JVC GR-SX140A, GR-SXM180A, GR-SXM280A, GR-SXM480A, GR-SXM48EA Instruction Manual

INSTRUCTIONS

VHS
PAL

625

ENGLISH LYT0868-001B

COMPACT VHS CAMCORDER

GR-SXM78EA
GR-SXM48EA
GR-SXM780A
GR-SXM480A
GR-SXM280A
GR-SXM180A
GR-SX140A

®Registered Trademark owned by VICTOR COMPANY OF JAPAN, LTD.
COPYRIGHT© 2001 VICTOR COMPANY OF JAPAN, LTD.

Dear Customer,

Thank you for purchasing the JVC Compact VHS camcorder. Before use, please read
“PRECAUTIONS” (

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

•Available when the Power Switch @ is set to “ ” or “ ”.

•Performing any operation during the demonstration stops the demonstration temporarily. If no operation
is performed for more than 1 minute after that, the demonstration will resume.

•“DEMO MODE” remains “ON” even if the camcorder power is turned off.

•To cancel Automatic Demonstration, set the Power Switch
while the demo is in progress. This takes you directly to the demo mode’s Setting Menu (so you will not
have to go through the main Menu Screen). Rotate the MENU Wheel

NOTES:

•When a tape whose Erase Protection tab is in the position that allows recording is loaded in the
camcorder, demonstration is not available.

•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.

*Applicable models only.

 pg. 3, 4) to ensure safe use of this product.

AUTOMATIC DEMONSTRATION

@ to “ ” and press the MENU Wheel 1 in

1 to select “OFF” and press it.

A/EA

Printed in Malaysia
1001MKV

*UN*

PJ

1

PROVIDED ACCESSORIES

•AC Adapter

AP-V12EG, AP-V11EG or AP-V10EG

•Cassette Adapter C-P7U

•Remote Control Unit
RM-V715U
(GR-SXM78EA/SXM780A/
SXM480A/SXM280A only)

•Power Cord

•CD-ROM
(GR-SXM78EA/
SXM780A only)

•Lens Cap

•AAA (R03) Battery x 2
(for Remote Control
Unit, GR-SXM78EA/
SXM780A/SXM480A/
SXM280A only)

•Shoulder Strap

•Battery Pack
BN-V11U
(GR-SXM780A/SXM480A/
SXM280A/SXM180A/
SX140A)
BN-V20U
(GR-SXM78EA/SXM48EA)

•A/V (Audio/Video)
Cable

•PC Connection Cable
(GR-SXM78EA/SXM780A

•AA (R6) Battery
(for Cassette Adapter)

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.

2

only)

PRECAUTIONS

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

WARNING:
TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK

HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE
THIS UNIT TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE.

CAUTIONS

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

•If you notice smoke or a peculiar smell coming
from the camcorder or AC adapter, shut it down
and unplug it immediately. Continue using the
camcorder or AC adapter under these conditions
could lead to fire or electric shock. Contact your
JVC dealer. Do not attempt to repair the
malfunction yourself.

•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.

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 bottom.

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-V11U**/V12U/V20U/V400U
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.)

* Applicable models only.
**GR-SXM780A/SXM480A/SXM280A/SXM180A/SX140A

only.

Cassettes marked and can be used used with this camcorder.
However, S-VHS recordings are possible only with cassettes marked

3

.

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.)

ATTENTION USERS OF RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES

DO NOT DISPOSE RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES OR PRODUCTS POWERED BY
NON-REMOVABLE RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES, THESE BATTERIES AND
PRODUCTS CAN BE RECYCLED.

A T THE END OF NORMAL LIFE,

IN AUSTRALIA, RETURN TO YOUR POINT OF PURCHASE OR MAIL TO:

Hagemeyer (Australasia) B.V. 5-7 Garema Circuit Kingsgrove NSW 2208 Australia

Attn : Service Dept.
Phone : [phone]

IN NEW ZEALAND, PLEASE RETURN BATTERIES BY MAIL TO:

Hagemeyer (NZ) Limited P.O. Box 100589 Auckland 1000
Phone : [phone]

4

INDEX

A

AC Adapter.................................................................pg. 6

Animation Recording..........................................pg. 21, 25

Audio Dubbing .........................................................pg. 25

Auto Date Record ....................................................pg. 19

Auto Focus ...............................................................pg. 18

Auto Shut Off ...........................................................pg. 11

B

Battery Pack.........................................................pg. 6, 26

Blue Filter Effect...................................................... pg. 23

Brighten The Image .................................................pg. 18

Brighten The LCD Monitor .......................................pg. 11

C

Cassette Adapter .....................................................pg. 16

Charge Marker ...........................................................pg. 6

Charging The Battery Pack ........................................pg. 6

Classic Film Effect....................................................pg. 23

Clean The Camcorder..............................................pg. 31

Connection To a VCR/TV .........................................pg. 15

Connection T o A PC ................................................. pg. 16

Counter Memory ......................................................pg. 14

D

Darken The Image ...................................................pg. 18

Darken The LCD Monitor .........................................pg. 11

Date/Time Display....................................................pg. 19

Date/Time Settings.....................................................pg. 7

Demonstration Mode............................................pg. 1, 21

Digital Effects ...........................................................pg. 23

Digital Zoom .............................................................pg. 20

Dioptre Adjustment.....................................................pg. 8

E

Electronic Fog Filter Mode .......................................pg. 23

Erase Protection ........................................................pg. 8

Exposure Control .....................................................pg. 18

F

Fade-In/Out ..............................................................pg. 22

Fast-Forward Tape ................................................... pg. 11

5-Second Recording Mode ......................................pg. 12

G

Grip Adjustment .........................................................pg. 8

H

High Speed Shutter Mode........................................pg. 23

I

Insert Editing ............................................................pg. 25

Instant Titles.............................................................pg. 19

L

LCD Monitor/Viewfinder, Indications ..............pg. 9, 10, 17

Load A T ape ...............................................................pg. 8

M

Manual Focus ..........................................................pg. 18

Menu Screen....................................................pg. 18 – 21

Monotone Effect .......................................................pg. 23

Mosaic Effect ...........................................................pg. 23

N

ND Effect Mode........................................................pg. 23

Nega/Posi Mode ......................................................pg. 23

Night-Scope .............................................................pg. 22

P

Picture Stabiliser ......................................................pg. 12

Playback ..................................................................pg. 11

Playback Special Effects..........................................pg. 14

Playback Zoom ........................................................pg. 25

Programme AE with Special Effects ........................pg. 23

Provided Accessories................................................ pg. 2

Q

Quick Review ...........................................................pg. 13

R

Recording, Advanced Features..........................pg. 22, 23

Recording, Start/Stop...............................................pg. 11

Recording Format (S-VHS/S-VHS ET) ....................pg. 20

Recording Mode.......................................................pg. 20

Record-Standby .......................................................pg. 11

Red Filter Effect .......................................................pg. 23

Remote Control ........................................................pg. 24

Retake......................................................................pg. 13

Rewind The Tape .....................................................pg. 11

S

Self-Recording ......................................................... pg. 11

Sepia Mode ..............................................................pg. 23

Shoulder Strap Attachment ........................................pg. 8

Snapshot During Playback.......................................pg. 12

Snapshot ..................................................................pg. 12

Solarisation Effect ....................................................pg. 23

Specifications ...........................................................pg. 32

Sports Mode.............................................................pg. 23

Still Playback............................................................pg. 11

Stretch Effect ...........................................................pg. 23

Strobe Effect ............................................................pg. 23

Super LoLux (S.LX) .................................................pg. 19

Super VHS Expansion Technology ..........................pg. 20

T

Tape Counter ...........................................................pg. 14

Tape Dubbing...........................................................pg. 15

Tape Length Setting .................................................pg. 21

Tele Macro ...............................................................pg. 21

Time Base Corrector ............................................... pg. 14

Time-Lapse Shooting .........................................pg. 21, 25

Tracking ...................................................................pg. 14

Tripod Mounting .........................................................pg. 8

Twilight Mode ...........................................................pg. 23

U

Unload A T ape............................................................pg. 8

V

Video Echo Effect.....................................................pg. 23

Video Light ...............................................................pg. 13

Viewfinder Adjustment ...............................................pg. 8

W

White Balance Adjustment .......................................pg. 19

Wide Mode ...............................................................pg. 20

Wipe-In/Out ..............................................................pg. 22

Z

Zooming ...................................................................pg. 13

5

GETTING STARTED

Hook on.

Push in.

BATTERY RELEASE Switch

Battery pack

Power Switch

To AC outlet

AC Adapter

CHARGING THE BATTERY PACK

1) Hook the end of the battery pack to the
camcorder and push the battery in until it locks
in place.

•If the battery pack is attached in the wrong

position, a malfunction may occur.

2) Set the Power Switch
AC Adapter to the DC IN connector
connect the Power Cord to the AC Adapter.

3) Plug the Power Cord into an AC outlet. The
CHARGE lamp
has started.

4) When the CHARGE lamp
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 . . .

... slide BATTERY RELEASE

battery pack.

Battery pack

BN-V11U*
BN-V12U (optional)
BN-V20U** (optional)
BN-V400U (optional)

Charging times are for a fully discharged battery pack.
* GR-SXM780A/SXM480A/SXM280A/SXM180A/SX140A

only.

**Provided with GR-SXM78EA/SXM48EA only.

@ to “OFF”. Connect the

* blinks to indicate charging

* stops blinking but

approx. 1 hr. 30 min.
approx. 1 hr. 30 min.
approx. 2 hrs. 20 min.
approx. 4 hrs. 30 min.

To DC IN
connector

9, then

8 and pull out the

Charging time

USING THE BATTERY PACK

Perform step 1) of “CHARGING THE BATTERY
PACK”.

Approximate recording time (unit: min.)

