Sharp VL-C8000X Operation Manual

SHARR

WARNING:

This Camcorder must be supplied with D.C. 9.6 volts only from a BT-75 battery, the AA-75X AC adaptor or the optional VRP75CH car adaptor. CAUTION: As there are no serviceable controls inside the Camcorder or AC adaptor, 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 as shown in the enclosed Directory of Service Centres.

CAUTION:

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

With so many brands available, the choice was difficult.

But after enjoying the top quality and high performance of this Sharp Camcorder, you’ll

know you were right.

This Camcorder has outstanding features which allow of your choice. Before using the unit, please read the operation manual carefully. Be sure to store this manual for future use as it will come in handy if you encounter any problem with the unit.

12 x NEW ZOOM SYSTEM

Colour Viewfinder

Full Auto Camera Recording System

Automatic Focus, Iris, and White Balance

l/10,000, 114,000,

Ultra low light recording down to 3 lux (with Gain-up function)

Intelligent Auto Iris for shooting backlit subjects

l/1,000,

11250, 11100 of a sec. variable range, high speed shutter.

you

to relax and enjoy the home entertainment programmes

7 Flying erase head (picture insert)

Self timer for Camera Recording

9 3-way

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

power source with AC, battery, and car battery

Camera search

This unit can be operated by connecting it to either the

AC adaptor, battery pack or optional car battery adaptor/

pro-

authorize

charger. The AC adaptor incorporates the AUTO VOLTAGE (AC

llO-24OV, 50/60

Hz) function.

FEATURES.. PRECAUTIONS.. MAJOR OPERATING COMPONENTS AND THEIR FUNCTIONS

PREPARATIONS..

INSTALLING THE LITHIUM BATTERY..

SE-ITING

ATTACHING AND DETACHING

THE BATTERY PACK

ATACHING

INSERTING AND REMOVING A CASSETTE.. ADJUSTING THE GRIP STRAP.. USING

POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM

USING THE AC ADAPTOR/

BATTERY

CHARGING THE

USING

CHARGER (OPTIONAL ACCESSORY).

USING

CAMERA RECORDING

CAMERA RECORDING.. FULL AUTO SYSTEM..

REC

CAMERA SEARCH..........................................

POWER ZOOM

(WIDEITELEPHCTTO

USING THE ZOOM SELECT LAP TIME FUNCTION

.........................................................

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THE DATE/TIME..

THE SHOULDER STRAP..

THE

COLOUR

CHARGER.. .....................................

BATTERY

THE CAR BATTERY ADAPTOR/

THE

BA-TTERY

REVIEW.. ................................................

CONTROL).

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VIEWFINDER

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PACK..

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BUl-i-ON

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11 11

12 12

13 14

16 17 17

17 18 19

1 2

4 7 7 7

8 8 9 9

LCD DISPLAY AND

VIEWFINDER INFORMATION.. AUTO DATE/TIME FUNCTION ASSEMBLE RECORDING REPLACING THE BATTERY PACK WHILE RECORDING AUTO POWER OFF

PLAY BACK

PLAYBACK IN THE VIEWFINDER.. TRACKING ADJUSTMENT.. FORWARD/REVERSE SEARCH AND STILL COUNTER MEMORY FEATURE.. CONNECTION TO TV CONNECTION TO TV WITH A/V TERMINALS.. RECORDING TO ANOTHER VCR.. EDIT CONTROL USING THE

ADVANCED OPERATION

MANUAL FOCUS WHITE BALANCE.. BACKLIGHT COMPENSATION GAIN-UP SELF TIMER RECORDING HIGH SPEED SHUTTER.. MACRO FADE IN & OUT..

LIGHTING BEFORE REQUESTING SERVICE SPECIFICATIONS

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CASSETTE

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SHOI-S..

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ADAPTOR

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20 21 22

22 23 23 23

..... 24

27 28

31 31 31 32 32 32 33 34 34 35 36 37

READ THE SAFETY AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS AND HEED ALL

INGS

befoe

operating this Camcorder.

on this Camcorder and in this manual.

WARi+

DEW FORMATION

What is “dew formation?”

When you pour cold beer into a glass, dew forms on the glass. This clinging of water drops is called dew

formation.

When dew

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:

l When moving the Camcorder from a cold place to a

warm place.

l When placing the Camcorder in a cold room which is

then heated rapidly.

l When moving the Camcorder outdoors from an air

conditioned room.

l When placing the Camcorder in the direct path of air

blowing from an air conditioner.

@And

How to prevent trouble due to dew formation.

When using the Camcorder in a place where dew for-

mation is likely to occur, allow the Camcorder and the

video tape to

one hour.

For example, when bringing the Camcorder indoors after skiing, first put it in a plastic bag and allow it to adapt to room conditions for some period of time.

forms,in

your Camcorder.

when placing the Camcorder in a humid room.

acclimatize

to the surroundings for about

“Dew” warning feature

When dew forms on the head drum, the dew warning indicator appears in the viewfinder. After ten seconds, the power will automatically turn off.

When “DEW” appears, eject the video tape and leave it out

for several hours to adapt it to the surroundings.

Since dew forms gradually, it may take 10 to 15 minutes be-

fore “DEW” appears in the viewfinder.

To use the Camcorder again, turn the power on after waiting for several hours and make sure that “DEW” has disappeared.

Before actual recording, be sure to test record, checking that both the picture and the sound are being recorded properly. The picture can be easily checked by using “REC REVIEW’:

How to continually maintain good recording.

If used in a variety of places, eventually your Camcorder may not function properly due to accumulation of dirt on the head drum. Please pay special attention to the following points when using your Camcorder.

Dew formation on the head drum.

@The video tape becomes worn:

Using a damaged or soiled video tape may also soil the head drum, causing the picture to be blurred or nothing to be recorded on the video tape. Do not use such a video tape.

Using the Camcorder in a humid or a dusty place:

Use in extremely humid or dusty places may cause

damage to your Camcorder.

When the video heads are dirty.

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

Under such circumstances, contact the nearest service centre approved by SHARP or your dealer for further advice.

Make sure there is enough air in the plastic bag con-

taining the Camcorder.

@Remove the bag when the air temperature inside it

reaches the temperature of the surroundings.

For safety, strictly observe the following

.Do

not open the case.

@Take

care to avoid flammables or other liquids and

metal objects from entering the unit. Should this

happen, switch the power off and have the Camcorder checked by qualified personnel.

*Do

not disassemble or attempt to modify the unit.

l Do not operate the Camcorder during lightning

storms. Unplug power cables of any connected equipment.

Avoid using the Camcorder under the following

conditions

*Places of extreme humidity or excessive dust.

l Near electrical appliances generating strong mag-

netic fields (fluorescent lights, televisions, speakers).

@Steamy

stove. *Excessive mechanical shock or vibration. *Extremely hot locations such as near heating.

@Wet

bathtubs and the like. DO not expose the Camcorder to extremely high

or low temperatures for long periods

l Never leave this Camcorder in direct sunlight, in a

closed car during summer or near a heater - this will most likely deform the exterior and damage the

internal parts of the Camcorder.

l Do not store the Camcorder in places over l Do not use the Camcorder in places over l Do not use the Camcorder in places below 0%. l Do not use the Camcorder in humid places over 80%

RH.

Store the Camcorder in a location that stays between

- 20°C

Take extra care when recording outdoors

@Do

surface. Protect from damage during transporta-

tion.

l Prevent the Camcorder from getting wet.

@At

prevent sand from entering the Camcorder.

@Avoid

like the sun or other strong lights.

*Do

l Stop using the Camcorder during lightning storms.

or sooty places such as near a cooking

locations, such as near swimming pools,

60°C.

40°C.

and

60°C.

not drop or allow it to strike any hard or rough

the beach, keep away from salt water or spray and

aiming the lens at extremely bright objects

not direct the viewfinder eyepiece at the sun.

