JVC GR-DVL725U, GR-DVL820A, GR-DVL820SH, GR-DVL820U Instructions Manual

Please visit our Homepage on the World Wide Web and
answer our Consumer Survey (in English only):

http://www.jvc-victor.co.jp/english/index-e.html

For Accessories:

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

The camcorder illustrations appearing in this
instruction manual are of the GR-DVL820.

ENGLISH

CONTENTS

AUTOMATIC DEMONSTRATION

6

GETTING STARTED

7 – 14

TAPE
RECORDING & PLAYBACK

15 – 24

TAPE RECORDING ........................

16 – 20

TAPE PLAYBACK ..........................

21 – 24

MEMORY CARD
RECORDING & PLAYBACK

25 – 34

MEMORY CARD RECORDING .........

26 – 27

MEMORY CARD PLAYBACK ............

28 – 29

ADVANCED FEATURES ....................

30 – 34

ADVANCED FEATURES

35 – 65

FOR RECORDING ...........................

36 – 43

USING MENUS FOR

DETAILED ADJUSTMENT ..............

44 – 49

DUBBING .....................................

50 – 52

USING THE REMOTE CONTROL UNIT

...

53 – 64

SYSTEM CONNECTIONS .........................

65

REFERENCES

66 –

Back Cover

DETAILS .............................................

67

TROUBLESHOOTING ......................

68 – 73

USER MAINTENANCE ............................

74

CAUTIONS ....................................

75 – 77

SPECIFICATIONS ...........................

78 – 79

INDEX .........................................

80 – 86

TERMS ...............................

87 –

Back Cover

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.

INSTRUCTIONS

GR-DVL820
GR-DVL725

DIGIT AL VIDEO CAMERA

EN

LYT0930-001A

2

EN

Using This Instruction Manual

• All major sections and subsections are listed in the Table Of Contents on the cover page.

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

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

It is recommended that you . . .

..... refer to the Index (墌 pgs. 80 – 86) and familiarize yourself with button locations, etc. before use.

..... read thoroughly the Safety Precautions and Safety Instructions that follow. They contain extremely important

information regarding the safe use of this product.

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.

You are recommended to carefully read the cautions on pages 75 through 77 before use.

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.

WARNING:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE

OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS TO
RAIN OR MOISTURE.

Dear Customer ,

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

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

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.

● Use the JVC BN-V408U/V416U/V428U 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.)

EN

3

(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.

IMPORTANT PRODUCT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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.)

(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 tip-over.

(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 power­supply 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.

4

EN

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 shoulder 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 the unit on top of the TV is
not recommended, as tripping on the cables will cause the camcorder to fall, resulting in damage.

䡲 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.)

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

EN

5

PROVIDED ACCESSORIES

NOTE:

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.

Remote Control
Unit RM-V717U
(GR-DVL820 only)

CD-ROMAAA (R03) Battery x 2

(for remote control unit)

Audio/Video Cable
(ø3.5 mini-plug to RCA plug)

Editing Cable
(GR-DVL820 only)

Shoulder Strap

Memory Card
8 MB (Already inserted in
the camcorder)

USB Cable

Battery Pack
BN-V408U

AC Adapter AP-V10U,
AP-V11U or AP-V12U

Remote Control Unit
RM-V715U (GR-DVL725 only)

Lens Cap
(

墌 pg. 6 for attachment)

Lens hood
(Already attached to the
camcorder)

or

6

EN

Automatic Demonstration takes place when “DEMO
MODE” is set to “ON” (factory-preset).

䡲 Automatic Demonstration starts when there is no operation for

about 3 minutes after the Power Switch is set to “

A

U

TO

” or

“

MANUAL

” and no cassette is in the camcorder.

䡲 Performing any operation during the demonstration stops the

demonstration temporarily. If no operation is performed for more
than 3 minutes after that, the demonstration will resume.

䡲 “DEMO MODE” remains “ON” even if the camcorder power is

turned off.

䡲 To cancel Automatic Demonstration:

1. Set the Power Switch to “

MANUAL

” while pressing down the

Lock Button located on the switch and press the MENU/

BRIGHT wheel in. The Menu Screen appears.

2. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select “ SYSTEM”

and press it. The SYSTEM Menu appears.

3. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select “DEMO MODE”
and press it. The Sub Menu appears.

4. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select “OFF” and press
it.

5. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select “ RETURN”,
and press it twice. The normal screen appears.

NOTE:

If you do not detach the Lens Cap, you cannot see the actual changes of the Automatic Demonstration activated on
the LCD monitor or viewfinder.

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 camera.

AUTOMATIC DEMONSTRATION

1 2 3

MODEDEMO –ONOF F

MENU/BRIGHT Wheel

Sub Menu

Lock Button

Power Switch

The lens cap can
be attached only
when the lens
hood is attached
to the camcorder.

EN

7

GETTING STARTED

GETTING STARTED

CONTENTS

Power.................................................. 8 – 9

Grip Adjustment ......................................... 10

Viewfinder Adjustment.................................. 10

Shoulder Strap Attachment ............................. 10

Tripod Mounting.......................................... 10

Date/Time Settings ...................................... 11

Loading/Unloading A Cassette ......................... 12

Recording Mode Setting................................. 13

Loading A Memory Card ................................ 14

Picture Quality/Image Size Setting .................... 14

8

EN

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 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.

● Using the optional AA-V40U AC Power Adapter/
Charger, you can charge the BN-V408U/V416U/V428U
battery pack without the camcorder. However, it cannot
be used as an AC adapter.

Battery pack

BN-V408U
BN-V416U (optional)
BN-V428U (optional)

Charging time

approx. 1 hr. 30 min.
approx. 3 hrs.
approx. 5 hrs.

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

1 Tilt the viewfinder upward 1. With the arrow on

the battery pack pointing downward, push the battery
pack slightly against the battery pack mount

2, then

slide down the battery pack until it locks in place

3.

2 Set the Power Switch to “OFF”. Connect the AC

Adapter to the camcorder

4.

3 Plug the AC Adapter into an AC outlet 5.

The CHARGE lamp on the camcorder blinks to
indicate charging has started.

4 When the CHARGE lamp stops blinking but stays

lit, charging is finished. Unplug the AC Adapter from
the AC outlet. Disconnect the AC Adapter from the
camcorder.

To Detach The Battery Pack . . .

.....Press BATT. RELEASE and pull out the battery

pack.

GETTING STARTED

(cont.)

3

2

1

5

4

To AC outlet

Battery pack

AC Adapter

CHARGE Lamp

To DC
connector

BATT. RELEASE Button

Power Switch

For other notes, 墌 pg. 67

EN

9

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.

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.

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

USING THE BATTERY PACK

Perform step 1 of “CHARGING THE BATTERY
PACK” (

墌 pg. 8).

USING AC POWER

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

NOTES:

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

● For other notes,

墌 pg. 67.

INFORMATION

The extended-use battery pack kit is a set composed of a battery pack and AC Power Adapter/Charger:
VU-V840 KIT: BN-V840U battery pack & AA-V15U AC Power Adapter/Charger
VU-V856 KIT: BN-V856U battery pack & AA-V80U AC Power Adapter/Charger
Read the kit's instruction manual before using.
Also, by using the optional JVC VC-VBN856U DC Cord, it will be possible to connect BN-V840U or BN-V856U
battery packs to the camcorder and supply power directly to the camcorder.

Lithium-ion is vulnerable in colder temperatures.

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/50°F), 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 re­attach 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.)

To DC connectorTo AC outlet

AC Adapter

Approximate recording time

( ) : when the video light is on

Battery
pack

BN-V408U

BN-V416U
(optional)

BN-V428U
(optional)

BN-V840U
(optional)

BN-V856U
(optional)

LCD monitor on

55 min.

(35 min.)

1 hr. 55min.

(1 hr. 15 min.)
3 hrs. 25 min.

(2 hrs. 15 min.)

4 hrs. 25 min.

(2 hrs. 55 min.)

6 hrs. 40 min.

(4 hrs. 15 min.)

Viewfinder on

1 hr. 10 min.

(45 min.)

2 hrs. 25 min.
(1 hr. 30 min.)

4 hrs. 20 min.

(2 hrs. 40 min.)

5 hrs. 40 min.

(3 hrs. 30 min.)

8 hrs. 30 min.

(5 hrs. 5 min.)

10

EN

GETTING STARTED

(cont.)

