JVC GR-D790U User Manual

DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA
Dear Customer,
Thank you for purchasing this digital video camera. Before use, please read the safety information and precautions contained in the pages 3 – 5 to ensure safe use of this product.
ENGLISH
GR-D790U
For Accessories
http://www.jvc.co.jp/english/accessory/
:
GETTING STARTED
RECORDING & PLAYBACK
DIGITAL STILL CAMERA (D.S.C.) RECORDING & PLAYBACK
ADVANCED FEATURES
REFERENCES
For Customer Use:
Enter below the Model No. and Serial No. which is located on the bottom of the camcorder. Retain this information for future reference.
Model No. Serial No.
7
18
26
31
46
52
ENGLISH
INSTRUCTIONS
To deactivate the demonstration, set “DEMO MODE” to “OFF”. (
pg. 31, 34)
LYT1643-001A
2
EN
Major Features of this Camcorder
Wipe/Fader Effects
You can use the Wipe/Fader Effects to make pro-style scene transitions. ( pg. 40)
Fade in
Fade out
Program AE, Effects and Shutter Effects
For example, “SPORTS” mode allows fast­moving images to be captured one frame at a time, for vivid, stable slow-motion. ( pg. 41)
LED Light
You can brighten the subject in the dark place with the LED Light. ( pg. 36)
Backlight Compensation
Simply pressing the button brightens the image darkened by backlight. ( pg. 39)
Data Battery
You can check the battery status by simply pressing the
DATA
button. ( pg. 14)
BATTERY CONDITION
100%
50%
0%
MAX TIME
LCD
FINDER
min
min
Live Slow
You can record and play back precious or hard-to-see moments at a slow speed. The sound is recorded and played back in real time. ( pg. 36)
Auto Button
You can change the recording mode between manual setting to the standard mode setting of the camcorder by pressing the
AUTO
button. ( pg. 20)
Dual Rec.
You can capture and view still images without disturbing the recording in progress. ( pg. 20)
16:9
640
min
---
F
13
PHOTO
Read This First!
Before recording important video, be sure to make a trial recording.
Play back your trial recording to make sure the video and audio have been recorded properly.
We recommend cleaning your video heads before use.
If you haven’t used your camcorder for awhile, the heads may be dirty. We recommend periodically cleaning the video heads with a cleaning cassette (optional).
Be sure to store your cassette tapes and camcorder in the proper environment.
Video heads can become dirty more easily if your cassette tapes and camcorder are stored in a dusty area. Cassette tapes should be removed from the camcorder and stored in cassette cases. Store the camcorder in a bag or other container.
Use SP (Standard) mode for important video recordings.
LP (Long Play) mode lets you record 50% more video than SP (Standard) mode, but you may experience mosaic-like noise during playback depending on the tape characteristics and the usage environment. So, for important recordings, we recommend using SP mode.
For safety and reliability.
It is recommended only genuine JVC batteries and accessories are used in this camcorder.
This product includes patented and other proprietary technology and will operate only with JVC Data Battery. Use the JVC BN-VF808U/VF815U/VF823U battery packs. Using generic non-JVC batteries can cause damage to the internal charging circuitry.
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.
SDHC Memory Card cannot be used with this camcorder.
Remember that this camcorder is not compatible with other digital video formats.
It is recommended that you use JVC brand cassette tapes.
Your camcorder is compatible with all brands of commercially available cassette tapes complying with the MiniDV standard, but JVC brand cassette tapes are designed and optimized to maximize the performance of your camcorder.
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.)
DO NOT
leave the unit
- in place of over 50°C (122°F)
- in place where humidity is extremely low (below 35%) or extremely high (80%).
- in direct sunlight.
- in a closed car in summer.
- near a heater.
The LCD monitor is made with high­precision technology. However, black spots or bright spots of light (red, green or blue) may appear constantly on the LCD monitor. These spots are not recorded on the tape. This is not due to any defect of the unit. (Effective dots: more than 99.99%)
Do not leave the battery pack attached when the camcorder is not in use and check the unit regularly whether it is working or not.
Also read “CAUTIONS” on pages 48 – 50.
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.
EN
3
4
EN