Handling the Camcorder

Protect the microphone from damage.

l Keep the Camcorder horizontal during use, other-

wise the tape may become slack and be damaged.

*Do not carry the Camcorder by the viewfinder.

Loop the strap over your arm - should the Camcorder accidentally slip out of will avoid damaging it.

*Cap the lens after use. Remember to switch the

power off.

@Do

not touch the focus ring while using Autofocus.

*Before attaching any filter to the lens, switch to manual

focus or switch the power off and remove the lens hood.

Cleaning the Camcorder

*Detach the battery pack or disconnect the power

before cleaning the Camcorder.

@Remove dust with a soft cloth. Use a soft cloth

moistened with mild detergent to remove persistent dirt.

l Do not use strong cleaning agents such as PETROL,

thinner or alcohol

they may damage the exterior.

*Keep the lens and viewfinder clean. Clean the lens by

first blowing it free of dust, then gently wipe it with a soft brush or lens cleaning paper moistened with lens cleaning fluid.

your hand, you

BEFORE DISCONNECTING A POWER SOURCE, ALWAYS SLIDE THE OPERATE SWITCH TO OFF

THE OPERATE INDICATOR WILL GO OUT.

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

Microphone

BLC (Back Light Compensation)/GAIN-UP button

If the subject is darker than the background, the

recorded subject may appear too dark and undefined. If this is the case, push this button for “BLC”. When “LIGHT” is displayed in the viewfinder, the gain-up mode is engaged and the screen becomes

brighter when this button is pressed.

Colour Viewfinder/Monitor

Displays the photographic subject in full colour. Also functions as a convenient colour monitor for playback of recorded material.

Diopter adjustment

Use this control to adjust the viewfinder focus to your

eyesight.

Zoom lever

Use this lever to manually zoom in and out on your

subject.

Macro button

Use this control for shooting subjects positioned less

+han

1.1 m from the Camcorder. (Autofocus does not

function at this distance.) Press the MACRO button

continuously while moving the Zoom lever to the

“MACRO” position for focusing.

ZOOM SELECT button

Use this button to instantly magnify (or reduce) the

framed area in the viewfinder by 1.5 times.

AUTO/MANUAL FOCUS Select button

Set to “AUTO”, the Camcorder will automatically focus on the subject even if it is moving.

(Remember to use the macro focus feature to

focus on subjects less than 1.1 metre away.) If, however, autofocus does not function because of the prevailing shooting conditions, set this switch

to “MANUAL” and focus manually.

WHITE BALANCE button

Use this button to lock the white balance.

SHUTTER SPEED select button

To select the appropriate high speed shutter during

recording for a clear image replay at high speed

motion in still or slow mode using a VHS VCR for

playback.

FADE IN/OUT button

FULL AUTO switch

[18]

[31]

[33]

[34]

[16]

Sub REC START/STOP button

Press to start recording. Recording will be paused if pressed during the recording mode. Use when recording from a low angle.

TRACKING

DATE/TIME SET button

TRACKING b control button

DATE/TIME SELECT button

DATE/TIME INITIAL button

Power Zoom Wide/Telephoto control button

Maximum telephoto with T also called “zoom-in” or “zoom-up”). Maximum wide angle with W (Wide) depressed (this is also called “zoom-out” or “zoom-down”). You can vary the speed of the zoom from 6 seconds to 20 seconds by the degree of finger pressure on the Zoom buttons.

Battery Pack Compartment

External microphone jack

control button

[23]

rele)

depressed (this is

Eyelet tabs

Pull the shoulder strap through these eyelet tabs

and adjust the length of the strap with the buckle.

input jack

COUNTER/COUNTER MEMORY/LAP TIME button

Used to select among Counter, Counter Memory, and Lap Time modes being indicated in the viewfinder.

COUNTER/LAP TIME RESET button Used to reset the Counter and Lap Time being indi-

cated in the viewfinder.

REC START/STOP button

Press to start recording. Recording will be paused if pressed during the recording mode.

Grip Strap Battery release lever

Used to attach/detach the battery.

SELF TIMER button/Talent Tally indicator

The Talent Tally indicator will light up when the Camcorder begins recording, enabling the subject to determine whether the unit is recording or not. The SELF-TIMER button and Talent Tally indicator share the same function. When the button is pressed in the REC Pause mode, the indicator will blink for 10 seconds before the Self-timer starts recording.

EJECT button

Used to insert or remove

the@@@

cassette.

EJECT

j35i

(/)

OPERATE

CAMERA

To record with the Camcorder, set this switch to the CAMERA REC position. (The Camcorder will then automatically go into REC PAUSE mode.)

When using the Camcorder as a VCR, set this

switch to VCR PLAY.

(In this case, if in the REC PAUSE mode, the Cam-

corder will switch to Still mode; if recording, it will

switch to Stop mode.)

CAMERA SEARCH m button

REWIReverse

REC REVIEW button STOP button

DATE-TIME DISPLAY button

Used to display either the date/time or date in a picture being recorded.

EDIT switch

Picture quality inevitably deteriorates each time you dub from the Camcorder to a VCR. Slide the EDIT switch to on to minimize deterioration of picture quality. Use this while you edit your videos.

RECNCR

Search button

output terminal

PLAY switch

[17]

[24]

[17]

[21]

1361

OPERATE indicator

OPERATE on/off switch

Turns power on and off.

AV OUT

38-

CAMERA SEARCH

FF/Forward

PLAY button

Press for playback.

CAMERA SEARCH E button

PAUSE/STILL button

Use to view a still picture

REC SPEED

Used to set recording to the LP (Long Play) or SP (Standard Play) mode. Recording time in the respective modes is as follows (VHS-C tape EC-30):

LP mode . . . . . . . . . . . 60 min.

SP mode . . . . . . . . . . . 30 min.

Search button

bb,

LP/SP

Select switch

button

[24]

duri;g

playback.

[17]

INSTALLING THE LITHIUM BATTERY

Open the lithium battery compartment cover with

a pointed object.

Warning:

l Dispose

Do not disassemble and do not dispose of in fire.

The battery used in this device may present a fire or chemical

burn hazard if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above CR2025 of SHARP CORPORATION, SONY ENERGYTEC, FUJI ELECTROCHEMICAL or MATSUSHITA ELECTRIC

only. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or

explosion.

of used battery

100°C

or incinerate. Replace battery with type

promptly. Keep

away from children.

SETTING THE DATE/TIME

Insert the battery with the “ + ” side out. Close the

lithium battery compartment cover.

For battery

ment, repeat step 2

after removing old

battery.

This lithium battery is available at a local electronic appliance

shop or audio/video shop.

Disconnect the power source

before replacing the battery.

l The battery life is approximately one year but it differs de-

pending on the ambient temperature and the condition of the lithium battery.

l When the lithium battery runs out, the clock may be ex-

tremely inaccurate, or the clock setting mode may be engaged. When this occurs, replace the lithium battery

as soon as possible. Reset the date and time after replacing the battery.

Do not short-circuit the battery by holding the electrodes with metallic objects such as tweezers, as doing so will deteriorate the battery quality.

(AC

adaptor, battery pack, etc.)

replace-

The auto date/time function features a date and time in the viewfinder which can be recorded as a handy reference.

the instructions below to set the current date and time.

Example: Setting the date to 25th Oct. 1991 and time to

Install the date/time lithium battery.

Press the INITIAL button using a dull-pointed

object such as a ball point pen.

TRACKING >

The month will flash. Press the SELECT button

to select the month. When the correct month appears, press the SET button.

3:27

PM.

Connect a battery pack or power source. Slide

the OPERATE switch on. Press the DATE-TIME DISPLAY button (See page 6 No.33)

The day will flash. Press the SELECT button to

select the day. When the correct

press the SET button.

