JVC GR-D220, GR-D231, GR-D230 User Manual

DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA

GR-D231 GR-D230 GR-D220

Please visit our Homepage on the World Wide Web for Digital Video Camera:

http://www.jvc.co.jp/english/cyber/

For Accessories:

http://www.jvc.co.jp/english/accessory/

The camcorder illustrations appearing in this instruction manual are of the GR-D230.

INSTRUCTIONS

Dear Customer,

Thank you for purchasing this digital video camera. Before use, please read the safety information and precautions contained in the pages 3 – 4 to ensure safe use of this product.

	ENGLISH
GETTING STARTED	6
VIDEO RECORDING &	15
PLAYBACK
DIGITAL STILL CAMERA
(D.S.C.) RECORDING &	21
PLAYBACK
ADVANCED FEATURES	27
REFERENCES	45

TERMS

Back cover

To deactivate the demonstration, set “DEMO MODE” to “OFF”.

( pg. 27, 29)

LYT1268-001A EN

2 EN

Major Features of this Camcorder

Wipe/Fader Effects

You can use the Wipe/Fader Effects to make prostyle scene transitions. ( pg. 34)

Fade in

Fade out

Backlight Compensation

Simply pressing the BACK LIGHT button brightens the image darkened by backlight. ( pg. 33)

●You can also select a spot metering area so that more precise exposure compensation is available. ( pg. 33, Spot Exposure Control)

Program AE with Special Effects

For example, “SPORTS” mode allows fast-moving images to be captured one frame at a time, for vivid, stable slow-motion. ( pg. 35)

Navigation Function

The Navigation Function helps you check tape contents by making thumbnail images on a memory card. ( pg. 35)

	NAV I GAT I ON
DATE :	2 4 . 2 5 ’ 0 4	3 : 3 : 2 9
TC :	1 3 : 2 3 : 1 5

1

4

2

5

3

006

LED Light

You can brighten the subject in the dark place with the LED Light. ( pg. 31)

E-Mail Clip Recording

You can record video clips on the memory card as files which can be sent via e-mail. ( pg. 24)

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

IMPORTANT (for owners in the U.K.)

Connection to the mains supply in the United Kingdom.

DO NOT cut off the mains plug from this equipment.

If the plug 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 be sure to remove the fuse and dispose of the plug immediately, to avoid 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.

CAUTIONS:

●To prevent shock, do not open the cabinet. No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

●When you are not using the AC Adapter for a long period of time, it is recommended that you disconnect the power cord from AC outlet.

CAUTION:

To avoid electric shock or damage to the unit, first firmly insert the small end of the power cord into the AC Adapter until it is no longer wobbly, and then plug the larger end of the power cord into an AC outlet.

CAUTIONS:

●This camcorder 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, live recording and LCD monitor/viewfinder playback are possible anywhere.

●Use the JVC BN-V408U/V416U/V428U/V438U battery packs and, to recharge them or to supply power to the camcorder from an AC outlet, use the provided multivoltage AC Adapter. (An appropriate conversion adapter may be necessary to accommodate different designs of AC outlets in different countries.)

EN 3

Caution on Replaceable 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 or incinerate.

Replace battery with Panasonic (Matsushita Electric), Sanyo, Sony or Maxell CR2025.

Danger of explosion or Risk of fire if the battery is incorrectly replaced.

●Dispose of used battery promptly.

●Keep away from children.

●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 information and safety caution of the AC Adapter are on its upper and lower sides.

When the equipment is installed in a cabinet or on a shelf, make sure that it has sufficient space on all sides to allow for ventilation (10 cm or more on both sides, on top and at the rear).

Do not block the ventilation holes.

(If the ventilation holes are blocked by a newspaper, or cloth etc. the heat may not be able to get out.)

No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, should be placed on the apparatus.

When discarding batteries, environmental problems must be considered and the local rules or laws governing the disposal of these batteries must be followed strictly.

The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing.

Do not use this equipment in a bathroom or places with water.

Also do not place any containers filled with water or liquids (such as cosmetics or medicines, flower vases, potted plants, cups etc.) on top of this unit.

(If water or liquid is allowed to enter this equipment, fire or electric shock may be caused.)

Do not point the lens or the viewfinder directly into the sun. This can cause eye injuries, as well as lead to the malfunctioning of internal circuitry. There is also a risk of fire or electric shock.

CAUTION!

The following notes concern possible physical damage to the camcorder and to the user.

When carrying, be sure to always securely attach and use the provided strap. Carrying or holding the camcorder by the viewfinder and/or the LCD monitor can result in dropping the unit, or in a malfunction.

Take care not to get your finger caught in the cassette holder cover. Do not let children operate the camcorder, as they are particularly susceptible to this type of injury.

Do not use a tripod on unsteady or unlevel surfaces. It could tip over, causing serious damage to the camcorder.

CAUTION!

