P r o V8 0 0 C
USER‘S
GUIDE
C A M C O R D E R
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Assistance
We want to make sure you enjoy your new camcorder. If you have any
questions, call:
Camcorder Exchange Warranty..........800-283-6503 (pages 90-91)
Customer Service.........................................800-336-1900 (page 89)
Accessories.............................................800-338-0376 (pages 76-81)
Table of Contents
Table of Contents ............................1-2
• Close Lens Cover
and LCD Monitor ............................8
• Review Camcorder’s
Operating Controls.....................9-11
First-Time Operation
Powering Your Camcorder
• Using Adapter/Charger....................12
• Using Rechargeable Battery.......13-15
• Unpack Camcorder &
• Attach the Adapter/Charger...............4
• Insert a Tape ......................................5
• Turn on Camcorder............................5
• Select a Recording Speed ..................6
Video Cassettes............................18-19
Recording
• Making a Recording...................20-23
• Set the FULL AUTO/PRESET
• Viewing What You Record
Using the LCD Monitor or
• Use LCD Monitor or
Viewfinder................................24-25
Viewfinder to View Recording .......7
• LCD Monitor or Viewfinder
• Start and Stop Recording...................8
Displays....................................26-29
(continued on next page)
1
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Table of Contents
Recording (continued)
• Time-Lapse Recording .........58-59
• Fading or Wiping In and Out .....60-61
• Production Effects......................62-63
• Attaching the Shoulder Strap...........64
• Microphone......................................30
• Flying Erase Head ...........................30
• Auto Head Cleaner ..........................30
• Quick Record...................................30
• Quick Review ..................................31
• Full Auto Mode ...............................32
• Electronic Indexing .........................32
• Exposure Control.............................33
• White Balance ............................34-35
• Focusing .....................................36-37
• Zooming ..........................................39
• Recording Menu ..............................40
• Tape Time Remaining Display .....44
• Title..........................................45-47
• Date/Time Display
Playback
• Using the Cassette Adapter...66-67
• Playback Using the LCD
Monitor or Viewfinder ............68
• Playback Features
• Visual Searching......................69
• Stop-Action Pause ...................69
• Time Counter...........................70
• Tracking...................................71
• Playback on TV (or VCR) With
AUDIO/VIDEO IN Jacks ...72-73
• Playback on TV Without
Audio/Video Inputs ............74-75
Optional Accessories...................76-81
• Accessory Order Form..........79-81
Care and Maintenance ...............82-83
Trouble Checks ...........................84-87
Limited Warranty.......................90-91
Index (Alphabetical) ...................92-93
• Install the Clock Lithium Cell ...48
• Set the Date and Time ...............49
• Select Date and/or Time
You Want to Record ..........50-51
• Self-Timer Recording...........54-55
• Animation Recording ...........56-57
2
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First-Time Operation
This section describes only the basic steps necessary to set up your camcorder to
record. Refer to the other sections for detailed operation and feature options.
Assistance
The toll-free numbers are available to help you with any problem you may encounter.
Camcorder Exchange Warranty . . . . .800-283-6503
Customer Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-336-1900
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-338-0376
1. Unpack the camcorder and accessories.
• Save the packing materials and box in case you ever need to ship or store your
camcorder.
• The items shown below are packed with your camcorder. If any are missing or
appear damaged, contact your dealer immediately.
WARNING:
NICKEL
CADMIUM
BATTERY MUST
BE RECYCLED
OR DISPOSED OF
PROPERLY.
Shoulder Strap
Part No. 218858
Rechargeable 6-Volt Battery
Part No. 236130
Model ProV800C
Caution: Do not
use this adapter/
charger for any
purpose other
PO
W
E
R
C
H
G
E
N
D
R
E
F
R
E
S
H
than charging the
236130, FB1260,
or FB120 battery
pack or supplying
power to the
AC Adapter/Charger
Part No. 236689
and DC Cable
Cassette Adapter
Part No. 237583
Cassette Adapter Battery
(Size "AA" 1.5 Volt)
camcorder.
Part No. 233087
Cautions: Lithium cell battery. Must be disposed of properly. Never
handle punctured or leaking cell. May cause burns or personal injury.
Clock Cell
Keep out of the hands of children. Can cause death or injury if swallowed.
If swallowed, consult a physician immediately for emergency treatment.
The lithium cell used in this device may explode resulting in a fire or
chemical burn if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above
212˚F (100˚C), or incinerate.
