Hitachi VM-SPIA User Manual

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

HITACHI

Instruction Manual

8mm Video Camera/Recorder VM-SP1A

Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc.	Western Regional Office
For information concerning repairs, operation or		401 West Artesia Boulevard,
Compton,
technical assistance, please contact the Service		California 90220
Department of your nearest Regional Office.		Tel. 310-537-8383
Eastern Regional Office	HITACHI SALES CORPORATION OF
1290 Wall Street West		HAWAII, INC
Lyndhurst, New Jersey 07071		3219 Koapaka Street, Honolulu,
Hawaii 96819
Tel. 201-935-8980	Tel. 808-836-3621
Mid-Western Regional Office	HITACHI (HSC) CANADA INC.
1400 Morse Ave.	3300 Trans Canada Highway, Pointe
Claire,
Elk Grove Village, Ill. 60007		Quebec, H9R 1B1, CANADA
Tel. 708-593-1550	Tel. 514-697-9150
Southern Regional Office
3890 Steve Reynolds Blvd.
Norcross, GA 30093
Tel. 404-279-5600
		E131110/E72118
P4705457 © Hitachi, Ltd. 1992		Printed in Japan KF-S(N)

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS ..................................................................................................................	4
FEATURES.................................................................................................................................................	7
ACCESSORIES ..........................................................................................................................................	8
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS ..................................................................................................................	9
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER ......................................	13
WATER-RESISTANT..............................................................................................................................	14
ADJUSTING THE HAND STRAP ..........................................................................................................	17
ATTACHING THE LENS CAP AND MICROPHONE CAP .................................................................	18
HOW TO INSTALL THE SHOULDER STRAP.....................................................................................	19
EYEPIECE ADJUSTMENT.....................................................................................................................	20
POWER SOURCES..................................................................................................................................	22
CHECKING THE BATTERY..................................................................................................................	24
CHARGING THE BATTERY..................................................................................................................	25
INSERTION AND REMOVAL OF CASSETES.....................................................................................	27
MAKING A SAMPLE CAMERA RECORDING ...................................................................................	30
IDENTIFICATION AND OPERATION OF CONTROLS .....................................................................	34
DATE/TIME SETTING............................................................................................................................	39
AUTO FOCUS..........................................................................................................................................	41
AUTO IRIS ...............................................................................................................................................	43
POWER ZOOM ........................................................................................................................................	44
DIGITAL ZOOM......................................................................................................................................	45
MACRO ....................................................................................................................................................	47
QUICK EDIT ............................................................................................................................................	48
FADE IN FADE OUT..............................................................................................................................	49
INSTANT REVIEW .................................................................................................................................	50
WIRELESS REMOTE CONTROL..........................................................................................................	51
SELF TIMER ............................................................................................................................................	52
DISPLAY BUTTON.................................................................................................................................	53
TITLE RECORDING ...............................................................................................................................	54
MENU .......................................................................................................................................................	57
SECOND CLOCK SETTING...................................................................................................................	59
TIME REMAINING .................................................................................................................................	61
LINEAR TIMER COUNTER...................................................................................................................	62
MEMORY.................................................................................................................................................	63
AUDIO/VIDEO DUBBING .....................................................................................................................	64
RECORDING TV PROGRAMS ..............................................................................................................	66
VIEWING THE PICTURE PLAYED BACK ON YOUR TV ................................................................	67
STILL........................................................................................................................................................	69
FORWARD AND REVERSE SEARCH..................................................................................................	70
ATTACHING THE TELE OR WIDE CONVERTER.............................................................................	71
CAMERA/RECORDER TO VCR DUBBING ........................................................................................	72
FLYING ERASE HEAD ..........................................................................................................................	73
PROGRAMME AE (Auto Exposure).......................................................................................................	74
SYNCHRO EDIT......................................................................................................................................	75
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE AFTER USE ..................................................................................	76
TROUBLESHOOTING............................................................................................................................	79
HEAD CLEANING ..................................................................................................................................	81
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE ..................................................................................................................	82
SPECIFICATIONS ...................................................................................................................................	83

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
HOTLINE..................................................................................................................................................	84
ACCESSORY TO ADD MORE EXCITEMENT ....................................................................................	85
HOW TO ORDER ....................................................................................................................................	86

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

CAUTION: WHEN OUTDOORS, DO NOT USE AC ADAPTOR/CHARGER, USE ONLY BATTERY PACK TYPE: VM-BP82.

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.

This symbol warms 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 to avoid any problems.

CAUTION:

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT,

FULLY INSERT

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference regulations of the Canadian

Department of Communications.

MOISTURE

Moisture may occur if the video camera/recorder is moved from a cold area to a warm humid area. A flashing "POWER" light and "DEW" indication in the viewfinder indicates that moisture is on the recorder mechanism, which could result in tape damage. When the "POWER" light and "DEW" indication in the viewfinder is flashing the unit will not operate. When this happens, slide the "EJECT" switch, remove the tape, and wait for the moisture to dry... the "POWER" light and "DEW" indication in the viewfinder will stop flashing.