Connecting cables (Audio/Video, S-Video, etc.) to the camcorder and leaving it on top of the TV is not recommended, as tripping on the cables will cause the camcorder to fall, resulting in damage.

4 EN

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.

DO read the operating instructions before you attempt to use the equipment.

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!

This camcorder is designed exclusively for the digital video cassette, SD Memory Card and MultiMediaCard. Only cassettes marked “” and memory cards marked

“ ” or “” can be used with this unit.

Before recording an important scene…

…make sure you only use cassettes with the Mini DV mark .

…make sure you only use memory cards with the mark or .

…remember that this camcorder is not compatible with other digital video formats.

…remember that this camcorder is intended for private consumer use only. Any commercial use without proper permission is prohibited. (Even if you record an event such as a show, performance or exhibition for personal enjoyment, it is strongly recommended that you obtain permission beforehand.)

●Microsoft® and Windows® are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

●Macintosh is a registered trademark of Apple Computer, Inc.

●QuickTime is a registered trademark of Apple Computer, Inc.

			CONTENTS	EN 5
GETTING STARTED	6 ADVANCED FEATURES			27

Index ..............................................................................	6
Provided Accessories ....................................................	9
Power ...........................................................................	11
Operation Mode ...........................................................	12
Date/Time Settings ......................................................	12
Grip Adjustment ...........................................................	13
Viewfinder Adjustment .................................................	13
Brightness Adjustment Of The Display ........................	13
Tripod Mounting ...........................................................	13
Loading/Unloading A Cassette ....................................	14
Loading/Unloading A Memory Card .............................	14
VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK	15
VIDEO RECORDING ........................................................	15
Basic Recording ...........................................................	15
Tape Remaining Time .............................................	15
LCD Monitor And Viewfinder ...................................	15
Zooming ...................................................................	16
Journalistic Shooting ...............................................	16
Interface Shooting ...................................................	16
Time Code ...............................................................	17
Recording From The Middle Of A Tape ...................	17
VIDEO PLAYBACK ..........................................................	17
Normal Playback ..........................................................	17
Still Playback ...........................................................	17
Shuttle Search .........................................................	18
Blank Search ...........................................................	18
Connections To A TV Or VCR .....................................	18
Playback Using The Remote Control ...........................	19
DIGITAL STILL CAMERA (D.S.C.) RECORDING &
PLAYBACK	21
D.S.C. RECORDING .........................................................	21
Basic Shooting (D.S.C. Snapshot) ...............................	21
Interval Shooting ......................................................	21
D.S.C. PLAYBACK ...........................................................	22
Normal Playback Of Images ........................................	22
Auto Playback Of Images ............................................	22
Playback Of Video Clips ..............................................	22
Index Playback Of Files ...............................................	23
Viewing File Information ..............................................	23
Removing On-Screen Display .....................................	23
ADDITIONAL FEATURES FOR D.S.C. .................................	24
E-Mail Clip Recording ..................................................	24
Dubbing Still Images Recorded On A Tape To A Memory
Card .........................................................................	24
Resetting The File Name .............................................	24
Protecting Files ............................................................	25
Deleting Files ...............................................................	25
Setting Print Information (DPOF Setting) .....................	26
Initialising A Memory Card ...........................................	26

MENUS FOR DETAILED ADJUSTMENT ..............................	27
Changing The Menu Settings ......................................	27
Recording Menus ........................................................	27
Playback Menus ..........................................................	30
FEATURES FOR RECORDING ...........................................	31
LED Light ....................................................................	31
Self-Timer ....................................................................	31
5-Second Recording ...................................................	32
Night Scope .................................................................	32
Snapshot (For Video Recording) .................................	32
Manual Focus ..............................................................	32
Exposure Control ........................................................	33
Iris Lock .......................................................................	33
Backlight Compensation .............................................	33
Spot Exposure Control ................................................	33
White Balance Adjustment ..........................................	34
Manual White Balance Adjustment .............................	34
Wipe Or Fader Effects .................................................	34
Program AE With Special Effects ................................	35
Navigation Function ....................................................	35
EDITING ........................................................................	37
Dubbing To Or From A VCR .......................................	37
Dubbing To Or From A Video Unit Equipped With A DV
Connector (Digital Dubbing) ....................................	38
Connection To A Personal Computer .........................	39
Audio Dubbing .............................................................	40
Insert Editing ...............................................................	40
Random Assemble Editing [R.A.Edit] ..........................	41
REFERENCES	45
TROUBLESHOOTING ......................................................	45
USER MAINTENANCE .....................................................	48
CAUTIONS .....................................................................	49
SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................	51
TERMS	Back cover

6 EN GETTING STARTED

Index

d e 123456789

W X Y

Z

a Q

k

l

m no c

To open the connector cover, pull the bottom of the cover, then open it.

