JVC GR-D93AC, GR-D93AG, GR-D93AH, GR-D93AS, GR-D93EK User Manual

DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA

GR-D93

Dear Customer,

Thank you for purchasing this digital
video camera. Before use, please read
the safety information and precautions
contained in the pages 2 – 3 to ensure
safe use of this product.

ENGLISH

GETTING STARTED

5

GR-D73
GR-D53
GR-D23

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/

VIDEO RECORDING &

PLAYBACK

DIGITAL STILL CAMERA

(D.S.C.) RECORDING &

PLAYBACK (GR-D93/D73

only)

ADVANCED FEATURES

REFERENCES

TERMS

11

18

24

39

54

The camcorder illustrations appearing in this
instruction manual are of the GR-D93.

The D.S.C. (Digital Still Camera) features
are available on GR-D93 and GR-D73.

INSTRUCTIONS

To deactivate the demonstration, set
“DEMO MODE” to “OFF”.
(墌 pg. 24, 26)

LYT1204-001B

EN

2 EN

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 battery packs
and, to recharge them or 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.)

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 safty caution of the AC
Adapter are on its upper and lower sides.

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.

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.

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!

EN 3

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.)

* Memory cards can be used with GR-D93 and GR-D73

only.

CONTENTS

4 EN

GETTING STARTED 5

Provided Accessories ....................................................5

Power .............................................................................6

Grip Adjustment .............................................................7

Operation Mode .............................................................8

Date/Time Settings ........................................................8

Viewfinder Adjustment ...................................................9

Brightness Adjustment Of The Display ..........................9

Tripod Mounting .............................................................9

Loading/Unloading A Cassette ....................................10

Loading/Unloading A Memory Card (GR-D93/73 only) ...... 10

VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK 11

VIDEO RECORDING ........................................................11

Basic Recording ...........................................................11

LCD Monitor And Viewfinder ........................................12

Tape Remaining Time ..................................................12

Zooming .......................................................................12

Journalistic Shooting ....................................................13

Self Recording .............................................................13

Time Code ...................................................................13

Recording From The Middle Of A Tape .......................13

VIDEO PLAYBACK ...........................................................14

Normal Playback ..........................................................14

Still Playback ................................................................14

Shuttle Search .............................................................14

Blank Search ................................................................14

Playback Using The Remote Control (GR-D93/73/53 only) ......15

Connections To A TV Or VCR .....................................17

DIGITAL STILL CAMERA (D.S.C.) RECORDING &
PLAYBACK (GR-D93/D73 only) 18

D.S.C. RECORDING (GR-D93/D73 only) ..........................18

Basic Shooting (D.S.C. Snapshot) ...............................18

D.S.C. PLAYBACK (GR-D93/D73 only) ............................19

Normal Playback Of Images ........................................19

Auto Playback Of Images ............................................19

Index Playback Of Files ...............................................19

ADDITIONAL FEATURES FOR D.S.C. (GR-D93/D73 only) ...20

Viewing File Information ...............................................20

Removing On-Screen Display ......................................20

Protecting Files ............................................................20

Deleting Files ...............................................................21

Dubbing Still Images Recorded On A Tape To A Memory

Card .........................................................................21

Setting Print Information (DPOF Setting) .....................22

Resetting The File Name .............................................23

Initialising A Memory Card ...........................................23

ADVANCED FEATURES 24

MENUS FOR DETAILED ADJUSTMENT .............................. 24

Changing The Menu Settings ......................................24

Recording Menus ........................................................25

Playback Menus .......................................................... 28

FEATURES FOR RECORDING ........................................... 29

White LED Light ..........................................................29

Night Scope .................................................................29

Wipe Or Fader Effects .................................................30

Program AE With Special Effects ................................ 30

Snapshot (For Video Recording) .................................31

Auto Focus ..................................................................32

Manual Focus ..............................................................32

Exposure Control ......................................................... 33

Iris Lock ....................................................................... 33

