Sharp VL-SD20S Operating Instruction

Before using the VIEWCAM, please read this operation manual carefully, especially page i.

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 DC 7.4 V l only or recommended AC adapter.

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 VIEWCAM’s LCD panel is a very high technology product with close to 90,000 thin-film transistors*, giving you fine picture detail. Occasionally, a pixel may appear on the screen as a fixed point of blue, green, red, or black. Please note that this does not affect your VIEWCAM’s performance.

*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.

ENGLISH

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G. K. Associates, Tokyo

Precautions

• When the VIEWCAM is not in use, remember to remove the cassette tape, turn off the power, and disconnect the VIEWCAM from the power source.

• Do not aim the lens at the sun. Do not allow direct sunlight to strike the VIEWCAM 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 VIEWCAM near strong fluorescent lights, motors, televisions, or other magnetic sources may adversely affect recorded images.

• Using the VIEWCAM 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 VIEWCAM to hard shocks or strong vibrations. Bumping or striking the unit during recording will generate noise in the recorded image.

• 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 VIEWCAM at 07 C to `407 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 VIEWCAM, and do not use or leave your VIEWCAM 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 well-ventilated location.

• Some small, portable

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

• When using your VIEWCAM 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 VIEWCAM from becoming too cold, wrap it in a thick cloth (a blanket, etc.).

• Avoid placing the VIEWCAM in close proximity to lighting equipment.

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

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G. K. Associates, Tokyo

About Y our VIEWCAM

DV T echnology

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.

• High horizontal resolution

Detailed, accurate images with the highest level of horizontal resolution for home use.

• Clear colour reproduction with virtually no colour contamination

Provides three times the colour resolution of conventional VCRs (based on Sharp models). Clear images with virtually no distracting colour contamination (which usually appears as red).

• Standard use of TBC (Time Base Corrector) to prevent jittery images

Ensures stable images with a high signal-tonoise ratio.

• PCM digital recording

PCM digital recording gives you high-quality stereo sound that puts you in the middle of the action.

The “DV” trademark can only be used on digital VCR products which have been evaluated and have met the specifications set by the HD Digital VCR Conference for

Standardization of Consumer Use Digital VCR Formats.

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

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 VIEWCAM only operates with Mini DV cassettes. DV cassettes cannot be used. Be sure to use Mini DV cassettes with the mark.

Mini DV cassette DV cassette

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

VHS cassette Beta cassette8 mm cassette

Note:

• This VIEWCAM reproduces the highest picture quality when used with an ME tape. We recommend you use an ME tape for high-quality recording and playback.

LCD Monitor Screen

The VIEWCAM is equipped with a large LCD monitor screen that allows you to record scenes while comfortably holding the camcorder. The LCD monitor screen can be rotated for easy recording at high or low angles. It also functions as a handy playback monitor so you can enjoy what you have just recorded.

Cautions:

• Do not apply pressure to the screen.

• Do not expose the screen to shocks, as it may break.

• Do not place the VIEWCAM with the screen facing down.

Note:

• Use a soft cloth to clean the screen.

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Supplied Accessories

Battery pack

BT-L241 AC adapter Power cord

Digital cable S-video cable

Audio/video cable

30-minute

Mini DV cassetteLens capShoulder strap

Infrared

remote control

CR2025 type

lithium battery 2 2

iii

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G. K. Associates, Tokyo

Optional Accessories

Standard type

battery pack

BT-L241

Extended type

battery pack

BT-L441

Video capture software

VR-PK100S

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G. K. Associates, Tokyo

Contents

Operation References

Preparation

Basic Operations

Part Names .................................................................... 3

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

Quick Reference Index ................................................... 6

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

Inserting and Removing the Battery Pack .................... 8

Charging the Battery Pack ............................................ 9

Powering the VIEWCAM from an AC Outlet................ 10

Inserting and Removing a Mini DV Cassette .............. 11

Adjusting the Grip Strap ..............................................12

Using the Lens Cap .....................................................12

Attaching the Shoulder Strap ...................................... 12

Installing the Lithium Memory Battery ......................... 13

Selecting the Language for the On-screen Display ... 14

Setting the Area, Date and Time ................................. 15

Displaying the Date and Time of Recording............... 16

Camera Recording

Easy Camera Recording with Full Auto Mode ............. 17

Zooming ....................................................................... 18

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

Remaining Recording Time Display ............................. 19

Remaining Battery Power Display ................................ 19

Playback

Playback ...................................................................... 20

Volume Control ............................................................. 20

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

Video Search ............................................................... 22

Still ............................................................................... 22

Operations of the On-screen Displays

Useful Features

Using the Controls ........................................................23

Using the Menu Screens .............................................. 25

Camera Recording

Recording in LP (Long Play Recording) Mode ............ 26

Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode ................ 27

Setting the Digital Zoom ............................................... 27

Digital Quick Zoom (Extend Zoom) .............................. 28

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

Gain-up (Cat’s Eye) ...................................................... 30

Digital Image Stabilization (DIS)................................... 31

Quick Review ............................................................... 31

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

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

Fade In and Fade Out .................................................. 33

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Operation References

Useful Features

Advanced Features

Auto Focus ................................................................... 35

Macro Shots ................................................................. 35

Wide Screen (16:9) ...................................................... 35

Still Recording ............................................................. 36

Multiple Strobe Recording ............................................ 37

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

Self Recording ............................................................. 39

Setting the VIEWCAM to Full Auto Mode ..................... 41

Playback

Slow ............................................................................. 42

Frame Advance ............................................................ 42

Strobe Playback ...........................................................42

Programme Search....................................................... 43

Using the Time Code ....................................................44

Using the Tape Counter ................................................ 45

Beep ............................................................................ 47

Turning Off the LCD Monitor Backlight......................... 47

Camera Recording

Scene Menu (Programme AE)...................................... 48

Picture Effects .............................................................. 49

Manual Focus .............................................................. 50

Setting the Shutter Speed ............................................ 51

White Balance Lock ......................................................53

Manual Iris ................................................................... 54

Picture/Backlight Adjustments ..................................... 55

Windbreak.................................................................... 56

Selecting Summer Time ............................................... 56

World Clock ................................................................. 57

Playback

Playback Zoom .............................................................59

Gamma Playback ......................................................... 60

Multiple Strobe Playback .............................................. 60

Still Image Overlap ....................................................... 61

Wipe ............................................................................. 62

Picture Effect Playback................................................. 63

Editing .......................................................................... 64

Editing to Video Equipment with the DV Terminal

(IEEE1394) ................................................................ 65

Audio Dubbing Feature ................................................ 66

Selecting the Audio Playback Mode ............................ 68

Connecting to a Personal Computer ............................ 68

On-screen Displays

Operations of the

Useful FeaturesBasic Operations

Advanced Features

Appendix

Useful Information ........................................................ 69

Demonstration Mode .................................................... 74

Before Requesting Service ........................................... 75

Specifications .............................................................. 77

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AppendixPreparation

Operation References

Part Names

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

Operation References

Front view

Stereo microphone [p. 66]

Zoom lens Shoulder strap loop [p. 12]

Speaker

MICrophone jack [p. 66]

AUDIO/VIDEO jack [pp. 21, 64]

Jack cover [p. 21]

When the cassette compartment door is open

Cassette holder [p. 11]

Cassette compartment door

[p. 11]

Cassette compartment door release [p. 11]

Lithium battery holder [p. 13]

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Rear view

LCD monitor screen

CONTROL switch [p. 23]

RECord START/STOP button [p. 17]

Power Zoom Wide angle/ Telephoto control [p. 18] VOLume control [p. 20]

Operation References

PC CONNECTion

jack [p. 68]

Terminal cover

[p. 21]

S-VIDEO socket [pp. 21, 64]

Operation buttons [p. 24]

DC IN jack [pp. 9, 10]

Remote sensor [p. 38]

When the lens section is rotated

DV terminal

DV terminal [p. 65]

cover [p. 65]

SNAPshot button [pp. 36, 37, 60]

Shoulder strap loop [p. 12]

Hand strap [p. 12]

Power switch (CAMERA/VCR select switch) [p. 23]

CHARGE indicator [p. 9]

Bottom view

Battery compartment door [p. 8]

Tripod socket

Battery compartment door release [p. 8]

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Operation References

On-screen Display Index

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

Operation References

Camera Mode

pp. 29, 30 p. 31

SP SP

AUTO

EX TEND

GAMA

EFF.

FADE

QK.

REW

AUTO

FOCUS

MAN

UAL

p. 28 p. 33 p. 50 pp. 51–54

p. 55 p. 49

AUTO

PIC

MEN U

TURE

SCENE

MEN U

p. 48

PIC. EFF.

p. 32 pp. 44–46

SP SP

AUTO

TIME

CODE

TURN

ME NU

-----------

AREA LONDON

SUMR TI ME DI SPLAY SETT ING

SET

---------1 OFF OFF

EXIT

VCR Mode

p. 20 p. 59 p. 43

AUDIO 1 2

PLAY/

AUD IO 1+2

STOPREW S T IL L

PB SE

pp. 20, 22 p. 66

p. 55

AUDIO 1 2

MENU T URE

p. 63 p. 60 pp. 44–46

PIC

PIC. EFF.

AUDIO 1 2

GAMA PB

AUDI O DUB .

TIME CODE

ARCHZOOM

p. 31 p. 28 p. 27 p. 33 p. 37 p. 36 p. 15 p. 56 p. 16 p. 15 p. 16 p. 26 p. 35 p. 27 p. 56 p. 38 p. 74 p. 14

p. 16 p. 68 p. 44

pp. 61, 62

p. 38 p. 47 p. 60

------------------------

DISPLAY

AUD IO TC OUT PB EFFECT REMOTE

----------DIS EXTEND DGT L ZOOM FADE MULT I F RAME PHOTO SNAP

-----------

AREA LONDON

SUMR T I ME DI SPLAY SETT ING

12H 24H

----------TAPE SPEED SP 16:9 AUDIO

WIND

REMOTE DEMO MODE LANGUAGE

------------------------

DISPLAY

AUD IO TC OUT PB EFFECT REMOTE BEEP ON MULT I FRAME 1

ME NU

OFF AUDIO 1+2 OFF OFF ON

SET

MOD E

EXIT

---------ON 2 OFF NORMAL 1 SNAP

---------1 OFF OFF

24H

----------

OFF 12BI T OFF ON OFF

OFF AUDIO 1+ 2 OFF OFF ON

Note: See pages 23 and 25 for the procedure to display the desired screen.

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Quick Reference Index

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

• To record powerful close-up images. —See page 27 (Setting the Digital Zoom)

• To instantly zoom in on a subject. —See page 28 (Digital Quick Zoom)

• To record a backlit subject. —See page 29 (Gamma Brightness Compensation) or page 54 (Manual Iris)

• To record in a dark or poorly-illuminated location. —See page 30 (Gain-up)

• To quickly check what you have just recorded. —See page 31 (Quick Review)

• To quickly return the tape to the end of the last recorded scene after playback. —See page 32 (Quick Return)

• To record a still picture of a scene like a photo. —See page 36 (Still Recording)

• To record or play back a multi-frame picture of a high-speed action, such as a

tennis or golf swing.

—See page 37 (Multiple Strobe Recording) or page 60 (Multiple Strobe

Playback)

Operation References

• To record yourself while monitoring the shot. —See page 39 (Self Recording)

• To return to Full Auto mode for easy recording after using the manual settings. —See page 41 (Setting the VIEWCAM to Full Auto Mode)

• To find the beginning of a recorded scene to be played back. —See page 43 (Programme Search)

• To display the elapsed recording or playback time. —See page 45 (Using the Tape Counter)

• To focus on an off-centred subject. —See page 50 (Manual Focus)

• To enlarge any part of the picture during playback. —See page 59 (Playback Zoom)

• To create an interesting presentation of recorded still images. —See page 61 (Still Image Overlap) or page 62 (Wipe)

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Operation References

Warning Indicators

Operation References

Displayed for the first

3 seconds

EJECT THE

CASSETTE.

DEW

BATTERY I S

TOO LOW.

INSERT

A CASSETTE.

CASSETTE NOT RECORDABLE.

THE

TAPE

ENDS SOON.

CHANGE THE

CASSETTE.

Displayed after

3 seconds

EJECT THE

CASSETTE.

DEW

PROTECT. TAB

TAPE END

Description of warning

The video cassette is defective and should be removed (see page 11).

Dew has formed inside the VIEWCAM. Wait for a few␣ hours until the dew disappears (see page 72). About 10 seconds after this warning appears, the VIEWCAM automatically turns off.

The battery is almost depleted. Replace it with a fully charged battery pack (see page 8).

The video heads are clogged and should be cleaned (see page 73).

There is no video cassette in the VIEWCAM. Insert a cassette (see page 11).

The erasure protect tab on the video cassette has been slid to the record-protect position, preventing recording (see page 70).

The tape is about to end. Prepare a new cassette (see page 11).

The tape has reached the end. Replace it with a new cassette (see page 11).

LAMP

Note: indicates a flashing display.

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The fluorescent lamp behind the LCD monitor is

LAMP

G. K. Associates, Tokyo

close to the end of its service life. Call your local authorized Sharp dealer to have it replaced.

In Self Recording mode, all warnings will be indicated by displayed in the centre of the monitor. To check the type of warning, rotate the monitor back to the normal position.

Preparation

Inserting and Removing the Battery Pack

Inserting the Battery Pack

1 Make sure that the Power switch is set

to OFF.



Power switch

2 With the lens facing up, slide the battery

compartment door release to OPEN (Q), and open the battery compartment door (W).

Battery

compartment

door release

3 Insert the battery pack into the com-

partment with the ∂ mark facing up, and push it in completely until it locks into place.

∂ mark

4 Firmly press the door closed (Q), and

slide the release to CLOSE (W).

Preparation

Removing the Battery Pack

1 Perform steps 1 and 2 above. 2 Press the battery release as shown (Q),

and remove the battery pack (W).

Battery release

Cautions:

• BEFORE REMOVING THE BATTERY PACK, ALWAYS STOP THE TAPE AND TURN THE POWER OFF. If you remove the battery pack

during recording or playback, the tape will remain wound around the video head drum, potentially causing damage to the tape.

• Make sure the battery compartment door is closed firmly during operation. If it is not, the battery pack may fall out or VIEWCAM operation may fail because of the poor contact pressure.

• Remove the battery pack from the VIEWCAM if the VIEWCAM will not be used for a long period of time.

• When removing the battery pack, do not tilt the VIEWCAM so that the battery compartment faces down. The battery pack may fall out.

• Do not expose the battery compartment door to strong force, as it may come off.

• Use only SHARP model BT-L241 or BT-L441 battery packs with this VIEWCAM. Use of other batteries may present a risk of fire or explosion.

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Preparation

Charging the Battery Pack 1 Insert the battery pack into the VIEW-

CAM (see page 8). Make sure that the Power switch is set to OFF.

• The battery pack is not charged when the Power switch is set to CAMERA or VCR.

2 Connect the power cord to the AC

Preparation

adapter, then insert the AC plug into a power outlet.

3 Insert the DC plug of the AC adapter

into the DC IN jack on the VIEWCAM.

• The CHARGE indicator will light up in red.

Power switch

DC IN jack

To power outlet

• The CHARGE indicator will light up in green when the battery is fully charged.

4 Remove the DC plug from the VIEW-

CAM and the AC plug from the power outlet.

Cautions:

• Charge only SHARP model BT-L241 or BT-L441 battery packs. Other types of battery packs may burst, causing personal injury and damage.

• Charge the battery pack at a temperature of 10°C to 30°C. The battery pack may not charge properly at temperatures too low or too high.

• When removing the plugs, grasp the plug, not the cable.

CHARGE indicator

Charging time and maximum continuous camera recording and playback times

Battery

pack

BT-L241

BT-L441

• The chart specifies the approximate times in minutes.

Notes:

• Using the zoom (see page 18) and other functions or turning the power on and off frequently will increase power consumption which may result in a decrease of more than 50% in the actual recording time compared to the maximum continuous recording time listed above.

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

• We recommend that you have enough battery

packs on hand to provide two to three times your estimated recording time.

• See page 71 for more information on using the battery pack.

Charging

time

100

200

Max.

continuous

recording

time

105

210

Max.

continuous

playback

time

105

210

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 of the battery pack, it is recommended to perform the following procedure at least once every six months: Q Insert the battery pack into the VIEWCAM,

and charge it until the CHARGE indicator lights up in green.

W Set the Power switch to CAMERA without

inserting a cassette. Allow the battery pack to fully drain by leaving it in the VIEWCAM until the power automatically turns off.

E Remove the battery pack and store it at a

temperature of 10°C to 20°C.

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Powering the VIEWCAM from an AC Outlet

Caution:

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

1 Connect the power cord to the AC

adapter, then insert the AC plug into a power outlet.

2 Make sure that the Power switch on the

VIEWCAM is set to OFF.

3 Insert the DC plug of the AC adapter

into the DC IN jack on the VIEWCAM.

Power switch

DC IN jack

Cautions:

• BEFORE REMOVING THE DC PLUG, ALWAYS STOP THE TAPE AND TURN THE POWER OFF.

If you remove the DC plug during recording or playback, the tape will remain wound around the video head drum, potentially causing damage to the tape.

• Remove the DC plug from the VIEWCAM if the VIEWCAM will not be used for a long period of time.

• When removing the plugs, grasp the plug, not the cable.

Preparation

To power outlet

4 Hold down the Lock

button and slide the Power switch to CAMERA or VCR.

Lock button

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Preparation

Inserting and Removing a Mini DV Cassette

Inserting a Cassette

1 Supply power to the VIEWCAM, then

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

Preparation

• The cassette holder extends and opens automatically.

Cassette compartment door release

2 Insert the cassette fully with the window

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

Erasure

protect tab

SAVE REC

4 Wait for the cassette holder to fully

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

Removing a Cassette

Perform 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 PUSH mark to close it.

• Do not tilt the VIEWCAM 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 VIEWCAM for a long period of time.

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

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

3 Press the PUSH mark gently until the

cassette holder clicks into place.

• The cassette holder retracts automatically.

PUSH mark

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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 70 for more information on the video cassette tapes for use with this VIEWCAM.

Adjusting the Grip Strap 1 Open the hand strap flap (Q) and grip

strap (W).

When recording, remove the lens cap (Q) and attach the lens cap cord to the fastener (W) so the lens cap will not get in the way.

Fastener

Preparation

2 Loosen the grip strap, pass your hand

through the loop and put your thumb close to the Power Zoom control. Then pull the grip strap tight until it fits snugly.

3 Seal the velcro closure of the grip strap

(Q) and close the hand strap flap (W).

Caution:

• Do not swing the VIEWCAM by the hand strap.

Using the Lens Cap

Attach the lens cap cord to the VIEWCAM as shown below (Q), and attach the lens cap to the lens (W).

Note:

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

Attaching the Shoulder Strap 1 Hold one end of the strap and thread it

through the loop on the left side of the LCD screen.

2 Loosen the strap in the buckle, then feed

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

3 Draw the strap in the direction of the

arrow to secure.

4–6 Use the same procedure to attach the

other end of the strap to the loop on the lens side.

1 4

Buckle

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G. K. Associates, Tokyo

Preparation

Installing the Lithium Memory Battery

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

1 Slide the cassette compartment door

release and open the cassette compartment door.

Preparation

Note: The cassette holder will extend and open when the VIEWCAM is connected to a power source. Be sure to close the cassette holder before proceeding to the next step (see page 11).

Cassette compartment door release

2 Pull out the lithium battery holder using

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

5 Close the cassette compartment door by

pressing the centre until it clicks into place.

Removing the Lithium Battery

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

Note:

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

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.

WARNING KEEP THIS BATTERY AWAY FROM

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

CAUTION BATTERY MAY EXPLODE IF MIS-

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

Lithium battery holder

3 Insert the lithium battery

into the battery holder with the ` side of the battery facing the j side of the holder.

4 Push the battery holder back

into position.

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

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

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

j mark

G. K. Associates, Tokyo

Selecting the Language for the On-screen Display

This VIEWCAM allows you to choose from among English, German or French for the onscreen display language.

CONTROL switch

Power switch

Operation buttons

Changing the Language

1 In Recording Standby mode, display the

menu screen (see page 25).

2 Toggle the CONTROL switch (Q) to

select “LANGUAGE” (“SPRACHE” or “LANGUE”), then press the CONTROL switch (W).

• The language selection screen appears.

ME NU

DEMO MODE OFF

LANGUAGE

----------DIS EXTEND

DGTL ZOOM OFF

SET

---------ON 2

EXIT

Preparation

Setting the Language

When using the VIEWCAM for the first time, select the desired language for the on-screen display by performing the procedure below.

1 Hold down the Lock

Lock button

button and slide the Power switch to CAMERA.

• The language selection screen appears.

2 Press the D or C button (C or )

(Q) to select the desired language, then press the SET (EINST. or REGLAGE) button (B) (W).

SET

LANGUAGE

ENGL ISH

DEUTSCH

AIS

FRAN

SET

3 Toggle the CONTROL switch (Q) to

select the desired language, then press the CONTROL switch (W).

• The menu screen is displayed in the language selected.

SPRACHE

ENGL ISH

DEUTSCH

AIS

FRAN

ME N

DEMO-BET R. AUS

SPRACHE

----------DIS EIN

----------

4 Press the FERTIG (SORTIE or EXIT)

button (MODE DISPLAY) to turn off the menu screen.

Note:

• The English, German and French portions of this operation manual are based on the use of on-screen displays in their respective languages. The portions of this manual in other languages, however, are based on the use of English on-screen displays.

AUTO

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G. K. Associates, Tokyo

Preparation

Setting the Area, Date and Time

Example: Setting the date to 2 June 2000

(2. 6.2000) and the time to 10:30 am (10:30) in Paris.

Notes:

• Before performing the procedure below, make sure that the lithium battery has been installed

Preparation

(see page 13).

• If you are in an area that observes summer time, set the time to the standard time. You can then correct for summer time by performing the procedure on page 56.

CONTROL switch

Power switch

Operation buttons

1 Hold down the Lock

Lock button

button and slide the Power switch to CAMERA.

2 Press the CONTROL switch until

appears.

3 Press the MENU button (C) to display

the menu screen.

ME NU

-----------

AREA LONDON

SUMR T IME DI SPLAY SETT ING

SET

---------1 OFF OFF

EXIT

4 Press the SET button (B) until “2

PARIS” appears.

ME NU

SET

-----------

AREA PARI S

SUMR T IME DI SPLAY SETT ING

Note: See pages 57 and 58 for the area number and name of the representative city for your time zone.

SET

----------

2 OFF OFF

EXIT

5 Press the D button (C) (Q) to select

“SETTING”, then press the SET button (B) (W).

ME NU

SET

----------AREA PARI S SUMR T IME DI SPLAY

SETT ING

---------2 OFF OFF

99910010.1.

6 Press the C or D button ( or C) to

AUTO

MEN U

PIC TURE

SCENE

MEN U

PIC. EFF.

select “2” (day), then press the SET button (B).

SETT ING

7 Press the C or D button to select “6”

(month), then press the SET button.

SETT ING

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G. K. Associates, Tokyo

SET

EXIT

99910010.2.

99910060.2.

8 Press the C or D button to select “2000”

(year), then press the SET button.

SETT ING

00020060.2.

9 Press the C or D button to select “10”

(hour), then press the SET button.

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.

Preparation

SETT ING

00020060.2.

10 Press the C or D button to select “30”

(minute), then press the SET button.

• The internal clock now starts operating.

SETT ING

00020360.2.

11 Press the EXIT button (MODE DISPLAY)

to turn off the menu screen.

Changing to the 12-hour Time Mode

After performing step 10 above, press the D or C button (C or ) (Q) to select “12H/ 24H”, then press the SET button (B) (W) to select “12H”.

ME NU

SET

SUMR T IME DI SPLAY SETT ING

12H 24H

-----------

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 5 minutes.

• You can also use the CONTROL switch to adjust the menu settings (see page 25).

SET

OFF OFF

12H

----------

00026.2.

03MA01

EXIT

• The example screens for this feature are for Camera mode.

1 Hold down the Lock button and slide the

Power switch to CAMERA or VCR.

2 Press the CONTROL switch until

appears.

3 Press the MENU button (C) to display

the menu screen.

4 Press the D or C button (C or ) (Q)

to select “DISPLAY”, then press the SET button (B) (W) to select “DATE” or “DATE+TIME”.

SET

ME NU

----------AREA PARI S SUMR T IME

DI SPLAY

SETT ING

---------2 OFF DATE+TIME

0301

00026.2.

5 Press the EXIT button (MODE DISPLAY)

to turn off the menu screen.

EXIT

PIC. EFF.

000203601.2.

AUTO

PIC

TURE

SCENE

MEN U

Notes:

• 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 tape. (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.

• You can also display the date and time by pressing the DATE DISPLAY button on the remote control.

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G. K. Associates, Tokyo

Basic Operations

PAUSE

Camera Recording

Easy Camera Recording with Full Auto Mode

Before you start recording, perform the operations described on pages 8 through 16 to prepare your VIEWCAM for recording.

REC START/STOP button

LCD monitor screen

Basic Operations

1 Remove the lens cap.

Power switch

2 Hold down the Lock button and slide the

Power switch to CAMERA.

• The picture from the lens is now displayed on the LCD monitor screen.

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

Lock button

AUTO

PAUSE

Note:

• When recording at the beginning of a tape, advance the tape about 15 seconds before you begin recording. This will prevent the beginning of the recording being cut off when it is played back.

To Pause Recording

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

To Turn the Power Off

Slide the Power switch to OFF.

Notes:

• The speaker is off in Camera mode.

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

• If the VIEWCAM is kept in Recording Standby mode for more than approximately 5 minutes, the power will automatically turn off to save battery power and to protect the tape from being damaged. To continue recording after this, set the Power switch to OFF, and then back to CAMERA.

Full Auto mode indicator

Note: If, at this time, “AUTO” does not appear, set the VIEWCAM to Full Auto mode by following the procedure described on page 41.

3 Press the REC START/STOP button to

begin recording.

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G. K. Associates, Tokyo

REC

Maximum Continuous Camera Recording and Actual Recording Times

Battery

pack

BT-L241 BT-L441

• The chart specifies the approximate times in minutes.

Note:

Max. continuous

recording time

105 210

Actual

recording time

110

Zooming

Tips on Recording Positions

Zooming allows you to move visually closer to or farther from a subject without physically changing your position.

Zooming in (when you want to centre

attention on the subject)

Wide

angle

Zooming out (when you want to

show the surroundings)

Telephoto

To Zoom In

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

To Zoom Out

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

Power Zoom control

Zoom range indicator

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

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

The rotating LCD monitor screen lets you enjoy easy video recording in a more relaxed posture without having to hold the VIEWCAM up to your eye. The LCD monitor also makes it easier to record high-angle and low-angle shots.

Holding the VIEWCAM

Put the fingers of your right hand through the hand strap, and place your right thumb close to the REC START/STOP button and Power Zoom control. Place your left thumb on the thumb rest below the CONTROL switch.

Basic Posture

Place your feet

at a 45° angle

and balance

your weight on

both legs.

High Angle

You can record while still viewing the screen. This is convenient when you want to record over a crowd.

Press your elbows against your sides.

Basic Operations

Notes:

• The VIEWCAM is unable to focus when zooming in on subjects within 1.5 m. The VIEWCAM will automatically zoom out until it is able to focus on the subject. (See page 35 for recording macro shots.)

• See page 27 for use of the digital zoom.

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G. K. Associates, Tokyo

Low Angle

Put one knee on the

ground for the best

stability.

Notes:

• In hand-held recording, the VIEWCAM has to be steadied to prevent image shakes. For very stable recording, use a tripod.

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

Basic Operations Camera Recording

Remaining Recording Time Display

When the VIEWCAM is recording in Camera mode, an on-screen indicator displays the approximate remaining recording time.

MODE DISPLAY button

Approx. remaining

recording time

Basic Operations

Less than half of the

total tape time 10 min.–8 min.

8 min.–6 min. 6 min.–4 min. 4 min.–2 min. 2 min.–1 min.

1 min.–0 min.

0 min.

(The tape has

reached the end.)

To turn off the time-remaining indicator, press the MODE DISPLAY button.

Notes:

• The time-remaining indicators only show the approximate time left. Also, they vary slightly depending on the length of tape used. (This function’s design is based on the DVM60 tape standard.)

• If you turn off the time-remaining indicator, it will reappear after a short interval to indicate the new time remaining.

• The remaining recording time display appears 5 seconds after pressing the REC START/ STOP button to begin recording.

On-screen indicator

THE

TAPE

ENDS SOON.

TAPE END

CHANGE THE

CASSETTE.

TAPE END

Remaining Battery Power Display

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

MODE DISPLAY button

(Green) (Green) (Red)

BATTERY IS

TOO LOW.

Notes:

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

• The battery power display 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 display may appear sooner. The battery pack, however, can be used until the warning indicator appears. Replace the battery pack at this time.

• Battery consumption may vary depending on the condition of use.

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

Remaining battery power display

Warning indicator

VL-SD20S-GB/pp. 017-019; 99/7/14/18:00

G. K. Associates, Tokyo

Basic Operations

STOPREW ST ILL

PLAY/

Playback

The LCD monitor screen makes it possible to play back and see what you have just recorded. Nothing needs to be connected, allowing instant on-screen playback with the sound through the built-in speaker.

LCD monitor screen

Operation buttons

Power switch

1 Hold down the Lock button and slide the

Power switch to VCR.

• The screen appears.

STOPREW ST I LL

Lock button

AUDIO 1 2

PLAY/

2 Press the REW (C) (or FF [B]) button

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

PLAY/

STOPREW ST ILL

To Stop Playback

Press the STOP button (A).

Notes:

• If you wish to turn the Operation button indicators on or off, press the MODE DISPLAY button. The Playback Operation buttons will still function as indicated even after the indicators are turned off.

• To use the infrared remote control, make sure that the REMOTE menu item is set to “ON” (see page 38).

Auto T ape Rewind

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

To Turn the Power Off

Slide the Power switch to OFF.

Volume Control

While the VIEWCAM is in VCR mode, push the Volume control to the ` or 1 side to increase (Q) or decrease (W) the volume to your preference.

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

Volume control

3 Press the PLAY/STILL button ( ) to

begin playback.

PLAY/

STOPREW ST ILL

Decrease Increase

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G. K. Associates, Tokyo

VOLUME

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