JVC GR-AX410, GR-AX310 User Manual

COMP ACT VHS CAMCORDER

CAMESCOPE COMPACT VHS 

GR-AX210 GR-AX310 GR-AX410

Compact VHS



(The camcorder illustrations appearing in these instructions are of the GR-AX310.)

INSTRUCTIONS

MANUEL D'INSTRUCTIONS

YU30052-515-1

Dear Customer,

Thank you for purchasing the JVC Compact VHS camcorder. Before use, please read the safety information and precautions contained in the following pages to ensure safe use of your new camcorder.

Using This Instruction Manual

• All major sections and subsections are listed in the Table Of Contents (

• Notes appear after most subsections. Be sure to read these as well.

• Basic and advanced features/operation are separated for easier reference.

It is recommended that you . . .

..... refer to the Index (

familiarize yourself with button locations, etc. before use.

..... read thoroughly the Safety Precautions and Safety

Instructions that follow. They contain extremely important information regarding the safe use of your new camcorder.

You are recommended to carefully read the cautions on pages 43 and 44 before use.

Z pg. 7).

Z pgs. 40 – 42) and

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK.

DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL. 

NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.



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

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

The AA-V11U AC Power Adapter/Charger should be used with: AC 120 V`, 60 Hz in the USA and Canada, AC 110 – 240 V`, 50/60 Hz in other countries.

CAUTION (applies to the AA-V11U)

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

ATTENTION (s'applique à l'AA-V11U)

POUR ÉVITER LES CHOCS ÉLECTRIQUES, INTRODUIRE LA LAME LA PLUS LARGE DE LA FICHE DANS LA BORNE CORRESPONDANTE DE LA PRISE ET POUSSER JUSQU'AU FOND.

WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

Warning on lithium battery

The battery used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 100°C (212°F) or incinerate. Replace the battery with Panasonic (Matsushita Electric), Sanyo or Maxell CR2025; use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.

n Dispose of used battery promptly. n Keep away from children.

n Do not disassemble and do not dispose of in fire.

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/Charger is on its bottom.

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference – Causing Equipment Regulations.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.

This camcorder is designed to be used with NTSC-type color television signals. It cannot be used for playback with a television of a different standard. However, live recording and viewfinder playback are possible anywhere. Use the BN-V11U/V12U/V22U/V25U battery packs and, to recharge them, the provided multi-voltage AC Power Adapter/Charger. (An appropriate conversion adapter may be necessary to accommodate different designs of AC outlets in different countries.)

ATTENTION:

The product that you have purchased is powered by a rechargeable battery. The battery is recyclable. At the end of its useful life, under various state and local laws, it may be illegal to dispose of this battery into the municipal waste stream. Check with your local solid waste officials for details in your area for recycling options or proper disposal.

IMPORTANT PRODUCT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Electrical energy can perform many useful functions. But improper use can result in potential electrical shock or fire hazards. This product has been engineered and manufactured to assure your personal safety. In order not to defeat the built-in safeguards, observe the following basic rules for its installation, use and servicing.

ATTENTION:

Follow and obey all warnings and instructions marked on your product and its operating instructions. For your safety, please read all the safety and operating instructions before you operate this product and keep this manual for future

reference.

INSTALLATION

1. Grounding or Polarization

(A) Your product may be 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. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug.

(B) Your product may be equipped with a 3-wire

grounding-type plug, a plug having a third (grounding) pin. This plug will only fit into a grounding-type power outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the grounding-type plug.

2. Power Sources

Operate your product only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your product dealer or local power company. If your product is intended to operate from battery power, or other sources, refer to the operating instructions.

3. Overloading

Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords, or integral convenience receptacles as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock.

4. 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 product.

5. Ventilation

Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation. To ensure reliable operation of the product and to protect it from overheating, these openings must not be blocked or covered.

• Do not block the openings by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug or other similar surface.

• Do not place the product in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack unless proper ventilation is provided

or the manufacturer’s instructions have been adhered to.

6. Wall or Ceiling Mounting

The product should be mounted to a wall or ceiling only as recommended by the manufacturer.

ANTENNA INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

1. Outdoor Antenna Grounding

If an outside antenna or cable system is connected to the product, be sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges. Article 810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, provides information with regard 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.

2. Lightning

For added protection for this product during a lightning storm, or when it is 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 product due to lightning and power-line

surges.

3. Power Lines

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

EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA GROUNDING AS PER NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE, ANSI/NFPA 70

ANTENNA LEAD IN WIRE

GROUND CLAMP

ANTENNA DISCHARGE UNIT (NEC SECTION 

ELECTRIC SERVICE EQUIPMENT

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

NEC – NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

810-20)

GROUNDING  CONDUCTORS (NEC SECTION 810-21)

GROUND CLAMPS

USE

1. Accessories

To avoid personal injury:

• Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table. It may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the product.

• Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the manufacturer or sold with the product.

• Use a mounting accessory recommended by the manufacturer and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any mounting of the product.

• Do not try to roll a cart with small casters across thresholds or deep-pile carpets.

2. Product and Cart Combination

A product and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart combination to overturn.

3. Water and Moisture

Do not use this 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.

4. Object and Liquid Entry

Never push objects of any kind into this product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock.

Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.

5. Attachments

Do not use attachments not recommended by the manufacturer of this product as they may cause hazards.

6. Cleaning

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

7. Heat

The product should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

PORTABLE CART WARNING (Symbol provided by RETAC)

SERVICING

1. Servicing

If your product is not operating correctly or exhibits a marked change in performance and you are unable to restore normal operation by following the detailed procedure in its operating instructions, do not attempt to service it yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all

servicing to qualified service personnel.

2. Damage Requiring Service

Unplug this 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

product.

c. If the product has been exposed to rain or water. d. If the product does not operate normally by following

the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions as an improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to its normal operation.

e. If the product has been dropped or damaged in any way. f. When the product exhibits a distinct change in

performance—this indicates a need for service.

3. Replacement Parts

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

4. Safety Check

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

QUICK OPERATION GUIDE

SUPPLY POWER

Hook on.

Push in.

BATT. RELEASE

Using the battery pack

Hook-on the battery pack’s top end to the camcorder. (Charging procedure, Z P. 8)

2 Push in the battery pack until it locks into

place.

To remove the battery pack

Slide BATT. RELEASE and pull out the battery pack.

PLAYBACK

PLAY/PAUSE

REW

STOP

INSERTING A VIDEO CASSETTE

EJECT

PUSH

1 Slide EJECT. 2 Insert a video cassette. 3 Press PUSH.

(For more details, Z P. 11)

SHOOTING

Insert.

LENS COVER open/close knob

Set to “CAMERA”

Recording Start/Stop button

Set to “PLAY”

1 Set the power switch to “PLAY”. 2 Press REW.

— The tape will automatically stop at the

beginning of the tape.

3 Press PLAY/PAUSE.

— Playback starts and the playback picture

appears in the viewfinder.

•To stop playback, press STOP.

(For more details, Z P. 30.)

Or simply play back the tape on a VHS

VCR using the Cassette Adapter (VHS Playpak). Z P. 2 8

1 Slide the LENS COVER open/close knob to

open the lens cover.

2 Set the power switch to “CAMERA”.

— The power indicator will light and an

image will appear in the viewfinder.

3 Press the Recording Start/Stop button.

— Recording starts.

•To stop recording temporarily, momentarily press the Recording Start/Stop button once again. (For more details, Z P. 14)

SEL

MAJOR FEATURES

REMEMBER

The Logical Choice

The only compact video

cassettes that can be

used with your VHS VCR*

Program AE with Special Effects (

n Auto Mode Lock n Auto Mode Release n Electronic Fog Filter n ND Effect n Sepia n Twilight n Sports n High Speed (1/2000 sec.) Shutter n 15 sec. Self Timer

Z P. 16)

with VHS Playpak

Intelligent Function Control

Z P. 18 – 25)

(

Variable-Speed Hyper Zoom [GR-AX210/AX410:12x,

Zoom-in

Zoom-out

Z P. 15)

GR-AX310:14x] (

Random Assemble Editing (

Z P. 32 – 35)

[GR-AX310 only]

882

554411663

PROVIDED ACCESSORIES

•AC Power Adapter/ Charger AA-V11U

•Battery Pack BN-V11U

•Cassette Adapter (VHS PlayPak) C-P7U

Cassettes marked can be used with this camcorder.

•Shoulder Strap

•Lithium Battery

CONTENTS

GETTING STARTED

Power..................................................................................... 8

Clock (Lithium) Battery Removal/Insertion........................................ 10

Date/Time Settings ................................................................... 10

Viewfinder Adjustment ............................................................... 11

Tape Length/Recording Mode Setting .............................................. 11

Loading/Unloading A Cassette ...................................................... 11

Grip Adjustment ....................................................................... 12

Shoulder Strap Attachment........................................................... 12

Tripod Mounting ....................................................................... 12

RM-V20U Remote Control Unit ..................................................... 13

RECORDING

Basic Recording ........................................................................ 14

Basic Features ......................................................................... 15

Advanced Features .................................................................... 16

PLAYBACK

Using The Cassette Adapter.......................................................... 28

Basic Connections...................................................................... 29

Basic Playback ......................................................................... 30

Features ................................................................................ 31

EDITING

Tape Dubbing........................................................................... 32

Random Assemble Editing (R.A.Edit) [GR-AX310 only] ......................... 32

Insert Editing........................................................................... 36

Audio Dubbing ......................................................................... 37

USER MAINTENANCE TROUBLESHOOTING INDEX

Controls................................................................................. 40

Connectors.............................................................................. 40

Indicators ............................................................................... 40

Other Parts............................................................................. 40

Viewfinder ............................................................................. 41

Terms .................................................................................... 42

CAUTIONS SPECIFICATIONS OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES

GETTING STARTED

RECORDING

PLAYBACKEDITING

38 39 40

43 45 45

END indicator

CHG. (charge) indicator

Marks

POWER indicator

REFRESH indicatorREFRESH switch

To AC outlet

GETTING STARTED

Power

This camcorder’s 3-way power supply system lets you choose the most appropriate source of power.

NOTES:

●

No function is available without power supply.

●

Use only specified power supply.

●

Do not use provided power supply units with other equipment.

CHARGING THE BATTERY PACK

SUPPLY POWER

Connect the charger’s AC power cord to a wall

outlet. The power indicator lights.

ATTACH BATTERY PACK

Align the marks and slide the battery pack in the

direction of the arrow until it locks in place. The CHG. indicator lights.

DETACH BATTERY PACK

When charging is completed, the END indicator

lights. Slide the battery pack opposite the direction of the arrow.

BATT. PACK CHARGE DISCHARGE

BN-V11U approx. 1 hr. 10 min.

BN-V12U approx. 1 hr. 10 min.

BN-V22U approx. 2 hrs. 10 min. approx. 7 hrs. BN-V25U approx. 2 hrs. 40 min. approx. 10 hrs.

approx. 3 hrs. 30 min.

Hook on.

Push in.

BATT. RELEASE

USING THE BATTERY PACK

ATTACH BATTERY PACK

Hook its top end to the camcorder and push the

battery pack in until it locks in place.

DETACH BATTERY PACK

Slide BATT. RELEASE and pull out the battery pack.

RECORDING TIME

BATT. PACK GR-AX210/AX310 GR-AX410

BN-V11U approx. 1 hr. 5 min. approx. 1 hr. BN-V12U approx. 1 hr. 5 min. approx. 1 hr. BN-V22U approx. 2 hrs. 15 min. approx. 2 hrs. 10 min. BN-V25U approx. 3 hrs. approx. 2 hrs. 50 min.

**REFRESH

The AC power adapter features a REFRESH function that allows you to fully discharge the battery pack before recharging.

To discharge the battery . . .

..... attach the battery pack to the adapter as shown in the

illustration to the left. Then push REFRESH. The REFRESH indicator lights when discharging starts, and goes out when discharging is complete.

**CHARGE MARKER

Charge marker

A charge marker is provided on the battery pack to help you remember whether it has been charged or not. Two colors are provided (red and black)—you choose which one means charged and which means discharged.

NOTES:

●

The recording time per charge is affected by such factors as the time spent in Record/Standby mode and the frequency of zooming. It is safer to have spare battery packs.

●

Charging times noted on page 8 are for fully discharged battey pack, and discharging times are for fully charged battery pack.

●

Charging and discharging times vary according to the ambient temperature and the status of the battery pack.

●

Remember to set the charge marker after charging a battery pack or after detaching a discharged one from your camcorder.

●

Perform the REFRESH function after no less than 5 chargings.

●

High temperatures can damage the battery pack, so use only where good ventilation is available. Don’t allow it to discharge in container, such as a bag.

●

If you stop recharging or discharging partway through, make sure to remove the battery pack before unplugging the adapter’s AC cord.

●

Remove the battery pack from the adapter immediately after discharging.

●

To avoid interference with reception, do not use the AC Power Adapter/Charger near a radio.

●

Make sure you unplug the DC cord before charging or discharging the battery pack.

●

A blinking CHG. indicator means that the battery pack has become hot. Wait until it cools down to continue.

●

The CHG. indicator may not light properly with a brand new battery pack, or with one that’s been stored for an extended period. In this case, remove and reattach the battery pack and recharge it. The CHG. indicator should light during recharging. If not, contact your nearest JVC dealer.

To AC outlet

DC OUT terminal

AC Power

DC cord

Car Battery Cord AP-V7U (optional)

Car Battery Charger/Adapter BH-V3U (optional)

Adapter/Charger AA-V11U

To car's cigarette lighter socket

USING A CAR BATTERY

Use the optional Car Battery Cord or Car Battery Charger/Adapter (connect as shown in the illustration to the left).

NOTES:

●

When using the car battery, leave the engine idling.

●

The optional Car Battery Charger (BH-V3U) can also be used to charge the battery pack.

●

When using the optional Car Battery Charger or Car Battery Cord (AP-V7U), refer to the respective instruction booklet.

USING AC POWER

Use the AC Power Adapter (connect as shown in the illustration to the left).

NOTE:

The supplied AC Power Adapter/Charger features automatic voltage selection in the AC range from 110 V to 240 V.

–/+ SET

GETTING STARTED (cont.)

Clock (Lithium) Battery Removal/Insertion

This battery is necessary to operate the clock and to perform date/time settings.

SWITCH OFF POWER

Switch off the unit’s power and remove the power

supply unit.

OPEN COVER

Open the clock battery compartment cover while

pressing the release tab.

REMOVE BATTERY (when replacing)

Insert a pointed, non-metallic object between the

battery and the compartment ( battery out.

INSERT BATTERY

Ensuring the plus (+) side is up, insert the supplied

lithium battery and push it in.

CLOSE COVER

Close the compartment cover until it clicks in place.

) and pull the

NOTE:

See “SAFETY PRECAUTIONS”(Z pg. 2) for information on safe handling of lithium batteries.

Date

Month/Day/Year DATE ... Date setting is performed

DATE JAN 1.00

TIME AM12:00



Time

12-hour indication with AM or PM

TIME .... Time setting is performed

POWER

Date/Time Settings

SELECT MODE

Set the power switch to CAMERA.

SET DATE/TIME

Press SET and the month blinks. Press + or – to set

the month. Repeat to set day, year, hour and minute.

START CLOCK

Press SET. The blinking stops. The date and time are

both displayed for confirmation, then the time display disappears.

NOTE:

The clock does not keep time while the date and time are blinking.

SP-EP recording mode and T20•30•40 tape length select button

Viewfinder Adjustment

POSITION VIEWFINDER

Adjust the viewfinder manually for best viewability

(see illustration at left).

SELECT MODE

Set the power switch to CAMERA.

ADJUST DIOPTER

Turn the diopter adjustment control until the

indications in the viewfinder are clearly focused.

Tape Length/Recording Mode Setting

SET TAPE LENGTH

Set the tape length button according to the length of

the tape used. T20 = 20 minutes of recording time, T30 = 30 minutes, and T40 = 40 minutes (in SP).

Set POWER to “CAMERA”.

Tape length and recording mode indicator

T30 SP

T20 SP T40 EP T40 SP T30 EP

Turn to take up slack.

GearErase Protection

T20 EP T30 SP

SET RECORDING MODE

Set depending on your preference. “SP” (Standard

Play) provides higher picture and sound quality and is better for dubbing, while “EP” (Extended Play) is more economical, recording at 1/3 the speed of SP.

Loading/Unloading A Cassette

OPEN CASSETTE HOLDER

Slide EJECT until holder opens. Do not use force to

open.

INSERT/REMOVE CASSETTE

Make sure label is facing outward.

CLOSE CASSETTE HOLDER

Press PUSH and make sure the holder is closed and

locked.

NOTES:

●

A cassette holder can’t be opened unless a power supply is attached.

●

Make sure that the tape is not slack when loading the cassette. If there is any slack, turn the gear on the cassette in the direction of the arrow to take up the slack.

●

Make sure the Erase Protection tab is present. If not, cover the hole with adhesive tape. (Some cassettes have sliding tabs – in this case, check the tab’s position.)

Recording Start/Stop button

GETTING STARTED (cont.)

Grip Adjustment

EXPAND LOOP

Separate the Velcro strip.

INSERT HAND

Pass your right hand through the loop and grasp the

grip.

ADJUST STRAP LENGTH

Adjust so your thumb and fingers can easily operate

the Recording Start/Stop button and Power Zoom switch. Refasten the Velcro strip.

Shoulder Strap Attachment

ATTACH STRAP

Following the illustration at left, thread the strap

through the top of the eyelet 1, then fold it back and thread it through the keeper 2, and then through the buckle 3. Repeat the procedure to attach the other end of the strap to the other eyelet, making sure the strap isn’t twisted.

ADJUST LENGTH

Adjust as shown in the illustration at left 1, then

slide both keepers snug against the eyelets to prevent slipping 2.

Tripod Mounting

ALIGN AND TIGHTEN

Align the screw and camera direction stud on the

tripod with the camera’s mounting socket and stud hole. Then tighten the screw.

RM-V20U Remote Control Unit

The RM-V20U (optional) permits VCR functions to be controlled from a distance. When using the RM-V20U, connect its cable to the camcorder’s REMOTE jack.

* Before use, refer to the RM-V20U instruction

booklet.

To REMOTE

2 3 4 5

6 7

0 !

@ # $ %

^ &

8 9

Buttons

1 LED indicator Lights when a signal is transmitted.

2 KEY-LOCK switch

3 REC —— 4STOP — Stop (Z P. 30) 5 PAUSE/MONITOR — Pause (Z P. 31) 6 AUDIO DUB — Audio Dubbing (Z P. 37) 7 INSERT — Insert Editing (Z P. 36) 8 REC TIME Animation/Time-Lapse (Z P. 27) — 9 INTERVAL Self-Timer (Z P. 26)/Time-Lapse (Z P. 27) — 0 POWER OFF Power off ! POWER ON Power on @ ZOOM (T/W) Slow-speed zoom (Z P. 15) — # FF/RETAKE Retake (Forward) (Z P. 15) FF/FF Shuttle Search (Z P. 30) $ PLAY — Playback start (Z P. 30) % REW/RETAKE Retake (Rewind) (Z P. 15) Rew/Rew Shuttle Search (Z P. 30) ^ START/STOP Functions same as the Recording/Stop button of a camcorder. & VISS Index Code Marking (Z P. 15) —

With the camcorder’s power switch With the camcorder’s power switch set set to “CAMERA”. to “PLAY”.

Switching to “;” turns off the remote control unit’s power. Decreases battery power consumption, and prevents accidental operation by young children, etc.

Functions

LENS COVER SWITCH

RECORDING

Basic Recording

NOTE:

You should already have performed the procedures listed below. If not, do so before continuing.

●

Power (Z pg. 8)

●

Tape Length/Recording Mode Setting (Z pg. 11)

●

Grip Adjustment (Z pg. 12)

LOAD A CASSETTE

Slide EJECT to open the cassette holder, then insert

the cassette with the label facing out. Press PUSH to ensure the holder is closed and locked.

POWER

Start/Stop

The power indicator

Tape remaining time indicator

120MIN 119MIN

1MIN (Blinking)

0MIN (Blinking)

* MIN.....(Now calculating)

Tally lamp

2MIN (Blinking)

3MIN

ENTER RECORD–STANDBY MODE

Slide the LENS COVER open/close switch to open

the lens cover, then set the power switch to CAMERA.

•The power indicator lights and the camcorder enters the Record–Standby Mode.

•The scene you’re aimed at appears on the viewfinder screen, with the word “PAUSE” superimposed upon it.

START SHOOTING

Press the Recording Start/Stop button.

•The tally lamp lights while recording is in progress,

REC

and “

” appears in the viewfinder.

STOP RECORDING

Press the Recording Start/Stop button again.

•The camcorder re-enters the Record-Standby mode.

NOTES:

●

A cassette holder can’t be opened unless a power supply is attached.

●

There may be a delay after you slide EJECT until the holder opens. Do not use force.

●

The tape’s remaining time is displayed in the viewfinder as shown.

●

“TAPE END” appears when the tape reaches its end, and the power goes off automatically if left in this condition for 5 minutes. “TAPE END” also appears when a cassette whose tape is already at its end is loaded.

●

If the Record–Standby mode continues for 5 minutes, the camcorder’s power shuts off automatically. Set the power switch to POWER OFF, and then back to CAMERA to turn the camcorder on again.

●

If you’re recording on a cassette from the middle, use the RETAKE function (Z pg. 15) to find the end of the last recording so you don’t erase any of it.

●

The LENS COVER warning blinks for about 5 seconds when the camcorder is turned on, whether the cover is open or closed.

RECORDING

Basic Features

Zoom indicator

RETAKE

Power zoom switch

Zoom-in

Zoom-out

START/STOP

VISS

RM-V20U (optional)

FEATURE: Zooming PURPOSE: To vary the length of the focal lens and

OPERATION:

NOTES: ●

FEATURE: Quick Review PURPOSE: To check end of last recording for

OPERATION: 1) Press “

NOTE:

FEATURE: Retake PURPOSE: To re-record certain segments. OPERATION: 1) Make sure camcorder is in

NOTE:

FEATURE: Index Code Marking PURPOSE: To give you automatic access to any selected

OPERATION:

NOTES: ●

produce zoom in/out effect.

Zoom In

1) Pull the power zoom switch down

toward “T”.

Zoom Out

2) Push the switch up toward “W”.

The further the power zoom switch is pushed or pulled, the faster the zoom speed becomes.

●

Focusing may become unstable during zooming. In this case, set zoom while in Record–Standby, set manual focus or Focus Lock ( out in RECORD mode.

confirmation.

Record–Standby mode.

• Tape is rewound for about 2 seconds

Distortion may occur at start of playback. This is normal.

Record–Standby mode.

2) Press either RETAKE button to reach start

point for new recording.

3) Press Recording Start/Stop to start

recording.

Noise may appear during Retake. This is normal.

point on a recording. Auto Marking and Manual Marking are available.

Auto Marking

An index code is always marked to start the first recording on a new date after a cassette is inserted.

Manual Marking

1) Press VISS once to place index code.

INDEX blinks in the viewfinder during marking.

If VISS is pressed during Record–Standby mode, the mark is placed where START/STOP is pressed.

●

If the date changes during a recording, it becomes the first recording of the new date and an index mark is placed at that point.

pg. 20), then zoom in or

” for less than 2 seconds during

and played back automatically, then pauses in Record–Standby mode for next shot.

Program AE With Special Effects

All you have to do to access any of the variety of shooting effects is to turn the PROGRAM AE select dial until the desired indication appears in the viewfinder. The mode is activated about 1 second later.

RECORDING

Advanced Features

PROGRAM AE select dial

DIAL

SYMBOL

LOCK

Auto Mode Lock

Locks camcorder in Full Auto mode, preventing accidental misoperation/button pressing during shooting.

•CINEMA, FADER, FOCUS, EXPOSURE, DISPLAY, TITLES and MWB (Manual White Balance) controls are disabled in this mode.

RELEASE

Auto Mode Release

Re-enables controls that were disabled by Auto Mode Lock.

Electronic Fog Filter

Makes picture look misty white, as when external fog filter is attached to lens. Softens image and gives it “fancy” look.

ND EFFECT

Black mist darkens picture, as when ND filter is used. Helps to counter effects of glare on subject.

Sepia

Scene being shot is recorded in sepia-tinted (reddish-brown) monochrome, giving effect of older movie. Use together with Cinema ( authentic look of classic Hollywood movie.

Twilight

Disengages auto gain control and auto focus, locks focus to infinity and white balance to “ (outdoor) mode. Dusk, twilight scenery, fireworks, etc., look more natural and dramatic.

VIEWFINDER MODE

AUTO LOCK

AUTO RELEASE

FG:FOGFG

SEPIA

Auto Mode Lock

Auto Mode  Release

Electronic Fog Filter

ND EffectND:ND EFFECTND

Sepia

Z pg. 19) for

TWILIGHT

Twilight

”

Tally lamp

DIAL

SYMBOL

Sports

High shutter speed clearly captures fast-moving action.

1/2000

High-Speed Shutter (1/2000s.)

Captures faster action than Sports mode.

15sec. Self-Timer

Lets you delay recording start after Recording Start/ Stop is pressed. If camcorder is secured, operator can enter scene before recording starts.

1) Set PROGRAM AE dial to “

in viewfinder.

2) Press Recording Start/Stop.

•Recording starts after 15 seconds.

•Tally lamp begins blinking; blinking speed increases about 5 seconds before recording starts. Blinking stops when recording begins but light stays on.

VIEWFINDER MODE

SPORTS

S 1/2000

SELF TIMER

Sports

High Speed Shutter

15 sec. Self-Timer

”. “ 15S” appears

NOTES:

●

Only one effect can be engaged at a time.

●

When the PROGRAM AE select dial is switched from one mode to another, the newly selected mode’s name and its indication is displayed in the viewfinder for approx. 3 seconds. Then the name disappears, and only the indication remains.

●

The screen becomes slightly reddish when the fader (Z pg. 18) is used in the Sepia mode.

●

The screen becomes slightly dark in the High Speed Shutter mode. Use in well-lighted situations.

●

In the High Speed Shutter or Sports modes, picture color may be adversely affected if subject is lit by alternating discharge-type light sources such as flourescent or mercury-vapor lights.

White balance mode indicator

No indication  (Auto)

MWB

White Balance Adjustment

This camcorder’s Automatic Color Temperature system senses the color temperature of the ambient lighting for automatic white balance adjustment. However, precise color adjustment is not possible under the following conditions:

•When an object is in various shades of the same color.

•When a predominantly red or brown object is being shot outdoors.

In these cases, use the camcorder’s built-in preset filters for white balance adjustment.

SELECT MODE

Press MWB (Manual White Balance) until the

required indication appears in the viewfinder.

“ ” .............. Outdoors on cloudy day

“

” ............... Outdoors on sunny day

“ ” ................ Light source is halogen or tungsten

...................... lamp

“MWB” .......... With a memorized personal White

...................... Balance setting (see below)

MWB sets the color temperature for the subject’s light source so you can shoot with natural colors that are unaffected by surroundings, even when there are multiple subjects with different color temperatures.

ADJUST FOCUS

Point the camcorder at a white, flat object such as a

sheet of white paper, and adjust focus manually (Z pg. 21).

ADJUST WHITE BALANCE

Press MWB until ”MWB“ appears, then press and

hold MWB for more than 3 seconds.

•”MWB” blinks in the viewfinder during adjustment, then stops blinking but stays lit when adjustment is complete.

NOTES:

●

To switch to automatic white balance adjustment, press MWB until the indication disappears, or turn the PROGRAM AE dial to LOCK.

●

Re-adjust the White Balance mode when the lighting has changed, when the camcorder has been turned on and off again, or when the PROGRAM AE dial’s position has been changed.

●

It is helpful to connect your camcorder to a color monitor when adjusting the white balance (“BASIC CONNECTIONS” Z pg. 29).

●

When adjusted by putting colored paper in front of the subject in step 2 , this unit makes its color temperature standard for automatic white balance. So you can enjoy shooting with different colors. For example, when adjusting with red, blue or yellow colors, the image becomes the color which aproximates to green, orange or purple respectively.

Group 1

FADER CINEMA

Group 2

FOCUS

Group 3

TITLE

SEL.

EXP.

DISP.

F1 F2

FADER CINEMA

Viewfinder

F2 buttonF1 button

RECORDING

Advanced Features

INTELLIGENT FUNCTION CONTROL

This feature makes it easier for you to make selections during the following modes: Fader, Cinema, Manual

Focus Adjust, Exposure Control, Display, and Instant Title.

PREPARATION

Set the PROGRAM AE dial to any position except

LOCK.

SELECT MODE

Press Function SEL. until the required function’s

indication appears in the viewfinder.

SEL

Function SEL. button

PROGRAM AE select dial

FADE IN

FADE OUT

ENTER SELECTION

Press either F1 or F2 (the one to the immediate left

of the desired function name).

NOTE:

If you set the PROGRAM AE dial to LOCK, F1 and F2 disappear from the viewfinder, indicating that IFC (Intelligent Function Control) is unusable.

Fader

This feature allows smooth fade-in and fade-out to black blank screen. Fade-in works at recording start, and fade-out works at recording end or when you enter Record–Standby mode.

SELECT MODE

Press Function SEL. until “FADER” appears to the

right of F1.

ENGAGE FADE–STANDBY MODE

Press F1 to engage the Fade–Standby mode.

“FADER”appears in the viewfinder.

START RECORDING

Press Recording Start/Stop to start recording and

activate fade-in.

OR . . .

END RECORDING

Press Recording Start/Stop to end recording and engage fade-out.

NOTES:

●

Pressing and holding the Recording Start/Stop button allows you to record a black blank screen.

●

The screen becomes slightly reddish when the Fader is used with Sepia (Z pg. 16).

●

With the Electronic fog filter mode (Z pg. 16) engaged, the image fades in/out to a white screen.

Cinema mode

Cinema

This feature allows you to record black bars at the top and bottom of the screen to produce a cinema-like “wide-screen” effect.

SELECT MODE

Press Function SEL. until “CINEMA” appears to the

right of F2.

ENGAGE CINEMA MODE

Press F2.

RESTORE NORMAL SCREEN

Press F2 again while “CINEMA” appears next to F2

in the viewfinder.

F1 F2

Function SEL.

Focus detection zone

RECORDING

Advanced Features

Focusing

Auto Focus

The camcorder’s Full Range AF system offers continuous shooting ability from close-up to infinity. However, correct focus may not be obtainable in the situations listed below (in these cases use manual focusing):

•When two subjects overlap in the same scene.

•When illumination is low.*

•When the subject has no contrast (difference in brightness and darkness), such as a flat, one-color wall, or a clear, blue sky.*

•When a dark object is barely visible in the viewfinder.*

•When the scene contains minute patterns or identical patterns that are regularly repeated.

* The low-contrast warning “

viewfinder.

Focus Lock

This feature locks the focus in place, which is especially helpful in the following situations:

•When things pass between your subject and the camcorder. Engage the focus lock function to lock your subject in before recording.

•When you want your subject to be focused, and to appear in a corner of the screen. First, center on the subject and focus using auto focus mode. Then engage the focus lock function and move the camcorder until the subject is where you want it.

” appears in the

SELECT MODE

Press Function SEL. until “FOCUS” appears to the

right of F1.

LOCK FOCUS

Press F1. The focus lock indication “ ” appears

in the viewfinder.

RELEASE FOCUS LOCK

Press F1. Focus lock is immediately released. The

focus lock indication disappears.

NOTES:

●

If the lens is smeared or blurred, accurate focusing is not possible. Keep the lens clean, wiping with a piece of soft cloth if it gets dirty. When condensation occurs, wipe with a soft cloth or wait for it to dry naturally.

●

When shooting a subject close to the lens, zoom-out first (Z pg. 15). If zoomed-in in the auto focus mode, the camcorder could automatically zoom out depending on the distance between the camcorder and the subject.

F1 button F2 button

SEL

Function SEL. button

Power zoom switch

FOCUS EXP.

Viewfinder

Manual Focus

NOTE:

You should already have made the necessary viewfinder adjustments (Z pg. 11). If you haven’t, do so before continuing.

SELECT MODE

Press Function SEL. until “FOCUS” appears to the

right of F1.

ADJUST FOCUS

TO FARTHER SUBJECT

While holding down F1, slide the power zoom

switch to T. The Manual Focus indications “ ” appear and “ ” blinks.

Go to step 3.

TO NEARER SUBJECT

While holding down F1, slide the power zoom switch to W. The Manual Focus indications “

” appear and “ ” blinks.

Go to step 3.

LOCK FOCUS

Release the power zoom switch. The focus

indication is replaced by the focus lock indication “ ” and the adjusted focus is locked in.

RELEASE MANUAL FOCUS MODE

Press F1. The Manual Focus mode is immediately

released and the focus lock indication disappears.

NOTES:

●

Be sure to focus the lens in the maximum telephoto position when you use the Manual Focus mode. If you focus in on a certain subject in the wide-angle position, sharply focused images cannot be obtained when zoomed up because the depth-of-field is reduced at longer focal lengths.

●

Two manual focusing speeds are available. For slow-speed, push the switch slightly and hold that position. For fast-speed, push the switch fully.

●

When the focus level cannot be adjusted any farther or closer, “ ” or “ ” will blink.

Power zoom switch

F1 button F2 button

SEL

Function SEL. button

Viewfinder

FOCUS EXP.

RECORDING

Advanced Features

Exposure Control

This feature automatically adjusts the iris for the best available picture quality, but you can override and make the adjustment manually.

SELECT MODE

Press Function SEL. until “EXP.” appears to the right

of F2.

BRIGHTEN IMAGE

While holding down F2, slide the power zoom

switch to T. The Exposure indicator bar appears in the viewfinder.

OR . . .

DARKEN IMAGE

While holding down F2, slide the power zoom switch to W. The Exposure indicator bar appears in the viewfinder.

When you want to return to the factory setting . . .

RESTORE INITIAL SETTING

Press F2. The standard setting is immediately

restored and the Exposure indicator bar disappears.

To brighten the image

Exposure indicator bar

To darken the image

F2 button

F1 F2

TITLE DISP.

Date/Time display

On-screen display

DEC 25.96 

Auto date record executed

IN PARIS, FRANCE

Example of stored characters

Date display

Character Generator

DEC 25.96 

Date-off mode

Date display

Date/Time display

DEC 25.96 PM 10:50

F1 button

SEL

Function SEL. button

Auto Date Record mode

AUTO DATE

Auto date record mode

Character Generator

SET CHAR

No Characters stored 

NOTES:

●

In the On-Screen Display mode, the date is displayed and recorded.

●

The on-screen display is not available during recording.

Date/Time Character Insert

This feature allows you to display date, time and characters in your viewfinder and on a connected color monitor, record them manually or automatically, and even make your own titles.

NOTE:

You should already have performed the Date/Time Setting procedure (

DISPLAY

1 2

NOTES:

●

AUTO DATE RECORD

Your camcorder automatically records the month, day and year for about 5 seconds after recording is initiated in the following situations:

•After changing the date.

•After loading a cassette.

•After Auto Date Record mode is selected by pressing

NOTES:

●

ON-SCREEN DISPLAY

pg. 10). If you haven’t, do so before continuing.

SELECT DISPLAY

Press Function SEL. until “DISP.” appears to the right of F2.

CHOOSE DISPLAY MODE

Press F2 while in Record–Standby to cycle through the modes as shown in the illustration at left.

The selected display can be recorded. If you don’t want to record the display, select Date-off mode before shooting. If you want to delete the display during shooting, press F2. If you want to call back a deleted display, engage the Record– Standby mode and then select the desired display mode using F2.

F2. In this mode, the month, day and year are replaced after 5 seconds with “AUTO DATE”.

Setting PROGRAM AE to LOCK always engages this mode, and disables all other modes. In the Auto Date Record mode, if the date changes while you’re shooting, the date indication is recorded for about 5 seconds from that point. It is not recorded during any other recordings made on that day.

CONNECT CAMCORDER TO MONITOR

Connect the camcorder to a monitor as instructed in “BASIC CONNECTIONS” (Z pg. 29).

DISPLAY VIEWFINDER INDICATIONS

Press F2 until the indications appear on the connected monitor.

IN PARIS, FRANCE

SET CHAR

SET–/+

CHARACTER SET MODE screen

CHARACTER SET MODE

A B C D E F G H I

J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Ä Ö Ü À È Ì Ò Ù Ñ Æ Ø Å &

: . , ' - / ! ? ¿ k 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

CHARACTER SET MODE

A B C D E F G H I

J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Ä Ö Ü À È Ì Ò Ù Ñ Æ Ø Å &

: . , ' - / ! ? ¿ k 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

I N PAR I S, FR

CHARACTER SET MODE screen

RECORDING

Advanced Features

Character Generator

SELECT MODE

Press Function SEL. until “DISP.” appears to the right

of F2.

SET CHARACTER OR TITLE

Press F2 until “SET CHAR” or a previously stored

title appears in the viewfinder.

ACCESS CHARACTER MODE SCREEN

Press SET. A character grid appears in the view

finder.

ENTER DESIRED CHARACTERS

Press + or – to move the cursor on the character grid

to the desired character, then press SET to enter. The selected characters appears at the bottom of the screen. When you’re done, press SET as many times as necessary to exit the screen. The title you made appears at the bottom of the screen.

NOTES:

●

You can store up to 18 characters.

●

You can only make and store one title at a time. To replace it, repeat the procedure.

●

To create a space between two characters in a title you make, choose “ screen.

” on the CHARACTER SET MODE

Example of Character Generator & Title

Viewfinder



OUR VACATION

IN PARIS, FRANCE

Character Generator:

IN PARIS, FRANCE

Title: OUR VACATION

Title indication

Instant Titles

The camcorder has eight preset titles in memory. You can superimpose one of them above a previously stored title as shown in the illustration to the left. The preset titles appear in this order: HAPPY BIRTHDAY, OUR VACATION, MERRY CHRISTMAS, A SPECIAL DAY, HAPPY HOLIDAYS, OUR NEW BABY, WEDDING DAY, CONGRATULATIONS.

SELECT MODE

Press Function SEL. until “TITLE” appears to the right

of F1.

SELECT PRESET TITLE

Engage the Record–Standby mode, then press F1 to

cycle through the preset titles until the desired title is displayed.

NOTES:

●

To delete the Instant Title during recording, press F1.

●

To recall a title, engage the Record–Standby mode and then press F1 to select the desired title.

●

To display a title you made in the position usually occupied by an Instant Title, cycle through in step 2 above until your title appears (after “CONGRATULATIONS”). You can superimpose two personal titles on the scene being shot.

Tally lamp PROGRAM AE

START/STOP

INTERVAL REC TIME

RM-V20U (optional)

RECORDING

Advanced Features

Self-Timer

You can set the delay between pressing Recording Start/ Stop and the actual start of recording. If you secure the camcorder, you (or whomever is operating the camcorder) can enter the scene before recording starts.

NOTE:

You need the optional RM-V20U remote control unit to perform this procedure.

ENGAGE RECORD–STANDBY MODE

Make sure the lens cover is open, set the power

switch to CAMERA.

SET TIME DELAY

On the RM-V20U, press INTERVAL to set the delay

time. There are four choices, and they appear in the viewfinder in the following order (each time INTERVAL is pressed): 15S (15 seconds), 30S (30 seconds), 1MIN (1 minute) and 5MIN (5 minutes). Pressing again releases the Self-timer.

START DELAYED RECORDING

Press Recording Start/Stop. The tally lamp begins

blinking, and the blinking speed increases about 5 seconds before recording starts. When recording begins, the lamp stops blinking but stays lit.

RELEASE SELF-TIMER MODE

To release when the tally lamp is not blinking, press

INTERVAL continuously until “ ” disappears. To

release when the tally lamp is blinking, press Recording Start/Stop to stop the blinking, then press INTERVAL continuously until “ ” disappears.

NOTE:

If the PROGRAM AE dial is set to “ ”, 15S is automatically selected.

Animation

Give stationary scenes or objects an illusion of movement. This function allows you to shoot a series of pictures, each slightly different, of the same object for a brief period of time.

NOTE:

You need the optional RM-V20U remote control unit to perform the following procedure.

Time-Lapse

You can record sequentially at preset time spans. Leaving the camcorder aimed at a specific subject, you can record subtle changes over an extended period of time.

NOTE:

You need the optional RM-V20U remote control unit to perform the following procedure.

ENGAGE RECORD–STANDBY MODE

Make sure the lens cover is open, then set the

power switch to CAMERA.

SET RECORDING SPEED

Set SP/EP to SP (Z pg. 11).

SET RECORDING TIME

Press REC TIME on the remote control. Three

choices are available, and they appear in the following order (each time REC TIME is pressed): 1/4S (one-fourth of a second), 1/2S (one-half of a second) and 1S (one full second). Press again to release the animation mode.

START RECORDING

Press Recording Start/Stop after focusing on the

subject. The recording stops automatically after the selected period of time.

ASSEMBLE SERIES OF PICTURES

Repeat steps 3 and 4 for the desired number of

pictures.

CHECK YOUR WORK

Play back the series of pictures to see if the

results were satisfactory.

RELEASE ANIMATION MODE

Press REC TIME until “ ” disappears from the

viewfinder.

NOTES:

●

For best results, make sure the camcorder is secured when shooting.

●

If the PROGRAM AE dial is set to Self-Timer mode, Animation is cancelled and Self-Timer mode is engaged with 15S selected.

●

Fade-in/out cannot be performed during Animation shooting.

ENGAGE RECORD–STANDBY MODE

Make sure the lens cover is open, then set the

power switch to CAMERA.

SET RECORDING SPEED

Set SP/EP to SP (Z pg. 11).

SET RECORDING TIME

Press REC TIME on the remote control. There

are three choices available, and they appear in the following order (each time REC TIME is pressed): 1/4S, 1/2S and 1S. Press again to reset.

SET INTERVAL BETWEEN RECORDINGS

Press INTERVAL on the remote control. There

are four choices available, and they appear in the following order (each time INTERVAL is pressed): 15S, 30S, 1MIN, and 5MIN. Press again to reset.

START TIME-LAPSE RECORDING

Press Recording Start/Stop. Recording and

intervals alternate automatically.

RELEASE TIME-LAPSE MODE

To release when the tally lamp is not blinking,

press INTERVAL and REC TIME repeatedly until “ ” and “ ” disappear. To release when the tally lamp is blinking, press Recording Start/Stop to stop the blinking, then press INTERVAL and REC TIME repeatedly until “ ” and “ ” disappear.

NOTES:

●

Fade-in/out cannot be performed during Time-Lapse shooting.

●

For best results, keep the camcorder secured while shooting.

●

If, during steps 3 and 4, the PROGRAM AE dial is set to the Self-Timer mode, the Self-Timer mode is engaged with 15S selected.

Compact video cassette

Recording safety hole

VCR

Compartment door

Sliding latch

Reels

PLAYBACK

Using The Cassette Adapter

Cassette Adapter (VHS PlayPak)

Use this to play back a VHS-C video cassette recorded with this camcorder. It is fully compatible with any VHS video cassette recorder. The C-P7U adapter is battery powered and automatically performs tape loading and unloading.

INSERT BATTERY

Slide the battery cover up to remove it, and install

one “AA(R6)” size battery as shown in the illustration at left. Then reattach the cover.

INSERT CASSETTE IN ADAPTER

Slide the latch to open the adapter compartment

door, then insert the cassette and close the compartment door.

PLAY BACK ON CONNECTED VCR

Load the cassette adapter into the VCR and play the

tape back as you would any other.

REMOVE CASSETTE FROM ADAPTER

Slide the latch and the compartment door opens

automatically. Then insert your finger in the hole on the underside of the adapter as shown in the illustration at left, push up and remove the cassette.

NOTES:

●

During tape loading and unloading, do not touch the reels for safety and tape protection.

●

During special-effect playback (slow motion, still frame, etc.), the picture may vibrate or noise bars may appear on the screen.

●

To record on a VCR using a compact cassette and the adapter, cover the adapter’s recording safety hole with adhesive tape.

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