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
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.
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
CAUTIONS:
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 LCD monitor/viewfinder playback are possible anywhere.
This product includes patented and other proprietary technology and will operate only with JVC Data Battery. Use the JVC BN-VF808U/VF815U/VF823U battery packs and, to recharge them or to supply power to the camcorder from an AC outlet, use the provided multi-voltage AC Adapter. (An appropriate conversion adapter may be necessary to accommodate different designs of AC outlets in different countries.)
This product contains a CR Coin Cell Lithium Battery which contains Perchlorate Material ­special handling may apply. See www
.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/
perchlorate
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 (212°F) 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 (3-15/16") 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.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
10. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/ apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip­over.
11. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
12. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
USER MAINTENANCE
EN
5

Cleaning The Camcorder

Before cleaning, turn off the camcorder and remove the battery pack and AC Adapter.
To clean the exterior
Wipe gently with a soft cloth. Put the cloth in diluted mild soap and wring it well to wipe off heavy dirt. Then wipe again with a dry cloth.
To clean the LCD monitor
Wipe gently with a soft cloth. Be careful not to damage the monitor. Close the LCD monitor.
To clean the lens
Blow it with a blower brush, then wipe gently with lens cleaning paper.
To clean the viewfinder lens
Remove dust from the viewfinder using a blower brush.
NOTES:
Avoid using strong cleaning agents such as benzine or alcohol.
Cleaning should be done only after the battery pack has been removed or other power units have been disconnected.
Mold may form if the lens is left dirty.
When using a cleaner or chemically treated cloth refer to the cautions of each product.
To clean the viewfinder, please consult your nearest JVC dealer.
USE CLEANING CASSETTE
Appears if dirt is detected on the heads during recording. Use an optional cleaning cassette
( pg. 3)
.
EN

CONTENTS

6
GETTING STARTED 7
Regarding This Manual .................................7
Provided Accessories....................................7
Index.............................................................. 8
Grip Adjustment........................................... 12
Power ..........................................................13
Language Settings.......................................14
Date/Time Settings......................................15
Viewfinder Adjustment................................. 15
Brightness Adjustment Of The Display........ 15
Tripod Mounting...........................................15
Loading/Unloading A Cassette....................16
Loading/Unloading A Memory Card ............17
16:9 Wide Mode ..........................................17
RECORDING & PLAYBACK 18
VIDEO RECORDING ........................................18
Basic Recording ..........................................18
Tape Remaining Time ............................. 18
Quick Review...........................................18
Zooming...................................................19
Journalistic Shooting ...............................19
Interface Shooting ...................................19
Time Code...............................................20
Recording From The Middle Of A Tape...20
Dual Rec.................................................. 20
Auto/Manual Mode ..................................20
VIDEO PLAYBACK ..........................................21
Normal Playback .........................................21
Still Playback ........................................... 21
Variable Shuttle Search........................... 22
Blank Search ........................................... 22
Playback Snapshot.................................. 22
Connections To A TV Or VCR..................... 23
Playback Using The Remote Control ..........24
D.S.C. RECORDING.........................................26
Basic Shooting (D.S.C. Snapshot) ..............26
D.S.C. PLAYBACK ...........................................27
Normal Playback Of Images........................ 27
Auto Playback Of Images............................27
Index Playback Of Files............................... 27
Removing On-Screen Display ..................... 27
ADVANCED FEATURES 31
MENUS FOR DETAILED ADJUSTMENT ..............31
Changing The Menu Settings...................... 31
Recording Menus ........................................ 32
Playback Menus.......................................... 35
FEATURES FOR RECORDING ........................... 36
LED Light .................................................... 36
Live Slow..................................................... 36
Snapshot (Record Still Image On Tape) ..... 37
Manual Focus.............................................. 37
Exposure Control ........................................ 38
Iris Lock....................................................... 38
Backlight Compensation ............................. 39
Spot Exposure Control ................................ 39
White Balance Adjustment .......................... 39
Manual White Balance Adjustment ............. 40
Wipe Or Fader Effects................................. 40
Program AE, Effects And Shutter Effects.... 41
Dubbing Still Images Recorded On A Tape To
A Memory Card....................................... 42
EDITING ........................................................42
Dubbing To A VCR...................................... 42
Dubbing To Or From A Video Unit Equipped
With A DV Connector (Digital Dubbing) .. 43
Connection To A Personal Computer ......... 44
Audio Dubbing............................................. 45
Insert Editing ...............................................45
REFERENCES 46
TROUBLESHOOTING....................................... 46
CAUTIONS..................................................... 48
SPECIFICATIONS ............................................51
TERMS ..........................................................52
ADDITIONAL FEATURES FOR D.S.C. 28
Resetting The File Name............................. 28
Protecting Files............................................ 28
Deleting Files............................................... 29
Setting Print Information (DPOF Setting)*...29
Initializing A Memory Card...........................30

GETTING STARTED

EN
7

Regarding This Manual

Control Lever
Control lever
There are two kinds of operation using the control lever: moving the lever towards up/down/left/right, or pressing down the lever. They are described and illustrated as shown below.
1)
Move the control lever up/down/left/right
(
3/4/1/2) to select:
Operation To select
3 6 FOCUS
4 7
2 ¡
1 1
2) Press down the control lever to select SET:
LIGHT
QUICK REVIEW
LCD Monitor
Select
Move the control lever up.
Move the control lever down.
Move the control lever right.
Move the control lever left.
SET

Provided Accessories

OR
AC Adapter AP-V14U or AP-V18U
OR
Battery Pack
BN-VF808U
USB Cable
Lithium Battery
CR2025*
(for remote
control unit)
* 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.
Audio/Video Cable
(ø3.5 mini-plug to RCA plug)
CD-ROM
Shoulder
Strap
( pg. 12)
Remote
Control Unit
RM-V740U
Lens Cap
( pg. 12)
GETTING STARTED
8 EN

Index

GETTING STARTED
89
o
)
~
36
27
28 29
30
31
34
3233
%$
1
20
4
3
2&(
How to open the LCD monitor
Pull on the end A of the LCD monitor.
The LCD monitor can rotate 270°.
Power-linked operation
When the power switch is set to “REC”, you can also turn the camcorder on/off by opening/ closing the LCD monitor or pulling out/pushing in the viewfinder.
24 25
"#!
5
6
21
26 22 35 23
NOTES:
The image will not appear simultaneously on the LCD monitor and the viewfinder. When the viewfinder is pulled out while the LCD monitor is opened, you can select which one to use. Set “PRIORITY” to the desired mode in SYSTEM Menu. ( pg. 34)
Colored bright spots may appear all over the LCD monitor or the viewfinder. However, this is not a malfunction.
7

Controls

11 : Left/Rewind (1) ( pg. 21)/
Quick Review [QUICK REVIEW] ( pg. 18) 2 : Right/Fast-Forward (¡) ( pg. 21)/ LED Light [LIGHT] ( pg. 36) 3 : Up/Play/Pause (6) ( pg. 21)/ Manual Focus [FOCUS] ( pg. 37) 4 : Down/Stop (7) ( pg. 21)/ Backlight Compensation [ ] ( pg. 39)/ Spot Exposure ( pg. 39) Press down : SET
2VIDEO/MEMORY Switch 316:9 Wide Screen Button [16:9] ( pg. 17)
Blank Search [BLANK] ( pg. 22) Index Button [INDEX] ( pg. 27)
4Menu Button [MENU] ( pg. 31) 5Data Battery Button [DATA] ( pg. 14) 6Auto Button [AUTO] ( pg. 20) 7Diopter Adjustment Control ( pg. 15) 8Snapshot Button [SNAPSHOT]
( pg. 26, 33, 37) Live Slow Button [SLOW] ( pg. 33, 36)
9Power Zoom Lever [T/W] ( pg. 19)
Speaker Volume Control [VOL. +, –] ( pg. 21)
!Recording Start/Stop Button [START/STOP]
( pg. 18)
"Power Switch [REC, PLAY, OFF] #Lock Button $Battery Release Button [BATT.] ( pg. 13) %Cassette Open/Eject Switch [OPEN/EJECT]
(
pg. 16)