Grip Adjustment

1 Separate 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 and
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

U

TO

” or “

MANUAL

”

while pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch.

2 Turn the Diopter Adjustment Control until the

indications in the viewfinder are clearly focused.

Shoulder Strap Attachment

1 Make sure the battery pack is removed. Following

the illustration, thread the strap through the eyelet

1,

then fold it back and thread it through the buckle

2.

Repeat the procedure to attach the other end of the
strap to the other eyelet

3 located under the Grip

Strap . Confirm the strap is not twisted.

Tripod Mounting

CAUTION

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

1 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.

PAUSE

2

1

3

Diopter
Adjustment Control

Power Switch

Recording Start/
Stop button

Power
Zoom Lever

EN

11

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. 48, 49).

1 Set the Power Switch to “

MANUAL

” while pressing
down the Lock Button located on the switch. The
power lamp lights and the camcorder is turned on.

2 Press the MENU/BRIGHT wheel in to access the

Menu Screen.

3 Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select

“

DISPLAY”. Press it and the DISPLAY Menu

appears.

4 Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select

“CLOCK ADJ.”. Press it and “month” is highlighted.
Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to input the month.
Press it. Repeat to input the day, year, hour and
minute.
Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select

“

RETURN”, 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 (month), the clock stops. When you finish
setting the minute and press the MENU/BRIGHT wheel
in, the date and time begin operation from the date and
time you just set.

OF

F

FADER

/ W I P E

AM AEPROGR

ACAMER
LMANUA

MSYSTE

DSC
END

AYDISPL

C

AN E

W. BAL

RE NEON SC

LCD / TV

UAOT

IMETDATE /

T I ME CODE

CLOCK

ADJ .

–
–
– FFO

25 ’02

CED

30PM:5

NRETUR

CLOCK
ADJ .

25 ’02

CED

30PM:5

EXPOSURE

Display

MENU/BRIGHT Wheel

Power Switch

Lock Button

DISPLAY Menu

Power Lamp

12

EN

GETTING STARTED

(cont.)

Loading/Unloading A Cassette

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

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.

• Once the cassette holder is closed, it recedes

automatically. Wait until it recedes completely before
closing the cassette holder cover.

• When the battery’s charge is low, you may not be

able to close the cassette holder cover. Do not apply
force. Replace the battery with a fully charged one
before continuing.

3 Close the cassette holder cover firmly until it

locks into place.

Tape

Recording mode

SP LP

30 min. 30 min. 45 min.
60 min. 60 min. 90 min.
80 min. 80 min. 120 min.

Approximate recording time

* To Protect V aluable 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.

Be sure to press only the section labeled “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.

NOTES:

● It takes a few seconds for the cassette holder to open. Do not apply force.

● 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.

● Closing the cassette holder cover before the cassette holder comes out may cause damage to the camcorder.

● Even when the camcorder is switched off, a cassette can be loaded or unloaded. After the cassette holder is closed

with the camcorder switched off, however, it may not recede. It is recommended to turn the power on before loading or
unloading.

● When resuming recording, once you open the cassette holder cover a blank portion will be recorded on the tape or a
previously recorded scene will be erased (recorded over) regardless of whether the cassette holder came out or not.
See page 20 for information about recording from the middle of a tape.

● Loosen the Grip Strap if it appears to interfere with the cassette holder cover operation (

墌 pg. 10).

OPEN/EJECT
Switch

Cassette
holder

PUSH HERE

Cassette holder cover

Make sure the
window side is
facing out.

Erase protection tab*

EN

13

Recording Mode Setting

Set the tape recording mode depending on your
preference.

1 Set the Power Switch to “

MANUAL

” while pressing
down the Lock Button located on the switch. The
power lamp lights and the camcorder is turned on.

2 Press the MENU/BRIGHT wheel in. The Menu

Screen appears.

3 Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select

“

CAMERA” and press it. The CAMERA Menu

appears.

4 Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select “REC

MODE” and press it. The Sub Menu appears. Select
“SP” or “LP” by rotating the MENU/BRIGHT wheel
and press it. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to
select “

RETURN”, and press it twice. The Menu

Screen closes.

•Audio Dubbing (

墌 pg. 63) and Insert Editing

(

墌 pg. 64) are possible on tapes recorded in the

SP mode.

•“LP” (Long Play) is more economical, providing

1.5 times the recording time.

NOTES:

● If the recording mode is switched during recording, the

playback picture will be blurred at the switching point.

● It is recommended that tapes recorded in the LP mode

on this camcorder be played back on this camcorder.

● During playback of a tape recorded on another

camcorder, blocks of noise may appear or there may be
momentary pauses in the sound.

SPREC MODE –

LP

Display

Menu Screen

Sub Menu

MENU/BRIGHT Wheel

Power Switch

Lock Button

Power Lamp

14

EN

GETTING STARTED

(cont.)

Memory card

Card Cover

Clipped edge

Label

TYQUAL I

REC SE L ECT

FINE

021X7486

IMAGE S IZE––

–

NRET UR

Display

MENU/BRIGHT Wheel

Power Switch

Lock Button

Power Lamp

Loading A Memory Card

The provided memory card is already inserted in the
camcorder when you receive the camcorder.

1 Make sure the camcorder’s power is off.
2 Press PUSH OPEN and open the LCD monitor,

then open the card cover (MEMORY CARD).

3 Insert the memory card clipped edge first.

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

4 To close the card cover, push it until you hear a

click.

To Unload A Memory Card . . .

..... in step 3 push the memory card, which then

comes out of the camcorder automatically. Pull it
out and close the card cover.

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. 34.

ATTENTION

Do not insert/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 recognize whether or not the
card is installed.

Picture Quality/Image Size Setting

The Picture Quality/Image Size can be selected to
best match your needs. Refer to the chart on page 27
for your selection.

1 Set the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch to “MEMORY”,

then set the Power Switch to “

MANUAL

” while pressing
down the Lock Button located on the switch. The
power lamp lights and the camcorder turns on.

2 Press the MENU/BRIGHT wheel in. The Menu

Screen appears.

3 Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select

“

DSC” and press it. The DSC Menu appears.

4 Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select

“QUALITY” and press it. The Sub Menu appears.
Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select the
desired mode and press it.

5 Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select

“IMAGE SIZE” and press it. The Sub Menu appears.
Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select the
desired mode and press it.

6 Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select

“

RETURN”, and press it twice. The Menu Screen

closes.

EN

15

TAPE RECORDING

&

PLAYBACK

CONTENTS

TAPE RECORDING ....................... 16 – 20

Basic Recording..................................... 16

Journalistic Shooting ............................... 17

Self-Recording ...................................... 17

Operation Mode .................................... 17

Zooming ............................................ 18

Video Light ......................................... 19

Time Code........................................... 20

TAPE PLAYBACK ......................... 21 – 24

Normal Playback ................................... 21

Still Playback ....................................... 21

Shuttle Search ...................................... 21

Frame-By-Frame Playback ........................ 21

Connections .................................. 22 – 23

Blank Search ........................................ 24

TAPE RECORDING & PLAYBACK

16

EN

TAPE RECORDING

Basic Recording

NOTE:

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

● Power (墌 pg. 8)

● Grip Adjustment (

墌 pg. 10)

● Viewfinder Adjustment (

墌 pg. 10)

● Load A Cassette (

墌 pg. 12)

● Recording Mode Setting (

墌 pg. 13)

1 Remove the lens cap.

Press PUSH OPEN, open the LCD monitor and set
the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch to “VIDEO”.

2 Set the Power Switch to “

A

U

TO

” or “

MANUAL

”

while pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch.
Shooting while using the LCD monitor: Make sure
the LCD monitor is fully open. Tilt it upward/
downward for best viewability .
Shooting while using the viewfinder: Close the
LCD monitor.

• The power lamp lights and the camcorder enters the

Record-Standby mode. “PAUSE” is displayed.

3 Press the Recording Start/Stop Button. “ ”

appears while recording is in progress.

T o Stop Recording . . .

.....press the Recording Start/Stop Button. The

camcorder re-enters the Record-Standby mode.

T o Adjust The Brightness Of The Display . . .

.....rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel until the bright

level indicator on the display moves and the
appropriate brightness is reached.

NOTES:

● If the Record-Standby mode continues for 5 minutes,

the camcorder’s power shuts off automatically. To turn
the camcorder on again, set the Power Switch to
“OFF”, then back to “

A

U

TO

” or “

MANUAL

”.

● The image will not appear simultaneously on the LCD

monitor and the viewfinder. It will appear in the
viewfinder when the LCD monitor is in the lock position,
and it will appear on the LCD monitor when fully
extended.

● 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. 20).

● To turn the tally lamp or beep sounds off,

墌 pg. 44,

46.

25

min

BR I

GHT

90 min

89 min

3 min

2 min

1 min0 min

min

180°

90°

Power lamp

Tally lamp (lights
while recording is
in progress)

Lock Button

Recording Start/Stop Button

Tape remaining
time indicator
(Approximate)

(Now calculating)

(Blinking) (Blinking) (Blinking)

Display

MENU/BRIGHT Wheel

Power Switch

PUSH OPEN Button VIDEO/MEMORY Switch

During

shooting

For other notes, 墌 pg. 67

EN

17

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

You can shoot yourself while viewing your own image
in the LCD monitor. Open the LCD monitor and tilt it
upward 180° so that it faces forward, then point the
lens toward yourself and start recording.

Operation Mode

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

MEMORY Switch.

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.

Power Switch Position

MANUAL

:

Allows you to set various recording functions using the
Menus. If you want more creative capabilities than Full
Auto recording, try this mode.

A

U

TO

(Full Auto):

Allows you to record using NO special effects or
manual adjustments. Suitable for standard recording.

OFF:

Allows you to switch off the camcorder.

PLAY:

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

• Allows you to access data stored on the memory

card or to transfer a still image stored on the
memory card to a computer.

VIDEO/MEMORY Switch Position

VIDEO:

• Allows you to record on a tape or play back a tape.
If “REC SELECT” is set to “

/ ” in the
DSC Menu Screen, still images are recorded on the
memory card as well.

• Zoom magnification over 10X is available
(墌 pg. 18, 45).

MEMORY:

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

When the Power Switch is set to “

AUTO

” or “

M

A

N

U

A

L

” and
the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch is set to “MEMORY”, the
currently selected image size appears. When set to
“VIDEO”, there is no indication.

1024

M

A

N

U

A

L

AUTO

PLAY

OFF

Power Switch

Lock Button

When the Power Switch is set to “

AUTO

”, “ ”

appears. When set to “

M

A

N

U

A

L

” or “PLAY”, there is

no indication.

Power lamp

VIDEO/MEMORY Switch
(Open the LCD monitor to access this switch.)

Self­Recording

18

EN

TAPE RECORDING

(cont.)

FEATURE:

Zooming

PURPOSE:

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

OPERATION:

Zoom In

Slide the Power Zoom Lever towards “T”.

Zoom Out

Slide the Power Zoom Lever towards “W”.
䡲 The further you slide the Power Zoom Lever, the

quicker the zoom action.

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. 41), then zoom in or out in Record mode.

● Zooming is possible to a maximum of 700X, or it

can be switched to 10X magnification using the
optical zoom (

墌 pg. 45).

● 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.

● Digital zoom cannot be used when the VIDEO/
MEMORY Switch is set to “MEMORY” (

墌 pg. 17).

● Macro shooting (as close as approx. 5 cm (2") to

the subject) is possible when the Power Zoom
Lever is set all the way to “W”. Also see “TELE
MACRO” in the Menu Screen on page 46.

1x

WT

01x

WT

01x

WT

02x

WT

04x

WT

Zoom in (T: Telephoto)

Zoom out (W: Wide angle)

Power Zoom Lever

Zoom display

Approximate zoom ratio

Digital zoom zone

10X (optical)
zoom zone

EN

19

FEATURE:

Video Light

PURPOSE:

To brighten the scene when natural lighting is too
dim.

OPERATION:

Set LIGHT OFF/AUTO/ON as required:
OFF : Turns off the light.
AUTO: Automatically turns on the light when the

camcorder senses insufficient lighting on
the subject.

ON : Always keeps the light on as long as the

camcorder is turned on.

䡲 The video light can only be used with the

camcorder’s power on.

䡲 It is recommended to set the white balance

(

墌 pg. 43) to when you use the video light.

䡲 When not using the video light, turn it off to save

battery power.

NOTES:

● Even if the battery indicator ( ) does not blink
due to low battery charge, the camcorder may turn
off automatically when you turn on the video light, or
when you start recording with the video light turned
on.

● When LIGHT OFF/AUTO/ON is set to “AUTO”:

• Depending on the lighting conditions, the video

light may keep turning on and off. In this case,
manually switch the light on or off using LIGHT
OFF/AUTO/ON.

• While the “SHUTTER” or “SPORTS” mode

(

墌 pg. 37) is engaged, the light is likely to stay

on.

• While the “TWILIGHT” mode (

墌 pg. 37) is

engaged, the light will not activate.

• While the “Night-Alive” mode (

墌 pg. 36) is

engaged, the light will not activate.

LIGHT OFF/AUTO/ON Switch
(Open the LCD monitor to access this switch.)

DANGER

䡲 The video light can become extremely

hot. Do not touch it either while in
operation or soon after turning it off,
otherwise serious injury may result.

䡲 Do not place the camcorder into the

carrying case immediately after using the
video light, since it remains extremely hot for some
time.

䡲 When operating, keep a distance of about 30 cm

(11-13/16") between the video light and people or
objects.

䡲 Do not use near flammable or explosive materials.
䡲 Do not place the camcorder in a cabinet or box while

the video light is in operation.

䡲 When using the video light, if you wish to install the

camcorder in a fixed position, attach it to a tripod, etc.
Do not affix it directly to a surface such as a table top.

䡲 It is recommended that you consult your nearest JVC

dealer for replacing the video light.

20

EN

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.
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.

To perform Random Assemble Editing (

 pg. 58 – 62), time code is necessary. 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” below 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.

Recording From The Middle Of A Tape

1. Play back a tape or use Blank Search ( pg. 24) 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 “

A

U

TO

” or “

MANUAL

” 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” (

 pg. 47, 48).

Shooting start point

Newly recorded sceneBlankAlready recorded scene

Time code
05:43:21

Time code
00:00:00

Tape

Time code
00:00:00

Shooting start pointShooting stop point

Latest sceneNew sceneAlready recorded scene

Frames
(30 frames = 1 second)

Seconds

Minutes

Frames are not displayed
during recording.

When a blank portion is recorded on a tape

Proper recording

Time code
00:00:00

Time code
05:43:21

Time code
05:44:00

Shooting start point Shooting start point Shooting start point

Tape

12 : 34 : 24

TAPE RECORDING

(cont.)

Display

EN

21

Rewind Button (2)

Fast-Forward Button (

3

)

Play/Pause Button (

4

/6)

Stop Button (5)

Power Zoom Lever (VOL.)

Speaker

TAPE PLAYBACK

Normal Playback

1 Load a tape ( pg. 12).
2 Set the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch to “VIDEO”, then

set the Power Switch to “PLAY” while pressing down the
Lock Button located on the switch. T o start playback,
press

4

/6.

•To stop playback, press 5.

•Press

2

to rewind, or

3

to fast-forward the tape

during Stop mode.

To Control The Speaker Volume . . .

.....slide the Power Zoom Lever (VOL.) towards “+”

to turn up the volume, or towards “–” to turn down
the volume.

VIDEO/MEMORY Switch
(Open the LCD monitor
to access this switch.)

NOTES:

● If Stop mode continues for 5 minutes when power is supplied from a battery, the camcorder shuts off automatically. To
turn on again, set the Power Switch to “OFF”, then to “PLAY”.

● The playback picture can be viewed in the LCD monitor, viewfinder or on a connected TV (

 pg. 22).

● You can also view the playback picture on the LCD monitor with it flipped over and pushed against the camera body.

● LCD monitor/viewfinder indications:

• When power is supplied from a battery: the “

” battery pack remaining power indicator is displayed.

When power is supplied from an AC outlet: “

” does not appear.

• During Stop mode, none of the indications are displayed.

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

Still Playback:

Pauses during playback.

1) Press

4

/6 during playback.

2) To resume normal playback, press

4

/6 again.

● If still playback continues for more than about 3 minutes, the camcorder’s Stop mode is automatically engaged.
After 5 minutes in the Stop mode, the camcorder’s power is automatically turned off.

● When

4

/6 is pressed, the image may not pause immediately while the camcorder stabilizes the still image.

Shuttle Search:

Allows high-speed search in either direction.

1) Press

3

for forward or

2

for reverse search during playback.

2) To resume normal playback, press

4

/6.

● During playback, press and hold

2

or

3

. The search continues as long as you hold the button. Once you

release it, normal playback resumes.

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

Frame-By-Frame Playback: Allows frame-by-frame search.

1) Engage Still Playback.

2) Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel towards “+” for forward Frame-By-Frame Playback, or towards “–” for reverse

Frame-By-Frame Playback during Still Playback.

● To resume normal playback, press

4

/6.

● If you are using the GR-DVL820, you can also use the provided remote control for Frame-By-Frame Playback
(

 pg. 56).

Slow-Motion Playback/Playback Special Effects (GR-DVL820 only) and Playback Zoom

Available only with the remote control (provided) ( pg. 56, 57).

ATTENTION

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

22

EN

Connections

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

A. Connection to a TV or VCR equipped with an S-VIDEO IN and A/V input

connectors

To S-VIDEO

To AV

Audio/Video cable
(provided)

White to
AUDIO L IN**

Red to
AUDIO R IN**

To S-VIDEO IN

To TV or VCR

S-Video cable
(optional)

TV

VCR

Connector cover*

Yellow:
Not connected

* When connecting the cables, open this cover.
** The Audio cable is not required for watching still images only.

B. Connection to a TV or VCR equipped only with A/V input connectors

* When connecting the cables, open this cover.
** The Audio cable is not required for watching still images only.

Connector cover*

Audio/Video cable
(provided)

To AV

Red to
AUDIO R IN**

TV

VCR

To TV or VCR

White to
AUDIO L IN**

Yellow to
VIDEO IN

TAPE PLAYBACK

(cont.)

EN

23

NOTES:

● It is recommended to use the AC Adapter as the
power supply instead of the battery pack (

 pg. 9).

● The S-Video cable is optional. Be sure to use the

YTU94146A S-Video cable.
Consult the JVC Service Center described on the
sheet included in the package for details on its
availability. Make sure to connect the end with a
core filter to the camcorder. The core filter reduces
interference.

● To monitor the picture and sound from the camcorder
without inserting a tape or memory card, set the
camcorder’s Power Switch to “

A

U

TO

” or “

MANUAL

”,

then set your TV to the appropriate input mode.

● 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.

● If no image is displayed or no sound is heard from the
TV, set “S/AV INPUT” to “OFF” in the Menu Screen
(GR-DVL820 only,

 pg. 48).

● While the Audio/Video cable is connected to the AV

connector, sound cannot be heard from the speaker.

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

in the illustration (

 pg. 22).

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” in the

Menu Screen (

 pg. 48).

Or, press DISPLAY on the remote control
(provided with GR-DVL820 only) to turn on/off
the date indication.

• Time Code

.....set “TIME CODE” to “ON” or “OFF” in the Menu

Screen (

 pg. 48).

• Playback Sound Mode, Tape Speed And Tape

Running Displays for tape playback

.....set “ON SCREEN” to “LCD” or “LCD/TV” in the

Menu Screen (

 pg. 48).

24

EN

Blank Search

Helps you find where you should start recording in
the middle of a tape to avoid time code interruption
(

 pg. 20).

1 Load a tape ( pg. 12).
2 Set the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch to “VIDEO”,

then set the Power Switch to “PLAY” while pressing
down the Lock Button located on the switch.

3 Press BLANK.

• “BLANK SEARCH” appears blinking and the
camcorder automatically starts reverse or forward
shuttle 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 5.

NOTES:

● In step 3, if the current position is at a blank portion the

camcorder searches in the reverse direction, and if the
current position is at a recorded portion the camcorder
searches in the forward direction.

● Blank Search does not work if “HEAD CLEANING

REQUIRED. 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.

TAPE PLAYBACK

(cont.)

BLANK SEARCH

44

Power Switch

BLANK Button

Lock Button

Display

Stop Button (5)

VIDEO/MEMORY Switch
(Open the LCD monitor
to access this switch.)

EN

25

CONTENTS

MEMORY CARD RECORDING........ 26 – 27

Basic Shooting (Snapshot) ............... 26 – 27

MEMORY CARD PLAYBACK.......... 28 – 34

Normal Playback .................................. 28

Auto Playback ..................................... 28

Index Playback .................................... 29

Viewing File Information ......................... 29

Removing On-Screen Display .................... 29

ADVANCED FEATURES .................. 30 – 36

Protecting Files .................................... 30

Deleting Files ...................................... 31

Setting Print Information

(DPOF Setting)............................. 32 – 33

Making A New Folder ............................ 34

Initializing A Memory Card ...................... 34

MEMORY CARD

RECORDING

&

PLAYBACK

MEMORY CARD RECORDING & PLAYBACK

26

EN

MEMORY CARD RECORDING

Basic Shooting (Snapshot)

You can use your camcorder as a digital still camera
for taking snapshots.

NOTE:

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

● Power (

 pg. 8)

● Grip Adjustment (

 pg. 10)

● Viewfinder Adjustment (

 pg. 10)

● Loading A Memory Card (

 pg. 14)

● Picture Quality/Image Size Setting (

 pg. 14)

1 Set the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch to “MEMORY”,

then set the Power Switch to “

A

U

TO

” or “

MANUAL

”
while pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch.

2 Press SNAPSHOT. “PHOTO” appears while the

snapshot is being taken.
The image is recorded on the memory card.

• Still images are recorded in the snapshot mode with

no frame.

Power Switch

SNAPSHOT Button

Lock Button

VIDEO/MEMORY Switch (Open the LCD
monitor to access this switch.)

51

1024

Display

Shooting icon

Appears and blinks during shooting.

Image Size

Displays the image file size: 1280 (1280 x 960), 1024 (1024 x 768) or 640 (640 x 480)
(

 pg. 14).

Remaining number of shots

Displays the remaining number of shots that can be stored.
The number increases or decreases depending on the Picture Quality/Image Size, etc.

Picture Quality

Displays the quality of image: F (Fine) or S (Standard) (in order of quality) (

 pg. 14).

Card icon

Appears during shooting and blinks when a memory card is not loaded:

(SD Memory Card) or (MultiMediaCard).

EN

27

To Delete Unwanted Still Images . . .

.....when unwanted still images are stored in the

memory card or its memory is full, refer to “Deleting
Files” (

 pg. 31) and delete unwanted still images.

To Remove The Shutter Sound . . .

.....when you do not want to hear the shutter sound,

set “BEEP” to “OFF” in the Menu Screen
(

 pg. 44, 46). The sound is no longer heard

from the speaker.

NOTES:

● Even if “DIS” is set to “ON” ( pg. 45), the Stabilizer

will be disabled.

● If Snapshot recording is not possible, “PHOTO” blinks

when SNAPSHOT is pressed.

● If Program AE with special effects (

 pg. 36) is

engaged, certain modes of Program AE with special
effects are disabled during Snapshot recording. In such
a case, the icon blinks.

● If shooting is not performed for approx. 5 minutes when

the Power Switch is set to “

A

U

TO

” or “

MANUAL

” and
power is supplied from the battery pack, the camcorder
shuts off automatically to save power. To perform
shooting again, set the Power Switch to “OFF”, then to
“

A

U

TO

” or “

MANUAL

”.

● The Motor Drive mode (

 pg. 40) is disabled when the

VIDEO/MEMORY Switch is set to “MEMORY”.

● Still images taken are compliant to DCF (Design rule for
Camera File system). They do not have any compatibility
with devices which are not compliant to DCF.

FULL
Snapshot mode with no
frame

There is the sound of a shutter closing.

To Protect Valuable Files (available only for SD
Memory Card) . . .

Approximate Number of Storable Images

Image Size/Picture

SD Memory Card MultiMediaCard

Quality

8MB** 16MB** 32MB** 64MB** 8MB* 16MB** 32MB**
1280 x 960/FINE 12 28 62 120 16 32 64
1280 x 960/

44 98 205 405 50 100 200

STANDARD
1024 x 768/FINE 20 46 98 190 25 50 100
1024 x 768/

66 145 310 605 80 160 320

STANDARD
640 x 480/FINE 46 98 205 405 50 105 210
640 x 480/

150 295 625 1215 160 320 640

STANDARD

* Provided
** Optional

. . . 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.

Write/erase protection tab

NOTE:

The number of storable images depends on the selected picture quality as well as the composition of the subjects in the
images and the type of memory card being used.