Sharp VL-NZ50U User Manual

LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY CAMCORDER

OPERATION MANUAL

MODEL

VL-NZ50U

Operation References

Preparation

Basic Operations

Useful Features

Please read this operation manual

carefully before using the camcorder.

Important

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

Model No.:

Serial No.:

• See page 57 for use of Demo mode.

loss of

below the

Advanced Features

Appendix

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

Important Information for Consumers in the U.S.

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

DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

CAUTION:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

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

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

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

CAUTION

(applies to the supplied AC adapter)

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

CAUTION

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

PRODUCT DISPOSAL

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

BATTERY DISPOSAL

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

WARNINGCFCC Regulations state that any unauthorized changes or modifica-

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

INFORMATION

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

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

receiver is connected.

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

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY Sharp Camcorder

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

RESPONSIBLE PARTY:

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

CAUTION ON LITHIUM BATTERY (MEMORY BACKUP BATTERY)

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

to take out batteries or install them.

Parents

not

should install the lithium battery in the camcorder.

NOTE

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

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

iii

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

is damaged,

b. If liquid has been spilled, or objects

have fallen into the product,

c. If the product has been exposed to

rain or water,

d. If the product does not operate

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

e. If the product has been dropped or

damaged in any way, and

f. When the product exhibits a distinct

change in performanceCthis indicates a need for service.

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

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

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

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

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 Plug the AC adapter into a power outlet

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

• The charge indicator lights up.

DC input jack

To power outlet

• The charge indicator turns off when the

battery is charged.

Charge indicator

3 Remove the DC plug from the DC input

jack, then remove the AC adapter 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 center until it clicks into place.

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.

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.

Lock button

AUT O

3 Press the REC START/STOP button to

begin recording.

REC

To pause recording

Press the REC START/STOP button again.

vii

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 32°F to 104°F (0°C to L40°C), and at 30% to 80% relative humidity. Do not store the unit in an unventilated car in the summer, in direct sunlight, or near strong heat sources; this can result in severe damage to the unit casing and circuitry.

• Avoid situations where water, sand, dust or

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

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

• Some small, portable tri-

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

• When using your

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

viii

Supplied Accessories

Battery pack

BT-L225n*

Lens cap

GCOVH1296TASA

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

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

AC adapter

UADP-0339TAZZ*

Lens hood

GCOVA1870TASA

CR2025 type

lithium battery

Wrist strap

UBNDT0145TASA

Audio/video cable QCNW-1979TAZZ

Tripod adapter

GDAI-A001WJZZ

Optional Accessories

Standard-life battery pack

BT-L225n

Note:

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

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

Extended-life

battery pack

BT-L445n

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

Selecting the Language for the On-screen Display..... 12

Setting the Date and Time ........................................... 13

Attaching the Lens Hood ............................................. 14

Attaching the Wrist Strap ............................................. 14

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

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

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

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

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

Demonstration Mode ................................................... 57

Before Requesting Service .......................................... 58

Specifications .............................................................. 60

• Guía de operación rápida en español ....................................................................... 61

• Visualizaciones en pantalla en español ..................................................................... 68

• Affichages sur écran en français................................................................................ 69

Advanced Features

Appendix

xii

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]

Lithium battery compartment door [p. 11]

Cassette compartment door [p. 10]

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

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

Wrist strap loop

Battery release [p. 7]

[p. 14]

Tripod adapter socket

[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

Operation References

p. 18

pp. 16, 39

AUT O

SETT I NG 1

EFFECTPIC. SCENE MENU QK.

RETURN

VCR mode

p. 18

PLAYBACK

PIC.

EFFECT AUDI O DUB AUDI O RETURN

SET

p. 30

p. 16

p. 18

AU DIOAUDIO

p. 47

SETT ING 1

EFFECTPIC. SCENE MENU QK.

RET URN

SETT ING 2

DGTL ZOOM TAPE

SPEED

DIS

min

21+21

16 9: AUDI O MODE RETURN

OTHERS

BEEP T I ME CODE TC OUT DEMO LANGUAGE RETURN

PLAYBACK

EFFECT

PIC. AUDI O DUB AUDI O RET URN

OTHERS

REMOTE BEEP T I ME CODE TC OUT RETURN

MOD E

SET

p. 40 p. 41 p. 28

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

p. 49 p. 42 p. 42 p. 57 p. 12

p. 36 p. 46 p. 47

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

LCD SE T

BACKL IGHT LCD BRI GHT LCD COLOR RET URN

CLOCK SE T

DISPLAY SETT ING 12H 24H/ RETURN

LCD SE T

BACKL IGHT LCD BRI GHT LCD COLOR RET URN

CLOCK SET

DISPLAY RETURN

p. 48

p. 35 p. 13 p. 14

p. 48

p. 35

Note:

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

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

MENU button

AUTO

EXPOSURE

AUTO

(p. 38)

White balance screen

Exposure setting screen

AUTO

HITE BAL.

AUTO

(p. 39)

Normal screen

AUT O

min

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

• The example screens shown are for CAMERA mode.

Indicators on

Menu screen

Indicators off

Warning Indicators

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

Operation References

Displayed for the first

3 seconds

Displayed after

INSERT

A CASSETTE.

EJECT THE

CASSETTE.

CASSETTE NOT RECORDABLE.

THE

TAPE

PROTECT. TAB

ENDS SOON.

CHANGE THE

CASSETTE.

BATTERY I S

TOO LOW.

DEW

LAMP LAMP

Note:

• N indicates a flashing display.

3 seconds

CASSETTE.

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 54). About 10 seconds after this warning appears, the camcorder automatically turns off.

The video heads are clogged and should be cleaned (see page 55).

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.

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.

Charging the Battery Pack

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

2 Plug the AC adapter into a power outlet

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

• The charge indicator lights up.

DC input jack

To power outlet

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

Charge indicator

3 Remove the DC plug from the DC input

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

Charging time and maximum continuous recording and playback times

Notes:

• Charge the battery pack between 50°F and

86°F (10°C and 30°C). The battery pack may not charge properly at temperatures too low or too high.

• The battery pack and charger become warm

during charging. This is not a malfunction.

• Using the zoom (see page 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.

• The charging time and recording time may

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

• See page 53 for more information on using the battery pack.

Caution:

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

Extending battery pack life

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

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

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

3Remove the battery pack and store it

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

Preparation

Battery

pack

BT-L225

BT-L445

Charging

time

approx.

2hr.

approx.

3hr. 30min.

Max. continuous

recording time

approx.

1hr. 30min.

approx.

3hr.

Max. continuous

playback time

approx.

1hr. 30min.

approx.

3hr.

Preparation

Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet

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

Caution:

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

Preparation

1 Make sure that the Power switch is set

to OFF.

2 Plug the AC adapter into a power outlet

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

• The camcorder is supplied power.

DC input jack

To power outlet

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.

3 Hold down the Lock button

and set the Power switch to CAMERA or VCR.

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 center until it clicks into place.

Preparation

Removing

Perform step 1 above, then take out the cassette.

Cautions:

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

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

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

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

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

• If you do not correctly close the cassette holder in step 3, the cassette protection mechanism of the camcorder might eject the cassette. If this happens, repeat the insertion procedure.

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

Notes:

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

• See page 52 for more information on the video cassette tapes intended for use with this camcorder.

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

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

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

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

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

3 Insert the lithium

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

“m” mark

4 Push the battery holder back into

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

Selecting the Language

ENGLI SH

LANGUAGE

FRAN

AIS

ESPA

ENGLISH

OTHERS

BEEP T IME CODE TC OUT DEMO

LANGUAGE

RETURN

MOD E

ENGLI SH

IDIOMA

FRAN

AIS

ESPA

Ñ OL

OTROS

PITIDO C

Ó D. T I EMPO

SAL I DA CT M

ODO

IDIOMA

RETORNO

DEMO.

ESPAÑ OL

for the On-screen Display

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

Power switch

SET button

Changing

1 In CAMERA mode, press the MENU

button until the menu screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the operation button

to select I, then press the SET button.

3 Press l or m to select “LANGUAGE”

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

• The language selection screen appears.

Preparation

MENU button

Operation button

Setting

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

1 Hold down the Lock button and set the

Power switch to CAMERA.

• The language selection screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the operation button

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

LANGUAGE

ENGLI SH

AIS

FRAN

ESPA

AUT O

4 Press l or m to select the desired

language, then press the SET button.

• The menu screen displays in the language selected.

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

Note:

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

Preparation

JUN.

12 00AM

1 2002.

SETT ING

Setting the Date and Time

Example: Setting the date to June 2, 2003

(JUN. 2. 2003) and the time to 10:30 am (10:30 AM).

Power switch

SET button

Preparation

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 SET

DISPLAY

SETT ING

12H 24H/ RETURN

JAN. 1 20 12 00AM:

4 Press l or m to select “JUN” (month),

then press the SET button.

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

press the SET button.

SETT ING

JUN.

12 00AM

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

then press the SET button.

SETT ING

JUN.

12 00AM

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

then press the SET button.

SETT ING

JUN.

10 00AM

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

then press the SET button.

• The internal clock now starts operating.

SETT ING

JUN.

10 30AM

9 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

Note:

02.

• 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.

2 2002.

2 2003.

3 Press the SET button.

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