Sharp VL-NZ50E Operating Instruction

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OPERATION MANUAL

VL-NZ50E/hyou; 02/2/21/18:00

VL-NZ50E

ENGLISH

LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY CAMCORDER

VL-NZ50E

OPERATION MANUAL

Before using the camcorder, please read this operation manual carefully,

especially page iv.

OPERATION MANUAL

WARNING

TO PREVENT SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN

CAUTION

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

ENGLISH

OR MOISTURE.

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

CAUTION

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

Important:

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

NOTE

The LCD panel of this camcorder 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 the performance of your camcorder.

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Power supply:

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

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Information for Australia/New Zealand Only

WARNING:

This Camcorder must be supplied only with DC 7.4 volts from a BT-L225 or BTL445 battery or the AC adapter (UADP-0342TAZZ). CAUTION: As there are no user-serviceable parts inside the Camcorder or AC adapter, do NOT remove their cabinets as touching parts inside could result in electric shock. Please refer servicing to a qualified dealer or a Camcorder service centre approved by Sharp.

NOTE

This Camcorder is a high technology product. The LCD Panel comprises 123,200 TFT Transistors. Due to the high density of transistors, it is possible that some pixels may fail.

Important:

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

ENGLISH

VL-NZ50E-E-**tobira 02.4.8, 10:33 AM2

Quick Operation Guide

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

Attaching the Battery Pack

Power switch

1 Make sure that the Power

switch is set to OFF.

2 Align the = mark on the side of the

battery pack with the = mark on the camcorder (1), and slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow completely until it locks into place (2).

Charging the Battery Pack

Attach the battery pack on the camcorder, and make sure that the Power switch is set to OFF.

2 Connect the supplied power cord to the

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

AC power socket

To power

outlet

3 Insert the DC plug into the DC input

jack.

• The charge indicator lights up.

DC input jack

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Charge indicator

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

4 Remove the DC plug from the DC input

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

Inserting a Cassette

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

Tips on Recording Positions

To create images that are easy to watch during playback, try to record with an upright posture and steady hand to prevent a shaky image.

Holding the camcorder

Place your right thumb close to the REC START/STOP button and Power Zoom control. Place your left thumb on the thumb rest on the left side of the screen.

Basic posture

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

Take care not to cover the lens or microphone with

your finger.

Place your elbows against your sides.

Shooting from a high angle

Turn the LCD monitor so that the

screen faces downward.

Shooting from a low angle

Turn the LCD monitor so that the screen faces upward.

Balance your weight on both legs.

4 Wait for the cassette holder to fully

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

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Quick Operation Guide

REC START/STOP button

Power Zoom control/Volume control

Operation button

Power switch

Easy Camera Recording

1 Insert a cassette into the camcorder.

2 Hold down the Lock button and set the

Power switch to CAMERA.

• The picture from the lens now displays.

Lock button

AUT O

Zooming

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

Power Zoom control

Playback

1 Hold down the Lock button

and set the Power switch to VCR.

Lock button

2 Press j (or k) on the Operation button

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

3 Press m to begin playback.

3 Press the REC START/STOP button to

begin recording.

To pause recording

Press the REC START/STOP button again.

iii

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REC

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

Precautions

• When the camcorder is not in use, remem-

ber 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 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.).

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Precautions

Dew Formation

• What is “dew formation”?

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

• When dew forms in your camcorder.

Dew will gradually form on the head drum of your camcorder and make the video tape stick to the head. This causes damage both to the head and the tape. When dew forms, recording and playback may not function properly.

Dew is likely to form in the following circumstances:

—When moving the camcorder from a cold

place to a warm place.

—When placing the camcorder in a cold

room which is then heated rapidly.

—When moving the camcorder outdoors from

an air conditioned room or car.

—When placing the

camcorder in the direct path of air blowing from an air conditioner.

—When placing the

camcorder in a humid room.

• How to prevent trouble. When using the camcorder in a place where

dew is likely to form, allow the camcorder and the video tape to acclimatise to the surroundings for about one hour.

For example, when bringing the camcorder indoors after skiing, place it in a plastic bag.

• “Dew” warning feature

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

1If “DEW” flashes, remove the cassette,

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

2To use the camcorder again, turn on the

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

3Do not insert a cassette while “DEW” is

flashing; this may result in damage to the tape.

4Since dew forms gradually, it may take 10

to 15 minutes before the dew warning feature engages.

Plastic bag

1Be sure to tightly seal the plastic bag

containing the camcorder.

2Remove the bag when the air temperature

inside it reaches the temperature of the room.

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Dirty Video Heads

CLEANING

STOP

START

CLEANINGNOW

When the video heads have become clogged with dirt (dust and tape coating particles),

Mosaic noiseStriped noise

• mosaic-like noise appears on the playback picture. (see above illustration)

• playback pictures do not move.

• during playback, the whole screen becomes blue.

Causes of video head clogging

• High-temperature and high-humidity environment

• A lot of dust in the air

• Damaged tape

• Worn tape

• Long-time use

• Dew formation

Using a Cleaning Tape (Commercially Available)

You can clean the video head with a commercially available cleaning tape.

Notes:

• Excessive use of the cleaning tape may cause

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

• The fast forward and rewind functions cannot be used when the cleaning tape is in the camcorder.

• If the video heads again become clogged with dirt soon after cleaning, this might be caused by a damaged tape. In this case, stop using that cassette immediately.

1 Insert a cleaning tape into the

camcorder.

2 Set the camcorder to VCR mode.

• The video head cleaning screen appears.

3 Press the SET button to begin video

head cleaning.

• “NOW CLEANING” flashes during cleaning.

If the video heads become clogged, the v indicator appears on the screen. Contact the nearest SHARP service centre or your dealer for further advice.

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

4 Remove the cleaning tape.

To cancel cleaning, press the SET button.

Supplied Accessories

Battery pack

BT-L225 Power cord

Audio/video cable Lens cap

Tripod adapter

CR2025 type

lithium batteryAC adapter

Lens hood Wrist strap

vii

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Optional Accessories

Standard-life battery pack

BT-L225

Note:

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

Extended-life battery pack

BT-L445

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viii

Contents

Operation References

Preparation

Basic Operations

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

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

Warning Indicators ......................................................... 6

Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack .................... 7

Charging the Battery Pack ............................................. 8

Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet ................. 9

Inserting and Removing a Cassette ............................ 10

Installing the Lithium Battery ........................................ 11

Setting the Date and Time ........................................... 12

Attaching the Lens Hood ............................................. 13

Attaching the Wrist Strap ............................................. 13

Using the Lens Cap ..................................................... 14

Tips on Recording Positions ........................................ 15

Camera Recording

Easy Camera Recording in Full Auto Mode ................. 16

Zooming ....................................................................... 17

Auto Focus ................................................................... 17

Macro Shots ................................................................. 17

Remaining Recording Time Display ............................ 18

Remaining Battery Power Display ............................... 18

Playback

Playback ...................................................................... 19

Volume Control ............................................................. 19

Video Search................................................................ 20

Still ............................................................................... 20

Watching Playback on a TV ......................................... 21

Useful Features

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Using the Menu Screens.............................................. 22

Camera Recording

Displaying the Recording Guide.................................. 23

Setting the Digital Zoom .............................................. 24

Gamma Brightness Compensation .............................. 25

Gain-up ........................................................................ 26

Fade In and Fade Out .................................................. 27

Quick Return ................................................................ 28

Edit Search................................................................... 28

Operation References

Useful Features

Advanced Features

Still Recording .............................................................. 29

Attaching the Supplied Tripod Adapter ....................... 29

Wide Screen (16:9) ...................................................... 30

Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) .................................. 30

Self Recording ............................................................. 31

Recording in LP (Long Play Recording) Mode ............ 32

Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode................ 33

Playback

Using the Remote Control (Not supplied) .................... 34

Displaying the Date and Time of Recording ................ 35

Gamma Playback ........................................................ 35

Picture Effect Playback ................................................ 36

Camera Recording

Manual Focus .............................................................. 37

Manual Exposure ......................................................... 38

White Balance Lock ..................................................... 39

Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode.................... 39

Digital Picture Effects ................................................... 40

Scene Menu (Program AE) .......................................... 41

Playback

Using the Time Code ................................................... 42

Editing .......................................................................... 43

Editing with the DV Terminal (IEEE1394) ..................... 44

Audio Dubbing Feature................................................ 45

Selecting the Audio Playback Mode ............................ 47

Preparation

Basic Operations

Useful Features

Appendix

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Picture/Backlight Adjustments ..................................... 48

Turning off the Confirmation Sound ............................. 49

Useful Information ........................................................ 50

Demonstration Mode ................................................... 55

Before Requesting Service .......................................... 56

Specifications .............................................................. 58

Advanced Features

Appendix

Operation References

Part Names

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

Operation References

Front view

Zoom lens

Stereo microphone

DC input jack [pp. 8, 9]

Cassette holder [p. 10]

Cassette compartment door [p. 10]

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Lithium battery compartment door [p. 11]

Cassette compartment door release [p. 10]

Rear view

DV terminal

[p. 44]

AV jack

[pp. 21, 43]

Jack cover

[pp. 21, 43, 44]

Operation References

Power Zoom Wide angle/ Telephoto control [p. 17]/ VOLume control [p. 19]

GUIDE ON/OFF switch [p. 23]

Operation button

LCD monitor

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Operation References

Rear view

Operation References

GAMMA/

BRIGHTER button

[pp. 25, 26, 35]

FADE button

[p. 27]

SET button

[p. 22]

RECord START/STOP button [p. 16]

STILL button [p. 29]

Power switch (CAMERA/VCR select switch) [pp. 16, 19]

Speaker

MENU button [pp. 5, 22]

MANUAL button

[p. 5]

Bottom view

Battery release [p. 7]

Wrist strap loop

[p. 13]

Tripod adapter socket

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[p. 29]

Battery mounting surface [p. 7]

On-screen Display Index

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

CAMERA mode

LCD SE T

BACKL IGHT LCD BRI GHT LCD COLOUR RET URN

CLOCK SET

DISPLAY SETT I NG 12H 24H/ RETURN

p. 18

pp. 16, 39

AUT O

p. 30

p. 16

p. 18

SETT ING 1

EFFECTPIC. SCENE MENU QK.

RET URN

SETT ING 2

DGTL ZOOM TAPE

SPEED

DIS

min

16 9: AUDI O MODE RETURN

p. 40 p. 41 p. 28

p. 24 p. 32 p. 30 p. 30 p. 33

Operation References

p. 48

p. 35 p. 12 p. 13

SETT ING 1

EFFECTPIC. SCENE MENU QK.

RETURN

OTHERS

BEEP T IME CODE TC OUT DEMO RETURN

MOD E

p. 49 p. 42 p. 42 p. 55

VCR mode

PLAYBACK

p. 18

AU DIOAUDIO

21+21

p. 47

OTHERS

PLAYBACK

PIC.

EFFECT AUDI O DUB AUDI O RETURN

SET

Note:

• See page 22 for procedures on how to display the desired screen.

SET

EFFECT

PIC. AUDI O DUB AUDI O RET URN

REMO TE BEEP T IME CODE TC OUT RETURN

p. 36 p. 46 p. 47

p. 34 p. 49 p. 42 p. 42

LCD SE T

BACKL IGHT LCD BRI GHT LCD COLOUR RET URN

CLOCK SET

DISPLAY RETURN

p. 48

p. 35

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Operation References

AUT O

min

EFFECT

SETT ING

PIC. SCENE MENU QK. RETURN

RETURN

Manual screens

Operation References

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

Focus setting screen

AUTO

MAN. FOCUS AUTO

(p. 37)

MANUAL button

On-screen indicators on/off

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

• The example screens shown are for CAMERA mode.

MENU button

AUTO

EXPOSURE

AUTO

HITE BAL.

AUT O

AUTO

Exposure setting screen (p. 38)

White balance screen (p. 39)

Normal screen

min

Indicators on

Menu screen

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Indicators off

Warning Indicators

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

Operation References

Displayed for the first

3 seconds

INSERT

A CASSETTE.

EJECT THE

CASSETTE.

CASSETTE NOT RECORDABLE.

THE

TAPE

ENDS SOON.

CHANGE THE

CASSETTE.

BATTERY IS

TOO LOW.

DEW

LAMP LAMP

Displayed after

3 seconds

EJECT THE

CASSETTE.

PROTECT. TAB

TAPE END

DEW

Description of warning

There is no video cassette in the camcorder. Insert a cassette (see page 10).

The video cassette is defective and should be removed (see page 10).

The erasure protect tab on the video cassette has been slid to the record-protect position, preventing recording (see page 52).

The tape is about to end. Prepare a new cassette (see page 10).

The tape has reached the end. Replace it with a new cassette (see page 10).

The battery is almost depleted. Replace it with a fully charged battery pack (see page 7).

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

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

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

Note:

• N indicates a flashing display.

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Preparation

Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack

Attaching

Power switch

Preparation

1 Make sure that the Power

switch is set to OFF.

2 Align the = mark on the side of the

battery pack with the = mark on the camcorder (1), and slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow completely until it locks into place (2).

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).

Battery release

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.

• 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.

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Charging the Battery Pack

Charging time and maximum continuous recording and playback times

Attach the battery pack on the camcorder, and make sure that the Power switch is set to OFF.

2 Connect the supplied power cord to the

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

AC power socket

To power

outlet

3 Insert the DC plug into the DC input

jack.

• The charge indicator lights up.

DC input jack

Charge indicator

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

4 Remove the DC plug from the DC input

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

Battery

BT-L225

BT-L445

Notes:

• Charge the battery pack between 10°C and

• The battery pack and charger become warm

• Using the zoom (see page 17) and other

• The charging time and recording time may

• See page 53 for more information on using the

Caution:

• Charge only SHARP model BT-L225 or BT-L445

Charging

pack

3hr. 30min.

30°C. The battery pack may not charge properly at temperatures too low or too high.

during charging. This is not a malfunction.

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.

vary depending on the ambient temperature and the condition of the battery pack.

battery pack.

battery packs. Other types of battery packs may burst, causing personal injury and damage.

time

approx.

2hr.

approx.

Max. continuous

recording time

approx.

1hr. 30min.

approx.

3hr.

Max. continuous

playback time

approx.

1hr. 30min.

approx.

3hr.

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 10°C and 20°C.

Preparation

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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 Connect the supplied power cord to the

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

AC power socket

To power

3 Insert the DC plug into the DC input

jack.

• The camcorder is supplied power.

DC input jack

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.

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

outlet

4 Hold down the Lock button

and set the Power switch to CAMERA or VCR.

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Lock button

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 centre 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 52 for more information on the video cassette tapes intended for use with this camcorder.

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Preparation

Installing the Lithium Battery

Installing

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

1 Slide the cassette compartment door

release and open the cassette compartment door.

Preparation

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 10).

2 Pull out the lithium battery holder using

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

Lithium battery

holder

Removing

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

Notes on the Use of the Lithium battery

CAUTION: Danger of explosion if battery is

incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type CR2025 recommended by the equipment manufacturer. X KEEP THIS BATTERY AWAY FROM CHILDREN. IF SWALLOWED, CONSULT A PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY FOR EMERGENCY TREATMENT. Z BATTERY MAY EXPLODE IF MIS-USED 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.

3 Insert the lithium

battery into the

“m” mark

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

4 Push the battery holder back into

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

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Setting the Date and

000

1 2002.2.

SETT I NG

Time

Example: Setting the date to 2 June 2003 (2. 6.

2003) and the time to 10:30 am (10:30).

Power switch

SET button

MENU button

Note:

• Before performing the steps below, make sure that the lithium battery has been installed (see page 11).

Operation button

1 Hold down the Lock button

and set the Power switch to CAMERA.

Lock button

2 Press the MENU button until the menu

screen appears.

CLOCK SE T

DISPLAY

SETT I NG

12H 24H/ RETURN

000:

120

02.1.

4 Press l or m to select “2” (day), then

press the SET button.

5 Press l or m to select “6” (month),

then press the SET button.

SETT I NG

6 2002.2.

000

6 Press l or m to select “2003” (year),

then press the SET button.

SETT I NG

0 00

6 2003.2.

7 Press l or m to select “10” (hour), then

press the SET button.

SETT I NG

10 00

6 2003.2.

8 Press l or m to select “30” (minute),

then press the SET button.

• The internal clock now starts operating.

SETT I NG

10 30

6 2003.2.

9 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

Note:

• If the date and time have been set, the SETTING

1 screen (T) appears in step 2. Select “SETTING” in the CLOCK SET screen (P) using the Operation button and SET button.

Preparation

3 Press the SET button.

VL-NZ50E-E-007-015 02.4.8, 10:42 AM12

Preparation

Changing to the 12-hour Time Mode

1 After performing step 8 above, press l

or m to select “12H/24H”, then press the SET button.

CLOCK SE T

DISPLAY SETT I NG

Preparation

12H 24H/ RETURN

24H

12H

2 Press l or m to select “12H”, then

press the SET button.

21H24H

12H

3 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

Notes:

• The date and time, once set, are internally recorded even when not displayed on the screen.

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

Attaching the Lens Hood

Turn the lens hood in the direction of the arrow to attach it.

To remove it, turn it in the opposite direction.

Note:

• Filters and other accessories cannot be attached on the top of the lens hood.

Attaching the Wrist Strap

Attach the wrist strap to the wrist strap loop as shown below.

Wrist strap loop

VL-NZ50E-E-007-015 02.4.8, 10:42 AM13

Caution:

• Do not swing the camcorder by the strap.

Using the Lens Cap

Attach the strap to the lens cap as shown below.

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

Always attach the lens cap when not using the camcorder.

Preparation

Lens hood

Note:

• Be sure the lens hood is attached to the comcorder before attaching the lens cap.

When recording, hang the lens cap on the wrist strap to keep the cap out of the way.

VL-NZ50E-E-007-015 02.4.8, 10:42 AM14

Preparation

Tips on Recording Positions

To create images that are easy to watch during playback, try to record with an upright posture and steady hand to prevent a shaky image.

Holding the camcorder

Place your right thumb close to the REC START/STOP button and Power Zoom control. Place your left thumb on the thumb rest on the left side of the screen.

Basic posture

Preparation

Take care not

to cover the

microphone

with your

lens or

finger.

Shooting from a high angle

Turn the LCD monitor so

that the screen faces

downward.

Place your elbows against your sides.

Shooting from a low angle

Balance your

weight on both

legs.

VL-NZ50E-E-007-015 02.4.8, 10:42 AM15

Turn the LCD monitor so that the screen faces upward.

Basic Operations

Camera Recording

Easy Camera Recording in Full Auto Mode

• Before you start recording, perform the operations described on pages 7 through 15 to prepare your camcorder for recording.

REC START/STOP button

Power switch

1 Remove the lens cap.

2 Hold down the Lock button and set the

Power switch to CAMERA.

• The picture from the lens now displays.

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

Lock button

Note:

• If “AUTO” is not displayed at this time, set

the camcorder to Full Auto mode (see page

39).

AUT O

3 Press the REC START/STOP button to

begin recording.

REC

To pause recording

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

PAUSE

To turn the power off

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

Notes:

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

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

Maximum continuous recording and actual recording times

Battery

pack

BT-L225

BT-L445

Note:

• Using the zoom (see page 17) 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.

Max. continuous

recording time

approx.

1hr. 30min.

approx.

3hr.

Actual recording

time

approx.

50min.

approx.

1hr. 40min.

Basic Operations

VL-NZ50E-E-016-021 02.4.8, 10:45 AM16

Basic Operations Camera Recording

Zooming

Zooming allows you to move visually closer to or farther from a subject without physically changing your position. When using the optical zoom, you can enlarge the subject up to 10K.

Zooming in (when you want to centre

attention on the subject)

Wide

angle

Zooming out (when you want to

includes the surroundings)

Zooming in

Push the Power Zoom control to the T (telephoto) side to get a close-up view (1).

Zooming out

Basic Operations

Push the Power Zoom control to the W (wide angle) side to get a wide field of view (2).

Power Zoom control

Auto Focus

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

Notes:

• If no subject is in the centre of the scene, the

Telephoto

focus area will expand and the subject nearest the centre will be focused on.

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

• Auto Focus may not work in the situations described on page 37. In these situations, use the manual focus function.

Macro Shots

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

Zoom range indicator

WT3ZOOM

• The zoom range indicator shows you the current zoom setting.

• The zoom speed depends on how far you push the Power Zoom control.

Notes:

• The camcorder is unable to focus when zooming in on subjects within 1.5 m. The camcorder will automatically zoom out until it is able to focus on the subject.

• See page 24 for how to use the digital zoom.

VL-NZ50E-E-016-021 02.4.8, 10:45 AM17

Power Zoom control

Note:

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

BATTERY I S

TOO LOW.

Remaining Recording Time Display

Remaining Battery Power Display

When the camcorder is recording, an onscreen indicator displays the approximate remaining tape time in minutes.

Remaining recording

min

time indicator

Notes:

• The remaining recording time indicator

appears when the on-screen indicators are turned on.

• The remaining recording time indicator

appears 10 seconds after pressing the REC START/STOP button to begin recording.

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

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

Warning indicator Approx. remaining time

THE

TAPE

ENDS SOON.

Less than 1 min.

TAPE END

When using the camcorder with the battery pack as the power source, the remaining battery power indicator is displayed. If the battery power becomes very low, a warning indicator appears. Replace the battery pack.

(Green)

(Red)

Notes:

• The remaining battery power indicator

appears when the on-screen indicators are turned on.

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

• The remaining battery power indicator may change to either a higher or lower level if you set the Power switch to OFF and then back to CAMERA or VCR.

• In cold environments, the red remaining battery power indicator may appear sooner.

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

Remaining battery power indicator

Warning indicator

Basic Operations

CHANGE T HE

CASSETTE.

TAPE END

VL-NZ50E-E-016-021 02.4.8, 10:45 AM18

The tape has reached

the end.

Basic Operations

Basic Operations Camera Recording

Playback

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

Power switch

Operation button

1 Hold down the Lock button

and set the Power switch to

Basic Operations

VCR.

Lock button

2 Press j (or k) on the Operation button

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

To stop playback

Press l.

To turn the power off

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

Note:

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

Volume Control

When the camcorder is in VCR mode, push the Volume control to the L or + side to increase (1) or decrease (2) the volume.

The volume level indicator will appear on the LCD screen during adjustment only. Once the Volume control is released, the volume level indicator will disappear shortly afterwards.

3 Press m to begin playback.

Note:

• If you press the REC START/STOP button in TAPE-VCR mode, the “ ” mark appears and the camcorder enters Recording Standby mode. If you do not intend to record, press l to turn the “ ” mark off, then press m to begin playback. This will ensure your previous recording is not erased (see page 44).

VL-NZ50E-E-016-021 02.4.8, 10:45 AM19

Volume control

Decrease

VOLUME

Increase

Speaker

Video Search

Still

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

Searching for a Scene Near the Current Tape Position

1 During playback, press k (or j) on the

Operation button.

• The playback picture fast forwards (or reverses).

2 When you find the scene, press m to

return to normal playback.

Searching for a Scene Far from the Current Tape Position

1 During fast forward (or rewind), press

and hold k (or j) on the Operation button.

• The fast forward (or rewind) picture displays.

2 If the scene is still rather far from the

current tape position, release the Operation button to normal fast forward (or rewind).

The still function allows you to pause playback.

During playback, press m on the Operation button.

To return to normal playback, press m again.

Notes:

• The sound is off in Still mode.

• To protect the tape, the camcorder automatically returns to normal playback if it is left in Still mode for more than 5 minutes.

Basic Operations

3 Repeat steps 1 and 2 above until you

find the scene.

4 Press m to begin normal playback.

Notes:

• The sound is off during search.

• You may experience picture noise during search. This is not a malfunction.

VL-NZ50E-E-016-021 02.4.8, 10:45 AM20

Basic Operations Playback

Watching Playback on a TV

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

1 Open the jack cover on the camcorder

(see page 2).

Jack cover

2 Connect the camcorder to your TV (or

VCR) with the supplied audio/video

Basic Operations

cable, as shown.

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

POWER

REC

TV/VCRSET UP

CHANNEL

PAUSE /STILL

PLAY

STOP/ EJECT

Caution:

• Check that the camcorder, TV, VCR and other equipment to be used are turned off before making any connections. Picture noise or malfunction may occur if any of the above is left on while making a connection.

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

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

• When connecting to a TV via a VCR, turn

on the VCR and set it to the “AV” or “LINE” input channel. Operate the TV as you normally do to view the signal from the VCR. (See the operation manuals of your TV and VCR.)

4 Set the Power switch on the camcorder

to VCR, and begin playback (see page

19).

Notes:

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

• Close the jack cover after use.

Audio/video cable (supplied)

To AV jack

The arrow shows the signal flow.

VL-NZ50E-E-016-021 02.4.8, 10:45 AM21

Useful Features

OF F

40 300

DGTL ZOOM TAPE DIS

SPEED

16 9: AUDI O MODE RETURN

SETT ING 2

OFF

SETT I NG

DGTL ZOOM

TAPE DIS

SPEED

16 9: AUDI O MODE RETURN

Using the Menu Screens

Use the menu screens to adjust the various camcorder settings.

Power switch

SET button

MENU button

Operation button

1 Set to the desired

camcorder mode (CAMERA or VCR).

• See page 4 for the menu items you can select in each

Lock button

camcorder mode.

