PANASONIC HDC-SX5 User Manual

Operating Instructions

High Definition Video Camera

Model No. HDC-SX5

Before use, please read these instructions completely.

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Information for Your Safety

WARNING:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE, 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); THERE ARE NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

CAUTION!

≥ DO NOT INSTALL OR PLACE THIS UNIT

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

≥ DO NOT OBSTRUCT THE UNIT’S

VENTILATION OPENINGS WITH NEWSPAPERS, TABLECLOTHS, CURTAINS, AND SIMILAR ITEMS.

≥ DO NOT PLACE SOURCES OF NAKED

FLAMES, SUCH AS LIGHTED CANDLES, ON THE UNIT.

≥ DISPOSE OF BATTERIES IN AN

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY MANNER.

The socket outlet shall be installed near the equipment and easily accessible. The mains plug of the power supply cord shall remain readily operable. To completely disconnect this apparatus from the AC Mains, disconnect the power supply cord plug from AC receptacle.

ª EMC Electric and magnetic

compatibility

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

Use only the recommended accessories.

≥ Do not use any other AV cables, Component

cable and USB cables except the supplied one.

≥ When you use the cable which are sold

separately, please make sure to use the one whose length is less than 3 metres.

≥ Keep the Memory Card out of reach of children

to prevent swallowing.

CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT

CAUTION This product contains a laser diode of higher class than 1. To ensure continued safety, do not remove any covers or attempt to gain access to the inside of the product. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.

Product Identification Marking is located on the bottom of units.

IEC60825-1:2001

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Information on Disposal for Users of Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment (private households)

This symbol on the products and/or accompanying documents means that used electrical and electronic products should not be mixed with general household waste.

For proper treatment, recovery and recycling, please take these products to designated collection points, where they will be accepted on a free of charge basis. Alternatively, in some countries you may be able to return your products to your local retailer upon the purchase of an equivalent new product. Disposing of this product correctly 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. Please contact your local authority for further details of your nearest designated collection point. 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

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.

ª Indemnity concerning recording

content

The manufacturer shall in no event be liable for the loss of recordings due to malfunction or defect of this unit, its accessories or recordable media.

ª Carefully observe copyright laws

Recording of pre-recorded tapes or discs or other published or broadcast material for purposes other than your own private use may infringe copyright laws. Even for the purpose of private use, recording of certain material may be restricted.

≥ SDHC Logo is a trademark. ≥ miniSD Logo is a trademark. ≥ “AVCHD” and the “AVCHD” logo are the

trademarks of Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. and the Sony Corporation.

≥ Manufactured under license from Dolby

Laboratories. Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

≥ “HDMI”, the HDMI Logo and the

High-Definition Multimedia Interface are the registered trademarks or trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC.

≥ HDAVI Control

Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.

≥ LEICA is a registered trademark of Leica

Microsystems IR GmbH and DICOMAR is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.

≥ Microsoft

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

≥ IBM and PC/AT are registered trademarks of

International Business Machines Corporation of the U.S.

≥ Intel®, Core

the registered trademarks or trademarks of the Intel Corporation in the United States and other countries.

≥ Microsoft product screen shot(s) reprinted with

permission from Microsoft Corporation.

≥ Other names of systems and products

mentioned in these instructions are usually the registered trademarks or trademarks of the manufacturers who developed the system or product concerned.

™

is a trademark of Matsushita

, Windows

are either registered trademarks or

™

®,

Windows Vista™ and

, Pentium® and Celeron® are

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This product is licensed under the AVC patent portfolio license for the personal and non-commercial use of a consumer to (i) encode video in compliance with the AVC Standard ("AVC Video") and/or (ii) decode AVC Video that was encoded by a consumer engaged in a personal and non-commercial activity and/or was obtained from a video provider licensed to provide AVC Video. No license is granted or shall be implied for any other use. Additional information may be obtained from MPEG LA, LLC. See http://www.mpegla.com

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Contents

Information for Your Safety ..................2

Before using

Features of the High Definition

Video Camera ........................................7

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

Parts identification and handling ......12

Using the LCD monitor .......................16

Using the viewfinder ...........................16

Using the remote control ....................17

Discs that can be used on this unit ... 19 Cards that you can use

with this unit ........................................24

Disc and card handling .......................26

Setup

Charging the battery ...........................27

Fitting/Removing the battery .............28

Charging and recording time .............29

Connecting to the AC outlet ...............32

Selecting a mode

(Turning the unit on/off) ......................33

Quick start ...........................................35

Inserting/removing a disc ...................36

Inserting/removing an SD card .......... 38

How to use the cursor button ............39

Switching the language ...................... 44

Using the menu screen .......................45

Setting date and time .......................... 46

Adjusting LCD monitor/viewfinder .... 47

Recording

Before recording .................................50

Recording motion pictures ................52

PRE-REC function .................................. 54

Recording modes/recordable time

available for the motion picture ............... 55

Recording still pictures (JPEG) .........57

Number of pixels and picture quality

for still picture recording .......................... 59

Various recording functions ..............60

Zoom in/out function ............................... 60

Recording yourself .................................. 62

Intelligent contrast control ....................... 62

Fade in/fade out function ........................ 63

Colour night view function ....................... 64

Soft skin mode ........................................ 65

Backlight compensation function ............ 65

Self-timer recording ................................. 66

Built-in flash ............................................ 67

Tele macro function ................................. 69

Image stabilizer function ......................... 69

Guide line function .................................. 70

Wind noise reduction function ................. 71

Microphone level ..................................... 71

Zebra display .......................................... 72

Colour bar ............................................... 73

Auto slow shutter mode .......................... 73

Manual recording functions ............... 74

Scene mode ............................................ 74

Manual focus adjustment ........................ 75

White balance ......................................... 76

Manual shutter speed/aperture

adjustment .............................................. 77

Playback

Playback of motion pictures ..............79

Playback of still pictures (JPEG)

on an SD card ...................................... 84

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Editing

With a computer

Editing scenes .....................................86

Deleting scenes .......................................86

Dividing a scene to delete .......................87

Protecting scenes ....................................88

Copying from an SD card to a disc ...89

Editing still pictures ............................90

Deleting still pictures ...............................90

Protecting still pictures ............................92

DPOF setting ...........................................92

Disc and card management

Formatting ...........................................94

Formatting discs ......................................94

Formatting SD cards ...............................94

Finalizing a disc ..................................95

Finalizing a disc .......................................95

Un-finalizing a DVD-RW ..........................96

Creating a top menu ................................97

Protecting a disc .................................98

Disc protection setting ....................... 99

Displaying disc information ............. 100

With other products

With a TV ............................................101

Playback on TV .....................................101

Playback using VIERA Link

(HDAVI Control) .................................107

With Blu-ray Disc Player, DVD recorder, DVD player,

computer etc. .....................................109

Playback using Blu-ray Disc Players .....109

Playback on DVD recorder,

DVD player, computer etc. ....................109

With a DVD recorder

or video device ..................................110

Dubbing images onto a connected

DVD recorder or video device ...............110

With a printer (PictBridge) ................ 111

Before using with a computer .......... 113

What you can do with a computer ......... 113

Contents on provided CD-ROM ............ 114

End User License Agreement ............... 115

Operating environment ......................... 116

Installation ......................................... 118

Installing HD Writer 2.0E for SX/SD ...... 118

Reading the operating instructions

of the software applications .................. 119

Software application uninstallation ........ 119

Connection and recognition ............120

Connection and recognition

procedures ............................................ 120

About the computer display .................. 121

To disconnect USB cable safely ............ 123

Verifying the unit is correctly

recognised by the computer .................. 124

Using HD Writer 2.0E for SX/SD ....... 125

If using a Macintosh ..........................129

Others

Menus and Indications .....................130

Menu list ................................................ 130

Indications ............................................. 135

Messages .............................................. 137

Functions that cannot be used

simultaneously ..................................140

Frequently asked questions .............141

Troubleshooting ................................142

Cautions for use ................................152

Explanation of terms .........................155

Specifications ....................................157

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Before using

Features of the High Definition Video Camera

Very clear high definition pictures

This unit can record highly detailed high definition images to an 8 cm DVD disc or an SD card. You can watch images in high-resolution HD video if you connect this unit and a high definition TV and then play back the images. (l 101) You can also record to a conventional standard picture quality 8 cm DVD disc by rotating the mode dial. Playback is possible on existing devices that do not support AVCHD.

A High Definition images (1920k1080)

Number of available scan lines 1080

B Standard images until now (720k480):

Number of available scan lines 480

High definition images

≥ The still pictures above are images for explanation purposes. * If the recording mode is HG

ª What is the AVCHD?

This is a format for recording and playing back highly detailed high definition images. Images are recorded based on the MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 codec for compressing images and audio is recorded in Dolby Digital. It is compatible with various discs such as DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, DVD-R and DVD-R DL. (l 21, About recording formats in conventional standard picture quality)

Important Notice

Do not insert discs which have been recorded in AVCHD format into devices which do not support the AVCHD format. In some cases the disc may get stuck in the device. The disc will not play back on devices that do not support the AVCHD format.

About the SDHC Memory Card and the compatibility of motion pictures recorded in high definition (Be careful about the following.)

About the SDHC Memory Card

≥ It is not compatible with devices other than those that support SDHC. ≥ If you use the SDHC Memory Card in another device, use a device that is SDHC compatible. (l 24)

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Before using

About the compatibility of discs recorded in HD mode (high definition picture quality) on this unit

≥ They are not compatible with devices other than those that support AVCHD. (Refer to the operating

instructions of the device for details.)

≥ There are some cases where the recorded motion pictures cannot be played back, even if the device

supports AVCHD. In such cases, play the recorded motion picture with this unit instead.

≥ Do not insert them into devices that are not compatible (DVD players, computers, etc. that do not

support AVCHD) as they will not be played back.

≥ A format message may appear when you insert a disc into a device that is not compatible. (If you

accidentally format the disc, the pictures you recorded will all be deleted.)

≥ We recommend setting [AUTO PROTECT] to [ON] (l 98) to prevent important scenes being deleted

by mistake. (This function’s default setting is [ON].)

Existing DVD recorders, DVD players, computers, etc. that do not support AVCHD.

≥ Discs recorded in STD mode can be played back on devices other than those that support AVCHD.

(l 109)

Watching High Definition images

If you connect this unit and a high definition TV A with a HDMI cable (optional) B and then play back the pictures, you can enjoy watching them in high definition.

≥ Pictures recorded in STD mode cannot be played back.

≥ If you connect this unit to a TV that does not support high definition, the images will be standard

picture quality.

ª When connecting to a TV that does not have a HDMI terminal

Connecting with the component cable and the AV cable (l 104)

≥ Pictures recorded in STD mode cannot be played back.

Connecting with the AV cable (l 105)

≥ The pictures cannot be played in high definition. They will be played back in standard picture quality.

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Before using

Using the remote control for the TV for playback

If you connect this unit to a Panasonic TV (VIERA) compatible with VIERA Link (HDAVI Control™) A with a HDMI cable (optional) B, you can use the remote control for the TV for playback. Refer to the operating instructions of the TV for details.

≥ Pictures recorded in STD mode cannot be played back.

ª What is the VIERA Link?

≥ This function allows you to use your VIERA remote control for easy operations when this unit has

been connected to a VIERA Link compatible device using a HDMI cable (optional) for automatic linked operations.

* Not all operations are possible. ≥ VIERA Link is a unique Panasonic function built on a HDMI control function using the standard HDMI

CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) specification. Linked operations with HDMI CEC compatible devices made by other companies are not guaranteed.

≥ This unit is compatible with VIERA Link Ver.2. VIERA Link Ver.2 is the newest Panasonic version and

is also compatible with existing Panasonic VIERA Link devices. (As of February 2007)

ª Other linked operations

Turning off the power on the TV

If you turn off the power on the TV with the remote control for the TV, the power on this unit also turns off.

Automatic input switching:

If you connect with a HDMI cable and then turn on the power on this unit, the input channel on the TV automatically switches to this unit’s screen. If the TV’s power is in standby status, it will turn on automatically (if [Set] has been selected for the TV’s [Power on link] setting). ≥ Depending on HDMI terminal of the TV, the input channel may not switch automatically. In this case,

use the remote control for the TV to switch input. (For details on how to switch input, please read the operating instructions for the TV.)

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Before using

Saving data to a computer

You can use the supplied software (HD Writer 2.0E for SX/SD) to copy data recorded on a disc or an SD card with this unit to the hard disk of the computer.

A USB cable (supplied)

ª What you can do with HD Writer

Copying data to a computer

You can copy data on a disc or an SD card to the hard disk of the computer.

Writing data to media

You can copy motion picture data from the hard disk of the computer to an SD card or a disc.

Copying between media

You can copy motion picture data from an SD card to a disc or from a disc to an SD card.

Playing back on a computer

You can play back the images in high definition picture quality on a computer.

Easy editing

You can easily edit (split, merge, delete etc.) motion picture data that was copied to the hard disk of the computer. Also, you can convert data to MPEG2 format and create a DVD-Video.

≥ For details on how to use the software application, read the PDF operating instructions.

Important Notice

Do not insert a disc recorded in AVCHD format with the supplied HD Writer 2.0E for SX/SD in a device that does not support the AVCHD format. In some cases the disc may get stuck in the device. The disc will not play back on devices that do not support the AVCHD format.

ª The SD Media Storage

The SD Media Storage (VW-PT2: optional) is convenient if you are on the move. It is an extremely compact, lightweight and easy to carry HDD (hard disk). ≥ If you insert an SD card with recorded motion pictures and still pictures in the SD

Media Storage, the data can easily be saved to the SD Media Storage by pressing the copy button only.

≥ You can save all the data from approximately ten 4 GB cards to its 40 GB HDD capacity.

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Before using

Accessories

Check the accessories before using this unit. Some optional accessories may not be available

Battery pack

VW-VBG260

AC adaptor

VW-AD21E

DC cable

K2GJYYC00001

AV cable

K2KC4CB00024

Component cable

K2KZ9DB00004

AC cable

K2CQ2CA00006

Remote control

N2QAEC000023

Button-type battery

CR2025

USB cable

K2KZ4CB00011

CD-ROM

Optional accessories

in some countries.

AC adaptor (VW-AD21E-K)

Battery pack (lithium/VW-VBG260/2640 mAh)

Battery pack (lithium/VW-VBG130/1320 mAh)

Battery pack (lithium/VW-VBG6

Battery pack holder kit (VW-VH04)

Wide conversion lens (VW-W3707H)

Tele conversion lens (VW-T3714H)

Filter kit (VW-LF37WE)

Video DC light (VW-LDH3E)

Light bulb for video DC light (VW-LL3E)

Stereo zoom microphone (VW-VMH3E)

Video flash (VW-FLH3E)

Tripod (VW-CT45E)

8 cm DVD-RAM disc (single sided/LM-AF30E)

8 cm DVD-RAM disc (double sided/ LM-AF60E)

8 cm DVD-RW disc (single sided/LM-RW30E)

8 cm DVD-RW disc (double sided/ LM-RW60E)

8 cm DVD-R disc (single sided/LM-RF30E)

8 cm DVD-R disc (double sided/LM-RF60E)

8 cm DVD-R DL disc (dual rayers on single side/LM-RF55LE)

/5800 mAh)

* The battery pack holder kit VW-VH04

(optional) is necessary.

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Before using

4 5 6

7 8

Parts identification and handling

36 4

1 Lens (LEICA DICOMAR) 2 Built-in flash (l 67) 3Outlet 4 Recording lamp (l 133) 5 Lens cover 6 White balance sensor/remote control

sensor (l 18, 77)

1 1 1

1 1

13 Disc/computer access lamp [ACCESS/

PC] (l 36) 14 Menu button [MENU] (l 45) 15 Status indicator (l 33) 16 Delete button [ ] (l 86, 90) 17 Mode dial (l 33) 18 Cursor button (l 39) 19 Recording start/stop button (l 52) 20 Disc eject lever [DISC EJECT] (l 36)

21 Internal stereo microphones 22 Zoom lever [W/T] (In recording mode)

(l 60)

Volume lever [sVOLr] (In playback

mode) (l 83) 23 Photoshot button [ ] (l 57) 24 Eyepiece corrector knob (l 49) 25 Smart accessory shoe (l 15)

≥ Accessories, such as a video DC light/

VW-LDH3E (optional), are attached here.

2425

7 Viewfinder (l 16)

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.

8 LCD monitor open part (l 16) 9 Battery holder (l 28) 10 DC input terminal [DC IN 9.3V] (l 32) 11 HDMI terminal [HDMI] (l 102, 107) 12 PRE-REC button [PRE-REC] (l 54)

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26 Battery release lever [BATTERY] (l 28) 27 Tripod receptacle (l 15)

Before using

38 39

28 Inlet (cooling fan)

ª About the cooling fan

≥ The cooling fan rotates to prevent the internal

temperature rising. Take care not to cover the inlet and outlet when using this unit.

29 Speaker 30 LCD monitor (l 16)

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.

31 Reset button [RESET] (l 147) 32 Mode select switch [AUTO/MANUAL/

FOCUS] (l 51, 74) 33 Viewfinder extension knob (l 16) 34 DISC COPY button [DISC COPY] (l 89) 35 Power LCD EXTRA button

[POWER LCD EXTRA] (l 48) 36 Card access lamp [ACCESS] (l 39) 37 Card slot (l 38) 38 Audio-video output terminal [A/V] (l 104,

105, 110)

≥ Use the supplied AV cable only.

39 Component terminal [COMPONENT]

(l 104) 40 USB terminal [ ] (l 111, 120)

41 Disc compartment (l 36) 42 Grip belt (l 13) 43 Outlet

Using grip belt

Adjust the belt length so it fits your hand.

Adjust the belt length and the pad position.

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

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Before using

Lens hood Attaching the lens cap

Rotate the lens hood counter-clockwise A to remove it. In order to attach it, place into slot B, and then rotate it clockwise C.

(Included in the Filter Kit (VW-LF37WE; optional))

Attach the lens cap to protect the surface of the lens. ≥ When the MC protector or the ND filter of the

Filter Kit (VW-LF37WE; optional) is attached to the front of the lens hood, use the lens cap included in the Filter Kit.

1 Pass the end of the lens cap cord

through the belt.

≥ Attach the MC protector or the ND filter of the

Filter Kit (VW-LF37WE; optional) in front of the lens hood. Do not attach the other accessories on the hood. (Except for the lens cap) (Refer to the operating instructions for the Filter Kit.)

≥ When fitting the tele conversion lens

(VW-T3714H; optional) or the wide conversion lens (VW-W3707H; optional), first remove the lens hood. (Refer to the operating instructions for the tele conversion lens or the wide conversion lens.)

2 Pass the lens cap through the

loop.

(Be careful about the following.)

When 2 lens accessories, such as the ND filter and tele conversion lens, are fitted and the zoom lever is pressed toward the W side, the 4 corners of an image will be darkened. (Vignetting) (When fitting 2 lens accessories, first remove the lens hood and then fit them.)

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3 To attach or remove the lens cap,

hold both sides of the lens cap with the tips of your finger and thumb.

Smart accessory shoe Tripod receptacle

Before using

You can mount an optional microphone, light etc. ≥ When using an accessory for the smart

accessory shoe, the power is supplied from this product.

Connect to the smart accessory shoe.

If using an accessory for the smart accessory shoe, be sure to use the following.

jStereo zoom microphone (VW-VMH3E;

optional)

jVideo DC light (VW-LDH3E; optional) jVideo flash (VW-FLH3E; optional)

≥ Mounting an accessory for the smart

accessory shoe other than the above may cause the unit to malfunction.

≥ When the AC adaptor or the battery pack

(VW-VBG130; optional) is used, you cannot use the video DC light.

This is a hole for attaching the unit to the optional tripod. (Please carefully read the operating instructions for how to attach the unit to the tripod.)

When a tripod is used, you can perform operations

≥

easily using the remote control. (

17)

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Before using

Using the LCD monitor

You can record the image while viewing it on the LCD monitor.

1 Place your finger on LCD monitor

open part and pull the LCD

monitor out in the direction of the

arrow.

≥ It can open up to 90o.

2 Adjust the angle of the LCD

monitor as desired.

Using the viewfinder

Pull out the viewfinder.

≥ The brightness of the viewfinder (l 47) and

the field of view can be adjusted. (l 49)

≥ It can rotate up to 180o A towards the lens or

90o B towards the viewfinder.

≥ The brightness and colour level of the LCD

monitor can be adjusted. (l 47)

≥ The unit may be damaged or fail if the LCD

monitor is forcibly opened or rotated.

≥ If the LCD monitor is rotated by 180x towards

the lens and the viewfinder is extended (when recording yourself), the LCD monitor and the viewfinder simultaneously light.

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Before using

Using the remote control

EXT

DISPLAY

DATE/

TIME

STILL ADV STILL ADV

1 Photoshot button [ ] 2 On-screen display button [EXT DISPLAY]

(l 101) 3 Date/time button [DATE/TIME] (l 47) 4 Playback operation buttons (l 81, 82) 5 Delete button [ ] 6 Direction buttons [3, 4, 2, 1] (l 46) 7 Recording start/stop button [START/STOP] 8 Zoom/volume buttons [ZOOM, VOL] 9 Menu button [MENU]* (l 46) 10 Enter button [ENTER] (l 46)

* means that these buttons function in the same

manner as the corresponding buttons on the unit.

START/

PHOTO

STOP

SHOT

ZOOM

VOL

PLAY

PAU S E

STOPSKIP SKIP

ENTER

ª Install a button-type battery

Install the supplied button-type battery in the remote control before using it.

1 While pressing the stopper A,

pull out the battery holder.

2 Set the button-type battery with

its (i) mark facing upward and then put the battery holder back in place.

Concerning the button-type battery

≥ When the button-type battery runs down,

replace it with a new battery (part number: CR2025). The battery should normally last about 1 year, however this depends on how frequently the unit is used.

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.

Warning

Risk of fire, explosion and burns. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 60 xC or incinerate.

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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Before using

ª Remote control usable range

The distance between the remote control and the unit’s remote control sensor A: Within approx. 5m Angle: Approx. 10o up and 15o down, left, and right

≥ The remote control is intended for indoor

operation. Outdoors or under strong light, the unit may not operate properly even within the usable ranges.

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Discs that can be used on this unit

ＨＤ

Before using

DVD-RAM

8 cm Single sided/ double sided

DVD-RW

8 cm Single sided/ double sided

DVD-R

8 cm Single sided/ double sided

DVD-R DL

8 cm

Dual layer on

single side

Disc type

(DVD-RAM

Ver. 2.1)

[DVD-RW

Ver. 1 .1/

2X-SPEED (2X/

1X)]

(DVD-R for

General Ver. 2.0)

(DVD-R for DL

Ver. 3.0)

ª If recording in high definition picture quality (HD mode)

Disc type DVD-RAM DVD-RW DVD-R DVD-R DL

Recording format AVCHD format AVCHD format AVCHD format AVCHD format

Characteristic Rewritable disc

Display on the screen

Indication in these instructions

ＨＤＨＤＨＤ

ＲＡＭ

Functions

≥ Deleting recorded

scenes

≥ Playback on other

products

≥ Recording after

finalizing

¥¥

¥¥*4¥

Rewritable

disc

ＨＤＨＤＨＤ

‑ＲＷ

One time recording disc

ＨＤＨＤＨＤ

‑Ｒ

––

One time recording disc

ＨＤＨＤＨＤ

‑ＲＤＬ

¥: available –: not available

*1 By formatting the disc, it can be used repeatedly. Please be aware that if a disc is formatted, then

all the data recorded on the disc will be erased and it cannot be restored. (l 94)

*2 The remaining space on the disc will not increase even if scenes are deleted. *3 Products that support 8 cm discs and the AVCHD. *4 Must be finalized on this unit. (l 95) *5 Does not need to be finalized. *6 Un-finalize the disc. (l 96)

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Before using

ª If recording in conventional standard picture quality (STD mode)

Disc type DVD-RAM DVD-RW DVD-R DVD-R DL

DVD Video

Recording format

Recording

format

(VR format)

Characteristic

Rewritable disc

Display on the screen

Indication in these instructions

ＲＡＭ

Functions

≥ Deleting recorded

scenes

¥¥ –– –

≥ Editing on this unit ¥¥–– –

≥ Playback on other

products

≥ Recording after

finalizing

DVD Video

Recording

format

(VR format)

Rewritable disc

‑ＲＷ（ＶＲ）

DVD-Video

format (Video

format)

Rewritable

disc

‑ＲＷ（Ｖ）

DVD-Video

format (Video

format)

One time recording disc

‑Ｒ

DVD-Video

format (Video

format)

One time recording disc

‑ＲＤＬ

*5, 6

¥¥*8––

¥: available –: not available

*1 By formatting the disc, it can be used repeatedly. Please be aware that if a disc is formatted, then

all the data recorded on the disc will be erased and it cannot be restored. (l 94)

*2 DVD player or DVD recorder that supports 8 cm discs. *3 Can only be played back on a device that supports DVD-RAM. *4 Must be finalized on this unit. (l 95) Playback of DVD-RW (VR format) is possible on compatible

products.

