JVC GR-X5AG, GR-X5AA, GR-X5AH, GR-X5AC User Manual

DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA

Dear Customer,

Thank you for purchasing this digital
video camera. Before use, please
read the safety information and
precautions contained in the pages
3 – 4 and 10 to ensure safe use of
this product.

ENGLISH

GR-X5AA/AC/AG/AH

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

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

For Accessories

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

:

GETTING STARTED

VIDEO RECORDING &
PLAYBACK

DIGITAL STILL CAMERA
(D.S.C.) RECORDING &
PLAYBACK

ADVANCED FEATURES

REFERENCES

TERMS

To deactivate the demonstration,
set “DEMO MODE” to “OFF”.
(墌 pg. 33, 36)

6

18

25

33

51

62

INSTRUCTIONS

LYT1440-001A

EN

2 EN

Major Features of this Camcorder

Wipe/Fader Effects

You can use the wipe/fader effects to make
pro-style scene transitions. (墌 pg. 44)

Fade in

Fade out

Program AE and Special Effects

For example, “SPORTS” mode allows fast­moving images to be captured one frame at a
time, for vivid, stable slow-motion.
(墌 pg. 44, 45)

Flash

The flash fires automatically when shooting
still images. (墌 pg. 39)

Backlight Compensation

Simply pressing the BACKLIGHT button
brightens the image darkened by backlight.
(墌 pg. 42)

● You can also select a spot metering area so
that more precise exposure compensation
is available. (墌 pg. 42, Spot Exposure
Control)

Data Battery

You can check the battery status by simply
pressing the DATA button. (墌 pg. 14)

BATTERY CONDITION

100%

50%

0%

MAX TIME

BACKLIGHT ON

min

BACKLIGHT OFF

min

Direct Printing

If your printer is
compatible with
PictBridge, still images
can be printed easily by
connecting the camcorder with USB cable
directly to the printer. (墌 pg. 31)

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT TO
RAIN OR MOISTURE.

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.

● In certain areas, use the conversion plug
depending on the type of your AC wall outlet.

CAUTION:

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

CAUTIONS:

● This camcorder is designed to be used with
PAL-type colour television signals. It cannot be
used for playback with a television of a different
standard. However, live recording and LCD
monitor playback are possible anywhere.

● This product includes patented and other
proprietary technology and will operate only
with JVC Data Battery. Use the JVC
BN-VF707U/VF714U/VF733U 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

Caution on Replaceable lithium battery

The battery used in this device may present a fire
or chemical burn hazard if mistreated.

Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 100°C
or incinerate.

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

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

● Dispose of used battery promptly.

● Keep away from children.

● Do not disassemble and do not dispose of in

fire.

NOTES:

● The rating plate (serial number plate) and
safety caution are on the bottom and/or the
back of the main unit.

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

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

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

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

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

The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or
splashing.

Do not use this equipment in a bathroom or
places with water.
Also do not place any containers filled with water
or liquids (such as cosmetics or medicines, flower
vases, potted plants, cups etc.) on top of this unit.
(If water or liquid is allowed to enter this
equipment, fire or electric shock may be caused.)

4 EN

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

CAUTION!

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

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

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

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

CAUTION!

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

GETTING STARTED 6

Index................................................................. 6

Provided Accessories ..................................... 10

LCD Monitor.................................................... 12

Power.............................................................. 13

Operation Mode.............................................. 14

Language Setting ........................................... 15

Date/Time Settings ......................................... 15

Grip Adjustment.............................................. 15

Brightness Adjustment of the Display............. 16

Tripod Mounting.............................................. 16

Loading/Unloading a Cassette........................ 16

Loading/Unloading a Memory Card................ 17

VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK 18

VIDEO RECORDING ...........................................18

Basic Recording.............................................. 18

Tape Remaining Time ................................ 18

Zooming...................................................... 19

Journalistic Shooting .................................. 19

Time Code .................................................. 19

Quick Review.............................................. 20

Recording from the Middle of a Tape ......... 20

VIDEO PLAYBACK ............................................. 20

Normal Playback............................................. 20

Still Playback (Pause)................................. 20

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

Blank Search .............................................. 21

Connections to a TV or VCR .......................... 22

Playback Using the Remote Control............... 23

DIGITAL STILL CAMERA (D.S.C.) RECORDING
& PLAYBACK 25

D.S.C. RECORDING............................................25

Basic Shooting (D.S.C. Snapshot).................. 25

Continuous Shooting .................................. 25

Bracket Shooting ........................................ 25

Interval Shooting......................................... 26

D.S.C. PLAYBACK .............................................. 26

Normal Playback of Images............................ 26

Auto Playback of Images................................ 26

Index Playback of Files................................... 27

Viewing File Information ................................. 27

Histogram (for Still Image Files) ..................... 27

Removing On-Screen Display ........................ 27

ADDITIONAL FEATURES FOR D.S.C. .................... 28

Dubbing Still Images Recorded on a Tape to a

Memory Card.............................................. 28

Resetting The File Name................................ 28

Protecting Files............................................... 28

Deleting Files.................................................. 29

CONTENTS

Setting Print Information (DPOF Setting)........30

Direct Printing with a PictBridge Printer.......... 31

Initialising a Memory Card .............................. 32

EN

ADVANCED FEATURES 33

MENUS FOR DETAILED ADJUSTMENT.................. 33

Changing the Menu Settings .......................... 33

Recording Menus............................................ 34

Playback Menus ............................................. 37

FEATURES FOR RECORDING............................... 39

Snapshot Flash...............................................39

Flash Brightness Adjustment.......................... 39

Snapshot (For Video Recording).................... 39

Night-Scope.................................................... 40

Self-Timer ....................................................... 40

5-Second Recording....................................... 40

Manual Focus ................................................. 41

Exposure Control............................................ 41

Iris Lock .......................................................... 42

Backlight Compensation................................. 42

Spot Exposure Control.................................... 42

White Balance Adjustment.............................. 43

Manual White Balance Adjustment................. 43

Wipe or Fader Effects..................................... 44

Program AE .................................................... 44

Special Effects................................................ 45

EDITING............................................................ 46

Dubbing to or from a VCR .............................. 46

Dubbing to or from a Video Unit equipped with a

DV Connector (Digital Dubbing) ................. 47

Connection to a Personal Computer............... 48

Insert Editing...................................................49

Audio Dubbing ................................................ 50

REFERENCES 51

TROUBLESHOOTING.......................................... 51

USER MAINTENANCE......................................... 56

CAUTIONS ........................................................57

SPECIFICATIONS................................................ 60

TERMS 62

5

6 EN

Index

GETTING STARTED

d

e

f
g

h
i

a

bc

fg

jklmno

jk

When loading or unloading a
cassette, disconnect the
headphone cable, etc. and
close the cover. If the cover is
open, it may get caught in
cassette holder.

lm

W

no

X

Y

Z

a

b

p

q
r

s

hi

c

p

qr

d

tuv

st

Controls

A Set Button [SET] (墌 pg. 33)
B Play/Pause Button [4/9] (墌 pg. 20)

Night-Scope Button [NIGHT] (墌 pg. 40)
Up Button

C Fast-Forward Button [

Flash Button [FLASH] (墌 pg. 39)

D Rewind Button [

Quick Review Button [QUICK REVIEW]
(墌 pg. 20)

3

] (墌 pg. 20)

5

] (墌 pg. 20)

E Stop Button [8] (墌 pg. 20)

Backlight Compensation Button
[BACKLIGHT] (墌 pg. 42)
Down Button

F Menu Button [MENU] (墌 pg. 33)
G White Balance Button [W.B] (墌 pg. 43)

Information Button [INFO] (墌 pg. 27)

H LCD Backlight Button [LCD BACKLIGHT]

(墌 pg. 16)
Data Battery Button [DATA] (墌 pg. 14)

I Fade/Wipe Button [FADE/WIPE] (墌 pg. 44)

Index Button [INDEX] (墌 pg. 27)

J Recording Start/Stop Button (墌 pg. 18)
K VIDEO/MEMORY Switch (墌 pg. 14)
L Lock Button (墌 pg. 14)
M Power Switch [A, M, PLAY, OFF] (墌 pg. 14)
N Snapshot Button [SNAPSHOT]

(墌 pg. 25, 39)

O Cassette Open/Eject Switch [OPEN/EJECT]

(墌 pg. 16)

P Power Zoom Lever [T/W] (墌 pg. 19)

Speaker/Headphone Volume Control
[VOL. +, –] (墌 pg. 20)

Q Manual Focus Dial (墌 pg. 41)
R Focus Set Button [SET] (墌 pg. 41)
S Manual Focus Button [FOCUS] (墌 pg. 41)
T Program AE Button [PROGRAM AE]

(墌 pg. 44)

U Exposure Button [EXPOSURE] (墌 pg. 41)
V Battery Release Switch [BATT. RELEASE]

(墌 pg. 13)

Connectors

The connectors are located beneath the covers.

W USB (Universal Serial Bus) Connector

(墌 pg. 48)

X Digital Video Connector [DV IN/OUT] (i.Link*)

(墌 pg. 47, 48)

* i.Link refers to the IEEE1394-1995 industry

specification and extensions thereof. The logo
is used for products compliant with the i.Link
standard.

