Panasonic VDR-D50P, VDR-D50PC Operating Instruction

Operating Instructions

DVD Video Camera

Model No. VDR-D50P/PC

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.

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

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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 camera. Be sure to retain
this manual as your convenient camera
information source.

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

Safety Precautions

CAUTION:

CAUTION:

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

CAUTION:

DANGER OF EXPLOSION IF BATTERY IS INCORRECTLY REPLACED.
REPLACE ONLY WITH THE SAME OR EQUIVALENT TYPE.
USE OF CONTROLS OR ADJUSTMENTS OR PERFORMANCE OF
PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFIED HEREIN MAY RESULT IN
HAZARDOUS RADIATION EXPOSURE.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol,

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE SCREWS.
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS
INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL.

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

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

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.

2

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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.

THE FOLLOWING APPLIES ONLY IN THE U.S.A.

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.: VDR-D50P
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.

IEC60825-1:2001

One Panasonic Way, Secaucus, NJ 07094

1-800-211-PANA (7262)

WARNING

≥ AS WITH ANY SMALL

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

VDR-D50P

THE FOLLOWING APPLIES ONLY IN CANADA.

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

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3

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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

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.

12) Use only with the cart,
stand, tripod, bracket, or
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.

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

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

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

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

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Precautions

USE & LOCATION

WARNING

≥ TO AVOID SHOCK HAZARD ... Your camera

and power supply should not be exposed to
rain or moisture. Do not connect the power
supply or operate your camera if it gets wet.
Your camera 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
camera. Do not attempt to disassemble this
unit. There are no user serviceable parts
inside. Unplug your camera from the power
supply before cleaning.

CAUTION

≥ DO NOT AIM YOUR CAMERA AT THE SUN

OR OTHER BRIGHT OBJECTS

≥ DO NOT LEAVE THE CAMERA WITH THE

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

≥ DO NOT EXPOSE YOUR CAMERA 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
camera.

≥ AVOID SUDDEN CHANGES IN

TEMPERATURE ... If the unit is suddenly

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

≥ DO NOT LEAVE YOUR CAMERA OR THE

POWER SUPPLY TURNED ON WHEN NOT
IN USE.

≥ STORAGE OF YOUR CAMERA ... Store and

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

CARE

≥ TO CLEAN YOUR CAMERA ... Do not use

strong or abrasive detergents when cleaning
your camera body.

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

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

≥ TO PROTECT THE FINISH OF YOUR

CAMERA ... Before handling your camera,

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

∫ 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.

IMPORTANT

∫ Carefully observe copyright laws
Whatever you have recorded and created can be used for your personal entertainment only.

Under copyright laws, other materials cannot be used without obtaining permission from the
holders of the copyrights.

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5

Battery pack (Lithium ion battery pack)

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

If any electrolyte should come into contact with your hands or clothes, wash it off thoroughly with
water.
If any electrolyte should come into contact with your eyes, never rub the eyes. Rinse eyes thoroughly
with water, and then consult a doctor.

Warning

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

AC adaptor

This AC adaptor operates on AC between 110 V and 240 V.
But

≥ In the U.S.A. and Canada, the AC adaptor must be connected to a 120 V AC power supply only.
≥ When connecting to an AC supply outside of the U.S.A. or Canada, use a plug adaptor to suit the

AC outlet configuration.

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

voltage of the AC supply and the rated current of the AC adaptor.

≥ Contact an electrical parts distributor for assistance in selecting a suitable AC plug adaptor or AC

cord set.

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.

Product Identification Marking is located on the bottom of units.

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.