*5 Must be finalized on this unit. (l 95) *6 Can only be played back on a device that supports DVD-R DL. *7 Does not need to be finalized. *8 Un-finalize the disc. (l 96)

VQT1G62

Before using

≥ Still pictures cannot be recorded on a disc

with this unit.

≥ You cannot record or play continuously from

one side of the disc to the other when using a double sided disc. You will need to eject the disc and turn it over.

≥ Discs inserted in a holder, cartridge, or caddy

case cannot be used. Always remove bare discs from these containers prior to use.

≥ It is recommended that you use Panasonic

discs. Usually discs compatible with the DVD standard can be used for recording and playback with no problems. However, some commercially available discs do not meet the DVD standard for quality and performance. If you use one of these discs, you may not be able to record or playback normally. (The message “FOR BEST PERFORMANCE PANASONIC DISC IS RECOMMENDED.” appears.) Refer to the following support site for information about discs that have been confirmed as compatible by Panasonic.

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

(This website is in English only.)

≥ (HD mode) Discs recorded in high definition

picture quality with this unit may not be playable on other devices even if the other devices support AVCHD. In such cases, play back the discs with this unit instead.

≥ (STD mode) Recording on DVD-R in DVD

Video Recording format is not supported.

≥ When using DVD-RW, DVD-R or DVD-R DL

do not perform the following as it may make the disc unusable.

jRecord on a disc with other products after

recording on it with this unit.

jRecord on a disc with this unit after recording

on it with other products.

jInsert an un-finalized disc in any other

products.

ª About recording formats in

conventional standard picture quality

What is the DVD Video Recording format (VR format)?

This is a recording format which allows you to erase recorded images and use one disc repeatedly. You can also edit images. You can record on DVD-RAM and DVD-RW in VR format with this unit.

What is the DVD-Video format (Video format)?

By finalizing the disc, it can be played back on most DVD players. You can record on DVD-RW and DVD-R in Video format with this unit.

≥ Refer to P7 about the recording format of high

definition picture quality.

ª About DVD-R DL (dual layer on

single side)

DVD-R DL (dual layer on single side) discs have two layers of recording and playback surface on one side. If the recording does not fit on the first layer (L0), it continues on the second layer (L1). In this case, the recording continues across two layers. In STD mode, the recording is divided into two scenes at the point where the layers switch. This unit automatically switches layers during disc playback so you can play back the whole of the disc continuously like a normal disc. However, the picture or the sound may momentarily stop at the point where the layers switch.

VQT1G62

Before using

ª Examples of discs that cannot be

used on this unit

≥ Discs other than those with diameter of 8 cm ≥ Dual layer on single side discs other than

DVD-R DL

≥iRW ≥iR ≥ DVD-ROM ≥ CD-RW ≥ CD-R ≥ CD-ROM ≥ CD

When using brand-new DVD-RAM or DVD-RW

¬HD mode

When using DVD-RAM or DVD-RW, format the disc. When a brand-new DVD-RAM or DVD-RW is inserted in this unit, the screen shown in the illustration may be displayed.

Move the cursor button up or down to select [YES], then press the cursor button.

¬STD mode

When using DVD-RW, select whether to record in DVD Video Recording format (VR format) or DVD-Video format (Video format) and then format the disc. (l 21, About recording formats in conventional standard picture quality) When a brand-new DVD-RW is inserted in this unit, the screen shown in the illustration may be displayed.

1 Move the cursor button left or

right to select [YES], then press the cursor button.

VQT1G62

2 Select format type, then press

the cursor button.

[VIDEO]: DVD-Video format [VR]: DVD Video Recording format

3 When the confirmation message

appears, select [YES], then press the cursor button.

≥ If the disc is formatted, then all the data

recorded on the disc will be erased.

≥ To change the format type, format the disc

again. (l 94)

When inserting a disc recorded on another device or in another mode

When a DVD-RAM or a DVD-RW recorded on another device or in another mode is inserted in this unit, the screen shown in the illustration may be displayed. If the disc is formatted (l 94), then it can be used. However, all the data recorded on the disc will be erased. Check the data before formatting. ≥ DVD-R or DVD-R DL recorded on another

device cannot be formatted and used for recording.

¬HD mode

Before using

≥ First format the disc in HD mode. (l 94)

¬STD mode

≥ First format the disc in HD mode, then format it

again in STD mode and use it. (l 94)

VQT1G62

Before using

Cards that you can use with this unit

Card type SD Memory Card

Capacity 8MB, 16MB

Motion picture

recording

Cannot be

used.

32 MB, 64 MB,

128 MB

Cannot be

guaranteed in

operation.

Still picture

recording

256 MB, 512 MB,

1GB, 2GB

Refer to “About SD cards that you can use

for motion picture recording”.

Can be used.

SDHC Memory

Card

4GB, 8GB

* The recording may suddenly stop during motion picture recording depending on the SD card you use.

(l 53)

≥ Functions that can be used for motion picture recording/motion picture playback using an SD card are

indicated by and functions that can be used for still picture recording/still picture playback using an SD card are indicated by in these operating instructions.

VIDEO

PHOTO

This unit (an SDHC compatible device) is compatible with both SD Memory Cards and SDHC Memory Cards. You can use SDHC Memory Cards on devices that are compatible with them. However, you cannot use SDHC Memory Cards on devices that are only compatible with SD Memory Cards. (When using an SDHC Memory Card on another device, always read the operating instructions of that device.)

VQT1G62

Before using

ª About SD cards that you can use for motion picture recording

We recommend using SD Memory cards and SDHC Memory cards conforming to Class 2 or higher of the SD Speed Class Rating or the following SD cards made by Panasonic for motion picture recording.

Card type

Pro High Speed

SD Memory Card

256 MB — RP-SDH256

512 MB RP-SDK512

1GB

2GB

RP-SDK01G

RP-SDV01G

RP-SDK02G

RP-SDV02G

4GB ———

Super High Speed

SD Memory Card

RP-SDH512

RP-SDH01G

High Speed

SD Memory Card

RP-SDR256 —

RP-SDR512 —

RP-SDQ01G

RP-SDR01G

RP-SDQ02G

—

RP-SDR02G

SDHC Memory

Card

—

RP-SDM02G

RP-SDM04G

RP-SDR04G

RP-SDV04G

8GB — — — RP-SDV08G

*1 No longer made. *2 Available from Sep. 2007 ≥ Operation in motion picture recording is not guaranteed with an SD card memory from 32 MB to 8 GB

except the cards above. (The recording may suddenly stop during motion picture recording.)

≥ Please confirm the latest information about SD Memory Cards/SDHC 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.) ≥ For the purposes of these operating instructions, SD Memory Card and SDHC Memory Card are

referred to as the “SD card”.

≥ This unit supports SD Memory Cards formatted in FAT12 system and FAT16 system based on SD

Memory Card Specifications and SDHC Memory Cards formatted in FAT32 system.

≥ If you wish to use Memory Cards that are 4 GB and 8 GB, only SDHC Memory Cards can be used. ≥ 4 GB (or more) Memory Cards that do not have the SDHC logo are not based on SD Memory Card

Specifications.

≥ Use this unit to format SD cards. If an SD card is formatted on other products (such as a computer),

the time spent for recording may become longer and you may not be able to use the SD card. (l 94)

(Do not format it on a PC etc.)

≥ When the write-protect switch A on the 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. ≥ A MultiMediaCard cannot be used on this unit.

VQT1G62

Before using

Disc and card handling

ª How to hold a disc or card

Do not touch the recorded surface or the terminal surface.

ª When inserting/removing a disc

Do not allow fingerprints or dirt to get on the recording/playback side of the disc. ≥ If there are scratches or dirt (e.g. dust or

fingerprints) on the recording/playback side of the disc, normal recording/playback may not be possible and the following kind of phenomena may occur:

jRecording/playback is not possible. jThe image or the sound is interrupted or

stops momentarily.

jNoise appears on the image or the sound. jThe message “NO DATA.”, “PLEASE

CHECK THE DISC.”, “CHECK THE DISC AFTER PUSHING THE RESET SWITCH TO REPAIR IT.”, etc. appears.

ª If there is dirt on the disc

≥ Clean it with a soft cloth. Wipe the disc from

the centre to the outer edge to remove the dirt. Do not use force when wiping the disc as it may scratch it. Also, do not use solvents (thinner, water, antistatic agent, detergent etc.).

≥ Do not use record cleaning sprays, benzine,

thinner, static electricity prevention liquids or any other solvent.

≥ Do not use scratch-proof protectors or covers. ≥ Do not drop, stack, or impact discs. Do not

place objects on them.

≥ Do not use the following discs:

jDiscs with exposed adhesive from removed

stickers or labels.

jDiscs that are badly warped or cracked. jIrregularly shaped discs, such as heart

shapes.

≥ Do not expose the terminals of the card to

water, garbage or dust.

≥ Do not place 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 discs and cards, return them to their

cases when you are not using them.

ª Handling precautions

≥ Be careful about scratches and dirt. ≥ Do not attach labels or stickers to discs. (This

may cause disc warping and un-balanced rotation, rendering it unusable.)

≥ Write on the label side of the disc only with a

soft, oil-based felt pen. Do not use ballpoint pens or other hard writing implements.

VQT1G62

Setup

Charging the battery

When this unit is purchased, the battery is not charged. Charge the battery before using this unit.

≥ If the DC cable is connected to the AC

adaptor, then the battery will not charge. Remove the DC cable from the AC adaptor.

≥ Refer to page 29 concerning batteries that

can be used with this unit.

1 Connect the AC cable to the AC

adaptor and the AC outlet.

≥ Remove the DC cable beforehand.

2 Put the battery on the battery

mount by aligning the mark, and then securely plug it in.

≥ The output plug of the AC cable is not

completely connected to the AC adaptor socket. As shown in A, there is a gap.

If the charging lamp is still flashing, something may be wrong with the battery or AC adaptor. Contact your dealer.

≥ Battery charging time (l 29) ≥ We recommend using Panasonic batteries

(l 11, 29).

≥ If you use other batteries, we cannot guarantee

the quality of this product.

ª Charging lamp

Lights up:

Charging

Goes off:

Charging completed

Flashing:

Make sure that the terminals of the battery or the AC adaptor are not exposed to dirt, foreign objects or dust, then reconnect them properly. Disconnect the AC cable from the AC outlet when you remove dirt, foreign objects or dust on the terminals of the battery or the AC adaptor.

VQT1G62

Setup

Fitting/Removing the battery

Fitting the battery

Push the battery against the battery holder and slide it until it clicks.

Removing the battery

While sliding the BATTERY lever, slide the battery to remove it.

Notice about the rechargeable battery

The battery is designated recyclable. Please follow your local recycling regulations.

≥ Hold the battery with your hand so it does not

fall.

≥ Before removing the battery, be sure to set the

Mode dial to OFF and check that the status indicator is off.

CAUTION

Warning

Risk of fire, explosion and burns. Do not disassemble, heat above 60 xC or incinerate.

VQT1G62

Setup

Charging and recording time

ª About batteries that you can use with this unit

The Panasonic battery that can be used with this unit is VW-VBG260/VW-VBG6/VW-VBG130.

VW-VBG260/VW-VBG6/VW-VBG130 come with a function to check whether the battery and unit can be safely used together. ≥ Batteries made by other companies which have been certified by Panasonic may be used with this

unit, but we offer no guarantee as to the quality, performance or safety of such batteries.

≥ In order to safely use the unit we recommend that you use genuine Panasonic batteries which have

been subject to our quality control process.

≥ We cannot accept any liability whatsoever for damages to the unit or accidents caused by

non-genuine Panasonic batteries (including those that have been certified by Panasonic).

≥ Exercise care when purchasing batteries. Many fake or imitation batteries have been found among

those sold at unusually low prices and those which customers cannot check for themselves before purchasing.

ª Charging time

The times shown in the tables below are for when the temperature is 25 oC and the humidity is 60%. If the temperature is higher or lower than 25 oC, the charging time will become longer.

Battery model number Voltage/capacity Charging time

Supplied battery/

VW-VBG260 (optional)

VW-VBG130 (optional) 7.2 V/1320 mAh 2 h 20 min

VW-VBG6 (optional) 7.2 V/5800 mAh 8 h 50 min

≥ The charging time shown in the table are approximations. ≥ “8 h 50 min” indicates 8 hours 50 minutes.

7.2 V/2640 mAh 4 h

≥ When you charge a battery that has not been used for long time, the charging time will become

longer.

VQT1G62

Setup

ª Recordable time

≥ The times shown in the table below are for when the temperature is 25 oC and the humidity is 60%.

These times are approximations. The times indicate the recordable time when the viewfinder is used. The times in parentheses indicate the recordable time when the LCD monitor is used.

≥ The actual recordable time refers to the recordable time on a disc when repeatedly starting/stopping

recording, turning the unit on/off, moving the zoom lever, etc.

Battery

model

number

Supplied

battery/

VW-VBG260

(optional)

VW-VBG130

(optional)

Voltage/

capacity

7.2 V/

2640 mAh

7.2 V/

1320 mAh

Recording mode

Disc

(HD mode)

Disc

(STD mode)

SD card

(HD mode)

Disc

(HD mode)

Disc

(STD mode)

SD card

(HD mode)

HN HE

Maximum

continuously

recordable time

(1 h 55 min)

2h10min

(2 h 5 min)

2h20min

(2 h 10 min)

2h5min

(2 h)

2h15min

(2 h 10 min)

2h25min

(2 h 20 min)

2h55min

(2 h 40 min)

(2 h 45 min)

1h5min

(1 h)

1h10min

(1 h 5 min)

1h15min

(1 h 10 min)

1h5min

(1 h 5 min)

1h15min

(1 h 10 min)

1h15min

(1 h 15 min)

1h35min

(1 h 25 min)

1h35min

(1 h 30 min)

Actual recordable

time

50 min

(50 min)

55 min

(50 min)

55 min

(55 min)

55 min

(55 min)

55 min

(55 min)

1h45min

(1h40min)

1h50min

(1h45min)

25 min

(25 min)

30 min

(25 min)

30 min

(30 min)

30 min

(25 min)

30 min

(30 min)

30 min

(30 min)

55 min

(55 min)

VQT1G62

+ 130 hidden pages