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

PRECAUTIONS

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

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 camera/recorder.

When you are not using the camera/recorder, switch off the power.

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 camera/recorder is functioning properly, but the solid-state pickup device (C.C.D.) usually causes this as an inherent characteristic. Try to avoid shooting an excessively bright object directly.

Be sure not to leave it in a place where the temperature exceeds 120ºF, 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 may be damaged.

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

FEATURES

• Water-resistant	• Auto Focus Power Zoom Lens with macro
feature
• 53 Color Graphic Title Library	• Flying Erase Head
• Digital Zoom up to X16	• Audio/Video dub
• Solid-state camera pickup	• Time and date
• Program AE (Auto Exposure)	• Wireless Remote Control

ACCESSORIES

Check that you have the following components and accessories (besides the camera/recorder unit itself) before disposing of the packing material.

1.AV Output Cord

2.Battery Pack

3.AC Adapter/Charger

4.RF Output Adaptor

5.75-ohm Coaxial Cable with Antenna Adapter

6.DC cord

7.Shoulder Strap

8.Batteries for Date/Time and Remote Control

9.Remote Control

10.Microphone Cap

11.Brush (housed in lens cap)

12.Grease

NOTE: Use the microphone cap to protect the microphone from impacts when carrying the camera/recorder or the entrance of water when maintaining it. Remove the cap when recording. Otherwise, sound cannot be recorded.

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.).

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 Camera/Recorder and accessory equipment. Please read it carefully before operating your video product and keep it in a handy place for future reference.

INSTALLATION

1Read 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 Instructions -- 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 alternatingcurrent 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 a 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. Powerline 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.

10Water 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.

11Accessories -- 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.

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

12Outdoor 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

13Power 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.

USE

14Cleaning -- Unplug this video product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.

15Object 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.

16Lightning -- 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.

SERVICE

17Servicing -- 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.

18Conditions 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

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

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.

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-AC80A.

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, VM-BP82.

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 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.

"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".

WATER-RESISTANT

WATER-RESISTANT STRUCTURE

When the buckle is locked, the VM-SP1A is sealed within the case via the waterresistant seal to keep it water-resistant.

Note: The VM-SP1A cannot be used under water because it is not water-proof.

How to handle the water-resistant seal

•Inspect the water-resistant seal regularly to check that the seal is not damaged or cut which would allow water to enter the case.

•Check that no foreign matter adheres to the water-resistant seal before closing the case. If the VM-SP1A is used while sand or other particulates adheres to the seal, it could cause water to enter.

•The water-resistant seal should be replaced at least once a year. Use Hitachi part #

VM-KIT270.

The VM-SP1A cannot be used in the following places

•Under water

•In a place with high temperature and high humidity such as in a sauna, steam room, etc.

Note: The camera/recorder inside the case is not meant to be water-resistant. Do not let water get inside the outer housing.

HOW TO OPEN AND CLOSE THE CASE

WATER-RESISTANT

Note: Be careful that no water or sand enters the camera/recorder.

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

Note: After using the VM-SP1A, wipe off the sand or water carefully from the case before opening it. Since water and sand may remain under the buckle, release the buckle in the condition shown in the figure below and wipe off the excess water or sand carefully.

2. Release the lock lever under the buckle to open the case.

WATER-RESISTANT

Note: Open or close the case so that no water, snow, rain, sand, etc. can enter into the inner housing.

To close the case

Hold the left and right half of the case tightly and close the buckle until a click is heard.

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

TO PREVENT CONDENSATION

•When the VM-SP1A 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 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.

•Dry the VM-SP1A with the case open and use it only after condensation on the lens disappears.

•Opening the case will help condensation to evaporate more quickly.

ADJUSTING THE HAND STRAP

Adjust the hand strap, as illustrated.

Adjust the length of the hand strap so you can press the "START/STOP" button and power zoom switch easily with your fingers.

ATTACHING THE LENS CAP AND MICROPHONE CAP

Attach the lens cap as shown in the figure during shooting to prevent the cord from dangling.

Also attach the microphone cap to prevent it from being lost.

HOW TO INSTALL THE SHOULDER STRAP

Attach the shoulder strap (provided), as illustrated.

EYEPIECE ADJUSTMENT

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

You may want to install the date/time and remote control batteries (provided) immediately to prevent misplacing them.

For date/time 1. Open the case.

Refer to "WATER-RESISTANT" on page 8. 2. Pull the battery holder with coin etc.

3.Insert the date/time battery with the "+" terminal facing out.

4.Fully insert the battery holder into the camera/recorder.

EYEPIECE ADJUSTMENT

For remote control

1.Pull the battery holder from the remote control (provided).

2.Place the battery as illustrated, and then attach the holder to the remote control.

NOTES:

•When replacing the batteries, use 3V micro lithium cell such as Maxell CR2025 or equivalent.

•Instructions for setting the date and time are on page 22. You can do that later if desired after you're more familiar with your camera/recorder.

•Dispose of battery safely and in accordance with local laws.

•Do not dispose of in fire.

WARNING:

Keep this battery away from children. If swallowed, consult a physician immediately for emergency treatment.

POWER SOURCES

WHEN USING WITH THE BATTERY (provided)

NOTE: The battery must be charged before it can be used for the first time. Refer to

"CHARGING THE BATTERY" on page 14.

1. Open the case.

Refer to "WATER-RESISTANT" on page 8.

2.To attach the battery, align the "" mark on the battery with the "-" mark of the camera/recorder.

3.Hold the battery flush against the camera/recorder and slide it in the direction of the arrow.

To remove the battery

1. Lift the battery to remove it.

WHEN USING WITH THE AC ADAPTER/CHARGER (Provided)

1.Plug the AC adapter/charger power cord into an AC electrical output; the "POWER" indicator on the AC adapter/charger will come on.

2.Open the case

Refer to "WATER-RESISTANT" on page 8.

3.Connect one end of the DC cord (provided) to the DC Input (6V) jack of the camera/recorder.

4.Connect the other end of the DC cord to the "DC OUTPUT" jack of the AC adapter/charger.

POWER SOURCES

NOTES:

•This AC adapter/charger is universal around the world. If you use the camera/recorder in some foreign countries, an AC plug adapter (not supplied) may be necessary.

•When using the AC adapter/charger to power the camera/recorder, the battery level

indicator may display "" . This indicator is used for battery operation and has no meaning when using the Ac adapter/charger to power the camera/recorder.

WHEN USING WITH THE CAR BATTERY (By using optional car battery cord Hitachi

VM-CC80A)

1.Connect the car battery cord to the car's cigarette lighter socket.

2.Open the case.

Refer to "WATER-RESISTANT" on page 8.

3.Connect one end of the DC cord (provided) to the DC Input (6V) jack of the camera/recorder.

4.Connect the other end of the DC cord to the "DC OUTPUT" of the car battery cord.

NOTES:

•The car battery cord is designed to be used only with automobiles having a 12/24-volt negative ground system.

•To prevent fire or shock hazard or damage to your camera/recorder, please use only

Hitachi's car battery cord model VM-CC80A.

NOTE: Be sure to turn off power of the camera/recorder when attaching or detaching a power supply (battery, AC adapter/charger, etc.) to the camera/recorder.

CHECKING THE BATTERY

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

NOTE: Whenever the linear time counter is present in the viewfinder, the battery level indicator "" is displayed in the viewfinder indicating the condition of camera/recorder battery power. When the battery is fully charged, "" is displayed.

After several minutes, the symbol will change to "". When the battery is very near empty, the symbol will change to "" and start blinking. You should find an alternative power source or recharge the battery before continuing to use your camera/recorder.

CHARGING THE BATTERY

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

2.Attach the battery to the AC adapter/charger. Align the reference arrow on the battery with that of AC adapter/charger and push the battery flush with the AC adapter/charger and slide it in the direction of arrow.

NOTES: You must remove the DC cord from the AC adapter/charger to charge the battery. If the DC cord is connected, "CHARGE" light will flash.

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

Skillful use of batteries

Use batteries continuously until "" flashes. If you use a battery for a short time and charge it immediately, the usable time of the battery will be shortened.

NOTES:

1.The time required for charging the battery is approx. one hour.

2.When fully charged, the battery should supply approx. 50 minutes of operating time (depending on how much you use zoom and pause).

3.Charge the battery before use and store it at normal room temperature.

4.The battery should be charged at a temperature of 32°F - 95°F (0°C - 35°C) to prevent damage.

5.Do not operate the battery at temperatures below 14°F (-10°C) or above 95°F (35°C).

The battery may be damaged if operated at temperatures above 122°F (50°C). Operation time will decrease at extremely low temperatures.

6.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.

7.If the "CHARGE" and "POWER" light on the AC adapter/charger start flashing, remove the battery and then reattach it. If after several attempts both lights continue to flash, this means your battery cannot take a charge and must be replaced with a new one.

Both lights will also flash if a hot battery is attached to the AC adapter/charger. Attaching an extremely hot battery to the AC adapter/charger is not recommended; it should be allowed to cool down before being attached.

8.Do not short the battery's terminal.

CHARGING THE BATTERY

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

10.Throwing the battery into a fire or exposing the battery to excessive heat - over 149°F

(65°C) could be hazardous.

11.Set the mark switch of any battery which has already been charged to red as shown in the figure. This lets you discriminate between charged and uncharged batteries easily.

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