f

J

K

L

M

N

OP

gh RS b T i j

p q

r s U V

a

GETTING STARTED EN 7

Controls

A Index Button [INDEX] ( pg. 23) Navigation Button [INDEX] ( pg. 36)

B Thumbnail Storing Button [STORE] ( pg. 36) C D.S.C. Playback Select Button [SELECT]

( pg. 22, 23)

D VIDEO/MEMORY Switch ( pg. 12) E Stop Button [8] ( pg. 17)

Backlight Compensation Button [BACK LIGHT] ( pg. 33)

F Rewind Button [3] ( pg. 17)

Manual Focus Button [FOCUS] ( pg. 32) G Play/Pause Button [4/9] ( pg. 17)

Exposure Button [EXPOSURE] ( pg. 33) H Fast-Forward Button [5] ( pg. 17)

Night Button [NIGHT] ( pg. 32)

I E-Mail Clip Recording Button [E-MAIL] ( pg. 24) Information Button [INFO] ( pg. 23)

J Up Button [	] ( pg. 27)
LCD Monitor Brightness Control [BRIGHT		]
( pg. 13)
K LED Light Button [LIGHT] ( pg. 31)
L Set Button [SET] ( pg. 27)
M Down Button [	] ( pg. 27)
LCD Monitor Brightness Control [BRIGHT		]
( pg. 13)
N Menu Button [MENU] ( pg. 27)

O Snapshot Button [SNAPSHOT] ( pg. 21, 32) P Power Zoom Lever [T/W] ( pg. 16)

Speaker Volume Control [VOL. +, –] ( pg. 17) Q Dioptre Adjustment Control ( pg. 13)

R Recording Start/Stop Button ( pg. 15) S Lock Button ( pg. 12)

T Power Switch [A, M, PLAY, OFF] ( pg. 12) U Cassette Open/Eject Switch [OPEN/EJECT]

( pg. 14)

V Battery Release Switch [BATT.] ( pg. 11)

Connectors

The connectors are located beneath the covers.

W USB (Universal Serial Bus) Connector ( pg. 39) X Digital Video Connector [DV IN*/OUT] (i.Link**)

( pg. 38, 39)

Y DC Input Connector [DC] ( pg. 11)

Z Microphone connector [MIC] ( pg. 29, 40)

(An optional microphone can be used during video recording and audio dubbing. To stabilise the microphone, use of an optional shoe adapter is recommended.)

aS-Video/Audio/Video Input*/Output Connector [S/AV] ( pg. 18, 37, 42)

*GR-D231/230 only

**i.Link refers to the IEEE1394-1995 industry specification and extensions thereof. The logo is used for products compliant with the i.Link standard.

Indicators

b POWER/CHARGE Lamp ( pg. 11, 15) c Tally Lamp ( pg. 15, 29)

Other Parts

d Monitor Latch ( pg. 15) e LCD Monitor ( pg. 15, 16) f Viewfinder ( pg. 13)

g Shoulder Strap Eyelet ( pg. 10) h Battery Pack Mount ( pg. 11) i Speaker ( pg. 17)

j Grip Strap ( pg. 13)

kLens

lLED Light ( pg. 31)

(When using an optional conversion lens, it may cover this area and block the light.)

mStereo Microphone ( pg. 40)

nRemote Sensor ( pg. 19)

oCamera Sensor

(Be careful not to cover this area, a sensor necessary for shooting is built-in here.)

pStud Hole ( pg. 13)

qTripod Mounting Socket ( pg. 13)

rCassette Holder Cover ( pg. 14)

sCard Cover [MEMORY CARD] ( pg. 14)

LCD Monitor/Viewfinder Indications

During Video Recording Only

1h40m

REC

tSOUND 12B IT

r 15:55

e

a Navigation Indicator ( pg. 35)

B Selected Wipe/Fader Effect Indicator ( pg. 34) C Tape Running Indicator ( pg. 15)

(Rotates while tape is running.)

D Selected Wide Mode Indicator ( pg. 28) E Thumbnail Storing Indicator ( pg. 35)

F Recording Speed Mode (SP/LP) ( pg. 27) G Tape Remaining Time ( pg. 15)

H REC: (Appears during recording.) ( pg. 15) PAUSE: (Appears during Record-Standby mode.) ( pg. 15)

I Insert Editing/Insert Editing Pause Mode ( pg. 40) J 5S/Anim.: Displays the 5-Second Recording mode or

Animation recording mode. ( pg. 28) K Wind Cut Indicator ( pg. 29)

L Auxiliary Microphone Level Indicator

(Appears when an optional microphone is connected.pg. 29, “AUX MIC” )

M Time Code ( pg. 29, 31)

N Digital Image Stabiliser (“DIS”) ( pg. 28) O Sound Mode Indicator ( pg. 27)

(Appears for approx. 5 seconds after turning on the camcorder.)

