RCA CG740 User Manual

CG740

Camcorder User’s Guide

We bring good things to life. ..

Important Safety Information

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

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

camcorder or AC adapter/charger to rain or moisture.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

ATTENTION

RISQUE DE CHOC

ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR

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 PERSONNEL.

This symbol indicates “dangerous voltage” inside the product that presents a risk of electric shock or personal injury.

This symbol indicates important instructions accompanying the product.

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 recommended by the manufacturer for this camcorder. Other types of batteries may burst causing damage and personal injury.

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

Product Registration

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

Keep your sales receipt for proof of purchase to obtain warranty parts and service and attach it here. Record the serial and model numbers located on the bottom of the camcorder.

Model No: _____________________________________ Serial No: _____________________________________ Purchase Date: _____________________________________ Purchased From: _____________________________________

CG740

Assistance

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

Camcorder Exchange Warranty.......... 800-283-6503 (pages 60-61)

Customer Service......................................... 800-447-1700 (page 59)

Accessories............................................. 800-338-0376 (pages 47-50)

Safety Precautions.................................i

Product Registration.............................i

Table of Contents..............................1-2

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

First-Time Operation

•Unpack Camcorder and Accessories....3

•Attach the Adapter/Charger .................4

•Adjust the Handstrap............................5

•Remove Lens Cap and Attach

to Handstrap.......................................5

•Insert a Cassette....................................5

•Place CAMERA/VCR Switch

in CAMERA AUTO ............................6

•Turn on the Camcorder ........................6

•Adjust Viewfinder and Eyepiece

Focus Control.....................................7

•Start and Stop Recording......................7

•Play Back What You Have Recorded ..7

•Review Camcorder Operating

Controls...........................................8-9

Powering the Camcorder

•Using the Adapter/Charger

• Attach the Adapter/Charger.............10

• Using an Optional Plug Adapter......10

•Using the Battery

• Charging the Battery........................11

• Insert and Remove the Battery.........12

• Checking Battery Power

(Battery Level Indicator)...............13

• Battery Care and Storage.................14

• Battery Safety Precautions...............14

Camcorder Recording Tips...............15

Video Cassettes

•Erase Protection (Safety) Tab ............16

•Recording Speed and Times...............16

•Inserting and Removing Cassettes .....17

•Cassette Care and Storage..................17

Table of Contents

Recording Features

•Viewfinder..........................................18

•Viewfinder Displays .....................19-21

Date and Time Display

• Recording the Time and Date

(or Date) on Your Tape..................22

• Install the Clock Battery.................22

• Set (or Correct) the Display............23

•Camcorder Features

• CAMERA AUTO Feature................24

• Microphone.....................................24

• Record Review................................24

• Flying Erase Head...........................24

• Camera Edit....................................25

• Tape Positioning.............................25

• Electronic Indexing.........................25

•Focusing Your Camcorder............26-27

•W/B (White Balance) Button..............27

•Using Variable Shutter Speeds...........28

•Power Zooming..................................29

•Fading In and Out of Scenes ..............29

•Counters and Time-Remaining Display

• Tape Counter ..................................30

• Tape Counter with Memory Stop...30

• Elapsed Time Counter ....................31

• Time-Remaining Display................31

•SELF-TIMER/TIME LAPSE Button

•Self-Timer Recording ......................32

•Adjustable Time-Lapse Recording ..33

•Animation Recording.......................33

•Titler..............................................34-35

•Audio Dubbing...................................36

•Video Dubbing ...................................37

Recording from a TV (or VCR)...38-39 Playback

•Viewfinder Playback..........................40

•Playback Features

•Stop-Action Pause............................41

•Visual Searching ..............................41

•Tracking ...........................................41

•Playback on a TV (or VCR) with

AUDIO and VIDEO IN Jacks......42-43

•Playback on a TV without

Audio and Video Inputs..............44-45

Attaching the Shoulder Strap............46

Optional Accessories

•Optional Accessories ....................47-50

• Using an Optional Tripod ................50

•Accessory Order Form..................51-53

Care and Maintenance.......................54

Trouble Checks .............................55-57

Specifications ......................................58

Customer Assistance and Service .....59

Limited Warranty.........................60-61

Index (Alphabetical) .....................62-65

First-Time Operation

POWER

PAUSE

REW

PLAY

F.FWD

TITLE SELECT

RECORD

STOP/EJECT

BATT

EJECT

REVIEW

CAMERA VCR

AUTO MAN

COUNTER

DISPLAY RESET

SELECT SET

CLOCK

DATE/TIME

SHUTTER

PUSH/AUTO

FOCUS

AUTO MAN

FADE

W/B

MANUAL FOCUS

AUD •DUB •VID

EDIT ADV.

TIME LAPSE

TITLE

SELF TIMER

STILL

POWERCHARGE

This section describes only the basic steps to setup 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.........................................800-447-1700

Accessories..................................................800-338-0376

1. Unpack 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 of the items are missing or appear damaged, contact your dealer immediately.

Battery Pack Stock No. 1CVA156

WARNING: LEADACID BATTERY

Camcorder: Model CG740

MUST BE DISPOSED OF PROPERLY.

Shoulder Strap Stock No. 222043

AC Adapter/Charger Stock No. 229412

Clock Cell

3-Volt micro lithium cell battery – such as CR2025 – is available from most local drug stores and camera shops. Use of another cell may present a risk of fire or explosion.

Caution: Do not use this adapter/charger for any other purpose than charging the 1CVA156 battery pack or supplying power to the camcorder.

DC Cable Stock No. 217840

Cautions: Lithium cell battery. Must be disposed of properly.

Never handle a punctured or leaking cell. May cause burns or personal injury.

Keep out of the hands of children. Can cause death or injury if swallowed. If swallowed, consult a physician immediately for emergency treatment.

The lithium cell used in this device may explode resulting in a fire or chemical burn if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 212˚F (100˚C), or incinerate.

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

Audio/Video Cable Stock No. 210923

First-Time Operation

VIDEO AUDIO

RF DC

DC IN 12V

BATT

EJECT

CHARGE

POWER

DC OUT 12V 2A

DC IN 12V Jack

DC Cable (Supplied)

DC OUT 12V 2A Jack

POWER Indicator

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.

• Attach one end of DC cable to DC IN 12V jack on side of camcorder.

• Attach the other end of DC cable to DC OUT 12V 2A jack on AC adapter/charger.

AC Adapter/Charger

To AC Outlet (100-240 V, 50/60 Hz.)

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

The POWER indicator on the adapter/charger will light.

(continued on next page)

VIDEO AUDIO

RF DC

DC IN 12V

BATT

EJECT

STOP/EJECT

First-Time Operation

Press Here to Close

Handstrap

Tape Windows

Lens Cap on Lens Cap Holder

3. Adjust the handstrap.

Open the strap, adjust to fit your right hand, and close the strap.

4. Remove the lens cap and attach it to the handstrap.

5. Insert a cassette.

A.Press STOP/EJECT to open cassette

compartment.

B. Insert cassette with safety tab facing

up and tape windows facing out.

C. Close cassette compartment door.

First-Time Operation

POWER

PAUSE

REW

PLAY

F.FWD

TITLE SELECT

RECORD

STOP/EJECT

BATT

EJECT

REVIEW

CAMERA VCR

AUTO MAN

COUNTER

DISPLAY RESET

SELECT SET

CLOCK

DATE/TIME

SHUTTER

PUSH/AUTO

FOCUS

AUTO MAN

FADE

W/B

MANUAL FOCUS

AUD •DUB •VID

EDIT ADV.

TIME LAPSE

TITLE

SELF TIMER

STILL

POWER Switch and Indicator

Viewfinder in Operating Position

6. Place CAMERA/VCR switch in CAMERA AUTO.

The position of the CAMERA/VCR switch tells the camcorder whether you want to record (CAMERA) or play back tapes (VCR).

• Place the switch in CAMERA

AUTO to have the camcorder automatically control white balance, focus, and shutter speed.

• Place the switch in CAMERA MAN

(manual) to manually control white balance, focus and shutter speed.

• Place the switch in VCR to play

back tapes.

7. Slide POWER switch to turn on the camcorder. The POWER indicator lights.

If you do not record within five minutes, the camcorder will

STOP/EJECT

Button

PAUSE/STILL

Button

Eyepiece Focus Control

CAMERA/VCR Switch

automatically shut off to prevent excessive tape wear. To turn the camcorder on again, slide the POWER switch.

CAUTION: 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 video cassette. When moved from a cold area to a warm location, moisture may condense on the head drum inside the machine. This moisture could cause the tape to stick to the headwheel and damage the headwheel or tape. DEW flashes in the viewfinder when moisture is present in the camcorder. If a cassette is inserted, press STOP/EJECT and remove the cassette. Leave the cassette compartment open and turn off the camcorder for at least 2 hours.

First-Time Operation

VIDEO AUDIO

RF DC

DC IN 12V

BATT

EJECT

STOP/EJECT

Thumb Trigger

8. Rotate the viewfinder into operating position and adjust the eyepiece focus control.

If the image in the viewfinder is blurry, adjust the eyepiece focus control for your vision.

9. Start and Stop Recording.

Press the thumb trigger to start and stop recording. Do not hold the thumb trigger. REC will appear in the viewfinder when the camcorder is recording.

Notes: Pressing PAUSE/STILL will also start and stop recording.

Any material recorded on the tape will be erased if you record over it.

The camcorder records and plays back only in SP speed.

10. Play back what you have recorded.

Press the thumb trigger to stop

•

recording.

• Place the CAMERA/VCR switch

in VCR.

• Press REW to rewind the tape.

• Press PLAY to play back the tape.

• Press STOP/EJECT when you are

finished.

First-Time Operation

POWER PAUSE REW PLAY F.FWD AUD • DUB • VID RECORD

STILL

POWER

PAUSE

REW

PLAY

F.FWD

TITLE SELECT

RECORD

STOP/EJECT

BATT

EJECT

REVIEW

CAMERA VCR

AUTO MAN

COUNTER

DISPLAY RESET

SELECT SET

CLOCK

DATE/TIME

SHUTTER

PUSH/AUTO

FOCUS

AUTO

MAN

FADE

W/B

MANUAL FOCUS

AUD •DUB •VID

EDIT ADV.

TIME LAPSE

TITLE

SELF TIMER

STILL

TITLE SELECT EDIT ADV.

11.Review camcorder’s operating controls.

PLAY Button (Also TITLE SELECT Button)

POWER Switch and Indicator

REW Button (Also TITLE SELECT – Button)

PAUSE/STILL

Button

Accessory Shoe

Viewfinder

F.FWD (Fast Forward) Button (Also TITLE SELECT + Button)

AUD (Audio) DUB Button) (Also EDIT ADV. Button)

VID (Video) DUB Button)

STOP/EJECT Button

Microphone

Eyepiece Focus Control (on bottom of viewfinder)

REVIEW Button

Lens

W/B (White Balance) Button

CAMERA/VCR Switch

RECORD

Button

MANUAL FOCUS

Buttons

FOCUS AUTO/MAN

and FOCUS PUSH

AUTO Buttons

SELF TIMER/ TIME LAPSE Button

SHUTTER Button

FADE Button

TITLE Button

COUNTER DISPLAY and RESET Buttons

DATE/TIME Button

CLOCK SELECT and SET Buttons

(Also Tracking Buttons)

(continued on next page)

First-Time Operation

VIDEO AUDIO

RF DC

DC IN 12V

BATT

EJECT

STOP/EJECT

11.Review camcorder’s operating controls.

Shoulder Strap Attachment Ring

BATT (Battery) EJECT Lever

Rechargeable Battery Compartment

Shoulder Strap Attachment Ring

DC IN 12V Jack

Remove Small Cover

Power Zoom Buttons (“W” and “T”)

Lens

Hood

Hand Strap

Thumb Trigger

Cassette Door

Clock Battery Holder

AUDIO and VIDEO OUT Jacks (Also RF DC OUT Jack)

AUDIO and VIDEO IN Jacks

Powering the Camcorder

AC 200 ~ 220V

AC Plug Adapter

VIDEO AUDIO

RF DC

DC IN 12V

BATT

EJECT

CHARGE

POWER

DC OUT 12V 2A

Using the Adapter/Charger

The DC cable attaches the adapter/charger to the camcorder and lets you power your camcorder directly from standard household power.

DC IN 12V Jack

DC Cable

DC OUT 12V 2A Jack

Attach the Adapter/Charger

1. Attach one end of DC cable to DC OUT 12V 2A jack on the AC adapter/charger.

2. Attach the other end of DC cable to DC IN 12V jack on side of camcorder.

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.

Notes: The adapter/charger cannot charge the battery and operate the camcorder at the same time. Remove the battery when you use the adapter/charger to power the camcorder.

POWER Indicator

AC Adapter/ Charger

To AC Outlet (100-240 V, 50/60 Hz.)

Using an Optional Plug Adapter

The adapter/charger operates on 100-240 volts, 50/60 Hz. Some countries may require a plug adapter.

100-240 V, 50/60Hz.

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.

POWER CHARGE

Powering the Camcorder

Using the Battery to Power Your Camcorder

The battery must be charged before it can be used the first time. Initial charging will take approximately two hours. When fully charged, the battery should supply about 100-120 minutes of operating time (depending on how much you use zoom and pause).

When using the battery to power the camcorder, slide POWER to turn off the camcorder during recording breaks to conserve the battery’s power.

Charging the Battery

WARNING: LEAD-ACID BATTERY. MUST BE DISPOSED OF PROPERLY.

AC Adapter/Charger

To AC Outlet (100-240 V, 50/60 Hz.)

POWER and CHARGE Indicators (Located on Other Side)

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.

1. Plug the adapter/charger into the nearest AC outlet (100-240V, 50/60Hz). The POWER indicator on the adapter/charger will light.

Note: If the DC cable is attached to the adapter/charger, remove it before charging the battery. The adapter/charger cannot charge the battery if the DC cable is attached.

3. If the battery is properly connected, the adapter/charger’s CHARGE indicator will light. When the light goes out, the battery is fully charged.

4. Remove the charged battery by sliding

it off the adapter/charger.

5. Insert the charged battery into the

camcorder as shown on the next page.

2. Slide the battery into the adapter/ charger matching the “–” side of the battery to the “–” side of the adapter/ charger as shown above.

POWER

PAUSE

REW

PLAY

F.FWD

TITLE SELECT

RECORD

STOP/EJECT

BATT

EJECT

REVIEW

CAMERA VCR

AUTO MAN

COUNTER

DISPLAY RESET

SELECT SET

CLOCK

DATE/TIME

SHUTTER

PUSH/AUTO

FOCUS

AUTO MAN

FADE

W/B

MANUAL FOCUS

AUD •DUB •VID

EDIT ADV.

TIME LAPSE

TITLE

SELF TIMER

STILL

Powering the Camcorder

Using the Battery to Power Your Camcorder

Insert Charged Battery. Match “+” Side of Battery to “+” on Camcorder.

BATT (Battery) EJECT Lever

Insert Charged Battery

1. Insert battery with the arrow facing down and “+” side of battery matching “+ ” side of battery compartment.

2. Press the battery down firmly until it locks into place.

Remove Battery

1. Slide BATT (battery) EJECT lever.

2. Remove battery from the camcorder.

Note: Remove the battery from the camcorder when not using it. Store in a cool, dry place.

Notes: If the DC cable is attached to the camcorder, remove it. The battery cannot operate the camcorder if the DC cable is attached.

The battery must be charged before it can be used the first time.

ATTENTION: LEAD-ACID BATTERY MUST BE DISPOSED OF PROPERLY. THE PRODUCT THAT YOU HAVE PURCHASED CONTAINS A RECHARGEABLE BATTERY. AT THE END OF ITS USEFUL LIFE, UNDER VARIOUS STATE AND LOCAL LAWS, IT MAY BE ILLEGAL TO DISPOSE OF THIS BATTERY INTO THE MUNICIPAL WASTE STREAM. CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL SOLID WASTE OFFICIALS FOR DETAILS IN YOUR AREA FOR RECYCLING OPTIONS OR PROPER DISPOSAL.

Powering the Camcorder

Checking Battery Power (Battery Level Indicator)

The battery level indicator ( ) in the viewfinder shows you how much battery power is left. This indicator will not be recorded on the tape when it is displayed.

Repeatedly press the COUNTER DISPLAY button to display and remove the battery level indicator from the viewfinder.

Battery Level

0000

Display in Viewfinder

Indicator

• When the battery is fully charged, the display reads .

• After a while, only appears.

• When the battery reaches the empty level, will start flashing. Recharge the battery or attach the adapter/charger before continuing to use the camcorder.

Note: The indicator will automatically appear in the viewfinder when the battery reaches empty, even if the battery level indicator is not displayed.

Caution: When the battery reaches empty, the camcorder will turn off. The battery should have enough power to eject the cassette.

If the camcorder does not eject the cassette when you press the STOP/

EJECT button, do not force the cassette door open. This will damage

your camcorder. Before attempting to eject the cassette,

power your camcorder with the adapter/charger or recharge the battery.

Powering the Camcorder

Battery Care and Storage

• The battery will provide better service and longer performance if you charge it before and after use, and store it at normal room temperature.

• Recharge the battery once at least every 6 months. Lead-acid batteries tend to discharge if not used for extended periods. After being stored for a long period, the battery may not supply power for the specified time. Additional rechargings may help restore operation time. After repeated chargings and use, operation time will gradually decrease. When operation time becomes too short to be useful, it is time to replace the battery.

Battery Safety Precautions

Batteries that are being recharged that have not been used for an extended period may continue to charge after the normal time. Do not charge a battery for more than ten hours.

If both indicators on the AC adapter/ charger start flashing, remove the battery, and reattach it. If the indicators continue to flash after several attempts, your battery cannot take a charge and needs to be replaced.

Do not attach a hot battery. The battery should be allowed to cool down. Both indicators on the adapter/charger will flash if you attach a hot battery.

• The battery should be charged at a temperature of 32ºF-95ºF (0ºC-35ºC) to prevent damage.

• Do not operate the battery at temperatures below 14ºF (-10ºC) or above 95ºF (35ºC). The battery may be damaged if operated at temperatures above 122ºF (50ºC). Operation time will decrease at extremely low temperatures.

• Use the battery only with specified GE AC adapter/chargers and camcorders.

Throwing the battery into a fire or exposing the battery to excessive heat – over 149ºF (65º C) could be hazardous.

Do not short the battery’s terminals. Do not attempt to disassemble or

modify the battery. There are no userserviceable parts inside.

If leakage from a damaged battery contacts your skin or clothing, wash it off immediately with running water.

Read the cautions on the battery pack.

Camcorder Recording Tips

Make a video recording of your home and contents to store in a safe place in case of fire or theft.

Practice recording under different lighting conditions. This will help you respond quickly whenever you see a scene you want to record.

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”.

Try to make sure indoor scenes are welllit. This improves picture quality and color reproduction. Try to avoid taping backlit subjects indoors. Bright light behind your subject may cause the subject to appear too dark.

For a different perspective, try kneeling down (or laying) on the floor when recording children or pets.

Be aware of video and audio backgrounds. 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.

Do not bump or tap the camcorder’s microphone while recording because this sound will be recorded.

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 for added interest. Remember to check the lighting before starting to record.

Include close-up shots of individuals when taping family outings or group functions.

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.

Make sure you have any plug adapters that you may need before taking your camcorder to other countries. Consult your GE dealer for advice.

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.

Carry your camcorder in a carrying case when traveling. See page 47 for a specially designed case. 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.

Video Cassettes

CASSETTE RECORDING TIME

T-60 60 Min. T-120 2 Hrs. T-160 2 Hrs., 40 Min. T-180

3 Hrs.

We recommend our cassettes be used with your camcorder. The tape in these cassettes is of high-quality formulation manufactured to critical specifications for excellent performance. Use of tape not meeting these specifications could considerably reduce the performance of 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.

Playing a new tape for approximately 30 minutes will often satisfactorily clean the heads and improve your picture. If a snowy picture or no-picture condition persists, consider the use of a dry chemical, nonabrasive head-cleaning kit. Be sure to follow the directions with the head-cleaning kit carefully. Improper use of a head cleaner may damage your camcorder.

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

To prevent accidental erasure, break the tab.

Recording Speed and Times

The camcorder records and plays back in VHS standard speed (SP). Listed are the maximum SP recording times for popular VHS cassettes.

To record again, cover the hole with vinyl tape.

Video Cassettes

VIDEO AUDIO

RF DC

DC IN 12V

BATT

EJECT

STOP/EJECT

Inserting and Removing Cassettes

STOP/EJECT Button

Press Here to Close

Safety Tab

Tape Windows

1. Attach a power source (either a charged battery or adapter/charger).

2. Press STOP/EJECT to open the cassette door.

3. Insert or remove the cassette from the cassette compartment.

Cassette Care and Storage

• Rewind and remove the cassette from

the camcorder. Break off the safety tab to prevent accidental erasure, and label the cassette before storing it.

• Store cassettes vertically in their

protective cases at normal room temperatures.

• Keep dust from entering the cassette

compartment. All dust is abrasive and will cause excessive wear on the tape and camcorder’s heads.

Caution: Insert cassette with safety tab facing up and the tape windows facing out. The cassette should slide easily into the compartment.

4. Gently close the cassette door with your hand.

• Keep cassettes away from strong

magnetic fields – such as electric motors.

• Do not use a cassette if it has been

damaged or exposed to moisture. The tape may jam or damage the camcorder.

• Do not leave your camcorder or

cassettes in a car or outdoors for an extended period. Excessive heat or cold may damage them.

POWER

PAUSE

REW

PLAY

F.FWD

TITLE SELECT

RECORD

STOP/EJECT

BATT

EJECT

REVIEW

CAMERA VCR

AUTO MAN

COUNTER

DISPLAY RESET

SELECT SET

CLOCK

DATE/TIME

SHUTTER

PUSH/AUTO

FOCUS

AUTO MAN

FADE

W/B

MANUAL FOCUS

AUD •DUB •VID

EDIT ADV.

TIME LAPSE

TITLE

SELF TIMER

STILL

Viewfinder

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

The viewfinder can also be used for viewing the tape during playback. For convenient viewing, turn the viewfinder to the left and lock it into position. After

the viewfinder is locked, you can slide it out and use the right or left eye.

Caution: When carrying or storing the camcorder, turn the viewfinder back to the front to prevent damage to the viewfinder and/or camcorder.

Viewfinder in

Operating Position

Eyepiece

Eyepiece Focus Control (on bottom of viewfinder)

Eyepiece Focus Control

The eyepiece focus control lets you set the focus of the viewfinder for your personal vision. If you wear eyeglasses, you may be able to operate the camcorder without them.

It is easiest to set the correct focus by focusing on one of the viewfinder’s onscreen displays (such as the counter).

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.

Tilt Adjustment

You can turn the eyepiece up or down about 180 degrees.

Caution: Do not force the eyepiece to rotate completely around. This will damage the viewfinder and/or the camcorder.

Viewfinder Controls

BRIGHT and COLOR controls are located on the bottom of the viewfinder. The camcorder must be turned upside down and the viewfinder fully extended to see them. These controls were set at the factory and should need no adjustment. If adjustment becomes necessary, carefully use a plastic screwdriver and make adjustments with caution to prevent damaging these miniature controls.

POWER

PAUSE

REW

PLAY

F.FWD

TITLE SELECT

RECORD

STOP/EJECT

BATT

EJECT

REVIEW

CAMERA VCR

AUTO MAN

COUNTER

DISPLAY RESET

SELECT SET

CLOCK

DATE/TIME

SHUTTER

PUSH/AUTO

FOCUS

AUTO

MAN

FADE

W/B

MANUAL FOCUS

AUD •DUB •VID

EDIT ADV.

TIME LAPSE

TITLE

SELF TIMER

STILL

Viewfinder Displays

212

Self-Timer and

INTERVAL

Indicators

Titler

INTERVAL 0:60

TITLER

Displays in Viewfinder

CAMERA/VCR Switch

TITLE Button

SELF TIMER/TIME LAPSE Button

Battery Level Indicator

Self-Timer and INTERVAL

Indicators

• SELF-30S or SELF-END appears when the camcorder is set for selftimer recording using SELF TIMER/TIME LAPSE.

Titler Display

Press the TITLE button to create or display a title.

• The title is recorded on the tape when it appears.

• Details are on pages 34-35.

• INTERVAL indicators appear when the camcorder is set for interval or animation recording using SELF TIMER/TIME LAPSE.

• These displays are not recorded on the tape when they appear.

• Details are on pages 32-33.

Battery Level Indicator

• Press COUNTER DISPLAY to display (or remove) the battery level indicator.

• This indicator is not recorded on the tape when it appears.

• Details are on page 13.

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