Sharp VL-Z100H, VL-Z300H Operating Instruction

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LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY CAMCORDER

MODEL

VL-Z300H-S VL-Z100H-S

OPERATION MANUAL

Please read this operation manual carefully before using the camcorder.

If you require any advice or assistance

regarding your Sharp product, please

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

customersupport. Customers without

Internet access may telephone 08705

274277 during office hours (or (01)676

0648 if telephoning from Ireland) .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WARNING

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this apparatus to dripping or splashing. No objects filled with liquids, such as vases, should be placed on the apparatus.

This equipment should be used with the recommended AC adapter or battery pack.

CAUTION

To prevent electric shocks and fire hazards, do NOT use any other power source.

Important:

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

CAUTION

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

Power supply:

WARNING: THIS AC ADAPTER IS NOT FOR USE WITH TOYS. THIS AC ADAPTER IS FOR USE WITH SHARP CAMCORDER MODEL VL-Z300H-S/VL-Z100HS ONLY.

This unit can be operated by connecting it to either the AC adapter or battery pack. The AC adapter incorporates the AUTO VOLTAGE (AC 110–240 V, 50/60 Hz) function.

iii

SPECIAL NOTE FOR USERS IN THE U.K.

The mains lead of this product is fitted with a non-rewireable (moulded) plug incorporating a 3A fuse. Should the fuse need to be replaced, a BSI or ASTA approved BS 1362 fuse marked or and of the same rating as above, which is also indicated on the pin face of the plug, must be used.

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

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

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

To fit an appropriate plug to the mains lead, follow the instructions below:

IMPORTANT: The wires in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the

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

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

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

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

Before replacing the plug cover make sure that:

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

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

IF YOU HAVE ANY DOUBT, CONSULT A QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN.

destroyed immediately and disposed of in a safe manner. Under no circumstances should the cut-off plug be inserted

elsewhere into a 13A socket outlet, as a serious electric shock may occur.

following code:

Blue: Neutral Brown: Live

is marked N or coloured black.

which is marked L or coloured red.

from the cut-off plug.

over the lead wires.

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 the performance of your camcorder.

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Contents

Supplied Accessories ........................................................................................ ix

Optional Accessories ......................................................................................... ix

Precautions ......................................................................................................... x

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 .............................................. 14

Adjusting the Hand Strap ..................................... 15

Using the Grip ....................................................... 15

Detaching the Lens Hood .....................................16

Using the Viewfinder .............................................16

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

Tips on Recording Positions ................................. 19

Camera Recording

Easy Camera Recording in Full Auto Mode .......... 20

Zooming ................................................................21

Power Standby Mode ........................................... 22

Turning on/off the Backlight .................................. 22

Auto Focus ............................................................23

Macro Shots ..........................................................23

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

Remaining Battery Power Display ........................ 24

Information Display for Battery Usage ..................24

Playback

Playback ............................................................... 25

Volume Control......................................................26

Still ........................................................................ 26

Video Search.........................................................26

Watching Playback on a TV ..................................27

Useful Features

Control Buttons ..................................................... 28

Using the Mode Screens ...................................... 28

Using the Menu Screens.......................................29

Camera Recording

Setting the Digital Zoom ....................................... 30

Backlight Compensation (BLC) ............................ 31

Gain-up ................................................................. 32

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

Quick Return ......................................................... 34

Edit Search............................................................35

Still Recording ....................................................... 35

Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) ........................... 36

Wide Mode ............................................................ 36

Power Save Mode .................................................37

Windbreak ............................................................. 37

Self Recording ...................................................... 38

Recording in LP (Long Play Recording) Mode .....40

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

Playback

Using the Remote Control (Not supplied) ............. 42

Selecting the Date and Time of Recording

Display ................................................................ 43

Picture Effect Playback .........................................44

Rotate Playback ....................................................45

Stretch Playback ...................................................46

Advanced Features

Camera Recording

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

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

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

Adjusting White Balance ....................................... 49

Manual Iris ............................................................ 51

Manual Gain .......................................................... 52

Setting the Shutter Speed .....................................53

Tips on Manual Settings ....................................... 54

Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode.............54

Scene Menu (Program AE) ................................... 55

Digital Picture Effects ............................................ 56

vii

Contents

Advanced Features

Appendix

Note:

• Before requesting service, please read “Troubleshooting” carefully. (See pages 75–

78.)

Playback

Using the Time Code ............................................ 57

Audio Dubbing Feature.........................................58

Selecting the Audio Playback Mode ..................... 60

Editing ...................................................................61

Recording from an External Source

(VL-Z300 only) ....................................................62

Editing with the DV Terminal (IEEE1394) .............. 64

Using the Camcorder as a Converter

(VL-Z300 only) ....................................................66

Picture/Backlight Adjustments ..............................67

Turning off the Confirmation Sound ...................... 68

Setting the Camcorder to Factory Presettings ...... 68

Demonstration Mode ............................................ 69

Useful Information .................................................70

Troubleshooting .................................................... 75

Specifications ....................................................... 79

On-screen Display Index ...................................... 80

Index ..................................................................... 82

viii

Supplied Accessories

Battery pack

BT-L227

CR1216 type lithium battery for camcorder Lens cap

AC adapter

Power cord

Audio/video/S-video

cable

Optional Accessories

Standard-life

battery pack

BT-L227

A remote control unit (p. 42) is available as a Spare Part quoting the part number (RRMCGA237WJSA), from Willow Vale Electronics Ltd. 0121 766 5414 or 0161 205 7531.

External battery with

hand strap

BT-LCA1

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 xii).

• 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 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.).

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 acclimatise 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 acclimatise to the surrounding temperature.

2 To use the camcorder again, turn on the

power after waiting for a few hours. Be sure that “DEW” has disappeared.

3 Do not insert a cassette while “DEW” is

flashing; this may result in damage to the tape.

4 Since dew forms gradually, it may take

10 to 15 minutes before the dew warning feature engages.

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 your SHARP dealer for further advice or refer to page 75 “Troubleshooting”.

xii

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. 28)

Zoom lens

DISPLAY/MODE SET button (p. 28)/

Monaural microphone

LCD LAMP button (p. 22)

MENU button (p. 29)

Operation References

Left view

Operation References

LCD monitor (p. 18)

Terminal cover

(pp. 27, 61, 62, 64, 66)

DV terminal (pp. 64, 66)

DC IN jack (pp. 7, 8)

AV terminal (pp. 27, 61, 62, 66)

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)

Dioptre adjustment dial (p. 17)

Battery release (pp. 6, 10)

Right view

Window cleaning cover

(p. 73)

PHOTO button (p. 35)

Operation References

Power Zoom Wide angle/ Telephoto control (p. 21)/ VOLume control (p. 26)

Viewfinder (pp. 16, 17)

STANDBY indicator

(p. 22)

POWER/CHARGE

(RED) indicator

(pp. 7, 8, 20)

Record Start/Stop button (p. 20)

Power switch (v Camera Recording mode/w Playback mode select switch) (pp. 20, 25)

STANDBY button (p. 22)

Speaker

Hand strap (p. 15)

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 71).

The tape is about to end. Prepare a new cassette (see page 9).

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 and

6).

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

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

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-L227 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 to the camcorder, and make sure that the Power switch is set to OFF.

2 Connect the supplied power cord to

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

AC power socket

To power

outlet

3 Insert the DC plug into the DC IN

jack of the camcorder.

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

POWER/CHARGE (RED)

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 in Tape modes

Max.

continuous

time

120

recording time

LCD

closed

open

145 125

125

Charging

Battery

pack

BT-L227

• The chart specifies the approximate times in minutes.

Notes:

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

• The battery pack and AC adapter become warm during charging. This is not a malfunction.

• Using the zoom (see page 21) 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 72 and 73 for more information on using the battery pack.

• Charge only SHARP model BT-L227 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 Connect the supplied power cord to

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

AC power socket

To power

outlet

3 Insert the DC plug into the DC IN

jack of the camcorder.

POWER/CHARGE (RED) indicator

4 Hold down the Lock button and set

the Power switch to v or w.

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

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.

DC IN jack

DC plug

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 centre 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 71 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 CR1216 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 CR1216 type lithium

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

CR1216 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 (RRMCGA237WJSA) is not supplied with this camcorder. Contact the nearest SHARP service centre or your dealer for purchasing as specified part. The CR2032 type lithium battery is used to power the remote control unit.

1 Insert a pointed object such as the

tip of a ballpoint pen to open the battery holder.