Battery pack

BN-V11U

BN-V12U
(optional)

BN-V20U
(optional)

BN-V400U
(optional)

Viewfinder on

12

95 100

(50) (50)

95 100

(50) (50)
150 165

(85) (90)
360 385

(205) (210)

LCD monitor on

1

80

(45)

80

(45)
135

(75)
315

(190)

1 When using models equipped with LCD monitor
2 When using GR-SX140A

( ):when the video light is on (GR-SXM78EA/SXM48EA/

SXM780A/SXM480A/SXM280A only)

USING AC POWER

Connect the AC Adapter to the camcorder ( step

2) and 3) of “CHARGING THE BATTERY PACK”).

•The provided AC Adapter features automatic

voltage selection in the AC range from 110 V to
240 V.

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.

REFRESH:

Be sure to fully discharge a battery pack before
recharging or storing it for a long period of time,
otherwise the battery performance will be reduced.

1) Perform steps 1) through 3) of “CHARGING
THE BATTERY PACK”.

2) Press REFRESH
REFRESH lamp
discharging has started.

3) When discharging is finished, charging
automatically starts and the CHARGE lamp
blinks.

6

r for over 2 seconds. The

( blinks to indicate

Charge marker helps you remember
whether the battery pack has been
charged or not. Two colours are provided
(red and black)—you choose which one
means charged and which means
discharged.

*

Y

M
D
T

E

E

O
A

I

X

A

N
Y
M

I

R

T
E

T

H

DATE/ T I ME

220

0

:

0

2
2

2

6
8
0

1

@

•During charging or discharging, the camcorder
cannot be operated.

•Charging and discharging 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. Remove the battery pack from

the camcorder, then try charging again.

•If a fully-charged battery’s operation time remains
extremely short, the battery is worn out. Please
purchase a new one.

•Perform charging where the temperature is
between 10°C and 35°C. 20°C to 25°C is the ideal
temperature range for charging. If the environment
is too cold, charging may be incomplete.

•Charging time varies according to the ambient
temperature and the status of the battery pack.

•Since the AC Adapter processes electricity
internally, it becomes warm during use. Be sure to
use it only in well-ventilated areas.

•The following operation stops charging or
discharging:

•Set the Power Switch

•Disconnect the AC Adapter from the camcorder.

•Unplug the AC Adapter’s power cord from the

AC outlet.

•Detach the battery from the camcorder.

•Using the optional AA-V15 AC Power Adapter/

Charger, you can charge the BN-V11U/V12U/
V20U/V400U battery pack without the camcorder.
However, it cannot be used as an AC adapter.

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

•Recording time is reduced significantly when
Zoom or Record-Standby mode is engaged
repeatedly or the LCD monitor* is used
repeatedly.

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

*Applicable models only.

@ to “ ”, “ ” or “ ”.

Date/Time Settings

1) Set the Power Switch @ to “ ”.

2) Press the MENU Wheel

Screen appears.

•You can select the language (ENGLISH,
CHINESE or ARABIC) of messages in menu
screens (

 pg. 18, 21 “MENU LANG.” in

SYSTEM MENU).

3) Rotate the MENU Wheel

4

TO SYSTEM MENU” and press it to display

“

SYSTEM MENU. Rotate the MENU Wheel

4

select “

NEXT” and press it to display the next

page.

4) Rotate the MENU Wheel

TIME” and press it. The DATE/TIME Menu
appears.

5) To set “YEAR”, “MONTH”, “DAY” or “TIME”

(hour/minute), rotate the MENU Wheel
select the desired item, and press it. When the
setting begins blinking, rotate the MENU Wheel

1 in. The Menu

1 to select

1 to

1 to select “DATE/

1 to

1 until the correct setting appears and then

press it. The setting stops blinking.

6) When none of these settings (“YEAR”,

“MONTH”, “DAY”, “TIME”) blinks, rotate the

MENU Wheel
The Menu Screen reappears with the highlight
bar on “

7) Press the MENU Wheel

Screen.

•To display the date and time in the camcorder’s
display and on a connected TV, see DATE/TIME

 pg. 19) in CAMERA MENU.

DISP. (

•The date/time cannot be stored in memory if the
built-in clock battery runs out. Consult an
authorised JVC dealer for replacement, or set the
date/time as necessary before you start shooting.

1 to select “EXIT”, and press it.

4

RETURN”.

1 in to close the Menu

7

24-hour indication

t

i

t

i

Grip Adjustment

1) Separate the Velcro strip.

2) Pass your right hand through the loop and grasp

the grip.

3) Adjust so that your thumb and fingers can easily
operate the Recording Start/Stop Button
Power Zoom Lever

3. Refasten the Velcro strip.

! and

3

!

Tripod Mounting

Align the screw and camera direction stud on the
tripod with the tripod mounting socket
tighten the screw.

CAUTION

When using a tripod, be
sure to open and extend
its legs fully to stabilise
the camcorder. To
prevent damage to the
unit caused by falling
over, do not use a
small-sized tripod.

W. Then

Viewfinder Adjustment

1) Set the Power Switch @ to “ ” or “ ”.

2) Turn the Dioptre Adjustment Control

indications in the viewfinder are clearly focused.

o until the

180°180°

PAUSE

Shoulder Strap Attachment

Thread the strap through the eyelet y, then fold it
back and thread it through the buckle. Repeat the
procedure to attach the other end of the strap to
the other eyelet
twisted. Adjust the length.

y, making sure the strap is not

Loading/Unloading A Cassette

1) Open the LCD monitor fully*. Slide EJECT t
until the cassette holder opens. Do not use force
to open.

2) Insert or remove a cassette. When inserting,
make sure the label is facing outward.
appears when a cassette is loaded.

3) Press the Close button
holder until it locks into place. Close the LCD
monitor*.

•Closing the LCD monitor while the cassette holder is

still open may cause damage to the LCD monitor*.

•Make sure the erase protection tab is in the position

that allows recording. If not, slide the tab. Some
cassettes have removable tabs. If the tab has been
removed, cover the hole with adhesive tape.

•The cassette holder cannot be opened while the

camcorder is in the record mode or detached from
the power source.

* Applicable models only.

Cassette holder

i to close the cassette

Gear

Erase
Protection tab

q

Turn to
take up
slack.

y

Cassette
holder

8

Eyepiece

CONTROLS, CONNECTORS AND INDICATORS

12

34

Refer to this diagram while reading the instructions.

5

6
7

8

09!@

Viewfinder

o

Speaker
(applicable models only)

p

180°

Q

Microphone

Video light (GR-SXM78EA/SXM48EA/
SXM780A/SXM480A/SXM280A only)

W

During shooting

Keep the lens
cap attached to
the camcorder.

LCD monitor
(applicable
models only)

180°

Transmitted beam
effetive area

5 m

30°

30°

90°

90°

i

Y
I

Cassette
holder

E

R

T
U

O

$# % &

)qwe t

y
u

*(

^

r

Turn the gear to
take up slack.

y

Erase
protection tab

Remote control
(GR-SXM78EA/
SXM780A/SXM480A/
SXM280A only)

P

a

s

d

f

7

9
!

#
%

8

0
@

$

During Recording

2

1

M

1

2

0

I

N

R

E

C

S

P

4

4

4

1

S

I

5

M

N

/

2

1

S

B

R

I

G

T

H

C

N

G

O

2

5

.

1

2

0

.

LCD Monitor/Viewfinder Indications

During Playback

3

S

N

I

G

H

T

–

V

H

S

R

P

A

U

S

E

–

–

–

–

–

R

A

T

U

L

A

1

E

4

–

2

–

T

5

4

E

T

T

0

x

0

+

0

2

C

M

&

W

B

(

–

–

–

–

–

6

I

N

S

O

:

:

1

1

4

5

1+8

^
*

)

6

1X

w i e t q r uy

–

TVBOC

LMUOM

S
N

T

O

E

N

O

:

–

1

0

2

M

–

–

–

E

E

T

S

P

4

–

:

1

4

5

2

3

A

T

:

4

3

–

–

–

–

–

–:–

–

6

o

p

+

 pg. 29 for Warning Indications .

9

1 • MENU Wheel [–, +] ...........................................  pg. 18

• BRIGHT Wheel [–, +]*

• TRACKING Wheel [–, +] ...................................  pg. 14

2 • Snapshot Button [SNAPSHOT]*

• 5-Second Recording Button
[5 SEC. REC]*

3 • Power Zoom Lever [T/W] ..................................  pg. 13

• Speaker Volume Control [VOL.]*

4 • Picture Stabiliser Button

[P.STABILIZER] ................................................

• Time Base Corrector Button [TBC] ...................

1

...................................... pg. 11

2

......................  pg. 12

3

.................................................  pg. 12

1

...................... pg. 11

 pg. 12
 pg. 14

5 S-Video Output Connectors [S].....................  pg. 15, 27

6 Audio Output Connector [A] ..........................  pg. 15, 27

7 Video Output Connector [V] ..........................  pg. 15, 27

8 Battery Release Switch

[BATTERY RELEASE] ..........................................

9 DC IN Connector ..................................................  pg. 6

0 • Digital Connector [DIGITAL]*

• Edit Connector [EDIT]*6....................................  pg. 27

4

 pg. 6

! Recording Start/Stop Button ................................  pg. 11

@ Power Switch [ , OFF, , ] ....................  pg. 11

# Video Light Switch

[LIGHT OFF/AUTO/ON]*

2

...................................  pg. 13

$ Stop Button [STOP] .............................................  pg. 11

% • Retake Rewind Button [RETAKE R] .................  pg. 13

• Quick Review Button [

• Rewind Button [R] ..............................................

R]............................  pg. 13

 pg. 11

^ Play/Pause Button ...............................................  pg. 11

& • Retake Forward Button [RETAKE F] ................  pg. 13

• Fast-Forward Button [F] .....................................

 pg. 11

* CHARGE Lamp ....................................................  pg. 6

( REFRESH Lamp...................................................  pg. 6

) • Fade/Wipe Button [FADE/WIPE] ......................  pg. 22

• Counter Reset/Memory Button

[COUNTER R/M] ..............................................

 pg. 14

q Programme AE Button [P.AE] .............................  pg. 23

w Digital Effect Button [DIGIFECT].........................  pg. 23

e NIGHT-SCOPE Button*

2

.....................................  pg. 22

r REFRESH Button .................................................  pg. 6

t EJECT Switch .......................................................  pg. 8

y Shoulder Strap Eyelets .........................................  pg. 8

u Battery Pack Mount...............................................  pg. 6

i Close Button .........................................................  pg. 8

o Dioptre Adjustment Control ...................................  pg. 8

p • Camera Sensor

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

• Remote Sensor*

5

..........................................  pg. 9, 17

Q Grip Strap .............................................................  pg. 8

W Tripod Mounting Socket ........................................  pg. 8

E Infrared Beam Transmitting Window...............  pg. 9, 17

R ZOOM (T/W) Buttons ....................................  pg. 13, 25

T PLAY Button......................................................... pg. 11

Y REW Button (Functions the same as %)
U STOP Button (Functions the same as $)

I INSERT Button ...................................................  pg. 25

O • REC TIME Button .............................................  pg. 25

• ANIM. Button ....................................................  pg. 25

P START/STOP Button (Functions the same as !)

a FF Button (Functions the same as &)

s PAUSE Button...................................................... pg. 11

d A.DUB Button......................................................  pg. 25

f • INT.TIME Button ...............................................  pg. 25

• SELF TIMER Button (non-functional)

1 Tape Remaining Time .........................................  pg. 21

2 Recording Mode Indicator...................................  pg. 20

3 • Digital Effect Indicator .......................................  pg. 23

• Programme AE Indicator...................................

• Night-Scope Indicator*

• Fade/Wipe-Standby Indicator ...........................

2

.....................................  pg. 22

 pg. 23
 pg. 22

4 Recording Format Indicator (S/S-ET) .................  pg. 20

5 Tape Length Indicator .........................................  pg. 21

6 Zoom Indicator Bar .............................................  pg. 13

Zoom Level Indicator
Approximate Zoom Ratio

7 Recording Indicator.............................................. pg. 11

8 Digital Effect Indicator .........................................  pg. 23

9 • Programme AE Indicator...................................  pg. 23

• Night-Scope Indicator*

2

.....................................  pg. 22

0 Fade/Wipe-Standby Indicator .............................  pg. 22

! Picture Stabiliser Indicator ..................................  pg. 12

@ • Interval Time/Recording Time Indicator ...............  pg. 21

• 5 Sec. Rec Mode Indicator*

# Bright Level Indicator*

3

.............................  pg. 12

1

......................................... pg. 11

$ Instant Title Display.............................................  pg. 19

% Date/Time Display...............................................  pg. 19

^ Focus Indicator ...................................................  pg. 18

& Exposure Control Level Counter.........................  pg. 18

* White Balance Mode Indicator ............................  pg. 19

( S-VHS/S-VHS ET Recording

Indicator ..............................................................

 pg. 20

) Record-Standby Mode Indicator .......................... pg. 11

q • : Cassette Indicator......................................  pg. 8

• w: Insert Editing Indicator*

w TBC Indicator ......................................................  pg. 14

e Playback Special Effect Indicator*

5

..............................  pg. 25

2

.....................  pg. 14

r Recording Format Indicator (S/S-ET) .................  pg. 20

t Tape Counter ................................................  pg. 14, 25

y Recording Mode Indicator (SP/LP) .....................  pg. 20

u Tape Running Indicator

4

: Playback

3

: Fast-Forward/Shuttle Search

2

: Rewind/Shuttle Search

6 : Pause
e

4

: Audio Dubbing*

i Tracking Indicator ...............................................  pg. 14

o Tape Counter*
p • BRIGHT: Bright Level Indicator*

• VOLUME: Speaker Volume Indicator*

*1Applicable models only.

2

*

GR-SXM78EA/SXM48EA/SXM780A/SXM480A/SXM280A
only.

3

*

GR-SXM180A/SX140A only.

4

GR-SXM78EA/SXM780A only.

*

5

*

GR-SXM78EA/SXM780A/SXM480A/SXM280A only.

6

*

GR-SXM480A/SXM280A only.

5

5

....................................................  pg. 25

1

....................... pg. 11

1

............... pg. 11

10

RECORDING

Set REC MODE, S-VHS (S-VHS ET), TAPE
LENGTH and DATE/TIME in SYSTEM MENU.

 pg. 18 – 21, “MENU SETTINGS”)

(

1 Remove the lens cap. Set the Power Switch @

to “ ” or “ ”.
Shooting while using the viewfinder: Make sure
the LCD monitor* is closed and locked.
Shooting while using the LCD monitor*: Make
sure the LCD monitor* is fully open.
The camcorder enters the Record-Standby mode
and “PAUSE”

•If you tilt the LCD monitor* upward to 180
degrees, the viewfinder switches back on and the
monitored image can be viewed both on the LCD
monitor* and in the viewfinder, so the personyou
shoot can view himself/herself.

) is displayed.

2 Press the Recording Start/Stop Button !. 7

appears while recording is in progress.

•To stop recording, press the Recording Start/Stop

To Adjust The Brightness Of The LCD Monitor*,

rotate the BRIGHT Wheel
indiator
appropriate brightness is reached.

*Applicable models only.

!. The camcorder re-enters the Record-

Button
Standby mode.

1 until the bright level

# on the display moves and the

PLAYBACK

1 Load a tape ( pg. 8, “Loading/Unloading A

Cassette”).

2 Set the Power Switch @ to “ ”. To start

4

playback, press
To stop playback temporarily (Still Playback), press

4

/6 ^ or s. To stop playback, press 5 $. Press

2

% to rewind, or 3 & to fast-forward the tape.
High-speed picture search (Shuttle Search) is
possible by pressing
playback (holding
playback continues search until released). To
resume normal playback, press

For VIDEO RECORDING/VIDEO PLAYBACK

•The camcorder shuts off automatically after about

5 minutes in the Record-Standby or Stop mode.
To turn on again, set the Power Switch

“OFF”, then to “

•When the Power Switch

” and the LCD monitor* is opened at an

“

angle of 60 degrees or more, the LCD monitor*
switches on and the viewfinder switches off
automatically to save power.

•The playback picture can be viewed in the

viewfinder (with the LCD monitor* shut), on the
LCD monitor* or on a connected TV (

“Connections To A TV/VCR”).

•To remove the indications,

OSD OUTPUT in SYSTEM MENU.

•To control the speaker volume*, slide VOL.

towards “+” to turn up, or towards “–” to turn
down. While shooting, sound is not heard from
the speaker*.

•If TBC (

* Applicable models only.

 pg. 14) is engaged during Still

Playback, noise bars will not appear
(GR-SXM78EA/SXM48EA/SXM780A/SXM480A/
SXM280A only).

/6 ^ or T.

2

% or 3 & during

2

% or 3 & down during

4

/6 ^ or T.

”, “ ” or “ ”.

@ is set to “ ”, “ ” or

 pg. 21, DISPLAY or

@ to

 pg. 15,

3

11

BASIC FEATURES

Snapshot (GR-SXM78EA/SXM48EA/SXM780A/

SXM480A/SXM280A only)

You can record still images that look like
photographs onto a tape.

1) Perform step 1 of “RECORDING” (

2) Press SNAPSHOT

•There is a momentary camera shutter-type
blackout together with the sound effect of a
shutter closing.

•Snapshot is also available during playback.
However, the shutter sound is not heard.

2.

Picture Stabiliser

To compensate for unstable images caused by
camera-shake, particularly at high magnification.

1) Press P. STABILIZER

2) To switch off the Picture Stabiliser, press

P. STABILIZER

•Accurate stabilisation may not be possible in
certain conditions including excessive hand
shake.

! appears blinking if the Stabiliser cannot be

•

used.

•This function cannot be activated during the
“Night-Scope”, “CLASSIC FILM”, “STROBE” and
“VIDEO ECHO” modes (
Effects”).

4. ! appears.

4. ! disappears.

 pg. 23, “Digital

 pg. 11).

5Sec. Rec (5-sec. Recording)

(GR-SXM180A/SX140A only)

To record a scene for 5 seconds, providing quick
scene transitions like those seen in TV
programmes.

1) Make sure the recording mode is set to “SP”.

2) During Record–Standby, press 5SEC. REC

5S @ appears and 5Sec. Rec is reserved.

3) Press the Recording Start/Stop Button
Recording starts, and after 5-second recording
is finished, the camcorder reenters the Record–
Standby mode automatically.

4) To cancel the 5Sec. Rec. function, press 5SEC.

2 again so that 5S @ disappears.

REC

•Fade/Wipe (

pressing 5SEC. REC

 pg. 22) cannot be activated by

2.

2.

!.

12

Zooming

To produce the zoom in/out effect. Digital circuitry
extends the maximum magnification offered by
optical zoom. This system is called Digital Zoom.

•Slide the Power Zoom Lever
zoom in, or “W” to zoom out.

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

•Focusing may become unstable during Zooming.
In this case, set the zoom while in Record–
Standby, lock the focus by using the manual focus

 pg. 18, FOCUS in CAMERA MENU), then

(
zoom in or out in Record mode.

•The zoom level indicator
zoom. Once the zoom level indiator
reaches the top, all magnification from that point
is through digital processing.

•When using Digital Zoom, the quality of image
may suffer. To deactivate Digital Zoom, set
“D.ZOOM” (
MENU.

•Digital zoom cannot be used when the “VIDEO
ECHO” mode (
activated.

 pg. 20) to “OFF” in SYSTEM

 pg. 23, “Digital Effects”) is

3 towards “T” to

3,

6- moves during

6-

Video Light (GR-SXM78EA/SXM48EA/SXM780A/

SXM480A/SXM280A only)

To brighten the scene when natural lighting is too
dim.

Set LIGHT OFF/AUTO/ON

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.

• It is recommended to set M.W.B. (

in CAMERA MENU when you use the video

light.

• Even if the battery indicator (
if the battery pack’s charge is low, 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

•Depending on the lighting conditions, the video

light may keep turning on and off. Set LIGHT
OFF/AUTO/ON

•While the “Sports” or “High Speed Shutter” mode

is engaged, the light is likely to stay on. While
the “Twilight” mode is engaged, the light will not
activate. (
Special Effects”)

# to ON or OFF as required.

 pg. 23, “Programme AE with

# as required:

 pg. 19) to

) does not blink

# is set to “AUTO”:

DANGER

•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.

•Do not place the camcorder into the carrying case
immediately after using the video light, since it
remains extremely hot for some time.

•When operating, keep a distance of about 30 cm
between the video light and people or objects.

•Do not use near flammable or explosive
materials.

•It is recommended that you consult your nearest
JVC dealer for replacing the video light.

Quick Review

To check the end of the last recording.

1) Make sure the camcorder is in the Record–

Standby mode.

2

2) Press

Tape is rewound for approx. 1 second and
played back automatically, then pauses in
Record–Standby mode for the next shot.

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

% and release quickly.

Retake

To re-record certain segments.

1) Make sure the camcorder is in the Record–

Standby mode.

2) Press and hold either RETAKE

the start point for new recording. Pressing

& forwards the tape and pressing

reverses it.

3) Press the Recording Start/Stop Button

start recording.

•Noise bars appear and pictures may become
monochrome or darken during Retake. This is
normal.

% or & to reach

2

3

%

! to

13

Tracking

Eliminates noise bars that appear on-screen during
playback. To activate Manual Tracking:

1) Press the TRACKING Wheel
2 seconds. “MT”

2) Rotate the TRACKING Wheel
noise bars disappear.

•To return to Auto Tracking, press the TRACKING

•When noise bars appear during playback, the

•Manual Tracking may not work with tapes

1 for approx. 2 seconds or set the Power

Wheel

@ to “OFF” and then “ ” again. “AT” i

Switch
blinks. When Auto Tracking finishes, the indication
disappears.

camcorder enters the Auto Tracking mode and

i appears.

“AT”
recorded on other VCRs or camcorders.

i appears.

1 for approx.

1 so that the

TBC (Time Base Corrector)

Removes jitter from fluctuating video signals to
deliver a stable picture even with old tapes.
To activate/release the TBC mode, press TBC
during playback for more than 1 second. When the
TBC mode is activated, “TBC”

•The “TBC” indicator

camcorder equipped with a black/white
viewfinder) while TBC is working, and white while
TBC is not operative.

•TBC does not work during Still Playback and

Shuttle Search (

•It may take a few seconds before TBC actually

starts working.

•The picture may be distorted if the TBC mode is

activated or deactivated at the edit-in/-out points
or when normal playback resumes after Still
Playback or Shuttle Search (

•If the playback picture is distorted when TBC is

set to on, turn off TBC.

w turns green (grey with a

 pg. 11).

w is displayed.

 pg. 11).

4

Counter Memory

Makes it easier to locate a specific tape segment.

1) Press COUNTER R/M
1 second. The counter

2) Press COUNTER R/M
“M” appears.

3) After recording or playback, press 5

2

%. The tape automatically stops at or close

to 0:00:00.

4

4) Press

•The counter memory functions in the Fast-

Forward and Rewind modes.

•To disable the counter memory function, press

COUNTER R/M
“M” disappears.

/6 ^ to start playback.

) for less than 1 second so that

) and hold for more than

t resets to “0:00:00”.

) for less than 1 second.

$, then

Playback Special Effects (GR-SXM78EA/

SXM48EA/SXM780A/SXM480A/SXM280A only)

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

1) Activate “TBC” and Auto “Tracking”.

2) Press DIGIFECT

•To cancel the effect, select “OFF”.

•NEGA POSI, MOSAIC and STRETCH are not

•Playback Special Effects do not work during

•The selected effect mode cannot be changed

 pg. 23, “Digital Effects”)

w repeatedly until the desired

e appears.

mode

available.
Shuttle Search (
during Still Playback (

 pg. 11).

 pg. 11).

14

Connections To A TV/VCR

1) Make sure all units are turned off.

2) Connect the camcorder to a TV or VCR. If using

both TV and VCR, connect the VCR output to
the TV input.

3) Turn on all units. Set the VCR to its AUX input
mode, and set the TV to its VIDEO mode.

•Use the AC Adapter as the power supply.

•The S-Video cable connection can improve the

dubbed picture quality. A commercially available
S-Video cable is required.

•Be sure to 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.

White to

To S-V ideo
Output 5

Connector cover

Audio
Output 6

Yellow to
Video Output 7

Tape Dubbing

1) Connect the camcorder and the VCR

 “Connections To A TV/VCR”). Set the Power

(

@ to “ ”, turn on the VCR’s power,

Switch
and insert the appropriate cassettes in the
camcorder and the VCR. Engage the VCR’s
AUX and Record-Pause modes.

4

2) Press
in point. Once it is reached, press

3) Press
mode.

4) Engage the VCR’s Record-Pause mode and
press

•Repeat steps 2) through 4) for additional editing,

then stop the VCR and camcorder when finished.

/6 ^ to find a spot just before the edit-

4

/6 ^ again.

4

/6 ^ and engage the VCR’s Record

4

/6 ^.

S-Video cable
(commercially
available)

To S-V ideo
Input

TV

VCR

A/V cable

To TV or VCR

White to
Audio Input

Yellow to
Video Input

15

Using The Cassette Adapter

Use this to play back an S-VHS-C/VHS-C video
cassette recorded with this camcorder on a S-VHS/
VHS VCR.

1) Slide the battery cover up to remove it, install
one “AA (R6)” size battery, then reattach the
cover.

2) Slide the latch to open the compartment door,
then insert the cassette and close the
compartment door.

3) Load the cassette adapter into the VCR and
play the tape back.

4) Slide the latch and the compartment door opens
automatically. This may take around 10 seconds.
Do not attempt to force the adapter open. Then,
insert your finger in the hole, and push up and
remove the cassette.

•During tape loading and unloading, do not touch

the reels for safety and tape protection.

•Tapes recorded in S-VHS or S-VHS ET mode

cannot be played back on a regular VHS VCR.
Playback is possible with a VCR equipped with
the S-VHS function.

•During special-effect playback (slow motion, still

frame, etc.), the picture may vibrate or noise bars
may appear on the screen.

•To record on a VCR using a compact cassette

and the adapter, cover the adapter’s recording
safety hole with adhesive tape.

Connection To A Personal Computer

(GR-SXM78EA/SXM780A only)

You can transfer image data from the camcorder to
a PC using Digital Photo Navigator. When
connecting to your PC, refer to the instruction
manuals of the PC and Setup Guide for the
provided software.

When connecting to a Macintosh . . .

The optional KEYSPAN USA-19 USB PDA
Adapter is required.

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

•Keyspan is a trademark of InnoSys Inc.

Compartment Door

Recording
Safety Hole

Battery Cover

Sliding Latch

Hole

Reels

16

INSTRUCTIONS

Eyepiece

12

34

5

6
7

8

09!@

Viewfinder

o

Speaker
(applicable models only)

p

180°

Q

Microphone

Video light (GR-SXM78EA/SXM48EA/
SXM780A/SXM480A/SXM280A only)

W

During shooting

Keep the lens
cap attached to
the camcorder.

LCD monitor
(applicable
models only)

180°

Transmitted beam
effetive area

5 m

30°

Refer to this diagram while reading the instructions.

*(

^

r

Turn the gear to
take up slack.

Erase
protection tab

a
d

30°

90°

90°

i

Y
I

Cassette
holder

E

R

T
U

O

$# % &

)qwe t

y
u

y

Remote control
(GR-SXM78EA/
SXM780A/SXM480A/
SXM280A only)

P
s
f

7

9
!

#
%

8

0
@

$

During Recording

2

1

M

1

2

0

I

N

R

E

C

S

P

4

4

4

1

S

I

5

M

N

/

2

1

S

B

R

I

G

T

H

C

N

G

O

2

5

.

1

2

0

.

LCD Monitor/Viewfinder Indications

During Playback

3

S

N

I

G

H

T

–

V

H

S

R

P

A

U

S

E

–

–

–

–

–

R

A

T

U

L

A

1

E

4

–

2

–

T

5

4

E

T

T

0

x

0

+

0

2

C

M

&

W

B

(

–

–

–

–

–

6

I

N

S

O

:

:

1

1

4

5

1+8

^
*

)

6

1X

w i e t q r uy

–

TVBOC

LMUOM

S

N

T

O

E

N

O

:

–

1

0

2

M

–

–

–

E

E

T

S

P

4

–

:

1

4

5

2

3

A

T

:

4

3

–

–

–

–

–

–:–

–

6

o

p

+

 pg. 29 for Warning Indications .

17

MENU SETTINGS

1 Set the Power Switch @ to “ ”.
2 Press the MENU Wheel 1 in. The Menu

S

T

E

N

G

P

U

4

4

E

MHMENU

T
T

1 to

TO

NEXT”

1 to

S

P

5

0

O

F

O

N

T

3
U

F

N

O

x

F
0

LL

Screen appears. Rotate the MENU Wheel
select the desired function.

•To go from CAMERA MENU to SYSTEM MENU,
rotate the MENU Wheel

1 to select “

SYSTEM MENU” and press it. SYSTEM MENU is
composed of 2 pages. To go to the next page,
rotate the MENU Wheel

1 to select “

and press it.

•To return to CAMERA MENU from page 2 of
SYSTEM MENU, rotate the MENU Wheel

4

select “



F
E
M
S
T
D



TO CAMERA MENU” and press it.

A

M

E

RMA

M

E

N

C

S

Y

S

O

T

S

U

C

O

R

U

S

O

P

X

.

B

.

W

.

X

L

.

E

L

T

I

T

I

/

E

T

A

R

N

U

T

E

R

U

T

E

E

N

U

O

T

U

A

O

T

E

M

E

U

A

O

T

U

A

X

A

M

DMI

S

P

.

Y

S



X

N

E

T

D

R

E

C

M

O

O

D

.

Z

O

M

E

W

I

D

–

H

S

V

S

E

P

E

L

T

A

Y

S

A

D

I

P

L

U

T

D

O

S

O



R

N

E

R

T

U

3 Press the MENU Wheel 1 in to display the

Setting Menu and rotate it to select the desired
setting.

4 Press the MENU Wheel 1 in. The Menu

Screen reappears with the highlight bar on

4

RETURN”. Press the MENU Wheel 1 in. The

“

normal screen reappears.

CAMERA MENU

FOCUS

If correct focus cannot be obtained with AUTO
FOCUS, set to MANU to use manual focusing.

” appears.

“

To focus on a farther subject, rotate the MENU
Wheel

1 upward. “

1

” appears and blinks.

To focus on a nearer subject, rotate the MENU
Wheel

1 downward. “

4

” appears and blinking.

•If the lens is smeared or blurred, accurate

focusing is not possible.

•When shooting a subject close to the lens, zoom
out first (

 pg. 13, “Zooming”). If zoomed in in

the auto focus mode, the camcorder could
automatically zoom out depending on the
distance between the camcorder and the subject.
This does not occur with “TELE MACRO”

 pg. 21) in SYSTEM MENU.

(

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

•When the focus level cannot be adjusted any
farther or closer, “

” or “ ” will blink.

EXPOSURE

Manual exposure adjustment is recommended in
the following situations:

•When shooting using reverse lighting or when the
background is too bright.

•When shooting on a reflective natural background
such as at the beach or when skiing.

•When the background is overly dark or the
subject light.

To brighten the image, rotate the MENU Wheel

1 downward.

To darken the image, rotate the MENU Wheel
upward.
The exposure control level increases/decreases
(maximum ±06).

1

18

M.W.B.

If the white balance is correct, all other colours will
be accurately reproduced.

AUTO :White balance is adjusted

FINE : Outdoors on a sunny day.

CLOUD :Outdoors on a cloudy day.

HALOGEN :A video light or similar type of

MWB: White balance is set manually. Hold a sheet

of plain white paper in front of the subject. Adjust
zoom or position yourself so that the white paper
fills the screen. If it is difficult to focus on the white
paper, adjust focus manually (
CAMERA MENU). Press the MENU Wheel
until “MWB” begins blinking. When the setting is
completed, “MWB” stops blinking.

•Once you adjust white balance manually, the
setting is retained even if the power is turned off
or the battery removed.

•White balance cannot be used when the “SEPIA”
or “MONOTONE” mode (
Effects”) is activated.

automatically.

lighting is used.

 FOCUS in

1 in

 pg. 23, “Digital

S.LX

MAX: To record a subject in a darkly lit

environment, when it is more convenient to shoot
the subject with a brighter image even if the picture
becomes slightly coarse.

NORMAL: To record a subject in a dimly lit
environment, when it is more convenient to shoot
with a less coarse picture although the subject
becomes slightly dark.

OFF: Allows you to shoot dark scenes with no
picture brightness adjustment.

TITLE

Allows you to superimpose one of eight preset
titles in 2 different languages. Change the
language in TITLE LANG. (
MENU.

$ shows the selected title which remains until

•

OFF is selected.

 pg. 21) in SYSTEM

DATE/TIME DISP.

Makes the date/time appear in the camcorder or on
a connected monitor (set DATE/TIME in SYSTEM
MENU first

•The selected display will be recorded. If you do
not want to record the display, select OFF before
shooting.

•In the AUT O DATE mode, the camcorder records
the date for about 5 seconds when recording is
initiated after the date is changed, a cassette is
loaded, or AUTO DATE is selected. The date is
replaced after 5 seconds with “AUTO DATE” but
this is not recorded.

 pg. 7).

19

SYSTEM MENU

This Menu Screen cannot be accessed while
recording.

REC MODE

Allows you to set the recording mode. “LP” (Long
Play) is more economical, providing twice the
recording time.

•If the recording mode is switched during
recording, the playback picture will be blurred at
the switching point.

D. ZOOM

Zooming is possible from 16X (the optical zoom
limit), to a maximum of 50X or 700X digital
magnification.
When set to “OFF” only optical zoom (maximum
16x magnification) can function.

WIDE

When set to “ON” black bars will be recorded at the
top and bottom of the screen to produce a cinema­like “wide-screen” effect. Not effective with
“Snapshot”

SXM480A/SXM280A only,  pg. 12).

S-VHS (S-VHS ET)

ON: With an S-VHS cassette, “S” appears and

the camcorder records in S-VHS.
With a VHS cassette, “S-ET” appears and the
camcorder records with S-VHS picture quality,
which is called Super VHS ET (Expansion
Technology). S-VHS REC appears during
recording.
OFF: Records in VHS on a VHS or S-VHS
cassette.

•JVC EHG (Extra High Grade) tapes are recom­mended for superior results.
Use S-VHS tape for storing recordings for an
extended period or for recording important
scenes, as it enables higher-quality recording and
playback.

•With some tapes, better picture quality may not
be obtained even with S-VHS ET recording. It is
recommended that you do test record beforehand
to make sure whether better results can be
obtained.

•If the S-VHS ET mode or recording format is
switched during recording, the playback picture
will be blurred at the switching point.

•It is recommended that tapes recorded on this
camcorder be played back on this camcorder.

•Tapes recorded in S-VHS or S-VHS ET mode can
be played back not only on this camcorder but
also on a Super VHS VCR.
— Tapes recorded in S-VHS ET mode cannot be

(GR-SXM78EA/SXM48EA/SXM780A/

played back on some VCRs, including some
JVC VCRs.

•Tapes recorded in S-VHS or S-VHS ET mode
cannot be played back correctly on a normal VHS
VCR.

•S-VHS ET does not work with S-VHS tapes.

•To avoid on-screen noise, do not perform Still

Playback or Shuttle Search repeatedly.

•If the picture contains a lot of jitter or noise, use a
cleaning cassette.

20

TAPE LENGTH

Allows you to set the tape length depending on the
tape used: T30=30 minutes, T45=45 minutes,
T50=50 minutes, T60=60 minutes.

•Tape remaining time
correct tape length has been selected.

1 is correct only if the

DISPLAY

FULL: Makes all of the indications appear on the

LCD monitor*/viewfinder during playback or
recording.

SIMPLE: Makes the following indications
disappear from the LCD monitor*/viewfinder during
recording or playback:

, tape length ( pg. 9, 17).

* Applicable models only.

, tape remaining time,

OSD OUTPUT

ON: On-screen indications are displayed.
OFF: On-screen indications are turned off except

Date/Time, Instant Title and Warning Indication.

REC TIME

You can shoot a series of pictures, each slightly
different, of the same object for a brief selected
period of time (Animation). REC MODE should be
set to “SP”.

Select the desired recording time and press the
Recording Start/Stop Button
the subject.

•The remote control can also be used for this
setting*. (

•Fade- or wipe-in/out cannot be performed.

•This function is cancelled when the power is shut

off or when the cassette is ejected.

*GR-SXM78EA/SXM780A/SXM480A/SXM280A only

 pg. 25, “Animation And Time-Lapse”)

! after focusing on

INT. TIME

You can record sequentially at preset time spans.
Leaving the camcorder aimed at a specific subject,
you can record subtle changes over an extended
period of time (Time-Lapse). REC MODE should
be set to “SP”.

Select the desired interval time and press the
Recording Start/Stop Button

•The remote control can also be used for this
setting*. (

•Fade- or wipe-in/out cannot be performed.

•This function is cancelled when the power is shut

off or when the cassette is ejected.

*GR-SXM78EA/SXM780A/SXM480A/SXM280A only

 pg. 25, “Animation And Time-Lapse”)

!.

TELE MACRO

When set to “ON”, you can shoot a subject as large
as possible at a distance of approx. 60 cm.
Depending on the zoom position, the lens may go
out of focus.

MENU LANG.

Allows you to select the language (ENGLISH,
CHINESE or ARABIC) of messages only in menu
screens (CAMERA MENU, SYSTEM MENU or
their sub-menus).

TITLE LANG.

Allows you to select the language (ENGLISH,
RUSSIAN, CHINESE or ARABIC) of TITLE in
CAMERA MENU. After selection, the TITLE setting

 p. 19) appears automatically.

menu (

DATE/TIME

Allows you to set the current date and time.

 pg. 7)

(

DEMO MODE

Demonstrates certain functions automatically.
Available when the Power Switch

” and “DEMO MODE” is set to “ON” (factory-

or “
preset). Performing any operation during the
demonstration stops the demonstration
temporarily. Set to OFF to stop completely.

•When a tape whose erase protection tab is in the
position that allows recording is loaded in the
camcorder, demonstration is not available.

•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.

* Applicable models only.

@ is set to “ ”

21

ADVANCED FEATURES

Night-Scope (GR-SXM78EA/SXM48EA/SXM780A/

SXM480A/SXM280A only)

Makes dark subjects or areas even brighter than
they would be under good natural lighting.

1) Set the Power Switch

2) Press NIGHT-SCOPE

desired mode appears.

A NIGHT AUTO: The shutter speed is

automatically adjusted (maximum 3/5 sec.).

1 NIGHT 20X (only when the Power Switch @
is set to “ ”): The shutter speed is set to 2/5th of
a second to provide 20 times the sensitivity.

2 NIGHT 50X (only when the Power Switch @
is set to “ ”): The shutter speed is set to 1 second
to provide 50 times the sensitivity.

•To cancel the effect, press NIGHT-SCOPE

repeatedly until “OFF” appears.

•During Night-Scope, the following cannot be

activated: “Picture Stabiliser”, “Programme AE
With Special Effects”, “Digital Effects” and “S.LX”
in CAMERA MENU (

•Night-Scope does not work when LIGHT OFF/

AUTO/ON

“Video Light”).

•During Night-Scope, it may be difficult to bring the

camcorder into focus. To prevent this, use of a
tripod is recommended.

# is set to “AUTO” or “ON” ( pg. 13,

@ to “ ” or “ ”.

e repeatedly until the

e

 pg. 19).

Fade/Wipe Effects

Fade- or wipe-in works at recording start, and fade­or wipe-out works at recording end.

1) Set the Power Switch

2) Press FADE/WIPE

desired mode appears.

3) Press the Recording Start/Stop Button
activate fade-in/out or wipe-in/out.

•Pressing and holding the Recording Start/Stop

•To cancel a fade or wipe, press FADE/WIPE

picture into/from a mosaic pattern.

from the top and bottom, closing over the image
like a shutter, or a new image pushes open the
black screen vertically from the centre.

the left to gradually cover the image, or a new
image moves in from right to left.

a black screen open to the left and right, revealing
the scene, or wipes out and the black screen
reappears from left and right to cover the scene.

from the upper right to the lower left corner,
revealing the scene, or wipes out from lower left to
upper right, leaving a black screen.

from the centre of the screen towards the corners,
revealing the scene, or wipe out from the corners
to the centre, leaving a black screen.

! allows you to vary the length for the

Button
image during fade in/out or wipe in/out.

repeatedly until “OFF” appears.

FADER: Fades in/out to a black screen.
MOSAIC (Fader): Gradually turns/returns the

SHUTTER (Wipe): A black screen moves in

SLIDE (Wipe): A black screen moves in from

DOOR (Wipe): Wipes in as the two halves of

CORNER (Wipe): Wipes in on a black screen

WINDOW (Wipe): Wipes in on a black screen

@ to “ ”.

) repeatedly until the

! to

)

22

Programme AE With Special Effects

1) Set the Power Switch @ to “ ”.

2) Press P.AE

appears.

•To cancel the effect, press P.AE
until “OFF” appears.

•Only one mode can be engaged at a time.

•In the “High Speed Shutter” or “Sports” modes,

picture colour may be adversely affected if the
subject is lit by alternating discharge-type light
sources such as flourescent or mercury-vapour
lights.

•This function cannot be activated during Night­Scope (

SPORTS: High shutter speed clearly captures

fast-moving action.
ND : ND EFFECT: A black mist darkens the

picture, as when an ND filter is used. Helps to
counter the effects of glare on the subject.

FG : FOG: Makes the picture look misty white, as
when an external fog filter is attached to the lens.
Softens the image and gives it a “fantasy” look.
This mode cannot be used when the “VIDEO
ECHO” mode (

TWILIGHT: Dusk, twilight scenery, fireworks,
etc., look more natural and dramatic. In this mode,
S.LX and AUTO FOCUS in CAMERA MENU

 pg. 18, 19) may not work.

(

S1/2000 (1/2000 sec. High Speed Shutter):

Captures faster action than Sports mode. The
screen becomes slightly dark. Use in well-lit
situations.

q repeatedly until the desired mode

q repeatedly

 pg. 22).

 “Digital Effects”) is activated.

Digital Effects

1)Set the Power Switch @ to “ ”.

2)Press DIGIFECT

mode appears.

•To cancel the effect, press DIGIFECT
repeatedly until “OFF” appears.

•This function cannot be activated during Night-

•Picture Stabiliser cannot be activated during the

like old photos. Combine this with WIDE in
SYSTEM MENU for a classic look.

footage is shot in B/W. Combine this with WIDE in
SYSTEM MENU for a classic look.

tint.

tint.

similar to a painting.

reversed.

pattern.

horizontally.

a classic movie by shooting in black and white,
with a strobing effect, and black bars added at the
top and bottom.

of consecutive snapshots.

giving your recording a “fantasy” feeling. Zoom
magnification of over 10X is not available.

*GR-SXM78EA/SXM48EA/SXM780A/SXM480A/

 pg. 22).

Scope (
“CLASSIC FILM”, “STROBE” and “VIDEO ECHO”

mode.

SEPIA: Recorded scenes have a brownish tint

MONOTONE: Like black and white films, your

B. FILTER: Recorded scenes have a bluish

R. FILTER: Recorded scenes have a reddish

SOLARI: The picture is recorded with an effect

NEGA POSI: The colours of a picture are

MOSAIC: Turns recorded scenes into a mosaic

STRETCH: Doubles the width of the picture

CLASSIC FILM*: Makes your footage look like

STROBE*: Your recording looks like a series

VIDEO ECHO*: Adds a “ghost” to the subject,

SXM280A only.

w repeatedly until the desired

w

23

USING THE REMOTE CONTROL UNIT (GR-SXM78EA/SXM780A/SXM480A/SXM280A 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. Make sure the remote control is
pointed at the remote sensor p.

E

R

T
Y

U
I

O

RM-V715U
(provided)

P

a
s
d
f

h

O

Y

T

;

RM-V700U (optional)

g

f

a

s

l

E

j

k

U

S

P

R

d

I

A

Buttons

E Infrared beam transmitting

window

R ZOOM (T/W) Buttons
T PLAY Button
Y REW Button

U STOP Button
I INSERT Button
O REC TIME Button

ANIM. Button

P START/STOP Button
a FF Button

s PAUSE Button
d A.DUB Button
f INT. TIME Button

SELF TIMER Button*

g PAUSE IN Connector
h MBR SET Button
j VISS Button
k VCR CTL Button
l IN/OUT Button
; CANCEL Button
A VCR REC STBY Button
S ON/OFF Button

* This function is unavailable with this camcorder.

g – l : RM-V700U only

With the camcorder’s Power Switch @
set to “ ” or “ ”.

Transmits the beam signal.

Zoom in/out ( pg. 13)

Retake (rewind), Quick Review

 pg. 13)

(

Animation, Time-Lapse ( pg. 25)

Functions the same as the Recording Start/Stop Button on the camcorder.
Retake (forward) ( pg. 13)

Time-Lapse ( pg. 25)

Ineffective

Functions

With the camcorder’s Power Switch
set to “ ”.

Zoom in/out (

—

—
—

—
—

—
—

—
—
—
—
—

Playback start (
Rewind, Reverse Shuttle Search

 pg. 11)

(
Stop (
Insert Editing (

Fast-Forward, Forward Shuttle Search

 pg. 11)

(
Pause (
Audio dubbing (

 pg. 27
 pg. 26

 pg. 26
 pg. 28
 pg. 28
 pg. 28
 pg. 28

 pg. 25)

 pg. 11)

 pg. 11)

 pg. 25)

—

 pg. 11)

 pg. 25)

—

@

24

Playback Zoom

To magnify the recorded image up to 10X at any
time during playback. Make sure that the TBC
mode is activated.

1)Press PLAY

2)Press ZOOM (T/W)

end zoom press and hold W until magnification
returns to normal. Or, press STOP
press PLAY

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

T to find the scene of interest.

R. Pressing T zooms in. To

U and then

T.

Animation And Time-Lapse

The remote control lets you set/release interval
time and recording time without setting REC TIME/
INT . TIME (

Animation

Each time ANIM.
changes in the following order: 1/4S, 1/2S, 1S, 5S
and no indication (off).

Time-Lapse

Each time REC TIME
time changes in the following order: 1/4S, 1/2S,
1S, 5S and no indication (off). Each time INT. TIME

 pg. 21) in SYSTEM MENU.

O is pressed, the recording time

O is pressed, the recording

f is pressed, the interval time changes in the

following order: 15S, 30S, 1MIN, 5MIN and no
indication (off).

Insert Editing

You can record a new scene onto a previously
recorded tape. Only the video signal is recorded in
this mode.

1)Set the Power Switch

2)Play back the tape, locate the edit-out point and

press PAUSE

s.

) for more than 1 second to reset the tape

counter, then press it again for less than 1
second so that “M” appears.

3)Press REW

of the scene you want to replace, press PLA Y
to view the recorded tape, and press P AUSE s
exactly at the edit-in point where the new scene
should start.

4)While holding down INSERT

release PAUSE

Y to go a little beyond the beginning

@ to “ ”.

Press and hold COUNTER R/M

I, press and

s. w appears.

T

5)To begin Insert Editing, press START/ST OP
When the counter reaches “0:00:00”, editing
stops automatically and the camcorder enters
the Insert-Pause mode. To end Insert Editing,
press STOP

•During Insert Editing, the original audio will be

heard from the speaker.

•After step 4), “Retake” (

performed.

•The tape may stop slightly before or after the

designated end point, and noise bars may appear.
Neither indicates a defect in the unit.

U.

 pg. 13) can be

P.

Audio Dubbing

You can record a new soundtrack on a prere­corded tape (normal audio only). The sound is
recorded from the built-in microphone.

Perform steps 1) and 2) of the Insert Editing
procedure.

3)Press REW
of the scene onto which you want to dub the new
audio, press PLAY
then press PAUSE
dubbing should start.

4)While holding down A. DUB
release PAUSE

5)To begin Audio Dubbing, press PLAY
the counter reaches “0:00:00”, Audio Dubbing
stops automatically and the camcorder enters
the Audio Dub-Standby mode. To end Audio
Dubbing, press STOP

•Do not press REW

Standby, or the edit points will not be accurate.

•If the microphone is too close to the TV, or if the

TV’s volume is too high, whistling or howling may
occur.

For Insert Editing/Audio Dubbing

•Insert Editing and Audio Dubbing may not work

correctly if the tape contains blank segments, or if
the recording speed was changed during the
original recording.

•To edit/dub onto a tape, make sure the erase

protection tab is in the position that allows
recording.

•Do not press STOP

Audio Dubbing, or the edit points will not be
accurate.

Y to go a little beyond the beginning

T to view the recorded tape,
s at exactly the point where

d, press and

s.

T. When

U.

Y or FF a during Audio Dub-

U during Insert Editing or

25

(Recording deck)

VCR CODE LIST

VCR BRAND
NAME

AKAI

BLAUPUNKT
FERGUSON

GRUNDIG

HITACHI

JVC

A
B
C

MITSUBISHI

NEC

PANASONIC

VCR

2 3

1

4

5 6

8

0

9

7

RM-V700U (optional)

BUTTONS

(A) (B)

6 2
6 4
7 7

1 3

9 7
9 8
3 2

1 4
3 4

6 6
6 3

9 1
9 6
9 3

6 7
6 8

3 7
3 8

1 3
1 7
1 1
9 4
1 8

VCR BRAND
NAME

PHILIPS

SANYO

SELECO,
REX

SHARP

SONY

THOMSON,
TELEFUNKEN,
SABA,
NORDMENDE

TOSHIBA

h
k

BUTTONS

(A) (B)

1 9
9 5
1 1
9 4
9 1
9 6
1 2
3 3
7 2



3 6



3 5
9 1

9 6
1 5

1 `
6 5

6 `
3 9
3 1



9 1
9 6
9 7
3 2

6 9
6 1

Random Assemble Editing [R.A.Edit]

(GR-SXM480A/SXM280A only)

Create edited videos easily using your camcorder
as the source player. You can select up to 8 “cuts”
for automatic editing, in any order you like.
R.A.Edit is more easily performed when the
RM-V700U MBR (Multi-Brand Remote,

 pg. 24)

is set to operate with your brand of VCR (see VCR
CODE LIST), but can also be performed by
operating the VCR manually.
Before operation, make sure the lithium battery is
installed in the remote control RM-V700U.
Read the cautions in the instructions provided with
the RM-V700U.

SET REMOTE/VCR CODE

1) Turn off the power to the VCR and point the

remote towards the VCR’s infrared sensor.
Then, referring to the VCR CODE LIST on the
left, press and hold MBR SET
button (A) and then (B).

•The code is automatically set once you release

MBR SET

h, and the VCR’s power comes on.

2) Make sure the VCR’s power is on. Then, while

holding VCR CTL

k, press the button on the

remote for the desired function. The functions
the remote can control are PLAY, STOP,
PAUSE, FF, REW and VCR REC STBY (you do
not need to press VCR CTL

You are now ready to try Random Assemble
Editing.

IMPORTANT

Although the MBR is compatible with JVC
VCRs and those of many other makers, it may
not work with yours or may offer limited
functions.

•If the VCR’s power does not come on in step 1, try

another code from the VCR CODE LIST.

•Some brands of VCR do not come on automatically .

In this case, turn the power on manually and try
step 2.

•If the remote control is not able to control the VCR,

use the controls on the VCR.

•When the remote control’s battery runs out, the

VCR brand you have set will be erased.
In that case, replace the old battery with a new one
and reset the VCR brand.

h, and press

k for this one).

26

To S-V ideo
Output
connector

S-Video cable
(commercially
available)

VCR

To EDIT
Connector

Open
the cover.

To Video Output
and Audio Output
connectors

A/V cable
(provided)

Editing cable
(ø3.5 mini-plug
cable) (commer­cially available)

To Audio, Video
and S-Video Input
connectors

To Remote
PAUSE

MAKE CONNECTIONS

1) JVC VCR EQUIPPED WITH REMOTE

PAUSE TERMINAL

Connect the editing cable to the Remote
PAUSE terminal.

JVC VCR NOT EQUIPPED WITH
REMOTE PAUSE TERMINAL BUT
EQUIPPED WITH R.A. EDIT
CONNECTOR

Connect the editing cable to the R.A.EDIT
connector.

VCR OTHER THAN TYPE OR

Connect the editing cable to the RM-V700U’s
PAUSE-IN connector

2) Insert a recorded tape into the camcorder and
set the Power Switch

3) Turn the VCR power on, insert a recordable
tape and engage the AUX mode (refer to the
VCR’s instructions).

If your VCR has an S-Video input connector,
connect the camcorder and the VCR using a
commercially available S-Video cable. This can
improve the dubbed picture quality.

g.
@ to “ ”.

TV

To g

RM-V700U

(optional)

27

Remote sensor

!

A

M

F

F

O

Y

A

L

P

@

Y

T

l

A

RM-V700U

(optional)

SELECT SCENES

4) Point the remote control at the camcorder’s
remote sensor. Press PLAY
ON/OFF

S on the remote control. The R.A. Edit

counter display appears.

5) Press REW

Y or FF a to locate the beginning

of the scene you want, then press IN/OUT
register that point. The data appears under “IN”
on the display.

6) Press REW

Y or FF a to locate the end of the

scene and press IN/OUT

•The data appears under “OUT” on the display.

•The total time of the registered scene(s) is

displayed at the bottom of the screen.

7) Repeat steps 5 and 6 for each additional scene
(as many as 8).

8) To make corrections, press CANCEL
steps 5 and 6 to erase the most recently
registered point.

•There must be at least one second between an

in-point and its corresponding out-point.

•To ensure correct operation, there should be at

least 15 seconds between an out-point and the
next in-point.

•Blank portions of a tape cannot be registered as

in-points or out-points.

•If it takes more than 5 minutes to search for an in-

point, the VCR’s Record-Pause mode is cancelled
and editing does not take place.

T , then press

l to register it.

a

s

;

S

l to

; during

•Pressing ON/OFF

S clears all in- and out-points

from memory.

•Leave a small margin for error around each in­point to ensure the scene is recorded in its
entirety.

•Turning off the camcorder’s power erases all
registered in- and out-points.

AUTOMATIC EDITING TO VCR

9) Rewind the tape in the camcorder to the

beginning of the scene you want to edit and
press PAUSE

10) Point the remote control towards the VCR’s

infrared sensor and press VCR REC STBY
or manually engage the VCR’s Record-Pause
mode.

11) Press the Recording Start/Stop Button on the

camcorder to begin Automatic Editing, and the
previously selected scenes are copied to the
VCR in the specified order.
While editing, the R.A. Edit counter of the
scene which is being copied is shown with a
blinking highlight.

•Pressing START/STOP
does not start editing.

12) When all selected scenes have been copied,

the camcorder and VCR enter the Still or
Pause mode. Press STOP
the R.A. Edit counter display disappear, press
ON/OFF

•When finished editing, be sure to disconnect the
editing cable and the A/V cable.

•If you performed step
CONNECTIONS”), keep the remote control
pointed at the VCR during editing.

•The on-screen display only appears while the
camcorder searches for each scene.

•There may be noise at in- or out-points on the
edited tape with certain VCRs.registered in- and
out-points.

s.

P on the remote control

$ and U. To make

S.

1 on page 27 (“MAKE

A,

28

TROUBLESHOOTING

Before consulting your JVC dealer, please check the following to see if you can correct the problem yourself.

Vertical white lines appear when shooting a very
bright object.

• This sometimes occurs when the contrast between the
back-ground and the object is great. It is not a defect of
the camcorder.

Bright, crystal-shaped spots appear in the LCD
monitor and the viewfinder.

• Sunlight is directly entering the lens. This is not a defect
of the camcorder.

Coloured bright spots appear all over the LCD
monitor or the viewfinder.

• The LCD monitor and the viewfinder are made with high­precision technology. However, black spots or bright
spots of light (red, green or blue) may appear constantly
on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder. These spots are
not recorded on the tape. This is not due to any defect of
the unit. (Effective dots: more than 99.99 %.)

Animation or Time-Lapse is not available.

• Before recording in the Animation mode at the very
beginning of a tape, set the camcorder to the Recording
mode for about 5 seconds, so that the tape runs
smoothly. Using the Fade-in function at this point is a
good way to begin an animated programme
( pg. 21, REC TIME/INT. TIME in SYSTEM MENU).

The tape is running, but there is no playback picture.

• The TV has not been set to its VIDEO mode or channel.

• If A/V connection is used, the TV’s VIDEO/TV Switch

has not been set to VIDEO.

Playback picture is blurred or interrupted.

•The video heads are dirty or worn out. Consult your
nearest JVC dealer for head cleaning or replacement.

The tape stops during fast-forward or rewind.

•The Counter Memory Function has been activated
( pg. 14, “Counter Memory”).

The date and time displays disappear.

•If you remove the power source from the camcorder
while the power is on, all settings and selections are
erased. Make sure to turn the camcorder’s power off
before disconnecting the power source.

The tape will not eject.

•The battery pack is running low.

•If the LCD monitor is not open over 60 degrees, the

EJECT switch t does not function.

The camcorder is a microcomputer-controlled device.
External noise and interference (from a TV, a radio,
etc.) might prevent it from functioning properly. In such
cases, first disconnect its power supply unit (battery
pack, AC Adapter, etc.); and then re-connect it and
proceed as usual from the beginning.

Warning Indications

(high) (exhausted) : Displays the battery remaining power level. As the battery power comes
close to nil, the battery indicator blinks (battery power warning). When the battery power is exhausted, power
turns off automatically.

:Blinks when no cassette is loaded, or when the erase protection tab is not in the position that allows recording.
TAPE END: Appears when the tape ends during recording, playback or fast-forward.
LENS CAP: Appears for 5 seconds after power is turned on if the lens cap is attached.

CONDENSATION OPERATION PAUSED PLEASE WAIT: These 2 warnings appear alternately every 3 seconds

if condensation occurs. In this case, all functions except tape eject and power on/off are disabled. Remove the tape,
turn the unit off (without removing the power supply), wait a few minutes for the warnings to clear, and turn it on again.

HEAD CLEANING REQUIRED USE CLEANING CASSETTE: These 2 warnings appear alternately every 3
seconds if dirt is detected on the heads during recording. In this case, use an optional cleaning cassette. If the
warning remains after cleaning, consult your nearest JVC dealer.

E01—E06 UNIT IN SAFEGUARD MODE REMOVE AND REATTACH BATTERY: The error indications (E01 — E06)
show what type of malfunction has occured. If an error indication and warning appear, turn the unit off, remove the
power supply (battery, etc.) and wait a few minutes for them to clear. When it does, you can resume using the
camcorder. If the indication remains, consult your nearest JVC dealer.

29

CAUTIONS

Video Light (for applicable models)

DANGER:

• The video light becomes extremely hot. Do

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

• Do not place the camcorder into the carrying case

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

• When operating, keep a distance of about 30 cm

between the video light and people or object.

• Do not use near flammable or explosive materials.

• It is recommended that you consult your nearest JVC dealer

for replacing the video light.

General Battery Precautions

If the remote control or cassette adapter is not functioning
even if it is being operated correctly, the batteries are
exhausted. Replace them with fresh ones.

Use only the specified batteries
ACCESSORIES”

Please make note of the following rules for battery use. When
misused, the batteries can leak or explode.

1. When replacing batteries, refer to page 2 for the remote

control, or read the cassette adapter (C-P6U/C-P7U)
instructions.

2. Do not use any different size of batteries from those

specified.

3. Be sure to install batteries in the correct direction.

4. Do not use rechargeable batteries.

5. Do not expose the batteries to excessive heat as they can

leak or explode.

6. Do not dispose of the batteries in a fire.

7. Remove the batteries from the unit if it is to be stored for an

extended period to avoid battery leakage which can cause
malfunctions.

Battery Packs

The battery packs are nickel-cadmium or
nickel metal-hydride batteries. Before using
the supplied battery pack or an optional
battery pack, be sure to read the following
cautions:

1. To avoid hazard . . .

.... do not burn.

.... do not short-circuit the terminals.

.... do not modify or disassemble.

.... use only specified chargers.

 pg. 2 “PROVIDED

Terminals

2. To prevent damage and prolong service
life . . .

.... do not subject to unnecessary shock.

.... avoid repeated charging without fully discharging.

.... charge in an environment where temperatures are within

the tolerances shown in the chart below. This is a
chemical reaction type battery—cooler temperatures
impede chemical reaction, while warmer temperatures can
prevent complete charging.

.... store in a cool, dry place. Extended exposure to high

temperatures will increase natural discharge and shorten

service life.

.... avoid prolonged uncharged storage.

.... remove from charger or powered unit when not in use, as

some machines use current even when switched off.

• It is normal for the battery pack to be warm after charging, or
after use.
Temperature Range Specifications

Charging ................ 10°C to 35°C

Operation ............... 0°C to 40°C

Storage .................. –10°C to 30°C

• Recharging time is based on room temperature of 20°C.

• The lower the temperature, the longer recharging takes.

Cassettes

To properly use and store your cassettes, be sure to read the
following cautions:

1. During use . . .

.... make sure the cassette bears the S-VHS-C or

VHS-C mark.

.... be aware that recording onto prerecorded tapes

automatically erases the previously recorded
video and audio signals.

.... make sure the cassette is positioned properly when

inserting.

.... do not load and unload the cassette

repeatedly without allowing the tape to run at all. This
slackens the tape and can result in damage.

.... do not open the front tape cover. This exposes the tape to

fingerprints and dust.

2. Store cassettes . . .

.... away from heaters or other heat sources.

.... out of direct sunlight.

.... where they won’t be subject to unnecessary shock or

vibration.

.... where they won’t be exposed to strong magnetic fields

(such as those generated by motors, transformers or
magnets).

.... vertically, in their original cases.

Main Unit

1. For safety, DO NOT . . .

.... open the camcorder’s chassis.

.... disassemble or modify the unit.

.... short-circuit the terminals of the battery pack. Keep it

away from metallic objects when not in use.

.... allow inflammables, water or metallic objects to enter the

unit.

.... remove the battery pack or disconnect the power supply

while the power is on.

.... leave the battery pack attached when the camcorder is not

in use.

30

2. Avoid using the unit . . .

.... in places subject to excessive humidity or dust.

.... in places subject to soot or steam such as near a cooking

stove.

.... in places subject to excessive shock or vibration.

.... near a television set.

.... near appliances generating strong magnetic or electric

fields (speakers, broadcasting antennas, etc.).

.... in places subject to extremely high (over 40°C) extremely

low (under 0°C) temperatures.

3. DO NOT leave the unit . . .

.... in places of over 50°C.

.... in places where humidity is extremely low (below 35%) or

extremely high (above 80%).

.... in direct sunlight.

.... in a closed car in summer.

.... near a heater.

.... in dusty places such as a beach.

4. To protect the unit, DO NOT . . .

.... allow it to become wet.

.... drop the unit or strike it against hard objects.

.... subject it to shock or excessive vibration during

transportation.

.... keep the lens directed at extremely bright objects for long

periods.

.... direct the eyepiece of the viewfinder at the sun.

.... carry it by holding the viewfinder or the LCD monitor*. Be

sure to hold the main unit with both hands or use the grip.

* Applicable models only.

.... swing it excessively when using the shoulder strap.

LCD Monitor (for applicable models)

1. To prevent damage to the LCD monitor,
DO NOT . . .

.... push it strongly or apply any shocks.

.... place the camcorder with the LCD monitor on the bottom.

2. To prolong service life . . .

.... avoid rubbing it with coarse cloth.

3. Be aware of the following phenomena for LCD monitor
use. These are not malfunctions:

• While using the camcorder, the surface around the LCD

monitor and/or the back of the LCD monitor may heat up.

• If you leave power on for a long time, the surface around the

LCD monitor becomes hot.

How To Handle a CD-ROM (for applicable
models)

• Take care not to soil or scratch the mirror surface (opposite

to the printed surface). Do not write anything or put a sticker
on either the front or back surface. If the CD-ROM gets dirty,
gently wipe it with a soft cloth outward from the centre hole
using a circular motion.

• Do not use conventional disc cleaners or cleaning spray.

• Do not bend the CD-ROM or touch its mirror surface.

• Do not store your CD-ROM in a dusty, hot or humid

environment. Keep it away from direct sunlight.

About moisture condensation . . .

• You may have observed that pouring a cold liquid into a
glass will cause drops of water to form on the glass’
outer surface. This same phenomenon occurs on the
head drum of a camcorder when it is moved from a cool
place to a warm place, after heating a cold room, under
extremely humid conditions or in a place directly
subjected to the cool air from an air conditioner.

• Moisture on the head drum can cause severe damage to
the video tape, and can lead to internal damage to the
camcorder itself.

Serious malfunctioning

If malfunctioning occurs, stop using the unit immediately
and consult your local JVC dealer.

For Your Maintenance

1. After Use

1 Set the Power Switch to “OFF” to turn off the

camcorder.

2 Open the LCD monitor* to an angle of over 60 degrees.

Slide EJECT to open the cassette holder, then remove
the cassette.

3 Close and lock the cassette holder by pressing the

Close button.

4 Close and lock the LCD monitor*.
5 Slide BATTERY RELEASE to remove the battery pack.
6 Attach the provided lens cap to the camcorder’s lens.

2. Cleaning The Camcorder

1 Wipe gently the exterior with a soft cloth. Put cloth in

diluted mild soap and wring it well to wipe off heavy dirt,
then wipe again with a dry cloth.

2 Open the LCD monitor* and wipe it gently with a soft

cloth. Be careful not to damage the monitor. Close the
LCD monitor*.

3 Blow the lens with a blower brush, then wipe it gently

with lens cleaning paper.

4 Turn the eyepiece counterclockwise and pull it out.
5 Remove dust from the viewfinder using a blower brush.
6 Re-attach the eyepiece and turn it clockwise.

* Applicable models only.

• Avoid using strong cleaning agents such as benzine or
alcohol.

• Cleaning should be done only after the battery pack has
been removed or other power units have been disconnected.

• Mould may form if the lens is left dirty.

• When using a cleaner or chemically treated cloth, refer to

the cautions that came with it.

• When removing the eyepiece, be sure to hold the viewfinder
securely.

31

SPECIFICATIONS

Camcorder

General

Format : S-VHS/VHS PAL standard
Power source : DC 11 V (Using AC Adapter)

Power consumption

Viewfinder on : 4.0 W (GR-SXM78EA/SXM48EA/

LCD monitor* on : 4.5 W (GR-SXM78EA/SXM48EA/

Video light** : 3.0 W

* Applicable models only.
** GR-SXM78EA/SXM48EA/SXM780A/SXM480A/SXM280A

only.

Signal system : PAL-type
Video recording system

Luminance : FM recording
Colour : Converted sub-carrier direct

Cassette : / cassette
Tape speed

SP : 23.39 mm/sec.
LP : 11.70 mm/sec.

Recording time (max.)

SP : 60 minutes
LP : 120 minutes

Operating

temperature :0°C to 40°C
Operating humidity : 35% to 80%
Storage temperature : –20°C to 50°C
Weight : Approx. 910 g (GR-SXM78EA/

Dimensions : 200 mm x 112 mm x 118 mm

(W x H x D) (GR-SXM78EA/SXM48EA/

* Applicable models only.

DC 6 V (Using battery pack)

SXM780A/SXM480A/SXM280A/
SXM180A only)

3.7 W (GR-SX140A only)
SXM780A/SXM480A/SXM280A/

SXM180A only)

recording Conforms to VHS
standard

(with EC-60 cassette)

SXM48EA/SXM780A/SXM480A/
SXM280A only)
Approx. 900 g
(GR-SXM180A only)
Approx. 850 g (GR-SX140A only)

SXM780A/SXM480A/SXM280A/
SXM180A only)
200 mm x 112 mm x 115 mm
(GR-SX140A only)
(with the LCD monitor* closed and
with the viewfinder fully tilted
downward)

Pickup : 1/6" format CCD
Lens : F1.6, f = 3.9 mm to 62.4 mm,

16:1 power zoom lens with auto
iris and macro control, filter
diameter 40.5 mm

Viewfinder : Electronic viewfinder with 0.5"

black/white CRT

White balance

adjustment : Auto/Manual adjustment

LCD monitor : 3" diagonally measured, LCD

(Applicable models panel/TFT active matrix system
only) (GR-SXM78EA/SXM780A/

SXM480A only)

2.5" diagonally measured, LCD
panel/TFT active matrix system
(GR-SXM48EA/SXM280A/
SXM180A only)

Speaker : Monaural

(Applicable models
only)

Connectors

Video : 1 V (p-p), 75 Ω unbalanced,

analogue output (via Video output
connector)

Audio : 300 mV (rms), 1 kΩ analogue

output
(via Audio output connector)

Digital : ø3.5 mm, 4-pole, mini-head jack

(GR-SXM78EA/
SXM780A only)

S-Video : Y: 1 V (p-p), 75 Ω, analogue

output

C : 0.30 V (p-p), 75 Ω, analogue

output

AC Adapter

Power requirement : AC 110 V — 240 V`,

50 Hz/60 Hz

Output : DC 11 V , 1 A

Optional Accessories

• Battery Packs BN-V12U, BN-V20U, BN-V400U

• Compact S-VHS ( ) Cassettes SE-C45/30

• Compact VHS ( ) Cassettes EC-60/45/30

• Remote Control Unit RM-V700U

• Active Carrying Bag CB-V7U

Some accessories are not available in some areas.
Please consult your nearest JVC dealer for details on
accessories and their availability.

Specifications shown are for SP mode unless otherwise indicated. E & O.E. Design and specifications subject to
change without notice.

32