RCA ProV950HB User Manual

ProV950HB
USER'S GUIDE
CAMCORDER

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Be sure to read all safety information before you begin to use this product.
WARNING:
CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electric shock and fire hazard, do NOT
use any other power source.
CAUTION: To prevent electric shock, match wide blade of plug to wide slot,
fully insert.
ATTENTION: Pour éviter les chocs électriques, introduire la lame la plus large
de la fiche dans la borne correspondante de la prise et pousser jusqu au fond. To reduce risk of injury, charge only rechargeable batteries recommended by the
FCC Regulations state that unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment may void the user’s authority to operate it.
NOTE: The camcorder’s LCD panel is a very high technology product with 112,000 thin-film transistors*, giving you fine picture detail. Occasionally, a pixel may appear on the screen as a fixed point of blue, green, red, or black. Please note that this does not affect your camcorder’s performance.
*Specifications are subject to change without notice.
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS CAMCORDER OR AC ADAPTER/ CHARGER TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
CAUTION:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER­SERVICEABLE PARTS ARE INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
This symbol warns the user of uninsulated voltage within the unit that can cause dangerous electric shocks.
This symbol alerts the user that there are important operating and maintenance instructions in the literature accompanying this unit.
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: ProV950HB Serial No: Purchase Date: Purchased From:
i

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

In addition to the careful attention devoted to quality standards in the manufacture of your video product, safety is a major factor in the design of every instrument. However, safety is your responsibility too.
This sheet lists important information that will help to assure your enjoyment and proper use of the video product and accessory equipment. Please read it carefully before operating and using your video product.
Installation
1 Read and Follow Instructions—
All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the video product is operated. Follow all operating instructions.
2 Retain Instructions—The safetyand
operating instructions should be retained for future reference.
3 Heed Warnings—Comply with all
warnings on the video product and in the operating instructions.
4 Polarization—This video product is
equipped with a polarized alternating-current line plug (a plug having one blade wider than the other). This plug will fit into the power outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug still fails to fit, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. To prevent electric shock, do not use this polarized plug with an extension cord, recep­tacle, or other outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted without blade exposure. If you need an extension cord, use a polarized cord.
5 Power Sources—This video product
should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your video dealer or local power company. For video products intended to operate from battery power, or other sources, refer to the operating instructions.
6 Overloading—Do not overload wall
outlets or extension cords as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock. Overloaded AC outlets, extension cords, frayed power cords, damaged or cracked wire insulation, and broken plugs are dangerous. They may result in a shock or fire hazard. Periodically examine the cord, and if its appearance indicates damage or deteriorated insulation, have it replaced by your service technician.
7 Power-Cord Protection—Power-supply
cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the video product.
8 Ventilation—Slots and openings in the case
are provided for ventilation to ensure reliable operation of the video product and to protect it from overheat­ing. These openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be blocked by placing the video product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. This video product should never be placed near or over a radiator or heat register. This video product should not be placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack unless proper ventilation is provided or the video product manufacturer’s instructions have been followed.
9 Attachments—Do not use attachments
unless recommended by the video product manufac­turer as they may cause hazards.
10 Water and Moisture—Do not use this video
product near water—for example, near a bath tub, wash bowl, kitchen sink or laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool and the like.
Caution: Maintain electrical safety. Powerline operated equipment or accessories connected to this unit should bear the UL listing mark or CSA certification mark on the accessory itself and should not be modified so as to defeat the safety features. This will help avoid any potential hazard from electrical shock or fire. If in doubt, contact qualified service personnel.
11 Accessories—Do not place this video
product on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The video product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult as well as serious damage to the video product. Use this video product only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the manufacturer or sold with the video product. Any mounting of the product should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use a mounting accessory recommended by the manufacturer.
11A A video product and cart combination should
be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the video product and cart combination to overturn.
Note to CATV System Installer:
This reminder is provided to call the CATV system installer’s attention to Section 820-40 of the NEC which 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.
(continued on next page)
ii
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
12 Outdoor Antenna Grounding—If
an outside antenna or cable system is connected to the video product, be sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges. Section 810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA No. 70 (Section 54 of Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1) provides information with respect to proper grounding of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna­discharge unit, size of grounding conductors, location of antenna-discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes, and requirements for the grounding electrode. See example below.
Example of Antenna Grounding
ANTENNA LEAD IN WIRE
GROUND CLAMP
ANTENNA DISCHARGE UNIT (NEC SECTION 810-20)
GROUNDING CONDUCTORS (NEC SECTION 810-21)
ELECTRIC SERVICE EQUIPMENT
GROUND CLAMPS
POWER SERVICE GROUNDING ELECTRODE SYSTEM (NEC ART 250, PART H)
13 Power Lines—An outside antenna
system should not be located in the vicinity of overhead power lines, other electric light or power circuits, or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When installing an outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from touching or approaching such power lines or circuits as contact with them might be fatal. Installing an outdoor antenna can be hazardous and should be left to a professional antenna installer.
Use
14 Cleaning—Unplug this video
product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleanig.
15 Object and Liquid Entry—Never
push objects of any kind into this video product through openings as they may touch danger­ous voltage points or “short-out” parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the video product.
16 Lightning—For added protection for this
video product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent damage to the video product due to lightning and power line surges.
Service
17 Servicing—Do not attempt to service this
video product yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
18 Conditions Requiring Service—Unplug
this video product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions. A. When the power-supply cord or plug is
damaged.
B. If liquid has been spilled, or objects have
fallen into the video product.
C. If the video product has been exposed to rain or
water.
D. If the video product does not operate normally by
following the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions. Improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the video product to its normal operation.
E. If the video product has been dropped or the
cabinet has been damaged.
F. When the video product exhibits a distinct change
in performance—this indicates a need for service.
19 Replacement Parts—When replacement
parts are required, have the service technician verify that the replacements he uses have the same safety characteristics as the original parts. Use of replace­ments specified by the video product manufacturer can prevent fire, electric shock, or other hazards.
20 Safety Check—Upon completion of any
service or repairs to this video product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks recommended by the manufacturer to determine that the video product is in safe operating condition.
21 Wall or Ceiling Mounting—The product
should be mounted to a wall or ceiling only as recommended by the manufacturer.
22 Heat—The product should be situated away
from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
iii

Table of Contents

Assistance
We want to make sure you enjoy your new camcorder. If you have any questions, call:
Camcorder Exchange Warranty................................... 800-283-6503 (pages 70–71)
Customer Service................................................................. 800-336-1900 (page 69)
Accessories .................................................................. 800-338-0376 (pages 58-61)
Information
Important
Important Information
First-Time Operation
Basic Operations Camera Recording
Important Safety Information ................................. i
Important Safeguards ....................................... ii-iii
Supplied Accessories .......................................... 3
Camcorder Controls.......................................... 4-5
Installing the Lithium Cell in the Camcorder ........ 6
Installing the Lithium Cell in the Remote Control ... 6
Attaching the AC Adapter/Battery Charger ......... 7
Charging on the Docking Station ......................... 8
Inserting and Removing the Battery Pack ........... 9
Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet ....... 10
Powering the Camcorder from Your Car Battery.. 11
Inserting and Removing a Cassette .................. 12
Controlling the Monitor Display .......................... 13
Using the On-Screen Menu .......................... 14-15
Warning Indicators ............................................. 16
Setting the Area, Date, and Time ....................... 17
World Clock................................................... 18-20
Picture/Backlight Adjustments ........................... 21
Using the Hand Strap ........................................ 22
Attaching the Shoulder Strap ............................. 22
Easy Camera Recording with Full Auto ............. 23
Zooming ............................................................. 24
Setting the Digital Zoom..................................... 24
Digital Quick Zoom (Extend Zoom) ..................... 25
Auto Focus ......................................................... 25
Backlight Compensation (BLC) ......................... 26
Gain-up (Cat’s Eye) ............................................ 26
Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) ........................ 27
Macro Shots ....................................................... 27
Fade In and Fade Out ........................................ 28
Recording with the Wide Screen (16:9) ............. 29
Quick Return ...................................................... 30
Edit Search......................................................... 30
Tips on Recording Positions .............................. 31
Hints for Better Shooting .................................... 31
Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode.......... 32
Recording the Date and Time ............................ 32
Remaining Recording Time Display .................. 33
Remaining Battery Power Display ..................... 33
1
Table of Contents
Basic Operations Playback
Useful Features for Camera Recording
Connections and Editing
Playback ............................................................ 34
Volume Control ................................................... 34
Fast Forward and Rewind .................................. 34
Using the Stand ................................................. 35
Video Search...................................................... 35
Still...................................................................... 35
Slow.................................................................... 35
Program Search ................................................. 36
Using the Tape Counter ..................................... 37
Counter Memory ................................................ 38
Turning Off the LCD Monitor Backlight .............. 38
Using the lnfrared Remote Control .................... 39
Self Recording .............................................. 40-42
Manual Focus..................................................... 43
Scene Menu (Program AE) ................................ 44
Setting the Shutter Speed .................................. 45
White Balance Lock ........................................... 46
Manual Iris.......................................................... 47
Recording a Five-second Still Image
(Snapshot) ...................................................... 48
Still Recording................................................... 48
Strobe Recording ............................................... 49
Stopwatch ..................................................... 49-50
Lighting .............................................................. 51
Connection to TV Using the Docking Station ..... 52
Connection to TV Using a VCR .......................... 52
Connections for Playback on a TV Using
Audio/Video Jacks .......................................... 53
Use the Camcorder to Play Back Tapes on a TV ..... 53
Using the Optional SAV103 A/V Pack ................ 54
Editing ................................................................ 55
Recording from an External Source ................... 56
References
Fluorescent Lamp Backlight .............................. 57
Optional Accessories ......................................... 58
Accessory Order Form ................................. 59-61
Use and Care ................................................ 62-65
Trouble Checks ............................................. 66-67
Specifications..................................................... 68
Information to User ............................................ 68
Customer Assistance and Service ..................... 69
Limited Warranty ........................................... 70-71
Index ............................................................. 72-75
2

Supplied Accessories

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
These toll-free numbers are available to help you with any problems you may encounter.
Camcorder Exchange Warranty........................ 800-283-6503
Customer Service.............................................. 800-336-1900
Accessories ...................................................... 800-338-0376
Information
Important
Supplied Accessories
Rechargeable Battery Pack
Model ProV950HB
CAUTION: Do not use this adapter/charger for any purpose other than charging the BB75 or BB90
AC Adapter/Charger
Part No. 233576
Docking Station Part No. 233665
battery pack or supplying power to the camcorder.
Audio/Video Cable
Part No. BB75
Part No. 233582
WARNING: LITHIUM-ION (RECHARGEABLE) BATTERY MUST BE RECYCLED OR DISPOSED OF PROPERLY. DO NOT INCINERATE OR DISASSEMBLE–MAY EXPLODE OR RELEASE TOXIC MATERIALS. DO NOT SHORT CIRCUIT–MAY CAUSE BURNS.
REMOTE CONTROL
REC
START/
ZOOM
STOP
PLAY
PAUSE/STILL
STOP
REW FF
SLOW
VOLUME
Shoulder Strap
Part No. 233580
Remote Control
Part No. 233581
S-Video Cable
Part No. 233579
DC Output Cable
Part No. 233578
Two Lithium Cells 3-Volt Micro Lithium Cells – such as CR2025 – are available from most local drug stores and camera shops. Use of other cells present a risk of fire or explosion.
CAUTIONS: Lithium cells must be disposed of properly. Never handle punctured or leaking cells. May cause burns or personal injury.
Keep out of the hands of children. Can cause death or injury if swallowed. If swallowed, consult a physician immediately for emergency treatment.
The lithium cells used in these devices may explode resulting in a fire or chemical burn if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 212º F (100ºC), or incinerate.
Never use metallic tweezers to hold the cell, and never short circuit the + and – sides of the cell.
3

Camcorder Controls

For details on the use of each control, refer to the page number indicated in the brackets.
Front View
Zoom Lens
When the cassette compartment door is opened
Lens Protector
Cassette
Compartment
Door [p. 12]
Stereo Microphone
Cassette Compartment Door Release [p. 12]
A/V Pack Terminal Cover [p. 54]
Retractable Stand [p. 35]
Cassette Holder [p. 12]
Shoulder Strap Loop [p. 22]
Memory Backup Cell Compartment [p. 6]
Removing the Lens Protector
Before mounting an optional wide or telephoto conversion lens, remove the lens protector by turning it counter­clockwise.
4
Information
Important
Rear View
Power Zoom Wide/ Telephoto Control Buttons [p. 24]
LCD Monitor
VOLume Control Buttons [p. 34]
MENU Button [p. 13]
MODE
RECord START/STOP Button [p. 23]
DISPLAY
Button [p.15]
Operation
Shoulder Strap Loop [p. 22]
Button
[p.13]
Hand Strap [p. 22]
SNAPshot Button [p. 48]
EarPHONES Jack [p. 34]
PLUG IN POWER MICrophone Jack*
*About the PLUG IN POWER MIC Jack
This external microphone jack outputs a DC voltage of 4.0 V. It is for use with any 2.5–4.0 volt DC use condenser-type microphone with a 3.5 mm diameter plug. The use of other types of microphones may result in damage to the microphone or the camcorder.
Photoreceptor [p. 39]
Power Switch (CAMERA/VCR Select Switch) [p. 13]
Speaker
Side View Bottom View
When Camera Module is Rotated
Fluorescent Lamp Compartment [p. 57]
Battery Compartment door release [p. 9]
System Connector
Tripod Socket
5

First-Time Operation

Installing the Lithium Cell in the Camcorder

1 Slide the release and open the cassette
compartment door. (The cassette holder opens automatically.) Pull out the cell holder using a pointed object such as the point of a pen, as shown.
Cassette Compartment Door Release
2 Insert the supplied lithium cell into the
holder with the ` side facing outward.
WARNING: Replace cell only with 3-volt micro lithium cells – such as CR2025 – available from most local drug stores and camera shops. Use of other cells present a risk of fire or explosion.
Cautions:
Lithium cells must be disposed of properly. Never handle punctured or leaking cells. May cause burns or personal injury. Keep out of the hands of children. Can cause death or injury if swallowed. If swallowed, consult a physician immediately for emergency treatment.
The lithium cells used in these devices may explode resulting in a fire or chemical burn if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 212º F (100ºC), or incinerate.
Never use metallic tweezers to hold the cell, and never short circuit the + and - sides of the cell.
Notes:
• The lithium cell is used to back up the calendar and other memory functions.
• The battery will last about one year of normal usage.
• Replace the battery with a new CR2025 cell when the camcorder’s time indicator starts to fall behind the correct time.

Installing the Lithium Cell in the Remote Control

1 Hold the remote control
face down. Then pull out the cell holder while pressing the tab toward the center.
3 Insert the cell holder back into its
compartment, and push it in completely.
4 Press the “PUSH” mark until the cassette
holder clicks into place. Then, close the cassette compartment door firmly until it clicks.
“PUSH” mark
2 Install the supplied CR2025 lithium cell
with its ` side matching the j marked side of the cell holder into the cell holder.
3 Insert the cell holder in the direction of the
arrow. Make sure that the j side faces the back of the remote control.
6

Attaching the AC Adapter/ Battery Charger

Precautions:
• If used near a radio, the AC adapter/battery charger may interfere with reception.
• Prevent flammables, liquids, and metal objects from entering the unit.
• This is a sealed unit. Do not attempt to open or modify it.
• Do not damage, drop, or subject the unit to vibration.
• Do not leave the unit in direct sunlight.
• Avoid using the unit in humid or extremely hot places.
• If the power source becomes disconnected during recording, playback, or other operations, the tape will remain wrapped around the drum, causing possible damage to the tape. Reconnect the power source to the main unit immediately.
• The supplied AC adapter/battery charger is specially designed for use with this camcorder, and should not be used as a power supply for other camcorders.
Charging the Battery Pack
1 Be sure the DC output cable is
disconnected from the AC adapter/battery charger. Insert the AC plug into a power outlet. The POWER indicator will light.
To Power Outlet POWER Indicator
CHARGE Indicators
Charging starts. (Indicator starts flashing.)
Now charging.
Charging completed. (The indicators will turn off approximately 90 to 120 minutes after charging is completed.)
Charging Time Using AC Adapter/Battery Charger
Battery Pack
BB75
Notes:
• The battery and charger warm up during charging. This is not a malfunction.
• Charging time depends on the ambient temperature and the condition of the battery.
Cautions:
• Charge only BB75 battery pack. Other types of batteries may burst, causing personal injury and damage.
• Do not incinerate or mutilate the battery pack. It may present the risk of a rise in surface temperature, and/or the release of flammable vapors.
• Replace battery with BB75 only. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.
Charging Time
Approx. 90 min.
First-Time
Operation
CHARGE Indicators
2 Align the D mark on the battery with the C
mark on the charger (Q). Guide the battery into the groove. Pressing the battery (W), slide it in the direction of the arrow (E) until it locks into place.
3 When the battery is charged, all three
CHARGE indicators will light. Remove the battery and the AC plug.
Attaching the AC Adapter to the Docking Station
Attach the AC adapter to the Docking Station and insert the AC plug into a power outlet.
Removing the AC Adapter from the Docking Station
Press the AC adapter release button and pull out the adapter.
Release Button
7
First-Time Operation

Charging on the Docking Station

If the camcorder is attached to the Docking Station, the battery pack in the camcorder can be charged automatically and continuously. The Docking Station keeps your camcorder ready to operate at any time.
1 Attach the AC adapter to the Docking
Station and insert the AC plug into a power outlet (see page 7).
2 Insert the battery pack in the camcorder
(see page 9).
• Make sure that the Power switch is set to OFF. Charging is not possible when the camcorder is in the VCR or Camera mode.
3 Attach the camcorder to the Docking
Station with the LCD monitor facing the Docking Station’s LED lamp window side (Q). Then slide the camcorder securing lever on the Docking Station in the direction of the arrow to the lock position (W). Charging starts automatically.
Securing lever
Charging Two Battery Packs at the Same Time
You can charge two battery packs at the same time using the Docking Station unit.
1 Attach the first battery pack to the AC
adapter/battery charger.
2 Insert the second battery pack in the
camcorder and attach the camcorder to the Docking Station.
• The battery pack on the AC adapter/battery charger will be charged first and then the battery pack in the camcorder will be charged.
• The charge level of the battery pack in the camcorder can be monitored by removing the camcorder from the Docking Station and setting it to Camera or VCR mode.
2
1
Note:
• Charging the battery pack fully in the camcorder on the Docking Station will take approximately 11 hours with BB75. If you are in a hurry, we recommend you use the AC adapter.
Removing the Camcorder from the Docking Station
Press the camcorder release button and remove the camcorder.
LED Lamp Window
Caution:
• If you remove the camcorder from the Docking Station without first setting the Power switch to OFF while the battery pack is in the camcorder, the power may turn off and not turn on even if you set the Power switch to CAMERA or VCR.
Note:
• If the camcorder is removed from the Docking Station, the battery pack inside will naturally discharge with time, even after it has been fully charged. We recommend you place the camcorder on the Docking Station even when it is not in use.
Cautions:
• Do not use excessive force with the camcorder and/or Docking Station. Doing so may cause damage or malfunction.
• When installing the camcorder on the Docking Station, be sure to lock it firmly with the securing lever. When removing, hold the camcorder firmly while releasing the lock so that the camcorder will not fall over.
Release button
8

Inserting and Removing the Battery Pack

Inserting the Battery Pack
1 Slide the battery compartment door
release on the bottom of the camcorder in the direction of the arrow (Q), to open the battery compartment door (W).
2 Insert the battery pack into the
compartment (Q), as shown, and push it in completely (W).
Caution:
• Do not force the battery pack into the battery compartment if it does not go in easily.
3 Close the door. Be sure to push firmly
until it clicks.
Cautions:
• BEFORE REMOVING THE BATTERY PACK, ALWAYS STOP THE TAPE AND TURN THE POWER OFF. If you remove the battery pack during recording or playback, the tape will remain wound around the video head drum and may be damaged. Should the power source (battery or adapter) become disconnected during operation, reconnect it again immediately.
• Do not expose the battery compartment door to strong force, as it may come off.
• Be sure to close the battery compartment door firmly, especially during operations. If you do not, the battery pack may come off or camcorder operation may fail because of the poor contact pressure.
• Remove the battery pack from the camcorder or disconnect the camcorder from the AC adapter if the camcorder will not be used for a long time.
• When removing the battery pack, do not tilt the camcorder so that the battery compartment faces down. The battery pack may fall out.
Battery Pack Handling
•Make sure that you take enough battery packs with you to provide two to three times your estimated recording time.
•Recording time will be reduced in cold weather.
•The battery will drain in Recording Standby mode. Turn off the power if you will not be recording again soon.
First-Time
Operation
Removing the Battery Pack
Perform step 1 above. Then, with the camcorder facing down, press the lock as shown (Q), and remove the battery pack (W).
Lock
9
First-Time Operation
4
5

Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet

1 Slide the battery compartment door
release on the bottom of the camcorder in the direction of the arrow (Q), to open the battery compartment door (W).
2 Slide the cable notch cover in the direction
of the arrow shown in the diagram.
Cable Notch
Cover
3 Insert the DC cable connecting plate into
the compartment (Q), pass the DC cable through the battery compartment notch, and then close the battery compartment door firmly (W).
Notch
4 Insert the cable plug into the DC OUT jack
on the supplied AC adapter.
5 Plug the power cord into a power outlet.
The POWER indicator on the AC adapter will light.
POWER indicator
Removing the DC Cable from the Camcorder
1 Slide the battery compartment door
release and open the door.
2 Press the lock as shown (Q), remove the
cable from the notch and then remove the DC cable (W).
Lock
Note:
• The DC cable can be easily removed by facing the camcorder down at an angle.
Cautions:
• Turn the Power switch off before removing the DC cable.
• When removing the DC cable, grasp the connecting plate, not the cable itself, and pull it out of the compartment.
Notch
Using an Optional Plug Adapter
An optional plug adapter may be required in some countries.
Optional AC
Plug Adapter
AC 100-240V
1 Plug the adapter/charger’s plug into the
AC plug adapter.
2 Plug the AC plug adapter into the AC
outlet.
10

Powering the Camcorder from Your Car Battery

Use the optional SDC100 car battery adapter (shown on page 58) to power the camcorder from your car battery.
1 Open the battery compartment door
release on the bottom of the camcorder and insert the DC cable connecting plate in the camcorder.
2 Pass the DC cable through the battery
compartment notch, then close the battery compartment door.
3 Insert the DC cable plug into the DC OUT
jack on the car battery adapter.
4 Start the car engine and leave it idling.
Then, insert the power cord plug of the car battery adapter into the cigarette lighter socket.
Note:
• See the SDC100 operation manual for details.
Cautions:
• Use only in DC 12 V or 24 V negative ground system cars. Positive-ground car batteries CANNOT BE USED. Check your car operation manual or consult a local car dealer.
• Use the car battery adapter only when the car is idling or being driven. Otherwise, the car’s battery will be drained.
• Before starting the car engine, the car battery adapter must be unplugged from the cigarette lighter socket.
• Before removing either the DC plug or the cigarette lighter plug, the camcorder’s Power switch should be set to OFF.
• Do not apply strong force to the DC cable connected to the camcorder as this will cause a malfunction.
First-Time
Operation
DC Cable
DC OUT Jack
3
To Cigarette Lighter Socket
Car Battery Adapter SDC100
4
11
First-Time Operation

Inserting and Removing a Cassette

Inserting a Cassette
1 Slide the release and fully open the
cassette compartment door.
• The cassette holder opens automatically.
Cassette compartment door release
2 Insert the tape cassette fully with the
window facing out and the erasure protect tab facing up.
Erasure Protect Tab
3 Press the “PUSH” mark until the cassette
holder clicks into place.
• The cassette holder retracts automatically.
“PUSH” Mark
Removing a Cassette
Perform step 1 and then remove the cassette.
Cautions:
• Be careful not to get your fingers caught in the cassette compartment.
• Do not apply force to the cassette compartment except for pressing the “PUSH” mark to close it.
• Do not tilt the camcorder or hold it upside down when you are inserting or removing a cassette. It may damage the tape.
• Remove the cassette if you will not use the camcorder for a long time.
• If you do not press the cassette holder closed correctly in step 3, the camcorder’s cassette protection mechanism might eject the cassette. If this happens, repeat the insertion procedure.
• Do not attempt to pick up the camcorder by the cassette compartment door.
• If the compartment door does not close when gently pressed into position, check the compartment door release. The door release may not be completely opened as shown below on the left. In this case, slide the door release in the direction of the arrow and press the compartment door closed.
• If the battery power is too low, you may not be able to eject the cassette or operate the Power switch. Replace the battery pack with a fully charged one.
• If the tape cassette is loaded when dew has formed, the camcorder’s cassette protection mechanism might eject the cassette (see page
63). Check that the cassette holder has retracted completely before closing the cassette compartment door.
4 Wait for the cassette holder to fully retract.
Close the compartment door pressing its center until it clicks into place.
Press Here.
12

