RCA CC6394 User Manual

Camcorder
User’s Guide
Changing Entertainment. Again.
CC6384/CC6394
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 .................... 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 Recording Format (for CC6394 only) ............................... 23
Additional Notes about S-VHS and S-VHS ET Cassette Tapes ......24
Setting the Tape
Recording Speed ................................................................................... 25
Setting the Tape Length .......................................................................26
Chapter 2: Using the Monitors
Seeing What You Are Recording ......................................................... 28
Using the LCD Monitor .................................................................. 28
Using the Viewfinder ..................................................................... 29
On-screen Icons..................................................................................... 30
Warning Icons ................................................................................. 30
(continued on the next page)
1
Table of Contents
Recording and Playback Icons ....................................................... 31
Other Icons ..................................................................................... 35
Chapter 3: Recording
Recording Details.................................................................................. 38
Journalistic Shooting ...................................................................... 38
Self-Recording ................................................................................ 39
Quick Review .................................................................................. 39
Retake ............................................................................................. 39
Digital and Optical Zooming ......................................................... 40
Using Steady Pix.......................................................................... 41
Using the Video Light .................................................................... 42
Recording Tips ...................................................................................... 44
Chapter 4: Playback
Playback Options .................................................................................. 46
Basic Playback ................................................................................. 46
Still Playback Mode ........................................................................ 49
Shuttle Search ................................................................................. 50
Choose your Connection ...................................................................... 51
Using the Cassette Tape Adapter .................................................. 51
Connecting to a TV (or VCR) with Audio/Video Input Jacks ........ 54
Playback on a TV (or VCR) with Audio/Video Input Jacks............ 55
Tape Dubbing ................................................................................. 56
Chapter 5: Digital Still Camera
Digital Still Camera Recording and Playback...................................... 58
Setting the Picture Quality ............................................................ 59
Selecting a Snapshot Mode ........................................................... 60
Taking Snapshots ............................................................................ 62
Normal Playback ............................................................................. 64
Slide Show ...................................................................................... 65
2
Table of Contents
Index ............................................................................................... 65
Index Playback ................................................................................ 66
Protecting Images .......................................................................... 67
Unprotecting Images ..................................................................... 68
Deleting Images ............................................................................. 69
Initializing the Built-in Memory .................................................... 70
System Requirements for Picture Navigator ...................................... 72
Connecting To A Windows® PC .......................................................... 73
Chapter 6: Advanced Features
Using the Menus For Advanced Adjustment...................................... 76
Menu Definitions .................................................................................. 77
Camera Menu ................................................................................. 77
System Menu .................................................................................. 77
System Menu (continued) .............................................................. 78
Using the Advanced Features .............................................................. 80
Fade/Wipe Effects ........................................................................... 80
Program AE With Special Effects ................................................... 82
Digital Effects ................................................................................. 83
Exposure Control ............................................................................ 84
Focusing .......................................................................................... 85
White Balance Adjustment ............................................................ 87
Date/Time Insert ............................................................................. 89
Instant Titles ................................................................................... 90
Animation ....................................................................................... 91
Time-Lapse ...................................................................................... 92
Chapter 7: Other Information
Troubleshooting.................................................................................... 94
Final Notes ............................................................................................ 99
Care and Cleaning .............................................................................. 102
Care and Maintenance ....................................................................... 102
Proper Care and Storage ............................................................. 103
Tape Care and Storage ................................................................. 104
CD-ROM Care ................................................................................ 104
(continued on the next page)
3
Table of Contents
Things to Avoid ............................................................................ 105
Traveling Tips ...................................................................................... 106
Specifications ......................................................................................107
Customer Assistance and Service ...................................................... 109
Limited Warranty................................................................................ 111
FCC Declaration of Conformity and Industry Canada Information . 115
Optional Accessories .......................................................................... 116
Accessories Order Form ................................................................ 119
Index .................................................................................................... 122
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 Recording Format
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:
E J E C
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R E F R
V E
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C H A
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T B C
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(
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/
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Camcorder
AC power supply Part # 250814
Battery pack Part # 244427 (FB1260) (CC6394 only) Part # 244265 (CC6384 only)
Cassette tape adapter Part # 244270
AA battery for cassette tape
Lens cap Part # 251624
Shoulder strap Part # ACS091
adapter
Imaging software CD-ROM
PC connection cable (for Windows® PC) Part # 247952
Part # 247954
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
S-video jack
Audio/Video jacks
Eyepiece focus control
Viewfinder
BATTERY RELEASE switch
MENU/ BRIGHT/ TRACKING dial
E
J E C
T
S
H
M
E
N
U
/
B
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/
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P . A
E D I G I F E C T
F
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M
Recording Start/Stop button
R E F
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V
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D E O
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S
C
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H A R
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F
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K A
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V
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SNAPSHOT button
C O U N T E
F
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A
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F
D
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A
/
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W
T O
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O
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F A U
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P O
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Power Zoom/ VOL lever
L I G
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/TB
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STEADY PIX™ button
Power switch
C
O
U
O
F
L I G
DIGITAL (DSC IN/OUT) jack
Speaker
Video light
Microphone
Hand strap
Chapter 1 7
Connections & Setup
Video LIGHT switch
COUNTER R/M and FADE/WIDE button
LIGHT
Playback buttons
STOP R RETAKE F
M
/
R
E
P
R
I
E
T
OFF AUTO ON
C
W
/
N
E
U
O
P. A E button
E
D
A
.
A
F
P
DIGIFECT button
T
H G I
L
N
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A
F
M
F
/
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N
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C
W
/
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D
A
F
DSC/CHARGE indicator
VIDEO/REFRESH indicator
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
T
C
E
F
I
G
I
D
EJECT
EJECT switch
REFRESH button
S
T
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P
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T A
K
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F
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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.
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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
C O U
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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 A D E / W
P
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E D I G I F E C T
R E T
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F
T H
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A
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A
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A
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Power switch
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F F
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S T O P
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+
L A T I
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U O / N
I C S D
(
L
P

Turn on the camcorder

Set the Power switch to the desired setting, either automatic ( off (OFF), or in playback mode (
A
) or manual (M) record mode, powered
).
The VIDEO 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 77-79 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
M
LIGHT
/
R R E
T
OFF AUTO ON
N
U O C
E P
I
W
/
E
E
D
A
.
A
F
P
VIDEO indicator
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
T
C
E F
I
G
I
D
Set the video light (OFF/AUTO/ON)
Switch to AUTO
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
12 Chapter 1
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.
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
R E T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
Tape window
E P
I
E
A . P
T C
E F
I
G
I
D
EJECT switch
S
T
T O
H
P
G I
N
L
O
O
R
T U A
F
R
M /
F
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V
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DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
Tape wheel
T
C E J
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 T
T
O
P
H G I L
N O
R
O T U
A
R
F
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M
F
/
T A
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U O C
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D
F
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V
R
T C E
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
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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 O U
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Recording
Power switch Start/Stop button
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
E
P
R E T
OFF AUTO ON
N
U
O
C
I
W
/
E D A
F
T C
E F
I
E
A
G
I
.
D
P
Playback buttons on top of the camcorder include:
Stop ( ), Rewind ( )
Play/Pause (/) Fast Forward ( ).
CHARGE

Start recording

1. Remove the lens cap.
A
2. Set the Power switch to
(automatic record).
(The VIDEO 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

DSC
REFRESH
VIDEO
1. Set the Power switch to . (The VIDEO
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 28-29.
Chapter 1 15
Connections & Setup
DC IN jack
STOP R RETAKE F
LIGHT
OFF AUTO ON
N
U
O
C
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
M
/
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P
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W
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Power switch
CHARGE indicator
T C
E F
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A
G
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D
CHARGE

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.
DSC
REFRESH
VIDEO
EJECT
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
244265 (for CC6384) approx. 2 hrs. 20 min.
FB1260 (for CC6394) approx. 90 min.
Approximate recording time (in minutes)
Battery Viewfinder on LCD monitor on
244265 (for CC6384) 130, (75*) 105, (60*)
FB1260 (for CC6394) 80, (45*) 65, (35*)
* when the video light is on
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
M
LIGHT
/
R
E
P
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OFF AUTO ON
/
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REFRESH button
REFRESH indicator
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
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
R
B
R
C
C
R
B
R
N
i-C
d
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
C O U
L I
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G H
T
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F
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AC power supply
A
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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
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Chapter 1 21
Connections & Setup
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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 89).
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 VIDEO 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
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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
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DATE / T IPMME
Y
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22 Chapter 1
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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 camcorders display or on the TV, see page 89.
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.
Connections & Setup

Setting the Recording Format (for CC6394 only)

You need to select what kind of tape you are using or type of recording you wish to perform.
1. Set the Power switch to M (manual record). (The VIDEO 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.)
U
TGETMHME
S E
T
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O
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F
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3
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4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight S-VHS ET. Press the MENU dial to select it. (The S-VHS ET menu appears.)
If you are using a standard VHS-C tape, rotate the MENU dial to S-VHS ET. Press in the MENU dial to select it.
If you are using an S-VHS tape, rotate the MENU dial to S-VHS. Press in the MENU dial to select it.
5. Rotate the MENU dial to ON if you want to record in S-VHS mode, or OFF if you want to record in standard VHS mode. Press the MENU dial to select it.
ON Records with S-VHS picture quality
on a VHS-C tape. This is called Super VHS ET (Expansion Technology). Also records in S-VHS when you are using an S-VHS tape.
OFF Factory preset: records in VHS.
Notes:
When the S-VHS ET mode is engaged, S-ET
is displayed.
During S-VHS record mode, S is displayed.
When S-VHS ET or S-VHS recording starts,
S-VHS REC is displayed for approximately. 3 seconds.
If a tape is not loaded, S-VHS is displayed.
Y
S
N
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S–VHS ET
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IT
Chapter 1 23
Connections & Setup

Additional Notes about S-VHS and S-VHS ET Cassette Tapes

Use S-VHS tapes for storing recordings for an extended period or for recording important scenes, as they enable higher-quality recording and playback.
With some tapes, better picture quality may not be obtained even with S-VHS ET recording. It is recommended that you do a test recording beforehand to ensure if better results can be obtained.
If the S-VHS ET mode or recording format is switched during recording, the playback picture will be blurred at the switching point.
Noise may appear on-screen when tapes recorded in the SLP mode are played back.
Tapes recorded in S-VHS or S-VHS ET mode can be played back not only on this camcorder but also on a Super VHS VCR, an S-VHS ET VCR, or a VCR equipped with the SQPB (S-VHS QUASI PLAYBACK) function.
When tapes recorded in S-VHS or S-VHS ET mode are played back on a VCR
equipped with the SQPB (S-VHS QUASI PLAYBACK) function, S-VHS picture quality is not available.
Tapes recorded in S-VHS or S-VHS ET mode may not play back on some VCRs.
It is recommended to specifically label S-VHS ET recordings so you can easily
distinguish them from regular VHS recordings.
To avoid on-screen noise, do not perform Still Playback or Shuttle Search repeatedly.
The S-VHS ET (extended technology) feature does not work with S-VHS tapes.
24 Chapter 1
M
A
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STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
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R R E
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OFF AUTO ON
N
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D I G I F E C T
S T
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T
H G I R
B /
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+
L A T I
G I
D
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O / N I
C S D (
M
A
F
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Power switch
VIDEO indicator
E P
I
W
/
E
E
D
A
.
A
F
P
L O
+
C
B T /
X I P
) T
MENU dial
T
C
E F
I
G
I
D
CHARGE
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 VIDEO 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
DSC
REFRESH
VIDEO
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 25
Connections & Setup
M
A
F
F
O
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A
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P
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
R E T
OFF AUTO ON
N
U
O
C
C O U
L
I
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G
T
H T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
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A
/
/
M
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P
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N
D I G I F E C T
S
T O P
R
R E T
A K
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F
T
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P
A N S
T
H G I
R B /
G
U
N
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K C
M
A
R T /
Y
D A E
T S
+
A
T I G I
D
O
/
N I C
S D
(
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
VIDEO indicator
E P
I
W
/
E
E
D
A
.
A
P
F
L O V
+
C B T /
X I P
L
) T U
MENU dial
T C
E F
I
G
I
D
CHARGE

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 VIDEO 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
DSC
REFRESH
VIDEO
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.
26 Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Using the Monitors
Chapter Overview:
Seeing What You Are Recording
On-screen Icons
Changing Entertainment. Again.
27
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.
28 Chapter 2
Using the Monitors
Viewfinder
Eyepiece focus control
C O U
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)
T
D
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O / N I
C S D (
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 (color for the CC6394). 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 29
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.
M
I
1
2
0
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S
M
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.
0
Recording Menu Icons Playback Menu Icons

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
camcorder.
S
–––E–T–––
S
F
H
V
A
P
T
A
1
*S-VHS and S-VHS ET icons are for the CC6394 only.
(automatic or manual record) and no cassette tape is in the
E
I
N
E
1
S
R
E
C
U
S
E
U
L
A
T
A
M
1
4
T
T
5
O
I
1
0
+
0
2
M
W
B
N
S
:
:
4
5
1+8
TVBOC
LUME
S
P
:
1
2
3
–:–
4
5
A
T
+
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.
30 Chapter 2
Using the Monitors
Condensation: CONDENSATION, OPERATION PAUSED PLEASE WAIT
appears if moisture occurs inside the camcorder. When this icon appears, wait at least one hour before using the camcorder again.
TAPE END
LENS CAP
E01-E06
End of Cassette: Appears when a tape reaches its end during recording or playback.
Covered Lens: Appears briefly after the power is turned on to either automatic or manual record mode and the lens cap is still attached.
Safeguard: The error icons (E01-E06) show what type of malfunction has occurred. If an error icon and warning appear, turn the unit off, remove the power supply (battery, etc.) and wait a few minutes for the warnings to clear. If they do, you can resume using the camcorder. If the warnings remain, consult your nearest RCA authorized service center.

Recording and Playback Icons

Auto Date, Date, Time, or Date and Time Icons
DEC 25. 01 AM 11:45:18
Indicates the current date and time and is recorded when they are displayed (see page 89).
Chapter 2 31
Using the Monitors
Special Effect Icons
SEPIA
SPORTS
SD:SHADOW
HZ: HAZE
TWILIGHT
2
S1/2000
NEGA POSI
Appears when you select SEPIA to give your recordings a brown­tone like old photographs.
Appears when you select SPORTS to record fast-moving action, such as sporting events.
Appears when you select SD:SHADOW to darken the picture and reduce glare.
Appears when you select HZ:HAZE to soften the picture and give it a misty white effect.
Appears when you select TWILIGHT to record scenes at twilight, fireworks, etc.
Appears when you select 1/2000 to record faster-moving action than the SPORTS mode.
Appears when you select NEGA POSI to reverse the colors and create a negative image.
MOSAIC
STRETCH
B/W MONOTONE
Appears when you select MOSAIC to record scenes in a mosaic pattern.
Appears when you select STRETCH to record scenes which are double the horizontal width of the picture.
Appears when you select B/W MONOTONE to record scenes in classic black and white.
32 Chapter 2
Using the Monitors
Preset Titles
The preset title selected in the TITLE menu appears here. It will be recorded on the tape when it appears.
M. W. B. (Manual White Balance) Icons
The icon for the manual white balance selected in the M.W.B. menu appears here.
Appears when you select :FINE to record outdoors on a sunny day.
Appears when you select :CLOUD to record outdoors on a cloudy day.
Appears when you select :HALOGEN to record using halogen or tungsten lighting.
MWB
Status Icons
MWB appears when you select MWB to adjust the color temperatures.
REC
PAUSE
Appears when the camcorder is recording.
Appears during record-standby.
Appears when the camcorder plays a tape.
Appears during play-pause.
Appears during fast forward and flashes during forward search.
Appears during rewind and flashes during reverse search.
Tracking Icons
AT MT
Appears during automatic tracking.
Appears during manual tracking.
Chapter 2 33
Using the Monitors
Zoom Icon
4X
Appears when you use the zoom lever.
Bright and Volume Icons
BRIGHT
VOLUME
Appears when you adjust the brightness of the monitor with the BRIGHT dial.
During playback, the VOLUME icon appears when you adjust the volume of the speaker with the VOL control (also zoom lever).
Exposure Icon
+03
This icon appears when you are adjusting brightness manually using the EXPOSURE menu.
Fade and Wipe Icons
Press the FADE/WIPE button to display the icon for the fade or wipe you want to select.
B
K
Appears when you select black fade.
Appears when you select mosaic fade.
Appears when you select shutter wipe.
Appears when you select slide wipe.
Appears when you select door wipe.
Appears when you select corner wipe.
Appears when you select window wipe.
34 Chapter 2
Focus Icons
Using the Monitors
Appear when you are adjusting focus manually using the FOCUS menu. The icons also flash when the auto-focus system cannot operate properly or you can’t adjust the focus any farther.
These icons flash while you adjust manual focus (see page 86).
Animation and Time-Lapse Recording Icons
15S
1S
Appears when you select the interval time for time-lapse recording ( 15S, 30S, 1MIN, or 5MIN; 15S=15 seconds, 30S=30 seconds, etc.).
Appears when you select the recording time for animation or time­lapse recording (
1/2 of a second, etc.) (see pages 91-92).
1/4S, 1/2S, 1S, or 5S; 1/4S=1/4 of a second, 1/2S=

Other Icons

Steady Pix Icon
Appears when you are using Steady Pix (see page 41).
Tape Length Icon
T20
Indicates what tape length you have selected (T20, T30, T35, or T40; T20=20 minutes, T30=30 minutes, etc.) (see page 26).
Tape Speed Icon
SP
Indicates what tape speed you have selected (SP/SLP) (see page 25).
Chapter 2 35
Using the Monitors
TBC (Time Base Corrector) Icon
TBC
Appears when the time base corrector is turned on (see page 48).
Time Counter Icon
M0:00:00
Appears during playback. It is not recorded. An M appears in front of the time counter when memory-stop is on (see page 49).
Time-Remaining Icon
120MIN
Indicates the approximate time remaining on the tape.
Picture Quality Icon
FINE 30
Indicates the quality of picture you have selected and the number of pictures remaining for that quality (see page 59).
Snapshot Icon
P
Indicates the type of snapshot selected (other than FULL) (see page 60).
P is displayed for PIN-UP.
M4 is displayed for MULTI-4.
M9 is displayed for MULTI-9.
36 Chapter 2
Recording
Chapter Overview:
Recording Details
Recording Tips
Chapter 3
Changing Entertainment. Again.
37
Recording
C O U
L
I
N
G
T
H T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
O
E
E
N
D I G I F E C T
S T O P
R
R E T
A K E
F
L O V
T
O H S
P
A N S
T
H G I R
B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K
C
M
A R T
/
X I
P Y D
A
E T S
+
L A T I
G
I
) T
D
U O / N
I C S D
(
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P

Recording Details

+
C B T /
1. Remove the lens cap.
A
2. Set the Power switch to
or M (automatic record or manual record mode). (The VIDEO indicator comes on.)
3. Open the LCD monitor or adjust the viewfinder.
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
P
R
I
E
T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
Recording Start/ Stop button
VIDEO indicator
E
E F
I
E
A
G
I
. P
D
4. Press and release the Recording Start/Stop button to start recording. (
REC
appears in the viewfinder or LCD monitor (but won’t be recorded.))
5. 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.)
Notes:
If the Record-Standby mode continues
for 5 minutes without performing Zoom
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
T
C
EJECT
or any other operations, the camcorder’s power shuts off automatically. Set the Power switch to OFF, and then back to or M to turn the camcorder on again.
If you are recording on a tape from the
middle (such as when a tape is removed and reinserted during recording), use the Retake function (see page 39) to find the end of the last recording so you do not erase any of it.
To remove the icons from the
camcorders display during recording, see page 78.
A

Journalistic Shooting

In some situations, different shooting angles may provide more dramatic results. Hold the camcorder in the desired position and tilt the LCD monitor in
the most convenient direction. It can rotate 270° (90° downward, 180° upward).
38 Chapter 3
Recording

Self-Recording

You can shoot yourself while viewing your own image in the LCD monitor. Open the LCD monitor
and tilt it upward 180° so that it faces forward, then
point the lens toward yourself and start recording.
STOP R RETAKE F
DSC
CHARGE
M
LIGHT
/
R
E
P
R
I
E
T
W
OFF AUTO ON
N
U
O
C
/
E
D
A
F
E F
I
E
A
G
I
.
D
P
VIDEO
T
C
Rewind and RETAKE buttons
C O U
L
I
N
G
T
H T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
O
E
E
N
D I G I F E C T
S T O
P
R
R E T
A K E
F
L O V
T O
H S P A
N
S T H
G
I R B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K
C
M
A
R T /
+
C B T
/ X I
P Y D
A
E T S
+
L A T I
G I
)
T
D
U O / N I
C
S D (
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Recording Start/ Stop button
REFRESH

Quick Review

You can check the end of the last recording.
EJECT
1. Make sure the camcorder is in the Record– Standby mode.
2. Press and release quickly. (The tape is rewound for approximately 2 seconds and played back automatically, then pauses in Record–Standby mode for the next shot.)
Note: Distortion may occur at the start of playback. This is normal.

Retake

You can also rerecord certain segments.
1. Make sure the camcorder is in the Record– Standby mode.
2. Press and hold either RETAKE button to reach the start point for new recording. Pressing forwards the tape and pressing reverses it.
3. Press the Recording Start/Stop button to start recording.
Note: Noise bars appear and pictures may become monochrome or darken during Retake. This is normal.
Chapter 3 39
Recording

Digital and Optical Zooming

You can zoom in and out for close-up or wide-angle shots by moving the zoom lever on the camcorder. The camcorder automatically focuses at most distances when zooming. Optical zooming is possible up to 16 times, and digital zooming allows up to 400 times normal magnification.
C O U
L
I
N
G
T
H
T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
O
E
E
N
D I G I F E C T
S T O
P
R
R E T A K
E
F
L O V
T O H
S
P A N
S
T H G I
R B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K
C
M
A R T /
+
C
B T / X
I P
Y D A
E T
S
+
L
A T I
G I
)
T
D
U
O
/ N I
C
S D (
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Zoom lever
Tip
The further you rotate the zoom lever, the quicker the zoom action.
Using the Zoom Lever (W and T)
To zoom in tight (telephoto) or out wide (wide angle), rotate the zoom lever to either T or W.
With telephoto zooming it is possible to capture images to a maximum of 400 times normal magnification. To do this, the camcorder uses technology to artificially enhance the image.
Optical zoom is the natural, non-enhanced magnification that the camcorder’s lens will support. This camcorder has an optical zoom of 16 times (16X).
When using the zoom lever, an icon appears on screen to display the approximate zoom ratio.
Notes:
While zooming, focusing may become unstable. If so, set the zoom while in record-standby mode and adjust the image using manual focus (see page 86). Once the focus is set, zoom the camcorder in or out while recording.
The zoom level icon moves during zoom. Once it reaches the top of the zoom icon bar, all magnification from that point is through digital processing.
During digital zoom, the quality of image may suffer.
40 Chapter 3
Recording
MENU dial
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
R E T
OFF AUTO ON
N
U
O
C
C O U
L
I
N
G
T
H T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
O
E
E
N
D I G I F E C T
S T O
P
R R E T
A K
E
F
V
T O H
S P
A N S
T H G
I
R B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K C
M
A R T /
Y
D A E
T S
+
L
A
T
I G I
D
O
/
N I C
S D
(
M
A F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
E P
I
W
/
E
E
D
A
.
A
F
P
STEADY PIX button
L
O
+
C B T
/ X I
P
) T
U
VIDEO indicator
DSC
CHARGE
VIDEO
T C
E F
I
G
I
D
REFRESH button
REFRESH
Using Digital Zoom
You can use digital zoom to magnify images to a maximum of 400 times normal magnification.
1. Set the Power switch to
M
(manual record). If the DSC indicator is on, press REFRESH for approximately 1 second to select VIDEO.
2. Press in the MENU dial. (The CAMERA MENU appears.)
3. While TO SYSTEM MENU is highlighted, press in the MENU dial again. (The SYSTEM MENU appears.)
4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight D. ZOOM. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The D. ZOOM menu appears.)
5. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight the desired setting. Press in the MENU dial to select it.
6. Press in the MENU dial again to exit.

Using Steady Pix

Digital Image Stabilization is used to compensate for unstable images cause by camera shake, especially at high magnifications.
EJECT
To turn on image stabilization, press the STEADY PIX button. (
To turn off image stabilization, press STEADY PIX again. (The icon disappears.)
appears.)
Notes: Accurate stabilization may not be possible if hand shake is excessive, or when recording the following:
subjects with vertical or horizontal stripes.
dark or dim subjects.
subjects with excessive backlighting.
scenes with movement in various directions.
scenes with low-contrast backgrounds.
Switch off stabilization when the camcorder is mounted to a tripod.
The icon blinks or disappears if image stabilization cant be used.
Chapter 3 41
Recording
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
R E T
OFF AUTO ON
N
U
O
C
VIDEO light switch
C O U
L I
N
G
T
H T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
O
E
E
N
D I G I F E C T
S T O P
R R E T
A K
E
F
L O
V T O
H S
P A N S
T H G
I
R B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K C
M
A R T
/
+
C B T
/
X I P
Y
D A E
T S
+
L
A
T I G
I
) T
D
U O /
N
I C S
D (
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P

Using the Video Light

To brighten the scene when natural lighting is too dim, the camcorder uses a built-in video light.
You can turn on the video light at all times, set to turn on automatically when the camcorder senses additional light is needed, or turn off altogether.
Set the LIGHT switch as desired:
OFF Turns off the light.
AUTO Automatically allows the camcorder to
VIDEO indicator
turn on the light when there is insufficient lighting on the subject.
ON Keeps the light on at all times as long
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
E P
I
W
/
E
D
A
F
T C
E F
I
E
A
G
I
. P
D
EJECT
as the camcorder is turned on.
Video Light Details
Even if the battery icon ( ) doesn’t blink due to low battery charge, the camcorder may turn off automatically when you turn on the video light, or if the video light is turned on when you start a recording.
E J E C
T
R E F
R
V
E
I
S
D
H
E O
D
S C
C
H A R
D
I
G
G
I
F
E
E
C
T
P .
A
E
F
F
A
D
E
/
W
E
I P
K
E
A T E
R
M E N
C
U
O
U
/ B
N
T
R
E
R
I G
R
R
/
H
M
/
T
T
O
R A
F F
C K
A
I N
U
G
T O
O
N
P O
T
S
S
N A
L
P
I G
S H
H
O
T
T
V O L
+
S
T E A D
Y
P I X
/ T B C
+
D I
(
G
D
I
S
T
A
C
L
I
N / O
U T )
When LIGHT OFF/AUTO/ON switch is set to AUTO:
The video light may keep turning on and off depending on the lighting conditions. If this happens, manually switch the light ON or OFF using the LIGHT OFF/AUTO/ON switch.
If the Sports or High Speed Shutter mode is turned on, the video light is likely to stay on.
While in Twilight mode, the light won’t activate.
Video light
Notes:
The video light can only be used when
the camcorder is on.
Set the white balance to artificial light
( ) when using the video light to avoid a washed-out look.
When not using the video light, turn it
off to save battery power.
42 Chapter 3
Recording
Cautions
Never operate the video light closer than 1 foot to people or other objects.
The video light becomes very hot. Do not touch it during use or right after use. Serious injury may result.
Do not place the camcorder in a carrying case right after using the light.
Never operate the video light close to flammable or explosive material.
Consult your nearest RCA authorized service center to replace the
video light.
The video light and bulb need to cool for approximately 30 minutes after use before the bulb assembly is replaced.
Chapter 3 43
Recording

Recording Tips

To improve picture quality and color reproduction, try to make sure indoor scenes are well-lit.
Don’t move the camcorder rapidly from side-to-side while recording. A steady, gradual “pan” avoids blurring and “jitter”.
Use the viewfinder or LCD monitor to make sure the camcorder is level while recording so that your scene isn’t “tilted.”
Do not bump or tap the camcorder’s microphone while recording as this sound will be recorded.
Include close-ups of individuals when taping family outings or group functions.
Fading in and out of scenes makes your videos appear more professional.
Learn to use the special effects to add variety to your recordings.
Be aware of video and audio backgrounds. Background details barely noticed while recording may show up as visual “clutter” on your recording. Background noises (especially TV sets, radios, household appliances, traffic sounds, etc.) might detract from the sound you want to record.
Avoid long “still” shots of landmarks and scenic attractions. Recordings are more interesting if they include people and details. “Local color” gives travel videos lasting appeal. To add interest, consider recording a familiar or landmark scene from an unfamiliar vantage point.
44 Chapter 3
Playback
Chapter Overview:
Playback Options
Choose Your Connection
Chapter 4
Changing Entertainment. Again.
45
Playback
C O U N T
E F A
R D
R E
/ /
M W
P
I
.
P
A
E
E D I G I F E C T
R R E T
A K
E
F
T
H
G I R
B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K C
M
A R T
/
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
L I G
H
T O F F
A U
T O O
N
S T O P
L O
V T O
H S
P A N S
+
C B T
/
X I P
Y
D A E
T S
+
L
A
T I G
I
) T
D
U O /
N
I C S
D (

Playback Options

The camcorder’s playback features include displaying still images and high-speed shuttle search. In this section, you’ll also learn how to connect your camcorder to a TV, VCR, or computer.
Playback features (Play, Pause, Forward, Reverse, Stop) can be handled using the camcorder’s buttons.
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
E
P
R
I E T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
Playback buttons
VIDEO indicator
CHARGE
T C
E F
I
E
A
G
I
. P
D

Basic Playback

1. Insert a tape.
DSC
REFRESH
VIDEO
2. Set the Power switch to
EJECT
(The VIDEO indicator comes on.)
3. Press
(Play-Pause button) to start playback.
To stop playback, press
Press
(Rewind button) to reverse playback direction, or the (Fast Forward button) to advance the tape while in stop mode.
Notes:
If stop mode continues for 5 minutes
when power is supplied from a battery, the camcorder shuts off automatically to conserve power. To turn the camcorder on again, set the Power switch to OFF, then to back to (playback mode).
When the Power switch is set to
and the LCD monitor is opened at an angle of 25˚ or more, the LCD monitor switches on and the viewfinder switches off automatically to save power.
(playback mode).
(Stop button).
46 Chapter 4
Playback
Tips
The playback picture can be viewed in the viewfinder (with the LCD monitor shut), on the LCD monitor, or on a connected TV (see page 54).
You can also view the playback picture on the LCD monitor with it flipped over and retracted.
F A D E / W
P
I
.
P
A
E
E D I G I F E C T
T
A K E
F
H G I
R B
/ U N
E
C
M
A
R T /
VOL lever
C O U
L
I
N
G
T
H T
E
O
R
F F
R
A
/ M
U
T O O
N
S T
O
P
R R E
L O V
T
O H S
P
A N S
T
G N I K
+
C B T
/ X
I P Y
D A E T
S
+
L A T
I G I
) T
D
U
O / N
I
C S D
(
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
BRIGHT dial
If a blank portion on the tape is played back, the screen may become black. This is not a malfunction.
LCD monitor/viewfinder indications:
When power is supplied from a battery
appears. When power is supplied through the power supply, does not appear.
When a tape is stopped, no icons appear.
Adjusting the LCD Monitor Brightness
Rotate the BRIGHT dial towards + to brighten, or - to darken.
Controlling Speaker Volume
Slide the Zoom Lever (VOL.-+) towards + to turn up the volume, or towards – to turn down the volume.
Chapter 4 47
Playback
TRACKING dial
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
Adjusting the Tracking
C O U
L I
N
G H
T
T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
O
E
E
N
D I G I F E C T
S
T O P
R R E
T
A K E
F
L O
V
T O H
S
P A N
S
T
H G I R
B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K
C
M
A R T /
+
C
B T /
X I P
Y D A
E T S
+
L A T I
G I
) T
D
U
O / N I
C S D (
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
TBC button
You may need to eliminate noise bars that appear on-screen during playback. The default setting is Auto Tracking.
1) Press in the TRACKING dial for approximately 2 seconds. (MT appears).
2) Rotate the TRACKING dial until the noise bars disappear.
To return to Auto Tracking, press in the TRACKING dial for approximately 2 seconds or set the Power switch to OFF and then to again. AT blinks. (When Auto Tracking finishes, the icon disappears.)
When noise bars appear during playback, the camcorder enters the Auto Tracking mode and AT appears
Manual Tracking may not work with tapes that were recorded on other VCRs or camcorders.
Using TBC (Time Base Corrector)
You may need to remove jitter from fluctuating video signals to deliver a stable picture even with old tapes. The default setting is for TBC to be activated.
To activate the TBC mode, press the TBC button during playback for more than 1 second. (TBC appears.)
To deactivate TBC, press the TBC button during playback for more than 1 second. (TBC disappears.)
48 Chapter 4
Playback
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
E
P
R
I E T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
COUNTER R/M button
DSC
CHARGE
T C
E F
I
E
A
G
I
. P
D
Playback buttons
Using Counter Memory
REFRESH
VIDEO
Counter Memory makes it easier to locate a specific
EJECT
tape segment.
1. Press and hold the COUNTER R/M button for more than 1 second. (The counter resets to 0:00:00.)
2. Press COUNTER R/M for less than 1 second. (M appears.)
3. After recording or playback, press , then . (The tape automatically stops at or near 0:00:00.)
4. Press
to start playback.
The counter memory functions both in the Fast­Forward and Rewind modes.
To disable the Counter Memory Function, press COUNTER R/M for less than 1 second until M disappears.

