RCA CC618 User Manual
CC618
USER‘S
GUIDE
CAMCORDER
Important Safety Information
Be sure to read all the safety information before you begin to use this product.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or shock hazard, do not expose
camcorder or AC adapter/charger to rain or moisture.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
ATTENTION
RISQUE DE CHOC
ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR
Cautions
This symbol indicates “dangerous voltage”
inside the product that presents a risk of
electric shock or personal injury.
This symbol indicates important
instructions accompanying the product.
CAUTION: To prevent electric shock, match wide blade of plug to
wide slot, fully insert.
ATTENTION: Pour éviter les chocs électriques, introduire la lame
la plus large de la fiche dans la borne correspondante de la prise et
pousser jusqu au fond.
To reduce risk of injury, charge only rechargeable batteries
recommended 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 warranty parts
and service and attach it here. Record the serial and model numbers
located on the bottom of the camcorder.
Model No: _____________________________________
Serial No: _____________________________________
Purchase Date: _____________________________________
Purchased From: _____________________________________
i
CC618
Assistance
We want to make sure you enjoy your new camcorder. If you have any
questions, call:
Camcorder Exchange Warranty..............800-283-650 (pages 84-85)
Customer Service...........................................800-336-1900 (page 83)
Accessories...............................................800-338-0376 (pages 70-75)
Table of Contents
Safety Information..............................i
Product Registration...........................i
Table of Contents............................1-2
First-Time Operation
• Assistance..........................................3
• Unpack Camcorder &
Accessories......................................3
• Attach the Adapter/Charger...............4
• Insert a Tape......................................4
• Open Lens Cover...............................5
• Adjust Handstrap...............................5
• Turn on Camcorder............................5
• Select a Recording Speed..................6
• Review Camcorder’s
Operating Controls.....................9-11
Powering Your Camcorder
• Using Adapter/Charger....................12
• Using Rechargeable Battery.......13-15
• Using Optional Car Cord Adapter...16
Remote Control
• Install Battery Cell...........................17
• Remote Sensor.................................17
• Buttons .......................................18-19
Video Cassettes............................20-21
Recording
• Making a Recording...................22-23
• Set the SCENE SELECT AE Dial......7
• Adjust Viewfinder and
Eyepiece Focus Control...................7
• Start and Stop Recording...................8
• Play Back Your Recording................8
• Turn off the Camcorder.....................8
• Viewfinder..................................24-25
• Viewfinder Displays...................26-29
• Tally Light.......................................30
• Microphone......................................30
• Flying Erase Head ...........................30
(continued on next page)
1
Table of Contents
Recording (continued)
• Electronic Indexing .........................30
• Quick Review..................................31
• Auto Head Cleaner..........................31
• Camera Edit.....................................31
• Time Counter With Memory Stop...32
• Tape Time-Remaining Display .......33
• Auto Pause Feature..........................34
• Electronic Image Stabilizer (EIS)....34
• Snapshot Feature .............................35
• Self-Timer (Remote Only) ..............36
• Zooming (Power and Digital)..........37
• SCENE SELECT AE Dial................38
• Edit Insert (Remote Only)...............57
• Built-in Color Enhancement
Light.........................................58-59
• Recording Tips ................................60
• Traveling Tips .................................61
Playback
• Using the Cassette Adapter........62-63
• Viewfinder Playback ......................64
• Playback Features
• Tracking .....................................64
• Visual Searching ........................65
• Tape Positioning ........................65
• Stop-Action Pause......................65
• White Balance .................................39
• MODE Button..................................40
• Fading In and Out............................41
• 16X9 Mode.................................42-43
• Focusing (Auto and Manual) .....44-45
• Exposure Control (Iris)....................46
• Titler...........................................47-48
• Set the Date and Time .....................49
• Select the Date,Time, or Title To
Record on Tape.......................50-51
• Install the Clock Lithium Cell.........52
• Attaching the Shoulder Strap...........53
• Animation and Time-Lapse
Recording (Remote Only)........54-55
• Playback on TV (or VCR)
with AUDIO/VIDEO IN Jacks........66-67
• Playback on TV Without
Audio/Video Inputs..................68-69
Optional Accessories...................70-75
• Accessory Order Form...............73-75
Trouble Checks ...........................76-79
Care and Maintenance ...............80-81
Specifications ....................................82
Customer Assistance and Service ...83
Limited Warranty.......................84-85
Index (Alphabetical) ...................86-89
• Audio Dubbing (Remote Only).......56
2
First-Time Operation
+ -
ZOOM
START/STOP
SELF
INT.
TIME
TIME LAPSE
REC
TIME
ANIM.
PAUSE
FF
A.DUB
INSERT
REW
STOP
PLAY
F1
F2
MODE
EIS
1
2
0
x
P
U
S
H
A
U
T
O
M
A
N
SCENE SELECT
POWER
CHG END REFRESH
This section describes only 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
1. Unpack 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 CC618
AC Adapter/Charger
Part No. 221339 or 217010
Remote Control
Part No. 221125
Caution:
Do not use this
adapter/charger
for any purpose
other than
charging the
FB1260 or
FB120 battery
pack or supplying power to
the camcorder.
WARNING: NICKEL
CADMIUM BATTERY
MUST BE DISPOSED
OF PROPERLY.
Rechargeable 6-Volt Battery
Part No. FB1260
Cassette Adapter
Cassette Adapter
Part No. 221338
or VCA115A
(Size "AA" 1.5 Volt)
Shoulder Strap
Part No. ACS091
Battery
Clock and Remote Cells
3-Volt Micro Lithium Cells
– such as CR2025 – are
available from most local
drug stores and camera
shops. Use of other cells
present a risk of fire or
explosion.
Cautions: Lithium cell batteries. Must be disposed of properly. Never
handle punctured or leaking cells. May cause burns or personal injury.
Keep out of the hands of children. Can cause death or injury if swallowed.
If swallowed, consult a physician immediately for emergency treatment.
The lithium cells used in these devices may explode resulting in a fire or
chemical burn if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above
212˚F (100˚C), or incinerate.
Never use metallic tweezers to hold the cell, and never short circuit the +
and – sides of the cell.
3
First-Time Operation
CAMERA
VCR
POWER
OFF
AUDIO
NAP
SHOT
RF
VIDEO
L
E
N
S
C
O
V
E
R
POWER
CHG END REFRESH
To AC 100240V, 50/60 Hz
Adapter/Charger
POWER
Indicator
DC OUT Jack
2.Attach the adapter/charger.
Since the battery must be charged
before it can be used the first time,
attach the adapter/charger to the
camcorder.
A. Connect the power connector’s
small plug into the DC OUT jack
on the adapter/charger.
B. Align the reference mark on the
power connector with the mark on
the camcorder. Hold the top of the
power connector flush against the
back of the camcorder, and press
the bottom of the power connector
down until it locks into place.
Reference Marks
Power Connector
C. Plug the adapter/charger’s plug into
an operating outlet. The adapter/
charger’s POWER indicator will
light.
3.Insert a tape.
• Slide EJECT.
• Turn the tape wheel on the cassette
to remove any slack from the tape.
• Insert the cassette with the tape
wheel facing up and the tape window
facing out.
• Press on the area labeled PUSH until
the cassette door locks into place.
4
(continued on next page)
CAMERA
VCR
POWER
OFF
AUDIO
DATE/TIME/CHAR––SET
•30•40
NAP
SHOT
TRACKING
R/M
PLAY/PAUSE
STOP
FF
REW
RCH
RF
DC OUT
VIDEO
L
E
N
S
C
O
V
E
R
EJECT
OFF
ON
LIGHT
AUTO
PAUSE
OFF
AUT
ON
F1
F2
ODE
EIS
1
2
0
x
P
U
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A
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O
M
A
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SCENE SELECT
First-Time Operation
PAUSE
EJECT Button
PUSH
Here to
Close
Tape Window
Tape Wheel
LENS
COVER
Control
Handstrap Flap
POWER Switch and
Indicator
Handstrap Velcro Strip
(Under Flap)
4.Slide LENS COVER control
to open lens cover.
6.Place POWER (CAMERA/
OFF/VCR) switch in
CAMERA.
• The power indicator will light and
5.Adjust the handstrap to fit
your hand.
• Lift the flap on the handstrap and
separate the velcro strip.
• Insert your hand, adjust the strap
to fit snugly, and refasten the
strap.
the camcorder will enter record
pause. appears in the
viewfinder when the camcorder is in
record pause.
• The position of this switch tells the
camcorder whether you want to
record (CAMERA), turn the power
off (OFF), or play back tapes (VCR).
• The camcorder will automatically
turn off if it remains in record pause
for five minutes. Place POWER in
OFF and then back in CAMERA.
5
CAMERA
VCR
POWER
OFF
AUDIO
DATE/TIME/CHAR––SET
•30•40
NAP
SHOT
TRACKING
R/M
PLAY/PAUSE
STOP
FF
REW
RCH
RF
DC OUT
VIDEO
L
E
N
S
C
O
V
E
R
First-Time Operation
SP•SLP/T20•30•40
Switch
7.Select a recording speed and tape length using
SP•SLP/T20•30•40 switch.
Select SP or SLP recording speed.
• SP – Standard play provides the best
picture, but the shortest recording
time (20 minutes with a TC-20 tape).
• SLP – Extended play provides three
times the recording time as SP
(60 minutes with a TC-20 tape).
SLP has slightly more picture noise
in normal playback.
Set the length of the tape you are using
so the camcorder can correctly
calculate the recording time remaining
on the tape.
Repeatedly press the SP•SLP/
T20•30•40 switch.
• Select T20 SP if you are using a tape
with 20 minutes or less recording
time and want to record in SP speed.
6
• Select T20 SLP if you are using a
tape with 20 minutes or less
recording time and want to record in
SLP speed.
• Select T30 SP if you are using a tape
with 30 minutes recording time and
want to record in SP speed.
• Select T30 SLP if you are using a
tape with 30 minutes recording time
and want to record in SLP speed.
• Select T40 SP if you are using a tape
with 40 minutes recording time and
want to record in SP speed.
• Select T40 SLP if you are using a
tape with 40 minutes recording time
and want to record in SLP speed.
F1
F2
MODE
EIS
1
2
0
x
P
U
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H
A
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T
O
M
A
N
SCENE SELECT
FULL
AUTO
First-Time Operation
Electronic Viewfinder
Eyepiece Focus Control
8.Set the SCENE SELECT AE
dial to AUTO.
• This places the camcorder in the
AUTO mode. FULL AUTO will
appear in the side display panel.
• In the AUTO mode, the fade, 16X9,
manual focus, exposure, display, and
titler controls will not operate.
SCENE SELECT AE Dial
9.Adjust the viewfinder and
eyepiece focus control.
• Rotate the viewfinder into a
comfortable operating position.
• Turn the eyepiece focus control to
adjust the focus of the viewfinder for
your vision.
(continued on next page)
7
CAMERA
VCR
POWER
OFF
AUDIO
DATE/TIME/CHAR––SET
•30•40
NAP
SHOT
TRACKING
R/M
PLAY/PAUSE
STOP
FF
REW
RCH
RF
DC OUT
VIDEO
L
E
N
S
C
O
V
E
R
First-Time Operation
PAUSE
REW Button
STOP Button
PLAY Button
10. Start and stop recording.
• Press and release the thumb trigger
to start recording. REC 666
appears in the viewfinder, and the
tally light will light when the
camcorder is recording.
• Press and release the thumb trigger
again to stop recording. The
camcorder is now in the recordpause mode ( appears in
the viewfinder).
Thumb Trigger
POWER (VCR/OFF/CAMERA) Switch
Power Indicator
11. Play back what you have
12. Place the POWER switch in
recorded.
• Place the POWER switch in VCR.
• Press REW to rewind the tape.
• Press PLAY/PAUSE to play back
the tape in the viewfinder.
• Press STOP when you are finished
playing back the tape.
• Details on viewfinder playback are
on page 64.
8
OFF to turn off the camcorder.
The power indicator will turn off.
F1
F2
MODE
EIS
1
2
0
x
P
U
S
H
A
U
T
O
M
A
N
SCENE SELECT
First-Time Operation
13. Review camcorder’s operating controls.
Power Zoom Lever
“W” - Wide Angle
“T” - Telephoto
SNAPSHOT Button
Viewfinder
Built-in Color Enhancement Light
Lens
LENS COVER
Control
Remote
Control
Sensor
Tally Light
Microphone
Eyepiece Focus Control
Eyepiece
EJECT Button
AUTO PAUSE
ON•OFF Switch
LIGHT OFF•AUTO•
ON Switch
Cassette Door
PUSH here to close.
EIS (Electronic Image
Stabilizer) Button
SCENE SELECT AE Dial
Display Panel
MODE Button
F1 Button
F2 Button
(continued on next page)
9
CAMERA
VCR
POWER
OFF
AUDIO
DATE/TIME/CHAR––SET
•30•40
NAP
SHOT
TRACKING
R/M
PLAY/PAUSE
STOP
FF
REW
RCH
RF
DC OUT
VIDEO
L
E
N
S
C
O
V
E
R
First-Time Operation
13. Review camcorder’s operating controls.
B (Bright) Control Located
On Side of Viewfinder (See
Trouble Checks for Details.)
Shoulder Strap
Attachment Ring
Clock Cell
Compartment
Attach Battery or
Power Connector for
AC Adapter/Charger
Here
Shoulder Strap
Attachment Ring
BATT. RELEASE Button
AUDIO, RF DC OUT, and
VIDEO Jacks
Thumb Trigger
POWER (VCR/OFF/CAMERA) Switch
and Indicator
Handstrap
10
First-Time Operation
SP-SLP/T20•30•40
COUNTER R/M TRACKING
MAN.W.BAL
DATE/TIME/CHAR SET
CAMERA
VCR
POWER
OFF
AUDIO
DATE/TIME/CHAR––SET
•30•40
NAP
SHOT
TRACKING
R/M
PLAY/PAUSE
STOP
FF
REW
RCH
RF
DC OUT
VIDEO
L
E
N
S
C
O
V
E
R
EDIT –
SEARCH
REW FF STOP PLAY/PAUSE
+
13. Review camcorder’s operating controls.
DATE/TIME/CHAR + and – Buttons
(Also TRACKING Buttons)
SP•SLP/T20•30•40 Button
(Also COUNTER R/M Button)
MAN.W.BAL (Manual White
Balance) Button
REW Button
(Also EDIT SEARCH – Button)
SET Button
PLAY/PAUSE
Button
STOP Button
FF Button
(Also EDIT SEARCH + Button)
11
Powering Your Camcorder
CAMERA
VCR
POWER
OFF
AUDIO
NAP
SHOT
RF
VIDEO
L
E
N
S
C
O
V
E
R
POWER
CHG END REFRESH
Using the Adapter/Charger to Power Your Camcorder
The power connector attaches to the camcorder and lets you power your camcorder
directly from standard household power. The adapter/charger operates on 100-240
volts, 50/60 Hz, so it can be used virtually anywhere in the world to power the
camcorder or recharge the battery.
To AC 100-240V,
50/60 Hz
Power Connector
POWER
Indicator
DC OUT Jack
BATT. RELEASE Button
Attach Adapter/Charger
1. Plug power connector’s plug into DC
OUT jack on adapter/charger.
2. Align the reference mark on the power
connector with the mark on the
camcorder. Hold the top of the power
connector flush against the back of the
camcorder, and press the bottom of
the power connector onto the
camcorder until it locks into place.
3. Plug the adapter/charger’s plug into
the nearest AC outlet (100-240V,
50/60Hz).
4. If the adapter/charger is properly
connected, its POWER indicator will
light.
Caution: Do not use this
adapter/charger for any other purpose
other than charging the FB1260 or
FB120 battery pack or supplying
power to the camcorder.
Remove Adapter/Charger
1. Unplug the adapter/charger from the
wall outlet.
2. Press and hold BATT. RELEASE on
the camcorder while removing the
power connector.
Using an Optional Plug Adapter
An optional plug adapter may be required
in some countries.
Optional AC
Plug Adapter
1. Plug the adapter/charger’s plug into
the AC plug adapter.
2. Plug the AC plug adapter into the
AC outlet.
AC 100-240V
12
CAMERA
VCR
POWER
OFF
AUDIO
NAP
SHOT
RF
VIDEO
L
E
N
S
C
O
V
E
R
Powering Your Camcorder
Ni - Cd
Using the Battery to Power Your Camcorder
The battery must be charged as described on the next page before it can be used the
first time. Initial charging will take approximately 70 minutes. When fully charged,
the battery should supply about 60 minutes of operating time (depending on how much
you use the light, zoom, and pause). Conserve battery power by turning the camcorder
off during recording breaks.
Note: The small marker switch on top of the battery is for use as a personal reminder to help
you remember to recharge the battery. It has no other function.
Battery Safety
Reference Marks
Marker
Switch
BATT. RELEASE Button
POWER
(VCR/OFF/CAMERA) Switch
and Indicator
Precautions
Do not short the battery’s
terminals.
Do not attempt to
disassemble or modify the
battery. There are no userserviceable parts inside.
Use the battery only with
specified adapter/chargers
and camcorders.
Throwing the battery into a
fire or exposing it to
excessive heat – over 149ºF
(65ºC) could be hazardous.
Attach the Charged Battery
If the power connector is attached to the
camcorder, remove it before attaching the
battery. Also, install the lithium clock
cell before attaching the battery pack.
the battery down until it locks into
place.
3. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA.
The power indicator will light.
Details on page 52.
1. Align the reference mark on the battery
with mark on back of camcorder.
2. Hold the top of the battery flush against
the camcorder and press the bottom of
ATTENTION: NICKEL CADMIUM BATTERY MUST BE DISPOSED OF
PROPERLY. THE PRODUCT THAT YOU HAVE PURCHASED USES A
RECHARGEABLE BATTERY. AT THE END OF ITS USEFUL LIFE,
UNDER VARIOUS STATE AND LOCAL LAWS, IT MAY BE ILLEGAL TO
DISPOSE OF THIS BATTERY INTO THE MUNICIPAL WASTE STREAM.
CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL SOLID WASTE OFFICIALS FOR DETAILS
IN YOUR AREA FOR RECYCLING OPTIONS OR PROPER DISPOSAL.
Remove the Battery
Press and hold BATT. RELEASE on the
camcorder while removing the battery.
13
Powering Your Camcorder
POWER
CHG END REFRESH
CHG
Indicator
POWER
Indicator
END
Indicator
REFRESH
Button
REFRESH
Indicator
Hold Battery
Flush and
Slide
Adapter/Charger
Charge the Battery
If the power connector is attached to the
DC OUT jack on the adapter/charger,
remove its plug.
1. Align reference mark on battery with
mark on adapter/charger.
Caution
Reference Marks
To AC Wall
Outlet 100-240
Volts, 50/60 Hz.
When a battery
is attached to the
adapter/charger,
do not turn them
upside down.
The battery may
fall off and be
damaged or
cause injury.
Use the REFRESH Button
The battery will provide increased
operation time if you “refresh” it after
five chargings. The refresh feature
“refreshes” the battery by completely
discharging it.
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 (100-240V, 50/60Hz).
4. If the battery is properly connected, the
adapter/charger’s CHG (charge)
indicator will light.
Note: If you try to charge a battery that
has not been charged for a long period of
time, it may take a few minutes for the
CHG indicator to light.
5. After the battery is charged, the END
indicator will light.
6. Remove the charged battery by sliding
it off the adapter/charger.
7. Attach the charged battery to the
camcorder.
1. Attach battery to adapter/charger.
2. Press REFRESH. The REFRESH
indicator will light and the battery will
begin discharging.
3. When discharging is completed, the
REFRESH indicator will turn off, and
the CHG indicator will light. The
battery will then charge.
4. After the battery is charged, the END
indicator will light. Remove the
battery from the adapter/charger.
14
Powering Your Camcorder
Battery Level Indicator
The battery level indicator appears in the
viewfinder and shows you the amount of
power in the rechargeable battery.
Battery Level Indicator
in Viewfinder
• 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. The
camcorder will turn off automatically
after a few seconds. Place the POWER
switch in OFF to turn off the
camcorder before replacing the battery.
The battery level indicator will not be
recorded on the tape when it appears in
the viewfinder.
Battery Care and Storage
• Recharging takes approximately 70
minutes depending on the battery’s
condition.
• Refreshing takes approximately 210
minutes depending on the battery’s
condition.
• After repeated charging and use,
operation time will gradually decrease.
When operation time becomes too short
to be useful, it is time to replace the
battery.
• If the battery discharging must be
stopped in the middle, remove the
battery from the adapter/charger before
unplugging it from the AC outlet.
• Let a hot battery cool down before
attaching it to the adapter/charger.
• The battery will also provide better
service if its power is completely
drained before storing it for long
periods of time (30 days or more).
• The battery should be charged in the
temperature range of 50-95°F (10-35C)
to prevent damage.
• Do not operate the battery at
temperatures below 32°F (0C) or above
104°F (40C). The battery may be
damaged if operated at temperatures
above 122°F (50C). Operation time
will decrease at extremely low
temperatures.
• Store the battery at normal room
temperature.
15
Powering Your Camcorder
POWER Indicator
Power
Connector
Cigarette
Lighter Socket
Optional DCC08 Car Cord Adapter
CAMERA
VCR
POWER
OFF
EDIT
AUDIO
NAP
SHOT
RF
VIDEO
L
E
N
S
C
O
V
E
R
Optional Car Cord Adapter
The optional DCC08 car cord shown on
page 70 allows you to power your
camcorder from the cigarette lighter
socket of a car, truck, or RV. It converts
12-volts to a 6-volt output.
Note: Consult the installation and operating
instructions enclosed with the DCC08 for
complete operating instructions.
Using the DCC08 Car Cord Adapter
Cautions: The DCC08 is designed to be
used only with vehicles having negative
ground electrical systems.
Use only car cord adapter DCC08 with
this camcorder. Use of any other car
cord adapter may damage the camcorder
and void your warranty.
1. Place the POWER switch in OFF to
turn off the camcorder. Power
indicator turns off.
2. If the battery is attached to the
camcorder, remove it.
3. Hold the top of the power connector
flush against the camcorder and press
the bottom of the power connector
down until it locks into place as
shown.
4. Take the vehicle’s cigarette lighter out
of the socket.
16
5. Insert the car cord’s cigarette lighter
plug into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter
socket. The POWER indicator on the
car cord adapter will light.
6. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA
to turn on the camcorder. The power
indicator lights.
Caution: Make sure the camcorder’s
power is turned off before removing the
car cord’s plug from the cigarette lighter
socket.
Remote Control
F1
F2
MODE
EIS
1
2
0
x
P
U
S
H
A
U
T
O
M
A
N
SCENE SELECT
ZOOM
START/STOP
SELF
INT.
TIME
TIME LAPSE
REC
TIME
ANIM.
PAUSE
FF
A.DUB
INSERT
REW
STOP
PLAY
Lithium Cell Installation
The remote’s lithium cell is packed separately. Install it as follows:
Holder
Back of
Remote Control
Lithium Cell
Cautions: Lithium cell battery. Replace only with 3-volt lithium cell – such as CR2025.
Use of other cell presents a risk of fire or explosion. Must be disposed of properly. Never
handle punctured or leaking cell. May cause burns or personal injury.
Keep out of the hands of children. Can cause death or injury if swallowed. If swallowed,
consult a physician immediately for emergency treatment.
The lithium cell used in this device may explode resulting in a fire or chemical burn if
mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 212˚F (100˚C), or incinerate.
Insert Pencil Here
1. Turn remote over, insert a pencil or
paper clip in small hole and remove
battery holder.
Notes: Never place anything heavy on top of
the remote control or lay it upside-down.
Replace cell when camcorder fails to respond
to remote.
2. Insert lithium cell in holder with its
positive (+) terminal facing up.
3. Replace battery holder in remote until
it clicks into place.
Remove cell from remote if it will not be used
for a month or more. This will prevent
possible damage from cell leakage.
If leakage occurs, wipe up liquid inside
compartment and replace cell.
Remote Sensor
The remote operates the camcorder by infrared light, so it is protected from electrical
and sound interference. However, the remote must be aimed directly at the
camcorder’s remote sensor. There cannot be any obstructions between them.
Remote Control Sensor
Note: The camcorder may not respond to the remote if its sensor is exposed to direct
sunlight or strong artificial light.
17
Remote Control
ZOOM
START/STOP
SELF
INT.
TIME
TIME LAPSE
REC
TIME
ANIM.
PAUSE
FF
A.DUB
INSERT
REW
STOP
PLAY
1
2
3
4
5
8
9
10
11
6
7
3
4
1
2
A brief description of the remote button’s functions is given here. Many of the buttons
perform the same functions as the corresponding controls on the camcorder.
ZOOM (T and W) Buttons
Camcorder’s POWER switch in
CAMERA:
• Press T to move the lens in the
telephoto (close-up) direction.
• Press W to move the lens in the
wide-angle direction.
PLAY Button
Press PLAY when the camcorder’s
POWER switch is in VCR to begin
playback.
REW (Rewind) Button
Camcorder’s POWER switch in
CAMERA:
• When the camcorder is in record
pause, press and hold REW to
visually search the tape in reverse.
Release REW to return to recordpause.
Camcorder’s POWER switch in VCR:
• When the camcorder is stopped,
press REW to rewind the tape.
• When a tape is playing, press and
STOP Button
When the camcorder’s POWER
switch is in VCR, press STOP to stop
playback, rewind, or fast-forward
operation.
release REW to visually search the
tape in reverse. Press PLAY to
return to normal playback. For
brief searching, press and hold
REW for at least two seconds to
visually search in reverse. Release
REW to return to normal playback.
18
(continued on next page)
Remote Control
5
6
789
10
11
INSERT Button
Used for dubbing video. See page 57.
START/STOP Button
When the POWER switch is in
CAMERA, press START/STOP to
start and stop recording.
Note: If the camcorder is left in record
pause for more than five minutes, power
will turn off.
SELF INT. (Interval)/ TIME
Button
When the POWER switch is in
CAMERA, press to activate the self-
timer or select an amount of interval
time for interval recording.
TIME LAPSE ANIM. (Animation)
REC/TIME Button
When the POWER switch is in
CAMERA, press to set amount of
recording time for interval and
animation recording.
PAUSE Button
FF (Fast Forward) Button
Camcorder’s POWER switch in
CAMERA:
• With camcorder in record pause,
press and hold FF to visually
search forward on the tape.
Release FF to return to record
pause.
Camcorder’s POWER switch in
VCR:
• When the camcorder is stopped,
press FF to fast forward the tape.
• When a tape is playing, press and
release FF to visually search
forward on the tape. Press PLAY
to return to normal playback. For
brief searching, press and hold FF
for at least two seconds to visually
search forward. Release FF to
return to normal playback.
A. (Audio) DUB Button
Used for dubbing audio. See page 56.
During playback, press PAUSE to
produce a stop-action picture. Press
PLAY to return to normal playback.
Caution: Pause is designed for
momentary interruptions and
should not be used for an extended
period of time. If the camcorder
remains in pause for more than five
minutes, it will automatically enter
the stop mode and then turn off.
19
Video Cassettes
Safety
Tab
A. Remove B. Cover hole
with vinyl tape.
safety tab.
We recommend that our cassettes be used with your camcorder. Use of poor quality
tapes or tapes that have been damaged or mishandled can contaminate the video heads,
resulting in a snowy picture or no picture at all during playback. Because there is no
control over the type of tape purchased or rented by consumers, head cleaning is not
covered under warranty. It is considered normal maintenance.
The automatic head-cleaning system minimizes the need for accessory cleaners or
cleaning by a Servicenter. This system is activated whenever you insert or remove a
cassette.
Erase Protection – Safety Tab
You can use your video cassettes over and over again. To erase a previous recording,
just record over it.
Recording and Playback Speeds and Times
The camcorder records and plays back in standard speed (SP) or extended play (SLP).
Select the recording speed and tape length using the SP•SLP/T20•30•40 switch. The
selected speed and tape length will be displayed in the viewfinder. Listed below are the
maximum SP and SLP recording times for popular VHS-C cassettes.
• SP – Standard play provides the
best picture (less picture noise),
but the shortest recording time
(20 minutes with a TC-20 tape).
• SLP – Extended play provides
three times the recording time as
SP (60 minutes with a TC-20
tape). SLP has slightly more
picture noise than SP in normal
playback. This may not be
noticeable.
Cassette SP SLP
TC-20 20 Min. 60 Min.
TC-30 30 Min. 90 Min.
TC-40* 40 Min. 120 Min.
* Will probably be available soon.
Recording Time
20
EJECT
OFF
ON
LIGHT
AUTO
PAUSE
OFF
AUT
ON
F1
F2
ODE
EIS
1
2
0
x
P
U
S
H
A
U
T
O
M
A
N
SCENE SELECT
Video Cassettes
Inserting and Removing Cassettes
EJECT Button
PUSH
Here to
Close
Cassette
Compartment
Tape Wheel
Safety Tab
Tape Window
Caution:
Insert the
cassette only
one way with
the tape wheel
facing up and
the tape window facing
out. The
cassette should
slide easily
into the compartment. Do
not force the
cassette.
Before inserting a cassette, turn the tape
wheel on the side of the cassette in the
direction shown to remove any slack in
the tape.
1. Attach a power supply. Then slide and
release EJECT to open the cassette
compartment.
2. Insert or remove the cassette.
3. Close the cassette compartment door
Tape Wheel
by pressing on the area labeled PUSH
until it locks into place.
Cassette Care and Storage
• When you are finished with a cassette,
rewind it, remove it from the
camcorder, 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 may damage
your cassettes.
• Keep the cassette away from strong
magnetic fields such as electric motors
and other devices.
• 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 may jam and/or damage your
camcorder.
21
F1
F2
MODE
EIS
1
2
0
x
P
U
S
H
A
U
T
O
M
A
N
SCENE SELECT
Recording
PAUSE
VCR
POWER
OFF
AUDIO
DATE/TIME/CHAR––SET
•30•40
NAP
SHOT
TRACKING
R/M
PLAY/PAUSE
STOP
FF
REW
RCH
RF
DC OUT
VIDEO
L
E
N
S
C
O
V
E
R
CAMERA
Making a Recording
The steps below tell you how to make a recording and suggest using some of the
recording features. Each feature is described in detail on the following pages.
Eyepiece
Focus
Control
SNAPSHOT
Button
POWER Switch
and Indicator
SP•SLP/T20•30•40 Button
EDIT SEARCH – Button
EDIT SEARCH + Button
LENS COVER Control
Power Zoom
Button
EJECT
Button
LIGHT
OFF •
AUTO•
ON
Switch
Tally Light
1. Attach a power supply.
Attach the adapter/charger, charged
battery, or optional DC car cord.
2. Insert a tape.
• Slide EJECT.
• Turn the tape wheel on the cassette
to remove any slack from the tape.
• Insert the cassette with the tape
3. Slide the LENS COVER control to
open the lens cover.
wheel facing up and the tape window
facing out.
22
SCENE
MODE, F1, and
F2 Buttons
SELECT
AE Dial
4. Place the POWER (CAMERA/
OFF/VCR) switch in CAMERA.
The power indicator will light and the
camcorder will enter record pause.
appears in the viewfinder.
5. Adjust the viewfinder and eyepiece
focus control for your vision.
6. Select a recording speed and tape
length using the SP•SLP/T20•30•40
switch.
• Select SP or SLP recording speed.
• Set the length of the tape you are
using (T20, T30, or T40) so the
camcorder can correctly calculate
time remaining.
Recording
PAUSE
7. Place the LIGHT OFF•AUTO•ON
switch in AUTO.
The light will turn on automatically
when you need more light.
8. Set the SCENE SELECT AE dial.
• Place the dial in AUTO to place the
camcorder in the full AUTO mode.
• Place the dial in 120X to use the
digital zoom.
• Place the dial in ( ) sports
or ( ) fast speed shutter to record
fast moving action.
• Place the dial in ( ) front light
or ( ) back light to compensate for
unusual lighting situations.
• Place the dial in ( ) strobe to
create a strobing effect.
• Place the dial in ( ) classic film to
create the effect of a movie
projector.
• Place the dial in MAN and
experiment with the MODE and F1
and F2 buttons.
• Select F1 FADE to fade in and out
of scenes.
• Select F2 16X9 to record using the
16X9 format.
• Select F1 FOCUS to manually
focus.
9. Start and stop recording.
• Press and release the thumb trigger
to start recording. REC 666
appears in the viewfinder and the
tally light will light when the
camcorder is recording.
• Press and release the thumb trigger
again to stop recording. The
camcorder is now in record pause.
appears in the viewfinder.
• The camcorder will automatically
turn off if it remains in record pause
for five minutes. Place the POWER
switch in OFF and then back in
CAMERA.
10.Use the zoom and SNAPSHOT
features.
• Zoom in and out using the power
zoom T and W lever.
• Press SNAPSHOT to create a
snapshot effect.
11.Review what you have recorded.
• Press and release EDIT SEARCH –
to review the last few seconds of the
recording.
• Press and hold EDIT SEARCH – or
+ to visually see what you have
recorded. Release the button to
begin recording at that point.
• Select F2 EXPOSURE to adjust
the iris (brightness).
• Select F1 TITLE to select and
record one of the preset titles.
•Select F2 DISPLAY to display and
record the date, time and date, or
create and record your own title.
23
Recording
CAMERA
VCR
POWER
OFF
AUDIO
NAP
SHOT
RF
VIDEO
L
E
N
S
C
O
V
E
R
Viewfinder
The camcorder’s viewfinder is a miniature monitor that displays the
picture seen by the camcorder when recording.
Adjust Viewfinder for Convenient Viewing
For convenient viewing, you can slide the viewfinder out from the
camcorder and rotate it up and down.
Cautions
Do not force the viewfinder to rotate completely around. This will
damage the viewfinder and/or the camcorder.
When carrying the camcorder with the shoulder strap, put the
viewfinder down. This helps prevent possible damage to the
viewfinder from bumping against your body as you move.
24
Recording
CAMERA
VCR
POWER
OFF
AUDIO
NAP
SHOT
RF
VIDEO
L
E
N
S
C
O
V
E
R
Eyepiece Focus Control
The eyepiece focus control lets you set the focus of the viewfinder for your
personal 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.
Viewfinder
Eyepiece Focus Control
Look through the viewfinder 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.
25
Recording
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5
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SP
M 0:00:00
AM
10 : 55
DEC 25.95
LENS COVER
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
SPORTS
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8
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30MIN
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30
Viewfinder Displays
Electronic Image Stabilizer
This indicator appears when you
press EIS to turn on electronic image
stabilization. Details are on
page 34.
Zoom Level
This indicator tells you whether you
are zoomed in, zoomed out, or using
digital zooming. Details are on
page 37.
Exposure Indicator Bar
This indicator appears when you are
adjusting brightness manually.
Details are on page 46.
Preset Title
• The preset title you select will
appear in this area.
26
• This title will be recorded on your
tape when it appears.
• Details are on page 47.
Date, Date/Time, or Created Title
• The date, AUTO DATE, date and
time, or title you created appears in
this area of the viewfinder.
• These displays will be recorded on
your tape when they appear.
• Details are on pages 50-51.
Battery Level Indicator
• This indicator shows how much
• This indicator flashes when the
• Details are on page 15.
power is left in the rechargeable
battery.
battery is almost empty.
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