GETTING STARTED

8 EN GETTING STARTED

During D.S.C. Recording Only

3 4 5	6
1280	15

7

a Image Size: 1600 (1600 x 1200), 1280 (1280 x 960), 1024 (1024 x 768) or 640 (640 x 480) ( pg. 30)

B: Focus Icon ( pg. 21)

: Interval Shooting Icon ( pg. 21)

C Shooting Icon ( pg. 21)

(Appears and blinks during shooting.) D Card Icon ( pg. 21)

: Appears during shooting.

: Blinks in white when a memory card is not loaded.

: Blinks in yellow while the camcorder is reading the data in the memory card such as Navigation thumbnail images, video clips, still images, etc.

E Picture Quality: (FINE) and (STANDARD) (in order of quality) ( pg. 30)

F Remaining Number Of Shot ( pg. 21)

(Displays the approximate remaining number of shots that can be stored during D.S.C. recording, or the remaining number of storable thumbnail images when it reaches 10 or less during video recording.)

G Clock Icon ( pg. 21)

During E-Mail Clip Recording

1 6 0		E-CL IP					0h1: 0m
							00 : 15

a Image Size: 160 (160 x 120) B Shooting Icon ( pg. 21, 24)

C E-Mail Clip Recording Indicator ( pg. 24)

D Memory Card Remaining Time For E-Mail Clip Recording ( pg. 24)

E E-Mail Clip Recording Time ( pg. 24) F Auxiliary Microphone Level Indicator

(Appears when an optional microphone is connected.pg. 29, “AUX MIC” )

During Both Video And D.S.C. Recording

8

9

0

1

2 40 x WT

3	O q
4
		w
5	BRIGHT
6		e
7	1 0 . 11	. 04
	10	: 00

t r a Operation Mode ( pg. 12)

B : Night-Scope Indicator ( pg. 32)

: Gain Up Mode ( pg. 28) C LED Light Indicator ( pg. 31)

D White Balance Indicator ( pg. 34)

E : Spot Exposure Control Indicator ( pg. 33)

: Backlight Compensation Indicator ( pg. 33) ±: Exposure Adjustment Indicator ( pg. 33)

F Selected Program AE With Special Effects Indicator ( pg. 35)

G Iris Lock Indicator ( pg. 33)

H Approximate Zoom Ratio ( pg. 16) I Zoom Indicator ( pg. 16)

J Self-Timer Recording Indicator ( pg. 28)

K O: (Appears when taking Snapshot.) ( pg. 32) L Brightness Control Indicator (LCD monitor/Viewfinder)

( pg. 13)

M Battery Indicator ( pg. 47) N Date/Time ( pg. 12)

O Manual Focus Adjustment Indicator ( pg. 32)

GETTING STARTED EN 9

During Video Playback	Provided Accessories

1	2	3 4 5	6
12 B I T / M I X
L
		MIC	OR
	BLANK SEARCH
	PUSH "STOP" BUTTON
	TO CANCEL
	VOLUME	1 0 . 11 . 04	7
20 : 21 : 25		10 : 0 0

0 9 8

a Sound Mode Indicator ( pg. 30) B Blank Search Indicator ( pg. 18)

C Thumbnail Storing Indicator ( pg. 36) D Tape Speed ( pg. 27)

E 4 : Playback

5 : Fast-Forward/Shuttle Search

3 : Rewind/Shuttle Search

9 : Pause

9 U : Forward Frame-By-Frame Playback/SlowMotion

Y 9 : Reverse Frame-By-Frame Playback/SlowMotion

D : Audio Dubbing

9D : Audio Dubbing Pause (Appear while a tape is running.)

F Sound Input For Audio Dubbing ( pg. 40) G Battery Indicator ( pg. 47)

H Date/Time ( pg. 29, 31)

I VOLUME : Volume Level Indicator ( pg. 17) BRIGHT : Brightness Control Indicator (LCD monitor/ Viewfinder) ( pg. 13)

: Auxiliary Microphone Level Indicator (Appears when an optional microphone is connected during Audio Dubbing. pg. 40)

J Time Code ( pg. 29, 31)

During D.S.C. Playback

1 2

100-0013

BR I GHT

4 3

a Operation Mode Indicator ( pg. 23) B Folder/File Number ( pg. 23)

C Battery Indicator ( pg. 47)

D Brightness Control Indicator (LCD monitor/Viewfinder) ( pg. 13)

aAC Adapter AP-V14E or AP-V15E

bPower Cord

cBattery Pack BN-V408U-B

dEditing Extension Cable

eS/AV/Editing Cable

fAudio Extension Cable (for optional microphone,

pg. 10 for connection)

gUSB Cable

hCore Filter [large] (for USB cable pg. 10 for attachment)

iCore Filter [small] x 3 (for S/AV/Editing cable, Audio extension cable and AC Adapter’s cord

pg. 10 for attachment)

jCD-ROM

kCable Adapter

lRemote Control Unit RM-V719U

mLithium Battery CR2025* (for remote control unit)

nMemory Card 8 MB (Already inserted in the camcorder)

oShoulder Strap ( pg. 10 for attachment)

pLens Cap ( pg. 10 for attachment)

*A lithium battery is pre-installed in the Remote Control Unit at time of shipment (with insulation sheet). To use the Remote Control Unit, remove the insulation sheet.