Still Playback Mode

Still playback pauses the tape, freezing a single frame.
1. Press the Play/Pause button ( to freeze the image.
) during playback
2. To resume normal playback, press the Play/ Pause button again.
• Video “noise” appears on the screen and the picture may become monochrome during still playback. This is normal.
• If pause continues for more than a few minutes, the camcorder may turn off.
• After approximately 5 minutes in stop mode, the power turns off automatically.
Chapter 4 49
Playback
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
R E T
OFF AUTO ON
N
U
O
C
Playback buttons

Shuttle Search

DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
E P
I
W
/
E
D
A
F
E F
I
E
A
G
I
. P
D
VIDEO
T C
Shuttle search allows high-speed searching in either
EJECT
forward or reverse directions.
1. Press
or during playback.
2. To resume normal playback, press
• During playback, press and hold The search continues as long as you hold down the button. Once released, normal playback resumes.
• A slight mosaic effect appears on screen during shuttle search. This is normal.
• Video “noise” appears on the screen and the picture may become monochrome during shuttle search. This is normal.
.
or .
50 Chapter 4
Playback

Choose your Connection

This manual includes information for some basic types of connections. You may also need to refer your TV and VCR user’s guides for specific instructions.
Cassette tape adapter
Battery compartment cover

Using the Cassette Tape Adapter

Before choosing a connection, you may find it easier to use the cassette tape adapter.
The camcorder uses a smaller size tape, but records in standard VHS format. The cassette tape adapter allows you to play your VHS-C tapes in a VCR just like other standard VHS tapes.
Insert the VHS-C tape into the cassette tape adapter. Insert the adapter into the VHS VCR like a normal VHS tape.
1. Remove battery compartment cover.
2. Install supplied “AA” battery so positive (+) and negative (–) ends align properly with (+) and (–) terminals in battery compartment.
3. Replace battery compartment cover.
Notes:
Replace the battery when the load time
becomes much longer than normal.
Remove the battery from the cassette
tape adapter if it is not used for a month or more. This prevents possible damage from battery leakage. If leakage occurs, wipe up the liquid inside the compartment and replace the battery with a new one.
Chapter 4 51
Playback
VHS-C tape
Tape window
Cassette tape adapter
EJECT switch
Tape wheel
Inserting the Tape into the Cassette Tape Adapter
1. Before inserting the tape into the adapter, remove any slack in the tape by turning the tape wheel on the side of the tape.
2. Slide EJECT to the right to open the tape compartment lid.
3. Insert the tape with the tape window on the left and facing up.
Allow the tape to drop into the adapter. Do not
force the tape.
4. Gently close the tape compartment lid until it locks into place. Make sure the tape reel area under the adapter is free to turn while the tape is loading.
Note: You should hear a whirring sound while the tape loads.
52 Chapter 4
Playback
Removing the Tape from the Cassette Tape Adapter
1. Slide the adapter’s EJECT switch to the right. The load detector extends from the side and the whirring sound indicates the tape is being released before the adapter’s tape compartment lid opens.
EJECT switch
2. Use the access hole on the bottom of the adapter to push the tape up and remove it from the adapter.
3. Gently close the adapter’s tape compartment lid.
Caution: If the load detector is still extending from the side of the cassette tape adapter after you’ve attempted to load the tape, loading is not complete. Try to load the tape again. Attempting to insert the cassette tape adapter into a VCR with the load detector extended may cause damage to the adapter and/or VCR.
Caution: Do not touch the reels during loading and unloading. It could cause injury or damage the cassette tape adapter or tape.
Notes:
Tapes recorded in S-VHS or S-VHS ET
mode cannot be played back on a regular VHS VCR. Playback is possible with a VCR equipped with the S-VHS or SQPB (S-VHS QUASI PLAYBACK) function (CC6394 only).
During special-effect playback (still
frame, etc.), the picture may vibrate or noise bars may appear on the screen.
To record on a VCR using a compact tape
and the adapter, cover the adapter’s recording safety hole with adhesive tape.
Chapter 4 53
Playback
TV or VCR
C O U
L I
N
G
H
T
T
F
E
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
S
T
T O
P
R R E
T
A K E
F
L O V
T
O H S
P
A N S
T
H G I
R B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K
M
C
A R T /
+
C B T
/ X I
P Y
D A E T
S
+
L
A
T I G I
) T
D
U O /
N I
C S D
(
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
1
3
2
4

Connecting to a TV (or VCR) with Audio/Video Input Jacks

To connect your camcorder to a TV monitor (or VCR) with audio/video input jacks, you need an optional audio/video cable, such as VH83 (see page 117). If your TV is already connected to a VCR, attach the camcorder to the VCR and watch what the camcorder is recording or playing on the TV.
1. Attach the white plug on one end of the audio/video cable to the AUDIO IN jack on the TV (or VCR).
2. Attach the yellow plug to the VIDEO IN jack on the TV (or VCR).
3. Attach the white plug on the other end of the audio/video cable to the A (audio) jack (located under the small cover) on the side of the camcorder.
4. Attach the yellow plug to the yellow V (video) jack on the camcorder.
Notes:
If your TV (or VCR) has stereo AUDIO
IN jacks, you need a Y-adapter to hear both channels.
If your TV or VCR has an S-Video input
jack, connect the camcorder to the TV or VCR using an optional S-Video cable. This can improve the picture quality (CC6394 only).
Optional S-video and Audio Connection (CC6394 only)
TV or VCR
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
O
A
E
N
E D I G I F E C
T
S T O P
R R E
T A K E
F
L O V
T O H S P
A N S
T H IG R /B
G U
N
IN
E
K
C
M
A R /T
+
C B T /
X I P Y D
A E T S
+
L A T I
G
)
I
T
D
U
Optional
O / N
I C S D (
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
S-video cable
Audio cable*
*An audio cable must also be used when using an S-video connection. The S-video cable only transfers video information.
54 Chapter 4
Playback
C O U
L
I
N
G
T
H T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
O
E
E
N
D I G I F E C T
S T
O
P
R R E
T
A K E
F
L O V
T
O H S
P
A N S
T
H G I
R B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K
C
M
A R
T /
+
C B T
/ X
I P Y
D A E T
S
+
L A T
I G I
) T
D
U
O / N
I
C S D
(
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P

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

1. Turn on the TV and tune it to the video input channel or turn on VCR and place it in the “line” or “camera mode”. (If your VCR does not have a “line” or “camera mode”, consult the VCR owner’s manual.) Operate the TV as you normally do to see the signal coming from the VCR.
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
E
P
R
I
E
T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
Playback buttons
VIDEO indicator
T
C
E F
I
E
A
G
I
. P
D
CHARGE
2. Set the Power switch to playback mode. (The VIDEO indicator comes on.)
3. Press
.
During playback, use the playback features
(see page 46).
DSC
REFRESH
VIDEO
4. Press STOP when you are finished.
EJECT
Notes:
It is recommended to use the power
supply instead of the battery pack for power to achieve uniform playback.
Adjust the TV sound volume to its
minimum level to avoid a sudden burst of sound when the camcorder is turned on.
If you have a TV or speakers that are not
specially shielded, do not place the speakers next to the TV as interference will occur in the camcorder playback picture.
To view the picture and sound from the
camcorder without recording, set the camcorders Power switch to A or M, then set your TV to the appropriate input mode.
Chapter 4 55
Playback
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
E
P
R
I E T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
Playback buttons
C O U
L I
N
G
T
H T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
O
E
E
N
D I G I F E C T
S T O
P
R R E
T A K
E
F
L O
V
T O H
S
P A N
S
T H G
I R B
/
G
U
N
N
I
E
K C
M
A
R T /
+
C B T
/
X I P
Y D A
E T
S
+
L A T I
G I
)
T
D
U
O / N I
C
S D (
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P

Tape Dubbing

1. Following the illustration in this chapter, connect the camcorder and the VCR.
2. Set the camcorder’s Power switch to , turn on the VCR’s power, and insert the appropriate tapes in the camcorder and the VCR.
3. Make sure the VCR is in the appropriate AUX mode and the Record-Pause mode.
4. Use the camcorder’s Play mode to find a spot just before the edit-in point. Once it is reached, press
on the camcorder.
5. When you’re ready to start recording, press on the camcorder and press the appropriate record button on the VCR.
6. When you want to stop recording, press the
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
T C
E F
I
E
A
G
I
. P
D
EJECT
VCR’s pause button and press camcorder.
on the
7. Repeat steps 4 through 6 for additional editing, then stop the VCR and camcorder when finished.
Note: If you wish to dub still images recorded with the DSC indicator on, play back the still images, and instead of doing the above steps 4 through 6, engage the VCRs Record mode
56 Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Digital Still Camera
Chapter Overview:
Digital Still Camera Recording and Playback
System Requirements for Picture Navigator
Connecting to a Windows® PC
Changing Entertainment. Again.
57
Digital Still Camera

Digital Still Camera Recording and Playback

When using the Digital Still Camera (DSC) feature, still pictures are recorded in the camcorder’s built-in memory. These pictures can be transferred to a PC, saved, and edited using the included cable and software.
You can choose the quality of the pictures you want to record and four types of snapshots. These snapshots can be viewed, protected, and deleted from memory.
Note: Some sample pictures have been stored in memory, and you can use the delete function to remove them.
58 Chapter 5
Digital Still Camera
P . A
E D I G I F E C T
F
E M
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
E
P
R
I
E
T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
C O U
L I
N
G
T
H T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T O
I P
O
E
N
S
T O P
R R E
T A K
E
L O
V
T O H
S
P A N
S
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 E T
S
+
L
A T I G
I
) T
D
U O /
N
I C S
D (
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
MENU dial
VIDEO indicator
T
C
E F
I
E
A
G
I
. P
D
CHARGE

Setting the Picture Quality

You can adjust the picture quality to fine or standard, depending on what kind of picture you want. Because standard quality pictures take up less memory, the camera can store more of them than in fine mode.
1. Set the Power switch to (The VIDEO 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 PICTURE. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The PICTURE menu appears.)
5. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight FINE or STANDARD.
DSC
REFRESH
VIDEO
EJECT
Note: The number of storable images depends on the selected picture mode as well as the composition of the subjects in the images.
M
(manual record).
Picture Quality Mode Approx. Number of Storable Pictures*
FINE 30
STANDARD 60
* The numbers listed above are applicable when the camcorder’s memory is empty (when there are no sample snapshots stored).
Chapter 5 59
Digital Still Camera
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
R E T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
P . A
E D I G I F E C T
F
U N E
M
E P
I
C O U
L I
N
G
T
H T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T O
I P
O
E
N
S T O P
R R E T
A K
E
L O
V T O
H S
P A N S
T H G
I
R B /
G N I
K C
A R T
/
+
C B T
/
X I P
Y
D A E
T S
+
L
A
T I G
I
) T
D
U O /
N
I C S
D (
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
DSC indicator
E F
I
E
A
G
I
.
P
D
MENU dial
T
C
VIDEO indicator
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO

Selecting a Snapshot Mode

You can choose from 4 ways to display your digital pictures, including full, pin-up, multi-4, and multi-9.
M
1. Set the Power switch to VIDEO or DSC indicator comes on.
2. If the DSC indicator is not on, press the REFRESH button for approximately 1 second. (The DSC indicator comes on.)
3. Press the MENU dial in. (The CAMERA MENU appears.)
4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight TO SYSTEM
MENU. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The SYSTEM MENU appears.)
5. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight SNAPSHOT. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The SNAPSHOT menu appears.)
6. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight the type of snapshot you want to take.
EJECT
(manual record). The
60 Chapter 5
Digital Still Camera
Select FULL to take a full screen snapshot with no frame.
Select PIN-UP to have the snapshot framed like a picture.
Select MULTI-4 to take four snapshots in a quick progression (giving the illusion of movement) and place all four snapshots within one shot.
Select MULTI-9 to take nine shapshots in a quick progression (giving the illusion of movement) and place all nine images within one shot.
Note: Snapshots taken in a dark area may become coarse and lose their true colors.
Chapter 5 61
Digital Still Camera
SNAPSHOT button
C O U N T E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
W
P
I
.
P
A
E
E D I G I F E C T
R
R E T
A K E
F
P
A N S
T
H G I R
B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K
C
M
A R T
/
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
DSC indicator
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
E
P
R
I
E
T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
O
C
E
D
A
.
A
F
P
L
I G H
T U T O O
N
S T O P
L O V
T
O H S
+
C B T /
X I
P Y D
A
E T S
+
L A T I
G
I
) T
D
U O / N
I C S D
(
MENU dial
VIDEO indicator
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
T
C
E F
I
G
I
D
REFRESH button

Taking Snapshots

1. Remove the lens cap.
M
2. Set the Power switch to automatic record). (The VIDEO or DSC indicator comes on.)
3. If the DSC indicator is not on, press the REFRESH button for approximately 1 second. (The DSC indicator comes on.)
4. When you’re ready to take a picture, press SNAPSHOT.
Notes:
When the remaining picture number icon
blinks 0, you must delete some pictures before you can store new ones.
Some sample images have been stored in
the built-in memory at the factory. If you want to delete them, first unprotect them (see page 68), then delete them (see page
69).
If a snapshot is taken while the camcorder
is in the 16 x 9 mode (see page 78), the snapshot image is recorded without the
EJECT
black bars at the top and bottom of the screen.
During the DSC recording, the zooming
(see page 40), Steady Pix (see page 41) and Video Light (see page 42) functions can be operated.
Snapshots are taken in a format based on
JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group).
When you use the LCD monitor outdoors
under direct sunlight, the LCD monitor may be difficult to see. If this happens, close the LCD monitor and use the viewfinder instead.
To store the snapshots you shot, we
recommend that you transfer them to a computer and save them on disk (see page
73), or transfer them to a VCR connected to the camcorder and record them onto a tape.
or A (manual or
62 Chapter 5
Digital Still Camera
Quick Review (to check the last shot stored in the built-in memory)
1. Set the Power switch to M or A (manual or automatic record). (The VIDEO or DSC indicator comes on.)
2. If the DSC indicator is not on, press REFRESH for approximately 1 second. (The DSC indicator comes on.)
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
E
P
R
I E T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
Playback buttons
3. Press and release quickly. (The snapshot is
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
T C
E F
I
E
A
G
I
. P
D
EJECT
displayed for approximately 3 seconds. DELETE? PRESS PLAY BUTTON appears.)
To delete the snapshot, press
.
If you want to keep it, wait for the delete message to disappear.
Chapter 5 63
Digital Still Camera
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/ R
R E T
OFF AUTO ON
N
U
D
O
A
C
F
C O U
L I
N
G
T
H T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
O
E
E
N
D I G I F E C T
S
T O P
R
R E T A
K E
F
T
O H S
P A
N
S T H
G
I R B
/
G
U
N
N
I
E
K C
M
A
R T /
D A E
T S
+
A
T I G I
D
/
N I C
S D (
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
DSC indicator
E P
I
W
/
E
E
A . P
REFRESH button
L O V
+
C B T /
X I P
Y
L
)
T U O
T
C E F
I G
I
D
MENU dial
VIDEO indicator
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO

Normal Playback

The snapshots you take are automatically numbered, then stored in numerical order in the built-in memory. You can view them using the Index and Slideshow features.
1. Set the Power switch to DSC indicator comes on.)
2. If the DSC indicator is not on, press REFRESH for approximately 1 second. (The DSC indicator comes on and a snapshot stored in memory is displayed.)
3. To go to the previous picture, press to the next picture, press
Notes:
When no snapshots are stored in
memory, the screen is blue.
When the Power switch is set to
and the LCD monitor is opened at an angle of 60˚ or more, the LCD monitor switches on and the viewfinder switches off automatically to save power.
The playback picture can be viewed in
EJECT
the viewfinder (with the LCD monitor shut), on the LCD monitor or on a connected TV (see page 54).
When viewing a picture on a connected
TV, it may jitter slightly.
You can also view the picture on the LCD
monitor with it flipped over and retracted.
To brighten the LCD monitor, rotate the
BRIGHT dial towards +. To darken the LCD monitor, rotate it towards –.
Dont worry about overwriting your
pictures. New pictures are automatically stored after the last one you took.
. (The VIDEO or
.
. To go
64 Chapter 5
Digital Still Camera

Slide Show

You can automatically look at all the snapshots stored in memory in numerical order.
1. Set the Power switch to DSC indicator comes on.)
2. If the DSC indicator is not on, press REFRESH for approximately 1 second. (The DSC indicator comes on and a snapshot stored in memory is displayed.)
3. Press in the MENU dial. (The DSC menu appears.)
4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight SLIDE SHOW. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The slide show starts.)
Note: To stop the slide show, press in the MENU dial twice.
. (The VIDEO or

Index

With the Index feature, you can view your snapshots in groups of 6. This also allows you to see which picture mode was selected for each picture and which ones are protected against accidental erasure.
01: Index number
The first snapshot taken is index #01. Let’s say, for example, that a total of 10 images are stored (index number: 01 to 10) in memory. If three images (numbers 02, 04, and 06) are deleted from memory, the remaining images are automatically moved up to fill any gaps in the numerical sequence. Therefore, the number of remaining images is 7, and the new index numbers range from 01 to 07.
: Picture mode
This icon tells you what the picture mode is of the snapshot. There are 2 modes available: FINE and STANDARD (see page 59). A star is displayed next to snapshots shot in the FINE mode. There are no marks next to snapshots shot in the STANDARD mode.
Chapter 5 65
Digital Still Camera
C O U
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S T O
P
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R E T A
K E
F
L O
V
T O H
S
P A N
S T H
G
I R B /
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U
N
N
I
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K C
M
A
R T /
+
C
B T / X I
P
Y D A
E T
S
+
L
A T I
G I
)
T
D
U O /
N I
C S D
(
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
MENU dial
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
R E T
OFF AUTO ON
N
U
O
C
P
I
W
/
E
D A F
E
. P
DSC indicator
E A
D
REFRESH button
VIDEO indicator
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
T
C E F
I G
I
EJECT
: Protect icon
When an image is protected against accidental erasure, the padlock icon appears next to the picture mode icon.
Selected Image
The image you have selected is highlighted with a box. Rotate the MENU dial to move the box to another image.

Index Playback

1. Set the Power switch to . (The VIDEO or DSC indicator comes on.)
2. If the DSC indicator is not on, press REFRESH for approximately 1 second. (The DSC indicator comes on and a snapshot stored in memory is displayed.)
3. Press in the MENU dial. (The DSC menu appears.)
4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight INDEX. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The index of the images in memory appears.)
66 Chapter 5
Digital Still Camera

Protecting Images

The Protect mode helps prevent images from being erased. When the padlock icon appears next to the Picture Mode icon, that image can’t be deleted.
Padlock icon
1. Set the Power switch to DSC indicator comes on.)
2. If the DSC indicator is not on, press REFRESH for approximately 1 second. (The DSC indicator comes on and a snapshot stored in memory is displayed.)
3. Press in the MENU dial. (The DSC menu appears.)
4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight PROTECT. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The index of the images in memory appears.)
5. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight the image you want to protect. Press in the MENU dial to select it. A padlock icon appears on the image. It can’t be deleted now. Repeat this procedure for all images you want to protect.
Important: When the memory is initialized or corrupted, even protected images are deleted. If you dont want to lose important images, transfer them to a PC and save them.
. (The VIDEO or
Chapter 5 67
Digital Still Camera

Unprotecting Images

1. Set the Power switch to . (The VIDEO or DSC indicator comes on.)
2. If the DSC indicator is not on, press REFRESH for approximately 1 second. (The DSC indicator comes on and a snapshot stored in memory is displayed.)
3. Press in the MENU dial. (The DSC menu appears.)
4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight PROTECT. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The index of the images in memory appears.)
5. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight the image you want to unprotect. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The padlock icon disappears from the image.) It can now be deleted. Repeat this procedure for all images you want to unprotect.
The image is no longer
protected.
68 Chapter 5
Digital Still Camera
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
R E T
OFF AUTO ON
N
U
O
A
C
F
E P
I
W
/
E
D
C O U N T E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
/
/
M
W
P
I
.
P
A
E
E D I G I F E C T
R
R E T A K
E
F
A N
S T H G
I
R B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K C
M
A R T
/
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
DSC indicator
E
A
.
P
L
I G H
T A U T O
O N
S
T O P
L O V
T
O H S P
B T
/ X I
P Y
D A E T
S
+
L A T
I G I
) T
D
U
O / N
I
C S D (
G
I
D
+
C
T
C E F
I
MENU dial
VIDEO indicator
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO

Deleting Images

You can delete your snapshots one at a time or all at once.
Deleting Select Images
1. Set the Power switch to . (The VIDEO or DSC indicator comes on.)
2. If the DSC indicator is not on, press REFRESH for approximately 1 second. (The DSC indicator comes on and a snapshot stored in memory is displayed.)
3. Press in the MENU dial. (The DSC menu appears.)
4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight DELETE. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The DELETE menu appears.)
5. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight SELECT. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The index of the
EJECT
images in memory appears.)
6. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight the image you want to delete.
P. AE button
REFRESH button
7. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (A red “X” appears on the image.)
8. When finished, rotate the MENU dial to NEXT at the top of the screen. Press in the MENU dial to select it.
9. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight ENTER. (The image(s) are deleted.)
Note: To cancel deleting images, rotate the MENU dial to highlight CANCEL and press it twice.
Chapter 5 69
Digital Still Camera
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/ R
R
E
T
OFF AUTO ON
N U O
C
F
C O U N T E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
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P
O
I
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P
A
O
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E
N
D I G I F E C T
S
T O P
R
R E T
A K
E
F
T
O H S P
A N S
T H G I
R B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K C
M
A R T
/
E T
S
+
G I D C
S D (
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
DSC indicator
E P
I
W
/
E
E
D
A .
A
P
REFRESH button
L I G H T
L O V
+
C B T /
X I P
Y D A
L A T I
)
T U O
/ N I
T
C E F
I G
I
D
MENU dial
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO

Initializing the Built-in Memory

External noise and interference (from a TV, a radio, etc.) might prevent your camcorder from functioning properly. If images can’t be stored or deleted, you may need to initialize the memory. This will erase all the images (including protected images).
If you want to keep any of the snapshots that are stored in memory, you need to transfer them to a PC and save them first before initializing the memory. If image data is corrupt, transfer is impossible.
1. Set the Power switch to
2. If the DSC indicator is not on, press REFRESH for approximately 1 second. (The DSC indicator comes on and a snapshot stored in memory is displayed.)
2. Press P.AE for more than 5 seconds. (The FORMAT menu appears.)
3. Rotate the MENU dial to select CANCEL or ENTER. Press in the MENU dial to select it.
EJECT
CANCEL does not initialize the memory.
ENTER initializes the memory. (While the camcorder’s memory is being erased, ENTER blinks. When finished, the screen becomes blue.)
.
Very important: Never turn off the camcorder or remove the power (battery or AC) while the memory is being erased. The built-in memory may become corrupt.
70 Chapter 5
Digital Still Camera
M
A
F
F
O
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A
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Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
R E T
OFF AUTO ON
N
U
D
O
A
C
F
C O U
L I
N
G
T E
F
O
A
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F
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P
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D I G I F E C T
S T O P
R R E T
A K
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F
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O H S
P A N S
T H G
I
R B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K C
M
A R T
/
A
E T S
+
I
G I D
N
I C S
D (
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
DSC indicator
E P
I
W
/
E
E
A . P
REFRESH button
H T
L O
V
+
C B T
/
X I P
Y D
L A T
) T U
O /
T C
E F
I
G
I
D
MENU dial
VIDEO indicator
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
Deleting All Images
1. Set the Power switch to . (The VIDEO or DSC indicator comes on.)
2. If the DSC indicator is not on, press REFRESH for approximately 1 second. (The DSC indicator comes on and a snapshot stored in memory is displayed.)
3. Press in the MENU dial. (The DSC menu appears.)
4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight DELETE. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The DELETE menu appears.)
5. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight ALL. Press in the MENU dial to select it.
6. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight ENTER. (The images are deleted.)
Note: To cancel deleting images, rotate the MENU dial to highlight CANCEL and press it twice.
Very important: Never turn off the camcorder or
EJECT
remove the power (battery or AC) while the memory is being erased. The built-in memory may become corrupt.
Notes:
Protected images (see pages 67-68) cannot
be deleted with the above operation. To delete them, remove protection first.
If the remaining number of shots is not 30
in the FINE mode or 60 in the STANDARD mode after you have deleted all the images, initialize the camcorders memory (see page
70).
Chapter 5 71
Digital Still Camera

System Requirements for Picture Navigator

66 MHz or faster (Pentium recommended) for Microsoft®* Windows®* 98 or later
®
CPU 468DX2/50 MHz or faster for Microsoft
16MB RAM
6MB free hard disk space
CD-ROM drive
Color display capable of at least 640 x 680 pixels, 256 colors (recommended 800 x 600 pixels, 32,000 colors)
1 free serial transmission port, compatible with 9600 bps or higher transmission rate, connectable to RS-232C with 9-pin serial connector
Note: An optional 9-pin serial conversion adapter is required for computers using a serial communication port other than a standard 9 pin.
Mouse (Windows® compatible)
Windows® 95 or later
* Microsoft
®
and Windows® registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
72 Chapter 5
Digital Still Camera

Connecting To A Windows® PC

Image data stored in the camcorder’s built-in memory can be transferred to a Windows PC and saved using the image transfer software, Picture Navigator.
To assure safety, make sure all units are turned off before making any connection.
1. Insert the Picture Navigator CD-ROM into your drive.
2. Double click the installer icon and follow the on-screen instructions to install the software.
3. Connect the camcorder’s DIGITAL jack to the COM Port (RS-232C) on a Windows PC, using the PC connection cable.
C O U
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N
H
T
T
F
E
O
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O
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I P
A
O
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E D I G I F E C
S
T
T O
P
R
R
E T A K
E
F
L O V
T
O H S
P
A N S
T
H G I R
B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K
C
M
A R T
/
+
C B T /
X I
P Y D
A
E T S
+
L A T
I G I
)
D
T
U O /
N I
C S D
(
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
L
A
T
I
G
I
)
T
D
U
O
/
N
I
C
S
D
(
®
®
4. Set the Power switch to . (The VIDEO or DSC indicator comes on.)
5. If the DSC indicator is not on, press REFRESH for approximately 1 second. (The DSC indicator comes on and a snapshot stored in memory is displayed.)
When transferring snapshots to a computer, be sure that the snapshot is
displayed on the screen before continuing.
6. Launch the software on your Windows® PC and transfer the snapshots stored in the camcorder’s memory to your Windows® PC. Refer to the software’s instruction manual on the CD-ROM for details.
During transfer of the snapshot, the camcorder’s screen becomes blue and PC
MODE is displayed. After transferring is finished, the screen displays the same snapshot as in step 5.
7. Close the software, then turn off the camcorder.
Windows
®
is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation, registered in the U.S.A. and other
countries.
Chapter 5 73
Digital Still Camera
Notes:
Before transferring snapshots from your personal computer to the camcorders built-in memory, check that the desired Picture Mode has been selected for the images (see page 60). The snapshots will be transferred from the personal computer in the selected Picture Mode.
When transferring snapshots from your personal computer to the camcorder, make sure the number of images to be transferred is smaller than the camcorders remaining number of shots available.
Use the power supply instead of the battery pack to power the camcorder.
The snapshots stored in the camcorders memory are not automatically removed after you transfer them to the PC. Youll still need to delete them.
74 Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Advanced Features
Chapter Overview:
Using the Menus for Advanced Adjustment
Menu Definitions
Using the Advanced Features
Changing Entertainment. Again.
75
Advanced Features
C O U
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P A N S
T H G
I
R B /
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N
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M
A R T
/
+
C B T
/
X I P
Y
D A E
T S
+
L
A
T I G
I
) T
D
U O /
N
I C S
D (
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P

Using the Menus For Advanced Adjustment

This camcorder is equipped with an on-screen menu system that simplifies many of the more detailed camcorder settings.
M
A
F
F
O
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A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
P
R
I E T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
DSC indicator
E
E
A . P
D
REFRESH button
MENU dial
1. Set the Power switch to manual record ( Press REFRESH for approximately 1 second to
M
).
select VIDEO or DSC according to each function’s “*/**” explanation described at the bottom of pages 77 and 79.
2. Press in the MENU dial. The CAMERA MENU appears.
3. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight the desired function.
VIDEO indicator
To go from the CAMERA MENU to the
SYSTEM MENU, rotate the MENU dial to highlight TO SYSTEM MENU. Press in the
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
T C
E F
I
G
I
EJECT
MENU dial to select it. The SYSTEM MENU is composed of 2 pages. To go to the next page, rotate the MENU dial to highlight NEXT. Press in the MENU dial to select it.
To return to the CAMERA MENU from page 2 of the SYSTEM MENU, rotate the MENU dial to highlight TO CAMERA MENU. Press in the MENU dial to select it.
4. Press in the MENU dial to display the menu for the function you have selected and rotate it to select the desired setting.
5. Press in the MENU dial. The CAMERA MENU or the SYSTEM MENU reappears with RETURN highlighted.
6. Press in the MENU dial to exit.
76 Chapter 6
Advanced Features

Menu Definitions

The following charts will help you get acquainted with the various menus and some brief definitions of their features. For more detailed explanation, refer to the corresponding sections.

Camera Menu

FOCUS Refer to Focusing (see page 85).
EXPOSURE Refer to Exposure Control (see page 84).
M.W.B. Refer to White Balance Adjustment and Manual White Balance
Operation (see pages 87-88).
TITLE* Allows you to superimpose one of eight preset titles (see page 90).
DATE/TIME DISP.* Makes the date/time settings appear in the camcorder or on a
connected monitor (see page 89).

System Menu

This menu can’t be accessed while recording.
REC MODE* Allows you to set the recording mode (SP or SLP) (see
page 25).
D. ZOOM 50X Factory Preset: Allows you to use the Digital Zoom. By
digitally processing and magnifying images, zooming is possible from 16X (the optical zoom limit), to a maximum of 50X digital magnification.
400X Allows you to use the Digital Zoom. By digitally
processing and magnifying images, zooming is possible from 16X (the optical zoom limit), to a maximum of 400X digital magnification.
OFF Digital Zoom isn’t available. Only optical zoom
(maximum 16x magnification) can function. When set to OFF during Digital Zoom, zoom magnification changes to 16X.
* Activated only when VIDEO is selected (the DSC indicator is not on). If DSC is
selected (the DSC indicator is on), this function will not be activated even though the highlight bar on the menu will move to that position.
Functions listed without an asterisk are available when either DSC or VIDEO is selected.
Chapter 6 77
Advanced Features

System Menu (continued)

16 x 9 OFF
ON
S-VHS *** ON
(S-VHS ET ***) OFF
TAPE LENGTH
DISPLAY FULL
SIMPLE
PICTURE**
SNAPSHOT** FULL
PIN-UP
Factory Preset: Doesn’t display black bars.
Allows you to record black bars at the top and bottom of the screen to produce a cinema-like wide-screen effect. If you take a snapshot in the 16x9 mode, the snapshot is recorded without the black bars.
Factory preset: Records in S-VHS format on a VHS or S­VHS tape (see page 23).
Records in S-VHS ET format on a VHS tape (see page 23).
Allows you to set the tape length depending on the tape used (see page 26).
Factory Preset: Make all of the icons appear on the LCD monitor/viewfinder during playback or recording.
Make the following icons disappear from the LCD monitor/ viewfinder during recording or playback: cassette warning, tape remaining time, battery pack remaining power icon and tape length icon.
Refer to Picture Mode Setting (see page 59).
Displayed when DSC (the DSC indicator is on), is selected (see pages 60-61).
MULTI-4
MULTI-9
REC TIME*
INT. TIME
TELE MACRO OFF
ON
Refer to Animation and Time-Lapse (see pages 91-92).
Refer to Time-Lapse (see page 92).
Factory preset (OFF) : Usually the distance to a subject where the lens is in focus depends on the zoom magnification. Unless there is a distance of more than 1 m (3.23 ft.) to the subject, the lens is out of focus at the maximum telephoto setting. When set to ON, you can shoot a subject as large as possible at a distance of approximately 60 cm (23-5/8¨).
Depending on the zoom position, the lens may go out of focus.
78 Chapter 6
Advanced Features
TITLE LANG*
DATE/TIME
DEMO MODE* ON
OFF
* Activated only when VIDEO is selected (the DSC indicator is not on). If DSC is
selected (the DSC indicator is on), this function will not be activated even though the highlight bar on the menu will move to that position.
** Activated only when DSC is selected (the DSC indicator comes on). If VIDEO is
selected (the DSC indicator is not on), this function will not be activated even though the highlight bar on the menu will move to that position.
Functions listed without */** are available when either DSC or VIDEO is selected.
*** S-VHS ET is displayed when a VHS tape is loaded, and S-VHS is displayed when an
S-VHS tape is loaded (see page 23). If a tape is not loaded, S-VHS appears.
S-VHS ET is preset to OFF.
Allows you to select the language (ENGLISH, FRENCH, or SPANISH) of Instant Titles (see page 90).
Allows you to set the current date and time (see page 22).
Factory Preset: Demonstrates certain functions automatically. When DEMO MODE is set to ON and you have exited all menus, the demonstration starts. Operating the Power zoom lever during the demonstration stops the demonstration temporarily. If the Power zoom lever is not moved for more than 1 minute after that, the demonstration will resume.
To cancel the demo mode, rotate the Power switch to (manual record) and press in the MENU dial while the demo is in progress. This takes you directly to the DEMO MODE menu (so you will not have to go through the main menu). Rotate the MENU dial to highlight OFF. Then press in the MENU dial again to select it.
Note: When a tape is loaded in the camcorder, the demonstration is not available.
Automatic demonstration will not take place.
M
Chapter 6 79
Advanced Features

Using the Advanced Features

C O U
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F
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A
/
/
M
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P
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I
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P
A
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D I G I F E C T
S T O P
R R E T
A K
E
F
L O
V T O
H S
P A N S
T H G
I
R B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K C
M
A R T
/
+
C B T
/
X I P
Y
D A E
T S
+
L
A
T I G
I
) T
D
U O /
N I
C
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
P
R
I E T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
S D (
M
A F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
DSC indicator
E
E
A . P
MENU dial
Recording Start/Stop button
CHARGE
T C
E F
I
G
I
D
VIDEO indicator
DSC
REFRESH
VIDEO

Fade/Wipe Effects

These effects let you make professional-looking scene transitions. Fade-ins or wipe-ins work at recording start, and fade-outs or wipe-outs work at recording end.
1. Set the Power switch to M (manual record).
2. If the DSC indicator comes on, press REFRESH
3. Press FADE/WIPE repeatedly until the desired
4. Press the Recording Start/Stop button to activate
5. To cancel a fade or wipe, press FADE/WIPE
EJECT
Fades
for approximately 1 second to select VIDEO.
mode’s name and icon appear.
(They are displayed for approximately 2 seconds, then the name disappears so that only the icon remains.)
fade-in/out or wipe-in/out.
repeatedly until OFF appears. (OFF is displayed for approximately 2 seconds and the fade/wipe standby mode is cancelled.)
FADER
B
FADE/WIPE button
REFRESH button
K
Fades in/out to a black screen.
MOSAIC
Gradually turns/returns the picture into/from a mosaic pattern.
80 Chapter 6
Advanced Features
Wipes
C O U
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H S
P A N S
T H G
I
R B /
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U
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N
I
E
K C
M
A R T
/
+
C B T
/
X I P
Y
D A E
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+
L
A
T I G
I
) T
D
U O /
N
I C S
D (
M
A F
F
O
Y
A
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P
SHUTTER
Wipes in as a black screen from the top and bottom, closing over the image like a shutter. Wipes out as a new image, pushing open the black screen vertically from the center.
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
P
R
I E T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
P.AE button
DSC indicator
E
E
A
I
. P
D
REFRESH button
MENU dial
Recording Start/Stop button
VIDEO indicator
DSC
CHARGE
T C
E F
I
G
SLIDE
Wipes in as a black screen moves in from the left to gradually cover the image. Wipes out as a new image moves in from right to left.
DOOR
Wipes in as the two halves of a black screen open to the left and right, revealing the scene. Wipes out and the black screen reappears from left and right to cover the scene.
CORNER
Wipes in on a black screen from the upper right to the lower left corner, revealing the scene. Wipes out from lower left to upper right, leaving a black screen.
REFRESH
VIDEO
EJECT
WINDOW
Wipes in on a black screen from the center of the screen towards the corners, revealing the scene. Wipes out from the corners to the center, leaving a black screen.
Note: Pressing and holding the Recording Start/Stop button allows you to vary the length for the image during fade in/out or wipe in/out.
Chapter 6 81
Advanced Features

Program AE With Special Effects

1. Set the Power switch to M (manual record).
2. Press REFRESH for approximately 1 second to select VIDEO or DSC.
3. Press P.AE repeatedly until the desired mode’s name and icon appear. (They are displayed for approximately 2 seconds, then the name disappears so that only the icon remains.)
4. To cancel the effect, press P.AE repeatedly until OFF appears. OFF is displayed for approximately 2 seconds.
Note: Only one mode can be engaged at a time.
SPORTS
High shutter speed clearly captures fast-moving action.
SD : SHADOW
A black mist darkens the picture, as when an ND filter is used. Helps to counter the effects of glare on the subject.
HZ : HAZE
Makes the picture look misty white, as if you’re using an external fog filter and softens the image.
TWILIGHT
Dusk, twilight scenery, fireworks, etc., look more natural and dramatic. When Twilight mode is selected:
Auto gain control is turned off.
White Balance is set to FINE (day mode), but can also be manually changed to another mode (see page 87).
Auto Focus becomes available only in the range of 10 m (32 ft.) to infinity. To focus when the subject-to-camera distance is less than 10 m (32 ft.), use manual focusing (see page 86).
82 Chapter 6
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R R E
T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
DIGIFECT button
C O U N T E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
O
E
E
N
D I G I F E C T
S T O P
R R E
T A K
E
F
T
O H S
P
A N S
T H G
I
R B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K
C
M
A
R T /
+
(
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
DSC indicator
E P
I
E
A . P
L
I G H T
O V
P Y
D A E T
S
L A T I
G I
D
U O / N
I
C S D
L
+
C B T /
X I
) T
MENU dial
VIDEO indicator
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
T
C E F
I G
I
D
EJECT
REFRESH button
Advanced Features
2
S1/2000 (1/2000 sec. High Speed Shutter)
Captures faster action than Sports mode.
Notes:
The screen becomes slightly dark in the High Speed Shutter mode. Use in well-lit situations.
In the High Speed Shutter or Sports modes, picture color may be adversely affected if the subject is lit by alternating discharge-type light sources such as fluorescent or mercury-vapor lights.

Digital Effects

1. Set the Power switch to M) (manual record).
2. Press REFRESH for approximately 1 second to select VIDEO or DSC.
3. Press DIGIFECT repeatedly until the desired mode’s name and icon appear. (They are displayed for approximately 2 seconds, then the name disappears so that only the icon remains.)
4. To cancel the effect, press DIGIFECT repeatedly until OFF appears. (OFF is displayed for approximately 2 seconds.)
SEPIA
Recorded scenes have a brownish tint like old photos. Combine this with the 16x9 mode (see page
78) for a classic look.
B/W MONOTONE
Recorded scenes are shot in black and white. Combine this with the 16x9 mode (see page 78) for a classic look.
Chapter 6 83
Advanced Features
NEGA POSI (Negative Positive)
The colors of a picture are reversed.
MOSAIC
Turns recorded scenes into a mosaic pattern.
STRETCH
Doubles the width of the picture horizontally.
Note: Digital Effects can be changed during recording or during Record-Standby.

Exposure Control

This feature automatically adjusts the iris for the best available picture quality, but you can override it and make the adjustment manually. Manual exposure adjustment is recommended in the following situations:
When shooting using reverse lighting or when the background is too bright.
When shooting on a reflective natural background such as at the beach or when skiing.
When the background is overly dark or the subject light.
M
1. Set the Power switch to
2. Press REFRESH for approximately 1 second to select VIDEO or DSC.
(manual record).
3. Press in the MENU dial. (The CAMERA MENU appears.)
4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight EXPOSURE. Press in the MENU dial to highlight it. (The EXPOSURE menu appears.)
5. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight MANU (manual). Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The menu disappears and 00 (exposure control level counter) appears.)
To brighten the image, rotate the MENU dial downward. (The exposure control
level counter increases (maximum +06)).
To darken the image, rotate the MENU dial upward. (The exposure control level
counter decreases (maximum –06)).
6. Press in the MENU dial to select it.
7. When finished, press in the MENU dial again to exit.
84 Chapter 6
Advanced Features
C O U
L
I
N
G
T
H T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
O
E
E
N
D I G I F E C T
S T O P
R R E
T A K
E
F
L O V
T
O H S
P
A N S
T H G
I
R B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K
C
M
A
R T /
+
C B T /
X
I P Y
D A E T
S
+
L A T I
G I
) T
D
U O / N
I
C S D
(
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Notes:
To return to the factory setting, select AUTO in step 5.
To readjust exposure, repeat the procedure from step 3.
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R R E
T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
DSC indicator
E P
I
E
A . P
MENU dial
VIDEO indicator
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
T
C E F
I G
I
D
EJECT
REFRESH button

Focusing

Auto Focus
The camcorder’s Full Range automatic focus system offers continuous shooting ability from close-up to infinity. However, correct focus may not be obtainable in the situations listed below (in these cases use manual focusing):
When two subjects overlap in the same scene.
When illumination is low. The low-contrast warning
When the subject has no contrast (difference in brightness and darkness), such as a flat, one­color wall, or a clear, blue sky. The low-contrast warning
When a dark object is barely visible in the viewfinder. The low-contrast warning appears.
When the scene contains small patterns or identical patterns that are regularly repeated.
When the scene is affected by sunbeams or light reflecting off the surface of a body of water.
When shooting a scene with a high-contrast background.
appears.
appears.
Chapter 6 85
Advanced Features
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
P
R
I E T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
C O U
L I
N
G
T
H T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
O
E
E
N
D I G I F E C T
S T O P
R R E T
A K
E
F
L O
V T O
H S
P A N S
T H G
I
R B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K C
M
A R T
/
/
X I P
Y
D A E
T S
+
L
A
T I G
I
) T
D
U O /
N
I C S
D (
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
DSC indicator
E
E
A . P
D
REFRESH button
Manual Focus
+
C B T
MENU dial
VIDEO indicator
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
T C
E F
I
G
I
Make the necessary viewfinder adjustments to use the viewfinder (see page 29).
1. Set the Power switch to
M
(manual record). Press REFRESH for approximately 1 second to select VIDEO or DSC.
2. Press the MENU dial in. (The CAMERA MENU appears.)
3. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight FOCUS. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The FOCUS menu appears.)
4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight MANU. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The menu disappears and
appears.) The focus is
locked at this point.
5. When finished, press in the MENU dial again to exit. ( reappears to indicate the focus is locked.)
To focus on a subject that’s farther away, rotate the MENU dial upward.
EJECT
To focus on a nearer subject, rotate the MENU dial downward.
Notes:
If the lens is smeared or blurred,
accurate focusing isnt possible. Keep the lens clean, wiping it with a piece of soft cloth if it gets dirty. If condensation occurs, wipe the lens with a soft cloth or wait for it to dry naturally.
When shooting a subject close to the
lens, zoom out first (see page 40). When zooming in the auto focus mode, the camcorder could automatically zoom out depending on the distance between the camcorder and the subject.
To return to Auto Focus, highlight AUTO
in step 4.
To readjust Manual Focus, repeat the
procedure from step 2.
When the focus level cannot be adjusted
any farther or closer, or blinks.
appears and blinks.
appears and blinks.
86 Chapter 6
Advanced Features

White Balance Adjustment

White balance refers to the correctness of color reproduction under various lighting. If the white balance is correct, all other colors will be accurately reproduced.
The white balance is usually adjusted automatically. However, more advanced camcorder operators control this function manually to achieve a more professional color/tint reproduction.
1. Set the Power switch to second to select VIDEO or DSC.
2. Press in the MENU dial. (The CAMERA MENU appears.)
3. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight M.W.B. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The M.W.B. menu appears.)
4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight the desired setting.
AUTO
White balance is adjusted automatically (factory preset).
: FINE
Outdoors on a sunny day.
: CLOUD
Outdoors on a cloudy day.
M
(manual record). Press REFRESH for approximately 1
: HALOGEN
A video light or similar type of lighting is used.
MWB
White balance is set manually.
Notes:
To return to automatic white balance, select AUTO in step 4. Or rotate the
Power switch to A (automatic record).
White balance cannot be used when the SEPIA or MONOTONE mode (see
page 83) is activated.
Chapter 6 87
Advanced Features
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
P
R
I E T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
DIGIFECT button
C O U
L I
N
G
T
H T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
O
E
E
N
D I G I F E C T
S T O P
R R E T
A K
E
F
L O
V T O
H S
P A N S
T H G
I
R B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K C
M
A R T
/
/
X I P
Y
D A E
T S
+
L
A
T I G
I
) T
D
U O /
N
I C S
D (
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
DSC indicator
E
E
A . P
D
REFRESH button
Manual White Balance
+
C B T
MENU dial
VIDEO indicator
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
T C
E F
I
G
I
Perform Manual White Balance when shooting under various types of lighting.
1. Follow steps 1 through 4 of the white balance adjustment, and highlight MWB.
2. Hold a sheet of plain white paper in front of the subject. Adjust zoom or position yourself so that the white paper fills the screen.
Note: It may be difficult to focus on the white paper. In such a case, adjust focus manually (see page 86).
3. Press in the MENU dial until MWB begins blinking.
4. When finished, press in the MENU dial to exit.
To change the tint for recording in step 2, substitute colored paper for white. The white balance is adjusted based on the color, changing the tint.
Red paper = deeper green Blue paper = orange
EJECT
Yellow paper = deeper purple.
Notes:
A subject can be shot under various types
of lighting conditions indoors (natural, fluorescent, candlelight, etc.). Because the color temperature is different depending on the light source, the subject tint will differ depending on the white balance settings. Use this function for a more natural result.
Once you adjust white balance manually,
the setting is retained even if the power is turned off or the battery removed.
88 Chapter 6
Advanced Features
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
P
R
I E T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
C O U
L I
N
G
T
H T
E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
O
E
E
N
D I G I F E C T
S T O P
R R E T
A K
E
F
L O
V T O
H S
P A N S
T H G
I
R B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K C
M
A R T
/
/
X I P
Y
D A E
T S
+
L
A
T I G
I
) T
D
U O /
N
I C S
D (
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
DSC indicator
E
E
A
I
. P
D
REFRESH button

Date/Time Insert

+
C B T
MENU dial
VIDEO indicator
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
T C
E F
I
G
You can display the date and time in the camcorder or on a connected TV, as well as to record them manually or automatically. You should have already performed the Date/Time Setting procedure (see page 22).
1. Set the Power switch to
M
(manual record). If the DSC indicator is on, press REFRESH for approximately 1 second to select VIDEO.
2. Press in the MENU dial. (The CAMERA MENU appears.)
3. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight DATE/TIME
DISP. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The DATE/TIME DISP. menu appears.)
4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight the desired mode. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The desired mode is activated.)
Notes:
DISPLAY
EJECT
The selected display can be recorded.
If you do not want to record the display,
select the OFF mode before shooting.
The date/time is displayed during the
VIDEO mode only, and it is recorded only onto the tape.
AUTO DATE
In this mode, the date is replaced after 5
seconds with AUTO DATE but isn’t recorded.
Your camcorder automatically records
the date for about 5 seconds after you do the following:
Change the date.
Load a tape.
Select Auto Date Record mode
by rotating the MENU dial.
Chapter 6 89
Advanced Features
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
P
R
I E T
W
OFF AUTO ON
/
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
C O U N T E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
O
E
E
N
D I G I F E C T
S T O P
R R E T
A K
E
F
T
O H S
P A N S
T H G
I
R B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K C
M
A R T
/
T S
+
I D C
S D (
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
DSC indicator
E
E
A . P
L I G
H T
L O
V
+
C B T
/
X I P
Y
D A E
L
A
T I G
) T
U O /
N I

Instant Titles

The camcorder has 8 preset titles in memory. You can superimpose one of them over the video image.
Instant Titles can be displayed in English, French, and Spanish.
M
1. Set the Power switch to
(manual record). If
the DSC indicator is on, press REFRESH for
MENU dial
approximately 1 second to select VIDEO.
2. Press in the MENU dial. (The CAMERA MENU appears.)
3. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight TITLE. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The TITLE menu appears.)
4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight the desired mode. Press in the MENU dial to select it.
VIDEO indicator
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO
T C
E F
I
G
I
D
EJECT
Notes:
The title is displayed during the VIDEO mode only, and it is recorded only onto the tape.
The selected title will remain until OFF is selected in the TITLE Menu.
REFRESH button
90 Chapter 6
Advanced Features
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
STOP R RETAKE F
M
LIGHT
/
R
R E T
OFF AUTO ON
N
E
U
D
O
A
C
F
C O U N T E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T
P
O
I
.
P
A
E
E D I G I F E C T
P
R R E T
A K
E
F
.
C E S
5 T H
G I R
B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K C
M
A R T /
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
DSC indicator
E P
I
W
/
E
A . P
L I G H
T
O N
S T O
L O
V
C E R
+
C
B T /
X I P
Y D A E
T
S
+
Recording Start/Stop button
T C
E F
I
G
I
D
MENU dial
VIDEO indicator
DSC
CHARGE
REFRESH
VIDEO

Animation

You can shoot a series of pictures, each slightly different, of the same object for a brief period of time.
1. Set the Power switch to the DSC indicator is on, press REFRESH for approximately 1 second to select VIDEO.
2. Make sure the recording mode is set to SP.
3. Press in the MENU dial. (The CAMERA MENU appears.)
4. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight TO SYSTEM
MENU. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The SYSTEM MENU appears.)
5. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight NEXT. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The next page of the SYSTEM MENU appears.)
6. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight REC TIME. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The REC TIME menu appears.)
7. Rotate the MENU dial to select the desired
EJECT
recording time. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The SYSTEM MENU reappears with RETURN highlighted.)
M
(manual record). If
REFRESH button
8. Press the MENU dial in again to close the SYSTEM MENU.
9. Press the Recording Start/Stop button after focusing on the subject. The recording stops automatically after the selected period of time. Repeat for the desired number of pictures.
10. To stop the Animation mode, set REC TIME in the SYSTEM MENU to OFF.
Chapter 6 91
Advanced Features
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Power switch
P . A
E D I G I F E C T
F
M
C O U N T E
F
O
A
R
F
D
F
R
E
A
/
/
M
U
W
T O
I P
O
E
N
S T
OP
R
R E T A
K E
C E
R . C
E S
5
T
H G I
R B /
G
U
N
N
I
E
K C A
R T /
S
+
M
A
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
L
I G H
T
L O
V
+
C
B T /
X I P
Y
D A E T
Recording Start/Stop button
MENU dial

Time-Lapse

You can record sequentially at preset time spans. Leaving the camcorder aimed at a specific subject, you can record subtle changes over an extended period of time.
1. Set REC TIME using steps 1-7 of Animation (see page 91).
2. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight INT. TIME. Press in the MENU dial to select it. (The INT. TIME menu appears.)
3. Rotate the MENU dial to highlight the desired interval time. Press in the MENU dial to select it.
4. When finished, press in the MENU dial again to exit.
5. Press the Recording Start/Stop button. (Recording and intervals alternate automatically.)
6. To release the Time-Lapse mode, press the Recording Start/Stop button to display Then set REC TIME and INT. TIME in the menus to OFF.
Notes (for Animation and Time-Lapse):
For best results, make sure the camcorder
is secured when shooting in Animation or Time-Lapse mode.
Fade-in/out or wipe-in/out cant be
performed during Animation or Time­Lapse shooting.
After using Animation or Time-Lapse
recording, make sure the modes are deactivated.
Animation and Time-Lapse are cancelled
when the power is shut off or when the tape is ejected.
PAUSE
.
92 Chapter 6
Other Information
Chapter Overview:
Troubleshooting
Final Notes
Care and Cleaning
Traveling Tips
Specifications
Customer Assistance and Service
Limited Warranty
Chapter 7
FCC Declaration of Conformity and Industry Canada Information
Optional Accessories
Index
Changing Entertainment. Again.
93
Other Information

Troubleshooting

If you’re having problems with your camcorder, try the solutions in this section. If the problem still exists, please consult your nearest RCA authorized service center.
External noise and interference (from a TV, a radio, etc.) might prevent your camcorder from functioning properly. In such cases, first disconnect its power supply unit (battery pack, AC power supply, etc.); and then reconnect it and proceed as usual from the beginning.
Power Problems
No power is supplied.
The battery pack has not been attached correctly (see page 16).
The battery pack is not charged (see page 16).
The power supply has not been correctly connected (see page 11).
The power suddenly goes off and does not come back on by itself.
Turn the Power switch off and then on again.
The battery pack has completely discharged.
Remove the tape and disconnect the power source, then after a few minutes, try
reconnecting and turning the power back on. If it still does not come on, consult your nearest RCA authorized service center.
Feature and Function Problems
Some menus or features are not available.
The Power switch is set to A. Set it to M and try again.
During recording, the icons do not appear.
Set DISPLAY to FULL in the SYSTEM MENU (see page 78).
Vertical white lines appear when shooting a very bright object.
This sometimes occurs when there is a lot of contrast between the background and the object. It is not a defect of the camcorder. Try shooting from a different angle or adjusting the lighting conditions.
94 Chapter 7
Other Information
Bright, crystal-shaped spots appear in the LCD monitor and the viewfinder.
Sunlight is directly entering the lens. This is not a defect of the camcorder.
The rear of the LCD monitor is hot.
The light used to illuminate the LCD monitor causes it to be hot. Close the LCD monitor to turn it off or set the Power switch to OFF, and let the unit cool down.
Colored bright spots appear all over the LCD monitor or the viewfinder.
The LCD monitor and the viewfinder are made with high-precision technology. However, black spots or bright spots of light (red, green or blue) may appear constantly on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder. These spots are not recorded on the tape. This is not due to any defect of the unit.
The icons and the picture color on the LCD monitor are not clear.
This may occur when the surface or the edge of the LCD monitor is pressed.
The LCD monitor, the viewfinder and the lens are dirty.
Wipe them gently with soft cloth. Gently wipe the LCD monitor in a semicircle because wiping strongly spreads the stain and it won’t come out easily.
An error number (i.e. E03) appears.
Turn the camcorder’s power off, then disconnect the power source. After a few minutes, try turning the power on again.
The image is out of focus.
The eyepiece focus control needs to be adjusted (see page 29).
The scene being shot is adversely affecting the operation of Auto Focus (see page 85).
Even though the lens cap is detached, the LENS CAP warning icon (see page 31) blinks.
The LENS CAP warning icon may blink when the camcorder is used in dark areas, regardless of whether the lens cap is attached or detached.
Chapter 7 95
Other Information
Recording Problems
Recording cannot be performed.
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.
If DSC is selected, it isn’t possible to record onto the tape. Press REFRESH for approximately 1 second to select VIDEO.
Recording does not start.
The camcorder Power Switch has not been set to A or M (see page 12).
Animation or Time-Lapse is not available.
Before recording in the Animation mode at the very beginning of a tape, set the camcorder to the Recording mode for about 5 seconds, so that the tape runs smoothly. Using the Fade-in function at this point is a good way to begin an animated program.
Playback Problems
The tape is running, but there is no playback picture.
The TV has not been set to its VIDEO input channel.
If Audio/Video connection is used, the TV’s VIDEO/TV switch has not been set to VIDEO.
Playback cant be performed.
If DSC is selected, it isn’t possible to play a tape. Press REFRESH for approximately 1 second to select VIDEO.
Playback picture is blurred or interrupted.
The video heads are dirty or worn out. Consult your nearest RCA authorized service center for head cleaning or replacement.
The tape stops during fast-forward or rewind.
The Counter Memory Function has been activated (see page 49).
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Other Information
Rewinding or fast-forwarding cant be performed.
The tape is already fully wound on one reel or the other.
The picture is blurred in the Quick Review or Retake mode.
This is normal while recording in the SLP mode. Some noise may be present while recording in the SP mode.
The date and time displays disappear.
If you remove the power source from the camcorder while the power is on, all settings and selections are erased. Make sure to turn the camcorder’s power off before disconnecting the power source.
The wrong date and time are displayed/recorded.
If you have not performed Date/Time Setting (see page 22), the date and time are not displayed/recorded correctly. Be sure that Date/Time setting is carried out.
The tape wont eject.
The battery pack is running low.
If the LCD monitor is not open more than 60˚, the EJECT switch does not function.
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Other Information
Digital Still Camera Problems
Although SNAPSHOT is pressed, the snapshot isnt stored in the built-in memory.
When the remaining picture number icon blinks 0, you must delete some pictures before you can store new ones (see page 69).
It isnt possible to shoot in succession.
It takes approximately 2 seconds to store a snapshot in memory. You’ll have to wait until the snapshot is stored before taking another picture.
Although ALL is selected in the DELETE menu , all snapshots cant be deleted.
The Protecting Images function is in effect for some snapshots. If they are not necessary, cancel the Protecting Images function, then try deleting all snapshots again (see pages 68-
69).
If images cannot be deleted, even after you have unprotected them, you may need to initialize the memory. This will erase all the images (including protected) (see page 70).
There seems to be a problem with storing images in memory.
Try to delete some of the images, then try to take a few more snapshots. If that doesn’t work, you may need to save any remaining images to a PC and initialize the memory. This will erase all the images (including protected) from memory (see page 70).
Date/Time Insert isnt performed while shooting a snapshot.
You can’t display the date/time on a snapshot.
Instant Titles arent displayed while shooting a snapshot.
You can’t display the Instant Titles on a snapshot.
Some settings cant be changed in the DSC menu.
You can’t set REC TIME and INT. TIME in the DSC menu.
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