Camcorder
User’s Guide
Changing Entertainment. Again.
CC6364/CC6374
Important Information
WARNING
To reduce the
risk of fire or
electric shock, do
not expose this
product or AC
charger to rain or
moisture.
To reduce risk of injury, charge only rechargeable batteries recommended by the
manufacturer for this product. 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.
WARNING
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
This symbol indicates
"dangerous voltage"
inside the product that
presents a risk of
electric shock or
personal injury.
To reduce the risk of electric
shock, do not remove cover (or
back). No user serviceable parts
inside. Refer servicing to qualified
service personnel.
This symbol
indicates
important
instructions
accompanying the
product.
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 number and model numbers located on the
bottom of the camcorder.
Model No. ______________________________________________________
Serial No. _______________________________________________________
Purchase Date. __________________________________________________
Purchased From. _________________________________________________
i
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Connections & Setup
Parts Checklist ......................................................................................... 6
Buttons and Controls ............................................................................. 7
Getting Started .......................................................................................9
Unpack the camcorder and accessories .......................................... 9
Adjust the hand strap .................................................................... 10
Attach the lens cap ........................................................................ 10
Attach the power supply ............................................................... 11
Turn on the camcorder................................................................... 12
Set the video light (Off/AUTO/ON) switch to
AUTO (CC6374 only) ............................................................... 12
Insert a cassette tape ..................................................................... 13
Use the LCD monitor or viewfinder to see what’s recording ...... 14
Start recording ............................................................................... 15
Play your recording ........................................................................ 15
Turn off the camcorder ..................................................................16
Powering the Camcorder ..................................................................... 16
Charging the Battery ..................................................................... 16
Refreshing the Battery ................................................................... 18
Battery Level Icon ........................................................................... 19
Battery Care and Storage .............................................................. 19
Using the Power Supply ................................................................. 20
Using the Shoulder Strap ..................................................................... 21
Setting the Date and Time ................................................................... 22
Setting the Tape Recording Speed ...................................................... 23
Setting the Tape Length ....................................................................... 24
(continued on the next page)
1
Table of Contents
Chapter 2: Using the Monitors
Seeing What You Are Recording ......................................................... 26
Using the LCD Monitor .................................................................. 26
Using the Viewfinder ..................................................................... 27
On-screen Icons..................................................................................... 28
Warning Icons ................................................................................. 28
Recording and Playback Icons ....................................................... 29
Other Icons ..................................................................................... 33
Chapter 3: Recording
Recording Details.................................................................................. 36
Journalistic Shooting ...................................................................... 36
Self-Recording ................................................................................ 37
5-Second Recording ....................................................................... 37
Quick Review .................................................................................. 37
Retake ............................................................................................. 38
Digital and Optical Zooming ......................................................... 38
Using Steady Pix™ .......................................................................... 40
Using the Video Light (CC6374 only) ............................................ 40
Recording Tips ...................................................................................... 42
Chapter 4: Playback
Playback Options ..................................................................................44
Basic Playback ................................................................................. 44
Still Playback Mode ........................................................................ 47
Shuttle Search ................................................................................. 48
Choose your Connection ...................................................................... 49
Using the Cassette Tape Adapter .................................................. 49
Connecting to a TV (or VCR) with Audio/Video Input Jacks ........ 52
Playback on a TV (or VCR) with Audio/Video Input Jacks............ 53
Tape Dubbing ................................................................................. 54
2
Table of Contents
Chapter 5: Advanced Features
Using the Menus For Advanced Adjustment...................................... 56
Menu Definitions .................................................................................. 57
Camera Menu ................................................................................. 57
System Menu .................................................................................. 57
System Menu (continued) .............................................................. 58
Using the Advanced Features .............................................................. 60
Fade/Wipe Effects ........................................................................... 60
Program AE With Special Effects ................................................... 62
Digital Effects ................................................................................. 63
Exposure Control ............................................................................ 64
Focusing .......................................................................................... 65
White Balance Adjustment ............................................................ 67
Date/Time Insert ............................................................................. 69
Instant Titles ................................................................................... 70
Animation ....................................................................................... 71
Time-Lapse ...................................................................................... 72
Chapter 6: Other Information
Troubleshooting.................................................................................... 74
Final Notes ............................................................................................ 78
Power .............................................................................................. 78
Date/Time Settings ......................................................................... 78
Video Recording ............................................................................. 79
TBC (Time Base Corrector) ............................................................. 79
Tapes ............................................................................................... 80
Care and Cleaning ................................................................................ 81
After Using the Camcorder ............................................................ 81
Cleaning The Camcorder ............................................................... 81
Care and Maintenance ......................................................................... 81
Proper Care and Storage ............................................................... 82
(continued on the next page)
3
Table of Contents
Tape Care and Storage ................................................................... 82
Things to Avoid .............................................................................. 83
Traveling Tips ........................................................................................ 83
Specifications ........................................................................................84
Customer Assistance and Service ........................................................85
Limited Warranty.................................................................................. 87
FCC and Industry Canada Information ................................................ 91
Optional Accessories ............................................................................ 92
Accessories Order Form .................................................................. 95
Index ...................................................................................................... 98
4
Chapter 1
Connections & Setup
Chapter Overview:
• Parts Checklist
• Buttons and Controls
• Getting Started
• Powering the Camcorder
• Using the Shoulder Strap
• Setting the Date and Time
• Setting the Tape Recording Speed
• Setting the Tape Length
Changing Entertainment. Again.
5
Connections & Setup
Parts Checklist
Make sure the box includes the items shown here:
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(
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)
Camcorder
Cassette tape adapter
Part # 244270 (CC6374
only)
AC power supply
Part # 250814
AA battery for
cassette tape
adapter
Lens cap
Part # 251624
Battery pack
Part # 244427 (FB1260)
Shoulder strap
Part # ACS091
Audio/ Video cables
Part # VH83
(CC6364 only)
Caution
Never use the power supply for any purpose other than charging the FB1260 battery
pack or for supplying power to the camcorder.
6 Chapter 1
Buttons and Controls
Connections & Setup
Audio/Video
jacks
Eyepiece focus
control
Viewfinder
BATTERY
RELEASE
switch
MENU/
BRIGHT/
TRACKING
dial
E
J
E
C
T
S
H
MENU/BRIGHT
/TRACKING
5 SEC. REC
+
S
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EA
D
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P
IX
/TB
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(
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)
P. AE
DIGIFECT
F
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M
Recording
Start/Stop
button
R
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S
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COUNTER R/M
FADE/WIPE
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P
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S
5 SEC. REC
button
L
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N
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L
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R
+
STEADY PIX/TBC
F
A
C
O
U
N
O
F
F
A
L
I
G
H
T
Power Zoom/ VOL lever
STEADY PIX™
button
Power
switch
Speaker
Video light
(CC6374 only)
Microphone
Hand strap
Chapter 1 7
Connections & Setup
Video
LIGHT
switch
(CC6374
only)
COUNTER R/M and
FADE/WIDE button
LIGHT
Playback
buttons
STOP R RETAKE F
/M
R
IPE
TER
OFF AUTO ON
N
E/W
U
CO
P.AE
button
E
. A
P
FAD
DIGIFECT
button
T
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IG
L
N
O
O
T
U
F A
F
O
COUNTER R/M
FADE/WIPE
CHARGE
indicator
T
IFEC
IG
D
POWER indicator
REFRESH
POWER
CHARGE
EJECT
EJECT
switch
REFRESH button
S
T
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P
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T
A
K
E
F
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P. AE
G
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A
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DIGIFECT
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E
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D
F
I
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V
R
T
C
E
J
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Shoulder
strap
eyelets
LCD monitor
Area marked CLOSE
Tripod mounting sockets
Camcorder bottom view
8 Chapter 1
Connections & Setup
Getting Started
This section describes the basics on how to set up your camcorder to record for the first
time. Refer to the other sections for detailed operation and feature options.
Unpack the camcorder and accessories
• The items shown are packed with the camcorder. If any pieces are missing or
appear damaged, contact your dealer immediately.
• Remove the plastic film that covers the front and side logos on the camcorder. Use
your fingernail, not anything sharp, to remove.
• Save all packing materials and box in case the camcorder ever needs to be
shipped or stored.
Chapter 1 9
Connections & Setup
Adjust the hand strap
1. Lift the flap on the hand strap and separate the Velcro strip.
2. Insert your hand so your fingers can comfortably reach the buttons.
3. Adjust the strap to fit snugly.
4. Refasten the strap, and fold the flap back down.
C
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Attach the lens cap
To protect the lens, attach the provided lens cap to the camcorder as shown in the
illustration.
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10 Chapter 1
Connections & Setup
COUNTER R/M
L
I
G
H
T
FADE/WIPE
O
F
F
A
U
T
P
O
. AE
O
N
DIGIFECT
S
T
O
P
R
R
E
T
A
K
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F
VOL
5 SEC. REC
ENU/BRIGHT
M
/TRACKING
+
STEADY PIX/TBC
+
M
A
F
F
O
2
AC power supply
Attach the power supply
Since the battery must be charged before it can be used the first time, you need to use an
AC outlet to power the camcorder.
1. Plug the small end of the power supply into the DC IN jack on the camcorder.
Y
A
L
P
1
DC IN jack
2. Plug the other end of the power supply into a working AC outlet.
Chapter 1 11
Connections & Setup
F
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Power switch
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5
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D
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S
+
L
P
Turn on the camcorder
Set the Power switch to the desired setting, either
automatic (A) or manual (M) record mode, powered
off (OFF), or in playback mode (
).
The POWER indicator comes on when the
camcorder is turned on.
Automatic recording
A
places the camcorder
into AutoShot™ mode. Focus, exposure, iris
control, white balance, and the video light are
controlled by the camcorder during automatic
recording.
M
Manual recording mode
allows you to
control many of the camcorder’s special
features, including accessing the menus and
setting the clock.
Notes:
• Many special effects don’t operate in
AutoShot mode (see pages 57-59 for
more information).
• The camcorder automatically turns off to
save battery power if you leave it in
record-standby mode for more than five
minutes. To turn it back on, set the
Power switch to OFF, then back to
automatic or manual record mode.
STOP R RETAKE F
LIGHT
OFF AUTO ON
COUNTER R/M
POWER indicator
FADE/WIPE
P. A E
DIGIFECT
CHARGE
POWER
REFRESH
Set the video light (OFF/AUTO/ON)
Switch to AUTO (CC6374 only)
Slide the video LIGHT switch to AUTO. In this
EJECT
setting, the video light automatically turns on when
more light is needed.
Video LIGHT
switch (CC6374
only)
12 Chapter 1
STOP R RETAKE F
LIGHT
OFF AUTO ON
COUNTER R/M
FADE/W
Tape window
IPE
P. AE
DIGIFECT
EJECT switch
STOP
LIGHT
R
RETAKE
OFF AUTO ON
COUNTER R/M
F
FADE/WIPE
. AE
P
CHARGE
DIGIFECT
VIDEO
REFRESH
REFRESH
POWER
CHARGE
Tape wheel
EJECT
Connections & Setup
Insert a cassette tape
1. Make sure the camcorder is connected to a
power supply.
2. Open the LCD monitor fully or adjust the
viewfinder.
3. With the camcorder set to A (automatic
EJECT
record), slide the EJECT switch until the
cassette tape holder opens. Don’t force the
camcorder open.
4. Insert a tape with the tape wheel facing up and
the tape window facing out.
Notes:
• Make sure the tape is not slack when
loading the cassette tape. If there is any
slack, turn the wheel on the cassette
tape in the direction of the arrow to
take up the slack.
• Make sure the Erase Protection tab is in
the position that allows recording. If
not, slide the tab. Some tapes have
removable tabs. If the tab has been
removed, cover the hole with adhesive
tape.
5. Push on the area marked CLOSE until the
cassette tape holder locks into place. (PAUSE
appears on the LCD or in the viewfinder.)
Notes:
• You can’t open the cassette tape holder
unless a power supply is attached.
• The cassette tape holder can’t be
opened while the camcorder is in the
record mode.
Area marked
CLOSE
BATTERY
RELEASE switch
Caution: Closing the LCD monitor while the
cassette tape holder is still open may
damage the LCD monitor.
Cassette tape holder
Chapter 1 13
Connections & Setup
LCD monitor
Viewfinder
MENU dial
S
TOP
T
H
G
I
L
N
O
R
O
T
U
A
RE
F
F
/M
TA
R
O
KE
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A
.
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J
E
Eyepiece focus
control
Use the LCD monitor or viewfinder to see what’s recording
Using the LCD monitor
1. Remove the lens cap.
2. Open the monitor 90˚ from the camcorder body.
3. Tilt the monitor 180˚ forward or 90˚ down as
required for convenient viewing while
recording.
4. To adjust the brightness of the LCD monitor,
rotate the MENU dial.
Notes:
• Adjusting the LCD monitor brightness
does not affect the recorded image on
the tape.
• When the LCD monitor opens more than
25˚, the viewfinder automatically turns
off. When the LCD monitor is closed, the
viewfinder automatically turns on.
Using the viewfinder
1. Remove the lens cap.
C
O
U
LIGHT
N
T
E
F
OFF A
A
R
D
R
E
/
/
UTO ON
M
W
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2. Close the monitor.
Note: If the monitor is open more than 25˚,
the viewfinder turns off.
3. Adjust the viewfinder to a comfortable position.
4. Turn the eyepiece focus control to adjust the
focus of the viewfinder for your vision.
14 Chapter 1
Connections & Setup
C
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Recording
Power switch
Start/Stop
button
STOP R RETAKE F
LIGHT
OFF AUTO ON
COUNTER R/M
FADE/WIPE
P. AE
DIGIFECT
Playback buttons on top of
the camcorder include:
Stop ( ),
Rewind ( )
Play/Pause (/)
Fast Forward ( ).
CHARGE
POWER
REFRESH
Start recording
1. Remove the lens cap.
A
2. Set the Power switch to
(automatic record).
(The POWER indicator comes on.)
3. Press and release the Recording Start/Stop
button to start recording. (
REC
appears in the
viewfinder or LCD monitor (but won’t show up
in the recording)).
4. When finished recording, press and release the
Recording Start/Stop button again to stop
recording. The camcorder is now in the recordpause mode. (PAUSE appears in the viewfinder
or on the LCD monitor.)
Play your recording
1. Set the Power switch to . (The POWER
EJECT
indicator comes on.)
2. Press the Rewind button to reverse the tape
to the beginning. When rewound completely,
the camcorder automatically stops.
3. Press the Play/Pause button
/
to start
playback. View the recording using the LCD
monitor or viewfinder.
4. Press the Stop button
when finished playing
the tape.
Notes:
• Sound will play back if the LCD monitor
is open or closed. To adjust the volume,
use the Zoom Lever (also labeled
VOL - +).
• More information about using the LCD
monitor and viewfinder can be found on
pages 26-27.
Chapter 1 15
Connections & Setup
DC IN
jack
STOP R RETAKE F
LIGHT
OFF AUTO ON
COUNTER R/M
C
O
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F
O
A
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F
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M
A
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F
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Power switch
FADE/WIPE
P. AE
A
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O
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P
. R
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+
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IG
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T
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X
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S
CHARGE indicator
REFRESH
POWER
CHARGE
EJECT
DIGIFECT
Turn off the camcorder
1. Set the Power switch to OFF.
2. Close the LCD monitor.
Powering the Camcorder
You can power your camcorder with a battery or AC
power.
Charging the Battery
1. Set the Power switch to OFF.
2. Make sure the battery is attached to the
camcorder. Hook the top end of the battery to
the camcorder and push the battery in until it
locks in place.
Important: If the battery pack is attached in
the wrong position, a malfunction may occur.
3. Plug the small end of the power supply into the
DC IN jack on the camcorder and the other end
into an AC outlet. (The CHARGE indicator
blinks.)
4. When the CHARGE indicator stops blinking but
stays on, charging is finished. Make sure the
Power switch is set to OFF, then unplug the
power supply from the AC outlet and from the
camcorder.
Tip
Before extended use, it is
recommended that you prepare
enough battery packs to cover 3
times the planned shooting time.
Important: Before detaching the power
source, make sure the camcorder’s power is
turned off. Failure to do so can result in a
camcorder malfunction.
16 Chapter 1
Connections & Setup
Notes:
• If a protective cap is on the battery, remove it before use or charging.
• When charging a battery for the first time or after a long storage period, the
CHARGE indicator may not come on. Remove the battery and try again.
• Charge the battery in temperatures between 50˚ and 90˚ Fahrenheit (10-35˚
Celsius).
• Charging times are based on a fully discharged battery and vary depending on
ambient temperature and battery condition.
Approximate charging time
Battery Charging Time
FB1260 approx. 90 min.
Approximate recording time (in minutes)
Battery Viewfinder on LCD monitor on
FB1260 90, (50*) 80, (45*)
* when the video light is on (CC6374 only)
Note: Recording time is reduced significantly when you use the Zoom or RecordStandby modes repeatedly or when you use the LCD monitor repeatedly.
Charge marker
Using the Charge Marker
A charge marker is provided on the battery pack to
help you remember whether it has been charged or
not. Two colors are provided (red and black)—you
choose which one means charged and which means
discharged.
Chapter 1 17
Connections & Setup
BATTERY
RELEASE switch
CHARGE
indicator
STOP R RETAKE F
LIGHT
/M
E
R
IP
TER
OFF AUTO ON
N
E/W
U
CO
FAD
C
O
U
L
I
N
G
H
T
T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
U
M
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
O
E
N
E
D
I
G
I
F
E
C
T
S
T
O
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R
R
E
T
A
K
E
L
O
V
C
E
R
.
C
E
S
5
T
H
G
I
R
B
/
G
U
N
N
I
K
C
A
R
T
/
+
C
B
T
/
X
I
P
Y
D
A
T
E
S
+
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
T
IFEC
E
IG
. A
P
D
REFRESH button
REFRESH
indicator
REFRESH
POWER
CHARGE
Removing the Battery
Slide the BATTERY RELEASE switch and pull out the
battery pack.
Refreshing the Battery
If you charge a battery before it has been fully
discharged, the battery’s capacity may be reduced
over time. We recommend you discharge or “refresh”
your battery before recharging it.
1. Follow steps 1-3 in “Charging the Battery” (see
page 16).
2. Press and hold the REFRESH button for 2
seconds. (The REFRESH indicator blinks. When
the battery has been refreshed, charging
automatically starts and the CHARGE indicator
blinks.)
Notes:
• If you store a partially charged battery
for a long period of time, its
performance is reduced.
EJECT
• During charging or discharging, the
camcorder can’t be operated.
• Charging and discharging isn’t possible if
the wrong type of battery is used.
• If the battery operation time remains
extremely short even after having been
fully charged, the battery is worn out
and needs to be replaced. Please
purchase a new one.
18 Chapter 1
Connections & Setup
Battery Level Icon
The battery level icon appears in the viewfinder or
LCD monitor and reveals the amount of power left in
the rechargeable battery.
Note: The battery level icon is not recorded on
the tape.
This icon appears when battery is fully charged.
The icon changes to show that you’ve used some of the battery’s
power.
As you use more of the battery’s power, the icon changes again.
This battery icon flashes in the viewfinder or LCD monitor when the
battery power is almost gone. The camcorder turns off automatically
after a few seconds.
Battery Care and Storage
• After repeated charging and use, battery life gradually decreases. When operation
time is too short to be useful, the battery should be replaced.
• If the battery pack becomes too hot, remove it from the camcorder and let it cool
down.
• Do not short the battery’s terminals.
• Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the battery. There are no user-serviceable
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 149˚F (65˚C)
could be hazardous.
ATTENTION: The EPA certified RBRC® Battery Recycling Seal on the nickel-
cadmium (Ni-Cd) battery indicates Thomson Consumer Electronics is
voluntarily participating in an industry program to collect and recycle these
batteries at the end of their useful life, when taken out of service in the
United States or Canada. The RBRC
®
program provides a convenient
alternative to placing used Ni-Cd batteries into the trash or the
municipal waste stream, which may be illegal in your area. Please call
1-800-8-BATTERY
™
for information on Ni-Cd battery recycling and
RBRC
RBRC
Ni-Cd
disposal bans/restrictions in your area. Thomson Consumer Electronics’
involvement in this program is part of our commitment to preserving our
environment and conserving our natural resources.
Chapter 1 19
Connections & Setup
Using the Power Supply
The power supply attaches to the camcorder and lets you power it directly from standard
household power. The power supply operates on 110-240 volts, 50/60 Hz, so it can be
used virtually anywhere in the world to power the camcorder or recharge the battery.
1. Plug the small end of the power supply into the DC IN jack on the camcorder.
2. Plug the other end of the power supply into a working AC outlet (110-240V, 50/
60Hz).
Caution: Never use this power supply for any purpose other than charging the
FB1260 or supplying power to the camcorder.
DC IN jack
COUNTER R/M
L
IG
H
T
FADE/WIPE
O
F
F
A
U
T
P. AE
O
O
N
DIGIFECT
S
T
O
P
R
R
E
T
A
K
E
F
L
O
V
C
E
. R
C
E
S
5
T
H
G
I
R
B
/
G
U
N
IN
E
K
C
M
A
R
T
/
+
C
B
/T
X
I
P
Y
D
2
AC power supply
A
E
T
S
+
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
1
Removing the power supply
1. Make sure the Power switch is set to OFF.
2. Unplug the power supply from the AC outlet.
3. Unplug the small end of the power supply from the DC IN jack on the camcorder.
Important: Before detaching the power source, make sure the camcorder’s power is
turned off. Failure to do so can result in a camcorder malfunction.
Using an Optional Plug Adapter in Foreign Countries
An optional plug adapter might be required in some countries.
1. Plug the power supply’s plug into the AC plug adapter.
2. Plug the AC plug adapter into the AC outlet.
20 Chapter 1
Connections & Setup
Using the Shoulder Strap
The camcorder’s shoulder strap is designed to let you carry the camera from your
shoulder and – when ready– bring the camcorder to shooting position in one quick
movement.
1. Following the illustration, thread the strap through the eyelet.
2. Fold the strap back and thread it through the buckle.
3. Repeat the procedure to attach the other end of the strap to the other eyelet located
under the hand strap. Make sure the strap is not twisted.
Caution: When carrying the camcorder with the shoulder strap, you should close the
LCD monitor and rotate the viewfinder down. This helps prevent possible damage to
the monitor or viewfinder from bumping against your body as you move. Make sure
the shoulder strap is firmly attached before using it to carry the camcorder.
1
STOP
LIGHT
R
COUNTER R/M
OFF AUTO ON
RETAKE
FADE/WIPE
F
P. AE
CHARGE
DIGIFECT
VIDEO
REFRESH
EJECT
2
3
Chapter 1 21
Connections & Setup
F
E
M
T
O
X
.
O
C
P
W
U
O
.
S
S
S
B
C
Y
U
.
A
S
R
M
T
E
EERMAMMEE
N
A
A
A
N
U
U
U
U
U
T
T
T
O
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R
D
N
E
.
ECXZT
M
O
S
O
O
Y
D
M
SETEM ME
S
5
N
P
0
U
x
C
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M
A
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A
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P
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C
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S
5
T
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K
C
M
A
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T
/
+
C
B
T
/
X
I
P
Y
D
A
E
T
S
+
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
MENU dial
Power switch
Setting the Date and Time
You need to set the date and time before they can
be displayed.
Date and time information is recorded onto the tape
at all times, but its display can be turned on or off
during playback (see page 69).
1. Set the Power switch to M (manual record).
2. Press in the MENU dial. (The CAMERA MENU
3. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight TO SYSTEM
4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight NEXT. Press
(The POWER indicator comes on.)
appears.)
MENU. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The
SYSTEM MENU appears.)
in the MENU dial to select it. (The second page
of the SYSTEM MENU appears.)
S
Y
S
T
E
N
T
O
C
A
M
E
R
E
C
T
I
M
E
I
N
T
.
T
I
M
T
E
L
E
M
A
C
T
I
T
E
L
L
A
D
A
/
T
E
T
I
M
D
E
M
O
M
O
D
U
R
A
MMEEN
U
O
F
F
E
O
F
F
O
F
R
O
F
E
N
N
GM.
GFLISH
E
E
O
F
5. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight DATE/TIME.
Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The DATE/
TIME menu appears.)
6. Rotate the MENU dial to the item you want to
change (year, month, day, and time). Press in
R
E
T
U
R
N
DATE / T IPMME
Y
E
A
R
M
O
N
T
H
D
A
Y
T
I
M
E
E
X
I
T
22 Chapter 1
280
0
1
J
U
N
2
8
:
2
0
the MENU dial to select it. When the setting
starts blinking, rotate the MENU dial to adjust it.
When the correct setting appears, press in the
MENU dial to select it.
7. When finished, rotate the MENU dial to select
EXIT. Then press in the MENU dial twice.
Note: To make the date and time appear in
the camcorder’s display or on the TV, see
page 69.
Important: A separate internal battery is
used for the time and date. Under normal
conditions, this battery should last for 10
years or more. If you should need to replace
it, see your nearest RCA authorized service
center.
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
STOP R RETAKE F
LIGHT
OFF AUTO ON
COUNTER R/M
C
O
U
LIGH
N
T
T
E
F
OF
A
R
D
F A
R
E
/
/
UTO
M
W
P
I
.
ON
P
A
E
E
D
I
G
I
F
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C
T
S
T
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T
A
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F
V
C
E
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.
C
E
S
5
T
H
IG
R
B
/
G
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N
N
I
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K
C
M
A
R
T
/
Y
D
A
E
T
S
+
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
POWER indicator
IPE
P. AE
FADE/W
L
O
+
C
B
T
/
X
I
P
MENU dial
DIGIFECT
CHARGE
POWER
REFRESH
Connections & Setup
Setting the Tape Recording Speed
You need to select the tape recording speed for the
quality of recording you want.
1. Set the Power switch to M (manual record).
(The POWER indicator comes on.)
2. Press the MENU dial in. (The CAMERA MENU
appears.)
3. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight TO SYSTEM
MENU. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The
SYSTEM MENU appears.)
4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight REC MODE.
Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The REC
MODE menu appears.)
5. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight SP if you want
the best recording quality, or SLP if you want a
EJECT
lesser-quality recording which provides three
times the recording time as SP. Press in the
MENU dial to select it.
6. When finished, press in the MENU dial again to
exit.
Note: If the recording speed is switched
during the recording, the playback picture
will be blurred at the switching point.
Chapter 1 23
Connections & Setup
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
STOP R RETAKE F
LIGHT
OFF AUTO ON
COUNTER R/M
C
O
U
L
IG
N
H
T
T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
A
E
/
/
U
M
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
O
E
N
E
D
I
G
I
F
E
C
T
S
T
O
P
R
R
E
T
A
K
E
F
V
C
E
. R
C
E
S
5
T
H
IG
R
/B
G
U
N
IN
E
K
C
M
A
TR
/
Y
D
A
E
T
S
+
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
POWER indicator
FADE/WIPE
P. AE
L
O
+
C
B
/T
IX
P
MENU dial
DIGIFECT
CHARGE
POWER
REFRESH
Setting the Tape Length
You need to select the tape length so that the camera
can alert you how much time you have left on the
tape.
1. Set the Power switch to M (manual record). (The
POWER indicator comes on.)
2. Press the MENU dial in. (The CAMERA MENU
appears.)
3. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight TO SYSTEM
MENU. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The
SYSTEM MENU appears.)
4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight TAPE
LENGTH. Press in the MENU dial to select it.
(The TAPE LENGTH menu appears.)
5. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight the length of
the tape you are using (T20, T30, T35, T40).
(T20=20 minutes, T30=30 minutes, etc. in SP
EJECT
mode.) Press in the MENU dial to select it.
6. When finished, press in the MENU dial again to
exit.
Note: The tape remaining time feature is
accurate only if the correct tape length has
been selected.
24 Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Using the Monitors
Chapter Overview:
• Seeing What You Are Recording
• On-screen Icons
Changing Entertainment. Again.
25
Using the Monitors
Seeing What You Are Recording
To see what is recording, use either the LCD monitor or the viewfinder monitor. When
the LCD monitor is open more than 25˚, the viewfinder turns off. When you close the
LCD monitor, the viewfinder turns on.
Using the LCD Monitor
The camcorder’s LCD monitor is a miniature color screen that you can use for recording
playback.
1. Open the LCD monitor at least 25˚. The
viewfinder turns off.
180°
90°
Cautions
Never force the LCD monitor to rotate completely around. This could damage both
the monitor and/or the camcorder.
When carrying the unit with the shoulder strap, close the monitor to prevent possible
damage to it.
2. For convenient viewing, the LCD monitor can
be tilted once it is open 90˚ from the camera
body. Tilt the monitor forward up 180˚ or down
up to 90˚.
• From a high angle (such as over a crowd)—
tilt the monitor down to record.
• From a low angle (such as when kneeling)—
tilt the monitor up to record.
3. Adjust the brightness of the LCD monitor by
turning the bright control (MENU dial). This
doesn’t affect the brightness of the recording
you are making.
• Turn the dial toward + to brighten the image.
• Turn the dial toward – to darken the image.
4. When finished recording, close the monitor and
lock it into place.
Note: Recording outdoors on bright, sunny
days can make the LCD monitor hard to see.
Use the viewfinder instead.
26 Chapter 2
Using the Monitors
Viewfinder
Eyepiece focus
control
C
O
U
L
IG
N
H
T
T
E
F
O
A
R
FF
D
R
E
AU
/
/
M
W
T
P
O
I
.
O
P
A
E
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D
I
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C
T
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T
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F
L
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V
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R
.
C
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S
5
T
H
G
I
R
B
/
G
U
N
N
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K
C
M
A
R
T
/
+
C
B
T
/
X
I
P
Y
D
A
E
T
S
+
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Using the Viewfinder
The camcorder’s viewfinder is a miniature monitor
that displays in black and white. For convenient
viewing, rotate the viewfinder up or down.
Note: When the LCD monitor is open more
than 25˚, the viewfinder turns off.
Eyepiece Focus Control
The eyepiece focus control lets you set the 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 viewfinder and adjust the eyepiece focus
control for your vision.
Note: The eyepiece focus control does not
affect the focus of the image captured by the
camcorder.
Cautions
Never 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 to help prevent
possible damage to it.
Chapter 2 27
Using the Monitors
On-screen Icons
Several displays appear on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder to aid in the
operation of the camcorder. Although it may look crowded, all of the icons
shown below do not appear on-screen at the same time. Also, not all screen
icons are shown in the illustration. Refer to the icon descriptions that follow.
S
M
I
1
2
0
N
R
E
C
S
M
5
I
N
1
/
2
S
B
R
I
G
H
C
O
D
E
C
Recording Menu Icons Playback Menu Icons
F
I
N
E
P
P
A
–
–
T
R
A
T
N
2
5G.
0
1
1
U
S
E
–
–
–
–
–
U
L
A
T
A
M
1
4
T
5
–
I
O
1
0
+
0
2
M
W
B
–
–
–
N
S
:
:
4
5
1+8
TVBOC
LUME
–
––––––
P
:
1
4
5
2
3
A
T
–
–
–:–
–
+
Warning Icons
Indicates the amount of power left in the rechargeable battery.
An empty battery icon flashes on screen when the battery’s power is
almost exhausted.
Missing Cassette: Appears when the Power switch is set to either A or
M
(automatic or manual record) and no cassette tape is in the
camcorder.
Head Cleaning: HEAD CLEANING REQUIRED USE CLEANING
CASSETTE appears if dirt is detected on the recording heads. Use an
optional cleaning cassette to remove dirt.
28 Chapter 2
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