Sharp VL-NZ100U, VL-NZ150U User Manual

LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY CAMCORDER

Operation References

MODEL

VL-NZ100U
VL-NZ150U

OPERATION MANUAL

Preparation

Basic Operations

Useful Features

Advanced Features

Please read this operation manual

carefully before using the camcorder.

Important

For assistance in reporting the theft or
this product, record on the line
model number and serial number which
are located on the bottom of the unit.
Please retain this information.

Model No.:

Serial No.:

• See page 79 for use of Demo mode.

loss of

below the

Digital Still Camera

Features

Appendix

Thank you for purchasing this camcorder from SHARP.
The camcorder will enhance your home video enjoyment and allow you to capture those
special moments. Please read this operation manual to familiarize yourself with the
camcorder’s features, so that you will get the most out of it. The video techniques section will
help you fully enjoy the many features this camcorder offers, and expand your video world.

Important Information for Consumers in the U.S.

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,

DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE.

CAUTION:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELEC­TRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

This symbol warns the user of uninsulated voltage within the
unit that can cause dangerous electric shocks.

COVER. NO USER-SERVICEABLE
PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING
TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSON­NEL.

This symbol alerts the user that there are important operating
and maintenance instructions in the literature accompanying
this unit.

CAUTION

(applies to the supplied AC adapter)

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK,
MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO
WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.

CAUTION

If the AC adapter is misplaced or
needs to be replaced, obtain the
same type of adapter from a SHARP
service center of your dealer.

PRODUCT DISPOSAL

This Product utilizes tin-lead solder, and a fluorescent lamp containing a small
amount of mercury. Disposal of these materials may be regulated due to environ­mental considerations. For disposal or recycling information, please contact your
local authorities or the Electronics Industries Alliance: www.eiae.org.

BATTERY DISPOSAL

CONTAINS LITHIUM-ION RECHARGEABLE BATTERY. MUST BE RECYCLED OR
DISPOSED OF PROPERLY. CONTACT LOCAL AGENCIES FOR INFORMATION ON
RECYCLING AND DISPOSAL PLANS IN YOUR AREA.

i

WARNINGCFCC Regulations state that any unauthorized changes or modifica-

tions to this equipment not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the
user’s authority to operate this equipment.

INFORMATION

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installa­tion. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and,
if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful in­terference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interfer­ence will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by
one or more of the following measures:

CReorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
CIncrease the separation between the equipment and receiver.
CConnect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the

receiver is connected.

CConsult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Sharp Camcorder

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the follow­ing two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this
device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.

RESPONSIBLE PARTY:

SHARP ELECTRONICS CORPORATION
Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, New Jersey 07430
Phone: 1-800-BE-SHARP

CAUTION ON LITHIUM BATTERY (MEMORY BACKUP BATTERY)

If a battery is reversed (positive end where the negative end belongs and vice
versa), it can overheat and rupture. This has happened when young children install
batteries backwards. Warn children

to take out batteries or install them.

Parents

not

should install the lithium battery in the camcorder.

COPYRIGHT WARNING: It is the intent of SHARP that this unit be used in full compliance with the

NOTE

The camcorder’s LCD panel is a very high technology product with more than 120,000 thin-film tran­sistors*, giving you fine picture detail. Occasionally, a pixel may appear on the screen as a fixed point
of blue, green, red, or black. Please note that this does not affect your camcorder’s performance.

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Trademarks

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

• 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.

copyright laws of the United States and that prior permission be ob­tained from copyright owners whenever necessary.

ii

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

1. Read InstructionsCAll the safety and
operating instructions should be read
before the product is operated.

2. Retain InstructionsCThe safety and
operating instructions should be
retained for future reference.

3. Heed WarningsCAll warnings on the
product and in the operating instruc­tions should be adhered to.

4. Follow InstructionsCAll operating and
use instructions should be followed.

5. CleaningCUnplug this product from the
wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use
liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use
a damp cloth for cleaning.

6. AttachmentsCDo not use attachments
not recommended by the product
manufacturer as they may cause
hazards.

7. Water and MoistureCDo not use this
product near waterCfor example, near
a bath tub, wash bowl, kitchen sink, or
laundry tub; in a wet basement; or near
a swimming pool; and the like.

8. AccessoriesCDo not place this product
on an unstable cart, stand, tripod,
bracket, or table. The product may fall,
causing serious injury to a child or

adult, and
serious damage
to the product.
Use only with a
cart, stand,

tripod, bracket,
or table recommended by the manu­facturer, or sold with the product. Any
mounting of the product should follow
the manufacturer’s instructions, and
should use a mounting accessory
recommended by the manufacturer.

9. A product and cart
combination should be
moved with care. Quick
stops, excessive force,
and uneven surfaces
may cause the product
and cart combination to overturn.

10. VentilationCSlots and openings in the
cabinet are provided for ventilation and
to ensure reliable operation of the
product and to protect it from overheat­ing, and these openings must not be
blocked or covered. The openings

iii

should never be blocked by placing the
product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other
similar surface. This product should not

be placed in
a built-in
installation
such as a
bookcase or

rack unless
proper ventilation is provided or the
manufacturer’s instructions have been
adhered to.

11. Power SourcesCThis product should
be operated only from the type of power
source indicated on the marking label. If
you are not sure of the type of power
supply to your home, consult your
product dealer or local power company.
For products intended to operate from
battery power, or other sources, refer to
the operating instructions.

12. Grounding or PolarizationCThis product
may be equipped with a polarized
alternating-current line plug (a plug
having one blade wider than the other).
This plug will fit into the power outlet
only one way. This is a safety feature. If
you are unable to insert the plug fully
into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If
the plug should still fail to fit, contact
your electrician to replace your obsolete
outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose
of the polarized plug.

13. Power-Cord ProtectionCPower-supply
cords should be routed so that they are
not likely to be walked on or pinched by
items placed upon or against them,
paying particular attention to cords at
plugs, convenience receptacles, and
the point where they exit from the
product.

14. LightningCFor added protection for this
product during a lightning storm, or
when it is left unattended and unused
for long periods of time, unplug it from
the wall outlet and disconnect the
antenna or cable system. This will
prevent damage to the product due to
lightning and power-line surges.

15. Power LinesCAn outside antenna
system should not be located in the
vicinity of overhead power lines or other
electric light or power circuits, or where
it can fall into such power lines or
circuits. When installing an outside
antenna system, extreme care should
be taken to keep from touching such
power lines or circuits as contact with
them might be fatal.

16. OverloadingCDo not overload wall
outlets, extension cords, or integral
convenience receptacles as this can
result in a risk of fire or electric shock.

17. Object and Liquid EntryCNever push
objects of any kind into this product

through openings
as they may touch
dangerous
voltage points or
short-out parts

that could result in
a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid
of any kind on the product.

18. ServicingCDo not attempt to service
this product yourself as opening or
removing covers may expose you to
dangerous voltage or other hazards.
Refer all servicing to qualified service
personnel.

19. Damage Requiring ServiceCUnplug
this product from the wall outlet and
refer servicing to qualified service
personnel under the following condi­tions:
a. When the power-supply cord or plug

is damaged,

b. If liquid has been spilled, or objects

have fallen into the product,

c. If the product has been exposed to

rain or water,

d. If the product does not operate

normally by following the operating
instructions. Adjust only those
controls that are covered by the
operating instructions as an im­proper adjustment of other controls
may result in damage and will often
require extensive work by a qualified
technician to restore the product to
its normal operation,

e. If the product has been dropped or

damaged in any way, and

f. When the product exhibits a distinct

change in performanceCthis
indicates a need for service.

20. Replacement PartsCWhen replacement
parts are required, be sure the service
technician has used replacement parts
specified by the manufacturer or have
the same characteristics as the original
part. Unauthorized substitutions may
result in fire, electric shock, or other
hazards.

21. Safety CheckCUpon completion of any
service or repairs to this product, ask
the service technician to perform safety
checks to determine that the product is
in proper operating condition.

22. Wall or Ceiling MountingCThe product
should be mounted to a wall or ceiling
only as recommended by the manufac­turer.

23. HeatCThe product should be situated
away from heat sources such as
radiators, heat registers, stoves, or
other products (including amplifiers)
that produce heat.

iv

Quick Operation Guide

v

Inserting a Cassette

1 Attach the power source to the

camcorder, then slide the cassette
compartment door release and open the
cassette compartment door.

• After confirmation sound, the cassette
holder extends and opens automatically.

2 Insert a commercially available cassette

fully with the window facing outwards,
and with the erasure protect tab facing
upwards.

3 Press the W mark gently until the

cassette holder clicks into place.

• After confirmation sound, the cassette
holder retracts automatically.

4 Wait for the cassette holder to fully

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

vi

Quick Operation Guide

REC START/STOP button

Power Zoom control/Volume control

STILL button

SET button

Operation button

Media Selection switch

Power switch

Easy Camera Recording
on Tape

1 Insert a cassette into the camcorder.
2 Set the Media Selection

switch to TAPE.

3 Hold down the Lock button and set the

Power switch to CAMERA.

• The picture from the lens now displays.

Zooming

Push the Power Zoom control to T (1) (tele­photo) or W (2) (wide angle) side.

Power Zoom control

Tape Playback

1 Set the Media Selection

switch to TAPE.

2 Hold down the Lock button

and set the Power switch to
VCR.

Lock button

3 Press j (or k) on the Operation button

to rewind (or fast forward) the tape to the
desired point.

Lock button

AUT O

4 Press the REC START/STOP button to

begin recording.

REC

To pause recording

Press the REC START/STOP button again.

vii

4 Press m to begin playback.

To stop playback

Press l.

Volume Control

Push the Volume control to the L or + side to
increase (1) or decrease (2) the volume.

Volume control

Card Recording

Card Playback

1 Insert a card into the camcorder.
2 Set the Media Selection

switch to CARD.

3 Hold down the Lock button and set the

Power switch to CAMERA.

• The picture from the lens now displays.

Number of shots taken/remaining

CARD

/981

NORMAL

Lock button

AUT O

4 Adjust the Power Zoom control to frame

the subject as you desire.

5 Press the STILL button half-way down to

focus on the subject.

• The camcorder automatically focuses on
the subject. When it is set, you will hear
a sound and see T mark, then the
camcorder locks the focus.

CARD

/981

NORMAL

6 Press the STILL button fully to begin

recording.

CARD

/981

NORMAL

1 Set the Media Selection

switch to CARD.

2 Hold down the Lock button and set the

Power switch to VCR.

• The images recorded on the card are
displayed in a thumbnail format.

Lock button

7

01

PLAYBACK

NORMAL

Page number/total thumbnail pages

89

-

00

1

3 Press j, k, l or m on the Operation

button to move the selection frame to
the desired image.

PLAYBACK

NORMAL

1

4

2

5

-

00

1

4 Press the SET button.

• The selected image displays in full­screen.

Image file name

3000-001

-

001

1000

NO RMA L

NORMAL

CARD

0100
2/2PAGE

3

6

1000
2/1PAGE

01/3

01/1

AUT O

• The S indicator flashes red while data
is being recorded on the card, and
returns to white when recording
completes.

viii

Supplied Accessories

For VL-NZ100

Standard-life
battery pack

BT-L225n*

AA batteryK2

Lens hood

GCOVA1870TASA

For VL-NZ150

Standard-life

battery pack

BT-L225n*

CR2025 type

lithium battery

Wrist strap

UBNDT0145TASA

Extended-life

battery pack

BT-L445n*

Audio/video cable
QCNW-1979TAZZ

Tripod adapter

GDAI-A001WJZZ

AC adapter

UADP-0339TAZZ*

Lens cap

GCOVH1296TASA

SD Memory Card

VL-NZ100: 8 MB

VL-NZ150: 16 MB

USB driver

CDSKA0081TA01

* The part numbers for the AC adapter and battery pack supplied with this camcorder are valid only in

the U.S. and Latin America. If this camcorder was purchased outside of these areas, the part numbers
may be different. Please refer to the part numbers printed on the labels of the supplied AC adapter and
battery pack.

USB cable

QCNW-A338WJZZ

Remote control

RRMCG0084TASA

ix

Optional Accessories

Standard-life
battery pack

BT-L225n

Note:

• The listed model names are for U.S. accessories.

For optional and additional accessories, contact your local dealer, call the Sharp Accessories and
Supply Center at 1-800-642-2122, or visit SHARP’s website (http://www.sharp-usa.com).

Extended-life

battery pack

BT-L445n

x

Precautions

• When the camcorder is not in use, remem­ber to remove the cassette tape, turn off
the power, 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 or 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 32°F to 104°F
(0°C to L40°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 tri-

pods 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.).

xi

Contents

Operation References

Operation References

Preparation

Basic Operations

Useful Features

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

On-screen Display Index ............................................... 4

Warning Indicators ......................................................... 7

Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack .................... 9

Charging the Battery Pack ........................................... 10

Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet ............... 11

Inserting and Removing a Cassette ............................ 12

Inserting and Removing a Card ................................... 13

Installing the Lithium Battery ........................................ 14

Selecting the Language for the On-screen Display..... 15

Setting the Date and Time ........................................... 16

Attaching the Lens Hood ............................................. 17

Attaching the Wrist Strap ............................................. 17

Using the Lens Cap ..................................................... 17

Tips on Recording Positions ........................................ 18

Camera Recording

Selecting the Camcorder Mode ................................... 19

Easy Camera Recording on Tape

in Full Auto Mode ....................................................... 20

Zooming ....................................................................... 21

Auto Focus ................................................................... 21

Macro Shots ................................................................. 21

Remaining Recording Time Display ............................ 22

Remaining Battery Power Display ............................... 22

Playback

Tape Playback ............................................................. 23

Volume Control ............................................................. 23

Video Search................................................................ 24

Still ............................................................................... 24

Watching Playback on a TV ......................................... 25

Using the Menu Screens.............................................. 26

Preparation

Basic Operations

Useful Features

Advanced Features

Digital Still Camera

Features

Camera Recording

Displaying the Recording Guide.................................. 27

Setting the Digital Zoom .............................................. 28

Gamma Brightness Compensation .............................. 29

Gain-up ........................................................................ 30

Fade In and Fade Out .................................................. 31

Quick Return ................................................................ 32

Edit Search................................................................... 32

Appendix

xii

Contents

Useful Features

Advanced Features

Still Recording on Tape ................................................ 33

Attaching the Supplied Tripod Adapter ....................... 33

Wide Screen (16:9) ...................................................... 34

Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) .................................. 34

Self Recording ............................................................. 35

Recording in LP (Long Play Recording) Mode ............ 36

Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode................ 37

Playback

Using the Remote Control ............................................ 38

Displaying the Date and Time of Recording ................ 39

Slow ............................................................................. 39

Gamma Playback ........................................................ 40

Copying an Image from Tape to Card ......................... 40

Picture Effect Playback ................................................ 41

Camera Recording

Manual Focus .............................................................. 42

Manual Exposure ......................................................... 43

White Balance Lock ..................................................... 44

Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode.................... 44

Digital Picture Effects ................................................... 45

Scene Menu (Program AE) .......................................... 46

Playback

Using the Time Code ................................................... 47

Editing .......................................................................... 48

Recording from an External Source ............................. 49

Using the Camcorder as a Converter .......................... 50

Editing with the DV Terminal (IEEE1394) ..................... 51

Selecting the Audio Playback Mode ............................ 52

Audio Dubbing Feature................................................ 53

xiii

Operation References

Digital Still Camera
Features

Camera Recording

Card Recording ........................................................... 55

Selecting the Picture Quality ........................................ 56

Recording with the Self-timer ....................................... 57

Formatting a Card ........................................................ 58

Playback

Card Playback ............................................................. 59

Delete Protection.......................................................... 60

Deleting Stored Images ............................................... 61

Print Order.................................................................... 63

Transferring Data on Card to Computer ...................... 65

Installing the USB driver ......................................... 65

Slide Show Playback ................................................... 67

Appendix

Picture/Backlight Adjustments ..................................... 68

Turning off the Confirmation Sound ............................. 69

Useful Information ........................................................ 70

Demonstration Mode ................................................... 79

Before Requesting Service .......................................... 80

Specifications .............................................................. 82

• Guía de operación rápida en español ..................................................................... 83

• Visualizaciones en pantalla en español ................................................................... 91

• Affichages sur écran en français.............................................................................. 93

Preparation

Basic Operations

Useful Features

Advanced Features

Digital Still Camera

Features

Appendix

xiv

Operation References

Operation References

Part Names

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

Operation References

1

Rear view

DV terminal
[pp. 50, 51]

Operation References

Power Zoom Wide angle/
Telephoto control [p. 21]/
VOLume control [p. 23]

USB terminal

[pp. 65, 66]

AV jack

[pp. 25, 48-50]

Jack cover

[pp. 25,

48-51, 65]

Media Selection
switch (TAPE/
CARD selection
switch) [p. 19]

Operation button

LCD monitor

2

Operation References

Rear view

Operation References

Bottom view

3

On-screen Display Index

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

TAPE-CAMERA mode

LCD SE T

BACKL IGHT
LCD BRI GHT
LCD COLOR
RETURN

CLOCK SET

DISPLAY
SETT ING
12H 24H/
RETURN

LCD SE T

BACKL IGHT
LCD BRI GHT
LCD COLOR
RETURN

CLOCK SET

DISPLAY
RETURN

p. 22

p. 34
p. 20

pp. 20, 44

AUT O

SETT I NG 1

EFFECTPIC.
SCENE MENU
QK.

RETURN
GU IDE
RETURN

TAPE-VCR mode

p. 22

PIC.

EFFECT
AUDI O DUB
AUDI O

ANLG DGTL

RETURN

SET

PLAYBACK

p. 22

AU DIOAUDIO

p. 52

SETT ING 1

EFFECTPIC.
SCENE MENU
QK.

RETURN
GU I DE
RETURN

SETT ING 2

DGTL ZOOM
TAPE

SPEED

min

30

+

21+21

DIS
16 9:
AUDI O MODE
RETURN

OTHERS

BEEP
T IME CODE
TC OUT
DEMO
LANGUAGE
RETURN

PLAYBACK

EFFECT

PIC.
AUDI O DUB
AUDI O
ANLG DGTL
RETURN

OTHERS

REMOTE
BEEP
T IME CODE
TC OUT
RETURN

MOD E

SET

p. 45
p. 46
p. 32
p. 27

p. 28
p. 36
p. 34
p. 34
p. 37

p. 69
p. 47
p. 47
p. 79
p. 15

p. 41
p. 54
p. 52
p. 50

p. 38
p. 69
p. 47
p. 47

Operation References

p. 68

p. 39
p. 16
p. 17

p. 68

p. 39

4

Operation References

Operation References

5

Manual screens

Each time you press the MANUAL button, the screen
changes as shown below.

On-screen indicators on/off

Each time you press the MENU button, the screen
changes as shown below.

• The example screens shown are for TAPE-CAMERA
mode.

Operation References

Focus setting screen
(p. 42)

Exposure setting screen
(p. 43)

White balance screen
(p. 44)

Normal screen

Indicators on

Menu screen

Indicators off

6

Operation References

Operation References

7

Operation References

Displayed for

5 seconds

NO

MEMORY CARD

MEMORY

CARD

FULL

NO DAT A ON

MEMORY CARD

MEMORY CARD

ERROR

FORMAT

MEMORY CARD

MEMORY CARD

PROTECTED

DATA
PROTECTED

MEMORY CARD

READ ERROR

CANNOT

STORE DATA

Description of warning

The card is not inserted or is inserted improperly. Check that it is
properly inserted (see page 13).

The capacity of the card is full and cannot store any more images.
Delete unnecessary images (see page 61) or replace the card with a
new one (see page 13).

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 58).

The card has not been formatted with this camcorder. Format the card
(see page 58).

The card is write-protected (see pages 13, 74).

You are trying to delete a protected image. Cancel the protection
setting (see page 60).

The selected image cannot be read by this camcorder. Format the
card to use it with this camcorder (see page 58).

The card cannot record any data due to a problem with the card or
data on the card. Replace the card (see page 13).

Note:

• N indicates a flashing display.

8

Preparation

Preparation

Preparation

Removing

1 Make sure that the Power switch is set

to OFF.

2 Rotate the monitor section of the

camcorder (1), then press the battery
release (2). Slide the battery pack in
the direction of the arrow and take it out
(3).

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 destroy the card,
rendering it unreadable and unwritable.

• Remove the battery pack from the camcorder if
you will not use the camcorder for a long period
of time.

• Make sure that the battery pack is firmly
attached during operation. If it is not, the battery
pack may come off or camcorder operation may
fall because of the poor contact pressure.

• To prevent damage to the battery pack when
removing, be sure to firmly hold the battery pack
while pressing the release.

• Use only SHARP model BT-L225 or BT-L445
battery packs with this camcorder. Use of other
batteries may create a risk of fire or explosion.

9

Charging the Battery
Pack

1 Attach the battery pack on the

camcorder, and make sure that the
Power switch is set to OFF.

2 Plug the AC adapter into a power outlet

(1), then insert the DC plug into the DC
input jack (2).

• The charge indicator lights up.

• The charge indicator turns off when the
battery is charged.

3 Remove the DC plug from the DC input

jack, then remove the AC adapter from
the power outlet.

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

Notes:

• Charge the battery pack between 50°F and
86°F (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 21) and other
functions or turning the power on and off
frequently will increase power consumption.
This may result in a decrease 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.

• See page 75 for more information on using the
battery pack.

Caution:

• Charge only SHARP model BT-L225 or BT-L445
battery packs. Other types of battery packs may
burst, causing personal injury and damage.

Extending battery pack life

Even when the battery pack is not used, the
capacity of the battery pack will naturally
deteriorate over time. To limit the deterioration
of the capacity, it is recommended to perform
the following procedure at least once every six
months:

1Fully charge the battery pack.
2Attach the battery pack to the camcorder,

and set the Power switch to CAMERA
without inserting a cassette. Allow the
battery power to fully discharge by leaving
it on the camcorder until the camcorder
power automatically turns off.

3Remove the battery pack and store it

between 50°F and 68°F (10°C and 20°C).

Preparation

Battery

pack

BT-L225

BT-L445

Charging

time

approx.

2hr.

approx.

3hr. 30min.

Max. continuous

recording time

approx.

1hr. 30min.

approx.

3hr.

Max. continuous

playback time

approx.

1hr. 30min.

approx.

3hr.

10

Preparation

Powering the
Camcorder from an AC
Outlet

You can also power the camcorder from a
power outlet by using the supplied AC adapter.

Caution:

• The supplied AC adapter is specially designed
for use with this camcorder, and should not be
used as a power supply for other camcorders.

Preparation

1 Make sure that the Power switch is set

to OFF.

2 Plug the AC adapter into a power outlet

(1), then insert the DC plug into the DC
input jack (2).

• The camcorder is supplied power.

Note:

• When using the AC adapter to power the
camcorder, the battery pack is not charged.

Cautions:

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

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

• Disconnect the camcorder from the AC adapter
if you will not use the camcorder for a long
period of time.

3 Hold down the Lock button

and set the Power switch to
CAMERA or VCR.

11

Inserting and Removing
a Cassette

Inserting

1 Attach the power source to the

camcorder, then slide the cassette
compartment door release and open the
cassette compartment door.

• After confirmation sound, the cassette
holder extends and opens automatically.

Cassette compartment

door release

2 Insert a commercially available cassette

fully with the window facing outwards,
and with the erasure protect tab facing
upwards.

Erasure protect tab

SAVE

REC

3 Press the W mark gently until the

cassette holder clicks into place.

• After confirmation sound, the cassette
holder retracts automatically.

“W” mark

4 Wait for the cassette holder to fully

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

Preparation

Removing

Perform step 1 above, then take out the
cassette.

Cautions:

• 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 W mark to close it.

• Do not tilt the camcorder or hold it upside down
when you are inserting or removing a cassette. It
may damage the tape.

• Remove the cassette if you will not use the
camcorder for a long period of time.

• If you do not correctly close the cassette holder
in step 3, 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.

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 72 for more information on the video
cassette tapes intended for use with this
camcorder.

12

Preparation

Inserting and Removing
a Card

You can use an SD Memory Card or a
MultiMediaCard for storing still images.

Inserting

1 Make sure that the Power switch is set

to OFF.

Preparation

2 Slide the card slot cover release and

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

3 Insert a card into the slot as shown

below, and push it in as far as it will go.

Removing

Perform steps 1 and 2 above, push the card
(1) and pull the card straight out (2) as shown
below.

Notes:

• You can use only the SD Memory Card or the
MultiMediaCard (see page 71).

• The supplied card is preformatted for immediate
use.

• See pages 73 and 74 for more information on the
cards intended for use with this camcorder.

Caution:

• Do not remove the card from the camcorder
while recording data on the card (S indicator
flashes during recording). This may delete the
recorded image or damage the card.

4 Close the card slot cover.

13

Installing the Lithium
Battery

Installing

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

Removing

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

Preparation

1 Slide the cassette compartment door

release and open the cassette compart­ment door.

Note:

• The cassette holder will extend and open
when the camcorder is connected to a
power source. Be sure to close the cassette
holder before proceeding to the next step
(see page 12).

2 Pull out the lithium battery holder using

a pointed object such as the tip of a
ballpoint pen.

Lithium battery

holder

3 Insert the lithium

battery into the
battery holder with
the H side of the
battery facing the
m side of the
holder.

“m” mark

Notes on the Use of the Lithium battery

REPLACE BATTERY WITH TOSHIBA,
MATSUSHITA OR HITACHI MAXELL TYPE
CR2025 ONLY. USE OF A DIFFERENT
BATTERY MAY PRESENT A RISK OF FIRE OR
EXPLOSION.
X KEEP THIS BATTERY AWAY
FROM CHILDREN. IF SWALLOWED, CON­SULT A PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY FOR
EMERGENCY TREATMENT.
Z BATTERY MAY EXPLODE IF MIS­USED OR INSTALLED WITH POLARITY
REVERSED. DO NOT RECHARGE, DISAS­SEMBLE OR DISPOSE OF IN FIRE.

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

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

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

4 Push the battery holder back into

position. Press the W mark gently,
then close the cassette compartment
door by pressing the center until it clicks
into place.

14

Preparation

Selecting the Language
for the On-screen
Display

Available modes:

TAPE-CAMERA, CARD-CAMERA

This camcorder allows you to choose English,
French or Spanish as the on-screen display
language.

Preparation

Power switch

SET button

MENU button

Operation button

Setting

When using the camcorder for the first time,
select your on-screen display language by
following the steps below.

1 Hold down the Lock button and set the

Power switch to CAMERA.

• The language selection screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the operation button

to select the desired language, then
press the SET button.

Changing

1 In TAPE-CAMERA or CARD-CAMERA

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

2 Press l or m on the operation button

to select I, then press the SET button.

3 Press l or m to select “LANGUAGE”

(“LANGUE” or “IDIOMA”), then press the
SET button.

• The language selection screen appears.

OTHERS

BEEP
T IME CODE
TC OUT
DEMO

MOD E

LANGUAGE

RETURN

LANGUAGE

ENGLI SH

Ç

FRAN

AIS

ESPA

Ñ OL

ENGLISH

4 Press l or m to select the desired

language, then press the SET button.

• The menu screen displays in the
language selected.

IDIOMA

ENGLI SH

Ç

AIS

FRAN

Ñ

OL

ESPA

15

LANGUAGE

ENGLI SH

FRAN
ESPAÑOL

AUT O

Ç

AIS

OTROS

PITIDO

Ó

D. TI EMPO

C
SAL I DA CT

DEMO.

M

ODO

IDIOMA

RETORNO

ESPAÑOL

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

Note:

• The operation procedures in the following
sections are based on using the English on­screen displays.