Panasonic HC-X900, HC-X800, HC-X900M User Manual

Operating Instructions

High Definition Video Camera

Model No. HC-X900

HC-X900M

HC-X800

Before use, please read these instructions completely.

Model number suffix “EB” denotes UK model.

VQT4C83

Information for Your Safety

Dear Customer,

We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for purchasing this Panasonic High Definition Video Camera. Please read these Operating Instructions carefully and keep them handy for future reference. Please note that the actual controls and components, menu items, etc. of your High Definition Video Camera may look somewhat different from those shown in the illustrations in these Operating Instructions.

∫ Caution for AC mains lead

For your safety, please read the following text carefully.

This appliance is supplied with a moulded three pin mains plug for your safety and convenience. A 5-ampere fuse is fitted in this plug.

Should the fuse need to be replaced please ensure that the replacement fuse has a rating of 5-ampere and that it is approved by ASTA or BSI to BS1362.

Check for the ASTA mark Ï or the BSI mark Ì on the body of the fuse.

If the plug contains a removable fuse cover you must ensure that it is refitted when the fuse is replaced.

If you lose the fuse cover the plug must not be used until a replacement cover is obtained.

A replacement fuse cover can be purchased from your local dealer.

CAUTION!

IF THE FITTED MOULDED PLUG IS UNSUITABLE FOR THE SOCKET OUTLET IN YOUR HOME THEN THE FUSE SHOULD BE REMOVED AND THE PLUG CUT OFF AND DISPOSED OF SAFELY.

THERE IS A DANGER OF SEVERE ELECTRICAL SHOCK IF THE CUT OFF PLUG IS INSERTED INTO ANY 13-AMPERE SOCKET.

If a new plug is to be fitted please observe the wiring code as stated below.

If in any doubt please consult a qualified electrician.

IMPORTANT

The wires in this mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code:

Blue: Neutral, Brown: Live.

As these colours may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows: The wire which is coloured Blue must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured Black or Blue. The wire which is coloured Brown must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured Brown or Red.

WARNING: DO NOT CONNECT EITHER WIRE TO THE EARTH TERMINAL WHICH IS MARKED WITH THE LETTER E, BY THE EARTH SYMBOL Ó OR COLOURED

GREEN OR GREEN/YELLOW.

THIS PLUG IS NOT WATERPROOF— KEEP DRY.

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Before use

Remove the connector cover.

How to replace the fuse

The location of the fuse differ according to the type of AC mains plug (figures A and B). Confirm the AC mains plug fitted and follow the instructions below.

Illustrations may differ from actual AC mains plug.

1.Open the fuse cover with a screwdriver.

2.Replace the fuse and close or attach the fuse cover.

WARNING:

To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock or product damage,

≥Do not expose this unit to rain, moisture, dripping or splashing.

≥Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on this unit.

≥Use only the recommended accessories.

≥Do not remove covers.

≥Do not repair this unit by yourself. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.

CAUTION!

To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock or product damage,

≥Do not install or place this unit in a bookcase, built-in cabinet or in another confined space. Ensure this unit is well ventilated.

≥Do not obstruct this unit’s ventilation openings with newspapers, tablecloths, curtains, and similar items.

≥Do not place sources of naked flames, such as lighted candles, on this unit.

Install this unit so that the AC mains lead can be unplugged from the socket outlet immediately if any problem occurs.

∫ Concerning the battery

Button-type battery: CR2025 (supplied for HC-X900 and HC-X900M)

Warning

Risk of fire, explosion and burns. Do not disassemble.

Do not heat the batteries above the following temperatures or incinerate.

Button-type battery	60 oC
Battery pack	60 oC

CAUTION

≥Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the type recommended by the manufacturer.

≥When disposing the batteries, please contact your local authorities or dealer and ask for the correct method of disposal.

Warning

Keep the Button-Type battery out of the reach of children. Never put Button-Type battery in mouth. If swallowed call your doctor.

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∫EMC Electric and magnetic compatibility

This symbol (CE) is located on the rating plate.

∫ Product identification marking

	Product	Location
	High Definition	Battery holder
	Video Camera
	AC adaptor	Bottom

∫Information for Users on Collection and Disposal of Old Equipment and used Batteries

These symbols on the

products, packaging, and/ or accompanying

documents mean that used electrical and electronic products and batteries should not be mixed with general household waste.

For proper treatment, recovery and recycling of old products and used batteries, please take them to applicable collection points, in accordance with your national legislation and the Directives 2002/96/EC and 2006/66/EC.

By disposing of these products and batteries correctly, you will help to save valuable resources and prevent any potential negative effects on human health and the environment which could otherwise arise from inappropriate waste handling.

For more information about collection and recycling of old products and batteries, please contact your local municipality, your waste disposal service or the point of sale where you purchased the items. Penalties may be applicable for incorrect disposal of this waste, in accordance with national legislation.

For business users in the

European Union

If you wish to discard

electrical and electronic equipment, please contact your dealer or supplier for further information.

[Information on Disposal in other Countries outside the European Union]

These symbols are only valid in the European Union. If you wish to discard these items, please contact your local authorities or dealer and ask for the correct method of disposal.

					Note for the battery
					symbol (bottom two
					symbol examples):
					This symbol might be used
Cd					in combination with a
					chemical symbol. In this
					case it complies with the
					requirement set by the
					Directive for the chemical
					involved.

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∫About the recording format for recording motion pictures

You can select from AVCHD* or iFrame recording formats to record motion pictures using this unit. (l 64)

*It is compatible with AVCHD 3D or AVCHD Progressive (1080/50p).

AVCHD 3D:

It is possible to record powerful, life-like 3D full high definition images.

A 3D compatible television compatible to the frame sequential format is required to view the 3D full high definition images. (l 112, 117)

AVCHD Progressive:

It is possible to record 2D image in the highest quality (1080/50p) for this unit.

iFrame:

This is a recording format suitable for viewing or editing on Mac (iMovie’11). Using iMovie’11, iFrame motion pictures can be imported faster than AVCHD motion pictures. Also, the imported file size of iFrame motion pictures will be smaller than that of AVCHD motion pictures.

≥It is not compatible with motion pictures recorded in AVCHD format.

∫Indemnity about recorded content

Panasonic does not accept any responsibility for damages directly or indirectly due to any type of problems that result in loss of recording or edited content, and does not guarantee any content if recording or editing does not work properly. Likewise, the above also applies in a case where any type of repair is made to the unit (including any other non-built-in memory related component).

∫Handling of built-in memory [HC-X900M]

This unit is equipped with the built-in memory. When using this component, pay attention to the following points.

Back up data periodically.

The built-in memory is temporary storage. In order to avoid erasing data due to static electricity, electromagnetic waves, breakage, and failures, back up the data to a PC or DVD disc. (l 123, 136)

≥Access lamp [ACCESS] (l 12) illuminates while the SD card or built-in memory is being accessed (initialization, recording, playback, deleting etc.). Do not perform the following operations when the lamp illuminates. It may damage the built-in memory or cause a malfunction in the unit. jTurn the unit off (remove the battery) jInsert and remove the USB cable

jExpose the unit to vibrations or shock

≥About disposing of or giving away this unit. (l 159)

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HC-X900

∫HC-X900 / HC-X900M

About Condensation

(When the lens, the viewfinder or LCD Monitor is fogged up)

Condensation occurs when the ambient temperature or humidity changes. Be careful of condensation since it causes lens, viewfinder and LCD monitor stains, fungus and camera malfunction.

≥For more details about the cause and action required for condensation, refer to page 163.

∫HC-X800

About Condensation

(When the lens or LCD Monitor is fogged up)

Condensation occurs when the ambient temperature or humidity changes. Be careful of condensation since it causes lens and LCD monitor stains, fungus and camera malfunction.

≥For more details about the cause and action required for condensation, refer to page 163.

∫ Cards that you can use with this unit

SD Memory Card, SDHC Memory Card and SDXC Memory Card

≥4 GB or more Memory Cards that do not have the SDHC logo or 48 GB or more Memory Cards that do not have the SDXC logo are not based on SD Memory Card Specifications.

≥Refer to page 20 for more details on SD cards.

6

∫For the purposes of these operating instructions

≥SD Memory Card, SDHC Memory Card and SDXC Memory Card are referred to as the “SD card”.

≥Functions that can be used for Motion

Picture Recording Mode:

Functions that can be used for Still Picture Recording Mode:

≥Function that can be used for the

Playback Mode:

Function that can be used for the Playback Mode (motion picture only): Function that can be used for the Playback Mode (still pictures only):

≥Scene(s) recorded in 1080/50p, 1080/50i, AVCHD 3D or side-by-side ([SbS 3D]): AVCHD scene(s)

≥Pages for reference are indicated by an arrow, for example: l 00

These operating instructions are designed for use with models ,

HC-X900M and HC-X800 . Pictures may be slightly different from the original.

≥The illustrations used in these operating instructions show model HC-X900 , however, parts of the explanation refer to different models.

≥Depending on the model, some functions are not available.

≥Features may vary, so please read carefully.

≥Not all models may be available depending on the region of purchase.

VQT4C83

Contents
Information for Your Safety......................	2
Accessories.............................................	10
Preparation
Names and Functions of Main Parts .....	11
Power supply...........................................	15
Inserting/removing the battery...........	15
Charging the battery .........................	16
Charging and recording time.............	17
Recording to a card ................................	20
Cards that you can use
with this unit ......................................	20
Inserting/removing an SD card..........	21
Turning the unit on/off............................	22
Selecting a mode ....................................	23
Preparation of the LCD monitor/
Viewfinder [HC-X900/HC-X900M]...........	24
How to use the touch screen .................	24
About the Touch Menu ......................	25
Setting date and time..............................	26
Basic
Before recording.....................................	27
Selecting a media to record
[HC-X900M]..............................................	28
Recording motion pictures ....................	29
Recording still pictures..........................	31
Recording still pictures
in Motion Picture Recording Mode ....	32
Intelligent Auto Mode .............................	33
Motion picture/Still picture playback ....	35
Using the menu screen ..........................	38
Using the quick menu .......................	38
Using the Setup Menu ............................	39
Using with the remote control
[HC-X900/HC-X900M]..............................	48
Operation of direction buttons/
OK button..........................................	49

Advanced (Recording)
Using the zoom .......................................	50
Ring zoom [HC-X900/HC-X900M] ....	50
Zoom ratio during the Still Picture
Recording Mode ...............................	51
Image Stabilizer Function ......................	51
1080/50p recording.................................	52
Recording with the Touch function.......	53
Touch function icons .........................	53
Recording functions
of operation icons ..................................	56
Operation icons.................................	56
Recording functions of menus..............	62
Manual recording....................................	79
White Balance...................................	80
Manual shutter speed/
iris adjustment...................................	81
Recording with Manual Focus ..........	82
Recording 3D image...............................	84
Advanced (Playback)
Playback Operations ..............................	87
Motion picture playback
using operation icon..........................	87
Creating still picture
from motion picture ...........................	88
Highlight & Time Frame Index ..........	88
Repeat Playback...............................	89
Resuming the previous playback......	89
Zooming in on a still picture during
playback (Playback zoom)................	90
Various playback functions ...................	91
Playing back motion pictures/
still pictures by date ..........................	91
Highlight Playback ............................	92
Changing the playback settings and
playing back the slide show ..............	97

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Preparation

Basic

With a PC Copy/Dubbing Advanced Advanced (Playback) (Recording)

Others

VQT4C83

Deleting scenes/still pictures ................	99
Deleting part of a scene
(AVCHD) .........................................	101
Dividing a scene (AVCHD) ..............	102
Dividing a scene to partially delete
(iFrame/MP4) ..................................	103
Deleting personal information .........	104
Protecting scenes/still pictures........	104
Relay scene combining [HC-X900M]...	105
Watching Video/
Pictures on your TV..............................	106
Connecting with
a HDMI mini cable...........................	108
Listening in 5.1 channel sound
(AVCHD) [HC-X900/HC-X900M].....	109
Connecting with
the AV multi cable ...........................	109
Playback using VIERA Link .................	110
3D image playback
[HC-X900/HC-X900M]............................	112
Viewing with 3D compatible TV.......	112
Viewing on the LCD monitor ...........	115
Converting and playing back
2D (3D) images as 3D (2D).............	115
Adjusting 3D effect of
the 3D image...................................	116
3D image playback [HC-X800] .............	117
Converting and playing back
2D images as 3D ............................	119
Adjusting 3D effect of
the 3D image...................................	119
Copy/Dubbing
Copying between SD card and
Built-in Memory [HC-X900M]................	120
Connecting a DVD burner to copy to/
play back a disc ....................................	123
Preparing for copying/
playing back ....................................	123
Copying to discs..............................	125
Playing back the copied disc...........	127
Managing the copied disc ...............	128
Dubbing with a Blu-ray disc recorder,
video devices, etc. ................................	129
3D image storage..................................	133

With a PC
What you can do with a PC..................	136
End User License Agreement .........	138
Operating environment ........................	139
Installation.............................................	142
Connecting to a PC ..............................	142
About the PC display ......................	144
Starting HD Writer AE 4.1.....................	145
Reading the operating instructions
of the software applications ............	145
If using Mac...........................................	145
Others
Indications.............................................	147
Messages ..............................................	150
About recovery................................	151
Troubleshooting ...................................	152
Cautions for use ...................................	158
About copyright....................................	164
Recording modes/approximate
recordable time.....................................	165
Approximate number of recordable
pictures..................................................	166
Optional accessories ...........................	168
Specifications .......................................	170
Index ......................................................	174

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∫ Sales and Support Information

Customer Communications Centre

≥For customers within the UK: 0844 844 3899

≥For customers within Ireland: 01 289 8333

≥For further support on your product, please visit our website: www.panasonic.co.uk

Direct Sales at Panasonic UK

≥Order accessory and consumable items for your product with ease and confidence by phoning our Customer Communications Centre Monday–Thursday 9:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m., Friday 9:30 a.m.– 5:30 p.m. (Excluding public holidays)

≥Or go on line through our Internet Accessory ordering application at www.pas-europe.com.

≥Most major credit and debit cards accepted.

≥All enquiries transactions and distribution facilities are provided directly by Panasonic UK.

≥It couldn’t be simpler!

≥Also available through our Internet is direct shopping for a wide range of finished products, Take a browse on our website for further details.

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Accessories

Check the accessories before using this unit.

Keep the accessories out of reach of children to prevent swallowing. Product numbers correct as of Jan. 2012. These may be subject to change.

Battery pack

VW-VBN130

AC adaptor

VSK0733

AC cable

K2CT3YY00034

Remote control (Battery built-in)

(supplied for HC-X900 and HC-X900M; not supplied for HC-X800)

N2QAEC000024

AV multi cable

HC-X900 / HC-X900M

K1HY12YY0012 or K1HY12YY0008

HC-X800

K1HY12YY0012

USB cable

K2KYYYY00201

Lens hood

VDW2412

Shoe adaptor

(supplied for HC-X900 and HC-X900M; not supplied for HC-X800)

VYC0996

CD-ROM

Software

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Preparation

Names and Functions of Main Parts

1 2 3 4 56

10 7 8 9

AV MULTI	11
	12

1 LCD monitor (Touch screen) (l 24)

≥It can open up to 90o.

≥It can rotate up to 180o A towards the lens or 90o B towards the opposite direction.

Due to limitations in LCD production technology, there may be some tiny bright or dark spots on the LCD monitor screen. However, this is not a malfunction and does not affect the recorded picture.

2Power button [ ] (l 22)

3Speaker

4Inlet (cooling fan) (l 27)

5Intelligent auto/Manual button [iA/MANUAL] (l 33, 79)

13

14

15

16

17

18

6Optical image stabilizer button [ O.I.S.] (l 51)

71080/50p button [1080/50p] (l 52)

8Battery release lever [BATT] (l 15)

9Battery holder (l 15)

10HDMI mini connector [HDMI] (l 106, 110)

11USB terminal [ ] (l 124, 129, 142)

12AV multi connector [AV MULTI] (l 106, 132)

≥Use the AV multi cable (only the supplied cable).

13Lens cover

≥The lens cover opens in Motion Picture Recording Mode or Still Picture Recording Mode. (l 23)

14Built-in flash (l 59)

153D Conversion Lens attachment part (concave) (l 84)

16Lens (LEICA DICOMAR)

≥Please refer to page 27 for details about attaching the lens hood.

17AF assist lamp (l 78)

18Recording lamp (l 43)

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			19		23	24
			20
			21
			22		25	26	27
19	SD card cover (l 21)			26	Shoulder strap fixture
20	Tripod receptacle			27	Grip belt
≥ If you attach a tripod which has 5.5 mm				Adjust the length of the grip belt so that it fits
screw or larger, it may damage this unit.				your hand.
21	Access lamp [ACCESS] (l 21)
22	Card slot (l 21)
23	Photoshot button [	] (l 31)
24	Zoom lever [W/T] (In Motion Picture
	Recording Mode or Still Picture
	Recording Mode) (l 50)
	Thumbnail display switch [		/ ]/	1 Flip the belt.
	Volume lever [sVOLr] (In Playback
	Mode) (l 36)			2 Adjust the length.
25	Recording start/stop button (l 29)			3 Replace the belt.

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HC-X900 / HC-X900M

28		29
37		30
		31
38
		32
		33
	36	MIC	34
			35

28Status indicator (l 22)

29Internal microphones

30Multi manual ring (l 79, 82)

31Shoe adaptor mounting part (l 169)

32Shoe adaptor cover (l 169)

33Shoe adaptor release lever

[SHOE ADAPTOR RELEASE] (l 169)

34Microphone terminal [MIC]

≥A compatible plug-in powered microphone can be used as an external microphone.

≥Audio will be stereo (2 ch) with the external microphone input.

≥ (Microphone input level meter) is displayed when the external microphone is connected. (l 72)

≥When the unit is connected with the AC adaptor, sometimes noise may be heard depending on the microphone type. In this case, please switch to the battery for the

power supply and the noise will stop.

35Headphone terminal [ ] (l 61)

≥ Excessive sound pressure from earphones and headphones can cause hearing loss.

≥ Listening at full volume for long periods may damage the user’s ears.

36DC input terminal [DC IN] (l 16)

≥ Do not use any other AC adaptors except the supplied one.

37Mode switch (l 23)

38Viewfinder (l 24)

Due to limitations in LCD production technology, there may be some tiny bright or dark spots on the viewfinder screen. However, this is not a malfunction and does not affect the recorded picture.

39

40

41

39Eyepiece corrector dial (l 24)

40Camera function button [CAMERA FUNCTION] (l 79)

41Remote control sensor (l 49)

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HC-X800

42

43

45

44

42Internal microphones

43Status indicator (l 22)

44Mode switch (l 23)

45DC input terminal [DC IN] (l 16)

≥Do not use any other AC adaptors except the supplied one.

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Preparation

Power supply

∫ About batteries that you can use with this unit

The battery that can be used with this unit is VW-VBN130/VW-VBN260.

≥The unit has a function for distinguishing batteries which can be used safely. The dedicated battery (VW-VBN130/VW-VBN260) supports this function. The only batteries suitable for use with this unit are genuine Panasonic products and batteries manufactured by other companies and certified by Panasonic. (Batteries which do not support this function cannot be used). Panasonic cannot in any way guarantee the quality, performance or safety of batteries which have been manufactured by other companies and are not genuine Panasonic products.

It has been found that counterfeit battery packs which look very similar to the genuine product are made available to purchase in some markets. Some of these battery packs are not adequately protected with internal protection to meet the requirements of appropriate safety standards. There is a possibility that these battery packs may lead to fire or explosion. Please be advised that we are not liable for any accident or failure occurring as a result of use of a counterfeit battery pack. To ensure that safe products are used we would recommend that a genuine Panasonic battery pack is used.

Inserting/removing the battery

≥ Press the power button to turn off the unit. (l 22)

Open the LCD monitor and install the battery by inserting it in the direction shown in the figure.

s

Removing the battery

Be sure to hold down the power button until the status indicator goes off. Then remove the battery while supporting the unit to prevent it from dropping.

Move the battery release lever in the direction indicated by the arrow and remove the battery when unlocked.

Insert the battery until it clicks and locks.

BATT

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Charging the battery

When this unit is purchased, the battery is not charged. Charge the battery fully before using this unit for the first time.

The unit is in the standby condition when the AC adaptor is connected. The primary circuit is always “live” as long as the AC adaptor is connected to an electrical outlet.

Important:

≥Use the supplied AC adaptor. Do not use the AC adaptor of another device.

≥Do not use the AC cable with any other equipment as it is designed only for this unit. Also, do not use the AC cable from other equipment with this unit.

≥The battery can also be charged using a battery charger (VW-BC20EB: optional).

≥The battery will not be charged if the unit is turned on.

≥It is recommended to charge the battery in a temperature between 10 °C and 30 °C. (The battery temperature should also be the same.)

A DC input terminal

≥ Insert the plugs as far as they will go.

1 Connect the AC cable to the AC adaptor, then the AC outlet. 2 Connect the AC adaptor to the DC input terminal.

≥The status indicator will flash red at an interval of 2 seconds (approximately 1 second on, 1 second off), indicating that charging has begun. It will turn off when the charging is completed.

∫ Connecting to the AC outlet

If you turn on the unit while connecting with the AC adaptor, you can use the unit with power supplied from the outlet.

When recording for a long time, keep the AC adaptor connected and use it together with the battery.

≥If the status indicator flashes at a particularly fast or slow rate, refer to page 160.

≥We recommend using Panasonic batteries (l 10, 17, 18, 168).

≥If you use other batteries, we cannot guarantee the quality of this product.

≥Do not heat or expose to flame.

≥Do not leave the battery(ies) in a car exposed to direct sunlight for a long period of time with doors and windows closed.

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Charging and recording time

∫ Charging/Recording time

≥Temperature: 25 oC/humidity: 60%RH

≥HC-X900 / HC-X900M

When using the viewfinder (times in parentheses are when using the LCD monitor)

HC-X900/HC-X900M

	Battery model number	Charging	Recording	Maximum	Actual
	[Voltage/Capacity			continuous	recordable
		time	mode
	(minimum)]			recordable time	time
			[1080/50p],	1 h 25 min	55 min
	Supplied battery/		[AVCHD 3D]*	(1 h 15 min)	(45 min)
			[HA], [HG],	1 h 30 min	55 min
	VW-VBN130 (optional)	2 h 30 min
			[HX], [HE]	(1 h 20 min)	(50 min)
	[7.2 V/1250 mAh]
			[iFrame],	1 h 35 min	55 min
			[SbS 3D]*	(1 h 20 min)	(50 min)
			[1080/50p],	3 h 5 min	1 h 55 min
			[AVCHD 3D]*	(2 h 45 min)	(1 h 40 min)
			[HA], [HG],	3 h 15 min	2 h
	VW-VBN260 (optional)	4 h 30 min	[HX], [HE]	(2 h 50 min)	(1 h 45 min)
	[7.2 V/2500 mAh]		[iFrame]	3 h 20 min	2 h
				(2 h 55 min)	(1 h 45 min)
			[SbS 3D]*	3 h 15 min	2 h
				(2 h 55 min)	(1 h 45 min)

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HC-X800

	Battery model number	Charging	Recording	Maximum	Actual
	[Voltage/Capacity			continuous	recordable
		time	mode
	(minimum)]			recordable time	time
			[1080/50p],
	Supplied battery/		[HA], [HG],	1 h 30 min	55 min
			[HX], [HE]
	VW-VBN130 (optional)	2 h 30 min
			[iFrame]	1 h 35 min	55 min
	[7.2 V/1250 mAh]
			[AVCHD 3D]*	1 h 25 min	55 min
			[SbS 3D]*	1 h 35 min	55 min
			[1080/50p],	3 h 5 min	1 h 55 min
			[AVCHD 3D]*
	VW-VBN260 (optional)	4 h 30 min	[HA], [HG],	3 h 15 min	2 h
	[7.2 V/2500 mAh]		[HX], [HE]
			[iFrame],	3 h 20 min	2 h
			[SbS 3D]*

* This will be the recording mode when the 3D Conversion Lens (optional) is attached.

≥These times are approximations.

≥The indicated charging time is for when the battery has been discharged completely. Charging time and recordable time vary depending on the usage conditions such as high/low temperature.

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≥The actual recordable time refers to the recordable time when repeatedly starting/stopping recording, turning the unit on/off, moving the zoom lever etc.

≥The batteries heat up after use or charging. This is not a malfunction.

Battery capacity indication

≥The display changes as the battery capacity reduces.

# # # #

If there is less than 3 minutes remaining, then will become red. If the battery discharges, then will flash.

≥Screen display will disappear when no touch operation is performed. However, it will be constantly displayed when the remaining battery time becomes less than 30 minutes.

≥The remaining battery capacity is displayed when using the Panasonic battery that you can use for this unit. The actual time can vary depending on your actual use.

≥When using the AC adaptor or batteries made by other companies, the remaining battery capacity will not be shown.

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Preparation

Recording to a card

The unit can record still pictures or motion pictures to an SD card or built-in memory. To record to an SD card, read the following.

This unit (an SDXC compatible device) is compatible with SD Memory Cards, SDHC Memory Cards and SDXC Memory Cards. When using an SDHC Memory Card/SDXC Memory Card with other equipment, check the equipment is compatible with these Memory Cards.

Cards that you can use with this unit

Use SD cards conforming to Class 4 or higher of the SD Speed Class Rating* for motion picture recording.

Card type	Capacity
SD Memory Card	512 MB/1 GB/2 GB
SDHC Memory Card	4 GB/6 GB/8 GB/12 GB/16 GB/24 GB/32 GB
SDXC Memory Card	48 GB/64 GB

	* SD Speed Class Rating is the speed	e.g.:
	standard regarding continuous writing.
	Check via the label on the card, etc.

≥Please confirm the latest information about SD Memory Cards/SDHC Memory Cards/SDXC Memory Cards that can be used for motion picture recording on the following website.

http://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/e_cam

(This website is in English only.)

≥Operation of the SD Memory Card 256 MB or less is not guaranteed. Also, the SD Memory Card 32 MB or less cannot be used for the motion picture recording.

≥4 GB or more Memory Cards that do not have the SDHC logo or 48 GB or more Memory Cards that do not have the SDXC logo are not based on SD Memory Card Specifications.

≥The operation of Memory Cards exceeding 64 GB cannot be guaranteed.

≥When the write-protect switch A on SD card is locked, no recording,

deletion or editing will be possible on the card. ≥ Keep the Memory Card out of reach of children to prevent swallowing.

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Inserting/removing an SD card

When using a non Panasonic SD card for the first time, or one which was previously used on another equipment, it is necessary to format the SD card. (l 46) When the SD card is formatted, all of the recorded data is deleted. Once the data is deleted, it cannot be restored.

Caution:

Check that the access lamp has gone off.

Access lamp [ACCESS] A

≥When this unit is accessing the SD card or built-in memory, the access lamp lights up.

1 Open the SD card cover and insert (remove) the SD card into (from) the card slot.

≥Face the label side B in the direction shown in the illustration and press it straight in as far as it will go.

≥Press the centre of the SD card and then pull it straight out.

2 Press the C
part of the SD
card cover and
close the SD
card cover.

≥ Securely close it until it clicks.

≥Do not touch the terminals on the back of the SD card.

≥Do not apply strong shocks, bend, or drop the SD card.

≥Electrical noise, static electricity or the failure of this unit or the SD card may damage or erase the data stored on the SD card.

≥When the card access lamp is lit, do not: jRemove the SD card

jTurn the unit off

jInsert and remove the USB cable

jExpose the unit to vibrations or shock Performing the above while the lamp is on may result in damage to data/SD card or this unit.

≥Do not expose the terminals of the SD card to water, dirt or dust.

≥Do not place SD cards in the following areas:

jIn direct sunlight

jIn very dusty or humid areas jNear a heater

jLocations susceptible to significant difference in temperature (condensation can occur.)

jWhere static electricity or electromagnetic waves occur

≥To protect SD cards, return them to their cases when you are not using them.

≥About disposing of or giving away the SD card. (l 162)

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Preparation

Turning the unit on/off

You can turn the unit on and off using the power button, the LCD monitor or the viewfinder.

Turning the unit on and off with the power button

Open the LCD monitor and press the power button to turn on the unit.

HC-X900 / HC-X900M

HC-X800

To turn off the unit

Hold down the power button until the status indicator goes off.

A The status indicator lights on.

Turning the unit on and off with the LCD monitor/viewfinder

Opening the LCD monitor or extending the viewfinder turns on the unit. Closing the LCD monitor/viewfinder turns off the unit.

During general use, you may find it convenient to turn the unit on/off using the LCD monitor or viewfinder.

∫ To turn on the unit

HC-X900 / HC-X900M

HC-X800

A The status indicator lights on.

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∫ To turn off the unit

HC-X900 / HC-X900M

HC-X800

B The status indicator goes off.

HC-X900 / HC-X900M

≥The unit will not turn off unless the LCD monitor is closed and the viewfinder is retracted.

≥The unit will not turn off while recording motion pictures even if the LCD monitor is closed and the viewfinder is retracted.

HC-X800

≥The unit will not turn off while recording motion pictures even if the LCD monitor is closed.

≥In the following cases, opening the LCD monitor or extending the viewfinder does not turn on the unit. Press the power button to turn on the unit.

jWhen the unit is originally purchased

jWhen you have turned off the unit using the power button

Preparation

Selecting a mode

Change the mode to recording or playback.

Operate the mode switch to change the mode to , or .

HC-X900 / HC-X900M

HC-X800

Motion Picture Recording Mode (l 29)

Still Picture Recording Mode (l 31)

Playback Mode (l 35, 87)

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Preparation

Preparation of the LCD monitor/

Viewfinder [HC-X900/HC-X900M]

The viewfinder is turned off and the LCD monitor is turned on when the LCD monitor is opened.

The viewfinder is turned on when the LCD monitor is closed and the viewfinder is extended.

≥Live image recording or 3D recordings can be viewed in 3D on the LCD monitor. (l 84, 112)

There are differences in the way that different people experience 3D images. Check from a position directly in front of and at around 25 cm from the LCD monitor, where you can easily see picture.

∫ To adjust the image in the viewfinder

Adjust to make the image clear by rotating the eyepiece corrector dial.

≥ Extend the viewfinder and close the LCD monitor to turn on the viewfinder.

Preparation

How to use the touch screen

You can operate by directly touching the LCD monitor (touch screen) with your finger.

∫ Touch

Touch and release the touch screen to select icon or picture.

≥ Touch the centre of the icon. ≥ Touching the touch screen will not operate while you are

touching another part of the touch screen.

∫ Slide while touching

Move your finger while pressing on the touch screen.

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∫ About the operation icons

HC-X900 / HC-X900M

HC-X800

/ / / :

These icons are used to switch the menu and thumbnail display page, for item selection and setting etc.

:

Touch to return to the previous screen such as when setting menus.

About the Touch Menu

Touch (left side)/ (right side) of on the Touch Menu to switch the operation icons.

Touch (left side)/ (right side) of on the Touch Menu.

≥It is also possible to switch the operation icons by sliding the Touch Menu right or left while touching it.

A Touch Menu

T

W

Recording Mode

Playback Mode

IRIS

MENU

MENU

* Above image is example of display for HC-X900/HC-X900M.

B Operation icons to display can be changed. (l 43) C Displayed only during the Manual Mode. (l 79)

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∫ To display the Touch Menu

Display of the Touch Menu will disappear when no touch operation is performed for a specific period of time. To display it again, touch .

≥ Do not touch on the LCD monitor with hard pointed tips, such as ball point pens.

Preparation

Setting date and time

When the unit is turned on for the first time, a message asking you to set the date and time will appear.

Select [YES] and perform Steps 2 to 3 below to set the date and time.

1 Select the menu. (l 38)

MENU : [SETUP] # [CLOCK SET]

2 Touch the date or time to be set, then set the desired value using /

.

ADisplaying the World time setting (l 39):

[HOME]/ [DESTINATION]

≥The year can be set between 2000 and 2039.

≥The 24-hour system is used to display the time.

3 Touch [ENTER].

≥A message prompting for World Time setting may be

displayed. Perform the World Time setting by touching the screen. (l 39)

≥Touch [EXIT] to complete the setting.

≥The date and time function is driven by a built-in lithium battery.

≥If the time display becomes [- -], the built-in lithium battery needs to be charged. To recharge the built-in lithium battery, connect the AC adaptor or attach the battery to this unit. Leave the unit as it is for approx. 24 hours and the battery will maintain the date and time for approx. 6 months. (The battery is still being recharged even if the unit is off.)

WARNING

THE LITHIUM BATTERY IN THIS EQUIPMENT MUST ONLY BE REPLACED BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL. WHEN NECESSARY, CONTACT YOUR LOCAL PANASONIC SUPPLIER.

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Basic

Before recording

∫ Basic camera positioning

1 Hold the unit with both hands.

2 Put your hand through the grip belt.

3 It is convenient to use the recording button icon A when holding the unit at waist level.

≥When recording, make sure your footing is stable and there is no danger of colliding with another person or object.

≥When you are outdoors, record pictures with the sunlight behind you. If the subject is backlit, it will become dark in the recording.

≥Keep your arms near your body and separate your legs for better balance.

≥Do not cover the microphones or the cooling fan inlet with your hand etc.

∫ Basic motion picture recording

≥ The unit should normally be held steady when recording.

≥ If you move the unit when recording, do so slowly, maintaining a constant speed.

≥ The zoom operation is useful for recording subjects you cannot get close to, but overuse of zoom in and zoom out can make the resulting motion picture less enjoyable to watch.

∫ Recording yourself

Rotate the LCD monitor towards the lens side.

≥ The image is horizontally flipped as if you see a mirror image. (However the image recorded is the same as a normal recording.)

≥ Only some indications will appear on the screen. When appears, return the direction of the LCD monitor to normal position and check the warning/alarm indication. (l 150)

∫ Attaching/Removing the lens hood

This will reduce the extra light entering the lens in bright sunlight or backlight etc., making it possible to take clearer pictures.

A Attaching the lens hood

B Removing the lens hood

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≥If you use the Filter Kit (optional), the Conversion Lens (optional) or the 3D Conversion Lens (optional), remove the lens hood.

Basic

Selecting a media to record [HC-X900M]

The card and built-in memory can be selected separately to record motion pictures or still pictures.

1

2

Change the mode to or . Select the menu. (l 38)

MENU : [MEDIA SELECT]

3 Touch the media to record motion pictures or still pictures.

≥The media is selected separately to motion pictures or still pictures is highlighted in yellow.

4 Touch [ENTER].

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Basic
Recording motion pictures
1	Change the mode to	. (l 23)
2	Open the LCD monitor or extend the viewfinder.
3	Press the recording start/stop button		T
	to start recording.		W
A Recording button icon
B When you begin recording, ; changes to ¥.
4	Press the recording start/stop button
	again to pause recording.

≥Recording can also be started/stopped by touching the recording button icon. This icon functions in the same manner as the recording start/stop button.

∫ Screen indications in the Motion Picture Recording Mode

			Recording mode
			Approximate remaining recordable time
R 1h20m			≥ When the remaining time is less than
			1 minute, R 0h00m flashes red.
			Recording time elapsed
			≥ “h” is an abbreviation for hour, “m” for
0h00m00s			minute and “s” for second.
			≥ Each time the unit is put into recording
			pause, the counter display will be reset
			to 0h00m00s.

0h00m00s

R 1h20m

≥ Screen display will disappear when no touch operation is performed for a specific period of time. To display it again, touch the screen. (l 39)

≥ It will be constantly displayed when the remaining recordable time becomes less than 30 minutes.

≥ To change the recording format, change the Recording Mode (l 64) or press and hold the 1080/50p button. (l 52)

≥ Still pictures can be recorded while recording the motion picture. (l 32)

≥ The images recorded between pressing the recording start/stop button to start recording and pressing it again to pause recording become one scene.

When you record with the [REC MODE] set to [iFrame], the scenes longer than approximately 20 minutes will be automatically divided. (Recording will continue.)

≥ (Maximum recordable scenes of a single SD card or built-in memory)

Recording formats	[1080/50p], [HA], [HG], [HX], [HE]	[iFrame]
Recordable scenes	Approx. 3900	Approx. 89100
Different dates (l 91)	Approx. 900	Approx. 900

≥ Maximum number of recordable scenes and maximum number of different dates will be less than above table when there are both iFrame scenes and still pictures recorded on an SD card or the built-in memory.

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≥ HC-X900 / HC-X900M

While recording is in progress, the recording will not stop even if the LCD monitor is closed and the viewfinder is retracted.

HC-X800

While recording is in progress, the recording will not stop even if the LCD monitor is closed.

≥ HC-X900 / HC-X900M

Put the unit in Pause mode when connecting or disconnecting an external microphone with the MIC terminal.

≥ Please refer to page 165 for detail about the approximate recordable time.

About the compatibility of the recorded motion pictures

When motion picture is recorded in AVCHD 3D format

≥Only motion pictures recorded with the recording format set to AVCHD 3D are supported by AVCHD 3D compatible equipment.

≥It is still possible to play back when the motion picture is dubbed to an AVCHD compatible equipment, but the 3D motion picture recorded on this unit will be converted to a 2D motion picture. It is not possible to restore the converted 2D motion picture back to a 3D motion picture.

≥It is not always possible to play back motion pictures recorded with the recording format set to AVCHD 3D on AVCHD 3D compatible equipment or AVCHD compatible equipment. In such a case, play back on this unit instead.

When motion picture is recorded in AVCHD Progressive format

≥Only motion pictures recorded with the recording format set to AVCHD Progressive are supported by AVCHD Progressive compatible equipment.

≥It is not always possible to play back motion pictures recorded with the recording format set to AVCHD Progressive on AVCHD Progressive compatible equipment. In such a case, play back on this unit instead.

When motion picture is recorded in AVCHD format

≥Only motion pictures recorded with the recording format set to AVCHD are supported by AVCHD compatible equipment. Images cannot be played with equipment that does not support AVCHD (ordinary DVD recorders). Confirm that your equipment supports AVCHD by referring to the operating instructions.

≥It is not always possible to play back motion pictures recorded with the recording format set to AVCHD on AVCHD compatible equipment. In such a case, play back on

this unit instead.

When motion picture is recorded in iFrame format

≥You can play back on Mac (iMovie’11).

≥It is not compatible with motion pictures recorded in AVCHD format.

≥It is not always possible to play back motion pictures recorded with the recording format set to iFrame on iFrame compatible equipment. In such a case, play back on this unit instead.

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