VL-Z5E
LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY CAMCORDER
VL-Z5E
VL-Z3E
ENGLISH
OPERATION MANUAL
Before using the camcorder, please read this operation manual
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carefully, especially page vi.
OPERATION MANUAL
WARNING
To prevent fire or shock hazard,
do not expose this apparatus to
dripping or splashing. No
objects filled with liquids, such
CAUTION
To prevent shock, do not open the
cabinet. No user serviceable parts
inside. Refer servicing to qualified
dealer or service centre.
ENGLISH
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:
Audio-visual material may consist
of copyrighted works which must
not be recorded without the
authority of the owner of the
copyright. Please refer to relevant
laws in your country.
Power supply:
This unit can be operated by
connecting it to either the AC
adapter or battery pack. The AC
adapter incorporates the AUTO
VOLTAGE (AC 110–240 V,
50/60 Hz) function.
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.
Trademarks
• Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
• DPOF is a trademark of CANON INC., Eastman Kodak Company, Fuji Photo Film
Co., Ltd. and Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
• All other brand or product names are registered trademarks or trademarks of their
respective holders.
Information for Australia/New Zealand Only
WARNING:
This Camcorder must be supplied only with DC 7.4 volts from a BTL226 battery or the AC adapter (UADP-A016WJZZ).
CAUTION:
As there are no user-serviceable parts inside the Camcorder or AC
adapter, do NOT remove their cabinets as touching parts inside could
result in electric shock. Please refer servicing to a qualified dealer or
a Camcorder service centre approved by Sharp.
NOTE
This Camcorder is a high technology product.
The LCD Panel comprises 215,280 TFT Transistors. Due to the high
density of transistors, it is possible that some pixels may fail.
Important:
Copyright may exist in material you wish to record.
Copying such material without permission of the relevant licensees or
owners of the copyright is prohibited by law.
Sharp is not in a position to authorize the recording of copyright works
and nothing in this operation manual should be read or implied as giving
that authority.
ENGLISH
i
Contents
Supplied Accessories ......................................................................................... v
Optional Accessory ............................................................................................ v
Precautions ........................................................................................................ vi
Operation References
Preparation
Basic Operations
Part Names ............................................................. 1
Warning Indicators .................................................. 4
Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack .............6
Charging the Battery Pack ...................................... 8
Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet .......... 9
Inserting and Removing a Cassette .....................10
Inserting and Removing a Card ............................ 11
Installing the Lithium Batteries ..............................12
Setting the Date and Time .................................... 14
Using the Lens Cap .............................................. 15
Adjusting the Hand Strap .....................................16
Using the Grip ....................................................... 16
Detaching the Lens Hood .....................................17
Using the Viewfinder .............................................17
Using the LCD Monitor .........................................19
Tips on Recording Positions ................................. 20
Camera Recording
Selecting the Camcorder Mode ............................ 21
Easy Camera Recording on Tape in
Full Auto Mode ................................................... 22
Zooming ................................................................23
Power Standby Mode ...........................................24
Turning on/off the Backlight .................................. 24
Auto Focus ............................................................25
Macro Shots ..........................................................25
Remaining Recording Time Display ..................... 26
Remaining Battery Power Display ........................26
Playback
Tape Playback ......................................................27
Volume Control...................................................... 28
Still ........................................................................28
Video Search......................................................... 28
Using Earphones
(Commercially Available, VL-Z5 only) ................ 29
Adjusting the Phones Volume (VL-Z5 only) .......... 29
Watching Playback on a TV ..................................30
ii
Useful Features
Control Buttons ..................................................... 31
Using the Mode Screens ...................................... 31
Using the Menu Screens....................................... 32
Camera Recording
Setting the Digital Zoom .......................................33
Backlight Compensation (BLC) ............................ 34
Gain-up ................................................................. 35
Fade in and Fade out ............................................ 36
Quick Return ......................................................... 37
Edit Search............................................................ 38
Still Recording on Tape .........................................38
Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) ........................... 39
Self Recording ...................................................... 40
Wide Screen (16:9) ............................................... 42
Recording in LP (Long Play Recording) Mode .....43
Windbreak ............................................................. 44
Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode......... 45
Playback
Using the Remote Control
(Only supplied with VL-Z5) .................................46
Tape Playback Functions with the Remote
Control (Only supplied with VL-Z5) .................... 47
Selecting the Date and Time of Recording
Display ................................................................ 48
Picture Effect Playback .........................................49
Rotate Playback ....................................................50
Copying an Image from Tape to Card .................. 51
Advanced Features
Camera Recording
Manual Focus .......................................................52
Returning to Auto Focus ....................................... 53
Displaying the Manual Setting Screen .................. 53
White Balance Lock .............................................. 54
Manual Iris ............................................................55
Manual Gain .......................................................... 56
Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode............. 57
Scene Menu (Program AE) ................................... 58
iii
Contents
Advanced Features
Digital Still Camera
Features
Appendix
Playback
Using the Time Code ............................................ 59
Audio Dubbing Feature......................................... 60
Selecting the Audio Playback Mode ..................... 62
Editing ...................................................................63
Recording from an External Source ...................... 64
Editing with the DV Terminal (IEEE1394) .............. 66
Using the Camcorder as a Converter ...................68
Camera Recording
Card Recording .................................................... 70
Selecting the Picture Quality ................................. 71
Recording with the Self-timer ................................ 72
Formatting a Card .................................................73
Setting the File Numbering Method ...................... 74
Playback
Card Playback ...................................................... 75
Playback Zoom with the Remote Control (Only
supplied with VL-Z5) .......................................... 76
Delete Protection................................................... 77
Deleting Stored Images ........................................ 78
Print Order............................................................. 80
Transferring Data on Card to Computer ...............82
Installing the USB Driver ................................... 82
Slide Show Playback ............................................85
Picture/Backlight Adjustments ..............................86
Turning off the Confirmation Sound ......................88
Setting the Camcorder to Factory Presettings ...... 89
Demonstration Mode ............................................90
Useful Information .................................................91
Troubleshooting ....................................................97
Specifications .....................................................101
On-screen Display Index .................................... 102
Note:
• Before requesting service, please read “Troubleshooting” carefully. (See pages 97–
100.)
iv
Supplied Accessories
Battery pack
BT-L226
*
Remote control
AC adapter
*
CR2025 type
lithium battery
for remote control
Power cord
CR1216 type
lithium battery
for camcorder Lens cap
Audio/video/S-video
cable
*
8 MB SD Memory Card
CD-ROM
USB cable
The accessories with * mark are not supplied with VL-Z3 (only supplied
with VL-Z5).
Optional Accessory
Standard-life
battery pack
BT-L226
Note:
• The accessory above may not be available in selected areas.
v
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 viii).
• 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.).
vi
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.
vii
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)
Available mode:
Tape Playback
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 Set the camcorder to Tape Playback
mode.
• The video head cleaning screen
appears.
3 Press m on the Operation button to
begin video head cleaning.
• “NOW CLEANING” flashes during
cleaning.
CLEAN I NG
If the video heads become clogged, the
v indicator appears on the screen. Contact
the nearest SHARP service centre or your
dealer for further advice.
viii
CLEANINGNOW
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. 31)
Zoom lens
DISPLAY button (p. 31)
Stereo microphone
LCD LAMP button (p. 24)
Operation References
1
Operation References
Left view
Operation References
LCD monitor
(p. 19)
(pp. 29, 30, 63, 64, 66, 68, 83)
Terminal cover
USB terminal (p. 83)
Earphones jack
(VL-Z5 only) (p. 29)
DC IN jack (pp. 8, 9)
AV terminal
(pp. 30, 63, 64, 68)
DV terminal (pp. 66, 68)
Tripod socket*
* When attaching a tripod
with a guide pin, do not
attach the pin to the bottom
of the camcorder.
2
Lithium battery cover (p. 12)
Dioptre adjustment dial (p. 18)
Battery release (pp. 7, 12)
Card slot cover (p. 11)
Right view
Window cleaning cover
(p. 95)
PHOTO button
(pp. 38, 51, 70)
Operation References
Power Zoom Wide angle/
Telephoto control (p. 23)/
VOLume control (p. 28)
Viewfinder (pp. 17, 18)
STANDBY indicator
(p. 24)
POWER/CHARGE
(RED) indicator
(pp. 8, 9, 22)
DC IN jack cover
(pp. 8, 9)
Power switch (v Camera
Recording mode/w Playback
mode select switch) (p. 21)
Media Selection
switch (V Tape
mode/u Card
mode selection
switch) (p. 21)
STANDBY button
(p. 24)
Speaker
Start/Stop button
(p. 22)
Hand strap (p. 16)
Cassette holder (p. 10)
Cassette compartment
door release (p. 10)
Cassette compartment door (p. 10)
3
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
USB USB
Displayed after
3 seconds
EJECT THE
CASSETTE.
PROTECT. TAB
TAPE END
TAPE END
DEW
LAMP
Description of warning
There is no video cassette in the camcorder.
Insert a cassette (see page 10).
The video cassette is defective and should be
removed (see page 10).
The erasure protect tab on the video cassette
has been slid to the record-protect position,
preventing recording (see page 92).
The tape is about to end. Prepare a new
cassette.
The tape has reached the end. Replace it with a
new cassette (see page 10).
The battery is almost depleted. Replace it with
a fully charged battery pack (see pages 6, 7).
Dew has formed inside the camcorder. Wait a
few hours for the dew to dry away (see page vii).
About 10 seconds after this warning appears,
the camcorder automatically turns off.
The video heads are clogged and should be
cleaned (see page viii).
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.
The battery is almost depleted when the
camcorder transfers data through the USB
cable. Use the AC adapter or fully charged
battery pack as the power source (see pages
6–9, 84).
4
Displayed for
5 seconds
NO
MEMORY C ARD
MEMORY
FULL
CARD
Description of warning
Operation References
The card is not inserted or is inserted improperly. Check that it is
properly inserted (see page 11).
The capacity of the card is full and cannot store any more images.
Delete unnecessary images (see page 78) or replace the card with
a new one (see page 11).
NO DA TA ON
MEMORY C ARD
MEMORY C ARD
ERROR
FORMAT
MEMORY C ARD
MEMORY C ARD
PROTECTED
DATA
PROTECTED
MEMORY CARD
RE AD ERROR
CANNOT
STORE DATA
PLEASE USE
PHOTO BUT T ON
MA X I MUM
9 99 IMAGE S
MA X I MUM
F I LE NUMBER
* Formatting a card erases all stored images, including delete-protected images. Be sure to
backup important data on your computer or other media before formatting the card.
Note:
• N indicates a flashing display.
The card has no images recorded in the format the camcorder can
recognize.
The images in the card are corrupted or recorded in a format
which is not compatible with this camcorder. Format the card to
use it with this camcorder (see page 73)*.
The card has not been formatted with this camcorder. Format the
card (see page 73)*.
The card is write-protected (see page 11).
You are trying to delete a protected image. Cancel the protection
setting (see page 77).
The selected image cannot be read by this camcorder. Format the
card to use it with this camcorder (see page 73)*.
The card cannot record any data due to a problem with the card or
data on the card. Replace the card (see page 11).
The camcorder cannot record with the Start/Stop button in Card
Recording mode. Press the PHOTO button (see page 70).
The print order cannot be set to more than 999 images.
You cannot record any image with a file number bigger than 999–
9999. Set FILE NO. menu item to “RESET” (see page 74), then
format the card (see page 73)* or replace the card with a new one
(see page 11).
5
Preparation
Preparation
Attaching and
Removing the Battery
Pack
Attaching
Preparation
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.
“m” mark
4 Push the battery pack in the direction
of the arrow until it clicks.
6
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.
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 or destroy the card, rendering it
unreadable and unwritable.
• Remove the battery pack from the camcorder
if you will not use the camcorder for a long
period of time.
• Make sure that the battery pack is firmly
attached during operation. If it is not, the
battery pack may come off or camcorder
operation may fail because of the poor
contact pressure.
• To prevent damage to the battery pack when
removing, be sure to firmly hold the battery
pack while pressing the release.
• Use only SHARP model BT-L226 battery
packs with this camcorder. Use of other
batteries may create a risk of fire or
explosion.
• Before closing the LCD monitor, make sure
the battery pack is properly attached to the
camcorder, otherwise the monitor may be
damaged.
Preparation
7
Preparation
Charging the Battery
Pack
1 Attach the battery pack on the
camcorder, and make sure that the
Power switch is set to OFF.
2 Open the DC IN jack cover.
DC IN jack cover
Preparation
3 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
4 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
outlet
indicator
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
LCD
closed
open
105
120 105
Charging
Battery
pack
BT-L226
• 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 23) 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 94 and 95 for more information on
using the battery pack.
• Charge only SHARP model BT-L226 battery
packs. Other types of battery packs may
burst, causing personal injury and damage.
• When attaching the supplied audio/video/Svideo cable or USB cable, remove the DC
plug, open the terminal cover and connect it.
Max.
continuous
playback time
on LCD
• The POWER/CHARGE (RED)
indicator turns off when the battery is
8
charged.
DC plug
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.
1 Make sure that the Power switch is
set to OFF.
2 Open the DC IN jack cover.
DC IN jack cover
3 Connect the supplied power cord to
the AC power socket on the AC
adapter, and insert the AC plug into a
power outlet.
4 Insert the DC plug into the DC IN
jack of the camcorder.
POWER/CHARGE (RED)
indicator
Preparation
DC IN jack
DC plug
5 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 or destroy the card, rendering it
unreadable and unwritable.
• Disconnect the AC adapter from the
camcorder if you will not use the camcorder
for a long period of time.
AC power socket
To power
outlet
9
Preparation
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
Preparation
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 92 for more information on the
video cassette tapes intended for use with
this camcorder.
mark.
10
“PUSH” mark
Inserting and
Removing a Card
You can use an SD Memory Card (supplied
with VL-Z5) or a MultiMediaCard (commercially available) for storing still images.
Inserting
1 Make sure that the Power switch is
set to OFF.
2 Open the card slot cover.
Card slot cover
3 Insert a card into the slot as shown
below, and push it in fully.
Write-protect
switch
Label
Clipped corner
4 Close the card slot cover securely.
Removing
Perform steps 1 and 2 above, push the card
and release slowly (1). Then pull the card
straight out (2) as shown below.
Preparation
Notes:
• You can use only the SD Memory Card or the
MultiMediaCard (see page 93).
• The card supplied with VL-Z5 is preformatted
for immediate use.
• See page 93 for more information on the
cards intended for use with this camcorder.
• Do not remove the card from the
camcorder while recording data on the
card (S indicator flashes during recording). This may delete the recorded image
or damage the card.
• You cannot insert or remove the card when
using a tripod.
About the write-protect
switch
SD Memory Card has a write-protect switch.
When the switch is set to the locked
position, you cannot record/delete data or
format the card. Set it to the unlocked
position to record/delete data or format the
card.
Back view
Unlocked position
Locked position
11
Preparation
Installing the Lithium
Batteries
Installing the Memory Battery
The supplied CR 1216 type lithium battery is
used to store the memory of the date and
time settings.
1 Make sure that the Power switch is
set to OFF.
2 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle
to the camcorder body.
Preparation
3 Slide the battery release in the
direction of the arrow, then take the
battery pack out.
Battery release
4 Pull out the lithium battery cover in
the direction of the arrow.
5 Insert the smaller lithium battery into
the compartment with the H side of
the battery facing out.
CR 1216 type
lithium battery
6 Close the lithium battery cover firmly
until it clicks into place.
Removing the Memory
Battery
Perform steps 1 to 4 above,
then lift out the battery by
using a pointed object such
as the tip of a ballpoint pen.
12
Lithium
battery cover
Installing the Battery to
Remote Control (VL-Z5
only)
The CR 2025 type lithium battery
supplied with VL-Z5 is used to power the
remote control unit.
1 Hold the remote control facing down,
and pull out the battery holder while
pressing the tab toward the centre.
Ta b
2 Insert the larger lithium battery into
the battery holder with the H side of
the battery facing the m side of the
holder.
H side, CR 2025 type
lithium battery
“m” side
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 CR2025, 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 Insert the battery holder back into
position.
13
Preparation
Setting the Date and
Time
Available modes:
Tape Camera, Card Camera
Example: Setting the date to 2 June 2004
(2. 6. 2004) and the time to 10:30 am
(10:30).
Operation button
Preparation
Power switch
DISPLAY button
Note:
• Before performing the steps below, make
sure that the CR1216 type lithium battery has
been installed (see page 12).
• The example screens shown are for Tape
Camera mode.
1 Hold down the Lock
button and set the
Power switch to v.
2 Press the DISPLAY button until the
mode screen appears.
BLC GA IN/ OFF
FADE
M
ENU
SCENE
M
ENU
3 Press l or m on the Operation
button to select “MENU”, then press
the centre of the Operation button.
BLC GA IN/
FADE
M
ENU
SCENEMENU
Lock button
EXECUTE
4 Press m or l to select “EXECUTE”,
then press the centre of the Operation
button.
OTHERS 2
T IME CODE OF F
12H 24H/
SETT ING
RETURN
OFFTC OUT
24H
.1120
000:
03.
5 Press the centre of the Operation
button.
6 Press m or l to select “2” (day),
then press the centre of the Operation
button.
SETT ING
2.
1 2003.
:
000
7 Press m or l to select “6” (month),
then press the centre of the Operation
button.
SETT ING
2.
6 2003.
:
000
8 Press m or l to select “2004” (year),
then press the centre of the Operation
button.
SETT ING
2.
:
0 00
6 2004.
9 Press m or l to select “10” (hour),
then press the centre of the Operation
button.
2.
SETT ING
:
01 00
6 2004.
14
10
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.
11
Press the DISPLAY button to turn off
2.
6 2004.
:
0130:00
the menu screen.
Note:
• If the date and time have been set, the
SETTING 1 screen (T) appears in step 4.
Select “SETTING” in the OTHERS 2 screen
(~) using the Operation button.
Changing to the 12-hour
Time Mode
1 After performing step 10 above, press
l or m to select “12H/24H”, then
press the centre of the Operation
button.
OTHERS 2
T IME CODE
TC OUT
12H 24H/
SETT ING
RETURN
24
H
H12
Using the Lens Cap
Attach the strap of the lens cap to the hand
strap as shown below.
Preparation
When attaching or removing the lens cap,
grasp the indents on both sides of the cap.
Indents
When recording, remove the lens cap and
attach the lens cap cord to the fastener so
that the cap will not get in the way.
2 Press l or m to select “12H”, then
press the centre of the Operation
button.
21H24H
12H
3 Press the DISPLAY button to turn off
the menu screen.
Notes:
• The date and time, once set, are internally
recorded even when not displayed on the
screen.
• The menu screen automatically turns off if no
settings are made within 5 minutes.
Fastener
Note:
• Always attach the lens cap over the lens
when not using the camcorder.
15
Preparation
Adjusting the Hand
Strap
1 Open the hand strap flap (1) and grip
strap (2).
Preparation
Hand strap flap
2 Loosen the grip strap, pass your right
hand through the hand strap, and put
your thumb close to the Start/Stop
button and your middle finger on the
Power Zoom control. Then, pull the
grip strap tight until it fits snugly.
Grip strap
Using the Grip
Rotate the grip 135° forward or 90°
downward so that you can record images
easily from high or low angle (see page 20).
135°
90°
3 Seal the Velcro
strap and the hand strap flap.
16
®
fasteners of the grip
Note:
• The grip cannot rotate when a tripod is
attached.
Detaching the Lens
Hood
Before using a commercially available
conversion lens, detach the lens hood as
shown below.
Using the Viewfinder
You can record the subject using the
electronic viewfinder. You can also watch
playback through the viewfinder.
Viewfinder
Preparation
Power switch
Note:
• You cannot attach the supplied lens hood or
lens cap to a conversion lens.
1 Pull out the viewfinder completely.
2 Hold down the Lock
button and set the
Power switch to v or
w.
Lock button
(Continued on the next page)
17
Preparation
Closing the viewfinder
Push in the viewfinder completely.
Notes:
Preparation
• Do not use excessive force when moving
the viewfinder.
• Do not pick up the camcorder by the
viewfinder.
• The viewfinder automatically turns off when
the LCD monitor is opened. If the vertical
rotation of the monitor is 180° when in Tape
Camera or Card Camera mode, however, the
viewfinder is on and the subject is displayed
both in the viewfinder and on the monitor
(see page 40).
• You can adjust the settings on the MENU
screen through the viewfinder by using the
Operation button (see page 31 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 95.
18
Using the LCD
Monitor
You can use the LCD monitor to play back
recordings that you have made or to watch
the subject during recording.
LCD monitor
Power switch
1 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle
to the camcorder body.
90˚
2 Adjust the LCD monitor to an angle
that allow easy viewing of the onscreen picture.
• The LCD monitor rotates 270°
vertically.
180
90
• You can also fold the LCD monitor
into the camcorder with the screen
facing out for watching playback on
the monitor.
3 Hold down the Lock
button and set the
Power switch to v or
w.
• A picture displays on
the LCD monitor.
Note:
• Battery consumption is larger when the LCD
monitor is opened. Use the viewfinder instead
of the LCD monitor when you want to save
the battery power.
Closing the LCD monitor
Return the LCD monitor to the vertical 90°
position with the screen facing in, and fold it
into the camcorder into place.
Notes:
• Do not use excessive force when moving
the LCD monitor.
• When closing the LCD monitor, do not tilt
it; otherwise the monitor may not close
properly and may become damaged.
• Do not pick up the camcorder by the LCD
monitor.
• Do not place the camcorder with the LCD
monitor screen facing down.
• Close the LCD monitor completely with the
screen facing in when not in use.
• Before closing the LCD monitor, make sure
the battery pack is properly attached to the
camcorder, otherwise the monitor may be
damaged.
Lock button
Preparation
Note: Do not try to rotate the LCD
monitor vertically until the monitor is
completely opened.
19
Preparation
Tips on Recording
Positions
To create images that are easy to watch during playback, try to record with an upright
posture and steady hands to prevent a shaky image.
Holding the camcorder
Put your right hand through the hand strap, and place your left hand under the camcorder
for support.
Basic posture
Preparation
Place the viewfinder
eyecup firmly against
Place your elbows
against your sides.
Balance your
weight on both
your eye.
legs.
Shooting from a high angle
Turn the LCD
monitor so that the
screen faces
downward.
Shooting from a low angle
Turn the LCD
monitor so that the
screen faces
upward.
Note:
• Take care not to touch the microphone with your fingers during recording. It will cause noise on
the audio track.
20
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