Connection to the mains supply
in the United Kingdom.
DO NOT cut off the mains plug
from this equipment.
fitted is not suitable for the power
points in your home or the cable is
too short to reach a power point,
then obtain an appropriate safety
approved extension lead or consult
your dealer.
BE SURE to replace the fuse
only with an identical approved
type, as originally fitted, and to
replace the fuse cover.
If nonetheless the mains plug is cut
off ensure to remove the fuse and
dispose of the plug immediately, to
avoid a possible shock hazard by
inadvertent connection to the
mains supply.
If this product is not supplied fitted
with a mains plug then follow the
instructions given below:
DO NOT make any connection to
the Larger Terminal coded E or
Green.
The wires in the mains lead are
coloured in accordance with the
following code:
Blue to N (Neutral) or Black
Brown to L (Live) or Red
If these colours do not correspond
with the terminal identifications of
your plug, connect as follows:
Blue wire to terminal coded N
(Neutral) or coloured black.
Brown wire to terminal coded L
(Live) or coloured Red.
If in doubt — consult a competent
electrician.
WARNING:
TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
UNIT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
If the plug
CAUTION:
■ To prevent shock, do not open
the cabinet. No user serviceable
parts inside. Refer servicing to
qualified personnel.
NOTES:
■ The rating plate (serial number
plate) and safety caution are on
the bottom and/or the back of
the main unit.
■ The rating plate (serial number
plate) of the AC Power Adapter
is on its bottom.
This camera is designed to be
used with PAL-type colour
television signals. It cannot be
used for playback with a television
of a different standard. However,
shooting and LCD monitor
playback are possible anywhere.
Gebruikte batterijen
Niet weggooien, maar
inleveren als KCA.
2
Some do’s and don’ts on the safe use of equipment
This equipment has been designed and manufactured to meet
international safety standards but, like any electrical equipment, care must
be taken if you are to obtain the best results and safety is to be assured.
read the operating instructions before you attempt to use the equipment.
DO
DO ensure that all electrical connections (including the mains plug, extension
leads and interconnections between pieces of equipment) are properly
made and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Switch off
and withdraw the mains plug when making or changing connections.
DO consult your dealer if you are ever in doubt about the installation, operation
or safety of your equipment.
DO be careful with glass panels or doors on equipment.
DON’T continue to operate the equipment if you are in any doubt about it
working normally, or if it is damaged in any way — switch off, withdraw
the mains plug and consult your dealer.
DON’T remove any fixed cover as this may expose dangerous voltages.
DON’T leave equipment switched on when it is unattended unless it is
specifically stated that it is designed for unattended operation or has a
standby mode. Switch off using the switch on the equipment and make
sure that your family knows how to do this. Special arrangements may
need to be made for infirm or handicapped people.
DON’T use equipment such as personal stereos or radios so that you are
distracted from the requirements of road safety. It is illegal to watch
television whilst driving.
DON’T listen to headphones at high volume, as such use can permanently
damage your hearing.
DON’T obstruct the ventilation of the equipment, for example with curtains or
soft furnishings. Overheating will cause damage and shorten the life of
the equipment.
DON’T use makeshift stands and NEVER fix legs with wood screws — to
ensure complete safety always fit the manufacturer’s approved stand or
legs with the fixings provided according to the instructions.
DON’T allow electrical equipment to be exposed to rain or moisture.
ABOVE ALL
— NEVER let anyone especially children push anything into holes, slots or any
other opening in the case
— this could result in a fatal electrical shock;
— NEVER guess or take chances with electrical equipment of any kind — it is
better to be safe than sorry!
3
PREFACE
Contents
If you want to start using your new camera right away, refer to “Quick
For particularly important photographs (such as weddings and overseas trips), always
take a test photograph to check that the camera is functioning normally.
• JVC accepts no liability for any incidental losses (such as the costs of photography
or the loss of income from photography) incurred as a result of faults with this
product.