Backlight Compensation .............................................. 34

White Balance Adjustment ..........................................34

Manual White Balance Adjustment ............................. 34

EDITING ........................................................................35

Dubbing To Or From A VCR ....................................... 35

Dubbing To Or From A Video Unit Equipped With A DV

Connector (Digital Dubbing) .................................... 36

Connection To A Personal Computer .......................... 37

Audio Dubbing (GR-D93/73/53 only) ........................... 38

Insert Editing (GR-D93/73/53 only) .............................38

REFERENCES 39

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ...........................................39

TROUBLESHOOTING ....................................................... 40

CAUTIONS ..................................................................... 45

USER MAINTENANCE ...................................................... 48

SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................ 49

INDEX ...........................................................................50

TERMS 54

Provided Accessories

or

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.

EN 5

Push.

GETTING STARTED

6

0

9

3

4

2

5

we

T

W

a AC Adapter AP-V14E or AP-V15E
b Power Cord
c Battery Pack BN-V408U-B
d Audio/Video Cable (ø3.5 mini-plug to RCA plug)
e Core Filter (for USB Cable (provided with GR-D93/73/

53 only) and optional S-Video Cable. 墌 pg. 6 for
attachment)

f Shoulder Strap (See the right column for attachment)
g CD-ROM (GR-D93/73/53 only)
h Memory Card 8 MB (GR-D93/73 only) (Already

inserted in the camcorder)

i Remote Control Unit RM-V718U (GR-D93/73/53 only)
j Lithium Battery CR2025* (GR-D93/73/53 only)

(for remote control unit)

k USB Cable (GR-D93/73/53 only)
l Lens Cap (See the right column for attachment)
m Cable Adapter

* 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.

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.

Strap guide

2

Buckle

3

Eyelet

1

GETTING STARTED

6 EN

How To Attach The Core Filter (for USB Cable
(provided with GR-D93/73/53 only) and optional
S-Video Cable)

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

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

● Wind the cable so that it is not slack.

3 cm

Power

POWER/CHARGE lamp

Lock Button

To DC connector

Power Switch

Mark

BATT.RELEASE

AC Adapte r

Battery pack
mount

Arrow

Battery pack

Wind once.

3 Close the core filter until it clicks shut.

NOTES:

● Take care not to damage the cable.

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

to the camcorder.

Power Cord

To A C o u tl et

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

1 With the arrow on the battery pack pointing upward,

push the battery pack slightly against the battery pack
mount a.

2 Slide up the battery pack until it locks in place b.
3 Set the Power Switch to “OFF (CHARGE)”.
4 Connect the AC Adapter to the camcorder, then

connect the Power Cord to the AC Adapter.

5 Plug the AC Adapter 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 AC Adapter from the AC outlet.
Disconnect the AC Adapter from the camcorder.

To detach the battery pack

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

Battery pack Charging time

BN-V408U* Approx. 1 hr. 30 min.

BN-V416U Approx. 3 hr.

BN-V428U Approx. 5 hr.

* Provided

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

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 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.

● For other notes, 墌 pg. 39.

Using The Battery Pack

Perform steps 1 – 2 in “Charging The Battery Pack”.

Maximum continuous recording time

● GR-D73/53/23

Battery pack LCD monitor on Viewfinder on

BN-V408U* 1 hr. 10 min. 1 hr. 40 min.

BN-V416U 2 hr. 20 min. 3 hr. 15 min.

BN-V428U 4 hr. 10 min. 5 hr. 50 min.

● GR-D93

Battery pack LCD monitor on Viewfinder on

BN-V408U* 1 hr. 5 min. 1 hr. 35 min.

BN-V416U 2hr.15min. 3hr.5min.

BN-V428U 4 hr. 5 hr. 30 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 White 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.

Using AC Power

Connect the AC Adapter to the camcorder, then connect
the Power Cord to the AC Adapter as shown in the
illustration on page 6.

NOTES:

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

● Do not allow the DC terminals of the AC Adapter to come in
contact with metals, as this can result in a short circuit and
cause malfunction.

● For other notes, 墌 pg. 39.

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.

GETTING STARTED

EN 7

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. As long as the battery pack
itself is not cold, it should not affect performance.
(If you’re using a heating pad, make sure the battery pack
does not come in direct contact with it.)

Lithium-ion is vulnerable in
colder temperatures.

For other notes, 墌 pg. 39.

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.

GETTING STARTED

GETTING STARTED

8 EN

Operation Mode

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

POWER/CHARGE lamp

Power Switch

Lock Button

MMENU/VOL.

VIDEO/MEMORY (GR-D93/73 only)

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

MEMORY Switch (GR-D93/73 only).

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. (墌 pg. 24)
If you want more creative capabilities than Full Auto
Recording, try this mode.
There is no indication on the display.

OFF:
Allows you to switch off the camcorder.

PLAY:

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

● 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. (GR-D93/73 only)

● Allows you to set various playback functions using
the Menus. (墌 pg. 24)

VIDEO/MEMORY Switch Position
(GR-D93/73 only)

VIDEO:

Allows you to record on a tape or play back a tape. If
“REC SELECT” is set to “ / ” (墌 pg. 27), 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.
(墌 pg. 24, 28)

1 Set the Power Switch to “M” while pressing down the

Lock Button located on the switch.

2 Open the LCD monitor fully. (墌 pg. 12)
3 Press the MMENU/VOL. Wheel in. The Menu Screen

appears.

ASERA CM I

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4 Rotate the MMENU/VOL.

Wheel to select “n”, and press it.
The CAMERA DISPLAY Menu
appears.

5 Rotate the MMENU/VOL.

Wheel to select “CLOCK ADJ.”,
and press it. The parameter for
“Day” is highlighted.

6 Rotate the MMENU/VOL.

Wheel to input the day, and press
it. Repeat to input the month, year,
hour and minute.

7 Rotate the MMENU/VOL.

Wheel to select “BRETURN”, and
press it twice. The Menu Screen closes.

NOTE:

Even if you select “CLOCK ADJ.”, if the parameter is not
highlighted, the camcorder’s internal clock continues to
operate. Once you move the highlight bar to the first date/
time parameter (day), the clock stops. When you finish
setting the minute and press the MMENU/VOL. Wheel in, the
date and time begin operation from the date and time you
have just set.

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GETTING STARTED

PAUSE

EN 9

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.

Dioptre Adjustment Control

CAUTION:

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

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.

(墌 pg. 12)

3 Press the MMENU/VOL.

Wheel in. The Menu Screen
appears.

4 Rotate the MMENU/VOL.

Wheel to select “n”, and
press it. The CAMERA
DISPLAY Menu appears.

5 Rotate the MMENU/VOL.

Wheel to select “BRIGHT”, and press it. The Menu
Screen closes and the brightness control indicator
appears.

6 Rotate the MMENU/VOL. Wheel until the appropriate

brightness is reached.

7 Press the MMENU/VOL. Wheel in.

● It is also possible to adjust the brightness of the viewfinder
by pulling out the viewfinder, setting “PRIORITY” in the
SYSTEM Menu to “FINDER” (墌 pg. 24, 26) and adjusting
as described above.

MMENU/VOL.

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.

CAUTION:

When attaching the camcorder
to a tripod, extend its legs to
stabilise the camcorder. It is not advised to use small sized
tripods. This may cause damage to the unit by falling over.

GETTING STARTED

GETTING STARTED

A

10 EN

Loading/Unloading A Cassette

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

OPEN/EJECT

Cassette holder
cover

PUSH HERE

Make sure the

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 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.

Approximate recording time

Tape

30 min. 30 min. 45 min.

60 min. 60 min. 90 min.

80 min. 80 min. 120 min.

To switch the recording mode, refer to pages 24 and 25.

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.

For other notes, 墌 pg. 39.

window side is facing
out.

Erase protection tab

Recording mode

SP LP

Loading/Unloading A Memory Card
(GR-D93/73 only)

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

1 Make sure the camcorder’s power is off.
2 Open the LCD monitor (墌 pg. 12), then open the card

cover (MEMORY CARD).

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:

● Be sure to use only SD Memory Cards marked “ ” or
MultiMediaCards marked “ ”.

● 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. (墌 pg. 23)

TTENTION:

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.

Card Cover (MEMORY CARD)

Memory card

Label

Write/erase
protection tab

Clipped edge

Basic Recording

NOTE:

Before continuing, perform the procedures listed below:

● Power (墌 pg. 6)

● Loading a Cassette (墌 pg. 10)

Push.

POWER/CHARGE lamp

Power Zoom Lever

Lock Button

Recording Start/Stop Button

Power Switch

VIDEO RECORDING

EN 11

1 Remove the lens cap.
2 Open the LCD monitor fully. (墌 pg. 12)
3 Set the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch to “VIDEO”.

(GR-D93/73 only)

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, 墌 pg. 24, 25.

5 To start recording, press the Recording Star t/Stop

Button. The “T REC” appears on the display while
recording is in progress.

6 To stop recording, press the Recording Start/Stop

Button again. The camcorder re-enters the Record­Standby mode.

NOTES:

● The image will not appear simultaneously on the LCD
monitor and the viewfinder.

● 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.

● LCD monitor/viewfinder indications:

• When power is supplied from a battery: the “ ”

battery indicator is displayed. (墌 pg. 43)

• When power is supplied from an AC outlet: the “ ”

battery indicator does not appear.

● 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” (墌 pg. 13).

● To turn the beep sounds off, 墌 pg. 24, 26.

● For other notes, 墌 pg. 39.

VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK

VIDEO RECORDING

0h25

m

12 EN

LCD Monitor And Viewfinder

While using the LCD monitor:

Make sure the viewfinder is pushed back in. Press the
Monitor Opening Button and open the LCD monitor fully.
It can rotate 270° (90° downward, 180° upward).

While using the viewfinder:

Make sure the LCD monitor is closed and locked. Pull out
the viewfinder fully.

● Be sure to pull out the viewfinder until you hear a click,
otherwise it may be pushed back in during use.

Zooming

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)

1xW

T

10xW

T

20xW

T

40xW

T

Monitor Opening Button

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. (墌 pg. 24, 26)

● Coloured bright spots may appear all over the LCD monitor
or the viewfinder. However, this is not a malfunction.
(墌 pg. 42)

Tape Remaining Time

Approximate tape remaining time appears on the display.
“–h––m” means the camcorder is calculating the
remaining time. When the remaining time reaches
2 minutes, the indication starts blinking.

– h– – m1 h 0 m0

h 5 9

0

(Now calculating)

(Blinking) (Blinking) (Blinking)

h 3

0

h 2

m

m0 h 1 m0 h 0 m

m

Zoom out (W: Wide angle)

10xW

T

Digital zoom zone

16X (10X for GR-D93) (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 (墌 pg. 32), then zoom in or out
in Record mode.

● Zooming is possible to a maximum of 700X, or it can be
switched to 16X (10X for GR-D93) magnification using the
optical zoom. (墌 pg. 25)

● Zoom magnification of over 16X (10X for GR-D93) is done
through Digital image processing, and is therefore called
Digital Zoom.

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

● Digital zoom cannot be used when the VIDEO/MEMORY

Switch is set to “MEMORY”. (GR-D93/73 only)

● 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

26.

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).

Self Recording

Open the LCD monitor and tilt
it upward to 180° so that it
faces forward, then point the
lens toward yourself and start
recording.

Self 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*

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 par tway 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” (See the right column) 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.

(25 frames = 1 second)

VIDEO RECORDING

EN 13

Recording From The Middle Of A Tape

1) Play back a tape or use Blank Search (墌 pg. 14) to
find the spot at which you want to start recording, then
engage the Still Playback mode. (墌 pg. 14)

2) Set the Power Switch to “A” or “M” while pressing
down the Lock Button located on the switch, then start
recording.

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”. (墌 pg. 27)

When a blank portion is recorded on a tape

Time code

00:00:00

Tap e

recorded scene

Shooting start
point

Proper recording

Time code

00:00:00

Tap e

recorded scene

Shooting start
point

Time code

05:43:21

Already

Shooting stop
point

Time code

05:43:21

Already

Shooting start
point

Time code
00:00:00

Blank

Shooting start
point

Time code
05:44:00

New

scene

Newly recorded

scene

Latest scene

Shooting start
point

VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK

VIDEO PLAYBACK

A

14 EN

MMENU/VOL.

Lock Button

VIDEO/MEMORY (GR-D93/73 only)

Speaker

BLANK SEARCH

Power Switch

8

4/9

3

5

Normal Playback

1 Load a cassette. (墌 pg. 10)
2 Set the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch to “VIDEO”.

(GR-D93/73 only)

3 Set the Power Switch to “PLAY” while pressing down

the Lock Button located on the switch.

4 To start playback, press 4/9.
5 To stop playback, press 8.

● During Stop mode, press 3 to rewind, or 5 to fast-
forward the tape.

To control the speaker volume

Rotate the MMENU/VOL. Wheel towards “+” to turn up
the volume, or towards “–” to turn down the volume.

NOTES:

● The playback picture can be viewed in the LCD monitor,
viewfinder or on a connected TV. (墌 pg. 17)

● For other notes, 墌 pg. 39.

Still Playback

Pauses during video playback.

1) Press 4/9 during playback.

2) To resume normal playback, press 4/9 again.

● If still playback continues for more than about 3 minutes,
the camcorder’s Stop mode is automatically engaged.

● When 4/9 is pressed, the image may not pause
immediately while the camcorder stabilises the still image.

Shuttle Search

Allows high-speed search in either direction during video
playback.

1) During playback, press 5 for forward search, or
3 for reverse search.

2) To resume normal playback, press 4/9.

● During playback, press and hold 5 or 3. The search
continues as long as you hold the button. Once you release
the button, normal playback resumes.

● A slight mosaic effect appears on the display during Shuttle
Search. This is not a malfunction.

TTENTION:

During Shuttle Search, parts of the
picture may not be clearly visible,
particularly on the left side of the
screen.

Blank Search

Helps you find where you should start recording in the
middle of a tape to avoid time code interruption.
(墌 pg. 13)

1 Load a cassette. (墌 pg. 10)
2 Set the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch to “VIDEO”.

(GR-D93/73 only)

3 Set the Power Switch to “PLAY” while pressing down

the Lock Button located on the switch.

4 During Stop mode, press BLANK SEARCH.

● The “BLANK SEARCH” indication appears and the
camcorder automatically starts reverse or forward search,
then stops at the spot which is about 3 seconds of tape
before the beginning of the detected blank portion.

● To cancel Blank Search midway, press 8.

NOTES:

● Before starting Blank Search, if the current position is at a
blank portion, the camcorder searches in the reverse
direction. If the current position is at a recorded portion, the
camcorder searches in the forward direction.

● Blank Search does not work if “USE CLEANING
CASSETTE” has appeared with the tape.

● If the beginning or end of the tape is reached during Blank
Search, the camcorder stops automatically.

● A blank portion which is shorter than 5 seconds of tape
may not be detected.

● The detected blank portion may be located between
recorded scenes. Before you start recording, make sure
there is no recorded scene after the blank portion.

Playback Using The Remote Control
(GR-D93/73/53 only)

The Full-Function Remote Control Unit can operate this
camcorder from a distance as well as the basic
operations (Playback, Stop, Pause, Fast-Forward and
Rewind) of your VCR. It also makes additional playback
functions possible. (墌 pg. 16)

Installing The Battery

The remote control uses one
lithium battery (CR2025).

1 Pull out the battery holder

by inserting a pointed
instrument into the slot.

2 Inser t the battery in the

holder, and be sure to have
the “+” mark visible.

3 Slide the holder back in

until you hear a click.

Beam Effective Area (indoor use)

When using the remote control,
be sure to point it at the remote
sensor. The transmitted beam’s
approximate effective distance
for indoor use is 5 m.

NOTE:

The transmitted beam may not be
effective or may cause incorrect
operation when the remote sensor
is directly exposed to sunlight or
powerful lighting.

2

1

1

Slot

Remote sensor

3

VIDEO PLAYBACK

EN 15

Buttons And Functions

T

W

A Infrared beam transmitting window

The following buttons are available only when the
camcorder’s Power Switch is set to “PLAY”.

B AUDIO Button ..................................... (墌 pg. 24, 28)

C PAUSE Button* .......................................... (墌 pg. 16)

Up Button .................................................. (墌 pg. 16)

D SLOW Rewind Button................................ (墌 pg. 16)

E REW Button* ....................................... (墌 pg. 14, 19)

Left Button ................................................ (墌 pg. 16)

F INSERT Button .......................................... (墌 pg. 38)

G STOP Button* ...................................... (墌 pg. 14, 19)

Down Button ............................................. (墌 pg. 16)

H SHIFT Button ............................................ (墌 pg. 16)

I EFFECT ON/OFF Button .......................... (墌 pg. 16)

J EFFECT Button ........................................ (墌 pg. 16)

K SLOW Forward Button............................... (墌 pg. 16)

L FF Button* ........................................... (墌 pg. 14, 19)

Right Button .............................................. (墌 pg. 16)

M PLAY Button*....................................... (墌 pg. 14, 19)

N A. DUB Button ........................................... (墌 pg. 38)

O DISPLAY Button ................................. (墌 pg. 17, 35)

The following buttons are available when the camcorder’s
Power Switch is set to “A” or “M”.

a S.SHOT (Snapshot) Button*
b START/STOP Button*

c Zoom (T/W) Buttons** ........................ (墌 pg. 12, 16)

VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK

* Functions the same as each corresponding button on the

camcorder. (墌 pg. 51)

** Functions when the camcorder’s Power Switch is set to

“PLAY” as well.

VIDEO PLAYBACK

16 EN

Up Button
or PAUSE

SLOW Forward

T

W

Button

Right Button
PLAY

Zoom Buttons

SLOW Rewind

Button

Left Button

Down Button

or STOP

SHIFT

Slow-Motion Playback

Allows slow-speed search in either direction during video
playback.

During normal video playback, press SLOW (YI or IU)
more than approx. 2 seconds.

● After approx. 1 minute (approx. 20 seconds with an 80­minute cassette) in Slow Rewind or approx. 5 minutes in
Slow Forward, normal playback resumes.

● To pause Slow-Motion playback, press PAU SE (9).

● To stop Slow-Motion playback, press PLAY (U).

NOTES:

● You can also engage Slow-Motion Playback from Still
Playback by pressing SLOW (YI or IU) more than approx.
2 seconds.

● During Slow-Motion Playback, due to digital image
processing, the picture may take on a mosaic effect.

● After SLOW (YI or IU) is pressed and held, the still image
may be displayed for a few seconds, followed by a blue
screen for a few seconds. This is not a malfunction.

● There may be a small margin between the slow-motion
playback start point you chose and the actual start point for
Slow-Motion Playback.

● During Slow-Motion Playback, there will be disturbances in
video and the picture may seem unstable, especially with
steady images. This is not a malfunction.

Frame-By-Frame Playback

Allows frame-by-frame search during video playback.
During normal or still playback, press SLOW (IU)

repeatedly for forward or SLOW (YI) repeatedly for
reverse. Each time SLOW (YI or IU) is pressed, the
frame is played back.

Playback Zoom

Magnifies the recorded image up to 44X (70X for
GR-D93) at any time during video playback and D.S.C.
playback (GR-D93/73 only).

1) Press PLAY (U) to start video

playback. Or perform normal playback of
images.

3) You can move the image on the screen
around to find a particular portion of the
picture. While holding down SHIFT, press
L (Left), F (Right), U (Up) and E (Down).

● To end zoom, press and hold W until
magnification returns to nor mal. Or, press STOP (8) and
then press PLAY (U) during video playback.

NOTES:

● Zoom can also be used during slow-motion and still
playback.

● Due to digital image processing, the quality of the image
may suffer.

Playback Special Effects

Allows you to add creative effects to the video playback
image.

The effects that can be used during playback are
CLASSIC FILM, MONOTONE, SEPIA and STROBE. The
effects work the same in playback as they did in
recording. (墌 pg. 30)

CLASSIC FILM: Gives recorded scenes a strobe

effect.

MONOTONE: Like classic black and white films,
your footage is shot in B/W. Used together with the
Cinema mode, it enhances the “classic film” effect.

SEPIA: Recorded scenes have a brownish tint like
old photos. Combine this with the Cinema mode for a
classic look.

STROBE: Your recording looks like a series of
consecutive snapshots.

1) To start playback,
press PLAY (U).

2) Press EFFECT.
The PLAYBACK
EFFECT Select Menu
appears.

3) Press EFFECT
repeatedly to move
the highlight bar to the
desired effect.

● The selected function is activated and after 2 seconds the

menu disappears.

● To deactivate the selected effect, press EFFECT ON/OFF.

To reactivate the selected effect press EFFECT ON/OFF
again.

● To change the selected effect, repeat from step 2 above.

T

W

EFFECT
EFFECT ON/OFF

2) At the point you want to zoom in, press
the Zoom Button (T).

● To zoom out, press the Zoom Button (W).

Connections To A TV Or VCR

These are some basic types of connections. When
making the connections, refer also to your VCR and TV
instruction manuals.

To AV

Audio/Video

cable

(provided)

1234

Cable Adapter*

To TV or VCR

To S

S-Video cable
(optional)

“Y/C”/“CVBS” Video
Out Select Switch

TV

VIDEO PLAYBACK

EN 17

1 Make sure all units are turned off.
2 Connect the camcorder to a TV or VCR as shown in

the illustration.

If using a VCR, go to step 3.
If not, go to step 4.

3 Connect the VCR output to the TV input, referring to

your VCR’s instruction manual.

4 Turn on the camcorder, the VCR and the TV.
5 Set the VCR to its AUX input mode, and set the TV to

its VIDEO mode.

To choose whether or not the following displays
appear on the connected TV

● Date/Time
Set “DATE/TIME” to “AUTO”, “ON” or “OFF”. (墌 pg. 24, 28)
Or, press DISPLAY on the remote control (provided with
GR-D93/73/53 only) to turn on/off the date indication.

● Time Code
Set “TIME CODE” to “ON” or “OFF”. (墌 pg. 24, 28)

● Indications other than date/time and time code
Set “ON SCREEN” to “OFF”, “LCD” or “LCD/TV”.
(墌 pg. 24, 28)

NOTES:

● It is recommended to use the AC Adapter as the power

supply instead of the battery pack. (墌 pg. 7)

● To monitor the picture and sound from the camcorder
without inserting a tape or memory card*, set the
camcorder’s Power Switch to “A” or “M”, then set your TV
to the appropriate input mode.
* GR-D93/73 only

● Make sure you adjust the TV sound volume to its minimum
level to avoid a sudden burst of sound when the camcorder
is turned on.

● If you have a TV or speakers that are not specially shielded,
do not place the speakers adjacent to the TV as
interference will occur in the camcorder playback picture.

● When a cable is connected to the AV connector, the sound
is not heard from the speaker.

VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK

VCR

A White to AUDIO L IN**
B Red to AUDIO R IN**
C Yellow to VIDEO IN
D To S-VIDEO IN***

* If your VCR has a SCART connector, use the provided

cable adapter.
** Not required for watching still images only.
*** Connect when your TV/VCR has S-VIDEO IN and A/V

input connectors. In this case, it is not necessary to

connect the yellow video cable.

NOTE:

Set the video out select switch of the cable adapter as
required:

Y/C: When connecting to a TV or VCR which accepts Y/
C signals and uses an S-Video cable.
CVBS: When connecting to a TV or VCR which does not
accept Y/C signals and uses an audio/video cable.