RCA CC4362 Owner’s Manual

Important Safety Information

Be sure to read all the safety information before you begin to use this product.

camcorder or AC adapter/charger to rain or moisture.

I WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or shock hazard, do not expose I

This symbol indicates "'dangerous vohage"

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

_ Tlus symbol indicates m_portant instructionsaccompanying the product

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER
(OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS ARE INSIDE. REFER SERVICING
TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

Cautions

CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electric shock, match the wide

blade of plug to wide slot, and fully insel_.

ATTENTION: Pour _viter les chocs _lectriques, introduire la lame

la plus large de la fiche dans la borne con'espondante de la prise et
pousser jusqu au fond.

ms,de the product that presents a risk of electric
shock or personal mju_'

To reduce risk of inju12¢, charge only rechargeable batteries recom-
mended by the manufacturer for this camcorder. Other types of

batteries may burst causing damage and personal injury.

FCC Regulations state that unauthorized changes or modifications to
this equipment may void the user's authority to operate it.

Product Registration

Please fill out the product registration card and return it immediately.

Returning this card allows us to contact you if needed.
Keep your sales receipt for proof of purchase to obtain wan'anty pal_s

and service and attach it here. Record the serial number and model
numbers located on the bottom of the camcorder.

Model No:
Serial No:
Purchase Date:
Purchased From:

CC4362

We want to make sure you enjoy your new camcorder. If you have any

questions, call:

Camcorder Exchange Warranty ........... 800-283-6503 (pages 68-69)

Customer Service ................................... 800-336-1900 (page 67)

Accessories ............................................. 800-338-0376 (pages 50-57)

Assistance ..................................... 3

First-Time Operation .................. 3

Included Accessories .................. 11

Attaching the Shoulder Strap .......... 11

Power Your Camcorder ............. 12

Use the Adapter/Charger to

Power Your Camcorder .............. 12

Charge the Battery ........................ 13

Battery Level Indicator ................. 15

Battery Care .................................. 16

Battery Storage ............................. 16

Battery Safety Precautions ............ 16

Use the RCA Optional

Car Cord Adapter ....................... 17

Videocassettes ............................. 18

Erase Protection - Safety Tab ....... 18

Recording and Playback

Speed and Times ....................... 18

Insert and Remove Cassettes ........ 19

Cassette Care and Storage ............. 19

Date and Time Display .............. 20

Setting the Time and Date ............... 20

Charging the Built-in Clock

Battery ....................................... 21

Record the Time and Date,

Auto Date, Auto Title, or Date .. 21

Recording ................................... 22

Use the LCD Monitor or Viewfinder

to See What You Record ............. 22

Use the LCD Monitor ................... 22

Using the Viewfinder .................... 23

Eyepiece Focus Control ................ 23

LCD Monitor or Viewfinder

Displays ...................................... 24

DISPLAY Button .............................. 26

Quick Review Feature ..................... 26

Microphone ..................................... 27

Auto Focus ...................................... 27

Macro Focus .................................... 27

Auto Shoff M Feature ........................ 27

Tape-Remaining Display ................. 28

Electronic Indexing ......................... 28

Zooming .......................................... 29

DigitalEffects.................................30

SelectingaDigitalEffect..............30

16X9Mode...................................31

NegativeMode..............................32

DigitalZooming............................32

MosaicMode................................33

MirrorMode.................................33

FadingInandOutofScenes...........34

TapeCounter...................................36

UsingtheMemory-StopFeature...36

EditingFeatures..............................37

CameraEditFeature.....................37

Titler..............................................38

RecordingaTitleonaTapein

theCamcorder...........................40

RecordaTitleWhileCopying

aTapefromtheCamcorderto

AnotherVCR.............................40

RecordingTips................................41

TravelTips.......................................41

Playback.....................................42

UsetheLCDMonitoror

ViewfinderforPlayback.............42

ToPlayBackaTape......................43

PlaybackFeatures...........................44

TapePositioning............................44

VisualSearching...........................44

Stop-ActionPause.........................44

Tracking........................................45

PlaybackonTV(orVCR)with

Audio/VideoInputJacks............46

PlaybackonTVWithout

Audio/VideoInputs.....................48

OptionalAccessories..................50

Using the Optional AC093

Tripod ....................................... 53

Removing the Lens Hood ............. 54

Order Form ................................... 55

Trouble Checks .......................... 58

Care and Maintenance .............. 62

Cleaning the Camcorder .................. 62

Cleaning the Lens ......................... 62

Clean the LCD Monitor ................ 62

Cleaning the Viewfinder ............... 62

Proper Care and Storage .................. 63

Things to Avoid ............................... 63

Built-In Color Enhancement Light.. 64

Replace Light Bulb ....................... 65

Specifications .............................. 66

Information to User ................... 66

Customer Assistance and

Service ................................... 67

Limited Warranty ...................... 68

Index ........................................... 70

This section describes the basic steps necessary to set up your camcorder to record.
Refer to the other sections for detailed operation and feature options.

Assistance

The toll-free numbers are available to help you with any problem you may encounter.

Camcorder Exchange Warranty ............... 800-283-6503

Customer Service ................................... 800-336-1900

Accessories ............................................. 800-338-0376

.

Unpacking the Camcorder and Accessories.

• 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
are missing or appear damaged, contact your dealer immediately.

Model CC4362

AC Adapter/Charger: Stock No. 241044
DC Cable: Stock No. 233328

Rechargeable 10-Volt Battery

Stock No. EP096FS

Shoulder Strap
Stock No. 227327 or

Stock No. 241305

(continued on next page)

3

2. Attaching the Adapter and Charger.

To AC

50/60 Hz

Adapter/
Charger

Jack

Since the battery must be charged before
it can be used the first time, attach the

adapter/charger to the camcorder.

1. Attach one end of the adapter/
charger's DC cable to the DC
OUTPUT jack on the side of the
adapter/charger.

2. Attach the other end of the cable
to the DC IN 9.6V jack on the

camcorder.

3. Plug the adapter/charger's plug
into an operating outlet.

4. Details are on page 12.

3. Adjusting the Handstrap, Removing the Lens Cap,
and Attaching it to the Camcorder.

1. Open the handstrap, insert your
hand, and adjust the handstrap
to fit your hand.

2. Remove the lens cap and attach
it to the handstrap as shown.

on

Handstrap

andstrap

4. Inserting a Tape.

STOP/EJECT

Button

Cassette

Safety Tab

Tape Windows

_Cassette Door

Press Here to Close

1. Press STOP/EJECTto open the

cassette compartment.

2. Insert the cassette with the safety
tab facing up and the tape windows

facing out.

5. Turning on the Camcorder.

• Press and hold the small button on

the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch
while you slide it to CAMERA.

The camcorder enters record-
pause.

• The position of this switch tells
the camcorder whether you want
to record (CAMERA), turn the

3.Press the cassette down gently
until it locks into place, and close

the cassette compartment door.

4.Details are on page 19.

Switch

Note: If you want the date and

time displayed on your
recordings, you must set it.

See Date and Time Display on

pages 20-21.

power off (OFF), or play back
tapes (VCR).

• The camcorder automatically
turns off if it remains in record-

pause for five minutes. Place
the switch to OFF and then back

to CAMERA.

(continued on next page)

5

Electronic

Viewfinder (Grasp

here tomove.)_

Eyepiece_._ __

Eyepiece FOCUS/ J -_ I:[

Control _ [hi

OPEoNn __'_._ _ I_l Itl Shoulder

""_- VF_L _ I1:]1 Ill Extension

L_[ 2P_ _ II I III Pad

Bright LoI L /

C°ntr°l / _ _CD_ __

Monitor

6. Use the LCD Monitor or Viewfinder to See What's Recording.

You can watch what you're recording on the LCD monitor or in the black-and-
white viewfinder. When you open the LCD monitor more than 45°, the viewfinder
automatically turns off. When you close the LCD monitor, the viewfinder
automatically turns on. When you extend the LCD monitor 90° and rotate it all the
way around (screen side facing toward the person you're recording), both the
viewfinder and the LCD monitor show what's being recorded.

Use the LCD Monitor

1.Unfold the shoulder extension pad.

2. Press the OPEN button to open the

LCD monitor. Make sure the
monitor is open at least 45 °. The

viewfinder automatically turns off.

3. Rotate the monitor around only
when it is open 90°. When you

rotate the monitor 90°or more, the
image becomes a mirror image

and the viewfinder turns on.

4. To adjust the brighmess of the
image in the monitor, turn the
bright control.

5. Fit the shoulder extension pad to
your shoulder for convenient
viewing using the LCD monitor.

Use the Viewfinder

1.Make sure the monitor is closed
and locked. If the monitor is open

more than 45°, the viewfinder
automatically turns off.

2. Grasp the viewfinder and rotate it
horizontally.

3. Pull the viewfinder out from the
camcorder and rotate the eyepiece

into a comfortable viewing
position.

4. Turn the eyepiece focus control to
adjust the focus of the viewfinder
for your vision.

REC/PA USE

Button

LIGHT A UTO/OFF/ON

Switch

7. Set the LIGHTA UTO/OFF/
ON switch to A UTO.

• The color enhancement light helps

you create brighter and sharper
images.

• Set the LIGHTAUTO/OFF/ON

switch to AUTO if you want the
color enhancement light to turn on
automatically when you aim the
camcorder at a dark object and turn
offwhen you aim it at a bright
object.

• Details are on pages 64-65.

.

Start and stop recording.

• Press and release the REC/

PA USE button to start

recording. REC appears in the
viewfinder or on the LCD

monitor, when the camcorder is
recording.

• Press and release the REC/
PA USE button again to stop

recording. The camcorder is
now in the record-pause mode
( II appears in the viewfinder or

on the LCD monitor when the
camcorder is in record-pause).

(continued on next page)

CAMERA/
OFF/VCR

REC/PA USE

9. Play back what you have
recorded.

1. Press the REC/PAUSE button to

pause recording.

2. Press and hold the small button

on the CAMERA/OFF/VCR

switch while you slide it to VCR.

3. Press REW/REVIEWto rewind

the tape.

4. Press PLAYto play back the tape.

5. Press STOP/EJECTwhen you are

finished playing back the tape.

Details on LCD monitor and
viewfinder playback are on

pages 42-43.

RE W/ PLAY
RE VIE W Button

Button

10.

Set the CAMERA/OFF/VCR
switch to OFF to turn off the
camcorder.

11.

Close the LCD monitor and
replace the lens cap.

12. Review camcorder's operating controls.

DISPLAY Button

RE W (Rewind)/RE VIE W Button

RESET Button

DATE/TIME Button

TITLER Button

(Also - Button)

PLAY Button

EFWD (Fast Forward)

Button
(Also + Button)

Microphone

Lens

CAMERA/
OFF/VCR

Switch

Lens Hood

STOP/EJECT

Button

(Also EDIT-AD V

Button)

Checks for
details.)

VIDEO, AUDIO OUT,

and RF DC OUT Jacks
(Located Behind Small Cover)

(continued on next page)

12. Review camcorder's operating controls. (continued)

Built-In Speaker

Lc°M°nit°rGA

OeEN _.__ tl

Attach

Butt°n___ I _

Bright I_l[Ill IIH[_I / Y_ II I

Control __ _

Volume _ / / [ _ /
Control INST. " / [ \

(Instant) FADE ] \
ZOOM Button [ \

Button DIGITAL

EFFECTS

Button

Viewfinder

Eyepiece Focus Controls
Control (See Trouble Checks

LIGHT A UTO/OFF/

ON Switch

Shoulder Strap

Attachment Ring

BATTER Y
EJECT

Rechargeable
Battery Here

Attach Adapter/
Charger's DC

Cord Here

Shoulder
Extension
Pad

BRIGHT and FOCUS

for details.)

Button

Power Zoom Buttons
(Wand T)

Also TRACKING
Buttons

10

Shoulder Strap

Attachment Ring

with Lens Cap
Holder

Cassette Door
(Press here to

close.)

Attaching the Shoulder Strap

The camcorder's shoulder strap is designed to let you carry the camcorder from your
shoulder and - when you are ready to shoot - bring the camcorder to shooting position
in one quick movement.

To Attach the Shoulder Strap

1. Unfasten one end of the shoulder
strap from the buckle. Make sure you

leave the buckle on the strap.

.

Thread the end of the strap back
through the buckle making sure it is
threaded over the outer strap. Make
sure the strap is not twisted.

Buckle

\

2.

Thread one end of the shoulder strap 4.
through one of the shoulder strap rings
as shown below. 5.

Shoulder Strap

Attachment Ring

Shoulder Strap

Attachment Ring

Repeat steps 1-3 to attach the other
end of the strap.

Pull on the straps and make sure they
are securely fastened before using the
shoulder strap to support your

camcorder.

11

Use the Adapter/Charger to Power Your Camcorder

The adapter/charger attaches to the camcorder and lets you power your camcorder
directly from standard household power. The adapter/charger operates on 120 volts,
50/60 Hz, and can be used to power the camcorder or recharge the battery.

Attach Adapter/Charger

1. Attach one end of the adapter/
charger's DC cable to the DC

OUTPUT jack on the adapter/charger.

2. Attach the other end of the cable to
the DC IN 9. 6V jack on the camcorder.

3. Plug the adapter/charger's plug into an
operating outlet. The POWER
indicator on the adapter/charger lights
when it is properly connected.

Notes: The adapter/charger cannot charge the
battery and operate the camcorder at the same

time. If you connect both, the adapter/charger
powers the camcorder. Remove the adapter/

12

charger's cable from the DC OUTPUT jack to
charge the battery.

When using the adapter/charger to power the
camcorder, the battery level indicator might

display _. This indicator is used for
battery operation and has no meaning when

using the adapter/charger to power the
camcorder.

Remove Adapter/Charger

1. Unplug the adapter/charger from the

wall outlet.

2. Remove the DC cable from the
adapter/charger and camcorder.

Use the Battery to Power Your Camcorder

Charge the Battery

The battery must be charged before it can be used the first time. Initial charging takes
approximately two hours. The camcorder's operating time depends on how often you
turn the power on and off and how much you use the monitor, zoom, and pause. To
conserve battery power, turn the camcorder off during recording breaks.

To AC 120V,
50/60 Hz

CHARGE

Indicator

Rechargeable Battery
(Hold battery flush and
slide down.)

Charge the Battery

If the DC cable is attached to the
DC OUTPUT jack on the adapter/charger,

remove it.

1. Align reference mark on battery with
mark on adapter/charger.

2. Hold the battery flush against the
adapter/charger and slide it in the

direction of the arrow.

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

Align

Charger

4. If the battery is properly connected,

the adapter/charger's CHARGE
indicator lights.

Note: Your battery will provide better
service if you charge it before and after use

and store it at room temperature.

5. Remove the charged battery by sliding
it up and off the adapter/charger.

6. Attach the charged battery to the
camcorder as shown on the next page.

13

Use the Battery to Power Your Camcorder (continued)

CAMERA/
OFF/VCR

Switch

BATTER Y
EJECT

Button

Rechargeable
Battery

Hold Battery
Flush and

Slide Down

Attaching the Charged Battery
If the DC cable is attached to the

camcorder, remove it before attaching

the battery.

1. Align the reference arrow on the
battery to the arrow on the back of

the camcorder.

2. Hold the battery flush against the
camcorder while you slide it down in

the direction of the arrow.

3. Press and hold the small button on the

CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch while you
set it to CAMERA.

Removing the Battery

1. Set the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch to
OFF.

2. Press and hold the BATTERY EJECT
button while removing the battery.

ATTENTION: THE RECHARGEABLE BATTERY
CONTAINED IN THIS PRODUCT IS RECYCLABLE. AT THE
END OF ITS USEFUL LIFE, UNDER VARIOUS STATE LAWS,

IT MAY BE ILLEGAL TO DISPOSE OF THIS BATTERY IN
THE MUNICIPAL WASTE STREAM. CHECK WITH YOUR

LOCAL SOLID WASTE OFFICIALS FOR DETAILS IN YOUR
AREA FOR RECYCLING OPTIONS OR PROPER DISPOSAL.

14

RECYCLE

Pb

Use the Battery to Power Your Camcorder (continued)
Battery Level Indicator

The battery level indicator appears in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor and
shows you the amount of power in the rechargeable battery.

!

Battery Level Indicator Display in

Viewfinder or on the LCD Monitor

Note: If you can't see the battery level

display, press DISPLAY

• When _ appears, the battery is

fully charged.

• As the power is used _ and
appear.

• When the battery power is almost
gone, _ flashes in the viewfinder
or on the LCD monitor. Recharge the
battery or use the adapter/charger
before continuing to use the camcorder.

Set the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch to
OFF to turn off the camcorder before

replacing the battery.

Notes: When you record using the recharge-
able battery, the battery level indicator still

flashes to warn you of low battery power
even if you do not have the battery level

indicator displayed.
The battery level indicator isn't recorded on

the tape.
The battery level indicator has no meaning

when you use the adapter/charger or optional

car cord to power the camcorder.

15

Use the Battery to Power Your Camcorder (continued)

Battery Care

• Your battery will provide better service

and longer performance if you charge
if before and after use, and store it at
normal room temperature.

• The battery should be charged at a
temperature of 32°F-95°F (0°C-35°C)
to prevent damage.

• Do not operate the battery at tempera-
tures below 14°F (-10°C) or above 95°F

Battery Storage ....................

Store the battery at normal room
temperature.

Lead acid batteries discharge if not
used. Recharge the battery at least
once ever six months or you may not
be able to recharge it.

(35°C). You might damage the

battery if you use it at temperatures

above 122°F (50°C). Operation
time decreases at extremely low
temperatures.

After repeated chargings and use
the operation time decreases. When
the operation time becomes too

short to be useful, it is time to
replace the battery.

A battery stored for long periods
might not supply power for the

specified time. Additional
rechargings might help restore
the battery's operation time.

Batteries being recharged that have not
been used for an extended period may
continue to charge after the normal
time. Do not charge a battery for more

than 24 hours.

• If the CHARGE indicator on the

adapter/charger starts flashing, remove
the battery, and reattach it. If after
several attempts, the indicator contin-
ues to flash, your battery cannot take a
charge and must be replaced.

• Throwing the battery into a fire or
exposing the battery to excessive heat -
over 149°F (65°C) could be hazardous.

16

• Do not short the battery's terminals.

• Allow the battery to cool down before
attaching it to the adapter/charger. The
CHARGE indicator will not light and

the battery will not charge if you attach

a hot battery.

• Do not attempt to disassemble or

modify the battery. There are no user-

serviceable parts inside.

• Use the battery only with specified AC
adapter/chargers and camcorders.

• If leakage from a damaged battery
contacts your skin or clothing, wash it
off immediately with running water.

Use the RCA Optional Car Cord Adapter

The optional DCC096 car cord shown on

page 50 allows you to power your

camcorder from the cigarette lighter
socket of a car, truck, or RV. It converts

12-volts to a 9.6-volt output.

Note: Consult the installation and operating
instructions enclosed with the DCC096 for

complete operating instructions.

Use the DCC096 Car Cord Adapter

O/./Cigarette

1.

Set the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch to

Lighter

Socket

OFF to turn off the camcorder.

2.

If the battery or DC cable is attached
to the camcorder, remove it.

3.

Insert the small plug on the car cord to
the DC IN 9.6V jack located on the

back of the camcorder.

4.

Take the vehicle's cigarette lighter out
of the socket.

5.

Insert the car cord's cigarette lighter
plug into the vehicle's cigarette lighter

socket.

DC IN 9.6V

Jack

.

To turn on the camcorder, press and

hold the small button on the

CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch while you
set it to CAMERA.

Notes: The vehicle does not have to be
running for the camcorder to operate from

the DC car cord.
The battery level indicator has no meaning

when you use the car cord to power the
camcorder.

17

Makesureyouselectgoodqualitytapesforyourcamcorder.Useofpoorqualitytapes
ortapesthathavebeendamagedormishandledcancontaminatethevideoheads,

resultinginasnowypictureornopictureatallduringplayback.Becausethereisno

controloverthetypeoftapepurchasedorrentedbyconsumers,headcleaningisnot
coveredunderwarranty.It isconsiderednormalmaintenance.

Ifasnowypictureorno-pictureconditionpersists,considertheuseofadrychemical

nonabrasivehead-cleaningtape.Besuretofollowthedirectionswiththehead-

cleaningkitcarefully.Improperuseofaheadcleanermightdamageyourcamcorder.

Erase Protection - Safety Tab
You can use your videocassettes over and over again. To erase a previous recording,

just record over it.

_ _Safetv Tab

@

=t

To prevent accidental
erasure, break off the tab.

Recording and Playback Speed and Times

The camcorder records and plays back in VHS standard speed (SP). Listed below are
the maximum recording times for popular VHS cassettes.

T-60 60 Min.
T- 120 2 Hrs.
T-160 2 Hrs./40 Min.
T- 180 3 Hrs.

18

To record on the tape again, cover
the hole with vinyl tape.

Insert and Remove Cassettes

STOP/
EJECT

Button

1. Attach a power source to the
camcorder.

2.

Press the STOP/EJECT button.
The cassette holder opens

automatically.

.

Insert the cassette with the tape wheel

facing up and tape windows facing

Cassette Care and Storage

• When you are finished with a cassette,
rewind it, remove it from the cam-
corder, and label it.

• Store cassettes vertically in their
protective cases at normal room
temperatures. Do not leave your

camcorder or cassettes in a car or
outdoors for an extended period.

Excessive heat or cold might damage
your cassettes.

• Keep the cassette away from strong
magnetic fields such as electric motors

and other devices.

-Tab

Windows

Press here
to close.

out. Gently push the cassette down
until it locks into place.

4.

Gently close the cassette holder with
your hand.

• Keep dust from entering the cassette
compartment. All dust is abrasive and

will cause excessive wear on the tape

and the camcorder's recording or

playback heads.

• Do not use cassettes with damaged or
spliced tape.

• Do not use a cassette if it has been
damaged or exposed to moisture. The

tape might jam and!or damage your

camcorder.
Break off the safety tab to prevent

accidental erasure of your recording.

19

Setting the Time and Date

You must set the correct date and time before it can be displayed and recorded on your
tapes. The built-in clock cell must be charged as described on the nextpage.

NOTE: lfyou leave the camcorder on for ten minutes without a cassette inserted when the date has not been set or the built-
in clock battery is dead, the camcorder demonstration mode will start. To cancel the demonstration mode, disconnect power

from the camcorder and reconnect it, or insert a cassette.

CAMERA/

DATE/TIME OFF/VCR

Button Switch

REW/ EFWD Button
RE VIE W

Button STOP/EJECT

I I Button

[

1.

Attach a power supply to the
camcorder.

2.

Press and hold the small button on the

CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch while you
set it to CAMERA.

.

Press the DATE/TIME button to
display the date and time on the LCD

monitor or in the viewfinder.
A flashing cursor lets you know which

part of the display you are setting.
If the flashing cursor does not appear,
press and hold DATE/TIME and then
press STOP/EJECT.

4. Repeatedly press the EFWD or REW/

REVIEW until the correct month
appears. Press and hold the button to

advance the digits faster.

5. When the correct month is displayed,

press STOP/EJECT. The cursor
moves to the next part of the display.

6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 to set the correct

month, day, year, hour, minute(s), and

AM/PM_

.

After setting AM or PM, press the
DATE/TIME button to remove the

flashing cursor and start the internal
clock.

20

12 : OOAM

/11", 1/1999

To Correct the Date or Time

To correct the date or time, press and hold
the DATE/TIME button and then press
STOP/EJECT. The display and the
flashing cursor appear. Use STOP/

EJECT, EFWD, and REW/REVIEW to

correct the time or date. Press DATE/
TIME to remove the flashing cursor and

start the clock.

Record the Time and Date, A UTO Date, Auto TITLE, or Date

The time and date, AUTO date, auto TITLE, date only, or no date can be recorded on
your tape. Whenever one of these displays appear, it will be recorded.

Selecting the Display to Record

1. Repeatedly press DATE/TIME to
select the display you want to record.

• Date and Time Display: The date

and time will be displayed and

recorded.

• @ AUTO Date: The date is

automatically recorded for approxi-
mately 10 seconds at the beginning
of the recording.

• @ TITLE: The date and title you

have created are displayed and
recorded for approximately 10
seconds at the beginning of the
recording.

• Date Display: The date is dis-
played and recorded.

• No Display: No display is dis-
played or recorded.

Charging the Built-in Clock Battery
The camcorder has a built-in rechargeable battery that must be charged

approximately every two months.

1. Attach a power supply and set the

CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch to OFF.

2. Leave the power supply attached at

least 24 hours.

21

Use the LCD Monitor or Viewfinder to See What You Record

You can watch what you are recording on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder.
When the LCD monitor is open more than approximately 45 °, the viewfinder automati-
cally turns off. Close the LCD monitor and the viewfinder automatically turns on.

Use the LCD Monitor

OPEN

Bright
Control

Monitor can open up to
90° Open monitor 90 °
before rotating it.

1.

Press the OPEN button and open the
LCD monitor. Make sure the monitor

is open 90 °. The viewfinder
automatically turns off.

Rotate the monitor.

• Tilt the monitor down to record
from a high angle, such as over a

crowd.

• Tilt the monitor up to record from a

low angle, such as when you are
kneeling.

• To enable both you and the person

you're recording to see what's
being recorded, rotate the LCD

22

monitor completely around so the
front of the monitor faces the

person you're recording. The
viewfinder turns on automatically
when you turn the monitor all the
way around.

3. To adjust the brightness of the image
on the monitor, turn the bright control.
This does not affect the brightness of
the recording you are making.

4. When you are finished, carefully
rotate the monitor back into position
and close and lock it into place.

Note: When recording on a bright sunny day,
the LCD monitor might be hard to see. Use

the viewfinder.

Using the Viewfinder

The camcorder's viewfinder is a miniature monitor that displays the picture seen by the
camcorder when recording. When the LCD monitor is open more than 45°, the
viewfinder automatically turns off.

Viewfinder

Eyepiece

Adjusting the Viewfinder for Convenient Viewing

For convenient viewing, rotate the viewfinder horizontally, pull it out from the cam-
corder, and adjust the eyepiece.

Eyepiece Focus Control : : : : : : : : : : : : :

The eyepiece focus control lets you set the

Eyepiece Focus focus of the viewfinder for your vision.

If you wear eyeglasses, you probably can
operate the camcorder without them.

It is easiest to set the correct focus by
focusing on one of the viewfinder's on-
screen displays. Look through the view-
fnder and adjust the eyepiece focus control
for your vision.

The eyepiece focus control does not affect
the focus of the picture actually recorded
by the camcorder.

23

LCD Monitor or Viewfinder Displays

AE:60 O000M

ZM:2 INDEX

I.ZOOM NO TAPE

REC

10:30AM

11/18/1999

AE:60 (Auto Exposure) Shutter Speed

Press the DISPLAY button to display the

shutter speed selected by the camcorder.

Battery Level Indicator (_)
Press the DISPLAY button to display the

amount of time left on the rechargeable

battery. Details are on page 15.

Digital Effects (ZM:2)
Press the DISPLAY button to display the

indicator for the digital effect mode
selected. Press the DIGITAL EFFECTS

button to select a digital effect mode.

• Select 16X9 to make a recording

that you're going to play back on a

16X9 TV.

• Select NEGPOS to reverse the image
from positive to negative.

• Select ZM:2 to activate the extended
zoom mode - wide angle to 240 times

with instant zoom. ZOOM appears
when you zoom over 16 times.

• Select MIRROR to record a symmetric
image on the left and right.

• Select MOSAIC to record a mosaic
image.

• Details are on pages 30-33.

Fade Indicator ([])

Press the DISPLAY button to display the

indicator for the fade mode selected. Press
the FADE button to select a fade.

• Select [] to white fade.

• Select [] to wipe fade.

• Select [] to zoom fade.

• Select B/Wto black-and-white fade.

• Details are on pages 34-35.

24

INDEX Indicator

Press the DISPLAY button to display this
indicator when the camcorder is placing
an index mark on the tape. Details are on

page 28.

Status Displays

The following displays appear to tell you
the status of the camcorder.

• The REC indicator appears during

recording.

• The _.P.indicator appears when the
camcorder is fast-forwarding.

• The '11 indicator appears when the
camcorder is rewinding.

The II indicator appears during
record-pause.

Tape Counter with Memory Stop

(O000M)

Press the DISPLAY button to display the
tape counter. The tape counter helps
locate segments of tape.

• Memory stop is turned on whenever
the tape counter appears.

• Details are on page 36.

Tape Warnings (TAPE, NO TAPE, and

TAPE END)

• TAPE flashes when you try to record
with the safety tab removed.

• TAPE flashes when a damaged tape is
inserted. Remove the tape and replace

it with a new one.

• NO TAPE flashes when you try to
record with no cassette inserted.

• TAPE END flashes when there is
approximately five minutes of

recording time left on the tape.

• TAPE END briefly appears when you
reach the end of the cassette when

you're recording.

Time and Date Display

Press the DATE/TIME button to display

the time and date, AUTO date, auto
TITLE, date only, or no date when the

camcorder is in record-pause.

• These displays are recorded on the
tape when they appear in the

viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.

• Details are on pages 20-21.

Tape-Remaining Indicator (_l)

Press the DISPLAY button to display the
tape-remaining indicator. This display
shows the approximate amount of tape
left for recording or playback. Details are

on page 28.

Zoom
Indicators

• ZOOM appears when you zoom with

• I.ZOOM appears when you press the

• Details are on page 29.

H

( t )' ZOOM,

The

zoom indicator ( t ) appears

when you use the power zoom
buttons (Tand W).

the Tbutton more than 16 times.

INST. ZOOM button to immediately
enlarge the picture 1.5 times.

and LZOOM

25

DISPLA Y Button

RE W/RE VIE W Button

Zoom Buttons
(T and IV)

DISPLAY Button

The DISPLAYbutton lets you remove the
battery level, steady pix, tape speed, tape
counter with memory stop, remaining
tape display, index, fade, zoom and digital

effects indicators from the viewfinder or
LCD monitor.

• Press DISPLAYto remove the

indicators.

• Press DISPLAY again to display the
indicators.

VCR Switch

Quick Review Feature

Press and release REW/REVIEWwhen the

camcorder is in record-pause to review
the last few seconds of a recording. The

CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch must be set
to CAMERA.

The camcorder will play back the last few
seconds of the recording, return the tape
to its previous position, and return to
record-pause.

26

Microphone

The microphone picks up the sound
during a recording. It is more sensitive to
sounds coming from the direction the lens
is pointed.

Auto Focus

The camcorder focuses on the subject in
the center of the LCD monitor or view-

finder. Auto focus operates on the
telephoto (T) side from approximately
2-1/2 feet to infinity. It operates on the
wide-angle (W) side from 3/8 inch from
the lens surface (macro-focus) to infinity.

Note: When the displays appear, the AE
indicator for the shutter speed selected by the

camcorder (1/60, 1/100, 1/120, 1/180, 1/250,

1/350, 1/500, 1/750, 1/1000, 1/1500, 1/2000,

or 1/4000) appears in the viewfinder or on the
LCD monitor.

The following conditions may prevent

auto focus from operating properly.

• Recording a subject through a window.

• Recording a subject that has a close
foreground and a far background.

• Recording two subjects at different
distances that overlap.

• Subject that isn't in center of scene.

• Recording in low-light situations.

• Recording a scene with fast motions,
like a tennis swing.

Macro Focus

The macro-focus feature lets you focus on
objects as close as 3/8 inch from the

camcorder lens.

1. Press and hold zoom button W until
the lens is completely zoomed out.

2. Position the subject in the center of
the scene.

Notes: Zooming is not possible when using
macro-focus. To change the size of the

subject, move the camcorder lens closer or
farther away from it.

For best results increase illumination when
recording with macro-focus.

Auto Shoff M Feature

The camcorder automatically adjusts
focus, white balance, iris, shutter speed,
and light according to the recording

conditions.

27

Recording

Tape-Remaining Display

The tape-remaining display shows the
approximate amount of tape remaining for
recording or playback.

r_n/

Tape-Remaining Display in

LCD Monitor or Viewfinder

Press DISPLAY to display the tape-

remaining indicator in the viewfinder
or on the LCD monitor.

• The camcorder takes approximately
ten seconds to calculate the tape

remaining when you first stalt playing
or recording a tape.

.... appears while the

camcorder calculates the amount of
tape-remaining.
Once tape-remaining has been

calculated, it automatically updates

and is readily available as long as the
same tape remains in the camcorder.

• When =l appears, all or most of

the tape remains.

• =_ and =_ appear as the tape is

being used.

• When the tape is almost at its end,

TAPE END flashes in the viewfinder

or on the LCD monitor.

Electronic Indexing

Each time you begin recording (after the
camcorder has been turned off for at least

four hours), the camcorder automatically
records an index mark at the beginning of
the new recording.

INDEX

INDEX Display in

LCD Monitor or Viewfinder

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
Owner's Manual for index playback

instructions.
When the DISPLAY button is pressed so

the displays appear, INDEX appears
briefly to let you know the camcorder is
recording an index mark.
Note: The camcorder does not record index

marks every time you stop and start recording.
An index mark is recorded only once at the

start of each day's recording session
(or whenever the camcorder has been turned

off tbr tour hours).

28

Zooming

Press one of the zoom buttons to zoom in and out for close ups or wide-angle shots.
Instant zooming immediately magnifies the picture 1.5 times.

Zoom Buttons
(T and W)

ZOOM

Button

Using the Zoom Buttons (T and W)

1. To zoom in or out from wide angle to
72 times, press zoom button Tor W.

• To move the lens in the telephoto

(close-up) direction, press T.

• To move the lens in the wide angle

direction, press W.

When DISPLAYis pressed so the displays
appear, the zoom level indicator appears

in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor
during normal zooming. ZOOM appears

when you zoom more than 16 times.

ZOOM

T
W

Zoom Level Indicator in

LCD Monitor or Viewfinder

Using the Instant Zoom Button

(INST. ZOOM)

1. To magnify the subject 1.5 times,
from any normal zoom position, press

the INST. ZOOM button.

When DISPLAYis pressed so the displays
appear, I. ZOOM appears in the view-
finder or on the LCD monitor during
instant zooming.

I. ZOOM

Instant Zoom Display in

LCD Monitor or Viewfinder

29

Digital Effects

The camcorder has a digital processor that allows you to record using five special
digital effects: 16X9, a negative image, 240 times digital zoom (with instant zoom),
a symmetric mirror image, or a mosaic image. Each effect is described in detail on

the next pages.

Selecting a Digital Effect

1.

Make sure the displays appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. If

they do not, press the DISPLAY
button.

2.

Repeatedly press the DIGITAL

EFFECTS button. The indicator for

the digital effect you select appears in
the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.

DIGITAL
EFFECTS

Button

30

16X9

MOSAIC

NEGPOS

ZM:2

MIRROR

Digital Effects (continued)

16X9 Mode

The camcorder has a wide recording mode that lets you make recordings compatible
with the 16X9 format. When 16X9 is activated, the camcorder records black bars at
the top and bottom of the picture to produce the wide-screen effect. This is also known
as "letterbox" recording.

New 16x9 TV Screen

Standard Shape TV Screen

Recording in 16X9 Mode

1. Place the camcorder in record pause.
Make sure the displays appear in the

16X9

viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
If they do not, press DISPLAY.

2. Repeatedly press the DIGITAL
EFFECTS button until 16X9 appears.

3. Press REC/PAUSE to start recording.

4. To turn off 16X9 recording, press

REC/PAUSE to pause recording, and

16X9 Display in

LCD Monitor or Viewfinder

repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS

until no digital effects display appears.

16X9Mode

Normal Mode

31

Digital Effects (continued)
Negative Mode

The camcorder has a negative mode that lets you turn the image negative.

1. Place the camcorder in record-pause.

Make sure the displays appears in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. If

they do not, press DISPLAY.

2. Repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS
until NEGPOS appears.

.

Press REC/PA USE to start recording.

4.

To turn off negative recording, press
REC/PAUSE to pause recording, and
repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS

until no digital effects display appears.

Negative Mode

Normal Mode

Digital Zooming

The camcorder has digital zooming that allows you to zoom in on a subject with
magnification up to 160 times. Normal zooming is up to 72 times.

Note: This function can magnify an image up to 240 times when instant zoom is used at the
same time

1. Place the camcorder in record-pause.

Make sure the displays appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. If

they do not, press DISPLAY.

2. Repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS
until ZM:2 appears. Use the zoom

buttons to zoom in and out. ZOOM
appears when you zoom above 16X.

Digital Zooming Mode

32

3. Press REC/PAUSE to start recording.

4. To turn off digital zooming, press
REC/PAUSE to pause recording, and
repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS

until no digital effects display appears.

Note: As the zoom level increases during
digital zooming, the picture will gradually

become less sharp. Use the high zoom levels
mainly for special effects.

Normal Mode

Digital Effects (continued)
Mirror Mode

The camcorder has a mirror mode that lets you display a symmetric image on
the left and right, obtained by placing a mirror at the center of the screen.

.

1. Place the camcorder in record-pause.

Make sure the displays appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.

If they do not, press DISPLAY.

2. Repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS

Press REC/PA USE to start recording.

4.

To turn offmirror recording, press

REC/PAUSE to pause recording, and

repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS
until no digital effects display appears.

until MIRROR appears.

Mirror Mode Normal Mode

The mosaic feature lets you add a mosaic effect to your recording.

1. Make sure the displays appear in the

viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. If
they do not, press DISPLAY.

2. Repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS
until MOSAIC appears.

3. Press REC/PAUSE to start recording.

Mosaic Mode

4. To turn off mosaic recording, press
REC/PA USE to pause recording, and

repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS
until no digital effects display appears.

Note: Mosaic recording cannotbe used with
digital zooming, instant zooming, or the zoom

fade features.

Normal Mode

33

Fading In and Out of Scenes

You can add a professional touch to your recordings when you fade in and out of
scenes. Both the picture and sound gradually appear or disappear. The speed of the
fade is controlled by the camcorder.

FADE Button

Selecting a Type of Fade

You can select white fade, black wipe
fade, zoom fade, or black-and-white fade.

1. Press REC/PAUSE to pause recording.
Make sure the displays appear in the

viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. If
they do not, press DISPLAY.

2. Repeatedly press the FADE button.
The indicator for the fade you select
will appear.

• Select [] (white) to fade in and out
to/from a white screen.

• Select [] (black wipe) to fade in
and out to/from a black screen.

• Select [] (zoom) to fade in and out
while zooming.

• Select B#W (black-and-white) to
fade in and out to/from a black-and-

white picture.

• Select no fade indicator if you do
not want to fade in or out.

Notes: Zoom fade does not operate with

MIRROR and MOSAIC special effects modes.

Pressing the DIGITAL EFFECTS button turns
off the fade mode. Set the digital effect you
want, and then set the fade.

34

Fade In and Out of Scenes (continued)

Fade In

1. Press REC/PAUSE to pause

recording.

2. Repeatedly press FADE to select
the fade you want to use.

Note: The last fade used appears the
first time you press FADE.

3. Press REC/PAUSE to start
recording. The picture and sound

gradually appears in place of the
blank screen.

Fade Out

1. During recording, repeatedly press
FADE to select a fade.

Note: The last fade used appears the
first time you press FADE.

2. Press REC/PAUSE to stop
recording. The picture and sound
gradually disappears.

35

Tape Counter

The tape counter acts as a handy reference to help you locate tape segments.
The memory-stop feature helps locate a certain point on the tape. When the
tape counter appears, the tape stops automatically during rewind or fast
forward when the tape counter reaches O000M:

DISPLAY CAMERA/

Button RESET Switch

_ Button _.

[ ;oo

OFF/VCR

Using the Memory-Stop Feature

1. Press REC/PAUSE to pause recording.

Make sure the displays appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.

If they do not, press DISPLAY.

2. Locate the place on the tape you want
to return to, and press RESET to reset

the counter to O000M:

O000M

Tape Counter

With Memory Stop

.

Continue to record or play the tape.

When you want to return to the place

REW/
RE VIE W F.FWD Button

Button

I I STOP/EJECT

I I Button

you marked, press the REC/PA USE
button to stop recording or the STOP/
EJECT button to stop playback.

4.

Press and hold the small red button
while you set the CAMERA/OFF/VCR

switch to VCR.

5. Press the REW/REVIEWbutton.

The tape rewinds to the counter
reading of O000M.

Notes: Press DISPLAYto display or remove
the tape counter. Memory stop is turned on

whenever the tape counter appears.
The camcorder stops rewinding or fast

forwarding when the counter reaches O000M.
To continue rewinding or fast forwarding,

press the button again.
The tape counter automatically resets to

O000M whenever a cassette is inserted.

36

Editing Features

The camcorder incorporates a complete package of advanced editing
features to make it easy and fun to edit your home videos like a profes-
sional. The major features are described on thefollowing pages.

• Camera Edit

• Titler

CAME RA/OFF/ RE W/RE VIE W

VCR Switch Button

F.FWD Button

oooo

Camera Edit Feature

The camera edit feature allows you to
position the tape when the camcorder is in
record-pause. Press and hold the small

red button on the CAMERA/OFF/VCR
switch while you slide it to CAMERA.

• PressandholdREW/REVIEWto

visually search the recorded tape in
reverse.

• Press and hold EFWD to visually
search forward on the recorded tape.

• Press and hold PLAYto view the

recorded tape at normal speed.

When you release the button, the camcorder
returns to record-pause at that point on the
tape.

37

Editing Features (continued)

Titler

The camcorder's built-in titler can store a title in memory. The created title can
be displayed andrecorded at any time.

The built-in character register contains more than 45 different characters. Your
title can contain up to 32 characters on two lines.

- Button

(Also RE W/RE VIE W Button)

+ Button

CAMERA/OFF/
VCR Switch

TITLER

Button

(Also F.FWD Button)

EDIT-AD V Button
(Also STOP/

EJECT Button)

000

38

Editing Features (continued)
Titler (con_nued)

Creating a Title

1. Attach a power source to the

camcorder. Press and hold the small
red button on the CAMERA/OFF/VCR

switch while you slide it to CAMERA.

2. Press TITLER to display the titler
graphics in the viewfinder or on the
LCD monitor. A flashing cursor
appears.

3. Press EDIT-ADVto move the flashing
cursor to the place where you want to
begin your title.

4. Select the first character for your title
by pressing the + or - button until the
character you want appears in the

viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.

Correcting an Error

1. Press TITLER to display the titler 3.
graphics in the viewfinder or on the

LCD monitor.

2.

Press EDIT-ADV to move the flashing
cursor over the character you want to

correct.

See the chart below for the characters
available.

5. After you have selected the first
character, press EDIT-ADV to move
the flashing cursor to the place where
you want the next character to appear.

6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until you have
completed the title.

7. When you are finished, press TITLER
to store the title and remove the title

graphics from the viewfinder or LCD
monitor.

Remember: Be sure to remove the titler
graphics from the viewfinder or LCD

monitor for normal recording.

Press the + or - button until the
correct character appears.

Note: Ifyou want to deletea character,
press + or - until the blank space appears.

Chart of Characters in Titler's Register

AB C D E F GH IJ KL M
N O PQ R S T U VWXYZ

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 ? ° /,

- ; : < > ! (BLANK)

39

Editing Features (continued)

Titler (con_nued)

Recording a Title on a Tape in the Camcorder

1.

Attach a power source to the 4.
camcorder. Press and hold the small

red button on the CAMERA/OFF/ 5.

VCR switch while you slide it to

CAMERA.

2. Locate the place on the tape where
you want to record the title.

Note: If you record a title on a
prerecorded tape, the audio and video is

erased where the title is inserted. A three-
to-four second pause of blank tape

appears before the existing audio and
video return.

3. Press TITLER to display the titler
graphics in the viewfinder or on the

LCD monitor.

Press REC/PAUSE to start recording
the title.

After you have recorded the title for
the desired length of time, press

TITLER to remove the titler graphics.

The camcorder will now record
normally. If you do not want to

continue recording, press REC/

PAUSE.

Remember: Remove the titler
graphics for normal recording.

Note: You can also use the automatic title
recording feature to automatically record

the title and date for 10 seconds when you
begin recording. Press the DATE/TIME
button to display @ TITLE before

starting to record.

Record a Title While Copying a Tape from the Camcorder to Another VCR

1. Attach a power source to the
camcorder.

2.

Place the tape you want to copy in the
camcorder and press and hold the

small red button on the CAMERA/

OFF/VCR switch while you slide it to

VCR.

3. Place a blank tape in the VCR, and
place the VCR in record-pause.

4. Start copying the tape from the

5. When you see the place on the tape
you want to insert the title, press

TITLER.

6. After you have recorded the title for
the desired time, press TITLER to stop
recording the title.

7. Stop the camcorder and VCR when
you are finished copying the tape.

Important Note: Remove the titler graphics
for normal recording.

camcorder to the VCR. Details are on

pages 46-47.

40

Recording Tips

• Try to make sure indoor scenes are

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

Do not move the camcorder rapidly
from side-to-side while recording.
A steady, gradual "pan" avoids
blurring and "jitter."

Use the viewfinder or LCD monitor
to make sure the camcorder is level

while recording so that your scenes
won't appear "tilted."

• Do not bump or tap the camcorder's

microphone while recording so that
your scenes won't appear tilted.

• Include close-ups of individuals when

taping family outings or group func-
tions.

• Use the built-in light.

• Fading in and out of scenes makes
your videos appear more professional.

• Learn to use the special digital effects
available with your camcorder to add
variety to your recordings.

Be aware of video and audio back-
grounds. Background details barely

noticed while you are taping may show
up as visual "clutter" on your record-
ing. Background noises (especially
TV sets, radios, household appliances,
traffic sounds, etc.) can detract from
the sound you want to record.

Avoid long "still" shots of landmarks
and scenic attractions. Recordings are
more interesting if they include people
and details. "Local color" will give
travel videos lasting appeal. Consider
recording a familiar or landmark scene
from an unfamiliar vantage point.

Travel Tips

Write down your camcorder's serial
number and keep it separate from the
camcorder when traveling. If your
camcorder is lost or stolen, you will be
able to identify it.

Use extra care when you use your
camcorder or accessories at a beach or

pool. Spray, sand, and dust should be
avoided. If your lens has been exposed
to the elements, clean it only with
proper lens cleaning supplies.

Make sure you have any adapters that
you might need before taking your

camcorder to other countries. Consult
your dealer for advice.

Carry your camcorder in a carrying
case when traveling. See page 50for a

case designed especially for this
camcorder. An ordinary suitcase or

carry bag does not offer the protection
your camcorder needs. Treat your
camcorder as carry-on luggage to
protect it from rough handling.

41

Use the LCD Monitor or Viewfinder for Playback

You can watch tapes in color using the LCD monitor or black-and-white using the
viewfinder. When the LCD monitor is open more than 45 °, the viewfinder
automatically turns off. Close the LCD monitor, the viewfinder automatically turns
on. Rotate the monitor completely around and place it against the camcorder for
convenient playback. During playback, you can hear the sound from the tapes on
the built-in speaker when you use the LCD monitor.

Eyepiece Focus CAMERA/

Viewfinder

OPEN

Button

Volume

Control

Control

Switch

Control OFF/VCR

PLAY

Button

STOP/EJECT

Button

42

Use the LCD Monitor or Viewfinder for Playback (continued)

To Play Back a Tape

1. Attach a power supply.
Attach the adapter/charger, charged

battery, oroptional carcord.

2.

Insert a tape.

• Press STOP/EJECTto open the

cassette compartment.

• Insert the cassette with the safety
tab facing up and the tape windows

facing out.

• The camcorder can only play back
tapes recorded in the SP speed.

• Press the cassette down gently until
it locks into place, and close the
cassette compartment door.

3. Press and hold the small red button
on the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch

while you set it to VCR.

4. Use the LCD monitor or viewfinder

to view what you are playing back.
Use the LCD Monitor

• Press the OPEN button to open the
LCD monitor. Make sure the

monitor is open at least 45 ° The
viewfinder automatically turns off.

• You can rotate the monitor around
when it is open 90 ° and place it

back against the camcorder.

• Fit the shoulder extension pad to
your shoulder for convenient
viewing using the LCD monitor.

• To adjust the brightness of the
image in the monitor, turn the
bright control.

• To adjust the speaker volume, turn

the volume control.

Note: The monitor may become warm

when left open for an extended period

of time. This is normal.

Use the Viewfinder

• Make sure the monitor is closed
and locked. If the monitor is open

more than 45°, the viewfinder
automatically turns off.

• Grasp the viewfinder and rotate it
horizontally.

• Pull the viewfinder out from the
camcorder and rotate the eyepiece

to a comfortable viewing position.

• Turn the eyepiece focus control to
adjust the focus of the viewfinder
for your vision.

Note: You cannot hear the sound from
the internal speaker when using the

viewfinder for playback.

.

Press PLAY to begin playback.

• If necessary, adjust tracking.

• During playback, use the playback
features on the following pages.

.

Press STOP/EJECT when you are

finished.

43

Playback Features

0000

[

REC/
PA USE

Button

CAMERA/
OFF/VCR

Switch

RE W [ F.F WD
RE VIE W Button

Button

STOP/
EJECT

Button

Tape Positioning
Press the small red button on the

CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch while you
set it to VCR.

• Press and quickly release REW/
RE VIEW or EFWD to rewind or fast-

forward the tape.

• Press STOP/EJECTto stop

the tape.

Visual Searching

During playback, press and hold

EFWD or REW/RE VIEW if you want

to search the tape visually in forward
or reverse.

• Release the button to return to

normal playback.

44

Stop-Action Pause

• During playback, press REC/PAUSE to
"stop the action" and view one frame
of the tape.

• Press REC/PAUSE again to return to
normal playback.

Playback Features (continued)

TRACKING

Buttons
(Also W and T)

Tracking
During playback, streaks might appear in the playback picture. Press either

TRACKING button (Wor 7) to move the streaks up or down and out of the picture.

During stop-action playback, pressing
one tracking button might reduce picture
"jitter" (picture bouncing up and down).
Some "jitter" is normal.

Remove the tape to reset the tracking to
its preset center.

Note: The tracking buttons only affect tape
playback. They have no effect during
recording.

45

Playback on TV (or VCR) with Audio/Video Input Jacks

To connect your camcorder to a TV monitor (or VCR) with audio/video in jacks, you
need an optional audio/video cable such as VH83 shown on page 52. If your TV is
already connected to a VCR, attach the camcorder to the VCR and watch what the
camcorder is recording or playing on the TV.

AUDIO

IN

Back of

Stereo

VCR or

TV Monitor

Installation

1.

Attach the white plug on one end of
the audio/video cable to the AUDIO

IN jack on the TV (or VCR).
Notes: If your cable does not have white

and yellow plugs, be sure to attach the
same color to the audio jacks.

If your TV (or VCR) has stereo AUDIO IN

jacks, attach the plug to the one labeled
MONO. If one is not labeled MONO, you

might need a Y-adapter, such as AH25,

shown on page 52 to hear both channels.

46

Yellow Video Plug

2. Attach the yellow plug to the VIDEO
IN jack on the TV (or VCR).

3. Attach the white plug on the other
end of the audio/video cable to the

AUDIO jack (located under the small

cover) on the side of the camcorder.

4. Attach the yellow plug to the yellow

VIDEO jack on the camcorder.

Playback Operation and How to Copy Tapes on the VCR

1. A.

Camcorder connected directly to
TV: Turn on the TV and tune it to

the video input channel.

B. Camcorder connected to VCR that

is already connected to TV: Turn
on VCR and place it in the "line"
or "camera mode". (If your VCR

does not have a "line" or "camera
mode", consult the VCR owner's

manual.) Operate the TV as you
normally do to see the signal
coming from the VCR.

Press and hold the small red button on

2.

the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch while
you set it to VCR.

Note: The camcorder can only play back

3. Press PLAY.

• During playback, use the playback

features on pages 44-45.

• Turn the volume control on the
monitor down all the way to

prevent picture distortion.

4. To copy what the camcorder is
playing, place a blank cassette in
the VCR, and press the VCR's

RECORD button.

Note: Make sure the memory-stop feature
is turned off(press DISPLAY) or the

camcorder will enter play-pause when the
counter reaches O000M.

.

Press STOP/EJECT when you are

finished.

tapesrecorded in the SP speed.

Viewing What the Camcorder is Seeing (or Recording)

1. A.

Camcorder connected directly to
TV: Turn on the TV, and tune it to
the video input channel.

g.

Camcorder connected to VCR that
is already connected to TV: Turn

on VCR and place it in the "line"
or "camera mode". (If your VCR

does not have a "line" or "camera
mode", consult the VCR owner's

manual.) Operate the TV as you

2. Press and hold the small button on the

CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch while
you set it to CAMERA.

Note: Turn the TV's volume down to

prevent a high-pitched squeal caused by

feedback.

3. Press the REC/PAUSE button to begin
recording. You can watch what the

camcorder is seeing (or recording) on

the TV screen.

normally do to see the signal
coming from the VCR.

47

Playback on TV Without Audio/Video Inputs
To connect your camcorder to a TV without audio/video inputs, you need an optional
CRF95 RF output adapter and an optional coaxial RF cable, such as VH82 orVH90
shown onpages 51-52. If your TV has AUDIO and VIDEO IN jacks (or is connected to
a VCR), refer to pages 46-4 7.

Antenna

I I",

OR OR ',

Antenna

Back of TV Transformer \\

- \

R "" \\

/ i hm ANT -- Optional RF Out ut Adapter

[ _:_'J Opt onal 75-300 O m""_%_,, A] _.____ OI such as _RF95
I _ Transformer _ III I_ I ( )

(such asVH54 / _ /

Optional 300175 ohm \

", IN \

Optional Coaxial RF Cable OUT
(such as VH82 or VH90) TO TV

",

\

\

\

Channel Selector

Installation

1.

Disconnect the VHF antenna from

your TV. Connect the antenna to the
IN FROMANT connector on the RF

output adapter if you are going to
leave the adapter connected to the TV.

Note: If your VHF antenna is the flat
twin-lead type attached by two screws,

you need an optional 300/75 ohm
transformer.

2.

Attach one end of the optional coaxial

RF cable to the OUT TO TV
connector on the adapter, and attach

the other end to the VHF input on
your TV as shown.

Note: If your TV has 300 ohm screw
terminals, you need a 75/300 ohm
transformer, such as VH54, shown on

page 52.

.

Attach the RF output adapter's yellow

plug to the VIDEO jack, the small
plug to the RFDC OUT jack, and the
white plug to the AUDIO jack located

under the small cover on the side of
the camcorder.

48

Playback Operation

1. Set the CH3/CH4 switch on the
RF output adapter to channel CH3

or CH4.

2. Turn on the TV, and tune it to the
same channel you selected with the

RF output adapter's CH3/CH4 switch.

3. Press and hold the small red button on

the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch while
you set it to VCR.

4. Press PLAYon the camcorder.

5. Press STOP/EJECT on the camcorder

Viewing What the Camcorder Is Recording

1. Turn on the TV and tune it to channel

3. Press and hold the small red button on

3 or 4. Turn the TV's volume down

to prevent a high-pitched squeal
caused by feedback.

4. Press the REC/PAUSE button to begin

2. Set the CH3/CH4 switch on the RF

output adapter to the same channel
you selected on the TV.

• Turn the volume control on the
monitor down all the way to

prevent picture distortion.

• During playback, use the playback
features described on pages 44-45.

when you are finished.

the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch while
you set it to CAMERA.

recording. You can watch what the
camcorder is seeing (or recording)

on the TV screen.

Normal TV Viewing
For normal TV viewing, leave the RF

output adapter hooked up to the TV.
Disconnect the adapter's plug from

the camcorder or turn the camcorder's
power off.

Note to Cable TV Installer
This reminder is provided to call your attention to Article 820-40 of the

National Electrical Code (Section 54 of Canadian Electrical Code, Part I), that
provides guidelines for proper grounding and, in particular, specifies that the

cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system of the building as
close to the point of cable entry as practical.

49

Weinviteyoutotakealookatsomegreatideasforsparkingcreativityandaddingto
thefunofusingyourVHScamcorder.Thefollowingpageshaveaselectionof
accessoriestohelpmakeyourmemorablemomentslookandsoundevenbetter.

Theseaccessoriesaredesignedtomaketheprocessofrecordingandwatchingyour
videosmoreenjoyable.

To order accessories, contact your local Dealer.

If a dealer is not nearby, all accessories are available through toll-free ordering or by
using the order form on page 55.

AC202 Soft Carrying Case DCC096 DC Car Cord Adapter

This case provides protection and utility

for full size camcorders and most

accessories. It is constructed of rugged
nylon fabric for years of reliable service.

Three outside pockets provide ample
accessory storage with mesh-covered lens

filter compartment and built-in holders for
memo pads, pens, and other accessories.
The hand grip and adjustable shoulder

strap allow for convenient, comfortable
transportation of the camcorder.

50

This car cord adapter enables you to
operate your camcorder from your car,
truck, or RV by plugging the car cord
directly into the vehicle's cigarette lighter
socket. The DCC096 is designed
specifically to convert power from a

12-volt battery to a 9.6-volt output.

EP096FSandEP096FLRechargeable CRF95RFOutputAdapter
Batteries

These rechargeable lead-acid batteries
are designed specifically for long life.
The EP096FS is a 1-hour battery. The
EP096FL powers your camcorder twice
as long as the EP096FS (depending on
how much you turn the camcorder on
and off and use zoom and pause). Both
can be recharged with the AC adapter/
charger that came with your camcorder.

CPS014 AC Battery Charger

The CPS014 battery charger plugs
directly into an AC outlet and charges the

EP096FS and EP096FL camcorder
batteries. Because the CPS014 operates

on 100-240 Volts, 50/60 Hz, it can be
used virtually anywhere in the world. A

plug adapter might be required in some
countries.

This RF output adapter is used with a
coaxial RF cable, such as VH82 or VH90,

to connect your camcorder to a standard
TV (one without audio/video inputs) for
playback. If your antenna cable is the flat
twin-lead type attached by two screws,
you need a 300-to-75 ohm transformer. If
your TV has 300 ohm antenna screw
terminals, you need an optional 75-to-300

ohm transformer such as VH54.

51

Coaxial RF Cables VH83 Audio/Video Cable

VH82 (6-ft)
VH90 (12-ft)

These RF cables are used with the RF
output adapter to connect your camcorder

to a standard TV (one without audio/video
input jacks) for playback. If your TV has
300 ohm antenna screw terminals, you

This six foot audio/video cable can be
used to connect the camcorder to a TV

monitor or VCR for tape playback or
copying tapes.

need an optional 75-to-300 ohm
transformer such as VH54. If your
antenna cable is the flat twin-lead type
attached by two screws, you need an

AH25 Y-Adapter

optional 300-to-75 ohm transformer.

VH54 Cable Transformer

This 75-to-300 ohm transformer is used

to connect a standard 75-ohm antenna

cable (such as VH82 or VH90) to the
300 ohm screw terminals on a TV.

52

This Y-adapter allows you to connect your
camcorder's mono audio cable to a stereo

TV or VCR.

Using the Optional AC093 Tripod

Mounting the camcorder on a tripod, such as AC093, keeps the camcorder steady and
produce excellent video results.

This tripod's fluid-effect head provides smooth camera pan and tilt. The quick-release
mount makes it easy to attach or remove the camcorder. The grooved, tubular 3-section
leg design folds down to 24" when not in use. Rubber feet allow for sure footing and
built-in retractable leg spikes eliminate the need for removing the feet.

53

Optional Accessories

Removing the Lens Hood

Remove the lens hood so you can attach optional accessories, such as wide-angle lens,
lens extenders, or lens filter kits.

Attaching an Accessory Lens

1. Attach the lens cap over the lens hood.

2.

To remove the lens cap and hood, turn

them counterclockwise with the palm
of your hand.

3. Turn the accessory lens clockwise
into the camcorder's lens. Make sure

the lens is tightened firmly, but do not
over tighten.

Caution: Do not grasp the end of the
lens hood.

All specifications and descriptions of
accessories are subject to change

without notice.

54

Order Form for Camcorder Model CC4362

Description

Deluxe Tripod

Soft Camcorder Case

Y-Adapter

AC Adapter/Charger (100-240V)

RF Output Adapter
Car Cord Adapter
Rechargeable Battery (Extended)

Rechargeable Battery (Standard)

75-300 Cable Transformer
Coaxial RF-Cable

Audio/Video Cable

Coaxial RF-Cable
Replacement Bulb (4 watt) for

Built-in Light
Shoulder Strap

AC Adapter/Charger (Supplied) and

DC Cable

Total Merchandise ........................................................................................... $.

Part No. Price

AC093 $ 59.95
AC202 $ 49.95

AH25 $ 2.95
CPS014 $219.95

CRF95 $ 69.95
DCC096 $ 49.95
EP096FL $ 79.95

EP096FS $ 69.95
VH54 $ 2.95

VH82 $ 6.95
VH83 $ 5.95
VH90 $ 7.95

221111 $ 12.95
227327 or $ 12.95
241305 $ 12.95

241044 $169.95
233328 $ 13.65

Qty.

Total

Sales Tax .......................................................................................................... $.

We are required by law to collect the appropriate
sales tax for each individual state, county, and
locality to which the merchandise is being sent.

Shipping and Handling .................................................................................... $. 5.00

Total Amount Enclosed ................................................................................. $.

Use VISA, MasterCard, or Discover.
Money order or check must be in U.S.

currency only. No COD or cash.

Prices are subject to change without notice.

55

Charge your order on your VISA,MasterCard,

or Discover Card by filling in below

USE YOUR CREDIT CARD

IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number from your VISA card [ZJ

[ [ [ [ 1[--'[--'_[--'[--'_[--'[--'_ Expiration date: [""_ [""_

IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number from your MasterCard

I I I I II I I I II I I I II I I I I

Copy Number above your name on MasterCard [ [ [ [ [ Expiration date: ['-'r"] ['-'r"]

IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number from your Discover Card

I I I I II I I I II I I I II I I I I

Expiration date: [""_ [""_

AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE

Prices aresubject tochange without notice.

Print or type your name and
address clearly.

Name:

Street:

City:

State:

Apt:

Zip:

A complete and correct order will
save you days of waiting.

Please make sure that both sides of this form have been filled out completely.

• Allow 4 weeks for delivery.

• All accessories are subject to availability.

56

Toorder accessories,contactyour local Dealer.

Ifa dealer is not nearby, you can also follow the directions below to order by
telephone or direct-by-mail.

United States and Canada Orders

To place your order by phone, have your Visa, MasterCard, or Discover card ready
and call the toll-free number listed below between 8 AM and 10 PM (EST)
Monday through Friday or between 9AM and 5PM (EST) Saturday.

Use this number only to place an order for accessory items listed on
this order form.

1-800-338-0376

To place your order by mail, detach and mail the completed order form with credit
card information, money order, or check in U.S. currency (made payable to
Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.) to the following address:

Video Accessories
PO Box 8419

Ronks, PA 17573

57

If you're having trouble with your camcorder, you probably can correct the problem
yourself. Before you take your camcorder to an Authorized RCA Camcorder Service
Center or call a service person, use the chart below. Find the problem and try the
adjustment(s) that is listed to the right.

If service should be necessary, read your warranty to find out what is covered and how
to get service.

No power •

Won't record or
play back

Won't play back • CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch must be set to VCR.

Won't record • Safety tab removed. Seepage 18.

Set the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch to CAMERA or
VCR to turn on the camcorder.

If using battery, it may need to be recharged.
If using AC adapter/charger, make sure it is plugged
into a working outlet.

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

• Make sure CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch is set to correct
position for desired operation.

• There might not be a cassette in the camcorder.

• Try ejecting and reinserting the cassette.

• The cassette tape might be broken, try another cassette.

• You might have reached the end of the cassette, try
rewinding it.

• Moisture condensation might cause the tape to stick to
the headwheel and damage the headwheel or tape. Give
the camcorder 2 or 3 hours to reach a stable temperature
before reinserting a cassette.

• CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch must be set to CAMERA.

No picture

Camcorder turns
off

S8

• Remove lens cap.

Set the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch to OFF and then to

CAMERA or VCR to turn back on. If camcorder is left
in record-pause or play-pause for several minutes, it

turns off to prevent tape wear.

Sound is too low or
distorted

• Subject was too far from camcorder.

Tape stops during
rewind or fast forward

or will not operate
during rewind or fast

forward

Camcorder remains in
play-pause mode

Poor auto-focus
operation

Viewfinder displays
are out of focus

Picture quality is poor
during playback

• Whenever the tape counter appears, the camcorder will
stop rewinding (or fast forwarding) when counter reads
O000Mi Press REW/REVIEW or EFWD again to
continue rewinding or fast forwarding, or press
DISPLAYto remove the tape counter.

• Make sure titler graphics do not appear in viewfinder
or on LCD monitor. Press TITLER button to remove.

• Press REC/PA USE to return to normal playback.

• Lens is smudged and image appears unfocused.

• Eyepiece focus control is misadjusted.

Eyepiece focus control is misadjusted. Seepage 23.
The small BRIGHT and FOCUS controls on the side of

the viewfinder control the brighmess and focus of the
viewfinder. These controls have been set at the factory
and should require no adjustment. If the controls ever
require adjustment, carefully use a plastic screwdriver.
Make the adjustments with caution to prevent
damaging the miniature controls.

• Tape was recorded on a different camcorder or VCR.
If the picture contains black-and-white streaks, press
one of the tracking buttons to correct it. See page 45.

• Camcorder only has one speed (SP). If the tape was
recorded at a different speed, it cannot be played back

on this camcorder.

Picture recorded with
a special fade or

digital effect (such as
negative, 16X9,
mosaic, or mirror)

A fade or fade wipe mode has been selected. Turn off
the fade effect by pressing FADE. Seepages 34-35.
A digital recording effect has been selected. Turn off
the digital effects by pressing DIGITAL EFFECTS.

See pages 30-33.

59

Dateand/ortimeor

titlewererecorded

ontape

• Displays are recorded on tape whenever they appear
in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. Remove

them from the viewfinder or LCD monitor when
recording. See pages 20-21.

• When @ DATE or @ TITLE is selected, the display
is automatically recorded when you begin recording

or change the cassette. Seepages 20-21.

• Title is recorded whenever it appears in the viewfinder
or on the LCD Monitor. Press the TITLER button to

remove the title from the viewfinder or LCD monitor.

See pages 38-40.

Dateand/ortimeare
incorrect

Viewfinderturnsoff

andon

Camcorder does not

turn on and/or

function buttons will

not operate

• Date or time may need to be set. See page 20.

• Clock lithium cell battery may need recharging.

See page 21.

• LCD monitor is open at least 45 ° Viewfinder
automatically turns off. Monitor closed, viewfinder

turns on.

• During recording, viewfinder turns on when monitor

rotated around to face the subject.

• During playback, viewfinder turns off when monitor

rotated around and placed against camcorder.

Remove the power source.
After one minute press the
reset switch gently using a
nonmetallic pointed item,
such as a toothpick, until
you feel a click. This

resets the camcorder to the
factory settings and erases

the date, time, and custom
settings. Wait for at least
one minute after resetting

the camcorder to attach a
power supply.

Reset Switch

6O

No or low sound
during monitor

playback

Adjust the volume control on the side of the monitor.
To hear sound during camcorder playback, use the monitor.
There is no sound during viewfinder playback.

Black bars on top
and bottom of

picture.

Bright, crystal-

shaped spots

appear in
viewfinder or on

LCD monitor

Colored bright

spots appear on

LCD monitor

Back of LCD
monitor is hot

Rechargeable
battery runs down

sooner than

expected

16X9 feature selected. See page 31.

Sunlight is directly entering the lens.

Black spots or bright spots of light (red, green, or blue) may
appear on the LCD monitor. These spots are not recorded
on the tape and are not due to a defect in the unit.

The light that illuminates the LCD monitor gets hot. To
cool it down, close the LCD monitor and turn off the

camcorder.

Lead-acid batteries must be kept charged. Charge your
battery before and after every use and at least every

six months.

Battery run times are measured when the camcorder is
recording continuously. To check your battery; charge it
completely, aim the camcorder at a clock, and record the
clock. When the camcorder stops recording, play the last
part of the tape and check the time on the clock. A one-
hour battery should give you about 60 minutes of recording
time. In practical use, a fully charged battery might not
record for 60 minutes because the battery uses power when
you pause the recording and uses extra power when you

zoom.

61

Cleaning the Camcorder

To clean the camcorder's exterior, remove
any power source connected to the

camcorder and gently wipe it with a clean
soft cloth.

Cleaning the Lens

To clean the camcorder's lens, blow it with a blower brush, and then gently wipe the
lens with cleaning tissue and commercially prepared cleaning solution designed for
use on camera lens. Improper cleaning might scratch the lens.

Lens

Clean the LCD Monitor

To clean the camcorder's LCD
monitor, use a clean, soft cloth to

carefully wipe the monitor. Improper
cleaning may scratch the monitor.

Monitor

Cleaning the Viewfinder

62

1. Depress tab to open small cover.

2. Gently use a cotton swab and clean the
mirror inside the viewfinder.

3. Gently close cover until tab snaps in
place.

Proper Care and Storage

Keep dust and grit from entering the
camcorder's cassette door. Dust and

grit are abrasive and cause excessive
wear to both the camcorder's

recording/playback heads and

cassettes.

• Always place the lens cap back on the
camcorder when it is not in use.

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

Things to Avoid

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

serviceable parts inside.

• Avoid operating your camcorder
immediately after moving it from a •

cold location to a warm location. Give
the camcorder 2 to 3 hours to reach a

stable temperature before inserting a
cassette. When the camcorder is

moved from cold to warm,
condensation might cause the tape to

stick to the headwheel and damage the
headwheel or tape.

• Do not aim your camcorder at the sun
or other bright objects. •

• Do not leave your camcorder in direct
sunlight for extended periods of time.
The resulting heat buildup might
permanently damage the camcorder's
internal parts.

• Do not operate the camcorder in
extremely humid environments.

• The camcorder might be damaged by
improper storage or handling. Do not
subject the camcorder to swinging,
shaking, or dropping.

• Do not store the camcorder in

temperatures below -22°F (-30°C) or

above 149°F (65°C).

• When the camcorder is not in use,
always remove the cassette and AC
adapter/charger or battery.

• Retain the original carton for future
storage or shipping purposes.

Do not operate the camcorder near the
ocean as salt water or salt water spray

might damage the internal parts of the

camcorder.
Do not operate the camcorder for

extended periods in temperatures

below 40°F (4°C) or above 95°F

(35°C).
Do not expose the camcorder or

adapter/charger to rain or moisture.
If any component becomes wet, turn
off the power and take the unit to an

Authorized RCA Camcorder
Service Center.

Do not use an adapter/charger or

batteries other than the ones specified

for the camcorder. Use of the wrong
accessories might cause damage to the

camcorder.
Do not hold the camcorder by the

viewfinder or LCD extension as this
could damage them.

63

Built-In Color Enhancement Light

The built-in color enhancement light automatically adds light when needed.

CAMERA/OFF/VCR Switch

Video
Light

LIGHT AUTO/OFF/ON Switch

To Use the Light

1.

Press and hold the small button on the

CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch while you
set it to CAMERA.

2.

Set the LIGHT A UTO/OFF/ON

switch.

• To tum the light on, set the switch

to ON.

• If you want the light to come on
automatically when the camcorder

senses there is insufficient light, set

the switch to AUTO.

Notes: For the light to operate in

AUTO, you must have a tape in the

camcorder.
If the lighting condition is unstable, the

light may turn on and off. Set the light
to ON or OFF.

• To tum the light off, set the switch
to OFF. To save battery power,
turn the light offwhen you are not
recording.

Notes: When the light is turned on, the
camcorder may turn off if the battery's

power is low even though the battery level
indicator is not flashing.

Avoid bumping or shaking the light when
in use. The light's bulb is sensitive when

hot and might burn out.

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ow at_i

....who"!__ra_

64

Replace Light Bulb

Light Case

Reflection
Plate

To Remove and Replace the Light Bulb

1. Press and hold the lower hook of the

light cover while removing the light
cover from the light case.

2. Replace the light bulb.

Note: See the installation instructions
packed with the replacement bulb for

detailed instructions.

/Light Cover

Lower Hook

65

General

Power requirement: 9.6VDC
Power consumption:

LCD monitor on: 9 watts
Viewfinder on: 7.5 watts

Weight: 4.7 lbs. (2.15kg)

Dimensions - Including Viewfinder:

43/4" (W) X 83/s '' (H) x 13 I/8" (D)

121 (W) x 213 (H) x 334 (D) mm

LCD Monitor

3" diagonally measured
LCD/TFT active matrix system

Camera Section

Scanning: 525 lines/60 fields/30 frames
Image Sensor: 1/4" CCD Imager
Lens: F1.4

16:1 (4-64 mm) power zoom lens

Diameter: 46 mm

Video Recorder Section

Format: VHS
Record/playback system:

Two video record/playback heads
Video signal: EIA standard

NTSC color

Viewfinder

0.5" black-and-white electronic viewfinder

This equipment has been tested and found to

comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful

interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate

radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does

cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined

by turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference
by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

66

Tripod Mount

One 1/4" x 10 threaded hole

AC Adapter/Charger

Power requirement: 120 V,

50/60 Hz.

Power consumption: 24 watts
Weight: .85 lbs. (390g)

Dimensions:

6"(W) x 1.7"(H) x 2.7"(D)

152 (W) x 43 (H) x 69 (D) mm

• Increase the separation between the
equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a
circuit different from that to which the

receiver is connected.

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

Alterations or modifications carried out
without appropriate authorization may

invalidate the user's FCC right to operate the
equipment.

YoucanreachThomsonatthe

followingnumber:

800-283-6503

(Toll free inside U.S.A.)

Our toll-free Camcorder number

operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., CST

Monday - Friday

for U.S. customers only

Thomson provides a toll-free telephone
number to help you with any problems you
may encounter with your camcorder. Many
can be diagnosed over the phone, and if
necessary, repair or replacement will be
arranged. Please have your camcorder model/
serial number and date of purchase ready
when you call. If your unit is out of warranty,
we will quote the cost of a repair or
replacement unit to you.

Returning equipment to Thomson for

If we are unable to resolve your problem over
the phone, we will gladly service your unit or
exchange it for a new or, at our option,

refurbished camcorder. Refer to the limited
warranty on the next page to learn about your

specific rights and responsibilities.

repair or exchange

Always consult Thomson and get a Return
Authorization number before returning

anything! Obtain a Return Authorization

(RA) number from the telephone
representative before returning your
equipment to avoid delays, accounting errors,
or even loss of your unit.

Important information to customers who ship defective equipment to
Thomson Consumer Electronics

The Thomson representative who authorized
the return of your equipment will give you an
RA number over the phone. They will also
provide you with instructions on where and
how to return your Camcorder. Write the
number in large, clear characters on the

outside of the box. To avoid confusion and
misunderstandings, shipments without an RA

number clearly visible on the outside of the
box will be returned to you at your expense.

Include a brief note describing the problem
and any conversations about the problem you
have had with Thomson personnel.

Include your name, address and model/serial
number of your Camcorder. These numbers

are located on the bottom of your unit.
If your Camcorder is within the warranty
period, please provide a copy of the bill of sale
to verify purchase date. Use the original box
and packing material to protect the equipment
from damage in shipment.

For your protection, insure all shipments'for

full replacement value and use a reliable

shippen Thomson assumes no responsibility

for warranty shipments from the customer to
the factory if not shipped in the manner
prescribed by Thomson.

67

Whatyourwarrantycovers:

• Any defect in materials or workmanship.
For how long after your purchase:

• 90 days for labor charges.

• One year for parts.
The warranty period for rental units begins

with the first rental or 45 days from date of
shipment to the rental firm, whichever

comes first.

What we will do:
During the initial 90 days

• Exchange your camcorder with a new or
refurbished unit, or repair your camcorder.

The option will be ours. There will be no
cost to you.

After the 90 days and within one year

Exchange your camcorder with a new or
refurbished unit, or repair your camcorder.

The option will be ours. Parts will be
provided at no charge, but you will be

responsible for the cost of labor required
for the repair.

How you get service:

Call 1-800-283-6503 and have your unit's
date of purchase and model/serial number

ready. The model/serial number
information is on the bottom of your

camcorder.
A representative will troubleshoot your

problem over the phone. If the
representative determines that you should

receive a replacement unit, you will be
provided with a Return Authorization (RA)

number and the location of a nearby
exchange point if one exists. No returns

will be accepted without the RA number.

To receive a replacement Camcorder
before you return yours:

Option 1

1. Provide your Discover, MasterCard, or

68

Visa account number and expiration date to
our phone representative. This is for

security purposes. If we receive your unit,
excluding all accessories, within 14 days

from the date you were provided the RA
number, only items not covered by

warranty will be charged to your account.

IF YOUR UNIT IS NOT RECEIVED
WITHIN 14 DAYS, THE SUGGESTED

RETAIL VALUE OF THE CAMCOR-
DER WILL BE CHARGED TO YOUR

CREDIT CARD. This amount will be
credited if the unit is subsequently received.

2. We will send you a replacement unit.

3. Ship the unit back to us, excluding all
accessories, using the replacement unit's

carton. Shipping instructions will be
included in the carton along with your RA

number which will allow you to easily ship
the unit back to us. Make sure you insure

your shipment in case of damage or loss.

Include with the shipment:

• Evidence of purchase date, such as a bill

of sale, to verify your unit's warranty
eligibility.

• A brief note describing your camcorder's

problem.

• Your name, address and phone number.

Return transportation, storage, handling, and
insurance costs are your sole responsibility. We

accept no liability in case of damage or loss.

Option 2

1. We will send a replacement unit to the
exchange point.

2. The exchange location will notify you of its
arrival.

3. Take your unit, excluding all accessories,
and your evidence of purchase date (such as

a bill of sale) to the exchange location and

you will be provided the new or refurbished
unit.

4. If the repairs were covered by your

warranty, you will not be billed.

Toreceiveareplacementunitafterwehave
receivedyourunit:

1.Write the RA number on the outside of

the carton used to return the unit. Make
sure you insure your shipment in case of

damage or loss.

2. Carefully pack the unit, excluding all
accessories, using the original box and
packing material if possible.

3. Include with the shipment:

• Evidence of purchase date, such as a
bill of sale, to verify your unit's
warranty eligibility.

• A brief note describing your camcorder
problem.

• Your name, address and phone number.

Return transportation, storage, handling, and
insurance costs are your responsibility. We
accept no liability in case of damage or loss.

4. The representative will advise the address
to mail a cashier's check or money order

for payment if there are any out of
warranty labor or parts charges and you
elect not to use your credit card.

5. Upon receipt of your product, a new or
refurbished unit will be shipped to you

next business day delivery in the
continental U.S.A.

To have your Camcorder repaired by an
Authorized RCA Camcorder Service

Center:

• Check with your dealer or call 1-800-336-

1900 for the Authorized RCA Camcorder

Service Center nearest you.

• Take your unit to the Authorized RCA

Camcorder Service Center of your choice.

• Show the Authorized RCA Camcorder

Service Center representative evidence of
purchase date, such as a bill of sale.

• Pick up your camcorder when repairs are

complete.

What your warranty does not cover:

• Adjustment of customer controls.

• Damage from misuse or neglect.

• A unit that has been modified or
incorporated into other products or is used

for institutional or other commercial

purposes.

• Batteries for remote control and clock.

• Cleaning of video/audio heads.

• Camcorders purchased or serviced outside
the U.S.A.

• Return transportation, storage and handling
costs of your unit, including insurance for

loss or damage.

• Acts of God, such as but not limited to
lightning damage.

Product Registration:

Please complete and mail the Product

Registration Card packed with your
camcorder. It will make it easier to contact

you should it ever be necessary. The return

of the card isnot required for warranty
coverage.

How State Law relates to warranty:

• This warranty gives you specific legal
rights and you also may have other rights
that vary from state to state.

If you purchased your camcorder outside
the United States:

• This warranty does not apply. Contact your
dealer for warranty information.

69

A

Accessories

included 3
optional 50

order form 55

Accessory lens

attaching 54

Adapter/charger

accessory 3
charging battery 13

using 4, 12
AE focus indicators 24, 27
Assistance 1, 3
AUDIOFVIDEO (A!V) jacks 9, 46, 48

Auto focus 27
Auto Shot feature 27

B

Battery 3

attaching and removing 14

care 16

charging 13

rechargeable. See Battery: echargeable

safety precautions 16

storage 16

using 13
BATTERY EJECT button 10, 14

Battery level indicator 15, 24
Bright control 10, 22, 42, 43
Built-in speaker 10

C

Cable TV installer note 49
Camcorder

cleaning 62

turn on 5
Camera edit feature 37
CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch

5, 8, 14, 15, 17, 20, 26,
36, 37, 39, 42, 47, 49, 64

Car cord adapter 17
Care and maintenance

built-in light 64
cleaning the camcorder viewfinder 62
proper care and storage 63
things to avoid 63

Care and storage

cassette 19
Cassette door 10
Cassette holder 19
Cassettes

insert and remove 19

Inserting/Removing 19

video 18
Cautions ii

Charging clock battery 21
Cleaning the camcorder's lens 62
Cleaning the LCD monitor 62

Cleaning the viewfinder 62
Clock battery, charging 21

Color enhancement light 64
Copy tapes 47

Customer assistance 67

D

Date and time

display 20, 25

recording 21

setting 20
DATE/TIMEbutton 9, 20, 21, 25, 40

DCcable 3, 12, 14, 17
DCIN9.6Vjack 4, 10, 12, 17

DIGITAL EFFECTS button

10, 24, 30, 31, 34
Digital effects indicators 24, 30
Digital zooming 32

DISPLAY button

9, 15, 24, 26, 28, 30, 33, 36, 47

Displays in viewfinder 24

70

E

EDIT-ADVbutton 9, 38, 39
Editing features

title recording 40
titler 38

Electronic indexing 28
Erase protection 18
Eyepiece 43
Eyepiece focus control 10, 23, 42

F

F FWD (fast forward) button

9, 20, 36, 37, 38, 44

FADE button 10, 24, 34, 35
Fade feature 34

Fade indicators 24, 34
Fast-forwarding indicator 25

First-time operation 3
FOCUS control 10

H

Handstrap 4, 10
Head cleaning 18

I ZOOM indicator 29
INDEX indicator 25, 28

Indicators

16X9 24, 31
AE focus 24, 27
battery level 15, 24
digital effects 24, 30

fade 24
fast-forwarding 25

IZOOM 25, 29
INDEX 25, 28
MIRROR 24, 33
MOSAIC 24, 33
NEGPOS 24, 32

NO TAPE 25
pause 25

REC 7, 25
record-pause 7

rewind 25
status 25
TAPE 25

tape counter 25, 36
TAPE END 25, 28

tape remaining 25, 28

ZM:2 24, 32
ZOOM 24, 25, 29

INST ZOOM button 10, 25, 29
Instant zooming 29

L

LCD monitor 6, 10

displays 24

using to record 22

Lens 9
Lens cap 4

Lens cap holder 10
Lens cover 8

Lens hood 9

removing 54

Letterbox recording

16x9 feature 31

LIGHT AUTO/OFF/ON switch 7, 10, 64
Light bulb

replacing 65

Light, color enhancement 64

M

Macro focus 27
Memory-stop feature 36

Microphone 9, 26
MIRROR indicator 24, 33

Mirror mode 33
MOSAIC indicator 24, 33

Mosaic mode 33

N

NEG POS indicator 24, 32
Negative mode 32

NO TAPE indicator 25

71

O

OPEN button 6, 10, 22, 42
Operating controls 9
Optional accessories 50
Order form, accessories 55

P

PLAY button 8, 37, 42, 47, 49
Playback features

stop-action pause 44
tape counter 36
tape positioning 44
tracking 45

visual searching 44

Playback, first 8
Playback on a TV without audio/video inputs

48

Playback on LCD monitor 42
Playback on TV (or VCR) with audio/video

inputs 46

Playback speed 18
Playback using viewfinder 42
Plus (+)/Minus (-) Buttons 9, 38
Power Supply

adapter/charger 12
battery 13

optional car cord adapter 17

Problem solving 58
Product registration ii

Q

Quick review feature 26

R

REC indicator 7, 25
REC/PAUSE button

7, 10, 31, 35, 40, 44, 47, 49
Rechargeable battery 10
Record-pause indicator 7
Recording

16X9 (wide screen) format 24, 31. See

also Letterbox format

Recording speed 18

72

Recording tips 41
Registration ii

RESET button 9, 36
REW (rewind)/REVIEW button

8, 9, 20, 26, 36, 37, 44

REW (rewind)/REVIEW) button 38
Rewinding indicator 25

RF DC OUT jack 9, 48
RF output adapter, optional 48

S

Safety information ii
Safety precautions

battery 16
Safety tab 18
Searching during playback 44
Shoulder extension pad 6, 10
Shoulder strap 3

attaching 11

attachment rings 10
SP speed 18, 43
Speaker 10, 42
Specifications 66
Speed, recording and playback 18

Status indicators 25
STOP button 8, 36

Stop-action pause 44
STOP/EJECT button

5, 9, 15, 19, 20, 36, 38, 42, 47, 49

T

Tape

copying 47

inserting 5
Tape counter 25, 36
TAPE END indicator 25, 28

TAPE indicator 25
Tape positioning 44

Tape remaining display 28
Tape warnings 25
Tape-remaining indicator 25

Time and date

display 20, 25

recording display 21

setting 20

Tips

recording41
travel41

Titler38,39,40

chartofcharacters38
correctingerrors39

createatitle39
recordonatape40

Viewfinder 6, 10, 22

adjust for viewing 23

displays 24

eyepiece focus control 23

playback 42
using to record 22

Visual searching 44
Volume control 10, 42

recording21
recordingwhilecopying40

TITLERbutton9,38,39,40
Tracking45

TRACKINGbuttons10,45
Tripod

using53

Troublechecks58

V

VIDEO andAUDIO (A/V)jacks 9, 46, 48
Videocassettes 18

Note: This equipment has been type tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B Digital
Device in accordance with the specifications in Part 15 of FCC Rules. These rules are designed to

provide reasonable protection against radio and television interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in

accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.

w

Warnings ii
Warnings, tape 25

z

ZM:2 indicator 24, 32
Zoom buttons 10, 29
ZOOM indicator 24, 25, 29

Zoom lever 34
Zooming 29

digital 32

If this equipment does cause interference to radio or television reception (which you can determine by
turning the

equipment offand on), try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures.

- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna (that is, the antenna for radio or television that is
"receiving" the interference).

- Change the position of the camcorder with respect to the radio or television equipment that is
receiving interference.

- Move the camcorder away from equipment receiving interference.

- Plug the adapter/charger into a different wall outlet so the receiver and equipment receiving
interference are on different branch circuits.

If these measures do not eliminate interference, please consult your dealer or an experienced radio/
television technician for additional suggestions. Also, the Federal Communications Commission has

prepared a helpful booklet, "How To Identify and Resolve Radio/TV Interference Problems". This
booklet is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C., 20402. Please

specify stock number 004-000-00345-4 when ordering copies.

73

_,,._THOMSON CONSU MER ELECTRON ICS

10330 N Meridian Street

Indianapolis, IN 46290

_:)1999 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.
Trademark(s) ® Registered

Marca(s) Registrada(s)
Printed in Japan

TOCOM 15428170

QR