DATVnME

SET - SELECT -

The year will flash. Press the SELECT button to

select the year. When the correct “tens” of the year appears, press the SET button.

INmAL

d,ay

appears,

The hour will flash. Press the SELECT button to

select the hour (check for AM or PM). When the correct hour appears, press the SET button.

The minutes will flash. Press the SELECT

ton to select the minutes. When the correct time appears, press the SET button.

but-

ATTACHING AND DETACHING THE BATTERY PACK

Attaching the Battery Pack

1. Lower the battery release lever by pulling it forward.

Detaching the Battery Pack

1. Lower

the

battery release lever

by pulling it forward.

2. Align the “A” mark on the upper portion of the battery pack with the mark on the camera, and slide it in the direction of

the arrow.

2. Remove the battery pack by sliding it in the direction of the arrow.

3. Raise the battery release lever until it locks into place.

. -

The battery pack is uncharged when shipped and must be charged before use.

ATTACHING THE SHOULDER STRAP

Loop the strap through the eyelet on top of the Camcorder.

Loop the strap through the eyelet at the bottom of the Camcorder.

Before

using the Camcorder, make sure that the shoulder strap is fastened tightly enough, and that no slack exists.

INSERTING AND REMOVING A CASSETTE

Inserting a cassette

Press the EJECT button to open the cassette

compartment. insert a ‘m cassette with the transparent window facing you and the arrow

facing out.

ing the cassette.

Remove

tape

Press “PUSH” to close the compartment door.

Remove tape slack before inset-t-

slack

0. I Z.”

*eel

of the

arrow.

the

Removing a cassette

Press the EJECT button. The cassette com-

partment will open. Remove the cassette. Close the compartment door.

Press on the “PUSH” mark to close slowly and correctly.

The cassette may be ejected simply by pressing the EJECT button. There is no need to slide the OPERATE button to off

before you press the EJECT button.

The cassette cannot be ejected while recording. Go to REC PAUSE mode and press the EJECT button.

ADJUSTING THE GRIP STRAP

Separate the strap to expand the loop, then pass your hand through the loop and grasp the hand grip. Adjust the length of the strap so your hand is secure but comfortable and refasten the strap.

USING THE COLOUR VIEWFINDER

ARlUSTlNG THE VIEWFINDER POSITION

The viewfinder can be tilted up for low-angle shot.

EYEPIECE

The Camcorder comes with a diopter adjustment control. Move this control clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the eyepiece to your eyesight. As

individuals differ in eyesight, adjust the eyepiece so that the characters inside the viewfinder can be seen clearly when used for the first time or by anybody else.

ABJUSTMENT

In order to protect the viewfinder while travelling or

when the camera is not being used, lay it forward as

in the diagram.

When

cleanina

viewfinder, rekove ihe eyepiece, as shown below, and clean with a long, thin object, such as a cotton swab. To remove the eyepiece, first turn it in direction

then pull in direction When reattaching, align the marks on the body and the eyepiece as shown, and then turn the eyepiece

45O

in direction

dust

13.

oarticles

from the interior of the

Power must be supplied to the Camcorder for this adjustment.

In order to use the viewfinder correctly, please pay attention to the following.

1. On some occasions, even though the Operate switch may be on, the colour render a picture. This does not indicate a defect in your Camcorder. Please wait a moment for the liquid crystal display to normalize.

2. Please do not subject the viewfinder to sharp impact.

3. When recording the same subject for a long period of time, the image may remain on the LCD viewfinderr. This is a temporary phenomenon, not a malfunction.

liqiid

crystal display

may

not immediately

For portable and outdoor use, the supplied BT-75 battery pack is ideal. Indoors, the supplied AA-75X AC Adaptor/ Battery Charger and 2m DC OUT cable will be more useful. For extended outdoor use, the optional Car Battery Adaptor/Charger may come in handy in remote locations.

V/R-P75CH

Using the AC Adaptor/Battery Charger

. -

OPERATE

tights to indicate the power is on.

Use the suppIled 2m DC OUT cable to

CHARGE lamp (yellow)

Lights when a battery pack IS The lamp goes off when the battery pack IS charged or removed.

power the Camcorder from the

lamp

Battery Pack holder

(red)

betng

malns.

charged.

The optional

is like the AA-75X, but operates from a car battery.

Precautions:

@The

AC Adaptor/Battery Charger, if used near a radio,

may cause interference.

l Prevent flammables, liquids or metal objects from enter-

ing the unit.

*The

AA-75X is a sealed unit. Do not attempt to open or

modify it.

not damage or drop the unit or subject it to vibrations.

l Do not leave the unit in direct sunlight.

Avoid using the unit in humid or extremely hot places.

SHARP

VRP75CH

Car Battery Adaptor/Charger

USING THE AC ADAPTOR/BATTERY CHARGER

Use the supplied AA-75X

Connect the DC OUT cable to the AC Adaptor

and Camcorder. Insert the AC plug into a wall outlet. The

OPERATE lamp on the AC Adaptor will light up.

The AA-75X AC Adaptor/Battery Charger will not supply power to the Camcorder through the DC OUT cable while

charging a battery pack.

Adaptor/Battery Charger and DC OUT

DC OUT cable

cable.

CHARGING

THE BATTERY PACK

Use the supplied AA-75X AC Adaptor/Battery Charger. Car Battery Adaptor/Charger.

Insert the AC plug in a power point.

The OPERATE lamp will light up.

Align the v mark on the side of the battery

pack with I mark on the charger and guide

the battery pack into the groove. Slide the

battery pack

The CHARGE lamp will light up.

fomard

until it locks in place.

Outdoors, you can use the optional SHARP

When the battery pack is charged the

CHARGE lamp will go off. Pull out the AC plug from the wall outlet and remove the battery pack by ‘sliding it back.

Normally the battery pack and charger are warm after

charging.

e -

The charging time depends on the

and the condition of the battery pack.

amblent

VR-P75CH

temperature

USING THE CAR BATTERY ADAPTOR/CHARGER (OPTIONAL ACCESSORY)

To charge the battery pack or power the Camcorder in a car, use the optional SHARP

Start the car engine and leave it

while using the Car Battery Charger.

Insert the plug into the car cigarette socket.

The OPERATE lamp will light up. Connect the DC OUT cable to supply power

to the Camcorder. The CHARGE lamp will be lit up while the battery pack is charging. When charging completed, the CHARGE lamp will go off, and the DONE lamp will light up.

. -

The

VR-P75CH

supply power to the Camcorder through the DC

while charging a battery pack.

Car Battery Adaptor/Charger will not

idling

OUT cable

Caution: The

VR-WSCH

with 12V or 24V negative-ground cars.

Do not use with 12V or 24V positive-ground cars. Check the car operation manual or consult your car dealer.

Car Battery Charger can only be used

VR-P75CH

Car Battery Charger.

USING THE BATTERY PACK

The BT-75 is a nickel-cadmium battery and has the following characteristics.

Recharging normally takes one hour at a room temperature of 20%. The lower the temperature, the longer the recharging time.

Temperature Range

Charging

To avoid hazard:

l Do not burn the battery pack.

.Do

not short circuit the terminals.

.Do

not disassemble or modify it.

@Use

only recommended SHARP chargers: AC

torIBattery Charger AA-75X or Car Battery Adaptor/

Charger VRP75CH.

The battery pack has a limited life; when it begins to deliver less recording time per charge, purchase a replacement.

. -

The battery pack IS normally warm after charging or use.

Operating

Storage

Adap-

To prevent damage and prolong battery life:

l Do not damage or drop the unit or subject it to

mechanical vibration.

l Avoid repeated charging without discharge of the

tery pack.

bat-

The recording time of a fully charged battery pack is influenced by the amount of recording and standby time,

use of the zoom lens and other factors. Spare battery packs are available from your SHARP dealer. Have spare battery packs on hand, otherwise ycu may miss important video opportunities.

Nickel-cadmium batteries are best when maintained under the following conditions:

Full charging takes place between

1. be incomplete at higher temperatures.

Store battery packs in a cool dry place. Long exposure to high temperatures increases bzttery discharge

2. and reduces battery life. Total battery discharge may naturally occur during long storage. Discharge batteries before storing them

3. this extends battery life.

Detach batteries from Camcorder or charger after use, otherwise battery discharge may continue.

10°C

and

35OC.

Charging takes longer at lower temperatures and

chargrng

may

CAMERA RECORDING

Power up the Camcorder indoors using either

the supplied AC Adaptor and 2 metre DC OUT cable when mains supply is available or the battery pack for ease of movement. For outdoor recording, use the optional car battery adaptor/ charger connected to a car cigarette lighter or the battery pack.

the

Press cassette with its tab intact and with its window

facing outward.

Press on the “PUSH” mark to close the compartment door.

Caution:

Before inserting the video cassette, be sure to check that the tape is not slack. If there

reel in the direction of the arrow.

Position your hand properly to allow your

fingers to press the REC START/STOP button

and Power Zoom button. Then adjust the grip strap to suit your hand.

button. insert a

tape

,.L Y .”

slack, turn the

video

Remove the lens cap and secure it to the grip

band. Then adjust the viewfinder eyepiece ter) control clockwise or counterclockwise SO the characters inside the viewfinder can be seen clearly (see page 10).

(diop-

Slide the REC Speed

select the tape speed and set the recording time. This causes the selected recording mode to appear in the viewfinder. Recording time on

the

tape EG30 is as follows.

SP mode: 30 minutes LP mode: 60 minutes

LP/SP

select switch to

Set the CAMERA

“CAMERA REC” position.

Set the FULL AUTO switch to “FULL AUTO” posi-

tion. Make certain that the “ marks appear in the LCD display. and “

@GI ”

marks are flashing, an alarm indicator

will appear in the viewfinder. (See page 20.)

RECNCR

PLAY switch to

-1)”

and “ @a

If the “

CH’

”

FULL AUTO

swttch

Press the REC START/STOP button.

recording,

sequence from left to right.

. -

If recording for an extended may become hot. However, this does not indicate malfunction.

If you wish to pause during recording, press

the REC START/STOP button again. Press the button again to continue recording.

. -

If the Camcorder is in the REC PAUSE mode for more than 5 minutes, it will switch itself off. To restart recording

just slide the OPERATE switch to ON.

“>>>>>”

in the viewfinder moves in

pertod

of time, the handgrip

While

FULL AUTO SYSTEM

Setting the FULL AUTO switch to “FULL AUTO” position sets the Focus and White Balance to the AUTO modes and the shutter When the FULL AUTO switch is set to the “FULL AUTO” position, the FULL AUTO mark

normally appear on the LCD display. However, if the pear in the viewfinder. These indicators mean that camera recording is not possible for some reason, such as if a cassette with its

speed to

STANDARD mode. This makes it possible for anyone to make accurate Camcorder recordings.

tab removed has

“

cII ”

and

been loaded into the Camcorder.

‘*-a”

and “ ti ” mark

“@a”

start flashing, other alarm indicators may ap-

FULL AUTO switch

AUTO FOCUS

Autofocus lets you concentrate on creating great videos, knowing they will be perfectly focused. In the FULL AUTO position, the focus is continuously adjusted to maintain the best focus. There is a small area in the centre of the viewfinder which detects the subject distance and sets the focus. Try and keep the subject in the middle of the viewfinder.

The autofocus may not be able to focus on a subject in the lowing situations. Manually focus the lens to obtain the correct focus.

Subject too dark.

Lack of contrast,

le.

_____

fol-

snow scene.

Camera recording IS in the FULL AUTO mode when

*L^

- ---I- --3 &

Lflt: cm

appear.

lIltirK am

possible

mark

When any alarm indicator appears in the viewfinder follow the alarm immedial (See page 20.)

Cautions:

Do not touch the focus ring while the autofocus mechanism

is operating.

l If the lens is dirty or obscured, accurate focusing may be

difficult. Keep these clean at all times. If they become dirty, clean with a soft tissue and use lens cleaning fluid to clean the

lens. Should condensation occur, dry by wiping with a soft cloth

or wait until the condensation evaporates.

When recording subjects that change rapidly, such as when zooming rapidly from wide-angle to telephoto, panning quickly from a distant scene to one nearby, etc., it sometimes takes a few seconds before the

Scene Includes objects at

uniform

distance apart

subiect

is in focus.

Light

reflects off the subject.

:ely.

overlap In the same scene.

Subfect

has

fine.

repeated patterns.

Sublect

betng

or wet window.

shot through a

Into

background

Sublects at different

appear In the at the same

1 High-speed electronic shutter

dirty

j used

under fluorescent

center

time

AUTO WHITE BALANCE

Your Camcorder is equipped with automatic white balance which ensures good colour in your videos.

rect

colour balance is important for accurate colour

reproduction.

____

drstances

of the viewfinder

being

Ilghting.

Cor-

Fast-moving

Subrect

subject

has horizontal

stripes

Background IS too

Sublect

IS skewed

bright

We recommend that you start recording after focusing on a

The white balance is automatically adjusted to

compen-

sate for any changes in the colour temperature of the light.

REC REVIEW

Press the REC START/STOP button

REC PAUSE (‘ ‘ very briefly press the REC REVIEW button. About the last 2 seconds of the recording are rewound and played back. The Camcorder is then ready to continue recording. If you hold down the REC REVIEW

button, the CAMERA SEARCH engaged.

----- ”

will light in the viewfinder), and

while recording to

function will be

CAMERA SEARCH

If, while recording, you have mistakenly recorded something you don’t want, you can search for the location of the unnecessary portion while still in the CAMERA REC position.

Press the REC START/STOP button to pause the

recording. While looking into the viewfinder, continue press-

ing the CAMERA SEARCH button to search for the location you wish to record over. The recorded picture appears in the viewfinder.

When the portion you wish to record over appears,

release the CAMERA SEARCH button. (The REC PAUSE mode will resume after a 1 second long still frame has appeared.)

Press the REC START/STOP button to record over

the unwanted section.

CAMERA SEARCH BUTTON OPERATION

If you hold down the be replayed in order at 3 times regular speed. (There will be no If you hold down the replayed in order at regular speed. (With sound)

If you hold down the “. 44 ” button, images can be replayed in reverse order at 3 times regular speed. (There will be no sound.)

“r”

sauna

I‘,”

button, images can

button, images can be

POWER ZOOM (WIDE/TELEPHOTO CONTROL)

One of the best features of this Camcorder is the variable speed power zoom.

Press the power zoom buttons to zoom in and out on a subject. The pressure of your finger tips controls the zoom speed.

Press the power zoom buttons firmly to rapidly zoom

in or out in 6 seconds, or press the power zoom

buttons lightly to slowly zoom in or out in 20 seconds. T (telephoto) brings things closer to you and W (wide

angle) increases the width of the filming area but makes things appear further away.

USING THE ZOOM SELECT BUTTON

This Camcorder is equipped with a 1.5 times extender function. Enlarge or reduce the image in the viewfinder instantly, for an entirely new kind of zoom effect. For example, when an interesting scene appears in the viewfinder, slide the ZOOM SELECT button, and the image will be instantly enlarged 1.5 times.

(Display in viewfinder)

Extender function off

(Example) Standard

Before the

-x

1.5

times extender function is engaged,

Extender function on

1.5

the viewfinder displays a square frame over the

image. Locate the subject within the frame, slide

the

ZOOM SELECT button and the image of the subject fills the viewfinder. In this example, the lens is set tostandard magnification. Sliding the ZOOM SELECT button will make the frame in the viewfinder disappear and enlarge the image 1.5

times. Sliding the ZOOM SELECT button a second time returns the image to standard magnification (the frame reappears in the viewfinder).

Relationship between zoom and extender operation.

With the extender off

\ \

f64

With the extender on

‘\I

ZOOM SELECT

f96

Wide

Angle 11

The range of the variable zoom changes in the above way, according to the extender setting.

Telephoto

LAP TIME FUNCTION

This Camcorder has a

Slide the OPERATE switch to on.

Slide the CAMERA

switch to “CAMERA REC”. The Camcorder will automatically switch to the REC PAUSE mode.

Press the COUNTER/COUNTER MEMORY/

LAP TIME button and select LAP TIME. will be displayed in the numbers).

Press the RESET button. (LAP TIME will reset

“O:OO”.)

Slide the REC SPEED set the recording speed.

Set the FULL AUTO switch to “FULL AUTO” position.

Press the REC START/STOP button (LAP TIME

starts).

To stop recording, press the REC START/

STOP button again (LAP TIME stops).

LAP

TIME function which counts the approximate recording time.

REC/VCR

LP/SP

PLAY

(“:”

select switch to

With the Lap Time mode you can know the approximate time of the

“99:99” (99 min. 99 sec.).

@The LAP

(The

display in the viewfinder.)

l When the tape is ejected, the

automatically reset to

Even if you press the COUNTER/COUNTER MEMORY/

LAP

not be

(In this case COUNTER must be selected for the tape counter.)

r&ording.

TIME counter counts only during recording.

LAP TIME mode is activated even if there is no

TIME button during playback, the LAP TIME will

displayed.

The counter’s maximum time is

LAP

“0:OO”.

TIME counter is

Vlewfmder

2530

Indicator

Start

stop

LCD DISPLAY AND VIEWFINDER INFORMATION

The Camcorder provides information needed for camera recording on the LCD display and in the viewfinder.

DEW

Condensation on head drum. The power will cut off in a few seconds. several hours before resuming use. (See page 2.) (At this time, the OPERATE indicator also blinks.)

Battery and alarm

The battery is too low. The power will be cut off in a few seconds. Replace the battery pack.

Wait

Recording cannot

cause the video cassette has its tab moved or no video cassette is loaded.

Load a

video cassette with its tab intact.

Tape-end alarm

The tape will come to its end in about 3 minutes. Prepare a new video cassette with an intact tab.

The tape has come to its end. Replace it with a new one with an intact tab.

be carried out

be-

re-

. -

i_i

3) LIGHT There is not enough light to make a good recording. Add supplementary lighting or move to a brighter location.

When the above indicators appear, the FULL

FULL AUTO indicator

The FULL AUTO indicator appears when the FULL AUTO switch is set to “FULL AUTO” position. This makes the Camcorder capable of proper camera recording.

Recording indicator

)>))>

I__

When the REC pressed and recording begins, appears, moving in sequence from left to right.

When the REC pressed again, the Camcorder changes to REC PAUSE, and will appear.

. -

3) Recording mode

This indicator appears only when the CAMERA

switch is in the “CAMERA REC” position.

Recording at the speed shown. “SP”: Recording at the standard play

speed.

“LP”: Recording at the long-play

speed.

STARTlSToP

START/STOP

RECNCR

AUTO

button is

“>>>>>”

button is

“-----”

PLAY

mark ~a and the

3:27

10.27.91

0231

1027.91

12:45

mooo

Heads need cleaning

The heads need cleaning. Call for service.

@=I

mark blink simultaneously.

4) Date/lime This unit is equipped with an DATE/TIME function. The DATE-TIME display button is pressed to set the display to either the date/time or date. The set display can be recorded on the tape along with the picture.

Tape counter

Continues to function even when the indicator is not shown in the viewfinder. The numbers in the tape counter continue to change as the tape travels. If the Counter memory is engaged, “M” appears to the left of the tape counter indicator.,

Lap time counter

The lap time is displayed in and seconds during recording. (See page 19.)

High Speed Shutter Recording

When the SHUTTER SPEED button is pressed, the shutter speed changes as follows.

l/100 : l/250 l/1000

l/4000 1/10000

No display: Standard mode

l/100

l/250 sec.

l/1000

l/4000

l/10000

(l/50 sec.)

AUTO

mrnutes

sec.

mode is

appears when the

CE button is pressed.

If you use a TV as a monitor, only the date or date/time appear in the viewfinder.

en-

AUTO DATE/TIME FUNCTION

The auto date/time function features a date and time which can be recorded as a handy reference.

Follow the procedures outlined below for recording the

date or date/time along with the subject.

If the date and time are not set, the DATE-TIME DISPLAY button will not function. (See page 7.)

ade stand-by mode

en the REC

pressed,

Fade in or Fade out is ob

mode is engaged.

ppears when the

pressed while

START/STOP

BLC/

is engaged.

button is

Connect to a power source and slide the OPERATE switch to on. Slide the CAMERA

“CAMERA REC” and the Camcorder will change to REC PAUSE. Press the DATE-TIME DISPLAY button. Either the date or date/time will be displayed in the viewfinder. Pressing

this button changes the display in the viewfinder as follows, and either the date or date/time can be set.

PM327

10.27.91

Press the REC START/STOP button. The date or date/time displayed in the viewfinder will be

the subject.

10. 27. 91

RECNCR

recorJed

PLAY switch to

along with

ASSEMBLE RECORDING

To record on a partially recorded tape or produce an assembly recording:

Slide the EJECT button and insert a cassette

with its tab in place.

(PICTURE

INSERT)

2 3

4 5

recorckng

Slide the CAMERA RECNCR

“VCR PLAY”.

Press the PLAY button and use the FF or REW button to quickly locate the exact point, then press the PAUSE/STILL button.

Slide the CAMERA RECNCR PLAY switch from “VCR PLAY” to “CAMERA

Press the REC START/STOP button.

from the same place as

PLAY

REC.

Petore.

switch to

Make

sure the power is off -the OPERATE indicator should

be off - before removing the battery pack.

AUTO POWER OFF

To protect the tape and conserve battery power, the

Camcorder releases the tape tension and switches

itself off when in REC PAUSE mode

in viewfinder) for more than 5 minutes.

(“-----”

displayed

__~. .

The VL-C8OOOX can playback VHS-C cassettes you have recorded. They can be played back on the viewfinder or a TV.

PLAYBACK IN THE VIEWFINDER

Attach a Battery Pack or use the AC Adaptor/

Battery Charger. Slide the OPERATE switch on -the OPERATE

indicator will light up. Slide the CAMERA RECNCR

the “VCR PLAY” position.

Press the EJECT button and insert a video

cassette.

Remove any tape slack first. Cue the tape to the scene you want to watch

by pressing the FF or the REW button. Then press the

*When the tape reaches the end, the Camcorder

will rewind the tape automatically.

The

LP/SP

recording speed IS automatically sensed and the tape is played back at the correct speed.

select switch may be in either mode. The

PLAY

button and playback starts.

PlAY

switch to

4 3

TRACKING ADJUSTMENT

If noise bars are visible or if the picture is noisy, adjust the TRACKING control. Press either of the TRACKING buttons to reduce the picture noise. After playback, press both of the TRACKING buttons at the same time to return the tracking to the centre position.

Visual “Notse” Clear

FORWARD/REVERSE SEARCH AND STILL

To quickly locate a point on a recorded tape, use the Forward and Reverse Search buttons.

Forward Search

Press the FF(

speeds playback up to 3 times faster than normal for an SP recorded tape and 7 times faster for an LP recorded tape.

Reverse Search

Press the REW( speeds up reverse playback to 3 times faster than normal for an SP recorded tape and 7 times faster for an LP recorded tape.

. -

There may be some picture noise during Forward/Reverse Search. This is normal. If the TV picture roils vertically, adjust the TV vertical hold control. The picture may go monochrome during Forward/Reverse Search on a recorded tape. This is normal. Audio will not be heard.

@I)

button during playback. This

@I)

button during playback. This

Still

Press the PAUSE/STILL the picture. To resume

STILL button again.

If the TV picture rolls vertically, adjust the TV control. To protect the tape, the Camcorder releases the tape tension and resumes STOP mode when left longer than 5

minutes in STILL mode during playback.

button during playback to still playback, press the

vertrcal

PAUSE/

hold

COUNTER MEMORY FEATURE

The 4-digit display acts as a handy reference to help you locate specific scenes. Use the tape counter memory to quickly return to a favourite scene.

When the memory is on, the tape stops when the counter reads

“MOOOO”

during FF and REW.

Slide the OPERATE switch to on. Set the CAMERA RECNCR

PLAY”.

Press the COUNTER/COUNTER MEMORY/

LAP TIME button to display the tape counter in the viewfinder.

Press the (When the Camcorder is in STILL mode, press

the STILL button).

Press the RESET and COUNTER/COUNTER

MEMORY/LAP TIME button at the beginning of the scene.

PLAY

button to start playback.

PLAY

switch to “VCR

Viewfinder Indicator

COUNTER

MEMORY LAP TIME RESET

Press STOP at the end of the scene and then press the REW button. The tape will rewind to

roughly “0000” and tape travel will stop.

.The

numbers tn the counter will not change smoothly

while fast forwarding or rewinding. However, this is not

an indication of trouble.

l The tape counter will show “0000” and

If the COUNTER/COUNTER MEMORY/LAP TIME button is pressed once more, the counter display will disappear and the memory feature will not function. (During the CAMERA REC mode, it is also possible to switch on the

LAP

COUNTER MEMORY/LAP TIME button.)

l Counter memory feature works only when the CAMERA

RECNCR PLAY switch is in the “VCR

TIME counter by pressing the COUNTER/

“M”

will appear.

PLAY”

position.

CONNECTION TO TV

To playback tapes recorded with your Camcorder on your TV, connect the supplied RF Converter between your TV and the Camcorder.

Connection to normal TV.

The supplied RF converter permits playback of video/audio

signals through a normal TV. The to CHO.

Connected to outdoor

indoor antenna or cable

convener is factory set

AV out terminal

TV PLAYBACK

To view the output from your Camcorder on the TV, you must select an unused channel on your TV and tune to the output of the supplied RF converter (factory preset to CHO).

Remove the antenna cable from your TV

and then connect the supplied RF converter

between the Camcorder and the TV as shown above and then plug the antenna cable into the ANTENNA IN terminal on the RF converter.

Set the Camcorder CAMERA RECNCR

PLAY

switch to the VCR PLAY position and

slide the OPERATE switch to ON.

Press the EJECT button and insert a record-

ed video cassette and press the PLAY button.

Select an unused channel on the TV and

tune it to the output of the RF converter (factory preset to CHO) until a good coloured playback picture of the inserted video tape is obtained.

To resume normal broadcast viewing on

the TV, slide the OPERATE switch to OFF

on the Camcorder and select the normal channels on the TV tuner.

. .

RF converter (supplied)

converter channel select switch

.The

RF unit permits playback of video and audio recordings through a TV receiver. The signals from the RF unit are viewed through a vacant channel not used for broadcast-

ing in your area.

*The RF converter is factory preset to CHO. If

in your area, set the CHANNEL switch on the RF converter

to the CH1 position and then retune your TV as shown

above.

CH0

is used

CONNECTION TO TV WITH A/V TERMINALS

Plug the supplied A/V OUTPUT cable into the

AV out terminal on the Camcorder.

Plug the VIDEO OUT and AUDIO OUT connec-

tors on the cable into the VIDEO IN and AUDIO

IN terminals on the TV. Set the television TV/VIDEO switch to the VIDEO

position. Slide the OPERATE switch to on.

Slide the CAMERA RECNCR PLAY switch to the

“VCR PLAY” position.

Press the EJECT button and insert a video cas-

sette. Press the PLAY button.

AV out lack

To resume normal TV operation, set the television

TV/VIDEO switch to TV and select the channel to

be viewed on the television.

to AUDIO IN

RECORDING TO ANOTHER VCR

Your SHARP Camcorder can be connected as the playback source deck for dubbing and editing a tape with

another VCR. Unnecessary scenes can be removed, the overall length shortened, scenes moved and rearranged, and other effects added to make your tapes more effective and enjoyable.

AV OUT terminal

Plug the A/V OUTPUT cable into the AV out

terminal on the rear of the Camcorder. Plug the VIDEO OUT and AUDIO OUT connectors into the VIDEO IN and AUDIO IN terminals on the

rear of the VCR. Monitor recording on a IV connected to the

VCR.

Connect a power source to the Camcorder and

slide

the OPERATE switch to ON. Now turn on the

VCR too.

Recording

RF OUT terminal

Monitor

To RF in

(antenna in)

Slide the Camcorder CAMERA

switch to “VCR PLAY” and insert a recorded tape.

Insert a cassette tape with erasure protection

tab intact into the VCR and put it into REC

PAUSE mode. Locate the scene to be copied from your Cam-

corder and press the PAUSE/STILL button.

Slide the EDIT switch to ON.

RECNCR

PLAY

Press the PAUSE/STILL button on your Cam-

corder and on the VCR to begin playback and

dubbing.

Picture quality inevitably deteriorates with each copy. The

standard tape speed (SP) mode is therefore recommended on the recording VCR when dubbing a tape.

EDIT CONTROL

Picture quality inevitably deteriorates each time you dub from the Camcorder to a VCR. Slide the EDIT switch on to minimize deterioration of picture quality. Use this while you edit your videos.

PAUSE/STILL

button

l Normally, the EDIT switch should be off.

USING THE CASSETTE ADAPTOR

The VHS compact video cassettes recorded with the

VLC8000Xcan

VCR

by using the provided

(A compact video cassette installed in the cassette adaptor is fully compatibie with a standard VHS

VCR for both recording and playback.)

Providing your standard VHS VCR is capable of playing back LP recordings if the compact cassette is recorded in the LP mode.

be played back with a standard VHS

VR72CA

Cassette Adaptor.

Inserting the Battery into the Cassette Adaptor

The VR-72CA Cassette Adaptor is battery operated

one “Type R6 (AA)” battery.

Remove the battery cover by sliding it up. Install one “Type R6 (AA)” battery and reattach the cover.

Inserting a Compact Video Cassette into the Cassette Adaptor.

If there is slack in the video tape when inserting the compact cassette into the adaptor, the tape may become damaged. Take up slack in the tape.

Push the sliding latch in the directlon of the

arrow to open the door.

Slldrng

latch

*The compartment door opens.

Close the compartment door.

Insert the cassette as illustrated.

l Be sure to insert it squarely, not tilted.

l Be sure there is no slack in the tape.

Do not touch the tape when inserting a compact

cassette into the cassette adaptor.

The safety catch will retract. This indicates

that the tape threading is completed.

The tape will be threaded automatically.

Caution:

During tape loading and unloading, do not touch the cassette’s reels for safety and tape protection.

Caution:

Check the tape condition after inserting the cassette and

tape loading is completed:

1. Check to see if there is any tape slack. (Do not open the tape cover.)

2. If there is tape slack,

direction of the arrow.

h&7

During tape loading and unloading, do not touch this reel for safety and tape protection.

remove it by turning

Tape cover

the

reel in

the

Removing the Compact Video Cassette

Slide the latch to open the door, then push up on the cassette to remove it, pushing on the cassette with your finger through the hole in the bottom of the adaptor.

l This cassette adaptor is precision-manufactured.

violent vibrations or shocks. Do not drop or disassemble or modify it, otherwise malfunctions may result.