Controlling the Monitor Display

You can use various functions and make mode settings while viewing the monitor display.
MODE DISPLAY Button
MENU Button
VCR Mode
Note:
• The monitor illustrations in this operation manual are for the purpose of explaining the functions of the camcorder, and may differ from the actual monitor displays.
Camera Mode
Lock Button
Operation Button
Camera mode (when the Power switch
• Each time you press the MENU button, the screen changes from to .
• With the screen displayed, press B on the operation button ( ) to select “MENU”. Each time you press C or B on the button, the screen changes from MENU-PAGE
to 4.
1
• If the area, date and time have not been set, MENU-PAGE 4 appears when you press B on the button to select “MENU” on screen (see page 17).
E X T E N D
PAGE DATE/TIME DISPLAY
S E T
SELF REC PREV. PAGE
PAGE AREA DYLT SAVE
S E
SETTING
T
PREV. PAGE
Power
• Hold down the Lock button when setting
Switch
the Power switch to CAMERA or VCR.
is set to CAMERA)
BLC
D
I
S
AUTO
FADE
STOP WATCH
M E N U
AUTO
COUNTER
ITEM
1234 OFF
AUTO DATE DATETIME AUTO AUTO NO
ITEM
ITEM
1234
OFF
ITEM
CORRECT
PAGE
ON
16 : 9 REMOTE
S
S
E
E
OFF
CAM. DISP.
T
T
DGTL ZOOM PREV. PAGE
PAGE EXTEND ZOOM PHOTO SNAP
ON
S
S
E
E
T
T
PREV. PAGE
ITEM
1234 OFF ONONOFF
OFF
ITEM
ITEM
1234
1.5 2.0 2.5 SNAP
ITEM
STILL
VCR mode (when the Power switch
is set to VCR)
• Each time you press the MENU button, the screen changes from to .
• With the screen displayed, press B on the
button to select “MENU”. The menu screen
will appear.
AUTO
AUTO
Note:
ON
S E
OFF
T
ON
• The above displays are those when a cassette is loaded in the camcorder and the power is supplied from a battery pack.
About the Operation button ( )
X
S E T
Use this button to select and set the various functions on the monitor by pressing Q , W C, E A, or R B as shown.
PLAY
STILL
R E W
EDIT
REMOTE
S
VCR DISP.
E T
PREV. PAGE
STOP
STOP WATCH
COUNTER
ITEM
OFF AUTO ONONOFF ON
ITEM
F F
M E N U
OFF
S
OFF
E T
(Q Up, W Left, E Down, R Right)
SEARCH
First-Time
Operation
13
First-Time Operation
ITEM
ITEM
S E T
S E T
PAGE DATE/TIME DISPLAY
SELF REC PREV. PAGE
ON
DATE DATETIME
AUTO
AUTO
OFF
1234 OFF
AUTO NO
CORRECT
Using the On-Screen Menu 1 To display the Camera
mode menu screen:
Hold down the Lock button and slide the Power switch to CAMERA.
To display the VCR mode menu screen:
Hold down the Lock button and slide the Power switch to VCR.
Lock Button
Lock Button
2 Press the MENU button until screen
appears. (Select in VCR mode.)
Ex. Camera Mode
STOP WATCH
M
E N U
COUNTER
AUTO
3 Press B on the operation button ( ) to
select “MENU”. MENU-PAGE 1 will appear on the monitor.
• There is only one menu page in VCR mode. Skip step 4.
4 Press C or B on the button to
change from MENU-PAGE 1 to 4 .
Ex. Camera Mode
ITEM
PAGE DATE/TIME DISPLAY
S E T
SELF REC PREV. PAGE
PAGE 16 : 9 REMOTE
S E
CAM. DISP.
T
DGTL ZOOM PREV. PAGE
PAGE EXTEND ZOOM PHOTO SNAP
S E T
PREV. PAGE
PAGE AREA DYLT SAVE
S E
SETTING
T
PREV. PAGE
1234 OFF
AUTO
DATE DATETIME
AUTO AUTO NO
ITEM
ITEM
1234 OFF ONONOFF
OFF
ITEM
ITEM
1234
1.5 2.0 2.5 SNAP
ITEM
ITEM
1234
OFF
ITEM
ON
OFF
CORRECT
ON
OFF
ON
X
STILL
ON
S E T
S E T
S E T
S E T
5 Press orAon the button to select the
menu item you wish to set.
STOP WATCH
M E N U
Operation
Button
S E T
Note:
• If the area, date and time have not been set, MENU-PAGE 4 appears.
PAGE DATE /TIME DISPLAY
SELF REC PREV. PAGE
ITEM
1234
OFF
AUTO DATE DATETIME AUTO AUTO NO
ITEM
ON
OFF
CORRECT
S E T
6 Press C or B on the button to set the
desired mode.
• Each time you press the button, the item setting changes as shown on the next page.
14
1) Camera Mode
ITEM
PAGE DATE/TIME DISPLAY
S E T
SELF REC PREV. PAGE
PAGE 16 : 9 REMOTE
S E
CAM. DISP.
T
DGTL ZOOM PREV. PAGE
PAGE EXTEND ZOOM PHOTO SNAP
S E T
PREV. PAGE
PAGE AREA DYLT SAVE
S E
SETTING
T
PREV. PAGE
1234 OFF DATE DATETIME AUTO AUTO NO
ITEM
ITEM
1234 OFF ONONOFF
OFF
ITEM
ITEM
1234
1.5 2.5X 2.0 SNAP
ITEM
ITEM
1234
OFF
ITEM
2) VCR Mode
ITEM
EDIT
REMOTE
S
VCR DISP.
E T
PREV. PAGE
OFF
AUTO ONONOFF ON
AUTO
CORRECT
STILL
ON
OFF
DATE DATETIME
S E
OFF
AUTO OFF
T
AUTO NO CORRECT
Press C or B on the button to change from MENU­PAGE 1 to 4.
ON
OFF ON
S E
OFF
ON
T
ON
OFF
1.5 2.0 2.5 SNAP
S E T
You can choose from
ON
24 time zones for the
S E
area (see pages
T
17–20).
OFF
You can set the date and time. (see page
17).
OFF
OFF
AUTO OFF
ON
S
ONONOFF
OFF
E T
AUTO
ON OFF OFF ON
STILL
ON
OFF
7 After completing the setting, press the
MENU button. The menu screen will disappear.
Notes:
ON
• Certain menu items are common to both the Camera and VCR modes. If the “REMOTE” menu item, for example, is set to “OFF” in the Camera mode, it will automatically be set to “OFF” in the VCR mode.
• The menu screen cannot be displayed when the camcorder is recording.
• To turn off the menu display, press the MENU button or MODE DISPLAY button. When the MENU button is pressed, the menu screen will disappear and the
screen will be displayed. When the MODE DISPLAY button is pressed, operation indicators will disappear. Press it again to display the indicators.
Returning to the Previous Screen
PressAon the button to select “PREV. PAGE” and then press C or B on the button to select “SET” to return to the previous screen.
Operation
Button
PAGE DATE/TIME DISPLAY
S E T
SELF REC PREV. PAGE PRESS SET
ITEM
1234 OFF DATE DATETIME AUTO AUTO NO
ITEM
STOP WATCH
COUNTER
AUTO
CORRECT
ON
OFF
AUTO
S E T
M E N U
First-Time
Operation
ITEM
15
First-Time Operation

Warning Indicators

Display for the first
3 seconds
EJECT THE CASSETTE.
Display after the first
3 seconds
EJECT THE CASSETTE.
BATTERY IS TOO LOW.
INSERT A CASSETTE.
CASSETTE NOT RECORDABLE.
THE TAPE ENDS SOON.
CHANGE THE CASSETTE.
REPLACE THE LAMP.
REPLACE THE LAMP.
Description of Warning
The video cassette is defective and should be removed.
Dew has formed inside the camcorder. Wait for a few hours until the dew disappears (see page 63). About ten seconds after this warning appears, the camcorder and display turn off.
The battery is almost depleted. Note: Operation of the zoom may interrupt the
camcorder power. Replace the battery pack.
The video heads are clogged and should be cleaned (see page 63).
There is no tape cassette in the camcorder. Load a cassette.
The red erasure protect tab in the video cassette has been slid to the record-protect position, pre­venting recording.
The tape is about to end. Get ready to load a new cassette.
The tape has reached its end. Load a new cassette.
The fluorescent lamp behind the LCD monitor is close to the end of its service life. Replace it with a new one (see page 57). The LCD monitor turns off about one minute after this warning is displayed.
Note:
indicates a blinking display.
During Self Recording mode, every warning indi­cator is replaced by a “ ” indicator displayed in the center of the monitor. To check the meaning of the warning, rotate the monitor back to the normal position.
16
Setting the Area, Date and
DYLT SAVE SETTING
PREV. PAGE
ITEM
S E T
S E T
ON
OFF
Time
Example:
Setting the date to June 2, 1997 (JUN. 2.1997) and the time to 10:30 am (10:30 AM) in New York.
Note:
• Check that the memory backup lithium cell has been installed before setting the date and time.
5 Press A on the button to select
“SETTING”. Then press B on the button to select “SET”.
ITEM
PAGE AREA DYLT SAVE
S E
SETTING
T
1234
20
OFF
1996
1
JAN
00
AM
12
ON
S E T
First-Time
Operation
1 Set the Power switch to CAMERA.
Press the MENU button until appears on the monitor (Camera mode).
STOP WATCH
M E N U
COUNTER
2 Press B on the operation button ( ) to
select “MENU”. The MENU-PAGE
AUTO
4
appears.
• If the date and time have been set, the MENU-PAGE 1 appears.
Operation Button
PAGE DATE /TIME DISPLAY
S E T
SELF REC
ITEM
1234
OFF
AUTO DATE DATETIME AUTO
AUTO NO
ON
OFF
CORRECT
S E T
3 Press B on the button to select
PAGE␣4.
ITEM
1234
PAGE AREA DYLT SAVE
ON
OFF
4 Press Aon the button to select “AREA”
(Q), then press C or B on the button until “20” (New York) appears (W).
ITEM
1234
PAGE AREA DYLT SAVE
PAGE AREA DYLT SAVE
• See the time zone chart on page 19 and the area table on page 20 for area numbers and representative cities for each time zone.
OFF
ITEM
1234
20
OFF
ON
ON
19961
JAN
00
AM
12
6 Press orAon the button to select
“JUN.” (month), and press B on the button.
7 Press orAon the button to select
“2.” (day), and press B on the button.
8 Press orAon the button to select
“1997” (year), and press B on the button.
9 Press orAon the button to select
“10 AM” (hour), and press B on the button.
10 Press orAon the button to select
“30” (minutes), and press B on the button.
The date and time settings are now complete.
To Turn Off the Menu Display
Press the MENU button.
Notes:
• The internal clock starts operating when B on the operation button ( ) is pressed in step 10 above.
• When the tape cassette is inside, if no settings are made within 5 minutes after the menu display appears, the display is automatically canceled.
• If you set the area to the blank setting in step 4, and then reset the area after setting the date and time, the date and time will not appear on the screen even if you turn off the menu display. If you want to reset the area, perform steps 4–10 again.
17
First-Time Operation

World Clock

This camcorder is equipped with a world clock feature. It allows you to easily adjust the time when you use the camcorder while traveling anywhere in the world outside your own time zone. Set the area, date and time if they are not already set. (See page 17.)
Operation Button
MENU Button
Power Switch
Changing the Area of the Time Zone
Example:
Changing the area from New York to Los Angeles.
1 Hold down the Lock
Lock Button
button and slide the Power switch to CAMERA.
2 Press the MENU button until appears
on the monitor.
STOP WATCH
COUNTER
AUTO
M
E N U
4 Press B on the button to select
PAGE 4.
ITEM
PAGE AREA DYLT SAVE
1234
20
ON
OFF
5 PressAon the button to select
“AREA”.
ITEM
PAGE AREA DYLT SAVE
1234
20
ON
OFF
6 Press C or B on the button until
“17” (Los Angeles) appears. The camcorder is now set to the L.A. time. Press the MENU button to turn off the menu.
ITEM
PAGE AREA DYLT SAVE
Blank Area Setting
If you do not want to set the area (time zone), you can leave the setting blank. In step 6 above, press C or B on the
button until the area setting is blank
(after “24”).
To Turn Off the MENU-PAGE Display
Press the MENU button.
1234
17
OFF
ON
3 Press B on the operation button ( ) to
select “MENU”.
ITEM
1234
OFF
AUTO DATE DATETIME AUTO
OFF
CORRECT
AUTO NO
ON
18
PAGE DATE /TIME DISPLAY
S E T
SELF REC
S E T
To Display Area, Date and Time on the Monitor
1 Refer to page 14 to display MENU-PAGE
1
2 Press Aon the operation button ( ) to
select “DATE/TIME”.
Operation button
ITEM
PAGE DATE/TIME DISPLAY
1234
ON
OFF
AUTO
DATE DATETIME
3 Press C or B on the button to select
“AUTO” or “ON”.
ITEM
PAGE DATE/TIME DISPLAY
1234
ON
OFF
AUTO
DATE DATETIME
4 Press the MENU button to turn off the
menu display. The area, date and time will be displayed on the monitor.
Notes:
• When “AUTO” is selected, the date/time is displayed for 10 seconds at the beginning of the first recording of each day. When “ON” is selected, the date/time is continuously displayed along with the subject.
• During recording and playback, the position of the date/time displayed on the LCD may differ, however, this does not indicate a malfunction.
Time Zone Chart
FADE
Setting Daylight Saving Time
1 Refer to page 14 to display MENU-PAGE
.
Press B on the operation button ( ) to select MENU-PAGE 4.
Operation Button
ITEM
PAGE AREA DYLT SAVE
1234
20
OFF
2 PressAon the button to select “DYLT
SAVE”.
ITEM
PAGE AREA DYLT SAVE
1234
20
OFF
3 Press B on the button to select “ON”.
The time automatically changes to daylight saving time.
ITEM
PAGE AREA DYLT SAVE
1234
20
OFF
4 Press the MENU button to turn off the
menu display. The “ ” mark will be displayed to the left of the area indicator.
To reset to standard time, set the “DYLT SAVE” menu item to “OFF”.
FADE
1
.
ON
ON
ON
First-Time
Operation
Area Number
SAMOA
ANCHRGE
HAWAII
150˚
LONDON
MOSCOW
CHICAGO
NEWYORK
DENVER
L. A.
CARACAS
FN ISL.
RIO
PARIS
AZORES
30˚60˚90˚120˚
24 2 3 4 5 61 7 8 9 11 12 1314 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23
CAIRO
DUBAI
KARACHI
DACCA
HNGKNG
BANGKOK
10
TOKYO
SOLOMON
SYDNEY
WLLNGTN
180˚150˚120˚90˚60˚30˚
19
First-Time Operation
Area T able
Area Number
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
Area Name
LONDON
PARIS
CAIRO
MOSCOW
DUBAI
KARACHI
DACCA
BANGKOK
HNGKNG
TOKYO
SYDNEY
SOLOMON
WLLNGTN
SAMOA
HAWAII
Countries or Areas*
England, Morocco, GMT (Greenwich mean time)
Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Portugal, CST (Continental Standard Time), Tunisia
Egypt, Finland, Greece, Turkey
Ethiopia, Iraq, Kenya, Mauritius, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Russia (Moscow)
United Arab Emirates
Maldives, Pakistan
Bangladesh, India, Myanmar
Cambodia, Indonesia (Jakarta), Thailand, Vietnam
Australia (Perth), China, Hong Kong, Indonesia (Borneo, Bali), Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan
Japan, Korea
Australia (Sydney)
New Caledonia
Fiji, New Zealand
Western Samoa
Hawaii Is., Tahiti, HST (Hawaii Standard Time)
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
* These are common names. The formal may be different.
ANCHRGE
L.A.
DENVER
CHICAGO
NEWYORK
CARACAS
RIO
FN ISL.
AZORES
U.S.A. (Alaska), AST (Alaska Standard Time)
U.S.A. (Los Angeles, San Francisco), PST (Pacific Standard Time)
U.S.A. (Denver), MST (Mountain Standard Time)
Mexico, U.S.A. (Chicago), CST (Central Standard Time)
Canada (Montreal), Jamaica, Peru, U.S.A. (New York, Washington D.C.), EST (Eastern Standard Time)
Chile, Dominica, Venezuela
Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay
Fernando de Noronha
Azores Islands
20
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