Before using the camcorder, please read this operation manual carefully,
especially page v.
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/battery
charger 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
61,000 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.
Power supply:
This unit can be operated by
connecting it to either the AC adapter/
battery charger or battery pack. The
AC adapter/battery charger
incorporates the AUTO VOLTAGE (AC
110–240 V, 50/60 Hz) function.
*Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Information for Australia/New Zealand Only
WARNING:
This Camcorder must be supplied only with DC 7.4 volts from a BT-L221, BTL441, BT-LS222 or BT-LS442A battery or the AC adapter/battery charger (UADP0321TAZZ).
CAUTION:
As there are no user-serviceable parts inside the Camcorder or AC adapter/
battery charger, 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 61,600 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
Quick Operation Guide
Please consult this operation manual
further for details on these and other
functions of your camcorder.
Charging the Battery Pack
1Connect the supplied power cord to the
AC power socket on the AC adapter/
battery charger, and insert the AC plug
into a power outlet.
2Align the s mark on the battery pack
with the a mark on the charger (1) and
guide the battery into the groove.
Pressing the battery (2), slide it in the
direction of the arrow (3) until it locks
into place.
Attaching the Battery Pack
1Make sure that the Power switch is set
to OFF.
Inserting a Mini DV Cassette
1Attach the power source to the
camcorder, then slide the cassette
compartment door release and open the
cassette compartment door.
2Insert the cassette fully with the window
facing outwards, and with the erasure
protect tab facing upwards.
SAVE
SAVE
REC
REC
2Lift up the viewfinder.
3Align the - mark on the side of the
battery pack with the q mark on the
camcorder (1), and slide the battery
pack down completely until it locks into
place (2).
i
3Press the W mark gently until the
cassette holder clicks into place. Close
the compartment door by pressing the
centre until it clicks into place.
W mark
Easy Camera Recording
Tape Playback
1Make sure that a cassette is inserted.
2Remove the lens cap, and lift up the
viewfinder.
3Hold down the Lock button
and set the Power switch to
CAMERA.
Lock button
4Press the REC START/STOP button to
begin recording.
REC
Zooming
Push the Power Zoom control to T (1)
(telephoto) or W (2) (wide angle) side.
1Press the LCD monitor OPEN release
button (1), and open the LCD monitor
to a 90° angle to the camcorder body
(2).
LCD monitor OPEN
release button
90
2Adjust the LCD monitor to an angle that
allows easy viewing on the on-screen
picture.
3Hold down the Lock button
and set the Power switch to
VCR.
Lock button
4Press e (or r) on the Operation
button to rewind (or fast forward) the
tape to the desired point.
+
AUDIO
12
Power Zoom
control
5Press y to begin playback.
AUDIO
To stop playback
Press d.
+
12
ii
Supplied Accessories
Battery pack
BT-L221
Remote control
Lens capShoulder strap
AC adapter/
battery charger
AA battery for
remote control K 2
Power cord
CR2025 type
lithium battery
PixLab Video
Capture Software
(Lite Version)
DC cable
Audio/video cable
(RCA type)
PC connecting
cable
iii
Optional Accessories
Standard-life
battery pack
BT-L221
PixLab USB Digital Moving Picture Kit
Mini DV cassette
VR-DVM60N
Note: Some of these accessories may not be available in selected areas.
Extended-life
battery pack
BT-L441
VR-PKU10E
Zoom microphone
Standard-life intelligent
battery pack
BT-LS222
VR-5MC
Extended-life intelligent
battery pack
BT-LS442A
Soft case
VR-33SC
iv
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
well-ventilated location.
• Some small, portable
tripods 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.).
v
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 formation occurs, 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.
—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 due to dew
formation.
When using the camcorder in a place where
dew formation is likely to occur, allow the
camcorder and the video tape to acclimate to
the surroundings for about one hour.
• “Dew” warning feature
If dew forms, the word “DEW” flashes on the
screen, and the power will automatically turn
off in approximately 10 seconds.
1 If “DEW” flashes, remove the cassette, leave
the cassette compartment open, and wait for
a few hours to allow the camcorder to
acclimate to the surrounding temperature.
2 To use the camcorder again, turn on the
power after waiting for a few hours. Be sure
that “DEW” has disappeared.
3 Do not insert a cassette while “DEW” is
flashing; this may result in damage to the
tape.
4 Since dew forms gradually, it may take 10 to
15 minutes before the dew warning feature
engages.
Plastic bag
For example, when bringing the camcorder
indoors after skiing, place it in a plastic bag.
1 Be sure to tightly seal the plastic bag
containing the camcorder.
2 Remove the bag when the air temperature
inside it reaches the temperature of the
room.
vi
Precautions
CLEANING
CLEANINGNOW
START
STOP
Dirty Video Heads
Using the camcorder when the video tape is
dirty may cause the heads to clog, producing
noise on the recorded image or preventing the
image from being recorded at all.
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.
Using a Cleaning Tape
(Commercially Available)
Video head cleaning can be done by using a
commercially available cleaning tape.
Notes:
• Excessive use of the cleaning tape, however,
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.
1Insert a cleaning tape into the
camcorder.
2Set the camcorder to VCR mode.
• The video head cleaning screen appears.
3Press e on the Operation button to
begin video head cleaning.
•“NOW CLEANING” flashes during cleaning.
vii
After about 20 seconds, video head cleaning
automatically finishes, and “EJECT THE
CASSETTE.” is displayed.
4Remove the cleaning tape.
To cancel cleaning, press e.
About Your Camcorder
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.
• 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 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 cassetteDV cassette
8 mm, VHS, and Beta cassettes cannot be
used for playback or recording with this
camcorder.
8 mm cassetteVHS cassetteBeta cassette
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.
viii
Contents
Operation References
Preparation
Basic Operations
Part Names ............................................................... 1
Quick Reference List ................................................. 4
On-screen Display Index ........................................... 5
For details on the use of each part, refer to the page number indicated in brackets.
Operation References
Left view
Remote sensor [p. 35]
W/B (White Balance) button [p. 46]
CAT’S EYE switch [p. 31]
Lens hood
Zoom lens
Stereo microphone
[p. 59]
GAMMA/BRIGHTER button
[pp. 29, 30, 51]
AUTO ON/OFF button
[p. 24]
Operation button [p. 23]
MENU/DISPLAY button
[p. 23]
DIS (Digital Image Stabilization) switch
[p. 27]
1
Left view
LCD monitor [p. 16]
LCD monitor
OPEN release
button [p. 16]
Zoom microphone
mounting hole [p. 49]
Lithium battery
compartment door
[p. 11]
Operation References
Viewfinder [p. 15]
Dioptre adjustment
[p. 15]
Power source
PUSH release
button [pp. 8, 9]
Power source
mounting surface
[pp. 8, 9]
Shoulder strap loop [p. 14]
Bottom view
Tripod socket
2
Operation References
Right view
Operation References
S-VIDEO socket
[pp. 21, 54]
Power Zoom Wide angle/
Telephoto control [p. 18]/
VOLume control [p. 20]
STILL button
[pp. 33, 34]
VIDEO jack
[pp. 21, 54]
AUDIO L jack
[pp. 21, 54]
AUDIO R jack
[pp. 21, 54]
Power switch (CAMERA/VCR
select switch) [p. 23]
RECord START/STOP button
Jack cover
[pp. 21, 54]
Cassette compartment door [p. 10]
Cassette compartment door release [p. 10]
[p. 17]
Shoulder strap
loop [p. 14]
PC connection jack
[p. 57]
DV terminal [p. 55]
EarPHONES jack
[p. 20]
Hand strap [p. 14]
3
Jack cover [pp. 20, 55, 57]
Speaker [p. 20]
Quick Reference List
Below are some examples of camcorder’s features.
• To record the subject with higher-quality audio.
— See page 27 (Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode)
• To record powerful close-up images.
— See page 28 (Setting the Digital Zoom)
• To record a backlit subject.
— See page 29 (Gamma Brightness Compensation) or page 45 (Manual
Exposure)
• To record subjects in very dim conditions, e.g. a nocturnal animal.
— See page 31 (Night Recording)
• To record yourself in the scene while monitoring the shot.
— See page 37 (Letting the Subject Monitor the Shot)
• To quickly return the tape to the end of the last recorded scene after playback.
— See page 38 (Quick Return)
• To focus on an off-centred subject.
— See page 41 (Manual Focus)
• To turn off the confirmation sounds which are made when you operate the
camcorder.
— See page 48 (Setting the Confirmation Sounds)
• To enlarge any part of the picture during playback.
— See page 50 (Playback Zoom)
• To brighten the dark portion of the playback images without changing the bright
portion.
— See page 51 (Gamma Playback)
Operation References
4
Operation References
On-screen Display Index
For details on the use of each function, refer to the page number indicated.
Operation References
CAMERA mode
AUTO
pp. 17, 24
p. 27
p. 17
MANUA L SE T
M
AN. FOCUS
SHUT. S PE ED
EXPOSURE
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
MANUAL SE T
M
AN. FOCUS
SHUT. S PEED
EXPOSURE
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
p. 41
p. 43
p. 45
p. 48
p. 47
p. 32
p. 38
AUTO
p. 19
pp. 30, 31
min
30
SP
p. 19
VCR mode
p. 19
SP
PLAYBACK SE T
AUDI O DUB
AUDI O
EFFECT
PIC.
PB EFFECT
p. 26
p. 26
LIGHT
12bit
p. 27
AUDIO
+
12
p. 61
Easy mode (p. 24)
MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
PHOT O
SNAP
SNAP
EFF.
SOUND
DISPLAY
p. 32
p. 38
p. 33
p. 34
p. 48
p. 13
CAMERA SET
PHOTO SNAP
SNAP EFF.
DGT L Z OOM
TAPE SPEED
AUD I O SE T
AUD I O MODE
ZOOM MI C
OTHERS
REMOTE
SOUND
TIME CODE
TC OUT
D EMO MO DE
LCD
VF SET
BACKL IGHT
LCD BRI GHT
LCD COLO
BRI GHT
VF
CLOCK SET
DISPLAY
SET T ING
12H 24H
PLAYBACK SET
AUDI O DUB
AUDI O
EFFECT
PIC.
PB EFFECT
OTHERS
REMOTE
SOUND
TIME CODE
TC OUT
LCD
VF SET
BACKL IGHT
LCD BRI GHT
LCD COLO
BRI GHT
VF
CLOCK SET
DISPLAY
p. 33
p. 34
p. 28
p. 26
p. 27
p. 49
p. 35
p. 48
p. 40
p. 40
p. 67
p. 62
UR
p. 13
p. 12
p. 13
p. 60
p. 61
p. 53
p. 52
p. 35
p. 48
p. 40
p. 40
p. 62
UR
p. 13
Note:
• See pages 23 to 25 for the procedure to display the desired screen.
5
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
EJECT THE
CASSETTE.
CASSETTE NOT
RECORDABLE.
THE
TAPE
PROTECT. TAB
ENDS SOON.
CHANGE THE
CASSETTE.
BATTERY I S
TOO LOW.
DEW
LAMPLAMP
Note:
•N indicates a flashing display.
3 seconds
CASSETTE.
TAPE END
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 64).
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 8).
Dew has formed inside the camcorder. Wait for
a few hours until the dew disappears (see
page vi).
About 10 seconds after this warning appears,
the camcorder automatically turns off.
The video heads are clogged and should be
cleaned (see page vii).
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.
When the vertical rotation of the LCD monitor is
between 135° and 180° in CAMERA mode, all
warnings will be indicated by F displayed in
the centre of the viewfinder and the LCD
screen. To check the type of warning, rotate the
monitor back to within 135°.
6
Preparation
Preparation
Charging the Battery Pack
Charge the battery pack with the supplied AC
adapter/battery charger before use.
Note:
• Remove the DC cable from the AC adapter/
battery charger when charging the battery pack.
1Connect the supplied power cord to the
AC power socket on the AC adapter/
battery charger, and insert the AC plug
Preparation
into a power outlet.
• The POWER indicator lights up.
POWER indicator
AC power
socket
To power
outlet
2Align the s mark on the battery pack
with the a mark on the charger (1) and
guide the battery into the groove.
Pressing the battery (2), slide it in the
direction of the arrow (3) until it locks
into place.
• The CHARGE indicator lights up.
Charging time and maximum continuous
recording and playback times
Max. continuous
recording time
LCD
closed
LCD
open
pack
Charging
time
100120100100
160240200200
190280240240
Battery
BT-L221
BT-LS222
BT-L441
BT-LS442A
• The chart specifies the approximate times in minutes.
Notes:
• Charge the battery pack between 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 18) and other
functions or turning the power on and off
frequently will increase power consumption. This
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.
• See page 65 for more information on using the
battery pack.
Caution:
• Charge only SHARP model BT-L221, BT-L441, BTLS222 or BT-LS442A battery packs. Other types of
battery packs may burst, causing personal injury
and damage.
Max.
continuous
playback
time on
LCD
CHARGE indicator
• The CHARGE indicator turns off when
the battery is fully charged.
3Slide the battery pack in the direction of
the arrow (1), and remove it (2). Then,
remove the AC plug of the power cord
from the power outlet.
7
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:
1 Charge the battery pack until the CHARGE
indicator of the charger turns off.
2 Attach 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.
3 Remove the battery pack and store it between
10°C and 20°C.
Attaching and Removing the
Battery Pack
Attaching the Battery Pack
1Make sure that the Power switch is set
to OFF.
Power switch
2Lift up the viewfinder.
Power source
mounting surface
4Lower the viewfinder.
Preparation
Removing the Battery Pack
1Perform steps 1 and 2 above.
2Press the power source PUSH release
button (1), and slide the battery pack
up and take it out (2).
Power source PUSH
release button
3Align the - mark on the side of the
battery pack with the q mark on the
camcorder (1), and slide the battery
pack down completely until it locks into
place (2).
Cautions:
• BEFORE REMOVING THE BATTERY PACK,
ALWAYS STOP RECORDING OR PLAYBACK
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.
• Remove the battery pack from the camcorder if
you will not use the camcorder for a long period
of time.
• Use only SHARP model BT-L221, BT-L441, BTLS222 or BT-LS442A battery packs with this
camcorder. Use of other batteries may present a
risk of fire or explosion.
8
Preparation
Powering the Camcorder
from an AC Outlet
You can also power the camcorder from a
power outlet by using the supplied AC adapter/
battery charger and DC cable.
Caution:
• The supplied AC adapter/battery charger is
specially designed for use with this camcorder,
and should not be used as a power supply for
other camcorders.
Preparation
1Make sure that the Power switch is set
to OFF.
2Lift up the viewfinder.
3Align the = mark on the side of the
DC cable connecting plate with the q
mark on the camcorder (1), and slide
the connecting plate down completely
until it locks into place (2).
DC cable
connecting
plate
5Insert the DC cable plug into the DC
OUT jack on the AC adapter. Connect
the supplied power cord to the AC
adapter, and insert the AC plug into a
power outlet.
• The POWER indicator on the AC adapter
lights up, and the camcorder is supplied
power.
DC OUT jack
POWER
indicator To power
outlet
Note:
• When the AC adapter/battery charger is used to
power the camcorder, it cannot be used to
charge the battery pack.
Removing the DC cable from the
camcorder
Perform steps 1 and 2 above. Press the power
source PUSH release button (1), and slide the
connecting plate up and take it out (2).
4Lower the viewfinder.
9
Power source PUSH
release button
Cautions:
• BEFORE REMOVING THE DC CABLE,
ALWAYS STOP RECORDING OR PLAYBACK
AND TURN THE POWER OFF. If you remove the
DC cable during recording or playback, the tape
will remain wound around the video head drum,
potentially causing damage to the tape.
• Disconnect the camcorder from the AC adapter
if you will not use the camcorder for a long
period of time.
Inserting and Removing a
Mini DV Cassette
Inserting a Cassette
1Attach the power source to the
camcorder, then slide the cassette
compartment door release and open the
cassette compartment door.
• A confirmation sound is made, and the
cassette holder extends and opens
automatically.
Cassette compartment
door release
3Press the W mark gently until the
cassette holder clicks into place.
• A confirmation sound is made, and the
cassette holder retracts automatically.
W mark
Preparation
4Wait for the cassette holder to fully
retract. Close the compartment door by
pressing the centre until it clicks into
place.
Note:
• If the hand strap is pulled too tight, it can
obstruct the opening of the cassette
compartment door and the cassette holder
may be unable to extend. Should this occur,
loosen the hand strap and open the
cassette compartment door completely.
2Insert the cassette fully with the window
facing outwards, and with the erasure
protect tab facing upwards.
Erasure protect tab
SAVE
SAVE
REC
REC
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 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 64 for more information on the video
cassette tapes intended for use with this camcorder.
10
Preparation
Installing the Lithium Memory
Battery
Installing the Lithium Battery
The supplied lithium battery is used to store the
memory of the date and time settings.
1Press the LCD monitor OPEN release
button (1) and open the LCD monitor
(2).
Preparation
LCD monitor OPEN
release button
2Open the lithium battery compartment
door using the tip of a ballpoint pen or
other pointed object.
3Insert the lithium battery into the
compartment with the H side facing out.
5Close the LCD monitor until it clicks into
place.
Removing the lithium battery
Perform steps 1 and 2 above.
Lift up the battery using a
pointed object, and take it out.
Note:
• Replace the battery with a new CR2025 lithium
battery when the time indicator of the camcorder
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.
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.
4Replace the compartment door, and
close it firmly until it clicks into place.
11
Setting the Date and Time
Example: Setting the date to 2 June 2002 (2. 6.
2002) and the time to 10:30 am (10:30).
Note:
• Before performing the procedure below, make
sure that the lithium battery has been installed
(see page 11).
MENU/DISPLAY button
Power switch
Operation button
1Press the LCD monitor OPEN release
button (1) and open the LCD monitor
(2).
4Press r on the Operation button.
CLOCK SE T
DISPLAY
SET T ING
SET T ING
12H 24H
1 2001.1.
:
000
5Press d or y (1) to select “2” (day),
and then press r (2).
CLOCK SE T
DISPLAY
SET T ING
SET T ING
12H 24H
1 2001.2.
:
000
6Press d or y to select “6” (month),
and then press r.
Preparation
LCD monitor OPEN
release button
2Hold down the Lock button
and set the Power switch to
CAMERA.
Lock button
3Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
CLOCK SE T
DISPLAY
SET T ING
SET T ING
12H 24H
1 2001.1.
:
000
SETT I NG
6 2001.2.
:
000
7Press d or y to select “2002” (year),
and then press r.
SETT I NG
:
0 00
6 2002.2.
8Press d or y to select “10” (hour),
and then press r.
SETT I NG
:
10 00
6 2002.2.
9Press d or y to select “30” (minute),
and then press e.
• The internal clock now starts operating.
SETT I NG
:
10 30
6 2002.2.
10 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
12
Preparation
Changing to the 12-hour Time Mode
1After performing step 9 above, press d
or y (1) to select “12H/24H”, and
then press r (2).
CLOCK SE T
DISPLAY
SET T ING
12H 24H
Preparation
24H
12H
2Press d or y to select “12H”, and
then press e.
21H24H
12H
3Press the MENU/DISPLAY 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 5 minutes.
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 for this feature are for
CAMERA mode.
1Hold down the Lock button and set the
Power switch to CAMERA or VCR.
2Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
3Select P, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “DISPLAY” (1),
then press r (2).
CLOCK SE T
DISPLAY
SET T ING
12H 24H
OFF
DATE
DATE+TIME
4Press d or y to select “DATE” or
“DATEHTIME”, and then press e.
DISPLAY
DATE+TIME
13
5Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
• The date (or the date and time) is
displayed.
min
50
SP
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 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.
2002.6.2
03:01
Adjusting the Hand Strap
5
6
7
4
3
2
1Open the hand strap flap (1) and the
grip strap (2).
When attaching or
removing the lens cap,
press both tabs on the
top and bottom of the
cap.
Tabs
2Loosen the grip strap, pass your right
hand through the loop, and put your
thumb on the REC START/STOP button.
Then, pull the grip strap tight until it fits
snugly.
REC START/STOP button
3Seal the velcro fasteners of the grip
strap and the hand strap flap.
Caution:
• Do not swing the camcorder by the hand strap.
Using the Lens Cap
Hook
When recording, hang
the hook of the lens cap
on the hand strap so that
the cap will not get in the
way.
Note:
• Always replace the lens
cap on the lens when the
camcorder is not in use.
Attaching the Shoulder Strap
1Remove the battery pack.
2Hold one end of the strap and thread it
through the loop on the left side of the
power source mounting surface.
3Loosen the strap in the buckle, then feed
the end of the strap through the buckle,
as shown.
4Draw the strap in the direction of the
arrow to secure.
5–7 To attach the other end of the strap to
the loop on the left side of the hand
strap, open the hand strap flap,
perform the same procedure, and then
attach the battery pack.
Preparation
Attach the strap of the lens cap to the hand
strap as shown below.
Loop
Buckle
Loop
Buckle
14
Preparation
Using the Viewfinder
You can record the subject using the electronic
LCD viewfinder. You can also watch playback
through the viewfinder.
Viewfinder
Preparation
Power switch
1Lift up the viewfinder.
Note:
• You can raise the viewfinder to aim the
camcorder better depending on your
position.
2Hold down the Lock button
and set the Power switch to
CAMERA or VCR.
• A picture is displayed in the
viewfinder.
Closing the viewfinder
Lower the viewfinder.
Cautions:
• Do not use excessive force when moving the
viewfinder.
• Do not pick up the camcorder by the viewfinder.
Notes:
• The viewfinder automatically turns off when the
LCD monitor is opened. When the vertical
rotation of the monitor is between 135° and 180°,
however, the viewfinder is on and the subject is
displayed both in the viewfinder and on the
monitor (see page 37).
• Be sure to close the viewfinder after use.
Adjusting the Dioptre
Adjust the dioptre according to your eyesight
when the picture in the viewfinder is not clear.
1Lift up the viewfinder.
2Hold down the Lock button and set the
Power switch to CAMERA.
3While looking through the viewfinder,
turn the Dioptre adjustment until the
indicators in the viewfinder are clearly
visible.
Dioptre
adjustment
Lock button
15
Using the LCD Monitor
You can use the LCD monitor to play back
recordings that you have made. You can also
watch the subject on the LCD monitor while
recording.
Power switch
LCD monitor
1Press the LCD monitor OPEN release
button (1), and open the LCD monitor
to a 90° angle to the camcorder body
(2).
LCD monitor OPEN
release button
90
2Adjust the LCD monitor to an angle that
allows easy viewing on the on-screen
picture.
• The LCD monitor rotates 270° vertically.
180
90
3Hold down the Lock button
and set the Power switch to
CAMERA or VCR.
Lock button
Notes:
• Battery consumption is larger when the LCD
monitor is open. Use the viewfinder instead of
the LCD monitor when you want to save battery
power.
• Use the viewfinder if the LCD screen becomes
difficult to see in bright daylight.
Closing the LCD monitor
Return the LCD monitor to the vertical 90°
position with the screen facing in, and fold it
into the camcorder until it clicks into place.
Cautions:
• Do not use excessive force when moving the
LCD monitor.
• Do not try to rotate the LCD monitor vertically
until the monitor is completely opened.
• When closing the LCD monitor, do not tilt it;
otherwise the monitor may not close properly
and may become damaged.
• Do not pick up the camcorder by the LCD
monitor.
• Do not expose the LCD monitor to shocks.
• Do not apply pressure to the LCD screen
surface.
• Do not place the camcorder with the LCD
screen facing down.
Preparation
Note:
• You can also fold the LCD monitor into the
camcorder with the screen facing out for
watching playback on the monitor.
Notes:
• Take care not to touch the LCD screen with your
fingers, as perspiration and dirt will smudge it.
• Close the LCD monitor completely with the
screen facing in when not in use.
• Use a soft cloth to clean the LCD screen.
16
Basic Operations
PAUSE
Basic OperationsCamera Recording
Camera Recording
Easy Camera Recording in
Full Auto Mode
• Before you start recording, perform the
operations described on pages 7 through 16
to prepare your camcorder for recording.
REC START/
STOP button
Power switch
1Remove the lens cap, and lift up the
viewfinder.
2Hold down the Lock button and set the
Basic Operations
Power switch to CAMERA.
• The picture from the lens is now
displayed in the viewfinder.
• The camcorder is now ready to record
(Recording Standby mode).
Auto mode indicator
AUTO
Lock button
Note: If “MANUAL” is displayed at this time,
press the AUTO ON/OFF button to set the
camcorder to Auto mode.
3Press the REC START/STOP button to
begin recording.
REC
PAUSE
To pause recording
Press the REC START/STOP button again.
Recording pauses, and the camcorder enters
Recording Standby mode.
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
Max. continuous
Battery
pack
BT-L221
BT-LS222
BT-L441
BT-LS442A
• The chart specifies the approximate times in minutes.
Note:
• Using the zoom (see page 18) and other
functions or turning the power on and off
frequently will increase power consumption. This
may result in a decrease of more than 50% in the
actual recording time compared to the maximum
continuous recording time listed above.
recording time
LCD
closed
1201006050
240200120100
280240140120
open
LCD
Actual recording
time
LCD
closed
LCD
open
17
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)
To zoom in
Push the Power Zoom control to the T (telephoto) side to get a close-up view (1).
To zoom out
Push the Power Zoom control to the W (wide
angle) side to get a wide field of view (2).
Zoom range indicator
WT3ZOOM
To create images that are easy to watch during
playback, try to record with a stable posture
while steadying your camcorder to prevent the
image from shaking.
Holding the camcorder
Put your right hand through the hand strap, and
Tele-
place your left hand under the camcorder for
photo
support.
Basic posture
Place the viewfinder
eyecup firmly
against your eye.
Place your elbows
against your sides.
Balance your
weight on both
legs.
Shooting from a high angle
Turn the LCD monitor so
that the screen faces
downward.
Basic Operations
Power Zoom
control
• 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 1.8 m. The camcorder will
automatically zoom out until it is able to focus on
the subject. (See page 35 for recording macro
shots.)
• See page 28 for use of the digital zoom.
Shooting from a low angle
Using the viewfinder
Raise the viewfinder to
view the subject.
Using the LCD monitor
Turn the LCD monitor so
that the screen faces
upward.
Note:
• Take care not to touch the microphone with your
fingers during recording. It will cause noise on
the audio track.
18
Basic Operations
BATTERY IS
TOO LOW.
AUTO
12
min
0
AUTO
8
min
9
Camera Recording
Remaining Recording Time
Display
When the camcorder is recording in CAMERA
mode, an on-screen indicator displays the
approximate remaining tape time in minutes.
During recording, press the MENU/DISPLAY
button until the remaining recording time
indicator appears.
Remaining recording
Basic Operations
time indicator
To turn off the indicator, press the MENU/
DISPLAY button again.
Notes:
• 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 indicatorApprox. remaining time
THE
TAPE
ENDS SOON.
TAPE END
CHANGE T HE
CASSETTE.
TAPE END
30
Less than 1 min.
(The tape has reached
the end.)
min
SP
Remaining Battery Power
Display
When using the camcorder with the battery
pack as the power source, you can turn on and
off the remaining battery power indicator by
pressing the MENU/DISPLAY button. If the
battery power becomes very low, a warning
indicator will appear. Replace the battery pack.
(Green)
(Green)
(Red)
Notes:
• 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. The battery
pack, however, can be used until the warning
indicator appears.
• Use of the zoom functions when the warning
indicator is displayed may cause the camcorder
to suddenly lose power.
• This camcorder supports an intelligent battery
function. Use of the optional BT-LS222 or BTLS442A intelligent battery pack allows the
number of minutes of continuous operating time
that remains to be displayed on the screen
based on the remaining battery power.
Remaining battery
power indicator
Warning indicator
19
Basic Operations
Playback
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
1Open the LCD monitor and adjust the
angle (see page 16).
2Hold down the Lock button
and set the Power switch to
VCR.
Lock button
3Press e (or r) on the Operation
button to rewind (or fast forward) the
tape to the desired point.
+
AUDIO
12
To stop playback
Press d.
To turn the power off
Set the Power switch to OFF without pressing
the Lock button.
Notes:
• The tape is automatically rewound when
playback reaches the end of the tape.
• Stereo earphones (commercially available) with
a 3.5 mm diameter plug can be plugged directly
into the PHONES jack. When you use this jack,
the speaker automatically turns off.
Basic Operations
PHONES jack
Watching the Playback in the
Viewfinder
You can also watch the playback in the
viewfinder by closing the LCD monitor with the
screen facing in. You cannot monitor the sound
through the speaker when watching the
playback in the viewfinder.
Volume Control
4Press y to begin playback.
AUDIO
+
12
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.
Volume control
VOLUME
DecreaseIncrease
20
Basic Operations
Playback
Watching the Playback on a
TV
You can connect the camcorder to a TV to
allow a larger audience to enjoy playback.
1Open the jack cover on the camcorder.
Jack cover
2Connect 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
To S-video input
socket
3Turn 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 see the signal from
the VCR. (See the operation manuals of
your TV and VCR.)
4Set the Power switch on the camcorder
to VCR, and begin playback (see page
20).
Caution:
• Make sure that the camcorder, TV, VCR and
other equipment to be connected have been
turned off before you make connections. Making
connections with any of the components left
turned on may cause picture noise or malfunction.
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.
• If your TV or VCR has an S-video input socket,
you can connect it to the S-VIDEO socket on the
camcorder with a commercially available S-video
CHANNEL
PAUSE
/STILL
PLAY
STOP/
EJECT
REC
TV/VCRSET UP
cable.
• When the camcorder is connected to a TV for
playback, the picture on the TV screen may
flicker if the volume on the camcorder is set to
maximum. Should this occur, turn the volume
down (see page 20).
• Close the jack cover after use.
Audio/video cable (supplied)
S-video cable (commercially available)
To S-VIDEO socket
Yellow: To VIDEO jack
White: To AUDIO L jack
Red: To AUDIO R jack
21
About the S-video socket
S-video sockets are used to separately pass
the chroma (colour) and luminance (brightness) components of video signals. They serve
to improve the picture quality in both recording
and playback.
Video Search
Still
The video search function makes it easy to
search for a desired scene on the tape.
Operation button
1During playback, press r (or e) on
the Operation button.
• The playback picture fast forwards (or
reverses).
+
AUDIO
12
2When you find the desired scene, press
y to return to normal playback.
Notes:
• The sound is off during search.
• Some picture noise appears during search. This
is not a malfunction.
The still function makes it possible to pause
playback.
Operation button
During playback, press y on the Operation
button.
+
AUDIO
12
To return to normal playback, press y
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
22
Useful Features
AUTO
SP
30
min
AUTO
M
AN. FOCUS
EXPOSURE
SHUT. S PE ED
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
MANUA L SE T
12 bit
Useful Features
Using the Controls
The following controls on the camcorder can
be used to select and operate the various
functions, settings and on-screen displays.
MENU/DISPLAY button
Power switch
Operation button
Power switch
To turn the power on, hold down the
Lock button and set the Power
switch to CAMERA or VCR.
Lock button
To turn the power off, set the Power
switch to OFF without pressing the
Lock button.
MENU/DISPLAY button
The MENU/DISPLAY button is used to
turn the on-screen indicators and the
menu screens on or off. Each time you
press the MENU/DISPLAY button, the
on-screen display changes as shown
below.
Example
Indicators off
Menu screen
Indicators on
Useful Features
23
Note:
• The warning indicators and some other
indicators cannot be turned off by pressing the
MENU/DISPLAY button.
Operation button
The Operation button is used to select and set
the various menu settings by pressing
y (1), e (2), d (3) or r (4).
Selecting the User Mode
This camcorder features three user modes for
camera recording functions. The selectable
items on the menu screen are different
depending on the user mode.
User mode
Auto mode (AUTO): Lets you adjust all menu
settings except manual settings.
Manual mode (MANUAL): Lets you adjust all
settings including the following manual
settings.
—MAN. FOCUS, SHUT. SPEED, EXPOSURE
Easy mode (EASY): Lets you adjust only the
following basic menu settings.
—FADE, QK. RETURN, PHOTO SNAP, SNAP
EFF., SOUND, DISPLAY
Power switch
AUTO ON/OFF button
1Hold down the Lock button and set the
Power switch to CAMERA.
• The user mode indicator is displayed.
2Press the AUTO ON/OFF button.
• Each time you press the AUTO ON/OFF
button, the user mode changes between
Auto mode and Manual mode.
• To select Easy mode, hold down the
AUTO ON/OFF button for more than two
seconds.
Notes:
• All manual settings in Manual mode will be
cancelled when you press the AUTO ON/OFF
button to return to Auto mode.
• To cancel Easy mode, hold down the AUTO
ON/OFF button for more than two seconds.
• There is only one VCR mode.
• The example screens in this operation manual
assume the use of Auto mode unless otherwise
indicated.
Useful Features
Lock button
AUTO
User mode indicator
24
Useful Features
Using the Menu Screens
The menu screens can be used to adjust the
various settings of camcorder.
1Hold down the Lock button
and set the Power switch to
CAMERA or VCR.
2Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
MANUAL S ET
M
AN. FOCUS
SHUT. S PEE D
EXPOSURE
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
3Press d or y (1) on the Operation
button to select the desired menu
screen, then press r (2).
Example
CAMERA SE T
PHOTO SNAP SNAP
Useful Features
EFF.SNAP
DGT L ZOOM
TAPE SPEED
Lock button
4Press d or y (1) to select the
desired menu item, then press r (2).
Example
CAMERA SE T
PHOTO SNAP
EFF.SNAP
DGT L ZOOM
TAPE SPEED
OFF
50
100
780
5Press d or y (1) to select the
desired menu setting, then press e
(2).
• To adjust another menu item, press e,
then perform steps 3 to 5.
Example
CAMERA SE T
PHOTO SNAP
EFF.SNAP
DGT L ZOOM
TAPE SPEED
To turn off the menu screen
Press the MENU/DISPLAY button.
Notes:
• Certain menu items are common among
Camcorder modes. If the REMOTE 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.
001
25
Useful Features
LP
45
min
Camera Recording
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.
1Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode.
2Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
MANU AL S ET
M
AN. FOCUS
SHUT. S P EE D
EXPOSURE
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
3Select Y, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “TAPE SPEED”
(1), then press r (2).
CAMERA SE T
PHOTO SNAP
EFF.SNAP
DGT L Z OOM
TAPE SPEED
SP
LP
5Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
• The recording mode indicator changes
from “SP” to “LP”.
Recording mode indicator
To return to SP mode
Select “SP” in step 4 above.
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.
Useful Features
4Press d or y to select “LP”, then
press e.
LP
TAPE SPEED
26
Useful Features
Camera Recording
Selecting the 16-bit Audio
Recording Mode
This camcorder allows you to select between
the 12-bit and 16-bit audio recording modes.
The camcorder normally records audio in the
12-bit audio recording mode. For higher-quality
audio recording, select the 16-bit audio
recording mode.
1Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode.
2Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
3Select U, then press r on the Opera-
tion button. Select “AUDIO MODE” (1),
then press r (2).
AUD I O SE T
AUD I O MODE
ZOOM MI C
12 bit
16 bit
4Press d or y to select “16bit”, then
press e.
Useful Features
AUD IO MODE
1 6 bit
5Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
• The audio recording mode indicator
changes from “12bit” to “16bit”.
Audio recording
mode indicator
Digital Image Stabilization
(DIS)
The digital image stabilization (DIS) function is
factory preset to on to stabilize the image by
electronically compensating for relatively minor
image shaking that is often annoying in closeup shots.
AUTO
DIS indicator
Note:
• The DIS function cannot compensate for
excessive image shaking.
Turning Off the DIS Function
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.
In Recording Standby mode, set the DIS switch
to OFF.
• The z indicator is turned off.
DIS switch
AUTO
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 59).
27
16 bit
To return to DIS mode
Set the DIS switch to ON.
Setting the Digital Zoom
WT 50DZOOM
-
You can select from among four different zoom
ranges: 1–26K (optical zoom), 26–50K (digital
zoom), 26–100K (digital zoom) or 26–780K
(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 1–780K.
• As the image is enlarged digitally, the picture
quality decreases when higher digital zoom
settings are used.
1Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode.
2Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
MANU AL S ET
M
AN. FOCUS
SHUT. S P EE D
EXPOSURE
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
3Select Y, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “DGTL ZOOM”
(1), then press r (2).
CAMERA SE T
PHOTO SNAP
EFF.SNAP
DGT L Z OOM
TAPE SPEED
OFF
50
100
780
4Press d or y to select “50”, “100” or
“780”, then press e.
DGT L ZOOM
001
5Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
• The “D” digital zoom indicator is
displayed during digital zooming.
Digital zoom indicator
To use optical zoom only
Select “OFF” in step 4 above.
Useful Features
28
Useful Features
AUTOAUTO
GAMMAGAMMA
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.
AUTO
AUTO
To obtain a brighter picture
Press the GAMMA/BRIGHTER button again.
• The x indicator appears.
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.
Useful Features
29
AUTO
AUTO
GAMMA
GAMMA
Gain-up
AUTOAUTO
GAMMA
When you are recording in a dark or poorlyilluminated 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 gain-up
function is now working.
AUTO
AUTO
L I GH TLIGHT
To obtain a brighter picture
Press the GAMMA/BRIGHTER button again.
• The ` indicator appears.
To cancel the gain-up function
Press the GAMMA/BRIGHTER button until
“GAMMA” disappears.
Notes:
• Some picture noise appears in Gain-up mode.
The picture noise increases when the `
indicator is displayed.
• When the ` indicator is displayed, a
residual image may appear behind a subject
that exhibits a lot of movement.
• Fine brightness adjustment is possible using the
manual exposure function (see page 45).
Useful Features
AUTO
AUTO
GAMMA
GAMMA
L I GH TLIGHT
30
Useful Features
Camera Recording
Night Recording (Cat’s Eye)
The night recording function allows you to
record the subject in darkness. This is useful
when you want to record subjects in very dim
conditions, e.g. a nocturnal animal.
Note:
• Use Night Recording when “LIGHT” is displayed.
Do not use in a bright location such as outdoors
in broad daylight.
CAT’S EYE switch
In CAMERA mode, set the CAT’S EYE switch to
ON.
•“CAT’S EYE” appears, and the picture becomes
brighter.
AUTOAUTO
L I GH TLIGHT
To cancel Night Recording
Set the CAT’S EYE switch to OFF.
Notes:
• The picture will turn white if you use Night
Recording in a bright location.
• The camcorder may not be able to focus
correctly when using Night Recording. In such
cases, use the manual focus function to obtain
proper focus (see page 41).
• The following functions do not work when using
Night Recording.
— Manual shutter speed
— Manual exposure
— White balance lock
— Scene menu
• You can obtain a much brighter picture of the
subject by pressing the GAMMA/BRIGHTER
button to select Gain-up mode and then setting
the CAT’S EYE switch to ON.
Useful Features
31
AUTOAUTO
CAT’S EYECAT’S EYE
L I GH TLIGHT
Fade In and Fade Out
min
AUTO
SP
33
minmin
0
AUTO
F ADEFADE I NIN
SP
min
0
1 2 bit12 bit
AUTO
SP
2
min
727
AUTO
F ADEFADE O U TOU T
SP
min
1 2 bit12 bit
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 for indicating a
dramatic change in scenery.
Fade in
Using Fade Mode
1Press the REC START/STOP button to
begin recording.
• The picture turns white, and the image
and sound fade in.
Fade out
Setting Fade Mode
1Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode.
2Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
3Select T, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “FADE” (1),
then press r (2).
MANU AL S ET
M
AN. FOCUS
SHUT. S P EE D
EXPOSURE
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
OFF
ON
4Press d or y to select “ON”, then
press e.
FADE
ON
5Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
•“FADE” is displayed.
AUTO
AUTO
F ADEFADE
1 2 bit12 bit
2Press 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.
Useful Features
To cancel Fade mode
Select “OFF” in step 4 in “Setting Fade Mode”.
To use Fade Out only
1During recording, perform steps 2 to 5 in
“Setting Fade Mode” to display “FADE”.
2Press the REC START/STOP button at
the point where you wish to stop
recording.
Note:
• Fade mode is automatically cancelled after Fade
Out.
FADE indicator
min
0
min
0
33
SP
SP
32
Useful Features
Camera Recording
Still Recording
You can record still images of subjects with
normal sound by selecting one of two still
recording modes.
Type of Still Recording modes
SNAP: A still picture is recorded for 6 seconds.
STILL: A continuous still image is recorded.
Selecting Still Recording Mode
1Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode.
2Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
3Select Y, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “SNAP EFF.”
(1), then press r (2).
CAMERA SE T
PHOTO SNAP
EFF.SNAP
OF F
DGT L Z OOM
TAPE SPEED
4Press d or y to select “OFF”, then
Useful Features
press e.
PHOTO SHOT
OFFEFF.SNAP
5Press y (1) to select “PHOTO
SNAP”, then press r (2).
CAMERA SE T
PHOTO SNAP SNAP
DGT L Z OOM
TAPE SPEED
ST ILL
EFF.SNAP
6Press d or y to select the desired
still recording mode, then press e.
PHOTO SNAP STI LL
7Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
Using Still Recording
1In Recording Standby
mode, press the STILL
button.
• A still image of the subject
is displayed.
2Press the REC START/STOP
button.
• The still image of the subject
will be recorded.
In SNAP mode, the camcorder returns to
Recording Standby mode after recording
a still image for 6 seconds.
To pause recording
Press the REC START/STOP button.
To cancel the still image
In SNAP mode, press the STILL button while
the camcorder is in Recording Standby
mode.
In STILL mode, press the STILL button.
Notes:
• Still Recording can also be used during
recording by pressing the STILL button.
• The picture quality in Still Recording mode will
be slightly lower than normal pictures.
33
Still Recording Effect (PHOTO
SHOT)
You can use a still recording effect to record
the still images. A still picture is recorded
following the sound and visual effects of a
camera shutter closing.
Using PHOTO SHOT mode
1In Recording Standby mode, press the
STILL button.
• A still image of the subject
is displayed.
Setting a still recording effect
1Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode.
2Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
3Select Y, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “PHOTO
SNAP” (1), then press r (2).
CAMERA SE T
PHOTO SNAP
DGT L Z OOM
TAPE SPEED
SNAP
ST ILL
EFF.SNAP
4Press d or y to select “SNAP” or
“STILL” , then press e.
PHOTO SNAP STI LL
5Press d or y (1) to select “SNAP
EFF.”, then press r (2).
CAMERA SE T
PHOTO SNAP
EFF.SNAP
OF F
DGT L Z OOM
TAPE SPEED
PHOTO SHOT
2Press the REC START/STOP
button.
• The still image of the subject
will be recorded.
To cancel the still image
In SNAP mode, press the STILL button while
the camcorder is in Recording Standby
mode.
In STILL mode, press the STILL button.
To cancel still recording effect
Select “OFF” in step 5 of “Setting a still
recording effect”.
Notes:
• PHOTO SHOT can also be used during
recording by pressing the STILL button.
• If you use PHOTO SHOT during recording, the
visual effects of a camera shutter closing are
recorded.
• You can use PHOTO SHOT without the sound
effect of a camera shutter closing by setting the
SOUND menu item to “OFF” (see page 48).
• The picture quality in PHOTO SHOT mode will be
slightly lower than normal pictures.
Useful Features
6Press d or y to select “PHOTO
SHOT” then press e.
EFF.SNAP
PHOTO SHOT
7Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
34
Useful Features
Camera Recording
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 whatever is 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
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 41. 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 1.8 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
Useful Features
lens is set for the widest angle.
Using the Remote Control
Use the supplied remote control to operate the
camcorder from a distance, such as when you
want to record yourself in a scene, or when the
camcorder is connected to a TV for use as a
VCR.
Installing the Batteries in the
Remote Control
1Open the battery compartment cover.
2Insert the two supplied AA (R6 or UM/
SUM-3) batteries with the battery poles
positioned as indicated.
1
2
3Replace the cover.
Caution:
• Do not use old and new batteries together or
batteries of different brands together.
Power Zoom control
Tripod
Notes:
• When you are recording a macro shot, be sure
that the subject receives sufficient illumination.
• It is recommended that you use a tripod for
recording macro shots, to prevent image
shaking.
35
Turning on the Remote Control
Mode
1Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
2Select I, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “REMOTE”
(1), then press r (2).
OTHERS
REMO TE
SOUND
TIME CODE
TC OUT
D EMO MO DE
ON
OFF
3Press d or y to select “ON”, then
press e.
REMOTE
ON
4Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
Operating the Remote Control
1Open the LCD monitor completely (1),
then rotate it 180° vertically (2).
180
90
2Set the Power switch on the camcorder
to CAMERA or VCR.
3Aim the remote control at the remote
sensor of the camcorder, and press the
control buttons for operation.
Remote sensor
REW button [p. 20]
REC START/STOP button [p. 17]
ZOOM W/T buttons
[pp. 18, 50]
VOL. +/L buttons
[p. 20]
PLAY button
[p. 20]
FF button
[p. 20]
STOP button
[p. 20]
SLOW button
[p. 39]
Shift buttons [p. 50]
Advance/reverse buttons [p. 39]
PAUSE/STILL button [pp. 22, 39]
Notes:
• Be careful not to allow direct sunlight or bright
light from interior illumination to fall onto the
remote sensor, 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.
• When the batteries are depleted and the remote
control does not operate, replace them with new
AA (R6 or UM/SUM-3) batteries.
Useful Features
5 m
Approximate operating
range of remote control
36
Useful Features
Camera Recording
Letting the Subject Monitor
the Shot
Open the LCD monitor and rotate it 180°
vertically so that the screen faces the other way
and the subject can monitor the shot while you
are recording with the viewfinder.
If the camcorder is steadied, you can record
yourself in the scene by watching yourself on
the LCD monitor. The supplied remote control is
useful for such occasions.
Useful Features
2Set the Power switch to CAMERA.
• The subject is displayed in the
viewfinder, and a mirror image of the
subject is displayed on the LCD monitor.
3Press the REC START/STOP button to
begin recording.
Caution:
• Do not invert the image by rotating the monitor
during recording.
Notes:
• The screen image is automatically inverted when
the vertical rotation of the monitor is between
135° and 180°. When the monitor is rotated back
to within 135°, the image returns to normal.
• If the F indicator flashes when the monitor is in
the inverted position, this indicates a warning. To
check the type of warning, rotate the monitor
back to within 135°. (See page 6 for descriptions
of the warning indicators.)
1Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to
the camcorder body (1), and then
rotate it 180° vertically (2).
180
90
37
Quick Return
Edit Search
When you have been playing back what you
have recorded, and wish to quickly return to
recording from the end of the last recorded
scene, use the quick return function.
1In Recording Standby mode, press the
MENU/DISPLAY button until the menu
screen appears.
2Select T, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “QK. RETURN”
(1), then press r (2).
MANU AL S ET
M
AN. FOCUS
SHUT. S P EE D
EXPOSURE
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
START
STOP
3Press d or y to select “START”,
then press e.
•“SEARCH” flashes, and the tape begins
fast forwarding or rewinding to the end
of the last recorded scene.
QK. RETURN
When the tape reaches the end of the last
recorded scene, “FINISHED” is displayed,
and the camcorder enters Recording
Standby mode.
SEARCH
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
1In Recording Standby
mode, press and hold
down r (forward edit
search) or e (reverse
edit search) on the
Operation button.
2When 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 six times the normal playback speed.
• Some picture noise appears during reverse edit
search.
Useful Features
4Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
Notes:
• To cancel the quick return function, press r to
select “STOP”, then press e.
• If the cassette has been removed since the last
recording or if no recording has been made
since the cassette was loaded, the quick return
function cannot be used.
38
Useful Features
Useful FeaturesPlayback
Playback
Playback Functions with the
Remote Control
These playback functions can be operated
using the supplied remote control. (See pages
35 and 36 for use of the remote control.)
PAUSE/STILL button
PLAY button
SLOW button
Advance/reverse
buttons
Reverse Playback
The reverse playback function allows you to
play back video in reverse.
During playback, press the j
button.
To return to normal playback, press the PLAY
button (t).
Useful Features
Slow
The slow function allows you to play back
images in slow motion.
During playback, press the SLOW
button (f).
Frame Advance
The frame advance function allows you to play
back still images frame by frame.
1During playback, press the
PAUSE/STILL button (g) to
pause playback.
2Press the h (or j) button.
• Each time you press the button,
the picture advances one
frame forward (or backward).
To return to normal playback, press the PLAY
button (t).
Notes:
• The sound is off during reverse, slow, and frame
advance playback.
• If you use the slow or frame advance function
with the tape recorded in LP mode, the picture
may advance several frames at a time.
• Clearer still images can be achieved by
recording with a fast shutter speed (see page
43).
To view slow playback in reverse, press the j
button.
To return to normal playback, press the PLAY
button (t).
Note:
• To protect the tape, the camcorder automatically
returns to normal playback if it is left in Slow
mode for more than 10 minutes.
39
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. You can
display the time code on the screen as an
accurate counter in both VCR and CAMERA
modes.
Display format
00010 20TC
Frame number*
Second
Minute
Hour
• The example screens for this feature are for VCR
mode.
* Displayed during still
or frame advance
playback.
1During playback or recording, press the
MENU/DISPLAY button until the menu
screen appears.
2Select I, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “TIME CODE”
(1), then press r (2).
OTHERS
REMO TE
SOUND
TIME CODE
TC OUT
DISP. OFF
DISP. ON
4Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
• The time code appears.
Time code
TC0 0 5:35:
SP
To turn off the time code
Select “DISP. OFF” in step 3 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
1In VCR mode, select I, then press r
on the Operation button. Select “TC
OUT” (1), then press r (2).
OTHERS
REMO TE
SOUND
TIME CODE
TC OUT
OFF
ON
2Press d or y to select “ON”, then
press e.
Useful Features
3Press d or y to select “DISP. ON”,
then press e.
TIME CODE
DISP. ON
TC OUT
ON
40
Advanced Features
Advanced FeaturesCamera 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.
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.
1Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode.
2Press the AUTO ON/OFF button to
select Manual mode.
3Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
4Select T, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “MAN. FOCUS”
(1), then press r (2).
MANU AL S ET
M
AN. FOCUS AUTO
SHUT. S PEE D
EXPOSURE
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
M
ANUAL
5Press e to display the focus setting
screen.
MANUAL
FOCUS
FAR
NEAR
SP
SE T [ BUT TON]
12 bit
6Adjust the Power Zoom
control to frame the
subject as you desire.
Advanced Features
41
7Press d or y (1) to focus on the
min
subject, then press e (2).
MANU AL MF
FOCUS
FAR
NEAR
SE T [ BUT TON]
MANU AL MF
FOCUS
AUTO
SET
SE T [ BUT TON]
SP
SP
12 bit
12 bit
8Press e.
MANU AL S E T
M
AN. FOCUSMANUAL
SHUT. S PE ED
EXPOSURE
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
To cancel Manual Focus mode
After performing step 4 above, select “AUTO”,
then press e.
Notes:
• The camcorder may not be able to focus
correctly if the subject is within approximately
1.8 m. Set the zoom control to wide angle, and
then try refocusing.
• If the lens is dirty or fogged, the camcorder may
not be able to correctly focus.
• When “MF” is displayed, you can manually
adjust the focus by pressing d or y, even if
the focus setting screen is not displayed.
• When you want to cancel all manual settings and
return to Auto mode, press the AUTO ON/OFF
button.
9Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
• “MF” is displayed.
Manual focus indicator
MANUAL MF
AUTO
33
min
0SPmin
0
SP
12 bit
Advanced Features
42
Advanced Features
Camera Recording
Setting the Shutter Speed
The shutter speed is preset to auto mode,
which automatically chooses the optimal
shutter speed for the ambient light. However,
depending on the subject or situation, you may
want to set the shutter speed manually to
create a high-quality picture.
1Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode.
2Press the AUTO ON/OFF button to
select Manual mode.
3Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
4Select T, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “SHUT.
SPEED” (1), then press r (2).
MANU AL S ET
M
AN. FOCUS
SHUT. S P EE D
EXPOSURE
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
AUTO
M
ANUAL
5Press e to display the shutter speed
setting screen.
6Press d or y (1) to select the
desired shutter speed, then press e
(2).
• The selected shutter speed is displayed
on the menu screen.
MANUAL
SHUT.
+
-
MANU AL S E T
M
AN. FOCUS
SHUT. S PEE D
EXPOSURE
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
SPEED
SP
SE T [ BUT TON]
12 bit
00001
0020
AUTO
2000
7Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
To return to Auto Shutter Speed mode
After performing step 4 above, select “AUTO”,
then press e.
Advanced Features
43
MANUAL
SHUT.
SPEED
+
-
SE T [ BUTTON]
Shutter speed
indicator
10000
4000
2000
1000
500
250
120
50
AUTO
SP
Shutter speed
12 bit
00001
AUTO
AUTO
1/10,000 sec.
1/4,000 sec.
1/2,000 sec.
1/1,000 sec.
1/500 sec.
1/250 sec.
1/120 sec.
1/50 sec.
Variable
Recommended Shutter Speeds
The faster the shutter speed, the darker the
picture becomes. Select the most appropriate
shutter speed for the ambient light.
Situation
• Recording sports action in
bright daylight.
• Recording in bright daylight
at a ski resort.
• Recording outdoor sports on
a partially cloudy day.
• Recording an outside scene
through a car window (when
you want to minimize blur
caused by the camera
shaking).
• When you want to reduce
the light by half. Use as a
substitute for an ND2 filter.
Recommended
shutter speed
1/10,000 sec.
l
1/1,000 sec.
1/1,000 sec.
l
1/250 sec.
1/120 sec.
Tips on Using the Manual Shutter
Speed
• Fast shutter speeds can be used with the still
recording function (see page 33) to record
higher quality still images of fast-moving
subjects.
• If the on-screen picture flickers when
recording under fluorescent lighting, you may
be able to compensate by setting the shutter
speed to 1/120 sec.
Notes:
• Recording with a shutter speed faster than 1/50
sec. tends to darken the picture. Record in
bright locations when you use a fast shutter
speed.
• Using a fast shutter speed under fluorescent
lighting will cause flickering in the picture and
possibly periodic colour shifts.
• The manual shutter speed setting will be
cancelled if a scene setting is selected
thereafter.
• The manual shutter speed setting cannot be
used with Night Recording.
• When you want to cancel all manual settings and
return to Auto mode, press the AUTO ON/OFF
button.
Advanced Features
44
Advanced Features
Camera Recording
Manual Exposure
The camcorder is preset to Auto Exposure
mode, which automatically chooses the optimal
aperture. When there is too much contrast in
brightness between the subject and background, however, 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.
1Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode.
2Press the AUTO ON/OFF button to
select Manual mode.
3Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
5Press e to display the exposure setting
screen.
MANUAL
EXPOSURE
+
-
SP
SE T [ BUT TON]
12 bit
+5
0
-
5
6Press d or y 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
+
-
SP
SE T [ BUT TON]
12 bit
+5
+
-
3
5
7Press e.
• The selected exposure level is displayed
on the menu screen.
MANU AL S E T
M
AN. FOCUS
SHUT. S PE ED
EXPOSURE
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
+
3
4Select T, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “EXPOSURE”
(1), then press r (2).
Advanced Features
45
MANU AL S ET
M
AN. FOCUS
SHUT. S PEE D
EXPOSURE
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
AUTO
M
ANUAL
8Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
To cancel Manual Exposure mode
After performing step 4 above, select “AUTO”,
then press e.
Notes:
• Manual Exposure mode will be cancelled if a
scene setting is selected thereafter.
• Manual Exposure cannot be used with Night
Recording.
• When you want to cancel all manual settings and
return to Auto mode, press the AUTO ON/OFF
button.
White Balance Lock
MANUAL
MANUAL
WB
LOCK
WB
LOCK
The colour of the subject on the screen tends
to look different depending on the lighting
condition. The camcorder is preset to Auto
White Balance mode, which automatically
adjusts the hue of the picture for the current
lighting condition.
Auto White Balance may not work properly for
the following subjects. In this case, use the
white balance lock function.
• Subjects with one dominant colour or
subjects against background with one
dominant colour
• Subjects under very bright light source, e.g.
video lights
• Subjects under light source with red hue, e.g.
glow of sunset
• Close-up images of small objects
Note:
• White Balance Lock cannot be set when the
camcorder is in Easy mode or the CAT’S EYE
switch is set to ON.
W/B button
1Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode.
2Press the W/B button to display the
white balance lock screen.
AUTO
WH I T E B AL .
SET MENU DI SPLAY
3Aim the lens at a white object.
• Adjust the distance of the object so that the
entire screen is white.
4Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to set
the white balance lock.
•“W/B LOCK” flashes during the locking
procedure. To cancel the locking procedure, press the MENU/DISPLAY button
while “W/B LOCK” flashes.
5Press the W/B button to turn off the
white balance lock screen.
•“W/B LOCK” is displayed.
MANUAL
WB
30
LOCK
min
SP
12 bit
To cancel White Balance Lock
1Press the W/B button, then press the
MENU/DISPLAY button.
•“W/B LOCK” changes to “WHITE BAL.”.
2Press the W/B button to turn off the
white balance lock screen.
Notes:
• If the light source changes or if you move from
indoors to outdoors, or vice versa, when
recording with the white balance locked, the
white balance may shift. Reset the white
balance.
• Do not move the camcorder while “W/B LOCK” is
flashing in step 4.
• If “W/B LOCK” does not stop flashing in step 4,
press the MENU/DISPLAY button to cancel the
locking procedure, and repeat step 4.
• White Balance Lock will be cancelled if a
scene setting is selected thereafter.
Advanced Features
46
Advanced Features
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.
Type of Scene Settings
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.
PART Y: When the illumination is from a
spotlight or candles.
1Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode.
2Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
MANU AL S ET
M
AN. FOCUS
SHUT. S P EE D
EXPOSURE
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
3Select T, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “SCENE
MENU” (1), then press r (2).
MANU AL S ET
M
AN. FOCUS
SHUT. S PEE D
EXPOSURE
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
OFF
SPORT
SUNL IGHT
DUSK
PARTY
4Press d or y to select the scene
setting that best fits the recording
situation, then press e.
• The selected scene setting is displayed on
the menu screen.
SCENE MENU
SPORT
5Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
• The selected scene setting indicator is
displayed.
Scene setting indicator
SPORT
min
30
SP
To cancel the scene setting
Select “OFF” in step 4 above.
Note:
• Scene settings cannot be used when Night
Recording is used or a still image is displayed.
Advanced Features
47
Digital Picture Effects
These digital picture effects let you record the
subject with a more dramatic effect.
Type of Digital Picture Effects
B/W: To record in black-and-white.
SEPIA: To record in sepia colour similar to that
of an old photograph.
MOSAIC: To record a picture divided up into
tiles.
1Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode.
2Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
3Select T, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “PIC. EFFECT”
(1), then press r (2).
MANU AL S ET
M
AN. FOCUS
SHUT. S PEE D
EXPOSURE
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
OFF
BW
SEP I A
M
OSA I C
Setting the Confirmation
Sounds
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
change the type of sound or to turn off the
confirmation sounds altogether.
Type of Confirmation Sound
Settings
CHIME: A chiming sound is made.
BEEP: An electronic beeping sound is made.
OFF: No confirmation sound is made.
1Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
2Select I, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “SOUND” (1),
then press r (2).
OTHERS
REMO TE
SOUND
TIME CODE
TC OUT
D EMO MO DE
CH I ME
BEEP
OFF
4Press d or y to select the desired
digital picture effect, then press e.
• The selected digital picture effect is
displayed on the menu screen.
PI C. EFFECT
BW
5Press the MENU/DISPLAY 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.
3Press d or y to select the desired
sound setting, then press e.
SOUND
BEEP
4Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
Note:
• If “OFF” is selected, the sound effect of a
camera shutter closing in PHOTO SHOT mode
will also be turned off.
Advanced Features
48
Advanced Features
Camera Recording
Using the Zoom Microphone
(Optional Accessory)
With the optional zoom microphone VR-5MC,
you can record audio according to the
magnification of the zoom lens for producing
the optimum sound. You can also set the zoom
microphone to record only sounds at a
distance.
Mounting the Zoom Microphone
1Align the mounting pin of the zoom
microphone with the mounting hole on
the camcorder, and slide the zoom
microphone in the direction of the arrow
until it locks into place.
Mounting hole
Mounting pin
2Turn the screw in the direction of the
arrow to secure the zoom microphone.
Screw
Selecting Zoom Microphone Mode
Select a Zoom Microphone mode when the
zoom microphone is mounted.
Type of Zoom Microphone modes
AUTO: The camcorder automatically selects
the optimum sound according to the magnification of the zoom lens. When the zoom lens
is at a wide-angle setting, the built-in microphone is used to record sounds. As the zoom
magnification increases, the sounds from the
zoom microphone and built-in microphone
are mixed according to the zoom setting.
TELE: The zoom microphone is fixed to record
sounds at a distance. (The built-in microphone is turned off.)
OFF: The zoom microphone is turned off. (The
built-in microphone is on.)
1Mount the zoom microphone to the
camcorder.
2Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode.
3Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
4Select U, then press r on the Opera-
tion button. Select “ZOOM MIC” (1),
then press r (2).
AUD I O S E T
AUD I O MODE
ZOOM MI C
AUTO
TELE
OFF
Removing the zoom microphone
Turn the screw in the opposite direction than
when mounting, and then pull off the zoom
Advanced Features
microphone.
Caution:
• Do not pick up the camcorder by the zoom
microphone, as this may cause the camcorder
or zoom microphone to break down.
49
5Press d or y to select the desired
zoom microphone mode, then press e.
• The selected zoom microphone mode is
displayed on the menu screen.
ZOOM MI C
AUTO
6Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
Note:
• When the camcorder is in Easy mode, the Zoom
Microphone mode is fixed to “AUTO” and cannot
be selected on the menu screen.
Advanced Features
Playback
Playback Zoom
The playback zoom function allows you to
magnify the playback picture up to 10 times its
original size and to shift the magnified picture
by using the remote control (see pages 35 and
36 for use of the remote control).
ZOOM buttons
Shift buttons
1During playback (or still playback), press
the ZOOM T button to zoom in.
+
+
AUDIO
AUDIO
1 2
12
SP
SP
To cancel Playback Zoom
Press the ZOOM W button to zoom out to the
widest angle.
Notes:
• Use of Playback Zoom may cause a reduction in
picture quality for still images.
• Images in Playback Zoom mode cannot be
transferred to a personal computer.
2Press the Shift q, w, a, or s button to
shift the displayed image.
+
+
AUDIO
AUDIO
1 2
12
SP
SP
Advanced Features
50
Advanced Features
Playback
Gamma Playback
The gamma playback function improves the
playback picture 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.
+
+
1 2
12
SP
SP
GAMMA AUDIO1
GAMMA AUDIO1
To obtain a brighter picture, press the GAMMA/
BRIGHTER button again.
•“GAMMA2” appears.
GAMMA AUDIO22
GAMMA AUDIO
SP
SP
To cancel Gamma Playback
Advanced Features
Press the GAMMA/BRIGHTER button until
“GAMMA1” and “GAMMA2” disappear.
Note:
• Gamma Playback has no effect during still
playback.
51
+
+
1 2
12
Playback Effects
W
IPE
PB EFFECT
Playback effects can be used to create an
interesting scene transition between a still
image and the following image during playback.
Type of Playback Effects
OVERLAP: A still image fades out as the next
image fades in, replacing the previous image.
The two scenes momentarily dissolve.
WIPE: A still image is replaced with the next
image first appearing in the middle of the
screen and gradually expanding to fill the
screen.
Using Playback Effect
1In VCR mode, press the MENU/
DISPLAY button until the menu screen
appears.
2Select V, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “PB EFFECT”
(1), then press r (2).
PLAYBACK SET
AUDI O DUB
AUDI O
EFFECT
PIC.
PB EFFECT
OFF
OVERL AP
W
IPE
3Press d or y to select “OVERLAP”
or “WIPE”, then press e.
4Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
5Rewind or fast forward the tape to just
before the position where you want to
use the playback effect, and then begin
playback.
• The still image is replaced with the next
image with the selected playback effect.
Preparation
Plan the scene transition, and record still
images with the still recording function (see
page 33).
Notes:
• Playback effects can also be used to provide a
transition from a still image to a moving image.
• Record images for 6 seconds or longer. An
image recorded for less than 6 seconds may not
dissolve properly.
To cancel the playback effect
Select “OFF” in step 3 above.
Notes:
• Scene transition does not occur if Playback
Zoom or Picture Effect Playback is used
thereafter.
• Playback effects will be cancelled if the power
source is interrupted.
Advanced Features
52
Advanced Features
Playback
Picture Effect Playback
These picture effects let you play back images
with a more dramatic effect.
Type of Picture Effects
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.
MOSAIC: The picture is divided up into tiles.
• The example screens for this feature are for VCR
mode.
1During playback, press the MENU/
DISPLAY button until the menu screen
appears.
2Select V, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “PIC. EFFECT”
(1), then press r (2).
PLAYBACK SET
AUDI O DUB
AUDI O
PIC.
PB EFFECT
EFFECT
OFF
BW
SEP I A
M
OSA I C
3Press d or y to select the desired
picture effect, then press e.
P I C. EFFECT
BW
4Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
To cancel Picture Effect Playback
Advanced Features
Select “OFF” in step 3 above.
Note:
• Images in Picture Effect Playback mode cannot
be transferred to a personal computer.
53
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.
Yellow: To video input jack
White: To audio input (L) jack
Red: To audio input (R) jack
To S-video input socket
Audio/video cable (supplied)
S-video cable (commercially available)
To S-VIDEO socket
Yellow: To VIDEO jack
White: To AUDIO L jack
Red: To AUDIO R jack
Notes:
• If your VCR has only one audio input jack, use
the white plug for the audio connection on the
VCR.
• If your VCR has an S-video input socket, you can
use a commercially available S-video cable for
the video connection. (The yellow video plug
does not need to be connected to the VCR.)
Recording
POWER
Playback
PLAY
TV/VCRSET UP
Cutting Unwanted Sequences
1Play 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 40). Then, rewind the tape to
before the beginning of the portion that
you wish to keep.
2Load a video cassette into the recording
VCR.
3Press y on the camcorder to begin
CHANNEL
PAUSE
/STILL
STOP/
EJECT
REC
playback, and then press the Record
button on the VCR to begin recording.
4Press the Pause/Still button on the VCR
to pause recording when the source
tape reaches the beginning of the
sequence to be cut.
5Press 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 d 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 item is
set to “ON”. Set to “OFF” before editing (see
page 40).
Advanced Features
54
Advanced Features
Playback
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.
Video equipment
with DV terminal
(e.g. DV camcorder)
To DV terminal
DV cable
(commercially available)
To DV terminal
To Record to Video Equipment
See “Cutting Unwanted Sequences” on page
54, 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 Record from Video Equipment
1Set the camcorder to VCR mode, and
insert a Mini DV cassette.
2Begin playback on the video equipment
connected to the camcorder.
• Check the camcorder screen to see if
the picture is being properly received.
3Press the REC START/STOP button on
the camcorder.
• The camcorder enters the Recording
Standby mode.
Advanced Features
55
4Press y on the Operation button to
begin recording.
To stop recording
Press d on the Operation button.
Cutting Unwanted Sequences
1Press y to pause recording when the
source tape reaches the beginning of
the sequence to be cut.
2Press y 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 the 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.
Copyright Protection
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. However, these recordings
cannot be output to a TV or an external monitor.
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.
Advanced Features
56
Advanced Features
Playback
Configuring Software for
PC Connection
This camcorder can transfer still playback
images in VCR mode or still images in CAMERA mode to a personal computer by using the
supplied Video Capture Software.
System Requirements
• IBM PC/AT or compatible with Intelb Pentiumb
133 MHz or faster processor
• Microsoft Windowsb 95B, Windowsb 95C,
Windowsb 98, Windowsb 98 Second Edition,
Windowsb 2000 Professional*, or Windowsb
Me operating system
• 32 MB or more of RAM
• 9 MB minimum of available hard-disk space
• SVGA (800 K 600 pixels) colour display
monitor with 16-bit colour or higher
• CD-ROM drive (for installation)
• RS-232C serial port
• Mouse or other pointing device
* In the Windowsb 2000 Professional environ-
ment, only the system administrator has
installation access rights.
Installing the Software
1Turn on the PC and start up Windows.
2Insert the CD-ROM of the Video Capture
Software into the CD-ROM drive.
3Double click on the “My Computer” icon.
4Double click on the CD-ROM drive icon.
5Double click on the “Setup.exe” file.
Advanced Features
6Follow the instructions as they appear on
the PC monitor until the installation is
complete.
Connecting the camcorder to a
Personal Computer
1Turn off the PC.
2Connect the camcorder as shown below.
• Before connecting the camcorder to the
PC, make sure that the PC power is off
to insure that images are transferred
properly.
To RS-232C port
(D-sub 9-pin port)
PC connecting cable (supplied)
To PC connection jack
3Turn on the PC.
Notes:
• It is recommended to use the AC adapter/battery
charger as a power source for extended periods
of use.
• Images with the following functions cannot be
transferred to a personal computer.
— VCR mode: Playback Zoom, Picture Effect
Playback
— CAMERA mode: Digital Zoom, Digital Picture
Effects, Scene Menu
• To edit still images transferred with the Video
Capture Software, use a commercially available
image editing software.
7Restart the PC.
57
Using the Software
For tips on how to use the Video Capture
Software, refer to the operation manual located
on the CD-ROM in PDF format. Follow the steps
below to open the PDF file containing the
manual.
Note:
• For the latest product information, be sure to
read the “Readme” text file located in the
“Readme” folder of the Video Capture Software
CD-ROM. Select the “Readme” text file you
prefer. The letters between “Readme” and “.txt”
define the language; for example, “en” in
“Readmeen.txt” stands for English, etc.
Installing Adobe Acrobat Reader
Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0 or later is required
for viewing the PDF manual of the Video
Capture Software. If the Adobe Acrobat Reader
is not installed on your PC, perform steps
below to install one.
LanguageFile name
Chinese, Simplifiedar40chs.exe
Chinese, Traditionalar405cht.exe
Dutchar405dut.exe
Englishar405eng.exe
Frenchar405fre.exe
Germanar405deu.exe
Italianar405ita.exe
Koreanar405kor.exe
Portugesear405por.exe
Spanish, Castilianar405esl.exe
Swedishar405swe.exe
3Double click on the CD-ROM drive icon.
4Double click on the “Acroread” folder.
5Double click on the desired language
version.
6Follow the instructions as they appear
on the PC monitor until the installation is
complete.
7Restart the PC.
Opening the PDF Manual
1Insert the CD-ROM of the Video Capture
Software into the CD-ROM drive.
2Double click on the “My Computer” icon.
3Double click on the CD-ROM drive icon.
4Double click on the “Manual” folder.
5Double click on the PDF file of the
desired language version.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader launches and
the selected PDF manual opens.
Note:
• If the PDF file does not open, Adobe Acrobat
Reader may not be properly installed. Refer to
the steps of “Installing Adobe Acrobat Reader”
to check the installation procedure.
Printing the PDF Manual
Print out the PDF manual so that you can
consult it whenever necessary.
1Open the PDF manual.
Advanced Features
1Insert the CD-ROM of the Video Capture
Software into the CD-ROM drive.
2Double click on the“My Computer” icon.
2Select “Print” in the “File” menu.
Note:
• The menu expressions such as “Print” and
“File” may vary according to the language
version of Adobe Acrobat Reader installed
on the PC.
3Select your print settings, then click
“OK”.
58
Advanced Features
Playback
Transferring Motion Images
to a PC
It is possible to use the optional VR-PKU10E
PixLab USB Digital Moving Picture Kit to
transfer motion images with audio from the
camcoeder to a personal computer via a USB
port.
Audio conversion cable*
To audio input terminal
To USB port
USB capture cable*
Match the connectors of
the same colour.
S-video cable (commercially available)
To S-VIDEO
socket
Audio/video cable
(supplied with the
camcorder)
* Included with the optional VR-PKU10E PixLab
USB Digital Moving Picture Kit.
Notes:
• It is recommended to use the AC adapter/battery
charger as a power source for extended periods
of use.
• For details, see the operation manual for the
optional PixLab USB Digital Moving Picture Kit.
Advanced Features
59
Yellow: To VIDEO jack
White: To AUDIO L jack
Red: To AUDIO R jack
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
Note:
• Audio dubbing cannot be performed via the DV
terminal.
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 the dubbed and
original sounds are in 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 27.
Audio Dubbing
1Play back the recorded Mini DV cassette
and locate the tape position where you
wish to start audio dubbing.
2Press y to pause playback.
3Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
4Select V, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “AUDIO DUB”
(1), then press r (2).
• The audio dubbing screen appears.
PLAYBACK SET
AUDI OEXECUTEDUB
AUDI O
EFFECT
PIC.
PB EFFECT
+
AUDIO
12
AUDI O
DUB
START
STOP
To pause audio dubbing
Press e.
To quit audio dubbing
Press the MENU/DISPLAY button. The audio
dubbing screen disappears.
If you wish to change the dubbed audio
or dub additional scenes
1Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the audio dubbing screen.
2Repeat steps 1 to 5 above.
Notes:
• Audio dubbing cannot be used with record-
ings made in LP mode.
• 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 e 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
“Selecting the Audio Playback Mode” on next
page).
CANCEL MENU DISPLAY
5Press e to begin audio dubbing.
Record your narration.
AUDIO
AUDI O
DUB
START
STOP
+
12
Advanced Features
60
Advanced Features
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)
1Play back a Mini DV cassette with
dubbed audio.
2Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
3Select V, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “AUDIO” (1),
then press r (2).
PLAYBACK SET
AUDI O DUB
AUDI O
EFFECT
PIC.
PB EFFECT
+
1
2
1
2
4Press d or y to select the desired
audio playback mode, then press e.
+
AUDI O
12
5Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
• The selected audio playback mode
indicator is displayed.
+
AUDIO
12
Advanced Features
61
Audio playback
mode indicator
Note:
• The audio playback mode indicator, “AUDIO”, is
displayed 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, and a green
display, 16-bit recording mode.
Picture/Backlight
Adjustments
If the picture is difficult to see due to ambient
lighting or other factors, adjust the monitor
picture settings.
• The example screens for this feature are for
CAMERA mode.
Adjusting the Picture
1Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
2Press d or y to select O (1), then
press r (2) on the Operation button.
LCD VF SET
BACKL IGHT
LCD BRI GHT
LC D C OL OUR
BRI GHT
VF
AUTO
3Press d or y to select the item you
wish to adjust, then press r.
4Press d or y to adjust the item to
the desired setting.
LCD BR I GHT
LCD COLOUR
VF BR I GHT
Note:
• Close the LCD monitor to turn on the
viewfinder when adjusting the “VF
BRIGHT”.
DarkerBrighter
DecreaseIncrease
DarkerBrighter
Adjusting the Backlight
1Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
2Select O, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “BACKLIGHT”
(1), then press r (2).
LCD VF SET
BACKL IGHT
LCD BRI GHT
LC D C OL OUR
BRI GHT
VF
AUTO
NORMAL
BRI GHT
3Press d or y to select “AUTO”,
“NORMAL” or “BRIGHT”, then press e.
BACKL I GHT
AUTO: The camcorder automatically
switches between “NORMAL” and
“BRIGHT” depending on the ambient
lighting. 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.
BR I GHT
4Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
Note:
• When the colour or tint is adjusted, the picture
on the LCD monitor may differ from the picture
actually recorded. Do not change the colour and
tint settings unless it is necessary. (These
adjustments only affect the monitor picture, not
the recorded image.)
Advanced Features
5Press e, then press the MENU/
DISPLAY button to turn off the menu
screen.
62
;;;;;;
;
;;;;
Appendix
Appendix
Useful Information
Hints for Better Shooting
• Position the subject in the centre of the
scene. When you are 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 with this lighting, use
Gamma Brightness Compensation or correct
the exposure level to improve the picture (see
pages 29 and 45).
Light from behindBacklighting
• Before zooming, think about how to best
frame the shot. Frequent zooming produces
unattractive pictures. It also increases the
battery power consumption.
• 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.
Appendix
Note:
• It may take longer to focus when zooming and
panning are used frequently.
63
Focus manually when you
need to position the
subject off centre (see
pages 41 and 42).
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)
Situation (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)
Optimal lighting range
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)
100
○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
Shop stairway (100)
During intermission at movie theatre (15–35)
Cigarette lighter at 30 cm (15–20)
Candles on birthday cake at 20 cm (10–15)
10
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.
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.
64
Appendix
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 17 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 8).
Note:
• Use only SHARP BT-L221, BT-L441, BT-LS222 or
BT-LS442A battery packs. These are designed
specifically for use with this camcorder.
Appendix
65
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.
Battery pack
Label
Cover
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 being used.
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.
AC Adapter/Battery Charger
• The AC adapter/battery charger may interfere
with reception if used near a radio.
• Prevent flammables, liquids, and metal
objects from entering the adapter/charger.
• The adapter/charger is a sealed unit. Do not
attempt to open or modify it.
• Do not damage, drop, or subject the adapter/
charger to vibration.
• Do not leave the adapter/charger in direct
sunlight.
• Avoid using the adapter/charger 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.
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 soiling off the LCD screen.
• Use a soft cloth, or compressed air and lens
paper designed for photographic lenses to
clean the lens and the viewfinder eyepiece.
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/battery
charger or connecting the camcorder to a TV.
AC Adapter/Battery Charger
(Supplied Accessory)
The supplied AC adapter/battery charger 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.
66
Appendix
Appendix
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.
CAT’S EYE switch
MENU/DISPLAY button
Power switch
Operation button
Watching the Demonstration
1Remove the Mini DV cassette from the
camcorder (see page 10), and set the
CAT’S EYE switch to OFF.
2Hold down the Lock button
and set the Power switch to
CAMERA.
4Select I, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “DEMO MODE”
(1), then press r (2).
OTHERS
REMOTE
SOUND
TIME CODE
OUT
TC
D EMO MO DE
OFF
ON
5Press d or y to select “ON”, then
press e.
D EMO MOD E
ON
6Set the Power switch to OFF, then hold
down the Lock button and set the Power
switch to CAMERA.
• The demonstration begins.
Cancelling Demo Mode
1During the demonstration, press
the MENU/DISPLAY button to
pause the demonstration.
3Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until
the menu screen appears.
MANUAL S ET
M
AN. FOCUS
SHUT. S PEE D
EXPOSURE
PI C. EFFECT
SCENE MENU
FADE
QK. RETURN
Appendix
67
Lock button
2Select I, then press r on the
Operation button. Select “DEMO
MODE”, then press r.
3Press d or y to select “OFF”, then
press e.
D EMO MOD E
OFF
4Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to
turn off the menu screen.
Note:
• The demonstration will pause if you press the
MENU/DISPLAY 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.
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
Power Zoom control.
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 in
CAMERA mode.
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 1.8 m,
and automatically zooms out until it
focuses on subject.
Suggested solution
Connect power source properly
(pp. 8, 9).
Charge battery pack sufficiently
(p. 7).
Wait until dew dries (p. vi).
Set Power switch to OFF and
remove battery pack; wait for 2
seconds, then reinstall battery
pack and turn on power (p. 8).
Close tab or use a new cassette
(p. 64).
Set Power switch to OFF and then
back to CAMERA.
Set to Auto Focus mode (p. 42).
Zoom out from subject (p. 18).
Focus manually (p. 41).
——
——
On-screen displays
automatically change.
No image appears on
connected TV screen.
VCR mode
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.
Direct lens to some subject, or set
zoom to widest angle before
shooting (p. 18).
Set DEMO MODE menu item to
“OFF”(p. 67).
Select video input channel or TV
channel properly (p. 21).
Connect audio/video cable
properly (p. 21).
Appendix
68
Appendix
Symptom
Cannot play back, rewind
or fast forward tape.
Video noise in image.
VCR mode
Cassette will not eject.
Viewfinder picture is
hard to see.
LCD monitor picture is
hard to see.
Cannot edit to connected video equipment.
General
Remote control does
not function.
Possible cause
Position at beginning or end of
tape.
Dirty video heads.
Old or worn tape.
Power source is not properly
connected.
Battery pack is not charged.
Camcorder is recording.
Viewfinder dioptre is not properly
adjusted.
Inappropriate picture adjustments.
Audio/video or DV cable is not
properly connected.
REMOTE menu item is set to
“OFF”.
Remote control battery has run
down.
Remote control used beyond
operating range.
Suggested solution
Rewind or fast forward tape to
desired point (p. 20).
Call for service, or use a commercially available video head
cleaning tape (p. vii).
Use a new cassette.
Connect power source properly
(pp. 8, 9).
Charge battery pack sufficiently
(p. 7).
Stop tape and try again (p. 17).
Adjust dioptre (p. 15).
Adjust picture (p.62).
Connect audio/video or DV cable
properly (pp. 54–56).
Set REMOTE menu item to “ON”(pp. 35, 36).
Replace remote control batteries
with new ones (p. 35).
Use remote control within operating
range (p. 36).
Intense daylight falling on
camcorder remote sensor.
Obstacle between remote control
and camcorder remote sensor.
Notes:
• This unit is equipped with a microprocessor. Its performance could be adversely affected by external
electrical noise or interference. If this should happen, turn off the power and disconnect the unit from
any power sources, including the lithium battery, etc. Then reconnect the power sources to resume
operation.
• If the characters displayed in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor appear to malfunction, disconnect
the power source and remove the lithium battery, then reconnect the power source, insert the lithium
battery, and turn the power on again. The characters should be normal. Set the date and time, then
resume operation.
Protect remote sensor from
exposure to intense daylight (p. 36).
Remove obstacle or use remote
control from different angle (p. 36).
Appendix
69
Specifications
Camcorder
Signal System: PAL standard
Recording System: 2 rotary heads, helical scanning system