When placing the cassette adaptor into its case, slide the

cassette

adaptor into the case, safety catch

end first.

Avoid

Playing Back the Tape

1.2.Load the cassette adaptor into a VHS deck in the same way as you would load a regular VHS tape. Operate the VHS deck as usual.

*Note that playback special effects can be per-

formed using the VHS deck.

l if noise bars appear, adjust the tracking of the

playback deck. Be sure to reset the tracking

control to its normal position when you have

finished playing back compact VHS tapes.

l Consult the VCR’s operation manual for operation

instructions.

l During special effects playback (slow motion, still frame,

etc.) the picture may vibrate or noise bars may appear on the screen.

The protruding safety catch Indicates that loading of the tape has not been completed. In this condition, NEVER attempt to load the cassette adaptor could damage both.

@Do

not load and unload the cassette adaptor VCR repeatedly without allowing the tape to run. slacken the tape and thereby damage rt.

@The

cassette adaptor cannot be loaded upside down.

*After

use, remove the cassette from the adaptor.

Into

a VCR, as this

Into

Thts

will

Video Cassettes

l The VL-C8OOOX employs only compact video cassettes

carrying the

ORecording

erases the previously recorded video and audio

signals.

*An inverted cassette cannot be inserted. @Do

not load and unload the cassette repeatedly without allowing the tape to run at all. This will slacken the tape and thereby damage it.

*Make certain before loading the cassette that the

&pe

is not slackened. If there is any slack, turn the

@ar

on the cassette in the direction of the arrow to

take

upslack.

__-

*The

cassette is equipped with a safety tab to pre-

vent accidental erasure. When the tab is removed,

recording is impossible. If you wish to record on a cassette whose tab has been sive tape to reseal the slot.

*To

avoid excessive exposure to dust and finger-

prints, do not open the front tape cover.

‘wq

mark.

onto’ tirerecorded tapes automatically

__-

______--

removed,

use adhe-

Storage of Cassettes

l Avoid exposing the cassettes to

Keep them away from heaters.

@Avoid

storing the cassettes in humid or dusty

places.

*Do not drop the cassettes. Do not expose them to

violent vibrations or shocks.

*Do not expose the cassettes to strong

fidds

(near a

Place

them vertically.

motor, transformer or

the

cassettes in cassette cases

drrect

sunlight.

magnetk

magnet).

and position

MANUAL FOCUS

In the following cases, it may be difficult to use the Autofocus, so you might want to focus the lens yourself.

1. When the object is not in the middle of the scene.

2. When you want the background or the front of the scene blurred.

3. When you want to have the beginning of the scene out-of-focus.

USING THE MANUAL FOCUS

Slide the FULL AUTO switch to OFF

Press T to zoom in on your subject.

Press the FOCUS button to select MANUAL

FOCUS.

Turn the focus ring until the subject is focused.

Lightly press W and

scene.

zoom out to compose the

’

FOCUS

M/F

WHITE BALANCE

White balance ensures that all the colours in a scene are correctly reproduced. In the auto

mode, white balance is adjusted automatically.

Using the White Balance Lock mode

Colour shift may occur when a solid coloured object is recorded, so that the viewfinder is filled with one colour, eg., when a close up of solid coloured paper is taken. The Auto White Balance mode is locked into place to avoid a colour shift in such situations. Follow the procedure described below to lock the Auto White Balance mode.

(1) When Quick Action is required. Zoom out all the way on a subject that is not one solid colour. Under this condition, the

proper white balance will be set automatically.

Press the WHITE BALANCE button to lock the white balance setting. “W/B” appears in the viewfinder. Colour shift can be avoided when the white balance is locked even when recording a close up of a solid coloured subject.

(2) When a very accurate white balance setting is required.

Focus on a white piece of paper so that the viewfinder is filled with it and keep focusing

for about 2 seconds. Then the proper white balance will be set automatically. Slide the

FULL AUTO switch to OFF, and press the WHITE BALANCE button to lock the white balance setting. To disengage the White Balance Lock mode, press the WHITE BALANCE button, or slide the FULL AUTO switch to FULL AUTO mode to return to the Auto White Balance mode.

The colour temperature of a light source varies. For instance, the colour temperature of sunlight will vary depending on the weather and time of day. Reset the White Balance

Lock if the colour temperature changes.

l Even if the White Balance Lock mode is on, the White Balance is not perfectly

“W/B” appears in the viewfinder.

If power to the Camcorder is interrupted during White Balance Lock, if or the Camcorder

is switched to the VCR mode, White Balance Lock will be cancelled. locked. Therefore the White Balance compensation function can adjust to small

tions in colour temperature, giving your recordings more natural colour.

varia-

In the

manual

“M/F” IS displayed In the

viewfinder.

WHITE

BALANCE

W/B

In the

White

mode, “W/B” IS displayed the upper left of the finder. (If the White Balance

Lock mode IS disengaged.

the display disappears.)

Balance Lock

focus mode,

view-

Under the following conditions Auto White Balance may not function correctly.

*When mixing natural and artificial light. Beware of window scenes containing a mixture of artificial and natural light.

Likewise all lighting should have the same colour temperature.

l When using special effects lighting.

@When

recording a subject against a background with an intense hue.

*When there is insufficient light.

l When the colour temperature of a scene changes too rapidly or there is too much contrast,

*When the object is a solid colour.

BACKLIGHT COMPENSATION

The Auto Iris in this Camcorder uses a new light meas-

uring system to automatically control bleaching and ad-

just to backlit subjects. However, if the background is too

bright and the subject appears dark, press the

BLCIGAIN-UP

pearing dark on the recording.

0 -

The Camcorder will automatically return to the AUTO IRIS

mode

after you

button to prevent the subject from ap-

release the

BLC/GAIN-UP

button.

GAIN-UP

BLClGAlN-lJP

“LIGHT” is displayed in the viewfinder when recording a dark subject. If the BLCGAIN- UP button is pressed, the scene becomes brighter.

“ *

LIGHT * ” is displayed in the viewfinder to indicate that the gain-up mode is engaged.

When the subject becomes brighter, “ * LIGHT * ” disappears.

However, memory of the gain-up mode remains. In order to disengage the gain-up mode completely, press the BLC/GAIN-UP button while

“*LIGHT*”

the lens.

l In the gain-up mode, there will be more picture noise in low light.

If power is interrupted or the Camcorder is switched to the playback mode, the Gain-up mode will

be cancelled.

is displayed in the viewfinder. “*LIGHT*” can be displayed by capping

SELF TIMER RECORDING

Attach the battery pack.

Press the EJECT button and open the cassette

holder. Insert a video cassette with its tab intact with its window facing outward. Press the corner of the cassette holder marked “PUSH” until it clicks into place.

Mount this Camcorder on a stable tripod designed

for video use, then slide the OPERATE switch on. Set the CAMERA RECNCR PLAY switch to the

“CAMERA REC” position. Set the FULL AUTO switch to the “FULL AUTO”

position, and check that I= and %r are displayed in the LCD.

Pointing the Camcorder at the subject, press the

Power Zoom button and adjust the angle of view. Press the SELF TIMER button.

The talent tally indicator flashes for 10 seconds, then the Camcorder will record for 20 seconds, then change to REC PAUSE mode. If you wish to

record for an extended time, press the SELF

TIMER button twice in succession.

IID

If the gain-up mode IS engaged.

“ *

played in the viewfinder

LIGHT *

”

dis-

If you press the SELF TIMER button three times, the SELF

TIMER is cancelled.

HIGH SPEED SHUTTER

Use the HIGH SPEED SHUTTER (l/10,000, 111000, 11250, 11100 sec.) mode when recording fast moving objects like sports (tennis, golf, etc.). When you playback the scene on a 4-head VCR, the playback picture will be clear even in the STILL and SLOW modes.

l/4000,

USING THE HIGH SPEED SHUTTER

While in the REC PAUSE mode, slide the FULL

AUTO switch to off, and press the SHUTTER SPEED select button. Select the shutter speed desired. Shutter speeds change in the following order:

back to

Press the REC START/STOP button to start record-

ing as normal. Since the High Speed Shutter is faster than normal, it requires more light. Use the High Speed Shutter in appropriate light (minimum required lighting is listed below.)

l/10,000

l/4,000

l/1,000 l/250 sec.

11100 sec.: It is recommended to use the High Speed Shutter

outdoors or with extra light.

l/10,000

l/250 sec.,

l/10,000

sec.: 3,000 lux sec.: 1,200 lux sec.: 300 lux

sec.,

l/4,000

sec., 111,000 sec.,

l/100

sec., standard (l/50 sec.), and

sec.

75 lux

30 lux

The selected shutter speed is indicated in the viewfinder.

l Avoid using

this will cause flickering in the picture.

Recording with shutter speeds higher than 1150 sec. (standard) tends to darken the picture. Record in bright locations when using other shutter speeds.

High Speed Shutter under fluorescent lighting

PLAYBACK OF SCENES RECORDED WITH THE HIGH SPEED SHUTTER MODE

Place the recorded tape into the supplied m cas-

sette adaptor and then into a cassette recorder.

When watching scenes take

SPEED SHUTTER you can enjoy blur-free recordings even during STILL and SLOW mode playback.

STILL button

MACRO SHOTS

Small plants, insects, even photos in the family album can be recorded using Macro and enlarged to fill the screen. You can also use Macro to record titles for your videos.

Normally the lens can only focus on subjects that are

more than 1.1 m away from the front of the Camcorder.

Set the FOCUS button to MANUAL.

Hold the MACRO button down and turn and

lock the zoom lever in the MACRO position. Focus by slowly turning the zoom lever.

@Turn

the zoom lever back to the normal

you have finished with Macro.

When recording a solid coloured object such as a

petal, the colour may shift. In this event, use balance

FADE IN

lock mode. (See page 31.)

-&-OUT

focus range

flower

the

when

white

By setting the lens to Macro, you can manually focus on

any subject within the macro range, lOmm-llOcm, right

up to the front of the lens.

Mount the Camcorder on a steady tripod as the smallest movement is magnified when shooting macro subjects.

With this Camcorder you can enjoy the special effect of fading in and out of the scenes in your recordings.

FADE IN

FADE IN FADE OUT

With REC PAUSE on, press the FADE IN/OUT

button. The viewfinder will display “FADER”. Press the REC START/STOP button to start record-

ing. The viewfinder will turn black, and then ally focus on the subject. (“FADE IN” will appear in the viewfinder.)

gradu-

While recording, press the FADE

The viewfinder will display “FADER”.

Press the REC START/STOP button. The view-

finder will slowly turn black creating a fadeout of the scene. (“FADE OUT” will appear in the viewfinder. If you select the REC PAUSE mode, the FADE will be cancelled.)

IN/OUT

button.

FADER

LIGHTING

For clear good-quality pictures you will need between 500 and 100,000 lux

you can record in less light, however

the picture quality may suffer. Adequate lighting is also essential for correct white balance.

Brightness

100,000 (Lux)

10,000

1,000

100

Situation

Blue sky

Clear day at noon

Clear day at loam (65.000)

Clear day at 3pm (35.000) Cloudy day at noon (32,000) Cloudy day at loam (25,000)

Cloudy day, one hour after Clear day, one hour before sunset (1,000) Fluorescent

Factory floor (700-800) Sales counter rn department store (500-700) Bowling alley (500)

Library (400-500) Offlce wtth

Fluorescent desk lamp (400) Flashlight at lm (250)

Shop stairway (100)

During lntermlsson at

Cigarette lighter at 30cm (15-20) Candles on birthday cake at 20cm (1 O-l 5)

(100,000)

sunnse (2.000)

light

near

wmdow

(1,000)

fluorescent lighting (400-500)

movie

theatre (15-35)

Colour

Temperature

10,000

(“K)

9.000 8,000 7,000 Rainy 6,500 Dayllght 6,000 Camera flashbulb 5,500

5.000

4.500 3,500

3,200 Halogen lamp

2.800

Situation Colour

Clear day

Colour

Cloudy day

day

fluorescent light

Blue photolamp

White

fluorescent

Off-white fluorescent

Tungsten photolamp

Tungsten lamp

Iodine lamp

light

Yellow

Blue

White

White Balance

Range

A U T

Candlelight

These are approximations.

*Auto White Balance should normally be used

in the colour temperature range shown above. However it will satisfactorily operate from

2500°K

up to

8000°K,

but the picture may

become redder or bluer, respectively.

Video Lighting

Lighting is one of the most important areas in

home videos. Also one of the most overlooked. Good lighting can often mean the difference between a great picture and a poor quality one. And

lighting is essential for correct white balance.

In most outdoor situations natural lighting is adequate for home videos. Indoors the situation becomes more complicated. Artificial lighting is required and tungsten (or quartz) lamps provide the most natural of artificial light sources, while provid- ing a constant colour temperature over a long life.

Good lighting is difficult to achieve-and there are many problems to catch the unwary. Simply mounting one light on or several lights either side of the camcorder will only make your subject look flat and two-dimensional. To make a subject more

interesting, use the lighting to model your subject and to add or create emphasis in a scene.

Before calling for servicing, please check

the

following troubleshooting table.

SYMPTOM

Power

.No

power l Safety devices are functioning.

*Power switches off

soon after coming on.

Recording.

Power on but no

image in viewfinder.

Can’t record

Poor colour

Fuzzy picture

.Camera

picture is too

dark

Playback

No image appears.

Playback is in black and

white

when the Cam-

corder is connected to

-Iv.

*Video noise In image.

Broken image

*Cassette can’t be inserted.

l No tape movement in fast forward

mode.

*No

tape movement in rewind mode.

POSSIBLE CAUSE

l Disconnect

*The battery pack is not charged.

*The power source unit is not

*Charge the battery pack sufficiently.

l Connect the power source

correctly connected.

Depleted battery pack.

@Dew

in Camcorder.

Lens cap on.

l Use a fully charged battery pack.

*Remove the lens cap.

Recording prevention tab broken

/ @Cover

off from cassette.

*CAMERA

is set to “VCR PLAY”.

REC/VCR PlAY

n/ not properly adjusted.

1 *Poor lighting.

switch

prevention tab Intact.

’

@Slide

switch to “CAMERA REC”.

1 *Adjust the TV. I

1 *Apply additional lighting or correct ’

*Dust or other foreign matter on

lens.

Not properly focused.

.The SHUTTER

SPEED select button is set to HIGH SPEED SHUTTER MODE.

.Improperly .The

connected to TV.

TV is not tuned to the RF

1 converter’s output channel

(VHF OCH or

.lV’s

TV/VIDEO switch IS not at

position (if the TV IS equipped position.

with

Tracking not properly adjusted.

Input

1CH).

terminal)

*Clean the lens.

i *Adjust the focus.

.Set

l Tune the TV to the RF converter’s

.Set

*Old

or worn tape.

l Insufficient battery capacity.

*Cassette is not

right

side up or

is backwards.

*Another cassette IS in the unit.

*Tape is already completely

wound.

*Tape is already completely

rewound.

l Check cassette p@&oning and reinsert.

oRewind

l Fast forward to desired point.

Sharp VL-C8000X Operation Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual