Sharp ViewCam-Slim VL-ME10E Operation Manual

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Page 1

ENGLISH

LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY CAMCORDER

OPERATION MANUAL

VL-ME10E

Page 2

OPERATION MANUAL

ENGLISH

WARNING

TO PREVENT SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

This equipment should be used with the recommended AC adapter or battery pack.

CAUTION

To prevent electric shocks and fire hazards, do NOT use any other power source.

CAUTION

To prevent shock, do not open the cabinet. No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified dealer or service centre.

Important:

Audio-visual material may consist of copyrighted works which must not be recorded without the authority of the owner of the copyright. Please refer to relevant laws in your country.

Power supply:

This unit can be operated by connecting it to either the AC adapter or battery pack. The AC adapter incorporates the AUTO VOLTAGE (AC 110–240 V, 50/60 Hz) function.

NOTE

The LCD panel of this camcorder is a very high technology product with close to 90,000 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 the performance of your camcorder.

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Trademarks

• Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

• Adobe Acrobat Reader is a trademark of Adobe Systems Incorporated.

• DPOF is a trademark of CANON INC., Eastman Kodak Company, Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd., and Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.

• All other brand or product names are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective holders.

WARNING

To prevent the MultiMediaCard and SD Memory Card from being swallowed by children, keep these items out of their reach. If swallowed, seek medical advice immediately.

• Before using the camcorder, please read this operation manual carefully, especially pages ix to xi.

• The table of contents is located on pages xii to xiv.

• The illustrations of the screen and the actual screen can be different.

Page 3

Information for Australia/New Zealand Only

WARNING:

This Camcorder must be supplied with D.C. 7.4 volts only from a BT-LS222, BT-L221, BT-L441, or BT-LS442A battery or the AC adapter (UADP-0321TAZZ). CAUTION: As there are no user-serviceable parts inside the Camcorder or AC adapter, do NOT remove their cabinets as touching parts inside could result in electric shock. Please refer servicing to a qualified dealer or a Camcorder service centre approved by Sharp.

Note:

This Camcorder is a high technology product. The LCD Panel comprises 89,856 TFT Transistors. Due to the high density of transistors, it is possible that some pixels may fail.

Important:

Copyright may exist in material you wish to record. Copying such material without permission of the relevant licensees or owners of the copyright is prohibited by law. Sharp is not in a position to authorize the recording of copyright works and nothing in this operation manual should be read or implied as giving that authority.

ENGLISH

Page 4

Quick Operation Guide

Please consult this operation manual further for details on these and other functions of your camcorder.

Charging the Battery Pack

1 Connect the supplied power cord to the

AC power socket on the AC adapter/ battery charger, and insert the AC plug into a power outlet.

2 Align the d mark on the battery pack

with the f mark on the charger (1) and guide the battery into the groove. Pressing the battery (2), slide it in the direction of the arrow (3) until it locks into place.

• The CHARGE indicator lights up. The indicator goes off when the battery is fully charged.

Attaching the Battery Pack

1 Make sure that the POWER switch is set

to OFF.

2 Pull out the viewfinder completely, then

lift it up.

3 Align the mark on the side of the

battery pack with the a mark on the camcorder (1). Press the battery pack and slide it down completely until it locks into place (2).

CHARGE indicator

Inserting a Mini DV Cassette

1 Supply power to the camcorder. 2 Hold the camcorder as shown, slide the

cassette compartment door release and open the cassette compartment door completely.

3 Insert the cassette fully with the window

facing upwards and the erasure protect tab facing outwards.

4 Press the mark gently until the

cassette holder clicks into place.

5 Close the compartment door by pressing

the centre until it clicks into place.

SAVE

REC

SAVE

REC

mark

Page 5

Inserting a Card

This camcorder accepts an SD Memory Card (commercially available) or a MultiMediaCard (supplied) for storage of still images.

1 Make sure that the POWER switch is set

to OFF.

2 Hold the camcorder as shown, and slide

the card slot cover release in the direction of the arrow to open the cover.

3 Insert a card into the slot with the label

facing upwards and the chipped corner facing the lens, and then push it in as far as it will go.

4 Close the card slot cover.

Label

Chipped corner

Using the Viewfinder

1 Pull out the viewfinder completely.

2 Raise the viewfinder to better aim the

camcorder depending on your position.

Using the LCD Monitor

1 Press the LCD monitor OPEN release in

the direction of the arrow (1), and open the LCD monitor (2).

2 Adjust the LCD monitor to an angle that

allows easy viewing of the on-screen picture.

180

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Quick Operation Guide

iii

Camera Recording on Tape

1 Make sure that a Mini DV cassette is

inserted.

2 Remove the lens cap. Pull out the

viewfinder completely or open the LCD monitor.

3 Set the Media Selection

switch to TAPE.

4 Hold down the Lock

button and set the POWER switch to CAMERA.

5 Press the Power Zoom T (Telephoto) or

W (Wide angle) button to zoom in on or out from the subject.

6 Press the REC START/STOP button to

begin recording.

REC

Lock button

To pause recording

Press the REC START/STOP button again.

To turn the power off

Set the POWER switch to OFF without pressing the Lock button.

Tape Playback

1 Make sure that the recorded Mini DV

cassette is inserted.

2 Open the LCD monitor and adjust the

angle.

3 Set the Media Selection

switch to TAPE.

4 Hold down the Lock

button and set the POWER switch to VCR.

5 Press e (or r) to rewind (or fast

forward) the tape to the desired point.

6 Press y to begin playback.

To stop playback

Press b.

Power Zoom buttons

Media Selection switch

REC START/STOP button

POWER switch

Lock button

Page 7

Lock button

NORMAL

CARD

10/ 90

AUTO

GAMMA

To turn the power off

Set the POWER switch to OFF without pressing the Lock button.

Card Playback

1 Make sure that the recorded card is

inserted.

2 Open the LCD monitor and adjust the

angle.

3 Set the Media Selection

switch to CARD.

4 Hold down the Lock

button and set the POWER switch to VCR.

5 If the image you want to play back does

not appear, press q or w to scroll through the thumbnail images.

6 Press q or w to move the selection

frame to the desired image, and then press PB to set.

• The selected image is displayed in fullscreen.

Power Zoom buttons

STILL button

Media Selection switch

POWER switch

Lock button

NORMAL

PL AY BAPLAYBA

10 0 0 0 33100 00-

PAGE

100-0003100-0003

3/12

100-0003

CARD

3/12

NORMALNORMAL

NORMAL

MULTIMULTI

Card Recording

1 Make sure that a card is inserted. 2 Remove the lens cap. Pull out the

viewfinder completely or open the LCD monitor.

3 Set the Media Selection

switch to CARD.

4 Hold down the Lock

button and set the POWER switch to CAMERA.

5 Press the Power Zoom buttons to frame

the subject as you desire.

6 Press the STILL button to record a still

image of the subject.

Page 8

Quick Operation Guide

Dual Recording

The Dual Recording function makes it possible to record motion images on a tape and still images on a card.

1 Make sure that a Mini DV cassette and a

card are inserted.

2 Remove the lens cap. Pull out the

viewfinder completely or open the LCD monitor.

3 Set the Media Selection

switch to DUAL.

4 Hold down the Lock

button and set the POWER switch to CAMERA.

5 Press the Power Zoom buttons to frame

the subject as you desire.

6 Press the REC START/STOP button to

begin recording motion images of the subject on a tape.

• Press the REC START/STOP button again to pause recording.

Press the STILL button to record a still image of the subject on a card.

To turn the power off

Set the POWER switch to OFF without pressing the Lock button.

Lock button

Media Selection switch

STILL button

REC START/STOP button

POWER switch

NORMAL

CARD

2/98

CARD

AUTO

min

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

NORMAL

REC

2/98

AUTO

min

GAMMA

FADE

SRCHSRCH

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SD Memory Cards and MultiMediaCards

SD Memory Cards and MultiMediaCards are compact recording media just 32 mm long and 24 mm wide which support the needs of the digital network society where music, images, games and various other provider services are offered.

• It is possible to use SD Memory Cards (commercially available) and MultiMediaCards (supplied) as recording media for still images with this camcorder. (SmartMedia™ cards and Memory Stick™ media cannot be used.) In this operation manual, “card” refers to these SD Memory Cards and MultiMediaCards.

• SD Memory Cards are superior to MultiMediaCards in terms of copyright protection functions and high-speed transfer.

• SD Memory Cards are compatible with MultiMediaCards, and data stored on MultiMediaCards can be used with SD Memory Cards.

About Your Camcorder

SD Memory Card MultiMediaCard

SmartMedia™ card Memory Stick™ media

DV Technology

Digital video, DV, is a revolutionary technology that enables recording and playback of high quality images with the use of special digital features previously unavailable with conventional analog formats.

DV and conventional video cassette tapes

There are two kinds of DV-format video cassette tapes: the Mini DV cassette and the larger DV cassette used for extended playback and recording. This camcorder only operates with Mini DV cassettes. DV cassettes cannot be used. Be sure to use Mini DV cassettes with the

mark.

8 mm, VHS, and Beta cassettes cannot be used for playback or recording with this camcorder.

Note:

• This camcorder reproduces the highest picture quality when used with an ME tape. It is recommended that you use an ME tape for high-quality recording and playback.

This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.

Mini DV cassette DV cassette

VHS cassette Beta cassette8 mm cassette

Page 10

vii

Supplied Accessories

Intelligent

battery pack

BT-L221

AC adapter/

battery charger Power cord

Audio/video/S-video

cable

CR2025 type

lithium battery

Infrared

remote control

DC cable

Zoom microphone Windscreen

Shoulder strap

8 MB

MultiMediaCard

PixLab Video

Capture Software

(Lite version) PC connecting cable

AA battery for

remote control × 2

Lens cap

Note:

• A ferrite core is attached to the Audio/video/S-video cable supplied with the Camcorder purchased in Australia and New Zealand.

Page 11

viii

Optional Accessories

Standard-life

battery pack

BT-L221

Extended-life

battery pack

BT-L441

Standard-life intelligent

battery pack

BT-LS222

Extended-life intelligent

battery pack

BT-LS442A

IR & Flash Light

VR-3VIF

Mini DV video cassette

VR-DVM60N

Soft case VR-33SC

Notes:

• Some of these accessories may not be available in selected areas.

• When using the IR & Flash Light VR-3VIF with this camcorder, it can only be used as a flash.

PixLab USB Digital Moving Picture Kit

VR-PKU10E

Page 12

Precautions

• When the camcorder is not in use, make sure to turn off the power, remove the cassette and card, and disconnect the camcorder from the power source.

• Do not aim the lens at the sun. Do not allow direct sunlight to strike the camcorder lens, the viewfinder eyepiece, or the LCD monitor screen, whether or not recording is in progress, as it may damage the CCD sensor or LCD screen surface. Be particularly careful when recording outside.

• When shooting in dark places, avoid sudden brightly lit objects or light sources, such as the sun. Otherwise, the image may white out. Should this happen, point the lens in a different direction until the picture returns to normal.

• Avoid magnetic sources. Using the camcorder near strong fluorescent lights, motors, televisions, or other magnetic sources may adversely affect recorded images.

• Using the camcorder near a broadcasting

station or other powerful transmission source may cause buzzing or picture deterioration.

• Avoid shocks and dropping.

Do not drop or otherwise subject the camcorder to hard shocks or strong vibrations. Bumping or striking the unit during recording will generate noise in the recorded image.

• Avoid placing the camcorder in close

proximity to lighting equipment.

The heat from incandescent lights may deform the camcorder, or cause it to malfunction.

• Always respect prohibitions or restrictions

on the use of electronic equipment on commercial flights or in other sensitive areas.

• Be aware of the temperature and humidity. You can use your camcorder at 0°C to =40°C, and at 30% to 80% relative humidity. Do not store the unit in an unventilated car in the summer, in direct sunlight, or near strong heat sources; this can result in severe damage to the unit casing and circuitry.

• Avoid situations where water, sand, dust or

other foreign matter could get on or inside the camcorder, and do not use or leave your camcorder in areas with excessive smoke, steam or moisture.

Such environments can cause malfunctions or cause mildew to form on the lenses. Be sure to keep the unit in a wellventilated location.

• Some small, portable

tripods may be difficult to attach and may not be sturdy enough to support your camcorder. Be sure to use only a strong, stable tripod.

• When using your camcorder in a cold environment, the LCD monitor screen often appears less bright immediately after the power is turned on. This is not a malfunction. To prevent the camcorder from becoming too cold, wrap it in a thick cloth (a blanket, etc.).

Page 13

Plastic bag

Dew Formation

• What is “dew formation”? When cold water is poured into a glass, dew drops form on the glass. This clinging of water drops is called dew formation.

• When dew forms in your camcorder. Dew will gradually form on the head drum of your camcorder and make the video tape stick to the head. This causes damage both to the head and the tape. When dew formation occurs, recording and playback may not function properly. Dew is likely to form in the following circumstances: —When moving the camcorder from a cold

place to a warm place.

—When placing the camcorder in a cold

room which is then heated rapidly.

—When moving the camcorder outdoors from

an air conditioned room.

—When placing the camcorder in the direct

path of air blowing from an air conditioner.

—When placing the

camcorder in a humid room.

• How to prevent trouble due to dew

formation.

When using the camcorder in a place where dew formation is likely to occur, allow the camcorder and the video tape to acclimatise to the surroundings for about one hour. For example, when bringing the camcorder indoors after skiing, place it in a plastic bag.

1 Be sure to tightly seal the plastic bag

containing the camcorder.

2 Remove the bag when the air temperature

inside it reaches the temperature of the room.

• “Dew” warning feature If dew forms, the word “DEW” flashes on the screen, and the power will automatically turn off in approximately 10 seconds.

1 If “DEW” flashes, remove the cassette,

leave the cassette compartment open, and wait for a few hours to allow the camcorder to acclimatise to the surrounding temperature.

2 To use the camcorder again, turn on the

power after waiting for a few hours. Be sure that “DEW” has disappeared.

3 Do not insert a cassette while “DEW” is

flashing; this may result in damage to the tape.

4 Since dew forms gradually, it may take 10

to 15 minutes before the dew warning feature engages.

Page 14

Precautions

Dirty Video Heads

Using the camcorder when the video tape is dirty may cause the heads to clog, producing noise on the recorded image or preventing the image from being recorded at all.

If the video heads become clogged, the

indicator appears on the screen. Contact the nearest SHARP service centre or your dealer for further advice.

Using a Cleaning Tape (Commercially Available)

Video head cleaning can be done by using a commercially available cleaning tape.

Notes:

• Excessive use of the cleaning tape, however,

may cause damage to the video heads. Please read the instructions accompanying the cleaning tape carefully before using it.

• The fast forward and rewind functions cannot be

used when the cleaning tape is in the camcorder.

1 Insert a cleaning tape into the

camcorder.

• Follow the procedure on page 14 to insert and remove the cleaning tape.

2 Open the LCD monitor and adjust the

angle.

POWER switch

Media Selection switch

3 Set the Media Selection

switch to TAPE.

4 Hold down the Lock

button and set the POWER switch to VCR.

• The video head cleaning screen appears.

5 Press START to begin video head

cleaning.

•“NOW CLEANING” flashes during cleaning.

After about 20 seconds, video head cleaning automatically finishes, and “EJECT THE CASSETTE.” is displayed.

6 Remove the cleaning tape.

To cancel cleaning, press STOP.

Lock button

CLEANING

START

STOP

CLEANING

CLEAN INGNOW

START

STOP

Page 15

xii

Contents

Preparation

Basic Operations

Operation References

Part Names ............................................................. 1

Quick Reference Index ........................................... 4

On-screen Display Index ........................................ 5

Warning Indicators .................................................. 9

Charging the Battery Pack ................................... 11

Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack .......... 12

Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet ....... 13

Inserting and Removing a Mini DV Cassette ....... 14

Inserting and Removing a Card ............................ 15

Installing the Lithium Memory Battery .................. 16

Setting the Area, Date and Time .......................... 17

Using the Lens Cap .............................................. 19

Adjusting the Hand Strap ..................................... 20

Attaching the Shoulder Strap ............................... 20

Using the Viewfinder ............................................. 21

Using the LCD Monitor.......................................... 22

Camera Recording

Easy Camera Recording on Tape in Full Auto

Mode ................................................................... 23

Zooming ................................................................ 24

Tips on Recording Positions ................................. 24

Remaining Tape Time Display .............................. 25

Remaining Battery Power Display ........................ 25

Playback

Tape Playback....................................................... 26

Volume Control ...................................................... 27

Video Search......................................................... 27

Still......................................................................... 27

Watching the Playback on a TV ............................ 28

Summary of Operations

Selecting the Camcorder Mode ............................ 29

Using the Controls ................................................ 30

Selecting the User Mode ...................................... 31

Using the Menu Screens....................................... 32

Appendix

Preparation

Summary of

Operations

Useful

Features

Basic

Operations

Advanced

Features

Digital Still Camera

Features

Operation

References

Page 16

xiii

Camera Recording

Recording in LP (Long Play Recording) Mode ..... 33

Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode......... 34

Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) ........................... 35

Setting the Digital Zoom........................................ 36

Gamma Brightness Compensation ....................... 37

Edit Search............................................................ 38

Quick Return ......................................................... 38

Dual Recording ..................................................... 39

Still Recording on Tape ......................................... 40

Still Recording Effects ........................................... 41

Digital Picture Effects ............................................ 42

Fade In and Fade Out ........................................... 43

Wide Screen (16:9) .............................................. 44

Macro Shots .......................................................... 44

Letting the Subject Monitor the Shot ..................... 45

Auto Focus ............................................................ 45

Playback

Using the Infrared Remote Control ....................... 46

Tape Playback Functions with the Infrared

Remote Control ................................................... 48

Displaying the Date and Time of Recording ......... 49

Using Earphones (Commercially Available) ......... 49

Using the Time Code ............................................ 50

Playback Effects ................................................... 51

Picture Effect Playback ......................................... 52

Playback Zoom ..................................................... 53

Gamma Playback .................................................. 54

Multiple Strobe Playback ...................................... 54

Useful Features

Advanced Features

Camera Recording

Manual Focus ........................................................ 55

Setting the Shutter Speed ..................................... 57

Scene Menu (Programme AE) .............................. 59

Adjusting the White Balance ................................. 60

Manual Exposure .................................................. 61

Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode............. 62

Using the Zoom Microphone ................................ 63

Windbreak ............................................................. 64

Dialogue Recording .............................................. 64

• Be sure to read “Summary of Operations” on pages 29 to 32 before performing the

operations described in the following chapters.

Contents

Page 17

xiv

Playback

Editing ................................................................... 65

Editing with the DV Terminal (IEEE1394) .............. 66

Audio Dubbing Feature......................................... 67

Selecting the Audio Playback Mode ..................... 69

Using the Camcorder with Your Computer ........... 70

Advanced Features

Digital Still Camera Features

Camera Recording

Card Recording .................................................... 73

Selecting the Picture Quality ................................. 74

Recording with the Guide Frame .......................... 75

Recording with the Self-timer ................................ 76

Using the Flash Light (Optional Accessory) ......... 77

Formatting a Card ................................................. 78

Playback

Card Playback ...................................................... 79

Delete-protection .................................................. 80

Deleting Stored Images ........................................ 81

Slide Show Playback............................................. 83

Dubbing Images from a Card to a Tape ............... 84

Directly Transferring the Data on a Card

to a Computer ..................................................... 85

Print Order............................................................. 86

Appendix

Picture/Backlight Adjustments .............................. 89

Setting the Confirmation Sound ............................ 90

Selecting Summer Time ........................................ 91

World Clock........................................................... 92

Useful Information ................................................. 94

Demonstration Mode........................................... 100

Before Requesting Service ................................. 101

Specifications ...................................................... 103

Page 18

Operation

References

Operation References

Part Names

For details on the use of each part, refer to the page number indicated in brackets.

Front view

Zoom lens

Accessory shoe [pp. 63, 77]

Power Zoom W (Wide angle) / T (Telephoto) control buttons [p. 24] / VOLume control buttons [p. 27]

CONTROL dial [p. 30]

EarPHONES jack [p. 49]

Infrared remote sensor [p. 47]

Stereo microphone

[p. 67]

Page 19

Operation

References

Left view

Bottom view

Tripod socket

EASY/MANUAL/AUTO Selection switch [pp. 55–62]

LCD monitor OPEN

release [p. 22]

LCD monitor [p. 22]

Viewfinder [p. 21]

Dioptre adjustment dial [p. 21]

Power source UNLOCK release [pp. 12, 13]

MENU/DISPLAY button

[p. 30]

Power source connection panel [pp. 12, 13]

Shoulder strap loop [p. 20]

Page 20

Operation

References

Operation References

Lithium battery holder [p. 16]

Cassette compartment

door [p. 14]

mark [p. 14]

Card slot cover release [p. 15]

Cassette holder [p. 14]

Card slot cover [p. 15]

Card slot [p. 15]

Cassette compartment door release [p. 14]

When the cassette compartment door is open

Right view

White Balance (W/B) button [p. 60]

DV terminal [p. 66]

STILL button

[pp. 39–41, 54, 73]

Terminal cover [p. 28]

Media Selection switch (DUAL/TAPE/CARD

selection switch) [p. 29]

Hand strap [p. 20]

Audio/Video=S-video (AV=S) terminal [pp. 28, 66]

Speaker [p. 26]

Shoulder strap loop [p. 20]

POWER switch

(CAMERA/VCR

selection switch)

[pp. 29, 30]

RECord START/STOP

button [pp. 23, 39]

PC COMMUNICATION

jack [p. 70]

Page 21

Operation

References

Quick Reference Index

This index lists some example uses of the camcorder’s features.

• To record the subject with higher-quality audio. —See page 34 (Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode)

• To record powerful close-up images. —See page 36 (Setting the Digital Zoom)

• To record a backlit subject. —See page 37 (Gamma Brightness Compensation) or page 61 (Manual

Exposure)

• To quickly return the tape to the end of the last recorded scene after playback. —See page 38 (Quick Return)

• To record yourself in the scene while monitoring the shot. —See page 45 (Letting the Subject Monitor the Shot)

• To enlarge any part of the picture during playback. —See page 53 (Playback Zoom)

• To brighten the dark portion of the playback images without changing the bright

portion.

—See page 54 (Gamma Playback)

• To focus on an off-centred subject. —See page 55 (Manual Focus)

• To record with natural colour. —See page 60 (Adjusting the White Balance)

• To minimize blurring when recording sports events, etc. —See page 59 (Scene Menu)

• To record the zoomed-in picture of a distant subject along with the audio for that

subject.

—See page 63 (Using the Zoom Microphone)

• To record still images on a card so that the images may be easily read into a

computer.

—See page 73 (Card Recording)

Page 22

Operation References

Operation

References

On-screen Display Index

For details on the use of each function, refer to the page number indicated.

AUTO

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PIC. EFFECT SCENE MENU QK. DIS

RETURN

MANUA L S E T

PHOTO SNAP

REC

ZOOM

SNAP EFF.

DGT L

TAPE

RETURN

SPE ED

619:

CAMERA SE T

AUDI O MODE

IND

ZOOM MI C

AUDIO SET

SOUND TIME TC

CODE

DEMO

SUMR

OUT

MOD E

RE TURN

OTHERS

BACKL IGHT LCD BRI GHT

BR I GHT

LCD COLOUR

LCD VF SET

DISPLAY

TIME

AREA

SETT I NG 12H 24H

CLOCK SET

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPE ED

PI C. EFFECT SCENE MENU QK. DIS

RETURN

MANUAL SET

QK.

SOUND DISPLAY RETURN

WIND

RETURN

AUTO

min

RETURN

RE TURN

DIALOG REC RETURN

MOD E

L I GHT

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

SET

p. 35

p. 23

pp. 31, 62

p. 38 p. 64 p. 90 p. 49

p. 55 p. 57 p. 61 p. 42 p. 59 p. 38 p. 35

EASY mode (p. 31)

TAPE-CAMERA/DUAL-CAMERA mode

p. 25

p. 33

p. 74 p. 40 p. 41 p. 36 p. 33 p. 44

p. 34 p. 63 p. 64 p. 64

p. 90 p. 50 p. 50 p. 100

p. 89

p. 49 pp. 17, 92 p. 91 p. 17 p. 18

Page 23

Operation

References

AUDI O DUB

PIC.

EFFECT

AUDI O

PB EFFECT M

ULTI FRAME

PLAYBACK SET

REMOT E SOUND

TIME CODE

TC OUT

OTHERS

LCD BRIGHT LCD COLOUR

BACKL I GHT

BRIGHT

VF SE T

LCD

DISPLAY

CLOCK SET

AUDIO

AUDI O DUB

PIC.

EFFECT

AUDI O

PB EFFECT M

ULTI F RAME

PLAYBACK SET

RETURN

SET

GAMMA

TAPE-VCR mode

p. 25

p. 69

p. 68 p. 69 p. 52 p. 51 p. 54

Note:

• See pages 29 to 32 for the procedure to display the desired screen.

p. 46 p. 90 p. 50 p. 50

p. 89

p. 49

Page 24

Operation References

Operation

References

SCENE SELF T IMER

DIS

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PI C. EFFECT

MANUAL SET

REC MODE SNAP EFF .

DGT L ZOOM

FRM

CAMERA SE T

FORMAT

DEMO

SOUND

MODE

RETURN

OTHERS

BACKL IGHT LCD BRI GHT

BRI GHT

LCD COL OUR

LCD VF SET

DISPLAY AREA

SETT ING 12H 24H

CLOCK SE T

AUTO

SCENE SEL F T IMER

MEN U

DIS

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPE ED

PI C. EFFECT

MANUAL S E T

SELF

DI SPLAY

TIMER

SOUND

AUTO

CARD

9001

RETURN

GUIDE F LASH RETURN

RET URN

RETURN

CARD

9001

TIMESUMR

NORMAL

GAMMA

SET

CARD-CAMERA mode

EASY mode (p. 31)

p. 73

pp. 31, 62

p. 76 p. 90 p. 49

p. 55 p. 57 p. 61 p. 42 p. 59 p. 76 p. 35

p. 74 p. 41 p. 36 p. 75 p. 77

p. 78 p. 90 p. 100

p. 89

p. 49 pp. 17, 92 p. 91 p. 17 p. 18

Page 25

Operation

References

LCD BRIGHT LCD COLOUR

BACKL IGHT

BRIGHT

LCD VF SET

DISPLAY

CLOCK SE T

SL I DE SHO

EFFECTPIC.

DELETE

PROTE CT

PRI . ORDER

DELETE ALL

PLAYBACK SET

SL IDE SHO

EFFECTPIC.

DELETE

PROTECT

PRI . ORDER

DELETE ALL

PLAYBACK SET

REMOTE SOUND

OTHERS

RETURN

CARD

100 0001-

NORMAL

PAGE

1/2

PLAYBACK

654

321

SET

CARD-VCR mode

p. 83 p. 52 p. 80 p. 81 p. 82 p. 86

p. 46 p. 90

Note:

• See pages 29 to 32 for the procedure to display the desired screen.

p. 89

p. 49

p. 79

Page 26

Operation References

Operation

References

Warning Indicators

If a warning indicator appears on the screen, follow the specified instructions.

Displayed for the first

3 seconds

Displayed after

3 seconds

Description of warning

EJECT THE

CASSETTE.

EJECT THE

CASSETTE.

DEW

BATTERY I S

TOO LOW.

CASSETTE NOT RECORDABLE.

PROTECT. TAB

THE

ENDS SOON.

TAPE

TAPE END

CHANGE THE

CASSETTE.

TAPE END

LAMP

The fluorescent lamp behind the LCD monitor is close to the end of its service life. Call your local authorized Sharp dealer to have it replaced.

All warnings will be indicated by displayed in the centre of the screen if the vertical rotation of the LCD monitor is between 135° and 180° when in one of the CAMERA modes, or if one of the manual screen is displayed. To check the type of warning, rotate the monitor back to within 135°, or press the MENU/ DISPLAY button to turn off the manual screen.

INSERT

A CASSETTE.

There is no video cassette in the camcorder. Insert a cassette (see page 14).

The erasure protect tab on the video cassette has been slid to the record-protect position, preventing recording (see page 96).

The tape is about to end. Prepare a new cassette (see page 14).

The tape has reached the end. Replace it with a new cassette (see page 14).

The battery is almost depleted. Replace it with a fully charged battery pack (see pages 11 and 12).

Dew has formed inside the camcorder. Wait for a few hours until the dew disappears (see page x). About 10 seconds after this warning appears, the camcorder automatically turns off.

The video heads are clogged and should be cleaned (see page xi).

The video cassette is defective and should be removed (see page 14).

Page 27

Operation

References

The card is not inserted or is inserted incorrectly. Check how the card is inserted (see page 15).

The capacity of the card is full and cannot store any more images. Delete unnecessary images (see pages 81 and 82) or replace the card with a new one (see page 15).

The card has no images recorded in the format the camcorder can recognize.

The images in the card are corrupted or recorded in a format which is not compatible with this camcorder. Format the card to use it with this camcorder (see page 78).

The card has not been formatted with this camcorder. Format the card (see page 78).

The card is write-protected (see page 98).

You are trying to delete a protected image. Cancel the protection setting to delete the image (see page 80).

The selected image cannot be read by this camcorder. Format the card to use it with this camcorder (see page 78).

Displayed

for 5 seconds

Description of warning

Note:

• indicates a flashing display.

The card cannot record any data due to a problem with the card or data on the card. Replace the card (see page 15).

MEMORY CARD

MEMORY

FULL

CARD

NO DATA ON

MEMORY CARD

MEMORY C ARD

ERROR

FORMAT

MEMORY C ARD

MEMORY CARD

PROTECTED

DATA

MEMORY C ARD

RE AD ERROR

CANNOT STORE DATA

Page 28

Preparation

Charging the Battery Pack

Charge the battery pack with the supplied AC adapter/battery charger before use.

Note:

• Remove the DC cable from the AC adapter/ battery charger when charging the battery pack.

1 Connect the supplied power cord to the

AC power socket on the AC adapter/ battery charger, and insert the AC plug into a power outlet.

• The POWER indicator lights up.

2 Align the d mark on the battery pack

with the f mark on the charger (1) and guide the battery into the groove. Pressing the battery (2), slide it in the direction of the arrow (3) until it locks into place.

• The CHARGE indicator lights up.

• The CHARGE indicator goes off when the battery is fully charged.

3 Slide the battery pack in the direction of

the arrow (1), and remove it (2). Then, remove the AC plug of the power cord from the power outlet.

Charging time and maximum continuous recording and playback times in TAPE modes

• The chart specifies the approximate times in minutes.

Notes:

• Charge the battery pack between 10°C and 30°C. The battery pack may not charge properly at temperatures too low or too high.

• The battery pack and charger become warm during charging. This is not a malfunction.

• Using the zoom (see page 24) and other functions or turning the power on and off frequently will increase power consumption. This may result in a decrease of more than 50% in the actual recording time compared to the maximum continuous recording time listed above.

• The charging time and recording time may vary depending on the ambient temperature and the condition of the battery pack.

• Even when the battery pack is not used, the capacity of the battery pack will naturally deteriorate over time. To limit deterioration of the battery pack capacity, perform the procedure in “Extending battery pack life” on page 95 at least once every six months.

• See page 94 for more information on using the battery pack.

Caution:

• Charge only SHARP model BT-L221, BT-LS222, BT-L441, or BT-LS442A battery packs. Other types of battery packs may burst, causing personal injury and damage.

Charging

time

Max.

continuous

recording time

Max.

continuous

playback

time

on LCD

Battery

pack

LCD

closed

LCD

open

Preparation

CHARGE indicator

To power outlet

AC power socket

POWER indicator

BT-L221

BT-LS222

BT-L441

BT-LS442A

100

160 190

120

240 290

100

200 240

100

200 240

Page 29

Preparation

Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack

Attaching the Battery Pack

1 Make sure that the POWER switch is set

to OFF.

2 Pull out the viewfinder completely (1),

and then lift it up (2).

3 Align the mark on the side of the

battery pack with the a mark on the camcorder (1). Press the battery pack and slide it down completely until it locks into place (2).

4 Lower the viewfinder, and push it in

completely.

Removing the Battery Pack

1 Perform steps 1 and 2 of “Attaching the

Battery Pack”.

2 Press and hold the power source

UNLOCK release in the direction of the arrow (1), then slide the battery pack up and take it out (2).

Cautions:

• BEFORE REMOVING THE BATTERY PACK, ALWAYS STOP RECORDING OR PLAYBACK AND TURN THE POWER OFF. Removing the

battery pack while shooting or during playback may damage the tape by causing it to wrap around the video head drum or may destroy the card, rendering it unreadable and unwritable.

• Remove the battery pack from the camcorder if the camcorder is not to be used for a long period of time.

• Use only SHARP model BT-L221, BT-LS222, BTL441, or BT-LS442A battery packs with this camcorder. Use of other batteries may present a risk of fire or explosion.

Power source UNLOCK release

Power source connection panel

POWER switch

Page 30

Preparation

Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet

You can also power the camcorder from a power outlet by using the supplied AC adapter/ battery charger, power cord and DC cable.

Caution:

• 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.

1 Make sure that the POWER switch is set

to OFF.

2 Pull out the viewfinder completely, and

then lift it up.

3 Align the mark on the side of the DC

cable connecting plate with the a mark on the camcorder (1). Press the connecting plate and slide it down completely until it locks into place (2).

4 Lower the viewfinder, and push it in

completely.

5 Insert the DC cable plug into the DC

OUT jack on the AC adapter. Connect the power cord to the AC adapter, and insert the AC plug into a power outlet.

• The POWER indicator on the AC adapter lights up, and the camcorder is supplied with power.

Note:

• When the AC adapter/battery charger is used to power the camcorder, it cannot be used to charge the battery pack.

Removing the DC cable from the camcorder

Perform steps 1 and 2 above. Press and hold the power source UNLOCK release in the direction of the arrow (1), then slide the connecting plate up and take it out (2).

Cautions:

• BEFORE REMOVING THE DC CABLE, ALWAYS STOP RECORDING OR PLAYBACK AND TURN THE POWER OFF. Removing the

DC cable while shooting or during playback may damage the tape by causing it to wrap around the video head drum or may destroy the card, rendering it unreadable and unwritable.

• Disconnect the camcorder from the AC adapter if the camcorder is not to be used for a long period of time.

DC cable connecting plate

Power source UNLOCK release

POWER indicator

To power outlet

DC OUT jack

Page 31

Preparation

SAVE

REC

SAVE

REC

Inserting and Removing a Mini DV Cassette

Inserting a Cassette

1 Supply power to the camcorder. 2 Hold the camcorder as shown in the

figure, slide the cassette compartment door release and open the cassette compartment door completely.

• The cassette holder extends and opens automatically.

3 Insert the cassette fully with the window

facing upwards and the erasure protect tab facing outwards.

4 Press the mark gently until the

cassette holder clicks into place.

• The cassette holder retracts automatically.

mark

Cassette compartment

door release

Erasure protect tab

5 Wait for the cassette holder to fully

retract. Close the compartment door by pressing the centre until it clicks into place.

Removing a Cassette

Perform steps 1 and 2 of “Inserting a Cassette”, and then take out the cassette.

Cautions:

• Do not hold the camcorder with the cassette compartment door release facing downwards when you are inserting or removing a cassette. It may damage the tape.

• Do not try to close the cassette compartment door while the cassette holder is extending or retracting.

• Be careful not to get your fingers caught in the cassette holder.

• Do not apply force to the cassette holder except when pressing the mark to close it.

• If you do not correctly close the cassette holder in step 4, the cassette protection mechanism of the camcorder might eject the cassette. If this happens, repeat the insertion procedure.

• Do not attempt to pick up the camcorder by the cassette compartment door.

• Remove the cassette if the camcorder is not to be used for a long period of time.

Notes:

• If the battery power is too low, you may not be able to eject the cassette. Replace the battery pack with a fully charged one.

• See page 96 for more information on the video cassette tapes intended for use with this camcorder.

Page 32

Preparation

Inserting and Removing a Card

This camcorder accepts an SD Memory Card (commercially available) or a MultiMediaCard (supplied) for storage of still images.

Inserting a Card

1 Make sure that the POWER switch is set

to OFF.

2 Hold the camcorder as shown in the

figure, and slide the card slot cover release in the direction of the arrow.

• The card slot cover is opened.

3 Insert a card into the slot with the label

facing upwards and the chipped corner facing the lens, and then push it in as far as it will go.

4 Close the card slot cover.

Card slot cover release

Removing a Card

1 Perform steps 1 and 2 of “Inserting a

Card”.

2 Push the centre of the card edge in to

release the card.

3 Pull the card straight out.

Notes:

• The supplied MultiMediaCard is preformatted for immediate use.

• See pages 97 and 98 for detailed information on the use of MultiMediaCards and SD Memory Cards.

Caution:

• Do not remove the card from the camcorder while data is being recorded on the card (the O indicator flashes on the screen), as this may result in deletion of images on the card or damage to the card itself.

Label

Chipped corner

Page 33

Preparation

Installing the Lithium Memory Battery

The supplied lithium battery is used to store the memory of the date and time settings.

1 Slide the card slot cover release in the

direction of the arrow to open the card slot cover.

2 Pull out the lithium battery holder using

the tip of a ballpoint pen or other pointed object.

3 Insert the lithium battery into the holder

with the = side of the battery facing the + side of the holder.

CAUTION: Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type CR2025 recommended by the equipment manufacturer.

WARNING KEEP THIS BATTERY AWAY FROM

CHILDREN. IF SWALLOWED, CONSULT A PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY FOR EMERGENCY TREATMENT.

CAUTION BATTERY MAY EXPLODE IF MIS-

USED OR INSTALLED WITH POLARITY REVERSED. DO NOT RECHARGE, DISASSEMBLE OR DISPOSE OF IN FIRE.

4 Insert the lithium battery holder back into

the compartment.

5 Close the card slot cover.

Note:

• It is recommended to immediately set the date and time after inserting a lithium battery. Not setting the date and time causes extra wear of the lithium battery.

Removing the lithium battery

Perform steps 1 and 2 above, and then lift out the lithium battery from the battery holder.

Note:

• Replace the battery with a new CR2025 lithium battery when the time indicator of the camcorder starts to fall behind the correct time.

Notes on the Use of the Lithium Battery

• Do not short-circuit, recharge, disassemble, or heat the lithium battery.

• Should the lithium battery leak, wipe the battery compartment and holder clean, and then insert a new battery.

• The lithium battery will last about one year under normal usage.

Card slot cover release

Lithium battery holder

+ mark

Page 34

Preparation

Setting the Area, Date and Time

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA, CARD-CAMERA

Example: Setting the date to 2 June 2002 (2.

6.2002) and the time to 10:30 am (10:30) in Hong Kong.

Notes:

• Before performing the procedure below, make sure that the lithium battery has been installed (see page 16).

• If you are in an area that observes summer time, set the time to the standard time. You can then correct it for summer time by performing the procedure on page 91.

1 Press the LCD monitor OPEN release in

the direction of the arrow (1) and open the LCD monitor (2).

LCD monitor

OPEN release

Media Selection switch

POWER switch

SET

1 1 2

2 Hold down the Lock button

and set the POWER switch to CAMERA.

• The LCD screen turns on.

3 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears, and then press SET.

4 Press f or d (1) until “9 HNGKNG”

appears, then press SET (2).

Note:

• See “Time Zone Chart” and “Area Table” on pages 92 and 93 for the area number and name of the representative city for your time zone.

5 Press f or d (1) to select “SETTING”,

then press SET (2).

DISPLAY

SUMR T I ME

AREA

SET T I NG

RETURN

12H 24H

LONDON1

CLOCK SET

SET

000

11 2001.

DISPLAY

AREA

SET T I NG

RETURN

12H 24H

CLOCK SET

SUMR T I ME

SET

Lock button

SET

1 1 2

DISPLAY

SUMR T IME

ARE A

SET T I NG

RET URN

12H 24H

HNGKNG9

CLOCK SET

SET

Page 35

Preparation

12H

21H24H

SETT I NG

2. 6 001. 000

SET

1 1 2

SETT I NG

2.06 2002. 00

SETT I NG

10 00

6 2002.

10 3

SETT I NG

2.06 2002.

24H

12H

DISPLAY AREA

SETT ING

RETURN

12H 24H

CLOCK SET

SUMR T I ME

SET

6 Press f or d to select “2” (day), then

press SET.

7 Press f or d to select “6” (month), then

press SET.

8 Press f or d to select “2002” (year),

then press SET.

9 Press f or d to select “10” (hour), then

press SET.

10 Press f or d to select “30” (minute),

then press SET.

• The internal clock now starts operating.

11 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

000

1 2001.

SETT I NG

Changing to the 12-hour Time Mode

1 After performing step 10 above, press f

or d (1) to select “12H/24H”, and then press SET (2).

2 Press f or d to select “12H”, then

press SET.

3 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

Notes:

• Providing the date and time have been internally set, they will always be recorded on the tape or card, and you can choose to display them or not (see page 49).

• The menu screen automatically turns off if no settings are made within 5 minutes.

• You can also adjust the clock in the CLOCK SET menu in DUAL-CAMERA or CARD-CAMERA mode.

Page 36

Preparation

Using the Lens Cap

Attach the strap of the lens cap to the hand strap as shown below.

Tabs

Hook

When attaching or removing the lens cap, press both tabs on the top and bottom of the cap.

When recording, hang the hook of the lens cap on the hand strap so that the cap will not get in the way.

Note:

• Always replace the lens cap on the lens when the camcorder is not in use.

Page 37

Preparation

Power Zoom buttons

REC START/STOP button

Adjusting the Hand Strap

1 Open the hand strap flap (1) and the

grip strap (2).

2 Loosen the grip strap, pass your right

hand through the loop, and put your thumb on the REC START/STOP button and your forefinger and middle finger on the Power Zoom buttons. Then, pull the grip strap tight until it fits snugly.

3 Seal the velcro fasteners of the grip

strap and the hand strap flap.

Caution:

• Do not swing the camcorder by the hand strap.

Loop

Buckle

Loop

Buckle

Attaching the Shoulder Strap

1 Hold one end of the strap and thread it

through the loop on the left side of the power source connection panel.

2 Loosen the strap in the buckle, and feed

the end of the strap through the buckle, as shown.

3 Draw the strap in the direction of the

arrow to secure.

4–6 To attach the other end of the strap to

the loop on the left side of the hand strap, open the hand strap flap, and perform the same procedure.

Page 38

Preparation

Using the Viewfinder

You can record the subject through the electronic LCD colour viewfinder. You can also watch video playback through the viewfinder.

1 Pull out the viewfinder completely.

• You can raise the viewfinder up to 70° to better aim the camcorder depending on your position.

Caution: Do not try to raise the viewfinder until it is completely pulled out.

2 Hold down the Lock

button and set the POWER switch to CAMERA or VCR.

• A picture is displayed in the viewfinder.

Closing the viewfinder

Lower the viewfinder (1), and push it in completely (2).

Cautions:

• Do not use excessive force when moving the viewfinder.

• Do not pick up the camcorder by the viewfinder.

Notes:

• The viewfinder automatically turns off when the LCD monitor is opened. If the vertical rotation of the monitor is between 135° and 180° when in one of the CAMERA modes, however, the viewfinder is on and the subject is displayed both in the viewfinder and on the monitor (see page 45).

• It is possible to operate the playback functions in TAPE-VCR and CARD-VCR modes and adjust the menu and the manual settings through the viewfinder by using the CONTROL dial. (See page 30 for operation of the CONTROL dial.)

• Be sure to close the viewfinder after use.

Adjusting the Dioptre

Adjust the dioptre according to your eyesight when the picture in the viewfinder is not clear.

1 Pull out the viewfinder completely, and

then lift it up.

2 Hold down the Lock button and set the

POWER switch to CAMERA.

3 While looking through the viewfinder,

turn the Dioptre adjustment dial until the indicators in the viewfinder are clearly visible.

Viewfinder

POWER switch

Lock button

Dioptre

adjustment dial

Page 39

Preparation

Using the LCD Monitor

You can use the LCD monitor to play back recordings that you have made or to watch the subject during recording.

1 Press the LCD monitor OPEN release in

the direction of the arrow (1), and open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body (2).

2 Adjust the LCD monitor to an angle that

allows easy viewing of the on-screen picture.

• The LCD monitor rotates 270° vertically.

Caution: Do not try to rotate the LCD monitor vertically until the monitor is completely opened.

LCD monitor

OPEN release

POWER switch

LCD monitor

180

Lock button

• You can also fold the LCD monitor into the camcorder with the screen facing out for watching playback on the monitor.

3 Hold down the Lock

button and set the POWER switch to CAMERA or VCR.

• A picture is displayed on the LCD monitor.

Notes:

• Battery consumption is larger when the LCD monitor is open. Use the viewfinder instead of the LCD monitor when you want to save battery power.

• Use the viewfinder if the LCD screen becomes difficult to see under bright daylight.

Closing the LCD monitor

Return the LCD monitor to the vertical 90° position with the screen facing in, and fold it into the camcorder until it clicks into place.

Cautions:

• Do not use excessive force when moving the LCD monitor.

• When closing the LCD monitor, do not tilt it; otherwise the monitor may not close properly and may become damaged.

• Do not pick up the camcorder by the LCD monitor.

• Do not place the camcorder with the LCD screen facing down.

Note:

• Close the LCD monitor completely with the screen facing in when not in use.

Page 40

Basic

Operations

Basic Operations Camera Recording

Easy Camera Recording on Tape in Full Auto Mode

Available mode: TAPE-CAMERA

• Before you start recording, perform the operations described on pages 11 through 22 to prepare your camcorder for recording.

1 Remove the lens cap. Pull out the

viewfinder completely or open the LCD monitor.

2 Set the Media Selection

switch to TAPE.

3 Hold down the Lock button and set the

POWER switch to CAMERA.

• The camcorder turns on in TAPE-CAMERA mode, and the picture from the lens is displayed on the screen.

• The camcorder is now ready to record (Recording Standby mode).

Note: If “AUTO” is not displayed at this time,

set the EASY/MANUAL/AUTO selection switch to AUTO. (See page 62)

4 Press the REC START/STOP button to

begin recording.

Basic Operations

Camera Recording

REC

Lock button

Auto mode indicator

AUTO

REC START/STOP button

Media Selection switch

POWER switch

Actual

recording time

LCD

open

LCD

closed

LCD

open

Battery

pack

Max. continuous

recording time

LCD

closed

To pause recording

Press the REC START/STOP button again. Recording pauses, and the camcorder enters Recording Standby mode.

To turn the power off

Set the POWER switch to OFF without pressing the Lock button.

Notes:

• Battery power is consumed in Recording Standby mode. Turn off the power if you will not be recording again soon.

• If the camcorder remains in Recording Standby mode for more than 5 minutes in TAPE-CAMERA or DUAL-CAMERA mode, the power will automatically turn off to save battery power and to protect the tape from being damaged. (The camcorder will make a confirmation sound when it is left in Recording Standby mode for about 4 minutes.) To resume recording after the power has been turned off, set the POWER switch to OFF and then back to CAMERA.

Maximum continuous recording and actual recording times in TAPECAMERA mode

• The chart specifies the approximate times in minutes.

Note:

BT-L221

BT-LS222

120 100 60 50

BT-L441 240 200 120 100

BT-LS442A 290 240 150 120

PAUSE

Page 41

Basic

Operations

Zooming

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA, CARD-CAMERA

Zooming allows you to move visually closer to or farther from a subject without physically changing your position. When using optical zoom, it is possible to enlarge the subject up to 10× in TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-CAMERA or CARD-CAMERA mode.

To zoom in

Press the Power Zoom T (telephoto) button to get a close-up view (1).

To zoom out

Press the Power Zoom W (wide angle) button to get a wide field of view (2).

• The on-screen display shows you the current zoom setting.

• The zoom speed depends on how strongly you press the Power Zoom buttons.

Notes:

• The camcorder is unable to focus when zooming in on subjects within 1.5 m. The camcorder will automatically zoom out until it is able to focus on the subject. (See page 44 for recording macro shots.)

• See page 36 for use of the digital zoom.

Zooming in (when you want to centre

attention on the subject)

Zooming out (when you want to

show the surroundings)

Te le photo

Wide

angle

Tips on Recording Positions

To create images that are easy to watch during playback, try to record with a stable posture while steadying your camcorder to prevent the image from shaking.

Holding the camcorder

Put your right hand through the hand strap, and place your left hand under the camcorder for support.

Basic posture

Shooting from a high angle

Shooting from a low angle Using the viewfinder

Using the LCD monitor

Note:

• Take care not to touch the microphone with your fingers during recording. It will cause noise on the audio track.

Zoom range indicator

Place the viewfinder eyecup firmly against your eye.

Place your elbows against your sides.

Balance your weight on both legs.

Turn the LCD monitor

so that the screen faces

downward.

Turn the LCD monitor so that the screen faces upward.

Raise the viewfinder

to view the subject.

Power Zoom buttons

Page 42

Basic

Operations

Basic Operations Camera Recording

Remaining Tape Time Display

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA

In TAPE-CAMERA or DUAL-CAMERA mode, an on-screen indicator displays the approximate remaining tape time in minutes.

During camera recording, press the MENU/ DISPLAY button until the remaining recording time indicator appears.

Notes:

• If the battery pack or DC cable are removed from the camcorder and then reattached while the camcorder has a cassette in it, the remaining tape time indicator will not be displayed. In this case, record for about 10 seconds to display the remaining tape time indicator.

• The remaining tape time indicator only shows the approximate time left. Also, it varies slightly depending on the length of tape used. (This function is based on the DVM60 tape standard.)

When the remaining tape time reaches 1 minute, a warning indicator will appear. Prepare a new cassette.

Remaining Battery Power Display

Available modes: all modes

When using the camcorder with the battery pack as the power source, you can turn on and off the remaining battery power display by pressing the MENU/DISPLAY button. If the battery power becomes very low, a warning indicator will appear. Replace the battery pack.

Notes:

• Use the remaining battery power indicator only as an approximate indication.

• Variations in the operational status of the camcorder can greatly reduce or increase the remaining operating time displayed.

• Use of the zoom functions when the warning indicator is displayed may cause the camcorder to suddenly lose power.

• This camcorder supports an intelligent battery function. Use of the optional BT-LS222 or BTLS442A intelligent battery pack allows the number of minutes of continuous operating time that remains to be displayed on the screen based on the remaining battery power.

CHANGE THE

CASSETTE.

TAPE END

THE

ENDS SOON.

TAPE

TAPE END

Warning indicator Approx. remaining time

1 min. – 0 min.

0 min. (The tape has

reached the end.)

Remaining tape time indicator

AUTO

210

min

GAMMA

FADE

Remaining battery power display

Warning indicator

(Green)

(Red)

Page 43

Basic

Operations

POWER switch

Media Selection switch

Tape Playback

Available mode: TAPE-VCR

The LCD monitor screen functions as a handy playback monitor. Nothing needs to be connected, allowing instant on-screen playback with the sound through the built-in speaker.

1 Supply power to the camcorder, and

insert the recorded Mini DV cassette.

2 Open the LCD monitor and adjust the

angle.

3 Set the Media Selection

switch to TAPE.

4 Hold down the Lock

button and set the POWER switch to VCR.

• The camcorder turns on in TAPE-VCR mode.

5 Press e (or r) to rewind (or fast

forward) the tape to the desired point.

Basic Operations

Playback

Lock button

Speaker

CONTROL dial

6 Press y to begin playback.

To stop playback

Pressd.

To turn the power off

Set the POWER switch to OFF without pressing the Lock button.

Note:

• The tape is automatically rewound when playback reaches the end of the tape.

Watching the Playback in the Viewfinder

You can also watch the playback in the viewfinder by closing the LCD monitor with the screen facing in.

• To operate the playback functions, turn the CONTROL dial to select the desired playback operation indicator, and then press the dial.

Note:

• You cannot monitor the sound through the speaker when watching the playback in the viewfinder.

Page 44

Basic Operations Playback

Basic

Operations

VOLUME

Video Search

Available mode: TAPE-VCR

The video search function makes it easy to search for a desired scene on the tape.

1 During playback in TAPE-VCR mode,

press e (or r).

• The playback picture fast forwards (or reverses).

2 When you find the desired scene, press

y to return to normal playback.

Notes:

• The sound is off during search.

• Some picture noise appears during search. This

is not a malfunction.

Still

Available mode: TAPE-VCR

The still function makes it possible to pause tape playback.

During playback in TAPE-VCR mode, press y.

To return to normal playback, press y again.

Notes:

• The sound is off in Still mode.

• To protect the tape, the camcorder automatically

returns to normal playback if it is left in Still mode for more than 5 minutes.

IncreaseDecrease

VOL. buttons

Volume Control

Available mode: TAPE-VCR

When the camcorder is in TAPE-VCR mode, you can adjust the volume level of the sound.

Press the VOL. = or - button to increase (1) or decrease (2) the volume. The volume level indicator appears on the screen only during adjustment.

Page 45

Basic

Operations

Watching the Playback on a TV

Available modes: TAPE-VCR, CARD-VCR

You can also connect the camcorder to a TV to allow a larger audience to enjoy video playback.

Caution:

• Make sure that the camcorder, TV, VCR and other equipment to be connected have been turned off before you make connections. Making connections with any of the components left turned on may cause picture noise or a malfunction.

1 Open the terminal cover on the

camcorder.

2 Connect the camcorder to your TV (or

VCR) with the supplied audio/video/Svideo cable, as shown.

Audio/video/S-video cable (supplied)

3 Turn on the TV and set it to the “AV” or

“VIDEO” channel. (See the operation manual of your TV.)

• When connecting to a TV via a VCR, turn on the VCR and set it to the “AV” or “LINE” input channel. Operate the TV as you normally do to see the signal from the VCR. (See the operation manuals of your TV and VCR.)

4 Set the POWER switch on the

camcorder to VCR, and begin playback (see pages 26 and 79).

Notes:

• S-video terminals are used to separately pass the chroma (colour) and luminance (brightness) components of video signals. They serve to improve the picture quality in both recording and playback. If your TV or VCR has an S-video input terminal, you can use the S-video plug of the supplied audio/video/S-video cable for the video connection on the TV or VCR. (The yellow video plug does not need to be connected to the TV or VCR.)

• If your TV or VCR has only one audio input jack, use the white plug for the audio connection on the TV or VCR.

• When the camcorder is connected to a TV for play-back, the picture on the TV screen may flicker if the volume on the camcorder is set to maximum. Should this occur, turn the volume down (see page 27).

• Close the terminal cover after use.

Removing the audio/video/S-video cable from the camcorder

Hold down the catches and pull out the plug.

Caution:

• Forcibly pulling on the audio/video/S-video cable without holding down the catches may result in damage.

To S-video

input terminal

Yellow: To video input jack White: To audio input (L) jack Red: To audio input (R) jack

To AV+S terminal

Terminal cover

Catches

POWER

TV/VCRSET UP

CHANNEL

REC

PLAY

STOP/ EJECT

PAUSE /STILL

Page 46

Summary of

Operations

Summary of Operations

Useful FeaturesUseful Features

Summary of Operations

This camcorder includes functions for use as both a video camera for recording and playing back images on tape and as a digital still camera for recording and playing back still images on a card. One of the following camcorder modes needs to be set before starting any operations.

Selecting the Camcorder Mode

POWER switch

Media Selection switch

TAPE-CAMERA mode — For recording

motion and still images on a tape.

1 Set the Media Selection

switch to TAPE.

2 Hold down the Lock

button and set the POWER switch to CAMERA.

TAPE-VCR mode — For playing back

motion and still images recorded on a tape.

1 Set the Media Selection

switch to TAPE.

2 Hold down the Lock

button and set the POWER switch to VCR.

CARD-CAMERA mode — For recording

still images on a card.

1 Set the Media Selection

switch to CARD.

2 Hold down the Lock

button and set the POWER switch to CAMERA.

CARD-VCR mode — For playing back still

images recorded on a card.

1 Set the Media Selection

switch to CARD.

2 Hold down the Lock

button and set the POWER switch to VCR.

Note:

• When the Media Selection switch is set to DUAL and the POWER switch is set to VCR, the camcorder performs the same operation as in TAPE-VCR mode.

Caution:

• Do not change the camcorder mode by operating the Media Selection switch during recording or playback, as this may cause damage to the tape or card.

Lock button

DUAL-CAMERA mode — For recording

motion images on a tape and still images on a card.

1 Set the Media Selection

switch to DUAL.

2 Hold down the Lock

button and set the POWER switch to CAMERA.

Lock button

Page 47

Summary of

Operations

Using the Controls

The following controls on the camcorder can be used to select and operate the various functions, settings and on-screen displays.

POWER switch

To turn the power on, hold down the Lock button and set the POWER switch to CAMERA or VCR.

To turn the power off, set the POWER switch to OFF without pressing the Lock button.

MENU/DISPLAY button

The MENU/DISPLAY button is used to turn the mode screens and on-screen indicators off. You can turn the on-screen indicators back on by pressing the MENU/ DISPLAY button again.

Note:

• The tally indicator and warning indicators cannot be deliberately turned off.

CONTROL dial

The CONTROL dial is used to adjust the settings on the menu screen. The procedures for adjusting the menu settings in this operation manual are based upon the use of the five operation buttons under the LCD monitor. To adjust the menu settings with the CONTROL dial, follow the rules below.

1 Turn the CONTROL dial (instead of

pressing a or s) to select the desired item.

2 Press the CONTROL dial (instead of

pressing SET) to set the selected item.

Example

POWER switch

CONTROL dial

MENU/DISPLAY button

Lock button

Example

PHOTO SNAP

DGT L ZOOM

REC MODE

CAMERA SET

EFF.SNAP

TAPE SPEED

69:

RETURN

SET

PHOTO SNAP

DGT L Z OOM

REC MODE

CAMERA SET

EFF.SNAP

TAPE SPEED

RETURN

SET

Page 48

Summary of

Operations

Summary of Operations

Selecting the User Mode

This camcorder features three user modes for the camera recording functions. The selectable items on the menu screen are different depending on the user mode.

User mode

Auto mode (AUTO): Lets you adjust all menu

settings except manual settings.

Manual mode (MANUAL): Lets you adjust all

settings including the following manual settings. —MAN. FOCUS, SHUT. SPEED, EXPOSURE

Easy mode (EASY): Lets you adjust only the

following basic menu settings. —QK. RETURN, WIND, SOUND, DISPLAY,

SELF TIMER

EASY/MANUAL/AUTO Selection switch

User mode indicator

1 Open the LCD monitor and adjust the

angle (see page 22).

2 Set the Media Selection

switch to TAPE or CARD.

3 Hold down the Lock button and set the

POWER switch to CAMERA.

• The user mode indicator is displayed.

4 Set the EASY/MANUAL/AUTO Selection

switch to the desired mode.

Notes:

• All manual settings in Manual mode will be canceled when you set the EASY/MANUAL/ AUTO Selection switch to return to Auto mode.

• There is no user mode for playback functions.

• The example screens in this operation manual

assume the use of Auto mode unless otherwise indicated.

Lock botton

AUTO

Page 49

Summary of

Operations

Using the Menu Screens

The menu screens can be used to adjust the various settings of the camcorder.

1 Open the LCD monitor and adjust the

angle (see page 22).

2 Set the Media Selection

switch to TAPE or CARD.

3 Hold down the Lock

button and set the POWER switch to CAMERA or VCR.

4 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

5 Press f or d (1) to select the desired

menu screen, then press SET (2).

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PIC. EFFECT SCENE MENU

QK.

DIS

RETURN

MANUAL S E T

SET

PHOTO SNAP SNAP

DGT L

REC

ZOOM

EFF.

MOD E

SNAP

SPEED

16 9:

CAMERA SE T

TAPE

RETURN

SET

Lock button

SET

1 1 2

SET

1 1 2

SET

1 1 2

6 Press f or d (1) to select the desired

menu item, then press SET (2).

• The available settings for the selected menu item are displayed.

7 Press f or d (1) to select the desired

menu setting, then press SET (2).

• The selected menu setting is set.

• To adjust another menu item, select

RETURN to returns to the status in step 5 or 6, then repeat the procedure from the point.

To turn off the menu screen

Press the MENU/DISPLAY button.

Notes:

• Certain menu items are common among Camcorder modes. If the DISPLAY menu item, for example, is set to “DATE+TIME” in TAPE- CAMERA mode, it will be automatically set to

“DATE+TIME” in other modes.

• The menu items are displayed in yellow when

the corresponding functions are selected. The menu items are displayed in gray when the corresponding functions cannot be selected.

• The menu screen automatically turns off if no settings are made within five minutes.

• The example screens in this operation manual are for explanation purposes, and may differ slightly from the actual screen displays.

Example

OFF

40 200

PHOTO SNAP

REC

EFF.

DGT L ZOOM

SPEED

16 9:

CAMERA SET

MODE

SNAP

TAPE

RETURN

SET

200

PHOTO SNAP

REC

EFF.

DGT L ZOOM

SPEED

16 9:

CAMERA SET

MODE

SNAP

TAPE

RETURN

SET

Page 50

Useful Features Camera Recording

Useful

Features

Recording in LP (Long Play Recording) Mode

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA

This camcorder allows you to record in LP (Long Play Recording) mode for approximately 50% more recording time with the same picture quality as that in SP (Standard Play Recording) mode.

1 Set the camcorder to TAPE-CAMERA or

DUAL-CAMERA mode (see page 29).

2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

3 Select Y, then press SET. Select “TAPE

SPEED” (1), then press SET (2).

4 Press f or d to select “LP”, then press

SET.

Useful Features

Camera Recording

TAPE SPEED

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PI C. EFFECT SCENE MENU

QK.

DIS

RETURN

MANU AL S E T

SET

PHOTO SNAP

DGTL ZOOM

REC MODE

CAMERA SET

EFF.SNAP

TAPE SPEED 16 9: RETURN

SET

1 1 2

5 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

• The Long Play Recording mode indicator appears.

To return to SP mode

Select “SP” in step 4 above.

Notes on the use of LP mode

• To record in LP mode, be sure to use a Mini DV cassette labelled for use with LP mode.

• Frozen images, mosaic-pattern picture noise, audio interruptions or audio loss may occur in the following cases: —When using a tape which is not designated

for use with LP mode.

—When a tape recorded in LP mode under

high-temperature conditions is played back.

—When a tape recorded in LP mode with the

camcorder is played back on a Mini DV player or camcorder from another manufacturer.

—When a tape recorded in LP mode is

played back on a Mini DV player or camcorder without an LP function.

• Audio dubbing is not possible with LP mode recordings.

min

Long play recording mode indicator

Page 51

Useful

Features

Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA

This camcorder allows you to select between the 12-bit and 16-bit audio recording modes. The camcorder normally records audio in the 12-bit audio recording mode. For higher-quality audio recording, select the 16-bit audio recording mode.

1 Set the camcorder to TAPE-CAMERA or

DUAL-CAMERA mode (see page 29).

2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

3 Select U, then press SET. Select

“AUDIO MODE” (1), then press SET (2).

4 Press f or d to select “16bit”, then

press SET.

5 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

• The 16-bit audio recording mode indicator appears.

16-bit audio recording mode indicator

1 2bit

1 6bit

AUD I O MODE

IND

ZOOM MI C

AUD I O SE T

D I ALOG REC RETURN

SET

1 6bit

AUD IO MODE

AUTO

16bit

SET

1 1 2

To return to 12-bit audio recording mode

Select “12bit” in step 4 above.

Note:

• When using Audio Dubbing with 16-bit audio recordings, both the dubbed and original sounds will be recorded in mono (see page 67).

Page 52

Useful Features Camera Recording

Useful

Features

Digital Image Stabilization (DIS)

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA, CARD-CAMERA

The digital image stabilization (DIS) function is factory preset to on to stabilize the image by electronically compensating for relatively minor image shaking that is often annoying in closeup shots.

Note:

• The DIS function cannot compensate for excessive image shaking.

Turning Off the DIS Function

When image shaking does not occur (e.g. when using the camcorder on a tripod), turn off the DIS function. The picture will appear more natural when the DIS function is off.

1 Set the camcorder to TAPE-CAMERA,

DUAL-CAMERA or CARD-CAMERA mode (see page 29).

2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

3 Select T, then press SET. Select “DIS”

(1), then press SET (2).

DIS indicator

AUTO

min

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

OFF

DIS

OFF

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PI C. EFFECT SCENE MENU

QK. RETURN

DIS

MANU AL S E T

RETURN

SET

1 1 2

4 Press f or d to select “OFF”, then

press SET.

5 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

• The z indicator is turned off.

To return to DIS mode

Select “ON” in step 4 above.

Page 53

Useful

Features

4 Press f or d to select “40” or “200” ,

then press SET.

5 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

• The “D” digital zoom indicator is displayed during digital zooming.

To use optical zoom only

Select “OFF” in step 4 above.

Setting the Digital Zoom

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA, CARD-CAMERA

You can select from among three different zoom ranges in TAPE-CAMERA, DUALCAMERA and CARD-CAMERA modes: 1–10× (optical zoom), 10–40× (digital zoom), or 10– 200× (digital zoom). The digital zoom allows you to record powerful close-up pictures with the same operation as normal zooming.

Notes:

• The digital zoom is in addition to the optical zoom giving a combined maximum zoom range of 1–200×.

• As the image is enlarged digitally, the picture quality decreases when higher digital zoom settings are used.

1 Set the camcorder to TAPE-CAMERA,

DUAL-CAMERA or CARD-CAMERA mode (see page 29).

2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

3 Select Y, then press SET. Select

“DGTL ZOOM” (1), then press SET (2).

D-

Digital zoom indicator

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PI C. EFFECT SCENE MENU

QK. RETURN

DIS

MANU AL S E T

RETURN

SET

OFF

PHOTO SNAP

REC MODE

CAMERA SET

EFF.SNAP

OFF

40 200

DGTL ZOOM TAPE SPEED 16 9: RETURN

SET

002

DGT L ZOOM

SET

1 1 2

Page 54

Useful Features Camera Recording

Useful

Features

Gamma Brightness Compensation

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA, CARD-CAMERA

When the subject is backlit or when recording in a dark or poorly illuminated location, the image will appear dark if it is recorded normally. The gamma brightness compensation function improves the picture by increasing the brightness of the image.

Recording a backlit subject

Press GAMMA once.

•“GAMMA” turns yellow; indicating that Gamma Brightness Compensation is now working.

To obtain a brighter picture

Press GAMMA again.

• The x indicator appears.

Note:

• When the x indicator is displayed, the

background will become slightly brighter.

AUT

OAUTO

AUTO

6 0

min

GAMMA

FADE

GAMMA

FADE

GAMMA

FADE

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

AUT

OAUTO

6 0

min60min

GAMMA

FADE

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

GAMMA

FADE

GAMMA

FADE

Note:

• When the x indicator is displayed, the

background will become slightly brighter.

To cancel Gamma Brightness Compensation

Press GAMMA until the x indicator disappears.

Recording in a poorly illuminated location

At locations where lighting is insufficient, “LIGHT” is displayed on the screen.

Press GAMMA once.

•“GAMMA” turns yellow, indicating that the gain- up function is now working.

To obtain a brighter picture

Press GAMMA again.

• The ` indicator appears.

AUT

OAUTO

6 0

min

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

GAMMA

FADE

GAMMA

FADE

AUTO

AUT

OAUTO

AUTO

L I GH TLIGHT

6 0

min

6 0

min60min

GAMMA

FADE

GAMMA

FADE

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

Page 55

Useful

Features

Quick Return

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA

When you have been playing back what you have recorded on the tape, and wish to quickly return to recording from the end of the last recorded scene, use the quick return function.

1 Set the camcorder to TAPE-CAMERA or

DUAL-CAMERA mode (see page 29).

2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

3 Select T, then press SET. Select “QK.

RETURN” (1), then press SET (2).

4 Press f or d to select “START”, then

press SET.

•“SEARCH” flashes, and the tape begins fast forwarding or rewinding to the end of the last recorded scene.

When the tape reaches the end of the last recorded scene, “FINISHED” is displayed, and the camcorder enters Recording Standby mode.

5 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

Notes:

• To cancel the quick return function, press SET to select “STOP”, then press SET.

• If the cassette has been removed since the last recording or if no recording has been made since the cassette was loaded, the quick return function cannot be used.

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PI C. EFFECT SCENE MENU QK. RETURN

START

STOP

MANU AL S E T

DIS RETURN

SET

QK. RETURN

SET

1 1 2

To cancel the gain-up function

Press GAMMA until the ` indicator disappears.

Notes:

• Some picture noise appears in Gamma Brightness Compensation mode. The picture noise increases when the ` indicator is displayed.

• When the ` indicator is displayed, a residual image may appear behind a subject that exhibits a lot of movement.

• Fine brightness adjustment is possible using the manual exposure function (see page 61).

Edit Search

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA

The edit search function lets you search, without switching to TAPE-VCR mode, for the point on the tape where you wish to start recording next.

1 Set the camcorder to TAPE-CAMERA or

DUAL-CAMERA mode (see page 29).

2 In Recording

Standby mode, press SRCH (SEARCH).

3 Press and hold down

e (forward edit search) or r (reverse edit search).

4 When you find the point where you want

to begin recording, release the button.

5 Press SRCH to cancel the Edit Search

function.

Notes:

• The sound is off during search.

• Forward edit search is performed at the same

speed as normal playback, and reverse edit search at 6.5 times the normal playback speed.

• Some picture noise appears during reverse edit search.

SRCH

SRCHSRCH

Page 56

Useful Features Camera Recording

Useful

Features

4 Press the REC START/STOP button to

begin recording motion images of the subject on a tape.

• Operate the camcorder just as you ordinarily would when recording in TAPE-CAMERA mode.

Press the STILL button to record a still image of the subject on a card.

• The O indicator flashes red while the image is being recorded on the card.

Notes:

• If you press the STILL button while recording motion images on a tape in DUAL-CAMERA mode, a still image of the subject is recorded on the tape for 1.5 seconds as well as on a card (the Q indicator is recorded on the tape along with the still image).

• See page 79 for playing back still images recorded on a card.

Dual Recording

Available mode: DUAL-CAMERA

By setting the camcorder to DUAL-CAMERA mode, you can automatically record motion images on a tape and still images on a card without operating the Media Selection switch.

1 Make sure that a Mini DV cassette and a

card are inserted in the camcorder.

2 Set the Media Selection

switch to DUAL.

3 Hold down the Lock button and set the

POWER switch to CAMERA.

• The camcorder turns on in DUALCAMERA mode.

• The camcorder is now ready to record (Recording Standby mode).

Note: You can select the desired picture quality for still images recorded on a card (see page 74).

STILL button

REC START/STOP button

NORMAL

2/98

AUTO

min

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

Number of shots taken

Number of shots remaining

Resolution setting indicator

NORMAL

REC

2/98

min

AUTO

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

NORMAL

CARD

2/98

CARD

AUTO

min

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

Lock button

Page 57

Useful

Features

Still Recording on Tape

Available mode: TAPE-CAMERA

You can record still images of subjects with normal sound on a tape by selecting one of two still recording modes.

Still Recording mode options

SNAP: A still picture is recorded for 6 seconds.

STILL: A continuous still image is recorded.

Selecting Still Recording Mode

1 Set the camcorder to TAPE-CAMERA

mode (see page 29).

2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

3 Select Y, then press SET. Select

“SNAP EFF.” (1), then press SET (2).

4 Press f or d to select “OFF”, then

press SET.

5 Press f or d (1) to select “PHOTO

SNAP”, then press SET (2).

6 Press f or d to select the desired still

recording mode, then press SET.

STILL button

REC START/STOP button

OF F

PHOTO SNAP

PHOTO

FRAMES

SHOT

FRAMES

CAMERA SET

EFF.SNAP DGTL ZOOM TAPE SPEED 16 9: RETURN

REC MODE

SET

OFFEFF.SNAP

PHOTO SNAP SNAP

ST I LL

CAMERA SET

EFF.SNAP DGTL ZOOM TAPE SPEED 16 9: RETURN

REC MODE

SET

PHOTO SNAP ST I LL

SET

1 1 2

SET

1 1 2

7 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

Using Still Recording

1 Set the camcorder to TAPE-CAMERA

mode.

2 In Recording Standby mode,

press the STILL button.

• A still image of the subject is displayed.

3 Press the REC START/STOP

button.

• The still image is recorded.

In SNAP mode, the camcorder returns to Recording Standby mode after recording a still image for 6 seconds.

To pause recording

Press the REC START/STOP button.

To cancel the still image

In SNAP mode, press the STILL button while

the camcorder is in Recording Standby mode.

In STILL mode, press the STILL button.

Notes:

• Still Recording can also be used during recording by pressing the STILL button.

• If you use SNAP during recording, a still picture is recorded for 6 seconds, and then the camcorder enters Recording Standby mode.

• The picture quality in Still Recording mode will be slightly lower than normal pictures.

Page 58

Useful Features Camera Recording

Useful

Features

Still Recording Effects

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, CARD-

CAMERA

You can select one of these still recording effects to record the still images with an effect.

Type of Still Recording Effects

PHOTO SHOT: A still picture is recorded

following the sound and visual effects of a camera shutter closing.

9 FRAMES: A still picture is recorded at

intervals of 1/8 of a second using a 9-frame picture.

16 FRAMES: A still picture is recorded at

intervals of 1/8 of a second using a 16-frame picture.

Selecting a still recording effect

1 Set the camcorder to TAPE-CAMERA or

CARD-CAMERA mode (see page 29).

2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

3 Select Y, then press SET.

Note:

• In TAPE-CAMERA mode, select the desired still recording mode (see page

40).

4 Press f or d (1) to select “SNAP

EFF.”, then press SET (2).

5 Press f or d to select the desired still

recording effect, then press SET.

6 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

OF F

PHOTO SNAP

PHOTO

FRAMES

CAMERA SET

EFF.SNAP DGTL ZOOM TAPE SPEED 16 9: RETURN

REC MODE

SHOT

SET

PHOTO SHOT

EFF.SNAP

SET

1 1 2

Using PHOTO SHOT, 9 FRAMES or 16 FRAMES mode

1 Perform the steps in “Selecting a still

recording effect” to select “PHOTO SHOT”, “9 FRAMES” or “16 FRAMES”.

2 In Recording Standby mode,

press the STILL button.

• In TAPE-CAMERA mode, a still image of the subject is displayed with the selected effect. Perform step 3.

• In CARD-CAMERA mode, the still image of the subject will be recorded with the selected effect. Omit step 3.

3 Press the REC START/STOP

button.

• The still image of the subject will be recorded on tape.

To cancel the still image in TAPECAMERA mode

In SNAP mode, press the STILL button while

the camcorder is in Recording Standby mode.

In STILL mode, press the STILL button.

Notes:

• Still recording effects can also be used during recording on tape by pressing the STILL button.

• If you use PHOTO SHOT while recording on tape, the visual effects of a camera shutter closing will not work.

• You can use PHOTO SHOT without the sound effect of a camera shutter closing by setting the SOUND menu item to “OFF” (see page 90).

• The picture quality in Still Recording Effects mode will be slightly lower than normal pictures.

Page 59

Useful

Features

Digital Picture Effects

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA, CARD-CAMERA

These digital picture effects let you record the subject with a more dramatic effect.

Digital picture effect options

B/W: To record in black-and-white.

SEPIA: To record in sepia colour similar to that

of an old photograph.

MOSAIC: To record a picture divided up into

tiles.

SOLARI: To record with enhanced contrast,

creating a unique artistic image.

NEGA: To record a picture whose blacks and

whites of the image are reversed and colours of the image are inverted.

1 Hold down the Lock button and set the

POWER switch to CAMERA or VCR.

2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

3 Select T, then press SET. Select “PIC.

EFFECT” (1), then press SET (2).

OFF

BW SEP I A

SOL AR I

NEGA

OSA I C

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PI C. EFFECT SCENE MENU

QK. RETURN

DIS

MANU AL S E T

RETURN

SET

PIC. EFFECT

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PI C. EFFECT SCENE MENU

QK. RETURN

DIS

MANU AL S E T

RETURN

SET

1 1 2

4 Press f or d to select the desired

digital picture effect, then press SET.

• The selected digital picture effect is displayed on the menu screen.

5 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

To cancel the digital picture effect

Select “OFF” in step 4 above.

Note:

• Digital picture effects cannot be used when a

still image is displayed.

Page 60

Useful Features Camera Recording

Useful

Features

Fade In and Fade Out

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA

The fade function allows you to gradually bring the image and sound in or out at the beginning or end of a scene for creating scene transitions. This is especially effective for indicating a dramatic change in scenery.

Setting Fade Mode

1 Set the camcorder to TAPE-CAMERA or

DUAL-CAMERA mode (see page 29).

2 In Recording Standby mode, press

FADE.

Fade out

Fade in

Using Fade Mode

1 Press the REC START/STOP button to

begin recording.

• The picture turns white, and the image

and sound fade in.

2 Press the REC START/STOP button at

the point where you wish to stop recording.

• The image and sound fade out as the

picture gradually turns white. The camcorder then returns to Recording Standby mode.

To cancel Fade mode

Press FADE again.

To use Fade Out only

1 During camera recording in TAPE-

CAMERA mode, press FADE.

2 Press the REC START/STOP button at

the point where you wish to stop recording.

Note:

• Fade mode is automatically canceled after Fade Out.

1 2 bit

12bit

AUTO

min

AUTO

min

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

1 2 bit

12bit

AUTO

min

AUTO

min

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

1 2 bit

12bit

AUTO

min

AUTO

min

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

Page 61

Useful

Features

Wide Screen (16:9)

Available mode: TAPE-CAMERA

The wide screen function lets you record scenes with the wide-screen feel of a movie shown in a theatre. The top and bottom of the picture are masked with black bands to produce an effective screen aspect ratio of 16:9.

1 Set the camcorder to TAPE-CAMERA

mode (see page 29).

2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

3 Select Y, then press SET. Select “16:9”

(1), then press SET (2).

4 Press f or d to select “ON”, then press

SET.

5 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

• The picture is displayed with the top and bottom portions masked.

To return to normal screen

Select “OFF” in step 4 above.

Macro Shots

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA, CARD-CAMERA

This camcorder lets you shoot close-up images of small objects such as flowers and insects, or make title frames for your videos. When you want to record a magnified image of a subject which is within approximately 1.5 m of the camcorder, do not zoom in on it. Instead, zoom out all the way by pressing the Power Zoom W button, and then move the camcorder closer to the subject until you obtain the desired angle of view. The camcorder will automatically focus on the subject when the lens is set for the widest angle.

Normal screen Wide screen

Power Zoom W button

Tripod

Notes:

• When you are recording a macro shot, be sure that the subject receives sufficient illumination.

• It is recommended that you use a tripod for recording macro shots, to prevent image shaking.

PHOTO SNAP

CAMERA SET

EFF.SNAP

OFF

DGTL ZOOM TAPE SPEED

16 9:

RETURN

REC MODE

SET

16 9:

SET

1 1 2

Page 62

Useful Features Camera Recording

Useful

Features

Letting the Subject Monitor the Shot

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA, CARD-CAMERA

Open the LCD monitor and rotate it 180° vertically so that the screen faces the other way and the subject can monitor the shot while you are recording with the viewfinder.

If the camcorder is steadied, you can record yourself in the scene by watching yourself on the LCD monitor. The supplied infrared remote control is useful for such occasions.

1 Pull out the viewfinder completely. Open

the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body (1), and then rotate it 180° vertically (2).

2 Set the Media Selection switch to TAPE,

DUAL, or CARD.

180

3 Set the POWER switch to CAMERA.

• The subject is displayed in the viewfinder, and a mirror image of the subject is displayed on the LCD monitor.

4 Press the REC START/STOP button to

begin recording.

Caution:

• Do not invert the image by rotating the LCD monitor during recording.

Notes:

• The screen image is automatically inverted when the vertical rotation of the LCD monitor is between 135° and 180°. When the monitor is rotated back to within 135°, the image returns to normal.

• If the indicator flashes when the LCD monitor is in the inverted position, this indicates a warning. To check the type of warning, rotate the monitor back to within 135°. (See pages 9 and 10 for descriptions of the warning indicators.)

Auto Focus

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA, CARD-CAMERA

The camcorder is preset to Auto Focus mode, which is designed to focus on most types of subjects. In Auto Focus mode, the camcorder automatically focuses on whatever is in the centre of the scene. Always keep the subject in the centre of the scene.

Notes:

• If no subject is in the centre of the scene, the focus area will expand and the subject nearest the centre will be focused on.

• If no subject is displayed, the camcorder will automatically zoom out until a subject comes into the frame.

• Auto Focus may not work in the situations described on page 55. In these situations, use the manual focus function.

Page 63

Useful

Features

Using the Infrared Remote Control

Available modes: all modes

Use the supplied infrared remote control to operate the camcorder from a distance, such as when you want to record yourself in a scene, or when the camcorder is connected to a TV for use as a VCR.

Installing the Batteries in the Remote Control

1 Open the battery compartment cover.

2 Insert the two supplied AA (R6 or UM/

SUM-3) batteries with the battery poles positioned as indicated.

3 Replace the cover.

Note:

• When the batteries are depleted and the remote control does not operate, replace them with new AA (R6 or UM/SUM-3) batteries.

Caution:

• Do not use old and new batteries or batteries of different brands together.

Turning on the Infrared Remote Control Mode

Available modes: TAPE-VCR, CARD-VCR

1 Set the camcorder to TAPE-VCR or

CARD-VCR mode (see page 29).

2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

3 Select I, then press SET. Select

“REMOTE” (1), then press SET (2).

4 Press f or d to select “ON”, then press

SET.

5 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

Useful Features

Playback

REMOTE SOUND TIME CODE TC OUT

OFF

OTHERS

RETURN

SET

REMOTE

SET

1 1 2

Page 64

Useful Features Playback

Useful

Features

Control Buttons on the Infrared Remote Control

1 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to

the camcorder body (1), and then rotate it 180° vertically (2).

2 Set the Media Selection switch on the

camcorder to TAPE, DUAL, or CARD.

3 Set the POWER switch on the camcorder

to CAMERA or VCR.

Operating the Infrared Remote Control

4 Aim the remote control transmitter at the

infrared remote sensor of the camcorder, and press the control buttons for operation.

Notes:

• Be careful not to allow direct sunlight or bright light from interior illumination to fall onto the remote sensor, as this may prevent the remote control from operating properly.

• Be sure that there are no obstacles between the remote control and the remote sensor.

180

Infrared remote sensor

Approximate operating range of remote control

Transmitter

5 m

TAPE REC START/STOP

button [pp. 23, 39]

ZOOM T/W buttons [pp. 24, 54]

CARD REC button [pp. 39, 73]

REW button [pp. 26, 27]

PAUSE/STILL button [p. 27]

STOP button [p. 26]

Playback Direction buttons

[p. 48]

VOL. =/- buttons [p. 27]

PLAY button [p. 26]

FF button [pp. 26, 27]

SLOW button [p. 48]

Shift buttons [p. 53]

Page 65

Useful

Features

SLOW button

PLAY button

PAUSE/STILL button

Playback Direction buttons

Tape Playback Functions with the Infrared Remote Control

Available mode: TAPE-VCR

These tape playback functions can be operated using the supplied infrared remote control. (See pages 46 and 47 for use of the infrared remote control.)

Reverse Playback

The reverse playback function allows you to play back video in reverse.

During tape playback, press the Playback Direction m button.

To return to normal playback, press the PLAY button (s).

Slow

The slow function allows you to play back images in slow motion.

During tape playback, press the SLOW button (/).

To return to normal playback, press the PLAY button (s).

Note:

• To protect the tape, the camcorder automatically returns to normal playback if it is left in Slow mode for more than 10 minutes.

Frame Advance

The frame advance function allows you to play back still images frame by frame.

1 During tape playback, press the PAUSE/

STILL button (n) to pause playback.

2 Press the Playback Direction , (or

m) button.

• Each time you press the button, the picture advances one frame forward (or backward).

To return to normal playback, press the PLAY button (s).

Notes:

• The sound is off during reverse, slow, and frame advance playback.

• If you use the slow or frame advance function with the tape recorded in LP mode, the picture may advance several frames at a time.

Page 66

Useful Features Playback

Useful

Features

Notes:

• Before connecting stereo earphones, turn the camcorder volume down to the lowest setting.

• The built-in speaker automatically turns off when stereo earphones are connected to the PHONES jack.

• When recording, you cannot adjust the volume with the Power Zoom/VOL. buttons on the camcorder. Use the VOL. buttons on the infrared remote control instead.

Displaying the Date and Time of Recording

Available modes: all modes

Follow the procedure below to display the date, or both the date and time, of recording on the screen. You can display the date and time during both recording and playback.

1 Hold down the Lock button and set the

POWER switch to CAMERA or VCR.

2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

3 Select P, then press SET. Select

“DISPLAY” (1), then press SET (2).

4 Press f or d to select “DATE” or

“DATEHTIME”, and then press SET.

5 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

• The date (or the date and time) is displayed.

Notes:

• Before recording, make sure that the date and time have been correctly set (see pages 17 and

18). If they have not been set, the display will be left blank (“–”) when playing back the recording. (The display will also be left blank for unrecorded or damaged portions of the tape.)

• In TAPE-VCR mode, the current date and time are displayed when the tape is not being played back.

Using Earphones (Commercially Available)

Available modes: TAPE-VCR, TAPE-CAMERA,

DUAL-CAMERA

You can monitor the sound via stereo earphones (commercially available) during playback or recording. Stereo earphones with a

3.5 mm diameter plug can be connected to the camcorder.

Open the jack cover, and connect stereo earphones to the camcorder as shown in the figure.

DISPLAY

AREA

SETT ING 12H 24H

OFF

DAT E DAT E+TIME

CLOCK SE T

RETURN

SUMR T I ME

SET

DISPLAY

DATE+TIME

min

2002.6

03:01

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

SET

1 1 2

To PHONES jack

Page 67

Useful

Features

Using the Time Code

Available modes: TAPE-VCR, TAPE-CAMERA,

DUAL-CAMERA

The time code shows the hour, minute and second of recording, and the frame number (1 frame = approx. 1/25 sec.). This is automatically recorded along with the subject when you are recording on the tape. You can display the time code on the screen to check the elapsed time when playing back from tape or recording on tape.

Display format

1 In TAPE-VCR, TAPE-CAMERA, or

DUAL-CAMERA mode, press the MENU/DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears.

2 Select I, then press SET. Select “TIME

CODE” (1), then press SET (2).

3 Press f or d to select “DISP. ON”, then

press SET.

Frame number*

Second

Minute

Hour

*Displayed during still

or frame advance playback.

0 00 10 20TC

DISP. OFF

DISP. ON

OTHERS

REMOTE SOUND TIME CODE TC OUT RETURN

SET

TC OUT

Time code

DISP. ON

TIME CODE

SET

1 1 2

SET

1 1 2

4 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

• The time code appears.

To turn off the time code

Select “DISP. OFF” in step 3 above.

Note:

• When the tape reaches an unrecorded section, the time code returns to “TC-:--:--”. Once recorded, the time code cannot be changed.

Displaying the time code on a TV during playback

1 In TAPE-VCR mode, select I, then

press SET. Select “TC OUT” (1), then press SET (2).

2 Press f or d to select “ON”, then press

SET.

3 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

TCO 05:35:

GAMMAGAMMA

GAMMA

OFF

OTHERS

REMOTE

SOUND TIME CODE TC OUT RETURN

SET

Page 68

Useful Features Playback

Useful

Features

Playback Effects

Available mode: TAPE-VCR

Playback effects can be used to create an interesting scene transition between a still image and the following image during playback.

Type of Playback Effects

OVERLAP: A still image fades out as the next

image fades in, replacing the previous image. The two scenes momentarily dissolve.

WIPE: A still image is replaced with the next

image first appearing in the middle of the screen and gradually expanding to fill the screen.

Preparation

Plan the scene transition, and record still images with the still recording function (see page 40).

Notes:

• Playback effects can also be used to provide a transition from a still image to a moving image.

• Record images for 6 seconds or longer. An image recorded for less than 6 seconds may not dissolve properly.

IPE

PB EFFECT

SET

1 1 2

Using Playback Effect

1 In TAPE-VCR mode, press the MENU/

DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears.

2 Select V, then press SET. Select “PB

EFFECT” (1), then press SET (2).

3 Press f or d to select “OVERLAP” or

“WIPE”, then press SET.

4 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

5 Rewind or fast forward the tape to just

before the position where you want to use the playback effect, and then begin playback.

• The still image is replaced with the next image with the selected playback effect.

To cancel the playback effect

Select “OFF” in step 3 above.

Notes:

• Playback effects will be canceled if Multiple

Strobe Playback, Picture Effect Playback or Playback Zoom is used thereafter.

• Playback effects will be canceled if the power source is interrupted.

OFF

OVE RL AP

IPE

AUDI O DUB

PIC.

EFFECT

AUDI O

PB EFFECT

ULTI F RAME

PLAY BACK SE T

RETURN

SET

Page 69

Useful

Features

Picture Effect Playback

Available modes: TAPE-VCR, CARD-VCR

These picture effects let you play back images with a more dramatic effect.

Picture effect options

B/W: The picture is displayed in black-and-

white.

SEPIA: The picture is displayed in sepia colour

similar to that of an old photograph.

MOSAIC*: The picture is divided up into tiles.

SOLARI: The contrast of the subject is

enhanced, creating a unique artistic image.

NEGA: The blacks and whites of the image are

reversed and colours of the image are inverted.

*Available only in TAPE-VCR mode.

1 During playback in TAPE-VCR or CARD-

VCR mode, press the MENU/DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears.

2 Select V, then press SET. Select “PIC.

EFFECT” (1), then press SET (2).

3 Press f or d to select the desired

picture effect, then press SET.

4 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

OFF

BW SEP I A

SOL AR I NEGA

OSA I C

AUDI O DUB

PIC.

EFFECT

AUDI O

PB EFFECT M

ULTI F RAME

PLAY BACK SE T

RETURN

SET

P I C. EFFECT

SET

1 1 2

To cancel Picture Effect Playback

Select “OFF” in step 3 above.

Notes:

• Images in Picture Effect Playback mode cannot be transferred via DV or PC connecting cable to a personal computer.

• Picture Effect Playback cannot be used with Multiple Strobe Playback, Playback Effects or Slide Show Playback.

Page 70

Useful Features Playback

Useful

Features

Playback Zoom

Available modes: TAPE-VCR, CARD-VCR

The playback zoom function allows you to magnify the playback picture up to 10 times its original size and to shift the magnified picture by using the remote control (see pages 46 and 47 for use of the remote control.).

• The example screens for this feature are for TAPE-VCR mode.

1 During playback in TAPE-VCR or CARD-

VCR mode, press the ZOOM T button to zoom in.

2 Press the Shift q, w, a, or s button to

shift the displayed image.

ZOOM buttons

Shift buttons

AUDIO

1 2

AUDIO

GAMMA

AUDIO

1 2

AUDIO

2+1

GAMMA

To cancel Playback Zoom

Press the ZOOM W button to zoom out to the widest angle.

Notes:

• Use of Playback Zoom may cause a reduction in picture quality for still images.

• Images in Playback Zoom mode cannot be transferred via DV or PC connect cable to a personal computer.

Playback zoom indicator

Page 71

Useful

Features

Gamma Playback

Available mode: TAPE-VCR

The gamma playback function improves the tape playback picture by increasing the brightness of the subject while leaving the brighter portions of the image unaffected.

During playback in TAPE-VCR mode, press GAMMA once.

•“GAMMA1” appears, and the picture becomes brighter.

To obtain a brighter picture, press GAMMA again.

•“GAMMA2” appears.

To cancel Gamma Playback

Press GAMMA button until “GAMMA1” and “GAMMA2” disappear.

Note:

• Gamma Playback has no effect during still playback.

GAMMA1GAMMA1

AUDIO

1 2

AUDIO

GAMMA

GAMMA22GAMMA

AUDIO

1 2

AUDIO

GAMMA

Multiple Strobe Playback

Available mode: TAPE-VCR

The multiple strobe playback function can be used to capture the action of a fast-moving subject at intervals of 1/8 of a second using a 9- or 16-frame picture. This is useful when you want to check your form in sports such as tennis or golf.

1 In TAPE-VCR mode, press the MENU/

DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears.

2 Select V, then press SET. Select

“MULTI FRAME” (1), then press SET (2).

3 Press f or d to select “9 FRAMES”

(9-frame picture) or “16 FRAMES” (16frame picture), then press SET.

4 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen, and then begin playback.

5 Press the STILL button at the

point where you want to begin the multiple strobe playback.

• A multi-frame picture of the image is displayed.

To cancel Multiple Strobe Playback

Press the STILL button again.

Note:

• Multiple Strobe Playback cannot be used

during video search, still or slow playback.

OF F

FRAMES

AUDI O DUB

PIC.

EFFECT

AUDI O

PB EFFECT M

ULTI F RAME

PLAY BACK SE T

RETURN

SET

ULTI FRAME

FRAMES

GAMMA

SET

1 1 2

Page 72

Advanced Features Camera Recording

Advanced

Features

1 Set the camcorder to TAPE-CAMERA,

DUAL-CAMERA, or CARD-CAMERA mode.

2 In Recording Standby

mode, set the EASY/ MANUAL/AUTO Selection switch to MANUAL.

3 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

4 Select T, then press SET. Select “MAN.

FOCUS” (1), then press SET (2).

5 Press a or s to select “MANUAL”, then

press SET.

• The focus setting screen is displayed.

Advanced Features

Camera Recording

Subject is too dark.

Lack of contrast, e.g.

snow scene.

Fast-moving subject. Background is too bright.

Subject has horizontal stripes.

Subject is being shot through

a dirty or wet window.

Fast-speed shutter being

used under fluorescent

lighting.

Subject has fine, repeated

patterns.

Subjects at different distances

appear in the centre of the scene

at the same time.

Light reflects off the subject.

Two subjects at different distances

overlap in the same scene.

Power Zoom buttons

AN. FOCUS AUTO

ANUAL

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PI C. EFFECT

SCENE MENU QK. RETURN DIS

MANU AL S E T

RETURN

SET

1 1 2

EASY/MANUAL/AUTO Selection switch

Manual Focus

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA, CARD-CAMERA

Auto Focus may not be able to focus on the subject in the situations shown below. In such situations, set the camcorder to Manual Focus mode and focus manually.

MANUAL

FOCUS

min0min

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

Page 73

Advanced

Features

6 Turn the CONTROL dial up or down (1)

to focus on the subject, then press the CONTROL dial (2).

• Turning the CONTROL dial up ( ): To focus far

• Turning the CONTROL dial down ( ): To focus near

7 Press the CONTROL dial to lock the

focus.

Manual focus indicator

MANUAL

FOCUS

MANU A L MF

FOCUS

AUTO

SET

min0min

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

AN. FOCUSMANUAL

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PI C. EFFECT SCENE MENU QK. RETURN DIS

MANU AL S E T

RETURN

SET

8 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

•“MF” is displayed.

To cancel Manual Focus mode

After performing step 4 above, select “AUTO”, then press SET.

Notes:

• The camcorder may not be able to focus correctly if the subject is within approximately

1.5 m. Set the zoom control to wide angle, and then try refocusing.

• If the lens is dirty or fogged, the camcorder may not be able to correctly focus.

• When “MF” is displayed, you can manually adjust the focus by turning the CONTROL dial up or down, even if the focus setting screen is not displayed.

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

min0min

MANUAL MF

Page 74

Advanced Features Camera Recording

Advanced

Features

1 Set the camcorder to TAPE-CAMERA,

DUAL-CAMERA, or CARD-CAMERA mode.

2 Set the EASY/

MANUAL/AUTO Selection switch to MANUAL.

3 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

4 Select T, then press SET. Select

“SHUT. SPEED” (1), then press SET (2).

5 Press a or s to select “MANUAL”, then

press SET.

• The shutter speed setting screen is displayed.

Setting the Shutter Speed

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA, CARD-CAMERA

The shutter speed of the camcorder is preset to auto mode, which automatically chooses the optimal shutter speed for the ambient light. However, depending on the subject or situation, you may want to set the shutter speed manually to create a high-quality picture.

Recommended Shutter Speeds

The faster the shutter speed, the darker the picture becomes. Select the most appropriate shutter speed for the ambient light.

Tips on Using the Manual Shutter Speed

• Fast shutter speeds can be used with the still recording function (see pages 39 to 41 and

73) to record higher quality still images of fast-moving subjects.

• If the on-screen picture flickers when recording under fluorescent lighting, you may be able to compensate by setting the shutter speed to 1/120 sec.

EASY/MANUAL/AUTO Selection switch

1/120 sec.

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PI C. EFFECT SCENE MENU QK. RETURN DIS

MANU AL S E T

AUTO

ANUAL

RETURN

SET

1 1 2

Situation

Recommended

shutter speed

• Recording sports action in bright daylight.

• Recording in bright daylight at a ski resort.

1/10,000 sec.

1/1,000 sec.

• Recording outdoor sports on a partially cloudy day.

• Recording an outside scene through a car window (when you want to minimize blur caused by the camera shaking).

1/1,000 sec.

1/250 sec.

• When you want to reduce the light by half. Use as a substitute for an ND2 filter.

MANU A L

SHUT.

SPEED

00001

AUTO

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

Page 75

Advanced

Features

1/10,000 sec.

1/4,000 sec. 1/2,000 sec. 1/1,000 sec.

1/500 sec. 1/250 sec. 1/120 sec.

1/50 sec.

Variable

MANU A L

SHUT.

SPEED

00001

AUTO

MANU A L

SHUT.

SPEED

00001

0020

AUTO

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

Shutter speed

indicator

10000 4000 2000 1000 500 250 120 50 AUTO

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PIC. EFFECT SCENE MENU QK. RETURN DIS

MANU AL S E T

2000

RETURN

SET

Shutter speed

6 Turn the CONTROL dial up or down to

select the desired shutter speed.

• The number shown is the selected shutter speed level. The adjustment range is from 1/50 sec (slowest) to 1/ 10,000 sec (fastest).

7 Press the CONTROL dial to set the

shutter speed.

• The selected shutter speed level is

displayed on the menu screen.

8 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

To return to Auto Shutter Speed mode

After performing step 4 above, select “AUTO”, then press SET.

Notes:

• Recording with a shutter speed faster than 1/50 sec. tends to darken the picture. Record in bright locations when you use a fast shutter speed.

• Using a fast shutter speed under fluorescent lighting will cause flickering in the picture and possibly periodic color shifts.

• The manual shutter speed setting will be canceled if a scene setting is selected thereafter.

Page 76

Advanced Features Camera Recording

Advanced

Features

3 Select T, then press SET. Select

“SCENE MENU” (1), then press SET (2).

4 Press f or d to select the scene

setting that best fits the recording situation, then press SET.

• The selected scene setting is displayed on the menu screen.

5 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

• The selected scene setting indicator is displayed.

To cancel the scene setting

Select “OFF” in step 4 above.

Scene Menu (Programme AE)

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA, CARD-CAMERA

You can set the camcorder to the shooting mode that will create the best results for a specific situation by just selecting one of the scene settings shown below.

Scene setting options

1 Set the camcorder to TAPE-CAMERA,

DUAL-CAMERA, or CARD-CAMERA mode.

2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

Effect

You can record a fast-moving subject with little blurriness. (The shutter speed is set to 1/500 sec.) This is effective for recording tennis swings, track and field events, and so on.

You can record without darkening the subject even if the background is particularly bright. This is effective for recording at ski areas or when swimming in the ocean.

You can accurately record the red of the setting sun and the surrounding twilight.

You can record a picture with the brightness adjusted for a subject with a large contrast to minimize white flaring. This is effective for recording subjects illuminated by a spotlight.

Scene setting

SPORT

SUNLIGHT

DUSK

PARTY

Scene setting indicator

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PI C. EFFECT SCENE MENU

QK. RETURN

DIS

MANU AL S E T

RETURN

SET

OFF

SUNL IGHT DUSK PARTY

SPORT

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PI C. EFFECT SCENE MENU

QK. RETURN

DIS

MANU AL S E T

RETURN

SET

SPORT

SCENE MENU

SPORT

min

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

SET

1 1 2

Page 77

Advanced

Features

Adjusting the White Balance

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA, CARD-CAMERA

The colour of the subject on the screen tends to look different depending on the lighting condition. The camcorder is preset to Auto White Balance mode, which automatically adjusts the hue of the picture for the current lighting condition.

Auto White Balance may not work properly for the following subjects. In this case, use the white balance lock function.

• Subjects with one dominant colour or subjects against background with one dominant colour

• Subjects under very bright light source, e.g. video lights

• Subjects under light source with red hue, e.g. glow of sunset

• Close-up images of small objects

1 Set the camcorder to TAPE-CAMERA,

DUAL-CAMERA or CARD-CAMERA mode.

2 In Recording Standby

mode, set the EASY/ MANUAL/AUTO Selection switch to MANUAL.

3 Aim the lens at a white object.

• Adjust the distance of the object so that the entire screen is white.

4 Press the W/B button to set the white

balance lock.

•“WHITE BAL” flashes and then changes to “W/B LOCK”. To cancel the locking

procedure, press the W/B button while “WHITE BAL” flashes.

To cancel White Balance Lock

Press the W/B button.

•“W/B LOCK” disappears and the white balance lock is cancelled.

Notes:

• If the light source changes or if you move from indoors to outdoors, or vice versa, when recording with the white balance locked, the white balance may shift. Reset the white balance.

• Do not move the camcorder while “WHITE BAL” is flashing in step 4.

• If “WHITE BAL” does not stop flashing in step 4, return to Auto mode to cancel the locking procedure, and repeat from step 2.

• White Balance Lock will be canceled if a scene setting is selected thereafter.

W/B button

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

MANU A L

LOCK

min

MANU A L

WHITE BAL

Page 78

Advanced Features Camera Recording

Advanced

Features

Manual Exposure

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA, CARD-CAMERA

The camcorder is preset to Auto Exposure mode, which automatically chooses the optimal aperture. When there is too much contrast in brightness between the subject and background, however, you may not be able to record a clear image. In this case, use the manual exposure function to correct the exposure level.

Background is too bright and subject too dark (backlit subject).

• Increase the exposure level to allow more light through the lens.

Subject is too bright against background.

• Decrease the exposure level to allow less light through the lens.

1 Set the camcorder to TAPE-CAMERA,

DUAL-CAMERA or CARD-CAMERA mode.

2 Set the EASY/

MANUAL/AUTO Selection switch to MANUAL.

3 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

4 Select T, then press SET. Select

“EXPOSURE” (1), then press SET (2).

5 Press a or s to select “MANUAL”, then

press SET.

• The exposure setting screen is displayed.

6 Turn the CONTROL dial up or down to

select the desired exposure level.

• The number shown is the selected exposure level. The adjustment range is from -5 (least light) to +5 (most light).

SET

1 1 2

MANU A L

EXPOSURE

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

MANU A L

EXPOSURE

GAMMA

FADE

SRCH

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PIC. EFFECT

SCENE MENU QK. RETURN DIS

MANU AL S E T

AUTO

ANUAL

RETURN

SET

Page 79

Advanced

Features

7 Press the CONTROL dial to set expo-

sure level.

• The selected exposure level is displayed on the menu screen.

8 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

To cancel Manual Exposure mode

After performing step 4 above, select “AUTO”, then press SET.

Notes:

• Manual Exposure mode will be canceled if a

scene setting is selected thereafter.

EASY/MANUAL/AUTO Selection switch

AUTO

Full Auto mode indicator

Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA, CARD-CAMERA

To easily record good-quality images, perform camera shooting in Full Auto mode. If “AUTO” is not displayed on the screen, the camcorder is in Manual mode. Perform the procedure below to cancel all the manual settings and set the camcorder to Full Auto mode.

Set the EASY/MANUAL/AUTO Selection switch to AUTO.

• All the manual settings selected on the MANUAL screen are cancelled.

•“AUTO” is displayed.

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PIC. EFFECT SCENE MENU QK. RETURN DIS

MANU AL S E T

RETURN

SET

Page 80

Advanced Features Camera Recording

Advanced

Features

Selecting Zoom Microphone Mode

Zoom Microphone mode options

AUTO: The camcorder automatically selects

the optimum sound according to the magnification of the zoom lens. When the zoom lens is at a wide-angle setting, the built-in microphone is used to record sounds. As the zoom magnification increases, the sounds from the zoom microphone and built-in microphone are mixed according to the zoom setting.

TELE: The zoom microphone is fixed to record

sounds at a distance. (The built-in microphone is turned off.)

OFF: The zoom microphone is turned off and

the built-in microphone is turned on. This allows you to record a wider range of sound than with the zoom microphone.

1 Mount the zoom microphone to the

camcorder.

2 In TAPE-CAMERA or DUAL-CAMERA

mode, display the menu screen (see page 29).

3 Select U, then press SET. Select

“ZOOM MIC” (1), then press SET (2).

4 Press f or d to select the desired

zoom microphone mode, then press SET.

• The selected zoom microphone mode is displayed on the menu screen.

5 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

Using the Zoom Microphone

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA

With the supplied zoom microphone, you can record audio according to the magnification of the zoom lens to produce the optimum sound. You can also set the zoom microphone to record only sounds at a distance.

Mounting the Zoom Microphone

1 Hold the zoom microphone as shown in

the figure, and mount it to the accessory shoe by sliding it in the direction of the arrow until it locks into place.

2 Turn the screw in the direction of the

arrow to secure the zoom microphone.

Removing the zoom microphone

Turn the screw in the opposite direction than when mounting, and then pull off the zoom microphone.

Cautions:

• Use the zoom microphone with the windscreen left on. Taking the windscreen off will significantly increase the volume of wind.

• Do not pick up the camcorder by the zoom microphone, as this may cause the camcorder or zoom microphone to break down.

Accessory shoe

Screw

OFF

AUTO

TELE

AUD I O MODE

IND

ZOOM MI C

AUD I O SE T

D I ALOG REC RETURN

SET

AUTO

ZOOM MI C

SET

1 1 2

Page 81

Advanced

Features

Notes:

• When the camcorder is in EASY mode, the Zoom Microphone mode is fixed to “AUTO” and cannot be selected on the menu screen.

• You can also use headphones while recording. The volume is adjusting with the remote control.

Windbreak

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA

The windbreak function allows you to reduce annoying noise from strong winds when recording.

1 In TAPE-CAMERA or DUAL-CAMERA

mode, display the menu screen.

2 Select U, then press SET. Select

“WIND” (1), then press SET (2).

3 Press f or d to select “ON”, then press

SET.

4 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

To cancel Windbreak

Select “OFF” in step 3 above.

Note:

• Keep the windbreak function off during normal recording. If it is left on, the recorded audio may sound somewhat muffled when played back.

OFF

AUD I O MODE

IND

ZOOM MI C

AUD I O SE T

D I ALOG REC RETURN

SET

WIND

SET

1 1 2

Dialogue Recording

Available modes: TAPE-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA

When you want to record from a distance at a lecture, workshop, or other such occasion, the speaker’s voice may blend in with ambient sounds. You can use the Dialogue Recording function to pick up the speaker’s voice more distinctly.

1 In TAPE-CAMERA or DUAL-CAMERA

mode, display the menu screen.

2 Select E, then press SET. Select

“DIALOG REC”, and then press SET.

3 Press a or s to select “ON”, then press

SET.

4 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

To cancel Dialogue Recording

Select “OFF” and then press SET in step 3 above.

OFF

AUD I O MODE

IND

ZOOM MI C

AUD I O SE T

D I ALOG REC RETURN

SET

DIALOG REC

Page 82

Advanced

Features

Advanced Features Playback

Editing

Available mode: TAPE-VCR

Video editing lets you refine your videos by removing unwanted sequences from your tape, or transposing one sequence with another. This camcorder lets you monitor the source programme on the built-in LCD monitor without having to connect it to an external TV or video monitor.

Connect the camcorder to a VCR with the supplied audio/video/S-video cable, as shown.

Notes:

• If your VCR has an S-video input terminal, you can use the S-video plug of the supplied audio/ video/S-video cable for the video connection on the VCR. (The yellow video plug does not need to be connected to the VCR.)

• If your VCR has only one audio input jack, use the white plug for the audio connection on the VCR.

Advanced Features

Playback

Cutting Unwanted Sequences

1 Play back the tape to be edited on the

camcorder, and locate the beginning and end of the sequence you wish to cut. Write down the time code readings at the beginning and end of that sequence (see page 50). Then, rewind the tape to before the beginning of the portion that you wish to keep.

2 Load a video cassette into the recording

VCR.

3 Press y to begin playback, and then

press the Record button on the VCR to begin recording.

4 Press the Pause/Still button on the VCR

to pause recording when the source tape reaches the beginning of the sequence to be cut.

5 Press the Pause/Still (or Record) button

on the VCR to resume recording when the source tape reaches the end of the sequence to be cut.

To stop editing

Pressdand press the Stop button on the VCR.

Notes:

• Some of the transitions between edited sequences may be slightly off.

• There may be picture noise during video search or still playback. This does not imply a defect in the camcorder.

• If the date and time and/or the time code are displayed on the camcorder screen, they will be recorded along with the edited sequences. Turn them off if you do not want to record them on the edited sequences (see pages 49 and 50).

• The camcorder cannot be used as the recording source when editing analog signals.

Recording

Yellow: To video input jack White: To audio input (L) jack Red: To audio input (R) jack

To S-video

input

terminal

Audio/Video/S-video cable (supplied)

Playback

To AV+S terminal

POWER

TV/VCRSET UP

CHANNEL

REC

PLAY

STOP/ EJECT

PAUSE /STILL

Page 83

Advanced

Features

To DV terminal

Editing with the DV Terminal (IEEE1394)

Available mode: TAPE-VCR

This camcorder enables you to perform digital video editing. Connect the camcorder to video equipment with a DV terminal using a DV cable (commercially available). A DV cable is able to transfer all dubbing signals including video and audio.

To Record to Video Equipment

Perform “Cutting Unwanted Sequences” on page 65, using the video equipment as the recording source.

Note:

• Make sure that the video equipment to which you are recording can input dubbing signals via the DV terminal.

To Record from Video Equipment

1 Insert a Mini DV cassette, and then set

the camcorder to TAPE-VCR mode.

2 Begin playback on the video equipment

connected to the camcorder.

• Check the camcorder screen to see if the picture is being properly received.

3 Press the REC START/STOP button on

the camcorder.

• The camcorder enters Recording Standby mode.

4 Press y to begin recording.

To stop recording

Pressd.

Cutting unwanted sequences

1 Press y to pause recording when the

source tape reaches the beginning of the sequence to be cut.

2 Press y again to resume recording

when the source tape reaches the end of the sequence to be cut.

Notes:

• Make sure that the video equipment from which you are recording can output dubbing signals via the DV terminal.

• If the video equipment is not set to the playback mode or the DV cable is not properly connected, “NO SIGNAL” is displayed on the camcorder screen.

• When no picture or sound is input to the camcorder even if the DV cable is properly connected and you are playing back the source media from the video equipment, set the POWER switch on the camcorder to OFF and then back to VCR, or disconnect the DV cable and connect it again.

• If a digital video recording with a copyright protection signal is used as the playback source, “COPYRIGHT PROTECTED.” appears on the camcorder screen and the recording function is disabled (see page 96).

DV cable

(commercially available)

Video equipment

with DV terminal

(e.g. DV camcorder)

Page 84

Advanced

Features

Advanced Features Playback

Audio Dubbing Feature

Available mode: TAPE-VCR

You can add narration to a tape recorded with this camcorder by using the built-in stereo microphone, while preserving the original audio and video recording.

Built-in stereo microphone

Audio Recording

In normal recording mode

12-bit audio recording

The audio is recorded in stereo on Audio 1.

Audio 1: Stereo (left and right) sound Audio 2: No audio

16-bit audio recording

The audio is recorded in stereo with the left and right sound on two separate channels.

Audio 1: Left sound Audio 2: Right sound

In Audio Dubbing mode

12-bit audio recording

The dubbed audio is recorded on Audio 2.

Audio 1: Original stereo (left and right) sound Audio 2: Dubbed stereo (left and right) sound

16-bit audio recording

The dubbed audio is recorded on Audio 2 over the original right sound. Both the dubbed and original sounds are in mono.

Audio 1: Original left sound Audio 2: Dubbed sound

Note:

• You can select the 12-bit or 16-bit audio recording mode by performing the procedure on page 34.

Page 85

Advanced

Features

Audio Dubbing

Note:

• Use a Mini DV cassette recorded in SP mode.

Audio Dubbing is not possible with LP mode recordings.

1 Play back the recorded Mini DV cassette

and locate the tape position where you wish to start audio dubbing.

2 Press y to pause playback. 3 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

4 Select V, then press SET. Select

“AUDIO DUB” (1), then press SET (2).

• The audio dubbing screen appears.

5 Press START to begin audio dubbing.

Record your narration.

To pause audio dubbing

Press STOP.

To quit audio dubbing

Press CANCEL. The audio dubbing screen disappears.

If you wish to change the dubbed audio or dub additional scenes

1 Press CANCEL to turn off the audio

dubbing screen.

2 Repeat steps 1 to 5 above.

Notes:

• It is recommended that you use Audio Dubbing only with recordings made with this camcorder. Use of recordings made with other digital video equipment may result in poor audio quality.

• Audio dubbing will automatically stop if the original audio changes from 12-bit mode to 16bit mode or vice versa. Press START to resume operation.

• Audio dubbing will automatically stop if a portion recorded in LP mode or an unrecorded portion of the tape is encountered.

• You can play back the dubbed audio and the original audio together or separately (see “Selecting the Audio Playback Mode” on next page).

AUDI O DUB

AUDIO

1 2

AUDIO

START

STOP

CANCEL

AUDI O DUB

PIC.

EFFECT

AUDI O

PB EFFECT M

ULTI F RAME

PLAY BACK SE T

RETURN

AUDI O DUB

EXECUTE

AUDIO

1 2

AUDIO

SET

START

STOP

CANCEL

SET

1 1 2

START

STOP

Page 86

Advanced

Features

Advanced Features Playback

Selecting the Audio Playback Mode

Available mode: TAPE-VCR

You can select any of the following audio playback modes to listen to the dubbed audio.

Audio 1+2

• 12-bit audio recording in stereo (Audio 1 and Audio 2 channels)

• 16-bit audio recording in stereo (left and right channels)

Audio 1

• 12-bit audio recording in stereo (Audio 1 channel only)

• 16-bit audio recording in mono (left channel only)

Audio 2

• 12-bit audio recording in stereo (Audio 2 channel only)

• 16-bit audio recording in mono (right channel only)

1 Play back a Mini DV cassette with

dubbed audio.

2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

3 Select V, then press SET. Select

“AUDIO” (1), then press SET (2).

4 Press f or d to select the desired

audio playback mode, then press SET.

1 2

AUDI O DUB

PIC.

EFFECT

AUDI O

PB EFFECT

PLAY BACK SE T

ULTI F RAME

RETURN

SET

AUD IO

5 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

• The selected audio playback mode indicator is displayed.

Note:

• The audio playback mode indicator, “AUDIO”, is displayed in different colours depending on the recording mode (12- or 16-bit) used for the recording being played back. A white display indicates 12-bit recording mode, and a green display, 16-bit recording mode.

AU TO

AUDIO

1 2

AUDIO

Audio playback mode indicator

SET

1 1 2

Page 87

Advanced

Features

Connecting the Camcorder to a Computer

1 Turn off the camcorder and computer. 2 Connect the camcorder to the computer

as shown below.

3 Turn on the computer. 4 Turn on the camcorder in the desired

camcorder mode.

Notes:

• It is recommended to use the AC adapter/battery charger as a power source for extended periods of use.

• Images with the following functions cannot be transferred to a computer. — TAPE-VCR/CARD-VCR mode: Playback Zoom,

Picture Effect Playback

— TAPE-CAMERA/DUAL-CAMERA/CARD-

CAMERA mode: digital zoom, digital picture effects, Scene Menu

• Using a commercially available dedicated PC card adapter for each card type, it is possible to transfer still images directly from an SD Memory Card or a MultiMediaCard to a computer (see page 85).

• To edit still images transferred with the Video Capture Software, use commercially available image editing software.

Using the Camcorder with Your Computer

It is possible to transfer still images or still playback images from the camcorder to a computer by using the supplied Video Capture Software and PC connecting cable.

System Requirements

• IBM PC/AT or compatible with Intel® Pentium

• Microsoft Windows 95B, Windows 95C,

Windows 98, Windows 98 Second Edition, Windows 2000 Professional*, or Windows Me operating system

• 32 MB or more of RAM

• 9 MB minimum of available hard-disk space

• SVGA (800 × 600 pixels) colour display

monitor with 16-bit colour or higher

• CD-ROM drive (for installation)

• RS-232C serial port

• Mouse or other pointing device

*To install the software in Windows 2000 Professional,

you must log in as Administrator.

Installing the Software

1 Turn on the computer and start up

Windows.

2 Insert the CD-ROM of the Video Capture

Software into the CD-ROM drive.

3 Double click on the “My Computer” icon. 4 Double click on the CD-ROM drive icon. 5 Double click on the “Setup.exe” file. 6 Follow the on-screen instructions to

install the software.

7 Restart the computer.

To RS-232C port

(D-sub 9-pin port)

PC connecting cable (supplied)

PC COMMUNICATION jack

Page 88

Advanced

Features

Advanced Features Playback

Using the PDF Software Manual

The PDF manual for the Video Capture Software is included in the supplied CD-ROM. Refer to the PDF manual for detailed information on the use of the Video Capture Software.

Note:

• For the latest product information concerning the Video Capture Software, be sure to read the “Readme” text file located in the “Readme” folder on the supplied CD-ROM. Select the “Readme” text file in the language you prefer. The letters between “Readme” and “.txt” define the language; for example, “en” in “Readmeen.txt” stands for English, etc.

Installing Adobe Acrobat Reader

Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0 or later is required for viewing the PDF manual for the Video Capture Software. If the Adobe Acrobat Reader is not installed on your computer, perform the steps below to install one.

1 Insert the CD-ROM of the Video Capture

Software into the CD-ROM drive.

2 Double click on the “My Computer” icon.

4 Double click on the “Acroread” folder. 5 Double click on the desired language

version.

Language File name

Chinese, Simplified ar40chs.exe

Chinese, Traditional ar405cht.exe

Dutch ar405dut.exe

English ar405eng.exe

French ar405fre.exe

German ar405deu.exe

Italian ar405ita.exe

Korean ar405kor.exe

Portugese ar405por.exe

Spanish, Castilian ar405esl.exe

Swedish ar405swe.exe

6 Follow the on-screen instructions to

install the software.

7 Restart the computer.

Opening the PDF manual

1 Insert the CD-ROM of the Video Capture

Software into the CD-ROM drive.

2 Double click on the “My Computer” icon. 3 Double click on the CD-ROM drive icon. 4 Double click on the “Manual” folder. 5 Double click on the PDF file of the

desired language version.

• Adobe Acrobat Reader launches and the selected PDF manual opens.

Note:

• If the PDF file does not open, Adobe Acrobat Reader may not be properly installed. Refer to the steps of “Installing Adobe Acrobat Reader” to check the installation procedure.

Printing the PDF manual

Print out the PDF manual so that you can consult it whenever necessary.

1 Open the PDF manual. 2 Select “Print” in the “File” menu.

Note: The menu expressions such as “Print”

and “File” may vary according to the language version of Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on the computer.

3 Select your print settings, and then click

“OK”.

Page 89

Advanced

Features

Transferring Motion Images to Your Computer

It is possible to use the optional VR-PKU10E PixLab USB Digital Moving Picture Kit to transfer motion images with audio from the camcorder to a personal computer via a USB port.

* Included with the optional VR-PKU10E PixLab USB

Digital Moving Picture Kit.

Notes:

• It is recommended to use the AC adapter/battery charger as a power source for extended periods of use.

• For details, see the operation manual for the optional PixLab USB Digital Moving Picture Kit.

To USB port

USB capture cable*

Match the connectors of the same colour.

To audio input terminal

Audio conversion cable*

Audio/Video/S-video cable (supplied with the camcorder)

To AV+S terminal

Page 90

Digital Still Camera

Features

Digital Still Camera Features Camera Recording

Power Zoom buttons

STILL button

Media Selection switch

POWER switch

Card Recording

Available mode: CARD-CAMERA

It is possible to take a still picture in the same way as you do with a standard camera and record that image on the card.

1 Insert a card in the camcorder (see

page 15).

2 Remove the lens cap. Pull out the

viewfinder completely or open the LCD monitor.

3 Set the Media Selection

switch to CARD.

4 Hold down the Lock button and set the

POWER switch to CAMERA.

• The camcorder turns on in CARDCAMERA mode, and the picture from the lens is displayed on the screen.

Lock button

AUTO

CARD

9001

NORMAL

GAMMA

Number of shots remaining

Number of shots taken

Digital Still Camera Features

Camera Recording

5 Press the Power Zoom buttons to frame

the subject as you desire.

Note: In CARD-CAMERA mode, the zoom will give magnification of 1–10×.

6 Press the STILL button to record a still

image of the subject.

• The O indicator flashes red while data is

being recorded on the card, and returns to white when recording is completed.

Notes:

• In CARD-CAMERA mode, the angle of field is slightly wider than in TAPE-CAMERA or DUALCAMERA mode.

• Recording under insufficient lighting may result in blurred images. It is recommended that you use a tripod to record insufficiently illuminated subjects.

• Recording under the light of a fluorescent, mercury, or sodium lamp may cause flickering in the image and, depending on the timing of the shot, may result in changes to colour hue in the image.

• It is also possible to record still images on a card by pressing the CARD REC button on the infrared remote control.

Caution:

• Do not turn the power off or remove the card while the O indicator is flashing in step 6, because this may delete or damage images on the card.

AUTO

CARD

8911

NORMAL

GAMMAGAMMAGAMMA

Page 91

Digital Still Camera

Features

Selecting the Picture Quality

The picture quality of still images recorded on a card and the number of recordable images depend on picture quality setting. Select the appropriate setting to match the purpose of recording.

Approximate number of recordable images (with the supplied 8 MB MultiMediaCard)

Note:

• The number of recordable images differs depending on picture quality setting being used and the images being shot.

Selecting the Picture Quality

Available modes: CARD-CAMERA, DUAL-

CAMERA

The camcorder compresses each image with the picture quality setting to save memory on a card.

Picture quality options

NORMAL: Records images with standard

picture quality.

ECONOMY: Allows you to take more shots than

in NORMAL mode but with a lower quality.

FINE: Records images with higher quality than

in NORMAL mode but with a lower number of recordable images.

Image size

640 480

100

180

NORMAL

ECONOMY

FINE

Picture

quality

1 In CARD-CAMERA or DUAL-CAMERA

mode, press the MENU/DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears.

2 Select Y, then press SET. Select “REC

MODE” (1), then press SET (2).

3 Press f or d to select the desired

setting, then press SET.

4 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

• The selected resolution setting indicator is displayed.

Note:

• The resolution setting indicator is also displayed in CARD-VCR mode. The resolution setting indicator displayed during playback is based on the amount of data for that recorded image. Since the amount of data differs depending on factors such as image detail, sometimes the resolution setting indicator displayed during playback may not match the resolution setting used during recording.

REC MODE

NORMAL

DGTL ZOOM

SNAP E FF.

ECONOMY FINE

CAMERA SET

FLASH

GUIDE

RETURN

FRM

CARD

SET

REC MODE

ECONOMY

AUTO

CARD

70101

COENOMY

Resolution setting indicator

SET

1 1 2

Page 92

Digital Still Camera

Features

Digital Still Camera Features Camera Recording

Recording with the Guide Frame

Available mode: CARD-CAMERA

When your subject is a person, displaying guide frames on the screen will give you a gauge for deciding on the size of the subject’s image.

Guide frame options

CLOSE-UP: This will display a guide frame for

recording a person’s face in close-up.

PORTRAIT: This will display a guide frame for

recording an upper-body view of a person.

FULL-BODY: This will display a guide frame for

recording a full-body view of a person.

1 In CARD-CAMERA mode, display the

menu screen.

2 Select W, then press SET. Press a or

s to select “GUIDE FRM”, then press

SET.

3 Press a or s to select “CLOSE-UP”,

“PORTRAIT” or “FULL-BODY”, then

press SET.

FULL–BODY

REC MODE

OFF

CLOSE–UP PORTRA I T

CAMERA SET

FLASH

GUIDE

RETURN

FRM

DGTL ZOOM

SNAP E FF.

CARD

SET

GUIDE FRM

FULL–BODY

4 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

• The selected guide frame is displayed.

To turn off the guide frame

Select “OFF” and then press SET in step 3 above.

AUTO

CARD

9001

N0RMAL

GAMMA

SET

1 1 2

Page 93

Digital Still Camera

Features

Recording with the Self-timer

Available mode: CARD-CAMERA

The self-timer function allows you to record images after a time-lag of 10 seconds. This is convenient when you want to record an image of you and your friends together.

1 In CARD-CAMERA mode, press the

MENU/DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears.

2 Select T, then press SET. Select “SELF

TIMER” (1), then press SET (2).

Self-timer operating indicator

SCENE SELF T IMER

DIS

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PI C. EFFECT

MANUAL S E T

RETURN

CARD

SET

3 Frame the subject, and then press the

STILL button to set the timer.

• The self-timer operating indicator flashes while the timer counts down.

• The shutter will be automatically released 10 seconds after, and a still image of the subject is recorded.

Notes:

• When recording with the self-timer, stabilize the camcorder in the horizontal plane by attaching it to a tripod, etc.

• To pause the selftimer, press the STILL button again in step 3.

• To cancel the self-timer, press CANCEL in step

• Self-timer mode will be cancelled after recording one image. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to record another image with the self-timer.

Caution:

• Do not turn the power off or remove the card once the self-timer operating indicator begins flashing.

CARD

AUTO

9001

NORMAL

GAMMA CANCEL

SCENE

SELF T IMER

DIS

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PI C. EFFECT

MANUAL S E T

CARD

RETURN

CARD

AUTO

9001

NORMAL

EXECUTE

SET

GAMMA CANCEL

SET

1 1 2

Page 94

Digital Still Camera

Features

Digital Still Camera Features Camera Recording

Selecting Flash Mode

Flash mode options

AUTO: Flash automatically fires when in a dark

location (“LIGHT” is displayed on the screen) each time you press the STILL button.

ON: Flash fires every time you press the STILL

button.

1 Mount the IR & Flash Light to the

camcorder and then set the Power switch on the IR & Flash Light to FLASH.

2 In CARD-CAMERA mode, display the

menu screen.

3 Select W, then press SET. Press a or

s to select “FLASH”, then press SET.

4 Press a or s to select “AUTO” or “ON”,

then press SET.

5 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen turns off.

• The indicator is displayed.

Caution:

• You should never use the flash with the camcorder close to another person.

Notes:

• The indicator flashes while the flash is being charged.

• If you press the STILL button while the indicator is flashing, flash does not fire but a still image of the subject is recorded.

Using the Flash Light (Optional Accessory)

Available mode: CARD-CAMERA

Using the flash function of the optional IR & Flash Light VR-3VIF enables you to record good-quality still images even in dark locations.

Mounting the IR & Flash Light

1 Hold the IR & Flash Light as shown in

the figure, and mount it to the accessory shoe by sliding it in the direction of the arrow until it locks into place.

2 Turn the screw in the direction of the

arrow to secure the IR & Flash Light.

Removing the IR & Flash Light

Turn the screw in the opposite direction than when mounting, and then pull off the IR & Flash Light.

Caution:

• Do not pick up the camcorder by the IR & Flash Light, as this may cause the camcorder or IR & Flash Light to break down.

Notes:

• Using the optional IR & Flash Light will shorten the continuous camera recording time with the battery pack.

• For details, see the operation manual of the optional IR & Flash Light.

• The IR light cannot be used, even if the VR-3VIF is mounted on the camcorder.

Accessory shoe

Screw

FLASH

AUTO

Flash indicator

REC MODE

AUTO

CAMERA SET

FLASH

GUIDE

RETURN

FRM

DGTL ZOOM

SNAP E FF.

CARD

SET

CARD

AUTO

9001

NORMAL

SET

Page 95

Digital Still Camera

Features

Formatting a Card

Available mode: CARD-CAMERA

In order to use a commercially available card with this camcorder, formatting is necessary before its first use. You also need to format a card when one of the following warning indicators appears, in order to use the card with the camcorder.

•“FORMAT MEMORY CARD”

•“MEMORY CARD ERROR”

•“MEMORY CARD READ ERROR”

•“CANNOT STORE DATA”

Cautions:

• Formatting a card deletes all images on the card including the delete-protected images.

Be sure to copy important data on your computer or other media before formatting the card. (See pages 70, 71 and 85 to transfer data on a card to a computer.)

• Do not remove the power source during formatting, as this may cause damage to the camcorder or card. It is recommended that you use the AC outlet for the power supply.

1 Insert a card to be formatted in the

camcorder.

2 Set the camcorder to CARD-CAMERA

mode.

3 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

SCENE SELF T IMER

DIS

AN. FOCUS

EXPOSURE

SHUT. SPEED

PI C. EFFECT

MANUAL S E T

CARD

RETURN

SET

4 Select I, then press SET. Select

“FORMAT” (1), then press SET (2) to display the format screen.

• To cancel formatting, press NO.

5 Press YES to begin formatting.

• The menu screen is displayed when formatting ends.

6 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

Note:

• Use this camcorder to format a card. The camcorder may not recognize the images on a card formatted by a computer or other equipment.

FORMAT

SOUND DEMO MODE

OTHERS

RETURN

FORMAT

ALL BE ERASED.

DATA WI LL

EXECUTE

CARD

SET

YES NO

ALL BE ERASED.

DATA WI L L

YES NO

YES

SET

1 1 2

Page 96

Digital Still Camera

Features

Digital Still Camera Features Playback

• If the image you want to play back does

not appear, press q or w to scroll through the thumbnail images.

4 Press q or w to move the selection

frame to the desired image.

• Each time you press q or w, the

selection frame moves backward or forward.

5 Press PB.

• The selected image is displayed in fullscreen.

Card Playback

Available mode: CARD-VCR

It is possible to play back and view still images recorded on a card on the LCD monitor.

1 Open the LCD monitor and adjust the

angle.

2 Set the Media Selection

switch to CARD.

3 Hold down the Lock button and set the

POWER switch to VCR.

• The camcorder turns on in CARD-VCR mode, and the images recorded on the card are displayed in a thumbnail format.

Note: Depending on the amount of data for the recorded image, the picture quality indicator displayed during playback may not match the quality setting used during recording.

Digital Still Camera Features

Playback

Image number

Picture quality indicator

Lock button

Page display

Selection frame

1211

10 0 0 012-

PL AY B ACK

100 0012-

NORMAL

PLAYBACK

PAGE

NORMAL

PL AY B ACKPLAYBACK

10 0 0 006100 0006-

PAGE

NORMAL

PL AY B ACKPLAYBACK

10 0 0 009-100 0009-

PAGE

1211

1 2912

NORMALNORMAL

100 0009-

CARDCARD

MULTIMULTI

q w

MULTI

POWER switch

Media Selection switch

Page 97

Digital Still Camera

Features

Available Operations during Fullscreen Display

• You can display the full-screen picture of the

previous or next image by pressing q or w.

• To return to a thumbnail of the images,

press MULTI.

Caution:

• In cases where image data created on a computer or recorded on a different camcorder is played back on that equipment and the data may be corrupted (the image may have video noise or be erratic), do not play back that image data on this camcorder. Doing so can sometimes cause abnormal screen display (vertical lines and so on). If this happens, turn off the camcorder power and remove the card.

Delete-protection

Available mode: CARD-VCR

It is possible to prevent your important images recorded on the card from being accidentally erased by using the delete-protection function.

1 In CARD-VCR mode, press the MENU/

DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears.

2 Select O, then press SET. Select

“PROTECT” (1), then press SET (2).

3 Press q or w to select the image to be

protected.

PROT EC T

10 0 0 010-100 0010-

PAGE

NORMAL

1211

SET

RETURN

SL IDE SHO

EFFECTPIC.

DELETE

PROTE CT EXECUTE

PRI . ORDER

DELETE ALL

PLAYBACK SE T

RETURN

CARD

PROT EC TPROTECT

10 0 0 012-100 0012-

PAGE

NORMAL

1211

SET

RETURN

SET

1 1 2

Page 98

Digital Still Camera

Features

Digital Still Camera Features Playback

Delete-protection indicator

4 Press SET to set the protection.

• The R indicator appears.

• If you want to protect another image,

repeat steps 3 and 4.

5 Press RETURN, then press the MENU/

DISPLAY button to turn off the menu screen.

To cancel the protection setting

1 Select the image for which the protection

setting is to be canceled in step 3 above.

2 Press CANCEL to cancel the protection.

• The R indicator disappears.

3 Press RETURN, then press the MENU/

DISPLAY button to turn off the menu screen.

Note:

• Formatting a card deletes all images on it, including the ones with the delete-protection setting.

Deleting Stored Images

Available mode: CARD-VCR

You can delete unwanted images to free up memory of a card for new images.

Note:

• Deleted images cannot be restored. Check whether or not you want the images before performing the procedure below.

Deleting a Particular Image

1 In CARD-VCR mode, press the MENU/

DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears.

2 Select O, then press SET. Select

“DELETE” (1), then press SET (2).

3 Press q or w to select the image to be

deleted.

NORMAL

PAGE

10 0 0 010-100 0010-

PROT EC TPROTECT

1211

CANCEL

RETURN

NORMAL

PAGE

10 0 0 010-100 0010-

PROT EC TPROTECT

1211

SET

RETURN

NORMAL

10 0 0 009-100 0009-

DE LE T EDELETE

PAGE

1211

SET

RETURN

SL IDE SHO

EFFECTPIC.

DELETE

PROTE CT

PRI . ORDER

DELETE ALL

PLAYBACK SE T

CARD

RETURN

EXECUTE

DE LE T EDELETE

NORMAL

10 0 0 012-100 0012-

PAGE

1211

SET

RETURN

SET

CANCEL

SET

1 1 2

NORMAL

PAGE

10 0 0 010-100 0010-

PROT EC TPROTECT

1211

CANCEL

RETURN

Page 99

Digital Still Camera

Features

4 Press SET to set the image.

• To cancel deletion, press RETURN.

5 Press YES to delete the image.

• If you want to delete another image, repeat steps 3 to 5.

6 Press RETURN, then press the MENU/

DISPLAY button to turn off the menu screen.

Deleting All Stored Images

Note:

• If you want to keep some images on the card, first delete-protect them (see page 80), and then perform the procedure below.

1 In CARD-VCR mode, press the MENU/

DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears.

2 Select O, then press SET. Select

“DELETE ALL” (1), then press SET (2).

• To cancel deletion, press NO.

SL IDE SHO

EFFECTPIC.

DELETE

PROTECT

PRI . ORDER

DELETE ALL

PLAYBACK SE T

RETURN

CARD

SET

10 0 0 009-100 0009-

DE LE T EDELETE

PAGE

DELETE?

NORMAL

1211

YES NO

10 0 0 010-100 0010-

DE LE T EDELETE

PAGE

1211

SET

RETURN

SL IDE SHO

EFFECTPIC.

DELETE

PROTE CT

PRI . ORDER

DELETE ALL

PLAYBACK SE T

RETURN

EXECUTE

DELETE ALL ?

NORMAL

CARD

10 0 0 003-100 0003-

DE LE T E A LLDELETE ALL

PAGE

1 2 3

SET

YES NO

YES

SET

1 1 2

SET

Page 100

Digital Still Camera

Features

Digital Still Camera Features Playback

3 Press YES to delete all the images.

Notes:

• The protected images cannot be deleted. Cancel the protection setting to delete the image (see page 80).

• If a print order is assigned to delete-protected images and you use the Delete All function, the print order will be cancelled (the protection setting will not be cancelled).

• It will take some time to complete deleting all the stored images.

Caution:

• Do not turn the power off while deleting images.

Slide Show Playback

Available mode: CARD-VCR

It is possible to automatically play back consecutive still images recorded on a card. This is useful when confirming the data recorded on a card.

1 Set the camcorder to CARD-VCR mode. 2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

3 Select O, then press SET. Select

“SLIDE SHOW” (1), then press SET (2).

DELETE

DELET I NG

ALL

NOW

PAGE

NORMAL

PAGE

10 0 0 005-100 000

PL AY B ACKPLAYBACK

1 2 3

YES

SL IDE SHO

EFFECTPIC.

DELETE

PROTE CT

PRI . ORDER

DELETE ALL

PLAYBACK SE T

RETURN

EXECUTE

CARD

SET

YES

SET

1 1 2

SL IDE SHO

EFFECTPIC.

DELETE

PROTECT

PRI . ORDER

DELETE ALL

PLAYBACK SE T

RETURN

CARD

SET