Connectors

&USB (Universal Serial Bus) Connector
( pg. 44)
(Digital Video Connector [DV IN/OUT]
(i.LINK*) ( pg. 43, 44)
* i.LINK refers to the IEEE1394-1995 industry
specification and extensions thereof. The logo is used for products compliant with the
i.LINK standard. The connectors are located beneath the covers. )Audio/Video Output Connector [AV]
( pg. 23, 42) ~DC Input Connector [DC] ( pg. 13)
GETTING STARTED

Indicators

â
POWER/CHARGE Lamp ( pg. 13)

Other Parts

ä
LCD Monitor ( pg. 8)
ã
Viewfinder ( pg. 15)
å
Card Cover [ ] ( pg. 17)
ç
Battery Pack Mount ( pg. 13)
é
Shoulder Strap Eyelet ( pg. 12)
è
Grip Strap ( pg. 12)
ê
Speaker ( pg. 21)
ë
Lens
í
LED Light ( pg. 36)
ì
Camera Sensor (Be careful not to cover this area, a sensor necessary for shooting is built-in here.)
î
Remote Sensor ( pg. 24, 25)
ï
Stereo Microphone
ñ
Stud Hole ( pg. 15)
ó
Tripod Mounting Socket ( pg. 15)
ò
Cassette Holder Cover ( pg. 16)
ô
Memory Card Slot
ö
Connector Cover
Power Switch Position
REC:
To perform recording on the tape or in the memory card.
OFF:
To switch off the camcorder.
PLAY:
To play back a recording on the tape.
To display a still image stored in the
memory card or to transfer a still image stored in the memory card to a PC.
VIDEO/MEMORY Switch Position
VIDEO:
To record on a tape or play back a tape.
MEMORY:
To record in a memory card or access data stored in a memory card.
EN 9
GETTING STARTED
10 EN
GETTING STARTED
LCD Monitor/Viewfinder Indications

During Video Recording Only

2
4
35
1
LP
16:9
15:55
!
#
"
SOUND12BIT
1Tape Running Indicator
(Rotates while tape is running.) 2Selected Wide Mode Indicator ( pg. 17)
(only 16:9 indicator is displayed)
3Live Slow Indicator ( pg. 36) 4Recording Speed Mode (SP/LP) ( pg. 33)
(only LP indicator is displayed)
5Tape Remaining Time ( pg. 18) 6REC: (Appears during recording.)
( pg. 18)
SLOW
: (Appears when using Live Slow.)
( pg. 36) 7 : Insert ( pg. 45)
8 : Insert Pause 8Selected Wipe/Fader Effect Indicator
( pg. 40)
9Wind Cut Indicator ( pg. 33) !Time Code ( pg. 34) "Digital Image Stabilizer (“DIS”) ( pg. 32)
(only indicator is displayed) #SOUND 12BIT/16BIT: Sound Mode
Indicator ( pg. 33) (Appears for approx. 5
seconds after turning on the camcorder.)
– – –min
REC
W
6 7
H
8 9

During Both Video And D.S.C. Recording

# $"
!
9
1
M
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
10
x
1Battery Remaining Power Indicator 2Operation Mode ( pg. 20)
A
: Auto Mode
M
: Manual Mode
3LED Light Indicator ( pg. 36) 4 : Night-Alive Indicator ( pg. 41)
: Gain Up Mode ( pg. 33)
5Shutter Speed ( pg. 41) 6White Balance Indicator ( pg. 39) 7Selected Effect Indicator ( pg. 41) 8Selected Program AE Indicator ( pg. 41) 9Approximate Zoom Ratio ( pg. 19) !Zoom Indicator ( pg. 19) "Shooting Icon
(Appears and blinks during shooting.)
#Card Icon ( pg. 26)
: Appears during shooting. : Blinks in white when a memory card is
not loaded.
$Image Size/Picture Quality: 640 x 480 F
F
640
(FINE) and 640 x 480 S
(STANDARD) (in order of quality) ( pg. 33)
%Remaining Number Of Shots ( pg. 26)
(Displays the approximate remaining number of shots that can be stored during D.S.C. recording.)
&
PHOTO
: (Appears when taking Snapshot.)
( pg. 26, 37)
( : Spot Exposure Control Indicator
( pg. 39)
: Backlight Compensation Indicator ( pg. 39) ±: Exposure Adjustment Indicator ( pg. 38)
: Iris Lock Indicator ( pg. 38)
)Date/Time ( pg. 15) ~Manual Focus Adjustment Indicator
( pg. 37)
D
1
E
C
640
F
640
PHOTO
)~
F
640
0:61.1.32A0
S
%
15
&
(
3
M 7

During Video Playback

GETTING STARTED

During D.S.C. Playback

EN 11
1L2
21
2 0 BIT
M
I
X
4
3
LP
6
5
x
3
BLANK SEARCH
PUSH "STOP" BUTTON
D E C
TO CANCEL
O
L
M
E
U
V
:/2
1
:
2
5
9
1Battery Remaining Power Indicator 2Sound L/R Indicator ( pg. 35) 3Blank Search Indicator ( pg. 22) 4Tape Speed (SP/LP) ( pg. 35)
(only LP indicator is displayed)
5Variable Search Speed Indicator: x-10, x-3,
x3 and x10 ( pg. 22)
63: Playback
¡: Fast-Forward/Shuttle Search 1: Rewind/Shuttle Search 8: Pause 8 3: Forward Frame-By-Frame Playback/
Slow-Motion 2 8: Reverse Frame-By-Frame Playback/ Slow-Motion
: Audio Dubbing
8 : Audio Dubbing Pause
7Date/Time ( pg. 35) 8VOLUME: Volume Level Indicator
( pg. 21)
9Time Code ( pg. 35)
8
:
1.11.320A 6
7
M
7
0
21
100-0013
11:13
DEC. 6. 2007
1Battery Remaining Power Indicator 2Folder/File Number 3Operation Mode Indicator 4Date/Time
AM
3
4
GETTING STARTED
12 EN
GETTING STARTED

How To Attach The Lens Cap

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.

How To Attach The Shoulder Strap

1 Peel off the pad
and thread the end of the strap through the eyelet.
Eyelet

Grip Adjustment

Open the pad and make grip adjustments.
Before making the adjustment, remove any security tags that may be attached to the velcro.
2 Thread the
strap through the buckle, adjust its length, and use the strap guide to fix it in place.
3 Position the
buckle near the eyelet and reattach the pad.
Strap Guide
Buckle

Power

Charging The Battery Pack

POWER/CHARGE Lamp
Battery pack mount
Arrow
Battery pack
Power Switch
Lock Button
To AC outlet
1 Set the Power Switch to “OFF”. 2 With the arrow on the battery pack pointing
upward, push the battery pack slightly against the battery pack mount 1.
3 Slide up the battery pack until it locks in
place 2.
4 Plug the AC Adapter into an AC outlet. 5 Connect the AC Adapter to the camcorder.
The POWER/CHARGE lamp on the camcorder blinks to indicate charging has started.
When the POWER/CHARGE lamp goes out, charging is finished. Unplug the AC Adapter from the AC outlet. Disconnect the AC Adapter from the camcorder.
To detach the battery pack
Slide the battery pack downward while pressing BATT. to detach it.
Battery pack Charging time
BN-VF808U* Approx. 1 hr. 30 min.
BN-VF815U Approx. 2 hrs. 40 min.
BN-VF823U Approx. 3 hrs. 50 min.
* Provided
2
1
BATT.
To DC connector
AC Adapter
GETTING STARTED
EN 13
NOTES:
If the protective cap is attached to the battery pack, remove it first.
During charging, the camcorder cannot be operated.
Charging is not possible if the wrong type of battery is used.
When charging the battery pack for the first time or after a long storage period, the POWER/ CHARGE lamp may not light. In this case, remove the battery pack from the camcorder, then try charging again.
If a fully charged battery pack is attached to the unit, POWER/CHARGE lamp will blink for approx. 10 seconds before it turns off.
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.
After 5 minutes have elapsed in Record­Standby mode with the cassette inserted and no operation is performed, the camcorder will automatically turn off its power supplied from the AC adapter. In this case, the battery charge starts if the battery is attached to the camcorder.

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.
To restore the accuracy of the battery power indicator
If the battery power indication differs from the actual operating time, fully charge the battery, and then run it down. However this method may not work if the battery was used for a long period of time under extremely high/low temperature condition or charged too many times.
GETTING STARTED
14 EN
A
GETTING STARTED

Using The Battery Pack

Perform steps 23 in “Charging The Battery Pack” ( pg. 13).
Maximum continuous recording time
Battery pack
BN-VF808U* 1 hr. 50 min. 2 hrs. 15 min.
BN-VF815U 3 hrs. 40 min. 4 hrs. 30 min.
BN-VF823U 5 hrs. 30 min. 6 hrs. 45 min.
* Provided
LCD monitor
on
Viewfinder on
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.
TTENTION:
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.

Data Battery System

You can check the remaining battery power and the recordable time. When the battery is attached, press DATA .
BATTERY CONDITION
100%
50%
0%
When the Power Switch is set to “OFF”, it is displayed for approx. 3 seconds if the button is pressed and released quickly, and for approx. 15 seconds if the button is pressed and hold for several seconds.
When the Power Switch is set to “PLAY” or “REC”, press DATA again to return to the normal screen.
Data battery status cannot be displayed during playback or while recording is in progress.
MAX TIME
min
min
LCD
FINDER
If “COMMUNICATION ERROR” appears instead of the battery status even though you tried to press DATA several times, there may be a problem with your battery. In such a case, consult your nearest JVC dealer.

Using AC Power

Perform step 45 in “Charging The Battery Pack” ( pg. 13).
NOTE:
The provided AC Adapter features automatic voltage selection in the AC range from 110 V to 240 V.
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.

Language Settings

The language on the display can be changed. ( pg. 34)
1
Select
2
SET
1 Open the LCD monitor fully. 2 Set the Power Switch to “REC” or “PLAY”
while pressing down the Lock Button located on the switch.
If set to “REC”, the recording mode should be
M ( pg. 20).
set to
3 Press MENU. 4 Select “SYSTEM”, press SET or 2. 5 Select “LANGUAGE”, press SET or 2. 6 Select the desired language, press SET or
2.
7 Press MENU.
Press 1 whenever you want to return to the previous menu screen.
LANGUAGE
ENGLISH
GETTING STARTED
EN 15

Date/Time Settings

1
Select
2
SET
The date/time is recorded onto the tape at all times, but its display can be turned on or off. ( pg. 34, 35) Perform steps 13 in “Language Settings” ( pg. 14).
CLOCK ADJ.
MONTH. DATE. YEAR 12h
JAN.
03
.
2007
02
: 10 AM
1 Select “DISPLAY”, press SET or 2. 2 Select “CLOCK ADJ.”, press SET or 2. 3 Select the desired date display format,
press SET or
Repeat this step to input time display format (Select from “24h” or “12h”), month, date, year, hour and minutes.
2.
4 Press MENU.
Press 1 whenever you want to return to the previous menu screen/setting.
Viewfinder Adjustment
1 Set the Power Switch to “REC” 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.
3 Turn the Diopter Adjustment Control until
the indications in the viewfinder are clearly focused.
Example:

