Sharp VL-Z1U User Manual

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LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY CAMCORDER

MODEL

VL-Z1U

OPERATION MANUAL

Please read this operation manual

carefully before using the camcorder.

Important

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

Model No.:

Serial No.:

• See page 64 for use of Demo mode.

loss of

below the

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

Important Information for Consumers in the U.S.

WARNING:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

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

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

CAUTION:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

CAUTION

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

(applies to the supplied AC adapter)

CAUTION

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

PRODUCT DISPOSAL

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

BATTERY DISPOSAL

THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS LITHIUM-ION BATTERY. THIS BATTERY MUST BE DISPOSED OF PROPERLY. CONTACT YOUR LOCAL AGENCIES FOR INFORMATION ON RECYCLING AND DISPOSAL OPTIONS IN YOUR AREA.

CAUTION ON LITHIUM BATTERY

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

batteries or install them.

Parents should install the lithium battery in the

camcorder.

pliance with the copyright laws of the United States and that prior permission be obtained from copyright owners whenever necessary.

not

to take out

iii

WARNINGCFCC Regulations state that any unauthorized changes

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

INFORMATION

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

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

which the receiver is connected.

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

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY Sharp Camcorder, Model VL-Z1U

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

RESPONSIBLE PARTY:

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

NOTE

The LCD panel of this camcorder is a very high technology product with more than 215,000 thin-film transistors*, giving you fine picture detail. Occasionally, a pixel may appear on the screen as a fixed point of blue, green, red, or black. Please note that this does not affect your camcorder’s performance.

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

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

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

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

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

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

6. AttachmentsCDo not use attach- ments not recommended by the product manufacturer as they may cause hazards.

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

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

serious injury to a child or adult, and serious

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

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

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

should never be blocked by placing the product on

a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. This product should not be placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack unless proper ventilation is provided or the manufacturer’s instructions have been adhered to.

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. Object and Liquid EntryCNever push objects of any kind into this product through openings as they

may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out

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

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

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

plug is damaged,

b. If liquid has been spilled, or

objects have fallen into the product,

c. If the product has been

exposed to rain or water,

d. If the product does not operate

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

e. If the product has been

dropped or damaged in any way, and

f. When the product exhibits a

distinct change in performanceCthis indicates a need for service.

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

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

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

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

vii

Contents

Supplied Accessories ........................................................................................ xi

Optional Accessories ......................................................................................... xi

Precautions ....................................................................................................... xii

Operation References

Preparation

Basic Operations

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

Warning Indicators ..................................................4

Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack .............5

Charging the Battery Pack ......................................7

Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet ..........8

Inserting and Removing a Cassette ....................... 9

Installing the Lithium Batteries ..............................10

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

Using the Lens Cap ..............................................13

Adjusting the Hand Strap ..................................... 14

Using the Grip .......................................................14

Detaching the Lens Hood .....................................15

Using the Viewfinder .............................................15

Using the LCD Monitor ......................................... 17

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

Camera Recording

Easy Camera Recording in Full Auto Mode .......... 19

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

Power Standby Mode ........................................... 21

Turning on/off the Backlight .................................. 21

Auto Focus ............................................................22

Macro Shots ..........................................................22

Remaining Recording Time Display ..................... 23

Remaining Battery Power Display ........................ 23

Playback

Playback ............................................................... 24

Volume Control......................................................25

Still ........................................................................25

Video Search.........................................................25

Watching Playback on a TV ..................................26

viii

Useful Features

Control Buttons ..................................................... 27

Using the Mode Screens ...................................... 27

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

Camera Recording

Setting the Digital Zoom .......................................29

Backlight Compensation (BLC) ............................ 30

Gain-up .................................................................31

Fade in and Fade out ............................................32

Quick Return .........................................................33

Edit Search............................................................34

Still Recording .......................................................34

Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) ...........................35

Self Recording ...................................................... 36

Wide Screen (16:9) ...............................................38

Recording in LP (Long Play Recording) Mode .....39

Windbreak ............................................................. 40

Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode.........41

Playback

Using the Remote Control

(Not supplied).....................................................42

Playback Functions with the Remote Control

(Not supplied).....................................................43

Selecting the Date and Time of Recording

Display................................................................44

Picture Effect Playback .........................................45

Rotate Playback ....................................................46

Advanced Features

Camera Recording

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

Returning to Auto Focus ....................................... 48

Displaying the Manual Setting Screen ..................48

White Balance Lock ..............................................49

Manual Iris ............................................................ 50

Manual Gain ..........................................................51

Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode.............52

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

Contents

Advanced Features

Appendix

Playback

Using the Time Code ............................................54

Editing ...................................................................55

Editing with the DV Terminal (IEEE1394) .............. 56

Audio Dubbing Feature.........................................57

Selecting the Audio Playback Mode .....................59

Picture/Backlight Adjustments ..............................60

Turning off the Confirmation Sound ......................61

Selecting the Language for the Information

Display................................................................62

Setting the Camcorder to Factory Presettings ...... 63

Demonstration Mode ............................................ 64

Useful Information .................................................65

Troubleshooting ....................................................70

Specifications .......................................................73

On-screen Display Index ......................................74

• Guía de operación rápida en español ................................................................... 76

Note:

• Before requesting service, please read “Troubleshooting” carefully. (See pages 70–

72.)

Supplied Accessories

Battery pack

BT-L226U*

Lens cap

GCOVHA002WJZZ

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

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

AC adapter

UADP-0339TAZZ*

Audio/video/S-video

cable

QCNW-B173WJZZ

CR1216 type

lithium battery

Optional Accessories

Standard-life battery pack

BT-L226U

Note:

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

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

External battery with

hand strap BT-LCA1U

Precautions

• Before recording an important scene,

please perform the recording test, then playback to check if the scene was recorded properly. If noise occurs, use a commercially available cleaning tape to clean the video heads (see page xiv).

• When the camcorder is not in use, re-

member 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, whether or not recording is in progress, as it may damage the CCD sensor. Be particularly careful when recording outside.

• 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 broad-

casting 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 restric-

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

• Be aware of the temperature and humid-

ity.

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

• Avoid situations where water, sand, dust

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

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

• Some small, portable tri-

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

• When using your camcorder in a cold

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

xii

Dew Formation

• What is “dew formation”?

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

• When dew forms in your camcorder.

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

Dew is likely to form in the following circumstances:

—When moving the camcorder from a

cold place to a warm place.

—When placing the camcorder in a cold

room which is then heated rapidly.

—When moving the camcorder outdoors

from an air conditioned room or car.

—When placing the camcorder in the

direct path of air blowing from an air conditioner.

—When placing the

camcorder in a humid room.

• How to prevent trouble.

When using the camcorder in a place where dew is likely to form, allow the camcorder and the video tape to acclimate to the surroundings for about one hour.

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

Plastic bag

1 Be sure to tightly seal the plastic bag

containing the camcorder.

2 Remove the bag when the air tem-

perature inside it reaches the temperature of the room.

• “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.

xiii

Precautions

Dirty Video Heads

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

Striped noise

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

• playback pictures do not move.

• during playback, the whole screen

becomes blue.

Causes of video head clogging

• High-temperature and high-humidity environment

• A lot of dust in the air

• Damaged tape

• Worn tape

• Long-time use

• Dew formation

Mosaic noise

Using a Cleaning Tape (Commercially Available)

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

Notes:

• Excessive use of the cleaning tape may cause damage to the video heads. Please read the instructions accompanying the cleaning tape carefully before using it.

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

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

1 Insert a cleaning tape into the

camcorder.

2 Hold down the Lock button and set

the Power switch to w.

• The video head cleaning screen appears.

3 Press m on the Operation button to

begin video head cleaning.

•“NOW CLEANING” flashes during cleaning.

CLEAN ING

CLEANINGNOW

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

xiv

STOPSTART

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

4 Remove the cleaning tape.

To cancel cleaning, press l.

Operation References

Part Names

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

Front view

Operation button (p. 27)

Zoom lens

DISPLAY button (p. 27)

Monaural microphone

LCD LAMP button (p. 21)

Operation References

Left view

Operation References

LCD monitor (p. 17)

Terminal cover

(pp. 26, 55, 56)

DC IN jack (pp. 7, 8)

AV terminal (pp. 26, 55)

DV terminal (p. 56)

Tripod socket*

* When attaching a tripod

with a guide pin, do not attach the pin to the bottom of the camcorder.