NOTES:

●In order to maintain optimum performance of the camcorder, provided cables may be equipped with one or more core filter. If a cable has only one core filter, the end that is closest to the filter should be connected to the camcorder.

●Make sure to use the provided cables for connections. Do not use any other cables.

●Shapes of the Editing Extension Cable and the Audio Extension Cable resemble each other. Longer cable is the Editing Extension Cable and shorter one is the Audio Extension Cable. Make sure to use a correct cable for connection.

GETTING STARTED

10 EN GETTING STARTED
How To Attach The Lens Cap	How To Use The Audio Extension Cable

To protect the lens, attach the provided lens cap to the camcorder as shown in the illustration.

NOTE:

To confirm the lens cap is on correctly make sure the cap is flush to the camcorder.

Place here during shooting.

When using an optional external microphone, connect to the provided Audio extension cable (with a core filter attached), then connect the Audio extension cable to the camcorder. The core filter reduces interference. (See below.)

Open the

cover. MIC

To MIC

Core filter

Audio extension cable (provided)

Stereo microphone

How To Attach The Core Filter

Attach the core filters to the cables. The core filter reduces interference.

How To Attach The Shoulder Strap

Follow the illustration.

1 Thread the strap through the eyelet.

2 Fold it back and thread it through the strap guide and the buckle.

●To adjust the length of the strap, loosen and then tighten the strap in the buckle.

3 Slide the strap guide fully towards the eyelet.

Buckle

Strap guide

1

Eyelet

1 Release the stoppers on both ends of the core filter.

Stopper

2 Run the cable through the core filter, leaving approx. 3 cm of cable between the cable plug and the core filter.

USB cable and AC Adapter’s cord

Wind the cable (cord) once around the outside of the core filter as shown in the illustration.

Core filter (large: USB cable, small: AC Adapter’s cord)

3 cm

Wind once.

Audio Extension cable

Wind the cable twice around the outside of the core filter as shown in the illustration.

3 cm			Core filter (small)

Wind twice.

● Wind the cable so that it is not slack.

Set the Power Switch to “OFF”.

S/AV/Editing cable

3 cm Core filter (small)

3 Close the core filter until it clicks shut.

USB cable and AC Audio Extension		S/AV/Editing
Adapter’s cord	cable	cable

NOTES:

●Take care not to damage the cable.

●When connecting a cable, attach the end with the core filter to the camcorder.

Power

This camcorder’s 2-way power supply system lets you choose the most appropriate source of power. Do not use provided power supply units with other equipment.

Charging The Battery Pack

Power switch

POWER/CHARGE lamp		M A OFF PLAY
		POWER/
		CHARGE
Battery pack mount
		Arrow
Open the cover.
To DC connector
mark
		Battery pack
		BATT.
Power cord	AC Adapter

To AC outlet

1

2 With the arrow on the battery pack pointing upward, push the battery pack slightly against the battery pack mount a.

3 Slide up the battery pack until it locks in place b.

4 Connect the AC Adapter to the camcorder, then connect the Power Cord to the AC Adapter.

5 Plug the Power Cord into an AC outlet. The POWER/ CHARGE lamp on the camcorder blinks to indicate charging has started.

6 When the POWER/CHARGE lamp goes out, charging is finished. Unplug the Power Cord from the AC outlet. Disconnect the AC Adapter from the camcorder.

GETTING STARTED EN 11

To detach the battery pack

Slide the battery pack down slightly while sliding BATT. to detach it.

Battery pack			Charging time
BN-V408U*			Approx. 1 hr. 30 min.
BN-V416U			Approx. 3 hr.
BN-V428U			Approx. 5 hr.
BN-V438U			Approx. 6 hr. 30 min.
* Provided
					STARTED
NOTES:
● If the protective cap is attached to the battery pack, remove
it first.
● During charging, the camcorder cannot be operated.					GETTING
long storage period, the POWER/CHARGE lamp may not
● Charging is not possible if the wrong type of battery is used.
● When charging the battery pack for the first time or after a
light. In this case, remove the battery pack from the
camcorder, then try charging again.
● If the battery operation time remains extremely short even
after having been fully charged, the battery is worn out and
needs to be replaced. Please purchase a new one.
● Since the AC Adapter processes electricity internally, it
becomes warm during use. Be sure to use it only in well-
ventilated areas.
● Using the optional AA-V40 AC Power Adapter/Charger, you
can charge the BN-V408U/V416U/V428U/V438U battery
pack without the camcorder. However, it cannot be used as
an AC Adapter.
Using The Battery Pack
Perform steps 2 – 3 in “Charging The Battery Pack”.
Maximum continuous recording time
Battery pack		LCD monitor on		Viewfinder on
BN-V408U*	1 hr. 20 min.			1 hr. 40 min.
BN-V416U	2 hr. 40 min.			3 hr. 15 min.
BN-V428U	4 hr. 40 min.			5 hr. 50 min.
BN-V438U	6 hr. 20 min.			7 hr. 50 min.
* Provided

NOTES:

●Recording time is reduced significantly under the following conditions:

•Zoom or Record-Standby mode is engaged repeatedly.

•The LCD monitor is used repeatedly.

•The playback mode is engaged repeatedly.

•The LED Light is used.

●Before extended use, it is recommended that you prepare enough battery packs to cover 3 times the planned shooting time.

ATTENTION:

Before detaching the power source, make sure that the camcorder’s power is turned off. Failure to do so can result in a camcorder malfunction.

Using AC Power

Connect the AC Adapter to the camcorder, then connect the Power Cord to the AC Adapter as shown in the illustration.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

12 EN GETTING STARTED

NOTE:

The provided AC Adapter features automatic voltage selection in the AC range from 110 V to 240 V.

About Batteries

DANGER! Do not attempt to take the batteries apart, or expose them to flame or excessive heat, as it may cause a fire or explosion.

WARNING! Do not allow the battery or its terminals to come in contact with metals, as this can result in a short circuit and possibly start a fire.

The Benefits Of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion battery packs are small but have a large power capacity. However, when one is exposed to cold temperatures (below 10°C), its usage time becomes shorter and it may cease to function. If this happens, place the battery pack in your pocket or other warm, protected place for a short time, then re-attach it to the camcorder.

Operation Mode

To turn on the camcorder, set the Power Switch to any operation mode except “OFF” while pressing down the Lock Button located on the switch.

VIDEO/MEMORY	Power Switch
(Up)	Lock Button
	M A OFF PLAY
	POWER/
	CHARGE
MENU	POWER/CHARGE lamp
(Down)	SET

Choose the appropriate operation mode according to your preference using the Power Switch and VIDEO/ MEMORY Switch.

Power Switch Position

A (Full Auto Recording):

Allows you to record using NO special effects or manual adjustments. Suitable for standard recording. The “A” indicator appears on the display.

M (Manual Recording):

Allows you to set various recording functions using the Menus. ( pg. 27)

If you want more creative capabilities than Full Auto Recording, try this mode.

OFF:

Allows you to switch off the camcorder.

PLAY:

●Allows you to play back a recording on the tape.

●Allows you to play back a video clip on the memory card.

●Allows you to display a still image stored in the memory card or to transfer a still image stored in the memory card to a PC.

●Allows you to set various playback functions using the Menus. ( pg. 27)

VIDEO/MEMORY Switch Position

VIDEO:

Allows you to record on a tape or play back a tape. If “REC SELECT” is set to “ / ” ( pg. 30), still images are recorded both on the tape and the memory card.

MEMORY:

●Allows you to record in a memory card or access data stored in a memory card.

●When the Power Switch is set to “A” or “M”, the currently selected image size appears.

Power-Linked Operation

When the Power Switch is set to “A” or “M”, you can also turn on/off the camcorder by opening/closing the LCD monitor or pulling out/pushing in the viewfinder.

INFORMATION:

The following explanations in this manual supposes the use of LCD monitor in your operation. If you want to use the viewfinder, close the LCD monitor and pull out the viewfinder fully.

Date/Time Settings

The date/time is recorded onto the tape at all times, but its display can be turned on or off during playback.

( pg. 27, 31)

1 Set the Power Switch to “M” while pressing down the Lock Button located on the switch.

2 Open the LCD monitor fully. ( pg. 15)
3 Press MENU. The Menu Screen appears.
4 Press	or	to select “n”,
				CAMERA DISPLAY
and press SET. The CAMERA				ON SCREEN – LCD / TV
				DATE / T I ME – AUTO
DISPLAY Menu appears.				T I ME CODE – OFF
				AUX M I C	– ON
5 Press	or	to select		CLOCK	2 0 . 1 2 . 0 4
				ADJ .	1 7 : 3 0
“CLOCK ADJ.”, and press SET.
The parameter for “Day” is				RETURN
highlighted.
6 Press	or	to input the day,
				CAMERA DISPLAY
and press SET. Repeat to input the
month, year, hour and minute.				CLOCK	2 0 . 1 2 . 0 4
7 Press	or	to select		ADJ .	1 7 : 3 0
“BRETURN”, and press SET twice.
The Menu Screen closes.				RETURN

Built-in Clock’s Rechargeable Lithium Battery

If the camcorder is not used for approx. 3 months, the clock’s lithium battery will become discharged and the date/time stored in memory will be lost. When this occurs, first connect the camcorder to an AC outlet using the AC Adapter for over 24 hours to charge the clock’s rechargeable lithium battery. Then perform the date/time setting before using the camcorder.