• Steps 2 to 5 show how to change the DGTL ZOOM menu setting in CAMERA mode.

2 Press the MENU button until the menu

screen appears.

SETT ING

Example

PIC.

EFFECT SCENE MENU QK.

RET URN

3 Press l or m on the Operation button

to select the desired menu screen (Y), then press the SET button.

Example

• You can press k, instead of the SET

button.

4 Press l or m to select the desired

menu item (DGTL ZOOM), then press the SET button.

Example

• You can press k, instead of the SET

button.

5 Press l or m to select the desired

menu setting, then press the SET button.

DGTL ZOOM

• You can press k, instead of the SET

button.

• To adjust another menu item, press l or m to select “RETURN” and press the SET button, then perform steps 3 to 5.

Useful Features

Note:

• The menu screen does not appear during recording.

VL-NZ50E-E-022-026 02.4.8, 10:48 AM22

To turn off the menu screen

Press the MENU button.

Notes:

• Certain menu items are common to all camcorder modes. If the BEEP menu item, for example, is set to “OFF” in CAMERA mode, it will be automatically set to “OFF” in VCR mode.

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

• Items that are not selectable are greyed out.

Useful Features

Useful features Camera Recording

Camera Recording

Displaying the Recording Guide

This function helps you decide on the size of the subject occupying the screen. Select one of five recording guides.

Types

Cross: A cross mark at

the centre of the screen for placing the subject at the centre.

Focus: Focus brackets

for guiding you to the focus area.

Landscape: Grid lines

dividing the screen into 9 areas to help you with the horizontal and vertical composition.

Snapshot: For captur-

ing a small group of friends in a frame with

Useful Features

surrounding background.

Turning on the recording guide

Set the GUIDE ON/OFF switch to ON in Recording Standby mode.

Selecting the recording guide

Press l or m on the Operation button.

To turn off the recording guide

Set the GUIDE ON/OFF switch to OFF in Recording Standby mode.

Note:

• When using manual focus, you cannot change the recording guide.

Portrait: Green frame

fitting a full-body view and yellow frame fitting an upper-body view.

VL-NZ50E-E-022-026 02.4.8, 10:48 AM23

Setting the Digital Zoom

You can select three different zoom ranges: 1– 10K (optical zoom), 10–40K (digital zoom) or 10–300K (digital zoom). The digital zoom allows you to record powerful close-up pictures with the same operation as normal zooming.

Notes:

• The digital zoom is in addition to the optical zoom giving a combined maximum zoom range of 1–300K.

• As the image is enlarged digitally, the picture

quality decreases when higher digital zoom settings are used.

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

1 In CAMERA mode, press the MENU

button until the menu screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the operation button

to select Y, then press the SET button.

3 Press l or m to select “DGTL ZOOM”,

then press the SET button.

SETT ING 2

DGTL ZOOM TAPE DIS 16 9: AUDI O MODE RETURN

SPEED

OF F

40 300

4 Press l or m to select “40” or “300”,

then press the SET button.

DGTL ZOOM

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

WT 25DZOOM

Digital zoom indicator

To use optical zoom only

Select “OFF” in step 4 above.

Useful Features

VL-NZ50E-E-022-026 02.4.8, 10:48 AM24

Useful features Camera Recording

Gamma Brightness Compensation

When the subject is backlit, the image will appear dark if it is recorded normally. The gamma brightness compensation function improves the picture by increasing the brightness of the subject while leaving the brighter portion of the image unaffected.

GAMMA/BRIGHTER button

In CAMERA mode, press the GAMMA/ BRIGHTER button once.

• “GAMMA” appears, indicating that Gamma Brightness Compensation is now working.

To obtain a brighter picture

Press the GAMMA/BRIGHTER button again.

• The x indicator appears.

GAMMA

AU T O

AUT O

Note:

• When the x indicator is displayed, the

background will become slightly brighter.

To cancel Gamma Brightness Compensation

Press the GAMMA/BRIGHTER button until “GAMMA” disappears.

33 0

min

Useful Features

AU T O

AUT O

GAMMAGAMMA

AU T O

AUT O

VL-NZ50E-E-022-026 02.4.8, 10:48 AM25

333 0

min

3 0

min

Gain-up

When you are recording in a dark or poorly illuminated location, “LIGHT” is displayed on the screen. Use the gain-up function to record a brighter picture.

Note:

• At locations where lighting is adequate, “LIGHT” will not appear. The gain-up function cannot be used in this case.

GAMMA/BRIGHTER button

In CAMERA mode, press the GAMMA/ BRIGHTER button once.

• “GAMMA” appears, indicating that the gainup function is now working.

LIGH TLIGHT

To obtain a brighter picture

Press the GAMMA/BRIGHTER button again.

• The e indicator appears.

GAMMA

AUT O

To cancel the gain-up function

Press the GAMMA/BRIGHTER button until “GAMMA” disappears.

Notes:

• You may experience some picture noise in Gain-

up mode, which increases when the e displays.

• When the e indicator displays, you may get

a shadow image behind a subject that is moving around a lot.

• Fine brightness adjustments are possible when using manual exposure (see page 38).

• Gain-up will cancel if you aim the camcorder in a bright location.

min

Useful Features

AU T O

AUT O

GAMMAGAMMA LIGH TLIGHT

AU T O

AUT O

VL-NZ50E-E-022-026 02.4.8, 10:48 AM26

3 0

min

Useful Features

AU T OAU TO

FAD E I NFADE

REC

1 2 0

minmin30min

AU T OAU TO

FAD E O UTOU TFADE

2 727

minminmin

Camera Recording

Fade In and Fade Out

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

REC START/STOP button

FADE button

Fade in

Fade out

Using

1 In CAMERA mode, press the FADE

Useful Features

button.

• “FADE” appears.

FAD EFADE

2 Press the REC START/STOP button to

begin recording.

• The picture turns white, and the image and sound fade in.

3 Press the REC START/STOP button at

the point where you wish to stop recording.

• The image and sound fade out as the picture gradually turns white. The camcorder then returns to Recording Standby mode.

To cancel Fade mode

Press the FADE button again in Recording Standby mode.

To use Fade Out only

1 During camera recording, press the

FADE button to display “FADE”.

VL-NZ50E-E-027-033 02.4.8, 10:50 AM27

AU T OAU TO

2 Press the REC START/STOP button at

the point where you wish to stop

min30min

2 0

recording.

Note:

• Fade mode automatically cancels after Fade Out.

Quick Return

Edit Search

If while playing back your tape you want to quickly return to the last recorded scene and start recording again, use the quick return function.

1 In Recording Standby mode, press the

MENU button until the menu screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the operation button

to select T, then press the SET button.

3 Press l or m to select “QK. RETURN”,

then press the SET button.

SETT ING 1

PIC.

EFFECT SCENE MENU QK.

RET URN

START

STOP

4 Press l or m to select “START”, then

press the SET button.

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

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

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

Operation button

1 In Recording Standby

mode, press and hold down j (reverse edit search) or k (forward edit search) on the Operation button.

Useful Features

2 When you find the point where you want

to begin recording, release the button.

Notes:

• The sound is off during search.

• Forward edit search is performed at the same speed as normal playback, and reverse edit search at 6.5 times the normal playback.

• You may experience picture noise during reverse edit search.

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

Notes:

• To cancel the quick return function while “SEARCH” is flashing, press the SET button twice.

• Quick return will not work if you remove the cassette and reload it after recording or if nothing has been recorded since loading.

VL-NZ50E-E-027-033 02.4.8, 10:50 AM28

Useful Features Camera Recording

Still Recording

You can record continuous still images of subjects.

1 In Recording Standby mode,

press the STILL button fully.

• A still image of the subject is displayed.

2 Press the REC START/

STOP button.

• The still image of the subject will be recorded.

To pause recording

Press the REC START/STOP button.

To cancel the still image

Press the STILL button fully.

Notes:

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

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

Attaching the Supplied Tripod Adapter

Attach the supplied tripod adapter when using a tripod with the camcorder.

1 Align the tripod adapter with the tripod

adapter socket on the bottom of the camcorder, then rotate as shown below.

Tripod adapter socket

Tripod socket

2 Attach tripod to tripod socket.

Useful Features

VL-NZ50E-E-027-033 02.4.8, 10:50 AM29

Note:

• You cannot use the supplied tripod adapter, if the alignment pin is not retractable.

Wide Screen (16:9)

OFF

DGTL ZOOM TAPE DIS

SPEED

16 9: AUDI O MODE RETURN

SETT I NG 2

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

Normal screen

Wide screen

Digital Image Stabilization (DIS)

The digital image stabilization (DIS) function allows you to stabilize the image by electronically compensating for relatively minor image shaking that is often annoying in close-up shots.

1 In CAMERA mode, press the MENU

button until the menu screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the operation button

to select Y, then press the SET button.

1 In CAMERA mode, press the MENU

button until the menu screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the operation button

to select Y, then press the SET button.

3 Press l or m to select “16:9”, then

press the SET button.

SETT ING 2

DGTL ZOOM TAPE

SPEED DIS 16 9: AUDI O MODE RETURN

OFF

4 Press l or m to select “ON”, then press

the SET button.

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

16 9:

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

To return to normal screen

Select “OFF” in step 4 above.

3 Press l or m to select “DIS”, then

press the SET button.

4 Press l or m to select “ON”, then press

the SET button.

ONDIS

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

• The DIS indicator only appears when the on-screen indicators are turned on.

DIS indicator

To cancel DIS function

Select “OFF” in step 4 above. The z indicator will disappear.

Notes:

• The DIS function cannot compensate for excessive image shaking.

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

Useful Features

VL-NZ50E-E-027-033 02.4.8, 10:50 AM30

Useful Features Camera Recording

Self Recording

Rotate the LCD monitor 180° vertically so that the screen faces the other way and the subject can monitor the shot while you are recording.

If the camcorder is steadied, you can record yourself in the scene by watching yourself on the LCD monitor.

1 Set the Power switch to CAMERA.

2 Rotate the monitor section 180°

vertically.

• A mirror image of the subject displays

Useful Features

on the LCD monitor.

Cautions:

• Do not rotate the monitor section to the self recording position during recording or playback.

• For recording in Self Recording mode, be

sure to rotate the monitor section, NOT the lens section. If you hold the camcorder upside down with the lens at the bottom, the subject will be recorded upside down.

More Information on Self Recording

• The screen image automatically inverts when the monitor rotation is between 135° and 200°. When the monitor section is turned back to the normal position, the image returns to normal.

• You can play back images while the monitor is in the self recording position. Set the camcorder to VCR mode. The Operation button still retains its function as during normal playback, for example, m on the Operation button works as the Play button.

3 Press the REC START/STOP button to

begin recording.

VL-NZ50E-E-027-033 02.4.8, 10:50 AM31

Recording in LP (Long Play Recording) Mode

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

1 In CAMERA mode, press the MENU

button until the menu screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the operation button

to select Y, then press the SET button.

3 Press l or m to select “TAPE SPEED”,

then press the SET button.

SETT I NG 2

DGTL ZOOM TAPE DIS 16 9: AUDI O MODE RETURN

SPEED

Notes on the use of LP mode

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

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

for use with LP mode.

—When a tape recorded in LP mode under

high temperature conditions is played back.

—When a tape recorded in LP mode with the

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

—When a tape recorded in LP mode is

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

• Audio dubbing is not possible with LP mode recording.

4 Press l or m to select “LP”, then press

the SET button.

TAPE SPEED

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

• The long play recording mode indicator only appears when the on-screen indicators are turned on.

AUT O

Long play recording mode indicator

To return to SP mode

Select “SP” in step 4 above.

min

Useful Features

VL-NZ50E-E-027-033 02.4.8, 10:50 AM32

Useful Features Camera Recording

Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode

The camcorder normally records audio in the 12-bit audio recording mode. For higher-quality audio recording, select the 16-bit audio recording mode.

1 In CAMERA mode, press the MENU

button until the menu screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the operation button

to select Y, then press the SET button.

3 Press l or m to select “AUDIO MODE”,

then press the SET button.

SETT ING 2

DGTL ZOOM TAPE

SPEED

DIS

16 9: AUDI O MODE RETURN

112

bit

4 Press l or m to select “16bit”, then

press the SET button.

AUD I O MODE

1 6 bit

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

Useful Features

VL-NZ50E-E-027-033 02.4.8, 10:50 AM33

menu screen.

• The 16-bit audio recording mode indicator only appears when the onscreen indicators are turned on.

16-bit audio recording

To return to 12-bit audio recording mode

Select “12bit” in step 4 above.

Note:

• When using Audio Dubbing with 16-bit audio recordings, both the dubbed and original sounds will be recorded in mono (see page 45).

1 6bit

mode indicator

Useful Features

Playback

Using the Remote Control (Not supplied)

The remote control (RRMCG0084TASA) is not supplied with this camcorder. Contact the nearest SHARP service centre or your dealer for purchasing as a specified part.

Installing the Batteries

1 Open the battery compartment cover.

2 Insert the two commercially available AA

(R6 or UM/SUM-3) batteries with the battery poles positioned as indicated.

3 Place the cover.

Activating

1 In VCR mode, press the MENU button

until the menu screen appears.

4 Press l or m to select “ON”, then press

the SET button.

REMOTE

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

Operating

Aim the remote control at the remote sensor of the camcorder, and press the control buttons to operate.

Remote sensor

5 m

Approximate operating range of remote control

REW button

REC START/STOP button

ZOOM buttons (W/T)

Useful Features

2 Press l or m on the operation button

to select I, then press the SET button.

3 Press l or m to select “REMOTE”,

then press the SET button.

OTHERS

REMO TE BEEP T IME CODE TC OUT RETURN

VL-NZ50E-E-034-036 02.4.8, 10:52 AM34

OFF

FF button

SLOW button

PLAY button

STOP button

VOLUME +/L buttons

PAUSE/STILL button

Notes:

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

• Be careful not to expose the remote sensor to direct sunlight or strong interior lighting, as this may prevent the remote control from operating properly.

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

Useful Features Playback

Displaying the Date and Time of Recording

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

• The example screens shown are for CAMERA mode.

1 Press the MENU button until the menu

screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the operation button

to select P, then press the SET button.

3 Press l or m to select “DISPLAY”, then

press the SET button.

CLOCK SE T

DISPLAY SETT I NG 12H 24H/ RETURN

OFF

DAT E DAT E T IME

4 Press l or m to select “DATE” or

“DATEHTIME”, then press the SET button.

Useful Features

DISPLAY

DATE+TIME

5 Press the MENU button until the date (or

date and time) displays.

AUT O

Notes:

• The date (or date and time) appears when the on-screen indicators are turned on.

• Before recording, make sure that the date and time have been correctly set. If they have not been set, the display will be left blank when playing back the recording. (The display will also be left blank for unrecorded or damaged portions of the tape.)

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

Gamma Playback

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

GAMMA/BRIGHTER button

During playback, press the GAMMA/ BRIGHTER button once.

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

To obtain a brighter picture, press the GAMMA/ BRIGHTER button again.

• “GAMMA2” appears.

3002.6

03:01

min

To cancel Gamma Playback

Press the GAMMA/BRIGHTER button until “GAMMA1” and “GAMMA2” disappear.

Note:

• Gamma Playback has no effect during still playback.

GAMMA1GAMMA1

GAMMA 2GAMMA2

A UDIOAUDIO

21+21

VL-NZ50E-E-034-036 02.4.8, 10:52 AM35

Picture Effect Playback

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

Types

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

white.

SEPIA: The picture is displayed in sepia

colour similar to that of an old photograph.

SOLARI: The contrast of the subject is

enhanced, creating a unique artistic image.

NEGA: The blacks and whites of the image

are reversed and colours of the image are inverted.

BLUE: The picture is displayed with the

effect of playback through a blue filter.

1 During playback, press the MENU

button until the menu screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the operation button

to select V, then press the SET button.

3 Press l or m to select “PIC. EFFECT”,

then press the SET button.

4 Press l or m to select the desired

picture effect, then press the SET button.

PIC. EFFECT

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

To cancel Picture Effect Playback

Select “OFF” in step 4 above.

Note:

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

Useful Features

PLAYBACK

VL-NZ50E-E-034-036 02.4.8, 10:53 AM36

SET

PIC.

EFFECT AUDI O DUB AUDI O RET URN

OFF

SEP I A SOLA RI NEGA BLUE

Advanced Features

AUTO

MAN. FOCUS AUTO

MANUAL

MAN. FOCUS

min

Advanced Features Camera Recording

Camera Recording

Manual Focus

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

Subject is too dark.

Fast-moving subject. Background is too bright.

Subject has horizontal stripes.

Light reflects off the subject.

Subject has fine, repeated

patterns.

Fast-speed shutter being used

under fluorescent lighting.

Advanced Features

Lack of contrast, e.g. snow

scene.

Subject is being shot through

a dirty or wet window.

Two subjects at different distances

overlap in the same scene.

Subjects at different distances

appear in the centre of the

scene at the same time.

1 In CAMERA mode, press the MANUAL

button until the focus setting screen appears.

2 Adjust the Power Zoom control to frame

the subject as you desire.

3 Press m or l to focus on the subject.

m: To focus on a more distant subject l: To focus on a closer subject

4 Press the MANUAL button until the

normal screen appears.

• “MF” appears.

Manual focus indicator

To return to Auto Focus mode

Press the SET button while the focus setting screen is displayed.

Notes:

• The camcorder may not be able to focus correctly if the subject is closer than approximately 1.5 m. Set the zoom control to wide angle, and try refocusing again.

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

• When “MF” is displayed, you can manually adjust the focus by pressing l or m, even if the focus setting screen is not displayed.

VL-NZ50E-E-037-041 02.4.8, 10:54 AM37

Manual Exposure

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

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

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

Subject is too bright against background.

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

1 In CAMERA mode, press the MANUAL

button until the exposure setting screen appears.

To return to Auto Exposure mode

Press the SET button while the exposure setting screen is displayed.

Note:

• Manual Exposure mode will cancel if a scene

setting is selected thereafter.

AUTO

EXPOSURE

2 Press l or m to select the desired

exposure level.

• The number shown is the selected exposure level. The adjustment range is from +5 (least light) to L5 (most light).

MANUAL

EXPOSURE

Exposure level

3 Press the MANUAL button until the

normal screen appears.

VL-NZ50E-E-037-041 02.4.8, 10:54 AM38

AUTO

Advanced Features

Advanced Features Camera Recording

White Balance Lock

The colour of the subject on the screen looks different depending on lighting conditions. Lock the White Balance if the Auto White Balance does not work properly.

1 In CAMERA mode, press the MANUAL

button until the white balance setting screen appears.

AUTO

HITE BAL.

AUTO

2 Aim the lens at a white object.

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

White paper or white cloth

To return to Auto White Balance mode

Press the SET button while the white balance setting screen is displayed.

Note:

• White Balance setting will cancel if a scene

setting is selected thereafter.

Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode

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

In CAMERA mode, press and hold down the MANUAL button for 2 seconds.

• “FULL AUTO” flashes, then stop flashing when the camcorder is set to Full Auto mode.

3 Press the SET button to set the white

balance lock.

• “LOCK” flashes during the locking procedure.

MAN UA L

HITE BAL.

Note:

Advanced Features

• If you move the camcorder while “LOCK” is

flashing, “LOCK” may not stop flashing. If this occurs, press the SET button to cancel the procedure, and then repeat step 3.

4 Press the MANUAL button until the

normal screen appears.

VL-NZ50E-E-037-041 02.4.8, 10:54 AM39

LOCK

Digital Picture Effects

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

Types

B/W: To record in black-and-white. SEPIA: To record in sepia colour similar to

that of an old photograph.

SOLARI: To record with enhanced contrast,

creating a unique artistic image.

NEGA: To record a picture whose blacks

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

BLUE: To record with the effect of recording

through a blue filter.

1 In CAMERA mode, press the MENU

button until the menu screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the operation button

to select T, then press the SET button.

3 Press l or m to select “PIC. EFFECT”,

then press the SET button.

4 Press l or m to select the desired

digital picture effect, then press the SET button.

• The selected digital picture effect displays on the menu screen.

PIC. EFFECT

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

To cancel the digital picture effect

Select “OFF” in step 4 above.

Note:

• Digital picture effects cannot be used when a

still image is displayed.

SETT ING 1

EFFECTPIC. SCENE MENU QK.

RET URN

VL-NZ50E-E-037-041 02.4.8, 10:54 AM40

OFF

SEP I A SOLA RI NEGA BLUE

Advanced Features

SPORT

Camera Recording

Scene Menu (Program AE)

You can set the camcorder to the shooting mode that will create the best results for a specific situation. Just select one of four scene settings shown below. The camcorder will automatically set the exposure, white balance, and shutter speed to produce the optimum picture quality for the selected situation.

Types

SPORT: When you want to record a fast-

moving subject.

SUNLIGHT: When the background is very

bright.

DUSK: When you want to faithfully record

the red of the setting sun, and the surrounding twilight.

PA RT Y: When the illumination is from a

spotlight or candle.

1 In CAMERA mode, press the MENU

button until the menu screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the operation button

to select T, then press the SET button.

3 Press l or m to select “SCENE

MENU”, then press the SET button.

4 Press l or m to select the scene

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

• The selected scene setting displays on the menu screen.

SCENE MENU

SPORT

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

• The selected scene setting indicator displays when the on-screen indicators are turned on.

Scene setting indicator

To cancel the scene setting

Select “OFF” in step 4 above.

Note:

• Scene settings cannot be used when

displaying a still image.

SETT ING 1

EFFECTPIC. SCENE MENU QK.

RET URN

Advanced Features

VL-NZ50E-E-037-041 02.4.8, 10:54 AM41

OF F

SPORT SUNL I GHT DUS K PARTY

Advanced Features

TC 0 05:35:

A UDIOAUDIO

21+21

OFF

OTHERS

BEEP

REMO TE

T IME CODE TC OUT RETURN

Playback

Using the Time Code

The time code shows the hour, minute and second of recording, and the frame number (1 frame = approx. 1/25 sec.). This is automatically recorded along with the subject when you are recording on the tape. You can display the time code on the screen as an accurate counter in both VCR and CAMERA modes.

Display format

0 00 10 20TC

Frame number*

Second

Minute

Hour

• The example screens shown are for VCR mode.

* Displayed during still

playback.

1 During playback or camera recording,

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 “TIME CODE”,

then press the SET button.

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

• The time code appears when the onscreen indicators are turned on.

Time code

To turn off the time code

Select “DISP. OFF” in step 4 above.

Note:

• When the tape reaches an unrecorded section, the time code returns to zero (TC0:00:00). Once recorded, the time code cannot be changed.

Displaying the time code on a TV during playback

1 In VCR 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 “TC OUT”, then

press the SET button.

OTHERS

REMO TE

BEEP T IME CODE TC OUT RETURN

DISP.

4 Press l or m to select “DISP. ON”, then

press the SET button.

TIME CODE

VL-NZ50E-E-042-047 02.4.8, 10:57 AM42

DISP. ON

OFF

4 Press l or m to select “ON”, then press

the SET button.

TC OUT

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

Advanced Features

Advanced Features Playback

Editing

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

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

Recording

CHANNEL

PAUSE /STILL

PLAY

STOP/

POWER

Audio/video cable (supplied)

To AV jack

The arrow shows the signal flow.

Notes:

• See page 2 for how to open the jack cover.

• If your VCR has only one audio input jack, use

the white plug for the audio connection on the VCR.

EJECT

REC

TV/VCRSET UP

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

Playback

Cutting Unwanted Sequences

1 Play back the tape to be edited on the

camcorder, and locate the beginning and end of the sequence you wish to cut. Write down the time code reading at the beginning and end of that sequence (see page 42). Then, rewind the tape to before the beginning of the portion that you wish to keep.

2 Load a video cassette into the recording

VCR.

3 Press m on the camcorder to begin

playback, then press the Record button on the VCR to begin recording.

4 Press the Pause/Still button on the VCR

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

5 Press the Pause/Still (or Record) button

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

To stop editing

Press l on the camcorder and press the Stop button on the VCR.

Notes:

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

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

• The time code display will be recorded along with the edited sequences if the TC OUT menu item is set to “ON”. Set to “OFF” before editing (see page 42).

Advanced Features

VL-NZ50E-E-042-047 02.4.8, 10:57 AM43

Editing with the DV Terminal (IEEE1394)

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

To Record to Video Equipment

See “Cutting Unwanted Sequences” on page 43, using the video equipment as the recording source.

Note:

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

To DV terminal

DV cable (commercially available)

To DV terminal

Video equipment

with DV terminal

(e.g. DV camcorder)

To Record from Video Equipment

1 Set the camcorder to VCR mode, and

insert a Mini DV cassette.

2 Begin playback on the video equipment

connected to the camcorder.

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

3 Press the REC START/STOP button on

the camcorder.

• The camcorder enters Recording Standby mode.

4 Press m on the Operation button to

begin recording.

To stop recording

Press l on the Operation button.

Cutting Unwanted Sequences

1 Press m to pause recording when the

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

2 Press m to resume recording when the

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

Notes:

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

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

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

• If a digital video recording with a copyright protection signal is used as the playback source, “COPYRIGHT PROTECTED.” appears on the camcorder monitor and the recording function is disabled (see page 51).

• When displaying the playback picture on the recording equipment, you may find black bands around the image. This is caused by the differences of the image display sizes.

• You cannot output the picture playing back from the DV terminal to an external monitor.

Advanced Features

VL-NZ50E-E-042-047 02.4.8, 10:57 AM44

Advanced Features Playback

Audio Dubbing Feature

You can add narration to recordings made with this camcorder, while preserving the original audio and video recordings.

Microphone for Audio Dubbing

You can use the built-in stereo microphone to record narration.

Built-in stereo microphone

Notes:

• Audio dubbing does not function through the DV terminal.

• You cannot use audio dubbing with recordings made in LP mode.

• You cannot use the built-in stereo microphone for audio dubbing when the audio/video cable is connected.

Audio Recording

In normal recording mode

12-bit audio recording

The audio is recorded in stereo on Audio 1.

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

16-bit audio recording

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

Audio 1: Left sound Audio 2: Right sound

In Audio Dubbing mode

12-bit audio recording

The dubbed audio is recorded on Audio 2.

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

16-bit audio recording

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

Audio 1: Original left sound Audio 2: Dubbed sound

Note:

• You can select the 12-bit or 16-bit audio recording mode by performing the procedure on page 33.

Advanced Features

VL-NZ50E-E-042-047 02.4.8, 10:57 AM45

Audio Dubbing

1 Play back the recorded Mini DV cassette

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

2 Press m to pause playback.

3 Press the MENU button until the menu

screen appears.

4 Press l or m on the operation button

to select V, then press the SET button.

5 Press l or m to select “AUDIO DUB”,

then press the SET button.

• The audio dubbing screen appears.

PLAYBACK

AUDI O DUB

START

STOP

SET

EFFECT

PIC.

AUDI O DUB

AUDI O RET URN

EXECUT E

A UDIOAUDIO

To pause audio dubbing

Press the SET button. To resume audio dubbing, press the SET button again.

To cancel audio dubbing

Press the MENU button. The audio dubbing screen disappears.

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

1 Press the MENU button to turn off the

audio dubbing screen.

2 Repeat steps 1 to 6 above.

Notes:

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

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

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

• You can play back the dubbed audio and the original audio together or separately (see page

21+21

47).

6 Press the SET button to begin audio

dubbing. Record your narration.

VL-NZ50E-E-042-047 02.4.8, 10:57 AM46

Advanced Features

1 2

EFFECT

PLAYBACK

PIC. AUDI O DUB AUDI O RET URN

SET

Playback

Selecting the Audio Playback Mode

You can select any of the following audio playback modes.

Audio 1+2

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

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

Audio 1

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

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

Audio 2

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

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

1 Play back a Mini DV cassette with

dubbed audio.

2 Press the MENU button until the menu

screen appears.

3 Press l or m on the operation button

to select V, then press the SET button.

4 Press l or m to select “AUDIO”, then

press the SET button.

5 Press l or m to select the desired

audio playback mode, then press the SET button.

AUDIO

6 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

• The selected audio playback mode indicator only appears when the onscreen indicators are turned on.

Audio playback mode indicator

A UDIOAUDIO

21+21

Note:

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

Advanced Features

VL-NZ50E-E-042-047 02.4.8, 10:57 AM47

Appendix

LCD SET

BACKL IGHT LCD BRI GHT LC D COLOUR RETURN

AUTO

NORMAL BRI GHT OFF

Picture/Backlight Adjustments

If the picture is difficult to see due to ambient light or other factors, adjust the monitor picture settings.

• The example screens shown are for CAMERA mode.

Adjusting the Picture

1 Press the MENU button until the menu

screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the operation button

to select O, then press the SET button.

LCD SET

BACKL IGHT

LCD BRI GHT LC D COLOUR RETURN

AUTO

3 Press l or m to select “LCD BRIGHT”

or “LCD COLOUR”, then press the SET button.

4 Press l or m to adjust the item to the

desired setting.

LCD BRI GHT

LCD COLOUR

Darker Brighter

Decrease

Increase

5 Press the SET button, then press the

MENU button to turn off the menu screen.

Note:

• When adjusting the colour, the picture on the LCD monitor may differ from the picture actually recorded. Do not change the colour setting unless necessary. (This adjustment only affects the monitor picture, not the recorded image.)

Adjusting the Backlight

1 Press the MENU button until the menu

screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the operation button

to select O, then press the SET button.

3 Press l or m to select “BACKLIGHT”,

then press the SET button.

4 Press l or m to select “AUTO”,

“NORMAL”, “BRIGHT” or “OFF”, then press the SET button.

BACKL I GHT

AUTO: The camcorder automatically

switches between “NORMAL” and “BRIGHT” depending on the ambient light. This mode is only available in CAMERA mode.

NORMAL: For use indoors or under

moderate lighting conditions.

BRIGHT: For use outdoors under

strong lighting conditions, such as bright daylight.

OFF: The backlight turns off. To turn it

on again, press the MENU button.

BRI GHT

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

Appendix

VL-NZ50E-E-048-052 02.4.8, 10:59 AM48

Appendix

Turning off the Confirmation Sound

A confirmation sound is made when you turn on or off the Power switch, press the REC START/STOP button, or perform other designated operations. Use the procedure below to turn off the confirmation sounds.

1 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 “BEEP”, then

press the SET button.

OTHERS

BEEP T IME CODE TC OUT DEMO

MOD E

RETURN

4 Press l or m to select “OFF”, then

press the SET button.

OFFBEEP

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

Appendix

OFF

VL-NZ50E-E-048-052 02.4.8, 11:00 AM49

;;

;;;;

;

;;

;;;;;

;;;;

;;

;

Useful Information

Hints for Better Shooting

• Position the subject in the centre of the scene. When using auto focus, whatever is in the centre of the scene is kept in focus.

Position the subject in

the centre.

• Avoid backlit subjects. For the best picture, shoot with the light source behind you.

When the background is brighter than the subject, the subject often becomes too dark. If you have to record in this lighting, use Gamma Brightness Compensation or correct the exposure level to improve the picture (see pages 25 and 38).

Light from behind Backlighting

• Before zooming, think about how to best frame the shot. Frequent zooming produces unattractive pictures. It also runs down the battery more quickly.

• When image shaking is noticeable during zoomed-in telephoto shooting, use a tripod or push the Power Zoom control to the W side to zoom out.

• Horizontal panning (lateral movement) and tilting (vertical movement) should be done slowly to emphasize the wide expanse of a scene or the height of a building, and to make scenes easy to watch during playback.

• Use a wide-angle setting for fast-moving subjects.

Focus manually when you

need to position the

subject off centre (see

page 37).

Lighting

For clear, good-quality recording, 500 to 100,000 lux is needed. Recording is possible with less light, but the picture quality may suffer. Adequate lighting is also essential for correct white balance.

Brightness

(Lux)

Blue sky

100,000

○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○○○○○○○

Clear day at noon (100,000)

Clear day at 10 am (65,000)

Clear day at 3 pm (35,000) Cloudy day at noon (32,000) Cloudy day at 10 am (25,000)

10,000

○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○○○○○○○

Cloudy day, one hour after sunrise (2,000) Clear day, one hour before sunset (1,000) Fluorescent light near window (1,000)

1,000

○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○○○○○○○

Factory floor (700–800) Sales counter in department store (500–700) Bowling alley (500) Library (400–500) Office with fluorescent lighting (400–500)

○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

Fluorescent desk lamp (400) Flashlight at 1 m (250) Shop stairway (100)

100

○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

During intermission at movie theatre (15–35) Cigarette lighter at 30 cm (15–20) Candles on birthday cake at 20 cm (10–15)

Candlelight

Note:

• The figures in the chart are approximations.

Tips on good lighting

In most outdoor, daytime scenes, natural lighting is adequate for home videos. Indoors, however, artificial lighting is usually required. Video lights with halogen lamps provide the most natural artificial light over a long operating life.

Situation

(Lux)

Optimal lighting range

Appendix

Note:

• It may take longer to focus when zooming and panning are used frequently.

VL-NZ50E-E-048-052 02.4.8, 11:00 AM50

Appendix

DV Technology

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

DV and conventional video cassette tapes

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

Mini DV cassette DV cassette

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

8 mm cassette

VHS cassette Beta cassette

The digital VCR has far superior recording and playback ability than the traditional analog VCR, and in order to protect digital video software copyrights, a system for managing copyrights has been established. Some digital video recording with pre-recorded copyright protection signals can still be played back on this camcorder. If you play a digital video recording that has a copyright protection signal on video equipment with a DV terminal and attempt to record a copy of that software on this camcorder, “COPYRIGHT PROTECTED.” appears on the screen and the recording is disabled.

COPYRI GHT

PROTECTED.

Note:

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

This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended

Appendix

for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.

VL-NZ50E-E-048-052 02.4.8, 11:00 AM51

Mini DV Cassette

To protect recordings against accidental erasure

Slide the protect tab on the rear of the Mini DV cassette to the “SAVE” position.

Precautions when using a Mini DV cassette

• Be sure to use only Mini DV cassettes with the i mark.

• This camcorder can record and play back using Mini DV cassettes with cassette memory, but it cannot record or play back this memory.

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

• Do not insert anything into the holes on the bottom of the Mini DV cassette or block them in any way.

• Avoid placing the Mini DV cassette in an area conducive to dust or mold.

• Do not place the Mini DV cassette near magnetic sources such as electric clocks or magnetic devices as this may adversely affect recorded material.

• When a previously recorded Mini DV cassette is used again for recording, the previously recorded material will be automatically erased.

• The Mini DV cassette will not operate if inserted in the wrong direction.

• Do not repeatedly insert and eject the Mini DV cassette without running the tape as this may cause uneven tape winding and damage the tape.

• Do not place the Mini DV cassette in direct sunlight, near strong heat sources, or in areas with excessive steam.

• Store the Mini DV cassette in its case and stand it in an upright position.

• If the tape is not properly wound, rewind the tape.

• Do not drop the Mini DV cassette or subject it to excessive shocks.

Erasure protect tab

To record over a previously recorded tape, slide the protect tab to the “REC” position.

AC Adapter

• The AC adapter may interfere with reception if used near a radio.

• Prevent flammables, liquids, and metal objects from entering the adapter.

• The adapter is a sealed unit. Do not attempt to open or modify it.

• Do not damage, drop, or subject the adapter to vibration.

• Do not leave the adapter in direct sunlight.

• Avoid using the adapter in humid or extremely hot places.

Replacing the Fluorescent Lamp

This camcorder uses a fluorescent lamp to backlight the LCD monitor. If the monitor becomes dark or difficult to view, the fluorescent lamp may need to be replaced. Contact the nearest SHARP service centre or your dealer for further advice.

Appendix

VL-NZ50E-E-048-052 02.4.8, 11:00 AM52

Appendix

CHARGE

Battery Pack

This camcorder uses a lithium-ion type battery pack.

Charging

• Charge the battery pack immediately (or a day) before use. The battery pack gradually self-discharges even if stored in a fully charged state.

• Charge the battery pack between 10°C and 30°C.

• Fully charge the battery pack. Use of an insufficiently charged battery pack will shorten actual time of use.

• Refresh (discharging before charging) is unnecessary.

Use

• To conserve battery power, be sure to turn off the camcorder power when not in use.

• Battery consumption may vary depending on the condition of use. Recording with many starts and stops, frequent zooming, and recording in low temperatures will shorten actual recording times.

• Use of a weak battery pack may cause loss of power while operating the camcorder. Use a fully charged battery pack to protect both the battery pack and the unit.

• It is recommended that you have enough battery packs on hand to handle two or three times your estimated recording time. See page 16 for the approximate times of actual recording for the battery packs.

Battery power is consumed even when the camcorder power is turned off. If you are not going to use your camcorder immediately, remove the battery pack (see page 7).

Note:

• Use only SHARP BT-L225 or BT-L445 battery packs. These are designed specifically for use with this camcorder.

Appendix

Storage

• Store the battery pack in a fully discharged state.

• Store the battery pack in a dry, cool place.

• When storing a fully charged battery pack, put the cover on it so that the “CHARGE” mark printed on the label is seen through the window, as shown.

Window

When storing a battery pack that is not fully charged, put the cover upside down so that only the battery pack casing can be seen through the window.

Cautions:

• Improper handling of the battery pack may present a risk of fire or explosion. Pay close attention to the following: — Do not allow metallic objects to come in

contact with the terminals. This can cause a short circuit.

— Do not disassemble or repair the battery pack

by yourself.

— Do not use any battery charging equipment

other than that designed for use with these battery packs.

— Do not place the battery pack under direct

sunlight or in excessively hot places (over 60°C) such as the dashboard of cars.

— Do not expose the battery pack to moisture or

water.

— Do not drop the battery pack or subject it to

strong force.

— Keep the battery pack out of reach of

children.

— Dispose of used battery packs promptly. Do

not dispose of them in fire.

• To protect the terminals, put the cover on the battery pack when it is not in use.

Notes:

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

• The battery pack has a limited service life. If the period of use becomes noticeably shorter with a normal charge, the battery pack is at the end of its service life. Replace it with a new battery pack.

• If the terminals of the battery pack are dirty, wipe the terminals with a soft, dry cloth.

Label

Battery pack

Cover

VL-NZ50E-E-053-058 02.4.8, 11:04 AM53

Cleaning

• Many plastic parts are used in the camcorder casing. Do not use thinner, benzene or other strong chemical cleaners. These may cause discolouration and damage to the casing.

• Clean the casing with a soft, dry cloth. If the casing is particularly dirty, wipe the casing with a tightly wrung cloth dampened with a diluted, neutral detergent. Then wipe it again with a soft, dry cloth.

• Use a soft cloth to wipe finger marks and other smudges off the LCD screen.

• Use a soft cloth, or compressed air and lens paper designed for photographic lenses to clean the lens.

Using Your Camcorder Abroad

Television signal standards and electrical voltages and frequencies vary substantially from country to country. When you are abroad, check the sections below before using the AC adapter or connecting the camcorder to a TV.

AC Adapter (Supplied Accessory)

The supplied AC adapter is compatible with 50 Hz and 60 Hz electrical systems in the range of 110 V to 240 V AC.

Television Signal Standards

In any country, you can always watch the video picture by using the LCD monitor screen. However, if you want to watch the picture on a TV screen, the TV must be PAL system compatible. PAL is used in the following areas: Germany, Great Britain, Sweden, Denmark, Austria, Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Holland, Finland, Portugal, Norway, Hong Kong, Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Kuwait, China, etc.

VL-NZ50E-E-053-058 02.4.8, 11:04 AM54

Appendix

OFF

OTHERS

BEEP T IME CODE TC OUT DEMO RETURN

MOD E

Demonstration Mode

You can watch a brief demonstration of the special camcorder features in Demo mode. If the demonstration appears on the screen when you turn on the camcorder for the first time, cancel the Demo mode to use your camcorder.

Watching the Demonstration

1 Remove the Mini DV cassette from the

camcorder (see page 10).

2 In CAMERA mode, press the MENU

button until the menu screen appears.

3 Press l or m on the operation button

to select I, then press the SET button.

4 Press l or m to select “DEMO MODE”,

then press the SET button.

OTHERS

BEEP T IME CODE TC OUT DEMO RETURN

MOD E

OFF

5 Press l or m to select “ON”, then press

the SET button.

D E MO MOD E

Cancelling Demo Mode

1 During the demonstration, press the

MENU button to pause the demonstration.

2 Press l or m on the operation button

to select I, then press the SET button.

3 Press l or m to select “DEMO MODE”,

then press the SET button.

4 Press l or m to select “OFF”, then

press the SET button.

D E MO MOD E

OFF

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

Note:

• The demonstration will pause if you press the MENU button. If you leave it for 60 seconds, or turn the power off temporarily and then set the Power switch to CAMERA, the demonstration will begin again.

6 Set the Power switch to OFF, then hold

down the Lock button and set the Power switch to CAMERA.

• The demonstration begins.

Appendix

VL-NZ50E-E-053-058 02.4.8, 11:04 AM55

Before Requesting Service

Before calling for service, please check the following troubleshooting table.

Symptom

No power.

Power

REC START/STOP button does not work.

Power suddenly turns off.

Auto focus does not work.

Bright subject produces wide vertical lines.

CAMERA mode

Automatically zooms out without operating Zoom control.

Display automatically changes in CAMERA mode.

No image appears on connected TV screen.

No image from an exter-

VCR mode

nal source appears on the camcorder screen.

Possible cause

Power source is not properly connected.

Battery pack is not charged.

Dew in camcorder.

Safety function is in effect.

Erasure-protect tab on video cassette is open.

Camcorder left in Recording Standby mode for 5 minutes.

Manual Focus mode is engaged.

Zoom used on close subject.

Subject has little contrast in brightness, or is full of horizontal or vertical stripes.

Occurs when shooting subject with strong contrast to the background. Does not indicate a malfunction.

Camcorder is unable to focus when zooming in on subject within 1.5 m, and automatically zooms out until it focuses on subject.

No subject in the field of view.

Camcorder is in Demo mode.

Video input channel on TV or TV channel is not selected properly.

Audio/video cable is not properly connected.

DV cable is not properly connected.

Sharp VL-NZ50E Operating Instruction

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual