers. Note: Do not re-charge the battery. Note: Keep the battery in a dark, cool, dry place.

Edit Remote Control Batteries

 Be sure to install two "AA" size batteries before use.  Be careful to install with the correct polarity.

Note: Do not use the old and new batteries at the same time. Note: Do not mix batteries of different types. Note: Do not short, take apart, or dispose of batteries by throwing them into a

fire.

Note: When liquid leaks, wipe it off completely and then insert new batteries.

Camcorder Battery

Before you install the battery for the first time it must be charged. Refer to "Charging the Battery" for details.

1. Push the BATT EJECT lever in the direction of the arrow to unlock the battery compartment cover. Pull the tab forward to open the cover.

2. Insert the battery with the correct orientation all the way until a click is heard.

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