Brightness Adjustment Of The Display

1
Select
±
BRIGHT
2
SET
Perform steps 13 in “Language Settings” ( pg. 14).
To adjust the brightness of the viewfinder, pull out the viewfinder fully and set “PRIORITY” to “FINDER” ( pg. 34).
0
1 Select “DISPLAY”, press SET or 2. 2 Select “BRIGHT”, press SET or 2. 3 Select the appropriate brightness, press
SET or
2.
4 Press MENU.
Press 1 whenever you want to return to the previous menu screen.

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
Diopter Adjustment Control
CAUTION:
When retracting the viewfinder, take care not to pinch your fingers.
16 EN
GETTING STARTED

Loading/Unloading A Cassette

The camcorder needs to be powered up to load or eject a cassette.
Cassette holder cover
Cassette holder
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”
to close the cassette holder.
Be sure to press only the section labeled “PUSH” 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.
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.
PUSH
OPEN/ EJECT
Make sure the window side is facing out.
Erase protection tab
When the camcorder is suddenly moved from a cold place to a warm environment, wait a short time before opening the cassette holder cover.
• Appears if a tape is loaded while the Power Switch is set to “REC”.
• Blinks when no tape is loaded.
TAPE!
Appears if a tape is not loaded when the Recording Start/Stop Button or SNAPSHOT Button is pressed while the Power Switch is set to “REC” and the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch is set to “VIDEO”.
CHECK TAPE’S ERASE PROTECTION TAB
Appears when the erase protection tab is set to “SAVE” while the Power Switch is set to “REC” and the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch is set to “VIDEO”. ( pg. 18)
GETTING STARTED
EN 17

Loading/Unloading A Memory Card

Card Cover ( )
Memory card
(Optional)
1 Make sure the camcorder’s power is off. 2 Open the card cover ( ). 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.
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. 30)
PLEASE FORMAT
Appears when there is a problem with a memory card and its memory is corrupt, or it has not been initialized. Initialize the memory card. ( pg. 30)
CARD ERROR!
Appears when the camcorder does not recognize the loaded memory card. Remove the memory card once and insert it again. Repeat these procedures until no indication appears. If the indication still appears, the memory card is corrupted.
Clipped edge

16:9 Wide Mode

You can record videos at 4:3 size and 16:9 size. By default, the camera is set to record videos at the 16:9 size.
16:9
1 Set the Power Switch to “REC”. 2 Set the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch to
“VIDEO”. Each press 16:9 switches the screen size. On the LCD monitor:
16 : 9
On the viewfinder:
16 : 9
NOTE:
If you record videos in 16:9 size, the image may appear to be slightly vertically stretched when playing back on TV with the 4:3 screen. ( pg. 34, 35)
4 : 3
4 : 3
GETTING STARTED
18 EN

VIDEO RECORDING

Basic Recording

NOTE:
Before continuing, perform the procedures listed below:
Power ( pg. 13)
Loading A Cassette ( pg. 16)
Remove the lens cap. ( pg. 12)
Open the LCD monitor fully.
Select videos at 4:3 size or 16:9 (wide) size. ( pg. 17)
VIDEO/MEMORY
Zoom Lever
Lock Button
Recording Start/Stop Button
1 Set the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch to
“VIDEO”.
2 Set the Power Switch to “REC” while
pressing down the Lock Button located on the switch.
3 Press START/STOP button to start
recording. “REC” appears on the display while recording is in progress. To stop recording Press START/STOP again.
Approximate recording time
Tape
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 and no operation is performed, 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.
Recording mode
SP LP
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” (
To record in LP (Long Play) mode,  pg. 33.
pg. 20).

Tape Remaining Time

Approximate tape remaining time appears on the display. “– – – min” means the camcorder is calculating the remaining time. When the remaining time reaches 2 minutes, the indication starts blinking.
The time required to calculate and display the remaining tape length, and the accuracy of the calculation, may vary according to the type of tape used.

Quick Review

Enables to check the end of the last recording.
1) Press QUICK REVIEW during the Recording-Standby mode.
2) Tape is rewound for about several seconds and played back automatically, then pauses in the Recording-Standby mode for the next shot.
Distortion may occur at start of playback. This is normal.
Slide the Power Zoom lever repeatedly to
change the sound setting to on/off.

Zooming

While recording
Zoom out
W: Wide angle
You can zoom in up to 34X by using the optical
zoom.
Zoom magnification over 34X is done through
digital image processing, and is therefore called digital zoom. Digital zooming is possible up to 900X. Set (ZOOM) to [68X] or [900X]. (
pg. 32)
Optical zoom (up to 34X)
Digital zoom (up to 900X)
Zoom in
T: Telephoto
NOTES:
Macro shooting is possible as close as approx. 5
cm (2") to the subject when the zoom lever is set all the way to W.
When you zoom into a subject close to the lens,
the camera may automatically zoom out depending on the distance to the subject. In this case, set “TELE MACRO” to “ON”. (
pg. 32)

Journalistic Shooting

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).
VIDEO RECORDING
EN 19

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. Then, pull out the viewfinder fully.
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.
If the Quick Review ( pg. 18) is executed
during the interface shooting, the LCD monitor will be turned off. In such a case, check the playback picture in the viewfinder.
To check the playback picture in the LCD
monitor, close the viewfinder.
RECORDING & PLAYBACK
20 EN
VIDEO RECORDING

Time Code

During recording, a time code is recorded on the tape. This code is to confirm the location of the recorded scene on the tape during playback.
Display
Minutes Seconds Frames*
(30 frames =
12:34:24
* Frames are not displayed during recording.
If recording starts from a blank portion, the time code begins counting from “00:00:00” (minute:second:frame). If recording starts from the end of a previously recorded scene, the time code continues from the last time code number. If during recording a blank portion is left partway through the tape, the time code is interrupted. When recording is resumed, the time code starts counting up again from “00:00:00”. This means the camcorder may record the same time codes as those existing in a previously recorded scene. To prevent this, perform Recording From The Middle Of A Tape ( pg. 20) in the following cases;
When shooting again after playing back a recorded tape.
When power shuts off during shooting.
When a tape is removed and re-inserted during
shooting.
When shooting using a partially recorded tape.
When shooting on a blank portion located
partway through the tape.
When shooting again after shooting a scene
then opening/closing the cassette holder cover.
NOTES:
The time code cannot be reset.
During fast-forwarding and rewinding, the time
code indication does not move smoothly.
The time code is displayed only when “TIME
CODE” is set to “ON”. (
1 second)
pg. 34)

Recording From The Middle Of A Tape

1) Play back a tape or use Blank Search ( pg. 22) to find the spot at which you want to start recording, then engage the Still Playback mode. ( pg. 21)
2) Set the Power Switch to “REC” while pressing down the Lock Button located on the switch, then start recording.

Dual Rec.

You can capture still images without disturbing the recording in progress. Press SNAPSHOT. A sub screen will be displayed for approx. 6 seconds to show you the snapshot image.
The Still image is saved into the memory card while video is recorded onto the cassette tape.
“REC SELECT” must be set to “ (CARD)”
only.

Auto/Manual Mode

Press AUTO button repeatedly to switch to auto/manual recording mode. When manual mode is selected, the indicator “M” appears on the LCD monitor.
Auto Mode :
You can record using no special effects or manual adjustments.
Manual Mode :
Manual recording is possible by setting various functions
.
AUTO
A
M
MAN UAL
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