Panasonic AG-DVX100 P User Manual

Before operating this product, please read the instructions carefully and save this
manual for future use.

Model AG- P

Digital Video Camera Recorder

Ò

NTSC

VQT0A97-3

Printed in Japan
F0802W3112

@

P

2

IMPORTANT

“Unauthorized recording of copyrighted television programs, video tapes and
other materials may infringe the right of copyright owners and be contrary to
copyright laws.”

indicates safety information.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC

SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).

NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.

REFER TO SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE

PERSONNEL.

The lightning flash with
arrowhead symbol, within an
equilateral triangle, is intended to
alert the user to the presence of
uninsulated “dangerous voltage”
within the product’s enclosure
that may be of sufficient
magnitude to constitute a risk of
electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an
equilateral triangle is intended to
alert the user to the presence of
important operating and
maintenance (service)
instructions in the literature
accompanying the appliance.

CAUTION:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR
SHOCK HAZARD AND ANNOYING
INTERFERENCE, USE THE
RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES
ONLY.

FCC Note:

This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. To assure continued
compliance follow the attached installation
instructions and do not make any
unauthorized modifications.

This equipment has been tested and
found to comply with the limits for a class
A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference when the equipment
is operated in a commercial environment.
This equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a
residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference in which case the user will be
required to correct the interference at his
own expense.

CAUTION:

Do not install or place this unit in a
bookcase, built-in cabinet or any other
confined space in order to maintain
adequate ventilation. Ensure that
curtains and any other materials do not
obstruct the ventilation to prevent risk
of electric shock or fire hazard due to
overheating.

CAUTION:

Danger of explosion or fire if battery is
mistreated.

O Replace only with same or specified type.
O Do not disassemble or dispose of in fire.
O Do not store in temperatures over 60°C.
O Use specified charger for rechargeable

batteries.

O Do not recharge the battery if it is not a

rechargeable type.

For Remote Controller

O Replace battery with part No. CR2025 only.
O Do not recharge the battery.

WARNING:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR
SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE
THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE.

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR
SHOCK HAZARD, KEEP THIS
EQUIPMENT AWAY FROM ALL
LIQUIDS-USE AND STORE ONLY IN
LOCATIONS WHICH ARE NOT
EXPOSED TO THE RISK OF DRIPPING
OR SPLASHING LIQUIDS, AND DO
NOT PLACE ANY LIQUID CONTAINERS
ON TOP OF THE EQUIPMENT.

3

Important Safeguards

1. Read Instructions — All the safety and
operating instructions should be read before
the unit is operated.

2. Retain Instructions — The safety and
operating instructions should be retained for
future reference.

3. Heed Warnings — All warnings on the unit
and in the operating instructions should be
adhered to.

4. Follow Instructions — All operating and
maintenance instructions should be
followed.

5. Cleaning — Unplug this video unit from the
wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid
or aerosol cleaners. Use a dry cloth for
cleaning.

6. Attachments — Do not use attachments not
recommended by the video product
manufacturer as they may be hazardous.

7. Water and Moisture — Do not use this video
unit near water — for example near a bath
tub, wash bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub,
in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool,
and the like.

8. Accessories — Do not place this video unit
on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or
table. The video unit may fall, causing
serious injury to a child or adult, and serious
damage to the unit. Use only with a cart,
stand, tripod, bracket, or table
recommended by the manufacturer, or sold
with the video unit. Any mounting of the unit
should follow the manufacturer’s instructions
and should use a mounting accessory
recommended by the manufacturer.
An appliance and cart
combination should be
moved with care. Quick
stops, excessive force,
and uneven surfaces
may cause the appliance
and cart combination to
overturn.

9. Ventilation — Slots and openings in the
cabinet are provided for ventilation and to
ensure reliable operation of the video unit
and to protect it from overheating. These
openings must not be blocked or covered.
Never place the video unit on a bed, sofa,
rug, or other similar surface, or near or over
a radiator or heat register. This video unit
should not be placed in a built-in installation
such as a bookcase or rack unless proper
ventilation is provided or the manufacturer's
instructions have been adhered to.

10. Power Sources — This video unit should be
operated only from the type of power source
indicated on the marking label. If you are not
sure of the type of power supply to your
home, consult your appliance dealer or local
power company. For video units intended to
be operated from battery power, or other
sources, refer to the operating instructions.

11. Grounding or Polarization — This video unit
may be equipped with either a polarized 2­wire AC (Alternating Current) line plug (a
plug having one blade wider than the other)
or 3-wire grounding type plug, a plug having
a third (grounding) pin.
The 2-wire polarized plug will fit into the
power outlet only one way. This is a safety
feature. If you are unable to insert the plug
fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If
the plug still fails to fit, contact your
electrician to replace your obsolete outlet.
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the
polarized plug.
The 3-wire grounding type plug will fit into a
grounding type power outlet. This is a safety
feature. If you are unable to insert the plug
into the outlet, contact your electrician to
replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat
the safety purpose of the grounding type
plug.

12. Power-Cord Protection — Power-supply
cords should be routed so that they are not
likely to be walked on or pinched by items
placed upon or against them, paying
particular attention to cords of plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point
where they exit from the unit.

4

Important Safeguards

13. Outdoor Antenna Grounding — If an outside
antenna or cable system is connected to the
video unit, be sure the antenna or cable
system is grounded so as to provide some
protection against voltage surges and built­up static charges. Part 1 of the Canadian
Electrical Code, in USA Section 810 of the
National Electrical Code, provides
information with respect to proper grounding
of the mast and supporting structure,
grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna
discharge unit, size of grounding conductors,
location of antenna discharge unit,
connection to grounding electrodes, and
requirements for the grounding electrode.

14. Lightning — For added protection of this
video unit receiver during a lightning storm,
or when it is left unattended and unused for
long periods of time, unplug it from the wall
outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable
system. This will prevent damage to the
video unit due to lightning and power-line
surges.

15. Power Lines — An outside antenna system
should not be located in the vicinity of
overhead power lines or other electric light
or power circuits, or where it can fall into
such power lines or circuits. When installing
an outside antenna system, extreme care
should be taken to keep from touching such
power lines or circuits as contact with them
might be fatal.

16. Overloading — Do not overload wall outlets
and extension cords as this can result in a
risk of fire or electric shock.

17. Objects and Liquids — Never push objects
of any kind into this video unit through
openings as they may touch dangerous
voltage points or short out parts that could
result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill
liquid of any kind onto the video unit.

18. Servicing — Do not attempt to service this
video unit yourself as opening or removing
covers may expose you to dangerous
voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing
to qualified service personnel.

19. Damage Requiring Service — Unplug this
video unit from the wall outlet and refer
servicing to qualified service personnel
under the following conditions:
a. When the power-supply cord or plug is

damaged.

b. If any liquid has been spilled onto, or

objects have fallen into the video unit.

c. If the video unit has been exposed to rain

or water.

d. If the video unit does not operate normally

by following the operating instructions.
Adjust only those controls that are
covered by the operating instructions, as
an improper adjustment of other controls
may result in damage and will often
require extensive work by a qualified
technician to restore the video unit to its
normal peration.

e. If the video unit has been dropped or the

cabinet has been damaged.

f. When the video unit exhibits a distinct

change in performance – this indicates a
need for service.

20. Replacement Parts — When replacement
parts are required, be sure the service
technician has used replacement parts
specified by the manufacturer or have the
same characteristics as the original part.
Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire,
electric shock or other hazards.

21. Safety Check — Upon completion of any
service or repairs to this video unit, ask the
service technician to perform safety checks
to determine that the video unit is in safe
operating order.

FCC Warning: Any unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment would void the

user’s authority to operate.

ANTENNA LEAD IN WIRE

GROUND
CLAMP

ELECTRIC
SERVICE
EQUIPMENT

NEC – NATIONAL
ELECTRICAL CODE

ANTENNA DISCHARGE UNIT
(NEC SECTION 810-20)

GROUNDING CONDUCTORS
(NEC SECTION 810-21)

GROUND CLAMPS

POWER SERVICE GROUNDING
ELECTRODE SYSTEM
(NEC ART 250, PART H)

5

O “LEICA” is the registered trademark of Leica Microsystems.
O “DICOMAR” is the registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.

Other model names, company names, products names, etc. are the trademarks and registered
trademarks of the companies concerned.

Contents

Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Precautions for use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Storage tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Parts and their functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Remote control unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Charging the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Mounting the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Supplying power from the AC adapter . . . .22

Cassette tapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Adjusting the hand strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Attaching the shoulder strap . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Mounting the lens hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Viewfinders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Setting the calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Charging the internal battery . . . . . . . . . . .28

Setting the electronic shutter . . . . . . . . . . .29

White balance and black balance . . . . . . . .30

Adjusting the white balance . . . . . . . . . . . .30

Adjusting the black balance . . . . . . . . . . . .31

ATW (Auto Tracking White) function . . . . .31

Setting the time data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Setting the user’s bit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Setting the time code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

Scene files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Changing the scene file settings . . . . . . . . .35

Setting menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Operation method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Configuration of setting menus . . . . . . . . . .38

SCENE FILE screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39

CAMERA SETUP screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

SW MODE screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

AUTO SW screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

PLAYBACK FUNCTIONS screen . . . . . . . .42

RECORDING SETUP screen . . . . . . . . . . .43

AV IN/OUT SETUP screen . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

DISPLAY SETUP screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

OTHER FUNCTIONS screen . . . . . . . . . . .46

Screen displays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

Camera mode and VCR mode . . . . . . . . . .47

VCR mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

Selecting the display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Connecting external components . . . . . . . .54

Shooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Preparation and inspections . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Regular shooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

REC check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Face-to-face shooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Index recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Using the USER buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Intermittent recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Backup recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

Progressive shooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58

Playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

Normal playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

Tape blank search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

Variable speed search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

Index search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

Condensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

Video heads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

Troubleshooting (Q&A) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Power supply-related problems . . . . . . . . .61

Battery-related problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Problems during normal video recording . .61
Problems during various kinds of video

recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

Editing-related problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

Display-related problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

Playback-related problems (video) . . . . . . .62

Playback-related problems (audio) . . . . . . .63

Other types of problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

6

Accessories

OBattery (2)

OAC adapter (2)

OAC cable (K2CB2DB00001)

ODC cable (VEK8722)

OWireless remote control unit

(N2QAEC000003)

OBattery for remote control unit (CR2025)

OEye cup (VMG1458)

OMicrophone holder (VYC0870)

OScrews

6 mm in length (XSB4+6FZ) a2
12 mm in length (XSB4+12FZ) a2

OMicrophone holder adapter (VYC0890)

OShoulder strap (VFC3891)

OCleaning tape (AY-DVMCL)

2 :

Refer to the “OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES”
item (on page 66) for the model numbers of
the battery and AC adapter.

7

Precautions for use

Take care to prevent water from entering
inside the camera recorder when using it in
the rain or snow or at the seashore or in
other similar environments.

O Failure to heed this caution may cause the

camera recorder and/or cassette to
malfunction (possibly leading to irreparable
damage).

Keep the camera recorder away from
equipment (such as TV sets and TV game
machines) that generate magnetic fields.

O When the camera recorder is used on top of or

in the vicinity of a TV set, the radiation of
electromagnetic waves from the set may give
rise to interference in the picture and/or sound.

O The strong magnetic fields generated by

speakers or large motors may ruin the tape
recordings or distort the images.

O The electromagnetic waves from

microcomputers may have an adverse effect
on the camera recorder or give rise to
distortion in the images and sound.

O If the camera recorder is adversely affected by

a component that generates magnetic fields to
such an extent that it can no longer operate
normally, turn off the power and remove the
battery or disconnect the AC adapter from the
power outlet, then re-install the battery or
reconnect the AC adapter to the outlet. After
this, switch the camera recorder’s power back
on.

Do not use the camera recorder near radio
transmitters or high-voltage equipment.

O If the camera recorder is used near a radio

transmitter or high-voltage equipment, the
recorded pictures and/or sound may be
adversely affected.

When using the camera recorder on the
seashore or other similar environment, take
care to ensure that no sand or dust enter
inside the camera recorder.

O Sand and dust may damage the camera

recorder and/or cassette. (Take particular
care when inserting and ejecting the cassette.)

AC adapter and battery

O When the temperature of the battery unit has

risen to an extremely high level or dropped to
an extremely low level or when the battery is
not used for prolonged periods of time has
become fully discharged, the “CHARGE” lamp
flashes several times, and charging
commences automatically.

O If the “CHARGE” lamp continues to flash even

though the battery temperature is normal,
consult your dealer as a problem may have
developed within the battery or AC adapter.

O When the battery is warm, it takes longer than

usual for the battery to be charged.

O When the AC adapter is used near a radio, the

radio sound may be distorted. Use the
adapter at a distance of at least one meter
from the radio.

O Noise may be heard while the AC adapter is in

use; however, this is normal and not indicative
of any malfunctioning.

When carrying the camera recorder, take
care not to drop it.

O A strong impact may damage the camera

recorder body and render it incapable of
proper operation.

O When carrying the camera recorder, always

use the hand strap or shoulder strap and
handle the camera carefully.

Keep the camera recorder away from
insecticide sprays and volatile liquids.

O If the camera recorder comes into contact with

insecticide sprays or volatile liquids, the
camera body may become deformed or the
surface coating may peel off.

O Ensure that the camera recorder does not

remain in close contact with rubber or plastic
products for prolonged periods of time.

After use, be absolutely sure to remove the
cassette and either remove the camera
recorder’s battery or disconnect its AC cable
from the power outlet.

O If a cassette is left inside the camera recorder,

tape slack may develop and result in damage
to the tape.

O If the battery is left inside the camera recorder

for a prolonged period, its voltage may drop to
such a low level that even after it has been
recharged, it may not be possible to re-use it.

8

Precautions for use

Battery characteristics

This camera recorder uses a rechargeable
lithium-ion battery which produces electrical
energy by means of an internal chemical
reaction. This reaction tends to be easily
affected by the ambient temperature and
humidity, and the period during which the
battery can be effectively used decreases as the
temperature becomes very high or low. The
battery charge will last for only 5 minutes if the
battery is used in an environment where the
temperature is extremely low.
When the battery temperature rises to an
abnormally high level, the protection function is
activated, and it is not possible to use the
battery for a while.

Always remove the battery upon completion
of operation.

Never fail to remove the battery from the
camera recorder. (If it is left in the camera, a
small amount of current will be consumed even
when the camera recorder’s power is off.) If the
battery is left in the camera for a prolonged
period, it will become excessively discharged to
the extent that even after it has been recharged,
it may not be possible to re-use it.

Disposing of the battery

ODispose of the battery when it has reached

the end of its service life.

ODo not dispose of the battery in a fire as it

may explode.

Protect the battery terminals.

Ensure that the battery terminals are free from
dust and foreign matter.
If the battery has been dropped, check that the
battery body and terminals have not been bent
out of shape.
Inserting a deformed battery into the camera
recorder or mounting it in the AC adapter may
result in damage to the camera recorder or AC
adapter.

LCD

OIf the same image or characters are left

displayed for a prolonged period on the LCD
monitor or viewfinder, the image may be
burned onto the screen. If this happens,
keep the power off for several hours to
restore the screen to its original condition.

OThe liquid crystal parts are fabricated using

high-precision technology. The screen has
effective pixels that cover more than 99.99%
of its area, but pixels may be missing or
remain permanently lighted in less than

0.01% of the area. This is neither indicative
of malfunctioning nor does it affect the
images in any way.

OIn locations where the temperature fluctuates

considerably, condensation may form on the
liquid crystal parts of LCD monitor. If this
happens, wipe off the moisture using a soft,
dry cloth.

OIf the temperature of the camera recorder

itself is very low, the LCD monitor may be
slightly darker than usual immediately after
the power has been turned on. Normal
brightness is restored after the internal
temperature has risen.

Do not point the lens or viewfinder’s eye­piece at the sun.

Doing so may damage the internal parts.

Protective caps for the connectors

Keep the protective caps in place over any
connectors which are not being used.

9

Storage tips

When storing the camera recorder, eject the
cassette from the camera recorder and remove
the battery.
Store all components in a location where the
humidity level is low and the temperature is
relatively stable.

Recommended temperature range:

59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C)

Recommended relative humidity:

40% to 60%

Camera recorder

OWrap the camera recorder in soft cloth to

keep out dust.

Battery

OThe battery’s service life is reduced if the

battery is stored in a location where the
temperature is extremely high or extremely
low.

OIf the battery is stored in a location exposed

to high concentrations of oily vapors and/or
dust, the terminals may corrode or other
problems may develop, possibly resulting in
malfunctioning.

ODo not bring metal objects (such as

necklaces or hairpins) into contact with
the battery terminals. The terminals may
short circuit and generate heat, and
touching them in this condition may cause
severe burns.

OStore the battery only when it is fully

discharged. It is recommended that the
battery be charged once a year when it is
being stored long-term and that it be placed
back in storage after it has been fully
discharged using the camera recorder.

Cassette tapes

OBefore storing a cassette tape, rewind the

tape to its start. If a tape that has been
stopped at some interim point along its length
is stored for six months or more (this period
of time differs depending on the storage
conditions), tape slack will develop. Always
rewind the tape to its start before storing it.

OReturn cassette tapes to their original cases

before storing them. Dust, direct sunlight
(ultraviolet rays), humidity and other such
conditions may damage the tapes. Dust
contains particles of hard mineral substances,
and if dust should enter inside a cassette,
these particles may in turn be transferred to
the heads and other parts, possibly resulting
in their damage. Make a habit of always
returning the cassettes to their original cases.

OFast forward and rewind cassette tapes once

every six months. If tapes are kept wound up
for more than a year, they may become
warped or distorted due to the expansion and
contraction caused by changes in the
temperature and humidity. In addition, layers
of tape may stick together.

ODo not place cassette tapes near matter or

equipment which emits strong magnetic
fields.

OExtremely fine magnetic particles are

contained in the coating of the tape surface,
and it is here that the signals are recorded.
Magnetic necklaces, toys and other such
items may have stronger magnetic fields than
suspected, which may erase recordings or
give rise to noise in the pictures and sound.

Lights: While shooting is in progress.

Blinks:

O When a remote control operation has been received

(about 8 blinks per second)

O When shooting is commenced

(about 8 blinks per second)

O When the tape has come to the end

(about 4 blinks per second)

O When a problem has arisen in the tape transport

system (about 4 blinks per seconds)

O When there is little tape or battery charge remaining

(once a second)

10

Parts and their functions

1POWER switch

Move this switch while pressing the lock
release button.

2START/STOP button

When this button is pressed in the camera
mode, shooting can be started or stopped.
Operation is switched between the camera
mode and VCR mode using the
CAMERA/VCR button >.

3EJECT switch

To open the cassette holder, slide this switch
in the direction of the arrow while pressing
the lock release button.
Do not operate the switch while recording is
in progress. The cassette holder will open
but recording will continue, so external light
and/or dust will adversely affect the tape.

O

Do not insert or eject the cassette tape
holding onto the cassette holder alone.

Insert or eject the tape with the camera
recorder placed on a flat and stable
surface or, alternatively, support the
camera recorder with both hands so that it
will be kept in a stable condition even if
the cassette holder is opened.

O

Close the cassette holder after
ensuring that the cassette mechanism
has completed the eject operation.

4Cassette holder

5CAM REMOTE jack (2.5 mm mini jack)

The remote control unit is connected to this
jack to enable zooming and record start/stop
to be initiated by remote control.

6PHONES jack (3.5 mm stereo mini jack)

The headphones are connected to this jack to
monitor the sound.

7Remote control sensor (rear)

8Tally lamp (rear)

This lights or blinks depending on the status
of the camera recorder.

The settings for causing the tally lamp to flash
are performed using the REC LAMP item on
the setting menu OTHER FUNCTIONS
screen. (See page 46)

9Viewfinder

:Diopter adjustment dial

This is adjusted in such a way that the
viewfinder screen comes into sharp focus.

;Power socket

<DC INPUT connector (7.9V)

=Battery eject button

2

783

56 41

O

N

POWER

OFF

Lock release button

E

JE

C

T

Lock release button

=

:

;

<

9

(Eye cup)

(Eye-piece)

11

AGAIN switch

When the camera screen is too dark, change
the setting of this switch to boost the gain and
make the screen brighter. The M and H gain
values are set using the MID GAIN item and
HIGH GAIN item on the setting menu SW
MODE screen. (See page 40)
L:The switch is normally kept at this

position. (0 dB)

M:The gain of the camera video amplifier is

boosted. (Factory setting: 6 dB)

H:The gain of the camera video amplifier is

further boosted. (Factory setting: 12 dB)

OIn the progressive mode, the screen is

controlled by a fixed gain value regardless
of the position of the GAIN switch.

BWHITE BAL switch

This is used to set the white balance.

A or B:

The white balance value adjusted by the
AWB button C is stored in the memory.

PRST (preset):

Set the switch to this position in cases
where, for instance, there is no time to
adjust the white balance.
The 3200K and 5600K white balance
values are stored in the memory.
Press the AWB button to switch between
the two values.

OThe ATW (Auto Tracking White) function

can be allocated to the A, B or PRST
position using the ATW item on the setting
menu SW MODE screen. (See page 40)

OWhat kind of light source is being used

during shooting is determined by the white
balance sensor.
Do not block the front of the white balance
sensor with your hand or any other object
during shooting or the ATW function will
not operate properly.

B
A

Parts and their functions

>CAMERA/VCR button and lamp

Each time this button is pressed, the
operation mode is switched between the
camera mode and VCR mode, and the lamp
of the selected mode lights.
Select the camera mode for shooting.
Select the VCR mode to check the tape
contents or input and record video signals
from an external source.

?Scene file dial

This is used to select the scene files. (See
page 34)
Settings tailored to various shooting
conditions are stored in the positions of this
dial.
During shooting, the necessary file can be
instantly loaded using the dial.

@END SEARCH button

When this button is pressed in the VCR
mode, the unrecorded blanks on the video
tape are searched, and the still picture mode
is established about one second before an
unrecorded blank.
The part which was shot last can also be
searched using the END SEARCH item
setting on the setting menu PLAYBACK
FUNCTIONS screen. (See page 42)
OWhen one tape is replaced with another,

the part which was shot last can be
searched using this button.

OIf no signals have been recorded on the

tape, the tape stops at the tape end.

OThis function may not operate properly if

there is an unrecorded blank near the tape
start or at a point along the tape.

OBefore proceeding with recording, check

the picture which has been searched.

>?@

White balance sensor

12

Parts and their functions

CAWB button

When this button is pressed while the WHITE
BAL switch B is set to the A or B position,
the white balance is automatically adjusted,
and the white balance value is stored in the
memory.
If this button is then held down, the black
balance is adjusted.
In the progressive mode, the black balance is
adjusted following the automatic adjustment
of the white balance simply by pressing this
button.

When this button is pressed while the WHITE
BAL switch B is set to the PRST position, the
current white balance value is displayed.
When the AWB button is pressed again, the
3200K and 5600K white balance values are
selected alternately.
OWhile recording is in progress, the black

balance cannot be adjusted.

DIRIS button

Each time this button is pressed, the method
of adjusting the lens iris is switched between
the auto mode and manual mode.

EIRIS dial

This is used to adjust the lens iris.
When the IRIS button D is set to the manual
mode, this dial is used to adjust the lens iris.
Even in the auto mode, the lens iris can be
adjusted using this dial.
OThe direction in which the IRIS dial is

turned and iris control can be set using the
IRIS DIAL item on the setting menu SW
MODE screen. (See page 40)

FFOCUS switch

This is used to select the method of
controlling the focus.

A (AUTO):

Auto focus mode

M (MANUAL):

Manual focus mode
The focus ring H is controlled manually to
adjust the focus.

∞

:

After the focal length has been set to
infinity, the manual focus mode is
established. Even if the FOCUS switch is
set to the

∞

position, it will return to the M

(MANUAL) position.

OEven when the manual focus mode is

established, the AUTO button K setting
takes priority if it is pressed.

OIf flicker occurs, the auto focus control may

not be exercised properly, so select a
shutter speed suited to the lighting. (See
page 29)

OIn the progressive mode, the manual focus

mode is established.

GPUSH AUTO button

While this button is pressed with the FOCUS
switch set to the M (MANUAL) position, the
auto focus mode is established, and the focus
is adjusted.

HFocus ring

IZoom ring

If the zoom ring pin is not required, fit it into
the threaded hole under the handle so that it
will not be lost.

F

I

H

G
D
E
C

Zoom ring pin

13

Parts and their functions

JINDEX button

When the INDEX button is pressed while
shooting or recording is in progress, the index
signal is recorded on the tape.
When it is pressed while shooting or
recording has been temporarily stopped, the
recording of the index signal is set to standby.
If shooting or recording is commenced in this
status, the index signal will then be recorded
on the tape.
By recording the index signal, searches
(index searches) can be conducted during
playback. (See page 59)

KAUTO button

When the AUTO button is pressed, the
operation mode which was set on the setting
menu AUTO SW screen is established, and
“ ” appears in the upper part of the
viewfinder and LCD monitor.
On the setting menu AUTO SW screen, the
mode of the operation to be performed
automatically (auto iris, auto gain control,
auto tracking white or auto focus) when the
AUTO button is pressed is set.
(See page 41)
The setting is released when the button is
pressed again.

LUSER1 and USER2 buttons

One of nine functions can be allocated to the
USER1 button and one can be allocated to
the USER2 button.
In accordance with the subject concerned,
the shooting conditions can be instantly
selected or fade effects can be added to the
images.
For details, refer to the USER1 item and
USER2 item (page 41) on the setting menu
SW MODE screen.

A

MND FILTER switch

This is used to select the ND filter (for
adjusting the light quantity) to be used.

OFF: The ND filter is not used.
1/8 : The light quantity is reduced to about

one eighth.

1/64: The light quantity is reduced to about

one sixty-fourth.

NAUDIO controls

These are used to adjust the recording level
of the audio signals which have been input to
the built-in microphone Q and INPUT 1 and 2
connectors Z.
Adjust the recording level of the audio signals
using these controls, irrespective of the
setting selected for the MIC ALC item on the
RECORDING SETUP screen of the setting
menu (page 43).
It is recommended that the center position
normally be selected for use.
OThey cannot be used to adjust the audio

signals which have been input to the
AUDIO IN/OUT CH1 and CH2 connectors

W.

OLight shoe

A video light, for instance, is attached to this
shoe.

PMicrophone shoe

The accessory microphone holder is attached
to this shoe so that a microphone (optional
accessory), etc. can be mounted. (See page

54)

QMicrophone (built-in, stereo)

Do not apply a strong load from an external
source to this microphone as it may damage
the microphone.

RTally lamp (front)

Refer to the details on the tally lamp (rear) 8.

SRemote control sensor (front)

TMENU button

When this button is pressed, the menu mode
is established, and the setting menu screen is
displayed in the viewfinder and on the LCD
monitor.
When it is pressed again, the menu mode is
released.

P

M

K

O

L

J

Q

S

R

N

T

14

[In the camera mode]
“5”

When the lever is tilted in the “5”
direction in the shooting pause mode, the
tape is played back in the “5” direction
at 1a speed while the lever is tilted.

“6”

When the lever is tilted in the “6”
direction in the shooting pause mode, the
tape is played back in the “6” direction
at 1a speed while the lever is tilted.

OThe scenes shot up until now can be

checked in the shooting pause mode.

VS-VIDEO IN/OUT connector

This is the S-video input/output connector.

WAUDIO IN/OUT CH1 and CH2 connectors

(pin jacks)

These are the input/output connectors for the
audio signals.

XVIDEO IN/OUT connector

(pin jack)

This is the input/output connector for the
video signals.

YDV connector

An IEEE1394 (4-pin) cable (optional
accessory) is connected here.
Video signals, audio signals or time codes,
for instance, can be transmitted digitally.

ZINPUT 1, 2 connectors (XLR, 3-pin)

External microphones or audio components
are connected here.

[INPUT 1/2 switch

This is used to switch the audio input signals
which are connected to the INPUT 1 and 2
connectors.

LINE:

The audio input signals from the audio
component serving as the line input are
selected; their input level is 0 dBu.

MIC:

The audio input signals from the external
microphone(s) are selected; their input
level is –50 dBu.
The input level can be changed to –60 dBu
using the MIC GAIN 1 and MIC GAIN 2
items on the setting menu RECORDING
SETUP screen. (See page 43)

Parts and their functions

UOPERATION lever

This lever is used to operate the VCR and
conduct the menu operations.

[In the VCR mode]
“1” :

When the lever is tilted in the “1” direction
in the stop mode, the tape is played back.
When it is tilted in the same direction
during playback, the variable speed search
mode (see page 59) is established, and the
tape is played back at the 1a speed.
(Sound is not played back.)

“5” :

When the lever is tilted in the “5”
direction in the stop mode, the tape is fast
forwarded.
When it is tilted in the same direction
during playback, the tape is cued at 10a
speed.

“6” :

When the lever is tilted in the “6”
direction in the stop mode, the tape is
rewound.
When it is tilted in the same direction
during playback, the tape is reviewed at
10a speed.

“$” :

When the lever is tilted in the “$” direction,
the tape is stopped.

“;” :

When the lever is pressed during playback,
the tape is set to the pause (temporary
stop) mode.

[In the menu mode]
“3” :

When the lever is tilted in the “3” direction,
the items displayed on the menu screen
are moved upward.

“4” :

When the lever is tilted in the “4” direction,
the items displayed on the menu screen
are moved downward.

“;” :

Press the lever to change a setting.

U

Z [X Y

W

V

\ZOOM switch

This is used to select motor-driven zoom
operations or manual zoom operations.

SERVO:

For motor-driven zoom operations
(At this position, do not attempt to perform
manual zoom operations or malfunctioning
may result.)

MANU:

For manual zoom operations

]START/STOP button (on the handle)

When this button is pressed in the camera
mode, shooting start or stop is selected.
The camera mode and VCR mode are
switched using the CAMERA/VCR button >.

^REC CHECK button

When this button is pressed in the shooting
pause mode, the picture and sound
immediately before shooting was stopped are
played back for several seconds, and the
shooting pause mode is established at the
original position on the tape.

_Zoom button

When the ZOOM switch is at the SERVO
position, motor-driven zoom operations are
performed.
When this button is pressed lightly, zoom
operations are performed at a low speed;
when it is pressed with force, they are
performed at a high speed.

`Zoom button (on the handle)

aHANDLE ZOOM switch

This switch is used to select one of the three
speeds for the zoom operations conducted
using the zoom button ` on the handle.
The speed is set using the HANDLE ZOOM
item on the setting menu SW MODE screen.
(See page 40)

`a ]

_

^

bAUDIO DUB button

When the pause status is established in the
VCR mode and this button is pressed, the
mode in which audio dubbing can be started
is established.
Press “;” of the OPERATION lever U to
record the sound. To stop the recording, tilt
the OPERATION lever in the “$” direction.
The audio input used for audio dubbing is set
using the A DUB INPUT item on the setting
menu AV IN/OUT SETUP screen. (See page

44)
OBefore proceeding with the audio dubbing,

select “12 bit” as the AUDIO REC item
setting on the setting menu RECORDING
SETUP screen and then start shooting.
(See page 43)

cVCR REC buttons

When these two buttons are pressed at the
same time in the stop status of the VCR
mode, the video signals from the connected
component are recorded.
When they are pressed at the same time in
the playback pause status of the VCR mode,
the recording standby status is established.
Each time “;” of the OPERATION lever U is
pressed, the status alternates between
recording and recording standby.
To stop recording, tilt the OPERATION lever
in the “$” direction.
OBefore proceeding to record, check that the

video signals have been input.

dAUDIO MON/VAR buttons

These buttons are used to adjust the volume
at which the sound is to be output from the
internal speaker g or PHONES jack 6.
They cannot be adjusted in the camera
mode.
The playback direction and playback speed
are changed in the variable speed search
mode. (See page 59)
When these buttons are pressed in the pause
status, the tape is played back frame by
frame.

b

d

c

\

ZOOM

SERVO MANU

15

Parts and their functions

16

Parts and their functions

eOPEN button

Press the OPEN button in the direction of the
arrow to open the LCD monitor f.
When the LCD monitor is opened, the image
on the viewfinder switches to the LCD
monitor.
The image can be switched using the EVF
MODE item on the setting menu DISPLAY
SETUP screen. (See page 45)

jSPEED SEL button

After having pressed the SHUTTER button
i, press this button to select the shutter
speed. (See page 29)

kCH1 SELECT switch

This switch is used to select the input signals
which are to be recorded on the audio
channel 1 track.

INT (L):

Audio signals of the left (L) channel of the
internal microphone

INPUT1:

Audio signals which are input to the INPUT
1 connector

INPUT2:

Audio signals which are input to the INPUT
2 connector

lCH2 SELECT switch

This switch is used to select the input signals
which are to be recorded on the audio
channel 2 track.

INT (R):

Audio signals of the right (R) channel of the
internal microphone

INPUT2:

Audio signals which are input to the INPUT
2 connector

mINPUT 1 switch (MIC POWER +48 V)

When this switch is set to ON, +48 V power
(power supply for the phantom mic) is
supplied to the INPUT 1 connector.

nINPUT 2 switch (MIC POWER +48 V)

When this switch is set to ON, +48 V power
(power supply for the phantom mic) is
supplied to the INPUT 2 connector.

fLCD monitor

gInternal speaker

hRESET button

If the camera recorder cannot be operated
even though its power is on or some other
form of trouble has occurred, use a pointed
object to press the RESET button. This will
reset the system microcomputer.
Even after resetting has been initiated, the
entered setting menu values and memory
contents will not be erased.
Refrain from pressing the RESET button
when the camera recorder is operating
properly.

iSHUTTER button

Press this button to change the shutter
speed.
After pressing this button, press the SPEED
SEL button j to select the shutter speed.
(See page 29)

f e

l n

mk

j

i

h

g

OPEN

oCOUNTER RESET button

This button is used to reset the counter value
on the counter display and the memory
counter value to zero.
It cannot reset the time code or user’s bit.

pCOUNTER button

This button is used to select what data is to
be displayed on the counter display which is
in the viewfinder and on the LCD monitor.
Each time it is pressed, the data to be
displayed changes.

COUNTER:

The counter value is displayed.

M COUNTER:

The counter value in the memory stop
mode is displayed.

TC : The time code is displayed.
UB : The user’s bit is displayed.
FR : The frame rate information (30P, 24P or

24PA) when shooting is to be performed
in the progressive mode, and the
sequence information used for frame
conversion are displayed.

Blank display :

No data is displayed.

qMODE CHK button

When this button is pressed, the current
camera status setting can be checked in the
viewfinder and on the LCD monitor.

rZEBRA button

When this button is pressed in camera mode,
a zebra pattern or marker appears in the
viewfinder and on the LCD monitor, enabling
the brightness of the subject to be checked.
Each time it is pressed, the display changes
as shown below.

The level of each zebra pattern can be set
using the ZEBRA DETECT 1 item and
ZEBRA DETECT 2 item on the setting menu
DISPLAY SETUP screen.
Display of the marker can also be switched
ON/OFF with the MARKER item on this
screen. (See page 45)

sOIS button

This button is used to set camera shake
compensation to ON or OFF. When the
compensation is ON, appears in the
viewfinder and on the LCD monitor.
Select ON or OFF to suit the shooting
conditions.
When shooting using a tripod, the OFF
setting is recommended.

tTripod mounting hole

Zebra pattern

Parts that may be whitened out due to overexposure
are displayed using a striped pattern.

s

o

p

q
r

Memory stop mode

The memory stop mode is established when the
display is switched to M COUNTER using the
COUNTER button.
1 Switch the display to M COUNTER, and press the

COUNTER RESET button o at any tape position to
reset the counter value.

2 Proceed with playback or shooting.
3 Establish the VCR mode using the CAMERA/VCR

button.

4 When the tape is now rewound or fast forwarded, it

stops traveling automatically near where the counter
value was reset.

O If the counter value is reset at the OUT point during

audio dubbing, audio dubbing can be stopped in the
memory stop mode.

17

Parts and their functions

t

OFF

ZEBRA 1ZEBRA 2

Marker

Remote control unit

1OSD button

When this button is pressed, the information
displayed in the viewfinder and on the LCD
monitor is added to the video signals, and it
can be displayed on a TV monitor as well.
When it is pressed again, the display on the
TV monitor is cleared.

2DATE/TIME button

When this button is pressed, the shooting
date (year/month/day) and/or time are
displayed in the viewfinder and on the LCD
monitor.
Each time it is pressed, the display is
switched in the sequence shown below.

3START/STOP button

This button has the same function as the
START/STOP button on the camera recorder
body.

4ZOOM/VOL buttons

During shooting, these buttons are used to
conduct motor-driven zoom operations.
The zoom speed is fixed at the medium
speed.
During tape playback, they are used to adjust
the volume at which the sound is to be output
from the internal speaker and PHONES jack.

OSD

COUNTER

RESET TITLE

STILL ADV

PAUSE

STILL ADV

INDEX

SELECT

STORE

OFF/ON

P.B.DIGITAL

VAR.

SEARCH

– VOL +

PB.

ZOOM

MENU

SET

ITEM

STOP INDEX

MULTI/
P-IN-P

REC A.DUB

PLAYC/REW FF/

B

ZOOM

DATE/
TIME

PHOTO

SHOT

START/

STOP

1
5
7

6

2

3

4

8

No display

Time display

Date display

Time and date display

The buttons listed below are for functions
which are not featured on the camera
recorder.

OPHOTO SHOT OTITLE
OMULTI/P-IN-P OSELECT
OSTORE OOFF/ON
OPB. ZOOM O N

5COUNTER button

This button has the same function as the
COUNTER button on the camera recorder
body.

6COUNTER RESET button

This button has the same function as the
COUNTER RESET button on the camera
recorder body.

7REC button

When this button is pressed together with the
PLAY button while operation is stopped in the
VCR mode, the video signals from the
connected component are recorded.
When it is pressed together with the PLAY
button during playback pause in the VCR
mode, the recording standby status is
established.
Each time the PAUSE (;) button is pressed,
the status is switched between recording and
recording standby.
To stop recording, press the STOP ($)
button.

8A. DUB button

This button has the same function as the
AUDIO DUB button on the camera recorder
body.

18

Parts and their functions

19

Parts and their functions

:VAR. SEARCH button

When this button is pressed during playback,
the variable search mode is established, and
“1a” is displayed in the viewfinder and on the
LCD monitor. When the “V” or “B” button
among the SET buttons ; is pressed, the
playback speed is changed.
Each time the “V” or “B” button is pressed,
the playback speed is changed by one setting
in the following sequence: 1/5a (or 1/3a in
the LP mode), 1a, 2a, 5a, 10a and 20a.
Use the “V” button to change the speed in
the forward direction and the “B” button to
change it in the reverse direction.

;SET buttons

MENU button:

This button has the same function as the
MENU button on the camera recorder
body.

“V” button:

When this is pressed in the menu mode,
the items displayed on the menu screen
are moved upward.
When it is pressed in the search mode, the
speed is changed in the forward direction.

“B” button:

When this is pressed in the menu mode,
the items displayed on the menu screen
are moved downward.
When it is pressed in the search mode, the
speed is changed in the reverse direction.

“M” button:

Press this in the menu mode to change
settings.

9VCR operation buttons

C/REW button (6)

This button has the same function as the
OPERATION lever on the camera recorder
body.

FF/C button (5)

This button has the same function as the
OPERATION lever on the camera recorder
body.

PLAY button (1)

When this button is pressed in the VCR
mode, the tape is played back.
When it pressed together with the REC
button, the video signals from the
connected component are recorded.

STILL ADV buttons (E, D)

When either button is pressed during tape
playback, slow-motion playback results.
When it is pressed in the pause status,
frame advance playback results.
(E in the reverse direction, D in the
forward direction)

INDEX buttons (:, 9)

When either button is pressed during tape
playback, the start of a recorded section is
searched.
(: in the reverse direction, 9 in the
forward direction)

PAUSE button (;)

This button has the same function as the
OPERATION lever on the camera recorder
body.

STOP button ($)

This button has the same function as the
OPERATION lever on the camera recorder
body.

OSD

COUNTER

RESET TITLE

STILL ADV

PAUSE

STILL ADV

INDEX

SELECT

STORE

OFF/ON

P.B.DIGITAL

VAR.

SEARCH

– VOL +

PB.

ZOOM

MENU

SET

ITEM

STOP INDEX

MULTI/
P-IN-P

REC A.DUB

PLAYC/REW FF/

B

ZOOM

DATE/
TIME

PHOTO

SHOT

START/

STOP

9

;

:

20

Remote control unit

Remote control unit settings

In order to prevent mistakes made in operations
performed using remote control when two
camera recorders are operated at the same
time, the operation buttons on the camera
recorder and accessory wireless remote control
unit can be set to work for “VCR1” applications
and for “VCR2” applications.

Setting method

OWireless remote control unit

When the STOP ($) and STILL ADV (D)
buttons among the VCR operation buttons
are pressed at the same time, the operation
buttons on the remote control unit are set to
be used for VCR1.
Similarly, when the STOP ($) and STILL ADV
(E) buttons among the VCR operation
buttons are pressed at the same time, the
operation buttons on the remote control unit
are set to be used for VCR2.
When the battery in the remote control unit
has been replaced, the operation buttons are
set to be used for VCR1.

OCamera recorder body

Set VCR1 and VCR2 using the REMOTE
item on the setting menu OTHER
FUNCTIONS screen. (See page 46)

If the camera recorder body and remote control
unit settings are at variance, “REMOTE” in red
letters lights up and is displayed in the
viewfinder and on the LCD monitor.

1

While pushing the knob in the direction of the
arrow, pull out the holder.

2

Insert the battery with the “+” marking face
up.

3

Return the holder to its original position.

Installing the battery

OWhen the battery (CR2025) has completely

run down, replace it with a new one. (The
battery life is about one year although it
depends on how often the remote control unit
is used.) If the remote control unit is
operated near the camera recorder’s remote
control sensor and the camera recorder fails
to operate, it means that the battery has run
down.

OKeep batteries out of the reach of small

children.

OSD

COUNTER

RESET TITLE

STILL ADV

PAUSE

STILL ADV

INDEX

SELECT

STORE

OFF/ON

P.B.DIGITAL

VAR.

SEARCH

– VOL +

PB.

ZOOM

MENU

SET

ITEM

STOP INDEX

MULTI/
P-IN-P

REC A.DUB

PLAYC/REW FF/

B

ZOOM

DATE/
TIME

PHOTO

SHOT

START/

STOP

VCR 2 VCR 1

21

Charging the battery

Fully charge the battery using the AC adapter
before use.
It is recommended that a spare battery be kept
on hand just in case it is needed.

Charging and recording times of accessory
battery

Charging time Continuous recording time

1

Place the battery flat along the mark
on the AC adapter, and slide it into
position.

OIf the DC cable is connected to the AC

adapter, disconnect it before proceeding.
The battery cannot be charged if this cable
is connected.

2

Connect the AC cable to the power outlet.

OThe “POWER” lamp and “CHARGE” lamp

on the AC adapter light up, and charging
commences.

OIf the “CHARGE” lamp fails to light when

the battery has been mounted, re-mount
the battery.

3

Upon completion of the charging, the
“CHARGE” lamp on the AC adapter goes
off.

4

Slide the battery out of position and
remove it.

POWER

CHARGE

Approx. 120 minutes Approx. 90 (80) minutes

O The table above gives the approximate durations. The

figure in parentheses is the duration when the LCD monitor
is used.

O The durations in the above table apply when the ambient

temperature is 68°F (20°C) and the relative humidity is
60%. Charging may take longer at other temperature and
humidity levels.

O Do not bring metal objects (such as

necklaces or hairpins) into contact with
the battery terminals. The terminals
may short circuit and generate heat, and
touching them in this condition may
cause severe burns.

O The battery heats up during operation and

during charging, as does the camera
recorder body.

O If recording and stop operations are

repeated more than is necessary, the
recording time will be less than the values
given in the above table.

O Store the battery only when it is fully

discharged. It is recommended that the
battery be charged once a year when it is
being stored long-term and that it be placed
back in storage after it has been fully
discharged using the camera recorder.

O When the temperature of the battery unit

has risen to an extremely high level or
dropped to an extremely low level or when
the battery is not used for prolonged
periods of time has become fully
discharged, the “CHARGE” lamp flashes
several times, and charging commences
automatically.

O If the “CHARGE” lamp continues to flash

even though the battery temperature is
normal, consult your dealer as a problem
may have developed within the battery or
AC adapter.

O When the battery is warm, it takes longer

than usual for the battery to be charged.

O When the AC adapter is used near a radio,

the radio sound may be distorted. Use the
adapter at a distance of at least one meter
from the radio.

O Noise may be heard while the AC adapter

is in use; however, this is normal and not
indicative of any malfunctioning.

O The battery cannot be charged while

supplying power from the AC adapter to the
camera recorder.