-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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Contents

Accessories.................................................... 9

Features........................................................ 10

Quick Guide.................................................. 11

Preparation

Before using

[1] Parts identification and handling..... 14

[2] Power supply ..................................... 18

Charging the battery............................ 18

Inserting the battery............................. 19

Charging time and recordable time ..... 19

Connecting to the AC outlet................. 21

[3] About discs........................................ 22

[4] Inserting/removing a disc ................. 25

[5] About SD cards.................................. 26

[6] Inserting/removing an SD card ........ 27

Setup

[1] Turning the unit on/off

Selecting a mode ............................... 28

[2] Using the menu screen..................... 30

Language selection ............................. 31

Menu list .............................................. 31

[3] Setting date and time ........................ 33

[4] Adjusting LCD monitor/

viewfinder........................................... 34

Recording

Recording (Basic)

[1] Before recording................................ 36

[2] Recording motion pictures............... 37

Recording modes and

recordable time.................................... 38

[3] Recording still pictures

on an SD card .................................... 39

Number of pixels and picture quality ... 40

[4] Recording functions.......................... 41

Zoom in/out function............................ 41

Recording yourself............................... 42

Image stabilizer function...................... 43

Recording (Advanced)

[1] Recording functions of

operation icons ................................. 44

Operation icons................................... 45

Backlight compensation/Fade/
Help mode/MagicPix/
Soft skin mode/Self-timer

[2] Recording functions of menus ........ 48

Menus ................................................. 48

Guideline/Aspect ratio/
Wind noise reduction/
Auto slow shutter

[3] Manual recording functions............. 49

Scene mode........................................ 50

Manual focus adjustment .................... 50

White balance ..................................... 51

Manual shutter speed/

aperture adjustment ............................ 52

Playback

Playback

[1] Motion picture playback................... 54

[2] Still picture playback ........................ 57

Editing

[1] Deleting scenes/files......................... 59

Deleting scenes/files one at a time ..... 59

Deleting multiple scenes/files.............. 59

[2] Editing scenes................................... 61

[3] Using playlists................................... 63

Creating a new playlist ........................ 63

Editing a playlist .................................. 64

[4] Editing still pictures.......................... 66

Disc and SD card management

[1] Finalizing a disc ................................ 68

Un-finalizing a DVD-RW disc .............. 69

[2] Protecting a disc/

disc information ................................ 70

Protecting a disc.................................. 70

Displaying disc information ................. 70

[3] Formatting a disc/an SD card .......... 71

Formatting a disc................................. 71

Formatting an SD card ........................ 71

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With other products

[1] Playback on TV .................................. 72

[2] With a DVD recorder/player .............. 73

Playback on DVD recorder,

DVD player, PC etc.............................. 73

Copying (dubbing) recordings

onto a DVD recorder’s hard disk ......... 73

[3] Recording (dubbing) images

onto a VCR ......................................... 74

[4] With a printer (PictBridge) ................ 75

With a PC

Before using

[1] What you can do with a PC............... 78

[2] Operating environment..................... 79

End User License Agreement.............. 81

Setup

[1] Installation.......................................... 82

Installing VideoCam Suite ................... 82

Uninstalling the software ..................... 83

[2] Connection and recognition............. 84

About the PC display ........................... 85

To disconnect USB cable safely .......... 86

Using software

[1] Starting VideoCam Suite................... 87

Reading the operating instructions

of the software..................................... 87

Using a Macintosh

[1] If using a Macintosh .......................... 88

Optional accessories ................................ 109

Accessory Order Form

(For USA Customers)........................ 110

Request for Service Notice

(USA Only) .................................................. 111

Limited Warranty

(For USA Customers)................................ 112

Customer Services Directory ................... 113

Warranty (For Canadian Customers)....... 114

Index........................................................... 115

Spanish Quick Use Guide/

Guía española para el uso rápido............ 116

Others

Indications

[1] Indications.......................................... 90

[2] Messages ........................................... 92

Helpful hints

[1] Functions that cannot be used

simultaneously .................................. 94

[2] Frequently asked questions ............. 95

[3] Troubleshooting ................................ 96

Cautions for use ........................................ 101

Explanation of terms ................................. 104

Specifications ............................................ 106

Number of recordable pictures

on an SD card.................................... 108

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Accessories

Check the accessories before using this unit.