Note that the camcorder can be used without setting the date/time.

GETTING STARTED EN 13

Grip Adjustment

1 Adjust the velcro strip.

2 Pass your right hand through the loop and grasp the grip.

3 Adjust your thumb and fingers through the grip to easily operate the Recording Start/Stop Button, Power Switch and Power Zoom Lever. Be sure to fasten the velcro strip to your preference.

Viewfinder Adjustment

1 Set the Power Switch to “A” or “M” while pressing down the Lock Button located on the switch.

2 Make sure the LCD monitor is closed and locked. Pull out the viewfinder fully and adjust it manually for best viewability.

3 Turn the Dioptre Adjustment Control until the indications in the viewfinder are clearly focused.

Brightness Adjustment Of The Display

1 Set the Power Switch to “M” or “PLAY” while pressing down the Lock Button located on the switch.

2 Open the LCD monitor fully. ( pg. 15)

●To adjust the brightness of the viewfinder, pull out the viewfinder fully and set “PRIORITY” to “FINDER”

( pg. 27, 29).

3 Press or until the brightness control indicator on the display moves and the appropriate brightness is reached.

SET

(Up)

MENU

(Down)

BRIGHT

Tripod Mounting

To attach the camcorder to a tripod, align the direction stud and screw to the mounting socket and stud hole on the camcorder. Then tighten the screw clockwise.

● Some tripods are not equipped with studs.

GETTING STARTED

PAUSE

Dioptre Adjustment Control

CAUTION:

When retracting the viewfinder, take care not to pinch your fingers.

Open the card cover (MEMORY CARD).

14 EN GETTING STARTED

Loading/Unloading A Cassette

The camcorder needs to be powered up to load or eject a cassette.

PUSH HERE	Cassette holder cover
OPEN/EJECT
	Erase protection tab

Cassette holder

Make sure the window side is facing out.

1 Slide and hold OPEN/EJECT in the direction of the arrow, then pull the cassette holder cover open until it locks. The cassette holder opens automatically.

● Do not touch internal components.

2 Insert or remove a tape and press “PUSH HERE” to close the cassette holder.

●Be sure to press only the section labelled “PUSH HERE” to close the cassette holder; touching other parts may cause your finger to get caught in the cassette holder, resulting in injury or product damage.

●Once the cassette holder is closed, it recedes automatically. Wait until it recedes completely before closing the cassette holder cover.

●When the battery pack’s charge is low, you may not be able to close the cassette holder cover. Do not apply force. Replace the battery pack with a fully charged one or use AC power before continuing.

3 Close the cassette holder cover firmly until it locks into place.

To protect valuable recordings

Slide the erase protection tab on the back of the tape in the direction of “SAVE”. This prevents the tape from being recorded over. To record on this tape, slide the tab back to “REC” before loading it.

NOTES:

●If you wait a few seconds and the cassette holder does not open, close the cassette holder cover and try again. If the cassette holder still does not open, turn the camcorder off then on again.

●If the tape does not load properly, open the cassette holder cover fully and remove the cassette. A few minutes later, insert it again.

●When the camcorder is suddenly moved from a cold place to a warm environment, wait a short time before opening the cassette holder cover.

Loading/Unloading A Memory Card

The provided memory card is already inserted in the camcorder at the time of purchase.

Card Cover (MEMORY CARD)

Clipped edge

Memory card

Write/erase protection tab	Label

1 Make sure the camcorder’s power is off.

2

3 To load a memory card, firmly insert it with its clipped edge first.

To unload a memory card, push it once. After the memory card comes out of the camcorder, pull it out.

● Do not touch the terminal on the reverse side of the label.

4 Close the card cover.

To protect valuable files (available only for SD Memory Card)

Slide the write/erase protection tab on the side of the memory card in the direction of “LOCK”. This prevents the memory card from being recorded over. To record on this memory card, slide the tab back to the position opposite to “LOCK” before loading it.

NOTES:

●Some brands of memory cards are not compatible with this camcorder. Before purchasing a memory card, consult its manufacturer or dealer.

●Before using a new memory card, it is necessary to format the card. ( pg. 26)

ATTENTION:

Do not insert or remove the memory card while the camcorder is turned on, as this may cause the memory card to be corrupted or cause the camcorder to become unable to recognise whether or not the card is installed.

				VIDEO RECORDING EN 15
	Basic Recording			Tape Remaining Time
				Approximate tape remaining time
	NOTE:			appears on the display. “– h – – m”
	Before continuing, perform the procedures listed below:			means the camcorder is calculating
	● Power ( pg. 11)			the remaining time. When the
	● Loading A Cassette ( pg. 14)			remaining time reaches 2 minutes,
	VIDEO/MEMORY			the indication starts blinking.
			Tally Lamp	● The time required to calculate and display the remaining
				tape length, and the accuracy of the calculation, may vary
		(Lights while recording is in
			progress.)	according to the type of tape used.
		Power Zoom Lever		LCD Monitor And Viewfinder
		Power Switch		While using the LCD monitor:
				Make sure the viewfinder is pushed back in. Pull on the
				end of the LCD monitor and open the LCD monitor
		Lock Button		fully. It can rotate 270° (90° downward, 180° upward).
		POWER/CHARGE Lamp		While using the viewfinder:
		Recording Start/Stop Button		Make sure the LCD monitor is closed and locked. Pull out
				the viewfinder fully.
	1 Remove the lens cap. ( pg. 10)
	2 Open the LCD monitor fully.
	3 Set the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch to “VIDEO”.
	4 Set the Power Switch to “A” or “M” while pressing
	down the Lock Button located on the switch.
	● The POWER/CHARGE lamp lights and the camcorder
	enters the Record-Standby mode. “PAUSE” is displayed.
	● To record in LP (Long Play) mode, pg. 27.
	5 To start recording, press the Recording Start/Stop			NOTES:
	Button. The tally lamp lights and “T REC” appears on
				● The image will not appear simultaneously on the LCD
	the display while recording is in progress.
				monitor and the viewfinder except during Interface
	6 To stop recording, press the Recording Start/Stop
				Shooting. ( pg. 16) When the viewfinder is pulled out
	Button again. The camcorder re-enters the Record-			while the LCD monitor is opened, you can select which one
	Standby mode.			to use. Set “PRIORITY” to the desired mode in SYSTEM
	Approximate recording time			Menu. ( pg. 27, 29)
				● Coloured bright spots may appear all over the LCD monitor
		Recording mode		or the viewfinder. However, this is not a malfunction.
	Tape			( pg. 46)
		SP	LP
	30 min.	30 min.	45 min.
	60 min.	60 min.	90 min.
	80 min.	80 min.	120 min.

NOTES:

●If the Record-Standby mode continues for 5 minutes, the camcorder’s power shuts off automatically. To turn the camcorder on again, push back and pull out the viewfinder again or close and re-open the LCD monitor.

●When a blank portion is left between recorded scenes on the tape, the time code is interrupted and errors may occur when editing the tape. To avoid this, refer to “Recording From The Middle Of A Tape” ( pg. 17).

●To turn the tally lamp or beep sounds off, pg. 27, 29.

VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK

Self Recording

16 EN VIDEO RECORDING
Zooming	Journalistic Shooting

Produces the zoom in/out effect, or an instantaneous change in image magnification.

Zoom In

Slide the Power Zoom Lever towards “T”.

Zoom Out

Slide the Power Zoom Lever towards “W”.

The further you slide the Power Zoom Lever, the quicker the zoom action.

Zoom in (T: Telephoto)

1 xWT

1 0 xWT

20xWT

40xWT

Zoom out (W: Wide angle)

1 0 x WT

Digital zoom zone

10X (optical) zoom zone

Approximate zoom ratio

NOTES:

●Focusing may become unstable during Zooming. In this case, set the zoom while in Record-Standby, lock the focus by using the manual focus ( pg. 32), then zoom in or out in Record mode.

●Zooming is possible to a maximum of 500X, or it can be switched to 10X magnification using the optical zoom. ( pg. 28)

●Zoom magnification of over 10X is done through Digital image processing, and is therefore called Digital Zoom.

●During Digital zoom, the quality of image may suffer.

●Macro shooting (as close as approx. 5 cm to the subject) is possible when the Power Zoom Lever is set all the way to “W”. Also see “TELE MACRO” in MANUAL Menu on page 28.

●When shooting a subject close to the lens, zoom out first. If zoomed-in in the auto focus mode, the camcorder may automatically zoom out depending on the distance between the camcorder and the subject. This will not occur when “TELE MACRO” is set to “ON”. ( pg. 28)

In some situations, different shooting angles may provide more dramatic results. Hold the camcorder in the desired position and tilt the LCD monitor in the most convenient direction. It can rotate 270° (90° downward, 180° upward).

Interface Shooting

The person you shoot can view himself/herself in the LCD monitor, and you can even shoot yourself while viewing your own image in the LCD monitor.

1) Open the LCD monitor and tilt it upward to 180° so that it faces forward.

2) Point the lens toward the subject (yourself when selfrecording) and start recording.

● During Interface Shooting, the monitor image appears inverted as it would when viewing a mirror. However, the actual recorded image does not appear inverted.

●During Interface Shooting, the “Tape Running” indicator and warning indications ( pg. 47, 48) are the only ones that are shown; they appear reversed in the display as they would when viewing a mirror, but are not reversed in the recording.

●The tape remaining indicator does not appear during interface shooting. However, when the remaining time reaches 2 minutes, the indicator appears showing the

remaining time: (blinking) (blinking)

(blinking)