■ Notes on Copyright
Under copyright laws, images recorded using your digital camera cannot be used
without the consent of the owner, unless intended only for personal use. Note that
some restrictions apply to the photographing of stage performances, entertainments
and exhibits, even when intended purely for personal use. Users are also asked to
note that the transfer of memory cards (SmartMedia) containing images or data
protected under copyright laws is only permissible within the restrictions imposed by
those copyright laws.
■ Power Supply
In order to use the GC-S5 Digital Still Camera, you will need the BN-V101
Rechargeable Battery (supplied with the camera) or the AA-V101 AC Power Adapter
supplied.
■ AC Power Adapter
Use only the AA-V101 AC Power Adapter (supplied with the camera) with your GC-S5
Digital Still Camera. The use of an AC adapter other than the AA-V101 could result in
damage to your GC-S5 Digital Still Camera.
■ Compatible SmartMedia
Use only JVC image memory cards (SmartMedia). Either 3.3-volt or 5-volt SmartMedia
can be used with the GC-S5.
■ Handling Your Digital still Camera
This camera contains precision electronic components. To ensure that images are
recorded correctly, do not subject the camera to impacts or shocks while an image is
being recorded (while the viewfinder lamp is orange).
■ Cleaning the Lens Surface
For optimum digital camera performance, make sure that the lens surface is free from
dust, fingerprints, and other soiling. Gently wipe the lens surface clean with a soft dry
cloth.
■ Data that Can Be Played Back on Your Camera
The GC-S5 Digital Still Camera can be used to play back recorded image data or
image data transferred from a personal computer (file names DSC00001.JPG to
DSC99999.JPG (Exif-JPEG format) with file sizes up to 1.2MB). See P.54 for additional
information.
6
Accessories
Check that you have the items shown below before using your camera.
BN-V101 Battery Pack
Hand Strap (1)
(Rechargeable Battery) (1)
Supplied with Operating Instructions (1)
(1)
AA-V101 AC Power Adapter (1)
Supplied with Operating Instructions (1)
The shape of the plug on the AC power
adapter depends on the country of use.
VU-V101 Floppy Disk Adapter
Supplied with:
• Setup Disk (1)
• CR2016 button cell (2)
• Operating Instructions (1)
Video Cable (approx. 1.5m (4.9 ft.),
mini-plug (3.5mm dia.) to pin-plug
VU-V108 SmartMedia (8MB, 3.3V) (1)
Supplied with:
• Anti-static case (1)
• Index labels (1 set)
• Write-protect stickers (1 set)
• Operating Instructions (1)
cable) (1)
Owner’s Manual (this manual) (1)
■ Explanation of Terms
ATA Card:A PC card (Type II) that conforms to the ATA PC Card
JPEG (Joint Photographics Experts Group) format:
PC Card:A generic term for cards that meet the PC Card Standard.
PC Card Standard: A standard for PC cards determined by the PCMCIA.
PCMCIA:Personal Computer Memory Card International Association
SmartMedia:The name given to a new recording medium determined by the
Standard.
A file format stipulated by the ITU-T (formerly The International
Telegraph and Telephone Consultative Committee (CCITT)) and
the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) as the
international standard for the compression and storage of color
images. The compression ratio can be selected, but the higher
the compression ratio, the poorer the quality of the expanded
(restored) image.
(US).
SSFDC forum. By using a commercially available PC Card
Adapter, a SmartMedia card can be used as a PC card
(Type II).
PREFACE
7
Features
● High Quality Images
PREFACE
The 1.5 million pixel primary-colour CCD gives high-quality, high-resolution
(1280 x 1024 pixels) images and video at a horizontal resolution of 480
lines or better (playback).
The camera’s LCD monitor allows you to check the picture you have taken
and show it to your friends immediately.
● Compact and Light weight
Size:80 × 101 × 33 mm
Weight:245 g (not including accessories, battery or SmartMedia)
● Extensive Focusing Range (with macro function)
• Normal: Approx 50 cm to infinity
• Macro: Approx. 9 cm to 50 cm
● Easy-to-Use Fixed-Focus Lens with Auto-Focus
Equivalent to 35 mm lens on a 35 mm camera
Automatic aperture selection (F3.2/F8)
● Flash
Auto-flash with flash control sensor.
Flash modes: Auto (in low light), Red-Eye Reduction, Forced Flash and
Suppressed Flash
● Support for SmartMedia
Uses compact, lightweight, fast and low-cost SmartMedia.
● Choice of Quality/File Size
• Image Quality: FINE, NORMAL or BASIC
• File Size:1280
× 1024 pixels or 640 × 480 pixels
● JPEG (Exif) Format
JPEG-format images can be imported directly into applications running on
a personal computer. The VU-V101 Floppy Disk Adapter (FlashPath) and a
commercially available PC Card Adapter allow even easier interaction with
personal computers.
● PC-Mode
The HS-V12 PC and Macintosh®Connection Kit (optional) allows image
data to be transferred to and from a personal computer.
● Date and Time Recording/Playback Function
The date and time of shooting are automatically recorded and displayed on
the LCD monitor.
● Unparalleled ease of operation
8
Nomenclature
LCD panel
Shutter button
Flash
Self-timer lamp
Flash control sensor
Grip
DC IN 5V (power input) socket
VIDEO OUT (video output) socket
MENU/EXE (execute) button
POWER switch
DISP (display) button
SELECT button
LCD monitor
f (Flash) button
m (Macro) button
PREFACE
Viewfinder window
Lens
SmartMedia cover
release
SmartMedia
holder
SmartMedia
cover
DIGITAL (digital input/output) socket
Viewfinder
Viewfinder lamp
Mode dial
Direction (5463)
button and
indicator
Strap mount
Tripod mount
Monitor brightness
adjustment dial
Grip
Battery cover
9
Nomenclature
LCD Panel
PREFACE
For the purposes of explanation, this figure shows all the icons displayed on
the LCD panel. In normal operation, only some of these icons are displayed
concurrently.
Flash/Suppressed flash icon
Red-eye
reduction icon
Black and White
photography icon
File Size display
Viewfinder Display
Field of view
SmartMedia icon
Macro icon
Battery check
icon
No. of shots
available/Playback
frame No. display
(last three digits
displayed)
Quality display
AF ring
10
Using the Hand Strap
Use the hand strap to avoid dropping the camera during shooting.
Attaching the Hand Strap
Pass the end of the strap
1
through the strap mount on
the camera.
Pass the other end of the
2
strap through the loop and
pull the strap tight.
Using the Hand Strap
Wear the strap around your
1
wrist.
• To avoid dropping the camera while
shooting, loop the hand strap over
your wrist and then hold the camera
by the grip.
PREFACE
11
Quick Start Guide
• Use the procedure given here if you want to start using your new camera
PREFACE
right away.
• For more detailed information on how to use the camera, refer to the page
indicated (
aP.XX).
Getting Ready
Slide the battery cover in the
direction of the arrow
1
(
aP.16).
Load the battery.
(loading the battery and SmartMedia and formatting the SmartMedia)
2
• Load the battery so that the [>] mark
on the battery is foremost.
• Push the battery in until it stops.
Close the battery cover.
3
Plug the AC power adapter in
the power outlet.
4
n NOTES
• Use an easily accessible outlet that is close
to the camera.
• The shapes of the plug and the outlet vary,
depending on the country of use.
Plug the AC power adapter
into the DC IN 5V socket on
5
the camera. (
• Battery charging begins
automatically.
• The viewfinder lamp turns orange
while the battery is charging and
goes off when charging is
completed.
aP.17)
12
n NOTES
POWER
MENU/ EXE
DISP
SELECT
DIGITAL
MENU/ EXE
• A fully exhausted battery takes roughly 5 hours to charge.
• To use the camera immediately, use the camera while it is connected to the AC
power adapter.
Open the SmartMedia cover
6
aP.24).
(
• Slide the SmartMedia cover release
in the direction of the arrow and then
release.
Insert the SmartMedia.
7
• Slide the SmartMedia in slowly so
that the contact area faces the gold
line on the SmartMedia holder
(towards the front of the camera) and
push the SmartMedia in fully.
