RCA CC543 User Manual

1 USER’S

GUIDE

Important Information

Table

Contents......................

Optional Accessories..................

Fir%Time

Powering

Camcorder

;’

:,t

$Y I~

3’

are and Maintenance

pecificutiom

limited

t i

index

Operation ...............

Your

Camcorder..

fhtures.. ecording Features

etording

Tips

......................... 47

ayback

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

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

Warranty.....................62

......................................66

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

.....

,I6

...............24

..................26

.............60

.61

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 to obtain warranty parts and service and for proof of purchase. Attach it here and record the serial and model numbers in case you ever need them. The numbers are located on the back of your camcorder.

Model No: CC543

Serial No: Purchase Date: Purchased From:

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Your video camcorder’s AC adapter/charger will operate on 120 volts AC, 50160 Hz, and has a polarized plug. Because one blade of the plug is wider than the other, the plug fits in the wall socket only one way. Do not defeat the safety feature of this plug. If you need an extension cord, use a polarized extension cord.

CAUTION:

PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.

ATTENTION: POUR

LA LAME LA PLUS LARGE DE LA FICHE DANS LA BORNE CORRESPONDANTE DE LA PRISE ET POUSSER JUSQU’AU FOND.

CAUTION:

REMOVE THE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS ARE INSIDE. IF YOU SPILL LIQUID ON THE CAMCORDER OR ADAPTER/CHARGER, DISCONNECT THE AC ADAPTER/CHARGER’S POWER

CORD TO PREVENT POSSIBLE FIRE OR SHOCK AUTHORIZED SERVICE PERSONNEL. MOISTURE CAN DAMAGE

INTERNAL PARTS. REFER ALL SERVICE TO AUTHORIZED RCA

CAMCORDER SERVICENTER PERSONNEL ONLY.

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF

EVITER

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT

LES CHOCS

ELECTRIQUES,

HAZARD AND CONSULT

INTRODUIRE

SAFETY kREcAUTIONS

ELECTRICAL SAFETY. POWERLINE-OPERATED

CONNECTED TO THIS UNIT SHOULD BEAR

AND USED IN CANADA, THE

ARK OR THE C-UL MARK ON THE ACCESSORIES

(continued)

uninsulated “da

be of sufficient

4AGE

important operating and maintenance (service) instructions in the literature accompanying the product.

‘DIE

HEADWHEEL OR TAPE.

An exclamation point within a triangle is intended to alert the user

to the presence of

-mm-

Important Safety Instructions for AC Adapter/Charger

Before using the AC adapter/charger, read all instructions and cautionary markings on (1) AC adapter/charger, (2) battery, and (3) product using battery.

Caution: To reduce risk of injury, charge only rechargeable batteries type

EP096FS, EP096FL, CB096FS CB096FL.

burst causing personal injury and damage.

Do not expose the adapter/charger to moisture of any kind.

Use of an attachment not recommended or sold by the battery charger manufacturer may result in a risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.

To reduce risk of damage to electric plug and cord, pull out the cord with the plug rather than the cord when disconnecting the adapter/charger from the wall outlet.

Make sure the cord is located so that it will not be stepped on, tripped over, or otherwise subjected to damage or stress.

Use of an improper extension cord could result in a risk of fire and electric shock.

If an extension cord must be used, make

sure that:

1. Pins on the plug of the extension cord are the same number, size, and shape as those of the plug on the adapter/charger.

Other types of batteries may

2. Extension cord is properly wired and in good electrical condition, and

3. Wire size below is met:

Minimum

AWG Size

not operate adapter/charger with a damaged cord or plug. Replace it immediately.

Do not operate adapter/charger if it has received a sharp blow, been dropped, or otherwise damaged in any way. Take it to a qualified serviceman.

Do not disassemble adapter/charger. Take it to an Authorized RCA Camcorder repair is required. Incorrect reassembly may result in a risk of electric shock.

To reduce risk of electric shock, unplug adapter/charger from outlet before attempting any maintenance or cleaning.

Be sure to save these operating

instructions for future reference.

Length of Extension

Cord (Feet)

Equal to or less

Set&enter

when service or

than 100

than 150

CAUTION: FCC REGULATIONS STATE THAT ANY UNAUTHORIZED

CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS TO THIS EQUIPMENT MAY VOID THE USER’S AUTHORITY TO OPERATE IT.

CAUTION: THE UNAUTHORIZED RECORDING OF TELEVISION

PROGRAMS AND OTHER MATERIALS MAY INFRINGE THE RIGHTS OF OTHERS.

. . .

111

I ~

IMPdI$T+NT SAFEGUARDS

1. Read and

All the operating ins+uc<

2. Retain Inst

Fqllo

safetd

and

-The safety and should be

rence.

nply with all ct and in the

oduct is zed alternating- .g having one .her). This plug outlet only one eature. If you

plug ful@,into

;

the plug. If

contact your

our obsolete

:tric

shock, do

not use this polarized plug with an extension cord, receptacle, or other outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted without blade exposure. If you need an extension cord, use one

with a polarized plug.

5. Power Sources-This product should

be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your dealer or local power company. For products

intended to operate from battery power, or other sources, refer to the operating instructions.

6. Overloading-Do not overload wall

outlets, extension cords, or integral convenience receptacles as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock. Overloaded AC outlets, extension

cords, frayed power cords, damaged or cracked wire

.‘.“ulu.A”LL)

broken plugs are dangerous. They may result in a shock or fire hazard. Periodically examine the cord, and if its appearance indicates damage or deteriorated insulation, have it replaced by your service technician.

7. Power-Cord

supply cords should be routed so that

they are not likely to be walked on or

pinched by items placed upon or

against them, paying particular

attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the product.

Sal‘.. .

‘. III -

Protection-Power-

(continued on next page)

lllMpoRTJ4NT

8. Ventilation--Slots

the products are provided for ventilation to ensure reliable operation of the product and to protect them from overheating. These openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. This product should not be placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or

rack unless proper ventilation is provided or the product manufacturer’s instructions have been followed.

and openings in

SAFEGUARDS

9. Attachments-Do not use

attachments unless recommended by the product manufacturer as they may cause hazards.

(continued)

10. Water and Moisture-Do

this product near water-for

example, near a bath tub, wash bowl,

kitchen sink or laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool and the like.

not use

11. Accessories-Do not place this

product on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The product may fall, causing serious

injury to a child or adult as serious damage to the product. Use this product only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the manufacturer or sold with the product. Any mounting of the product should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use a mounting accessory recommended by the manufacturer.

11A

A product and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart combination to overturn.

well

Cautiori: Maintain

safety.‘%owerlitie

eqtiipment &

to this

Gnit

should bear the UL

li&ingkna&or

electrical

operated

atiswies

certification

mark & ihe acxxqory itself and

t3lmdd;~be~~saasto defeat the

help

&om~ei&trkal3hwb~r fife: If in

do&&“contact

iatf&$ktiatirress.*

&id

gny p&e&ial hazard

~wlified

personnel.

connected

S3125A

This will

service

(continued on next page)

’ ~

J&lPOIE@AFjT

12. Outdoor Ante

an outside ante

SAFEGUARDS

13. Power Lines-An outside antenna

system should not be located in the vicinity of overhead power lines, other electric light or power circuits, or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When installing an outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from touching or approaching such power lines or circuits as contact with them might be fatal. Installing an outdoor antenna can be hazardous and should be left to a professional antenna installer.

(continued)

Use

14. Cleaning-Unplug this product

from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol

cleaners. Use a damp cloth for

cleaning.

15. Object and Liquid Entry-Never

push objects of any kind into this product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or “short-out” parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.

.Y,,.

(continued on next page)

llMpOYRT,ANT

16. Lightning-For added protection

for this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable

system. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and power line surges.

SAFEGUARDS

Service

17. Servicing-Do not attempt to

service this product yourself as

opening or removing covers may

expose you to dangerous voltage or

other hazards. Refer all servicing to

qualified service personnel.

18. Conditions Requiring

Unplug this product from the wall

outlet and refer servicing to qualified

service personnel under the

following conditions.

A. When the power-supply cord or

plug is damaged.

B. If liquid has been spilled, or

objects have fallen into the product.

C. If the product has been exposed to

rain or water.

vii

Service-

(continued)

D. If the product does not operate

normally by following the operating instructions, adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions. Improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to its normal operation.

E. If the product has been dropped in

any way.

F. When the product exhibits a

distinct change in this indicates a need for service.

19.

Replacement Parts-When

replacement parts are required, have the service technician verify that the replacements he uses have the same safety characteristics as the original parts. Use of replacements specified by the product manufacturer can prevent fire, electric shock, or other hazards.

20.

Safety Check-Upon completion of

any service or repairs to this product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks recommended by the manufacturer to determine that the product is in safe operating condition.

21.

Wall or Ceiling Mounting-The

product should be mounted to a wall or ceiling only as recommended by the manufacturer.

22.

Heat-The product should be

situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

performance-

tion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

,......i.....................

. . . ..*.............................. 12

Turn on the

Insert a Casse e

l Position View

Adjust Eyep ece!~Focus Control . . ...12

C ’tmcorder

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

..a.....+..................... 12

mdkr

and

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

l Review the C

Video Cassette

. . . . . . . . . . ..i................

22-23

Camcorder Fe

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

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

..,...... i

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Exposure) . . . . . . . . . . . 24

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Focusing Your Camcorder..

. . .

l Zooming

I-11

Power Zoom

Instant Zoom

l Digital Zoom

l6x9Mode

Fading In and Out of Scenes..

l Time Counter with Memory Stop..

l Recording Tips

.@.o

ProEdrt

l Flying Erase Head .......................... 39

Edit

Audio Dubbing..

Audio/Video Dubbing..............

Titler.. ....................................... .44-46

Recording on Camcorder.. ..........

Buttons..

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

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

Features

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

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

Playback

Viewfinder Playback..

Playback

Stop-Action Pause

l Picture Search................................. 51

l Tracking .........................................

l Playback on TV (or VCR) with

Features

AUDIOIVIDEO IN Jacks.. .........

. Playback on TV without

Audio and

Video

Color Enhancement Light Attaching the Shoulder Strap Traveling and Cassette Care and Maintenance

Specifications User Information Limited Warranty Trouble Checks Index

(Alphabetical).

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

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

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

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

.32-33

........

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

..........

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

.40-41

.42-43

.48-49

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

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

.50-5

.......................... . 1

.52-53

Inputs..

...........

.54-55

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

..........

Tips..

...........

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

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

.34

34-35 34-35

.37

..3 8

.39

.50

56-57

.58 .59 .60

61 61

63-65

.66-67

We invite you to take a look at some great ideas for

sparking

creativity and adding to the fun of using your camcorder. These pages have a selection of accessories to help make your memorable moments look and sound

even better.

To order accessories, contact your local dealer.

Accessories are available by calling toll-free or by using the order form

on page 7.

AC028A Soft Camcorder Case

This case provides exceptional protection and utility for full size camcorders and most accessories. It is constructed of rugged, 1000 denier weight, Cordura nylon fabric for years of reliable service and good looks.

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.

VCClOOO Video Color Control Center

The VCClOOO is two accessories id one. The color control center allows you to adjust the color intensity, tint, white balance, and sharpness of tapes being dubbed. This is especially helpful when the original tape was

produced in poor lighting conditions or poor color settings.

The second feature, the character generator,

lets you create titles that can be recorded on your tapes. This lets you add a professional and/or personal touch to your home videos.

All specifications and descriptions of are subject to chdinge without notice.

accesshies

DCCO96 DC (B{ttee)

Car Cord

CPS014 AC Adaiter/Chrirger

This DC car cord enables you to operate your camcorder from

your car, truck, or

RV by plugging the car cord directly into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter.

EPO96FS

and E

This adapter/charger operates on

240

almost anywhere in the world to power your camcorder and recharge the

EPO96FS battery supplied with your

camcorder. It also charges the EP096FL (2 hour)

battery. A simple plug adapter may be

required in some countries.

9dFL Rechargeable Batteries

These rechargeable lead-acid batteries are specifically designed for long life. The EP096FS can power your camcorder up to one hour and the EP096FL up to

two hours (depending on how much you

use the light, zoom, and pause). Both batteries can be recharged with

the AC adapter/charger that came packed with your camcorder. First charging takes approximately two hours for the EP096FS and three hours for the EP096FL.

lOO-

volts, 50/60 Hz, so it can be used

(continued on next page)

CRF95 RF

Output Adapter

This adapter is used with coaxial RF cable

(AH065G

camcorder to a standard TV (one without audio/video input jacks) for playback. If your antenna cable is the flat twin-lead type attached by two screws, you will also need a 300-75 ohm transformer such as 193983. If your TV, has 300 ohm VHS screw terminals,

you will need an optional transformer such as AH01 1.

AH066G)

to connect your

751300

ohm

Coaxial

193983 Cable Transformer

AH011 Cable Transformer

RI!

Cables

AHO65G (6-R)

AH066G

(104-t)

This 300-to-75 ohm transformer is used to connect a standard 300-ohm antenna twin-lead to a standard round

75-ohm

This standard

AH066G,

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 antenna cable is the flat twin-lead type

attached by two screws, you will also need a 300-75 ohm transformer such as 193983.

If your TV has 300 ohm VI-IS screw terminals, you will need an optional 75-300 ohm transformer such

AHOll.

connector.

75-to-300

ohm transformer is used to connect a

75-ohm

antenna cable, such as

to the 300-ohm screw terminals on a TV.

AH065G

AH25 Y-Adapter

This Y-adapter allows you to connect your camcorder’s mono

audio cable to a stereo TV or VCR.

(continued on next page)

Removing the

ds Hood

The lens hood

angle lens, lens To remove the counterclockwise

Attaching

Remove the lens

cal

Act

removed so you can attach optional accessories, such as

ler,

or’ lens filter kit.

lel

odd,

place your hand flat against the lens hood and turn it

not grasp the end of the lens hood.

Lens

shown above.

wide-

Turn the tightened firmly,

accessor]

clockwise into the camcorder’s lens. Make sure the lens is

‘not over tighten.

(continued on next page)

AC093 ‘lkipod

This tripod’s fluid-effect head provides smooth camera pan and tilt. The grooved, tubular 3-section leg design folds down to 24.2” when not in use. Rubber feet allow

for sure footing.

without

+ll

fall&g

specifications and

over.

descriptions

&cesso&

tie subject to change

with&t

notice.

Prices are Total

Sales Tax

We are r for each the

Shipping, andling,

Total

Use VISA or check ml st be in U.S. currency only. No C

ubject

Mer

handise

‘....

.: .,.“......““....................................................

qu!red

ndryrdua

mere

and se is being sent.

unt

Enclosed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

klasterCard

to change without notice.

($10 Minimum

law to collect the appropriate sales tax

state, county, and locality to which

and

Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$5.00

preferably.$Mone

Order) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

order or

D or cash.

$ $

‘b qow

‘)

0) were

8 weeks for delivery.

Al! accessories are subject to availability.

applicable, we will ship a superseding model.

IV.“.

.Q.

Charge

USE YOUR IMPORTANT:

CTnJm~cIn

CREDIT

your

order on your

or Mastercard by

filling in below

CARD

Copy complete account number

from your VISA card

VISA

My card expires:

IMPORTANT:

Copy Number

above your

name on

MasterCard

Copy complete account number

from your

MasterCard

AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE

Prices are subject to change without notice.

Print or type your name and address clearly. This will be your save you days of waiting. mailing label.

r--------------------------I

Name:

1 Street:

I I

City:

1 State:

-____--__------------------

A complete and correct order will

Apt:

Zip:

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

I I

i I

I I

To order access contact your local Dealer.

If a dealer is not

earby,

you can also follow the directions below to order by

l-800-338-0376

Most times your

For more infor

rdet

ati&

International Or

will be shipped UPS within 72 hours of receipt. If ever it is not

30 days, we will notify you with an update on your order and

mail, detach and mail the completed order form with credit

order, or check in U.S. currency (made payable to Thomson

to the following address:

Video Accessories PO Box 8419 Ronks, PA 17573

on these accessories (or current prices), write to the

eptford, NJ 08096-2088

in the United States and Canada. For international orders,

price quotation (not an order) to:

.teinational hojnson ConsFmer istjributor & Sp&eial Knob

Clements Bridge Rd

eptford, NJ USA 08096-2088

Customer Service

Electronics, Inc.

Products

1. Unpack the camcorder and accessories.

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

camcorder.

l The items shown below are packed with your camcorder. If any of them are

missing or appear damaged, contact your dealer immediately.

Shoulder Strap

Stock No. 221243

Camcorder

Model CC543

Rechargeable IO-Volt Battery

Stock No.

EPO96FS

Audio/Video Cable

Stock No. 221244

AC Adapter/Charger

Stock No. CPS019

DC Cable Stock No. 209342

or charged battery.

OUfPiJT

Jack

AdapterlCha

Attach one e d o$ the adapter/charger’s DC cable to

adapter/char

Attach the ot

l Plug the

Details are o , page 16.k

er end of the cable to the DC IN

ada3er/charger’s

er’$

DC Cable

I I

plug into an operating outlet.

9.6V

Jack on

Back of Camcorder

DC OUTPUT

9.6V

jack on the camcorder.

Charged Batt ry*

jack on

Match Arrows

Charged Ba

Attached to

Camcorder

Match the

Hold the batt

Details are o

The battery m st be charged before it can be used the first time.

arr

w on the battery to the arrow on the camcorder.

flush against%‘e

camcorder and slide it down.

(continued on next page)

s...

.xu

POWER

Switch and Indicator

(CAMERA/OFFIVC;

(Located on side

of eyepiece.)

’

Electronic Viewfinder (Grasp Here to Move)

3. Remove the lens cap and attach it to the handstrap.

4. Tbrn on the camcorder.

The position of the POWER

(CAMERA JOFFIVCR)

the camcorder whether you want to record (CAMERA), play back tapes (VCR), or turn off the power (OFF).

i i

l Press and hold small button on

POWER while sliding it in

CAMERA. The POWER indicator

will light when the camcorder is

turned on.

5. Insert a cassette.

l Press STOP/EJECT to open the

cassette compartment.

Insert the cassette with the safety tab

switch tells

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

Details are on page 23.

6. Position viewfinder and adjust eyepiece focus control.

l Grasp the viewfinder and rotate it

horizontally.

l Pull the viewfinder out from the

camcorder and rotate the eyepiece

into a comfortable viewing position. Caution: Pulling on the eyepiece may

cause damage to the eyepiece or camcorder.

l If the image in the viewfinder is

blurry, adjust the eyepiece focus

control for your vision. Details are

on page 26.

facing up and the tape windows facing out.

Power Supply

(Adapter/Chal

or Charged Ba

Safety Tab

over it.

Cassette Door

Press Here to Close

8. Play back what you have recorded.

Press

RECIPAUSE

Press and hold the small button on

POWER

l Press REW (rewind) to rewind the

tape.

Press

the viewfinder.

Press

finished playing back the tape.

Details on viewfinder playback are on page 50.

while sliding it in

PLAY

to play back the tape in

STOP/EJECT

Handstrap

to stop recording.

VCR.

when you are

(continued on next page)

Review the camcorder’s operating controls.

!E‘I

IZEW

Button

DlSPL4 Y Button

RESET Button

DATE/TIME Button

TITLER Button

DUB Button

REW (Rewind) Button Also TITLE SEL - Button

PLAY Button Also TITLE SEL Button

F.FWD (Fast Forward) Button Also TITLE SEL + Button

STOP/EJECT Button

Also EDIT-ADV Button

FOCUS

AUTOMA

Lens

Hood

FADk

DIGITAL ZOOM

L&T AUTOIOFFION

Switch

I I

f&T.

(Instant) ZOOM

Button

Eyepiece Focus Control (Located on Side of

Eyepiece)

$dio/Video)

VIDEO, AUDIO, and RF DC OUT

Jacks (Located Behind Small Cover)

Review

BATTERY-

Eject Lever

thc/

ca@corder’s operating controls.

“___ _ .^ I^_ .

(continued)

Shoulder Strap Attachment

Ring

Power Zoom Buttons (Wand lJ also

TRACRZNG

DC IN

9.6V

Jack

Gx.se&e Door

Lens Cap Holder

(continued on next page)

+ 53 hidden pages