GETTING STARTED

EN 7

Y Microphone connector [MIC] (墌 pg. 12, 50)

(An optional microphone can be used during

video recording and audio dubbing. To

stabilise the microphone, use of an optional

shoe adapter is recommended.)

Z Headphone connector [ ] (墌 pg. 12, 50)

(No sound is output from the speaker when

headphones are connected to this connector.)

a S-Video/Audio/Video Input/Output Connector

[S/AV] (墌 pg. 22, 46)

b DC Input Connector [DC] (墌 pg. 13)

Indicators

c POWER/CHARGE Lamp (墌 pg. 13, 18)
d Ta l ly La mp ( 墌 pg. 18)

Other Parts

e LCD Monitor (墌 pg. 12)
f Card Cover [MEMORY CARD] (墌 pg. 17)
g Shoulder Strap Eyelet (墌 pg. 11)
h Grip Strap (墌 pg. 15)
i Cassette Holder Cover (墌 pg. 16)
j Speaker (墌 pg. 20)
k Remote Sensor (墌 pg. 23)

Camera Sensor

(Be careful not to cover this area, a sensor

necessary for shooting is built-in here.)

l Lens
m Flash (墌 pg. 39)

(Be careful not to cover this area in order to

obtain proper flash brightness.)

n Flash Sensor

(Be careful not to cover this area, as it

contains a sensor required by the flash.)

o Stereo Microphone (墌 pg. 50)
p Shoe

● Attach the optional stereo microphone or
video light. Make sure to turn off the power
of the camcorder and the microphone
before attaching and removing them.

● The attached microphone may be shot in
the image depending on its size.

q Battery Pack Mount (墌 pg. 13)
r Stud Hole (墌 pg. 16)
s Tripod Mounting Socket (墌 pg. 16)

GETTING STARTED

8 EN

100

GETTING STARTED

Indications on LCD Monitor

During Video Recording Only

1h40m

REC

12BIT

SOUND

15:55

A Selected Wipe/Fader Effect Indicator

(墌 pg. 44)

B Tape Running Indicator (墌 pg. 18)

(Rotates while tape is running.)

C Selected Wide Mode Indicator (墌 pg. 35)
D Recording Speed Mode (SP/LP) (墌 pg. 34)
E Tape Remaining Time (墌 pg. 18)
F REC: (Appears during recording.) (墌 pg. 18)

PAUSE: (Appears during record-standby
mode.) (墌 pg. 18)

G 5S/Anim.: Displays the 5-second recording

mode or animation recording mode.
(墌 pg. 35, 40)

H Insert Editing/Insert Editing Pause Mode

(墌 pg. 49)

I Wind Cut Indicator (墌 pg. 35)
J Time Code (墌 pg. 19, 36)
K Digital Image Stabiliser (“DIS”) (墌 pg. 34)
L SOUND 12BIT/16BIT: Sound Mode Indicator

(墌 pg. 34) (Appears for approx. 5 seconds
after turning on the camcorder.)

L
R

(Appears when an optional microphone is
connected. 墌 pg. 36, “AUX MIC” )

: Auxiliary Microphone Level

Indicator

During D.S.C. Recording Only

1024

100

INTERVAL

51

AGain Mode Indicator (墌 pg. 34)
BImage Size: 2560 (2560 x 1920), 2048

(2048 x 1536), 1600 (1600 x 1200), 1280
(1280 x 960), 640 (640 x 480) (墌 pg. 37)

CInterval Shooting Indicator (墌 pg. 26)
DShooting Icon (墌 pg. 25)

(Appears and blinks during shooting.)

ECard Icon (墌 pg. 25)

: Appears during shooting.
: Blinks in white when a memory card is

not loaded.

: Blinks in yellow while the camcorder is

reading the data in the memory card.

F : Continuous Shooting Mode Indicator

(墌 pg. 25, 37, 39)

: Bracket Shooting Mode Indicator

(墌 pg. 25, 37)

GPicture Quality: (FINE) / (STANDARD)

(in order of quality) (墌 pg. 36)

HRemaining Number Of Shots (墌 pg. 61)

(Displays the approximate remaining number
of shots that can be stored during D.S.C.
recording.)

