Panasonic PV-GS180 Operating Instruction

Operating Instructions

Digital Video Camcorder

Model No.

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 incluida.

PV-GS180

Mini

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

For Canadian assistance, please call: 1-800-561-5505 or visit us at www.panasonic.ca

P PC

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Things You Should Know

Thank you for choosing Panasonic!

You have purchased one of the most sophisticated and reliable products on the market today. Used properly, we’re sure it will bring you and your family years of enjoyment. Please take time to fill in the information on the right. The serial number is on the tag located on the underside of your Camcorder. Be sure to retain this manual as your convenient Camcorder information source.

Date of Purchase

Dealer Purchased From

Dealer Address

Dealer Phone No.

Model No.

Serial No.

Safety Precautions

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

Your (LP) mode. It is recommended that only cassette tapes that have been tested and inspected for use in Camcorders with the

Camcorder is designed to record and play back in Standard Play (SP) mode and Long Play

mark be used.

This symbol warns the user

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,

DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)

NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL

that uninsulated voltage within the unit may have sufficient magnitude to cause electric shock. Therefore, it is dangerous to make any kind of contact with any inside part of this unit.

This symbol alerts the user that important literature concerning the operation and maintenance of this unit has been included. Therefore, it should be read carefully in order to avoid any problems.

AC Adaptor

≥The rating plate is on the underside of the AC Adaptor.

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FCC Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital 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 accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. 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

connected.

≥Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

FCC Caution: To assure continued compliance, follow the attached installation 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 could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.

Declaration of Conformity Trade Name: Panasonic Model No.: PV-GS180 Responsible party: Panasonic Corporation of North America

Support Contact: Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following 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.

One Panasonic Way, Secaucus, NJ 07094

1-800-211-PANA (7262)

CAUTION: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD AND ANNOYING INTERFERENCE, USE THE

CAUTION: DANGER OF EXPLOSION IF BATTERY IS INCORRECTLY REPLACED. REPLACE

≥Since this product gets hot during use, operate it in a well ventilated place; do not install this

equipment in a confined space such as a bookcase or similar unit.

RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES ONLY.

ONLY WITH THE SAME OR EQUIVALENT TYPE.

WARNING

AS WITH ANY SMALL OBJECT, SD CARDS CAN BE SWALLOWED BY YOUNG CHILDREN. DO NOT ALLOW CHILDREN TO HANDLE THE SD CARD.

-If you see this symbol-

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.

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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1) Read these instructions.

2) Keep these instructions.

3) Heed all warnings.

4) Follow all instructions.

5) Do not use this apparatus near water.

6) Clean only with dry cloth.

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

8) Do not install 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-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

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

11) Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

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

S3125A

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

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

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Precautions

USE & LOCATION

WARNING

≥TO AVOID SHOCK HAZARD ... Your

Camcorder and power supply should not be exposed to rain or moisture. Do not connect the power supply or operate your Camcorder if it gets wet. Your Camcorder has been designed for outdoor use, however it is not designed to sustain direct exposure to water, rain, sleet, snow, sand, dust, or a direct splashing from a pool or even a cup of coffee. This action could permanently damage the internal parts of your Camcorder. Do not attempt to disassemble this unit. There are no user serviceable parts inside. Unplug your Camcorder from the power supply before cleaning.

CAUTION

≥DO NOT AIM YOUR CAMCORDER AT THE

SUN OR OTHER BRIGHT OBJECTS

≥DO NOT LEAVE THE CAMCORDER WITH

THE EVF AIMED DIRECTLY AT THE SUN AS THIS MAY CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE INTERNAL PARTS OF THE EVF

≥DO NOT EXPOSE YOUR CAMCORDER TO

EXTENDED HIGH TEMPERATURE ... Such as,

in direct sunlight, inside a closed car, next to a heater, etc... This action could permanently damage the internal parts of your Camcorder.

≥AVOID SUDDEN CHANGES IN

TEMPERATURE ... If the unit is suddenly

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

≥DO NOT LEAVE YOUR CAMCORDER OR

THE POWER SUPPLY TURNED ON WHEN NOT IN USE.

≥STORAGE OF YOUR CAMCORDER ... Store

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

CARE

≥TO CLEAN YOUR CAMCORDER ... Do not use

strong or abrasive detergents when cleaning your Camcorder body.

≥TO PROTECT THE LENS ... Do not touch the

surface of the lens with your hand. Use a commercial Camcorder lens solution and lens paper when cleaning the lens. Improper cleaning can scratch the lens coating.

≥TO PROTECT THE FINISH OF YOUR

CAMCORDER ... Before handling your

Camcorder, make sure your hands and face are free from any chemical products, such as suntan lotion, as it may damage the finish.

Apparatus Claims of U.S. Patent Nos. 4,631,603, 4,577,216, and 4,819,098, licensed for limited viewing. This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.

This class B digital apparatus complies with CANADIAN ICES-003.

U.S.A./CANADA 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.

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Before opening the CD-ROM package, please read the following.

End User License Agreement (for Video Stream Driver)

You (“Licensee”) are granted a license for the Software defined in this End User Software Agreement (“Agreement”) on condition that you agree to the terms and conditions of this Agreement. If Licensee does not agree to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, promptly return the Software to Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. (“Matsushita”), its distributors or dealers from which you made the purchase.

Article 1 License Licensee is granted the right to use the software, including the information recorded or described on the CD-ROM, instruction manuals, and any other media provided to Licensee (collectively “Software”), but all applicable rights to patents, copyrights, trademarks and trade secrets in the Software are not transferred to Licensee.

Article 2 Use by a Third Party Licensee may not use, copy, modify, transfer or allow any third party, whether free of charge or not, to use, copy or modify the Software, except as expressly provided for in this Agreement.

Article 3 Restrictions on Copying the Software Licensee may make a single copy of the Software in whole or in part solely for back-up purpose.

Article 4 Computer Licensee may only use the Software on a single computer at a single location.

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Article 5 Reverse Engineering, Decompiling or Disassembly Licensee may not reverse engineer, decompile, or disassemble the Software, except to the extent either of them is permitted under law or regulation of the country where Licensee resides. Matsushita, or its distributors or dealers will not be responsible for any defects in the Software or damage to Licensee caused by Licensee’s reverse engineering, decompiling, or disassembly of the Software.

Article 6 Limitation of Liability The Software is provided “AS-IS” without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied, including, but not limited to, warranties of non-infringement, merchantability and/or fitness for a particular purpose. Further, Matsushita does not warrant that the operation of the Software will be uninterrupted or error free. Matsushita or any of its distributors or dealers will not be liable for any damage suffered by Licensee arising from or in connection with Licensee’s use of the Software.

Article 7 Export Control Licensee agrees not to export or re-export to any country the Software in any form without the appropriate export licenses under regulations of the country where Licensee resides, if necessary.

Article 8 Termination of License The right granted to Licensee hereunder will be automatically terminated if Licensee violates any of the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Upon such automatic termination, Licensee must destroy the Software and related documentation together with all the copies thereof at Licensee’s own expense.

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Contents

Before using

Quick Guide................................................... 10

Accessories ................................................... 12

Parts identification and handling.................... 12

Attaching the lens cap ................................... 14

The grip belt................................................... 14

Using the LCD monitor .................................. 15

Using the viewfinder ...................................... 15

Power supply ................................................. 16

Charging time and recordable time................ 17

Inserting/removing a cassette........................ 17

Inserting/removing a card .............................. 18

Turning the Camcorder on............................. 19

Selecting a mode........................................... 19

How to use the joystick .................................. 20

Switching the language.................................. 21

Using the menu screen.................................. 21

Setting date and time..................................... 22

Adjusting LCD monitor/viewfinder.................. 23

Using the remote control (optional)................ 23

Record mode

Check before recording................................. 26

Recording on a tape ...................................... 27

Recording still pictures on a card while

recording image onto a tape ....................... 28

Check the recording ...................................... 28

Blank search function.................................... 28

Recording still pictures onto a card

(Photoshot) ................................................. 29

Zoom in/out function...................................... 30

Recording yourself ........................................ 31

Quick start ..................................................... 31

Backlight compensation function................... 32

MagicPix functions ........................................ 32

Soft skin mode............................................... 33

Tele-macro function....................................... 33

Fade in/fade out function............................... 33

Wind noise reduction function ....................... 34

Self-timer recording....................................... 34

Recording images for wide-screen TVs ........ 34

Image stabilizer function................................ 35

RapidFire Consecutive Photoshot ................. 35

Recording in various situations

(Scene mode) ............................................. 36

Recording in natural colors

(White balance)........................................... 37

Manual focus adjustment .............................. 38

Manual shutter speed/aperture

adjustment .................................................. 38

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Playback mode

Playing back tape .......................................... 40

Slow-motion playback/

frame-by-frame playback ............................ 40

Variable-speed search function ..................... 41

Playback on TV.............................................. 42

Playing back card .......................................... 42

Deleting files recorded on a card ................... 43

Formatting a card........................................... 44

Protecting files on a card ............................... 44

Writing the printing data on a card

(DPOF setting) ............................................ 44

Edit mode

Recording from a tape onto a card ................ 45

Copying onto a DVD recorder or a VCR

(Dubbing) .................................................... 45

Using the DV cable for Recording

(Digital Dubbing) ......................................... 46

Audio dubbing................................................ 47

Printing pictures by directly connecting to

the printer (PictBridge) ................................ 48

With a PC

Check before Use.......................................... 49

Using the Camcorder with a PC .................... 49

Connecting Computer and Camcorder .......... 50

Using as a Web camera ................................ 51

DV DATA Streaming Function ....................... 54

To disconnect USB cable safely .................... 55

If you no longer need driver (Uninstall).......... 56

Notes ............................................................. 56

Menu list ........................................................ 58

Menus related to taking pictures ................... 60

Menus related to playback ............................ 60

Other menus.................................................. 61

Others

Indications ..................................................... 62

Warning/alarm indications ............................. 63

Functions cannot be used

simultaneously ............................................ 64

Before requesting repair

(Problems and solutions) ............................ 65

Cautions for Use............................................ 68

Explanation of terms...................................... 72

Specifications ................................................ 73

Camcorder Accessory System ...................... 75

Camcorder Accessory Order Form

(For USA Customers) ................................. 76

Request for Service Notice (USA Only) ........ 77

Limited Warranty (For USA Customers)........ 78

Customer Services Directory......................... 79

Warranty (For Canadian Customers) ............ 80

Index.............................................................. 81

Spanish Quick Use Guide/

Guía española para el uso rápido............... 82

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Before using

Quick Guide

ª Charging the battery

1 Connect the AC cable to the AC adaptor and

the AC main socket.

2 Put the battery on the battery mount by

aligning the mark, and then securely plug it in.

Fitting the battery

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

Inserting/removing a cassette

Slide the [OPEN/EJECT] lever and open the

cassette cover.

OPEN/ EJECT

2 After the cassette holder is opened, insert/

remove the cassette.

3 Push the [PUSH] mark 1 in order to close

the cassette holder.

PUSH

4 Only after the cassette holder is completely

housed, close the cassette cover.

Inserting/removing a card

Open the LCD monitor and then open the

card slot cover.

2 Insert/remove the card into/from the card

slot.

≥When inserting a card, face the label side 1

towards you and push it straight in with one stroke as far as it goes.

≥When removing the card, open the card slot

cover and press the center of the card and then pull it straight out.

3 Securely close the card slot cover.

How to turn on the power

1 While pressing the button 1, set the [OFF/

ON] switch to [ON].

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OFF ON

Before using

ª How to turn off the power

1 While pressing the button 1, set the [OFF/

ON] switch to [OFF].

OFF ON

Recording on a tape

ª ≥Set to Tape Recording Mode.

1 Press the recording start/stop button to

start recording.

2 Press the recording start/stop button again

to pause recording.

;

Playing back tape

ª ≥Set to Tape Playback Mode.

1 Operate with joystick.

1/;: Playback/Pause 6: Rewind/Review playback (Reverts to

playback with the 1/; icon.)

5: Fast forward/Cue playback (Reverts to

playback with the 1/; icon.)

∫:Stop

Playing back card

ª ≥Set to Picture Playback Mode.

1 Operate with joystick.

Recording still pictures onto a card

(Photoshot)

≥Set to Card Recording Mode.

1 Press the [PHOTO SHOT] button.

PHOTO SHOT

E: Plays back the previous picture. D: Plays back the next picture. 1/∫: Slide show (Plays back the still pictures

on the card in order) start/stop

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Before using

Accessories

The following are the accessories supplied with this product.

K2CA2CA00029PV-DAC14D K2GJ2DZ00018

CGR-DU06

VFC3506-1A

1) AC adaptor, DC cable, AC cable

CAUTION:

This unit will operate on 110/120/220/240 V AC. An AC plug adaptor may be required for voltages other than 120 V AC. Please contact either a local or foreign electrical parts distributor for assistance in selecting an alternate AC plug. We recommend using the accessory power plug adaptor (VJSS0070) in an area which has special AC outlets.

2) Battery pack -16-

3) Lens cap -14-

4) AV cable -45-

5) Shoulder strap -14-

6) USB cable and CD-ROM -48-

VYF3031

VFF0306

K2KC4CB00018

VFA0453

-16-

Parts identification and handling

ª Camcorder

(1)

(2) (3)

(1) Recording lamp -60-

Grip belt -14-

(2)

Microphone (built-in, stereo) -31-, -34-

(3) (4)

Lens

(5) White balance sensor -37-

Remote control sensor -24-

(9)

AV/

(6)

MIC

(7)

(8)

Audio-video output terminal [AV] -45-

(6)

≥Use the supplied AV cable or headphones

only, otherwise audio may not be played back normally.

