Panasonic HDC-SDX1H, HDC-SDX1P, HDCSDX1 - HD SD CAMCORDER, HDCSX1 - HD VIDEO CAMERA Operating Instructions Manual

Operating Instructions

High Definition Video Camera

Model No. HDC-SDX1P

Before connecting, operating or adjusting this product, please read the instructions completely.
Spanish Quick Use Guide is included.
Guía para rápida consulta en español está inc luida.

For USA and Puerto Rico assistance, please call: 1-800-211-PANA(7262) or,
contact us via the web at: http://www.panasonic.com/contactinfo

VQT2W55

Things Y ou Should

Date of Purchase
Dealer Purchased From
Dealer Address
Dealer Phone No.
Model No.
Serial No.

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.

CAUTION

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC

SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE SCREWS.
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS
INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL.

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

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

Know

Thank you for choosing Panasonic!

You have purchased one of the most
sophisticated and reliable products on
the market today. Used properl y, we’re
sure it will bring you and your family
years of enjoyment . Please t ake time to
fill in the information on the right.
The serial number is on the tag located
on the underside of your camera. Be
sure to retain this man u al as your
convenient camera information source.

Safety Precautions

WARNING:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF F IRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK OR PRODUCT DAMAGE,
≥ DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS TO RAIN, MOISTURE, DRIPPING OR

SPLASHING AND THAT NO OBJECTS FILLED WITH LIQUIDS, SUCH AS
VASES, SHALL BE PLACED ON THE APPARATUS.

≥ USE ONLY THE RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES.

DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER (OR BACK); THER E ARE NO USE R SER VICEAB LE

≥

PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO Q UALIFIE D S ERVICE PERSONNEL.

CAUTION!

DO NOT INST ALL OR PLACE THIS UNIT IN A BOOKCASE, BUILT-IN CABINET OR IN
ANOTHER CONFINED SPACE. ENSURE THE UNIT IS WELL VENTILA TED. T O
PREVENT RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK OR FIRE HAZARD DUE TO OVERHEATING,
ENSURE THAT CURTAINS AND ANY OTHER MATERIALS DO NOT OBSTRUCT THE
VENTILATION VENTS.

The following mark and symbols are located on bottom of the unit.

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FCC Note:

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digita l
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accor dance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular in stallation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the
user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:

≥ Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
≥ Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
≥ Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the

receiver is connect ed.

≥ Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
FCC Caution: To assure continued compliance, f ollow the atta ched inst allatio n

instructions and use only shielded interface cables with ferrite

core when connecting to computer or peripheral devices.
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance coul d void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.
Declaration of Co n f o r m it y
Trade Name: Panasonic
Model No.: HDC-SDX1P
Responsible p arty: Panasonic Corporation of North America

One Panasonic Way, Secaucus, NJ 07094
Support Contact: Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company

1-800-211-PA NA (7262)
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the foll owing
two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device
must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.

HDC-SDX1P

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Battery pack (Lithium ion battery pack)

≥ Use the specified unit to recharge the battery pack.
≥ Do not use the battery pack with equipment other than the specified unit.
≥ Do not get dirt, sand, liquids, or other foreign matter on the terminals.
≥ Do not touch the plug terminals (i and j) with metal objects.
≥ Do not disassemble, remodel, heat or throw into fire.

If any electrolyte should come into contact with your hands or clothes, wash it off
thoroughly with water.
If any elec trol yte should come in to contact with your eyes, never rub the ey es. Rinse ey es
thoroughly wi th water, and then consult a doctor.

Warning

Risk of fire, explosion and burns. Do not disassemble, heat above 60 oC (140 oF) or
incinerate.

AC adaptor

This AC adaptor operates on AC between 110 V and 240 V.
But
≥ In the U.S.A. and Canada, the AC adaptor must be connected to a 120 V AC power

supply on l y.

≥ When connecting to an AC supply outside of the U.S.A. or Canada, use a plug adaptor

to suit the AC outlet configuration.

≥ When connecting to a supply of greater than AC 125 V, ensure the cord you use is

suited to the voltage of the AC supply and the rated cur r ent of the AC adaptor.

≥ Contact an electrical parts distributor for assista nce in selecting a suitable AC plug

adaptor or AC cord set.

The unit should be ins talled near an accessible AC power outlet , with the power cord
connected directly to it.
To completely disconnect power from the unit, unplug the power cord from the AC power
outlet.

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∫ Product Identification Marking

Product Location

High Definition Video Camera Battery holder
AC adaptor Bottom

U.S.A. CONSUMERS: ATTENTION:

A lithium ion/polymer battery that is recyclable powers the product
you have purchased. Please call 1-800-8-BATTERY for information
on how to recycle this battery.

<For USA-California only>

This product contains a CR Coin Cell Lithium Battery which contains Perchlorate Material –
special handling may apply.
See www.dtsc.ca.gov/h azardouswaste/perchlorate.

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IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS

Read these operatin g instructions carefully before using the unit. Follow the safety
instructions on the unit and the applicable safety instructions lis ted below. Keep these
operating instructions handy for future reference.

1) Read these instructions.

2) Keep these instructions.

3) Heed all w arnings.

4) Follow all inst ructions.

5) Do not use this apparatus near water.

6) Clean only with dry cloth.

7) Do not block any ventilation op enings.
Install in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions.

8) Do not inst all near any heat sources
such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other apparatus (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.

9) Do not defeat the safety purpose of the
polarized or grounding-ty pe plug. A
polarized plug has two blades with one
wider than the oth er. A grounding-type
plug has two blades and a third
grounding prong. Th e wide blade or the
third prong are prov ided for your safety.
If the provided plug does not fit into your
outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.

11) Only us e at ta chments/ac cessori e s
specified by the manufacturer.

12) Use only with the
cart, stand, tripod,
bracket, or t able
specified by the
manufacturer, or
sold with the
apparatus. When a
cart is used, use caut ion when moving
the cart/apparatus combination to avoid
injury from tip-over.

13) Unplug this apparatus during lightning
storms or when unused for long periods
of time.

14) Refer all servicing to qualified service
personnel. Servicing is required when
the appar atus has be en damaged in any
way, such as power-supply cord or plug
is damaged, liquid has been spilled or
objects have fallen into the apparatus,
the apparatus has been expos ed to rain
or moisture, does not operate normally,
or has been dropped.

10) Protect the power cord from being
walked on or pinched particularly at
plugs, convenienc e receptacles , and the
point where they exit from the
apparatus.

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Precautions

WARNING

CAUTION

USE & LOCATION

≥ TO AVOID SHOCK HAZARD ... Your

camera and power supply should not be
exposed to rain or moisture. Do not
connect the powe r supply or operate your
camera if it gets wet. Your camera has
been designed for out door use, however it
is not designed to sustain dir ect exposure
to water, rain, sleet, snow, sand, dust, or a
direct splashing from a poo l or even a cup
of coffee. This action could permanent ly
damage the internal parts of your camera.
Do not attempt to dis assemble this unit.
There are no user serviceable parts
inside. Unplug your camera from the
power supply befor e cleaning.

≥ AS WITH ANY SMALL OBJECT, SD

CARDS CAN BE SWALLOWED BY
YOUNG CHILDREN. DO NOT ALLOW
CHILDREN TO HANDLE THE SD CARD.

≥ STORAGE OF YOUR CAMERA ... Store

and handle your camera in a manner that
will not subject it to unnecessary
movement (avoid shaking and striking).
Your camera contains a sensitive pick-up
device which could be damaged by
improper handling or storage.

CARE

≥ TO CLEAN YOUR CAMERA ... Do not

use strong or abrasive detergents when
cleaning your camera body.

≥ TO PROTECT THE LENS ... Do not touch

the surface of the lens with your hand.
Use a commercial camera lens solution
and lens paper wh en cleaning the lens.
Improper cleaning can scratch the lens
coating.

≥ TO PROTECT THE FINISH OF YOUR

CAMERA ... Before handling yo ur

camera, make sure your hands and face
are free from a ny chemic al prod uct s, such
as suntan lotion, as it may damage the
finish.