IClock Icon (墌 pg. 26)
JFlash Indicator (墌 pg. 39)

During Both Video And D.S.C. Recording

PHOTO

BRIGHT

50m

AOperation Mode Indicator (墌 pg. 14)
B : Night-Scope Indicator (墌 pg. 40)

: Gain Up Mode (墌 pg. 34)

CRed Eye Reduction Indicator (墌 pg. 39)
DProgram AE Indicator (墌 pg. 44)
EWhite Balance Indicator (墌 pg. 43)

F Special Effect Indicator (墌 pg. 45)
G : Spot Exposure Control Indicator

(墌 pg. 42)

: Backlight Compensation Indicator
(墌 pg. 42)
±: Exposure Adjustment Indicator (墌 pg. 41)

H Iris Lock Indicator (墌 pg. 42)
I Approximate Zoom Ratio (墌 pg. 19)
J Zoom Indicator (墌 pg. 19)
K Self-Timer Recording Indicator (墌 pg. 40)
L O: (Appears when taking snapshot.)

(墌 pg. 25, 39)

M Brightness Control Indicator (墌 pg. 16)
N Battery Remaining Power Indicator

(墌 pg. 54)

O Date/Time (墌 pg. 15, 36)
P Manual Focus Adjustment Indicator

(墌 pg. 41)

Q Flash Indicator (墌 pg. 39)

During Video Playback

12BIT/MIX
L

BLANK SEARCH

PUSH "STOP" BUTTON

TO CANCEL

L

VOLUME

R

20:21:25

MIC

50m

GETTING STARTED

EN 9

H VOLUME: Volume Level Indicator (speaker or

headphone) (墌 pg. 20)
BRIGHT: Brightness Control Indicator
(墌 pg. 16)

I Time Code (墌 pg. 19, 36)
J : Auxiliary Microphone Level

L
R

(Appears when an optional microphone is
connected during audio dubbing. 墌 pg. 50)

Indicator

During D.S.C. Playback

100-0013

BRIGHT

A Operation Mode Indicator (墌 pg. 27)
B Folder/File Number (墌 pg. 27)
C Battery Remaining Power Indicator

(墌 pg. 54)

D Brightness Control Indicator (墌 pg. 16)

50m

GETTING STARTED

A Sound Mode Indicator (墌 pg. 37)
B Blank Search Indicator (墌 pg. 21)
C Tape Speed (墌 pg. 34)
D 4: Playback

5

: Fast-Forward/Shuttle Search

3

: Rewind/Shuttle Search

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

Slow-Motion
Y 9: Reverse Frame-By-Frame Playback/
Slow-Motion
D: Audio Dubbing
9D: Audio Dubbing Pause
(Appear while a tape is running.)

E Sound Input for Audio Dubbing (墌 pg. 50)
F Battery Remaining Power Indicator

(墌 pg. 54)

G Date/Time (墌 pg. 38)

10 EN

GETTING STARTED

Before Using This Camcorder

Make sure you only use cassettes with the Mini
DV mark .

Make sure you only use memory cards with the
mark or .

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.

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.)

Before recording important video, be sure to
make a trial recording.

Play back your trial recording to make sure the
video and audio have been recorded properly.

We recommend cleaning your video heads
before use.

If you haven’t used your camcorder for a while, the
heads may be dirty. We recommend periodically
cleaning the video heads with a cleaning cassette
(optional).

Be sure to store your cassette tapes and
camcorder in the proper environment.

Video heads can become dirty more easily if your
cassette tapes and camcorder are stored in a dusty
area. Cassette tapes should be removed from the
camcorder and stored in cassette cases. Store the
camcorder in a bag or other container.

Use SP (Standard) mode for important video
recordings.

LP (Long Play) mode lets you record 50% more
video than SP (Standard) mode, but you may
experience mosaic-like noise during playback
depending on the tape characteristics and the
usage environment.
So, for important recordings, we recommend using
SP mode.

It is recommended that you use JVC brand
cassette tapes.

Your camcorder is compatible with all brands of
commercially available cassette tapes complying
with the MiniDV standard, but JVC brand cassette
tapes are designed and optimized to maximize the
performance of your camcorder.

Also read “CAUTIONS” on pages 57 – 59.

®

● Microsoft
trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation in the United States and/or other
countries.

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

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

and Windows® are either registered

Provided Accessories

OR

a AC Adapter AP-V17E, AP-V14E, or

AP-V14AC

b Power Cord (only for AP-V14E and

AP-V14AC)

c Battery Pack BN-VF707U
d S-Video/Audio/Video Cable
e USB Cable
f Audio Extension Cable (for optional

microphone, see page 12 for connection)

g Audio Extension Cable (for optional

headphone, see page 12 for connection)

h Core Filter [large] (for USB cable, see page

12 for attachment)

i Core Filter [small] x5 (for S-Video/Audio/

Video cable, audio extension cable and AC
adapter’s cord, see page 12 for attachment)

j CD-ROM
k Remote Control Unit RM-V720U
l Lithium Battery CR2025* (for remote control

unit)

m Memory Card 32 MB (already inserted in the

camcorder)

n Shoulder Strap (see the right column for

attachment)

o Lens Cap and its string (see the right column

for attachment)

p Battery Mount Cover** (already attached on

the camcorder)

q Lens Hood (see below for attachment)

* A lithium battery is pre-installed in the remote

control unit at time of shipment (with insulation
sheet). To use the remote control unit, remove the
insulation sheet.

** Attach the battery mount cover to protect the

battery connector when the battery pack is
removed. For the attachment/detachment, refer to
“Charging the Battery Pack” (墌 pg. 13).

NOTES:

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

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

Attaching the Lens Hood

When shooting outside or in bright locations,
light can sometimes reflect within the lens and
cause a whitish haze to appear over the subject
(flare). To prevent flare and provide extra
protection for the lens, attach the lens hood to
the camcorder.

GETTING STARTED

Align.

Rotate counterclockwise to remove it.

● Remove the lens hood when attaching a
conversion lens or lens filter. If this type of lens is
attached over the lens hood, the corners of the
image may be darkened (vignetting).

Rotate clockwise.

EN 11

How to Attach the Lens Cap

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

NOTE:

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

Place here during

shooting.

How to Attach the Shoulder Strap

Follow the illustration.

1 Thread the strap through the eyelet.
2 Fold it back and thread it through the strap

guide and the buckle.

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

3 Slide the strap guide fully towards the eyelet.

Strap guide

Buckle

2

1

Eyelet

3

GETTING STARTED

12 EN

GETTING STARTED

Attaching the Core Filter

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

1 Release the

stoppers on both
ends of the core filter.

2 Run the cable

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

S-Video/Audio/Video cable

3 cm

Core filter (small)

Stopper

How to Use the Audio Extension Cable

When using optional headphones or external
microphone, connect to the provided audio
extension cable (with a core filter attached), then
connect the audio extension cable to the
camcorder. The core filter reduces interference.

Headphones

Microphone

USB cable, audio extension cable and AC
adapter’s cord

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

● Wind the cable so that it is not slack.

Core filter (large: USB cable, small:
audio extension cable and AC
adapter’s cord)

3 cm

Wind once.

3 Close the core filter until it clicks shut.

S-Video/Audio/Video
cable

NOTES:

● Take care not to damage the cable.

● When connecting a cable, attach the end with the

core filter to the camcorder.

USB cable, audio
extension cable and AC
adapter’s cord

Core Filter*

Audio Extension Cable
(provided)

* Attach two core filters to the audio extension

cable for headphones.

To M IC

To

Open the cover.

LCD Monitor

Pull on the end of the LCD monitor and open
the LCD monitor fully. It can rotate 270°.

90°

You can also turn the
LCD monitor over and
move it back to the
camcorder body with its
monitor facing out.

180°

Power

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

Charging the Battery Pack

POWER/CHARGE

AC Adapter
(ex. AP-V17E)

1 Set the power switch to “OFF”.
2 With the arrow on the battery pack pointing

upward, push the battery pack slightly against
the battery pack mount.

● If the battery mount cover is attached, remove it

by sliding BATT. RELEASE.

3 Slide up the battery pack until it locks in

place.

4 Connect the AC adapter to the camcorder.
5 Connect the power cord to the AC adapter.

(AP-V14E, AP-V14AC only)

6 Plug the AC adapter into an AC outlet. The

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

7 When the POWER/CHARGE lamp goes out,

charging is finished. Unplug the AC adapter from
the AC outlet. Disconnect the AC adapter from
the camcorder.

To detach the battery pack

While sliding BATT. RELEASE, remove the
battery pack.

Lamp

Power Switch

Open the cover.

mark

To DC connector

To AC outlet

Battery pack

A

Arrow

Battery pack

mount

BATT. RELEASE

GETTING STARTED

Battery pack Charging time

BN-VF707U* Approx. 1 hr. 30 min.

BN-VF714U Approx. 2 hr. 40 min.

BN-VF733U Approx. 5 hr. 40 min.

* Provided

EN 13

NOTES:

● This product includes patented and other
proprietary technology and will operate only
with JVC Data Battery. Use the JVC BN­VF707U/VF714U/VF733U battery packs. Using
generic non-JVC batteries can cause damage
to the internal charging circuitry.

● If the protective cap is attached to the battery
pack, remove it first.

● Make sure to use the battery pack with the arrow
( ) mark. The camcorder does not turn on with the
battery mount cover without the arrow ( ) mark.

● When charging the battery pack for the first time
or after a long storage period, the POWER/
CHARGE lamp may not light. In this case, remove
the battery pack from the camcorder, then try
charging again.

● If the battery operation time remains extremely
short even after having been fully charged, the
battery is worn out and needs to be replaced.
Please purchase a new one.

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

● Using the optional AA-VF7 battery charger, you
can charge the BN-VF707U/VF714U/VF733U
battery pack without the camcorder.

● After 5 minutes has elapsed in record-standby
mode with the cassette inserted, the camcorder
will automatically turn off its power supplied from
the AC adapter. In this case, the battery charge
starts if the battery is attached to the camcorder.

Using the Battery Pack

Perform steps 2 – 3 in “Charging the Battery
Pack”.

Maximum continuous recording time

Battery pack Recording time

BN-VF707U* 45 min. (55 min.)

BN-VF714U

BN-VF733U 3 hr. 45 min. (4 hr. 35 min.)

* Provided
( ): When LCD backlight is off.

1 hr. 35 min. (1 hr. 55 min.)

GETTING STARTED

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

14 EN

A

GETTING STARTED

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.

TTENTION:

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

Data Battery System

You can check the remaining battery power and
the recordable time.

1) Make sure the battery is attached and the

power switch is set to “OFF”.

2) Open the LCD monitor fully.

3) Press DATA, and the battery status screen

appears.

● It is displayed for approx. 3 seconds if the
button is pressed and released quickly, and for
approx. 15 seconds if the button is pressed
and hold for several seconds.

● If “COMMUNICATION ERROR” appears
instead of the battery status even though you
tried to press DATA several times, there may
be a problem with your battery. In such a case,
consult your nearest JVC dealer.

● The recordable time display should only be
used as a guide. It is displayed in 10 minute
units.

Using AC Power

Perform step 4 in “Charging the Battery Pack”.

NOTE:

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

About Batteries

DANGER! Do not attempt to take the batteries
apart, or expose them to flame or excessive
heat, as it may cause a fire or explosion.
WARNING! Do not allow the battery or its
terminals to come in contact with metals, as this
can result in a short circuit and possibly start a
fire.

To resume the original function of the
accurate battery power indication

If the battery power indication differs from the
actual operating time, fully charge the battery, and
then run it down. However this function may not
turn back if the battery was used for a long period
of time under extremely high/low temperature
condition or charged too many times.

Operation Mode

To turn on the camcorder, set the power switch
to any operation mode except “OFF” while
pressing down the lock button located on the
switch. The POWER/CHARGE lamp lights.

VIDEO/MEMORY

DATA

Choose the appropriate operation mode
according to your preference using the power
switch and VIDEO/MEMORY switch.

A (Full Auto Recording):

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

M (Manual Recording):

Allows you to set various recording functions
using the menus. (墌 pg. 33)
If you want more creative capabilities than full
auto recording, try this mode.

OFF:
Allows you to switch off the camcorder.

PLAY:

● Allows you to play back a recording on the

● Allows you to display a still image stored in

● Allows you to set various playback functions

MENU

Power Switch Position

tape.

the memory card or to transfer a still image
stored in the memory card to a PC.

using the menus. (墌 pg. 33)

POWER/
CHARGE Lamp

Power Switch

A

Lock Button

VIDEO/MEMORY Switch Position

VIDEO:

Allows you to record on a tape or play back a
tape. If “REC SELECT” is set to “ / ”
(墌 pg. 37), still images are recorded both on
the tape and the memory card.

MEMORY:

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

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

Power-Linked Operation

When the power switch is set to “A” or “M”, you
can also turn on/off the camcorder by opening/
closing the LCD monitor.

Language Setting

The language on the display can be changed.
(墌 pg. 33, 36, 38)

1 Set the power switch to “M” while pressing

down the lock button located on the switch.

2 Open the LCD monitor fully. (墌 pg. 12)
3 Press MENU. The menu screen appears.
4 Press Up (4/9) or

Down (8) to select “n”,
and press SET. The
CAMERA DISPLAY menu
appears.

BRIGHT

LANGUAGE

AUX MIC ON

AD .

5 Press Up (4/9) or

Down (8) to select “LANGUAGE”, and press
SET.

6 Press Up (4/9) or

Down (8) to select the
desired language, and
press SET.

LANGUAGE

7 Press Up (4/9) or

Down (8) to select
“BRETURN”, and press SET twice. The menu
screen closes.

LADASERACM I YP

V

NCREON S E

LC–T/D

AU

–/TIDA E

MET

OT

OF

–COTI E

DEM

F

ENGLISH

–
–

O

KCL C

20. 12. 05

J

NRETUR

LADASERACM I YP

–

ENGLISH
FRANÇAIS

1/3

17:00

GETTING STARTED

EN 15

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. 33, 38)

1 Perform steps 1 – 4 in “Language Setting” on

the left column.

2 Press Up (4/9) or Down (8) to select

“CLOCK ADJ.”, and press SET. The day is
highlighted.

3 Press Up (4/9) or

CAMERA DISPLAY

Down (8) to input the day,
and press SET. Repeat to
input the month, year, hour
and minute.

O

KCL C

2210.

AD

J.

. 0 5

1

7

:00

4 Press Up (4/9) or

Down (8) to select “BRETURN”, and press SET
twice. The menu screen closes.

Grip Adjustment

1 Adjust the velcro strip.
2 Pass your right hand

through the loop and grasp
the grip.

3 Adjust your thumb and

fingers through the grip to
easily operate the
recording start/stop button,
power switch and power
zoom lever. Be sure to
fasten the velcro strip to
your preference.

GETTING STARTED

16 EN

GETTING STARTED

Brightness Adjustment of the Display

1 Set the power switch to

“M” or “PLAY” while
pressing down the lock
button located on the
switch.

Up

(4/9)

2 Open the LCD monitor

(8)

fully. (墌 pg. 12)

3 Press MENU. The

menu screen appears.

4 Press Up (4/9) or

Down (8) to select “n”,
and press SET. The
CAMERA DISPLAY or
VIDEO DISPLAY menu appears.

Down

LCD
BACKLIGHT

BRIGHT

MENU

5 Press Up (4/9) or Down (8) to select

“BRIGHT”, and press SET. The menu screen
closes and the brightness control indicator
appears.

6 Press

brightness is reached.

3

or 5 until the appropriate

7 Press SET to clear the brightness control

indicator from the display.

LCD monitor’s backlight

For normal use, turn the backlight on (bright).
If you are shooting in a bright location, turning
the LCD backlight off makes the display darker
and easier to see. It also reduces battery
consumption.
To turn off the LCD backlight, press LCD
BACKLIGHT.

● To turn on the LCD backlight, press LCD
BACKLIGHT again.

Tripod Mounting

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

● Some tripods are not
equipped with studs.

Loading/Unloading a Cassette

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

PUSH HERE

OPEN/
EJECT

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 Inser t or remove a tape and press “PUSH

HERE” to close the cassette holder.

● 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.

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

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

3 Close the cassette holder cover firmly until it

locks into place.

● Be careful not to pinch your fingers by the
cassette holder cover.

Erase protection
tab

Make sure the window
side is facing out.

Cassette holder

Cassette holder
cover

To protect valuable recordings

A

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

NOTES:

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

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

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

GETTING STARTED

EN 17

Loading/Unloading a Memory Card

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

Memory card

Clipped edge

Write/erase
protection tab

Card Cover (MEMORY CARD)

1 Make sure the camcorder’s power is off.
2 Open the card cover (MEMORY CARD).
3 To load a memory card, firmly insert it with

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

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

4 Close the card cover.

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

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

NOTES:

● 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. 32)

TTENTION:

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

Label

GETTING STARTED

18 EN

VIDEO RECORDING

Basic Recording

NOTE:

Before continuing, perform the procedures listed
below:

● Powe r (墌 pg. 13)

● Loading A Cassette (墌 pg. 16)

Power Zoom Lever

1 Remove the lens cap. (墌 pg. 11)
2 Open the LCD monitor fully. (墌 pg. 12)
3 Set the VIDEO/MEMORY switch to “VIDEO”.
4 Set the power switch to “A” or “M” while

pressing down the lock button located on the
switch.

● The POWER/CHARGE lamp lights and the

● To record in LP (Long Play) mode, 墌 pg. 34.

5 To start recording, press the recording start/

stop button. The tally lamp lights and “T REC”
appears on the display while recording is in
progress.

6 To stop recording, press the recording star t/

stop button again. The camcorder re-enters the
record-standby mode.

Approximate recording time

POWER/CHARGE Lamp

Power Switch

A

Lock Button

Recording Start/Stop
Button

VIDEO/MEMORY

Tal ly L a mp
(Lights while recording is in
progress.)

camcorder enters the record-standby mode.
“PAUSE” is displayed.

Tape

30 min. 30 min. 45 min.

60 min. 60 min. 90 min.

80 min. 80 min. 120 min.

Recording mode

SP LP

NOTES:

● If the record-standby mode continues for

5 minutes, the camcorder’s power shuts off
automatically. To turn the camcorder on again,
close and re-open the LCD monitor.

● When a blank portion is left between recorded

scenes on the tape, the time code is interrupted
and errors may occur when editing the tape. To
avoid this, refer to “Recording from the Middle of a
Tape” (墌 pg. 20).

● To turn the tally lamp or beep sounds off,

墌 pg. 33, 35.

● During recording, sound is not heard from the

speaker. To hear the sound, connect optional
headphone to the headphone connector.

Tape Remai ning Tim e

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

● The time required to calculate and display the

remaining tape length, and the accuracy of the
calculation, may vary according to the type of tape
used.

Zooming

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

To zoom in

Slide the power zoom lever towards “T”.

To zoom out

Slide the power zoom lever towards “W”.

Zoom in (T: Telephoto)

1xW

T

10xW

T

20xW

T

40xW

T

Zoom out (W: Wide angle)

10xW

T

● The further you slide the power zoom lever, the
quicker the zoom action.

● Zoom magnification over 10X is done through
digital image processing, and is therefore called
digital zoom. Digital zooming is possible up to
300X. Set “ZOOM” to “40X” or “300X”.

● Zooming is available up to 8X when the VIDEO/
MEMORY switch is set to “MEMORY”.

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.

● During digital zoom, the quality of image may
suffer.
Macro shooting (as close as approx. 5 cm to the

●

subject) is possible when the power zoom lever is
set all the way to “W”. Also see “TELE MACRO” in
MANUAL menu on page 35.

● When shooting a subject close to the lens, zoom
out first. If zoomed-in in the auto focus mode, the
camcorder may automatically zoom out
depending on the distance between the
camcorder and the subject. This will not occur
when “TELE MACRO” is set to “ON”. (墌 pg. 35)

Digital zoom zone
10X (optical) zoom zone

Approximate zoom ratio

(墌 pg. 34)

VIDEO RECORDING

EN 19

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.

Time Code

During recording, a time code is recorded on the
tape. This code is to confirm the location of the
recorded scene on the tape during playback.

Display

Minutes
Seconds
Frames*

12:34:24

* Frames are not displayed during recording.

If recording starts from a blank portion, the time
code begins counting from “00:00:00”
(minute:second:frame). If recording starts from
the end of a previously recorded scene, the time
code continues from the last time code number.
If during recording a blank por tion is left par tway
through the tape, the time code is interrupted.
When recording is resumed, the time code starts
counting up again from “00:00:00”. This means
the camcorder may record the same time codes
as those existing in a previously recorded scene.
To prevent this, perform “Recording from the
Middle of a Tape” (墌 pg. 20) in the following
cases;

● When shooting again after playing back a
recorded tape.

● When power shuts off during shooting.

● When a tape is removed and re-inserted during

shooting.

● When shooting using a partially recorded tape.

● When shooting on a blank portion located partway

through the tape.

● When shooting again after shooting a scene then
opening/closing the cassette holder cover.

(25 frames =
1 second)

VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

20 EN

NOTES:

● The time code cannot be reset.

● During fast-forwarding and rewinding, the time

code indication does not move smoothly.

● The time code is displayed only when “TIME
CODE” is set to “ON”. (墌 pg. 36)

Quick Review

Enables to check the end of the last recording.

1) Press QUICK REVIEW (3) during the

record-standby mode.

2) Tape is rewound for about several seconds

and played back automatically, then pauses in
the record-standby mode for the next shot.

● Distortion may occur at start of playback. This is
not a malfunction.

Recording from the Middle of a Tape

1) Play back a tape or use blank search

(墌 pg. 21) to find the spot at which you want to
start recording, then engage the still playback
(pause) mode. (See the right column.)

2) Set the power switch to “A” or “M” while

pressing down the lock button located on the
switch, then start recording.

VIDEO PLAYBACK

Normal Playback

VIDEO/MEMORY

4/9

5

3

MENU

8

Speaker

1 Load a cassette. (墌 pg. 16)
2 Set the VIDEO/MEMORY switch to “VIDEO”.
3 Set the power switch to “PLAY” while

pressing down the lock button located on the
switch.

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

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

To control the speaker volume
Slide the power zoom lever (VOL. +, –) towards
“+” to turn up the volume, or towards “–” to turn

down the volume.

NOTES:

● The playback picture can be viewed in the LCD
monitor or on a connected TV. (墌 pg. 22)

● 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”.

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

Still Playback (Pause)

Pauses during video playback.

1) Press 4/9 during playback.

2) To resume normal playback, press 4/9

again.

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

Power Switch

A

Lock Button

VOL. +, –