
USER'S
GUIDE
J
CAM CO

Important Safety Information
Be sure to read all the safety information before you begin to use this product.
I I
camcorder or AC adapter/charger to rain or moisture.
iWARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or shock hazard, do not expose I
II
This symbol indicates "dangerous voltage"
RISKOF ELECTRICSHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
RISO_JEDECHOC
Et.ECTRIQUENEPASOU'V'RtR
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.
Cautions
inside the product that presents a risk of
electric shock or personal injury.
This symbol indicates important
instructions accompanying the product.
._,-_f ,;,'.....: _,:
CAUTION: To prevent electric shock, match wide blade of plug to
wide slot, fully insert.
ATTENTION: Pour 6viter les chocs 61ectriques, 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: ProV800C
Serial No:
Purchase Date:
Purchased From:
t

We want to make sure you enjoy your new camcorder. If you have any
questions, call:
Camcorder Exchange Warranty .......... 800-283-651)3 (pages 90-91)
Customer Service ......................................... 800-336-1900 (page 89)
Accessories ............................................. 800-338-0376 (pages 76-81)
Safety Information .............................. i
Product Registration ........................... i
Table of Contents ............................ 1-2
First-Time Operation
• Assistance .......................................... 3
• Unpack Camcorder &
Accessories ...................................... 3
• Attach the Adapter/Charger ............... 4
• Adjust Handstrap ............................... 4
• Open Lens Cover ............................... 4
• Insert a Tape ...................................... 5
• Turn on Camcorder ............................ 5
• Select a Recording Speed .................. 6
• Set the FULL A UTO/PRESET
Switch .............................................. 6
• Use LCD Monitor or
Viewfinder to View Recording ....... 7
• Start and Stop Recording ................... 8
• Turn off the Camcorder ..................... 8
• Close Lens Cover
and LCD Monitor ............................ 8
• Review Camcorder's
Operating Controls ..................... 9-11
Powering Your Camcorder
• Using Adapter/Charger .................... 12
• Using Rechargeable Battery ....... 13-15
• Using Optional Car Cord Adapter... 16
Recording Tips .................................. 17
Video Cassettes ............................ 18-19
Recording
• Making a Recording ................... 20-23
• Viewing What You Record
Using the LCD Monitor or
Viewfinder ................................ 24-25
• LCD Monitor or Viewfinder
Displays ..................................... 26-29
• Play Back Your Recording ................ 8
(continued on next page)

Recording (continued)
• Time-Lapse Recording ......... 58-59
• Microphone ...................................... 30
• Flying Erase Head ........................... 30
• Auto Head Cleaner .......................... 30
• Tally Light ....................................... 30
• Quick Record ................................... 30
• Tape Positioning .............................. 31
• Quick Review .................................. 31
• Camera Edit ..................................... 31
• Full Auto Mode ............................... 32
• Electronic Indexing ......................... 32
• Exposure Control ............................. 33
• White Balance ............................ 34-35
• Focusing ..................................... 36-37
• Electronic Image Stabilizer ............ 38
• Zooming .......................................... 39
• Recording Menu .............................. 40
• Tele Macro Zooming ................... 41
• Gain Up (Slow Shutter) ................ 42
• Color Filter ................................... 43
• Tape Time Remaining Display ..... 44
• Title .......................................... 45-47
• Fading or Wiping In and Out ..... 60-61
• Production Effects ...................... 62-63
• Attaching the Shoulder Strap ........... 64
Traveling Tips ................................... 65
Playback
• Using the Cassette Adapter...66-67
• Playback Using the LCD
Monitor or Viewfinder ............ 68
• Playback Features
• Visual Searching ...................... 69
• Tape Positioning ...................... 69
• Stop-Action Pause ................... 69
• Time Counter ........................... 70
• Tracking ................................... 71
• Playback on TV (or VCR) With
A UDIO/VTDEO IN Jacks ...72-73
• Playback on TV Without
Audio/Video Inputs ............ 74-75
Optional Accessories ................... 76-81
• Accessory Order Form ........... 79-81
• Date/Time Display
• Install the Clock Lithium Cell ...48
• Set the Date and Time ............... 49
• Select Date and/or Time
You Want to Record .......... 50-51
• Sub Menu ....................................... 52
• Tall)" Light .................................. 53
• JLIP ID NO ................................ 53
• Self-Timer Recording ........... 54-55
• Animation Recording ........... 56-57
2
Care and Maintenance ............... 82-83
Trouble Checks ........................... 84-87
Specifications .................................... 88
Information to User .......................... 88
Customer Assistance and Service ...89
Limited Warranty ....................... 90-91
Index (Alphabetical) ................... 92-93

This section describes only the basic steps necessary to set up your camcorder to
record. Refer to the other sections for detailed operation and feature options.
Assistance
The toll-free numbers are available to help you with any problem you may encounter.
Camcorder Exchange Warranty ..... 800-2813-6503
Customer Service ................ 800-336-1900
Accessories .................... 800-338-0376
t,,-
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.
WA_ING:
jz NICKEL
,nH
7
aN:i
Rechargeable 6-Volt Battery
Model ProV800C
BATTERY MUST _'_
BE _CYCLED
OR DISPOSED OF
PROPERLY. Shoulder Strap
Part No. 218858
Part No. 236130
$ o. ii .... _,- , * .
AC Adapter/Charger
Part No. 236689
and DC Cable
Part No. 233087
Clock Cell
3-Volt Micro Lithium Cell -
such as CR2025 - available
from most local drug stores
and camera shops. Use of
other cells present a risk of
fire or explosion.
Caution: Do not
use this adapter/
purpose other
than charging the
Cassette Adapter
Part No, 237583
power to the
camcorder.
Cautions: :Lithium cell battery,-Must be disposed of properly. Never
handle pufic'tured or leaking cell: May Cause burns or personal injury.
Keep our,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.
Cassette Adapter Battery
(Size "AA" 1.5 Volt)
(continued on next page)
3

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.
To AC 100-240V, 50/60 Hz
Adapter/Charger
DC OUT Jack
POWER
Indicator
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 as shown above.
3. Adjust the handstrap to fit
your hand.
• Lift the flap on the handstrap and
separate the velcro strip.
C. Plug the adapter/charger's plug into
an operating outlet. The adapter/
charger's POWER indicator will
light
LENS COVER
Handstrap Velcro Strip
(Under Flap)
Handstrap Flap
4. Slide LENS COVER control to
open lens cover.
• Insert your hand, adjust the strap to
fit snugly, refasten the strap, and
close the flap.

5. Insert a tape.
before opening
cassette compa_ent.
PUSH/OPEN Button
PUSH
Button
Tape Wheel
_Tape Window
EJECT Button
• Press PUSH/OPEN to open the LCD
monitor. Open the monitor at least
60 ° before opening the cassette
compartment.
• Press EJECT to open the cassette
• Insert the cassette with the tape
wheel facing up and the tape window
facing out.
• Press the PUSH button to lock the
cassette compartment closed.
compartment.
• Turn the tape wheel on the cassette
to remove any slack from the tape.
6. Place POWER (CAMERA/OFF/VCR) switch in CAMERA. .........:'..................
Switch and
Indicator
• The power indicator will light and
the camcorder will enter record
pause. -=PAUSE--appears in the
viewfinder or LCD monitor when
the camcorder is in record pause.
• The position of this switch tells the
camcorder whether you want to
record (CAMERA), turn the power
off (OFF), or play back tapes (VCR).
The camcorder will automatically
turn off if it remains in record pause
for five minutes. Place POWER in
OFF and then back in CAMERA.
,(continued on next page)
5

7. Select a recording speed.
SPoEp Switch
Repeatedly press the SpoEp switch to
select a recording speed. The indicator
for the speed selected appears in the
viewfinder and LCD panel.
Select SP or EP recording speed.
• SP - Standard play provides the best
picture, but the shortest recording
time (20 minutes with a TC-20 tape).
• EP - Extended play provides three
times the recording time as SP
(60 minutes with a TC-20 tape).
EP has slightly more picture noise in
normal playback.
Note: The length of the tape you are using
must be selected in the recording menu for the
camcorder to correctly calculate the recording
time remaining on the tape. Details are on
page 44.
8. Set the FULL AUTO/PRESET switch to FULL AUTO.
• This places the camcorder in the full
auto mode.
• Place the FULL A UTO/PRESET
switch in FULL AUTO to have the
camcorder automatically control the
focus, exposure, and white balance.
6
FULL AUTO/ PRESET Switch
• Many of the special effects do not
operate in FULL AUTO. Details on
page 32.

o
Use the LCD monitor or viewfinder to view what you are
recording.
You can watch what you are recording on the color LCD monitor or in the black-
and-white viewfinder. When the LCD monitor is open more than 60 °, the
viewfinder is automatically turned off. When you close the LCD monitor, the
viewfinder is automatically turned on.
BRIGHT Control
Eyepiece
LCD Monitor
Focus
Control
Viewfinder
PUSH/OPEN Button
Use the LCD Monitor
• Make sure the monitor is open at
least 60 °. The viewfinder will be
automatically turned off.
• Tilt the LCD monitor (up to 45 ° up
or down).
• Adjust the brightness of the image
by turning the BRIGHT control.
Note: When recording on a bright sunny
day, the LCD monitor may be hard to see.
Use the viewfinder.
Use the Viewfinder
• Make sure the monitor is closed and
locked. The viewfinder will be
automatically turned on.
• Adjust the viewfinder for a
comfortable viewing condition.
° Turn the eyepiece focus control to
adjust the focus of the viewfinder for
your vision.
(continued on next page)
7

Thumb Trigger
POWER (VCR/OFF/CAMERA ) Switch
Power Indicator
REW Button
PLA Y/PA USE
Button
10.
Start and stop recording.
• Press and release the thumb trigger
to start recording. _ appears in
the viewfinder or LCD monitor,
and the tally light will light when
the camcorder is recording.
• Press and release the thumb trigger
again to stop recording. The
camcorder is now in the record-
pause mode. -= PAUSE
appears in the viewfinder or on the
LCD monitor.
11.
Play back what you have
REC
recorded.
• Place the POWER switch in VCR.
• Press REW to rewind the tape.
• Press PLA Y/PA USE to play back
the tape on the LCD monitor or in
the viewfinder.
• Press STOP when you are finished
playing back the tape.
• Details on viewfinder and LCD
monitor playback are on page 68.
12. Place the POWER switch in
OFF to turn off the camcorder.
The power indicator will turn off.
13. Close the lens cover and close
and lock the LCD monitor.
8

14. Review camcorder's operating controls.
Microph_
Lens __y _ht
LCD
Monitor
PUSH/OPEN
Button
SPEAKER
VOLUME
Speaker
BRIGHT
Control
PUSH
Button
Viewfinder Eyepiece
Focus
Control
Eyepiece
EJECT Button
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
(continued on next page)
9

14. Review camcorder's operating controls. (Continued)
Power Zoom Lever
QUICK
REC
Button
"W" - Wide Angle
"T" - Telephoto
.>.¢4.-;> :_: .:Q, : ...
Shoulder Strap
Attachment Ring
Clock Cell
Compa
Attach Battery Here-
DC In Jack (Attach AC
Adapter/Charger Here)
Shoulder Strap
Attachment Ring
BA TT. RELEASE Button
AUDIO, RF DC OUT, and
VIDEO Jacks (Under Cover)
LENS
COVER
Control
Trigger Handstrap
POWER (VCR/O FF/CAMERA ) Switch
and Indicator
JLIP Connector
10

14. Review camcorder's operating controls.
TRACKING Buttons
SPoEP Button
Also COUNTER R/M
(Reset/Memory) Button _..._ _
MAN.W.BAL (Manual [ COUNTERR/M
White Balance) Button ] 1"--'7
I MAN.W.BAL
REW (Rewind) Button
(Also EDIT SEARCH - Button)
CE3 7-,-7
TRACKING
FF STOP PLAY/PAUSE
PLA Y/PA USE Button
STOP Button
FF (Fast Forward) Button
(Also EDIT SEARCH + Button)
Butt°n __v E_s _ _ I __ --NEAR and l_ ButtOn
FADE/WIPE Button -- and • Button
11

Using the Adapter/Charger to Power Your Camcorder
The adapter/charger attaches to the camcorder and lets you power your camcorder
directly from standard household power. The adapter/charger operates on 100-240
volts, 50/60 Hz, so it can be used virtually anywhere in the world to power the
camcorder or recharge the battery.
To AC 100-240V, 50/60 Hz
__ Adapter/Charger
DC OUT Jack
POWER
Indicator
i_ DC In
Attach Adapter/Charger
1. Connect one end of the DC cable
to the DC OUT jack on the
adapter/charger.
2. Connect the other end of the DC cable
to the DC in jack on the camcorder as
shown above.
3. Plug the adapter/charger's plug into
the nearest AC outlet (100-240V,
50/60Hz).
4. If the adapter/charger is properly
connected, its POWER indicator will
light.
C • •
aution. Do not use this adapter/
charger for any other purpose other than
charging the 236130, FB 1260 or FB 120
to the
Remove Adapter/Charger
1. Unplug the adapter/charger from the
wall outlet.
2. Remove the DC cable from the
adapter/charger and camcorder.
Using an Optional Plug Adapter
An optional plug adapter may be required
in some countries.
OptionalAC _f AC 100-240V
Plug Adapter'
1. Plug the adapter/charger's plug into
the AC plug adapter.
2. Plug the AC plug adapter into the
AC outlet.
12

Using the Battery to Power Your Camcorder
The battery must be charged as described on the next page before it can be used the
first time. Initial charging will take approximately 100 minutes. When fully charged,
the battery should supply about 75 minutes of operating time (depending on how much
you use the LCD monitor, zoom, and pause). Conserve battery power by turning the
camcorder off during recording breaks.
POWER Switch
BATT. RELEASE Button
Attach the Charged Battery
If the DC cable is attached to the
camcorder, remove it before attaching the
battery. Also, install the lithium clock
cell before attaching the battery pack.
Details on page 48.
1. Hook the top end of the battery to the
back of the camcorder as shown above.
2. Press the bottom of the battery down
until it locks into place.
ATTENTION: The RBRC seal on the battery used in your
Thomson Consumer Electronics product indicates that we are
participating in a program to collect and recycle Nickel
Cadmium batteries throughout the United States. Please call
1-800-8-BATTERY for information or contact your local
recycling center.
and Indicator
excessive heat- over
149"F_(65"C) could be
haz a;us.
3. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA.
The power indicator will light.
Remove the Battery
Press and hold BATT. RELEASE on the-
camcorder while removing the battery.
13

Using the Battery to Power Your Camcorder (Continued)
:_-_i._._.:.-: =" .:. :"
Hold Battery
Flush and
POWER
Indicator
END
Indicat_
REFRESH
Button
REFRESH
Indicator
CHG
Indicator
Caution: When a batte_ is attached to the
adapter/chargeri do not turn them upsidedown! The
baffe_ may fall off and be damaged or Cause injury. _
Charge the Battery
If the DC cable is attached to the DC
OUT jack on the adapter/charger, remove
its plug.
1. Align reference mark on battery with
mark on adapter/charger.
2. Hold the battery flush against the
adapter/charger and slide it in the
direction of the arrow.
3. Plug adapter/charger into nearest AC
outlet (I 00-240V, 50/60Hz).
4. If the battery is properly connected, the
adapter/charger's CHG (charge)
indicator will light.
Note: If you try to charge a battery that
has not been charged for a long period of
time, it may take a few minutes for the
CHG indicator to light.
Reference Marks
To AC Wall
Outlet 100-240
Volts, 50/60 Hz.
Adapter/Charger
Use the REFRESH Button
The battery will provide increased
operation time if you "refresh" it after
five chargings. The refresh feature
"refreshes" the battery by completely
discharging it.
1. Attach battery to adapter/charger.
2. Press REFRESH. The REFRESH
indicator will light and the battery will
begin discharging.
3. When discharging is completed, the
REFRESH indicator will turn off, and
the CHG indicator will light. The
battery will then charge.
4. After the battery is charged, the END
indicator will light. Remove the
battery from the adapter/charger.
5. After the battery is charged, the END
indicator will light.
6. Remove the charged battery by sliding
it off the adapter/charger.
7. Attach the charged battery to the
camcorder.
14

Battery Level Indicator
The battery level indicator appears on the
LCD monitor or in the viewfinder and
shows you the amount of power in the
rechargeable battery.
Battery Level Indicator
on LCD Monitor or in
Viewfinder
• When _ appears, the battery is
fully charged.
• As the power is used _ and
appear.
When the battery power is almost gone,
k I /
c---q flashes. The camcorder will turn
s i
off automatically after a few seconds.
Place the POWER switch in OFF to
turn off the camcorder before replacing
the battery.
The battery level indicator will not be
recorded on the tape when it appears.
Battery Care and Storage _:_:=_:,_,-:: ..... : _+
Recharging takes approximately 100
minutes depending on the battery's
condition.
• Refreshing takes approximately five
hours and 30 minutes depending on the
battery's condition.
• After repeated charging and use,
operation time will gradually decrease.
When operation time becomes too short
to be useful, it is time to replace the
battery.
• If the battery discharging must be
stopped in the middle, remove the
battery from the adapter/charger before
unplugging it from the AC outlet.
• Let a hot battery cool down before
attaching it to the adapter/charger.
• The battery will provide better service
if its power is completely drained
before storing it for long periods of
time (30 days or more).
• The battery should be charged in the
temperature range of 50-95 °F ( l 0-35°C)
to prevent damag:e.
• Do not operate the battery at
temperatures below 32°F (0°C) or
above 104°F (40°C). The battery may
be damaged if operated at temperatures
above 122°F (50°C). Operation time
will decrease at extremely low
temperatures.
• Store the battery at normal room
temperature.
15

Optional Car Cord Adapter
The optional DCC08 car cord shown on
page 76 allows you to power your
camcorder from the cigarette lighter
socket of a car, truck, or RV. It converts
12-volts to a 6-volt output.
Note: Consult the installation and operating
instructions enclosed with the DCC08 for
complete operating instructions.
Using the DCC08 Car Cord Adapter
Cigarette
Lighter Socket
POWER Indicator
Power
Connector
Use only car cord adapter DCC08 with
this camcorder. Use of any other car
cord adapter may damage the camcorder
and void your warranty.
)-.
Optional DCC08 Car Cord Adapter
l° Place the POWER switch in OFF to
turn off the camcorder. Power
indicator on the camcorder turns off.
2. If the battery or DC cable is attached
to the camcorder, remove it.
3. Hold the top of the power connector
flush against the camcorder and press
the bottom of the power connector
down until it locks into place.
4. Take the vehicle's cigarette lighter out
of the socket.
t
5. Insert the car cord's cigarette lighter
plug into the vehicle's cigarette lighter
socket. The POWER indicator on the
car cord adapter will light.
6. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA
to turn on the camcorder. The power
indicator on the camcorder lights.
Caution: Make sure the camcorder's
power is turned off before removing the
car cord's'plug from the cigarette lighter
socket.
16

In case of fire or theft, make a video
recording of your home and contents to
store in a safe place.
• Try to make sure indoor scenes are
well-lit. This improves picture quality
and color reproduction.
• Do not move the camcorder rapidly
from side-to-side while recording.
A steady, gradual "pan" avoids
blurring and "jitter".
• Use the viewfinder or LCD monitor to
make sure the camcorder is level while
recording or your scenes will appear
"tilted".
• Use the LCD monitor to shoot a scene
from a high or low angle, such as over a
crowd.
• Do not bump or tap the camcorder's
microphone while recording because
this sound will be recorded.
• Fading in and out of scenes will make
your videos appear more professional.
• Learn to use the special effects
available with your camcorder to add
variety to your recordings.
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.
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.
• Include close-ups of individuals when
taping family outings or group
functions.
17

We recommend that our cassettes be used with your camcorder. Use of poor quality
tapes or tapes that have been damaged or mishandled can contaminate the video heads,
resulting in a snowy picture or no picture at all during playback. Because there is no
control over the type of tape purchased or rented by consumers, head cleaning is not
covered under warranty. It is considered normal maintenance.
The automatic head-cleaning system minimizes the need for accessory cleaners or
cleaning by a Servicenter. This system is activated whenever :you insert or remove a
cassette.
Erase Protection - Safety Tab :_.............................................. :.............................. :....
You can use your video cassettes over and over again. To erase a previous recording,
just record over it.
@
A. Remove
safety tab or
slide tab to
REC OFF.
Recording and Playback Speeds and Times _:: ....
The camcorder records and plays back in standard speed (SP) or extended play (EP).
Select the recording speed using the SpoEp switch. The selected speed will be
displayed on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder. Listed below are the maximum SP
and EP recording times for popular VHS-C cassettes.
• SP - Standard play provides the best
picture (less picture noise), but the
shortest recording time
(20 minutes with a TC-20 tape).
° EP - Extended play provides three
times the recording time as SP
(60 minutes with a TC-20 tape). EP
has slightly more picture noise than SP
in normal playback. This may not be
noticeable.
Cassette
B. Cover hole
TC-20
TC-30
TC-40
with vinyl tape or
slide tab to REC ON to
record over tape.
Recording Time
SP
20 Min.
30 Min.
.40 Min.
60 Min.
90 Min.
120 Min.
EP
18

Inserting and Removing Cassettes
)_ )/,/'Tape
_'Tape
PUSH/OPEN
Button
PUSH Button
EJECT Button
Wheel
Window
Cautiolt_:
Open monitor at least 60°
before opening cassette
compartment.
and the tape window facing out.
The cassette should slide easily
into the compartment. Do:not
force the cassette.
Before inserting a cassette, turn the tape
wheel on the side of the cassette in the
direction shown to remove any slack in
the tape.
Tape Wheel
1. Press PUSH/OPEN to open the LCD
monitor. Open the monitor at least 60 °
before opening the cassette
compartment.
2. Press EJECT to open the cassette
compartment.
• Turn the tape wheel on the cassette
• Insert the cassette with the tape
3. Press the PUSH button to lock the
cassette door into place.
4. If you are not going to use the LCD
monitor to view what you are
recording or playing back, close and
lock the monitor.
Cassette Care and Storage ............................
• When you are finished with a cassette, •
rewind it, remove it from the
camcorder, and label it.
• Store cassettes vertically in their
protective cases at normal room
temperatures. Do not leave your •
camcorder or cassettes in a car or
outdoors for an extended period. .
Excessive heat or cold may damage
your cassettes.
• Keep the cassette away from strong
magnetic fields such as electric motors
and other devices.
Keep dust from entering the cassette
compartment. All dust is abrasive and
will cause excessive wear on the tape
and the camcorder's recording or
playback heads.
Do not use cassettes with damaged or
spliced tape.
Do not use a cassette if it has been
damaged or exposed to moisture. The
tape may jam and!or damage your
camcorder.
to remove any slack from the tape.
wheel facing up and the tape window
facing out.
19

Making a Recording
The steps below tell you how to make a recording using some of the recording
features. Each feature is described in detail on the following pages.
SPoEP Switch
LENS COVER Control
Eyepiece
Focus
POWER Switch Control
60_:_fore Tape Wheel
op_n[hg _se_
compartment.:
m0nito_ at least _
PUSH/OPEN Button
MENU Button
FADE/0
WIPE
\ '""_--..V" Tape Window
[ EJECT Button
PUSH Button
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
20
• Button

1. Attach a power supply.
Attach the adapter/charger, charged
battery, or optional DC car cord.
2. Insert a tape.
• Press PUSH/OPEN to open the LCD
monitor. Open the monitor at least
60° before opening the cassette
compartment.
• Press EJECT to open the cassette
compartment.
• Turn the tape wheel on the cassette
to remove any slack from the tape.
• Insert the cassette with the tape
wheel facing up and the tape
window facing out.
• Press the PUSH button on the side of
the cassette compartment to lock the
cassette holder into place.
Use the Viewfinder
• Make sure the monitor is closed and
locked. The viewfinder will be
automatically turned on.
• Adjust the viewfinder ff)r a
comfortable viewing position.
• Turn the eyepiece focus control to
adjust the focus of the viewfinder for
your vision.
6. Select a recording speed and tape
length.
A. Place the SPoEp switch in SP or EP
to select a recording speed.
B. Make sure the FULL AUTO/
PRESET switch is in PRESET.
C. Press the MENU button and use the
• or • button to highlight TAPE
LENGTH. Use • and • to select
o
Slide the LENS COVER control to
open the lens cover.
.
Place the POWER switch in
CAMERA.
The power indicator will light and the
camcorder will enter record pause.
_=PAUSE=--appears in the viewfinder or
on the LCD monitor.
o Use the LCD monitor or viewfinder
to view what you are recording.
Use the LCD Monitor
• Make sure the monitor is open at
least 60 °. The viewfinder will be
automatically turned off.
• Tilt the LCD monitor (up to 45 ° up
or down).
the length of the tape you are using
(T20, T30, or T40) so the
camcorder can correctly calculate
the time remaining. Press the
MENU button again to remove the
menu.
• Adjust the brightness of the image
by turning the BRIGHT dial.
(continued on next page)
21

Making a Recording (Continued)
EDIT SEARCH - Button
Power Zoom
Lever
POWER
EDIT SEARCH + Button
LENS
COVER
Control
EFFECT
Button
FADE/WIPE _
Button
Tally Light \
FULL AUTO/PRESET Switch
MENU Q
FADE/
I
• Button
22

o
Select a production special effect to
add variety to your recordings.
A. Make sure the FULL AUTO/
PRESET switch is in PRESET.
B.
Press PROG.AE/EFFECT to
display the production effects menu
in the viewfinder or on the LCD
monitor.
C.
Press PROG.AE/EFFECT again to
select the effect you want. The
effect is selected automatically and
its indicator appears in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
• Select Cinema (16X9 effect),
Sepia (brown-tone effect),
Twilight (dusk and twilight
scenes), Sports (fast moving
action), or HI.S (hi-speed shutter
for even faster moving action).
• The effect is automatically
activated, and its indicator
appears.
• Details are on pages 62-63.
The effect is automatically
activatecl, and its indicator
appears.
Details are on pages 60-61.
9. Start and stop recording.
• Press and release the thumb trigger
REC
tO start recording. _ appears in
the viewfinder or on the LCD
monitor and the tally light lights
when the camcorder is recording.
• Press and re.lease the the thumb
trigger again to stop recording. The
camcorder is now in record pause.
-=PAuse- appears.
• The camcorder will automatically
turn off if it remains in record pause
for five minutes. Place the POWER
switch in OFF and then back in
CAMERA.
10. Zoom in and out.
• Zoom in and out using the zoom T
and W lever.
1
Add fades and wipes.
A. Make sure the FULL AUTO/
PRESET switch is in PRESET.
g.
Press the FADE/WIPE button to
display the fade menu in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
C.
Repeatedly press the FADE/WIPE
button to select a fade or wipe.
• Select Black Fader, Blue Fader,
Mosaic Fader, Shutter Wipe, or
Slide Wipe.
11. Review what you have recorded.
• Press and quickly release EDIT
SEARCH- to review the last few
seconds of your recording.
• Press and hold EDIT SEARCH - or
+ to visually see what you have
recorded. Release the button to
begin recording at that point.
12. When you are finished, place
POWER switch in OFF, close and
lock the LCD monitor, and close
the lens cover.
23

Viewing What You Are Recording Using the LCD Monitor
or Viewfinder
You can watch what you are recording on the color LCD monitor or in the
black-and-white viewfinder. When the LCD monitor is open more than 60 °
in CAMERA, the viewfinder is automatically turned off. When you close the
LCD monitor, the viewfinder is automatically turned on.
Use the LCD Monitor
BRIGHT Dial
LCD Monitor
PUSH/OPEN Button
1. Press the PUSH/OPEN button and
open the LCD monitor.
Make sure the monitor is open at
least 60 °. The viewfinder will be
automatically turned off.
2. You can tilt the monitor up or down
45 ° for convenient viewing.
Control
Viewfinder
3. Adjust the brightness of the image
by turning the BRIGHT dial. This
does not effect the brightness of
the recording you are making.
• Turn the dial toward "+" to
brighten the image.
• Turn the dial toward "-" to
24
• Tilt the monitor down to record
from a high angle, such as over a
crowd.
Tilt the monitor up to record
from a low angle, such as when
you are kneeling.
darken the image.
4. When you are finished, close the
monitor and lock it into place.
Note: When recording on a bright sunny
day, the LCD monitor may be hard to see.
Use the viewfinder.

Use the Viewfinder
The camcorder's viewfinder is a miniature monitor that displays the picture
seen by the camcorder when recording. When the LCD monitor is open more
than 60 °, the viewfinder is automatically turned off.
Viewfinder
Focus Control
Adjust Viewfinder for Convenient
Viewing
For convenient viewing, you can slide the
viewfinder out from the camcorder and
rotate it up and down.
Eyepiece Focus Control
The eyepiece focus control lets you set
the focus of the viewfinder for your
personal vision. If you wear eyeglasses,
Cautions
When carrying the cameorder with the shoulder strap, close and lock the
LCD monitor and put the viewfinder down and slide it in. This helps
prevent possible damage to the monitor or viewfinder from bumping
against your body as you move.
you probably can operate the camcorder
without them.
It is easiest to set the correct focus by
focusing on one of the viewfinder's on-
screen displays.
Look through the viewfinder and adjust
the eyepiece focus control for your vision.
The eyepiece focus control does not affect
the focus of the picture actually recorded
by the camcorder.
25

LCD Monitor or Viewfinder Displays
Happy Birthday
T
Tape Speed Indicators (SP or EP)
The tape speed selected with the
SP. EP button appears here.
• Details on page I8.
Status Displays
•The _ indicator appears when
the camcorder is recording.
•The - PAUSE_=indicator appears
during record pause.
®
Production Effects Indicators
The indicator for the production
effect selected with the PROG.AE/
EFFECT button appears here.
When the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch is in FULLAUTO, Cinema is
automatically selected. Place the
switch in PRESET to select the other
effects.
• IZl appears when you select
Cinema to "letterbox" record with
black bars so you can play back
your recordings on a 16X9 TV.
• 1_ appears when you select Sepia
to give your recordings a brown-
tone like old photographs,
• *_ appears when you select
Twilight to record scenes at dusk
and twilight.
• ._ appears when you select Sports
to record fast moving action, such
as sporting events.
• _" appears when you select HI.S
1/2000 to re,cord even faster
moving action than Sports.
• Details are on pages 62-63.
26

Fade and Wipe Indicators
Title
i_ _ ,._i
The indicator for the fade or wipe
scene transition selected with the
FADE/WIPE button appears here.
When the FULL A UTO/PRESET
switch is in FULL AUTO, Black
Fader is automatically selected.
Place the switch in PRESET to
select the other fades or wipes.
• [] appears when you select Black
Fade and a black screen fades in
and out.
• [] appears when you select Blue
Fade and a blue screen fades in and
out.
• [] appears when you select
Mosaic Fade and the picture turns
into a mosaic pattern as you fade in
and out.
• _ appears when you select
Shutter Wipe and a black screen
wipes in from top and bottom or
the image pushes open the black
screen from the center to the top
and bottom.
• [] appears when you select Slide
Wipe and a black screen wipes in
from the left or the image moves in
from fight to left..
• Details are on pages 60-61.
®
Change Indicator ($)
This indicator will appear to let you
know that an item in the recording
menu has been changed from the
original factory setting.
The preset title you select or the title
you create will appear in this area.
• The title will be recorded on your
tape when it appears.
• Details are on pages 45-4Z
Date or Date and Time
The date, time, or date and time
appears in this area when you press
the DISPLAY button.
• These displays will be recorded on
your tape when they appear.
• Details are on pages 49-51.
LENS COVER Indicator
• LENS COVER: When you turn on
the camcorder, this indicator briefly
flashes to remind you to open the
lens cover.
• LENS COVER: This indicator may
flash when the camcorder is used in
dark areas -- even if the lens cover
is open.
Battery Level Indicator
• This indicator shows power left in
the rechargeable battery.
• This indicator flashes when the
battery is almost empty.
• Details are on page 15.
Zoom Indicator
The zoom indicator appears here
when you use the zoom lever.
• Details on page 39.
(continued on next page)
27

LCD Monitor or Viewfinder Displays
--40min
_
@
[_ INDEX _
rAPE END _\
@
I
MWB
-+ .- +
Time Remaining Display
The approximate time remaining on
the tape is automatically displayed
here. The correct Tape Length must
be set in the recording menu.
Details are on page 44.
Self-Timer, Animation, and Time-
Lapse Indicators
• The interval time selected for self-
timer or time-lapse recording ( D
15S, 30S, lmin, or 5rain) appears
here. Details are on pages 54-55
and
58-59.
• The rec time selected for animation
or time-lapse recording ( ,i 1/4S,
1/2S, 1S, or 5S) appears here.
Details are on pages 56-57
and 58-59.
Electronic Image Stabilizer ( _, )
This indicator appears when the
electronic image stabilizer is turned
on with the EIS button.
• See page 38for details.
@ Dew Warning (_)
The dew indicator appears when
excessive raoisture (condensation)
has entered the camcorder. The
camcorder will not operate when
this indicator appears. Place the
camcorder in a warm, dry area until
this indicator disappears.
28

TAPE END Warning
®
• TAPE END appears when the end
of the tape is reached during
recording or a cassette is inserted
with its tape already at the end.
®
Tape Length
The tape length (T20, T30, or 7"40)
selected with the Tape Length
feature on the recording menu
appears here. Details are on
page 44.
®
Cassette Warning
•The _ indicator appears when a
cassette is in the camcorder.
• The ['ar_ indicator flashes when the
POWER switch is set to CAMERA
and there is no cassette in the
camcorder.
Time-Counter
®
(_ Exposure Indicator
• This indicator appears when you
are adjusting brightness manually
using the + or - button. The FULL
AUTO/PRESET switch must be in
PRESET.
• Details are on page 33.
White Balance Indicators
• If you adjust white balance
manually, the indicator (MWB, -'.o,:-,
€- or :,_:) for the mode you
select appears here. The FULL
AUTO/PRESET switch must be in
PRESET.
• Details are on pages 34-35.
INDEX Indicator
• INDEX appears when an index
mark is being made on the tape.
Details are on page 32.
• The time counter appears during
playback. It is not recorded.
• An "'M" appears in front of the time
counter when memory-stop is on.
• Details are on page 70.
®
Manual Focus Indicators ( _+X )
These indicators appear when focus
is adjusted manually using the
NEAR or FAR button. The FULL
AUTO/PRESET switch must be in
PRESET.
• Manual focus lock indicators (4,)
appear when focus is moving
toward near or far.
• Low-contrast indicators ( a ± )
flash when the auto-focus system
cannot focus properly.
• Details are on pages 36-37.
(_ Lithium Cell ( _ )
• This indicator flashes for a few
seconds when you first turn on the
camcorder and the time and date
have not been set.
• This indicator also appears when
the clock cell is missing or it needs
to be replaced. Details are on
page 48.
29

Microphone
QUICK REC Button
Tally Light
Microphone
The microphone picks up the sound
during a recording. It is more sensitive to
sounds coming from the direction the
lens is pointed.
Flying Erase Head
A separate erase head is mounted on
the spinning headwheel (hence the term
"flying"). This allows you to make clean
edits without the "glitches" or "rainbow
noise" that may occur at the beginning or
the end of recordings.
Auto Head Cleaner
The camcorder has an automatic head-
cleaning system. Whenever a cassette is
inserted or removed, this system is
activated.
The head-cleaning system minimizes the
need for accessory cleaners or cleaning
by a Servicenter.
Tally Light
The tally light lights when the camcorder
is recording.
The tally light can be turned off using the
record menu. See page 53°
Quick Record
Quick record lets you make five second
recordings for quick scene transitions.
Place VCR/OFF/CAMERA switch in
CAMERA.
• Press and release QUICK REC to make
a five-second recording. The
camcorder will record for five seconds
and return to record pause.
• Press and hold QUICK REC to continue
recording. Release the button to return
the camcorder to record pause. Press
the thumb trigger to start normal
recording at this point.
Notes: Fading does not operate when you use
the QUICK RE('. button to record.
Quick recording cannot be used during
animation or time-lapse recording.
30

SEARCH - and +) Buttons
POWER Switch
and FF (Also EDIT
Tape Positioning
Place POWER switch in VCR and press
STOP.
• Press and quickly release REW or FF to
rewind or fast-forward the tape. Press
STOP to stop the tape.
Quick Review Feature
Press and release EDIT SEARCH- when
the camcorder is in record pause to
review the last few seconds of a
recording. The POWER switch must be
in CAMERA.
The camcorder will play back the last
few seconds of the recording, return the
tape to its previous position, and return to
record pause.
Camera Edit Feature
The camera edit feature allows you to
position the tape when the camcorder is
in record pause. Place VCR/OFF/
CAMERA switch in CAMERA.
• Press and hold EDIT SEARCH - to
visually search the recorded tape in
reverse.
• Press and hold EDIT SEARCH +
to visually search forward on the
recorded tape.
Release the button to return camcorder to
record pause at that point on the tape.
Press the thumb trigger to start recording
at this point.
31

Full Auto Mode
FULL AUTO/PRESET Switch
1. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA.
• The only tilde/wipe that you can use
is the black fader.
• The power indicator will light and
the camcorder will enter record
pause. =-PAUSE--=appears in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
2. Place the FULL A UTO/PRESET
switch in FULL AUTO.
3. Press the thumb trigger to start
• The only production special effects
, you can use is cinema.
• Menu changes cannot be made.
4. Place the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch in PRESET to turn off the full
auto mode.
recording.
• The camcorder will control the
focus, exposure, and white balance
for you.
Electronic Indexing ............
An index mark is automatically recorded at the beginning of a recording
after the date advances and a cassette is inserted. When you play back the
indexed tape in a VCR that has a compatible indexing feature called "VHS
Index Search System", the invisible marks can be located automatically.
See VCR owner's manual.
INDEX flashes in the viewfinder or on
the LCD monitor when an index mark is
recorded.
Notes: No other function can be performed
during index recording.
If the date changes during recording, an index
mark is placed on the tape.
32
INDEX
INDEX Indicator on LCD
Monitor or Viewfinder

Exposure Control
When the FULL A UTO/PRESET switch is in FULL A UTO, the camcorder controls the
iris for you. Under normal conditions, the camcorder will adjust brightness
automatically. You may need to adjust brightness manually when the background is
too bright or too dark in comparison with the subject.
A UTO/PRESET Switch
EFFECT
MENU 0
PROG.AE/_
FADEJ _'_
WIPE
- Button
Manual Exposure
1. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA.
• The power indicator will light and
the camcorder will enter record
pause. - PAUSE_- appears in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
2. Place the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch in PRESET.
• Press + to brighten the image.
• Press - to darken the image.
• The exposure level indicator
(+_O1 to 06) appears in the
viewfinder.
To Turn Off Manual Exposure
Press both + and- at the same time or
place the FULL AUTO/PRESET switch
in FULL AUTO.
Conditions Requiring Manual
Exposure
• When recording with a bright
background or reverse lighting.
• When recording with a very dark
background or very bright subject.
• When recording a reflective natural
background -- such as a beach or when
skiing.
33

White Balance
Making colors look natural is what white balance is all about. This is achieved by
adjusting the way the camcorder "sees" and records the light source in the scene you
wish to record. Your camcorder is equipped with automatic white balance. However,
under certain conditions, such as recording an object with various shades of the same
color or when recording a predominant red or brown object outdoors, you may want to
adjust white balance manually.
N. W.BAL.
Button
FULL AUTO/
PRESET
Switch
Auto White Balance
During auto white balance, the
camcorder will automatically adjust the
white balance.
1. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA.
2. Place the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch in FULL AUTO.
Manual White Balance
1. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA.
2. Place the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch in PRESET.
3. Press the MAN. W.BAL. (manual
white balance) button until one of
the manual white balance indicators
appears in the viewfinder or on the
LCD monitor.
• Select MVCB when shooting
subjects with different color
temperatures and adjust the white
balance as follows:
Note: Connecting your camcorder to
a color TV monitor may be helpful
when making white balance
adjustments.
34
(continued on next page)

MWB
%,-
HalOgen _ Tungsten
Light"
A. Point camcorder at a white, flat
object such as a piece of white
paper.
B. Press and hold MAN. W.BAL .for
at least three seconds.
The MWB indicator will flash
while the camcorder is adjusting
white balance and stop flashing
when it is ready to record.
Note: To change the tint for special
recording, substitute colored paper
for white. The white balance is
adjusted based on the color.
Red paper - deeper green
Blue paper - orange
Yellow paper - deeper purple
o n e oudy
• Select ;o: when recording
outdoors on a sunny day.
• Select -_;,, when recording
outdoors on a cloudy day.
• Select 7- when recording using
halogen or tungsten lighting.
4. To have camcorder automatically
control white balance, repeatedly
press MAN. W_BAL. until no white
balance indicator appears in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor
(or place the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch in PRESET).
Note: Manual white balance does not
operate if Sepia is selected as a program
effect.
35

Focusing
Under normal conditions, the camcorder can adjust focus automatically.
certain conditions, you may need to focus manually.
Lever
FAR
FULL AUTO/PRESET Switch
Button
Under
Auto Focus
During auto focus the camcorder will
focus automatically on the object located
in the center area of the viewfinder or
LCD monitor.
Place the FULL A UTO/PRESET switch
in FULL AUTO to turn on the auto
focus feature.
Notes: The low-contrast indicator ( a _.)
in the viewfinder indicates the auto-
focus system may not operate correctly due
to low illumination, low or no contrast,
repeated patterns, or two subjects at
different distances overlapping.
If you zoom in too close to the subject, the
camcorder will automatically zoom out so it
can focus.
Focus Lock Feature
The focus lock feature is useful when
objects pass between your subject and the
camcorder or your main subject is not
located in the center of the viewfinder or
LCD monitor.
1. Place the FULL A UTO/PRESET
switch in PRESET.
2. Center the main object in the
viewfinder or LCD monitor.
3. Press FAR or NEAR to focus on the
main subject. The focus is locked on
the subject and ( a _. ) appears on the
LCD monitor or in the viewfinder.
4. Press FAR and NEAR together
(or place FULL A UTO/PRESET switch
in FULL AUTO) to turn auto focus
back on.
36

Manual Focus
Under certain conditions, such as those listed, you may need to focus manually.
.
Set the FULL A UTO/PRESET switch
to PRESET.
adjusted any farther, the a indicator
will flash. When the focus cannot be
.
Slide the power zoom lever toward T
to zoom in on your subject. To
maintain proper focus throughout the
zoom range, you must zoom in on the
subject before adjusting the focus.
.
Press NEAR or FAR to display a clear
picture in the center of the viewfinder.
adjusted any closer, the _,t indicator
will flash.
4. Release the NEAR or FAR button to
lock in the manual focus.
5. Press NEAR and FAR together
(or place FULL A UTO/PRESET switch
in FULL A UTO) to turn auto focus
back on.
The a -It- indicators appear in the
viewfinder. The • or • indicator will
flash. When the focus cannot be
Conditions Requiring Manual Focus _ _,'_:_"_!!I__''_ ....
• When recording a subject through a • When the subject is not in the center of
window, the viewfinder.
• When recording a subject having a close
foreground and a background that is far
away.
• When recording two subjects at different
distances that overlap in the same scene.
• When recording in low-light situations.
• When recording a scene with fast
motions, like a tennis swing.
37

Electronic Image Stabilizer (EIS)
The electronic image stabilizer helps compensate for unstable images
caused by camera shake that can be created by recording out of a moving
vehicle or while walking.
EIS Button
To Turn On EIS
1. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA.
2. Press the EIS button. The EIS
indicator appears in the viewfinder or
on the LCD monitor.
EIS Indicator in Viewfinder
or on LCD Monitor
Turn off EIS when using a tripod.
Stabilization may not be possible if hand
shake is excessive or when shooting the
following:
• Subjects with vertical or horizontal stripes.
• Low contrast subjects or backgrounds or
dark or dim subjects.
• Subject with excessive backlighting.
• Scenes with movements in various
directions.
To Turn Off EIS
Press the EIS button. The EIS indicator
disappears from the viewfinder.
38

Zooming
The motorized zoom lens allows you to zoom in and out for close ups or
wide-angle shots just by sliding the power zoom lever on the camcorder.
Power Zoom Lever
T = Telephoto
W = Wide Angle
T
Zoom Level Indicator in
Viewfinder or on LCD Monitor
To Zoom In and Out
Optical zooming allows you to zoom in
and out up to 14X.
• To move the lens in the telephoto
(close-up) direction, slide the power
zoom lever toward T.
• To move the lens in the wide angle
direction, slide the lever toward W.
• The zoom level indicator appears in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
Note: If you are trying to zoom in very close
to a subject and the camcorder zooms out, try
using Tele Macro zooming. See page 41.
Digital Zooming
Digital zooming doubles the maximum
14X normal optical zooming. The zoom
indicator does not operate during digital
zooming.
Zoom speed varies according to how far
you zoom in or out.
Notes: You may need to focus manually
during digital zooming. Zoom in, adjust the
focus manually or use focus lock, and then
zoom in or out.
The quality of the image may not be as good
in digital zooming as optical zooming.
39

Recording Menu
The main recording menu lets you select and set several recording features:
Tele Macro (close-up), Gain Up (light adjustment), Color Filter, Tape Length, Title,
and Date/Time. The Sub Menu lets you turn the tally light on or off, set interval and
recording times for self-timer, animation, and time-lapse recording, and set an ID
number.
FULL AUTO/
\ PRESET Switch
"_ Button \
MENU Button
FADE/
WIPE 0
• Button
To Display the Recording Menu
1. Make sure the FULL A UTO/PRESET
switch is in PRESET.
. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
TeleMacro OFF
Gain Up AGC
Color Filter NOR.
Tape Length T20
Title
Date/Time
Sub Menu
Button
4. If you select Tele Macro, Gain Up,
Color Filter, or Tape Length, press '_
or • to select the option you want for
that feature.
If you select Date/Time or Title, press
• to access the selection menu for the
feature.
5. Press MENU to exit the menu.
Notes: If you want to change another feature,
repeat steps 3 and .4.
Recording Menu in Viewfinder
or on LCD Monitor
.
Press • or • to highlight the feature
you want to adjust.
4O
If you make a change in the recording menu,
• ' appears in the viewfinder or on the LCD
monitor.

Recording Menu -- Tele Macro Zooming Feature
Tele Macro (close-up), zooming allows you to zoom in on subjects that are too close to
focus on during normal zooming. If the subject is more than approximately 23 inches
away, use normal zooming.
Button
MENU Button
FADE/
WIPE
To Turn on Tele Macro
.
Make sure the FULL A UTO/PRESET
switch is in PRESET.
.
Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
Tete Macro OFF
Gain Up AGC
Color Filter NOR.
Tape Length "1"20
Title
Date/Time
Sub Menu
• Button
Button
4. Press • or 4 to select OFF or I_ON.
Select _ON if you want to record a
small subject within approximately
23 inches.
• Select OFF for normal zooming.
.
Press MENU to exit the menu.
Note: Depending on the position of the
zoom, the Tens may go out of focus.
3. Make sure Tele Macro is highlighted
or press A or • to highlight it.
41

Recording Menu m Tape Time-Remaining Display
The approximate time remaining on the tape in the camcorder is automatically
displayed in the viewfinder. The Tape Length feature in the recording: menu must be
set correctly for the length tape you are using before the camcorder can correctly
calculate time remaining.
30min
SP=EP I
Switch
30min
TAPE END
29min
i
I
I
_v
3rain
2min
(Flashing)
lmin
(Flashing)
l
0rain
(Flashing)
Set the Tape Length
.
Make sure the FULL A UTO/PRESET
switch is in PRESET.
2_
Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
Tele Macro OFF
Gain Up AGC
Color Filter NOR.
Tap_Len_th _, ', T20:
Title
Date/Time
Sub Menu
3. Press • or • to highlight Tape
Length.
4. Press '_ or _ to select the length of
tape you are using:
• Select T20 if you are using a tape
with 20 minutes recording time in
SP speed.
• Select T30 if you are using a tape
with 30 minutes recording time in
SP speed.
• Select T40 if you are using a tape
with 40 minutes recording time in
SP speed.
°
Press MENU to exit the menu.
Notes: The time-remaining indicator will
start flashing when the remaining tape time
reaches two minutes.
TAPE END appears when the tape reaches its
end during recording or a cassette is loaded
with its tape already at the end.
44

Recording Menu- Gain Up
The gain up feature allows you to take bright and natural recordings even in areas
with low or poor lighting.
FULl, A UTO/
E'RESET Switch
• Button
MENU Button
FADE/
WIPE (_
To Set Gain Up
I. Make sure the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch is in PRESET.
2. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
Tele Macro OFF
Color Filter NOR.
Tape Length T20
Title
Date/Time
Sub Menu
Button
• Button
4. Press • or I_ to select AGC or _OFF.
• Select ,I_OFF when lighting is not a
problem.
• Select AGC to record a subject in a
dark environment. The picture will
be brighter, with slightly more
"video noise".
5. Press MENU to exit the menu.
3. Press • or • to highlight Gain Up.
42

,..'
Recording Menu _ Color Filter
This feature allows you to add a red or blue tint to the recording.
.o.
,..,,
%
,b,4
,I/:? _
FULL A UTO/
• Button ,,
K'
,:i!_:•
.:.,
Button
• Button
To Set Color Filter
lo
Make sure the FULL A UTO/PRESET
switch is in PRESET.
,
Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
i._ ,
Tele Macro OFF
Tape Length T20
Title
Date/Time
Sub Menu
4. Press • or _ to select NOR., @RED,
or I_BLUE.
• Select NOR. for normal recording
• Select @RED to add a reddish tint to
your recording.
• Select I_BLUE to add a bluish tint to
your recording.
5. Press MENU to exit the menu.
3. Press • or • to highlight Color
Filter.
,_.j.
43

Recording Menu u Tape Time-Remaining Display
The approximate time remaining on the tape in the camcorder is automatically
displayed in the viewfinder. The Tape Length feature in the recording menu must be
set correctly for the length tape you are using before the camcorder can correctly
calculate time remaining.
SPoEP
Set the Tape Length
.
Make sure the FULL A UTO/PRESET
switch is in PRESET.
.
Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
30rain
30min
TAPE END
29rain
i
I
I
'4,
3rain
2rain
(Flashing)
1rain
(Flashing)
0rain
(Flashing)
• Select 7"20if you are using a tape
with 20 minutes recording time in
SP speed.
• Select T30 if you are using a tape
with 30 minutes recording time in
SP speed.
Tele Macro OFF
Gain Up AGC
Color Filter NOR.
TapbLength i', _T20_
Title
Date/Time
Sub Menu
3. Press • or • to highlight Tape
Length.
4. Press "I or _ to select the length of
tape you are using:
44
• Select 7140if you are using a tape
with 40 minutes recording time in
SP speed,
5. Press MENU to exit the menu.
Notes: The time-remaining indicator will
start flashing when the remaining tape time
reaches two minutes.
TAPE END appears when the tape reaches its
end during recording or a cassette is loaded
with its tape already at the end.

Recording Menu m Title
The title feature lets you choose one of eight preset titles or create your own title --
up to 18 characters to superimpose on a scene. The clock cell battery must be
installed as shown on page 48 before you can create or store your own title.
FULL AUTO/
• Button \
PRESET Switch
MENU Button
FADE/
WIPE
• Button
To Add a Preset Title to Your Recordings
1. Make sure the FULL A UTO/PRESET
switch is in PRESET.
.
Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
Tele Macro OFF
Gain Up AGC
Color Filter NOR.
Tape Length T20
Date/Time
Sub Menu
Button
4. Press • to display the title menu.
OFF _' :
Happy Birthday
Our Vacation
Merry Christmas
A Special Day
Happy Holidays
Our New Baby
Wedding Day
Congratulations
(Set Character)
5. Press • or • to highlight the preset
title you wish to use.
.
Press • or • on the mode select dial
to highlight Title.
6. Press MENU to display the title in
the viewfinder or on the LCD
monitor. It will be superimposed on
your tape during recording.
(continued on next page)
45

Recording Menu- Title (Continued)
Button \
Switch
MENU Button
FADE/
WIPE
To Create Your Own Title
1. Make sure the FULL A UTO/PRESET
switch is in PRESET.
2. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor
3. Press • or • to highlight Title.
Tele Macro OFF
Gain Up AGC
Color Filter NOR.
Tape Length T20
Date/Time
Sub Menu
• Button
Button
4. Press _ to display the title menu.
5. Press • or • to highlight (Set
Character).
OFF
Happy Birthday
Our Vacation
Merry Christmas
A Special Day
Happy Holidays
Our New Baby
46

6. Press I_ to display the set character
menu.
A B C D E F G H I
_\K L M N 0 P Q R S
T U V W X Y Z _ _ U
: '-I!?_
oi _3_s6789
:_iI t!i i '
End Clear
Note: If you wish to erase a previous title,
highlight Clear, and press MENU.
10.When you are finished, press •, V,
I_, or • to highlight End.
11.Press MENU to return to the title
menu, or press MENU twice to
remove all menus from the screen and
display and record your title.
Note: The title will be recorded on your
tape whenever it appears in the viewfinder
or on the LCD monitor.
7. Press •, V, I_, or • to highlight the
character you wish to use.
8. Press MENU to enter the character in
your title.
9. Repeat steps 7 and 8 until you have
completed your title (up to 18
characters).
A B C DE F G H I
/J\K L M N 0 P Q R S
T U V W X Y Z _ _J O
A E 0 I U N _ _ _ &
: , _ / ! ? _, _
0 i 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
TAYLOR IS TWO!
End Clear
1. Display the title menu, use • or • to
highlight OFF and press MENU.
Notes: To select the location of a
character, press •, V, _', or • to move
the cursor to the row of squares at the
bottom. Then press I_ or • to highlight
the location where you want to place the
character.
To correct a character, highlight the
character you want to correct and press •
and • together.
If you wish to erase a previous title or all
characters, highlight Clear, and press
MENU.
2. Press MENU to remove the title menu
from the screen.
Happy Birthday
Our Vacation
Merry Christmas
A Special Day
Happy Holidays
Our New Baby
Wedding Day
Congratulations
(SetCharacter)
47

Date/Time Display -- Install the Clock Lithium (;ell
The clock cell indicator _ will flash for a few seconds in the viewfinder or on the
LCD monitor when you turn on the camcorder if the cell has not been installed or needs
to be replaced•
Insert object here to remove cell.
Clock Cell
\
(+ Side Facing Out) --
:: .i
Clock Cell
Compartment
° Make sure camcorder is turned off, and
remove any power supply attached to
the camcorder.
2. Press release tab of clock cell compart-
To Remove Battery
To remove battery, insert a pointed non-
metallic object between battery and
compartment and lift.
ment cover and open the compartment.
3. Insert the clock cell with the "+"
terminal facing out.
4. Close the compartment cover. It will
click into place.
Cautions: Lithium cell battery. Replace only with 3-volt lithium cell - such as
inJury.
Keep out of the hands of children. Can cause death or injury if swallowed, ff
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.
48

Recording Menu m Date/Time Display
The date and time must be set before it can be displayed and recorded on your
tapes. The clock cell must be installed as shown on the previous page before the
date can be set and recorded.
• Button \
PRESET Switch
MENU Button w,pE([[D
FADE/
• Button
To Set the Date and Time
.
Make sure the FULL A UTO/PRESET
switch is in PRESET.
.
Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
Tele Macro OFF
Gain Up AGC
Color Filter NOR.
Tape Length T20
Title
Sub Menu
3. Press • or • to highlight Date/Time.
4. Press • to display the date and time
screen.
5. Press • or • to enter the correct
month. Press • to go forward or •
to go back.
6. Press • to start the day flashing.
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 to set the year,
hour (including AM and PM), and
minutes.
Note: If you want to return the date and
time to the previous setting, press • or •
to highlight Cancel and press MENU.
.
Press • or • to highlight Set.
9.
Press the MENU button. The
camcorder's internal clock will start
and you will return to the recording
menu.
\ I /
JAN 1.00 AM 12:01
Set
Cancel
Notes: Press MENU twice to start the
clock and remove all the menus from the
viewfinder.
If you enter an invalid date, Input Error
appears in the viewfinder. Press A, _', •,
or • and enter the correct day.
49

Date/Time Display
The clock cell must be installed and the date and time set before the date and/or time
can be selected and recorded on your tape.
PROG AE/
EFFECT (_
MENU
FADE/
WIPE"
To Select the Date, Time, or Date and Time You Want to Record
On Your Tape
1. Attach a power supply and place
POWER switch in CAMERA. The
power indicator will light.
2. Repeatedly press DISPLAY to select
the date, time, or date and time you
want to record.
• Date Display: The date will be
displayed and recorded.
• Time: The time will be displayed
and recorded.
• Date and Time Display: The date
and time will be displayed and
recorded.
• Date and Time Off: No date or time
will be displayed or recorded.
50

Date/Time Display
%!
g ,
v
;:7
),,,
iN ,
,€.
t"
'L
_f
t
To Record the Date, Time, or Date and Time on Your Tape
1. Place the camcorder in record pause.
2. Repeatedly press the DISPLAY button
to display the date, time, or date and
time you have previously stored.
3. Begin recording.
4. Press the DISPLAY button to remove
the display from the viewfinder when
you are finished recording it.
5. To record the display again, place
the camcorder in record pause and
press the DISPLAY button to select the
mode you want to record.
Note: If you do not want to record a date
or time, press DISPLAY to select the date
and time off mode.
51

Recording Menu m Sub Menu
The sub menu lets you turn the tally light on or off, set interval and recording times for
the self-timer, time-lapse recording, or animation recording. You can also set a JLIP
ID number for a device (such as a personal computer).
FULL AUTO/
_witch
• Button ,,
'k._÷t' '
'2"
)
,,+,
%
, .,.
:_
•a/, :'
MENU Button
FADE/
WIPE C_
• Button
To Change a Feature in the Sub Menu
1. Make sure the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch is in PRESET.
2. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
Tele Macro OFF
Gain Up AGC
Color Filter NOR.
Tape Length T20
Title
Date/Time
Button
ii ii: :i i_i: :
Interval Timer OFF
Rec Time OFF
JLIP ID NO. 0 7
.
Press • to start the highlighted item
flashing.
.
Press • or • to adjust the highlighted
item.
,,;
.,/,-
3. Press • or • to highlight Sub Menu.
4. Press • to display the sub menu.
5. Press • or • to highlight the item
you want to adjust.
52
Note: If you want to change anotiher
feature, repeat steps 5, 6, and 7.
.
Press 'I to return to the recording
menu, or press MENU to exit both
menus.
;*2,
_2
41
Y,:
.:2:,

Sub Menu -- Tally Light and JLIP ID NO.
--Tally Light
/
JLIP Connector
To Turn the Tally Light ON or OFF ..................
•' ';-:2 '" '.- . • ;.'_" b,>'f -J
1. Follow steps 1-4 on the previous page.
2. Press • or • to highlight Tally.
4. Press • or • to turn the tally light
ON or OFF.
• Select ONto have the tally light
turn on during recording.
Tally::: :ON
• Select OF[" if you do not want the
Interval Timer OFF
Rec Time OFF
tally light to light.
5. Press • to stop Talh, flashing and
JLIP ID NO. 0 7
return to the recording menu, or press
MENU to exit both menus.
3. Press • to start Tally flashing.
Set theJLIPID NO. _"_"_"_"_"_'_"__"_''": ....... : .........:' : '_::................
The camcorder has a JLIP (Joint Level Interface Protocol) connector that may be
used in the future to connect a device, such as a home computer.
To Select a JLIP ID NO.
1. Follow steps 1-4 on the previous page.
2. Press • or • to highlight JLIP ID NO.
Tally ON
Interval Timer OFF
Rec Time OFF
JLIPIDNO. :: 0
3. Press • to start JLIP ID NO. flashing.
4. Press • or • to select a number from
01 to 99.
.
Press • to stop JLIP ID NO. flashing
and return to the recording menu, or
press MENU to exit both menus.
53

Sub Menu m Self-Timer
The self-timer lets you set the camcorder to delay recording so you can be
in the scene when recording begins.
FULL AUTO/
iwitch
• Button.,
MENU Button
• Button
To Set the Self-Timer
1. Place the POWER switch in
CAMERA. The power indicator will
light.
2. Place FULL A UTO/PRESET switch in
PRESET.
3. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
Button
Tele Macro OFF
Gain Up AGC
Color Filter NOR.
Tape Length T20
Title
Date/Time
4. Press • or • to highlight Sub Menu.
5. Press • to display the sub menu.
54

6. Press • or • to highlight Interval
Timer.
Tally ON
IntervaITimer OFF
Rec Time OFF
JLIP ID NO. 0 7
7. Press • to start Interval Timer
flashing.
9. Press • twice to return to the
recording menu.
10.Press MENU to exit the menu. Q and
the amount of delayed recording time
appear in the viewfinder or on the
LCD monitor.
_;_ 5min
_PAUSE _---
Self-Timer Indicator in Viewfinder
or on LCD Monitor
Tally ON
Ihte_al+;_ +OFF+ --
Rec Time OFF
JLIP ID NO. 0 7
15S
1
30S
1rain
5rain
OFF
8. Press • or • to select the amount of
time you want the recording delayed.
• Select 15S to delay the recording
for 15 seconds.
• Select 30S to delay the recording
for 30 seconds.
• Select lmin to delay the recording
for one minute.
• Select 5min to delay the recording
for five minutes.
11. Press the thumb trigger to start self-
timer recording. The camcorder will
start recording after the amount of time
you have set. It will continue
recording until you press the thumb
trigger to stop recording.
Notes: If the tally light is turned on, it
starts flashing. About five seconds before
recording begins, the tally light will start
flashing faster. It will stop flashing when
recording begins.
To stop self-timer recording before it has
started, press the thumb trigger again, and
set the Interval Timer to OFF.
12.Turn off the interval time when you are
finished by selecting Interval Time
OFF in the Sub Menu.
• Select OFF if you do not want the
camcorder to delay recording.
55

Sub Menu m Animation Recording
Animation recording produces an illusion of movement for an otherwise stationary
scene or object by shooting a series of pictures of slightly different poses (such as
cartooning).
FULL it UTO/
;witch
• Button \
MENU Button
• Button
To Record Using Animation
1. Place the POWER switch in
CAMERA. The power indicator will
light.
2. Place FULL AUTO/PRESET switch in
PRESET.
3. Make sure the recording speed is set
to SP.
Button
Tele Macro OFF
Gain Up AGC
Color Filter NOR.
Tape Length T20
Title
Date/Time
Sub_nu : !;
4. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
56

5. Press • or • to highlight Sub Menu.
6. Press • to display the sub menu.
Tally ON
Interval Timer OFF
R_iTrn_'i ): i,,_:ii:i_! _
Press MENU to select a
10.
recording time.
11.
Press MENU to exit the menu.
and the amount of recording
time appear in the viewfinder or
on the LCD monitor.
JLIP ID NO. 0 7
7. Press • or • to highlight Rec Time.
8. Press • to start Rec Time flashing.
Tally ON
Interval Timer OFF
JLIP ID NO. 0 7
Press • or • to select the amount of
.
time you want the camcorder to
record.
1/4S
1/2S
1s
5s
OFF
"IllI 14S
PAUSE
12. Press the thumb trigger to start
recording.
Note: The recording stops
automatically after the selected
period of recording time. You may
want to take two to five shots of the
subject in the same position.
13. Move the subject and repeat
step 11 for the desired number
of shots.
14.
Turn off the recording time
when you are finished by
selecting Rec Time OFF in the
Sub Menu.
• Select 1/4S, 1/2S, IS, or 5S to have
the camcorder record for 1/4
second, 1/2 second, one second, or
five seconds.
• Select OFF to turn off the
recording time.
Note: Fades and wipes do not operate
during animation recording.
57

Sub Menu -- Time-Lapse Recording
Time-lapse recording makes automatic recordings at preset time intervals.
The recording will show subtle changes (such as shifts in cloud formations
or plant growth) when it remains focused on an object.
FULL A UTO/
• Button
PRESET Switch
MENU Button
FADE/
WIPE C_
• Button
To Record Using Time Lapse
1. Place the POWER switch in
CAMERA. The power indicator will
light.
2. Place FULL AUTO/PRESET switch in
PRESET.
3. Make sure the recording speed is set
to SP.
4. Press the MENU button. The
Button
Tele Macro OFF
Gain Up AGC
Color Filter NOR.
Tape Length T20
Title
Date/Time
Sub Menu
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
5. Press • or • to highlight Sub Menu.
58

6. Press • to display the Sub Menu.
Tally ON
lntervalTimer OFF
Rec _me OFF
JLIP ID NO. 0 7
1/4S 30S
112S
1s
5S
OFF
lmin
5min
, OFF
7. Press • or • to highlight Rec Time.
8. Press • to start Rec Time flashing.
9. Press • or • to select the amount of
time you want the camcorder to
record.
• Select 1/4S, 1/2S, 1S, or 5S to have
the camcorder record for 1/4
second, 1/2 second, one second, or
five seconds.
• Select OFF to turn off the
recording time.
10.Press • to highlight Interval Timer.
11 .Press • to start Interval Timer
flashing.
12.Press • or • to select the amount of
time you want between recordings.
• Select 15S, 30S, lmin, or 5min to
set the intervals between recording
to 15 seconds, 30 seconds, one
minute, or five minutes.
• Select OFF to turn off the Interval
Timer.
13. If necessary, adjust the exposure
control, focus, and stabilizer before
step 14.
14.Press MENU to exit the menu. ,_ and
15S
the amount of recording time, and
and the amount of interval time appear
in the viewfinder or on the LCD
monitor.
® 5min
,t= 1/4S
PAUSE
15.Press the thumb trigger to start
recording.
Notes: The camcorder will start and stop
recording the selected amount of time.
If the tally light is turned on, it flashes
with the flash speed increasing five
seconds before recording begins.
16.Turn off the interval and recording
time when you are finished by
selecting Interval Timer OFF and Rec
Time OFF in the Sub Menu.
Note: Fades and wipes do not operate during
time-lapse recording.
59

Fading or Wiping In and Out
You can add a professional touch to your recordings when you use the fade or
wipe features. The picture gradually appears on a black or blue screen and
disappears leaving a black or blue screen. The speed of the fade or wipe is
automatically controlled by the camcorder.
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
• Button \
FADE/WIPE Buttc • Button
Indicator Menu Function
Black Fader Fades in or out on a black screen.
_-] Blue Fader Fades in or out on a blue screen.
Mosaic Fader Fades in or out with a full screen mosaic effect.
Shutter Wipe
Slide Wipe
Wipes in with a black screen from the top and
bottom. Wipes out from the center towards the top
and bottom leaving a black screen.
Wipes in with a black screen from the left. Wipes
out with the image moving from right to left
leaving a black screen.
Button
60

To Fade or Wipe
1. Place the POWER switch in
CAMERA. The power indicator will
light.
2. Place FULL A UTO/PRESET switch in
FULL AUTO or PRESET.
• FULL AUTO/PRESET Switch in
FULL A UTO
Press the FADE/WIPE button to turn
the black fader on or off.
[] appears in the viewfinder or on
the LCD monitor.
[]
• FULL AUTO/PRESET Switch in
PRESET
Press the FADE/WIPE button to
display the fade/wipe menu.
1 [] Black Fader
2 [] Blue Fader
3 [] Mosaic Fader
4 [] Shutter Wipe
5 IT] Slide Wipe
3.Press FADE/WIPE to highlight the
fade or wipe you want to select.
Note: The fade or wipe you select is
automatically activated and the
fade/wipe menu is removed from the
viewfinder o:r LCD monitor in
approximately two seconds.
4.Press the thumb trigger to start
recording and fade or wipe in.
Note: If you select a fade or wipe
Note: This is the only fade you can use
in the full auto mode.
during recording, press the thumb trigger
to fade or wipe out.
To Turn Off Fade or Wipe ",:i:_'_'.... _:_',_:i_:!
When FULL A UTO/PRESET switch is in
FULL AUTO, press FADE/WIPE.
When FULL AUTO/PRESET switch is in
PRESET, press FADE/WIPE to display
_;OFF
1 [] Black Fader
2 [] Blue Fader
3 [] Mosaic Fader
4 [] Shutter Wipe
5 [] Slide Wipe
the fade/wipe menu, and then press
FADE/WIPE repeatedly to highlight
OFF.
Note: The fade or wipe will be turned
off and the menu will automatically be
removed from the viewfinder or LCD
monitor in approximately two seconds.
61

Production Effects
You can add a professional touch to your recordings when you use some of the
production effects while recording.
FI
witch
Indicator
*j
Menu
Cinema
Sepia
Twilight
Sports
HI.S 1/2000
Function
The camcorder records black bars at the top and
bottom of the picture to produce the wide-screen
effect. This is also known as "letter box" recording.
Use when you play back your recordings on a 16X9
TV.
Gives your recording a brownish tint like old photos.
Combine with cinema mode for a classic look.
Use to record a scene at dusk or twilight. Also used
to record fireworks for a more natural and dramatic
look. Auto gain is turned off, and white balance is
set to outdoors.
Use to clearly capture fast-moving action with less
blurring. Use when playing back the recording on a
VCR featuring special effects, such as pause or slow
motion.
Sets shutter speed to !/2000. Use to record fast-
moving action with less blurring. Can capture faster
action than sports mode. Use outdoors and in well-
lit situations when playing back recording on VCR
featuring special effects, such as pause or slow
motion.
62

To Use a Production Effect
1. Place the POWER switch in
CAMERA. The power indicator will
light.
2. Place FULL A UTO/PRESET switch in
FULL AUTO or PRESET.
• FULL AUTO/PRESET Switch in
FULL AUTO
Press the PROG.AE/EFFECT button
to turn the Cinema mode on or off.
O appears in the viewfinder or on
the LCD monitor.
Q
OFF :
1 Q Cinema
2 Gi Sepia
3 *.,) Twilight
4 ._ Sports
5 € HI.S 1/2000
.
Press PROG.AE/EFFECT to highlight
the effect you want to select.
Note: The effect you select is
automatically activated and the menu is
removed from the viewfinder or LCD
monitor in approximately two seconds.
.
Press the thumb trigger to start
recording with the effect you selected.
Note: This is the only production effect
you can use in FULLAUTO.
• FULL A UTO/PRESET in PRESET
Press the PROG.AE/EFFECT button
to display the production effect
menu.
To Turn Off a Production Effect
When FULL AUTO/PRESET switch is
in FULL AUTO, press PROG.AE/
EFFECT.
When FULL AUTO/PRESET switch is
in PRESET, press PROG.AE/EFFECT
to display the production effect menu,
and then press PROG.AE/EFFECT
repeatedly to highlight OFF.
Notes: When Sepia is activated, pressing
MAN. W.BAL. has no effect.
Certain effects cannot be used together with
other functions. When an effect not suitable
in the current situation is selected, its
indicator flashes irt the viewfinder or in the
LCD monitor.
OFF
1 0 Cinema
2 I_1 Sepia
3 *_1 Twilight
4 -_ Sports
5 _ HI.S 1/2000
Note: The effect will be turned off and the
menu will automatically be removed from
the viewfinder or LCD monitor in
approximately two, seconds.
63

Attaching the Shoulder Strap
The camcorder's shoulder strap is designed to let you carry the camcorder from your
shoulder and - when you are ready to shoot - bring the camcorder to shooting position
in one quick movement.
To Attach the Shoulder Strap
.
If the strap keeper is
over a double section
of the strap, slide the
strap keeper off the
end of the strap.
Replace the keeper
on the strap between
the buckle and the
end of the strap as
shown.
.
Loop the end of the strap over the top
of the shoulder strap attachment ring.
Buckle
Keeper
4. Attach the other end of the strap to the
other shoulder strap attachment ring.
.
Adjust the shoulder strap to the desired
length.
.
Slide both keepers up snugly against
the shoulder strap attachment rings to
prevent the strap from slipping.
Rings
.
Thread the end of the strap back
through the keeper and buckle making
sure it is threaded under the outer
strap. Make sure the strap is not
twisted.
64
Cautions: :When carrying the
close andIock the LCD monitor and
firmly attached before using it to

Write down your camcorder's
serial number and keep it separate
from the camcorder when
traveling. If your camcorder is
lost or stolen, you will be able to
identify it.
Use extra care to avoid damage to
your camcorder and accessories
when operating them at a beach
or pool. Spray, sand, and dust
should be avoided. If your lens
has been exposed to the elements,
clean it only with proper lens
cleaning supplies.
• Make sure you have any plug
adapters that you may need
before taking your camcorder to
other countries. Consult your
dealer for advice.
Carry your camcorder in a
carrying case when traveling.
See page 76 for a case designed
especially for this camcorder.
An ordinary suitcase or carry
bag does not offer the protection
your camcorder needs. Treat
your camcorder as carry-on
luggage to protect it from rough
handling.
65

Playback Using the LCD Monitor or Viewfinder
You can view tapes in color using the LCD monitor or black-and-white using
the viewfinder. You can hear the sound from the tapes on the built-in speaker
when you use the monitor.
BRIGHT
SPEAKER Control
VOLUME
Control
PUSH/OPEN PUSH Button _EJECT Button
Button LCD
Monitor
To Play Back a Tape
.
Attach a power supply.
Use the LCD Monitor
• Make sure the monitor is open at
Attach the adapter/charger, charged
battery, or optional DC car cord.
.
Insert a tape.
• Press PUSH/OPEN to open the LCD
• Tilt the LCD monitor (up to 45 ° up
• Adjust the brightness of the image
monitor. Open the monitor at least
60 ° before opening the cassette
• Adjust speaker volume with the
compartment.
• Press EJECT to open the cassette
compartment.
• Make sure the monitor is closed and
• Turn the tape wheel on the cassette
to remove any slack from the tape.
• Insert the cassette with the tape
• Adjust the viewfinder for a
wheel facing up and the tape window
facing out
• Turn the eyepiece focus control to
• Press the PUSH button to lock the
cassette compartment closed.
3. Place the POWER switch in VCR.
The power indicator will light.
4. Use the LCD monitor or viewfinder
to view what you are recording.
5. Press PLA Y/PA USE to begin
playback.
• If necessary, adjust tracking.
• During playback, use the playback
Eyepiece Focus
Control
least 60 °. The viewfinder will be
automatically turned off.
or down).
by turning the BRIGHT dial.
SPEAKER VOLUME control.
Use the Viewfinder
locked. The viewfinder will be
automatically turned on.
comfortable viewing condition.
adjust the focus of the viewfinder for
your vision.
features on the next pages.
Viewfinder
68
6. Press STOP when you are finished.

Playback Features
Button
Button
Button
on
POWER Switch in VCR
Visual Searching
• During playback, press and release FF
or REW if you want to search the tape
visually in forward or reverse.
• Press PLA Y/PA USE on the camcorder
to return to normal playback.
• For brief searching, press and hold FF
or REW for more than two seconds.
• Release the button to return to normal
playback.
Note: Noise bars may appear and the picture
may become monochrome or darken during
searching.
Stop-Action Pause
• During playback, press PLA Y/PA USE
to "stop the action" and view one frame
of the tape.
Tape Positioning
Place POWER switch in VCR and press
STOP.
• Press REW or FF to rewind or fast-
forward the tape.
• Press STOP to stop the tape.
• Press PLA Y/PA USE on the camcorder
to return to normal playback.
!:!iii_ili_!iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiilL
69

Playback Features (Continued)
COUNTER R/M (Reset/Memory) Button
STOP Button
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POWER Switch in VCR
Thumb Trigger
Time Counter
The time-counter display shows the actual time elapsed when playing back a segment
of tape. The memory-stop feature helps locate a certain point on the tape. When
memory stop is on, the tape will stop automatically during rewind or fast forward
when the time counter reaches M 0.'00:00.
To Use the Memory-Stop Feature
1. Place the POWER switch in VCR,
locate the place on the tape you want
to return to, and press COUNTER R/M
for more than two seconds to reset the
counter to 0:00:00.
M 0:00:00
Time Counter With
Memory Stop Turned On
2. Press COUNTER R/M again to turn on
memory stop. An M appears before
the time counter.
3. Continue to play the tape. When you
want to return to the place you marked,
press the STOP button.
4. Press REW. The tape will rewind to
the time counter reading of M 0:00:00.
5. Press COUNTER R/M to turn off
memory stop. The M disappears.
Note: The time counter does not operate on
blank portions of tape.
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Playback Features (Continued)
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Tracking
During playback, streaks may appear in the playback picture. Press either
TRACKING button to move the streaks up or down and out of the picture.
,, During stop-action playback, pressing
one of the TRACKING buttons may
reduce picture "jitter" (picture bouncing
Note: The TRACKING buttons may have no
effect on tapes recorded on other camcorders
or VCRs.
up and down). Some "jitter" is normal.
Simultaneously press both TRACKING
buttons to return tracking to its preset
center.
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Playback on TV (or VCR) with AUDIO/VIDEO IN Jacks
To connect your camcorder to a TV monitor (or VCR) with AUDIO/VIDEO IN jacks,
you will need an optional audio/video cable such as VH83 shown on page 78.
If your TV is already connected to a VCR, you can attach the camcorder to the VCR
and watch what the camcorder is recording or playing on the TV.
Back of
Mono VCR or
TV Monitor (_White
Audio Plug
Audio/Video
Output Cable
(Optional)
A UDIO Jack
\
©
Yellow Video Plug
°'°°'-°°,°..°°
°° °
OR--
Back of (_) "
Stereo VCR or Y-Adapter White ." .
TV Monitor (Optional) Audio Audio/Video ""
Plug Output Cable .."" ..""
:
___ _ / _(Optional) ..'" ...'"
ow Video Plug
Installation
on one
(_) Attach the white end of
the audio/video cable to the AUDIO
IN jack on the TV (or VCR).
Notes: If your cable does not have white
and yellow plugs, just be sure to attach the
same color to the audio jacks.
If your TV (or VCR) has stereo AUDIO IN
jacks, attach the plug to the one labeled
MONO. If one is not labeled MONO, you
may need a Y-adapter, such as AH25,
shown on page 78 to hear both channels.
plug
Attach yellow plug to VIDEO
IN jack on the TV (or VCR).
Attach the white the other end
of the audio/video cable to the AUDIO
jack (located under the small cover)
on the back of the camcorder.
Attach yellow plug yellow
VIDEO jack on the camcorder.
the
plug
the to the
the
on
72 (continued on next page)

Playback Operation and How to Copy Tapes on the VCR
1. A. Camcorder connected directly to
TV: Turn on the TV and tune it to
the video input channel.
B. Camcorder connected to VCR that
is already connected to TV: Turn
on VCR and place it in the line,
video, or camera mode. (If your
VCR does not have a line, video, or
camera mode, consult the VCR
owner's manual.) Operate the TV
as you normally do to see the signal
coming from the VCR.
2. Place the POWER switch in VCR to
turn on the camcorder. The power
indicator will light.
3. Press PLA Y/PA USE.
• During playback, use the playback
features described on pages 69-70.
• If noise bars appear on the screen,
adjust tracking as described on
page 71.
.
To copy what the camcorder is playing,
place a blank cassette in the VCR, and
press the VCR's RECORD button.
Make sure the memory-stop feature is
turned off (press COUNTER R/M) or the
camcorder will enter play pause when the
counter reaches M 0:00:00.
5. Press STOP when you are finished.
Viewing What the Camcorder is Seeing (or Recording)
1. A.
Camcorder connected directly to 3.
TV: Turn on the TV, and tune it to
the video input channel.
B°
Camcorder connected to VCR that
is already connected to TV: Turn
on VCR and place it in the line,
video, or camera mode. (If your
Press the thumb trigger to begin
recording. You can watch what the
camcorder is seeing (or recording) on
the TV screen.
Notes: When the camcorder is used as a
camera, turn the TV's volume down to
prevent a high-pitched squeal caused by
feedback.
VCR does not have a line, video, or
4.
camera mode, consult the VCR
Press the thumb trigger on the
camcorder to pause recording.
owner's manual.) Operate the TV
as you normally do to see the signal
coming from the VCR.
2. Place the POWER switch
in CAMERA.
73

Playback on a TV Without Audio/Video Inputs
To connect your camcorder to a TV without audio/video inputs, you will need an
optional 1CVA147C RF output adapter and an optional coaxial RF cable, such as VH82
or VH90 shown on page 78. If your TV has AUDIO and VIDEO IN jacks (or is
connected to a VCR), refer to pages 72-73.
VHF Antenna
Optional Coaxial
RF Cable
(such as VH82 or VH90)
Back of TV
•¢CIDc- ) t
Opti!_2_mer_ _
1
(Such as VH54) "_"_ [I
®
OUT TO TV Connector
Optional
300-75 Ohm
Transformer
IN FROM ANT
Connector
CH3/CH4 Switch
Installation
Disconnect the VHF antenna from
your TV. Connect the antenna to the
IN FROM ANT connector on the RF
output adapter if you are going to leave
the adapter connected to the TV.
Note: If your VHF antenna is the fiat
twin-lead type attached by two screws,
you will also need an optional 300/75 ohm
transformer.
VCRFFV Switch
AUDIO, RF DC
OUT, VIDEO Jacks
Adapter's Plug
t
Optional RF Output Adapter
(1CVA147C)
Attach end of the coaxialoptional
one
RF cable to the OUT TO TV
connector on the adapter, and attach
the other end to the VHF input on
your TV as shown.
Note: If your TV has 300 ohm screw
terminals, you will need a 751300 ohm
transformer, such as VH54, shown on
page 78.
Attach the RF output adapter's plug to
the AUDIO, RF DC OUT, and
VIDEO jacks located under the small
cover on the back of the camcorder.
74

Playback Operation
1. Set the CH3/CH4 switch on the RF
output adapter to channel 3 or 4.
2. Turn on the TV, and tune it to the
same channel you selected with the
RF output adapter's CH3/CH4 switch.
3. Place adapter's VCR/TV switch in
VCR.
. Place POWER in VCR. Power
indicator will light.
Viewing What the Camcorder Is Recording
5. Press PLA Y/PA USE on the camcorder.
• During playback, use the playback
features described on pages 69-70.
• If noise bars appear on the screen,
adjust tracking as described on
page 71.
.
Press STOP on the camcorder when
you are finished.
1. Turn on the TV and tune it to channel 5.
3 or4.
2. Set the CH3/CH4 switch on the RF
output adapter to the same channel
you selected on the TV.
3. Place adapter's VCRiTV switch in
VCR.
Press the thumb trigger to begin
recording. You can watch what the
camcorder is seeing (or recording) on
the TV screen.
Note: When the camcorder is used as a
camera, turn the TV's volume down to
prevent a high-pitched squeal caused by
feedback.
4. Place POWER in CAMERA. Power
indicator will light. 6.
Press the thumb trigger on the
camcorder to pause recording.
Normal TV Viewing
For normal TV viewing, you may leave the camcorder and place the adapter's
the RF output adapter hooked up to the VCR/TV switch in TV.
TV. Disconnect the adapter's plug from
Note to Cable TV Installer
This reminder is provided to call your attention to Article 820-40 of the
National Electrical Code (Section 54 of Canadian Electrical Code, Part I),
that provides guidelines for proper grounding and, in particular, specifies
that the cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system of the
building as close to the point of cable entry as practical.
75

We invite you to take a look at some great ideas for sparking creativity
and adding to the fun of using your compact VHS camcorder. The
following pages have a selection of accessories to help make your
memorable moments look and sound even better.
These accessories are designed to make the process of recording and
watching your videos more enjoyable.
To order accessories, contact your local Dealer.
If a dealer is not nearby, all accessories are available through toll-free
ordering or by using the order form on page 79.
AC201A Soft Carrying Case
Custom compact soft case designed
especially to provide protection and utility
for your compact VHS camcorder and
most accessories. Rugged fabric lined
with soft non-abrasive material and
generous padding. Has three outside
pockets with storage for lens filters,
adapters, batteries, and tapes.
DCC08 Car Cord Adapter
This car cord adapter enables you to
operate your camcorder from your car,
truck, or RV by plugging the car cord
directly into the vehicle's cigarette lighter
socket. The DCC08 is designed
specifically to convert power from a
12-volt battery to a 6-volt output.
Cautions: The DCC08 is designed to
be used only with vehicles having
negative ground electrical systems.
76
Use only car cord adapter DCC08 with
this camcorder. Use of any other car
cord adapter may damage the
camcorder and void your warranty.

Order Form for Camcorder Model ProV800C
Description
Super Lightweight Tripod
Soft Camcorder Case
Y-Adapter
AC Battery Charger
Car Cord Adapter
Rechargeable Battery (Extended)
Rechargeable Battery (Standard)
75-300 Cable Transformer
Coaxial RF Cable
Audio/Video Cable
Coaxial RF Cable
RF Output Adapter
Shoulder Strap
AC Adapter/Charger
and
DC Cable
Cassette Adapter
Part No. Price
AC088 $ 39.95
AC201A $ 39.95
AH25 $ 2.95
CPS91 $ 59.95
DCC08 $ 89.95
FBI20 $ 89.95
FB 1260 $ 49.95
VH54 $ 2.95
VH82 $ 6.95
VH83 !$ 5.95
VH90 ,$ 7.95
ICVAI47C $ 59.95
218858 $ 12.95
236689 $ 96.45
233087 $
237583 $
27.80
71.35
Qty.
Total
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Prices are subject to change without notice.
Total Merchandise ........................................................... $
Sales Tax ......................................................................... $.
We are required by law to collect the appropriate
sales tax for each individual state, county, and
locality to which the merchandise is being sent.
Shipping and Handling .................................................... $
Total Amount Enclosed ................................................ $.
Use VISA, MasterCard, or Discover.
Money order or check must be in U.S.
currency only. No COD or cash.
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Charge your order on your VISA,
MasterCard, or Discover Card by
filling in below
USE YOUR CREDIT CARD
IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number
from your VISA card
/,
VISA
I-TS-I-IIII II-TS-II III
My card expires: _
IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number
from your MasterCard
_-5--_-Y-_F]-FY-]lllll
Copy Number
above your
name on
MasterCard
IMPORTANT:
11111 My.car_I-I"-lFT]
Copy complete account number
from your Discover Card
expires:
_-TT-q F-7-]--TqF]-5-n _-TS-]
My card expires: _
;.i€',
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AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE
Prices are subject to change without notice.
Print or type your name and _ A complete and correct
your mailing label, of waiting.
address clearly. This will be _+ order will save you days
Name:
Street:
Apt:
City:
State: Zip:
Please make sure that both sides of this form
have been filled out completely•
• Allow 4 weeks for delivery.
• All accessories are subject to availability.
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To order accessories, contact your local Dealer.
If a dealer is not nearby, you can also follow the directions below to order by
telephone or direct-by-mail.
United States and Canada Orders
To place your order by phone, have your Visa, MasterCard, or Discover card
ready and call the toll-free number listed below between 8AM and 8PM (EST)
Monday through Friday or between 9AM and 5PM (EST) Saturday.
Use this number only to place an order for accessory items listed on
this order form.
1 - 800 - 338 - 0376
To place your order by mail, detach and mail the completed order form with
credit card information, money order, or check in U.S. currency (made payable
to Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.) to the following address:
Video Accessories
PO Box 8419
Ronks, PA 17573
81

i:
Cleaning the Camcorder
To clean the camcorder's exterior,
remove any power source connected to
the camcorder and gently wipe it with a
clean soft cloth•
Caution: Use of strong cleaning
products, such as those containing
alcohol or benzine, may damage
:the camcorder.
Cleaning the Camcorder's Lens ......: ......... : _ : :
To clean the camcorder's lens, blow it with a blower brush, and then
gently wipe the lens with a cleaning tissue and commercially prepared
cleaning solution designed for use on camera lens. Improper cleaning
may scratch the lens.
Caution: Do not
touch the lens with
your fingers. The
oil from your skin
can damage the
Lens;
lens.
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Cleaning the Camcorder's LCD Monitor ..:: : _ _'
1. Press PUSH/OPEN and open the
LCD monitor.
f
2. Carefully wipe the monitor with a
clean soft cloth.
//
I
LCD Monitor
3. Close the monitor.
Cleaning the Camcorder's Viewfinder
The viewfinder eyepiece can be removed for cleaning.
1. Turn the eyepiece
counterclockwise and pull it out.
2. Remove dust using a blower brush.
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82
3. Reattach the eyepiece by aligning
the reference marks, and then turn
the eyepiece clockwise until it
clicks.
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".-=-.-x:..:...: i:
Proper Care and Storage
• Keep dust and grit from entering the
camcorder's cassette door. Dust and
grit are abrasive and will cause
excessive wear to both the camcorder's
recording/playback heads and cassettes.
• Always close the lens cover and LCD
monitor when the camcorder is not in
use.
Before handling your camcorder, make
sure your hands and face are free from
any chemical products such as suntan
lotion, as it may damage the finish.
• The camcorder can be damaged by
improper storage: or handling. Do not
subject the camcorder to swinging,
shaking, or dropping.
• Do not store the camcorder in
temperatures below -22°F (-30C) or
above 149°F (65C).
• When the camcorder is not in use,
always remove the cassette and
AC adapter/charger or battery.
• Retain the original carton for future
storage or shipping purposes.
Things to Avoid _:'_'_ ........ ......._'_:_:' ,:_-_ _ "_: _'_'_:_' ',_ ...... : :
• Do not attempt to disassemble your • Do not operate the camcorder near the
camcorder. There are no user-
serviceable parts inside.
• Avoid operating your camcorder
immediately after moving it from a cold
location to a warm location. Give the
camcorder 1-1/2 to 2 hours to reach a
stable temperature before inserting a
cassette. When the camcorder is
moved from cold to warm,
condensation may cause the tape to
stick to the headwheel and damage the
headwheel or tape.
• Do not aim your camcorder at the sun
or other bright objects.
• Do not leave your camcorder in direct
sunlight for extended periods of time.
The resulting heat buildup could
permanently damage the camcorder's
internal parts.
• Do not operate the camcorder in
extremely humid environments.
ocean as salt water or salt water spray
may damage the internal parts of the
camcorder.
• Do not operate the camcorder for
extended periods in temperatures below
40°F (4C) or above 95°F (35C).
• Do not expose the camcorder or
adapter/charger to rain or moisture. If
either component becomes wet, turn off
the power and take the unit to an
Authorized RCA Camcorder
Servicenter.
• Do not use an adapter/charger or
batteries other than the ones specified
for the camcorder. Use of the wrong
accessories may cause damage to the
camcorder.
° Do not operate the LCD monitor if the
back becomes hot. Close and lock the
monitor or turn off the camcorder to
cool down the monitor.
83

Troubles sometimesarecausedby simple"faults" thatyou caneasily correct without
the help of a servicetechnicianby first checking afew basicremedies.
Before you call or take your camcorderto anAuthorized RCA CamcorderServicenter,
look below for thetype of trouble you areexperiencing. Thenperform thesimple
checksandadjustmentslisted for thattrouble.
If service shouldbe necessary,the warranty information lists what your warranty
coversandexplainshow to getservice.
No power
Won't record or
playback
• Place the POWER switch in CAMERA or VCR to turn on
the camcorder. The POWER indicator will light.
• If using battery, it may need to be recharged.
• If using AC adapter/charger, make sure it is plugged into a
working outlet.
• If using AC adapter/charger, make sure it is plugged into a
working outlet.
• If the dew indicator (1"/1)flashes on the LCD monitor or in
the viewfinder, there is moisture in the camcorder. Wait
until the dew indicator no longer appears before operating
the camcorder.
• Make sure POWER switch is in correct position for desired
operation.
• There may not be a cassette in the camcorder.
• Try ejecting and reinserting the cassette.
• The cassette tape may be broken, try another cassette.
• You may have reached the end of the cassette, try
rewinding it.
Won't playback
Won' t record
No picture
Camcorder turns
itself off
84
• POWER switch must be in VCR position.
• Safety tab has been removed. (See page 18.)
• POWER switch must be in CAMERA.
• Open lens cover.
Place POWER switch to OFF and then in CAMERA or
VCR to turn back on. If camcorder is left in record pause
or play pause for several minutes, it will turn itself off to
prevent tape wear.

Tape stops during
rewind or fast
forward
Time-counter memory may be on. Whenever an "M"
appears with the time-counter display, the camcorder will
stop rewinding (or fast forwarding) when counter reads
M 0:00:00. Press REW or FF again to continue
rewinding or fast forwarding, or press COUNTkTR R/M to
turn off the memory-stop feature.
Camcorder remains
in pause mode
Sound is too low or
distorted
Dew indicator
flashing in
viewfinder or LCD
monitor
Poor auto-focus
operation
• Press PLAY/PA USE to return to normal playback.
• Subject was too far from camcorder.
If the dew indicator (g]) flashes on the LCD monitor or
in the viewfinder, there is moisture in the camcorder.
Wait until this indicator no longer appears before
operating the camcorder.
• Subject is dark or behind glass. Auto-focus may not
work under these conditions. Place the FULL
A UTO/PRESET switch in PRESET and focus manually.
See pages 36-3Z
• Subject is not in center of LCD monitor or viewfinder or
two subjects are at different distances. Place FULL
A UTO/PRESET switch in PRESET and focus manually.
See pages 36-37.
• Auto focus is automatically turned off when some effects are
selected with the FULL A UTO/PRESET switch. Place FULL
A UTO/PRESET switch in FULL AUTO. See page 32.
Vertical white lines
appear when shoot-
ing bright object
Viewfinder or LCD
monitor displays are
dark or out of focus
Picture is too dark or
subject too dark
• This may occur when background extremely contrasts
with the subject.
• Lens is smudged, and image appears unfocused.
• Eyepiece focus control is misadjusted.
• Adjust BRIGHT control on LCD monitor.
• For best results, only use higher shutter speeds outdoors.
Place the FULL A UTO/PRESET switch in FULL AUTO.
• Add more light using the exposure control. See page 33.
(continued on next page) 85

'3!
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,Colors do not look
natural on recording
Picture recorded
with special effect
Picture recorded in
brown tone
Picture recorded
with black bars at
top and bottom
Title recorded on
tape
Date and/or time
were recorded on
tape
• Try adjusting white balance. See pages 34-35.
• Program effect may be selected. Press PROG.AE/EFFECT
to turn off the special effect. See pages 62-63.
2
Sepia ([-_] ) selected with PROG.AE/EFFECT. Press
PROG.AE/EFFECT to turn off Sepia. See page 62-63.
Camcorder is set to the Cinema mode. Press
PROG.AE/EFFECT to turn off Cinema. See page's 62-63.
• Title is recorded whenever it appears in viewfinder or on
LCD monitor. Remove the title. See pages 45-47.
• Displays will be recorded on tape whenever they appear.
Press DISPLAY to remove them from viewfinder when
recording. See pages 50-51.
Date and/or time are •
incorrect •
No picture in
viewfinder
No sound from
built-in speaker
during playback
Tally light does not
turn on during
recording
Tape won't eject
Clock lithium cell battery may need replacing. See page 48.
Date or time may need to be set. See page 49.
• Viewfinder is automatically turned off when you open LCD
monitor more than 60°• Close and lock LCD monitor to see
picture in viewfinder.
• Speaker is automatically turned off when LCD monitor is
not open more than 60 °. Open LCD monitor.
• Volume turned down. Adjust SPEAKER VOLUME control.
• Turn the Tally Light feature on. See page 53.
• Battery too low. Recharge battery.
• LCD monitor must be open at least 60 °.
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Back of LCD °
monitor is hot
Bright spots appear •
on monitor or areas
of color are not
clear •
Error number
(EO1, E02, etc.)
appears on LCD
monitor or in
viewfinder
Battery runs down •
sooner than
expected •
Light used for monitor causes it to get hot. Close the
monitor or turn off the unit to cool the monitor down.
Due to high-precision technology, black spots or bright spots
may appear on LCD monitor. These are not recorded on the
tape.
Pressing on the surface or edge of the monitor may cause
blurring.
Try disconnecting power source. Wait ten seconds and then
connect power source again. If error number does. not
disappear from viewfinder, consult your Authorized RCA
Camcorder Servicenter.
LCD monitor requires more battery power to operate than
the viewfinder.
If camcorder has not been used for some time, charge the
battery using the REFRESH feature on the adapter/charger.
Battery run times are measured when the camcorder is
recording continuously. You can check your battery by first
fully charging it and then aiming the camcorder at: a clock
and recording the picture of the clock. When the recording
stops, play the last recorded section, and note the clock time.
A one-hour battery should give you about 60 minutes of
recording time. In practical use, you may not be able to
record for the full time because the camera uses battery
current when it is waiting between recordings (record-pause
mode) and while you focus and zoom.
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General
Power requirement: 6VDC
Power consumption:
LCD Monitor off,
Viewfinder on: 5.7 watts
LCD Monitor on,
Viewfinder off: 7.5 watts
Weight: 2.3 lbs. (1,000g)
Dimensions - Including Viewfinder
4-15/16"(W) x 4-1/2"(H) x 9-1/16"(D)
124 (W) x 113(H) x 230(D) mm
Camera Section
Image Sensor: 1/4" CCD Imager
Lens: F1.2, (f = 4.1-57.4 mm)
Filter Diameter: 46 mm
Viewfinder
1/2" Black and White CRT
LCD Monitor
3" Diagonally Measured
LCD/TFT Active Matrix System
Tripod Mount
One 1/4" x 20 Threaded Hole
Video Recorder Section
Format: VHS-C
Record/Playback System:
Four VideoRecord/Playback Heads
One Flying Erase Head
Video Signal: EIA Standard NTSC
Color
Output: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ohms, Unbalanced
(via VIDEO Out Jack)
Audio Section
Output: -8dBs, 1 k-ohm (via AUDIO
Out Jack)
Speaker: 20mm Round x 1, Monaural
AC Adapter/Charger
Power requirement: 100-240 V, 50/60 Hz.
Power consumption: 23 watts
Weight: .7 lbs. (320g)
Dimensions:
6"(W) x 1.7"(H) x 2.7"(D)
150 (W) x 42(H) x 68(D) mm
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This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device and RF lighting device pursuant to
Part 15 and part 18 of the FCC Rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may
cause harmful interference to radio
communications.
However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference
by one or more of the following measures:
88
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the
equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a
circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced
radiofFV technician for help.
Alterations or modifications carried out
without appropriate authorization may
invalidate the user's FCC right to operate the
equipment.
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You can reach Thomson at the
following number:
800-283-6503
(Toll free inside U.S.A.)
Thomson provides a toll-free telephone
number to help you with any problems
you may encounter with your camcorder.
Many can be diagnosed over the phone,
and if necessary, a replacement unit can
Our toll-free Camcorder number
operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., CST
Monday - Friday
for U.S. customers only
be shipped to you. Please have your
camcorder model/serial number and date
of purchase ready when you call. If your
unit is out of warranty, we will quote the
cost of an exchange unit to you.
Returning equipment to Thomson for repair or exchange
If we are unable to resolve your problem
over the phone, we will gladly service
your unit or exchange it for a new or, at
our option, refurbished camcorder.
Refer to the limited warranty to learn
about your specific rights and
responsibilities.
Important information to customers
Thomson Consumer Electronics
The Thomson representative who
authorized the return of your equipment
will give you an RA number over the
phone. They will also provide you with
instructions on where and how to return
your camcorder. Write the number in
large, clear characters on the outside of
the box to avoid confusion and
misunderstandings. Shipments without
an RA number clearly visible on the
outside of the box will be returned to you
at your expense.
Include a brief note describing the
problem and any conversations about the
problem you have had with Thomson
personnel. Include your name, address
Always consult Thomson and get a
Return Authorization number before
returning anything! Obtain a Return
Authorization (RA) number from the
telephone representative before returning
your equipment to avoid delays,
accounting errors, or even loss of your
unit.
who ship defective equipment to
and model/serial number of your
camcorder. These numbers are located
on the bottom of your unit. If your
camcorder is within the warranty period,
please provide a copy of the bill of sale
to verify purchase date. Use the original
box and packing material to protect the
equipment from damage in shipment.
For your protection, insure all shipments
for full replacement value and use a
reliable shipper. Thomson assumes no
responsibility for warranty shipments
from the customer to the factory if not
shipped in the manner prescribed by
Thomson.
89

What your warranty covers:
• Any defect in materials or
workmanship.
For how long after your purchase:
• 90 days for labor charges.
• One year for parts.
(The warranty period for rental units
begins with the first rental or 45 days
from date of shipment to the rental firm,
whichever comes first.)
What we will do:
During the initial 90 days
• Exchange your camcorder with a new
or refurbished unit, or repair your
camcorder. The option will be ours.
There will be no cost to you.
After the 90 days and within one year
• Exchange your camcorder with a new
or refurbished unit, or repair your
camcorder. The option will be ours.
Parts will be provided at no charge,
but you will be responsible for the cost
of labor required for the repair.
How you get service:
• Call 1-800-283-6503 and have your
unit's date of purchase and
model/serial number ready. The
model/serial number information is on
the bottom of your camcorder.
• A representative will troubleshoot
your problem over the phone. If the
representative determines that you
should receive a replacement unit, you
will be provided with a Return
Authorization (RA) number and the
location of a nearby exchange point if
one exists. No returns will be
accepted without the RA number.
To receive a replacement camcorder
before you return yours:
If you are located near an
exchange point:
1. We will send a replacement unit to
the exchange point next business day
delivery in the continental USA.
2. The exchange location will notify you
of its arrival.
3. Take your unit, including all
accessories, and your evidence of
purchase date, such as a bill of sale, to
the exchange location and you will be
provided the new or refurbished unit.
4. If the repairs were covered by your
warranty, you will not be billed.
If you are not located near an
exchange point:
1. Provide your Discover, MasterCard or
Visa account number and expiration
date to our phone representative. This
is for security purposes. If we receive
your unit including all accessories
within 14 days from the date you were
provided an RA number, only items
not covered by warranty will be
charged to your account. IF YOUR
UNIT INCLUDING ALL
ACCESSORIES IS NOT
RECEIVED WITHIN 14 DAYS,
THE SUGGESTED RETAIL
VALUE OF THE CAMCORDER
AND/OR ACCESSORIES WILL
BE CHARGED TO YOUR
CREDIT CARD. This amount will
be credited if the unit is subsequently
received.
2. We will send you a replacement unit
next business; day delivery in the
continental LISA.
3. You will receive an invoice packed
with the replacement product, but will
not be charged for the unit portion of
the invoice amount if we receive your
unit including all accessories within
14 days from the date you were
provided the RA number. Any labor
and parts charges not covered by the
warranty w'ill be included and charged
against your account.
4. Ship the unit back to us along with all
accessories included with your
camcorder using the replacement
unit's carton. Shipping instructions
will be included in the carton along
with your RA number, which will
allow you to easily ship the unit back
90

to us. Make sure you insure your
shipment in case of damage or loss.
Include with the shipment:
• Evidence of purchase date, such as a
bill of sale, to verify your unit's
warranty eligibility.
• A brief note describing your
camcorder' s problem.
• Your name, address, and phone
number.
Return transportation, storage, handling,
and insurance costs are your sole
responsibility. We accept no liability in
case of damage or loss.
To receive a replacement unit after we
have received your unit:
1. Write the RA number on the outside
of the carton used to return the unit.
Make sure you insure your ship-
ment in case of damage or loss.
2. Carefully pack the unit along with all
accessories included with your
camcorder, using the original box and
packing material if possible.
3. Include with the shipment:
• Evidence of purchase date, such as
a bill of sale, to verify your unit's
warranty eligibility.
• A brief note describing your
camcorder' s problem.
• Your name, address, and phone
number.
Return transportation, storage, handling,
and insurance costs are your
responsibility. We accept no liability in
case of damage or loss.
4. Include a cashier's check or money
order for payment if there are any out
of warranty labor or parts charges
which were indicated by the
representative, and you elected not to
use your credit card.
5. Upon receipt of your product, a new
or refurbished unit will be shipped to
you next day delivery in the
continental USA.
To have your Camcorder repaired by
an Authorized RCA Camcorder
Servicenter:
• Check with your dealer or call 1-800-
336-1900 for the Authorized RCA
Camcorder Servicenter nearest you.
• Take your unit to the Authorized RCA
Camcorder Servicenter of your
choice.
• Show the Authorized RCA
Camcorder Servicenter representative
evidence of purchase date, such as a
bill of sale.
• Pick up your camcorder when repairs
are complete.
What your warranty does not cover:
• Adjustment of customer controls.
• Damage from misuse or neglect.
• A unit that has been modified or
incorporated into other products or is
used for institutional or other
commercial purposes.
• Batteries for remote control and clock.
• Cleaning of video/audio heads.
• Camcorders purchased or serviced
outside the USA.
• Return transportation, storage, and
handling costs of your unit, including
insurance for loss or damage.
• Acts of God, such as but not limited
to lightning damage.
Product Registration:
• Please complete and mail the Product
Registration Card packed with your
camcorder. It will make it easier to
contact you should it ever be
necessary. The return of the card is
not required for warranty coverage.
How State Law relates to warranty:
• This warranty gwes you specific legal
rights, and you may have other rights
that vary from state to state.
If you purchased your camcorder
outside the USA:
• This warranty does not apply. Contact
your dealer for warranty information.
91

-. _ o.
+ • and- • Buttons
............... 11,20-21,33,40-47,49,52-59
Accessories, Included ...................... 3
Accessories, Optional ................... 76-81
Accessory, Order Form ................. 79-81
Adapter/Charger, Using .................. 4,12
Animation Indicators ................... 28,57
Animation Recording ................... 56-57
Assistance ................. 1,3,89,Back Cover
Audio/Video Cable (Optional) ............ 72,78
A UDIOAZlDEO Jacks ................... 10,72
Auto Focus ............................. 36
Auto Head Cleaner ..................... . .30
BA TT. RELEASE Button ................ 10,13
Battery Level Indicator ............... 15,26-27
Battery Safety Precautions ................. 13
Battery, Care and Storage .................. 15
Battery, Using Rechargeable ............. 13-15
Black Fader .......................... 60-61
Blue Fader ........................... 60-61
BRIGHT Control .................... 7,9,24,68
Camcorder Lens, Cleaning ................. 82
Camcorder, Cleaning ...................... 82
Camcorder, Powering ................... 12-16
Camcorder, Turning On .................... 5
Camcorder, Unpacking ..................... 3
Camera Edit Feature ...................... 31
CAMERA/OFF/VCR Switch
............... 5,8,10,13,15,16,20-23,29-31
............. 33,34,38,50,54,56,68,69,70,73
Car Cord Adapter, Optional .............. 16,76
Care and Maintenance .................. 82-83
Care and Storage of Battery ................ 15
Cassette Adapter ...................... 66-67
Cassette Adapter, Install Battery ............. 66
Cassette Door .......................... 5,19
Cassette Warning Indicator .............. 28-29
Cassettes, Care and Storage ................. 19
Cassettes, Inserting and Removing ........... 19
Cautions ................... Inside Front Cover
Change Indicator ...................... 26-27
Charging the Battery ...................... 14
Checking Problems .................... 84-87
Cinema Feature ....................... 62-63
Cleaning Camcorder ...................... 82
Clock Cell Compartment ................ 10,48
Clock Cell Warning ................. 28-29,48
Clock Cell, Installing ...................... 48
Color Filter ............................. 43
Contents ............................... 1-2
Controls, Camcorder .................... 9-11
Copying Tapes ........................ 72-73
COUNTER R/M Button ................. 70,73
Customer Assistance ......... 1,3,89,Back Cover
Date and Time Display ............ 26-27,48-49
Date and Time, Record on Tape .......... 50-51
Date and Time, Set ....................... 49
DC IN Jack, Camcorder ................ 4,10,12
Design Specifications ..................... 88
Dew Warning Indicator .................... 28
Digital Zooming ......................... 39
DISPLAY Button .................... 11,50-51
Displays, Viewfinder and LCD Monitor .... 26-29
EDIT SEARCH + and - Buttons ..... 11,22-23,31
EIS (Electronic Image Stabilizer) Button .... 11,38
EIS Indicator .......................... 28,38
EJECT Button ................ 5,9,19,20-21,68
Electronic Image Stabilizer ................. 38
Electronic Indexing ....................... 32
Erase Protection .......................... 18
Exposure Control ......................... 33
Exposure Indicator .................... 28-29
Eyepiece Focus Control ......... 7,9,20-21,25,68
Fade and Wipe Indicators .......... 26-27,60-61
FADE/WIPE Button .......... 11,22-23,27,60-61
Fading In and Out ..................... 60-61
FAR • and NEAR • Buttons
............... 11,29,36-37,40-47,49,52-59
FF Button ........................... 11,31,69
First-Time Operation .................... 3-11
Flying Erase Head ........................ 30
Focus Indicators .................. 28-29,36-37
Focus Lock Feature ....................... 37
Focusing ............................. 36-37
Full Auto Mode ........................ 6,32
FULL A UTO/PRESET Switch ...... 6,9,20-21,26
........ 29,32-37,40-47,49,52,54,56,58,60-63
Gain Up Feature ......................... 42
Hand Strap ............................ 4,10
High Shutter Speed Feature .............. 62-63
Included Accessories ....................... 3
INDEX Indicator .................... 28-29,32
Information to User . ...................... 88
Inserting and Removing Cassettes ........... 19
Installing Clock Cell ...................... 48
JLIP ID No.............................. 53
LCD Monitor ....... 7,9,19,20-21,24,26-29,68,82
LCD Monitor or Viewfinder Playback ........ 68
Lens ................................. 9,82
Lens, Cleaning ............................ 82
LENS COVER Control ......... 4,10,20-21,22-23
LENS COVER Indicator ................. 26-27
Limited Warranty ...................... 90-91
Maintenance and Care .................. 82-83
Making a Recording .................... 20-23
MAN. W.BAL Button ................. 11,34-35
Manual Focus ........................... 37
Manual Focus Indicators ........... 28-29,36-37
Memory-Stop Feature ..................... 70
MENU Button ......... 11,20-21,40-47,49,52-59
Microphone ........................... 9,30
Mosaic Fader ......................... 60-61
NEAR I_ and FAR • Buttons
............... 11,29,36-37,40-47,49,52-59
Operation, First-Time .................... 3-11
92

Optical Zooming ......................... 39
Optional Accessories ................... 76-81
Order Form, Accessory ................. 79-81
PA USE Indicator ............. 5,8, 21,26,32,33
Pause, Stop-Action ....................... 69
PLA Y/PA USE Button ............ 8,11,69,73,75
Playback ............................. 66-75
Playback Features ..................... 69-71
Playback on a TV With AUDIO/VIDEO IN
Jacks ............................. 72-73
Playback on a TV Without Audio/Video
Inputs ............................ 74-75
Playback Speeds ......................... 18
Playback, First ............................ 8
Playback, Viewfinder or LCD Monitor ........ 68
Plug Adapter (Optional) ................... 12
POWER (CAMERA/OFF/VCR) Switch
............... 5,8,10,13,15,16,20-23,29,31
............. 33,34,38,50,54,56,68,69,70,73
Powering the Camcorder ................ 12-16
Problem Solving ....................... 84-87
Product Registration ......... Inside Front Cover
Production Effects Indicators .......... 26,62-63
PROG.AE/EFFECT Button .... 11,22-23,26,62-63
Proper Care and Storage ................... 83
PUSH Button ................. 5,9,19,20-21,68
PUSH/OPEN Button ....... 5,7,9,19,20-21,24,68
QUICK REC Button .................... 10,30
Quick Record Feature ..................... 30
Quick Review Feature ..................... 31
REC _.1_!, Indicator ..................... 8,26
Recording Menu .................. 40-46,49,52
Recording Menu - Sub Menu ............ 52-59
Recording Speed ........................ 6,18
Recording Tips .......................... 17
Recording, First ........................... 8
Recording, Making ..................... 20-23
Refreshing the Battery ..................... 14
Registration Card ........... Inside Front Cover
REW Button .................... 8,11,31,69,70
RF DC OUT Jack ...................... 10,74
RF Output Adapter, Optional .......... 74-75,78
Safety Tab .............................. 18
Searching, Visual ......................... 69
Self-Timer Feature ..................... 54-55
Self-Timer Indicator ................. 28,54-55
Sepia Feature ......................... 62-63
Set the Date and Time ..................... 49
Shoulder Strap Attachment Rings ......... 10,64
Shoulder Strap, Attaching .................. 64
Shutter Wipe ......................... 60-61
Slide Wipe ........................... 60-61
Solving Problems ...................... 84-87
SPEAKER VOLUME Control .............. 9,68
Specifications ........................... 88
Speeds, Recording and Playback ........... 6,18
Sports Feature ........................ 62-63
SpoEp Switch ............. 6,11,18,20-21,26,44
Status Displays .......................... 26
STOP Button .............. 8,11,31,68,69,73,75
Stop-Action Pause ........................ 69
Sub Menu of Recording Menu ............ 52-59
Table of Contents ......................... 1-2
Tally Light ..................... 8,22-23,30,53
Tally Light Feature ....................... 53
Tape Copying .......................... 72-73
TAPE END Warning ................ 28-29, 44
Tape Length Indicator .................. 28-29
Tape Positioning ....................... 31,69
Tape Speed Indicators .................. 18,26
Tape Time-Remaining Display ........... 28,44
Tape Wheel ............................ 5,19
Tape Window .......................... 5,19
Tele Macro Zooming Feature ............... 41
Things to Avoid .......................... 83
Thumb Trigger ....................... 8,10,23
Tilt, LCD Monitor ........................ 24
Tilt, Viewfinder .......................... 25
Time and Date Display ................. 48-49
Time and Date, Record on Tape .......... 50-51
Time and Date, Set ....................... 49
Time Counter ...................... 28-29,70
Time-Lapse Indicators .................. 28,59
Time-Lapse Recording .................. 58-59
Time-Remaining Display ................ 28,44
Tips, Recording .......................... 17
Tips, Traveling .......................... 65
Title Display .......................... 26-27
Title, Creating ........................... 46
Titles, Preset ............................ 45
Tracking ................................ 71
TRACKING Buttons .................... 11,71
Traveling Tips ........................... 65
Tripod, Using ............................ 77
Trouble Checks ....................... 84-87
Turning On the Camcorder .................. 5
Twilight Feature ....................... 62-63
Unpacking the Camcorder ................... 3
User Information ......................... 88
Using Cassette Adapter ................. 66-67
Video Cassettes ....................... 18-19
Viewfinder ........... 7,9,20-21,25,26-29,68,82
View finder Displays ................... 26-29
Viewfinder or LCD Monitor Playback ........ 68
Viewfinder, Cleaning ...................... 82
Visual Searching ......................... 69
Warranty, Limited ..................... 90-91
White Balance ........................... 34
White Balance Indicators ........... 28-29,34-35
Wipe and Fade Indicators .......... 26-27,60-61
Wiping In and Out ..................... 60-61
Zoom Indicator ..................... 26-27,39
Zoom Lever ................... 10,22-23,27,39
Zooming ............................... 39
93

Need Assistance? We want to help!
U.S. Consumers:
Customer Service 800-336-1900
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Accessories 800-338-0376
Canadian Consumers:
English 800-522-0338
French 800-522-0445
If your camcorder needs service, please
contact your dealer or the nearest Servicenter
from the yellow pages. Please do not send
any products to the Indianapolis address listed
in this manual or on the carton. This will only
add delays in service for your product.
• • • • • ee • • • • • • ee • • • • ee • •e •
• •e • • • • • • • •e • ee • • • • • • • • • •
f,,_ THOMSON CONSUMER ELECTRONICS
10330 N Meridian Street
Indianapolis, IN 46290
©1996 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.
Trademark(s) ® Registered
Marca(s) Registrada(s)
Printed in Japan
Part Number 96-ProV800C-1
LYT0003-004A(VP)