Headphone terminal [Ë]

(7) Microphone terminal [MIC]

≥A compatible plug-in powered microphone

can be used as an external microphone.

≥When the Camcorder is connected with AC

Adaptor, sometimes noise may be heard depending on microphone type. In that case, please switch to battery for power supply and noise will stop.

(8) USB terminal [ ] -48- (9)

Speaker -40-

(4)

(5)

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Before using

(13) (14)

(10)

(11)

(12)

S-VIDEO

(10) Viewfinder -15-, -71-

(15) (16)

(17) (18) (19)

(20)

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.

(11) Battery holder (12) Battery release lever [BATT] -16-

Power switch [OFF/ON] -19-

(13)

Status indicator -19-

(14)

Quick start recording button

(15)

[QUICK START]

-31-

Quick start recording lamp -31- Menu button [MENU] -2 1-

(16)

Joystick -20-

(17)

Mode dial -19-

(18)

Recording start/stop button -27-

(19)

S-Video output terminal [S-VIDEO] -42-

(20)

(23) (24)

(22) LCD monitor open release [OPEN] -15-

Reset button [RESET] -63-

(23) (24)

Power LCD button [POWER LCD] -23- Power LCD lamp -23- Mode select switch

(25)

[AUTO/MANUAL/FOCUS] Card access lamp -19-

(26)

DV terminal [DV] -46-

(27) (28)

Card slot cover -18- Card slot -18-

(29)

(30)

Cassette holder -17-

(30) (31)

Cassette eject lever [OPEN/EJECT] -17- Cassette cover -17-

(32)

Zoom lever [W/T] -30-

(33)

-26-, -36-, -38-

(31)

(32)

(33) (34)

(35)

Volume lever [s /VOLr] -40- Photoshot button [PHOTO SHOT] -28-

(34)

Accessory shoe

(35)

≥Accessories, such as a stereo microphone, are

attached here.

(21) (22)

(21)

LCD monitor -15-, -71-

(25) (26)

(27) (28)

(29)

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.

(36)

(36) Tripod receptacle

This is a hole for attaching the Camcorder to optional tripod. (Please carefully read the operating instructions for how to attach the tripod to the Camcorder.) ≥You cannot open the card slot cover when the

tripod is used. Insert the card first and then

attach the tripod.

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Before using

(37)

(37) Shoulder strap fixture

≥Put the strap through the fixture 1 and through

the stopper 2 so it will not come off. Extend part 3 by at least 2 cm (1 inch).

≥Fit the other end of the belt similarly.

Attaching the lens cap

Attach the lens cap to protect the surface of the lens.

1 Run the end of the lens cap cord through

the hole in the grip belt attachment part and run the lens cap through the lens cap cord.

≥When removed, the lens cap can be attached to

the lens cap fixture.

(38)

(38) Lens hood

In order to remove the lens hood, rotate it counter-clockwise 1. In order to fit it, put into slot 2, and then rotate it clockwise.

≥To attach or remove the lens cap, hold both

sides of the lens cap with the tips of your first

2 fingers.

The grip belt

Adjust the belt length so it fits your hand.

1 Adjust the belt length and the pad position.

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

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Before using

Using the LCD monitor

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

1 Put a finger on the LCD monitor release and

pull the LCD monitor out in the direction of the arrow.

OPEN

≥The viewfinder is now deactivated. ≥It can open up to 90o.

2 Adjust the angle of the LCD monitor

according to your preference.

1 180o 2 90o

≥It can rotate up to 180o 1 towards the lens or

90o 2 towards the viewfinder.

≥The brightness and color level of the LCD

monitor can be adjusted from the menu.

≥If it is forcibly opened or rotated, the Camcorder

may be damaged or fail.

≥Check that the card slot cover is closed. ≥When the LCD monitor is rotated by 180o

towards the lens (when recording yourself), the LCD monitor and the viewfinder will be simultaneously activated.

Using the viewfinder

ª Extending the viewfinder

1 Pull out the viewfinder. Extend it by

pinching the extension knob and pulling.

Adjusting the field of view

1 Adjust the focus by sliding the eyepiece

corrector knob.

12:30:45PM

OCT 15 2006

≥You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder

from the menu.

12:30:45PM OCT 15 2006

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Before using

Power supply

ª Charging the battery

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

≥Battery charging time ( ≥We recommend using Panasonic batteries. ≥If you use other batteries, we cannot guarantee

the quality of this product.

≥If the DC input lead is connected to the AC

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

1 Connect the AC cable to the AC adaptor and

the AC jack.

2 Put the battery on the battery mount by

aligning the mark, and then securely plug it in.

Charging lamp

Lights up: Charging Goes off: Charging completed Flashing: The battery is over discharged

(discharged excessively). In a while, the lamp will light up and normal charging will start. When the battery temperature is excessively high or low, the [CHARGE] lamp flashes and the charging time will be longer than normal.

-17-)

Connecting to the AC outlet

Connect the AC cable to the AC adaptor and

the AC jack.

2 Connect the DC cable to the AC adaptor. 3 Connect the DC cable to this product.

≥The output plug of the AC cable is not

completely connected to the AC adaptor jack. As shown in 1, there is a gap.

≥Do not use the AC cable for other equipment

since the AC cable is exclusively designed for this Camcorder. Do not use the power cord from other equipment for this Camcorder.

Fitting the battery

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

Removing the battery

While sliding the [BATT] lever, slide the battery (or the DC input lead) to remove it.

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BATT

≥Hold the battery with your hand so it does not

fall.

Before using

Charging time and recordable time

The times shown in the table below show the times at a temperature of 25 oC (77 oF) and a humidity of 60%. This is just a guide. If the temperature is higher or lower than the specified value, the charging time will become longer.

Supplied battery/

CGR-DU06

(7.2 V/640 mAh)

CGA-DU12

(7.2 V/1150 mAh)

CGA-DU21

(7.2 V/2040 mAh)

A Charging time B Maximum continuous recordable time

“1 h 10 min” indicates 1 hour 10 minutes.

≥The battery CGR-DU06 is supplied. ≥The times shown in the table are rough

estimates. 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.

≥We recommend the Battery Pack CGA-DU12

and CGA-DU21 for long recording time (2 hour or more for continuous recording, 1 hour or more for intermittent recording).

≥The recordable time will become shorter in the

following cases:

≥When you use both the viewfinder and the

LCD monitor simultaneously while rotating the LCD monitor frontward to record yourself, 0 Lux MagicPix function, etc.

≥When you use this Camcorder with the LCD

monitor lit up by pressing the [POWER LCD] button.

≥The batteries heat up after use or charging. The

Camcorder being used will also heat up. This is normal.

≥Along with the reduction of the battery capacity,

the display will change: r # s # t # u # v. If the battery discharges, then u (v) will flash.

A 1 h 40 min

1 h 15 min

(1 h 10 min)

A 2 h 25 min

2 h 15 min

(2 h 5 min)

A 3 h 55 min

4 h

(3 h 45 min)

Inserting/removing a cassette

1 Slide the [OPEN/EJECT] lever and open the

cassette cover.

OPEN/ EJECT

≥When the cover is fully opened, the cassette

holder will come out.

2 After the cassette holder is opened, insert/

remove the cassette.

≥When inserting a cassette, orient it as shown

in the figure, and then securely insert it as far as it goes.

≥When removing, pull it straight out.

3 Push the [PUSH] mark 1 in order to close

the cassette holder.

PUSH

4 Only after the cassette holder is completely

housed, close the cassette cover.

≥After using, make sure to rewind the cassette

completely, remove it, and put it in a case. Store

the case in an upright position. ( ≥If the indicator of the condensation does not

display on the LCD screen and/or EVF and you

notice condensation on the lens or the main

unit, do not open the cassette cover otherwise

condensation may be formed on the heads or

the cassette tape. (

When the cassette holder does not

-68-)

come out

≥Close the cassette cover completely, and then

open it again completely. ≥Check if the battery has run down.

-70-)

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Before using

ª When the cassette holder cannot be

housed

≥Set the [OFF/ON] switch to [OFF], then to [ON]

again.

≥Check if the battery has run down.

Inserting/removing the cassette

ª ≥When the cassette holder is in motion, do not

touch anything except the [PUSH] mark.

≥When inserting a previously recorded cassette,

use the blank search function to find the position where you want to continue recording. If you overwrite-record on a previously recorded cassette, be sure to find the position where you want to continue recording.

≥Close the cassette cover tightly. ≥When closing the cassette cover, do not get

anything, such as a cable, caught in the cover.

Accidental erasure prevention

If the accidental erasure prevention slider 1 of a cassette is opened (slide in the direction of the [SAVE] arrow), the cassette cannot be recorded. When recording, close the accidental erasure prevention slider of the cassette (slide in the direction of the [REC] arrow).

R E C

SAVE

Inserting/removing a card

Before inserting/removing a card, be sure to set the [OFF/ON] switch to [OFF]. ≥If the card is inserted or removed with the power

turned on, this Camcorder may malfunction or

the data recorded on the card may be lost.

1 Open the LCD monitor and then open the

card slot cover.

2 Insert/remove the card into/from the card

slot.

≥When inserting a card, face the label side 1

towards you and push it straight in with one stroke as far as it goes.

≥When removing the card, open the card slot

cover and press the center of the card and then pull it straight out.

3 Securely close the card slot cover.

Concerning the card

≥Do not touch the terminals on the back of the

card. ≥Do not format the card with another Camcorder

or any personal computer. This operation may

make the card unusable. ≥Electrical noise, static electricity, or failure of the

Camcorder or the card may damage or erase

the data stored on the card. We recommend

saving important data on a personal computer

by using a USB cable, PC card adaptor or USB

reader/writer.

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Before using

ª Card access lamp

≥When the Camcorder accesses the card

(reading, recording, playback, erasing, etc.), the access lamp lights up.

≥If the following operations are performed when

the access lamp is lit, then the card or the recorded data may be damaged or the Camcorder may malfunction.

≥Opening the card slot cover and inserting or

removing the card

≥Operating the [OFF/ON] switch or the mode

dial

SD Memory Card

ª ≥The memory capacity indicated on the SD

Memory Card label corresponds to the total amount of capacity to protect and manage the copyright and the capacity available as conventional memory for a Camcorder, personal computer or other equipment.

Concerning the write protection

switch on the SD Memory Card

≥The SD Memory Card has a write protection

switch on it. If the switch is moved to [LOCK], you cannot write to the card, erase the data on it, or format it. If it is moved back, you can perform those functions.

Turning the Camcorder on

When the Camcorder is turned on with the lens cap fitted, the automatic white balance adjustment may not function properly. Please turn the Camcorder on after removing the lens cap.

How to turn on the power

1 While pressing the button 1, set the

[OFF/ON] switch to [ON].

≥The status indicator lights up.

How to turn off the power

1 While pressing the button 1, set the

[OFF/ON] switch to [OFF].

≥The status indicator goes off.

OFF ON

Selecting a mode

Rotate the mode dial to select the desired mode.

1 Rotate the mode dial.

≥Set your desired mode to 1.

: Tape recording mode

Use this when you want to record the image on a tape. (Also, you can simultaneously record still pictures on a card while recording images on a tape.)

: Tape playback mode

Use this to play back a tape.

: Card recording mode

Use this to record still pictures on a card.

: Picture playback mode

Use this to play back the still pictures recorded on a card.

:PC mode

Use this to view or edit the images recorded on a card on your personal computer.

Joystick

OFF ON

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Before using

How to use the joystick

ª Basic joystick operations

Operations on the menu screen and selection of files to be played back on the multi-image display

Move the joystick up, down, left, or right to select an item or file, and then push in the center to set it.

1 Select by moving up. 2 Select by moving down. 3 Select by moving left. 4 Select by moving right. 5 Determine by pushing the center.

Joystick and screen display

Push the center of the joystick, and icons will be displayed on the screen. Each push switches the display as follows depending on the mode. (In the Tape playback mode or the Picture playback mode, the icons will be automatically displayed on the screen.)

1) Tape recording mode ([AUTO/MANUAL/FOCUS] switch is set to [AUTO])

2) Tape recording mode ([AUTO/MANUAL/FOCUS] switch is set to [MANUAL])

4 White balance

Shutter speed Iris or gain value

1 Select/Adjust -37- 2 Select/Adjust -37-

3) Tape playback mode

Screen display OFF

3 Playback/pause -40- 4 Stop -40- 2 Rewind (review playback) -40- 1 Fast forward (cue playback) -40-

4) Card recording mode ([AUTO/MANUAL/FOCUS] switch is set to [AUTO])

Screen display OFF

-37-

3 Tele-macro 4 Soft skin mode -33- 2 Fade -33- 1 Backlight compensation -32- 3 MagicPix/0 Lux MagicPix -32- 4 Recording check -28-

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Screen display OFF

-33-

Screen display OFF

3 Tele-macro -33- 4 Soft skin mode -33- 1 Backlight compensation -32-

Before using

5) Card recording mode ([AUTO/MANUAL/FOCUS] switch is set to [MANUAL])

Screen display OFF

4 White balance

Shutter speed Iris or gain value

1 Select/Adjust -37- 2 Select/Adjust -37-

6) Picture playback mode

Screen display OFF

3 Playback/stop -42- 4 Erase -43- 2 Playback previous picture -42 - 1 Playback next picture -42-

Switching the language

You can switch the language on the screen display or the menu screen.

1 Set [LANGUAGE] >> [English].

-37-

Using the menu screen

For each individual menu, please refer to -58- .

1 Press the [MENU] button.

≥The menu corresponding to the mode

selected by the mode dial is displayed.

≥Do not switch the mode dial when the menu is

displayed.

2 Move the joystick up or down in order to

select the top menu.

3 Move the joystick right or press it to set the

selection.

4 Move the joystick up or down in order to

select the sub-menu.

5 Move the joystick right or press it to set the

selection.

6 Move the joystick up or down in order to

select the item to be set.

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Before using

7 Press the joystick to determine the setting.

To exit the menu screen

Press the [MENU] button.

To get back to the previous screen

Move the joystick left.

About the menu setting

≥The menu screen does not appear during

recording. And you cannot record when the menu screen appears.

Operating with remote control (optional)

The menu screen transition is the same as when the buttons on the main unit are used.

1 Press the [MENU] button.

2 Select a menu item.

≥Use the direction buttons (3, 2, 1, 4) and

[ENTER] button in place of the joystick on the main unit.

Setting date and time

If the screen shows the incorrect date/time, then adjust it.

≥Set to Tape Recording Mode or Card

Recording Mode.

1 Set [BASIC] >> [CLOCK SET] >> [YES].

2006

2 Move the joystick left or right in order to

select the item to be set. Then move the joystick up or down to set the desired value.

≥The year will change as follows:

2000, 2001, ..., 2089, 2000, ...

≥The 12-hour clock is used.

3 Press the joystick to determine the setting.

≥The clock function starts at [00] seconds.

About date/time

≥The date and time function are driven by a

built-in lithium battery.

≥Make sure to check the time before recording

because the built-in clock is not very accurate.

Recharging the built-in lithium battery

ª ≥If [0] or [--] is indicated when the Camcorder is

turned on, then the built-in lithium battery has run down. Connect the AC adaptor to the Camcorder or place the battery on the Camcorder, and the built-in lithium battery will be recharged. Leave the Camcorder as is for approx. 24 hours, and the battery will drive the date and time for approx. 6 months. (Even if the [OFF/ON] switch is set to [OFF], the battery is still being recharged.)

3 Press the [MENU] button, to exit the menu

screen.

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Before using

Adjusting LCD monitor/viewfinder

ª Adjusting the brightness and color

level

Set [SETUP] >> [LCD SET] or [EVF SET] >>

[YES].

2 Move the joystick up or down in order to

select the item to be adjusted.

[LCD SET]

: Brightness of the LCD monitor

: Color level of the LCD monitor

[EVF SET]

: Brightness of the viewfinder

EVF

3 Move the joystick left or right to move the

bar indication representing the brightness.

4 Press the [MENU] button or the joystick to

complete the settings.

≥In order to adjust the brightness of the

viewfinder, close the LCD monitor, and the viewfinder will be activated.

≥When the LCD monitor is rotated by 180°

towards the lens, the brightness of the LCD monitor cannot be adjusted.

≥These settings will not affect the images actually

recorded.

In order to increase the brightness of

the entire LCD monitor

Press the [POWER LCD] button.

Using the remote control (optional)

ª Remote control

Using the remote control (optional) will enable control of almost all functions of this Camcorder.

(1) (2)

(1) On-screen display button [EXT DISPLAY]

-42-

Date/time button [DATE/TIME] -58-

(2)

Audio dubbing button [AUDIO DUB] -47-

(3) (4)

Record button [¥REC] -46- Direction buttons [3, 2, 1, 4] -22-

(5)

(6)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(7)

(8) (9)

POWER LCD

≥The [POWER LCD] lamp lights up. ≥If the [POWER LCD] button is pressed, the

entire LCD monitor will become approx. twice as bright as the normal.

≥Press this button again, and the lamp will go off

and the brightness will revert back to the original brightness.

≥This will not affect the images to be recorded. ≥If you turn on the Camcorder when the AC

adaptor is used, the [POWER LCD] function will automatically be activated.

Slow/frame-by-frame forward buttons

(6)

[E, D] (E: reverse, D: forward) Zoom/volume button [ZOOM/VOL] ¢

(7) (8) Search button [VAR SEARCH] -41-

Menu button [MENU] -22-

(9)

-40-

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Before using

(10)

(11) (12) (13)

(10) Photoshot button [PHOTO SHOT] ¢ (11) Rewind/review button [6] (12) Pause button [;] (13) Stop button [∫] (14) Recording start/stop button [START/

(14)

(15) (16)

(17)

STOP] ¢

(15) Playback button [PLAY 1] (16) Fast forward/cue button [5] (17) Enter button [ENTER] -22-

¢ means that these buttons function in the same manner as the corresponding buttons on the Camcorder.

Install a button-type battery

Install the button-type battery (optional) in the remote control before using it.

1 While pressing the stopper 1, pull out the

battery holder.

Warning Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the equipment manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to manufacturer’s instructions. Risk of fire, explosion and burns. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 100 °C (212 °F) or incinerate. Keep the Button-Type battery out of the reach of children. Never put Button-Type battery in mouth. If swallowed, call your doctor.

Replace battery with Panasonic PART NO. CR2025 only. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion. Caution: Battery may explode if mistreated. Dispose of used battery promptly. Keep away from children. Do not recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire.

Remote control usable range

2 Set the button-type battery with its (i) mark

facing upward and slide the battery holder back into place.

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≥The distance between the remote control and

the Camcorder: Within approx. 5 m (16 feet) Angle: Approx. 10o up and 15o down, left, and right

Before using

ª Selecting the remote control mode

If 2 Camcorders are used simultaneously, set the mode for one pair of Camcorder and remote control to [VCR1] and that of the other pair to [VCR2]. This will prevent interference between the 2 pairs. (The default setting is [VCR1]. When the button-type battery is replaced, the setting will revert to the default [VCR1].)

1 Setting on the Camcorder:

Set [SETUP] >> [REMOTE] >> [VCR1] or [VCR2].

2 Setting on the remote control:

2 1

[VCR1]: Press [D] and [∫] simultaneously. 1 [VCR2]: Press [E] and [∫] simultaneously. 2

Concerning the button-type battery

ª ≥When the button-type battery (optional) runs

down, replace it with a new battery (part number: CR2025). The battery is normally expected to last about 1 year, but it depends on operation frequency.

≥Keep the button-type battery out of the reach of

children.

≥If the remote control mode of the Camcorder

and that of the remote control do not match with each other, “REMOTE” will appear. When the remote control is operated for the first time after the Camcorder is turned on, “CHECK REMOTE MODE” ( impossible. Set the same remote control mode.

≥The remote control is intended for indoor

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

≥Within a 1 m (3 feet) range, you can operate the

remote control using the remote control sensor on the LCD monitor side of the Camcorder.

-63-) will appear and operation is

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Record mode

Check before recording

Check the following by a trial recording before important events such as weddings in order to verify that the image recording and audio recording work properly and that you know how to use the Camcorder.

Basic Camcorder positioning

1) Hold the Camcorder with both hands.

2) Run your hand through the grip belt.

3) Do not cover the microphones or sensors with your hands.

4) Keep your arms near your body.

5) Slightly open your legs.

≥When you are outdoors, record pictures with the

sunlight as far in the background as possible. If the subject is backlit, it will become dark in the recording.

Check points

ª ≥Remove the lens cap. (-14-)

(When the Camcorder is turned on with the lens cap fitted, the automatic white balance adjustment may not function properly. Please turn the Camcorder on after removing the lens cap.)

≥Grip belt adjustment ( ≥Power supply ( ≥Insert a cassette/card. ( ≥Setting date/time ( ≥Adjustment of LCD monitor/viewfinder ( ≥Getting the remote control ready (

-14-)

-16-)

-17-, -18-)

-22-)

-23-)

≥Setting SP/LP mode (

About auto mode

ª ≥Set the [AUTO/MANUAL/FOCUS] switch to

[AUTO], and color balance (white balance) and focusing will be adjusted automatically.

≥Auto white balance: ≥Auto focusing: -72-

-26-)

-72-

AUTO MANUAL

FOCUS

≥Color balance and focus may not be adjusted

depending on light sources or scenes. If so, manually adjust the white balance and focus.

≥Scene mode setting ( ≥White balance setting ( ≥Shutter speed setting ( ≥Iris/gain value setting ( ≥Focus setting (

Recording mode

You can switch the tape recording mode.

≥Set to Tape Recording/Playback Mode.

-36-)

-37-)

-38-)

1 Set [BASIC] or [ADVANCE] >> [REC SPEED]

>> [SP] or [LP].

If the LP mode is selected, the recording time will be 1.5 times the SP mode, but some functions will be disabled.

≥We recommend using the SP mode for

important recording.

≥In order to fully exhibit the performances of the

LP mode, we recommend using Panasonic cassettes marked LP mode.

≥It is not possible to dub audio onto images

recorded in the LP mode. (

≥In the LP mode, the picture quality will not be

degraded in comparison with the SP mode, but mosaic noise may appear on the playback image or some functions may be disabled.

≥Playback on other digital video equipment

or on digital video equipment without the LP mode

≥Playback of the image on other digital video

equipment recorded in the LP mode

≥Slow/frame-by-frame playback

-47-)

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