Lithium battery cover (p. 10)

Diopter adjustment dial (p. 16)

Battery release (pp. 6, 10)

Right view

Window cleaning cover

(p. 68)

Viewfinder (pp. 15, 16)

PHOTO button (p. 34)

Operation References

Power Zoom Wide angle/ Telephoto control (p. 20)/ VOLume control (p. 25)

STANDBY indicator

(p. 21)

POWER/CHARGE

(RED) indicator

(pp. 7, 8, 19)

DC IN jack cover (pp. 7, 8)

Power switch (v Camera Recording mode/w Playback mode select switch) (pp. 19, 24)

STANDBY button (p. 21)

Speaker

Start/Stop button (p. 19)

Hand strap (p. 14)

Cassette holder (p. 9)

Cassette compartment door release (p. 9)

Cassette compartment door (p. 9)

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 IS

TOO LOW.

DEW

LAMP

Note:

• N indicates a flashing display.

Displayed after

3 seconds

EJECT THE

CASSETTE.

PROTECT. TAB

TAPE END

DEW

LAMP

Description of warning

There is no video cassette in the camcorder. Insert a cassette (see page 9).

The video cassette is defective and should be removed (see page 9).

The erasure protect tab on the video cassette has been slid to the record-protect position, preventing recording (see page 66).

The tape is about to end. Prepare a new cassette.

The tape has reached the end. Replace it with a new cassette (see page 9).

The battery is almost depleted. Replace it with a fully charged battery pack (see pages 5, 6).

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

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

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

Preparation

Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack

Attaching

Power switch

1 Make sure that the Power

switch is set to OFF.

2 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle

to the camcorder body.

90˚

3 Slide the battery pack in the direction

of the arrow with the “m” mark facing out.

Preparation

“m” mark

4 Push the battery pack in the direction

of the arrow until it clicks.

Preparation

Removing

1 Make sure that the Power switch is

set to OFF, then open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body.

Preparation

90˚

2 Slide the battery release in the

direction of the arrow.

Battery release

3 Take the battery pack out.

Notes:

• BEFORE REMOVING THE BATTERY PACK,

ALWAYS STOP RECORDING OR PLAYBACK AND TURN THE POWER OFF.

Removing the battery pack while shooting or during playback may damage the tape by causing it to wrap around the video head drum.

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

• Make sure that the battery pack is firmly attached during operation. If it is not, the battery pack may come off or camcorder operation may fail because of the poor contact pressure.

• To prevent damage to the battery pack when removing, be sure to firmly hold the battery pack while pressing the release.

• Use only SHARP model BT-L226 battery packs with this camcorder. Use of other batteries may create a risk of fire or explosion.

• Before closing the LCD monitor, make sure the battery pack is properly attached to the camcorder, otherwise the monitor may be damaged.

Charging the Battery Pack

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

2 Open the DC IN jack cover.

DC IN jack cover

3 Insert the DC plug into the DC IN

jack of the camcorder (1), and plug the AC plug into a power outlet (2).

• The POWER/CHARGE (RED) indicator lights up red.

POWER/CHARGE (RED)

To power outlet

AC plug

DC IN jack

• The POWER/CHARGE (RED) indicator turns off when the battery is charged.

indicator

DC plug

4 Remove the DC plug from the DC IN

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

Charging time and maximum continuous recording and playback times

Max.

continuous

time

120

recording time

LCD

closed

open

120 105

105

Charging

Battery

pack

BT-L226

• The chart specifies the approximate times in minutes.

Notes:

• Charge the battery pack between 50°F and 86°F (10°C and 30°C). The battery pack may not charge properly at temperatures too low or too high.

• The battery pack and AC adapter 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 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 pages 67 and 68 for more information on using the battery pack.

• Charge only SHARP model BT-L226 battery packs. Other types of battery packs may burst, causing personal injury and damage.

• When attaching the supplied audio/video/Svideo cable, remove the DC plug, open the terminal cover and connect it.

Max.

continuous

playback time

on LCD

Preparation

Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet

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

Note:

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

Preparation

1 Make sure that the Power switch is

set to OFF.

2 Open the DC IN jack cover.

DC IN jack cover

3 Insert the DC plug into the DC IN

jack of the camcorder (1), and plug the AC plug into a power outlet (2).

POWER/CHARGE (RED)

indicator

Notes:

• BEFORE REMOVING THE DC PLUG,

ALWAYS STOP RECORDING OR PLAYBACK AND TURN THE POWER OFF.

Removing the DC plug while shooting or during playback may damage the tape by causing it to wrap around the video head drum.

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

To power outlet

DC IN jack

4 Hold down the Lock button and set

the Power switch to v or w.

• The POWER/CHARGE (RED) indicator lights up green.

Inserting and Removing a Cassette

Inserting

1 Attach the power source to the

camcorder, then slide and hold the cassette compartment door release as you open the cassette compartment door.

• After confirmation sound, the cassette holder extends and opens automatically.

Cassette compartment door release

2 Insert a commercially available Mini

DV cassette fully with the window facing outwards, and with the erasure protect tab facing upwards.

Erasure protect tab

SAVE

REC

3 Press the “PUSH” mark gently until

the cassette holder clicks into place.

• The cassette holder retracts automatically.

4 Wait for the cassette holder to fully

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

Removing

Perform step 1 above, then take out the cassette.

Notes:

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

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

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

• Do not tilt the 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.

• 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.

• You can only use Mini DV cassettes. Large DV cassettes cannot be used. Be sure to use Mini DV cassettes with the i

• See page 66 for more information on the video cassette tapes intended for use with this camcorder.

mark.

Preparation

“PUSH” mark

Preparation

Installing the Lithium Batteries

Installing the Memory Battery

The supplied CR 1216 type lithium battery is used to store the memory of the date and time settings.

1 Make sure that the Power switch is

set to OFF.

2 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle

to the camcorder body.

Preparation

3 Slide the battery release in the

direction of the arrow, then take the battery pack out.

Battery release

4 Pull out the lithium battery cover in

the direction of the arrow.

5 Insert the CR 1216 type lithium

battery into the compartment with the H side of the battery facing out.

CR 1216 type lithium battery

6 Close the lithium battery cover firmly

until it clicks into place.

Removing the Memory Battery

Perform steps 1 to 4 above, then lift out the battery by using a pointed object such as the tip of a ballpoint pen.

Lithium battery cover

Installing the Battery to Remote Control (Not supplied)

The remote control (RRMCGA149WJSA) is not supplied with this camcorder. Contact the nearest SHARP service center or your dealer for purchasing as specified part. The CR 2025 type lithium battery is used to power the remote control unit.

1 Hold the remote control facing down,

and pull out the battery holder while pressing the tab toward the center.

Ta b

2 Insert the CR 2025 type lithium

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

m side of the holder.

H side, CR 2025 type

lithium battery

Notes on the Use of the Lithium battery

CAUTION The battery used in this

device may present a risk of fire of chemical burn if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 212°F (100°C) , or incinerate. Replace battery with the type CR1216 for the camcorder and the type CR2025 for the remote control unit of Toshiba Battery Co., Ltd. only. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion. Dispose of used battery promptly. Keep away from children. Do not disassemble and do not 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 batteries will last about one year under normal usage.

Preparation

“m” side

3 Insert the battery holder back into

position.

Preparation

OTHERS 2

RETURN

T IME CODE OFF

OFFTC OUT

SETT I NG

12H

24H/

JAN. 1 20 12 00AM:

03.

JUN. 12 00AM

1 2003.

SETT I NG

JUN. 12 00AM

2 2003.

SETT I NG

Setting the Date and Time

Example: Setting the date to June 2, 2004

(JUN. 2. 2004) and the time to 10:30 am (10:30 AM).

Operation button

Preparation

Note:

• Before performing the steps below, make

DISPLAY button

sure that the CR1216 type lithium battery has been installed (see page 10).

1 Hold down the Lock

button and set the Power switch to v.

2 Press the DISPLAY button until the

mode screen appears.

BLC GAI N/ OFF

FADE M

ENU

SCENE

3 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MENU”, then press the center of the Operation button.

BLC GAI N/ FADE M

ENU

SCENEMENU

Power switch

ENU

EXECUTE

Lock button

4 Press m or l to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

5 Press the center of the Operation

button.

6 Press m or l to select “JUN”

(month), then press the center of the Operation button.

7 Press m or l to select “2” (day),

then press the center of the Operation button.

8 Press m or l to select “2004” (year),

then press the center of the Operation button.

SETT I NG

JUN.

12 00AM

2 2004.

9 Press m or l to select “10 AM”

(hour), then press the center of the Operation button.

SETT I NG

JUN. 10 00AM

2 2004.

Press m or l to select “30” (minute), then press the center of the Operation button.

SETT I NG

• The internal clock now starts operating with the seconds display.

Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

JUN. 100030 AM

2 2004.

the menu screen.

Note:

• If the date and time have been set, the

SETTING 1 screen (T) appears in step 4. Select “SETTING” in the OTHERS 2 screen (~) using the Operation button.

Changing to the 24-hour Time Mode

1 After performing step 10 above, press

l or m to select “12H/24H”, then press the center of the Operation button.

OTHERS 2

T IME CODE TC OUT 12H 24H/ SETT I NG RETURN

12H

24H

Using the Lens Cap

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

Preparation

When attaching or removing the lens cap, grasp the indents on both sides of the cap.

Indents

When recording, remove the lens cap and attach the lens cap cord to the fastener so that the cap will not get in the way.

2 Press l or m to select “24H”, then

press the center of the Operation button.

21H24H

24H

3 Press the 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.

Fastener

Note:

• Always attach the lens cap over the lens when not using the camcorder.

Preparation

Adjusting the Hand Strap

Open the hand strap flap (1) and grip

strap (2).

Preparation

Hand strap flap

2 Loosen the grip strap, pass your right

hand through the hand strap, and put your thumb close to the Start/Stop button and your index finger on the Power Zoom control. Then, pull the grip strap tight until it fits snugly.

Grip strap

Using the Grip

Rotate the grip 135° forward or 90° downward so that you can record images easily from high or low angle (see page 18).

135°

90°

3 Seal the Velcro

strap and the hand strap flap.

fasteners of the grip

Note:

• The grip cannot rotate when a tripod is attached.

Detaching the Lens Hood

Before using a commercially available conversion lens, detach the lens hood as shown below.

Using the Viewfinder

You can record the subject using the electronic viewfinder. You can also watch playback through the viewfinder.

Viewfinder

Preparation

Power switch

Note:

• You cannot attach the supplied lens hood or lens cap to a conversion lens.

1 Pull out the viewfinder completely.

2 Hold down the Lock

button and set the Power switch to v or w.

Lock button

(Continued on the next page)

Preparation

Closing the viewfinder

Push in the viewfinder completely.

Notes:

Preparation

• Do not use excessive force when moving

the viewfinder.

• Do not pick up the camcorder by the

viewfinder.

• The viewfinder automatically turns off when the LCD monitor is opened. If the vertical rotation of the monitor is 180° when in Camera mode, however, the viewfinder is on and the subject is displayed both in the viewfinder and on the monitor (see page 36).

• You can adjust the settings on the MENU screen through the viewfinder by using the Operation button (see page 27 for use of the Operation button).

• Be sure to close the viewfinder after use.

Adjusting the diopter

Adjust the diopter according to your eyesight when the picture in the viewfinder or the characters on the on-screen display is not clear.

1 Pull out the viewfinder completely. 2 Hold down the Lock button and set

the Power switch to v.

3 While looking through the viewfinder,

turn the diopter adjustment dial until the indicators in the viewfinder are clearly visible.

Diopter adjustment dial

Note:

• For cleaning the viewfinder, see page 68.

Using the LCD Monitor

You can use the LCD monitor to play back recordings that you have made or to watch the subject during recording.

LCD monitor

Power switch

1 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle

to the camcorder body.

90˚

2 Adjust the LCD monitor to an angle

that allow easy viewing of the onscreen picture.

• The LCD monitor rotates 270° vertically.

180

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

3 Hold down the Lock

button and set the Power switch to v or w.

• A picture displays on the LCD monitor.

Note:

• Battery consumption is larger when the LCD monitor is opened. Use the viewfinder instead of the LCD monitor when you want to save the battery power.

Closing the LCD monitor

Return the LCD monitor to the vertical 90° position with the screen facing in, and fold it into the camcorder into place.

Notes:

• Do not use excessive force when moving the LCD monitor.

• 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 place the camcorder with the LCD monitor screen facing down.

• Close the LCD monitor completely with the screen facing in when not in use.

• Before closing the LCD monitor, make sure the battery pack is properly attached to the camcorder, otherwise the monitor may be damaged.

Lock button

Preparation

Note: Do not try to rotate the LCD monitor vertically until the monitor is completely opened.

Preparation

Tips on Recording Positions

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

Holding the camcorder

Put your right hand through the hand strap, and place your left hand under the camcorder for support.

Basic posture

Preparation

Place the viewfinder

eyecup firmly against

Place your elbows

against your sides.

Balance your

weight on both

your eye.

legs.

Shooting from a high angle

Turn the LCD

monitor so that the

screen faces

downward.

Shooting from a low angle

Turn the LCD monitor so that the screen faces upward.

Note:

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

Basic Operations

Camera Recording

Easy Camera Recording in Full Auto Mode

• Before you start recording, perform the operations described on pages 5 through 18 to prepare your camcorder for recording.

Power switch

Start/Stop button

1 Remove the lens cap. 2 Hold down the Lock button and set

the Power switch to v.

• The picture from the lens now displays and the POWER/CHARGE (RED) indicator lights up green.

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

POWER/CHARGE (RED) indicator

AU T OAUTO

Lock button

Note:

• If “AUTO” is not displayed at this time, set the camcorder to Full Auto mode (see page 52).

3 Press the Start/Stop button to begin

recording.

REC

Note:

• Before recording an important scene, please perform the recording test, then playback to check if the scene was recorded properly. If noise occurs, use a commercially available cleaning tape to clean the video heads (see page xiv).

Maximum continuous recording and actual recording times

Max. continuous

Battery

pack

BT-L226

Note:

recording time

LCD

closed

120

LCD

open

105

Actual

recording time

LCD

closed

LCD

open

Basic Operations

WT3ZOOM

Camera Recording

To pause recording

Press the Start/Stop button again. Recording pauses, and the camcorder enters Recording Standby mode.

PAUSE

To turn the power off

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

Note:

• If the camcorder remains in Recording Standby mode for more than 5 minutes, the

Basic Operations

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 v. (The camcorder will make a confirmation sound when it is left in Recording Standby mode for about 4 minutes.)

Zooming

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

Zooming in (when you want to center

attention on the subject)

Zooming out (when you want to include

the surroundings)

Zooming in

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

Zooming out

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

Power Zoom

control

Zoom range indicator

• 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 5 feet (1.5 m).

• See page 29 for how to use the digital zoom.

Power Standby Mode

Power Standby mode allows you to prevent accidental recording by locking all operations except canceling the mode.

Turning on/off the Backlight

You can see the on-screen display outdoors on a sunny day or in a location with bright lighting even when the backlight turns off. Also, this function is useful when watching playback on a TV.

STANDBY button

Hold down the STANDBY button for more than 2 seconds when you pause recording.

• The screen turns off and the STANDBY indicator lights up.

STANDBY indicator

To resume operation

Press the STANDBY button again to return to the Recording Standby mode.

• It takes about 2 seconds to be able to start recording.

Notes:

• Power Standby will cancel and the STANDBY indicator will turn off in these situations below: — When the camcorder remains in Power

Standby mode more than 5 minutes

— When the camcorder is set to Playback

mode — When removing the battery pack — When removing a cassette

• The camcorder will turn off automatically in 5 minutes after setting Power Standby mode if it remains in Recording Standby mode after canceling Power Standby mode. — When Power Standby mode, for example,

is canceled after 3 minutes, the camcorder will turn off if recording is not started within 2 minutes.

LCD LAMP button

Hold down the LCD LAMP button for more than 2 seconds to turn off the backlight.

• “BACKLIGHT OFF” will flash for two seconds, then H appears on the LCD screen.

To turn on the backlight

Press the LCD LAMP button.

Note:

• The BACKLIGHT OFF mode will cancel when you close the LCD monitor.

Basic Operations

Basic Operations 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 the subject in the center of the scene. Always keep the subject in the center of the scene.

Notes:

• If no subject is in the center of the scene, the focus area will expand and the subject nearest the center will be focused on.

• Auto Focus may not work in the situations described on page 47. In these situations, use the manual focus function.

• The camcorder may not be able to focus correctly if the subject is closer than approximately 5 feet (1.5 m). Set the zoom control to wide angle, and try refocusing again.

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

Basic Operations

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 5 feet (1.5 m) of the camcorder, do not zoom in on it. Instead, zoom out all the way by pushing the Power Zoom control to the W side, and then move the camcorder closer to the subject until you obtain the desired angle of view. The camcorder will automatically focus on the subject when the lens is set for the widest angle.

Power Zoom control

Note:

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

Remaining Recording

BATTERY IS

TOO LOW.

Time Display

Remaining Battery Power Display

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

Remaining

min

Notes:

• The remaining recording time indicator appears when the on-screen indicators are turned on.

• The remaining recording time indicator appears 10 seconds after pressing the 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 the tape used. (This function is based on the DVM60 tape standard.)

recording time indicator

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

Warning indicator

THE

ENDS SOON.

TAPE END

CHANGE THE

CASSETTE.

TAPE END

TAPE

Approx. remaining

Less than 1 min.

The tape has reached

the end.

time

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

(Green)

(Red)

Notes:

• The remaining battery power indicator appears when the on-screen indicators are turned on.

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

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

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

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

Remaining battery power indicator

Warning indicator

Basic Operations

Basic Operations Camera Recording

Playback

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

Power switch

Operation button

1 Hold down the Lock

button and set the Power switch to w.

Basic Operations

2 Press j (or k) on the Operation

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

Lock button

To stop playback

Press l.

To turn the power off

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

Note:

• The tape automatically rewinds when playback reaches the end of the tape.

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.

3 Press m to begin playback.

Volume Control

Video Search

When the camcorder is in Playback 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

IncreaseDecrease

Volume

control

Still

The still function allows you to pause playback.

During playback, press m on the Operation button.

To return to normal playback, press m again.

Notes:

• The sound is off in Still mode.

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

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

Searching for a Scene Near the Current Tape Position

1 During playback, press k (or j) on

the Operation button.

• The playback picture fast forwards (or reverses).

2 When you find the scene, press m to

return to normal playback.

Searching for a Scene Far from the Current Tape Position

1 During fast forward (or rewind), press

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

• The fast forward (or rewind) picture displays.

2 If the scene is still rather far from the

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

3 Repeat steps 1 and 2 above until you

find the scene.

4 Press m to begin normal playback.

Notes:

• The sound is off during search.

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

Basic Operations

Basic Operations Playback

Watching Playback on a TV

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

1 Open the terminal cover on the

camcorder (see page 2).

Terminal cover

2 Connect the camcorder to your TV (or

VCR) with the supplied audio/video/Svideo cable, as shown.

Basic Operations

TV or VCR

VIDEO

AV-IN

L-AUDIO-R(MONO)

Black: To S-video input socket Yellow: To video input jack White: To audio input (L) jack Red: To audio input (R) jack

S-VIDEO

Audio/video/S-video cable (supplied)

Note:

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

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

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

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

4 Set the Power switch on the

camcorder to w, and begin playback (see page 24).

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 do not need to connect the yellow video plug.

• Close the terminal cover after use.

About the S-video socket

S-video sockets are used to separately pass the chroma (color) and luminance (brightness) components of video signals. They serve to improve the picture quality in both recording and playback.

To AV

terminal

The arrow shows the signal flow.

Useful Features

BLC GAI N/ OFF

FADE

ENU

SC ENE

ENU

Control Buttons

Operation button

DISPLAY button

Operation button

Use the Operation button to select and set the desired setting.

DISPLAY button

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

• The example screens shown are for Camera mode.

3 0min

JUN.

OFF

ENU

SELECT SET

AUTO

BLC GAIN/

FADE M

ENU

SCENE

AUTO

Power switch

Information display on

4002.2

03MA:01

Mode screen

Information display off

Using the Mode Screens

In the mode screens, you can adjust the camcorder settings by using the Operation button.

1 Hold down the Lock button and set

the Power switch to v or w.

• See pages 74 and 75 for the mode items you can select in each mode.

• Steps 2 to 4 show how to change the SCENE MENU setting in Camera mode.

2 Press the DISPLAY button until the

mode screen appears.

3 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select the desired mode item (SCENE MENU), then press the center of the Operation button.

Example

BLC GAI N/ FADE M

ENU

SC ENE

ENU OF F

4 Press l or m to select the desired

mode setting (DUSK), then press the center of the Operation button.

Example

BLC GAI N/ FADE M

ENU

SCENEMENU

To turn off the mode screen

Press the DISPLAY button.

Note:

• Items that are not selectable are grayed out.

DUS K

Useful Features

DGTL ZOOM

Using the Menu Screens

Use the menu screens to adjust the various camcorder settings.

Operation button

DISPLAY button

Power switch

1 Hold down the Lock button and set

the Power switch to v or w.

• See pages 74 and 75 for the menu items you can select in each mode.

• Steps 2 to 8 show how to change the DGTL ZOOM menu setting in Camera mode.

2 Press the DISPLAY button until the

mode screen appears (see page 27).

3 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MENU”, then press

Useful Features

the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

ENU

Example

EXECUTE

BLC GAI N/ FADE M SCENE MENU

5 Press l or m to select the desired

menu screen (T), then press the center of the Operation button.

SETT ING 1

Example

RETURN

QK.

DGT L

ZOOM TAPE SPEED RE TURN

START OFF SP

• You can press k, instead of the

center of Operation button.

6 Press l or m to select the desired

menu item (DGTL ZOOM), then press the center of the Operation button.

SETT ING 1

Example

RETURN

QK. DGT L

ZOOM TAPE SPEED RE TURN

OF F

40 500

• You can press k, instead of the

center of the Operation button.

7 Press l or m to select the desired

menu setting (40), then press the center of the Operation button.

• You can press j, instead of the

center of the Operation button.

• To adjust another menu item, press

l or m to select “RETURN” and press the center of the Operation button, then perform steps 5 to 7.

Note:

• The menu screen does not appear

SETT ING 1

RETURN

QK. DGT L

ZOOM TAPE SPEED RE TURN

during recording.

START OFF SP

8 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the menu screen.

Notes:

• Certain menu items are common in both Camera and Playback modes. If the BEEP menu item, for example, is set to “OFF” in Camera mode, it will be automatically set to “OFF” in Playback mode.

• The menu screen automatically turns off if no settings are made within 5 minutes.

• Items that are not selectable are grayed out.

Useful Features

WT 52D-ZOOM

DGTL ZOOM

Camera Recording

Setting the Digital Zoom

You can select three different zoom ranges: 1–10K (optical zoom), 10–40K (digital zoom) or 10–500K (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 1–500K.

• As the image is enlarged digitally, the

picture quality decreases when higher digital zoom settings are used.

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears.

BLC GAI N/ OFF

FADE M

ENU

SC ENE

ENU

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MENU”, then press the center of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select T, then

press the center of the Operation button.

Press l or m to select “DGTL ZOOM”, then press the center of the Operation button.

SETT ING 1

RETURN

QK. DGT L

TAPE SPEED

RE TURN

ZOOM

OF F

40 500

6 Press l or m to select “40” or “500”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the menu screen.

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

Power Zoom

control

Digital zoom indicator

To use optical zoom only

Select “OFF” in step 6 above.

Useful Features

Useful Features Camera Recording

Backlight Compensation (BLC)

When the subject is backlit, the image will appear dark if it is recorded normally. Use the backlight compensation (BLC) function to improve the picture.

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears.

BLC GAI N/ OFF

FADE M

ENU

SC ENE

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “BLC/GAIN”, then press the center of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “ON x”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

BLC / GA I N ON

Useful Features

4 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the mode screen.

•“x” appears when on-screen

indicators are turned on, indicating that the backlight compensation is now working.

AU T OAUTO

3 0min3 0min

To cancel the backlight compensation function

Select “OFF” in step 3 above.

Gain-up

min

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

Note:

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

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears.

BLC GAI N/ OFF

FADE

ENU

SC ENE

ENU

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “BLC/GAIN”, then press the center of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “ON e”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

BLC / GA I N ON

4 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the mode screen.

•“e” appears when on-screen

indicators are turned on, indicating that the gain-up function is now working.

To cancel the gain-up function

Select “OFF” in step 3 above.

Notes:

• You may experience some picture noise in Gain-up mode, which increases when the e appears.

• When the e indicator appears, you may get a shadow image behind a subject that is moving around a lot.

• Fine brightness adjustments are possible when using manual iris (see page 50).

• The e indicator will disappear and Gain-up mode will cancel if you aim the camcorder in a bright location.

Useful Features

AUTO

3 0min

30min

Useful Features

min

Camera Recording

Fade In and Fade Out

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

Operation button

Start/Stop button

Useful Features

DISPLAY button

Fade in

Fade out

Using

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “FADE”, then press the center of the Operation button.

BLC GAI N/ FADE M

ENU

SC ENE

OFF

ENU

3 Press l or m to select “ON”, then

press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press the DISPLAY button until on-

screen indicators appear.

5 Press the Start/Stop button to begin

recording.

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

REC

F AD E I N

FADE I N

A UT O

AUTO

3 0min

30min

6 Press the 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.

REC

F AD E OUTOUT

FADE

A UT O

AUTO

2 727min

min

To cancel Fade mode

Select “OFF” in step 3 above.

To use Fade Out only

1 During camera recording, press the

DISPLAY button until the mode screen appears.

2 Perform steps 2 and 3 in “Using”. 3 Press the Start/Stop button at the

point where you wish to stop recording.

Note:

• Fade mode automatically cancels after Fade Out.

Quick Return

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

1 In Recording Standby mode, press

the DISPLAY button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MENU”, then press the center of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select T, then

press the center of the Operation button.

5 Press l or m to select “QK.

RETURN”, then press the center of the Operation button.

SETT ING 1

RETURN

QK. DGT L

TAPE SPEED

RE TURN

ZOOM

START

STOP

6 Press l or m to select “START”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

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

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

7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the menu screen.

Notes:

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

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

Useful Features

Useful Features Camera Recording

Edit Search

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

Operation button

1 In Recording

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

Useful Features

2 When you find the point where you

want to begin recording, release the button.

Notes:

• The sound is off during search.

• Forward edit search is performed at the same speed as normal playback, and reverse edit search at 5.5 times the normal playback.

• You may experience picture noise during reverse edit search.

Still Recording

You can record continuous still images of subjects.

1 In Recording Standby mode,

press the PHOTO button fully.

• A still image of the subject is displayed.

2 Press the Start/Stop

button.

• The still image of the subject will be recorded.

To pause recording

Press the Start/Stop button.

To cancel the still image

Press the PHOTO button fully.

Notes:

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

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

Digital Image Stabilization (DIS)

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

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MENU”, then press the center of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select Y, then

press the center of the Operation button.

5 Press l or m to select “DIS”, then

press the center of the Operation button.

SETT ING 2

DIS 16 9: AUDI O MODE

IND

RETURN

OFF

7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the menu screen.

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

To cancel DIS function

Select “OFF” in step 6 above. The z indicator will disappear.

Notes:

• The DIS function cannot compensate for excessive image shaking.

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

DIS indicator

T AP E

Useful Features

6 Press l or m to select “ON”, then

press the center of the Operation button.

ONDIS

Useful Features Camera Recording

Self Recording

Normal self recording

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.

Useful Features

1 Pull out the viewfinder completely.

Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body (1), and then rotate it 180° vertically (2).

2 Set the Power switch to v.

• The subject is displayed in the viewfinder, and a mirror image of the subject is displayed on the LCD monitor.

3 Press the Start/Stop button to begin

recording.

Note:

• You can play back images while the monitor is in the self recording position. Set the camcorder to Playback mode.

180˚

90˚

Self recording with reversed

90˚

180˚

grip

Rotate the grip 90° and the LCD monitor 180° vertically so that you can record yourself while holding the grip.

1 Turn the camcorder downward as

shown below.

2 Rotate the lens section 90° vertically

as shown below.

90°

3 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle

to the camcorder body (1), and then rotate it 180° vertically (2).

4 Set the Power switch to v. 5 Press the Start/Stop button to begin

recording.

Notes:

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

• During self recording, the mode or menu screen cannot be displayed.

• All of the manual settings are set to AUTO and some other settings will set to OFF in self recording.

• You may experience image noise when using self recording.

• To operate self recording with reversed grip correctly, make sure to turn the grip and the lens section so that the Start/Stop button and the tripod socket face upward, and the lens faces toward you. The I indicator will appear.

• Be sure that the LCD monitor rotation is exactly 180°, otherwise the image recorded will be rotated 180° upside-down.

• The viewfinder does not work in self recording with reversed grip.

Useful Features

Useful Features Camera Recording

Wide Screen (16:9)

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

Normal screen Wide screen

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears.

BLC GAI N/ OFF

FADE M

ENU

SC ENE

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MENU”, then press the center of the Operation button.

Useful Features

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select Y, then

press the center of the Operation button.

5 Press l or m to select “16:9”, then

press the center of the Operation button.

SETT ING 2

DIS

16 9: AUDI O MODE

IND

RETURN

OFF

6 Press l or m to select “ON”, then

press the center of the Operation button.

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

16 9:

7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the menu screen.

To return to normal screen

Select “OFF” in step 6 above.

Recording in LP (Long Play Recording) Mode

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

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears.

BLC GAI N/ OFF

FADE

ENU

SC ENE

ENU

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MENU”, then press the center of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select T, then

press the center of the Operation button.

5 Press l or m to select “TAPE

SPEED”, then press the center of the Operation button.

SETT ING 1

RETURN

QK. DGT L

ZOOM TAPE SPEED RE TURN

6 Press l or m to select “LP”, then

press the center of the Operation button.

TAPE SPEED

7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the menu screen.

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

T AP E

Long play recording mode indicator

To return to SP mode

Select “SP” in step 6 above.

Notes on the use of LP mode

• To record in LP mode, be sure to use a Mini DV cassette labeled 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

Useful Features Camera Recording

Windbreak

The windbreak function allows you to reduce annoying noise from strong winds when recording.

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears (see page 27).

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MENU”, then press the center of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select Y, then

press the center of the Operation button.

5 Press l or m to select “WIND”, then

press the center of the Operation button.

SETT ING 2

DIS 16 9:

Useful Features

AUDI O MODE W

IND

RETURN

OFF

6 Press l or m to select “ON”, then

press the center of the Operation button.

IND

7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the menu screen.

To cancel Windbreak

Select “OFF” in step 6 above.

Note:

• Keep the windbreak function off during normal recording. If left on, the recorded audio may sound somewhat muffled when played back.

Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode

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

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears (see page 27).

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MENU”, then press the center of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select Y, then

press the center of the Operation button.

5 Press l or m to select “AUDIO

MODE”, then press the center of the Operation button.

SETT ING 2

DIS 16 9: AUDI O MODE W

IND

RETURN

bit

112

bit

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

press the center of the Operation button.

AUD I O MODE

1 6bit

7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the menu screen.

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

T AP E

16 bit

16-bit audio recording mode indicator

To return to 12-bit audio recording mode

Select “12bit” in step 6 above.

Note:

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

57).

Useful Features

Useful Features Playback

Playback

Using the Remote Control (Not supplied)

The remote control (RRMCGA149WJSA) is not supplied with this camcorder. Contact the nearest SHARP service center or your dealer for purchasing as specified part.

Activating

• The example screens shown are for Playback mode.

1 Press the DISPLAY button until the

mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MENU”, then press the center of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select Z, then

press the center of the Operation button.

Useful Features

5 Press l or m to select “REMOTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

OTHERS 1

DEF AULT REMOT E BEEP RETURN

OFF

6 Press l or m to select “ON”, then

press the center of the Operation button.

REMOT E

7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the menu screen.

Operating

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

16 ft

(5 m)

Remote sensor

SLOW button

TAPE REC START/STOP button

* CARD REC button

ZOOM (W/T) buttons

* Shift buttons

* CARD PLAY/MULTI button

VOLUME +/L buttons

Advance/reverse buttons

Notes:

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

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

• The buttons with an asterisk mark (*) do not work with this camcorder.

PAUSE/STILL button

STOP button

PLAY button

FF button

REW button

T/C (Time Code) button DATE button

Playback Functions with the Remote Control (Not supplied)

You can use the following playback functions with the remote control (not supplied), if you purchase it as a specified part by contacting the nearest SHARP service center or your dealer. (See page 42 for use of the remote control.)

SLOW button

PAUSE/STILL button

Advance/reverse buttons

Reverse Playback

The reverse playback function allows you to play back images in reverse.

During playback, press the j button.

To return to normal playback, press the PLAY button (t).

Note:

• The camcorder automatically returns to normal playback if it is left in reverse playback for more than 30 minutes.

Slow

The slow function allows you to play back images in slow motion.

During playback, press the SLOW button (f). Then, select the tape direction using the advance/reverse buttons (j or h).

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.

Frame Advance

The frame advance function allows you to play back still images frame by frame.

1 During playback, press the

PAUSE/STILL button (g) to pause playback.

2 Press 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.

• The reverse frame advance moves about 30 frames.

Useful Features

Useful Features Playback

Selecting the Date and Time of Recording Display

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

• The example screens shown are for Playback mode.

1 Hold down the Lock button and set

the Power switch to v or w.

2 Press the DISPLAY button until the

mode screen appears.

PI C. EFFECT

AUD I O DUB M

ENU

DATE D I SP.

OF F

3 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “DATE DISP.”, then press the center of the Operation button.

Useful Features

PI C. EFFECT AUD I O DUB

ENU

DAT E DI SP.

DAT E+TIME

4 Press l or m to select the desired

setting, then press the center of the Operation button.

DATE DI SP. DATE

5 Press the DISPLAY button until the

date (or date and time) appears.

4002.2J UN.

FFREWSTOPPLAY

Notes:

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

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

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

• Each time you press l or m, the setting changes as shown below.

DATE+TIME

DATE

OFF

Picture Effect Playback

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

Types

B/W: The picture is displayed in

black-and-white.

SEPIA: The picture is displayed in

sepia color similar to that of an old photograph.

SOLARI: The contrast of the subject

is enhanced, creating an unique artistic image.

NEGA: The blacks and whites of the

image are reversed and colors of the image are inverted.

4 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the mode screen.

To cancel Picture Effect Playback

Select “OFF” in step 3 above.

Note:

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

1 During playback, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “PIC. EFFECT”, then press the center of the Operation button.

PI C. EFFECT AUD I O DUB

ENU

DAT E DI SP.

OFF

3 Press l or m to select the desired

picture effect, then press the center of the Operation button.

P IC. EFFECT

Useful Features

Useful Features Playback

Rotate Playback

This function allows you to play back images rotated 180°.

1 In Playback mode, press the DIS-

PLAY button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MENU”, then press the center of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select V, then

press the center of the Operation button.

5 Press l or m to select “ROTATE

PB”, then press the center of the Operation button.

PLAYBACK

SET

ROTAT E PB AUDI O RET URN

EXECUTE

RET URN

Useful Features

6 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

• Rotate Playback indicator appears.

To cancel Rotate Playback

Press the center of the Operation button in step 7 above.

Notes:

• When executing Rotate Playback during playback, playback will stop. Press m to begin Rotate Playback.

• Even if the camcorder is in Rotate Playback mode, the image output via a DV connection will display as normal playback.

• The camcorder will stop and cancel Rotate Playback when the LCD monitor is closed.

• When you want to display the menu screen during Rotate Playback, press the center of the Operation button.

• In Rotate Playback mode, you cannot perform frame advance, slow, or picture effect playback.

AUDIO ROT ATE PB

Rotate Playback indicator

7 Press m to begin Rotate Playback.

• The image is rotated 180° upside down.

Advanced Features

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 center of the scene

at the same time.

Operation button

DISPLAY button

In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

Power Zoom control

button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “FOCUS”, then press the center of the Operation button.

ENU

SCENE MENU

SET

ANUAL

FOCUS

3 Adjust the Power Zoom control to

frame the subject as you desire.

4 Press l or m to focus on the

subject.

p: To focus on a closer subject o: To focus on a more distant subject

5 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the mode screen.

• “MF” appears when the on-screen indicators are turned on.

Manual focus indicator

3 0min3 0min

Note:

• When “MF” is displayed, you can manually

adjust the focus by pressing l or m, even if the focus setting screen is not displayed.

Advanced Features

Advanced Features Camera Recording

Returning to Auto Focus

You can set Manual Focus mode to Auto Focus mode with the operation below.

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “AUTO FOCUS”, then press the center of the Operation button.

SCENE MENU M

ANUAL FOCUS AUTO F OCUS EXECUTE

SET

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

• The FOCUS setting returns to Auto Focus mode.

4 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the mode screen.

Advanced Features

Displaying the Manual Setting Screen

You can manually adjust these settings as shown below in the manual setting screen.

• White Balance (see page 49)

• Manual Iris (see page 50)

• Manual Gain (see page 51)

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MANUAL SET”, then press the center of the Operation button.

FADE M

ENU

SCENE MENU

SET

ANUAL

EXECUTE

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

FULL AUTO

HITE BAL.

IRIS GA IN RETURN

Note:

• Items that are not selectable are grayed out.

EXECUTE

AUTO AUTO AUTO

White Balance Lock

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

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MANUAL SET”, then press the center of the Operation button (see page 48).

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select “WHITE

BAL.”, then press the center of the Operation button.

FULL AUTO

HITE BAL.

IRIS GA IN RETURN

AUTO

5 Press l or m to select “LOCK

MODE”.

HITE BAL.

LOCK MODE

6 Aim the lens at a white object.

White paper or white cloth

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

7 Press the center of the Operation

button to set the white balance lock.

• “LOCK MODE” will change to “LOCK” after pressing the center of the Operation button.

• “LOCK” flashes during the locking procedure, and stops flashing after locking the white balance.

Note:

• If you move the camcorder while “LOCK” is flashing, “LOCK” may not stop flashing. If this occurs, repeat step 7.

8 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the MANUAL SET screen.

Advanced Features

To return to Auto White Balance mode

Press k in step 5 above, then press the center of the Operation button.

To return to Full Auto mode

Set the camcorder to Full Auto mode (see page 52).

Note:

• White Balance setting cannot be used when a scene setting is selected.

Advanced Features Camera Recording

Manual Iris

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

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

• Decrease the iris value to allow more light through the lens.

Subject is too bright against background.

• Increase the iris value to allow less light through the lens.

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MANUAL SET”, then press the center of the Operation button (see page 48).

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

Advanced Features

then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select “IRIS”, then

press the center of the Operation button.

FULL AUTO

HITE BAL.

IRIS GA IN RETURN

AUTO

5 Press l or m to select the desired

iris value, then press the center of the Operation button.

FULL AUTO W

HITE BAL.

IRIS

GA IN RETURN

• The number shown is the selected iris value. The adjustment range is 15 steps from F1.8 (most light) to F19 (least light).

EXECUTE AUTO F2.0 AUTO

6 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the MANUAL SET screen.

To return to Auto Iris mode

Press k in step 5 above, then press the center of the Operation button.

To return to Full Auto mode

Set the camcorder to Full Auto mode (see page 52).

Note:

• Manual Iris mode cannot be used when a scene setting is selected.

Manual Gain

When recording in a dark or poorly illuminated location with Auto Gain mode, the light sensitivity of the camcorder (gain) will be automatically adjusted and the recorded image may be brighter than the subject actually is. If you want to faithfully record a dark scene in this case, use the manual gain function. You can also adjust the gain to record a backlit subject brighter.

Example of use

Faithfully recording a dark scene

• Select a smaller gain value (to decrease the light sensitivity).

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

• Select a larger gain value (to increase the light sensitivity).

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MANUAL SET”, then press the center of the Operation button (see page 48).

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select “GAIN”, then

press the center of the Operation button.

FULL AUTO

HITE BAL.

IRIS GA IN RETURN

AUTO

5 Press l or m to select the desired

gain value, then press the center of the Operation button.

FULL AUTO W

HITE BAL.

IRIS

GA IN

RETURN

• The number shown is the selected gain value. The adjustment range is 7 steps from 0dB (lowest sensitivity) to L18dB (highest sensitivity).

Note: If you select a large gain value, the image may appear grainy.

EXECUTE AUTO AUTO

3dB

6 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the MANUAL SET screen.

To return to Auto Gain mode

Press k in step 5 above, then press the center of the Operation button.

Advanced Features

To return to Full Auto mode

Set the camcorder to Full Auto mode (see page 52).

Note:

• Manual Gain mode cannot be used when a scene setting is selected.

Advanced Features Camera Recording

Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode

You can set all manual settings, including white balance, iris, gain, but not focus, to Full Auto mode in one operation.

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MANUAL SET”, then press the center of the Operation button (see page 48).

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

FULL AUTO

HITE BAL.

IRIS GA IN RETURN

EXECUTE LOCK

F4 0. +

3dB

4 Press l or m to select “FULL

AUTO”, then press the center of the Operation button.

FULL AUTO

HITE BAL.

IRIS

GA IN

RETURN

EXECUTE

5 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

FULL AUTO

HITE BAL.

IRIS GA IN RETURN

EXECUTE

AUTO AUTO AUTO

6 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the MANUAL SET screen.

Note:

• You cannot select “FULL AUTO” when no manual settings are currently in use.

Advanced Features

Scene Menu (Program AE)

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

Types

SPORT (A): When you want to record

a fast-moving subject.

DUSK (B): When you want to

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

SUNLIGHT (F): When background is

very bright.

PARTY (C): When the illumination is

from a spotlight or candle.

NIGHT LUMI (D): When you want to

record fireworks or an illuminated object in the dark.

SLOW SHUT. (E): When you want to

record an object in a dim place and make it emerge brightly.

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “SCENE MENU”, then press the center of the Operation button.

BLC GA IN/ FADE M

ENU

SCENE MENU

OFF

3 Press l or m to select the scene

setting that best fits the recording situation, then press the center of the Operation button.

• The selected scene setting displays on the mode screen.

SCENE MENU

DUSK

4 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the mode screen.

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

T AP E

Scene setting indicator

Advanced Features

To cancel the scene setting

Select “OFF” in step 3 above.

Note:

• Scene settings cannot be used when using any manual setting except focus. Also not selectable when e displays.

Advanced Features

01:02:0

AUDIO

Advanced Features Playback

Playback

Using the Time Code

The time code shows the hour, minute and second of recording, and the frame number (1 frame = approx. 1/30 sec.). This is automatically recorded along with the subject when you are recording on the tape. You can display the time code on the screen as an accurate counter in both Playback and Camera modes.

Display format

0 00 10 20TC

Frame number*

Second

Minute

* Displayed during still or

Hour

• The example screens shown are for Playback mode.

frame advance playback.

1 During playback or camera recording,

press the DISPLAY button until the mode screen appears.

2 Select “MENU”, then “EXECUTE” by

using the Operation button (see page

28).

Press l or m to select ~, then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select “TIME

CODE”, then press the center of the

Advanced Features

Operation button.

OTHERS 2

T IME CODE TC OUT RETURN

OFF

6 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the menu screen.

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

Time code

To turn off the time code

Select “OFF” in step 5 above.

Note:

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

Displaying the time code on a TV during playback

1 In Playback mode, press the DIS-

PLAY button until the mode screen appears.

2 Select “MENU”, then “EXECUTE” by

using the Operation button (see page

28).

Press l or m to select ~, then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select “TC OUT”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

OTHERS 2

T IME CODE TC OUT RETURN

OFF

5 Press l or m to select “ON”, then

press the center of the Operation button.

TIME CODE

Press l or m to select “ON”, then press the center of the Operation button.

TC OUT

6 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the menu screen.

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.

Preparation

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

Recording (VCR)

VIDEO

L-AUDIO-R

S-VIDEO

terminal

Notes:

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

• 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 do not need to connect the yellow video plug.

(MONO)

AV-IN

Audio/video/S-video cable (supplied)

To AV

The arrow shows the signal flow.

Black: To S-video input socket Yellow: To video input jack White: To audio input (L) jack Red: To audio input (R) jack

Playback

Cutting Unwanted Sequences

1 Play back the tape to be edited on the

camcorder, and locate the beginning and end of the sequence you wish to cut. Write down the time code reading at the beginning and end of that sequence (see page 54). Then, rewind the tape to before the beginning of the portion that you wish to keep.

2 Load a video cassette into the

recording VCR.

3 Press m on the camcorder to begin

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

4 Press the Pause/Still button on the

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

5 Press the Pause/Still (or Record)

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

To stop editing

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

Notes:

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

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

• The time code display will be recorded along with the edited sequences if the TC OUT menu item is set to “ON”. Set to “OFF” before editing (see page 54).

Advanced Features

Advanced Features Playback

Editing with the DV Terminal (IEEE1394)

This camcorder enables you to perform digital video editing. A DV cable transfers all dubbing signals including video and audio.

Preparation

Connect the camcorder to video equipment with a DV terminal using a commercially available DV cable.

To DV

terminal

DV cable (commercially available)

To DV

terminal

The arrow shows the signal flow.

Video equipment

with DV terminal

(e.g. DV camcorder)

Cutting Unwanted Sequences

See “Cutting Unwanted Sequences” on page 55, using the video equipment as the recording source.

Notes:

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

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

•“i.Link” refers to the IEEE1394-1995 industry specification and extensions thereof. The z logo is used for products compliant with the i.Link standard.

Advanced Features

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 monaural microphone to record narration.

Built-in monaural

microphone

Note:

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

Audio Recording

In normal recording mode

12-bit audio recording

The audio is recorded in monaural on Audio

Audio 1: Monaural sound Audio 2: No audio

16-bit audio recording

The audio is recorded in monaural on two separate channels.

Audio 1: Monaural sound Audio 2: Monaural sound

In Audio Dubbing mode

12-bit audio recording

The dubbed audio is recorded on Audio 2.

Audio 1: Original monaural sound Audio 2: Dubbed monaural sound

16-bit audio recording

The dubbed audio is recorded on Audio 2 over the original monaural sound.

Audio 1: Original monaural sound Audio 2: Dubbed monaural sound

Note:

• You can select the 12-bit or 16-bit audio recording mode by performing the procedure on page 41.

Advanced Features

Advanced Features Playback

Audio Dubbing

1 Play back the Mini DV cassette

recorded in SP mode and locate the tape position where you wish to start audio dubbing.

2 Press m on the Operation button to

pause playback.

3 Press the DISPLAY button until the

mode screen appears.

4 Press l or m to select “AUDIO

DUB”, then press the center of the Operation button.

PI C. EFFECT AUD I O DUB

ENU

DAT E DI SP.

EX ECUTE

5 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

• The audio dubbing screen appears.

00:00:0

AUDIO AUDIO DUB

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

1 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the audio dubbing screen.

2 Repeat steps 1 to 6 above.

Notes:

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

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

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

• You can play back the dubbed audio and the original audio together or separately (see page 59).

• “AUDIO DUB” cannot be selected when the Mini DV cassette is recorded in LP mode.

START STOP CANC EL

Advanced Features

6 Press m to begin audio dubbing.

Record your narration.

To pause audio dubbing

Press l. To resume audio dubbing, press m again.

To cancel audio dubbing

Press the center of the Operation button in step 5. The audio dubbing screen disappears.

Selecting the Audio

AUDI O

Playback Mode

You can select any of the following audio playback modes.

Audio 1H2

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

• 16-bit recording in mono

Audio 1

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

• 16-bit recording in mono

Audio 2

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

• 16-bit recording in mono

Note:

• This camcorder can output stereo sound when a tape is recorded in stereo.

1 Playback a Mini DV cassette with

dubbed audio.

2 Press the DISPLAY button until the

mode screen appears.

3 Select “MENU”, then “EXECUTE” by

using the Operation button (see page

28).

4 Press l or m to select V, then

press the center of the Operation button.

5 Press l or m to select “AUDIO”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

PLAYBACK SET

ROTAT E PB AUDI O

RET URN

1 2

6 Press l or m to select the desired

audio playback mode, then press the center of the Operation button.

7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the menu screen.

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

AUDIO

Audio playback mode indicator

Note:

• The audio playback mode indicator, “AUDIO”, displays in different colors

depending on the recording mode (12- or 16bit) used for the recording being played back. A white display indicates 12-bit recording mode, while a green indicates 16bit.

Advanced Features

–

LCD BRI GHT

LCD COLOR

VF BRI GHT

Appendix

Picture/Backlight Adjustments

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

• The example screens shown are for Camera mode.

Adjusting the Picture

1 Press the DISPLAY button until the

mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MENU”, then press the center of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select O, then

press the center of the Operation button.

LCD SET

BACKL IGHT

LCD BR IGHT LCD COLOR VF BRIGHT RETURN

NORMAL

– – –

+ + +

5 Press l or m to select “LCD

BRIGHT”, “LCD COLOR” or “VF BRIGHT”, then press the center of the Operation button.

6 Press j or k to adjust the item to

the desired setting, then press the center of the Operation button.

Darker

Decrease

Darker

Brighter

Increase

Brighter

7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the menu screen.

Notes:

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

• The viewfinder turns on if you select “VF BRIGHT”.

Appendix

Adjusting the Backlight

1 Press the DISPLAY button until the

mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MENU”, then press the center of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select O, then

press the center of the Operation button.

5 Press l or m to select “BACK-

LIGHT”, then press the center of the Operation button.

LCD SET

BACKL IGHT LCD BR IGHT LCD COLOR VF BRIGHT RETURN

NORMAL

BRI GHT

6 Press l or m to select “NORMAL” or

“BRIGHT”, then press the center of the Operation button.

BACKL I GHT

NORMAL: For use indoors or under

moderate lighting conditions.

BRIGHT: For use outdoors under

strong lighting conditions, such as bright daylight.

BRIGHT

7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the menu screen.

Turning off the Confirmation Sound

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

• The example screens shown are for Camera mode.

1 Press the DISPLAY button until the

mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MENU”, then press the center of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select Z, then

press the center of the Operation button.

5 Press l or m to select “BEEP”, then

press the center of the Operation button.

OTHERS 1

DEFAULT REMOT E BEEP DEMO MO DE LANGUAGE RETURN

OFF

6 Press l or m to select “OFF”, then

press the center of the Operation button.

OFFBEEP

7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the menu screen.

Appendix

Selecting the Language for the Information Display

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

Information display

AUTO

AUT O

3 0min

JUN.

03MA:01

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MENU”, then press the center of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select Z, then

press the center of the Operation button.

5 Press l or m to select “LAN-

GUAGE”, then press the center of the Operation button.

OTHERS 1

DEFAULT

Appendix

REMOT E BEEP DEMO MO DE

LANGUAGE

RETURN

ENGLI SH

FRAN ESPAÑOL

6 Press l or m to select the desired

language, then press the center of the Operation button.

LANGUE

FRAN

AIS

7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the menu screen.

• The information display appears in the language selected when the onscreen display turns on.

4002.2

AIS

Setting the Camcorder to Factory Presettings

You can set the camcorder to the factory presettings in one operation.

• The example screens shown are for Camera mode.

1 Press the DISPLAY button until the

mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MENU”, then press the center of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select Z, then

press the center of the Operation button.

5 Press l or m to select “DEFAULT”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

OTHERS 1

DEFAULT REMOT E BEEP DEMO MO DE LANGUAGE RETURN

EXE CUTE

RETURN

7 Press l or m to select “YES”, then

press the center of the Operation button.

• To cancel the setting, select “NO”.

8 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off

the menu screen.

Note:

• Even when you perform the steps above, the clock and language setting maintain the memory.

6 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

DEFAULT

RETURN PRESETT INGSTO EXCEPT CERTA IN I TEMS.

YES

SELECT

SET

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.

Watching

1 Remove the Mini DV cassette from

the camcorder (see page 9).

2 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY

button until the mode screen appears.

3 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “MENU”, then press the center of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the center of the Operation button.

5 Press l or m to select Z, then

press the center of the Operation button.

6 Press l or m to select “DEMO

MODE”, then press the center of the Operation button.

OTHERS 1

DEFAULT REMOT E BEEP D EMO MO DE LANGUAGE RETURN

OFF

7 Press l or m to select “ON”, then

press the center of the Operation button.

D EMO MODE

8 Set the Power switch to OFF, then

hold down the Lock button and set the Power switch to v.

• The demonstration begins.

Canceling

1 During the demonstration, press the

center of the Operation button to pause the demonstration.

2 Perform step 3 to 6 in “Watching”,

then select “OFF” in step 7.

Notes:

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

• Demonstration mode does not work in self recording with reversed grip.

Appendix

;;;;

Useful Information

Hints for Better Shooting

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

• 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.

Note:

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

Position the

subject in the

center.

Focus manually when

you need to position

the subject off center

(see page 47).

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

When the background is brighter than the subject, the subject often becomes too dark. If you have to record in this lighting, use Backlight Compensation or correct the iris value to improve the picture (see pages 30 and 50).

Light from behind Backlighting

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

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

Appendix

Mini DV Cassette

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 labeled 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 areas 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

Appendix

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.

To protect recordings against accidental erasure

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

Erasure protect tab

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

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 50°F and 86°F (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 19 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 6).

Note:

• Use only SHARP BT-L226 battery packs. These are designed specifically for use with this camcorder.

Storage

• Store the battery pack in a fully discharged state.

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

• When storing the battery pack, put it in the original protective plastic bag.

Notes:

• 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 140°F or 60°C) such as the dashboard of cars.

— Do not expose the battery pack to

moisture or water.

— Do not drop the battery pack or subject

it to strong force.

— Keep the battery pack out of reach of

children.

— Dispose of used battery packs

promptly. Do not dispose of them in fire.

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

• 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.

Appendix

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

POWER/CHARGE (RED) indicator turns off.

2 Attach the battery pack to the

camcorder, and set the Power switch to v 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 50°F and 68°F (10°C and 20°C).

AC Adapter

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

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

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

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

• Do not leave the adapter in direct sunlight.

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

Cleaning

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

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

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

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

• Pull out the viewfinder and open the window cleaning cover as shown below so that you can clean up the inside of the viewfinder with a camera blower.

Window cleaning cover

Replacing the Fluorescent

Appendix

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 center or your dealer for further advice.

Note:

• After cleaning, close the window cleaning cover securely. Closing the viewfinder with the window cleaning cover opened may cause malfunction.

Using Your Camcorder Abroad

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

AC Adapter (Supplied Accessory)

The supplied AC adapter is compatible with 50 Hz and 60 Hz electrical systems in the range of 110 V to 240 V AC. Use a commercially available AC plug adaptor, if necessary, depending on the design of the wall outlet.

A commercially available

AC 110–240 V

AC plug adaptor

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 NTSC-M system compatible. NTSC-M is used in the following areas: The Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Myanmar (previously Burma), Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Greenland, Guam, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, the Netherland Antilles, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, Surinam, Taiwan, Trinidad, the U.S.A., Venezuela, Southern Vietnam, and the Virgin Islands.

Appendix

Troubleshooting

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

Appendix

Symptom

No power.

Power

Start/Stop button does not work.

Power suddenly turns off.

Auto focus does not work.

Camera mode

Bright subject produces wide vertical lines.

Display automatically changes in Camera mode.

No image appears on connected TV screen.

Cannot rewind or fast forward tape.

Playback mode

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 in Demo mode.

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

Audio/video/S-video cable is not properly connected.

Position at beginning or end of tape.

Using a cleaning tape

Sharp VL-Z1U User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual