Sharp VL-WD450 User Manual

LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY CAMCORDER

OPERATION MANUAL

Please read this operation manual

carefully before using the VIEWCAM.

If you require any advice or assistance

regarding your Sharp product, please

visit our web-site www.sharp.co.uk/

support. Customers without Internet

access may telephone 08705 274277

during office hours (or (01)676 0648

if telephoning from Ireland) .

Operation References

MODEL

VL-WD450H

Preparation

Basic Operations

Useful Features

Advanced Features

SmartMedia Card

Features

Appendix

This equipment complies with the requirements of Directives 89/336/EEC and 73/23/EEC as amended by 93/68/EEC.

Dieses Gerät entspricht den Anforderungen der EG-Richtlinien 89/336/EWG und 73/23/EWG mit Änderung 93/68/EWG.

Ce matériel répond aux exigences contenues dans les directives 89/336/CEE et 73/23/CEE modifiées par la directive 93/68/CEE.

Dit apparaat voldoet aan de eisen van de richtlijnen 89/336/EEG en 73/23/EEG, gewijzigd door 93/68/EEG.

Dette udstyr overholder kravene i direktiv nr. 89/336/EEC og 73/23/EEC med tillæg nr. 93/68/ EEC.

Quest’ apparecchio è conforme ai requisiti delle direttive 89/336/EEC e 73/23/EEC, come emendata dalla direttiva 93/68/EEC.

« В„Н·Щ‹ЫЩ·ЫБ ·ıЩﬁ ·МЩ·ФНТﬂМВЩ·И ЫЩИЪ ··ИЩﬁЫВИЪ Щ˘М Ф‰Б„И˛М ЩБЪ EıТ˘·˙НﬁЪ EМ˘ЫБЪ 89/336/EOK Н·И 73/23/EOK, ¸˘Ъ ФИ Н·МФМИЫПФﬂ ·ıЩФﬂ ЫıПОБТ˛ЛБН·М ·¸ ЩБМ Ф‰Б„ﬂ· 93/68/ EOK.

Este equipamento obedece às exigências das directivas 89/336/CEE e 73/23/CEE, na sua versão corrigida pela directiva 93/68/CEE.

Este aparato satisface las exigencias de las Directivas 89/336/CEE y 73/23/CEE, modificadas por medio de la 93/68/CEE.

Denna utrustning uppfyller kraven enligt riktlinjerna 89/336/EEC och 73/23/EEC så som kompletteras av 93/68/EEC.

Dette produktet oppfyller betingelsene i direktivene 89/336/EEC og 73/23/EEC i endringen 93/ 68/EEC.

Tämä laite täyttää direktiivien 89/336/EEC ja 73/23/EEC vaatimukset, joita on muutettu direktiivillä 93/68/EEC.

WARNING

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

Recording and playback of any material may require consent. Please refer particularly to the provisions of the Copyright Act 1956, the Dramatic and Musical Performers Protection Act 1958, the Performers Protection Acts 1963 and 1972 and to any subsequent statutory enactments and orders.

CAUTION

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

Power supply:

WARNING: THIS AC ADAPTER/BATTERY CHARGER IS NOT FOR USE WITH TOYS. THIS AC ADAPTER/BATTERY CHARGER IS FOR USE WITH SHARP VIEWCAM MODEL VL-WD450H ONLY.

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.

Web-site:www.sharp.co.uk/support Help line:08705 274277 (office hours)

SPECIAL NOTE FOR USERS IN THE U.K.

The mains lead of this product is fitted with a non-rewireable (moulded) plug incorporating a 3A fuse. Should the fuse need to be replaced, a BSI or ASTA approved BS 1362 fuse marked

or and of the same rating as above, which is also indicated on the pin face of the plug,

must be used.

Always refit the fuse cover after replacing the fuse. Never use the plug without the fuse cover fitted.

In the unlikely event of the socket outlet in your home not being compatible with the plug supplied, cut-off the mains plug and fit an appropriate type.

DANGER: The fuse from the cut-off plug should be removed and the cut-off plug destroyed

To fit an appropriate plug to the mains lead, follow the instructions below: IMPORTANT: The wires in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code:

As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this product may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:

— The wire which is coloured blue must be connected to the plug terminal which is marked N

— The wire which is coloured brown must be connected to the plug terminal which is marked

Ensure that neither the brown nor the blue wire is connected to the earth terminal in your threepin plug.

Before replacing the plug cover make sure that:

— If the new fitted plug contains a fuse, its value is the same as that removed from the cut-off

— The cord grip is clamped over the sheath of the mains lead and not simply over the lead

IF YOU HAVE ANY DOUBT, CONSULT A QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN.

immediately and disposed of in a safe manner.

Under no circumstances should the cut-off plug be inserted elsewhere into a 13A socket outlet, as a serious electric shock may occur.

Blue: Neutral Brown: Live

or coloured black.

L or coloured red.

plug.

wires.

NOTE:

The LCD panel of this camcorder is a very high technology product with more than 61,000 thinfilm transistors*, giving you fine picture detail. Occasionally, a pixel may appear on the screen as a fixed point of blue, green, red, or black. Please note that this does not affect the performance of your camcorder.

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Trademarks

• SmartMedia is a trademark of Toshiba Corporation.

• DPOF is a trademark of CANON INC., Eastman Kodak Company, Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. and

Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.

• All other brand or product names are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective holders.

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Supplied Accessories

Battery pack

BT-L221

Remote control

Lens cap Shoulder strap

AC adapter/

battery charger

AA battery for

remote control K 2

Power cord

CR2025 type

lithium battery

3.3 V type 8 MB

SmartMedia™ card*

DC cable

Audio/video cable

(RCA type)

SmartMedia card

protective case

S-video cable DV cable

* Including 2 index labels and 4 write-protect seals.

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Earphones connecting

cable

Optional Accessories

Standard-life battery pack

BT-L221

Zoom microphone

VR-5MC

Extended-life

battery pack

BT-L441

Standard-life intelligent

battery pack

BT-LS222

PixLab Video Capture Software

(Lite Version)

VR-PK50E

Extended-life intelligent

battery pack

BT-LS442A

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Precautions

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

• Do not aim the lens at the sun.

Do not allow direct sunlight to strike the camcorder lens or LCD monitor screen, whether or not recording is in progress, as it may damage the CCD sensor or LCD screen surface. Be particularly careful when recording outside.

• When shooting in dark places, avoid sudden brightly lit objects or light sources, such as the sun. Otherwise, the image may white out. Should this happen, point the lens in a different direction until the picture returns to normal.

• Avoid magnetic sources.

Using the camcorder near strong fluorescent lights, motors, televisions, or other magnetic sources may adversely affect recorded images.

• Using the camcorder near a broadcasting station or other powerful transmission source may cause buzzing or picture deterioration.

• Avoid shocks and dropping.

Do not drop or otherwise subject the camcorder to hard shocks or strong vibrations. Bumping or striking the unit during recording will generate noise in the recorded image.

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

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

• Always respect prohibitions or restrictions

on the use of electronic equipment on commercial flights or in other sensitive areas.

• Be aware of the temperature and humidity.

You can use your camcorder at 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.).

iii

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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 acclimatise to the surroundings for about one hour. For example, when bringing the camcorder indoors after skiing, place it in a plastic bag.

• “Dew” warning feature

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

1 If “DEW” flashes, remove the cassette, leave

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

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

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.

Web-site:www.sharp.co.uk/support Help line:08705 274277 (office hours)

Dirty Video Heads

CLEANING

CLEANINGNOW

START

STOP

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 your SHARP dealer for further advice or refer to page 91 “Before Requesting Service”.

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.

1 Insert a cleaning tape into the

camcorder.

2 Set the camcorder to TAPE-VCR mode.

• The video head cleaning screen appears.

3 Press e on the Operation button to

begin video head cleaning.

•“NOW CLEANING” flashes during cleaning.

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

4 Remove the cleaning tape.

To cancel cleaning, press e.

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Contents

Operation References

Preparation

Basic Operations

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

Quick Reference List ................................................. 4

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

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

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

Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack.............. 10

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

Inserting and Removing a Mini DV Cassette .......... 12

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

Setting the Area, Date and Time ............................. 14

Displaying the Date and Time of Recording ............ 15

Adjusting the Hand Strap ........................................ 16

Using the Lens Cap ................................................ 16

Attaching the Shoulder Strap .................................. 16

Using the Viewfinder ............................................... 17

Using the LCD Monitor ............................................ 18

Camera Recording

Easy Camera Recording on Tape

in Full Auto Mode .................................................. 19

Zooming .................................................................. 20

Tips on Recording Positions ................................... 20

Remaining Recording Time Display ........................ 21

Remaining Battery Power Display ........................... 21

Playback

Tape Playback ......................................................... 22

Volume Control ........................................................ 22

Watching the Playback on a TV .............................. 23

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

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

Preparation

Basic Operations

Useful Features

Advanced Features

Useful Features

Selecting the Camcorder Mode .............................. 25

Using the Controls .................................................. 26

Selecting the User Mode ......................................... 27

Using the Menu Screens ......................................... 28

Camera Recording

Recording in LP (Long Play Recording) Mode ........ 29

Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode ............ 30

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

Setting the Digital Zoom .......................................... 31

Gamma Brightness Compensation ......................... 32

Gain-up ................................................................... 33

Night Recording (Super Cat’s Eye) ......................... 34

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SmartMedia Card

Features

Appendix

Contents

Useful Features

Advanced Features

Fade In and Fade Out ............................................. 35

Wide Screen (16:9) ................................................. 36

Quick Return ........................................................... 37

Edit Search ............................................................. 37

Still Recording on Tape ........................................... 38

Still Recording Effects ............................................. 39

Auto Focus .............................................................. 41

Macro Shots ............................................................ 41

Using the Remote Control ....................................... 41

Letting the Subject Monitor the Shot ....................... 43

Playback

Playback Functions with the Remote Control ......... 44

Using the Time Code .............................................. 45

Camera Recording

Manual Exposure .................................................... 46

Manual Focus.......................................................... 47

Setting the Shutter Speed ....................................... 49

White Balance Lock ................................................ 51

Digital Picture Effects .............................................. 52

Scene Menu (Program AE) ..................................... 53

Using the Zoom Microphone

(Optional Accessory) ............................................. 54

World Clock ............................................................. 55

Windbreak ............................................................... 57

Setting the Confirmation Sounds ............................ 57

Selecting Summer Time .......................................... 58

Playback

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

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

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

Playback Effects ...................................................... 61

Picture Effect Playback ........................................... 62

Picture/Backlight Adjustments................................. 63

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

Editing with the DV Terminal (IEEE1394) ................ 65

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

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

Configuring Software for PC Connection ................ 69

vii

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Operation References

SmartMedia Card Features

Appendix

Camera Recording

Inserting and Removing a SmartMedia Card .......... 71

Card Recording ....................................................... 72

Selecting the Picture Resolution ............................. 73

Recording with the Self-timer .................................. 74

Formatting a SmartMedia Card ............................... 75

Playback

Card Playback ......................................................... 76

Slide Show Playback............................................... 77

Delete-protection ..................................................... 78

Deleting One Stored Image .................................... 79

Deleting All Stored Images ..................................... 80

Print Order .............................................................. 81

Transferring the Data on a SmartMedia Card

to a Computer ....................................................... 83

Useful Information ................................................... 84

Demonstration Mode ............................................... 90

Before Requesting Service ..................................... 91

Specifications .......................................................... 93

Preparation

Basic Operations

Useful Features

Advanced Features

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SmartMedia Card

Features

Appendix

viii

Operation References

Part Names

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

Operation References

Left view

GAMMA/BRIGHTER button [pp. 32, 33, 60]

W/B (White Balance) button [p. 51]/

IR (Infrared) LIGHT button [p. 34]

SUPER CAT’S EYE switch [p. 34]

Lens hood

Zoom lens

Infrared light

transmitter [p. 34]/

Remote sensor [p. 41]

Stereo microphone

[p. 66]

AUTO ON/OFF button [p. 27]

Operation button [p. 26]

MENU/DISPLAY button [p. 26]

Media Selection switch (TAPE/CARD selection switch) [p. 25]

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Left view

LCD monitor [p. 18]

LCD monitor

OPEN release

button [p. 18]

Zoom microphone mounting hole [p. 54]

Lithium battery compartment door [p. 13]

Operation References

Viewfinder [p. 17]

Dioptre adjustment [p. 17]

Power source PUSH release button [pp. 10, 11]

Power source mounting surface [pp. 10, 11]

Shoulder strap loop [p. 16]

Bottom view

Card slot cover

Tripod socket

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Operation References

Right view

Operation References

S-VIDEO socket

[pp. 23, 64]

Power Zoom Wide angle/ Telephoto control [p. 20]/ VOLume control [p. 22]

STILL button

[pp. 38, 39, 60, 72]

VIDEO jack [pp. 23, 64]

AUDIO L jack

[pp. 23, 64]

AUDIO R jack

[pp. 23, 64]

Power switch (CAMERA/VCR select switch) [pp. 25, 26]

RECord START/STOP button

Jack cover [pp. 23, 64]

Cassette compartment door [p. 12]

Cassette compartment door release [p. 12]

[p. 19]

Shoulder strap loop [p. 16]

PC connection jack [p. 69]

DV terminal [p. 65]

EarPHONES jack [p. 22]

Hand strap [p. 16]

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Jack cover [pp. 22, 65, 69]

Speaker [p. 22]

Quick Reference List

Below are some examples of camcorder’s features.

• To record the subject with higher-quality audio. — See page 30 (Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode)

• To record powerful close-up images. — See page 31 (Setting the Digital Zoom)

• To record a backlit subject. — See page 32 (Gamma Brightness Compensation) or page 46 (Manual

Exposure)

• To record subjects at night, e.g. a nocturnal animal. — See page 34 (Night Recording)

• To quickly return the tape to the end of the last recorded scene after playback. — See page 37 (Quick Return)

• To record yourself in the scene while monitoring the shot. — See page 43 (Letting the Subject Monitor the Shot)

• To focus on an off-centred subject. — See page 47 (Manual Focus)

• To turn off the confirmation sounds which are made when you operate the

camcorder.

— See page 57 (Setting the Confirmation Sounds)

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

• To brighten the dark portion of the playback images without changing the bright

portion.

— See page 60 (Gamma Playback)

• To record still images on a SmartMedia card so that the images may be easily read

into a computer.

— See page 72 (Card Recording)

Operation References

Web-site:www.sharp.co.uk/support Help line:08705 274277 (office hours)

Operation References

On-screen Display Index

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

Operation References

TAPE-CAMERA mode

AUTO

pp. 19, 27

AUTO

p. 21

pp. 33, 34

min

p. 30

p. 19

LIGHT

12 bit

p. 30

p. 29

MANUA L SE T

AN. FOCUS SHUT. S PEED EXPOSURE

PI C. EFFECT SCENE MENU FADE

QK. RETURN

DIS

Easy mode (p. 27)

FADE QK. RETURN PHOT O

SNAP

EFF. WI ND SOUND DISPLAY

p. 35 p. 37 p. 38 p. 39 p. 57 p. 57 p. 15

MANUAL SE T

AN. FOCUS SHUT. S PE ED EXPOSURE PI C. EFFECT SCENE MENU FADE QK. RETURN DIS

CAMERA SET

PHOTO SNAP SNAP EF F. DGT L Z OOM TAPE SPEED

619:

AUD IO SE T

AUD IO MODE ZOOM MI C W

IND

OTHERS

REMO TE SOUND TIME CODE TC OUT D EMO MO DE

LCD VF SET

BACKL IGHT LCD BRI GHT LCD COLO

BRI GHT

CLOCK SET

DISPLAY AREA SUMR T IME SET T ING

12H 24H

p. 47 p. 49 p. 46 p. 52 p. 53 p. 35 p. 37 p. 30 p. 38 p. 39 p. 31 p. 29 p. 36 p. 30 p. 54 p. 57 p. 41 p. 57 p. 45 p. 45 p. 90

p. 63

p. 15 pp. 14, 55 p. 58 p. 14 p. 15

TAPE-VCR mode

AUDIO

p. 21

p. 29

PLAYBACK SE T

AUDI O DUB AUDI O

EFFECT

PIC. PB EFFECT M

ULTI F RAME

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p. 68

PLAYBACK SET

AUDI O DUB AUDI O

EFFECT

PIC. PB EFFECT M

ULTI FR AME

OTHERS

REMO TE SOUND TIME CODE TC OUT

LCD

VF SET

BACKL IGHT LCD BRI GHT LCD COLO

BRI GHT

CLOCK SET

DISPLAY

p. 67 p. 68 p. 62 p. 61 p. 60 p. 41 p. 57 p. 45 p. 45

p. 63

p. 15

Operation References

CARD-CAMERA mode

AUTO

p. 27

AUTO

NORMAL

p. 73

p. 30

p. 21

CARD CARD

p. 72

CARD

p. 72

CARD-VCR mode

NORMAL

100 00 06-

p. 76

MANUA L SE T

9001

Easy mode (p. 27)

SELF

TIMER

REC MODE

SOUND DISPLAY

PLAYBACK SE T

AN. FOCUS SHUT. S PEED EXPO SURE

PIC.EFFECT SCENE

MENU SEL F TI MER DIS

SL IDE SHO

EFFECTPIC. PROTE CT DELETE DELETE ALL PRI . ORDER

p. 47 p. 49 p. 46 p. 52 p. 53 p. 74 p. 30 p. 73 p. 39 p. 31 p. 41 p. 75 p. 57 p. 90

p. 63

p. 15 pp. 14, 55 p. 58 p. 14

p. 15

p. 77 p. 62 p. 78 p. 79 p. 80 p. 81 p. 41 p. 57

p. 63

p. 15

MANUAL SE T

AN. FOCUS SHUT. S PE ED EXPOSURE PI C. EFFECT SCENE

MEN U SEL F T IMER DIS

CAMERA SET

REC MODE SNAP EFF. DGT L Z OOM

OTHERS

REMOTE FORMAT SOUND DE MO MO DE

LCD VF SET

BACKL IGHT LCD BRI GHT LCD COLOUR

BRI GHT

p. 74 p. 73 p. 57 p. 15

CLOCK SET

DISPLAY AREA

SUMR T IME

SET T ING

12H 24H

CARD

PLAYBACK SET

SL I DE SHO

EFFECTPIC. PROTE CT DELETE DELETE ALL PRI. ORDER

OTHERS

REMO TE SOUND

LCD VF SET

BACKL IGHT LCD BRI GHT LCD COLOUR

BRI GHT

CLOCK SET

DISPLAY

Note:

• See pages 25 to 28 for the procedure to display the desired screen.

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Operation References

Warning Indicators

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

Operation References

Displayed for the first

3 seconds

INSERT

A CASSETTE.

EJECT THE

CASSETTE.

CASSETTE NOT RECORDABLE.

THE

TAPE

ENDS SOON.

CHANGE THE

CASSETTE.

BATTERY I S

TOO LOW.

DEW

LAMP LAMP

Displayed after

3 seconds

EJECT THE

CASSETTE.

PROTECT. TAB

TAPE END

DEW

Description of warning

There is no video cassette in the camcorder. Insert a cassette (see page 12).

The video cassette is defective and should be removed (see page 12).

The erasure protect tab on the video cassette has been slid to the record-protect position, preventing recording (see page 86).

The tape is about to end. Prepare a new cassette (see page 12).

The tape has reached the end. Replace it with a new cassette (see page 12).

The battery is almost depleted. Replace it with a fully charged battery pack (see page 10).

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

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

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 TAPE-CAMERA or CARD-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°.

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Operation References

Displayed for

5 seconds

MEMORY CARD

MEMORY

CARD

FULL

NO DATA ON

MEMORY C ARD

MEMORY CARD

ERROR

FORMAT

MEMORY CARD

PROTECTED

DATA PROTECTED

MEMORY CARD

RE AD ERROR

CANNOT

STORE DATA

Note:

•N indicates a flashing display.

The SmartMedia card is not inserted or is inserted improperly. Check how the card is inserted (see page 71).

The capacity of the SmartMedia card is full and cannot store any more images. Delete unnecessary images (see page 79) or replace the card with a new one (see page 71).

The SmartMedia card has no images recorded in the format the camcorder can recognize.

The images in the SmartMedia card are corrupted or recorded in a format which is not compatible with this camcorder. Format the card to use it with this camcorder (see page 75).

The SmartMedia card has not been formatted with this camcorder. Format the card (see page 75).

A SmartMedia card with a write-protect seal is inserted. Remove the write-protect seal to record images on the card (see page 87).

You are trying to delete a protected image. Cancel the protection setting (see page 78).

The selected image cannot be read by this camcorder. Format the card to use it with this camcorder (see page 75).

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

page 71).

Description of warning

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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.

1 Connect the supplied power cord to the

Preparation

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

• The POWER indicator lights up.

POWER indicator

AC power socket

To power outlet

2 Align 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.

CHARGE indicator

• The CHARGE indicator turns off when the battery is fully charged.

3 Slide 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.

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

Max. continuous

recording time

LCD

closed

LCD

open

pack

Charging

time

100 120 100 100

160 240 200 200

190 280 240 240

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 20) 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 88 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

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.

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Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack

Attaching the Battery Pack

1 Make sure that the Power switch is set

to OFF.

Power switch

2 Lift up the viewfinder.

Power source

mounting surface

4 Lower the viewfinder.

Preparation

Removing the Battery Pack

1 Perform steps 1 and 2 above.

2 Press the power source PUSH release

button (1), and slide the battery pack up and take it out (2).

Power source PUSH

release button

3 Align 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. Removing the

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

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

• 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.

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Preparation

Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet

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

Preparation

other camcorders.

1 Make sure that the Power switch is set

to OFF.

2 Lift up the viewfinder.

3 Align 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

4 Lower the viewfinder.

5 Insert 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).

Power source PUSH

release button

Cautions:

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

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

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

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Inserting and Removing a Mini DV Cassette

Inserting a Cassette

1 Attach 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

3 Press 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

4 Wait 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.

2 Insert the cassette fully with the window

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

Erasure protect tab

SAVE

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

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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.

1 Press the LCD monitor OPEN release

button (1) and open the LCD monitor

Preparation

(2).

LCD monitor OPEN release button

2 Open the lithium battery compartment

door using the tip of a ballpoint pen or other pointed object.

3 Insert the lithium battery into the

compartment with the H side facing out.

5 Close 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.

4 Replace the compartment door, and

close it firmly until it clicks into place.

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000

1 2001.2.

SETT I NG

Setting the Area, Date and Time

Example: Setting the date to 2 June 2002 (2. 6.

2002) and the time to 10:30 am (10:30) in London.

Notes:

• Before performing the procedure below, make sure that the lithium battery has been installed (see page 13).

• If you are in an area that observes summer time, set the time to the standard time. You can then correct it for summer time by performing the procedure on page 58.

MENU/DISPLAY button

Power switch

4 Press r on the Operation button.

CLOCK SE T

DISPLAY AREA SUMR T IME SET T ING

12H 24H

LONDON1

5 If “1 LONDON” is not displayed, press

d or y (1) until it appears, then press e (2).

CLOCK SE T

DISPLAY

AREA

SUMR T IME SET T ING

12H 24H

LONDON1

Preparation

1 Press the LCD monitor OPEN release

2 Hold down the Lock button

3 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

Operation button

button (1) and open the LCD monitor (2).

Note:

• See “Time Zone Chart” and “Area Table” on pages 55 and 56 for the area number and name of the representative city for your time zone.

6 Press d or y (1) to select

“SETTING” , and then press r (2).

CLOCK SE T

DISPLAY AREA SUMR T IME

LCD monitor OPEN release button

and set the Power switch to CAMERA.

the menu screen appears.

7 Press d or y to select “2” (day), and

then press r.

Lock button

8 Press d or y to select “6” (month),

and then press r.

SET T ING

12H 24H

SETT I NG

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000

6 2001.2.

000

1 2001.1.

Preparation

9 Press d or y to select “2002” (year),

and then press r.

SETT I NG

0 00

6 2002.2.

10 Press d or y to select “10” (hour),

and then press r.

SETT I NG

Preparation

10 00

6 2002.2.

11 Press 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.

12 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

Changing to the 12-hour Time Mode

1 After performing step 11 above, press

d or y (1) to select “12H/24H”, and then press r (2).

CLOCK SE T

DISPLAY AREA SUMR T IME SET T ING

12H 24H

24H

12H

2 Press d or y to select “12H”, and

then press e.

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 TAPE-CAMERA mode.

1 Hold down the Lock button and set the

Power switch to CAMERA or VCR.

2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until

the menu screen appears.

3 Select P, then press r on the

Operation button. Select “DISPLAY” (1), then press r (2).

CLOCK SE T

DISPLAY AREA SUMR T IME SET T ING

12H 24H

OFF

DAT E DAT E+TIME

4 Press d or y to select “DATE” or

“DATEHTIME”, and then press e.

DISPLAY

DATE+TIME

5 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to

turn off the menu screen.

• The date (or the date and time) is displayed.

21H24H

12H

3 Press 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.

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min

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 TAPE-VCR or CARD-VCR mode, the current date and time are displayed when the tape or SmartMedia card is not being played back.

2002.6.2

03:01

Adjusting the Hand Strap

1 Open 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

2 Loosen 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

3 Seal 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

1 Remove the battery pack. 2 Hold one end of the strap and thread it

through the loop on the left side of the power source mounting surface.

3 Loosen the strap in the buckle, then feed

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

4 Draw 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.

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Loop

Buckle

Loop

Buckle

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

1 Lift up the viewfinder.

Note:

• You can raise the viewfinder to aim the camcorder better depending on your position.

2 Hold 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 43).

• 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.

1 Lift up the viewfinder.

2 Hold down the Lock button and set the

Power switch to CAMERA.

3 While looking through the viewfinder,

turn the Dioptre adjustment until the indicators in the viewfinder are clearly visible.

Dioptre

adjustment

Lock button

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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

3 Hold 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.

Preparation

LCD monitor

1 Press 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

2 Adjust the LCD monitor to an angle that

allows easy viewing on the on-screen picture.

• The LCD monitor rotates 270° vertically.

180

Note:

• You can also fold the LCD monitor into the camcorder with the screen facing out for watching playback on the monitor.

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.

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.

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Basic Operations

PAUSE

Basic Operations Camera Recording

Camera Recording

Easy Camera Recording on Tape in Full Auto Mode

• Before you start recording, perform the

operations described on pages 9 through 18 to prepare your camcorder for recording.

Media Selection switch

Power switch

REC START/ STOP button

1 Remove the lens cap, and lift up the

viewfinder.

2 Set the Media Selection

Basic Operations

switch to TAPE.

3 Hold down the Lock button and set the

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.

4 Press 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 in TAPE-CAMERA mode, 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 in TAPECAMERA mode

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 20) 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

120 100 60 50

240 200 120 100

280 240 140 120

LCD

open

Actual recording

time

LCD

closed

LCD

open

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+ 78 hidden pages