RCA CC643 User Manual

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ItCil

camcorder

user’s guide

CC641/CC643

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Important Safety Information

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

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

camcorder or AC adapter/charger to rain or moisture.

This symbol indicates “dangerous voltage”

inside the product that presents a risk of electric shock or personal injury.

■ '.'S'

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

This symbol indicates important instructions accompanying the product.

Cautions

CAUTION: To prevent electric shock, match wide blade of plug to

wide slot, fully insert.

ATTENTION: Pour éviter les chocs électriques, introduire la lame

la plus large de la fiche dans la borne correspondante de la prise et pousser jusqu au fond.

To reduce risk of injury, charge only rechargeable batteries recom mended by the manufacturer for this camcorder. Other types of batteries may burst causing damage and personal injury.

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

Product Registration

Please fill out the product registration card and return it immediately. Returning this card allows us to contact you if needed.

Keep your sales receipt for proof of purchase to obtain 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:

CC643/CCM1

We want to make sure you enjoy your new camcorder. If you have any questions, call:

Camcorder Exchange Warranty.

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

800-283-6503 (pages 80-81)

Customer Service..........................................800-336-1900 (page 79)

Accessories

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

800-338-0376 (pages 66-71)

Safety Information. First Time Operation

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

Unpack the Camcorder and

Accessories Attach the Adapter/Charger Insert a Tape Adjust the Handstrap to Fit

Your Hand

Slide LENS COVER Control to

Open Lens Cover

Place POWER (CAMERA/OFF

VCR) Switch in CAMERA

Select a Recording Speed and

Tape Length Set theA£ DialtoAt/TO Adjust the Viewfinder and

Eyepiece Focus Control Start and Stop Recording Play Back What you Have

Recorded

Place the POWER Switch in OFF

to Turn Off the Camcorder Close the Lens Cover Review Camcorder’s

Operating Controls

Powering Your Camcorder

• Using the Adapter/Charger to Power Your Camcorder

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9-11

• Using the Battery to Power Your Camcorder

• Using the DCC08 Car Cord

Adapter

Video Cassettes

• Erase Protection - Safety Tab

• Recoi'ding and Playback

• Inserting and Removing

• Cassette Care and Storage

6 7

7 8

8 8

Recording

• Adjust Viewfinder for

• Eyepiece Focus Control

• Making a Recording

• Viewfinder Displays..................22-25

• Flying Erase Head...........................26

• Auto Head Cleaner

• Tally Light

• Quick Review Feature

• Microphone

• Camera Edit Feature

• Full Auto Mode...............................28

• Exposure Control

• Zooming

• Using the Zoom Lever

• Tele Macro Zooming

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Speeds and Times

Cassettes.....................................18

Convenient Viewing

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13-15

19 19

20-21

26 26 26 27 27

• Focusing

• Auto Focus

• Focus Lock Feature

• Manual Focus

• White Balance............................

• Fading In and Out

• 16 X 9 Mode

• Date/Time Display

• Clock Lithium Cell................

• Setting the Time and Date ,

• Record the Date, Date and Time,

• Titles

• Recording Preset

• Create Your Own Title .......

• Gain Up......................................

• AE Dial......................................

• Self-Timer...............................

• Animation Recording

• Time-Lapse Recording

• Time-Remaining Display

• JLIP (Joint Level Interface Protocol) Identification Number

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

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

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

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

or Title on Your Tape

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...34-35

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...40-41

.......

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.46-47 .48-49 .50-51

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43 44 45

32 32 33

36 37

• Playback on TV (or VCR) with Audio/Video In Jacks ..62-63

• Playback on a TV Without

AudioWideo Inputs

Optional Accessories

• Accessory Order Form Trouble Checks Care and Maintenance

• Cleaning the Camcorder

• Cleaning the Camcorder’s Lens .... 76

• Cleaning the Camcorder’s Viewfinder

• Proper Care and Storage

• Th ings to Avoid Information to User

Customer Assistance

Limited Warranty...........................80-81

Specifications.......................................82

Index...............................................83-85

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64-65 66-71

69-71

,....72-75

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76 77 77

78 79

Recording and Traveling Tips ., Attaching the Shoulder Strap... Playback

• Using the Cassette Adapter..........

• Viewfinder Playback

• Playback Features

• Visual Searching

• Tape Positioning......................

• Stop-Action Pause

• Time Counter...........................

• Memory-Stop Feature

• Tracking

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.56-57

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inti; t'j'iiyvernili

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

Assistance

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

Camcorder Exchange Warranty

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

800-283-6503

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

Accessories

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

800-338-0376

1. Unpack the camcorder and accessories.,

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

• The items shown below are packed with your camcorder. If any are missing or appear damaged, contact your dealer immediately.

WARNINO; NICKEL CADMIUM BATTERY MUST BE RECYCLED OR DISPOSED OF PROPERLY.

Rechargeable 6 Volt Battery

*Your model of camcorder may not look

exactly like the pictures in this guide.

Caution: Do not use

^ this adapter/charger

‘ ' fOT àny pmjxtse ottier

^ than charging the

'FBI260 or FBI20

battery packor supplying power to thè camcorder.

AC Adapter/Charger Part No. 236689 and DC Cable Part No. 233087

Part No FB1260

Cassette Adapter Part No. 232845

Shoulder Strap

Part No. ACS091

<E 3

Cassette Adapter Battery

(Size "AA" 1.5 Volt)

Clock Cell 3-Volt Micro Lithium Cell-such as CR2025available from most local drug stores and camera shops. Use of other cells present a risk of fire or explosion.

CAUTIONS: Lithium cell must be disposed of propeàyJ Never handle a punctured or leaking cell. May. cause bums or personal injury.b tp'j

1 Keep out of the hands of children., Gan cause death or injury if swallowed.

If swallowed, consult a physician immediately for emeigency tr^tment The lithium cell used in this device may^xplode resulting"in a fire or

chemical bum if mistreated. Do liot recha^e, disassemble,' tieat above 212°F(1(X)°C), or incinerate. ,•

Never use metallic tweezers to hold the cell, and never short circuit the + and - sides of the cell.

To AC 100-240, 50/60 Hz

ri'i «I'll Yi

2. Attach the adapter/charger.

Since the battery must be charged before it can be used the first time, attach the adapter/charger to the camcorder.

• Connect one end of the DC cable to the DC OUT jack on the adapter/charger.

• Connect the other end of the DC cable to the DC in jack on the camcorder as shown above.

• Plug the adapter/charger’s plug into an operating outlet. The

adapter/charger’s POWER

indicator will light.

3. Insert a tape.

• SWdc EJECT.

• Turn the tape wheel on the cassette to remove any slack from the tape.

• Insert the cassette with the tape

wheel facing up and the tape window facing out.

• Press on the area labeled PUSH

until the cassette door locks into place.

EJECT

Button

Tape Wheel

LENS

Cover Control

Adjust the handstrap to fit your hand.

• Lift the flap on the handstrap and separate the velcro strip.

• Insert your hand, adjust the strap to fit snugly, refasten the strap, and close the flap.

Slide LENS COVER control

5. to open lens cover.

Place POWER {CAMERA/

OFF/VCR) switch

in CAMERA.

POWER „ . , ,, ,

Switch and Handstrap Velcro Scator Strip (Under Flap)

Handstrap

The power indicator will light and the camcorder will enter record pause. = PAUSE = appears in the viewfinder when the camcorder is in record pause.

The position of this switch tells the camcorder whether you want to record {CAMERA), turn the power off (OFF), or play back tapes (VCR).

The camcorder will automatically turn off if it remains in record pause for five minutes. Place

ROWER in OFF and then back in CAMERA.

(continued on next page)

M'p'.'l i;

T20*30^0

Button

7. Select a recording speed and

Select SP or SLP recording speed. Press the SP-SLP button to select a recording speed. The speed selected {SP or SLP) appears in the viewfinder.

• SP - Standard play provides the best picture, but the shortest recording time (20 minutes with a TC-20 tape).

• SLP - Extended play provides three times the recording time as SP (60 minutes with a TC-20 tape). SLP has slightly more picture noise in normal playback.

tape length.

Set the length of the tape you are using so the camcorder can correctly calculate the recording time remaining on the tape.

Repeatedly press the T20'3Ch40 button to select a tape length.

• Select T20 if you are using a tape with 20 minutes or less recording time in SP.

• Select T30 if you are using a tape with 30 minutes recording time in SP.

• Select T40 if you are using a tape with 40 minutes recording time in SP.

Electronic

8. Set the AE dial to A UTO.

• This places the camcorder in the AUTO mode.

• In the AUTO mode, the focus, exposure, and white balance are

automatically controlled by the

camcorder.

• Many of the special effects do not

operate in the AUTO mode.

Details on page 28.

Adjust the viewfinder and eyepiece focus control.

• Pull out and rotate the viewfinder into a comfortable operating position.

• Turn the eyepiece focus control to adjust the focus of the viewfinder

for your vision.

I fs.'i t.

Power POWER Indicator (VCR/OFF/

CAMERA)

Switch

STOP

Button

PLAY/

PAUSE

Button

REW

Button

Thumb Trigger

10. Start and stop recording.

• Press and release the thumb trigger to start recording. ^ appears in

the viewfinder, and the tally light will light when the camcorder is recording.

• Press and release the thumb trigger again to stop recording. The camcorder is now in the record pause mode ( sPAUSES appears in

the viewfinder).

11. Play back what you have recorded.

• Place the POWER switch in VCR.

• Press REW to rewind the tape.

• Press PLAY/PAUSE to play back

the tape in the viewfinder.

• Press STOP when you are finished

playing back the tape.

• Details on viewfinder playback are

on page 58.

12. Place the POWER switch in

OFF to turn off the

camcorder.

The power indicator will turn off.

13. Close the lens cover.

rs'i't'il fc. ’ n'ni- f XilH**0i <)'| '

14. Review camcorder’s operating controls.

Power Zoom Lever

(continued on next page)

14. Review camcorder’s operating controls, (continued)

Eyepiece

Model CC643 Only:

B (Bright) and C (White

Balance) Controls (See

trouble checks for details.)

Shoulder Strap Attachment Ring

Clock Cell Battery Compartment

Attach Rechargeable Battery Here

Attach Adapter/

Charger’s DC cord Here

Focus Control

Viewfinder

LENS COVER Control

Handstrap

ower Indicator

Shoulder Strap Attachment Ring

POWER (VCR/OFF/ CAMERA) Switch

Thumb Trigger

AUDIO

(MONO), RE DC OUT, and VIDEO jacks

14. Review camcorder’s operating controls.

T20*30^0 Button

(Also COUNTER R/M Button)

RELEASE Button

Using the Adapter/Charger to Power Your Camcorder

The adapter/charger attaches to the camcorder and lets you power your camcorder directly from standard household power. The adapter/charger operates on 100-240 volts, 50/60 Hz, so it can be used virtually anywhere in the world to power the camcorder or recharge the battery.

Attach Adapter/charger

1. Connect one end of the DC cable to the DC OUT jack on the adapter/ charger.

2. Connect the other end of the DC cable to the DC in jack on the camcorder as

shown above.

3. Plug the adapter/charger’s plug into the nearest AC outlet (100-240V, 50/60HZ).

4. If the adapter/charger is properly connected, its POWER indicator will light.

CAUTION: Do not use this adapter/ charger for any other purpose other than charging the FB1260 or FB120 battery pack or supplying power to the camcorder.

Remove Adapter/Charger

1. Unplug the adapter/charger from the wall outlet.

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

Using an Optional Plug Adapter

An optional plug adapter may be required in some countries.

Optional AC Plug Adapter

1. Plug the adapter/charger’s plug into the AC plug adapter.

2. Plug the AC plug adapter into the AC outlet.

AC 100-240V

Using the Battery to Power Your Camcorder

The battery must be charged as described on the next page before it can be used the first time. Initial charging will take approximately 70 minutes. When fully charged, the battery should supply about 70 minutes of operating time (depending on how much you use zoom and pause). Conserve battery power by turning the camcorder off during recording breaks.

Note: The small marker switch on top of the battery is for use as a personal reminder to help you remember to recharge the battery. It has no other function.

Reference , , ,

Battery Safety Precautions.

Attach the Charged Battery

If the DC cable is attached to the camcorder, remove it before attaching the battery. Also, install the lithium clock cell before attaching the battery pack.

Details on page 38.

1. Align the reference mark on the battery with mark on back of camcorder.

2. Hold the top of the battery flush against the camcorder and press the

11)6 not.short the battery’s j»tli

'terminals.

Do not attempt toidisass^ntble or modify the battery. There are no

usetjis^iyicjgaye jgrte

; Use the batteryiOnly with .

specified adapter/chaigers and camcorders,Ti-j|jf;il iui.i iiSTii' Throwing the battery into a fire of exposing it to excessive fieaf^ overT49“F (65”C) could be ' •. hazardous.

bottom of the battery down until it locks into place.

3. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA. The power indicator will light.

Remove the Battery

Slide and hold ВАТТ. RELEASE to the right while removing the battery.

ATTENTION: The RBRC seal on the battery used in your Thomson Consumer Electronics product indicates that we are participating in a program to collect and recycle Nickel Cadmium batteries throughout the

United States. Please call 1-800-8-BATTERY for information or

contact your local recycling center.

To AC Wall Outlet 100 240 Volts, 50/60 Hz.

'Gautiohr ^When a battery is attached to the adapter/chaiger, do not turn them\

upside down.'The battery may fall off and be damaged or cause injury. ‘ \

Charge the Battery

If the DC cable is attached to the DC OUT

jack on the adapter/charger, remove its

plug.

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

Hold the battery flush against the adapter/charger and slide it in the direction of the arrow.

Plug adapter/charger into nearest AC outlet (100-240V, 50/60Hz).

If the battery is properly connected, the adapter/charger’s CHG (charge) indicator will light.

Note: If you try to charge a battery that

has not been charged for a long period of time, it may take a few minutes for the

CHG indicator to light.

After the battery is charged, the END indicator will light.

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

Attach the charged battery to the

7. camcorder.

Use the REFRESH Button

The battery will provide increased operation time if you “refresh” it after five chargings. The refresh feature “refreshes” the battery by completely discharging it.

1. Attach battery to adapter/charger.

2. Press REFRESH. The REFRESH indicator will light and the battery will begin discharging.

3. When discharging is completed, the

REFRESH indicator will turn off, and the CHG indicator will light. The battery will then charge.

4. After the battery is charged, the

END indicator will light. Remove the battery from the adapter/charger.

(v îuKfe'nr’i,

Battery Level Indicator

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

Battery Care and Storage .

• Recharging takes approximately 70 minutes depending on the battery’s condition.

• Refreshing takes approximately 210 minutes depending on the battery’s

condition.

• After repeated charging and use,

operation time will gradually decrease. When operation time becomes too short to be useful, it is time to replace the battery.

• If the CHG indicator starts flashing, the battery pack has become too hot.

• When <B5BJ appears, the battery is fully charged.

• As the power is used 03 and CIB appear.

• When the battery power is almost gone,

'cb^ flashes in the viewfinder. The

/ I \

camcorder will turn off automatically after a few seconds. Place the POWER switch in OFF to turn off the cam corder before replacing the battery.

The battery level indicator will not be recorded on the tape when it appears in the viewfinder.

Remove the battery and let it cool down.

If the battery discharging must be stopped in the middle, remove the battery from the adapter/charger before unplugging it from the AC outlet.

Let a hot battery cool down before attaching it to the AC adapter/charger.

Optional Саг Cord Adapter

The optional DCC08 car cord shown on

page 66 allows you to power your

camcorder from the cigarette lighter

socket of a car, truck, or RV. It converts

12-volts to a 6-volt output.

Note: Consult the installation and operating

instructions enclosed with the DCC08 for complete operating instructions.

Using the DCC08 Car Cord Adapter

Cautions: The.DGCOS is sdesÍ5ned.to^rf i be used only with yehiclesAaving nl a i» negative ground jeleotrical isystents-.i; w c -

Use only car cord adapter DCC08 with this camcorder. Use of any other cár cord adapSéiay damage the Í camcorder and void your warranty..

1. Place the POWER switch in OFF to turn off the camcorder. Power indicator on the camcorder turns off.

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

3. Hold the top of the power connector flush against the camcorder, and press the bottom of the power connector down until it locks into place.

4. Take the vehicle’s cigarette lighter out of the socket.

Insert the car cord’s cigarette lighter

5. plug into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket. The power indicator on the car cord adapter will light.

Place the POWER switch in CAMERA

to turn on the camcorder. The power

indicator on the camcorder lights.

Caution: sure the camcorder’s power is turned off before rethoving the car cord’s plug from the cigarette

lighter socket.

I U; I ) C - ! iJ i i

Make sure you select good quality tapes to be used with your camcorder. Use of poor quality tapes or tapes that have been damaged or mishandled can contaminate the video heads, resulting in a snowy picture or no picture at all during playback. Because there is no control over the type of tape purchased or rented by consumers, head cleaning is not covered under warranty. It is considered normal maintenance.

The automatic head-cleaning system minimizes the need for accessory cleaners or cleaning by a Servicenter. This system is activated whenever you insert or remove a cassette.

Erase Protection - Safety Tab

You can use your video cassettes over and over again. To erase a previous recording,

just record over it.

safety tab or slide tab to

REC OFF.

B. Cover hole

with vinyl tape or slide tab to REC ON to record over tape.

Recording and Playback Speeds and Times

The camcorder records and plays back in standard speed (SP) or extended play (SLP). Select the recording speed using the SP-SLP button. The selected speed will be displayed in the viewfinder. Listed below are the maximum SP and SLP recording times for popular VHS-C cassettes.

• SP - Standard play provides the best picture (less picture noise), but the shortest recording time (20 minutes with a TC-20 tape).

* SLP - Extended play provides

three times the recording time as SP (60 minutes with a TC-20 tape). SLP has slightly more

Cassette

TC-20 TC-30 30 Min. TC-40

Recording Time

20 Min.

40 Min.

SLP

60 Min. 90 Min.

120 Min.

picture noise than SP in normal

playback. This may not be

noticeable.

Inserting and Removing Cassettes

PUSH Here to

Close Cassette Compartment

Before inserting a cassette, turn the tape wheel on the side of the cassette in the direction shown to remove any slack in the tape.

^ Tape Wheel

EJECT Button

‘‘^cme'^ay’TOth’’*^

Tape Wheel

Safety Tab tsdiouldislide ‘

Tape Window

1. Attach a power supply. Then slide and release EJECT to open the

cassette compartment.

2. Insert or remove the cassette.

3. Close the cassette compartment door by pressing on the area labeled PUSH until it locks into place.

-'.facinglipand I ..

■easUy'intb the ^

"T)o not force

»theitapewheel)

the tape.win-c,

dow facing out.

compartment.

the cassette.

Cassette Care and Storage

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

• Store cassettes vertically in their protective cases at normal room temperatures. Do not leave your camcorder or cassettes in a car or outdoors for an extended period. Excessive heat or cold may damage your cassettes.

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

and other devices.

Keep dust from entering the cassette compartment. All dust is abrasive and will cause excessive wear on the tape and the camcorder’s recording or playback heads.

Do not use cassettes with damaged or splic:ed tape.

Do not use a cassette if it has been damaged or exposed to moisture. The tape may jam and/or damage your camcorder.

Viewfinder

The camcorder’s viewfinder is a miniature monitor that displays the picture seen by the camcorder when recording.

Adjust Viewfinder for Convenient Viewing

For convenient viewing, you can slide the viewfinder out from the camcorder and rotate it up and down.

VCaudons, Y' I k

\ / i

Db.notforcte the>5^ viewfindli: to rotate^

■ ' ''ii i ^ ^

“^-^pmpletely aroundf

■will^^amgethe view^ndej/iand/or the camcorder.

When carrying the

camcorder with the shoulder sttap, put the viewfinder down and in. This helps prevent possible damage to the viewfinder from

^ bumping against your

■' body as you move.

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.

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

Making a Recording

The steps below tell you how to make a recording and suggest using some of the recording features. Each feature is described in detail on the following pages.

rj /EJECT I y/ Button

-AE Dial EDIT

Buttons

SET Button

T20»3(h40

Button SP-SLP

Attach Power Supply

1. Attach a power supply.

Attach the adapter/charger, charged battery, or optional DC car cord.

2. Insert a tape.

• Turn the tape wheel on the cassette to remove any slack from the tape.

• Press EJECT to open the cassette

compartment.

• Insert the cassette with the tape

wheel facing up and the tape window facing out.

SELECT Button

LENS COVER

Control

POWER Switch

3. Slide the LENS COVER control to open the lens cover.

4. Place the (CAMERA/OFF/

VCR) switch in CAMERA.

The power indicator will light and the camcorder will enter record pause,

s PAUSE = appears in the viewfinder.

5. Adjust the viewfinder and eyepiece focus control for your vision.

-V - . ^ ^ ■

6. Select a recording speed and tape length.

A. Press the SP-SLP button to select

SP or SLP recording speed.

B. Press the T20*30'40 button to select

the length of the tape you are using {T20, T30, or T40) so the cam corder can correctly calculate the time remaining.

7. Set the AE dial for a special effect.

• Place the dial in AUTO to place the camcorder in the full auto mode.

• Place the dial in ( ) sports or

1/1000 to record fast-moving

action.

• Place the dial in (Q) back light or

([З) front light to compensate for unusual lighting situations.

• Place the dial in ( H ) sepia to create the effect of an old movie.

• Place the dial in HAZE to soften the

image and create a misty white look.

• Place the dial in (SHOW) shadow

effect to darken the image and lessen glare.

• Details are on page 45.

8. Fade in and out of scenes

• Repeatedly press SELECT to

display >-FADE< in the viewfinder. Press 5£7.

• FADE will appear in the viewfinder.

• The camcorder will fade in if you

start recording or fade out if you are recording.

9. Start and stop recording.

• Pr< jss and release the thumb trigger to start recording. appears in

the viewfinder and the tally light will light when the camcorder is recording.

• Pn iss and release the thumb trigger again to stop recording. The camcorder is now in record pause,

s PAUSE s appears in the viewfinder.

• The camcorder will automatically turn off if it remains in record pause for five minutes. Place the

POWER

switch in OFF and then back in

CAMERA.

10. Zoom in and out.

• Zoom in and out using the zoom T and W lever.

• The zoom indicator appears in the viewfinder when you zoom.

11. Review what you have recorded.

• Press and quickly release EDIT SEARCH - to review the last few

seconds of your recording.

• Press and hold EDIT SEARCH - or + to visually see what you have recorded. Release the button to begin recording at that point.

12. When you are finished, place POWER switch in OFF and close

the lens cover.

ÎÎUOf:iÎÎl>L

Battery Level Indicator ( gai )

• This indicator shows the amount of power left in the rechargeable batteiy.

• This indicator flashes when the battery is almost empty.

Cassette Warning

• The Œ] indicator flashes when the

power dial is set to CAMERA and the safety tab has been removed from the cassette or there is no cassette in the camcorder.

SELECT Button Indicators ( ► ◄ )

The feature selected with the SELECT button appears here.

• *^FADE< This indicator appears when you can

select fading.

• Press SET to select FADE. The

camcorder will automatically fade in and out of scenes.

• Details are on page 36.

• >-16X9 < (Wide Screen)

• Press SET to select 16X9. The

camcorder will record with black bars at the top and bottom of the screen to produce a cinema-like wide-screen effect.

• Details are on page 37.

• >-TITLE^ (Preset Titles)

This indicator appears when you can

select one of the eight preset titles or the title you created.

• Press SET to select one of the titles.

• Details are on page 42.

• *^DISP.^ (Display)

• This indicator appears when you can select a display to record on your tape.

• Press SET to select date, A UTO DATE, date and time, or a title you created. SET CHAR appears if you have not created a title.

• Details are on pages 40-41

• >-M.W.B.< (Manual White Balance) This indicator appears for manual

white balance. Press SET to select the white

balance mode.

• Select MWB when you want to

adjust the color temperatures manually.

• Select -j®'- when recording

outdoors on a sunny day.

• Select when recording

outdoors on a cloudy day.

• Select when recording using

halogen or tungsten lighting.

• Details are on pages 34-35.

Status Displays

• The indicator appears when the

camcorder is recording.

• The = pause = indicator appears

during record pause.

Tape Speed Indicators {SP or SLP)

The tape speed selected with the SP-SLP button appears here.

• Details are on page 17.

Zoom Indicator (

)

The zoom indicator appears here when

you use the zoom lever.

Viewfinder Displays (continued)

5min

M 0:00:00

LENS COVER

r? =si

TAPE END

Change Indicator ( ►)

This indicator appears to let you know that an item in the recording menu has been changed from the original

factory setting.

Dew Warning (0 )

The dew indicator appears when exces sive moisture (condensation) has entered the camcorder. The camcorder will not operate when this indicator appears. ' Place the camcorder in a warm, dry area until this indicator disappears.

T30

+03

►

Exposure Indicators (+03)

This indicator appears when you are adjusting brightness manually using the + and - buttons in the center of the AE dial.

• Details are on page 29.

Focus Indicators ( ** -^ )

These indicator appear when you are

adjusting focus manually using the FOCUS ◄ and FOCUS ► buttons.

The AE dial must not be set to AUTO.

• The( ) flash when the auto-focus system cannot operate properly.

• Details are on pages 32-33.

Lithium Ceil (dS^j)

• This indicator appears for a few seconds when you turn on the

camcorder and the clock cell is missing or needs to be replaced.

• Details are on page 38.

Self-Timer, Animation, and Time-Lapse Indicators ( IS and QlSS)

• The interval time selected for self-timer or time-lapse recording ( Q 15S, SOS,

IMJN, or 5MIN) appears here. Details

are on pages 46-47 and 50-51.

• The recording time selected for animation or time-lapse recording

(^ 1/45, 7/25, or 75) appears here.

• Details are on pages 48-49 and 50-51.

Tape Length (T 30)

The tape length (720, T30, or T40) selected with the T20*30*40 button appears here.

• Details are on page 52.

Time Remaining Display (5 min)

The ap])roximate time remaining on the tape is automatically displayed. The correct tape length must be set with the

T*20'30'40 button.

• Details are on page 52.

Warnings and Information

• LENS COVER: When you turn on the camcorder, this indicator briefly flashes to remind you to open the lens cover.

This indicator may flash when the camcorder is used in dark areas — even if the lens cover is open.

• TAPE END appears when the end of the tape is reached during recording or a cassette is inserted with its tape already at the end.

Time-Counter (M0:00:00)

• The time counter appears during playback. It is not recorded.

• An “AT” appears in front of the time counter when memory-stop is on.

• Details are on page 60.

Flying Erase Head

A separate erase head is mounted on the spinning headwheel (hence the term “flying”). This allows you to make clean edits without the “glitches” or “rainbow noise” that may occur at the beginning or the end of recordings.

Auto Head Cleaner

The camcorder has an automatic head

cleaning system. Whenever a cassette is inserted or removed, this system is activated.

The head-cleaning system minimizes the need for accessory cleaners or cleaning by a Servicenter.

Tally Light

The tally light lights when the camcorder

is recording.

Quick Review Feature

Press and release EDIT SEARCH - when the camcorder is in record pause to review the last few seconds of a record ing. The POWER switch must be in

CAMERA.

The camcorder will play back the last

few seconds of the recording, return the tape to its previous position, and return to record pause.

Exposure Control

When the AE dial is in AUTO, the camcorder controls the iris for you. Under normal conditions, the camcorder will adjust brightness automati cally. You may need to adjust brightness manually Vv'hen the background is too bright or too dark in comparison with the subject.

Manual Exposure

1. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA.

• The power indicator will light and

the camcorder will enter record pause. = PAUSE = appears in the viewfinder.

2. Place the AE dial in MAN.

• Press + in the center of the dial to brighten the image.

• Press - in the center of the dial to darken the image.

• The exposure level indicator (± 01 to 06) appears in the viewfinder.

l\irn Off Manual Exposure

Press both + and - at the same time or

place the mode select dial \n AUTO.

Conditions Requiring Manual

Exposure

• When recording with a bright back ground or reverse lighting.

• When recording with a very dark background or very bright subject.

• When recording a reflective natural background — such as a beach or when skiing.

Zooming

You can zoom in and out for close ups or wide-angle shots just by sliding the zoom lever on the camcorder. The camcorder can automatically focus when you zoom at most distances.

If you want to record a close-up of a small subject closer than three feet, you can turn on the Tele Macro feature in the recording menu. This feature allows you to record a small subject at a distance of approximately 23 inches.

Zoom Lever

Using the Zoom Lever

1. To zoom in or out, slide the zoom lever on the camcorder.

• To move the lens in the telephoto

(close-up) direction, slide the zoom lever toward T.

• To move the lens in the wide angle

direction, slide the lever toward W.

Zoom speed varies on the camcorder according to how far you zoom in or out.

The zoom level indicator appears in the viewfinder.

Tele Macro Zooming

FOCUS►

To T\irn on Tele Macro Zooming

1. Make sure the AE dial is not set to AUTO.

2. Press the MENU button. The recording menu will appear in the viewfinder.

3. Press + or - in the center of the AE dial to highlight TELE MACRO.

GAIN UP

aELE«IACRO.r<» iORF

INTERVAL TIMER RECTIME JLIP ID NO. SET CHARACTER DATE/TIME

END :MENU KEY

MAX OFF

OFF 07

4. Press ◄ or ► in the center of the AE dial to select ► ON or OFF.

• Select ► ON if you want to record a small subject within approximately

23 inches.

• Select OFF for normal zooming.

5. Press MENU to exit the menu.

Focusing

Under normal conditions, the camcorder can adjust focus automatically.

Under certain conditions, you may need to focus manually.

FOCUS►

Auto Focus

During auto focus the camcorder will focus automatically on the object located in the center area of the viewfinder.

• Place the AE dial in A UTO to turn on the auto focus feature.

Note: The low-contrast indicator ( ) in the viewfinder indicates the auto-focus system may not operate correctly due to low illumination, low or no contrast, repeated patterns, or two

subjects at different distances overlapping.

Focus Lock Feature

The focus lock feature is useful when objects pass between your subject and the camcorder or your main subject is not

located in the center of the viewfinder.

1. Phice the AE dial in MAN.

2. Center the main object in the viewfinder.

3. Press FOCUS ◄ or FOCUS ► to focus on the main subject. The mtinual focus indicators (ià ) appear in the viewfinder.

4. Press FOCUS ◄ and FOCUS ► together (or place AE dial in AUTO) to turn auto focus back on.

i't) r' ( f

Manual Focus

Under certain conditions, such as those listed, you may need to focus manually.

1. Set the AE dial to MAN.

2. Slide the power zoom lever toward T to zoom in on your subject. To maintain proper focus throughout the zoom range, you must zoom in on the subject before adjusting the focus.

3. Ptsss FOCUS < or FOCUS ►to display a clear picture in the center of the viewfinder.

The tk indicators appear in the viewfinder. The ◄ or ► indicator will

flash. When the focus cannot be adjusted any farther, the ik indicator will flash. When the focus cannot be adjusted any closer, the A indicator will flash.

4. Release the FOCUS < or FOCUS ► to lock in the manual focus.

5. Prtss FOCUS <&nà FOCUS ► together (or place AE dial in AUTO) to turn auto focus back on.

Conditions Requiring Manual Focus

• When recording a subject through a window.

• When recording a subject having a close foreground and a background that is far away.

• When recording two subjects at different distances that overlap in the same scene.

When the subject is not in the center of

the viewfinder. When recording in low-light situations. When recording a scene with fast

motions, like a tennis swing.

ife:ty7ijtiVL>"

White Balance

Making colors look natural is what white balance is all about. This is achieved by adjusting the way the camcorder “sees” and records the light source in the scene you

wish to record. Your camcorder is equipped with automatic white balance. However, under certain conditions, such as recording an object with various shades of the same

color or when recording a predominantly red or brown object outdoors, you may

want to adjust white balance manually.

Auto White Balance

During auto white balance, the camcorder will automatically adjust the white balance.

1. Place the POWER switch in

CAMERA.

2. Place the A£ dial in/4{/TO or press 5£Twhen ◄ M.W.B. ► appears in

the viewfinder until no indicator appears in the viewfinder.

Manual White Balance

1. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA.

2. Place the AE dial in MAN.

3. Press the SELECT button until

◄ M.W.B. ► appears in the

viewfinder.

4. Press SET until the white balance indicator you want appears in the

viewfinder.

The white balance indicator you select will appear in the viewfinder.

• No indicator appears when you select auto white balance.

• Select MWB when shooting subjects with different color temperatures and adjust the white

balance as follows:

Note: Connecting your camcorder to a

color TV monitor may be helpful when

making white balance adjustments.

A. Point camcorder at a white, flat

object such as a piece of white paper.

B. Press and hold SET until MWB

appears and then press SET for at

least three seconds.

The MWB indicator will flash while the camcorder is adjusting white balance and stop flashing when it is ready to record.

Note: To change the tint for special

recording, substitute colored paper for white. The white balance is adjusted based on the color.

Red paper - deeper green Blue paper - orange Yellow paper - deeper purple

• Select when recording outdoors on a sunny day.

• Select -yi, when recording outdoors on a cloudy day.

• Select when recording using halogen or tungsten

lighting.

To hiive camcorder automatically control white balance, repeatedly press SET until no white balance indicator appears in viewfinder (or p;ace AE dial in AUTO).

Fading In and Out

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

1. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA. The power indicator will

light. The camcorder will enter record pause.

2. Make sure the AE dial is not set to

AUTO.

3. Repeatedly press SELECT until

>-FADE-* appears in the viewfinder.

4. Press SET. FADE will appear on the left-hand side of the viewfinder when the fade feature is turned on.

• Press the thumb trigger to start

recording and the camcorder will fade in.

• Press the thumb trigger to stop

recording and the camcorder will fade out.

5. To turn off FADE, press SELECT to remove the FADE indicator from the viewfinder, or place the AE dial

in AUTO.

Notes: Press and hold the thumb trigger to record a black screen.

The screen becomes slightly reddish if the fade feature is used with the sepia feature.

The screen fades out white when the haze feature is turned on.

16 X 9 Mode

The camcorder has a 16 X 9 recording

mode that lets you make recordings compatible with the 16X9 format. When

16 X 9 is activated, the camcorder records black bars at the top and bottom of the picture to produce the wide-screen effect. This is also known as “letterbox” recording.

Do not use this mode unless you have a compatible 16 X 9 TV. When played on a regular TV, black bam appear in the picture.

1. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA. The power indicator will

light. The camcorder will enter record pause.

Make sure the AE dial is not set to

AUTO.

Repeatedly press SELECT until

► 16X9-« appears in the viewfinder.

New 16x9 TV Screen

Standard Shape TV Screen

Press SET. Black bars will appear at

4. the top and bottom of the picture in

the viewfinder. To turn off 16 X 9, press SELECT to

5. remove the 16X9 indicator from the

viewfinder or place the AE dial

in AUTO.

Normal Mode

16 X 9 Mode

Date/Time Display — Clock Lithium Cell

The clock cell indicator ea will flash for a few seconds in the viewfinder when you turn on the camcorder if the cell has not been installed or needs

to be replaced.

Clock Cell (+ Side Facing Out)

Insert Object Here to Remove Cell

Clock Cell Compartment

Install the Clock Lithium Cell

1. Make sure camcorder is turned off, and remove any power supply

attached to the camcorder.

2. Press release tab of clock cell

compartment cover and open the compartment.

3. Insert the clock cell with the “+”

terminal facing out.

4. Close the compartment cover. It will

click into place.

To Remove Lithium Cell

To remove battery, insert a pointed

nonmetallic object between battery and compartment and lift.

Cautions: Lithium cell battery. Replace only with 3-volt lithium cell such as CR2025. Use of other cell presents a risk of fire or explosion. Must be disposed of properly. Never handle punctured or leaking cell. May cause

bums or ,

Keep S^Sf Can cause death or inju^ if swallowed. If swallowed, cons^tVphysician immediately for emergency ^atmciit.

The lithium cell used in this, device may explode resulting in a fire or chemical bum if mistreated. Do not r^harge, disassemble, heat above 212 F (100 C), or

incinerate.^. .

Never us?metallic tweezers to hold the cell, and never short the + and - sides of the cell. '

Date/Time Display — Setting the Time and Date

The date and time must be set before it can be displayed and recorded on your tapes. The clock cell must be installed as shown on the previous page before the date can be set and recorded.

Make sure the AE dial is not set to

AUTO.

Press the MENU button. The recording menu will appear in the viewfinder.

Press + or - in the center of the AE

dial to highlight DATE/TIME.

GAIN UP TELE MACRO INTERVAL TIMER REC TIME

JLIP ID NO.

SET CHARACTER

END :MENU KEY

MAX OFF

OFF OFF 07

4. Press ► in the center of the AE dial to display the time and date screen.

JAN 1.00 AM 12:00

^ I '

SET CANCEL

5. Press ◄ or ► to select the item you want to set (month, day, year, hour including AM/PM, and minutes).

Press + or - until the correct setting appears. Press + to go forward or - to go back.

When you are finished, press ◄ or ► to highlight SET.

When 5'£T begins to flash, press

MENU. The menu reappears. Press MENU again to close the menu.

Notes:

If you enter an invalid date, INPUT ERROR appears in the viewfinder. Press ^ , or ► and enter the correct day.

To return to the previous setting while you are setting the time and date, highlight CANCEL

and press MENU.

Date/Time and Title Display — Recording

The clock cell must be installed and the date and time set {as shown on the previous

pages) before the date and time can be selected and recorded. You must have created

a title {as described on page 43) before your title can be selected and recorded.

Select Date, Date and Time, or Title to Record On Your Tape

1. Attach a power supply and place POWER switch in CAMERA. The power indicator will light.

2. Make sure the AE dial is not set to AUTO if you want to select any mode except A UTO DATE.

3. Repeatedly press SELECT until

>-DISP.< appears in the viewfinder.

4. Repeatedly press SET to select A UTO DATE, date, date and time, title, or no date display.

• AUTO DATE’. The date will be

automatically recorded for approxi mately five seconds and then AUTO DATE will be displayed whenever:

• The date has been set or

changed.

• This display mode has just been selected.

• The tape has been changed or the tape compartment opened.

Date Display: The date will be displayed and recorded.

Date and Time Display: The date

and time will be displayed and recorded.

Title: The title you have created

will be displayed and recorded. If no title has been created, SET CHAR appears.

No Display: No display will be displayed or recorded.

Viewfinder Displays — «il« i

CiirilOiVoiuoYL

■ ; .sfili fTiyo nj/i 3Iu - ti.-ii’Vir! y,‘ •

sMiiffe» »lOY'iW 'Mfiiìé^mh ’>i!

'*i6/'S5AisJÌ)isplayèd , , k? o iì

AUTO DATE

AVT OD ATE Di4lay<>->s.

! ,nNoDisplay; .

■f

SET CHAR

Title Display

To Record the Date, Date and Time,

1. Place the camcorder in record pause.

2. Make sure the AE dial is not set to

AUTO unless you want to record

AUTO DATE.

3. Repeatedly press SELECT to display

4. Repeatedly press SET to display A UTO DATE, date, date and time, title, or date off.

-►

NOV 18.97 AH10:25

' Date and Hme Display

• . M '

. : -.M

NOV 18.97

Date Display

- ' ‘"/i ■ ■ ■

or Title on Your Tape

5. Begin recording.

6. Press SET to remove the display from the viewfinder when you are finished

recording it.

Notes: If you do not want to record a date or time, press SET to select the date and time off mode. No display appears in the viewfinder.

If no title has been created, SET CHAR appears and you can create a title.

Titles — Recording

The title feature lets you choose one of eight preset titles or create your own title — up to 18 characters. The clock cell battery must be installed as shown on page 38 before you can create or store your own title.

Add a Preset Title

1. Attach a power supply and place POWER switch in CAMERA. The power indicator will light.

2. Make sure the AE dial is not set to

AUTO.

3. Repeated press SELECT until

^TITLEa appears in the viewfinder.

4. Repeatedly press SET to select one of the following titles. It will be superimposed and recorded on your tape.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

HAPPY HOLIDAYS CONGRATULATIONS

OUR FAMILY

SOMEONE SPECIAL

VACATION

SUPER STAR

FIRST

Title You Created

No Title

5. To remove the title from the viewfinder, press SET.

Note: To recall a title, place the camcorder in

record pause and press SET.

Create Your Own Title

Make sure the AE dial is not set to AUTO.

Press the MENU button. The recording menu will appear in the viewfinder.

Press +or- in the center of the AE dial to highlight SET CHARACTER.

GAIN UP

TELE MACRO OFF

INTERVAL TIMER OFF

REC TIME OFF JLIP ID NO. SET CHARACTER

DATE/TIME

END ;MENU KEY

MAX

«1«

4. Press ► in the center of the AE dial to display the character set menu.

SET:

MENU KEY

► A BCD

J K L M T U V w A E 1

b i 2 END

Note: If you wish to erase a previous title, use or ► to highlight CLEAR, and press MENU.

Press or ► to select a

E F G H 1

0 P Q R S

Y Z A O U

0 U N /E 0 A &

’

/ i ? ¿ Y

3 4

5 6 7 8 9

"]j[]0DQmDGD

—

CLEAR

character and press MENU.

Notes: To choose the location of the next character, use or ► to highlight the row of squares at the bottom of the screen. When the squares are highlighted, use ◄ or ► to move the cursor under the desired location, and then press +.

Repeat step 5 until you have entered your title.

► □ A B

J K L

T u V

AE I

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 END CLEAR

Note: To clear or change a character, highlight the blank space or new character and press + or -.

C D

E F G

M N

O P Q

X Y Z A

: . , '-111

TAYLOR IS TWO!

U N /E 0

H I

R S D U

A &

¿ V

8 9

7. When you are finished, press ◄ , ►, +, or - to highlight END.

8. Press MENU. The menu reappears.

Press MENU again to close the menu.

9. To record your title, press SELECT to

display ^DISP.< in the viewfinder, and then press SET until your title appears. Details are on pages 40-41.

Note: You can also record your title by pressing SELECT to display ^TITLE< in the viewfinder, and then press SET until your title appears. Details are on page 42.

To Stop Recording Your Title

Press SET to remove the display from the viewfinder when you are finished.

Gain Up

This feature allows you to choose how you want to record subjects in dark environments.

Make sure the AE dial is not set to

AUTO.

Note: GAIN UP MAX is automatically selected when the AE dial is set XoAUTO.

Press the MENU button. The

recording menu will appear in the viewfinder.

GAIN UP

TELE MACRO INTERVAL TIMER REC TIME JLIP ID NO. SET CHARACTER DATE/TIME

END :MENU KEY

MAX OFF OFF OFF 07

3. Press ◄ or ► in the center of the AE dial to select GAIN UP MAX,

► NORM, or ► OFF.

• Select MAX to record a brighter

subject in a dark environment. The picture may become slightly coarse.

• Select ► NORM when you want a

darker subject with a smoother, less coarse, picture.

• Select ► OFF to shoot dark scenes

with no picture brightness adjust ment.

4. Press MENU. Press MENU again to close the menu.

AE Dial

The AE dial lets you select one of several different effects. Turn the dial to

select the effect you want. The indicator for the effect will appear in the view

finder. Set the AE dial to MAN for normal recording.

Mode Indicator

AUTO

MAN

I/Ì000

HAZE HZ.HAZE

SHOW

AUTO LOCK

AUTO RELEASE

SPORTS

D BACKLIT

[H FRONT LIT

i 1 S I/IOOO

SD: SHADOW

[dà SEPIA

Uses

Places camcorder in full auto mode. Fade, display, title, 16X 9, manual focus, manual exposure, and manual white

balance will not operate. Use this mode for recording using some of the manual

features. Use to capture fast-moving action with less blurring. Use

when playing back a recording on a VCR featuring special

effects, such as pause or slow motion.

Use when subjects are in front of a window or have the sun to their back. Compensates for subjects appearing too dark because of backlighting.

Use when there is a strong front light on the subject such as spotlights. Compensates for subjects appearing too light because of strong front lighting.

Sets shutter speed to 1/1000. Use to record faster moving action than sports mode with less blurring. Use when playing back a recording on a VCR featuring special effects, such as pause or slow motion.

Use to soften the image and give the picture a misty white effect.

Use to counter effects of glare and darken the picture with a black mist.

Picture is recorded in sepia (brownish red) and offers the vintage look of old movies. Use it with the 16 X 9 mode to

create an authentic movie theater look.

Self-Timer

The self-timer lets you set the camcorder to delay recording so you can be in the scene when recording begins.

Tally

Light

To Set the Self-Timer

1. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA. The power indicator will light.

2. Make sure the AE dial is not set to

AUTO.

3. Press the MEA^i/button. The

recording menu will appear in the viewfinder.

Press + or

TIMER.

GAIN UP TELE MACRO

WnWAtinMER

RECTIME JLIP ID NO. SETCHARACTER DATE/HME

END :MENU KEY

■ to select INTERVAL

MAX OFF

.OFF

OFF 07

5. Press ◄ or ► in the center of the AE dial to select the amount of time you want the camcorder to delay before

recording starts.

• Select 15S to delay the recording for 15 seconds.

• Select 30S to delay the recording for 30 seconds.

• Select IMIN to delay the recording for one minute.

• Select 5MIN to delay the recording for five minutes.

• Select OFF if you do not want the camcorder to delay recording.

6. Press MENU to exit the menu.

7. 0 and the amount of delayed record ing time appear in the viewfinder.

in Viewfinder

Press the thumb trigger to start recording.

Note: The tally light flashes. About five

seconds before recording begins, the tally light will start flashing faster. When the

camcorder starts recording, the tally light

stops flashing.

To stop recording, press the thumb trigger.

Note: To stop self-timer recording before

the recording begins, set the INTERVAL

TIMER in the recording menu to OFF.

Animation Recording

Animation recording produces an illusion of movement for an otherwise stationary scene or object by shooting a series of pictures of slightly different poses (such as cartooning).

AE Dial

Tally Light

To Record Using Animation

1. Place the POWER switch in CAM ERA. The power indicator will light.

2. Press SP-SLP to select SP recording speed. SP appears in the viewfinder.

Make sure the AE dial is not set to

AUTO.

Press the MENU button. The recording menu will appear in the viewfinder.

5. Press + or - to select REC TIME.

GAIN UP TELE MACRO INTERVAL TIMER OFF REC TIME OFF JLIP ID NO. 07 SET CHARACTER DATE/TIME

END ;MENU KEY

MAX

OFF

Recording

6. Press ◄ or ► in the center of the AE

dial to select the amount of time you want the camcorder to record.

• Select IMS to record for 1/4 second.

• Select 1/2S to record for 1/2 second.

• Select IS to record for one second.

• Select OFF if you do not want the

camcorder to record for a set amount of time.

7. Press MENU to exit the menu.

8. and the amount of recording time appear in the viewfinder.

Recording Time Indicator

in Viewfinder

9. Press the thumb trigger to start recording.

Note; The recording stops automatically

after the selected period of recording time. You may want to take two to five shots of the subject in the same position.

10. Move the subject and repeat step 9 for the desired number of shots.

11. To stop animation recording, set the

RFC TIME in the recording menu to

OFF.

Recording

Time-Lapse Recording

Time-lapse recording makes automatic recordings at preset time intervals. The recording will show subtle changes (such as shifts in cloud formations or plant growth) when it remains focused on an object.

AE Dial

,r'-'

Tally Light

To Record Using Time Lapse

1. Place the PO WE/? switch in CAM

ERA. The power indicator will light.

2. Press SP-SLP to select SP recording speed. SP appears in the viewfinder.

3. Make sure the AE dial is not set to

AUTO.

4. Press the MENU button. The

recording menu will appear in the viewfinder.

5. Press + or - to select INTERVAL

TIMER.

GAIN UP TELE MACRO INTERVAL TIMER RECTIME JLIP ID NO. SET CHARACTER DATE/TIME

END ;MENU KEY

MAX OFF OFF OFF 07

■v<

•i'.'

6. Press ◄ or ► in the center of the AE

dial to select the amount of time you want the camcorder to wait between the recordings.

• Select I5S to record every 15

seconds.

• Select SOS to record every 30

seconds.

• Select IMIN to record every

minute.

• Select 5MIN to record every five

minutes.

• Select OFF to turn off time-lapse

recording.

•;r

Recor

7. Press + or - to select REC TIME.

GAIN UP TELE MACRO INTERVAL TIMER REC TIME JLIP ID NO. SET CHARACTER

DATE/TIME END :MENU KEY

8. Press ◄ or ► in the center of the AE

dial to select the amount of time you want the camcorder to record.

• Select 1/4S to record for 1/4

second.

• Select 7/25 to record for 1/2 second.

• Select 75 to record for one second.

• Select OEF to turn off time-lapse recording.

MAX OFF OFF OFF 07

11. Press the thumb trigger to start recording.

Note: The camcorder will start and stop

recording the selected amount of time at the intervals selected. The tally light flashes with the flash speed increasing

five seconds before recording begins.

12. To stop recording, set the INTERVAL

TIMER and REC TIME in the

recording menu to OFF.

■

■>,4 ■ T

■V.

9. Press MENU to exit the menu.

10. 'im and the amount of recording time

and O and the amount of interval time between recordings appear in the viewfinder.

Recording Time Indicator

in Viewfinder

I

Time-Remaining Display

The approximate time remaining on the tape in the camcorder for the tape speed you have selected is automatically displayed in the viewfinder. Use the

T20*30»40 button to set the correct tape length before the camcorder can

correctly calculate time remaining.

, A

■i'-V

■ V

30MIN

29MIN

3MIN

2MIN

(Flashing)

1 MIN

(Flashing)

OMIN

(Flashing)

30MIN

TAPE END

T30

■‘V*' yA ■

>;<

Set the Tape Length

1. Use the SP-SLP switch to select the tape speed. SP or SLP appears in the viewfinder.

2. Use the T*20*30*40 button to select the length of tape you are using.

• Select T20 if you are using a tape

with 20 minutes or less recording time.

• Select T30 if you are using a tape

with 30 minutes recording time.

• Select T40 if you are using a tape

with 40 minutes recording time.

The time-remaining indicator will start

flashing when the remaining tape time reaches two minutes.

TAPE END appears when the tape

reaches its end during recording or a cassette is loaded whose tape is

already at its end.

JLIP (Joint Level Interface Protocol) Identification Number

The camcorder has a JLIP connector that may be used in the future to connect a device, such as a home computer.

To Select a 7L/F/Z) NO.

1. Place the POWE/? switch in CAM

ERA. The power indicator will light.

2. Make sure the AE dial is not set to

AUTO.

3. Press the M£7V[/button. The recording menu will appear in the viewfinder.

4. Press + or - to select a JLIP ID NO.

GAIN UP TELE MACRO

INTERVAL TIMER RECTIME

JLIP ID NO.

SET CHARACTER

DATEmME END :MENU KEY

5. Press ◄ or ► in the center of the AP

dial to select a number from 01 to 99. Use the number you select to identify

your camcorder if you connect it to a computer using the JLIP connector.

MAX OFF OFF OFF

Recording and Traveling Tips

Recording Tips

• In case of fire or theft, make a video recording of your home and contents to store in a safe place.

• Try to make sure indoor scenes are well-lit.

• Do not move the camcorder rapidly from side-to-side while recording. A

steady, gradual “pan” avoids blurring

and “jitter”.

• Use the viewfinder to make sure the camcorder is level while recording or your scenes will appear “tilted”.

• Do not bump or tap the camcorder’s

microphone while recording because this sound will be recorded.

• Include close-ups of individuals

when taping family outings or group functions.

• Fading in and out of scenes will make

your videos appear more professional.

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

Be aware of video and audio back grounds. Background details barely noticed while you are taping may show up as visual “clutter” on your recording. Background noises

(especially TV sets, radios, household appliances, traffic sounds, etc.) can detract from the sound you want to record.

Avoid long “still” shots of landmarks

and scenic attractions. Recordings are

more interesting if they include people

and details. “Local color” will give

travel videos lasting appeal. Consider

recording a familiar or landmark scene

from an unfamiliar vantage point.

Traveling Tips

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

• Use extra care to avoid damage to your camcorder and accessories when operating them at a beach or pool. Spray, sand, and dust should be avoided. If your lens has been exposed to the elements, clean it only with proper lens cleaning supplies.

Make sure you have any plug adapters that you may need before taking your

camcorder to other countries. Consult

your dealer for advice. Carry your camcorder in a carrying

case when traveling. See page 66 for a

case designed especially for this camcorder. An ordinary suitcase or carry bag does not offer the protection

your camcorder needs. Treat your

camcorder as carry-on luggage to

protect it from rough handling.

Attaching the Shoulder Strap

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

To Attach the Shoulder Strap

1. If the strap keeper is over a double section of the strap, slide the strap keeper off the end of the strap. Replace the keeper on the strap between the buckle and the end of the strap as shown.

2. Loop the end of the strap over the top of the shoulder strap attachment ring.

Keeper

4. Attach the other end of the strap to the other shoulder strap attachment ring.

5.6.Adjust the shoulder strap to the desired length.

Slide both keepers up snugly against the shoulder strap attachment rings to prevent the strap from slipping.

3. Thread the end of the strap back through the keeper and buckle making sure it is threaded under the outer strap. Make sure the strap is not twisted.

Cautions: When carrying the camcorder I with the shoulder strap, you may find it convenient to rotate the

viewfinder down and slide it to the front. This helps prevent possible damage to the viewfinder from bumping against your body as you move.

Make sure the shoulder strap is firmly attached before using it to carry the camcorder.

Using the Cassette Adapter

The camcorder uses a smaller size cassette, but records in standard VHS format. The cassette adapter allows you to play your VHS-C cassettes in a VCR just like other standard VHS cassettes.

Insert the VHS-C cassette into the cassette adapter. Insert the cassette adapter into the VHS VCR like a normal VHS cassette.

Install Cassette Adapter’s Battery

Remove battery compartment cover.

Install supplied “AA” battery so

positive (+) and negative (-) ends align properly with (-I-) and (-) terminals in battery compartment.

Replace battery compartment cover.

Notes: Replace the battery when the load time

becomes much longer than normal. Remove the battery from the cassette adapter

if it will not be used for a month or more. This will prevent possible damage from battery leakage. If leakage occurs, wipe up the liquid inside the compartment and replace the battery with a new one.

Insert Cassette into Cassette Adapter

Tape Wheel

Before inserting the cassette into the

adapter, remove any slack in the tape by turning the tape wheel on the side of the cassette.

Slide EJECT to the right to open the

cassette compartment lid.

Cassette Compartment Lid

Switch

3. Insert the cassette with the tape window on the left and facing up.

Allow the cassette to drop into the

adapter. Do not force the cassette.

Load Detector

4. Gently close the cassette compartment lid until it locks into place. Make sure the cassette reel area under the adapter

is free to turn while the cassette is loading.

Note: You should hear a whirring sound

while the tape loads. The adapter’s load detector will automatically retract into the

adapter.

Remove Cassette from Cassette Adapter

N •» 4 *

Caution: If the load detector is still -

extending from the side of the cassette

adapter after you have attempted to load the cassette, loading is not complete. Try to load the cassette again. Attempting to

insert the cassette adapter into a VCR with the load detector extending 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

adapter or tape.

Slide the adapter’s EJECT switch to

the right. The load detector will extend from the side and the whirring

sound indicates the tape is being released before the adapter’s cassette compartment lid opens.

Use the access hole on the bottom of

the adapter to push the cassette up and remove it from the adapter.

Gently close the adapter’s cassette

compartment lid.

Viewfinder Playback

V.ewfinder playback is ihe si^plesi way waich tapes usi„s the camcorder.

STOP

Button

EJECT

Switch

PLAY/

PAUSE

Button

FF Button

REW

Button

POWER Switch in VCR

To Play Back a Tape

I • Place POWER switch in VCR. The

power indicator will light.

2. Slide EJECT wi insert the cassette

you want to play back. Close the

cassette compartment.

3. P;«smy/R4t/S£to begin playback

necessary, adjust tracking.

During playback, use the playback

features on the next pages.

4. Press STOP when you are finished.

Playback Features Visual Searching

• During playback, press and release FF or REW if you want to search the tape visually in forward or reverse.

• Press PLAF//14t/5'£ to return to normal playback.

• For brief searching, press and hold FF or REW for more than two seconds.

• Release the button to return to normal playback.

Tape Positioning

Place POWER switch in VCR and press STOP.

• Press and quickly release REW or FF

to rewind or fast-forward the tape.

Stop-Action Pause

• During playback, press PLAY/PAUSE

to “stop the action” and view one frame of the tape.

• Press PLAY/PAUSE to return to normal

playback.

Caution: Pause, is designed for momentary

' interruptions^ anS siiquld not be used for an

extended period of time. If the camcorder

remains in pause for more than five minutes,

, it will automatically enter the stop mode and

then turn off to prevent excessive tape wear.

• Press STOP to stop the tape.

Playback Features (Continued)

EJECT

Switch

Time Counter

COUNTER R/M Button

STOP

Button

REW

Button

POWER

Switch in

VCR

The time-counter display shows the actual time elapsed when playing back a

segment of tape. The memory-stop feature helps locate a certain point on the tape. When memory stop is on, the tape will stop automatically during rewind or fast forward when the time counter reaches M 0:00:00.

To Use the Memory-Stop Feature

1. Locate the place on the tape you want

to return to, place the POWER switch in VCR, and press COUNTER R/M for more than two seconds to reset the

counter to 0:00:00.

2. Press COUNTER R/M for less than

one second to turn the time counter’s memory-stop feature on or off. When memory stop is on, an M appears before the time counter in the viewfinder.

3. Continue to play the tape. When you want to return to the place you marked, press the STOP button.

4. Fr&ss REW. The tape will rewind to the time counter reading of

M 0:00:00.

Time Counter With Memory

Stop Turned On

Playback Features (Continued)

Tracking Buttons (Also + and - Buttons)

Tracking

During playback, streaks may appear in the playback picture. Press either tracking button to move the streaks up or down and out of the picture.

• During stop-action playback, pressing one tracking button may reduce picture “jitter” (picture bouncing up and down). Some “jitter” is normal.

Simultaneously press both tracking buttons to return tracking to its preset center.

Note: The tracking buttons may have no

effect on tapes recorded on other camcorders or VCRs.

Playback on TV (or VCR) y/\Xh AUDIO/VIDEO /V Jacks

To connect your camcorder to a TV monitor (or VCR) with AUDIO/VIDEO /V jacks,

you will need an optional audio/video cable such as VH83 shown on page 68. If your TV is already connected to a VCR, you can attach the camcorder to the VCR and watch what the camcorder is recording or playing on the TV.

Back of

Mono VCR or

TV Monitor

White Audio Plug

Yellow Video Plug

AudioA^ideo Output Cable (Optional)

AUDIO Jack

— OR —

Back of

Stereo VCR or

TV Monitor

Y-Adapter (Optional)

White Audio Plug

Yellow Video Plug

Installation

1. Attach the white plug on one end of the audio/video cable to the A t/D/O /V jack on the TV (or VCR).

Notes: If your cable does not have white and yellow plugs, just be sure to attach the same color to the audio jacks.

If your TV (or VCR) has stereo AUDIO IN

jacks, attach the plug to the one labeled

MONO. If one is not labeled MONO, you may need a Y-adapter, such as AH25, shown on page 68 to hear both channels.

AudioA^ideo Output Cable (Optional)

VIDEO Jack

Attach the yellow plug to the VIDEO

7V jack on the TV (or VCR).

Attach the white plug on the other end

of the audio/video cable to ihc AUDIO

jack (located under the small cover)

on the side of the camcorder.

Attach the yellow plug to the yellow

4. V7D£(9 jack on the camcorder.

Playback Operation and How to Copy Tapes on the VCR

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

B. Camcorder connected to VCR that

is already connected to TV; Turn on VCR and place it in the “line” or “camera mode”. (If your VCR does not have a “line” or “camera mode”, consult the VCR owner’s manual.) Operate the TV as you normally do to see the signal coming from the VCR.

2. Place the POWER switch in VCR to

turn on the camcorder. The power indicator will light.

3. Px&ss PLAY/PAUSE.

• During playback, use the playback

features on pages 59-61.

4. To copy what the camcorder is playing, place a blank cassette in the

VCR, and press the VCR’s RECORD

button.

Note: Make sure the memory-stop feature is turned off (press COUNTER R/M) or the camcorder will enter play pause when the counter reaches M 0:00:00.

5. Press 5TOP when you are finished.

Caution: The unauthonzed recording

of copyrighted material may infringe

the rights of others.

Viewing What the Camcorder is Seeing (or Recording)

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

B. Camcorder connected to VCR that

is already connected to TV: Turn on VCR and place it in the “line” or “camera mode”. (If your VCR does not have a “line” or “camera mode”, consult the VCR owner’s manual.) Operate the TV as you normally do to see the signal

coming from the VCR.

2. Place the POWER switch in

CAMERA.

Note: When the camcorder is used as a camera, turn the TV’s volume down to prevent a high-pitched squeal caused by feedback.

3. Press the thumb trigger to begin recording. You can watch what the camcorder is seeing (or recording) on the TV screen.

Playback on a TV Without AudioA^ideo Inputs

To connect your camcorder to a TV without audio/video inputs, you will need an

optional 1CVA147C RF output adapter and an optional coaxial RF cable, such as VH82 or VH90 shown on page 68. If your TV has AUDIO and VIDEO /V jacks (or is

connected to a VCR), refer to pages 62-63.

Installation

1. Disconnect the VHF antenna from your TV Connect the antenna to the

IN FROM ANT connector on the RF

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

Note: If your VHF antenna is the flat

twin-lead type attached by two screws, you will also need an optional 300/75 ohm transformer.

2. Attach one end of the optional coaxial

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

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

Note: If your TV has 300 ohm screw

terminals, you will need a 75/300 ohm transformer, such as VH54, shown on

page 68.

3. Attach the RF output adapter’s plug to

the AUDIO, RF DC OUT, and VIDEO

jacks located under the small cover on

the side of the camcorder.

Playback Operation

1. Set the CH3/CH4 switch on the RF

output adapter to channel 3 or 4.

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

output adapter’s CH3/CH4 switch.

3. Place adapter’s VCR/TV switch in

VCR.

Viewing What the Camcorder Is Recording

1. Turn on the TV and tune it to channel 3 or 4. When the camcorder is used as a camera, turn the TV’s volume down to prevent a high-pitched squeal

caused by feedback.

2. Set the CH3/CH4 switch on the RF

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

4. Place POWER switch in VCR. Power

indicator will light.

5. Press PLAi7fi4f/S£'on the camcorder.

• During playback, use the playback

features described on pages 59-61.

6. Press STOP on the camcorder when

you are finished.

3. Place adapter’s VCR/TV switch in

VCR.

4. Place POWER switch in CAMERA.

Power indicator will light.

5. Press the thumb trigger to begin recording. You can watch what the camcorder is seeing (or recording) on the TV screen.

Normal TV Viewing *"

For normal TV viewing, you may leave the RF output adapter hooked up to the TV. Disconnect the adapter’s plug from

Note to Cable TV Installer

This reminder is provided to call your attention to Article 820-40 of the National Electrical Code (Section 54 of Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1), that provides guidelines for proper grounding and. in particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system of the building as close to the point of cable entry as practical.

the camcorder and place the adapter’s

VCR/TV switch in TV.

We invite you to take a look at some great ideas for sparking creativity and adding to the fun of using your compact VHS camcorder. The following pages have a selection of accessories to help make your memorable moments look and sound even better.

These accessories are designed to make the process of recording and watching your

videos more enjoyable.

To order accessories, contact your local Dealer.

If a dealer is not nearby, all accessories are available through toll-free ordering or by using the order form on page 69.

AC201A Soft Carrying Case

Custom compact soft case designed especially to provide protection and utility for your compact VHS camcorder and most accessories. Rugged fabric lined with soft non-abrasive material and generous padding. Has three outside pockets with storage for lens filters, adapters, batteries, and tapes.

DCC08 Car Cord Adapter

Do not use any other cur cord with this camcorder.

This car cord adapter enables you to operate your camcorder from your car, truck, or RV by plugging the car cord directly into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket. The DCC08 is designed

specifically to convert power from a

12-volt battery to a 6-volt output.

I ) ^ rî ï i '

FB1260 and FB120 Rechargeable Batteries

These rechargeable nickel-cadmium batteries are designed specifically for long life. The FB1260 is the same battery that

came packed with your camcorder. The FB 120 powers your camcorder twice as long as the FBI260 (depending on how much you use zoom and pause). Both can be recharged with the AC adapter/charger that came with your camcorder.

Using the Optional AC088 IVipod

Mounting the camcorder on a tripod, such as AC088, will keep the camcorder steady and produce excellent video results.

This tripod’s fluid-effect head provides smooth camera pan and tilt. The quick release mount makes it easy to attach or remove the camcorder. The grooved, tubular 3-section leg design folds down to 26" when not in use. Rubber feet allow for sure footing.

CPS91 AC Battery Charger

The CPS91 battery charger plugs directly into an AC outlet and charges the FB 1260 and FB 120 camcorder batteries. Because the CPS91 operates on 100-240 Volts, 50/

60 Hz, it can be used virtually anywhere in the world. A plug adapter may be required in some countries. Charging takes approximately seven hours for the FBI260 (1-hour battery) and 13 hours for

the FB 120 (2-hour battery).

All specifications an of accessories arc su without notice.

Cautidhs:'*'Bcfnre using a tnpod, make sure It is stable ciioughlb hold tlie canicordei withoul faJhng oven-iDo not transport die

camtijfdcjfituclicd U) the tnpod , .

When attaching youi caincoidei lou tnpod, be caidul not to lorce the u ipod .'•eiew into the camcoider's ti ipod inouiiiing Iiole.

Tlie tripod scicw .slioulil not protrude into tlie

r lliari approxiiiialely three-

^ ^ i/^n&i'iFordng'tHe screw could

r* damage the mnunting hole on ilie bottom of

the camcorder

1CVA147C RF Output Adapter

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

to connect your camcorder to a standard TV (one without audio/video inputs) for playback. If your antenna cable is the flat twin-lead type attached by two screws,

you will also need a 300-to-75 ohm transformer. If your TV has 300 ohm antenna screw terminals, you will need an optional 75-to-300 ohm transformer such as VH54.

VH54 Cable Transformer

This 75-to-300 ohm transformer is used to connect a standard 75-ohm antenna cable (such as VH82 or VH90) to the 300 ohm screw terminals on a TV.

VH83 AudioA^ideo Cable

Coaxial RF Cables

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

These RF cables are used with the RF output adapter to connect your camcorder to a standard TV (one without audio/ video input jacks) for playback. If your

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

This six foot audio/video cable can be used to connect the camcorder to a TV monitor or VCR for tape playback or copying tapes.

AH25 Y-Adapter

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

TV or VCR.

All specifications and descriptions ol accessories arc subject to change without notice

Order Form for Camcorder Model CC643/CC641

■i

Description

Super Lightweight Tripod Soft Camcorder Case

Shoulder Strap Y-Adapter AC Battery Charger Car Cord Adapter

Rechargeable Battery (Extended) Rechargeable Battery (Standard) 75-300 Cable Transformer

Coaxial RF-Cable AudioA^ideo Cable Coaxial RF-Cable RF Output Adapter AC Adapter/Charger

and DC Cable Cassette Adapter

Part No.

AC088 AC201A ACS091 AH25 CPS91

DCC08 FBI 20 FBI 260 VH54 VH82

VH83

VH90

1CVA147C

236689

233087 232845

Price

$ 39.95 $ 39.95 $ 12.95 $ 1.95 $ 59.95

$ 89.95 $ 79.95 $ 49.95 $ 1.95

$ 4.95 $ 4.95 $ 5.95 $ 59.95 $ 96.45

$ 24.95 $ 49.95

Qty. Total

Prices are subject to change without notice. Total Merchandise

Sales Tax

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

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

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

Shipping and Handling

Total Amount Enclosed

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

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

Use VISA, MasterCard, or Discover.

CJ c3

«ü

Money order or check must be in U.S.

currency only. No COD or cash.

Picase completo other side also

Accessory Order Form

Charge wur order on your VIS A,MasterCard

or Discover Card by filling in below ’

USE YOUR CREDIT CARD

IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number from your VISA card

Expiration date: I I

IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number from your MasterCard

Copy Number above your name on MasterCard

IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number from your Discover Card

Expiration date;

Expiration date; mm

AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE

Prices are subject to change without notice.

Print or type your name and address clearly. This will be your mailing label.

Name:.

Street:.

City: _

State;.

Apt:

Zip:

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

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

• Allow 4 weeks for delivery.

• All accessories are subject to availability.

-C

o ce

To order accessories, contact your local Dealer.

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

United States and Canada Orders

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

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

1-800-338-0376

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

Video Accessories PO Box 8419 Ronks, PA 17573

Troubles sometimes are caused by simple “faults” that you can easily correct without the help of a service technician by first checking a few basic remedies.

Before you call or take your camcorder to an Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter, look below for the type of trouble you are experiencing. Then perform the simple checks and adjustments listed for that trouble.

If service should be necessary, the warranty information lists what your warranty covers and explains how to get service.

Trouble

No power

Won’t record or playback

•1 > IV - j

'■,i. ''«nr: i/i.f ^

Checks and Adjustments

• Place the POWER switch in CAMERA or VCR to turn

on the camcorder. The power indicator will light.

• If using battery, it may need to be recharged.

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

• If the dew indicator (0) flashes in the viewfinder, there is moisture in the camcorder. Wait until the dew indicator no longer appears before operating the camcorder.

• Make sure POWER switch is in correct position for

desired operation.

• There may not be a cassette in the camcorder.

• Try ejecting and reinserting the cassette.

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

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

Won’t playback

Won’t record

No picture

Camcorder turns itself off

• POWER switch must be in VCR position.

• Safety tab has been removed or closed. {See page 17.)

• POWER switch must be in CAMERA.

• Open lens cover.

• Place POWER switch to OFF and then CAMERA or

VCR to turn back on. If camcorder is left in record

pause or play pause for several minutes, it will turn itself off to prevent tape wear.

IVouble

Checks^andjAdjustments;,-

Tape stops during rewind or fast forward

Camcorder remains in pause mode

Sound is too low or distorted

Dew Indicator flashing in viewfinder

Poor auto-focus operation

• Time-counter memory may be on. Whenever an “AT” appears with the time-counter display, the camcorder will stop rewinding (or fast forwarding) when counter reads M 0:00:00. Press REW or FF again to continue rewinding or fast forwarding, or press COUNTER R/M to turn off the memory-stop feature.

• Press PLAY/PAUSE to return to normal playback.

• Subject was too far from camcorder.

* If the dew indicator ( 0 ) flashes in the viewfinder,

there is moisture in the camcorder. Wait until this indicator no longer appears before operating the camcorder.

• Subject is dark or behind glass. Auto-focus may not work under these conditions. Place AE dial in MAN and focus manually. See pages 32-33.

• Subject is not in center of viewfinder or two subjects

are at different distances. Place AE dial in MAN and focus manually. See pages 32-33.

• Lens is smudged, and image appears unfocused.

Viewfinder displays

are out of focus

• Lens is smudged, and image appears unfocused.

• Eyepiece focus control is misadjusted.

• Model CC643; The small controls on the bottom of the viewfinder control the brightness and white balance (blue tint) of the viewfinder. These controls have been set at the factory and should require no adjustment. If the controls ever do require adjustment, carefully use a plastic screwdriver. Make the adjustments with caution to prevent damaging the miniature controls.

Trouble

Checks and'Adjustmenfe-^iisiO; '<iV

Picture is too dark or subject too dark

Picture recorded with special effect

Colors do not look natural on recording

Title recorded on tape

Date and/or time were recorded on tape

• For best results, only use higher shutter speeds

outdoors. Rotate AE dial to sports ) or 1/1000.

See page 45.

• Subject in front of a strong backlight. Rotate AE dial

to select back-lit (E). See page 45.

• Subject in front of a strong frontlight. Rotate AE dial

to select front-lit ([a). See page 45.

• Place AE dial in MAN and press + or -. See page 29.

• AE dial may be turned to special effect mode. Turn

the AE dial to AUTO. See page 45.

• Try adjusting white balance. See pages 34-35.

• Title is recorded whenever it appears in viewfinder.

Remove the title from viewfinder. See pages 40-42.

• Displays will be recorded on tape whenever they

appear in the viewfinder. Remove them from viewfinder when recording. See pages 40-41.

• When A UTO DATE is selected {AE dial in A UTO),

display will automatically be recorded when you begin recording or change the cassette.

See pages 40-41.

Date and/or time are incorrect

Cannot set REC or

INTERVAL time for

animation or time

lapse recording

• Clock lithium cell battery may need replacing.

See page 38.

• Date or time may need to be set. See page 39.

• Check tape speed setting. Tape speed must be set to

SP for time-lapse and animation recording.

• Make sure AE dial is not set to AUTO to display

recording menu.

Trouble

Checks and Adjustments

Vertical white lines appear when shooting bright object

Error number

(EOl, E02, etc.)

appears in viewfinder

• This may occur when background extremely contrasts with the subject.

• Try disconnecting power source. Wait ten seconds and then connect power source again. If error number does not disappear from viewfinder, consult your Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter.

Cleaning the Camcorder

To clean the camcorder’s exterior, remove any power source connected to the camcorder and gently wipe it with a clean

soft cloth.

Caution: Use of strong cleaning

producfe, such ^ thosfe containing alcohol or benzine, may damage the camcorder, t *

Cleaning the Camcorder’s Lens

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

Caution: Do not touch

the lens with your fingers. The' oil from your

skin can damage the lens.

Cleaning the Camcorder’s Viewfinder.........

The viewfinder eyepiece can be removed for cleaning.

1. Turn the eyepiece counterclockwise and pull it out.

2. Remove dust using a blower brush.

3. Reattach the eyepiece by aligning the reference marks, and then turn the eyepiece clockwise until it clicks.

Hi®)

Proper Care and Storage

• Keep dust and grit from entering the camcorder’s cassette door. Dust and grit are abrasive and will cause excessive wear to both the camcorder’s recording/playback heads and cassettes.

• Always close the lens cover when the camcorder is not in use.

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

Things to Avoid

• Do not attempt to disassemble your camcorder. There are no userserviceable parts inside.

• Avoid operating your camcorder

immediately after moving it from a cold location to a warm location. Give the camcorder 1-1/2 to 2 hours to reach a stable temperature before inserting a cassette. When the camcorder is

moved from cold to warm, condensation may cause the tape to stick to the headwheel and damage the headwheel or tape.

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

• Do not leave your camcorder in direct sunlight for extended periods of time.

The resulting heat buildup could permanently damage the camcorder’s internal parts.

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

Do not store the camcorder in temperatures below -22°F (-30°C) or above 149°F (65°C).

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

Retain the original carton for future storage or shipping purposes.

Do not operate the camcorder near the ocean as salt water or salt water spray may damage the internal parts of the

camcorder. Do not operate the camcorder for

extended periods in temperatures below 40°F (4°C) or above 95°F (35°C).

Do not expose the camcorder or

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

Do not use an adapter/charger or

batteries other than the ones specified for the camcorder. Use of the wrong accessories may cause damage to the camcorder.

• Do not operate the camcorder in extremely humid environments.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential

installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user

is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures;

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

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

Alterations or modifications carried out without appropriate authorization may invalidate the user’s FCC right to operate the equipment.

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference — Causing Equipment Regulations.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Réglement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.

Thomson provides a toll-free telephone

You can reach Thomson at the

following number:

800-283-6503

(Toll free inside U.S.A.)

Our toll-free Camcorder number

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

Monday - Friday

for U.S. customers only

number to help you with any problems you may encounter with your camcorder. Many can be diagnosed over the phone, and if necessary, a replacement unit can be shipped to you. Please have your camcorder model/ serial number and date of purchase ready when you call. If your unit is out of warranty,

we will quote the cost of a repair or replacement unit to you.

Returning equipment to Thomson for repair or exchange

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

camcorder. Refer to the limited warranty on the reverse side to learn about your specific rights and responsibilities.

Always consult Thomson and get a Return Authorization number before returning

anything'. Obtain a Return Authorization

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

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

The Thomson representative who authorized the return of your equipment will give you an RA number over the phone. They will also provide you with instmctions on where and how to return your Camcorder. Write the number in large, clear characters on the outside of the box. To avoid confusion and misunderstandings, shipments without an RA

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

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

are located on the bottom of your unit. If your Camcorder is within the warranty period, please provide a copy of the bill of sale to verify purchase date. Use the original box

and packing material to protect the equipment from damage in shipment.

For your protection, insure all shipments for

full replacement value and use a reliable

shipper. Thomson assumes no responsibility

for warranty shipments from the customer to the factory if not shipped in the manner

prescribed by Thomson.

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

What your warranty covers:

• Any defect in materials or workmanship.

For how long after your purchase:

• 90 days for labor charges.

• One year for parts.

What we will do:

During the initial 90 days

• Exchange your camcorder with a new or, at our option, a refurbished unit or at your

option, repair your camcorder at no cost to you.

After the 90 davs and within one year

• Exchange your camcorder with a new or, at our option, a refurbished unit or at your option, repair your camcorder. Parts will be provided at no charge, but you will be responsible for the cost of labor required

for the repair.

How you get service:

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

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

• A representative will troubleshoot your

problem over the phone. If the representative determines that you should receive a replacement unit, you will be provided with a Return Authorization (RA) number and the location of a nearby exchange point if one exists. No returns

will be accepted without the RA number.

To receive a replacement camcorder before you return yours:

If you are located near an exchanee point:

1. We will send a replacement unit to the exchange point next business day delivery.

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

3. Take your unit, excluding all accessories, and your bill of sale which validates date

of purchase to the exchange location and you will be provided the new or refurbished unit.

4. If the repairs were covered by your warranty, you will not be billed.

If you are not located near an exchange point:

1. Provide your Discover, MasterCard or Visa account number and expiration date to our

phone representative. This is for security purposes. If we receive your unit within 14 days from the date you were provided a Return Authorization number, only items not covered by warranty will be charged to your account. IF YOUR UNIT IS NOT

RECEIVED WITHIN 14 DAYS, THE SUGGESTED RETAIL VALUE OF THE

CAMCORDER WILL BE CHARGED

TO YOUR CREDIT CARD. This amount

will be credited if the unit is subsequently received.

2. We will send you a replacement unit next

business day delivery.

3. You will receive an invoice packed with the replacement product, but will not be charged for the unit portion of the invoice

amount if we receive your unit within 14 days from the date you were provided the RA number. Any labor and parts charges not covered by our warranty will be included and charged against your account.

4. Ship the unit back to us using the

replacement unit’s carton. Shipping instructions will be included in

the carton along with your RA number,

which will allow you to easily ship

the unit back to us. Make sure you insure

your shipment in case of damage or loss.

Include with the shipment:

• A copy of your dated bill of sale to verify your unit’s warranty eligibility.

• A brief note describing your camcorder problem.

• Your name, address and phone number.

iSimitSaWdrrSa^

Return transportation, storage, and handling costs and insurance are your sole responsibil ity. We accept no liability in case of damage

or loss.

To receive a replacement unit after we have

received your unit:

1. Write the RA number on the outside of the carton used to return the unit. Make sure

you insure your shipment in case of damage or loss.

2. Carefully pack the unit using the original box and packing material if possible.

3. Include with the shipment:

• A copy of your dated bill of sale to verify your unit’s warranty eligibility.

• A brief note describing your camcorder problem.

• Your name, address and phone number.

Return transportation, storage, handling costs,

and insurance are your responsibility. We

accept no liability in case of damage or loss.

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

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

5. Upon receipt of your product and applicable payment, a new or refurbished unit will be shipped to you next day delivery.

To have your Camcorder repaired by an Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter:

• Check with your dealer or call 1-800-336 1900 for the Authorized RCA Camcorder

Servicenter nearest you.

• Take your unit to the Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter of your choice.

• Show the Authorized RCA Camcorder

Servicenter representative your sales

receipt or other, evidence of purchase.

• Pick up your camcorder when repairs are complete.

What your warranty does not cover:

• Adjustment of customer controls.

• Damage from misuse or neglect.

• A unit that has been modified or incorporated into other products or is used for institutional or other commercial purposes.

• Batteries for remote control and clock.

• Cleaning of video/audio heads.

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

• Return transportation, storage and

handling costs of your unit, including insurance for loss or damage.

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

Product Registration:

• Please complete and mail the Product

Registration Card packed with your

camcorder. It will make it easier to contact you should it ever be necessary. The return of the card is not required for warranty coverage.

How State Law relates to warranty:

• This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may have other rights that

vary from state to state.

If you purchased your Camcorder outside the United States:

• Contact your dealer for warranty information.

General

Camera Section Power requirement; 6VDC Power consumption;

CC641; 5.3 watts CC643; 5.5 watts

Weight; Approximately 1.8 lbs.

CC641; 820 grams CC643; 805 grams

Dimensions - Including Viewfinder:

Model CC643;

4-7/16"(W) X 4-7/16"(H) X 8-l/4"(D)

114 (W) X 112 (H) X 208 (D) mm

Model CC641;

4-7/16"(W) X 4-7/16"(H) X 9-l/16"(D)

114 (W) X 112 (H) X 229 (D) mm

Image Sensor; 1/4" CCD Imager Lens; F1.6, f=3.8 to 68.4mm

18; 1 power zoom lens

Filter Diameter; 46 mm

Tripod Mount

One 1/4" X 20 threaded hole

AC Adapter/Charger

Power requirement: 100-240 V,

50/60 Hz.

Power consumption; 23 watts Weight: .7 lbs. (320g) Dimensions:

6"(W)x 1.7"(H)x2,7"(D)

150 (W) X 42 (H) X 68 (D) mm

Video Recorder Section

Format; VHS-C Record/Playback System; Four video record/playback heads

One flying erase head

Video Signal; EIA Standard

NTSC color

Viewfinder

Model CC643: .55" Color - LCD Model CC641: .5"BAV-CRT

+ and - buttons 29, 31, 39, 43,

46, 48, 50

16X9 mode 23, 37

Accessories

included 3 optional 66 order form 69

Adapter/charger, using 12 AE dial

7, 9, 20, 21, 28, 29, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 39, 40, 42, 43, 44, 45,

46, 48, 50, 53

indicators 21, 22 AE dial features 45 Animation recording 48 Assistance 1, 3, 79

AUDIO/VIDEO jacks 10, 62, 64

AUTO DATE feature 28, 40, 41 AUTO feature 45 Auto focus 32 Auto head cleaner 26 В (bright) control 10

BACK LIT feature 21, 45 ВАТТ, (battery) RELEASE button

11, 13

Battery

care and storage 15 charging 14

level indicator 15, 23 refreshing 14 using 13

Battery, installing cassette adapter 56 C (white balance) control 10 Cable TV installer note 65 Camcorder, cleaning 76 Camera edit feature 27 Car cord adapter 16 Care and maintenance

cleaning the camcorder 76 proper care and storage 77 things to avoid 77

Cassette adapter 56

Cassette care and storage 18 Cassette compartment 9,18 Cassettes

inserting and removing 18 Cassettes, video 17 Cleaning the camcorder 76 Cleaning the camcorder’s lens 76 Cleaning the camcorder’s viewfinder 76 Clear button 43 Clock cell battery compartment 10, 38 Clock lithium cell, installing 38 Contents 1

Copy tapes 63 COUNTER R/M button 60, 63

Customer assistance and service 79 Date/time display

install clock cell 38 recording 40

setting time and date 39 Dew warning 24, 72, 73 Displays, status 23 EDIT SEARCH buttons

11, 20, 21, 26, 27

EJECT button 4, 18, 20

Erase protection 17 Exposure control 29 Eyepiece focus control 7, 10, 19, 20 FADE indicator 21, 23 Fading 36 FF (fast forward) button 11, 59 First time operation 3 Flying erase head 26 FOCUS buttons 32, 33 Focus lock 32 Focusing 32

FRONT LIT feature 21, 45 Full auto mode 28 Handstrap 5, 10 HAZE feature 21, 45 Head cleaner, auto 26 Important safety information i

Indicators

16X9 23 AEdial 21, 22, 45 animation 25 AUTO 22

BACKLIT 22, 45

battery level 15, 23

change 24

DISP. 23, 43

exposure 24

FADE 21, 23, 36

focus 24

FRONT LIT 22, 45 HZ:HAZE 22, 45 LENS COVER 25 lithium cell 25

M.W.B. 23, 34 MAN 22, 45 pause 23 power 29

S 1/1000 22, 45 SD:SHADOW 22, 45 SELECT button 23 self-timer 25 SEPIA 22, 45 SPORTS 22, 45 TAPE END 25 tape length 25 tape speed 23 time remaining 25

time-lapse 25

TITLE 23

zoom level 23, 30

Information, safety i

Information to user 78 JLIP (Joint Level Interface Protocol)

identification 53 JLIP connector 9, 53 JLIP ID no. 53

Lens 9, 76 LENS COVER control 5, 10, 20

Letterbox recording 37

Limited warranty 80 Manual focus 33

Marker switch 13 Memory-stop feature 60 MENU button

9, 31, 39, 43, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 53

Microphone 9, 26, 27

Operating controls 9 Optional accessories 66 Pause indicator 5, 8, 20, 23, 28, 29 PLAY/PAUSE button 8, 11, 59, 63, 65

Playback

first 8 on a TV without audio/video inputs 64

on TV (or VCR) with audio/video

jacks 62 speeds 17 using cassette adapter 56

Playback features

tape positioning 59 time counter 60 tracking 61 Visual searching 59

Plug adapter 12 Power indicator 10, 16 POWER switch 5, 8, 10, 13, 15,

16, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28, 29, 34, 36, 37, 40, 42, 46, 48, 50, 53, 58, 59, 60, 63, 65

Powering your camcorder 12 Problem solving 72

Product registration i Proper care and storage of camcorder 77 Quick review feature 26 Record indicator 8, 21, 23 Recording

16X9 37 animation 48 date/time display 40 letterbox 37

making 20

Index

menu 31, 39, 43, 46, 50, 53 self-timer 46 speed 21 time-lapse 50

title display 40 Recording speeds 6, 17 Recording tips 54 REFRESH button, adapter/charger 14 Registration i REW (rewind) button 8, 11, 59 RE DC OUT jack 10, 64

RE output adapter, optional 64 Safety information i Safety precautions, battery 13 Safety tab 17 SELECT button

9, 20, 21, 34, 36, 37, 40, 42, 43 Self-timer 46 SEPIA feature 45 SET button

9, 20, 21, 23, 34, 35, 36, 37, 39,

40, 42 SHADOW feature 45 Shoulder strap

attaching 55

attachment rings 10, 55 Shutter speed, fast 45 SEP speed 6, 17 Solving problems 72 SP recording speed 6 SP speed 17 SP-SLP button 11, 20, 52 Specifications 82 Speeds, recording and playback 17 SPORTS feature 45 Status displays 23 STOP button 8, 11, 58, 59, 60, 63, 65 T20«30«40 button 6, 11, 21, 52 Table of contents 1 Tally light 8, 9, 26 Tape, inserting 4 Tape copying 63

Tape length display 21 Tape length, set 52 Tape positioning 59 Tape speed indicators 23 Tele macro zooming 31 Things to avoid 77 Thumb trigger 10, 21, 27, 47, 49, 51

Time counter 60 Time-lapse recording 50 Tips, recording 54 Tips, traveling 54 Titles

creating your own 43 recording preset 42

recording your own 40 Tracking 61 Tracking buttons (on AE dial) 61 Traveling tips 54 Tripod, using 67 Trouble checks 72 Unpack camcorder and accessories 3 Video cassettes 17 Viewfinder 7, 10, 19, 20, 22, 76

adjust for viewing 19

eyepiece focus control 19 Visual searching 59 Warranty, limited 80 White balance 34 Zoom level indicator 23, 30 Zoom lever 9, 20, 21, 23, 30 Zooming 30 Zooming, tele macro 31

Need Assistance? We want to help!

U.S. Consumers:

Camcorder Exchange Warranty Customer Service Accessories

Canadian Consumers:

English French

800-283-6503 800-336-1900 800-338-0376

800-522-0338 800-522-0445

If your camcorder needs service, please contact your dealer or the nearest Servicenter

from the yellow pages. Please do not send any products to the Indianapolis address listed in this manual or on the carton. This will only add delays in service for your product.

0 THOMSON CONSUMER ELECTRONICS

10330 N Meridian Street

Indianapolis, IN 46290

1997 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. Trademark(s)'^ Registered Marca(s) Registrada(s)

Printed in Japan

TOCOM 15242620

LYT0003-005A (VP)

RCA CC643 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Important Safety Information

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

Cautions

Product Registration

Assistance

1. Unpack the camcorder and accessories.,

ri'i «I'll Yi

2. Attach the adapter/charger.

3. Insert a tape.

Adjust the handstrap to fit your hand.

7. Select a recording speed and

8. Set the AE dial to A UTO.

Adjust the viewfinder and eyepiece focus control.

10. Start and stop recording.

11. Play back what you have recorded.

12. Place the POWER switch in

OFF to turn off the

camcorder.

13. Close the lens cover.

14. Review camcorder’s operating controls.

Attach Adapter/charger

Remove Adapter/Charger

Using an Optional Plug Adapter

Battery Safety Precautions.

Attach the Charged Battery

Remove the Battery

Charge the Battery

Use the REFRESH Button

Battery Level Indicator

Battery Care and Storage .

Optional Саг Cord Adapter

Erase Protection - Safety Tab

Recording and Playback Speeds and Times

Inserting and Removing Cassettes

Cassette Care and Storage

Viewfinder

Making a Recording

Viewfinder Displays (continued)

Flying Erase Head

Auto Head Cleaner

Tally Light

Quick Review Feature

Exposure Control

Manual Exposure

l\irn Off Manual Exposure

To T\irn on Tele Macro Zooming

Focusing

Auto Focus

Focus Lock Feature

Manual Focus

Conditions Requiring Manual Focus

White Balance

Auto White Balance

Fading In and Out

16 X 9 Mode

Select Date, Date and Time, or Title to Record On Your Tape

Viewfinder Displays — «il« i

'*i6/'S5AisJÌ)isplayèd , , k? o iì

To Record the Date, Date and Time,

or Title on Your Tape

Titles — Recording

Create Your Own Title

Gain Up

AE Dial

Self-Timer

Animation Recording

To Record Using Animation

Time-Lapse Recording

To Record Using Time Lapse

Time-Remaining Display

Set the Tape Length

JLIP (Joint Level Interface Protocol) Identification Number

To Select a 7L/F/Z) NO.

Recording and Traveling Tips

Recording Tips

Traveling Tips