Battery pack

VW-VBG070A

AC adaptor

VSK0697

AC cable

K2CA2CA00029 or
K2CA2CA00025

DC cable

K2GJ2DC00015

AV cable

K2KZ9CB00002

USB cable

K1HA05CD0017

CD-ROM

LSFT0761

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9

Features

∫ DVD-RW and DVD-R/DVD-R DL discs

Recordings made on DVD-RW or DVD-R/DVD-R DL discs cannot be played in other DVD devices or
PCs unless the discs are finalized. (l 68)

∫ Using with DVD player/recorder (l 73)

Just insert the disc into a DVD player/recorder compatible with 8 cm (3z) discs to play back the scenes
recorded with this unit.
If you have a DVD recorder with hard disk, you can copy (dub) scenes recorded on a disc with this unit
to the hard disk.

∫ Using a PC to edit your recordings (l 78)

You can edit scenes with the software on the supplied CD-ROM and create DVD-Video discs.

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Quick Guide

∫ Charging the battery

1 Connect the AC cable to the AC adaptor

and the AC outlet.

2 Insert the battery into the battery charger

by aligning the arrows.

2

1

∫ Inserting the battery

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

∫ Inserting a disc

1 Slide the DISC EJECT lever up and

release it.

2 Open the cover of the disc compartment

and insert the disc.

3 Push the section marked PUSH CLOSE to

close the cover.

≥ To remove the battery, while sliding the

BATTERY lever, slide the battery down.

∫ How to turn on the power

While pressing the lock release button A, set
the mode dial to , , or .

≥ Align with the status indicator B.

B

≥ To turn off the power, set the mode dial to OFF.

A

∫ Inserting an SD card

1 Open the SD card slot cover, then insert

the SD card.

2

1

2 Securely close the SD card slot cover.

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11

∫ Recording motion pictures

≥ Rotate the mode dial to select .

∫ Playback

≥ Rotate the mode dial to select or .

1 Press the recording start/stop button to

start recording.

2 Press the recording start/stop button

again to pause recording.

∫ Recording still pictures

≥ Rotate the mode dial to select .

Press the recording start/stop button.

1 Select the scene/file to be played back,

then press the joystick.

2 Select the playback operation with the

joystick.

Motion picture playback

1/;: Playback/Pause
:: Skip playback (backward)
9: Skip playback (forward)
∫: Stops the playback and shows the

thumbnails.

Still picture playback

1/;: Slide show start/pause.
2;: Plays back the previous picture.
;1: Plays back the next picture.
∫: Stops the playback and shows the

thumbnails.

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Preparation

Recording

Playback

With a PC

Others

14 Before using

28 Setup

13

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Before using

AB

1

1

Parts identification and
handling

4

2

MANUAL

AF/MF

AUTO

14 15 16

3

RESET

5

6

7

ACCESS

89

CARD DISC/PC

10

11

12

13

1 LCD monitor open part
2 LCD monitor

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.

LCD monitor

Pull the LCD monitor out in the direction of the arrow with your fingers.

≥ It can open up to 90o. ≥ It can rotate up to 180o A towards the lens or

≥ The brightness and color level of the LCD monitor can be adjusted. (l 34)

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3 When recording: Zoom lever [W/T] (l 41)

When playing back: Volume lever
[sVOLr] (l 55)

4 Status indicator (l 28)
5 Speaker
6 Eyepiece corrector knob (l 34)

90o B towards the viewfinder.

7 Viewfinder

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 SD card access lamp [ACCESS CARD]

(l 27)

9 Disc/PC access lamp [ACCESS DISC/PC]

(l 25, 84)

10 DC input terminal [DC/C.C.IN] (l 21)
11 Battery holder (l 19)
12 USB terminal [ ] (l 75, 84)
13 SD card slot [SD CARD] (l 27)
14 Auto button [AUTO] (l 36)
15 Manual button [MANUAL AF/MF] (l 49)
16 Reset button [RESET] (l 99)

Viewfinder

Pull out the viewfinder.

17

18

19

20

17 Lens
18 Lens cover open/close switch
19 Microphone (built-in, stereo)
20 White balance sensor (l 51)

Lens cover

For the lens protection, be sure to close the
lens cover when not in use.

Slide the lens cover open/close switch.

Close the LCD monitor when using the
viewfinder.
≥ The brightness of the viewfinder and the

field of view can be adjusted. (l 34)

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21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

21 Mode dial (l 28)
22 Image stabilizer button [ , O.I.S.] (l 43)
23 Menu button [MENU] (l 30)
24 Delete button [ ] (l 59)
25 Recording start/stop button (l 37, 39)
26 Joystick

Joystick

Use the joystick to select the recording
functions and playback operations, and to
operate the menu screen.

Move the joystick up, down, left, or right to
select a setting or scene, and then press
the joystick to set it.

1

1 Select by moving up, down, left, or right.
2 Set by pressing the center.

≥ Menu screen operations (l 30)
≥ To select the recording functions (l 44)
≥ To adjust manually (l 49)
≥ Playback operations (l 54, 57)

2

27 Disc eject lever [DISC EJECT] (l 25)
28 Disc compartment (l 25)
29 Audio-video output terminal [A/V]

(l 72, 74)

30 Grip belt

Grip belt

Adjust the belt length and the pad position.

2

3

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

U.S.A. only:

When this unit is purchased, a sensor tag is
attached to the grip belt. Remove the tag
before use.

1

16

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31

31 Tripod receptacle
32 Battery release lever [BATTERY] (l 19)

32

Tripod receptacle

This is a hole for attaching the unit to the
optional tripod.

17

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Before using

Power supply

2

∫ About batteries that you can use with this unit

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

Supplied battery/VW-VBG130/VW-VBG260/VW-VBG6 come with a function to check whether the
battery and unit can be safely used together.

≥ The battery pack holder kit VW-VH04 (optional) is necessary if using VW-VBG6.
≥ 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.

Charging the battery

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

Important:
If the DC cable is connected to the AC adaptor, then the battery will not charge. Remove the DC
cable from the AC adaptor.

2

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A

1

Charging lamp [CHARGE] A

Lights up:

Charging (l 19, Charging time)

Goes off:

Charging completed

Flashing:

≥ When the battery temperature is excessively

high or low, the lamp flashes and the charging
time will be longer than normal.

≥ Remove dirt, foreign objects or dust on the

terminals of the battery or the AC adaptor.
If the lamp is still flashing, something may be
wrong with the battery or AC adaptor.
Contact consumer support. (l 113, 114)

1 Connect the AC cable to the AC adaptor and the AC outlet.

2 Insert the battery into the battery charger by aligning the arrows.

≥ We recommend using Panasonic batteries. (l 9, 19, 109)
≥ If you use other batteries, we cannot guarantee the quality of this product.

Inserting the battery

Removing the battery

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

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

≥ Before removing the battery, be sure to set the

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

≥ Do not heat or expose to flame.
≥ Do not leave a battery pack in an automobile

exposed to direct sunlight for a long period of
time with doors and windows closed.

≥ Hold the battery with your hand so that it

does not fall.

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.

Charging time and recordable time

∫ Charging time
≥ Temperature: 25 oC (77 oF)/humidity: 60%

Battery model number Voltage/capacity Charging time

Supplied battery 7.2 V/770 mAh 1 h 35 min

VW-VBG130 (optional) 7.2 V/1320 mAh 2 h 35 min

VW-VBG260 (optional) 7.2 V/2640 mAh 4 h 40 min

VW-VBG6 (optional) 7.2 V/5800 mAh 9 h 25 min

≥ If the temperature is higher or lower than 25 oC (77 oF), the charging time will become longer.

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∫ Recordable time
≥ Temperature: 25 oC (77 oF)/humidity: 60%
≥ When using the viewfinder (times in parentheses are when using the LCD monitor)
≥ When using a DVD-RAM disc

Battery model

number

Supplied battery

VW-VBG130

(optional)

VW-VBG260

(optional)

VW-VBG6 (optional)

Voltage/

capacity

7.2 V/

770 mAh

7.2 V/

1320 mAh

7.2 V/

2640 mAh

7.2 V/

5800 mAh

Recording

mode

XP

SP

LP

XP

SP

LP

XP

SP

LP

XP

SP

LP

Maximum

continuously

recordable time

1h5min

(1 h)

1h15min

(1 h 10 min)

1h20min

(1 h 15 min)

1h55min

(1 h 45 min)

2h10min

(2 h)

2h20min

(2 h 5 min)

4h5min

(3 h 45 min)

4h35min

(4 h 10 min)

4h55min

(4 h 30 min)

9h25min

(8 h 40 min)

10 h 40 min
(9 h 40 min)

11 h 25 min

(10 h 20 min)

Actual recordable

time

40 min

(35 min)

40 min

(40 min)

40 min

(40 min)

1h10min

(1 h 5 min)

1h15min
(1 h 5 min)

1h15min
(1 h 5 min)

2h30min

(2h15min)

2h35min

(2h25min)

2h40min

(2h25min)

5h50min

(5h20min)

6h10min

(5h35min)

6h15min

(5h40min)

≥ These times are approximations.
≥ 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.

≥ The recordable times will vary depending on the status of use.
≥ Be aware that low temperatures will shorten the amount of time the battery will remain charged. We

recommend carrying a spare battery.

≥ The batteries heat up after use or charging. This unit will also heat up while being used. This is not a

malfunction.

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Battery capacity indication

≥ The display changes to the following indications step-by-step as the battery capacity decreases.

≥ If the battery discharges, then ( ) will flash.

####

Connecting to the AC outlet

Important:
While the DC cable is connected to the AC adaptor, the battery will not charge.

3

2

1

1 Connect the AC cable to the AC adaptor and the AC outlet.

2 Connect the DC cable to the AC adaptor.

3 Connect the DC cable to this unit.

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

AC cable from other equipment with this unit.

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Before using

∫ Disc type

About discs

3

Disc type DVD-RAM

8cm (3z)

Single sided/
double sided

Recording format VR format VR format Video format Video format Video format

Display on the
screen

Indication in
these instructions

(RAM) (-RW‹VR›) (-RW‹V›) (-R) (-R]DL)

About format types

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

This is a format for recording on DVD discs
which allows you to record and erase
repeatedly and create playlists. You can
record on DVD-RAM and DVD-RW discs in
VR format with this unit.

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

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

DVD-RW

8 cm (3z)

Single sided/double sided

∫ About DVD-R DL (Dual Layer) disc

DVD-R DL (Dual Layer) discs have two layers of
recording/playback surface on one side.
If the first layer (L0) becomes full during
recording, the recording continues uninterrupted
on the second layer (L1). However, the recording
is divided into 2 scenes at the point where the
layers switch. This unit automatically switches
layers during disc playback so you can play the
whole of the disc continuously like a normal disc.
However, the picture or the sound momentarily
stops at the point where the layers switch.

∫ Examples of discs that cannot be used on

this unit

≥ Discs other than those with diameter of 8 cm

(3z)

≥ Double layer discs other than DVD-R DL
≥ Blu-ray Disc ≥ CD-RW
≥ HD DVD ≥ CD-R
≥iRW ≥ CD-ROM
≥iR ≥ CD
≥iR DL
≥ DVD-ROM
≥ DVD-Video

DVD-R

8 cm (3z)

Single sided/
double sided

DVD-R DL

8cm (3z)

Dual layer on

single side

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∫ Disc characteristics

Disc type DVD-RAM DVD-RW

(VR format)

DVD-RW

(Video format)

DVD-R DVD-R DL

Rewritable disc ¥¥ ¥*1––

Deleting recorded
scenes

¥¥ –––

Editing on this unit ¥¥ –––

Playback on other
products

*2

Recording after
finalizing

*3

¥

*5

¥

*3*4

¥

*4

¥

*4

¥

*3*4

¥

¥¥*6––

¥: applicable –: not applicable

*1 By formatting the disc, it can be used repeatedly. (l 71)
*2 DVD players and DVD recorders that support 8 cm (3z) discs.
*3 Playback is possible on compatible products.
*4 Must be finalized on this unit. (l 68)
*5 Does not need to be finalized.
*6 Un-finalize the disc. (l 69)

≥ 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 unless they are removed
from the containers prior to use.

≥ When using DVD-RW or DVD-R/DVD-R DL

discs, 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 a disc that has not been finalized into

other products.

≥ 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 “RECOMMENDED TO USE
PANASONIC DISC” 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.)

≥ Discs recorded on this unit may not be

playable on other products.

≥ Recording on a DVD-R/DVD-R DL disc in VR

format is not supported.

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When using a new DVD-RW disc Disc handling

When using a DVD-RW disc, select whether to
record in VR format or Video format and then
format the disc. (l 22, About format types)
When a new DVD-RW disc is used, the screen
shown in the illustration appears.

1 Select [YES], then press the

joystick.

2 Select format type, then press

the joystick.

[VIDEO]:

Video format (Cannot edit or delete scenes)

[VR]:

VR format (Allows editing and deleting of
scenes)

3 When the confirmation message appears

Select [YES], then press the
joystick.

≥ Do not touch the recording/playback surface.

≥ If there are scratches, dirt or fingerprints on the

recording/playback side of the disc, images
cannot be recorded or played back normally
and the following phenomena may occur:

jRecording or playback becomes impossible.
jPlayback image stops momentarily or sound

is interrupted during playback.

jBlock noise appears on playback images.

≥ If there is dirt on the disc, wipe with a damp

cloth and then wipe dry.

≥ Do not attach labels or stickers to discs.
≥ Do not use ballpoint pens or other hard writing

implements to write on a label. Use a soft fiber
pen with solvent ink.

≥ Do not use solvents to clean the disc.
≥ Do not drop, stack, or impact discs. Do not

place objects on them.

≥ Do not use the following discs:

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

shapes.

≥ 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 71)

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≥ Do not leave discs 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).

≥ To protect discs, keep them in their cases

when not being used.

Before using

A

Inserting/removing a disc

4

≥ The cover of the disc compartment will not open unless the unit has a charged battery or is connected

to the AC adaptor.

A Set the recording/playback side

to the inside.

B Pickup lens (reads disc)

B

1 Insert a charged battery or

connect the AC adaptor.

2 Slide the DISC EJECT lever up

and release it.

C

3 Open the cover of the disc

compartment and insert/remove
the disc.

≥ Place the disc onto the spindle in the center

and then push the disc down until it clicks into
place.

≥ While pressing down on the spindle, grasp the

edge of the disc and gently lift it out.

4 Push the section marked

PUSH CLOSE to close the cover.

≥ Do not remove the battery pack or disconnect

the AC adaptor while removing the disc.

≥ If the cover is open, the power will not turn off

even if the mode dial is set to OFF.

≥ Do not touch the pickup lens or the recording/

playback side of the disc.

≥ Be sure not to touch the area around the

pickup lens for it becomes extremely hot.

Disc access lamp [ACCESS DISC/
PC] C

When the lamp is on, the disc is rotating and
data is being recorded. If the power supply is
interrupted, the disc may become damaged.
Do not disconnect the AC adaptor or remove
the battery. Also, do not shake or bump the
unit while the lamp is on.

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Before using

About SD cards

5

Card type SD Memory Card SDHC Memory Card

Capacity 8 MB, 16 MB, 32 MB, 64 MB, 128 MB, 256 MB,

512MB, 1GB, 2GB

Indication in these
instructions

This unit is compatible with both SD Memory cards and SDHC Memory cards. You can only use
SDHC Memory cards on devices that are compatible with them. 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, be sure to read the operating instructions for that device.)

(SD)

4GB, 8GB

≥ For the purposes of these operating

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

≥ Motion pictures cannot be recorded on an

SD card with this unit.

≥ Please confirm the latest information on the

following website. (This website is in English
only.)

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

≥ 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 PC),
the time spent for recording may become
longer and you may not be able to use the SD
card. (l 71)

≥ We recommend that you use a Panasonic

brand SD card.

≥ When the write-protect switch

A on SD card is locked, no
recording, deletion or editing
will be possible on the card.

≥ Keep the Memory Card out of

reach of children to prevent
swallowing.

A

≥ A MultiMediaCard cannot be used on this unit.

∫ About the miniSD Card
≥ Be sure to insert miniSD Cards in the

dedicated card adaptor before use. Inserting a
card in this unit without the adaptor may
damage the unit or the card.

≥ Do not insert an empty card adaptor in this

unit. Do not leave the adaptor in this unit while
inserting or removing miniSD Cards. This may
cause the unit to malfunction.

SD card handling

≥ Do not touch the terminals on the back of the

SD card.

≥ Do not expose the terminals of the SD card to

water, debris, dirt or dust.

≥ Do not leave the SD cards in the following

areas:

jIn direct sunlight.
jIn very dusty or humid areas.
jNear a heater.
jLocations susceptible to significant

difference in temperature (condensation can
occur).

jWhere static electricity or electromagnetic

waves occur.

≥ To protect SD cards, keep them in their cases

when not being used.

≥ Electrical noise, static electricity or failure of

this unit or the SD card may damage or erase
the data stored on the SD card. We
recommend saving the SD data on a PC.

26

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Before using

6

Caution:
If the SD card is inserted or removed while the power is on, this unit may malfunction or the data
recorded on the SD card may be lost.

Inserting/removing an SD
card

2

B

1

1 Set the mode dial to OFF and

remove the battery.

≥ Check that the status indicator has gone off.

2 Open the SD card slot cover.

3 Insert/remove the SD card.

≥ Press the SD card straight in as far as it will go.
≥ Press the center of the SD card and then pull it

straight out.

4 Securely close the SD card slot

cover.

A

SD card access lamp [ACCESS
CARD] B

≥ When this unit is processing data, the lamp

lights up.

≥ When lamp is on, do not:

sRemove the SD card
sOperate the mode dial
sRemove the battery or disconnect the

≥ Performing the above while lamp is on may

result in damage to data/SD card or this
unit.

A Label side

AC adaptor

27

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Setup

1

Rotate the mode dial to switch to recording, playback or power OFF.

Turning the unit on/off
Selecting a mode

≥ Rotate the mode dial while at the same

B

A

time pressing in the lock release button
A if changing from OFF to another
mode.

≥ Align with the status indicator B.

While pressing the lock release button, set the mode dial to , , or
to turn on the power.

The status indicator lights and the power turns on.
≥ When the unit is turned on for the first time, a message asking you to set the date and time will

appear. Select [YES] and set the date and time. (l 33)

To turn off the power

Set the mode dial to OFF.
≥ The status indicator goes off and the power turns off.

OFF

28

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Video recording mode (l 37)

Video playback mode (l 54)

Picture recording mode (l 39)

Picture playback mode (l 57)

To start recording immediately

Use the following steps to make the unit
recognize the disc.

1) Insert a disc.

2) Turn on the power.

3) After “READING DISC...” disappears from
the screen, turn off the power.

You can start recording immediately when you
turn on the power again.
≥ Set the date and time to use this function.

How to turn the power on and off with the LCD monitor/viewfinder

When the mode dial is set to or , the power can be turned on and off with the LCD monitor and
the viewfinder.

∫ To t u r n o n

Open the LCD monitor or extend the viewfinder.

The status indicator lights.

∫ To t u r n o f f

Close the LCD monitor and retract the viewfinder.

The status indicator goes off.

Set the mode dial to OFF when this unit is not being used.

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Setup

Using the menu screen

2

MENU

1 Press the MENU button.

The menu displayed differs depending on the
position of the mode dial.

2 Select the desired top menu, then

move the joystick right or press
the joystick.

3 Select the submenu item, then

move the joystick right or press
the joystick.

4 Select the desired setting, then

press the joystick to enter the
selection.

To get back to the previous screen

Move the joystick left.

To exit the menu screen

Press the MENU button.

≥ Do not switch the mode dial when the menu is

displayed.

≥ The menu screen does not appear during

recording or playing. You cannot start other
operations while the menu screen is displayed.

30

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