RCA CC-285 User Manual

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Camcorder

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Owner’s Manual

Operating Instructions Warranty Information

Please read completely before attempting to operate your new RCA product.

Safety Precautions

Your Video Camcorder AC Adapter/Charger will operate on 120 volts, 50/60 Hz only and has a polarized plug Because one blade of the plug is wider than the other, the plug fits in the wall socket only one way Do not defeat the safety feature of this plug. If you need an extension, use a polarized cord

CAUTION: To prevent electnc shock, do not use the polarized plug on this Video Camcorder or AC Adapter/Charger with an extension cord, receptacle, or other outlet unless the blades can be inserted fully to prevent blade exposure

MISE EN GARDE: Pour prêvemr les chocs électriques, ne pas utihser la fiche polansée de cet appareil avec une rallonge, une pnse de courant ou une autre sortie, à moins que les lames ne puissent être insérées à fond sans qu’aucune partie ne soit laissée à découvert

CAUTION: To reduce the nsk of electnc shock, do not remove the cover or back No user-serviceable parts are inside If you spill hquid on the Camcorder, disconnect the AC Adapter/Charger power cord to prevent possible fire or shock hazard and consult authonzed service personnel Moisture can damage internal parts Refer all service to Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter personnel only.

CAUTION: Read “Important Safety Instructions below for AC Adapter/Charger" before use CAUTION: Maintain electncal safety. Powerhne-operated equipment or accessones connected to this limt should bear

the UL listing mark or CSA certification mark on the accessones themselves and should not have been modified so as to defeat the safety features. This will help avoid any potential hazard from electnc shock or fire If in doubt, contact qualified service personnel

WARNING: To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose Camcorder

and AC Adapter/Charger to ram or moisture

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

The symbol of a lightning flash within a tnangle is

intended to alert the user

to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure and which may be of sufficient

magnitude to constitute a

nsk of electnc shock.

MISE EN GARDE

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE

NE PAS OUVRIR

An exclamation point within a tnangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (service) instructions in the literature accompanying

the product.

môyûiÆ ù h

.It-

Aycll yotir

ion .to a

Camcorder

’ a stsd>k

rod from a

,^I«№!Sinay1&ui:^

. and

“•i Do not expose duirger to mcristum of

any kind.

# Use of an attadunent not lecommended

or sou by the battay ch^w manitfai^er may rmolt is a of

electric shock, or irgiuy to persons.

# Tb Veduce riric of damage to dechk

‘ cord, piih by plug raâb» than

‘ when disconnecting (âiaieet.

1. Pins on plug of cxtcnsiiHi cord arc

the same numh^, and àtapt as those of plug <Hi cbaig/st.

2. Extension coid is prc^icriy wired and

in good electrical ciHi^tion: and

3. tMre size below is met.

Mininunn

AWGaze

15 16

Length of

extension

cord (feet)

Equal to or less

than 100

Bcpial to oc lem

than ISO

-Smyûtmtèr.^i^eri'kçty^ repair is

nmàdâily may

rriailt in a ihiccf einririe-ri»^ or lice.

• To reduce ririt of demtical ^ock, unplug duager fmn oudet bdore anen^dilig any tnaintenance or

deanii^

« Be sure to swe ih^ opetatiag

mstnicth»» fm fMuib'i»le№(i№.

RCA Owner’s Club

Mail Your Enrollment Card Today

• An RCA Owner’s Club Enrollment Card is packed with your camcorder. Please fill out the card and return it

immediately.

• Your name then will be enrolled in the next drawing,

which takes place every three months. If your name is drawn, you will be reimbursed for the full purchase price of your new RCA product (restricted to residents of USA only).

• Your prompt submission of this card confirms your right to the protection available under the terms and conditions

of the warranty and also allows us to contact you in the

unlikely issuance of a safety modification.

• With your card on file, we can also help you in the event

of loss or theft by verifying your ownership.

• If you did not receive an RCA Owner’s Club Enrollment Card, please contact your dealer.

nnn

PHnsr .'ЧГ I'li'iuit 14 »1',', in,t iKr BjCA Ciih

'Wftmkfit^ Confinnation

I Vinfication of OumiT»Viip

\ Model fUÿitratùm

Attach Your Sales Receipt Here and File at Home For Future Reference

• To obtain warranty parts and service, you must show your sales receipt (or other evidence of purchase) to your Authorized RCA Servicenter.

• Tape or staple your sales receipt to this manual so you will have it handy should service ever be needed. Do not

mail your sates receipt to us. File it at home with your

owner's manual for future reference.

Record Vital Information Here

• No other camcorder has the same serial number as yours. You will find the serial number and the model number on the bottom of your camcorder (and pre-printed on your Enrollment Card).

• Make sure you record both numbers below so that you will have them in case your camcorder is stolen or in case you need a complete description for any other reason.

Model: CC285 Serial: Purchase Date: Dealer Name/Address/Phone:_________________________

____________________________________

____________________________

Contents

Safety Precautions.................................. Inside Front Cover

Introduction

Features ...

Unpacking Your Camcorder.................................................. 4

Quick-Operation Steps........................................................... 5

Location and Use of Controls........................................... 6-13

Powering Camcorder

• Using AC Adapter/Charger

• Using Rechargeable Battery....................................... 15-16

• Using Optional DC Car Cord RCA Video Cassettes

• Recording Times

• Inserting/Removing Cassettes

• Erase Protection (Record-Protect Tab)

• Cassette Care and Storage Detailed Recording Steps Recording Features

• Electronic Viewfinder

• Eyepiece Focus Control

• Displays in Viewfinder

• Date/Time Display

• Zooming

• Quick Review...................................................................23

• Focusing Camcorder (Auto/Manual/Macro)

• Adjusting/fi/TO IR IS

• Fading In and Out of Scenes

• DI SP LA Y Button

• Tape Counter with Memory

• Time-Remaining Display

• Variable Shutter Speeds

• Self-Timer Recording.......................................................29

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18-19

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2-3

14 16

17 17 17

24 25 25

26 27 27

• Adjustable Time-Lapse Recordings.................................29

• Animation Recording

• Electronic Indexing

......................................................

.........................................................

• NO R M AL /W IN D M IC Switch.................................31

• Editing Features

• Flying Erase Head

• Edit Search

.........................................................

....................................................................

32 32

• Synchro Edit..................................................................33

• Audio Dubbing..............................................................34

• Video Dubbing

Quick-Reference Connection Diagrams

..............................................................

..............................

Recording From VCR or Monitor........................................37

Playback Connections

• Standard TV (without audio/video input jacks)

• Video Monitor

.................................................................

..............

• VCR.................................................................................39

Playback Instructions

• Playing Tapes Thru Viewfinder

• Playing Tapes Through TV or Video Monitor

......................................

................

40 40

• Playing Tapes Through VCR on a TV or Monitor.. 41

• Copying Tapes on a Home VCR ....................................41

Making Better Videos

.........................................................

Care and Maintenance..........................................................43

Optional Accessories

• Accessory Order Form

.....................................................

....................................................

44-45

Trouble Checks ..............................................................46-47

Alphabetical Index..........................................................48-49

Specifications ...................................................... Back Cover

Limited Warranty................................................. Back Cover

Introduction

Thank You For Choosing an RCA Camcorder.

You have selected a precisionengineered product designed to give you years of performance and enjoyment.

Although your camcorder is very simple to use, it is important that you read and carefully follow the instructions in this guide until you are completely familiar with the proper operating procedures. This manual is arranged in the order that we

anticipate you will use it to operate your new camcorder. You’ll find a simplified quick-operation guide on page 5 and a complete index in the back.

If you should experience a problem, always refer first to the trouble-checks section on pages 46 and 47. Many times a simple solution is all that’s needed, and it could save you a costly service call.

Features

Be Sure To Save Operating Instructions For Future Reference.

Should your camuorder require service during the uratranty potiod, refer to the back cover of this manual for a description of wliat we will do and instructions on how to request service.

Camcorder Features

Camcorder Convenience

This lightweight, easy-to-use camcorder has ail the features of a deluxe video camera and the convenience of the VHS format. Shoot up to 2 hours and 40 minutes* of video (with a T-160 tape).

Play your tapes back either in the camcorder or in any VHS VCR. You can also use the camcorder as a video player to play back rented or prerecorded video tapes on any TV.

*For extended recording, camcorder must be used with AC adapter or additional optional batteries.

6x Power Zoom Lens with Macro

The CC285 features a fast fl.2, 6x power zoom lens that allows you to smoothly zoom from wide-angle to telephoto shots. You can use the power zoom, or use the manual zoom ring when you need fast zooms to follow the action.

Optional wide-angle and telephoto adapters (shown on page 44) are available to further increase either wide-angle or telephoto range.

Built-in macro feature lets you shoot dramatic close-ups (as close as 1/4"). Great for nature photography and special effects.

1/2" Solid-State CCD Image Sensor

State-of-the-art Solid-State CCD (Charged Coupled Device) chip converts the light into a video image and produces pictures even in exceptionally low light levels. Provides

sharp, vivid color pictures.

Flying Erase Head

A separate erase head is mounted on the spinning head wheel (hence the term “flying”). This allows you to

make clean edits without “glitches” or the “rainbow noise” that occurs on

VCR’s and camcorders without flying erase heads.

Video/Audio Dub

Video and audio dubbing allow you to simply and quickly insert new video, new audio, or new video and audio into existing tapes. (Some camcorders allow you to insert new video or audio, but not both.) The combination of video/audio dubbing with the flying erase head gives you clean, “glitch free” edits.

New video can be inserted from the camcorder camera, or from another VCR or camera. New audio can be inserted from the camcorder’s microphone, an optional external microphone, or an external audio device (such as a tape deck, CD player, etc.).

Edit Search

Edit Search means that you can use the F.FWD, REW, and PLAY buttons to precisely position the tape even while the camcorder is in the camera mode (ready to record). Since you can do this while the camcorder is in the camera mode, without the tape unloading, it is possible to precisely position the tape for the next sceneeliminating the “between-scene glitches” that are common on camcorders without this feature.

“Synchro Edit”

Synchro edit allows your camcorder to control a compatible VCR (one with a Camera Pause Jack) while tapes are being copied from the camcorder to the VCR. The PAUSE button on the camcorder causes the VCR to start and stop recording. An optional AVSOlO synchro edit cable (shown on page 44) is required.

High-Speed Shutter System Standard video cameras have a shutter

speed of 1/60 second. This RCA camcorder has a variable-speed electronic shutter that allows you to increase the shutter speed to 1/500 or

1/1000, This lets you “freeze” fastmoving action when the tape is played back in slow motion or stop action on a VCR with field-still or digital special effects.

When you choose a high shutter speed, you must consider the amount of light available (higher shutter speeds require more light). A flashing shutter speed display alerts you when more light is needed for the higher shutter speed. See page 45 for lighting accessories.

Constant Automatic White Balance Built-in circuitry continuously adjusts for proper color balance, indoors or out.

Fade Button Simply by pushing the fade button, you can fade out of or into a scene. Provides professional-looking scene transitions. Fades both video and audio.

Time-Lapse Recording Camcorder can be programmed to

make a series of l-sec. recordings that occur 30 sec., 1 min., 2 min., or 5 min. apart. When played back, this has the effect of compressing time, or time lapse. Great for recording and examining slowly developing action,

“Animation” Recording

Camcorder can also make a series of “single shot” recordings. You can create animation-type or cartoon-type effects by shooting an object, moving it, shooting it again, etc. When played back at normal speed, this has the effect of animating the object you were shooting.

Features (coni.)

Index Recording

Camcorder automatically records index marks at the beginning of new recordings. These index marks can be recognized by VCR’s which use the VHS Index Search System, making it easier to locate program segments for

playback.

Electronic Viewfinder

Electronic viewfinder (EVE) displays in black and white exactly what will be recorded on the tape in color. Also allows you to instantly view (in B&W) what you’ve shot. Adjustable diopter allows EVE focus to be changed without affecting lens focus. Permits most users who wear glasses to remove them when watching the viewfinder.

EVF On-Screen Displays

Tape Counter: Tape counter with memory lets you locate specific parts of your tape.

Battery Level: Lets you know the

status of the battery’s charge.

Tape Remaining: Lets you know how many hours and minutes are left on your tape.

Clock/Calendar: Allows you to record time and date on tape. Maintains current time and date for approximately one year using backup battery (included).

Other displays include: RECORD,

PAUSE, FFWD, REWIND, NO TAPE, and

TAPE END warning.

Auto Focus

Sophisticated infrared system keeps

moving objects in focus, even in low

light. Automatically maintains a sharp

image-even during zooms. You can

also focus manually using the focus

ring.

Auto Iris

To assure correct exposure, the

camcorder automatically responds to

available light conditions and adjusts the aperture accordingly. Manual override is provided to correct for unusual lighting conditions, such as backlighting.

Video Features

62mm Full Size Headwheel

Many camcorders use a small 43mm headwheel (what the video heads are attached to). These small head wheels are smaller and lighter than the headwheels used in home VCR’s, but

can be less stable, can cause picture degradation, and can sometimes affect playback compatibility.

The CC285 features a full-size 62mm

headwheel-just like those used in the most expensive home VCR’s.

Audio Features

Built-in Microphone with Wind Noise Filter

The camcorder features a sensitive built-in microphone to allow you to record sound as well as video.

A wind noise filter is included to cut down the rumbling background noise

that can occur on windy days.

Convenience Features

Tally Light

A red light on the front of the camcorder lets your subject know when you are recording. Helps to eliminate videos that start with, “Is

that recording yet?”.

Self-Timer

The CC285 has a built-in self timer,

similar to a 35mm camera. The self timer delays the start of the recording for 10 seconds (so that you can get in the picture), and can be set to record for 30 seconds, or continue recording until you stop it.

Earphone

An earphone is supplied for monitoring the audio when you record or play back tapes in your camcorder.

Quick Review

Automatically backs up the tape, plays the last few seconds of video,

then reçues the tape to the original position. Good for refreshing your memory of the last scene without losing your place on the tape.

Padded Shoulder Pad

The padded shoulder pad helps stabilize the camcorder, giving you

smooth, professional-looking shots.

Use your Camcorder on AC or DC (battery) power.

An AC adapter/charger and a rechargeable battery are packed with your camcorder.

• The AC adapter/charger lets you power your camcorder from the nearest AC outlet.

• The rechargeable battery allows you to use your camcorder anywhere up to two hours.

You can purchase an optional DC cord and power your camcorder from your car’s cigarette lighter socket. See pages 44 and 45 for optional accessories.

Optional Accessories

To further enhance your videos, a full line of compatible accessories is

offered for your camcorder to increase your creative range. Some optional accessories are shown on pages 44 and

45.

What Your Camcorder Can Do

For You

Your RCA camcorder combines the features of a video camera and of a VHS compact VCR in one lightweight, easy-to-use unit. As a result, you now can do all of the

following:

Produce professional videos.

Your camcorder has all the features necessary to produce professional looking videos quickly and easily.

• The power zoom lens lets you zoom in and out at the touch of a button,

• The maero switch allows you to focus as close as 1 /4 inch from your subject.

• Choose automatic focus or manual

focus when needed,

• Use automatic shutter speed or

select one of the other faster speeds to record your favorite outdoor sporting event or fast-moving family action.

• Choose automatic iris control or manual control when you have an unusual lighting situation.

• The FADE button lets you fade in

and out of a scene.

• Color balance is automatically

controlled indoors and out.

• Check and review your recording quickly and easily in the electronic viewfinder.

Play back your tapes on a standard TV or monitor.

Cables included with your camcorder allow you to connect it to your TV or monitor and view your tapes.

Make copies of your tapes to share.

Cables included in your camcorder allow you to connect it to your home

VCR and copy your home videos.

Unpacking Your Camcorder

• When you unpack the camcorder, make sure you remove all the accessories and information papers,

• Save the packing materials and box in case you ever need to ship or store your camcorder.

• The items shown below are packed with your camcorder. If any of the items are missing or appear damaged, contact your RCA dealer immediately.

Camcorder Model CC285

AC Adapter/Charger Stock # CPS09

Audio/Video Output Cable Stock # 194128

Audio/Video Input Cable Stock # VAA004

Rechargeable 9.6-Volt Battery Stock # BP96FL

- Installing Battery----------------

You may want to install the clock battery immediately to prevent misplacing it.

1. Locate the CLOCK battery compartment on the back of the camcorder.

Shoulder Strap Stock # 184449

Clock Battery 3-Volt Micro Lithium Cell (such as Maxell #CR2025 available from most local drugstores and camera shops)

2. Pull the tab to open the cover and expose the compartment.

Battery

Compartment

Earphone

Transformer (300-to-75 ohm) Stock # AH055

WARNING: Keep this

battery away from children. If swaJlowed, con.sull a physician immediately for emergency treatment.

3. Insert the clock battery securely under the shoulders with the “-I-” terminal facing out {as illustrated inside the battery cover).

4. Gently push the cover closed until it snaps into place.

Instructions for setting the time and date are on page 22. You can

do that later if desired after you’re

more familiar with your camcorder.

RF Output Adapter Stock # CRF030

Coaxial RF Cable Stock # 177233

CLOCK BATTERY

Compartment

Quick Operation Steps

Even if you’ve never used a video camera or camcorder before, you can probably get your camcorder up and running quickly by following the steps below.

5A) CAMERA/PLAYBACK Switch

4) EJECT Button

Lon* Cap on Lena Cap Snap

Attach power source to camcorder (either adapter/charger or battery).

A. Adapter/Charger:

1. Attach adapter/charger to camcorder. (Instructions are on page 14.)

2. Plug power cord into an AC outlet.

B. Charged Battery:

1. Charge the battery as

described on page 15. Charging takes about two hours the first time,

2. Attach charged battery to

camcorder. Instructions are on page 15.

Set controls to their automatic

positions.

A. Set the autofocus switch to

AUTO.

B. Set the AUTO IRIS control

AUTO (top center "click”

position).

Turn on camcorder.

Slide the power switch to the “on” position. The indicator labeled ON will light.

2A) AUTOFOCUS Switch

7) Review what you recorded,

5(^ Eyepiece Focus Control

AUTO IRIS Control

Insert a cassette tape.

1. Press EJECT to open door.

2. Insert cassette as shown on page 17. Insert cassette only one way with record-protect tab facing up and the tape windows facing out.

3. Gently close the cassette door with your hand.

Prepare camcorder to record.

A. Put the CAMERA/PLAYBACK

switch in the cam era position for recording.

B. Remove the lens cap and

snap it on the lens cap snap on the hand strap,

C. If image in viewfinder is out

of focus, adjust the Eyepiece Focus Control.

Start recording.

Press the thumb trigger record button to start and stop recording. You do not have to hold the trigger to record.

1. Press the thumb trigger record button to stop recording.

I Attach 9.6-Volt Power Source Thumb Trigger

(Press to start

and stop recording)

Move CAMERA/PLAYBACK switch to PL.ty5.tCi: position.

Press REW button to rewind

3. tape.

Press PLAY and watch the

viewfinder to review what was

recorded.

Notes:

To continue recording after your review: press stop, then move the

CAMERA/PLAYBACK switch to CAMERA, and press the thumb

trigger record button. Any material recorded on a cassette

tape will be automatically erased if you record over it. So if you don’t want to keep what you just

recorded, press REW to rewind the tape and then record over the unwanted material. (The CAMERA/

PLAYBACK switch must be in the PLAYBACK position to rewind the

tape.) After using your camcorder for the

first time, be sure to read the rest of the manual for full details of its special features, connection applications, accessories, and

proper care.

Location and Use of Controls

Camcorder Operating Controls and Their Functions

Pages 6 thru 13 show you where camcorder controls are located and what they do. As you read the description of each control, find that

control on your own camcorder to

familiarize yourself with its location,

1) Access©^ Shoe

This fitting is used to attach a light or other lightweight video accessory to your camcorder.

CAUTION: Do not use this shoe to mount a light on the camcorder. Excessive heat from a light could damage the camcorder’s case, RCA hght

#VDC050 (shown on page 45) is specially designed to be used with your camcorder.

Tally Light

• This light will come on

whenever the camcorder is recording.

• You will find it especially

helpful during time-lapse and self-timer recordings.

Microphone

• The microphone picks up the

sound during a recording. When an external microphone is connected to the Ai/C jack, this built-in microphone is muted.

Power Zoom Buttons {W and T)

• Press the button labeled W to move the zoom lens in the

Wide Angle direction.

• Press the button labeled T to move the zoom lens in the

Telephoto (close-up) direction.

• The zoom buttons are easily controlled by your index and middle fingers when you grasp

the camcorder properly using the hand strap.

Macro Button (on Zoom Ring Lever)

• This button lets you lake shots as close as 1/4 inch from your subject.

• First push in and hold the macro button while rotating

the zoom ring 0 to the

MACRO position. Then slowly

rotate the zoom ring until the

object is in sharp focus.

Zoom Ring Lever

• When you want to zoom in or out of a scene without using the power zoom buttons (5), you can grasp this lever and turn the zoom ring manually.

• The macro button (s) is located on the zoom ring lever. Use the macro button for close-up shots up to 1/4 inch from your subject.

(T) Zoom Ring

• You can adjust the zoom ring manually by grasping the zoom ring lever and slowly rotating the zoom ring with your fingers for wide-angle or telephoto pictures.

• Pressing the power zoom buttons (labeled W and T) moves the zoom ring automatically without you touching it.

(T) Focus Ring

• When the A utofo cus switch is in the MANUAL position, you can grasp this ring and adjust focus as desired.

• When the aut ofocus switch is in the AUTO position, the camcorder automatically rotates and adjusts the focus ring for the best picture focus.

G) Lens

Your camcorder is equipped with an f 1.2, 6:1 power zoom lens which directs incoming light to the solid-state CCD image sensor. The image sensor converts the optical image to a video signal.

Auto Focus Window

• When the camcorder is in the AutoFocus mode {A UTOFOCUS switch in A UTO position), this window transmits and receives infrared light which is reflected off the subject. This allows the camera to focus itself automatically as the distance between the lens and the subject changes.

• Make surd you don’t obstruct this window when recording with the camcorder in the AutoFocus mode.

PUSH/A UTO Focus Switch When this switch is depressed and held in, automatic focus is activated and remains activated until the switch is released. This is useful if you are shooting a relatively static scene in manual

FOCUS and need to adjust for a

change in scene by using a UTO

FOCUS quickly and momentarily.

A UTOFOCUS Switch {MAN/ AUTO)

• Set this switch to the A UTO position when you want the camcorder to focus for you automatically.

• Set switch to the MAN (manual) position when you want to focus manually by rotating the focus ring with your fingers.

• When switch is in its man (manual) position, you can also quicldy change from Manual Focus to AutoFocus by pressing and holding the

PUSH/AUTO focus switch. This

is useful if you are shooting a relatively non-moving scene in Manual Focus and want to quickly and momentarily use

AutoFocus for a change in

scene. The camcorder will return to manual focus when you release the button.

Eyepiece Focus Control

• Use this control to adjust the focus in the viewfinder. It’s easiest to set the correct focus by focusing on the viewfinder on-screen displays (such as the date, battery level, etc.).

• These adjustments will not affect the focus of the image recorded by the camcorder.

• This control permits most users who wear glasses to

remove them while focusing the camcorder.

Location and Use of Controls (cont.)

y Accessory Shoe

Power Zoom Buttons (W and T)

(J) Macro Button

(on Zoom Ring Lever)

Zoom Ring Lever

(?) Zoom Ring

BATTERY Elect Lever

(T) Focus Ring

(^ Lens

Electronic Viewfinder (EVF)

• The viewfinder displays what the camcorder lens sees so you know what you’re recording.

• It also functions as a convenient black-and-white monitor during playback of recorded video.

Cii) PUSH/AUTO

Focus Switch

@ BATTERY Eject Lfiv&

Slide this lever to release the battery or the AC adapter/ charger from the camcorder.

14) Electronic Viewfinder (EVF)

Eyepiece Focus Conh'ol

gl AUTOFO CUS (MAN/AUTO) Switch

Location and Use of Controls (cont.)

SELF TIMER Button

• This button lets you time delay the start of a recording by about 10 seconds so you can join the picture without being seen walking into it.

• Details are on page 29. DISPLA Y Button

• Pressing this button brings the status indicators and displays to the screen in the viewfinder.

• Press DISPLA Y once to bring the Battery Level and Tape Counter displays to the viewfinder,

• Press DISPLA Y again to add

the memory feature to the Tape Counter.

• Press DISPLA Y again to change the Tape-Counter display to the Time-Remaining Display.

• Press DISPLA y again to remove

the displays.

• Details on using each display

are on pages 26 and 27,

RESET/T-160 Button

• When the tape counter is displayed in the viewfinder, pressing this button resets the counter to “0000”.

• When the time-remaining read-out is displayed, pressing

this button changes the display for extended length T-160 tapes.

• The indicator next to the T-160 button will hght.

• Details are on page 27.

@1 REVIEW

• Press this button while the camcorder is in the Record/

Pause mode to view the last few seconds of a completed

recording segment.

@ DATE/TIME^\smn

• Press this button to display the date and clock in the

viewfinder.

• Whenever the date and time appear in the viewfinder, they will be recorded on the tape.

• Details are on page 22. FADE Button

• During recording you can add a professional touch to your recordings by fading in and out of scenes.

• Details for using this button are on page 25.

• When you use the FADE button to fade in and out, the

sound will also fade in and out with the picture.

(S) A UTO IRIS Control

• With this control in the center “click” position, the camcorder automatically

adjusts the lens opening for the best picture.

• The lens iris opening can also be manually adjusted to

compensate for these unusual

lighting situations;

1. When the subject is in bright light and the background is dark, turn this control counterclockwise

to close the lens iris

opening.

2. When the background is in

bright light and the subject appears too dark, adjust the control clockwise to open

the lens iris.

• Details are on page 25.

(2) SHUTTER Speed Switch

• The shutter speed is automatically set at the normal shutter speed of 1/60 whenever the camcorder’s power is turned on.

• Slide the SHUTTER Speed

switch to the right once to select a shutter speed of

1/500,

• Slide the shutter speed switch to the right a second

time to select a shutter speed of 1/1000.

• Slide the shutter speed switch to the right a third time

to return to the normal shutter speed of 1/60.

• Higher shutter speeds are

displayed in the electronic viewfinder. No shutter speed

indicator appears when the normal (1/60) speed is selected.

• If you need more light, the shutter speed indicator in the viewfinder will flash,

• Details are on page 28. Note: The higher the shutter

speed, the less blurred fastmoving recorded action will

appear during slow-motion and stop-action. Also, more

hght is required for higher

shutter speeds.

TIME LAPSE Button

• This button allows time lapse and animation recording,

• Details are on pages 29 and

30.

Date and CLOCK Set Buttons

{SELECT and ADVANCE)

• These buttons are used to set the clock (time and date) in your camcorder so it can be

recorded on your tapes for future reference.

• Details are on page 22.

Location and Use of Controls (cont.)

I ) TIME LAPSE

Button

16) SELF TIMER Button

C23) AUTO IRIS Control

5) DISPLAY BuìiOTì

3) RESET/T'160 Button

^ REVIEW Button

Date and CLOCK (SELECT/ ADVANCE) Buttons

^ DATE/TIME Button

22) FADE Button

Location and Use of Controls (cont.)

MIC (External Microphone

Jack)

• If you want to use an optional external microphone during recording, plug it into this

jack.

• When an external microphone is connected to this jack, the built-in microphone is shut off automatically.

@ MIC Switch {WIND/NORMAL)

• This switch is used to reduce wind noise that may be picked

up by the microphone.

• For normal use, place the

switch in the normal position.

• Place the switch in the WIND position if you are recording

outside on a windy day.

Hand Strap with Lens Cap Snap

• This strap is designed to provide comfort and ease of operation while using the camcorder.

• Place the lens cover on the lens cap snap to keep it out of

the way while recording.

• When your right hand is

properly inserted through the strap, your fingers can easily control the Power Zoom buttons (3) and the Record Start/Stop thumb trigger

• The strap is adjustable for a personalized fit.

POWER switch. This will

conserve your battery power if you are using the battery.

Cassette Door

• This door opens so you can insert and remove cassette

tapes. The camcorder must be connected to a power source before the door will open.

• To open the cassette door,

first attach the AC adapter/ charger or a charged battery to the camcorder. Then press

the EJECT button @ on the top control panel, insert a

VHS cassette, and gently close

the door by hand.

Important Notes:

• Insert a tape cassette only one way as shown below: with record-protect tab facing up and tape windows facing out.

Record-Protect

Tab

CLOCK BATTERY

Compartment

• After the clock battery is installed here as described on page 22, you can set the correct date and time in the camcorder’s viewfinder display.

• The camcorder will automatically keep track of the correct day and time for approximately one year.

• Details are on page 22.

A V OUT Connector (Audio/

(§)

Video Output)

• Use this connector when you want to send signals out from the camcorder and into either a TV or a VCR.

• Connection instructions are on pages 36, 38, and 39.

DC Power Jack (DC IN 9.6V)

• This jack lets you operate your camcorder from the cigarette lighter socket of a car, truck,

or RV (using the optional DCC096 power cord).

GklTTU^N: Oq fioT use RCA air

tardwuM 9:

tamcorder. Toto

Thumb Trigger (Record Start/

Stop Button)

• When the cam era/playbac k switch @ is in the cam era position, press this thumb trigger to start and stop recording.

• You do not have to hold the thumb trigger to record. Just press it once and release it. The camcorder will continue

to record until you press the trigger again.

• When you press the trigger to stop recording, the camcorder

will enter the Record/Pause mode. If you do not plan to start recording again soon, you may want to turn off the camcorder by sliding the

NEVER attempt to force open

the cassette door. If the battery reaches its empty level during recording, the camcorder will shut off.

Normally there will be enough power left in the battery to eject the tape. If not, simply recharge the battery or power your camcorder with the AC

adapter/charger before attempting to eject the tape.

Location and Use of Controls (cont.)

@ POWER Switch

• This switch turns the camcorder’s power on and off. The ON indicator @ will light when the camcorder is on.

• To conserve battery power, you may want to turn off power between long breaks in recording.

Power ON Indicator (Also Dew

Indicator)

• This indicator lights whenever the camcorder is turned on,

• The indicator will flash if there is excessive moisture

(dew) inside your camcorder. An internal protection feature

will prevent the camcorder from operating until the moisture is gone. Leave the power on and when the hght

stops flashing, the camcorder

can be operated.

EJECT Button

• Press this button to open the cassette door for tape insertion or removal.

• The camcorder must be

attached to a power source (battery or AC adapter/ charger) to open the door.

<me before atceinpiih§ lb

■ qect (he tape.

PLA Y Button

• To play back recorded material, first slide the

CAMERA/PLAYBACK switch tO

the PLAYBACK position, and then press REW to rewind the tape. Press PLA Y to start playback.

• When the cam era/playbac k switch is in the cam era position and the camcorder is in the Record/Pause mode, pressing and holding PLA Y will play the tape at normal

playback speed. This is handy after you’ve scanned backwards to review parts of a

recent recording.

STOP Button

• Press the STOP button to stop the camcorder when it’s playing back a tape, rewinding, or fast forwarding.

• This button has no effect during recording. To stop recording, press the thumb

trigger @ or press pa use

button @.

PA USE Button

• Press this button when the camcorder is playing back a tape to display a stop-action “still” picture. To return to normal play, press pau se again,

• Press this button when the

camcorder is recording to pause the recording.

• Pause is designed for momentary interruptions and

should not be used for an extended period of time. If the camcorder remains in the

pause mode for more than five

minutes, the camcorder will

automatically move the tape

away from the spinning heads

to prevent excessive tape wear.

TRA CKING Control

• You will normally only use the

TRACKING control if you play

tapes in your camcorder that

were recorded on another

VCR.

• If you play a tape that was not recorded on your camcorder, streaks may appear if the recorded tracks on the

tape don’t align precisely with the playback heads. To remove the streaks and align the heads with the tape tracks, slowly turn the TRACKING control in either direction until the streaks disappear.

• The TRACKING control will have to be adjusted back to its original position when you

play your regular homerecorded tapes again.

• The TRACKING control has no effect during recording.

EAR (Earphone) Jack

• You can plug the supplied earphone into this jack for private listening during recording or playback.

(g) Vídeo DUB Button

• This button is used to record new video in place of existing video without erasing the audio.

• Details are on page 35.

@ AUDIO DUB Button

• This button is used to record new audio in place of existing

audio without erasing the

video.

• Details are on page 34.

F.FWD (Fast Forward) Button

• When the CAMERA/playbac k switch is in the pla YBack position and the camcorder is

stopped, pressing F.FWD will quickly advance (fast forward) the tape. No picture will appear in the viewfinder.

• If you press and hold the

F.FWD button when the

camcorder is playing a tape, you’ll be able to visually scan the tape in fast motion. To return to normal playback, release the f.fwd button.

• You can also visually scan forward when the camcorder is in Record/Pause mode by pressing and holding F.FWD.

REW (Rewind) Button

• When the CAMERA/playback

switch is in the playback position and the camcorder is stopped, pressing REW will rewind the tape. No picture will appear in the viewfinder.

• If you press and hold the rew button when the camcorder is playing a tape, you’ll be able

to visually scan the tape in

reverse fast motion. To return

to normal playback, release the REW button.

• You can also visually scan

backwards when the camcorder is in Record/Pause mode by pressing and holding

REW. This lets you “back up”

the tape so that you can start a new scene without a “gap” in the tape.

Location and Use of Controls (cont.)

@ POWER Switch

Power ON Indicator (Also Dew Indicator)

EJECT Button

^ PLAY Button ^ STOP Button

Top Control Poftol

-----

, -«CAMERA \ EJECT REW \ PLAY F.FWD

46} CAMERA/PLAYBACK

Switch

^ flElV Button- -

(Rewind)

@ F.FWD Button—

(Fast Forward)

CZ) ^

PAUSE Button

STOPPOWER

PAUSE AUDIO VIDEO TRACKING \ EAR

dub:

^40) TRACKING

Control

\Ai} EAR (Earphone)

Jack

^ VIDEO DUB Button

(g) AUDIO DUB Button

@ AV IN Jack

CAMERA/PLA YBA CK Switch

• Because your camcorder is both a camera and a portable VCR, it performs two completely separate groups of functions. This switch tells the camcorder when you want to record (with the camera functions) and when you want to play back tapes (with the VCR functions).

When you slide this switch to

the CAMERA position, the

camcorder prepares itself for

recording and enters the record/pause mode.

When you slide this switch to the PLAYBACK position, the camcorder prepares itself to playback tapes using the VCR functions.

(g) AVINJa.di

• Use this connector jack when you want to send signals from another device into your camcorder for recording.

• You will be able to record from a TV monitor, VCR, or another camcorder. Connection instructions are on pages 36 and 37.

Powering Camcorder

How To Power Your Camcorder

You can power your camcorder three different ways:

AC Adapter/Charger

• The adapter/charger connects to the camcorder and plugs into a

wall outlet. It lets you power the

camcorder off normal household power (120 volts AC, 50/60 Hz).

CAUTION: If you wish to operate the AC adapter/charger on a power source other than 120 volts, 50/60 Hz, use only a transformer-type power converter. Do not use “solid-state” or “switching type” power converters. They will damage your AC adapter/charger. An optional CPS08 adapter/charger may be purchased from your RCA dealer.

The CPS08 is designed for use on 100 240 volts, 50/60 Hz. See pages 44-45 for optional accessories.

Rechargeable Battery

The rechargeable 9.6-volt battery lets you record outdoors or anytime you’re away from electrical outlets.

The supplied battery can be charged and then connected to

the camcorder for portable use indoors or outdoors.

A. Using the Adapter/Charger to Power Your Camcorder

BATTERY

Eject Lever

POWER Indicator

TO AC

120V, SO/60 Hz

Attaching Adapter/Charger to Camcorder

1. Align the reference arrow on the adapter/charger with the arrow on the back of the camcorder.

2. While holding the adapter/ charger flush against the back of the camcorder, slide it down in the direction of the arrow as shown.

3. Plug the adapter/charger into the nearest AC outlet (120V, 50/60

Hz).

4. If the adapter/charger is properly

connected, its power indicator should light.

5. To remove the adapter/charger,

first unplug it from the wall outlet. Then slide and hold the

BATTERY Eject Lever while

sliding the adapter/charger up and off the camcorder.

Optional DC Car Cord

The optional DC car cord lets you power the camcorder from the cigarette lighter socket of a

car, truck, or RV.

You can also use the DC car cord to connect your camcorder

to a long-play battery. The DCC096 is specially

designed to convert 12-volts to

9.6-volts.

Powering Camcorder (cont.)

B. Using Battery to Power Your Camcorder

Charging The Battery

You will have to charge the battery before you use it the first time.

Initial charging will take approximately two hours. When fully charged, the battery should supply about two hours of operating time (depending on how much you use zoom and pause).

1, Attach the battery to the

adapter/charger as shown above. Align the reference arrow on the battery with the arrow on the back of the adapter/charger. Then push the battery flush with the adapter/charger and slide it downward. Note: You must remove the adapter/charger from the camcorder to charge the battery.

CAUTION: When a battery is attached to the adapter/

charger, do not turn them

upside down. The battery may fall off and be damaged or cause injury.

Plug the adapter/charger into

the nearest AC outlet (120V, 50/60 Hz).

The Charge Indicator will

3. light while the battery is being charged. When the light goes out, the battery is fully charged.

----------------------------

Remove the battery from the adapter/charger by sliding the battery up and off.

Attach the charged battery to the camcorder as shown below.

Notes:

CAUTION: If you wish to operate the AC adapter/charger on a power source other than

120 volts, 50/60 Hz, use only a transformer-type power converter.

Do not use “solid-state” or “switching-type” power converters. Tliey will damage

your AC adapter/charger. An

optional CPS08 adapter/charger

may be purchased from your

RCA dealer. The CPS08 is

designed for use on 100-240

volts, 50/60 Hz. See pages 44-45

for optional accessories.

Recharging takes approximately two hours depending on the

battery’s condition. After

repealed charging and use, operation time will gradually decrease. When operation time becomes too short to be useful, it’s time to replace the battery.

You cannot charge the battery and operate the camcorder from the adapter/charger at the same time. Remove the adapter/ charger from the camcorder to charge the battery.

I When a battery (which has

become very hot) is attached to the AC adapter/charger, the power indicator on the AC adapter/charger flashes. If this happens, unplug the AC adapter/charger from the AC wall outlet for approximately ten seconds. After that period the

power cord may be plugged back into the AC outlet. Attaching an extremely hot battery to the AC adapter/charger is not recommended; it should be allowed to cool down before

being attached.

■Attaching Charged Batteryto Camcorder

1. Align the reference arrow on the battery with the arrow on the back of the camcorder.

2. Push the battery flush against the camcorder and slide it downward as shown.

3. Slide the camcorder’s POWER switch to the on position. If the battery is properly

connected, the ON indicator

will light.

4. To remove the battery, slide and hold the BATTERY Eject Lever while shding the battery up and off.

Powering Camcorder (coni,)

Checking Battery Power

When you are using a battery to power your camcorder, you can see

how much battery power is left by checking the Battery Level Indicator (E—F) in the viewfinder.

Pressing the DISFLA Y button on the side of the camcorder will display the Battery Level Indicator. If desired, you can keep this indicator in the viewfinder while you are

-------

recording because it will not be recorded on the tape. To remove the indicator, repeatedly press the

DISPLA Y button until it disappears.

• When the battery is fully charged, the display reads “E—F”.

• After several minutes only two dashes appear.

• When the battery is nearly

empty, only one dash remains,

• When the last dash starts

flashing, you should find an alternative power source or recharge the battery before continuing to use your camcorder.

- C. Using the Optional DC Car Cord to Power Your Camcorder

To power your camcorder from the cigarette lighter socket of a car, truck, or RV, you will need the optional car cord (model DCC096).

Car cord DCC096 is especially designed to convert power from a

12-volt car battery to the 9.6-volt

input jack on the camcorder.

Important; Do not use RCA car cord

DCC012 with your camcorder. The DCC012 is not capable of converting

12-volts to 9.6-volts and will damage

your camcorder.

only iiith Véhió^i^viDg negative ground ^ectijeal

ppC096 car curd is designed tp ]Ik

Attaching Car Cord

Optional DC Car Cord (DCC096)

DC M Jack

(9.6 voKa)

Remove the adapter/charger

or battery from the camcorder if either is connected.

2. Connect the small plug on the Car Cord to the DC /N jack located on the back of the camcorder.

Insert the other end of the car

3. cord into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket.

Slide the camcorder’s POWER

switch to its on position. If the car cord is properly connected,

the POWER ON indicator should light. Note: Your car does not have to be turned on for the camcorder

to operate.

RCA Video Cassettes

I-Video Cassettes

We recommend that RCA cassettes be used with your camcorder. The

tape in these cassettes is of highquality formulation. It has been manufactured to our critical specifications for excellent performance. Use of tape not

meeting these specifications could considerably reduce the performance of your camcorder.

Use of poor quality tapes or tapes that have been damaged or mishandled can contaminate the video heads, resulting in a snowy picture or no picture at all during

playback. Because there is no control over the type of tape purchased or rented by consumers,

head cleaning is not covered under warranty. It is considered normal

maintenance. Playing a new RCA tape for

approximately 30 minutes will often satisfactorily clean the heads

and improve your picture. If a snowy picture or no-picture condition persists, consider the use of a chemical non-abrasive head

cleaning tape (RCA Stock No. AV009W) available from your dealer or many electronic supply stores. Be sure to follow the directions with the head cleaning kit carefully. Improper use of a head cleaner may damage your camcorder.

Recording Time------------------

The camcorder records and plays

back in VHS standard speed (SP), Listed below are the maximum SP recording times for popular VHS cassettes.

Г- Inserting/Removing Cassettes

1. Attach power source to camcorder (either the AC Adapter/Charger or a charged battery).

2. Press EJECT button.

3. Insert or remove cassette. CAUTION: Insert cassette

only one way with recordprotect tab facing up and tape

windows facing out. Tape should fit easily in compartment. Do Not Force. Check position if insertion is not easy.

4. Gently close cassette

compartment with your hand.

Erase Protection

• You can use your video cassettes over and over again. To erase a previous recording, just record over it.

• To prevent erasing a recording you want to keep, remove the

record-protect tab from the back of the cassette as shown below.

Recording is impossible when this tab is removed.

• To record again on a cassette that has the tab removed, simply cover the hole with vinyl tape as

shown.

CD300CDGD 0“'0

Cassette Care and Storage

------

Follow these directions for continued high-quality performance

from your cassettes.

• When you are finished with a cassette, rewind it and remove it from the camcorder.

• Store cassettes vertically in their

protective boxes at normal room temperatures. Avoid extreme heat and humidity. Extreme heat can warp the cassette or cause

the tape to stretch excessively. Keep away from strong magnetic fields such as electric motors and other devices.

• Be especially careful to keep dust from entering the cassette compartment. All dust is abrasive and it will cause excessive wear of both the tape

and the camcorder’s recording/ playback heads.

СА1^ШГЁ

T-60 T-120 T-160

60 Min.

2 Hrs.

2 Hrs., 40 Min.

To prevent accidental erasure, break the tab.

To record again, cover the hole with vinyl tape.

Detailed Recording Steps

How To Record With Your Camcorder

Use the followng steps to make a recording using the automatic control settings. See the individual control features on the following pages for manual operation. uuivwuai coniroi

Detailed Recording Steps (cont)

Attach power source to

camcorder.

Detailed instructions for attaching the adapter/charger, battery, or optional DC car cord are on pages 14-16.

Set controls to their automatic positions.

A, Set the AUTOFOCUS switch to

AUTO.

B. Set the AUTO iris control to

AUTO (top center “click”

position).

Turn on camcorder.

Slide the power switch to the “on” position. The indicator labeled “on” will light.

Insert a cassette tape.

1. Press EJECT to open door.

2. Insert cassette as shown on page 17. Insert cassette only

one way with record-protect tab facing up and the tape windows facing out.

3. Gently close the cassette door with your hand.

Prepare camcorder to record.

A, Put the CAMERA/PLAYBACK

switch in the CAMERA position for recording.

B. Remove the lens cap, and

snap it on the lens cap snap.

Select your scene.

Put your eye to the viewfinder. Remember to adjust the eyepiece focus control for your vision.

• Once you’ve started recording, you can pause recording by either pressing the thumb trigger again or by pressing the PAUSE button. To resume recording, press PA use again or press the trigger again.

Note: If the camcorder is

connected to a TV, you can

also watch what the camcorder is recording and playing back on the TV screen. Connection instructions are on pages 36, 38, and 39.

Zoom in and out as desired.

• Press “T’ to zoom in.

• Press “W” to zoom out.

Fade in and out as desired.

• To fade in, hold FADE button and press thumb trigger to start recording. Then release

FADE button after a few

seconds.

• To fade out, hold FADE button and press thumb trigger to stop recording. After recording stops, release FADE button.

(j^ To quick-review recording:

• You can review the last few seconds of recorded material by pressing the REVIEW button while the camcorder is in the pause mode.

• After your review, press the thumb trigger (or pause) to continue recording.

To rewind and review recording:

1. Press the thumb trigger (or

PAUSE) to Stop recording.

2. Move CAMERA/playback switch to PLAYBACK position.

3. Press REW (Rewind) to rewind tape.

4. Press STOP to stop rewinding.

5. Press PLAY and watch the viewfinder to review what was recorded.

Note: If the camcorder is

connected to a TV, you can also watch what the camcorder is recording and playing back on the TV screen. Connection instructions are on pages 36,

38 and 39.

To complete recording:

• Press the thumb trigger to

pause recording (or if camcorder is playing back your tape, press stop).

• Put CAMERA/PLAYBACK switch in PLAYBACK position,

• Press REWIND to rewind tape.

• Press EJECT to eject tape. Remove tape and gently close the door with your hand.

• Slide POWER switch to turn off camcorder. Power light will go out.

Remember: All of your camcorder’s

special recording features are described on the following pages. These will give you detailed information about using each of your camcorder’s recording displays and special functions.

To start and pause recording:

• Press the record start/stop button (thumb trigger) to start

recording. You do not have to hold the trigger to record.

Recording Features

Using Your Camcorder’s Recording Features

The steps listed on pages 18 and 19 give you the basics of recording. You

should also get to know the camcorder’s special recording features that will help you make professional looking recordings. These features can help you shoot like a pro-even if you’ve never used a video camera or recorder before.

r Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) ■

The camcorder’s electronic ------viewfinder is a miniature blackand-white monitor that displays the picture seen by the camcorder

when recording.

The viewfinder can also be used for

viewing tape playback as described on page 40.

Tilt Adjustment

For convenient viewing, the

viewfinder can be tilted about 90 degrees up and 45 degrees down.

Adjusting for Right or Left Eye

The viewfinder also shdes out from

the camcorder so you can view it with either your right or left eye. To use your left eye, simply pull

the viewfinder out from the camcorder.

You can reverse the rubber eyecup when using the viewfinder with

your left eye. Simply remove it and turn it upside down.

Eyepiece Focus Control

• The Eyepiece Focus Control lets you set the focus of the viewfinder for your personal

vision.

• If you wear eyeglasses, you can probably operate the camcorder without them if desired. Remove your eye^asses and look through

the viewfinder while adjusting

the Eyepiece Focus Control.

• It’s easiest to set the correct focus by focusing on one of the viewfinder’s on-screen displays (such as the date or battery level).

• The Eyepiece Focus Control does not affect the focus of the

image actually recorded by your camcorder.

Recording Features (coni.)

Displays in Viewfinder

Audio/Video Dubbing Displays and Index Display

• Appear during dubbing to let you know the original audio and/or video tracks are being erased and replaced. Details

are on pages 34 and 35.

• The word INDEX also appears

here during indexing. Details are on page 31.

Interval Display for Time-Lapse Recording

• This display is controlled by the TIME LAPSE button which allows intermittent recording.

• Complete information is on pages 29 and 30.

Date and Time Display

• Press the dat e/TIME button to bring this display to the viewfinder.

• Whenever the date and/or time is displayed in the viewfinder, it will be recorded on your tape.

• Detailed information is on page 22.

Camcorder Status Display

• One of the following displays will appear here to let you know what the camcorder is doing.

• REC appears when the camcorder is recording.

• FAST FWD appears when the

tape is fast forwarding.

• REWIND appears when the

tape is rewinding.

• PA USE appears when either the thumb trigger (or PAUSE

button) is pressed to stop

recording.

Shutter Speed

Display

~S : 1/1000

INTERVAL 0 : 30

-E---F OOOOM REC

> Tape Counter (with Memory) and

Time-Remaining Display

• STANDBY may appear briefly

when camcorder is preparing itself to record.

Tape Counter (with Memory) and Time-Remaining Display

• When you press the DISPLA y button once, the Tape Counter

appears under the Battery Level Indicator. Pressing

DISPLAY again adds the

memory feature to the Tape Counter.

• To see the Time-Remaining display, press the displa y button again.

• Pressing DISPLAY a fourth time removes the displays.

• Details about using the Tape Counter and Memory are on page 27.

• Details about using the Time-

Remaining display are on

page 27.

Batteiy Level Indicator

• The battery indicator appears when the displa y button is pressed. It lets you know when your battery ne^s to be recharged.

• Details are on page 15.

Shutter Speed Display

• This display is controlled by the SHUTTER speed switch.

• The speed is automatically set

to normal (1/60) whenever the

camcorder is turned on.

• Slide the SHUTTER speed

switch to the right once to select a shutter speed of

1/500.

INDEX^

A/V DUB

10 : 30AM

8/20/89

Notes:

A flashing “TA P E” display appears briefly in the viewfinder when:

• There is no cassette in the camcorder and you put the

CA ME R A/ PL A YB A CK switch in

the CA ME R A position or press the thumb trigger to begin recording.

• The record-protect tab has been removed from the cassette and you press the thumb trigger to begin recording.

A flashing “TA P E EN D ” display appears briefly in the viewfinder when:

• There is less than five minutes

recording time left on the cassette.

• When the end of the cassette is reached during recording.

• When you press the thumb trigger

to record and have reached the end

of the cassette.

Audio/Video Dubbing Displays and Index Display

Interval Display lor Time-Lapse Recording

Date and Time Display

-<i)

Camcorder Status Display

• Slide the shutter speed switch to the right a second time to select a shutter speed of 1/1000.

• Slide the SHUTTER speed switch to the right a third time to return to the normal shutter speed (1/60).

• When you select a shutter speed of 1/500 or 1/1000, it will be displayed in the viewfinder. No shutter speed appears when the normal speed of 1/60 is being used.

• Higher shutter speeds require more light. The shutter speed display will flash when you need more light.

• Details are on page 28.

Recording Features (coni.)

P Installing Battery for Time/Date Display

1. Locate the CLOCK b attery compartment on the back of the camcorder,

2. Pull the tab to open the cover and expose the compartment.

3. Insert the clock battery

securely under the shoulders with the “ + ” terminal facing

out (as illustrated inside the battery cover).

4. Gently push the cover closed

until it snaps into place.

Battery Type: 3-Volt Micro Lithium Cell (auch as Maxell # CR2025 available

Irom most local drug stores and camera shops)

■ Setting Time/Date Display in Viewfinder '

The time and/or date can be

recorded on your tape to act as a handy reference for later viewing.

Whenever the time and/or date appears in the viewfinder, it will be

recorded on the tape. You can choose to record only the date, both date and time, or neither.

Follow the steps below to set the correct time and date.

1. Install the battery as described above.

2. Locate the date/time and

CLOCK (SELECT and ADVANCE)

buttons located on the side of the camcorder.

A flashing cursor lets you

know which part of the display you’re setting.

Repeatedly press the advance button until the correct month appears.

7, Then press SELECT. The

cursor will move to the next

part of the display.

Battery

Compartinent

—CLOCK BATTERY

Compartment

WARNING: Keep this

battery away from children.

If swallowed, ctmSttU a.. phy^cian imntediat^ytor emergency treatmcni.

Notes:

• To correct a part of the display, press the SELECT button until

the incorrect digit is flashing. Then use the advanc e button to enter the correct digit.

Remember; If you see the date and/or time in the viewfinder while you are recording a scene, it will be recorded onto your tape. If you do

not want the date and/or time recorded, repeatedly press the

DATE/TIME button until they

disappear from the viewfinder.

DATE/TIME

o o

CLOCK

) c

SELECT ADVANCE

Slide POWER switch to turn on camcorder.

Slide CA MERA / PLA YBA CK switch to CAMERA position.

If the date and time display

does not automatically appear

in the viewfinder, press the

DATE/TIME button on the side

of the camcorder.

Repeat steps 6 and 7 to set the correct day, year, hour, minute, and AM/PM.

After setting AM or PM. press the SELECT button again to erase the flashing cursor and start the internal dock.

Press

OATtlTIME

Button: One Time Two Times Dale Only Three Times No Display

Four Times

To Dispbiy and Record.

Clock and Date

Returns to Clock and

Date

Recording Features (coni.)

- Zooming

Using Power Zoom Buttons

Zoom Buttons T - Telephoto W = Wide

The 6:1 motorized zoom lens

allows you to zoom in and out for close-ups or wide-angle shots just by pressing one of the Power Zoom fingertip controls.

r Quick Review

The zoom buttons are easily controlled by your index and middle fingers when you grasp the camcorder properly through the

hand strap.

Press the button labeled “T” to move the lens in the “telephoto” (close-up) direction.

Press “IT” to move the lens in the “wide angle” direction.

During a recording session (when

the camcorder is in the Record/

Pause mode), you can review the last few seconds of a taped scene by pressing the REVIEW button and watching the viewfinder.

REVIEW

Using Zoom Ring Manually

When you want to zoom in or out of a scene without using the Power Zoom buttons, you can turn the Zoom Ring manually with your

fingers. This lets you control the

speed of the zoom.

Zoom Ring

Most importantly, Quick Review returns the tape to its previous point after reviewing a scene. As a result, you can use this feature and then start recording again without creating a “gap” or picture break up between taped segments.

REVIEW

Button

Quick Review helps you recall the last scene you recorded on a tape and lets you set up the next scene. After quick review playback, the camcorder returns to the Record/

Pause mode.

Recording Features (coni.)

Focusing Your Camcorder г Auto Focus

Auto Focua Window

-----------------

AUTOFOCUS Switch

PUSH/AUTO Focus Switch

If you want the camcorder to focus

for you automatically, slide the

AUTOFOCUS switch to the auto

position.

The camcorder’s auto-focus system sends out an infrared light beam and automatically focuses on the

nearest object that reflects this light. Take care not to block the

camcorder’s Auto Focus Window

while recording with the auto-focus feature.

If any of the following conditions exist, you may need to switch off

the auto-focus system and focus manually by turning the focus ring. To switch off auto-focus, slide the

AUTOFOCUS switch to the man

(manual) position.

• Sloping or inclined surfaces may not be focused because the

reflected light will not be

returned to the auto-focus

window.

• When shooting through a window, the auto-focus system may focus on the window glass instead of your subject.

• Dark objects, such as a subject’s

clothing, may absorb the

infrared light. Manual focus may be required.

• Auto focus may not be able to work reliably on subjects more

than approximately 35 feet away from the camcorder.

• When using the optional wideangle or telephoto lens adapters,

turn off the auto-focus system

and focus manually. It is not

possible to use autofocus when these adapters are being used.

Manual Focus-

AUTOFOCUS

Switch

PUSH/AUTO Focu* Switch

If you do not want the camcorder to focus for you automatically, shde the aut ofocus switch to the

MAN (manual) position. You can

then adjust the focus as desired by turning the Focus Ring with your fingers.

(r ) mzi )

PUSH/AUTO

Before you start recording, zoom in on your subject and adjust the Focus Ring so that a

sharp, clear picture is displayed in the viewfinder. (You can zoom in on your subject by holding the Power Zoom button labeled “T”.) By using this

procedure for manual focus, the

camcorder will maintain proper

focus throughout the zoom range.

You can also quickly and momentarily switch from manual to aut o focus by pushing the

PUSH/AUTO focus switch in while

the aut ofocus switch is in the

MANUAL position. When the switch

is pressed in and held, automatic

focus is activated and remains

activated until the switch is

released. This is useful if you are

shooting a relatively static scene in

MANUAL focus and need to quickly

and momentarily use auto focus to

adjust for a change in scene.

MAN* »AUTO

r Macro Focus

-------------------

The macro focus feature lets you

focus on objects as close as 1/4 inch from your subject.

Macro Button

Zoom Ring

Lever

Zoom Ring

AUTOFOCUS Switch

1. Slide the AUTOFOCUS switch to the man (manual) position.

2. Press in and hold the Macro Button (on Zoom Ring Lever) while rotating the Zoom Ring

to the MACRO position. (You’ll see the word MACRO on the zoom ring scale. Make it align with the white line.)

3. Release the Macro Button after the Zoom Ring is in the

MACRO position,

4. Slowly rotate the Zoom Ring with your fingers until you get a sharp picture.

Notes:

• Zooming is not possible when in Macro Focus. To change the size of the subject, move the lens closer or further away from it.

• The Focus Ring has no effect in

Macro Focus.

Recording Features (coni,)

-Adjusting A UTO IRIS For Unusual Lighting

AUTO ims

With the IRIS control in the AUTO (center “click”) position, your camcorder electronically senses the

available light in a scene and

automatically opens or closes the lens iris for the best possible picture.

You also have the option of

manual iris adjustment to

compensate for unusual lighting,

using the IRIS control to vary the

amount of light entering the

camcorder.

OPEN

- Fading In and Out of Scenes

This feature lets you add a professional touch to your home recordings. When you fade into a scene, the recording will start with a blank screen and the picture will gradually appear. The picture gradually disappears when fading out.

FADE Button

• When using the fade button,

both picture and sound will

gradually appear and disappear. The fade speed is automatically controlled by the camcorder.

Moving the AUTO IRIS control toward the ope n position (right) allows more light to enter the camcorder. Try this position, when the background is bright but your subject appears too dark. (For example, when you

are taping someone indoors who

is standing in front of a window.)

FADE

Fading In

1. While the camcorder is in the Record/Pause mode, press

and hold the FADE button.

2. Press the Record Start/Stop button (thumb trigger) to start

recording.

3. Release the FADE button after

a few seconds. The picture will gradually appear on a blank screen.

Fading Out

1. While the camcorder is recording, press and hold the

FADE button. The picture will

gradually disappear from the screen.

2. Continue to hold the FADE button, and press the Record Start/Stop button (thumb trigger) to stop recording.

3. After the recording has stopped, release the fad e button. The picture will reappear in the viewfinder.

Slowly moving the auto IRIS control toward the CLOSE position (left) allows less light to enter the camcorder. Try moving

the knob in this direction when your subject appears too bright.

Recording Features (coni.)

DISPLA Y Button

DISPIAY

Pressing the DISPLA Y button lets you check several special displays in the viewfinder.

• Remaining Battery Power

• Tape Counter

• Tape Counter Memory

• Remaining Time Left on Tape

The chart below shows the order the displays will appear in the viewfinder as you repeatedly press the r button. These displays will not appear on the

tape.

DISPLA Y Button Chart

DISPLAY

Button

Pv---------------------------------

Pnm DISPLA r

One Time

Two Times

Three Times

Name of Display

Battery Level and Tape Counter

Battery Level and Tape Counter with Memory

Battery Level and

Time-Remaining Display

Youll See in the

(Will iH>t be recorded on

Four Times

Five Times

Removes Displays

Returns to first display

Recording Features (cant,)

‘ Using Tape Counter

-----------

Pressing the displa y button once displays the 4-digit Tape Counter Display in the viewfinder (below the Battery Level Indicator).

Battery Level Indicator

Tape Counter Display

The tape counter acts as a handy reference to help you locate tape segments.

RESET

O T-160

To use the Tape Counter, press the /i£5£7'/7'-/<«) button to set the counter to 0000 before starting to

record or play at the beginning of a

tape. Then note the number on the counter at the beginning and end of each program you record or play.

Noting the counter readings on the tape label will allow you to use the counter to quickly locate desired programs. Just insert a tape, rewind

it to the beginning, reset counter to zero, and then fast-forward the

tape until the counter reaches the

number you noted for the desired

segment.

•Using Tape Counter Memory —

The Tape Counter also provides a switchable “memory” feature. When the memory is on (M appears behind Tape Counter Display), the tape automatically stops when the counter reaches 00()0 during Rewind and Fast

Forward.

Tape Counter Display With Memory On

This is useful if there is a section of

tape you want to review immediately after recording, or if you want to return to the same

point several times in a row.

To use the counter memory;

1. Repeatedly press the DISPLA Y button until the tape counter appears with an “M” behind it.

2. When you reach the part of the tape you wish to index,

press the reset/T~m button

to reset the counter to OOOOM,

3. Continue to play or record the tape. When you want to return to the index point, simply press stop, then REWJND. (The cam era!

PLAYBACK switch must be in

PLAYBACK position to rewind

the tape).

4. The tape will stop rewinding

when the counter reaches

0000.

Note: Whenever the “M” appears behind the Tape Counter Display,

the camcorder will stop rewinding or fast-forwarding when the counter reaches OOOOM. To continue rewinding press rew ind again, to continue fast-forwarding

press F.FWD again.

■Using Time-Remaining Display

The time-remaining display shows

the amount of recording or playback time left on a tape while it’s inside the camcorder.

Time-Rmialning Diaplay

To bring this display to the

viewfinder, repeatedly press the

DISPLAY button until the Time-

Remaining Display appears. (See the DISPLAY button chart on page 26 to see how many times you will have to press the DISPLA Y button.)

When you first start playing or

recording a tape, it wilt take the

camcorder a minute or two to

calculate the time-remaining. The

display will remain blank until the camcorder has finished its calculations. Once displayed, the

time-remaining display will be

automatically updated and readily

available when the displa y button

is pressed-even if you rewind or

fast forward the tape.

Notes:

• When using an extended length T-160 cassette, you must press the /ijE££J’/r-;60 button (while the Time-Remaining Display is present) to adapt the camcorder’s time-remaining system for an accurate read-out.

* The T-160 indicator will light

when the display is set for a T-160 tape.

RESET

-V-T-160

If the Tape Counter Display is present, pressing the RESET/T-ieo button resets the counter to

0000.

Recording Features (coni.)

p- Using Variable Shutter Speeds

SHUTTER Switch

Shutter Speed Display

Because your camcorder has a variable shutter, you can choose one of two higher shutter speeds to record fast-moving action.

The shutter speed is automatically

reset to the normal shutter speed of

1/60 whenever the camcorder’s power is turned on. This speed is recommended for indoor videos and most of your recording.

To select a higher shutter speed, slide the shu tter speed switch located on the side of the

camcorder to the right.

SHUHER

t (lb >

• Shde the switch to the right once to select a shutter speed of

1/500.

• Slide the switch to the right a second time to select a shutter speed of 1/1000.

• Slide the switch to the right a third time to return to the normal shutter speed of 1/60.

The higher shutter speeds will appear in the viewfinder above the Tape-Counter and Time-Remaining Displays when you press the z>/SPLay button. No display appears when the normal shutter speed of 1/60 is being used.

Higher shutter speeds require more light. The shutter speed display in the viewfinder will flash if more

light is required.

Notes:

• The higher shutter speeds are only recommended when you are taping fast-moving action that you plan to view in slow motion or stop action on a good-qnality

VCR that features “field-stiU” special effects (2 or 3-head VCR’s).

• There is no advantage in using

the higher shutter speeds unless you plan to play the tape hack in slow motion or stop action.

• Higher shutter speeds require more light. The Shutter-Speed Display will flash when you need more light. You should add more light or decrease the shutter

speed.

• A tape recorded at the higher shutter speeds may not show

movement and change of scenes as smoothly as recordings at the normal 1/60 speed.

• When recording at higher shutter speeds, use of fluorescent,

mercury vapor, or sodium lighting may cause a “flickering” effect.

Recording Features (coni.)

r Self-Timer Recording-

• First prepare the camcorder to record. Instructions are on

pages 18 and 19.

• While the camcorder is in the Record/Pause mode, press the

SELF TIMER button once. The

camcorder will automatically start recording after

approximately ten seconds and

SELF TIMER

Button

The SELF TIMER button lets you

time-delay the start of a recording so you can join the picture without being seen walking into it.

r ID ) ^ SEIF TIMER

will continue to record approximately 30 seconds.

• If you want the camcorder to record longer than 30 seconds, press the SELF TIMER button

twice (instead of once) while the

camcorder is in the Record/

Pause mode. After ten seconds the camcorder will start recording and continue to record until the Record Start/Stop button (thumb trigger) or PAUSE button is pressed.

Notes:

• The Tally Light on the front of the camcorder will flash to let

you know the self-timer is

activated and the camcorder is about to start recording.

• When the Tally light stops flashing and lights continuously, the camcorder is recording.

• Pressing the SELF TIMER button three times during the Record/

Pause mode cancels the self

timer recording.

• If the Record Start/Stop button (thumb trigger) is pressed while a self-timer recording is in progress, the recording will stop and the camcorder will enter the

Record/Pause mode.

• The SELF TIMER button has no effect during normal recording.

-Adjustable Time-LapseRecording

This feature lets you compress slow-moving action (like nature or photography studies) into clean, quickly viewed videos. It allows intermittent recording so you can use a cassette efficiently.

1. Prepare the camcorder to record as described on pages 18 and 19.

2. Press the displa y button to bring the tape-counter (or time-remaining) display to the viewfinder. This will let you

see the interval display when it appears.

3. Press the time LAPSE button

for approximately two seconds. The first INTERVAL display will appear in the viewfinder.

TIME LAPSE

Button

DISPLAY

Button

4. Press the time lapse button repeatedly until the length of

time you desire between recordings appears in the

viewfinder. Refer to the chart

below.

Viewiiailer

Disptey

0:30

Recording

Intervid

30-Second Interval

1:00 1-Minute interval 2;00 5:00

MAN

2-Minute Interval 5-Minute Interval

Manual Interval*

‘Manual Interval means that the camcorder will record for one second every time the

Record Start/Stop button (thumb trigger) is pressed. This is used for animation

recording as described on the

next page.

Pressing TIME l^PSE again

when the man display is

showing will remove the

interval display from the

screen.

5. When the desired interval time is displayed in the viewfinder, press the PAUSE button or the Record Start/Stop button (thumb trigger) to start interval recording. The camcorder will record for approximately one second every interval. The time until

the next recording will be

displayed in the viewfinder.

6. To stop interval recording, repeatedly press the time

LAPSE button until the word

interval disappears from the

viewfinder.

Notes:

• The Tally Light on the front of the camcorder will light to let you know when the camcorder is recording.

• The interval time can be changed any time (even during recording) by pressing the TIME LAPSE

button.

• The time and/or date can be

recorded by displaying it in the viewfinder during time-lapse recording.

• Rainbow noise (a vertical colored bar) may occasionally

appear in the picture during playback.

Recording Features (coni.)

Animation Recording

The adjustable time-lapse feature also lets you create animation recording—“cartooning”. For

example, you can make an object appear to move by taking several still shots of it in different positions. When the tape is played back, the object appears animated.

1. Prepare the camcorder to record as described on pages 18 and 19.

2. Press the DISPLAY button to bring the tape-counter (or

time-remaining) display to the viewfinder. This will let you see the INTERVAL display when it appears.

3. Press the time LAPSE button for approximately two seconds. The first interval display will appear in the viewfinder.

4. Repeatedly press the TIME

LAPSE button until the word MAN (manual interval) appears

in the viewfinder.

When this display appears, the camcorder will record for approximately one second

each time you press the PA USE button or the Record Start/ Stop button (thumb trigger).

Position your object as desired for the first shot, and then press the thumb trigger (or

PAUSE button). The camcorder

will record briefly and then pause. Don’t move the object yet.

6. Continue shooting the object in this position for a few more

1-second shots before moving

it. Note: When preparing an animated video, it’s usually best to get 3 to 5 shots of the object in the same position. You’ll want to experiment

with how many shots you take

each time to get smooth motion.

7. SUghtly move the object and shoot a few 1-second shots of it in this position. Continue shooting and moving the object(s) as desired.

8. To stop animation recording, press the time lapse button to remove the interva l display from the viewfinder.

Notes:

• The camcorder will automatically move the tape away from the heads if you do not record within five minutes. This prevents the tape heads from wearing the tape. When you begin to record after a long pause, the word standby will

appear briefly in the viewfinder while the camcorder repositions the tape against the headwheel.

• Rainbow noise (a vertical colored bar) may occasionally appear in the picture during playback.

Note: The optional CRM020 lets you remotely start and stop recording up

to 15 feet away from the camcorder. The plug on the CRM020 is specially designed so you can attach both the CRM020 and the audio/video output cable to the camcorder at the same time. You will find this application especially convenient during animation recording or anytime you want to control the camcorder from a distance. See pages 44 and 45 for optional accessories.

___

CRM020 Remote Record Start/Stop Switch (optional)

Audlo/VIdeo Output Cable (supplied)

First connect the CRM020’s plug to camcorder’s AV OUT jack. Then plug the audio/video output cable

Into back of CRM020 plug.

To Audlo/VIdeo Inputs on TV Monitor

Recording Features (cant)

- Electronic Indexing

Each time you begin recording (after the camcorder has been turned off at least four hours), the camcorder will automatically record an index mark at the beginning of the new recording.

Later, when you play back the indexed tape in a VCR that has a compatible indexing feature called “VHS Index Search System”, the invisible marks can be located automatically. See your VCR’s owner’s manual for index playback instructions.

-----------------

r NORMAL/ WIND MIC Switch

M/C Switch

The word INDEX will appear briefly in the viewfinder to let you know the camcorder is recording an index mark.

The camcorder records whatever

sound the microphone hears. During outdoor shooting on a windy day, the camcorder may record noise that occurs due to wind.

You can reduce the wind noise that’s recorded on the tape by sliding the NORMAL/WIND MIC switch to the WIND position.

The camcorder automatically records an index mark only once— at the start of each day’s recording session (or whenever it hasn’t been used for more than four hours).

It does not automatically record index marks each time you stop and start recording-only the first time you turn on the camcorder and start recording.

Place the switch in the NORMAL position for normal use.

Recording Features (coni.)

Editing Features

The CC285 incorporates a package of

advanced editing features to make it easy and fun to edit your home videos like a professional. The major editing features are described here and on the next three pages.

Flying Erase Head Edit Search Synchro Edit Audio Dubbing Video Dubbing

- Flying Erase Head

A separate erase head is mounted on the spinning headwheel (hence the term “flying”). This allows you to make clean edits without “glitches” or the “rainbow noise”

that occurs on VCR’s and camcorders without flying erase heads.

CAUTION: The unauthorized recording of tdevision programs and other materials may infringe the rights of others.

E^it Search

Edit Search means that you can use the F.FWD (fast-forward), REW (rewind), and play buttons to precisely position the tape even while the CAMERA/playbac k switch is in the cam era position.

Since you can do this while the camcorder is in the camera mode, without the tape unloading, it is possible to precisely position the tape for the next scene-eliminating the “between-scene glitches” that are common on camcorders without this feature.

To permit smooth editing while

recording, the f.fwd, rew. and

PLA Y buttons can be pressed while

the CAMERA/PLAYBACK Switch is in

CAMERA mode.

REW PLAY FFWD

® CD ®

Holding RE IV lets you quickly reverse scan recorded material.

Holding F.FWD lets you quickly

forward scan recorded material.

Holding PLA Y lets you view recorded material at normal speed. When you release the

button, the camcorder will

PLA Y

stop playing and prepare to record at that spot.

Recording Features (coni.)

— Synchro Edit

Optional

AVS010

Cable (not tupplled)

Synchro edit allows your camcorder to control a compatible VCR (one that has a camera pause jack) while tapes are being copied from the camcorder to the VCR.

The PAUSE button on the camcorder causes the VCR to start and stop recording. This is especially convenient when you want to record only selected

segments from a previously recorded tape.

Note: If your VCR has a single (mono) audio input, connect either the left or right audio plug to the audio input on the

To Synchro Edit

1. Connect your camcorder to a compatible VCR as shown above. An optional AVSOlO

Synchro Edit Cable is required. Optional accessories are shown on pages 44 and 45.

2. Prepare the camcorder to play back the tape you want to copy.

• Slide POWER to turn on the camcorder.

• Slide CAMERA/PLAYBACK

switch to PLAYBACK position.

• Press EJECT and insert the

tape.

• Press PLAY, then pause to

put the camcorder in the Play/Pause mode. (The AVSOlO cable must be connected to VCR before camcorder will pause.)

VCR.

3. Prepare the VCR to record.

• Press POWER to turn on VCR.

• Press EJECT and insert blank tape in VCR.

• Press RECORD to put the VCR in the Record/Pause mode. Note: If the VCR begins to record instead of pausing, you will need to change the position of the switch on the AVSOlO cable. Stop the VCR, change the switch, and then press rec ord on the VCR again.

4. Pressing the PAUSE button on the camcorder will now start the camcorder playing and also start the VCR recording.

AVOUT

Jack

5. Pressing REW, F.FWD, stop , or

PAUSE on the camcorder

automatically puts the VCR into Record/Pause mode. This allows you to search (forward or backward), fast-forward, or rewind the tape in the camcorder without disturbing the tape in the VCR.

• To search forward (or backward), press and hold

(or REW). When you

F.FWD

release the button, the camcorder will resume normal playback. To begin dubbing again, press pau se twice. (The first press pauses the camcorder, the second press begins dubbing.)

• To fast-forward (or rewind) the tape, press stop then

F.FWD (or REW). To begin

dubbing again, press STOP, then PLAY, then PAUSE to pause camcorder, and pau se again to begin dubbing.

Recording Features (cant,)

Audio Dubbing

The audio dubbing feature lets you

record new audio (sound) on a previously recorded tape without erasing the original video (picture).

When you audio dub a tape, the previous audio is erased and replaced with the new audio.

The audio dubbing feature also increases your editing flexibility. Video segments can first be assembled, and then a single narration or music background can be added to

the tape. The new audio you want to put on

the tape can be added one of three different ways:

• from speaking into the camcorder’s built-in microphone.

• from speaking into an external microphone connected to the MIC

jack. (The built-in microphone is

inoperable when an external microphone is attached.)

• from an external sound system

connected to the w jack on the camcorder by using the Audio/

Video Input Cable as shown below.

(Be sure to disconnect external

microphone, if connected, when recording.)

• See pages 44 and 45 for optional accessories.

AUDIO VIDEO

rTo Audio Dub

1. Slide the power button to turn on the camcorder.

2. Slide the camera/playba ck switch to the playback position.

3. Insert the tape and press PLAY and then rew ind to locate a point on the tape a few seconds before you want to begin dubbing.

4. Press the PAUSE button exactly where dubbing is to begin. The camcorder will enter the Play/Pause mode.

5. Press and hold AUDIO DUB button. Then press PLAY. Release both buttons.

6. To begin dubbing, press the

pau se button. The word

A.DUB will appear in the

viewfinder to let you know when the camcorder is audio dubbing.

7. To end dubbing, press the

STOP button.

Note: You can also dub both the video and audio simultaneously if desired. To do so, press AUDIO DUB and PLA Y first, then press VIDEO

DUB and PLAY in step 5 above.

Recording Features (coni.)

Vídeo Dubbing

The video dubbing feature lets you

record new video (picture) on a pre\iousIy recorded tape without erasing the original audio (sound).

When you video dub a tape, the previous video is erased and replaced with the new video.

When video dubbing, the source for the video dub is “whatever you are seeing in the viewfinder”.

The new video you want to put on the

tape can be added one of two

different ways:

• from whatever you focus the camcorder on and see in the viewfinder.

• from video coming in through the camcorder’s AV IN jack (using the audio/video input cable shown below).

• Sec pages 44 and 45 for optional accessories.

Note: You can also dub both the video and audio simultaneously if desired. To do so, press

dub

and PLA Y, then video dub and

PLAY in step 6 at the right. Be sure

to connect both the Audio & Video Plugs to the VCR, Tape Deck, or CD Player.

To Video Dub

1. • You can use the camera section on your camcorder for creating the new video to dub. To do so, remove the connector cable from the

AV IN jack on the

bottom of the camcorder, if connected.

• Or, if desired, connect the source VCR or other video generating device to the w jack of the camcorder.

2. Slide the power switch to

turn on the camcorder.

3. Slide the camera/playback switch to the playback position.

4. Insert the tape and press play and then rewind to locate a point on the tape a few seconds before you want to begin dubbing.

5. Press the pause button exactly where dubbing is to begin. The camcorder will enter the Play/Pause mode.

6. Press and hold VIDEO dub

button. Then press PLA Y.

Release both buttons.

7. To be^ dubbing, press the

PAUSE button. The word

v.DUB will appear in the

viewfinder to let you know when the camcorder is video dubbing.

8. To end dubbing, press the

STOP button.

Note: The word v.DUB will app>ear in the viewfinder to let you Imow when the camcorder is video dubbing.

or CD Player

White Audio Plug (No Connection)

Yellow Video Plug

Audlo/VIdeo Input Cebi« (aupplled)

Bottom ot Camcorder

AV tN

Jack

Quick-Reference Connection Diagrams

Your camcorder can be connected several different ways to various components for playback and recording.

When you have a specific application in mind, use this diagram to quickly find the page that shows detailed connection information for that appUcation.

Reviewing this diagram may also help you understand the difference between the camcorder’s av ot/r jack and

jack.

VMM MonNor

(TV wHh audlo/vMM

output lacks)

(or other dsvioa wtth

VCA

audlo/vMM output |scks)

Standard TV

The tapes you record on your camcorder can be played back and viewed in many different ways;

• By playing the camcorder and watching the viewfmder.

• By taking tape out of camcorder

and playing it back on another home VCR.

TV Monitor

(TV with audio/vMM

Input lacks)

By cotmecting camcorder to TV with RF Output Adapter and watching TV screen.

By connecting camcorder to monitor with Audio/Video Output C!able and watching monitor screen.

By connecting camcorder to another VCR that is already connected to a TV and watching the TV screen.

VCA (connsctsd to TV or Monitor)

The following pages show you how to connect your camcorder to a TV,

monitor, or VCR and explain how to play back the tapes.

Note: Although you can use the battery to power the camcorder during tape playback, you will probably want to use Uie AC adapter/ charger if you intend to watch for an extended period.

Recording From VCR or Monitor

Back of VCR or TV Monitor

VAA004

Audio/Video

Input Cable

(supplied)

Back of Camoontor

AV/M Jack

If your VCR (or TV monitor) has

AUDIO OUT and VIDEO ot/Tjacks, you

can record from the VCR (or TV

monitor) onto a tape in the camcorder.

You will need the audio/video input adapter cable to connect your camcorder to the VCR (or TV monitor).

1. Connect yellow and white plugs to VCR (or TV).

• (Connect yellow plug to TV’s

VIDEO Oi/rjack.

• Connect white plug to TV’s

AUDIO OUT jack.

2. Attach input cable to camcorder,

• Attach other end of cable to

thcAViN jack on the

camcorder.

Note: If you are recording from a stereo VCR (or TV) with left emd right AUDIO Ot/T jacks, you may need a Y-Adapter in order to record both left and right channels.

3. Attach a power sup|dy to your camcord».

• If you plan to record for over

an hour or two, you will probably want to use the AC adapter/charger instead of the battery.

4. Turn on y<Hir camcorder.

• Slide the power switch to the

on position.

5. Insert Cassette Tape.

• Press the eject button on the

camcorder and insert a cassette tape with its recordprotect tab intact.

• Details about the record-

protect tab are on page 17.

6. Prepare camcorder to record.

• Slide the camera/playback

switch to the CAMERA position.

-Y-Adapter

(avallaMa from electronic supply stores)

Prepare VCR (or TV).

• Turn on your VCR (or TV) and tune it to the channel you wish to record.

• If you are recording from a tape in the VCR, press the

PLA Y button on the VCR to

start the tape playing.

Start recwding.

• Press the Record Start/Stop button (thumb trigger) on the camcorder to start recording.

Stop recording.

• When you are finished recording, press the thumb trigger again (or press the

PA USE button) to stop

recording.

AVWJack

Playback Connections

■ How to Connect Your Camcorder to a Standard TV (without A UDIO/ VIDEO input jacks)

for Playback

Antenna ^ Camcorder

page 39 if you have a monitor/ receiver with input jacks.

You will need the RF output adapter and coaxial RF cable that came packed with your camcorder. If your antenna cable is the flat twin-lead

type that is attached by two screws,

you will also need the 300/ 75-ohm

transformer.

(T) Disconnect the VHF antenna

from your TV set. (You can leave the UHF wires alone.)

(T) Connect your VHF antenna to

the RF input adapter. (This step is not necessary unless you plan to leave the RF adapter hooked up to your TV set.)

A. If your antenna cable is a

round 75-ohm cable, connect it to the ANT connecter on the RF adapter.

B. If your antenna cable is a flat

twin-lead, you will need the 300/75-ohm transformer that was packed in your camcorder. Connect the flatlead connectors to the screw terminals on the 300/75-ohm transformer. Then connect the transformer to the ANT connector on the RF adapter.

Connect the other end of the

coaxial RF cable to the VHF

terminal on the back of your TV. (If your TV has VHF screw terminals, connect the adapter’s flat-lead connectors to the screw terminals.)

Plug the multi-pin connector fitting on the RF adapter into the ot/r jack on the camcorder. To aid connection, match the tabs on the fitting with the notches on the camcorder jack. Don’t force the fitting. If it does not slide in easily, check your marks and try again. (If the camcorder is used as a camera while connected to the TV, be sure to turn the set’s volume down to prevent a highpitched squeal caused by feedback.)

Set the switch on the RF adapter to channel 3 or 4, whichever is not used as a broadcast channel in your area. Turn on the TV and tune it to the channel you have chosen.

operation, refer to page 40.)

For normal TV viewing, you may

leave the RF adapter hooked up

to the TV set. Just disconnect the adapter from the camcorder or turn off the camcorder’s power.

Playback Connections (coni.)

How to Connect Your Camcorder to a

Video Monitor for Playback

Here’s what you can do when your camcorder is connected as shown here.

• When you play tapes in your camcorder, you’ll be able to

watch them on the monitor screen as well as through the viewfinder.

• You’ll also be able to monitor what the camcorder lens sees whenever the camcorder is

turned on—even when the

camcorder is not recording. This

connection could be used for a surveillance system.

If you have a TV monitor that has

AUDIO/VIDEO /N jacks, you can

connect your camcorder using the

audio/video output cable as shown

here instead of the RF output

adapter (as shown on page 38).

Back o1 TV Monitor

Note: If your TV Monitor has left and right A UDIO IN jacks, you may need a Y-Adapter (shown on page 37) to hear both channels.

(T) Connect the white audio plug to

the A UDIO IN jack on the back of the monitor.

Connect the yellow video plug to the VIDEO IN jack on the back of the monitor.

Plug the multi-pin connector into the AV oi/Tjack on your camcorder.

Back of Camcorder

4 POUT Jack

CAUTION: Do not force the connector. Match the tabs on the connector to the notches on the camcorder jack. If the connector does not slide in easily, check your marks and try again.

Your camcorder is now connected to the monitor for tape playback.

For details of playback operation,

refer to page 40.

t“How to Connect Your Camcorder to a

VCR for Playback and Tape Copying

Here’s what you can do when your camcorder is connected to a VCR and the VCR is connected to a TV or monitor.

• When you play tapes in your camcorder, you’ll be able to watch them on the TV screen

through the VCR.

• You’ll also be able to monitor what the camcorder lens sees whenever the camcorder is

turned on—even when the camcorder is not recording. This connection could be used for a

surveillance system.

• You’ll also be able to copy a tape with the VCR while it’s

playing in the camcorder. And you can monitor the recording

on the TV.

If you have a VCR that has

AUDIO/VIDEO /V jacks, you can

connect your camcorder using the

audio/video output cable

as shown

here instead of the RF output

adapter {as shown on page 38).

Back of VCR

Note: If your VCR has left and right AUDIO /V jacks, you may need a Y-Adapter (shown on page 37) to hear both channels.

(T) Connect the white audio plug to

the AUDIO /V jack on the back of the VCR.

Connect the yellow video plug to the VIDEO /JV jack on the back of the VCR.

Plug the multi-pin connector into the AV at/Tjack on your camcorder.

CAUTION: Do not force the connector. Match the tabs on the

Back of Camcorder

4V our Jack

connector to the notches on the camcorder jack. If the connector does not slide in easily, check your marks and try again.

Your camcorder is now connected to the VCR for tape playback and tape copying.

For details of playback operation and tape copying, refer to page 41.

Making Better Videos

Camcorder Recording Tips

Use your camcorder’s zoom to help

you focus manually. Before you start

recording, zoom in on your subject, adjust the Focus Rin$ until you see a clearly focused image in the viewfinder, then zoom back to the desired angle of view. Provided the subject-to-camcorder distance does not change, the subject will remain in sharp focus over the entire zoom range. REMEMBER: It’s easier to

make professional-looking videos if

you check the focus before you start

recording.

Keep your auto focus window clean and unobstructed to help assure proper auto focus operation.

Don't move your camcorder’s Zoom Lever quickly when controlling the

zoom lens manually. A slow, constant speed gives your manual zooms a more professional look on tape.

Try to make sure indoor scenes you

record are well-lit. This improves picture quality and color reproduction.

Avoid long “still” shots of landmarks and scenic attractions. Your recordings will be more interesting if they include people and detail. “Local color” will give your travel videos lasting appeal. Consider taping a familiar or landmark scene from an unfamiliar vantage point to give your tape added interest. Remember to check your lighting before recording.

Try to avoid taping backlit subjects indoors. Bright light behind your subject may cause it to appear very dark and low in detail. Adjusting your

IR}S control can help overcome this

problem.

Include close-up shots of individuals when taping a family outing or other group functions. These close-ups make your video memories special.

Be aware of video and audio

backgrounds. Background visual details you barely notice while you're taping may show up as visual “clutter” when you review your taped scene. Background noises (especmlly

television sets and radios, household appliances, traffic sounds) can detract

from the sounds you want to record.

And REMEMBER: Don’t bump or

tap your Camcorder’s microphone while you're taping, because this sound will be recorded on your tape!

Don’t move the camcorder rapidly

from side to side while you’re

recording. A steady, gradual “pan”

avoids blurring and jitter in your

taped scene.

Keep your camcorder level while

taping. Otherwise, your scenes will

appear tilted. Keep a close eye on

tins in your viewfinder!

Fading in and out between scenes can make your videos appear more professional.

|- Traveling Tips

CAUTION: If you wish to operate the AC adapter/charger on a power source other than ПО volts, 50/60

Hz, use only a transformer-type power converter. Do not use “solidstate” or “switching-type” power converters. They will damage your

AC adapter/charger. An optional

CPS08 adapter/charger may be

purchased from your RCA dealer.

The CPS08 is designed for use on

100-240 volts, 50/60 Hz. See pages 44-45 for optional accessories.

Jot down your camcorder’s serial number and keep this note separate from your equipment when

traveling. If your camcorder is lost or stolen, you will be able to

identify it.

Use extra care and caution to avoid

damage to your camcorder and

accessories when operating them at

a beach or pool. Spray, sand, and

dust should be avoided. Clean your lens gently and thoroughly if it has been exposed to the elements.

Remember to use only proper lens

cleaning supplies available at

camera stores to protect your lens.

Carry your camcorder in a proper

case when traveling. (See page 44

for the specially designed soft and

hard carrying cases.) An ordinary suitcase or carry bag doesn’t offer the protection and custom fit your camcorder needs. For safety, treat your camcorder as carry-on baggage to protect it from rough handling.

--------------------

Practice recording under a variety of lighting conditions. This will help prepare you to respond whenever you see a scene you want to tape.

* Shutter Speed Tips--------------

By increasing the shutter speed,

you’ll be able to watch better stop-

action and slow-motion pictures when you play the tape back on a good-quality home VCR that has

these special effects.

The higher the shutter speed, the

less blurring you’ll see during stopaction, frame advance, and slowmotion. The faster your subject is moving, the higher you’ll want to set the shutter speed.

The higher the shutter speed, the more light is required to make a good picture. So as you increase the shutter speed, you may have to increase the amount of light. You

will probably want to use the highest shutter speed only in bright outdoor light.

The shutter speed display in the

viewfinder will flash if you need to reduce the shutter speed (or increase the amount of light) while recording.

Care and Maintenance

-Proper Care of Your Camcorder-

Be especially careful to keep dust from entering the camcorder’s cassette door. Dust and grit are abrasive and will cause excessive wear both of tapes and of the

recording/playback heads.

' We recommend that RCA video

cassettes be used with this unit. These tapes have been

manufactured to our critical specifications. Use of tapes not meeting these specifications could considerably reduce the

performance of your camcorder.

• Use of poor quality tapes can contaminate the video heads, resulting in a snowy picture or no picture at all during ■ playback.

• Using an RCA headcleaner (model AV009W) may satisfactorily clean the heads and improve the picture. If a snowy picture or no-picture condition persists, consult your authorized RCA Servicenter.

Always replace the tens cap on

the lens when the camcorder is not in use.

To clean the lens, always use lens-cleaning tissues and a commercially prepared cleaning

solution designed for use on camera lenses. The RCA AC026

Lens Care Kit contains both of these items. Improper cleaning can scratch the lens. Do not

touch the lens with your fingers!

The oil from your skin can

damage the lens.

Things to Avoid

• Do not attempt to disassemble your camcorder. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.

• Never attempt to force open the

cassette door. If the battery

reaches its empty level during recording, the camcorder will shut off but the battery should

have enough reserve power to

eject the cassette when you press

the EJECT button. If the camcorder does not eject the cassette, do not attempt to force open the cassette door. This will

damage your camcorder. To

remove the cassette, simply

power your camcorder with the

AC adapter/charger or recharge

the battery before attempting to

eject the tape.

• Do not use the camcorder in extremely humid environments.

• Do not use the camcorder for extended periods in temperatures

below 40° F or above 95° F.

• Do not'expose the camcorder or AC adapter/charger to rain or moisture. If either component becomes wet, immediately turn

--------------------------------

off power and take the unit to

an Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter.

CAUTION: If you wish to operate the AC adapter/charger on a power source other than

120 volts, 50/60 Hz, use only a

transformer-type power converter.

Do not use “solid-state” or

“switching-type” power

converters. They will damage

your AC adapter/charger. An optional CPS08 adapter/charger may be purchased from your

RCA dealer. The CPS08 is designed for use on 100-240 volts, 50/60 Hz, See pages 44-45 for optional accessories.

Avoid operating your camcorder immediately after moving it from a cold location to a warm location. Give the camcorder

1-1/2 to 2 hours to reach a

stable temperature before inserting a video cassette. When moved from a cold area to a warm location, moisture may condense on the head drum inside the machine. This moisture could cause the tape to

■Storing Your Camcorder

• Store and handle your camcorder so that it is not subjected to swinging, shaking, or dropping. The camcorder can be damaged

by improper storage or handling.

• Don’t store the camcorder in temperatures below -22°F or above 149°F.

• Always remove the cassette and AC adapter/charger or battery from the camcorder when the camcorder is not in use.

• Retain the original carton for

future storage or shipping purposes.

stick to the headwheel and damage the headwheel or tape.

• Only use 9.6 volt batteries and accessories that are especially

designed for your camcorder. Use of the wrong accessories

could cause damage to the

camcorder.

• Do not operate your camcorder

in a strong magnetic field. Otherwise, you risk interference to or erasure of recorded information.

------

'Tape Tips

Don’t try to use a tape if it has

been damaged or exposed to

moisture. The tape may jam or damage your camcorder.

Remember to break off the recordprotect tab on your cassettes after making an important recording. This will help you safeguard crucial

tapes from accidental erasure.

---------------------------

Remember to label your tapes before storing them. Preparing your label before you use your tape

helps assure that you will know

what it contains.

Be careful not to misplace tape

boxes. These are essential for

proper tape storage. If a tape box

becomes wet, do not use it. It can damage your tape and camcorder.

Don’t leave your camcorder and

tapes in a car for more than a brief period. Excessive heat or cold can damage them.

Optional Accessories

A comprehensive line of accessories enables you to build the camcorder system

that meets your individual interests, talents, and needs. Here are some of the accessories that will help you achieve

professional results in your home video

productions. These and others are available through your RCA camcorder

dealer.

AC028 Soft Camcorder Case

Designed especially to provide protection and utility for camcorders and most accessories. Rugged fabric lined with soft, non-abrasive material and generous padding. Has three outside pockets with storage for lens filters, adapters, batteries, and tape,

__________________

KK050 Rugged Hard Case

Sturdy case designed especially for safe transport of camcorder with custominterior for holding numerous accessories.

VTU090 Character Generator/ Titier

Lets you quickly add titles to your video

tapes. Allows you to select each character by rotating the dial to a desired position. Adds titles up to 48 characters per page.

Includes memory to store up to 10 pages and 50 frequently used words. Also permits 2 character sizes, allowing you the

versatility to create professional titling

results.

WM002 Wireless Microphone System

A compact and lightweight system which allows you to capture sounds up to 100 feet from your camcorder. Includes a high performance omni-directional microphone and transmitter. Microphone clips to your subject’s clothing while transmitter fits into a pocket or onto a belt. A powerful

13" antenna on the receiver provides maximum signal pickup within a 100-foot range.

____________

WALOIA Wide Angle Lens

Expands your camcorder’s field of view by

a factor of .6 thus affording you wide panoramas without panning. Comes in a vinyl snap-closure case with a padded

interior. Includes three step rings so you can also use it with other camcorders.

AC029 Special Effects Lens Kit

Includes four filters and two step rings. The Center-Focus Filter gives sharp focus to center of picture and softness to edges for a vignette effect. The Rainbow Filter creates a multi-color halo around a bright spot in the picture. The Four-Point Starburst Filter adds bursts of light to bright spot in picture. The Polarizing Filter reduces glare caused by reflections and darkens and enriches blue sky while producing spectacular cloud backgrounds. The Step-Rings adapt the 52mm filters to also fit camcorders with 46mm and 49mm lenses.

_________________

AVSOlO Synchro Edit Cable

Can be used to copy tapes from

camcorder to compatible VCR (one with a

Camera Pause jack). With this cable, the

button on the camcorder also starts

PAUSE

and stops the VCR during recording.

CRM020 Remote Record Start/ Stop Switch

Allows you up to 15 feet of mobility from your camcorder. Lets you control the stop/start pause functions while appearing in the recording at the same time. See page 30 for connection diagram.

LX152A Lens Extender (Telephoto)

Increases your camcorder’s lens magnification power 1.5 times throughout its zoom range. Comes in an attractive snap-closure vinyl case with padded interior. Includes three step rings so you can also use it with other camcorders.

Removing Lens Hood-----------

The Lens Hood can be removed so you can attach optional accessories

like the Wide-Angle Lens, Lens Extender, Lens Filter Kit, and

Slide Adapter. The correct way to remove the

Lens Hood is shown here. Do not

grasp the end of the Lens Hood. To remove Lens Hood, put hand

flat against lens hood and turn it counterclockwise.

FSA036A Slide Adapter

Enables you to transfer slides onto VCR

tape. Includes four step rings, three sizes of frame holders, and one filter. You can

use the Slide Adapter on any model of

RCA camcorder or camera except CC004

and CC006.

Incorrect

Accessory Order Form

Accessory Order Form for

RCA Camcorder Model CC285

Description

Lens Care Ki( AC026 $ 9.95 Soft Camcorder Case AC028 Special Effect Lens Kit AC029 Deluxe Tripod AC031 $ 99.95 VHS Head Cleaner Rechargeable Long-Play

Battery Synchro E^it Cable

Battery Connector Rechargeable Battery Rechargeable Battery Single-Well

AC AdaptertCharger RF Output Adapter Remote Record Stop/Start

Switch (available 3/1/89) IX: (Battery) Car Cord

Y-Adapter Power Cable DCYOlO Dual-Well AC Adapter/Charger

Slide Adapter Lens Extender (Telephoto) Audio/Video Input Cable

Portable DC Light VDC050 $ 99.95 Character Generator/Titler

Wide Angle Lens WALOIA

Wireless Microphone System Audio/Video Output Cable

*Prices are subject to change without notice.

Model

No.

AV009W

AV046 SI 24.95 AVSÜI0

BCCÜ30 BP96FS

BP96FL $ 99.99

CPS08 $189.95 CRF030

CRM020

DCC09b $ 69.95

DWCOlO $199.95

FSA036A $119.95 LXI52A

VAA004

VTU090 $149.95

WM002

194128 $ 30,60

Price Each*

$ 89.95

Ï 59.95

$ 14.95

$ 39.95 S 19.95

S 69.95

$ 49.95

$ 34.95

$ 14.95

$139.95

$ 25.95

$139,95 $159,95

Total Merchandise .............................................

Sales Tax......................................................

We are required by law lo collect the appropriate sales tax Гог each individual stale, county, and kxzaiity to which the merchandise is being .sent.

Insurance .................................................

Shipping and Handling

Total Amount Enclosed

Use VISA or MasterCard preferably. Money order or check must be in U S. eurrenev only. No COD or CASH. '

Allow 8 weeks ibr ctelivery. All accessories are subject to availahility Where applicable, we will ship a supersedinii moilel.

.....................................

9'^-

$ s

S .95 $ 3.00

Total

Amount

To order the RCA video accessories described in the Owner’s Manual, contact your local RCA Video Accessories Dealer: or you may use this detachable order form to order direct-by-mail the accessories listed here,

r UNITED STATES ORDERS

Detach and mail order form with credit card information, money order, or check in U.S. currency (made payable to Thomson Consumer Electronics. Inc.) to this address:

RCA Video Accessories PO Box 8419 Ronks, PA 17573

For more information on these accessories (or current prices), write to the following address:

Video Accessories Customer Service Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. Distributor & Special Products 2000 Clements Bridge Rd Deptford. NJ 08096-2088

r INTERNATIONAL ORDERS

This offer is valid only in the 50 United States. For

international orders, please send your request for

quotation (not an order) to;

International Customer Service

Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.

Distributor & Special Products 2000 Clements Bridge Rd Deptford, NJ U.S.A. 08096-2088

Please complete other side also

45i

Trouble Checks

Troubles sometimes are caused by simple “faults"

that you can easily correct without the help of a service technician by first checking a few basic remedies.

Before you call or take your camcorder to an

Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter, look below

for the type of trouble you are experiencing. Then perform the simple checks and adjustments listed for that trouble.

TVoublf

No power

(ON indicator will not come

on) Won’t record or playback

Won’t playback

Won’t record

No picture in viewfinder

Tape stops during rewind or

fast forward

Camcorder remains in still frame mode

Poor picture quality during recording

Poor auto-focus operation

Poor picture quality during playback

Flashing shutter-speed

display in viewfinder

• If using battery, maybe it needs to be recharged.

• If using AC adapter/charger, make sure it is plugged into a working outlet.

• If power ON indicator is blinking, there is moisture in camcorder. Leave power on and wait for light to stop blinking.

• Maybe there’s no cassette in camcorder.

• Try ejecting and re-inserting cassette,

• Maybe the cassette tape is broken, try another cassette.

• Maybe you’ve reached the end of the cassette, try rewinding it.

• CAMERA/PLAYBACK switch must be in playback position.

• Maybe record-protect tab has been removed from cassette. (See page 17.)

• CAMERA/PLAYBACK switch must be in CAMERA position.

• Remove lens cap.

• Maybe AUTO IRJS control is closed. Rotate control to AUTO (center “cUck”) position.

• Tape-counter memory may be on. Whenever an “M” appears behind the tape counter display, the camcorder will stop rewinding (or fast forwarding) when counter

reads 0000. Press rew or F.FWD again to continue. Press DISPLAY button to turn off memory.

• Press PAUSE to return to normal playback.

• Insufficient light. If picture looks too dark in the viewfinder with the IRIS control in

AUTO (center “click”) position, add light to scene.

• Make sure A UTOFOCUS switch is in A UTO position.

• Make sure operator is not covering auto-focus window during recording.

• Maybe subject is dark or behind glass. Auto-focus may not work under these

conditions. Slide AUTOfoCUS switch to MANUAL for manual focusing.

• Maybe lens is smudged and image appears unfocused.

• Maybe viewfinder eyepiece focus is misadjusted. (See page 20.)

• Maybe camcorder is in macro-focus mode. Press and hold zoom button “T” to release macro-focus.

• Don’t use auto-focus with wide-angle or telephoto adapters.

• If picture contains black-and-white streaks, adjust trackin g control to correct. This is common when tape was recorded on a different VCR.

• There is not enough light to record at this shutter speed.

• Slide SHUTTER speed button to reduce speed.

If your camcorder is still in warranty, these checks

and adjustments could save you time and the cost

of an unneeded trip to the servicer. They also could

save you the cost of a diagnosis not covered by your warranty. (See “What does your warranty not cover”

on the back cover page.)

If service should be necessary, the warranty information on the back cover page lists what your warranty covers and explains how to get service.

Trouble Checks (coni.)

I'roublu

Picture is too dark

Power ON indicator is flashing

Recorded audio is too low

Viewfinder displays are out

of focus

Can’t see shutter-speed or index display in viewfinder

Date and/or time were recorded on tape

• For best results, only use higher shutter speeds for outdoor action you specifically intend to play back in slow motion.

• Excessive moisture in camcorder. Leave power on until light stops flashing.

• Maybe MIC w ind/normal switch was not returned to normal position after outdoors recording.

• Maybe subject was too far from camcorder. For long distances, try using a wireless microphone.

• Try adjusting eyepiece focus control.

• CAMERA/PLAYBACK Switch must be in camera position.

• Press DISPLA y button to bring displays to viewfinder.

• Date and/or time will be recorded on tape whenever they appear in the viewfinder.

Press DATE/TIME button to remove them from viewfinder when recording.

Index

АС Adapter/Charger

........................

Inside Front Cover,5,14

Accessories (Included) ............................................................. 4

Accessories (Optional)

......................................................

44-45

Accessory Order Form ........................................................... 45

Accessory Shoe ........................................................................ 6

Adapter/Charger

ADVANCE (Date and Clock Set) Button

..............................

Inside Front Cover,5,14

.............................

8,22

Animation Recording ............................................................ 30

Attaching Adapter/Charger Attaching Charged Battery

AUDIO DUB bxxlXon ............................................................ 12,34

Audio Dubbing

......................................................................

...................................................

14 15

Auto Focus ............................................................................ 24

Auto Focus Window

A UTO IRIS Control .......................................................... 5,8,25

^ F/А (Audio/Video) Jack

A V OUT (Audio/Video) Connector

.............................................................

...........................................

........................

13,3б!з7

10,36,38,39

Battery (Clock) ................................................................... 4,22

BATTERY Eject Lc\ei .................................................................. 7

Battery Power .................................................................. 15-16

Battery Type (Clock) Camcorder Care

CAMERA/PLAYBACK Switch

.........................................................

.....................................................................

...........................................

5,13,19

4,22

Car Cord ................................................................................. 10

Care and Storage (Cassettes)

.................................................

Care of Camcorder ................................................................. 43

Cassettes ................................................................................. 17

Cassette (Care and Storage)

...................................................

Cassette Door ......................................................................... 10

Cassettes (Inserting/Removing) Caution (Cold to Warm)

.............................................

...........................

Inside Front Cover

CCD Image Sensor .................................................................. 6

Charging Your Battery ........................................................... 15

Checking Battery Power Clock Battery

CLOCK BATTERY Compartment

.....................................................................

Connections (Quick Reference)

.......................................................

.......................................

4,10,22

............................................

4,22

Contents ................................................................................... 1

Controls (Location and Use) .............................................. 6-13

Date (Setting) ........................................................................ 22

Date and CLOCK Set Buttons {SELECT and

ADVANCE)

DATE/TIME Bnttons ............................................................. 8,22

......................................................................

8,22

DC Car Cord .................................................................... 10,16

DC IN (9.6V) Jack

Detailed Recording Steps

..............................................................

................................................

10,16 18-19

Dew Indicator ......................................................................... 12

DISPLA Y Button ............................................................ 8,29,30

Displays in Viewfinder ......................................................... 21

Dubbing (Audio and Video) .................................................. 35

Dubbing (Audio) .................................................................... 34

Dubbing (Video) .................................................................... 35

EAR (Earphone) Jack .............................................................. 12

Edit Search ............................................................................ 32

Editing Features ............................................................... 32-35

EJECT Button ....................................................................... 5,12

Electronic Indexing Electronic Viewfinder

...............................................................

.........................................................

7,20

Erase Protection ..................................................................... 17

EVF (Electronic Viewfinder) ............................................. 7,20

Eyepiece Focus Control ...................................................5,6,20

F.FWD (Fast Forward) Button .......................................... 12,32

FADE Button ................................................................. 8,19,25

Fading in and Out of Scenes ................................................. 25

Features ............................................................................... 2-3

Features (Recording)........................................................ 20-31

Flying Erase Head

.................................................................

Focus Ring ......................................................................... 6,24

Focusing Your Camcorder .................................................... 24

Head Cleaner.......................................................................... 17

Indexing

................................................................................

Inserting Cassettes ................................................................. 17

Installing Clock Battery ...................................................... 4,22

Interval Recording Introduction

...........................................................

29,30

............................................................................

Lens ......................................................................................... 6

Lens Cap ................................................................................. 5

Lens Cap Snap Lens Hood (Removing)

........................................................................

.........................................................

Limited Warranty .................................................. Back Cover

Location and Use of Controls

...........................................

6-13

Macro Button ..................................................................... 6,24

Macro Focus

......................................................................

6,24

Making Better Videos ............................................................ 42

Manual Focus

........................................................................

Memory Feature..................................................................... 27

MIC (External Microphone Jack) MIC (WIND/NORMAL) Switch

Moisture (Caution)

NORMAL/WIND MIC Switch ............................................... 10,31

...................................

...........................................

............................................

Inside Front CoUr

10,31

DJV (Power) Indicator ..................................................... 12,19

Operation Steps (Quick) Optional Accessories

.........................................................

........................................................

44-45

Order Form (Accessory) ........................................................ 45

Owner’s Club .......................................................................... 1

и5£" Button ...................................................................... 12

PLA Y Button PLAYBACK/CAMERA Switch

................................................................

.......................................

5 12 32

!! 5il3!l9

Playback Connections ...................................................... 38,39

Playback Connections to a VCR

...........................................

Playback Connections to a Monitor ....................................... 39

Playback Connections to a Standard TV ............................... З8

Playing Tapes Through a TV or Monitor

.............................

Playing Tapes Through the Viewfinder ................................ 40

Playing Tapes Through a VCR

POWER Switch .............................................................. 5,12,19

............................................

Power Zoom Buttons .................................................... 6,10,23

Powering Your Camcorder Pi/5///yl иго Focus Switch

Quick Operation Steps

.............................................

.................................................

14-16

6,24

............................................................

Quick Review ........................................................................ 2З

RCA Owner’s Club ................................................................. 1

Record-Protect Tab Record Start/Stop Button Recording Features

...............................................................

....................................................

.........................................................

20-31

5,10

Recording From a VCR ......................................................... 37

Recording From a Monitor .................................................... 37

Recording Steps (Detailed) Recording Times Recording Tips

...................................................................

......................................................................

.............................................

18-19

17 42

’5

Index (coni.)

Remote Record Start/Stop Switch ......................................... 30

Removing Cassettes

..........................................................

10,17

Removing Lens Hood ............................................................ 44

RESET/T-I60 Button

REVIEW Button ............................................................... 8,19,23

REW (Rewind) Button

............................................................

.......................................................

8,27

12,32

RF Adapter ............................................................................ 38

Safety Registration

SELECT (Dale and Clock Set) Button

SELF TIMER Button ............................................................ 8,29

SHUTTER Speed Switch

Shutter Speed Tips

...................................

Inside Front Cover

................................

.....................................................

................................................................

8,22

8,28

Shutter Speeds........................................................................ 28

Specifications

STOP Button

........................................................

Back Cover

.....................................................................

12,19

Storing Your Camcorder ....................................................... 43

Synchro Edit .......................................................................... 33

T and W (Power Zoom) Buttons .................................... 6,19,23

Table of Contents Tally Light

....................................................................

...............................................................................

Tape Copying ................................................................... 39,41

Tape Counter ......................................................................... 27

Tape Counter Display ............................................................ 27

Things to Avoid ..................................................................... 43

Thumb Trigger ................................................................... 5,10

Tilt Adjustment (EVF) .......................................................... 20

Time (Setting) ....................................................................... 22

TIME LAPSE Button

Time Remaining Display

TRACKING Control ................................................................ 12

......................................................

Traveling Tips ....................................................................... 42

Trouble Checks ................................................................ 46-47

TV/Monitor Playback

...........................................................

Unpacking Your Camcorder ................................................... 4

Variable Shutter Speeds ........................................................ 28

Video Cassettes ................................................................... 17

VIDEO DUB Button

..........................................................

Video Dubbing ...................................................................... 35

Viewfinder Displays ............................................................. 21

Viewfinder Playback ............................................................. 40

W and T (Power Zoom) Buttons

...................................

Warranty ................................................................ Back Cover

Warranty Registration ............................................................. 1

What Your Camcorder Will Do

WIND/NORMAL MIC switch

Y-Adapter

.........................................................................

..........................................

...........................................

Zoom Ring ......................................................................... 6,23

Zoom Ring Lever ............................................................... 6,23

8,29,30

12,35

6,19,23

2-3

10,31

34,37

Specifications

General

Power requirement: 9.6VDC

Power consumption: 9.6 watts (normal)

Weight: 5.3 lbs. (2.4 kg) Dimensions: 4-15/16" (W) x 9-3/16" (H) x 14-5/8" (D)

(126 X 233 X 372 mm)

Video Recorder Section

Format: VHS Record/Playback System:

Two video record/playback heads

One Flying Erase Head Headwheel Cylinder Diameter; 62mm Video Signal: ElA Standard NTSC Color

What does your warranty cover

• Any defect in material or workmanship.

For how long after your purchase:

• Ninety days for labor charges.

• One year for parts. The warranty period for rental camcorders begins with the

first rental

What will we do:

• Pay any Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter the labor charges to repair your Camcorder.

• Provide new or, at our option, rebuilt replacement parts and pickup tube for the Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter to make the repairs.

Camera Section

Scanning: 525 Lines/60 Fields/30 Frames Image Sensor; 1/2" high-resolution, solid-

state CCD Imager

Tripod Mount: One 1/4" x 20 threaded

hole

Lens: fl.2

6;1 (9-54mm)

Diameter: 46mm

Note: All features and specifications are

subject to change without notice.

What does your warranty not cover:

• Customer instruction. Your Owner’s Manual provides information regarding operating instructions and user controls. For additional information, ask your dealer.

• Cleaning of video/audio heads, which is normal maintenance.

• Damage from misuse or neglect.

• Camcorders which have been modified or incorporated into other products.

• Camcorders purchased or serviced outside the USA.

• Battery for clock.

How does state law relate to this warranty:

• This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

This digital apparatus does not exceed the class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communication.s.

L'interférence radioélectrique générée par cet appareil digital ne dépasse pas les limites de la classe B édictées par le Règlement sur les perturbations radioélectriques du Ministère Canadien des Communications.

How do you get service:

• Take your camcorder to any Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter. For their names and locations, ask your dealer, look in the Yellow Pages, or call l-8(K)-336-1900,

• Show the service technician your evidence of purchase date.

• Pick up your camcorder when repairs are completed.

Si un livret d'instructions en français n'est pas inclus avec votre appareil, vous pouvez en obtenir un (INDIQUER LE NUMERO DE MODÈLE. VOTRE NOM. ET VOTRE ADRESSE) en vous adressant à:

Thomson Électronique Grand Publie du Canada. Inc.

Service des données techniques 6540 Tomken Rd. Mississauga. Ontario. Canada LST 2E9

Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. 600 N Sherman Dr, PO Box 1976

RCil

Indianapolis, IN 46206-1976

What if you purchased your camcorder in Canada:

• Refer to the Canadian warranty.

For your nearest RCA dealer

or Authorized RCA

Servicenter call

toll free in U.S.A.

1 800 336 1900

®1989 Thomson Consumer Electronics. Inc.

Trademark(s)® Registered Marca(s) Registrad a(s)

Printed in Japan

Job #A-70221

Part Number 89-CC285-1

E72118/E97130

4632344

RCA CC-285 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Safety Precautions

CAUTION

MISE EN GARDE

Mail Your Enrollment Card Today

Attach Your Sales Receipt Here and File at Home For Future Reference

Record Vital Information Here

Introduction

Thank You For Choosing an RCA Camcorder.

Features

Camcorder Features

6x Power Zoom Lens with Macro

1/2" Solid-State CCD Image Sensor

Features (coni.)

Video Features

Audio Features

Convenience Features

Unpacking Your Camcorder

Audio/Video Output Cable Stock # 194128

Rechargeable 9.6-Volt Battery Stock # BP96FL

Transformer (300-to-75 ohm) Stock # AH055

Quick Operation Steps

Turn on camcorder.

7) Review what you recorded,

Insert a cassette tape.

Prepare camcorder to record.

Start recording.

Macro Button (on Zoom Ring Lever)

Eyepiece Focus Control

EAR (Earphone) Jack

F.FWD (Fast Forward) Button

REW (Rewind) Button

Top Control Poftol

AC Adapter/Charger

Rechargeable Battery

A. Using the Adapter/Charger to Power Your Camcorder

Attaching Adapter/Charger to Camcorder

Checking Battery Power

- C. Using the Optional DC Car Cord to Power Your Camcorder

Attaching Car Cord

RCA Video Cassettes

I-Video Cassettes

Г- Inserting/Removing Cassettes

Erase Protection

Cassette Care and Storage

Detailed Recording Steps

How To Record With Your Camcorder

Detailed Recording Steps (cont)

Using Your Camcorder’s Recording Features

r Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) ■

Adjusting for Right or Left Eye

Eyepiece Focus Control

Date and Time Display

Batteiy Level Indicator

Shutter Speed Display

P Installing Battery for Time/Date Display

■ Setting Time/Date Display in Viewfinder '

Notes:

CLOCK

- Zooming

Using Power Zoom Buttons

r Quick Review

Using Zoom Ring Manually

-Adjusting A UTO IRIS For Unusual Lighting

AUTO ims

- Fading In and Out of Scenes

Fading In

Fading Out

DISPLA Y Button Chart

Name of Display

•Using Tape Counter Memory —

■Using Time-Remaining Display

p- Using Variable Shutter Speeds

SHUHER

r Self-Timer Recording-

Animation Recording

- Electronic Indexing