2 Place the CR2032 type lithium

battery on the battery holder with the H side facing down.

CR2032 type lithium battery

Notes on the Use of the Lithium Battery

CAUTION: Danger of explosion if

battery is incorrectly replaced. For camcorder, replace only with same or equivalent type CR1216, for remote control unit, replace only with same or equivalent type CR2032, both recommended by the equipment manufacturer. X KEEP THIS BATTERY AWAY FROM CHILDREN. IF SWALLOWED, CONSULT A PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY FOR EMERGENCY TREATMENT. Z BATTERY MAY EXPLODE IF MISUSED OR INSTALLED WITH POLARITY REVERSED. DO NOT RECHARGE, DISASSEMBLE OR DISPOSE OF IN FIRE.

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

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

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

Preparation

3 Close the battery holder until it

clicks.

Preparation

2. 000

1 2004.

SETT ING

000

6 2004.

Setting the Date and Time

Example: Setting the date to 2 June 2005

(2. 6. 2005) and the time to 10:30 am (10:30).

Operation button

Preparation

Note:

• Before performing the steps below, make

• The example screens shown are for Camera

MENU button

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

mode.

Power switch

1 Hold down the Lock

button and set the Power switch to v or w.

Lock button

2 Press the MENU button to display the

menu screen.

OTHERS 2

POWER SAVE OF F T IME CODE OFF

12H DAT E D I SP.

SETT I NG

RETURN

24H/

OFFTC OUT 24H DAT E+TIME

12004.1.

000:

3 Press the centre of the Operation

button.

4 Press m or l to select “2” (day),

then press the centre of the Operation button.

5 Press m or l to select “6” (month),

then press the centre of the Operation button.

6 Press m or l to select “2005” (year),

then press the centre of the Operation button.

SETT ING

2. :

0 00

6 2005.

7 Press m or l to select “10” (hour),

then press the centre of the Operation button.

SETT ING

01 00

6 2005.

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

then press the centre of the Operation button.

SETT ING

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

6 2005.2.

100030RETURN

9 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

Note:

• If the date and time have been set, the

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

Changing to the 12-hour Time Mode

1 After performing step 8 above, press

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

OTHERS 2

ER SAVE

TIME

CODE TC OUT 12H 24H/ DAT E D I SP. SETT I NG RETURN

24H

12H

2 Press l or m to select “12H”, then

press the centre of the Operation button.

21H24H

12H

3 Press the MENU 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.

Preparation

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.

Fastener

Note:

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

Adjusting the Hand Strap

Open the hand strap flap (1) and grip

strap (2).

Using the Grip

Rotate the grip 135° forward or 105° downward so that you can record images easily from high or low angle (see page 19).

Preparation

Grip strap

Hand strap flap

2 Loosen the grip strap, pass your right

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

3 Seal the Velcro

strap and the hand strap flap.

fasteners of the grip

135°

105°

Note:

• The grip cannot rotate when a tripod is attached.

Preparation

Detaching the Lens Hood

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

Preparation

Note:

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

Using the Viewfinder

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

Viewfinder

Power switch

1 Pull out the viewfinder completely.

2 Hold down the Lock

button and set the Power switch to v or w.

Lock button

Closing the viewfinder

Push in the viewfinder completely.

Notes:

• 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 Camera mode, however, the viewfinder is on and the subject is displayed both in the viewfinder and on the monitor (see page 38).

• You can adjust the settings on the MENU

screen through the viewfinder by using the Operation button (see page 28 for use of the Operation button).

• Be sure to close the viewfinder after use.

Adjusting the dioptre

Adjust the dioptre 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 dioptre adjustment dial until the indicators in the viewfinder are clearly visible.

Dioptre adjustment dial

Note:

• For cleaning the viewfinder, see page 73.

Preparation

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.

Preparation

Power switch

LCD monitor

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°

90°

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

• 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.

• When carrying the camcorder in a bag, for example, close the LCD monitor with the screen facing in.

Lock button

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.

Preparation

Basic posture

Place the viewfinder

eyecup firmly against

against your sides.

your eye.

Place your elbows

Balance your

weight on both

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

Basic Operations Camera Recording

Camera Recording

Easy Camera Recording in Full Auto Mode

• Before you start recording, perform the operations described on pages 5 through 19 to prepare your camcorder for recording.

Power switch

Record Start/Stop button

1 Remove the lens cap.

Basic Operations

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 54).

3 Press the Record Start/Stop button to

begin recording.

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 xii).

Maximum continuous recording and actual recording times

Max. continuous

Battery

pack

BT-L227

• The chart specifies the approximate times in minutes.

Note:

PAUSE

recording time

LCD

closed

145

LCD

open

125

REC

Actual

recording time

LCD

closed

LCD

open

To pause recording

WT3ZOOM

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

PAUSE

Zooming

Zooming allows you to move visually closer to or further 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 centre

attention on the subject)

To turn the power off

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

Remaining in Recording Standby mode for 5 minutes

If the camcorder remains in Recording Standby mode over 5 minutes, the camcorder automatically enters stop mode to protect the tape from damage.

— To resume Recording Standby mode from

stop mode, press the STANDBY button (see page 22).

— To resume recording from stop mode

directly, press the Record Start/Stop button. However, it may need several seconds to resume recording after pressing the Record Start/Stop button.

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 closer than 1.5 m.

• See page 30 for how to use the digital zoom.

Basic Operations

Basic Operations Camera Recording

Power Standby Mode

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

STANDBY button

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

• The screen turns off and the STANDBY

Basic Operations

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 for more than 5 minutes

— When the camcorder is set to Playback

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

• The camcorder will enter stop mode automatically 5 minutes after setting Power Standby mode if it remains in Recording Standby mode after cancelling Power Standby mode. — When Power Standby mode, for example,

is cancelled after 3 minutes, the camcorder will enter stop mode if recording is not started within 2 minutes.

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.

LCD LAMP button

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

• H will flash for 2 seconds, then lights up.

To turn on the backlight

Hold down the LCD LAMP button for more than 2 seconds.

Note:

• The backlight off mode will cancel when you close the LCD monitor.

Auto Focus

min

CHANGE THE

CASSETTE.

TAPE END

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 centre of the scene. Always keep the subject in the centre of the scene.

Notes:

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

• 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 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.

Macro Shots

This camcorder lets you shoot close-up images of small objects such as flowers and insects, or make title frames for your videos. When you want to record a magnified image of a subject which is within approximately

1.5 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.

Note:

• When you are recording a macro shot, be

sure that the subject receives sufficient illumination.

Remaining Recording Time Display

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

Remaining recording time indicator

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 Record 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.)

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

Warning indicator

THE

TAPE

ENDS SOON.

TAPE END

Approx. remaining

time

Less than 1 min.

Basic Operations

The tape has reached

the end.

Basic Operations Camera Recording

Remaining Battery Power Display

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)

Basic Operations

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.

(Green)

(Red)

BATTERY IS

TOO LOW.

Remaining battery power indicator

Warning indicator

Information Display for Battery Usage

When the camcorder operates with the battery pack, the battery usage indicator appears beside the remaining battery power indicator.

Battery usage indicator for the battery pack attached to the camcorder

Battery usage indicator for the optional external battery with hand strap BT-LCA1

When both indicators appear, the camcorder consumes power from both battery packs. When one indicator appears, it consumes power from the indicated battery pack.

Basic Operations

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.

Lock button

2 Press j (or k) on the Operation

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

3 Press m to begin playback.

Note:

• If you press the Record Start/Stop button in

Playback mode, the “g” mark appears and the camcorder enters Recording Standby mode. If you do not intend to record, press l to turn the “g” mark off, then press m to begin playback. This will ensure your previous recording is not erased (see pages 62–65).

To stop playback

Press l.

To turn the power off

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

Notes:

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

• When selecting “5 MIN” or “10 MIN” in power save mode and remaining in stop mode without any operation for 5 or 10 minutes, the camcorder will turn off automatically.

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.

Basic Operations

Basic Operations Playback

Volume Control

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.

Basic Operations

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.

Video Search

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.

Watching Playback

VIDEO AUDIO

(L/MONO)

AUDIO

(R)

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.

TV or VCR

VIDEO

L-AUDIO-R

S-VIDEO

(MONO)

AV-IN

Audio/video/S-video cable (supplied)

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

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 25).

Notes:

• If your TV or VCR has a 21-pin Euro-SCART connector, use a commercially available RCA/21-pin Euro-SCART conversion connector.

21-pin Euro-SCART on TV or VCR

RCA/21-pin Euro-SCART conversion connector

Video

• 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.

Audio R Audio L

Basic Operations

To AV

terminal

About the S-video socket

S-video sockets are used to separately pass the chroma (colour) and luminance

The arrow shows the signal flow.

(brightness) components of video signals. They serve to improve the picture quality in both recording and playback.

Useful Features

EXECUTE

BLC/GAIN

SET

ANUAL

FOCUS AUTO F OCUS

Useful Features

Control Buttons

Operation button

PAUSE

Power switch

Information display on

5002.2 03:01

Mode screen

DISPLAY/MODE SET button

Operation button

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

DISPLAY/MODE SET button

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

• The example screens shown are for Camera mode.

Useful Features

AUTO

3 0min

EXECUTE

SET

ANUAL

FOCUS AUTO FOCUS

BLC /GA IN

AUTO

3 0min

SELECT SET

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 80 and 81 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/MODE SET

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 centre of the Operation button.

Example

AUTO F OCUS BLC GAI N/ FADE SC ENEMENU OF F

4 Press l or m to select the desired

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

Example

AUTO F OCUS BLC GAI N/ FADE

SCENEMENU DUS K

PAUSE

Information display off

To turn off the mode screen

Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET button.

Note:

• Items that are not selectable are greyed out.

Using the Menu Screens

DGTL ZOOM

Use the menu screens to adjust the various camcorder settings.

Operation button

MENU button

Power switch

1 Hold down the Lock button and set

the Power switch to v or w.

• See pages 80 and 81 for the menu items you can select in each mode.

• Steps 2 to 5 show how to change the DGTL ZOOM menu setting in Camera mode.

2 Press the MENU button to display the

menu screen.

SETT ING 1

Note:

• The menu screen does not appear during recording.

Example

RETURN

QK. W

I DE MODE

ZOOM

DGT L TAPE SPEED RE TURN

START OFF OFF SP

3 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select the desired menu screen (T), then press the centre of the Operation button.

SETT ING 1

Example

QK. RETURN

I DE MODE

DGT L

ZOOM TAPE SPEED RE TURN

START

OFF OFF SP

4 Press l or m to select the desired

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

SETT ING 1

Example

RETURN

QK. W

I DE MODE

DGT L

ZOOM TAPE SPEED RE TURN

OF F

40 500

• You can press k, instead of the

centre of the Operation button.

5 Press l or m to select the desired

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

• You can press j, instead of the

centre of the Operation button.

• To adjust another menu item, press

l or m to select “RETURN” and press the centre of the Operation button, then perform steps 3 to 5.

To turn off the menu screen

Press the MENU button.

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 greyed out.

Useful Features

• You can press k, instead of the

centre of Operation button.

Useful Features

WT 52D-ZOOM

Useful Features

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 MENU

button to display the menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select T, then press the centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “DGTL

ZOOM”, then press the centre of the Operation button.

Useful Features

SETT ING 1

RETURN

QK. W

I DE MODE

DGT L

ZOOM TAPE SPEED RE TURN

OF F

40 500

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 4 above.

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

then press the centre of the Operation button.

DGTL ZOOM

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

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 brighten the entire screen.

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY/

MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.

EXECUTE

ANUAL

BLC/GAIN

SET

FOCUS AUTO F OCUS

2 Press l or m on the Operation

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

3 Press l or m to select “ON x”,

then press the centre of the Operation button.

BLC / GA I N ON

4 Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET

button to turn off the mode screen.

•“x” appears when on-screen

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

PAUSEPAUSE

AU T OAUTO

3 0min3 0min

To cancel the backlight compensation function

Select “OFF” in step 3 above.

Useful Features

min

Camera Recording

Gain-up

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/

MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.

EXECUTE

ANUAL

SET

FOCUS AUTO F OCUS BLC/GAIN

2 Press l or m on the Operation

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

3 Press l or m to select “ON e”,

then press the centre of the Operation button.

Useful Features

BLC / GA I N ON

4 Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET

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 51).

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

AUTO

3 0min

30min

PAUSE

Fade In and Fade Out

REC

min

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

DISPLAY/MODE SET button

Fade in

Fade out

Record Start/Stop button

Using

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY/

MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

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

FOCUS AUTO F OCUS BLC GAI N/

FADE

OFF

3 Press l or m to select “ON”, then

press the centre of the Operation button.

4 Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET

button until on-screen indicators appear.

5 Press the Record 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 Record 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/MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.

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

the point where you wish to stop recording.

Note:

• Fade mode automatically cancels after Fade Out.

Useful Features

Useful Features Camera Recording

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 MENU button to display the menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select T, then press the centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “QK.

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

SETT ING 1

QK. RETURN W

I DE MODE DGT L TAPE SPEED RE TURN

ZOOM

START

STOP

4 Press l or m to select “START”,

then press the centre of the Operation button.

Useful Features

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

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

Notes:

• To cancel the quick return function while “SEARCH” is flashing, press the centre 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.

• When the camcorder remains in Recording Standby mode for more than 5 minutes and enters stop mode, quick return will not work.

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

Edit Search

Still Recording

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.

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 6.5 times the normal playback.

• You may experience picture noise during reverse edit search.

• When the camcorder remains in Recording Standby mode for more than 5 minutes and enters stop mode, edit search will not work.

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 Record Start/

Stop button.

• The still image of the subject will be recorded.

• During still recording, “RECORDED ON TAPE” appears on the screen.

To pause recording

Press the Record 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.

Useful Features

Useful Features Camera Recording

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 MENU

button to display the menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select Y, then press the centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “DIS”, then

press the centre of the Operation button.

SETT ING 2

DIS AUDI O MODE

IND

RETURN

OFF

4 Press l or m to select “ON”, then

press the centre of the Operation button.

Useful Features

5 Press the MENU 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 4 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.

ONDIS

DIS indicator

PAUSE

Wide Mode

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 MENU

button to display the menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select T, then press the centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “WIDE

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

SETT ING 1

RETURN

QK. W

I DE MODE DGT L TAPE SPEED RE TURN

ZOOM

OFF

4 Press l or m to select “ON”, then

press the centre of the Operation button.

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

IDE MODE

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

To return to normal screen

Select “OFF” in step 4 above.

Power Save Mode

Windbreak

Power save mode will turn off the camcorder automatically to save battery power when the camcorder is not in use for 5 or 10 minutes.

Note:

• To resume recording or playback, set the Power switch to OFF, then back to v or w.

• The example screens shown are for Camera mode.

1 Turn on the camcorder, then press

the MENU button to display the menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select ~, then press the centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “POWER

SAVE”, then press the centre of the Operation button.

OTHERS 2

ER SAVE

PO TIME TC

OU T 12H 24H/ DAT E D I SP. SETT I NG RETURN

CODE

OFF

5 MI N 10 MIN

4 Press l or m to select “5 MIN” or “10

MIN”, then press the centre of the Operation button.

POWER SAVE 5 MI N

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

To cancel the power save mode

Select “OFF” in step 4 above.

Notes:

• The camcorder will not turn off when recording or playing back. It will also not turn off when inputting AV or DV for VL-Z300.

• The camcorder will turn off prior to Power Standby mode.

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

1 In Camera mode, press the MENU

button to display the menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select Y, then press the centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “WIND”, then

press the centre of the Operation button.

SETT ING 2

DIS AUDI O MODE W

IND

RETURN

OFF

4 Press l or m to select “ON”, then

press the centre of the Operation button.

IND

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

To cancel Windbreak

Select “OFF” in step 4 above.

Note:

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

Useful Features

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 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 grip

Rotate the grip 105° 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 105° vertically

as shown below.

105°

3 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle

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

90°

180°

4 Set the Power switch to v. 5 Begin recording.

Notes:

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

• During self recording with reversed grip, 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 with reversed grip.

• 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 Record 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

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 MENU

button to display the menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select T, then press the centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “TAPE

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

SETT ING 1

RETURN

QK.

I DE MODE

DGT L

ZOOM TAPE SPEED RE TURN

4 Press l or m to select “LP”, then

press the centre of the Operation

Useful Features

button.

TAPE SPEED

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

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

To return to SP mode

Select “SP” in step 4 above.

Notes on the use of LP mode

• To record in LP mode, be sure to use a Mini DV cassette labelled for use with LP mode.

• Frozen images, mosaic-pattern picture noise, audio interruptions or audio loss may occur in the following cases: —When using a tape which is not

designated for use with LP mode.

—When a tape recorded in LP mode

under high temperature conditions is played back.

—When a tape recorded in LP mode with

the camcorder is played back on a Mini DV player or camcorder from another manufacturer.

—When a tape recorded in LP mode is

played back on a Mini DV player or camcorder without an LP function.

• Audio dubbing is not possible with LP mode recording.

PAUSE

T AP E

Long play recording mode indicator

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 MENU

button to display the menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select Y, then press the centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “AUDIO

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

SETT ING 2

DIS AUDI O MODE W

IND

RETURN

bit

112

bit

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

press the centre of the Operation button.

AUD I O MODE

1 6bit

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

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

PAUSE

T AP E

16 bit

16-bit audio recording mode indicator

To return to 12-bit audio recording mode

Select “12bit” in step 4 above.

Note:

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

58).

Useful Features

Useful Features Playback

Playback

Using the Remote Control (Not Supplied)

The remote control (RRMCGA237WJSA) is not supplied with this camcorder. Contact the nearest SHARP service centre or your dealer for purchasing as specified part.

Activating

• The example screens shown are for Playback mode.

1 Press the MENU button to display the

menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select Z, then press the centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “REMOTE”,

then press the centre of the Operation button.

OTHERS 1

DEF AULT REMOTE BEEP

S- V I DEO I N

VL-Z100.

RETURN

Useful Features

* “S-VIDEO IN” does not appear with

OFF

4 Press l or m to select “ON”, then

press the centre of the Operation button.

REMOT E

5 Press the MENU 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.

5 m

Remote sensor

ZOOM (W/T) buttons

TAPE REC START/STOP button

* CARD REC button

* CARD PLAY/MULTI button

SLOW button

FF button

PLAY/STILL button

Advance/reverse buttons * Shift buttons

VOLUME +/L buttons T/C (Time Code) button DATE button

STOP button

REW button

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.

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 Press the MENU button to display the

menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select ~, then press the centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “DATE DISP.”,

then press the centre of the Operation button.

OTHERS 2

ER SAVE

CODE

TIME TC OUT

12H 24H/ DAT E D I SP. SETT I NG RETURN

DAT E

DAT E OFF

TIME

4 Press l or m to select the desired

setting, then press the centre of the Operation button.

DATE D I SP. DATE

5 Press the MENU button until the date

(or date and time) appears.

5002.6.2

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.

• You can also press the DATE button on the remote control (not supplied) to display the date (or date and time).

Useful Features

Useful Features Playback

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 colour 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 colours of the image are inverted.

1 During playback, press the DISPLAY/

MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

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

Useful Features

button.

PI C. EFFECT AUD I O DUB STRETCH PB

OFF

4 Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET

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.

3 Press l or m to select the desired

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

PIC. EFFECT

Rotate Playback

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

1 In Playback mode, press the MENU

button to display the menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select V, then press the centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “ROTATE

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

• Rotate playback indicator appears. of the Operation button.

PLAYBACK

AUDI O ANLG OFFDGTL

RET URN

AUDIO ROT ATE P B

Rotate playback indicator

* “ANLGyDGTL” does not appear with

VL-Z100.

SET

EXECUTEROTATE PB

1+2

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.

• When you want to display the menu screen during rotate playback, press the centre of the Operation button.

• In rotate playback mode, you cannot perform picture effect playback.

Useful Features

4 Press m to begin rotate playback.

• The image is rotated 180° upside down.

To cancel rotate playback

Press the centre of the Operation button in step 4 above.

Useful Features Playback

Stretch Playback

Stretch playback allows you to playback a squeezed image with the wide screen feel of a movie shown in a theatre. Useful when you want to play back images recorded by a camera other than this camcorder in wide mode on a 4:3 TV.

Squeezed image

(4:3)

Stretch playback

(16:9)

1 In Playback mode, press the DIS-

PLAY/MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select “STRETCH PB”, then press the centre of the Operation button.

PI C. EFFECT

Useful Features

AUD I O DUB

STRETCH PB

EXECUTE

• Playback will stop after turning on stretch playback.

3 Press m to begin stretch playback.

To cancel stretch playback

Press the centre of the Operation button in step 3 above.

Notes:

• “Squeeze” is an image compression technology. A 16:9 image is compressed and recorded (squeeze recorded) as a 4:3 image.

• In stretch playback mode, you cannot perform picture effect playback.

• When outputting the stretch playback image from the DV terminal, the original image signal will be output.

• When performing stretch playback, the normal recorded image (picture aspect ratio 4:3) will be stretched as shown below.

4:3 picture aspect

ratio image

Stretch playback

AUDIO

S TR ETCH

STRETCH

C AN C E LCANCE L

• The picture displays with black bands.

FFREWSTOPPAUSE

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 centre of the scene

at the same time.

Operation button

DISPLAY/MODE SET button

In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY/

Power Zoom control

MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

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

SET

ANUAL FOCUS AUTO F OCUS BLC/GAIN

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/MODE SET

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

HITE BAL.

IRIS

GA IN

RETURN

FULL AUTO

SHUT. SPEED

AUTO AUTO AUTO

AUTO

EXECUTE

BLC/GAIN

SET

ANUAL

FOCUS AUTO F OCUS

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/

MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

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

ANUAL

SET

EXECUTE

M FOCUS

AUTO F OCUS

BLC/GAIN

• The FOCUS setting returns to Auto Focus mode.

Note:

• You can return to Auto Focus mode

when you press j after selecting “FOCUS”.

3 Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET

button to turn off the mode screen.

Displaying the Manual Setting Screen

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

• White Balance (see pages 49, 50)

• Manual Iris (see page 51)

• Manual Gain (see page 52)

• Shutter speed (see pages 53, 54)

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY/

MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

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

Notes:

• Items that are not selectable are greyed out.

• “MANUAL SET” cannot be selected when a

scene setting is selected.

Advanced Features

Adjusting White Balance

The colour of the subject on the screen looks different depending on lighting conditions. Selecting a White Balance setting that matches the lighting conditions.

Types

AUTO: Colouring adjusted automati-

cally for the current lighting condition.

LOCK MODE: Fix the setting to the

standard balance (White Balance Lock).

OUTDOOR: For recording outdoors on

a sunny day.

INDOOR: For recording indoors with

halogen lamps or incandescent lighting.

Selecting

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY/

MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

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

3 Press l or m to select “WHITE

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

FULL AUTO

HITE BAL.

IRIS GA IN SHUT. SPEED RETURN

AUTO

4 Press l or m to select a white

balance setting, then press the centre of the Operation button.

FULL AUTO

HITE BAL.

IRIS GA IN SHUT. SPEED RETURN

• When selecting “LOCK MODE”, perform the steps in “Locking” on the next page.

EXECUTE OUTDOOR AUTO AUTO AUTO

5 Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET

button to turn off the MANUAL SET screen.

Advanced Features

(Continued on the next page)

Advanced Features Camera Recording

Locking

1 Select “LOCK MODE” in step 4 in

“Selecting” on the previous page.

2 Aim the lens at a white object.

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

White paper or white cloth

3 Press the centre of the Operation

button to set the white balance lock.

• “LOCK MODE” will change to “LOCK” after pressing the centre 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

Advanced Features

“LOCK” is flashing, “LOCK” may not stop flashing. If this occurs, repeat step 3.

4 Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET

button to turn off the MANUAL SET screen.

To return to Auto White Balance mode

Press j in step 4 in “Selecting” on the previous page or step 3 in “Locking” to display “AUTO”.

To return to Full Auto mode

Set the camcorder to Full Auto mode (see page 54).

Note:

• White Balance setting cannot be used

when a scene setting is selected.

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/

MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

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

3 Press l or m to select “IRIS”, then

press the centre of the Operation button.

FULL AUTO

HITE BAL.

IRIS GA IN SHUT. SPEED RETURN

AUTO

4 Press l or m to select the desired

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

FULL AUTO W

HITE BAL.

IRIS

GA IN SHUT. SPEED 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 AUTO

5 Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET

button to turn off the MANUAL SET screen.

To return to Auto Iris mode

Press j in step 4 above to display “AUTO”.

To return to Full Auto mode

Set the camcorder to Full Auto mode (see page 54).

Note:

• Manual Iris mode cannot be used when a

scene setting is selected.

Advanced Features

Advanced Features Camera Recording

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/

MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

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

3 Press l or m to select “GAIN”, then

press the centre of the Operation button.

FULL AUTO

HITE BAL.

