RCA Pro809 User Manual
Pro809
USER‘S
GUIDE
Table of Contents.........1
Optional Accessories...2
First-Time Operation....8
Remote Control .........15
Powering Your Camcorder
18
Recording Features....26
Playback...................52
Trouble Checks..........56
Care and Maintenance58
Specifications............60
Limited Warranty ......61
Index........................62
®
CAMCORDER
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 to obtain warranty parts and service and for proof of
purchase. Attach it here and record the serial and model numbers in case you ever
need them. The numbers are located on the bottom of your camcorder.
Model No: Pro809
Serial No:
Purchase Date:
Purchased From:
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Your video camcorder’s AC adapter/charger will operate on 100-240
volts AC, 50/60 Hz, and has a polarized plug. Because one blade of
the plug is wider than the other, the plug fits in the wall socket only
one way. Do not defeat the safety feature of this plug. If you need an
extension cord, use a polarized extension cord.
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.
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
REMOVE THE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS ARE
INSIDE. IF YOU SPILL LIQUID ON THE CAMCORDER OR
ADAPTER/CHARGER, DISCONNECT THE AC ADAPTER/CHARGER’S POWER
CORD TO PREVENT POSSIBLE FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD AND CONSULT
AUTHORIZED SERVICE PERSONNEL. MOISTURE CAN DAMAGE
INTERNAL PARTS. REFER ALL SERVICE TO AUTHORIZED RCA
CAMCORDER SERVICENTER PERSONNEL ONLY.
i
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
MISE EN GARDE
RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE
NE PAS OUVRIR
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS (continued)
CAUTION: READ “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC
ADAPTER/CHARGER” ON THE NEXT PAGE BEFORE USING THE AC
ADAPTER/CHARGER.
CAUTION: MAINTAIN ELECTRICAL SAFETY. POWERLINE-OPERATED
EQUIPMENT OR ACCESSORIES CONNECTED TO THIS UNIT SHOULD BEAR
THE UL LISTING MARK OR, IF PURCHASED AND USED IN CANADA, THE
CSA CERTIFICATION MARK ON THE ACCESSORIES THEMSELVES AND
SHOULD NOT HAVE BEEN MODIFIED SO AS TO DEFEAT THE SAFETY
FEATURES. THIS WILL HELP AVOID ANY POTENTIAL HAZARD FROM
ELECTRIC SHOCK OR FIRE. IF IN DOUBT, CONTACT QUALIFIED SERVICE
PERSONNEL.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD,
DO NOT EXPOSE CAMCORDER OR AC ADAPTER/
CHARGER TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
The symbol of a lightning
flash within a triangle is
intended to alert the user
to the presence of
uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within
the product’s enclosure and which may
be of sufficient magnitude to constitute
a risk of electric shock.
important operating and maintenance
(service) instructions in the literature
accompanying the product.
An exclamation point
within a triangle is
intended to alert the user
to the presence of
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.
ii
IMPORTANT SAFETYINSTRUCTIONS
Important Safety Instructions for AC Adapter/Charger
Before using the AC adapter/charger,
read all instructions and cautionary
markings on (1) AC adapter/charger,
(2) battery, and (3) product using battery.
Caution: To reduce risk of injury,
charge only rechargeable batteries type
AV608, AV8MM, or AV8MSH. Other
types of batteries may burst causing
personal injury and damage.
Do not expose the adapter/charger to
moisture of any kind.
Use of an attachment not recommended
or sold by the battery charger
manufacturer may result in a risk of fire,
electric shock, or injury to persons.
To reduce risk of damage to electric plug
and cord, pull out the cord with the plug
rather than the cord when disconnecting
the adapter/charger from the wall outlet.
Make sure the cord is located so that it
will not be stepped on, tripped over, or
otherwise subjected to damage or stress.
Use of an improper extension cord could
result in a risk of fire and electric shock.
If an extension cord must be used, make
sure that:
1. Pins on the plug of the extension cord
are the same number, size, and shape
as those of the plug on the
adapter/charger.
2. Extension cord is properly wired and
in good electrical condition, and
3. Wire size below is met:
Minimum Length of Extension
AWG Size Cord (Feet)
18 Equal to or less
than 100
16 Equal to or less
than 150
Do not operate adapter/charger with a
damaged cord or plug. Replace it
immediately.
Do not operate adapter/charger if it has
received a sharp blow, been dropped, or
otherwise damaged in any way. Take it
to a qualified serviceman.
Do not disassemble adapter/charger.
Take it to an Authorized RCA
Camcorder Servicenter when service or
repair is required. Incorrect reassembly
may result in a risk of electric shock.
To reduce risk of electric shock, unplug
adapter/charger from outlet before
attempting any maintenance or cleaning.
Be sure to save these operating
instructions for future reference.
CAUTION: FCC REGULATIONS STATE THAT ANY UNAUTHORIZED
CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS TO THIS EQUIPMENT MAY VOID THE
USER’S AUTHORITY TO OPERATE IT.
CAUTION: THE UNAUTHORIZED RECORDING OF TELEVISION
PROGRAMS AND OTHER MATERIALS MAY INFRINGE THE RIGHTS OF
OTHERS.
iii
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
In addition to the careful attention
devoted to quality standards in the
manufacture of your product, safety
is a major factor in the design of
every instrument. However, safety is
your responsibility too.
These pages list important
information that will help to assure
your enjoyment and proper use of a
camcorder, adapter/charger, and
accessory equipment. Please read
them carefully before operating your
products.
Installation
1. Read and Follow Instructions—
All the safety and
operating instructions should be read
before the product is
operated. Follow all
operating
instructions.
2. Retain Instructions—The safety and
operating instructions should be
retained for future reference.
3. Heed Warnings—Comply with all
warnings on the product and in the
operating instructions.
4. Polarization—This product is
equipped with a polarized alternatingcurrent line plug (a plug having one
blade wider than the other). This plug
will fit into the power outlet only one
way. This is a safety feature. If you
are unable to insert the plug fully into
the outlet, try reversing the plug. If
the plug still fails to fit, contact your
electrician to replace your obsolete
outlet. To prevent electric shock, do
not use this polarized plug with an
extension cord, receptacle, or other
outlet unless the blades can be fully
inserted without blade exposure. If
you need an extension cord, use one
with a polarized plug.
5. Power Sources—This product should
be operated only from the type of
power source indicated on the
marking label. If you are not sure of
the type of power supply to your
home, consult your dealer or local
power company. For products
intended to operate from battery
power, or other sources, refer to the
operating instructions.
6. Overloading—Do not overload wall
outlets, extension cords, or integral
convenience receptacles as this can
result in a risk of fire or electric shock.
Overloaded AC outlets, extension
cords, frayed power cords, damaged
or cracked wire
insulation, and
broken plugs are
dangerous. They
may result in a
shock or fire
hazard.
Periodically examine the cord, and if
its appearance indicates damage or
deteriorated insulation, have it
replaced by your service technician.
7. Power-Cord Protection—Power-
supply cords should be routed so that
they are not likely to be walked on or
pinched by items placed upon or
against them, paying particular
attention to cords at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point
where they exit from the product.
(continued on next page)
iv
IMPOR TANT SAFEGUARDS (continued)
8. Ventilation—Slots and openings in
the products are provided for
ventilation to ensure reliable
operation of the product and to
protect them from overheating.
These openings must not be blocked
or covered. The openings should
never be blocked by placing the
product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other
similar surface. This product should
not be placed in a built-in
installation such as a bookcase or
rack unless proper ventilation is
provided or the product
manufacturer’s instructions have
been followed.
9. Attachments—Do not use
attachments unless recommended by
the product manufacturer as they
may cause hazards.
10. Water and Moisture—Do not use
this product near water—for
example, near a bath tub, wash bowl,
kitchen sink or laundry tub, in a wet
basement, or near a swimming pool
and the like.
11. Accessories—Do not place this
product on an unstable cart, stand,
tripod, bracket, or table. The
product may fall, causing serious
injury to a child or adult as well as
serious damage to the product. Use
this product only with a cart, stand,
tripod, bracket, or table
recommended by the manufacturer
or sold with the product. Any
mounting of the product should
follow the manufacturer’s
instructions and use a mounting
accessory recommended by the
manufacturer.
11AA product and cart combination
should be moved with care. Quick
stops, excessive force, and uneven
surfaces may cause the product and
cart combination to overturn.
Caution: Maintain electrical
safety. Powerline operated
equipment or accessories connected
to this unit should bear the UL
listing mark or CSA certification
mark on the accessory itself and
should not be modified so as to
defeat the safety features. This will
help avoid any potential hazard
from electrical shock or fire. If in
doubt, contact qualified service
personnel.
v
(continued on next page)
IMPOR TANT SAFEGUARDS (continued)
ANTENNA
LEAD IN
WIRE
GROUND CLAMP
GROUNDING CONDUCTORS
(NEC SECTION 810-21)
GROUND CLAMPS
POWER SERVICE GROUNDING
ELECTRODE SYSTEM
(NEC ART 250, PART H)
ELECTRIC SERVICE
EQUIPMENT
ANTENNA
DISCHARGE UNIT
(NEC SECTION 810-20)
12. Outdoor Antenna Grounding—If
an outside antenna or cable system is
connected to the product, be sure the
antenna or cable system is grounded
so as to provide some protection
against voltage surges and built-up
static charges. Article 810 of the
National Electrical Code,
ANSI/NFPA No. 70 (Section 54 of
Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1)
provides information with respect to
proper grounding of the mast and
supporting structure, grounding of
the lead-in wire to an antennadischarge unit, size of grounding
conductors, location of antennadischarge unit, connection to
grounding electrodes, and
requirements for the grounding
electrode. See example below as per
National Electrical Code,
ANSI/NFPA 70.
Example of Antenna Grounding
13. Power Lines—An outside antenna
system should not be located in the
vicinity of overhead power lines,
other electric light or power circuits,
or where it can fall into such power
lines or circuits. When installing an
outside antenna system, extreme
care should be taken to keep from
touching or approaching such power
lines or circuits as contact with them
might be fatal. Installing an outdoor
antenna can be hazardous and should
be left to a professional antenna
installer.
Use
14. Cleaning—Unplug this product
from the wall outlet before cleaning.
Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol
cleaners. Use a damp cloth for
cleaning.
15. Object and Liquid Entry—Never
push objects of any kind into this
product through openings as they
may touch dangerous voltage points
or “short-out” parts that could result
in a fire or electric shock. Never
spill liquid of any kind on the
product.
(continued on next page)
vi
IMPOR TANT SAFEGUARDS (continued)
16. Lightning—For added protection
for this product during a lightning
storm, or when it is left unattended
and unused for long periods of time,
unplug it from the wall outlet and
disconnect the antenna or cable
system. This will prevent damage to
the product due to lightning and
power line surges.
Service
17. Servicing—Do not attempt to
service this product yourself as
opening or removing covers may
expose you to dangerous voltage or
other hazards. Refer all servicing to
qualified service personnel.
18. Conditions Requiring Service—
Unplug this product from the wall
outlet and refer servicing to qualified
service personnel under the
following conditions.
A.When the power-supply cord or
plug is damaged.
B. If liquid has been spilled, or
objects have fallen into the
product.
C. If the product has been exposed to
rain or water.
vii
D.If the product does not operate
normally by following the
operating instructions. Adjust
only those controls that are
covered by the operating
instructions. Improper
adjustment of other controls may
result in damage and will often
require extensive work by a
qualified technician to restore the
product to its normal operation.
E. If the product has been dropped in
any way.
F. When the product exhibits a
distinct change in performance—
this indicates a need for service.
19. Replacement Parts—When
replacement parts are required, have
the service technician verify that the
replacements he uses have the same
safety characteristics as the original
parts. Use of replacements specified
by the product manufacturer can
prevent fire, electric shock, or other
hazards.
20. Safety Check—Upon completion of
any service or repairs to this product,
ask the service technician to perform
safety checks recommended by the
manufacturer to determine that the
product is in safe operating
condition.
21. Wall or Ceiling Mounting—The
product should be mounted to a wall
or ceiling only as recommended by
the manufacturer.
22. Heat—The product should be
situated away from heat sources
such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other products (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.
Table of Contents
Product Registration ............................i
Safety Precautions...........................i-vii
Optional Accessories ........................2-7
• Accessory Order Form.................5-7
First-Time Operation.....................8-14
Remote Control ............................15-17
Powering Your Camcorder .........18-23
Video Cassettes.............................24-25
Recording Features
• Display On/Off Feature.................26
• Quick Review................................26
• Edit Search....................................26
• Tally Light ....................................26
• Tape Positioning ...........................27
• Microphone...................................27
• Automatic Iris and White
Balance.....................................27
• Flying Erase Head.........................27
• Date and Time Displays ..........28-30
• Digital Special Effects ..................40
• Time Counter ................................41
• Titler ........................................42-43
• Edit Insert Using the
Camcorder ..........................44-45
• Edit Insert From a Monitor
TV or VCR .........................46-47
• Recording from VCR or TV
Monitor...............................48-49
Attaching the Shoulder Strap...........50
Recording and Traveling Tips..........51
Playback
• Viewfinder Playback and
Playback Features
• Viewfinder Playback ...............52-53
• Playback Features....................52-53
• Stop-Action Pause................52-53
• Visual Searching ..................52-53
• Playback on TV (or VCR) Using
AUDIO/VIDEO IN Jacks ..54-55
Trouble Checks.............................56-57
• Electronic Viewfinder...................31
• Displays in Viewfinder............32-33
• SCENE SELECT AE Modes..........34
• Backlight.......................................35
• Zooming .......................................36
• Fading In and Out of Scenes.........37
• Focusing Your Camcorder.......38-39
Care and Maintenance.................58-59
Specifications......................................60
Limited Warranty..............................61
Index (Alphabetical).....................62-63
1
Optional Accessories
We invite you to take a look at some great ideas for sparking creativity and adding to
the fun of using your 8mm camcorder. These 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 5.
AC025A Soft Carrying Case
Custom compact soft case designed
especially to provide protection and utility
for your 8mm 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.
VCC1000 Video Color Control Center
The VCC1000 is two accessories in one.
The color control center allows you to
adjust the color intensity, tint, white
balance, and sharpness of tapes being
dubbed. This is especially helpful when
the original tape was produced in poor
lighting conditions or poor color settings.
The second feature – the character
generator – lets you create titles that can
be recorded on your tapes. This lets you
add a professional and/or personal touch
to your home videos.
All specifications and descriptions of accessories are subject to change without notice.
2
Optional Accessories (continued)
POWER CHARGE
DC
OUT
7.5V
1.6A
AC POWER ADAPTER AA-EIN
1CVA356 Car Cord Adapter/Charger AV608, AV8MM, and AV8MSH —
Rechargeable Batteries
Caution: Do not use any other car cord
adapter/charger with this camcorder.
This car cord adapter/charger lets you
operate your camcorder from a car, truck,
or RV by plugging it into the vehicle’s
cigarette lighter socket. It will also
charge the battery supplied with your
camcorder or the AV8MM or AV8MSH
long play batteries.
It is specially designed to convert power
from a 24-volt or 12-volt battery to
operate the camcorder.
AH25 Y- Adapter
These rechargeable nickel-cadmium
batteries are specifically designed for
long life.
AV608 — 1 hour 10 minutes
AV8MM — 1 hour 40 minutes
AV8MSH — 2 hours 20 minutes
The length the battery powers the
camcorder depends on how much you
use zoom and pause. All three batteries
can be recharged with the AC
adapter/charger that came with your
camcorder.
This Y-adapter let’s you connect your
camcorder’s mono audio cable to a stereo
TV or VCR.
All specifications and descriptions of
accessories are subject to change
without notice.
3
Optional Accessories (continued)
FADE
B.LIGHT
EDIT–
D•S•E
EDIT+
A/M FOCUS
AUTO
A/V
IN
OU
BATT EJECT
TE/
TIME
NORMAL
TITLE
ON/OFF
OSD
VCR
REC
SCENE SELECT
AC088 Tripod
This tripod’s fluid-effect head provides smooth camera pan and tilt. The grooved,
tubular 3-section leg design folds down to 26" when not in use and weighs only 4 lbs.
Rubber feet allow for sure footing.
Cautions: Before using a tripod, make sure it is stable enough to hold the camcorder without
falling over.
When attaching your camcorder to a tripod, be careful not to force its screw into the
camcorder’s mounting hole.
The tripod screw should not protrude into the camcorder more than approximately three-eighth
(3/8) inch. Forcing the screw could damage the mounting hole on the bottom of the camcorder.
All specifications and descriptions of accessories are subject to change without notice.
4
Accessory Order Form
Detach Here
✂
Order Form for Camcorder Model Pro809
Description Part No. Price Qty. Total
Soft Camcorder Case AC025A $ 59.95
Tripod AC088 $ 39.95
Y-Adapter AH25 $ 1.95
Rechargeable Battery (1 Hr. 10 Mins) AV608 $ 49.95
Rechargeable Battery (1 Hr. 40 Mins) AV8MM $ 59.95
Rechargeable Battery (2 Hrs. 20 Mins) AV8MSH $ 79.95
Video Color Control Center VCC1000 $ 349.00
Car Adapter/Charger 1CVA356 $ 79.95
Power Connector 210922 $ 21.50
Audio/Video Cable 210923 $ 10.00
Replacement Remote 221307 $ 39.95
Shoulder Strap 221308 $ 22.95
AC Adapter/Charger 1CVA153 $ 79.95
Prices are subject to change without notice.
Total Merchandise ($10 Minimum Order)......................$__________
Sales Tax.........................................................................$__________
We are required by law to collect the appropriate
sales tax for each individual state, county, and
locality to which the merchandise is being sent.
Shipping, Handling, and Insurance.................................$ 5.00
Total Amount Enclosed................................................$__________
Use VISA or MasterCard preferably. Money order
or check must be in U.S. currency only. No COD
or cash.
• Allow 8 weeks for delivery.
• All accessories are subject to availability.
• Where applicable, we will ship a superseding model.
Please complete other side also
5
Accessory Order Form (continued)
Detach Here
✂
®
rr
s
TM
Charge your order on your VISA
or MasterCard by
filling in below
USE YOUR CREDIT CARD
IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number
from your VISA card
IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number
from your MasterCard
My card expires:
My card
expires:
Copy Number
above your
name on
MasterCard
AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE
Prices are subject to change without notice.
Name:
Street:
Apt:
City:
State:
Zip:
Print or type your name and
address clearly. This will be
your mailing label.
Please make sure that both sides of this form
have been filled out completely.
A complete and correct
order will save you days
of waiting.
6
Accessory Order Form (continued)
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 or MasterCard ready and call the tollfree number listed below between 8AM and 8PM Eastern Standard Time.
Use this number only to place an order for accessory items listed on this order
form.
1 – 800 – 338 – 0376
Most times your order will be shipped UPS within 72 hours of receipt. If ever it is not
possible to ship within 30 days, we will notify you with an update on your order and
an option to cancel.
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
For more information on these accessories (or current prices), write to the
following address:
Video Accessories Customer Service
Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.
Distributor & Special Products
2000 Clements Bridge Rd
Deptford, NJ 08096-2088
International Orders
This offer is valid only in the 50 United States and Canada. For international orders,
please send your request for a price quotation (not an order) to:
International Customer Service
Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.
Distributor & Special Products
2000 Clements Bridge Rd
Deptford, NJ USA 08096-2088
7
First-Time Operation
W
T
PAUSE
F.FWD
PLAY
REW
SCAN
STOP
VCR REC
TITLE
STANDBY
CAMERA
RECORD
ON/OFF
DISPLAY
ZOOM
FADE
B.LIGHT
EDIT–
D•S•E
EDIT+
A/M FOCUS
AUTO
A/V
IN
OU
BATT EJECT
TE/
TIME
NORMAL
TITLE
O
N
/O
FF
O
S
D
VCR
REC
SCENE SELECT
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.
Rechargeable
6-Volt Battery
Stock No. AV608
WARNING: NICKEL CADMIUM
BATTERY MUST BE DISPOSED
OF PROPERLY.
Camcorder: Model Pro809
Caution: Do not use this
adapter/charger for any other
purpose other than charging the
AV608, AV8MM, or AV8MSH
battery pack or supplying power
AC Adapter/Charger
Stock No. 1CVA153
to the camcorder.
Power Connector
Stock No. 210922
Remote Control
Stock No. 221307
Shoulder Strap
Stock No. 221308
Audio/Video Cable
Stock No. 210923
Cautions: Lithium cell batteries. Must be disposed of
Lithium Cell Batteries
for Remote and Clock
3-Volt Micro Lithium Cell
Batteries. Replace only with
Duracell No. DL2025 –
available from most local drug
stores. Use of other cells may
present a risk of fire or
explosion.
8
properly. Never handle punctured or leaking cells. 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 cell.
First-Time Operation (continued)
2. Attach a power supply.
A. Adapter/Charger
To AC
100-240V,
50/60Hz.
DC OUT Jack
POWER Indicator
1. Plug in adapter/charger. The adapter/charger’s POWER
indicator will light.
2. Connect power connector’s cable to DC OUT jack on
adapter/charger.
Power
Connector
3. Hold power connector flush against camcorder and slide in
direction of arrow.
B. Charged Battery*
1. Make sure camcorder’s
2. Align battery with
Charged Battery
Attached to
Camcorder
*Battery must be charged before it can be
used the first time.
CAMERA/OFF/VCR
switch is in OFF.
camcorder. Hold battery
flush against camcorder,
and slide in direction of
arrow.
Details are on
pages 19-21.
(continued on next page)
9
First-Time Operation (continued)
PUSH
TAPE
EJECT
V
C
R
O
F
F
C
A
M
E
R
A
TAPE EJECT
Safety Tab
Thumb Trigger
CAMERA/OFF/VCR Switch
Tape Window
Cassette Door
PUSH Here to Close
Lens Cap
Attached to Clip
Hand Strap
3.Insert a cassette.
1. Slide TAPE EJECT to open the
cassette compartment.
2. Fully insert cassette with tape
window facing out and safety tab
facing up.
3. Gently close compartment door by
pressing on area marked PUSH.
Details are on page 25.
4.Adjust handstrap.
1. Unsnap handstrap cover.
2. Insert your right hand and adjust
strap to fit.
3. Snap handstrap cover shut.
5.Remove lens cap and attach it
to the clip on the handstrap.
10
6.Place the CAMERA/OFF/
VCR switch to CAMERA.
The camcorder will enter record pause
and STBY will appear in the
viewfinder.
The CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch tells
the camcorder whether you want to
record (CAMERA), play back tapes
(VCR), or turn off the camcorder’s
power (OFF).
Some of the controls operate
differently depending on the position
of the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch.
Important Note: The DEW indicator will
flash in the viewfinder when there is
excessive moisture in the camcorder.
When the DEW indicator stops flashing,
the camcorder is ready to operate.
FADE
B.LIGHT
EDIT–
D•S•E
EDIT+
A/M FOCUS
AUTO
A/V
IN
OU
BATT EJECT
TE/
TIME
NORMAL
TITLE
ON/OFF
OSD
VCR
REC
SCENE SELECT
First-Time Operation (continued)
Eyepiece Focus Control
Tally Light
SCENE SELECT AEDial
7.Make sure SCENE SELECT
AE dial is in AUTO.
The camcorder will adjust focus
automatically and the shutter speed is
set to 1/60 second.
8.Rotate viewfinder and adjust
eyepiece focus control for
your vision.
1. Rotate viewfinder into a
comfortable viewing position.
2. If the image in the viewfinder is
blurry, adjust the eyepiece focus
control for your vision.
Details are on page 31.
Electronic Viewfinder in
Operating Position
9.Start and stop recording.
Start and stop recording by pressing
and releasing the thumb trigger. You
do not have to hold the thumb trigger
to record.
The tally light will light and REC will
appear in the viewfinder. when the
camcorder is recording.
Notes: If you do not record within five
minutes, the camcorder will automatically
shut off to prevent excessive tape wear. If
this happens, press the thumb trigger to
turn on the camcorder.
Any material recorded on the tape will
automatically be erased if you record
over it.
(continued on next page)
11
FADE
B.LIGHT
EDIT–
D•S•E
EDIT+
A/M FOCUS
AUTO
A/V
IN
OU
BATT EJECT
TE/
TIME
NORMAL
TITLE
ON/OFF
OSD
VCR
REC
SCENE SELECT
First-Time Operation (continued)
10. Play back what you have recorded.
1. Press thumb trigger to stop recording.
2. Place CAMERA/OFF/VCR in VCR.
3. Press 55 /EDIT – to rewind the tape.
4. Press 6/FADE to play back the tape in the viewfinder.
5. Press /B.LIGHT when you are finished.
6. Details on viewfinder playback are on pages 52-53.
11. Review camcorder’s operating controls.
Eyepiece Focus Control
Electronic Viewfinder
Power Zoom Buttons
T = Telephoto
Remote Control Sensor
Microphone
Manual Focus
Ring
W = Wide Angle
Tally Light
Lens
6/FADE Button
55 /EDIT – Button
A/M FOCUS/VCR REC Button
12
SCENE SELECT AE Dial
BATT EJECT
Button
A/V IN OUT
Switch
/B.LIGHT Button
66 /EDIT + Button
II/D.S.E. (Digital Special Effects) Button
First-Time Operation (continued)
DATE/
TIME
NORMAL
TITLE
DATE/
TIME
NORMAL
TITLE
DATE/
TIME
NORMAL
TITLE
11. Review camcorder’s operating controls. (continued)
DATE/TIME/NORMAL/TITLE Switch
Switch Position Function of Buttons
1 ON/OFF Displays and removes date/time display in viewfinder
2 SET Sets the date and time digits
3 + Enters the date and time digits
4 – Enters the date and time digits
1 OSD Turns on-screen displays on or off
2 Z/MEMORY Turns zero memory feature on or off
3 RESET Resets the time counter
4 No Function
1 ON/OFF Displays and removes title display in viewfinder
2 SET Sets the title characters
3 CHAR+ Enters characters for title
4 CHAR – Enters characters for title
DATE/TIME/NORMAL/
TITLE Switch
–
1
2
RESET Z/MEMORY
CHAR+ SET ON/OFF
CHAR–
SET ON/OFF
3 4
OSD
DATE/
TIME
NORMAL
TITLE
(See chart above for functions of
1, 2, 3, and 4 buttons depending
on position of switch.)
Accessory
Shoe
VCR REC
FADE
EDIT–
A/M FOCUS
AUTO
TE/
TIME
NORMAL
TITLE
OSD
ON/OFF
B.LIGHT
EDIT+
ART
SCENE SELECT
VIDEO
BATT EJECT
A/V
IN
AUDIO
DC
AUDIO, VIDEO, and DC Jacks
(Located behind small cover)
(continued on next page)
13
First-Time Operation (continued)
PUSH
TAPE
EJECT
V
C
R
O
F
F
C
A
M
E
R
A
11. Review camcorder’s operating controls. (continued)
Eyepiece Release Switch
TAPE EJECT Switch
Attach a Power
Supply Here:
Adapter/ Charger,
Charged Battery,
or Optional Car
Cord
Shoulder Strap
Attachment Ring
BRIGHT and FOCUS Controls
(See “Trouble Checks” for details.)
Handstrap
CAMERA/OFF/VCR Switch
Thumb Trigger
PUSH Here to Close
Cassette Door
Lens Cap
Clip
Shoulder Strap
Attachment Ring
Lens Cap
14
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