≥ DO NOT AIM YOUR CAMERA AT THE

SUN OR OTHER BRIGHT OBJECTS

≥ DO NOT EXPOSE YOUR CAMERA TO

EXTENDED HIGH TEMPERATURE ...

Such as, i n direct sunlight, inside a closed
car, next to a heater, etc... This action
could permanently damage the internal
parts of your camera.

≥ AVOID SUDDEN CHANGES IN

TEMPERATURE ... If the unit is suddenly

moved from a cold place to a warm place,
moisture may form on the SD card and
inside the unit.

≥ DO NOT LEAVE YOUR CAMERA OR

THE POWER SUPPLY TURNED ON
WHEN NOT IN USE.

-If you see this symbol-

Inform at i on on Disposal in oth er
Countries outside the European
Union

This symbol is only
valid in the European
Union.
If you wish to discard
this product, please
contact your local
authorities or dealer
and ask for the correct
method of disposal.

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∫ About the recording format for

recording motion pictures

You can select from either A VCHD or MP4
recording formats to record motion pictures
using this unit. (l 57)
AVCHD: You ca n record high definition
quality images with this format. It is suitable
for viewing on a large format TV or for
saving to disc.
MP4: This is a recording format suitable for
playing back or editing on a PC. It can be
processed fast er than AVCHD when it is
imported to a PC.

∫ 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.

≥ Functions that can be used for still picture

recording (includ i ng the still picture
recording in Moti on Picture Recording
Mode)/still picture playback are indicated
by in these operating
instructions.

≥ Pages for reference are indicated by an

arrow, for example: l 00

∫ Cards that you can use with

this unit

SD Memory Card, SDH C Memor y Ca rd
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 d o not have the S DXC
logo are not based on SD Memory Card
Specifications.

≥ Refer to page 22 for more details on SD

cards.

∫ 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/motion picture playback
are indi c a te d b y in these
operating instruc tions.

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Contents

Accessories........................................... 11

Quick Guid e............ .............. ... .............. 12

Advanced

Preparat ion

Before using

[1] Parts identification and

handling ...................................... 15

Setup

[1] Power sup ply..... ... ... .............. ..... 18

Inserting/re moving the battery ..... 19

Chargin g th e ba t te ry . .. ................. 20

Chargin g an d recording time........ 21

[2] Recording to a card ................... 22

Cards that you can use

with this unit ................................. 22

Inserting/ r emo vin g an SD ca rd . ... 23

[3] Turning the unit on/off............... 24

Turning the unit on and off with

the power button .......................... 24

Turning the unit on and off with

the LCD monitor........................... 24

[4] Selecting a mode ....................... 25

[5] Adjusting LCD monitor.............. 26

How to use th e to u ch scr e e n .... ... 26

Recording Yourself...... ... .............. 26

[6] Setting date and time................. 27

Basic

Recording/Playback

[1] Before recording........................ 28

[2] Recording motion pictures ....... 29

[3] Recording still pictures............. 31

Recording still pictures in Motion

Picture Recording Mode ... ... ... ..... 32

[4] Intelligent Auto Mode ................ 33

[5] Motion picture/Still picture

playback...................................... 35

Setup

[1] Using the me nu sc re e n ..... ........ 39

[2] Using the Se t up M enu .......... ..... 40

Recording (Advanced)

[1] Zoom in/out function............. ... . 46

Extra Optical Zoom...................... 46

[2] Image Stabilizer Function ......... 47

Optical Image Stabilizer Lock ...... 48

[3] AF/AE trac k ing ....... .............. ... ... 49

[4] Recording with

the video light ............................ 50

[5] Recording functions of

operation ic o ns .................... ...... 51

Operation icons............................ 51

[6] Recording functions

of menus..................................... 56

[7] Manual recording....................... 70

White balan c e.. ... .............. ........... 71

Manual shutter speed/

iris adjustment.............................. 72

Manual focus adjustment............. 73

Playback (Advanced)

[1] Playback Operations .......... ....... 74

Motion picture playback using

operation ic on .. ............................ 74

Creating still pi cture from

motion pict ure ............. ... ... ........... 75

Highlight&Time frame index......... 76

Repeat pla yb ack...... ... .............. ... 76

Resuming the previous

playback....................................... 77

Zooming in on a still picture
during playback

(Playback zoom).......................... 77

[2] V arious playback functions...... 78

Playing back motion pictures/

still pictures by date..................... 78

Face Highlight Playback/
Highlight Playback/

Intelligent Scene Select ion.......... 79

Changing the playback setting
and playing back

the slide show.............................. 82

PreparationBasicAdvancedCopy/DubbingWith a PCOthers

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Editing

[1] Deleting scenes/

still pictures................................ 83

Dividing a scene to partially

delete (AVCHD) ........................... 84

Dividing a scene to partially

delete (MP4) ................................ 85

Deleting personal information ...... 86

Protecting scenes/still picture s..... 87

[2] DPOF sett ing ............. ... .............. 88

With a TV

[1] Watching Video/Pictures

on your TV .................................. 89

Connecting with

a HDMI mini cable........................ 92

Connecting with

the AV multi cable ........................ 92

[2] Playback using VIERA Link

(HDAVI Control

™

)....................... 93

™

Copy/Dubbing

With this unit/other products

[1]

Connecting a DVD burner to

copy to/play back a disc ................ 95

Preparing for copying/

playing back................................. 95

Copying to discs........................... 97

Playing back the copied disc........ 99

Managing the copied disc .......... 100

[2] Dubbing images onto other

video devices ........................... 101

With a PC

Before using

Using with a PC

[1] St arting HD Writer AE 2.6X ..... 1 13

Reading the operating
instructions of the software

applications................................ 113

[2] If using Mac.............................. 114

[3] To use as a camera for

Skype ........................................ 115

How to connect.................. ........ 116

Others

Indications

[1] Indications................................ 117

[2] Messages.................................. 120

About recovery........................... 121

Troubleshooting ................................. 122

Cautions for use ................................. 128

About copyright.................................. 134

Recording modes/approximate

recordable time................................... 135

Approximate number of recordable

pictures................................................ 136

Specifications ..................................... 137

Optional accessories ......................... 141

Accessory Order Form
(For USA and Puerto Rico

Customers)................................ 143

Limited Warranty
(ONLY FOR U.S.A. AND

PUERTO RICO).................................... 144

Index .................................................... 146

Span ish Quick Use Guide/
Guía española para

el uso rápido ....................................... 148

[1] What you can do with a PC ..... 102

End User License Agreement.... 104

[2] Operating environment ........... 105

Setup

[1] Installation ... ... .............. ... ......... 108

[2] Connecting to a PC.................. 110

About the PC disp l a y ..... ............ 112

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Accessories

Check the accessories before using this unit.
Keep the accessor ies out of reach of children to prevent swallowing.
Product numbers correct as of Jun. 2010. These may be subject to change.

Battery pack

VW-VBK180

AC adaptor

VSK0711

AC cable

K2CA2CA00025

AV multi cable

K1HY12YY0004

USB cable

K1HY04YY0032

Stylus pen

VGQ0C14

CD-ROM

Software

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Quick Guide



∫ Inserting the battery

Install the battery by inserting it in the
direction shown in t he figure.

A Insert the battery until it clicks and locks.

∫ Charging the battery

Access lamp [ACCESS] A

≥ When this unit is accessing the SD

card, the access lamp lights up.

1) Open the LCD monitor.

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

≥ Face the label side C in the direction

shown in the illustration and press it
straight in as far as it will go.

≥ Press the center of the SD card and then

pull it straight out.

3) Securely close the SD card cov er.

≥ Securely close it until it clicks.

∫ Turning the unit on/off

Turning the unit on and off with the
power button

Press the power but ton to turn on the unit.

A DC input terminal
1 Connect the AC adapt or to t he DC inp ut

terminal.

2 Connect the AC cable to the AC

adaptor, then the AC outlet.

≥ The status indicator will flash red at an

interval of 2 seconds, indicating that
charging has begun.
It will turn off when the charging is
completed.

∫ Inserting/removing an SD card

A The status indicator lights on.

≥ To turn off the unit, hold down the power

button until the status indicator goes off.

Turning the unit on and off with the LCD
monitor

Unit is turned on when the LCD monitor is
opened, and unit is turned off when it is closed.

∫ To turn on the unit

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A The status indicator lights on.

∫ To turn off the unit

∫ Language selection

1) Press t he MENU button, then touch
[SETUP] # [LANGUAGE].

2) Touch [English].

B The status indi cator goes off.

∫ Selecting a mode

Operate the mode swit ch to change the
mode to , or .

Motion Picture Recording
Mode (l 29)

Still Pictur e Recording Mode
(l 31)

Playback Mode (l 35, 74)

∫ How to use the touch screen

∫ Recording motion pictures

1) Change the mode to .

2) Open the LCD monitor.

3) Press the recording start/stop button to
start recording.

A

When you begin recording, ; changes to ¥.

∫ Recording still pictures

1) Change the mode to .

2) Open the LCD monitor.

3) Press the button fully to take the
picture.

You c a n op erate by directly tou ch i ng the
LCD monitor (touch screen) with your finger.
It is easier to use the sty l us pen (supplied)
for detailed operation or if it is hard to
operate with your fingers.

T ouc h and release the touch screen to select
icon or picture.

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∫ Motion picture/Sti ll picture





F

0h00m00s0h00m00s0h00m00s

F

F

playback

1) Change the mode to .

2) Touch the pla y mode select icon A.



3) Select the [VIDEO/PICTURE] you wish
to play back.

≥ Touch [ENTER].

4) Touch the scene or the still picture to be
played back.

(Motion picture playback)

1/;: Playback/Pause
6: Rewind playba ck
5: Fast forward playback
∫: Stops the playback and shows

the thumbnails.

1: Displays the direct playback bar.

(l 75)

(Still picture playback)
1/;: Slide show (playb ack of the still

pictures in numerical order)
start/pause.

2;: Plays back the previous picture.
;1: Plays back the next picture.
∫: Stops the playback and shows

the thumbnails.

B is displayed when [AVCHD] is

touched or is displayed when
[MP4] is touche d in st ep 3.

≥ Next (previous) page can be displayed by

touching / .

5) Select the playback operation by
touching the operation icon.

≥ Touch

operation icon.

/ to display/not-display the

C Operation icon

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Preparation

1234

6

5

AV MULTI

12

7 8 9

10
11

13

17

16

19

15

14

18

Before using

1

Parts identification and
handling

1 Power button [ ] (l 24)
2 Delete/Video light button

[ /LIGHT] ( l 50, 83)

3 Intelligent auto/Manual button

[iA/MANUAL] (l 33, 70)

4 Optical image stabilizer button

[ O.I.S.] (l 47)
5 Recording start/stop button (l 29)
6 Battery holder (l 19)
7 HDMI mini connector [HDMI]

(l 89, 93)
8 USB terminal [ ] (l 96, 110, 116)
9 AV multi connector [AV MULTI]

(l 89, 101)

≥ Use the AV multi cable (only the supplied

cable).

10 Access lamp [ACCESS] (l 23)
11 C ard slo t (l 23)
12 SD card cover (l 23)

13 Speaker

14 Lens cover opening/closing switch

When not using the unit, close the lens
cover to protect the lens.
≥ Slide the opening/closing switch to

open/close the cover.

15 Lens cover
16 Built-in flash (l 53)
17 Lens
18 Internal stereo microphones
19 Video light (l 50, 69)

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20 LCD monitor (Touch screen) (l 26)

20

22

21

23

≥ It can open up to 90o.

≥ It can rotate up to 180o A towards t he 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 affe ct th e r ec or d ed picture .

25

24

21 Menu button [MENU] (l 39)
22 Adjust zoom buttons (l 46)
23 Sub recording start/stop button

(l 28)

≥ This button functions in the same manner

as the recording s tart/stop button.

24 Tripod receptacle
25 Battery release lever [BATT] (l 19)

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26 Photoshot button [ ] (l 31)

28

26

31

27

30

29

27 Zoom lever [W/T] (In Motion Picture

Recording Mode or Still Picture

Recording Mode) (l 46)

Thumbnail display switch [ / ]/

Volume lever [sVOLr] (In Playback

Mode) (l 37)
28 Mode switch (l 25)
29 Status indicator (l 24)
30 DC input terminal (l 20)

≥ Do not use any other AC adaptors except

the supplied one.

31 Grip be lt

Adjust the le ngt h of t he grip bel t s o tha t it f it s
your hand.

1 Flip the belt.
2 Adjust the length.
3 Replace the belt.

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Preparation

Setup

Power supply

1

∫ About batteries that you can use with this unit

The battery that can be used with this unit is VW-VBK180/VW-VBK360.
≥ The unit has a function for distinguishing batteries which can be used safely. The

dedicated battery (VW-VBK180/VW-VBK360) 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 po ssibility that these battery pa cks may lead
to fire or explosion. Please be advise d that we are not liable for any acciden t 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.

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Inserting/removi ng the battery



Removing the battery

Be sure to hold down the power button until
the status indi ca to r goe s off. T h en re m o ve
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.

ャモヵヵ

A Insert the battery until it clicks

and locks.

≥ Press the power button to turn off the unit. (l 24)

Install the battery by inserting it in the direction shown in the figur e.

CAUTION

Danger of explosion if battery is
incorrectly replaced. Replace only with
the same or equivalent type
recommended by the manufacturer.
Dispose of used batteries according to
the manufacturer’s instructions.

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Charging the batter y



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

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-BC10PP; optional).
≥ The battery will not be charged if the unit is turned on.

A DC input terminal

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

≥ The status indicator will flash red at an interval of 2 seconds, indicat i ng 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 charging with the AC adaptor, you can use the unit with power
supplied from the outlet.

≥ If the status indicator flashes at a particularly fast or slow rate, refer to page 131.
≥ We recommend using Panasonic batteries (l 11, 21, 141).
≥ 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 an automobile exposed to direct sunlight for a long period

of time with doors and windows cl osed.

20

VQT2W55

Charging and recording time

∫ Charging/Recording time

≥ Temperature: 25 oC (77 oF)/humidity: 60%RH

Battery model

number

[Voltage/Capacity

(minimum)]

Supplied battery/

VW-VBK180

(optional)

[3.6 V/1790 mAh]

VW-VBK360

(optional)

[3.6 V/3580 mAh]

Charging

time

2h50min

4h50min

Recording

format

AVCHD

MP4

AVCHD

MP4

Maximum

Recording

mode

HA/HG 1h45min

HX/HE 1h50min
1280k720p
640k480p 2 h

960k540p

HA
HG/HX/HE 1 h 55 min
1280k720p
640k480p 4h5min 2h5min

960k540p

continuous

recordable

time

1h55min

1h50min 55min

3h40min

3h55min 2h

3h50min 2h

Actual

recordable

time

55 min

1h

1h50min

≥ These times are approximations.
≥ The indicated chargin g time is f or when th e batter y has been d ischa rged compl etely.

Charging time and recordable time vary depending on the usage conditions such as
high/low temperature.

≥ The actual recordable time refers to the recorda ble time when re peat edly st arting/ sto ppin g

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 rema ining, then will become red. If the battery
dischar g es, then will flash.

≥ 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.

21

VQT2W55

Preparation

32

Setup

Recording to a card

2

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.

Still

Card type Capacity Motion picture recording

8 MB/16 MB Cannot be used.

picture

recording

SD

Memory

Card

SDHC

Memory

Card

SDXC

Memory

Card

* The SD Speed Class Rating is the speed standard for successive writes.

≥ 4 GB or more Memory Cards that do not

have the SDHC logo or 48 GB or more
Memory Cards that d o not have the S DXC
logo are not based on SD Memory Card
Specifications.

32 MB/64 MB/

128 MB/256 MB

512MB/1GB/

2GB

4GB/6GB/8GB/

12 GB/16 GB/

24 GB/32 GB

48 GB/64 GB

Cannot be guaranteed in operation.

Can be used.

≥ 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.

Can be
used.

22

VQT2W55

Inserting/removi ng an SD card







When using an SD card not from Panasonic, or one previously used on other equipment,
for the first time on this unit, format the SD card. (l 44) When the SD card is fo rmatted, all
of the recorded data is deleted. Once the data is deleted, it cann ot be restored.

Caution:

Check that the access lamp has gone off.

Access lamp [ACCESS] A

≥ When this unit is accessing the SD

card, the access lamp lights up.

1 Open the LCD monitor.
2 Open the SD card cover and

insert (remove) the SD card
into (from) the card slot B.

≥ Face the label side C in the direction

shown in the illustration and press it
straight in as far as it will go.

≥ Press the center of the SD card and then

pull it straight out.

≥ Do not touch the terminals on the back of

the SD card.

≥ Do not apply strong shocks, bend, or dr op

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 t he 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, garbage or dust.

3

Securely close the SD c ard cover.

≥ Securely close it until it clicks.

≥ Do not place SD cards in the following

areas:

jIn direct sunlight
jIn very dusty or humid areas
jN e ar a he ater
jLocations susceptible to significant

differenc e in temperatur e (cond ensation
can occur.)

jWhere static electricity or

electromagne tic 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 131)

23

VQT2W55

Preparation

To turn off the unit

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



Setup

Turning the unit on/off

3

You can turn the unit on and off using the power button or by opening and closing the LCD
monitor.

Turning the unit on and off with the power button

Press the power button to turn on the unit.



A The status indicator lights on.

Turning the unit on and off with the LCD monitor

Unit is turned on when the LCD moni tor is opened, and unit is turned off when it is closed.

During normal use, opening and closing of the LCD monitor can be conveniently used
to turn the unit on/off.

∫ To turn on the unit



A The status indicator lights on.

≥ The unit will not turn off while recording motion pictures even if the LCD monitor is closed.
≥ In the following cases , ope ning the L CD monitor doe s not t urn on th e un it. P res s t he power

button to turn on the unit.

jW h en the unit is originally purchased
jWhen you have turned off the unit using the power button

∫ To turn off the unit

B The status indic ator goes off.

24

VQT2W55

Preparation

Setup

Selecting a mode

4

Change the mode to recording or playback.

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

Motion Picture Recording Mode (l 29)
Still Picture Recording Mode (l 31)

Playback Mode (l 35, 74)

25

VQT2W55

Preparation

Setup

Adjusting LCD monitor

5

How to use the touch
screen

You c a n op erate by directly tou ch i ng the
LCD monitor (touch screen) with your finger.
It is easier to use the sty l us pen (supplied)
for detailed operation or if it is hard to
operate with your fingers.

∫ Touch

T ouc h and release the touch screen to select
icon or picture.

∫ About the operation icons

///:
These icons are used to swi tc h the menu
and thumbnail display page, for item
selection and setting etc.

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

≥ Touch the center of the icon.
≥ T ouchi ng the touch scre en will not operat e

while you are touching another part of the
touch screen.

∫ Drag

Move your fing er while pressi ng on the touc h
screen. Can be used during direct playback
and playback zoom.

≥ Do not touch on the LCD monitor with

hard pointed tips, such as ball point pens.

≥ Perform the touch s creen cal ibra tion when

the touch is not recognized or wrong
location is recognized. (l 44)

Recording Yourself

¬ Change the mode to or .

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.)

26

VQT2W55

≥ 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 120)

Preparation

Setup

Setting date and time

6

When the unit is t u rned on for the first time, a message ask i ng you to set the date and time
will appear.
Select [YES] and perform steps 2 to 3 below to set the date and time.

¬ Change the mode to or .

1 Select the menu.

: [SETUP] # [CLOCK SET]

2 Touch the date or time to be

set, then set the desired value
using / .

≥ The date and time function is driven by a

built-in lithium batt ery.

≥ When this unit is purchased, the clock is

set. 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 t his unit. Leave the unit as it
is for approx. 24 hours and the battery will
maintain th e date and time for approx.
6 months. (The battery is still being
recharged even if the unit is off.)

A Displaying the World time setting

(l 40):

[HOME]/ [DESTINATION]

≥ The year can be set between 2000 and

2039.

≥ The 12-hour system is used to display the

time.

3 Touch [ENTER].

≥ The clock func tion starts at [00] seconds.
≥ A message prompting for World t i me

setting may be displayed. Perform the
World time s et ting by touc hi ng the s cree n.
(l 40)

≥ Touch [EXIT] or press the MENU b ut ton t o

complete the se tti n g.

27

VQT2W55

Basic

Recording/
Playback

Before recording

1

∫ Basic camera positioning

1 Hold the unit with both hands.
2 Put your hand through the grip belt.
3 It is convenient to us e the Sub-recording Start/Stop button 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 perso n or object.

≥ When you are outdoors, record pictures with the sunlight behind you. If the su bject 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.

∫ Basic motion picture recording

≥ The unit should normally be held steady when recording.
≥ If you move the unit when recording, do so slowly, mainta ining a constant s peed.
≥ The zoom operation is u sefu l f or rec o rding s ub ject s you c a nnot get clos e t o, but ov erus e o f

zoom in and zoom out can make the resulting motion picture less enjoyable to watch.

28

VQT2W55

Basic

Recording/
Playback

2

≥ Open the lens cover before turning on the unit. (l 15)

1 Change the mode to .

Recording motion
pictures



2 Open the LCD monitor.
3 Press the recording start/

stop button to start
recording.

A When you begin recording, ;

changes to ¥.

4 Press the recording start/

stop button again to pause
recording.

≥ There are 2 recording formats that can be used with this unit: AVCHD that records

full high-definition motion pictures, and MP4 that records motion pictures suitable
for playback and editing on a PC. To change the recording forma t, refer to page 57.

≥ Still pictures can b e recorded while recording the motion picture. ( l 32)
≥ The images recorded between pres sing the recording start/stop button to start recording

and pressing it again to pause recording become one scene.
When you record with the rec ording format set to MP4, the scene will automatically be
divided to a spec ific period of time or specific file size. (Recording will continue.)

≥ In the case of SD cards it is the maximum number of recordable scenes per card.

Recording forma ts AVCHD MP4

Maximum number of recordable scenes Approx. 3900 Approx. 89100

Maximum number of different dates( l 78) Approx. 200 Approx. 900

When the number of recordable scenes or number of different dates reaches to the
maximum limit, additional scenes cannot be recorded.

≥ While recording is in progr ess, t he rec ording wi ll no t st op e ven if t he L CD monitor is clo sed.
≥ Maximum number of recordable scenes and maximum number of different dates will be

less than above when there are both MP4 scenes and still pictures recorded on an SD
card.

29

VQT2W55

∫ Screen indications in the Motion Picture Recording Mode

0h00m00s

R 1h20m

HG

A Recording mode
B Approximate remaining recordable

time

(When the remaining time is less than
1 minute, [R 0h00m] flashes red.)

C Recording time elapsed

Each time the unit is put into recording
pause, the counter display will be reset
to “0h00m00s”.
(“h” is an abbreviation for hour, “m” for
minute and “s” for sec ond.)

0h00m00s

0h00m00s

R 1h20m

R 1h20m

About the compatibility of the recorded motion pictures

≥ Only motion pictures recorded with the recording format set t o AVCHD are supported by

AVCHD compatible equipment. Also, there is no compatibility with non-AVCHD
compatible equipment. Ima ges cannot be played with equipment that does not support
AVCHD (ordinary DVD recorders). Confirm that your equipment support s AVCHD by
referring to the operating instructions.

≥ Only motion pictures recor ded with the recording format set to MP4 are supported by

MP4 compatible equipment. Also, there is no compatibility with non-MP4 comp atible
equipment. I m ages cannot be played with equipment that does not suppor t MP4.
Confirm that your equipmen t supports MP4 by referring to the operating instructions.

≥ It is not always poss ible to pl ay bac k mot io n pict ure s record ed with th e re cordin g f ormat

set to “A VCHD” on AVCHD compatible equipmen t. In such a case, pla y back o n this u nit
instead.

≥ It is not always poss ible to pl ay bac k mot io n pict ure s record ed with th e re cordin g f ormat

set to “MP4” on MP4 compatible equipment. In such a case, play back on this unit
instead.

30

VQT2W55