IRIS GA IN SHUT. SPEED RETURN

AUTO

4 Press l or m to select the desired

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

FULL AUTO W

HITE BAL.

IRIS

GA IN

SHUT. SPEED 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

AUTO

5 Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET

button to turn off the MANUAL SET screen.

To return to Auto Gain mode

Press j in step 4 above to display “AUTO”.

Advanced Features

To return to Full Auto mode

Set the camcorder to Full Auto mode (see page 54).

Note:

• Manual Gain mode cannot be used when a

scene setting is selected.

Setting the Shutter Speed

The shutter speed is preset to auto mode, which automatically selects the optimal shutter speed for the ambient light. However, depending on the subject or situation, you may want to set the shutter speed manually to create a high-quality picture.

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY/

MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

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

3 Press l or m to select

“SHUT.SPEED”, then press the centre of the Operation button.

FULL AUTO

HITE BAL.

IRIS GA IN SHUT. SPEED RETURN

AUTO

4 Press l or m to select the desired

shutter speed, then press the centre of the Operation button.

FULL AUTO

HITE BAL.

IRIS GA IN

SHUT. SPEED

RETURN

EXECUTE AUTO AUTO AUTO 1/250

• In Camera mode, you can select 18 speeds from 1/12 sec. (“1/12”) to 1/ 10,000 sec. (“1/10000”).

5 Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET

button to turn off the MANUAL SET screen.

To return to Auto Shutter Speed mode

Press j in step 4 above to display “AUTO”.

To return to Full Auto mode

Set the camcorder to Full Auto mode (see page 54).

Recommended Shutter Speeds

The faster the shutter speed, the darker the picture becomes. Select the most appropriate shutter speed for the ambient light.

Situation

• Recording sports action in bright daylight.

• Recording in bright daylight at a ski resort.

• Recording outdoor sports on a partially cloudy day.

• Recording an outside scene through a car window (when you want to minimize blur caused by the camera shaking).

• When you want to reduce the light by half. Use as a substitute for an ND2 filter.

• Recording in a poorlyilluminated location.

• When you want to create artistic trailing images of fast-moving subjects.

Recommended

shutter speed

1/10,000 sec.

1/1,000 sec.

1/250 sec.

1/120 sec.

1/25 sec. 1/12 sec.

Advanced Features

(Continued on the next page)

Advanced Features

HITE BAL.

IRIS

GA IN

RETURN

FULL AUTO

SHUT. SPEED

AUTO AUTO AUTO

AUTO

EXECUTE

Camera Recording

Tips on Using the Manual Shutter Speed

• Fast shutter speeds can be used with the still recording functions (see page

35) to record higher quality still images of fast-moving subjects.

• If the on-screen picture flickers when recording under fluorescent lighting, you may be able to compensate by setting the shutter speed to 1/120 sec.

Notes:

• Recording with a shutter speed faster than 1/50 sec. tends to darken the picture. Record in bright locations when you use a fast shutter speed.

• Using a fast shutter speed under fluorescent lighting will cause flickering in the picture and possibly periodic colour shifts.

• When selecting 1/25 sec. or 1/12 sec. shutter speed, you may get a shadow image behind a subject that is moving around a lot.

• The Manual Shutter Speed setting cannot

be used when a scene setting is selected or the e indicator appears.

• The shutter speed will be set to AUTO when selecting “ON e” in gain-up function.

Tips on Manual Settings

When the mode or menu screen is off, press and hold down the centre of the Operation

Advanced Features

button until the screen shown as below appears. You can set focus, white balance, iris, gain and shutter speed manually.

FULL AUTO

FO CUS

HITE BAL. IRIS GA IN SHUT. SPEED RETURN

EXECUTE

AUTO AUTO AUTO AUTO AUTO

Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode

You can set all the settings shown in the screen to Full Auto mode in one operation.

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY/

MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

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

FULL AUTO

HITE BAL. IRIS GA IN SHUT. SPEED RETURN

EXECUTE LOCK

F4 0. +

1 /500

3 Press l or m to select “FULL

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

FULL AUTO

HITE BAL.

IRIS

GA IN

SHUT. SPEED

RETURN

EXECUTE

4 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,

then press the centre of the Operation button.

5 Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET

button to turn off the MANUAL SET screen.

Note:

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

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/

MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

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

AUTO F OCUS BLC GAI N/ FADE SCENE MENU

OFF

3 Press l or m to select the scene

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

• The selected scene setting displays on the mode screen.

SCENE MENU

DUSK

4 Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET

button to turn off the mode screen.

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

T AP EPAUSE

Advanced Features

Scene setting indicator

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 Camera Recording

Digital Picture Effects

These digital picture effects let you record the subject with a more dramatic effect.

Types

B/W: To record in black-and-white.

SEPIA: To record in sepia colour similar

to that of an old photograph.

SOLARI: To record with enhanced

contrast, creating an unique artistic image.

NEGA: To record a picture whose

blacks and whites of the image are reversed and colours of the image are inverted.

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY/

MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

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

BLC GAI N/

FADE

SC ENE

PI C. EF FECT OFF

ENU

3 Press l or m to select the desired

digital picture effect, then press the centre of the Operation button.

PIC. EFFECT

4 Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET

button to turn off the mode screen.

To cancel the digital picture effect

Select “OFF” in step 3 above.

Note:

• Digital picture effects will not work when a

still image is displayed.

Advanced Features

01:02:0

AUDIO

Playback

Using the Time Code

The time code shows the hour, minute and second of recording, and the frame number (1 frame = approx. 1/25 sec.). This is automatically recorded along with the subject 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 01 20 20TC

Frame number*

Second

Minute

* Displayed during still

Hour

• The example screens shown are for Playback mode.

playback.

1 During playback or camera recording,

press the MENU button to display the menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select ~, then press the centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “TIME

CODE”, then press the centre of the Operation button.

OTHERS 2

ER SAVE

TIME

CODE TC OUT 12H 24H/ DAT E D I SP. SETT I NG RETURN

OFF

4 Press l or m to select “ON”, then

press the centre of the Operation button.

TIME CODE

5 Press the MENU 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 4 above.

Notes:

• When the tape reaches an unrecorded section, the time code returns to zero (TC 0:00:00). Once recorded, the time code cannot be changed.

• You can also press the T/C button on the remote control (not supplied) to display the time code.

Displaying the time code on a TV during playback

1 In Playback mode, press the MENU

button to display the menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select ~, then press the centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “TC OUT”,

then press the centre of the Operation button.

OTHERS 2

ER SAVE

CODE

TIME TC OUT 12H 24H/ DAT E D I SP. SETT I NG RETURN

OFF

4 Press l or m to select “ON”, then

press the centre of the Operation button.

TC OUT

Advanced Features

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

Advanced Features Playback

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.

Advanced Features

Audio Recording

In normal recording mode

12-bit audio recording

The audio is recorded in monaural on Audio 1.

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

Notes:

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

• You can perform audio dubbing, such as music, on Audio 2 if you connect another source via the AV cable. If the audio to be dubbed was recorded in 12-bit audio recording mode, it can be recorded on Audio 2 in stereo sound.

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/MODE SET

button until the mode screen appears.

4 Press l or m to select “AUDIO

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

• The audio dubbing screen appears.

PI C. EFFECT

AUD I O DUB

STRETCH PB

AUDIO

AUDIO DUB

START STOP CANC EL

EXECUTE

00:00:0

5 Press m to begin audio dubbing.

Record your narration.

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

1 Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET

button to turn off the audio dubbing screen.

2 Repeat steps 1 to 5 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 60).

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

Advanced Features

To pause audio dubbing

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

To cancel audio dubbing

Press the centre of the Operation button in step 4. The audio dubbing screen disappears.

Advanced Features

AUDI O

Playback

Selecting the Audio 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 MENU button to display the

menu screen.

Advanced Features

3 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select V, then press the centre of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select “AUDIO”,

then press the centre of the Operation button.

PLAYBACK SET

ROTAT E PB AUDI O ANLG DGTL

RET URN

* “ANLGyDGTL” does not appear with

VL-Z100.

1 2

5 Press l or m to select the desired

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

6 Press the MENU 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 colours

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.

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:

• If your VCR has a 21-pin Euro-SCART

connector, use a commercially available RCA/21-pin Euro-SCART conversion connector.

Video

(MONO)

AV-IN

Audio/video/S-video cable (supplied)

To AV

The arrow shows the signal flow.

21-pin Euro-SCART on VCR

VIDEO AUDIO

AUDIO

(L/MONO)

(R)

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

Playback

RCA/21-pin Euro-SCART conversion connector

Audio R Audio L

• 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.

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 57). 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 57).

Advanced Features

VIDEO AUDIO

(L/MONO)

AUDIO

(R)

Playback

Recording from an External Source (VL-Z300 only)

You can use this camcorder to record or edit videos from another source, such as a VCR or TV.

Preparation

Connect the camcorder to the source equipment with the supplied audio/video/Svideo cable, as shown.

Playback

(VCR or TV)

VIDEO

L-AUDIO-R

S-VIDEO

(MONO)

AV-OUT

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

Audio/video/S-video cable (supplied)

Recording

Notes:

• This function cannot be used with VLZ100.

• If your TV or VCR has a 21-pin Euro-SCART connector, use the RCA/21-pin Euro-SCART conversion connector (QSOCZ0305TAZZ) available from our main parts distributor detailed on page 75.

21-pin Euro-SCART on TV or VCR

RCA/21-pin Euro-SCART conversion connector (QSOCZ0305TAZZ)

Video

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

Audio R Audio L

• If the source equipment has only one audio output jack, use the white plug for the audio connection on the source equipment. (The input audio will only be recorded on the left channel of the tape.)

• Even if the source equipment has an S-video output socket, connect both the yellow video plug and S-video plug.

To AV

terminal

Advanced Features

The arrow shows the signal flow.

To Record from an External Source

1 In Playback mode, press the MENU

button to display the menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select Z, then press the centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “S-VIDEO

IN”, then press the centre of the Operation button.

OTHERS 1

DEF AULT REMOTE BEEP S- V I DEO I N RETURN

OFF

4 Press l or m to select “ON” (for S-

video connection) or “OFF” (for video connection), then press the centre of the Operation button.

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

•“S-VIDEO” appears on the screen during a pause or Recording Standby mode when you set the SVIDEO IN menu item to “ON” in step 4 above.

6 Begin playback on the source

equipment connected to the camcorder.

• Check the camcorder screen to see if the picture is properly received.

7 Press the Record Start/Stop button

on the camcorder, then press m to begin recording.

Notes:

• To pause recording, press m. Press m again

to resume recording.

• To operate by remote control (not supplied), perform steps 1 to 6 above, and press the TAPE REC START/STOP button, then press the PLAY/STILL button (g).

• If a digital video recording with a copyright protection signal is used as the playback source, “COPYRIGHT PROTECTED.” appears on the camcorder monitor and the recording function is disabled.

Advanced Features

Advanced Features Playback

Editing with the DV Terminal (IEEE1394)

This camcorder can be used as a digital video editor. A DV cable transfers all dubbing signals including video and audio directly to the camcorder.

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

Video equipment

with DV terminal

(e.g. DV camcorder)

To Record to Video Equipment

See “Cutting Unwanted Sequences” on page 61 using the video equipment as the recording source.

Note:

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

Note:

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

Advanced Features

To Record from Video Equipment (VL-Z300 only)

1 Set the camcorder to Playback mode,

and insert a Mini DV cassette.

2 Begin playback on the video equip-

ment connected to the camcorder.

• Check the camcorder screen to see if the picture is properly received.

3 Press the Record Start/Stop button

on the camcorder.

• The camcorder enters Recording Standby mode.

4 Press m on the Operation button to

begin recording.

To stop recording

Press l on the Operation button.

Cutting Unwanted Sequences

1 Press m to pause recording when the

source tape reaches the beginning of the sequence to be cut.

2 Press m to resume recording when

the source tape reaches the end of the sequence to be cut.

Notes:

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

• If the video equipment is not set to playback mode or the DV cable is not properly connected, “NO SIGNAL” is displayed on the camcorder screen.

• If no picture or sound is input to the camcorder even if the DV cable is properly connected and you are playing back the source media from the video equipment, set the Power switch on the camcorder to OFF and then back to w, or disconnect the DV cable and connect it again.

• If a digital video recording with a copyright protection signal is used as the playback source, “COPYRIGHT PROTECTED.” appears on the camcorder monitor and the recording function is disabled.

• 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. This “i.LINK” mark is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

Advanced Features

Advanced Features Playback

Using the Camcorder as a Converter (VL-Z300 only)

You can use this camcorder to convert from analog signal (e.g. video recorded on 8 mm or Hi8 tapes) to digital signal.

Preparation

Connect the audio/video/S-video cable and DV cable as shown below.

Recording

(digital equipment)

e.g. computer

To DV terminal

DV cable (commercially available)

Digital signal

To DV terminal

To AV terminal

Analog signal

Audio/video/S-video cable (supplied)

Black: To S-video output socket

Advanced Features

(MONO)

VIDEO

S-VIDEO

AV-OUT

The arrow shows the signal flow.

Note:

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

Yellow: To video output jack White: To audio output (L) jack Red: To audio output (R) jack

Playback (analog equipment)

L-AUDIO-R

e.g. 8 mm or Hi8 camcorder

1 Set the camcorder to Playback mode,

and make sure that playback is stopped.

2 Press the MENU button to display the

menu screen.

3 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select V, then press the centre of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select

“ANLGyDGTL”, then press the centre of the Operation button.

PLAYBACK

SET

ROTAT E PB AUDI O ANLG DGTL RET URN

OFF

5 Press l or m to select “ON”, then

press the centre of the Operation button.

ONANLG DGTL

6 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

7 Press the Play button on the analog

equipment.

• Check the monitor on the digital equipment to see if the picture is being properly received.

8 Press the Record button on the digital

equipment.

Notes:

• This function cannot be used with VLZ100.

• The camcorder is not guaranteed to work with all digital/analog equipment. Contact the manufacturer of your equipment for advice.

• If the camcorder outputs a video recording with a copyright signal, the digital equipment cannot record or save it.

• The camcorder may not convert some input video recordings properly (e.g. discolouration, picture noise, muted sound), depending on the input condition.

Appendix

LCD SET

BACKL IGHT LC D BR I GHT LC D COL OUR

RET URN

VF BRIGHT

NORMAL

BRI GHT

BACKL I GHT

BRI GHT

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 MENU button to display the

menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select O, then press the centre of the Operation button.

LCD SET

BACKL I GHT

LC D BR I GHT LCD COLOUR

VF BRIGHT

RET URN

* “VF BRIGHT” does not appear with

VL-Z100.

NORMAL

– – –

+ + +

3 Press l or m to select “LCD

BRIGHT”, “LCD COLOUR” or “VF BRIGHT”, then press the centre of the Operation button.

• The viewfinder turns on if you select “VF BRIGHT” (VL-Z300 only).

4 Press j or k to adjust the item to

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

LCD BRI GHT

LCD COLOUR

Decrease

–

Darker Brighter

–

Increase

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

Note:

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

Adjusting the Backlight

1 Press the MENU button to display the

menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select O, then press the centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “BACK-

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

* “VF BRIGHT” does not appear with

VL-Z100.

4 Press l or m to select “NORMAL” or

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

NORMAL: For use indoors or under

moderate lighting conditions.

BRIGHT: For use outdoors under

strong lighting conditions, such as bright daylight.

Appendix

VF BRI GHT

* “VF BRIGHT” does not appear with

VL-Z100.

–

Darker

Brighter

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

Appendix

Turning off the Confirmation Sound

A confirmation sound is made when you turn on or off the Power switch, press the Record 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 MENU button to display the

menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select Z, then press the centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “BEEP”, then

press the centre of the Operation button.

OTHERS 1

DEF AULT REMOTE BEEP DE MO MO DE RETURN

OFF

4 Press l or m to select “OFF”, then

press the centre of the Operation button.

OFFBEEP

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

To turn on the confirmation sound

Select “ON” in step 4 above.

Appendix

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 MENU button to display the

menu screen.

2 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select Z, then press the centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “DEFAULT”,

then press the centre of the Operation button.

OTHERS 1

DEFAULT

REMOTE BEEP DE MO MO DE RETURN

DEFAULT

RE TURN PRE SE TT I NGSTO EXCEPT CERTA IN I TEMS.

EXECUTE

ON ON OFF

YES

SELECT

SET

4 Press l or m to select “YES”, then

press the centre of the Operation button.

• To cancel the setting, select “NO”.

5 Press the MENU button to turn off the

menu screen.

Note:

• Even when you perform the steps above, the clock setting will remain in the camcorder’s memory.

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 MENU

button to display the menu screen.

3 Press l or m on the Operation

button to select Z, then press the centre of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select “DEMO

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

OTHERS 1

DEF AULT REMOTE BEEP DE MO MO DE RETURN

OFF

5 Press l or m to select “ON”, then

press the centre of the Operation button.

D EMO MO DE

6 Set the Power switch to OFF, then

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

• The demonstration begins.

Cancelling

1 During the demonstration, press the

centre of the Operation button to pause the demonstration.

2 Perform step 2 to 4 in “Watching”,

then select “OFF” in step 5.

Notes:

• The demonstration will pause if you press the centre 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 centre of the scene. When using auto focus, whatever is in the centre of the scene is kept in focus.

Position the

subject in the

centre.

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

When the background is brighter than the subject, the subject often becomes too dark. If you have to record in this lighting, use Backlight Compensation or correct the iris value to improve the picture (see pages 31 and 51).

Focus manually when

you need to position

the subject off centre

(see page 47).

• 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.

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 built in memory (MIC), but it cannot record to, or play back from this memory.

• To record in LP mode, use a Mini DV cassette labelled for use with LP mode.

• Do not insert anything into the holes on the bottom of the Mini DV cassette or block them in any way.

• Avoid placing the Mini DV cassette in 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 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.

About a tape recorded with highdefinition camcorder

This camcorder cannot play back a tape recorded with high-definition camcorder. If such a tape is played back, the screen becomes blue and the warning indicator, “NOT RECORDED ON DV FORMAT”, will appear.

Appendix

Battery Pack

This camcorder uses a lithium-ion type battery pack.

Charging

• Charge the battery pack immediately (or a day) before use. The battery pack gradually self-discharges even if stored in a fully charged state.

• Charge the battery pack between 10°C and 30°C.

• Fully charge the battery pack. Use of an insufficiently charged battery pack will shorten actual time of use.

• Refresh (discharging before charging) is unnecessary.

Use

• To conserve battery power, be sure to turn off the camcorder power when not in use.

• Battery consumption may vary depending on the condition of use. Recording with many starts and stops, frequent zooming, and recording in low temperatures will shorten actual recording times.

• Use of a weak battery pack may cause loss of power while operating the camcorder. Use a fully charged battery pack to protect both the battery pack and the unit.

• It is recommended that you have enough battery packs on hand to handle two or three times your estimated recording time. See page 20 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-L227 battery packs.

Appendix

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 attempt to disassemble or repair

the battery pack.

— Do not use any battery charging

equipment other than that designed for use with these battery packs.

— Do not place the battery pack under

direct sunlight or in excessively hot places (over 60°C) such as the dashboard of cars.

— Do not expose the battery pack to

moisture or water.

— Do not drop the battery pack or subject

it to strong force.

— Keep the battery pack out of reach of

children.

— Dispose of used battery packs

promptly. Do not dispose of them in fire.

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

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 and turn off the power save mode. Allow the battery power to fully discharge by leaving it on the camcorder until the camcorder power automatically turns off.

3 Remove the battery pack and store it

between 10°C and 20°C.

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 discolouration and damage to the casing.

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

• Use a soft cloth to wipe finger marks and other 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 Lamp

This camcorder uses a fluorescent lamp to backlight the LCD monitor. If the monitor becomes dark or difficult to view, the fluorescent lamp may need to be replaced. Contact the nearest SHARP service centre or your dealer for further advice.

Note:

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

Appendix

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.

Television Signal Standards

In any country, you can always watch the video picture by using the LCD monitor screen. However, if you want to watch the picture on a TV screen, the TV must be PAL system compatible. PAL is used in the following areas: Germany, United Kingdom, Ireland, Sweden, Denmark, Austria, Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Holland, Finland, Portugal, Norway, Hong Kong, Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Kuwait, China, etc.

The digital VCR has far superior recording and playback ability than the traditional analog VCR, and in order to protect digital video software copyrights, a system for managing copyrights has been established. Some digital video recording with prerecorded copyright protection signals can still be played back on this camcorder. If you play a digital video recording that has a copyright protection signal on video equipment with a DV terminal and attempt to record a copy of that software on this camcorder, “COPYRIGHT PROTECTED.” appears on the screen and the recording is disabled.

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

Appendix

Troubleshooting

The following conditions do not always denote trouble. Therefore, perform the checks described below before calling for service. If the problem cannot be corrected by the use of this guide, remove the main plugs from the wall socket, and contact the dealer or supplier from whom the unit was purchased in order to obtain service. Where this is not possible, please visit our web-site www.sharp.co.uk/customersupport. Customers without Internet access may telephone 08705 274277 during office hours (or (01)676 0648 if telephoning from Ireland).

Certain replacement parts and accessories may be obtained from our main parts distributor, who can be contacted on the following numbers:

ILLOW VALE ELECTRONICS LTD.: 0121 766 5414

In the unlikely event of this equipment requiring repair during the guarantee period, you will need to provide proof of the date of purchase to the repairing company. Please keep your invoice or receipt, which is supplied at the time of purchase.

Symptom

No power.

Power

The Record 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.

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.

POWER SAVE menu item is set to “5 MIN” or “10 MIN”.

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.

Suggested solution

Connect power source properly (pp. 5, 8).

Charge battery pack sufficiently (p. 7).

Wait until dew dries (p. xi).

Set the Power switch to OFF and remove battery pack. Wait for 2 seconds, then reinstall battery pack and turn on power (pp. 5, 6).

Close tab or use a new cassette (p. 71).

Set the POWER SAVE menu item to “OFF” (p. 37).

Set to Auto Focus mode (p. 48).

Zoom out from subject (p. 21).

Focus manually (p. 47).

——

Set the DEMO MODE menu item to “OFF” (p. 69).

Appendix

Symptom

No image appears on connected TV screen.

No image from an external source appears on the camcorder screen. (VL-Z300 only)

Cannot rewind or fast forward tape.

Playback mode

Video noise in image.

No sound.

Tape does not work.

Motion images are rotated 180° upside down.

Possible cause

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

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

DV cable or audio/video/S-video cable is not properly connected.

The cable connection does not match the S-VIDEO IN menu setting.

Position at beginning or end of tape.

Using a cleaning tape

Dirty video heads.

Old or worn tape.

Using a 12-bit recording tape with AUDIO menu item set to “AUDIO 2”.

Battery pack is depleted.

Improper self recording.

Suggested solution

Select video input channel or TV channel properly (p. 27).

Connect audio/video/S-video cable properly (p. 27).

Connect DV cable or audio/video/Svideo cable properly (pp. 62, 64,

66).

Set the S-VIDEO IN menu item to “ON” for S-video connection, or “OFF” for video connection (p. 63).

Rewind or fast forward tape to desired point (p. 25).

The cleaning tape will automatically rewind after cleaning finishes (p. xii).

Call for service (p. 75) or use a commercially available cleaning tape (p. xii).

Use a new cassette.

Set the AUDIO menu item to “AUDIO 1” or “AUDIO 1L2” (p. 60).

Charge battery pack or replace it with a fully charged one (pp. 5–7).

Turn on Rotate Playback (p. 45).

Appendix

Symptom

Battery pack is easily depleted.

Clock has been reset.

Cassette will not eject.

No image on monitor.

General

Viewfinder picture is hard to see.

Monitor picture is hard to see.

POWER/CHARGE (RED) indicator flashes in red when charging battery pack.

Cannot edit to connected VCR.

Possible cause

Using camcorder in extremely cold environment.

Battery pack is not fully charged.

Lithium battery is not properly installed.

Lithium battery is depleted.

Power source is not properly connected.

Battery pack is not charged.

Camcorder is recording.

Backlight has been turned off.

Fluorescent lamp has burned out.

Viewfinder dioptre is not properly adjusted.

Inappropriate picture adjustments.

AC adapter or battery pack may have malfunctioned.

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

Suggested solution

Warm up battery pack, for example in your pocket, just before using it.

Charge battery pack sufficiently (p.

7).

Install lithium battery properly (p.

10).

Replace new lithium battery (p. 10).

Connect power source properly (pp. 5, 8).

Charge battery pack sufficiently (p. 7).

Stop recording and try again (p. 21).

Turn on backlight (p. 22).

Call for service (p. 75).

Adjust dioptre (p. 17).

Adjust picture (p. 67).

Call for service (p. 75).

Connect audio/video/S-video cable properly (p. 61).

Appendix

Symptom

“E007” is displayed on the screen, and unable to operate normally.

General

Notes:

• This unit is equipped with a microprocessor. Its performance could be adversely affected by external electrical noise or interference. If this should happen, turn off the power and disconnect the unit from any power sources, including the lithium battery, etc. Then reconnect the power sources to resume operation.

• If the characters displayed in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor screen appear to malfunction, disconnect the power source and remove the lithium battery, then reconnect the power source, insert the lithium battery, and turn the power on again. The characters on the monitor should be normal. Set the date and time, then resume operation.

Possible cause

The camcorder may be damaged.

Suggested solution

Do not take out a cassette, and call for service (p. 75).

Appendix

Specifications

Camcorder

Signal System: PAL standard

Recording System: 2 rotary heads, helical scanning system

Recording/Playback Time: 90 minutes (DVM60, LP mode)

Lens Filter Diameter: 30 mm

Colour Temperature Compensation: Auto white balance with white balance lock, outdoor or

Dimensions (WKHKD) (approx.): 82.9 mm K 82.2 mm K 100.8 mm

AC Adapter (UADP-A053WJZZ)

Dimensions (WKHKD) (approx.): 49.0 mm K 27.5 mm K 79.0 mm

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

*Minimum illumination: Since there is no widely accepted testing procedure for determining

Built-in microphone: Electret monaural microphone

Minimum Illumination: 2 lux* (with gain-up, F1.8)

Power Requirement: DC 7.4 V

Power Consumption: 3.4 W (during camera recording in Camera mode

Operating Temperature: 0°C to L40°C

Operating Humidity: 30% to 80%

Storage Temperature: +20°C to L60°C

Power Requirement: AC 110–240 V, 50/60 Hz

Cassette: Digital VCR Mini DV video cassette

Tape Speed: SP mode: 18.831 mm/second

Pickup Device:

Monitor: 2.5" (6.4 cm) CGSilicon

Viewfinder: 0.16" LCD panel, slide type

DV terminal: 4 pin connector (i.LINK)

Weight (approx.): 470 g (without battery pack, lithium battery, video

DC Output: 10 V

minimum illumination capability, lux ratings are comparable only between models from the same manufacturer.

LP mode: 12.568 mm/second

⁄6" (4.2 mm, effective size: 4.5 mm) CCD image sensor (with approx. 800,000 pixels including optical black, effective pixels: 414,000 pixels)

Lens: 10K optical zoom lens (F1.8, f=3.8–38.0 mm)

indoor

using the viewfinder in Full Auto mode with the DIS function on)

4.0 W (during camera recording in Camera mode using the LCD monitor in Full Auto mode with the DIS function on and backlight in normal mode)

cassette and lens cap)

Appendix

On-screen Display Index

Camera mode

p. 24 p. 36

p. 54

p. 23

A UT OAUTO

AUTO

30min

EXECUTE

SET

ANUAL

FOCUS AUTO F OCUS

BLC/GAIN

A UT OAUTO

AUTO

30min

pp. 31, 32

PAUS E

5002.6.2 03:01

DISPLAY/MODE SET button

PAUS E

SELECT SE T

Mode screens

p. 48 p. 47 p. 48

p. 33 p. 55 p. 56

ANUAL SE T FOCUS AUTO FOCUS BLC GAI N/ FADE SC ENEMENU PI C. EFFEC T

MENU button

DISPLAY/MODE SET button

MENU button

Menu screens

SETT ING 1

RETURN

QK. W

I DE MODE

ZOOM

DGT L TAPE SPEED RE TURN

SETT ING 2

DIS AUDI O MODE W

IND

RETURN

OTHERS 1

DEF AULT REMOT E BEEP DEMO MOD E RETURN

OTHERS 2

ER SAVE T IME CODE TC

OUT 12H 24H/ DAT E D I SP. SETT I NG RETURN

p. 34 p. 36 p. 30 p. 40

p. 36 p. 41 p. 37

p. 68 p. 42 p. 68

p. 69

p. 37 p. 57 p. 57 p. 13 p. 43 p. 12

Appendix

PAUS E

LCD SET

BACKL IGHT LC D BR I GHT LCD COL OUR VF BRIGHT

RET URN

p. 67 p. 67 p. 67 p. 67

* VL-Z300 only

“VF BRIGHT” does not appear with VL-Z100.

Playback mode

p. 24

AUDIO

p. 60

MENU button

AUDIO

PI C.EFFECT

AUDI O DUB STRETCH P B

5002.6.2 03:01

FFREWSTOPPLAY

DISPLAY/MODE SET button

OFF

SELECT SE T

Mode screens

p. 44 p. 59 p. 46

PI C.EFFECT AUD I O DUB STRETCH PB

Menu screens

PLAYBACK

ROTAT E PB AUDI O ANLG DGTL

RET URN

OTHERS 1

DEF AULT REMOTE BEEP S- V I DEO I N

RETURN

OTHERS 2

ER SAVE T IME CODE TC

OU T 12H 24H/ DAT E D I SP.

SETT I NG

RETURN

LCD SET

BACKL IGHT LC D BR I GHT LCD COLOUR VF BRIGHT

RET URN

* VL-Z300 only.

“ANLGyDGTL”, “S-VIDEO IN” and “VF BRIGHT” do not appear with VL-Z100.

SET

p. 45 p. 60 p. 66

p. 68 p. 42 p. 68 p. 63

p. 37 p. 57 p. 57 p. 13 p. 43 p. 12

p. 67 p. 67 p. 67 p. 67

Appendix

Index

AC adapter ....................................... 7, 8

Audio dubbing .............................. 58, 59

Audio playback mode ......................... 60

Audio recording mode ........................ 41

Auto focus ........................................... 23

AV terminal ........................ 27, 61, 62, 66

Backlight ....................................... 22, 67

Backlight compensation (BLC) ........... 31

Battery release ................................ 6, 10

Battery pack .......................... 5, 6, 72, 73

Beep ................................................... 68

Charging ............................................... 7

Conversion lens .................................. 16

Date and time ..................................... 43

Default ................................................. 68

Demo mode ........................................ 69

Digital zoom ........................................ 30

Dioptre adjustment dial ....................... 17

DIS ...................................................... 36

DISPLAY/MODE SET button................ 28

DV terminal ................................... 64, 66

Edit search .......................................... 35

Erasure protect tab ............................. 71

Fade .................................................... 33

Full Auto .............................................. 54

Gain .................................................... 52

Gain-up ............................................... 32

Hand grip ............................................ 15

Hand strap .......................................... 15

Information display ............................. 28

Iris ....................................................... 51

LCD bright .......................................... 67

LCD colour .......................................... 67

LCD LAMP button ............................... 22

LCD monitor ........................................ 18

Lens cap ............................................. 14

Lithium battery .............................. 10, 11

LP mode .............................................. 40

Appendix

Manual focus ...................................... 47

Manual setting .................................... 48

MENU button ...................................... 29

Menu screen ....................................... 29

Mini DV cassette ............................... 9, 71

Mode screen ....................................... 28

Operation button ................................. 28

Part names ......................................... 1-3

PHOTO button .................................... 35

Picture effect ....................................... 56

Picture effect playback ....................... 44

Playback ............................................. 25

POWER CHARGE (RED) indicator ....

Power save mode ............................... 37

Power standby mode .......................... 22

Power switch ................................. 20, 25

Power Zoom control ............................ 21

7, 8, 20

Quick Return ....................................... 34

Record Start/Stop button .................... 20

Recording Standby mode ............. 20, 21

Recording time.................................... 20

Remote control .................................... 42

Rotate playback .................................. 45

Scene menu ........................................ 55

Self recording................................ 38, 39

Shutter speed ............................... 53, 54

SP mode ............................................. 40

STANDBY button ................................. 22

Still recording ...................................... 35

Stretch playback ................................. 46

Tape speed ......................................... 40

Terminal cover ....................................... 2

Time Code .......................................... 57

VF bright ............................................. 67

Video search ....................................... 26

Viewfinder ..................................... 16, 17

Volume control .................................... 26

Warning indicator .................................. 4

White balance ............................... 49, 50

Wide mode .......................................... 36

Windbreak ........................................... 37

Window cleaning cover ...................... 73

Zoom ................................................... 21

Appendix

SHARP CORPORATION

SHARP ELECTRONICS (U.K.) LTD.

Sharp House, Thorp Road, Newton Heath

Manchester M40 5BE

Printed in Malaysia TINSEA077WJN1

Printed on 100% post-consumer recycled paper.

04P03-M-G

Sharp VL-Z100H, VL-Z300H Operating Instruction

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual