RCA CC9370 User Manual
Digital
Camcorder
User’s Guide
Changing Entertainment. Again.
CC9370
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 electric
shock, do not
expose this
camcorder or AC
charger to rain or
moisture.
WARNING
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
This symbol indicates
"dangerous voltage"
inside the product that
presents a risk of electric
To reduce the risk of electric shock,
do not remove cover (or back). No
user serviceable parts inside. Refer
servicing to qualified service
personnel.
This symbol indicates
important instructions
accompanying the
product.
shock or personal injury.
CAUTION: To prevent electric shock, match wide blade of plug to
wide slot, fully insert.
ATTENTION: Pour éviter les chocs électriques, introduire la lame
la plus large de la fiche dans la borne correspondante de la prise
et pousser jusqu au fond.
To reduce risk of injury, charge only rechargeable batteries
recommended by the manufacturer for this camcorder. Other types
of batteries may burst causing damage and personal injury.
FCC Regulations state that unauthorized changes or modifications
to this equipment may void the user’s authority to operate it.
Product Registration
Please fill out the product registration card and return it immediately.
Returning this card allows us to contact you if needed.
Keep your sales receipt for proof of purchase to obtain warranty parts and
service and attach it here. Record the serial number and model numbers
located on the bottom of the camcorder.
Model No: _______________________________
CC9370
Serial No: _______________________________
Purchase Date: _______________________________
Purchased From: _______________________________
i
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Assistance ......................................3
First-Time Operation ................... 3
Getting Started ............................3
Using the LCD Monitor: ......... 7
Reviewing Operating Controls ....9
Powering the Camcorder ........... 11
Using the Adapter/Charger ........ 11
Using the Rechargeable Battery 12
Charging the Battery............. 13
Battery Life .......................... 14
Battery Level Indicator ......14
Battery Care and Storage ...... 14
Other Camcorder Details ........... 15
Shoulder Strap ..........................15
Working With the Right Media .16
Mini DV Cassettes .................... 16
Erase Protection Tab .................16
Recording and Playback Speeds
and Times ............................... 16
Cassette Notes .......................... 17
Care and Storage .......................17
Time-Remaining Display ..........17
On-Screen Preferences ............... 18
Display Menu Options .............. 18
Setting the Date and Time.....18
Displaying Information on
the Camcorder or TV .........19
Displaying Date and Time
Information On Screen .......20
Time Code Display............... 20
Using the Monitors ..................... 22
Seeing What You Are
Recording ............................... 22
Using the LCD Monitor ........ 22
Using the Viewfinder ............ 23
Focusing the Eyepiece .......23
On-screen Indicators ................. 24
Warning Indicators ....................24
Recording Mode Indicators .......25
Playback Mode Indicators .........27
On-screen Menus ........................29
Accessing Menus ......................29
Fader/Wipe Effects ...............29
Program AE with Special
Effects ............................... 30
Exposure Control ................. 32
Iris Lock ...............................32
White Balance Adjustment ... 33
Manual White Balance ......... 34
Using the Manual Menu ............35
Digital Image Stabilization ... 35
Tele Macro Focusing ............35
Wide Mode ..........................36
Cutting Wind Noise ..............37
Resetting Defaults ................37
Using the Camera Menu ........... 37
Recording Mode ................... 38
Sound Mode ......................... 38
Zoom Mode ......................... 38
Gain Up ............................... 39
Tally Light............................ 39
ID Number ...........................40
Demo Mode ......................... 40
Side LED .............................41
Using the Display Menu............ 41
On-Screen Displays ..............41
Date and Time Display ......... 42
Time Code............................42
Clock Adjustment .................42
Recording .................................... 43
Recording Details ..................... 43
Video Light ..........................43
Camcorder Focus ................. 45
Auto Focus ....................... 45
Manual Focus ................... 46
Snapshot Feature .................. 46
FRAME ............................46
FULL ................................ 46
MULTI-4 .......................... 47
MULTI-9 .......................... 47
PIN-UP ............................. 47
1
Table of Contents
Recording
Recording Details
Digital and Optical Zooming 47
Using the Zoom Lever ...... 47
Playback ...................................... 49
Basic Playback .......................... 49
Speaker Volume ................... 49
Still Playback Mode .............50
Shuttle Search ...................... 50
Frame-By-Frame Playback ...50
Basic Connections .................... 50
Displaying Data on a TV or
VCR ..................................50
Viewing Recordings on a TV
Using A/V Input Jacks .......51
Connecting to a TV Using
A/V Input Jacks .................51
Connecting to a VCR
Using A/V Input Jacks .......52
Connecting to a Computer
Using IEEE 1394 Jacks ......53
Connecting to a VCR to
Capture Sound Only ........... 54
Dubbing to Another Digital
Video Camcorder ...............55
Camcorder Tips ..........................56
Recording Tips..........................56
Traveling Tips ...........................56
Optional Accessories ...................57
Soft Carrying Case ....................57
Shoulder Strap ..........................57
Rechargeable Battery ................ 57
Extended Life Battery ............... 57
AC Battery Charger ..................58
Universal Remote Control .........58
IEEE 1394 Cable ......................58
A/V Cable .................................58
DC Cable ..................................58
Tripod .......................................59
Accessories Order Form ............ 60
Trouble Checks ........................... 63
Specifications .............................. 68
Care and Maintenance ............... 69
After Using the Camcorder .......69
Cleaning The Camcorder .......... 69
Proper Care and Storage ............ 70
Things to Avoid......................... 70
Customer Assistance and Service 71
Warranty ....................................72
Working With the Core Filter ....74
Index ........................................... 75
2
First-Time Operation
Assistance
The toll-free numbers are available to help with any problem you may encounter.
Camcorder Exchange Warranty .................. 800-283-6503 (pages 72-73)
Customer Service ........................................ 800-336-1900 (page 71)
Accessories ................................................. 800-338-0376 (pages 57-62)
Getting Started
This section describes the steps necessary to set up your camcorder to record.
Refer to the other sections for detailed operation and feature options.
1. Unpack the camcorder and accessories.
• Save all packing materials and box in case the camcorder ever needs to
be shipped or stored.
• The items shown are packed with the camcorder. If any pieces are
missing or appear damaged, contact your dealer immediately.
• Remove the plastic film that covers the front and side logos on the
camcorder. Use a fingernail, not anything sharp, to remove.
Model CC9370
Shoulder Strap
Part No. ACS091
IEEE 1394
Connection Cable
Part No. 249644
Lithium-ion Battery
Part No 247800
AC Adapter/Charger
Part No. 247801
Audio/Video Cable
Part No. 249645
Core Filter for Optional
S-Video cable
(see page 74 for details)
Caution
Never use the adapter/
charger for any purpose
other than charging the
247800 battery pack (or
the optional BB46L) or for
supplying power to the
camcorder.
DC Cable
Part No. 244268
3
First-Time Operation
2. Adjust the handstrap to fit your hand.
A. Lift the flap on the handstrap
and separate the Velcro strip.
B. Insert your hand so your
fingers can comfortably reach
the camera buttons.
C. Adjust the strap to fit snugly.
D. Refasten the strap, and fold
the flap back down.
Handstrap
3. 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 using the included DC power cable.
Handstrap
Velcro Strip
(Under Flap)
To AC outlet
100-240, 50/60 Hz
DC In jack
A. Connect one end of the DC
cable to the DC OUT jack on
the adapter/charger.
B. Connect the other end of the
DC cable to the DC in jack on
the camcorder.
4
Adapter/charger
model 247801
DC cable
DC OUT jack
C. Plug the adapter/charger’s
plug into a working power
outlet.
First-Time Operation
4. Press in the Lock Button and rotate the Power Switch
to automatic (A) record .
• The Power Indicator lights when
the camcorder is turned on.
• The position of the Power Switch
determines whether the camcorder
is in automatic (A) or manual (M )
record mode, powered off (OFF),
or in playback mode (
PLAY
).
• Automatic recording places the
camcorder into AutoShot™ mode.
Focus, exposure, iris control, white
balance, and the recording light are
controlled by the camcorder during
automatic recording.
Note: Many special effects do not
operate in AutoShot mode (see pages
31-32 for more information).
• Manual (M) recording mode
allows you to control many of the
camcorder’s special features.
Note: The camcorder automatically
turns off to save battery power if left
in record-pause mode for more than
five minutes. Set the Power Switch to
OFF, then back to automatic or
manual record mode to turn back on.
Power Indicator
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
Lock Button
Power Switch
5. Set the Light (AUTO/ON/OFF) Switch to AUTO.
Open the LCD monitor by
pressing and holding the PUSH
OPEN latch, then rotate the
monitor outward.
Note: Opening the LCD more than
25 degrees automatically turns it on
turns off the image in the viewfinder.
With the light switch set to AUTO,
the Video Light automatically turns
on when more light is needed.
LCD monitor
LIGHT switch
(OFF/AUTO/ON)
LIGHT switch
(OFF/AUTO/ON)
5
First-Time Operation
6. Insert a Mini DV cassette.
A. Make sure the camcorder is
connected to a power supply.
With the camcorder set to
B.
automatic (
hold the OPEN/EJECT latch.
Gently pull the cassette cover
open until it snaps into place.
The cassette holder
automatically opens.
C. Insert a Mini DV cassette with
the record protection tab
facing up and the tape
window facing out.
Note: The Mini DV cassette’s record
Protection Tab must be set to REC in
order to be recorded on.
D. Push on the area marked
PUSH HERE until the
cassette holder locks
into place.
PAUSE
E.
appears on the LCD or in
---
the viewfinder when a
recordable tape is inserted
into the camcorder.
A
) record, slide and
Record protection tab
Tape window
OPEN/EJECT
latch
PUSH HERE marks
the area to use to
close the cassette
compartment
Caution
Never open the cassette holder door
by force. This could damage the
camcorder and void the warranty.
The camcorder must be connected
to a power supply to load or eject a
cassette.
7. Use the LCD monitor to see what’s recording.
To see what’s recording use the color LCD monitor.
Note: When the LCD monitor opens more than 25 degrees, the viewfinder
automatically turns off. When the LCD monitor is closed, the viewfinder
automatically turns on.
To enable both you and the
person being recorded to see
what’s on the LCD monitor, you
can rotate the screen 180 degrees
so the front of the monitor faces
forward.
Note: With the LCD monitor
completely rotated, the viewfinder
also turns on.
6
180°
90°
First-Time Operation
Using the LCD Monitor:
A. Open the monitor 90 degrees
from the camcorder body.
B. Tilt the monitor 180 degrees
forward or 90 degrees down
as required for convenient
viewing while recording.
C. To adjust the brightness of the
LCD monitor’s image, rotate
the MENU/BRIGHT dial .
Note: Adjusting the LCD monitor
brightness does not affect the
recorded image on cassette.
8. Start and stop recording.
A. Remove the Lens Cap.
B. Put the camcorder in
automatic record mode by
pressing the Lock Button in
and rotating the Power Switch
A
to the
C. Press and release the Thumb
Trigger to start recording. The
REC
viewfinder or LCD monitor
(but does not show up in the
recording). This indicator
reflects that recording has
started.
D. When finished recording,
press and release the thumb
trigger again to stop
recording. The camcorder is
now in the record-pause
mode. The
the viewfinder or on the LCD
monitor.
icon.
icon appears in the
PAUSE
icon appears in
---
MENU/BRIGHT dial
Rotating the MENU/BRIGHT
dial adjusts the brightness of
the LCD monitor.
Thumb
Trigger
7
First-Time Operation
9. Play back your recording.
A. Press the Lock Button in while
rotating the Power Switch to the
PLAY
icon to put the camcorder
in playback mode.
The Power Indicator lights.
B. Press the Rewind Button (
on top of the camcorder to
reverse the cassette to the
beginning. When rewound
completely, the camcorder will
automatically stop.
The time counter and date/time
on-screen displays will blink.
C. Press the Play/Pause button
(
) on top of the camcorder
/
to start playback.
D. View the recording using the
LCD monitor or viewfinder.
Notes: The LCD monitor displays the
recording in full color while the
viewfinder displays in black and
white only.
Sound will play back if the LCD
monitor is open or closed. To adjust
the volume, use the Zoom Lever (also
labeled – VOL +).
More information about using the
LCD monitor and viewfinder can be
found on pages 22-23.
E. Press the Stop Button ( ) on
top of the camcorder when
finished playing back the tape.
Power Indicator
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
)
Pressing the Thumb
Trigger will start or pause
recording
Playback buttons on top of the
camcorder include Stop (
Rewind ( ), Play/Pause (/),
and Fast Forward (
Thumb
Lock
),
).
10. Turn off the camcorder.
Press in the Lock Button and rotate
the Power Switch to OFF.
11. Close the LCD monitor.
8
First-Time Operation
Reviewing Operating Controls
Zoom Lever (also Volume
Control in PLAY mode)
MENU/BRIGHT
Dial
OPEN/EJECT Latch
A/V, Computer, and
S-Video Connection jacks
(under rubber hood)
Viewfinder
Battery
Power Indicator
Thumb Trigger
Play/pause Button (/)
Rewind Button (
STOP Button (
Hand Strap
Battery Release Button
Power Switch/
Lock Button
Fast forward Button ( )
)
)
PUSH/OPEN Button
LCD Monitor (closed)
Tally Light
Video Light
Microphone
9
First-Time Operation
Reviewing Operating Controls
DC IN Jack
LCD Monitor (open)
Light Switch (OFF/AUTO/ON)
MENU/BRIGHT
Dial
MODE Button
Speaker
SNAPSHOT
Button
Shoulder Strap Ring
Service Port
Cassette Holder Carriage
(NEVER touch internal pieces)
Cassette Holder
Cover Door
PRESS HERE Cassette
Holder Closing Point
10
Powering the Camcorder
Powering the Camcorder
Using the Adapter/Charger
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.
To AC power outlet
Adapter/Charger
DC OUT Jack
DC IN Jack
DC Cable
Attaching the 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.
3. Plug the Adapter/Charger’s plug
into an AC power outlet
(100-240V, 50/60Hz).
CAUTION
Never use this Adapter/Charger
for any purpose other than
charging the 247800 battery
pack (or the optional BB46L) or
in conjunction with the DC
cable to supply power to the
camcorder.
Removing the Adapter/Charger
1. Unplug the Adapter/Charger from
the power outlet.
2. Remove the DC cable from the
Adapter/Charger and camcorder.
Using an Optional Plug Adapter
An optional plug adapter might be
required in some countries.
1. Plug the adapter/charger’s plug
into the AC plug adapter.
Optional AC
Plug Adapter
2. Plug the AC plug adapter into the
AC outlet.
AC 100-240V
11
Powering the Camcorder
Using the Rechargeable Battery
The battery must be charged as described on the next page before it can be
used the first time. Initial charging takes approximately 90 minutes. When
fully charged, the battery supplies approximately 75-95 minutes of operating
time– depending on how much the monitor, zoom, and pause are used.
Conserve battery power by turning the camcorder off during recording breaks.
Safety Precautions
• Do not short the
battery’s terminals.
Battery Release
Button
• Do not attempt to
disassemble or modify
the battery. No userserviceable parts are
inside.
• Use the battery only
with specified adapter/
chargers and
camcorders.
• Throwing the battery
into a fire or exposing
it to excessive heat –
over 149 degrees F (65
degrees C) could be
hazardous.
Attaching a Charged Battery
If the DC cable is attached to the
camcorder, remove it before attaching
the battery.
1. Lift the viewfinder.
2. Slide the battery into the back of
the camcorder. Make sure the
arrow diagram on the battery
points down so the contacts on
the battery and camcorder match.
3. Turn the Power Switch to record
M
(
or A). The power indicator
lights.
12
Removing a Battery
Press and hold the BATTERY
RELEASE button. Slide the battery
up and out to remove.
Powering the Camcorder
Charging the Battery
If the DC cable is attached to the
DC OUT jack on the Adapter/Charger,
remove it.
1. Make sure the arrow on the
battery faces up and points to the
Adapter/Charger’s POWER light.
2. Hold the battery flush against the
Adapter/Charger and slide it in
the direction of the arrow.
3. Plug the Adapter/Charger into the
nearest AC power outlet (100240V, 50/60Hz).
4. If the battery is properly
connected, the CHARGE
indicator blinks.
Arrow Marker
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 CHARGE indicator
to flash.
5. After the battery is charged, the
CHARGE indicator stops
blinking and remains lit.
6. Remove the charged battery by
sliding it off the Adapter/Charger.
7. Attach the charged battery to the
camcorder as described on the
previous page.
Lithium-ion
Rechargeable Battery
model 247800 (or
optional model BB46L)
To AC Wall Outlet
100-240 Volts, 50/60 Hz.
Adapter/Charger
model 247801
POWER Indicator
CHARGE Indicator
CAUTION
When a battery is attached to the Adapter/Charger, do not turn them
upside down. The battery may fall off and be damaged or cause injury.
DC OUT Jack
13
Powering the Camcorder
Battery Life
Battery Level Indicator
The battery level indicator appears in
the viewfinder or LCD monitor and
reveals the amount of power left in
the rechargeable battery.
Notes: The battery level indicator is not
recorded on the tape.
• When appears, the battery is
fully charged.
• As power is used,
will
appear which will be followed by
the
icon.
• Finally, when the battery power is
almost gone,
flashes on
screen. The camcorder turns off
automatically after a few seconds.
Before replacing the battery or
plugging the DC Cable into the
camcorder, set the Power Switch
to OFF to turn off the camcorder.
Battery Care and Storage
• Recharging takes approximately
70 minutes for the battery
depending on its condition.
Notes: If a protective cap is on the
battery, remove it before use or
charging.
When charging a battery for the first
time or after a long storage period,
the CHARGE indicator may not light
on the Adapter/Charger. Remove the
battery and try again.
Charge the battery in temperatures
between 50 and 90 degrees
Fahrenheit (10-35 degrees Celsius).
Charging times are based on a fully
discharged battery.
Charging times vary depending on
ambient temperature and battery
condition.
If you connect the camcorder’s DC
cord to the Adapter/Charger during
battery recharging, power is supplied
to the camcorder and charging stops.
• After repeated charging and use,
battery life gradually decreases.
When operation time is too short
to be useful, the battery should be
replaced.
• If the battery discharging must be
stopped in the middle, remove the
battery from the adapter/charger
before unplugging it from the AC
outlet.
• If the battery pack becomes too
hot, remove it from the charger
and let it cool down.
• Let a hot battery cool down
before attaching it to the AC
adapter/charger.
14
Other Camcorder Details
Other Camcorder Details
Shoulder Strap
The camcorder’s shoulder strap is designed to let you carry the camera
from your shoulder and – when ready– bring the camcorder to shooting
position in one quick movement.
Attaching the Shoulder Strap
1. Make sure the battery pack or
DC cord is removed.
2. Following the illustration, thread
the strap through the eyelet.
3. Fold the strap back and thread it
through the buckle.
4. Repeat the procedure to attach
the other end of the strap to the
other eyelet located under the
Hand Strap. Make sure the strap
is not twisted.
Caution
When carrying the camcorder with
the shoulder strap, you should close
the LCD monitor and rotate the
viewfinder down. This helps prevent
possible damage to the monitor or
viewfinder from bumping against
your body as you move. Make sure
the shoulder strap is firmly attached
before using it to carry the camcorder.
Shoulder Strap
Shoulder Strap
Hand Strap
Eyelets
Shoulder Strap
Buckle
15
Working With the Right Media
Working With the Right Media
Mini DV Cassettes
This camcorder is designed to work exclusively
with digital video cassettes. Only cassettes marked
with a Mini DV logo can be used with this unit.
Also keep in mind that this camcorder is not
compatible with other digital media formats.
Note: For details on loading and
unloading cassettes into the digital
camcorder, see page 6 in this manual.
Erase Protection Tab
You can use your videocassettes over
and over again. To erase a previous
recording, make sure that the Erase
Protection Tab is set to REC. To protect
a cassette from being recorded over,
move the Erase Protection Tab to SAVE.
Recording and Playback Speeds and Times
The camcorder records and plays back
in Standard Play (SP) or Long Play
(LP) mode. Select the recording speed
using the on-screen menus (see page
38 for details).
The selected speed is displayed on
screen but not in the recording. The
maximum SP and LP recording times
for popular Mini DV cassettes are
shown.
• SP Provides the best picture
(less picture noise), but the
shortest recording time (as few as
30 minutes).
• LP Provides the longest
recording times (up to 120
minutes with an 80-minute tape)
but has more potential picture
noise than SP in normal playback.
Erase
Protection Tab
Slide tab to SAVE
to protect contents,
or REC to use.
Recording Time
Cassette SP LP
30 min. 30 min. 45 min.
60 min. 60 min. 90 min.
80 min. 80 min. 120 min.
16
Working With the Right Media
Cassette Notes
• A power supply must be attached
to load or eject a cassette.
• When loading a cassette, it takes a
few seconds for the Cassette
Holder to open. Never apply force
to the holder or door cover as this
might result in damage to the
camcorder and void the warranty.
• If the cassette holder does not open
after a few seconds, close the
holder door and try again. If it still
does not open, turn the camcorder
off then on again.
• If the cassette does not load
properly, open the cassette holder
door and fully remove the unit.
Wait a few minutes and reinsert it.
• When the camcorder is suddenly
moved from a cold environment to
a warm environment, wait a short
time before opening the cassette
holder door.
• Closing the cassette holder door
before the holder comes out may
damage the camcorder.
• Even when the camcorder is turned
off, a cassette can still be loaded or
unloaded. After the cassette holder
is closed with the camcorder
switched off, though, it may not
recede. Turn the power on before
loading or unloading cassettes.
• When recording, once the cassette
holder door is open, a blank portion
will be recorded on the tape or a
previously recorded scene will be
taped over regardless of whether
the tape holder came out or not.
• Loosen the grip strap if it appears
to interfere with the cassette holder
door operation.
Care and Storage
• When finished with a cassette,
rewind it, remove it from the
camcorder, and label it. Protect the
tape using the erase protection tab
if necessary.
• Store cassettes vertically in their
protective cases at normal room
temperatures. Never leave the
camcorder or cassettes in a car or
outdoors for an extended period of
time. Excessive heat or cold might
damage cassettes.
• Keep cassettes away from strong
magnetic fields such as electric
motors, speakers and other devices.
• Keep dust from entering the
cassette compartment. All dust is
abrasive and causes excessive wear
on the cassette and the camcorder’s
recording and playback heads.
• Never use cassettes with damaged
or spliced tape.
• Do not use a cassette if it has been
damaged or exposed to moisture.
The tape might jam and/or damage
the camcorder.
Time-Remaining Display
The approximate time remaining on a
recording tape is displayed on screen:
SP 20min
REC
TC 15:00
Time
Remaining
Display
17
On-Screen Preferences
On-Screen Preferences
Display Menu Options
The Display Menu offers a chance to set what is shown on screen during
recording and playback. You must set the correct date and time before they
can be displayed in either mode.
Setting the Date and Time
The correct date and time must be set
before they can be displayed.
Date and time information is recorded
onto the tape at all times, but its
display can be turned on or off during
playback (see Displaying information
on the camcorder or TV on the next
page for details).
1. With a power supply attached,
press in the Lock Tab and rotate
the Power Switch to manual (
record. The power indicator lights.
2.
Press in the MENU/BRIGHT dial to
display the camcorder’s on-screen
menus. The FADER/WIPE menu
( ) is the default display.
FAD
E
R
/
P
E
W
I
–
W
I
P
E
C
R
S
O
L
L
–
E
W
I
P
H
U
S
T
T
E
D
O
M
R
A
N
O
F
F
–
E
R
W
F
A
D
H
I
T
E
–
B
F
A
D
E
R
L
A
C
K
–
F
A
D
M
E
R
O
S
A
IRC
M
)
F
F
O
Y
A
L
P
3. Rotate the
highlight DISPLAY MENU (
MENU/BRIGHT
dial to
).
4. Press in the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to display a series of submenus.
5. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to highlight CLOCK ADJ.
6. Press in the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to select the choice and display
time and date information. The
month is highlighted.
MDE
Y
N
P
D
I
L
A
S
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255’
A
030
:
P
M
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7. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT dial to
display the correct month.
8. Press in the MENU/BRIGHT dial
when the correct month is shown
to advance to the day entry.
9. Repeat the procedure to select the
correct day. Following day is the
year, then hour, and finally the
minute.
Note: You must rotate through all 12
hours to change a.m. times to p.m.
10. After advancing through all of
the time and date settings and
CLOCK ADJ. is the only
highlighted item, rotate the
MENU/BRIGHT dial to highlight
RETURN.
18
On-Screen Preferences
6. Press in the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to return to the main menu icons.
To exit the menus and return to
normal viewing, press in the
MENU/BRIGHT dial when the
END icon (
Note: For different date/time display
options, see the following instructions.
You can proceed to make changes to
other DISPLAY MENU items, or
highlight and select RETURN and
then END menu selections to exit the
menus and return to normal record
viewing.
) is highlighted.
Displaying Information on the Camcorder or TV
1. With a power supply attached,
press in the Lock Tab and rotate
the Power Switch to manual (
record.
The power indicator lights.
2. Press in the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to display the camcorder’s onscreen menu system.
FAD
/
P
E
I
W
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R
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C
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S
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I
W
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F
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A
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P
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IRC
3. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to highlight the DISPLAY MENU
icon (
). Press in the MENU/
BRIGHT dial to select the choice.
Press in the MENU/BRIGHT dial
again to select ON SCREEN.
M
)
DISPLAY MENU
RETURN
ON SCREEN LCD
DATE/TIME LCD/TV
TIME CODE SIMPLE
CLOCK ADJ.
4.
Choose which information will be
displayed on what devices. Rotate
the MENU/BRIGHT dial to
highlight LCD, LCD/TV, or
SIMPLE.
LCD Displays information
only on the camcorder’s LCD
monitor and not on a connected
TV screen.
LCD/TV Makes the camera’s
display appear on a connected
TV or VCR display as well as
the camcorder’s LCD monitor.
SIMPLE Keeps on-screen
indicators (except the tape
running indicator, warning icons,
and date/time information) from
appearing on screen. This also
keeps the camcorder’s
information (except date and
time) from appearing on a
connected TV or VCR display.
5. When you’ve made your choice,
press in the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to select it and exit back to the
DISPLAY MENU.
Note: You can proceed to make
changes to other DISPLAY MENU
items, or highlight and select
RETURN and then END menu
selections to exit the menus and
return to normal record viewing.
19
On-Screen Preferences
Displaying Date and Time Information On Screen
1. With a power supply attached,
press in the Lock Tab and rotate
the Power Switch to manual (
record. The power indicator lights.
2. Press in the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to display the camcorder’s onscreen menu system.
3. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to highlight the DISPLAY MENU
icon (
). Press in the MENU/
BRIGHT dial to select it.
DISPLAY MENU
RETURN
ON SCREEN LCD
DATE/TIME LCD/TV
TIME CODE SIMPLE
CLOCK ADJ.
4. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to highlight DATE/TIME. Press
in the MENU/BRIGHT dial to
select it.
DISPLAY MENU
RETURN
ON SCREEN
DATE/TIME ON
TIME CODE OFF
CLOCK ADJ.
5. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to select ON or OFF.
ON Sets the date and time to
always be displayed on screen.
OFF The date and time do not
appear on screen
M
)
6. When the desired choice is made,
press in the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to activate it and exit back to the
DISPLAY MENU.
Note: You can proceed to make
changes to other DISPLAY MENU
items, or highlight and select
RETURN and then END menu
selections to exit the menus and
return to normal record viewing.
Time Code Display
During recording, a time code is
captured on the tape. This code
confirms the location of the recorded
scene on the tape during playback.
If recording starts from a blank
portion of the tape, the time code
begins counting from 00:00:00
(minutes: seconds: frame number). If
recording starts from the end of a
previously recorded scene, the time
code continues from the last time
code number.
Note: The time code is automatically set
to 00:00:00 when a tape is ejected.
1. With a power supply attached,
press in the Lock Tab and rotate
the Power Switch to manual (
record. The power indicator lights.
2. Press in the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to display the camcorder’s onscreen menu system.
3. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to highlight the DISPLAY MENU
icon (
). Press in the MENU/
BRIGHT dial to select it.
4. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to highlight TIME CODE. Press in
the MENU/BRIGHT dial to select
the choice and display submenus.
M
)
20
On-Screen Preferences
DISPLAY MENU
RETURN
ON SCREEN
DATE/TIME
TIME CODE ON
CLOCK ADJ. OFF
5. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to select ON or OFF.
ON Displays the time code on
the camcorder’s viewfinder or
LCD monitor as well as a
connected TV or VCR display.
Frame numbers are not
displayed during recording.
• OFF The time code is not
displayed at all.
6. When you’ve made your choice,
press in the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to activate it and exit back to the
DISPLAY MENU.
Note: You can proceed to make
changes to other DISPLAY MENU
items, or highlight and select
RETURN and then END menu
selections to exit the menus and
return to normal record viewing.
21
Using the Monitors
Seeing What You Are Recording
To see what the camcorder’s recording, use either the LCD monitor or the
viewfinder monitor. When the LCD monitor is open more than 25 degrees, the
viewfinder turns off. When you close the LCD monitor, the viewfinder turns on.
To enable both you and the person you’re recording to see what’s being
captured, rotate the LCD monitor completely around 180 degrees so the front
of the monitor faces the person being recorded (the viewfinder turns on
automatically when the monitor is turned to the front).
Using the LCD Monitor
The camcorder’s LCD monitor is a miniature color monitor that displays the
images captured by the camcorder in either record mode or for recording
playback.
180°
90°
1. Open the LCD monitor at least 25
degrees. The viewfinder turns off.
2. For convenient viewing, the LCD
can be tilted once the monitor is
open 90 degrees from the camera
body. Tilt the monitor forward up
180 degrees or down up to 90
degrees.
• From a high angle (such as over
a crowd)— tilt the monitor
down to record.
• From a low angle (such as when
kneeling)— tilt the monitor up
to record.
22
Cautions
Never force the monitor to rotate
completely around. This could
damage both the monitor and/or
the camcorder.
When carrying the unit with the
shoulder strap, close the monitor
to prevent possible damage to it
from bumping against objects as
you move.
3. Adjust the brightness of the
LCD’s image by turning the
bright control (MENU/BRIGHT
dial). This does not affect the
brightness of the recording you
are making.
• Turn the dial toward + to
brighten the image.
• Turn the dial toward – to darken
the image.
4. When finished recording, close
the monitor and lock it into place.
Note: Recording on bright, sunny
days can make the LCD monitor hard
to see. Use the viewfinder instead.
Using the Monitors
Using the Viewfinder
The camcorder’s viewfinder is a
miniature monitor that displays in
black and white.
Note: When the LCD monitor is open
more than 25 degrees the viewfinder turns
off unless the LCD is rotated 180 degrees
to face forward. With the LCD forward,
both monitors are turned on.
For convenient viewing, rotate the
viewfinder up or down.
Cautions
Never force the viewfinder to rotate
completely around. This will damage
the viewfinder and/or the camcorder.
When carrying the camcorder with the
shoulder strap, put the viewfinder
down to help prevent possible damage
to it from bumping against your body
as you move.
Focusing the Eyepiece
The Diopter Adjustment Control on
the underside of the viewfinder
focuses the eyepiece’s display
allowing for individual vision needs.
If you wear eyeglasses, you may be
able to operate the camcorder without
them by using the Diopter Adjustment
Control.
Diopter
Adjustment
Control
To set the correct focus, concentrate
on one of the icons in the on-screen
menus.
1. Adjust the eyepiece for
comfortable viewing.
2. Press in the MENU/BRIGHT dial
to display the on-screen menus.
3. Concentrating on the icons, turn
the Diopter Adjustment Control
until they come into focus.
Note: The eyepiece focus control
does not affect the focus of the image
captured by the camcorder.
23
Using the Monitors
On-screen Indicators
Several displays appear on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder to aid in the
operation of the camcorder. Although it may look crowded, all of the icons
shown below do not appear on-screen at the same time. Also, not all screen
icons are shown in the illustration. Refer to the icon descriptions that follow.
IT
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4
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2
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2
Recording Menu Icons Playback Menu Icons
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DEPC
5
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+
25
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0
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5
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M
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TBC
S
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:
1
:
0
0
6
210
Warning Indicators
Indicates the amount of power left in the
rechargeable battery.
An empty battery icon flashes on screen when
Battery Levels
the battery’s power is almost exhausted.
DEPC
LP
255Õ
030
:
M
0
Missing Cassette
Warning
CHECK TAPE’S ERASE
PROTECTION SWITCH
Head Cleaning
Warning
24
Appears when the power switch is set to
either automatic (
A
) or manual (M) record
and no cassette is in the camcorder.
Appears when the Erase Protection Tab is set
to SAVE while the Power Switch is set to
either automatic (
A
) or manual (M) record.
HEAD CLEANING REQUIRED USE
CLEANING CASSETTE appears if dirt is
detected on the recording heads. Use an
optional cleaning cassette to remove dirt.
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