Close the SmartMedia cover.
8
Slide the POWER switch to
the right (
9
• Slide the switch in the direction of
the arrow and then release it after
about one second.
• The direction indicator flashes and
rotates.
aP.21).
PREFACE
10
Set the Mode dial to [e]
aP.59).
(
• The menu screen appears.
• Format the SmartMedia.
13
Quick Start Guide
ERASE 00000000
FRAME
ALL
[FORMAT
]
ERASE<FORMAT> 00000000
OK< EXE > CANCEL<
>
OK?
DIGITAL
MENU/ EXE
DIGITAL
MENU/ EXE
PREFACE
Use the [5] or [6] button to
11
select “FORMAT” and press
the [MENU/EXE] button.
• The confirmation screen appears.
Press the [MENU/EXE]
12
button.
• The SmartMedia is formatted and the
menu screen reappears.
Taking Pictures
(Normal (Auto) Mode)
Set the Mode dial to [r]
1
2
aP.31).
(
Look through the viewfinder,
position the AF ring over the
subject and compose the
picture.
To View the Image on the LCD Monitor
Press the [DISP] button (aP.33).
14
Press the shutter button
DIGITAL
MENU/ EXE
DIGITAL
MENU/ EXE
3
down halfway.
• The camera automatically sets the
focus and the exposure. Once the
focus is set, the viewfinder lamp
turns green.
Without releasing the shutter
button, press it down fully.
4
• The electronic beep sounds and the
picture is taken.
• The viewfinder lamp turns orange
while the image data is being
recorded onto the SmartMedia. You
cannot take any pictures while the
lamp is orange.
• When recording finishes, the electronic beep sounds and the number
of shots available shown on the LCD panel decreases by 1.
! CAUTION
Never remove the SmartMedia while data is being recorded onto the card as this
can corrupt the data on the SmartMedia or damage the SmartMedia itself.
Viewing Images (Single-Frame Playback)
Set the Mode dial to [p]
1
aP.43).
(
• The last frame recorded is displayed.
PREFACE
. Use the [3] or [4] button to
move to the desired frame.
2
[4]: Moves one frame forward
3]: Moves one frame back
[
Viewing Images on a TV (aP.35)
15
Loading the Battery
This section describes how to load the BN-V101 Rechargeable Battery.
! CAUTIONS
• The battery is not fully charged at shipment. Always charge the battery before you use
the camera.
• Always switch off the camera before you replace the battery.
• If you remove the battery without switching off the camera, the date and time will revert
to the initial settings (
• Check the date and time settings after you replace the battery (aP.64).
• Do not use the provided BN-V101 Rechargeable Battery with other devices.
aP.64).
Slide the battery cover in the
GETTING
READY
1
direction of the arrow.
Load the battery.
2
• Load the battery so that the [>] mark
on the battery is foremost.
• Push the battery in until it stops.
Close the battery cover.
3
Number of Consecutive Shots
Using a Fully Charged Battery
a See P.19.
When to Replace the Battery
When the battery is exhausted, the battery check icon “
flashes. Load a charged battery as soon as possible.
Use the AA-V101 AC Power Adapter (supplied) to charge the battery.
16
on the LCD panel
”
Charging the Battery
Load the battery into the
1
camera.
Plug the AC power adapter in
2
the power outlet.
n NOTES
• Use an easily accessible outlet that is close
to the camera.
• The shapes of the plug and the outlet vary,
depending on the country of use.
Plug the AC power adapter
3
into the DC IN 5V socket on
the camera.
• After about 8 seconds the viewfinder
lamp turns orange and battery
charging begins automatically.
• The viewfinder lamp remains orange
while the battery is charging and goes off when charging is
completed. For more information on the viewfinder lamp displays, see
“LCD Monitor, Indicator Lamps and Beeps” (aP.29).
• A fully exhausted battery takes roughly 5 hours to charge.
! CAUTIONS
• The battery will not charge unless the AC power adapter plug is correctly inserted into
the camera.
• A battery that is almost fully charged cannot be charged. This is not a fault.
• In temperatures above +50°C (+122°F), as may occur in a sunlit vehicle, a safety feature
operates to prevent charging. This is not a fault.
READY
GETTING
AC Power Adapter
Use only the AA-V101 AC Power Adapter (supplied) with your GC-S5 Digital Still
Camera.
The use of an AC power adapter other than the AA-V101 could result in damage to
your GC-S5 Digital Still Camera.
17
About the Battery
Note the points listed below when you use the rechargeable battery. Take
particular care to read the Safety Notes to ensure that you use the battery
correctly.
Notes on Handling the Battery
The GC-S5 camera uses a lithium ion rechargeable battery. Note the points below
when using the rechargeable battery.
When shipped, the BN-V101 is not fully charged. Always charge the battery before
∗
using it.
■ Battery Features
GETTING
READY
● The battery gradually loses its charge even when not used. Use a battery that has
been charged recently (in the last day or two) to take pictures.
● In cold locations, the number of frames that can be shot decreases. Take along a
spare fully charged battery.
■ Charging the Battery
● The battery can be charged using the AA-V101 AC Power Adapter supplied with
the GC-S5.
A fullly exhausted battery takes approximately 5 hours to charge.
● This rechargeable battery does not need to be fully discharged or run flat before
being charged.
● The battery may feel warm after it has been charged or immediately after being
used. This is perfectly normal.
● The battery can be charged at temperatures between 0°C and +40°C (+32°F and
+104°F), but should be charged between +10°C and +30°C (+32°F and +86°F) to
obtain maximum battery performance.
● Do not recharge a fully charged battery.
■ Battery Life
● At normal temperatures, this battery can be used at least 300 times. If the time for
which the battery provides power shortens markedly, this indicates that the battery
has reached the end of its effective life and should be replaced.
■ Handling the Battery
To avoid injury or damage, observe the following:
● Do not allow the metal portions of the battery to touch other metal objects.
● Do not bring the battery close to a flame or throw it into a fire.
● Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the battery.
To avoid damaging the battery or shortening its life, observe the following:
● Do not drop the battery or otherwise subject it to strong impacts.
● Do not immerse the battery in water.
To ensure that you obtain optimum battery performance, observe the following:
● Always keep the battery terminals clean.
● Store the battery in a cool, dry place. Storing the battery for long periods in a hot
location can shorten the battery life.
18
Notes on Using the Battery
If you use the battery for a long period, the camera body and the battery itself will
become warm. This is normal and is not a malfunction. Use the AC power adapter
supplied with the camera if you are taking pictures or viewing images for a long
period of time.
● The above figures are a guide to the number of consecutive shots that can be taken
when the flash is used 50% of the time at room temperature. However, the actual
number of available shots varies depending on the ambient temperature when the
camera is used and the amount of charge in the battery.
● To avoid wasting battery charge, switch the camera off promptly when it is not
being used.
● To increase the time for which your battery can be used in cold locations, warm the
battery by placing it in your pocket and then load it into the camera just before you
take pictures. If you are using a heating pad, take care not to place the battery
directly against the pad.
∗
Remaining Battery Capacity
To avoid unexpected failures, load a fully charged battery into the camera before you
start shooting. Check the remaining battery charge displayed on the LCD panel.
READY
GETTING
1 Ready to shoot.
2 The battery is almost low. When the battery warning
indicator flashes, charge or replace the battery
immediately.
If you continue to use the camera when the warning
∗
indicator is flashing, the camera may not function
normally.
3 The battery is exhausted and the camera is automatically
turned off.
Replace or charge the battery.
19
Lit
Flashing
Icon not
displayed
Using a Domestic Power Outlet
In locations where a power outlet is accessible (usually indoors), you can use
the AA-V101 AC Power Adapter supplied with the GC-S5 to take pictures or
view images.
You should also use the AC power adapter when you connect your GC-S5 to a
personal computer to avoid data transfer interruptions caused by an
exhausted battery.
Plug the AC power adapter
1
into the power outlet.
GETTING
READY
n NOTES
• Use an easily accessible outlet that is close
to the camera.
• The shapes of the plug and the outlet vary,
depending on the country of use.
Insert the AC power adapter
plug into the DC IN 5V socket
2
on the camera.
! CAUTIONS
• Ensure that you do not touch the AC power adapter against any other metal object as
this could cause a short circuit.
• Do not plug the AC power adapter into the DIGITAL socket as this could damage your
camera.
• Do not plug in the AC power adapter while you are using the battery. Switch the camera
off first.
• Do not load the battery while you are using the AC power adapter. Switch the camera
off first.
• If you disconnect the AC power adapter while there is no battery loaded in the camera,
the date and time information will be lost. In this event, reset the date and time. (aP.64)
• If you plug in the AC power adapter when there is no battery loaded in the camera, the
viewfinder lamp may flash red. This does not indicate a fault, however.
AC Power Adapter
Use only the AA-V101 AC Power Adapter (supplied) with your GC-S5 Digital Still
Camera.
The use of an AC Power Adapter other than the AA-V101 could result in damage to
your GC-S5 Digital Still Camera.
20
Switching On and Switching Off
POWER
MENU/ EXE
DISP
SELECT
POWER
MENU/ EXE
DISP
SELECT
Switching On
Slide the POWER switch to
1
the right.
• Slide the switch in the direction of
the arrow and then release it after
about one second.
• The direction indicator flashes and
rotates.
Switching Off
Slide the POWER switch to
the right.
1
• Slide the switch in the direction of
the arrow and then release.
! CAUTIONS
• Remove the battery if the camera will not be used for a long period.
• Do not put the camera in a bag or pocket while it is switched on.
Auto Power Off Function
If the camera is not used in any way for two minutes or more, the Auto Power Off
function switches the camera off. This is to prevent battery depletion and to avoid
excessive power usage when the camera is connected to the AC power adapter.
• The Auto Power Off function does not operate during automatic playback (aP.45) or
in PC-mode (aP.79).
• To disable the Auto Power Off function, hold down the [MENU/EXE] button as you
switch the camera on. To re-enable the Auto Power Off function, switching the
camera off and then on again. If you operate the camera in live video mode (the
video image shown before a picture is taken) or continuous playback mode for a
long period, the camera body may become quite warm. This is not a fault.
• Note that if the camera has been left switched on but unused for 2 minutes or more,
the flash may not operate when a photograph is taken and you may not obtain the
correct image.
READY
GETTING
21
SmartMedia
Compatible SmartMedia
You can use the following SmartMedia with your GC-S5:
• 2 MB, 5 V • 4 MB, 5 V • 8 MB, 5 V • 16 MB, 5 V • 2 MB, 3.3 V
• 4 MB, 3.3 V • 8 MB, 3,3 V • 16 MB, 3.3 V
By using a commercially available PC Card Adapter, these SmartMedia can be
used as PC Card Standard ATA-compliant PC cards (PCMCIA 2.1 Type II).
! CAUTION
Always refer to the Operating Instructions for the SmartMedia also.
GETTING
READY
Write Protection
To prevent the inadvertent erasing of
important data, stick a write-protect sticker
over the write-protect area on the
SmartMedia. (Ensure that the sticker is firmly
pressed down flush with the write-protect
area and will not peel off.) This sticker makes
it impossible to record data to or erase data
from the SmartMedia.
To record or erase data, remove the sticker.
! CAUTIONS
• The write protection may not function if the sticker becomes soiled. Use a dry lint-free
cloth to wipe away any soiling.
• The SmartMedia write-protect feature does not operate when the SmartMedia is used in
the VU-V101 Floppy Disk Adapter (FlashPath).
Using a New SmartMedia
■ Formatting (Initialising) the SmartMedia
To record data on a new SmartMedia, you must first initialise the SmartMedia
using the GC-S5 (aP.59).
Formatting
Formatting a SmartMedia refers to the process of overlaying a format on the
SmartMedia so that data can be recorded (written) onto the SmartMedia.
! Notes on Using SmartMedia with Personal Computers (aP.80)
22
Notes on Using SmartMedia
■ Storing Data
● In the situations listed below, recorded data may be erased (destroyed).
Please note that JVC accepts no responsibility whatsoever for the loss
(destruction) of recorded data.
• When the SmartMedia is used incorrectly by the owner or a third party
• When the SmartMedia is exposed to static electricity or electrical noise
• When the SmartMedia cover is opened or the SmartMedia is removed and
the camera is then switched off during data recording, during data erasing
(SmartMedia formatting) or during frame advance when images are being
played back.
● Back up important data onto another medium (MO disk, floppy disk, hard
disk, etc.).
■ Notes on Handling SmartMedia
● Never remove the SmartMedia or switch the camera off during data
recording, during data erasing (SmartMedia formatting) or during frame
advance when images are being played back. These actions could result in
damage to the SmartMedia.
● Use only the SmartMedia specified for use with the GC-S5. The use of other
SmartMedia could damage the camera.
● SmartMedia are precision electronic devices. Do not bend, drop, or subject
SmartMedia to excessive shocks.
● Do not use or store SmartMedia in environments likely to be affected by
strong static electricity or electrical noise.
● Do not use or store SmartMedia in very hot, humid or corrosive
environments.
● Take care not to touch the SmartMedia’s contact area or allow the area to
become soiled. Use a dry lint-free cloth to wipe away any soiling that does
occur.
● To avoid damage caused by static electricity, always use the special static-
free case provided during transportation or storage, or keep the SmartMedia
in a storage case if available.
● Do not carry SmartMedia in locations such as a trouser pocket. This could
subject the SmartMedia to excessive force when you sit down, thereby
damaging the SmartMedia.
● The SmartMedia may feel warm when it is removed from the camera after
extended periods of picture taking or image viewing. This is normal and
does not indicate a fault.
● Inserting a SmartMedia that is charged with static electricity into your
camera may result in a camera malfunction. If this occurs, switch the camera
off and then on again.
READY
GETTING
23
Loading and Removing SmartMedia
Always switch off the camera before removing or loading a SmartMedia.
Loading the SmartMedia
The GC-S5 records photographed images onto a SmartMedia card.
Open the SmartMedia cover.
1
• Slide the SmartMedia cover release
in the direction of the arrow and then
GETTING
READY
release.
Insert the SmartMedia.
2
• Slide the SmartMedia in slowly so
that the contact area faces the gold
line on the SmartMedia holder
(towards the front of the camera) and
push the SmartMedia in fully.
Close the SmartMedia cover.
3
• When you switch on the camera, the
SmartMedia icon “S” appears on
the LCD panel on the top of the
camera.
• When the viewfinder lamp is flashing
red, a warning appears on the LCD
monitor. Refer to P.91.
! CAUTIONS
• When you are using a new SmartMedia, always use the camera to format the
SmartMedia before use (a P.59).
• See also “SmartMedia” (aP.22).
• If any of the following occur, switch the camera off, clean the contact area on the
SmartMedia, and then reload the SmartMedia.
-“@CARD ERROR” appears on the LCD monitor.
- The images recorded on the SmartMedia are not displayed.
- “– – –” appears in the No. of shots available field on the LCD panel.
24
Removing the SmartMedia
Open the SmartMedia cover.
1
• Slide the SmartMedia cover release
in the direction of the arrow and then
release.
Remove the SmartMedia.
2
• Push the SmartMedia slowly all the
way in and then pull it out.
Close the SmartMedia cover.
3
READY
GETTING
! CAUTIONS
• Never remove the SmartMedia while data is being recorded onto or read from
the card as this can corrupt the data on the SmartMedia or damage the
SmartMedia itself.
• Remove the SmartMedia if the camera will not be used for a long period.
• If you are copying images to another SmartMedia (aP.50), leave the camera
switched on while you remove and load the SmartMedia.
25
How to Hold the Camera
To prevent camera shake (blurred images), hold the camera firmly so that it
does not move when you take a picture.
Upright
Hold the camera with both hands and brace your
elbows firmly against your sides.
GETTING
READY
On its Side
Hold the camera so that the flash is above the
viewfinder window.
! CAUTION
Take care that your fingers or the hand strap do not
obscure the lens or flash.
26
Pressing the Shutter Button
The shutter button on the GC-S5 has two positions. If you press the shutter
button lightly, it stops halfway down. Pressing the button beyond this point
activates the shutter and takes a picture.
Pressing halfway (pressing
1
lightly):
• AF (auto focus) and AE (auto
exposure) operation begins.
• The AF and AE settings are locked.
• The viewfinder lamp turns green.
Pressing fully (pressing the
2
button further down from the
halfway position):
• The electronic beep sounds and
the picture is taken.
! CAUTIONS
• Moving the camera as you press the shutter button will result in a blurred
image.
• Hold the camera firmly in both hands.
AF and AE Lock
On the GC-S5, the focus and exposure settings are locked (AF and AE lock)
when you press the shutter button down halfway. If you want to focus on a
subject that is not centered in the frame or change the picture composition
after the exposure is set (to photograph a backlit subject, for example), you
can obtain good results by changing the composition after the AF and AE
settings are locked.
Subjects Not Suitable for Autofocus
The GC-S5 uses an accurate auto focus mechanism. However, the GC-S5 may
have difficulty focusing or not be able to focus at all for subjects and situations
such as the following:
• Subjects moving at high speed.
• Very shiny subjects such as a mirror or
car body.
• When there is very little contrast.
• Subjects that do not reflect well, such
as hair or fur.
• Subjects with no solidity, such as
smoke or flames.
• Subjects viewed through glass.
• Subjects that merge into the
background (such as white walls or
subjects dressed in the same color as
the background).
• When the subject is distant and dark.
• When there are objects in front of or
behind the subject (such as an animal
in a cage or a person in front of a tree).
27
READY
GETTING
Mode Dial
DIGITAL
MENU/ EXE
The Mode dial settings and the corresponding camera operations are listed
below.
[d]: Setup Mode (aP.60)
GETTING
READY
In this mode, you can set the quality (image quality), file size (number
of pixels), sharpness, color, frame no., beep volume and date and
time settings. SETUP can also be used to set the [SELECT] button.
[s]:Self-Timer Mode (aP.66)
This mode allows you to use a 10-second timer for self-timer shooting.
[R]:Manual mode (aP.67)
Manual mode allows you to check the photographed image before it
is recorded. This mode also allows you to select the brightness, flash
brightness and white balance settings and to select 16-Cont mode
(continuous shots).
[r]:Normal (Auto) mode (aP.30)
This is a simple and convenient photography mode in which the
camera automatically selects the exposure (a combination of shutter
speed and aperture setting) and the focus to suit the shooting
conditions. This mode is ideal for general photography where you are
not trying to achieve any particular effect.
[p]:Playback mode (aP.42)
Playback mode allows normal single-frame playback, multi-frame
playback, automatic playback, playback zoom and copying of
recorded images. You can also use this mode to smooth images,
resize images (change the number of pixels in the image) and
produce sepia-tone images.
[e]:Erase mode (aP.55)
In Erase mode, you can erase one frame, erase all frames or format
(initialise) a SmartMedia card.
[L]:Protect mode (aP.76)
Protect mode allows you to protect one frame or to remove the
protection from one frame or all the frames.
[l]:PC-mode (aP.79)
In PC-mode, you can transfer your images to a personal computer or
use a personal computer to record or erase images on a SmartMedia.
28
LCD Monitor, Indicator Lamps and Beeps
All OFF
(initial status)
Live image∗ + on-screen display
On-screen display
(initial status)
Live image + on-screen display
Live image
All OFF
(initial status)
Live image + on-screen display
Live image
Single-frame
playback
Single-frame playback +
on-screen display (initial status)
Multi-frame playback +
on-screen display (initial status)
Multi-frame
playback
Multi-frame playback +
menu display
Single-frame playback +
menu display (initial status)
On-screen display
(initial status)
On-screen
display OFF
The LCD monitor display (on-screen display) changes each time you press the
[DISP] button, as shown below.