3-Volt Micro Lithium Cell –
such as CR2025 – available
from most local drug stores
and camera shops. Use of
other cells present a risk of
fire or explosion.
Never use metallic tweezers to hold the cell, and never short circuit the +
and – sides of the cell.
(continued on next page)
3
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First-Time Operation
2. Attach the adapter/charger.
Since the battery must be charged before it can be used the first time,
attach the adapter/charger to the camcorder.
To AC 100-240V, 50/60 Hz
Adapter/Charger
P
O
W
E
R
C
H
G
E
N
D
R
E
F
R
E
S
H
DC OUT Jack
POWER
Indicator
DC IN
Jack
–
+
DC Cable
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
B
A
T
T
.
R
E
L
E
A
S
E
VIDEO
A. Connect one end of the DC cable to
the DC OUT jack on the
adapter/charger.
C. Plug the adapter/charger’s plug into
an operating outlet. The adapter/
charger’s POWER indicator will
light
B. Connect the other end of the DC
cable to the DC IN jack on the
camcorder as shown above.
LENS COVER
Control
sp•EP
TRACKING
UNTER R/M
W.BAL.
+
PLAY/PAUSE
STOP
FF
REW
–
+
VCR
Handstrap Velcro Strip
(Under Flap)
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
B
A
T
T
.
R
E
L
E
A
S
E
VIDEO
Handstrap Flap
3. Adjust the handstrap to fit
your hand.
4. Slide LENS COVER control to
open lens cover.
• Lift the flap on the handstrap and
separate the velcro strip.
• Insert your hand, adjust the strap to
fit snugly, refasten the strap, and
close the flap.
4
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First-Time Operation
5. Insert a tape.
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
Caution: Open
monitor at least 60º
before opening
Tape Wheel
4
PUSH
OPEN
EJECT
cassette compartment.
P
S
EJECT
CASSETTE
2
PUSH/OPEN Button
Tape Window
PUSH
Button
EJECT Button
• Press PUSH/OPEN to open the LCD
monitor. Open the monitor at least
60º before opening the cassette
compartment.
• Insert the cassette with the tape
wheel facing up and the tape window
facing out.
• Press the PUSH button to lock the
• Press EJECT to open the cassette
cassette compartment closed.
compartment.
• Turn the tape wheel on the cassette
to remove any slack from the tape.
6. Place POWER (CAMERA/OFF/VCR) switch in CAMERA.
sp•EP
TRACKING
UNTER R/M
+
PLAY/PAUSE
W.BAL.
STOP
FF
REW
–
+
POWER Switch and
Indicator
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
B
A
T
T
.
R
E
L
E
A
S
E
VIDEO
• The power indicator will light and
record (CAMERA), turn the power
the camcorder will enter record
off (OFF), or play back tapes (VCR).
PAUSE
pause.
appears in the
• The camcorder will automatically
turn off if it remains in record pause
for five minutes. Place POWER in
OFF and then back in CAMERA.
viewfinder or LCD monitor when
the camcorder is in record pause.
• The position of this switch tells the
camcorder whether you want to
(continued on next page)
5
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First-Time Operation
7. Select a recording speed.
SP•EP Switch
sp•EP
TRACKING
UNTER R/M
+
PLAY/PAUSE
W.BAL.
STOP
FF
REW
–
+
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
BATT. RELEASE
VIDEO
• EP – Extended play provides three
Repeatedly press the SP•EP switch to
select a recording speed. The indicator
for the speed selected appears in the
viewfinder and LCD panel.
times the recording time as SP
(60 minutes with a TC-20 tape).
EP has slightly more picture noise in
normal playback.
Select SP or EP recording speed.
• SP – Standard play provides the best
picture, but the shortest recording
time (20 minutes with a TC-20 tape).
Note: The length of the tape you are using
must be selected in the recording menu for the
camcorder to correctly calculate the recording
time remaining on the tape. Details are on
page 44.
8. Set the FULL AUTO/PRESET switch to FULL AUTO.
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
FULL AUTO/ PRESET Switch
• This places the camcorder in the full
auto mode.
• Many of the special effects do not
operate in FULL AUTO. Details on
page 32.
• Place the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch in FULL AUTO to have the
camcorder automatically control the
focus, exposure, and white balance.
6
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First-Time Operation
9. Use the LCD monitor or viewfinder to view what you are
recording.
You can watch what you are recording on the color LCD monitor or in the black-
and-white viewfinder. When the LCD monitor is open more than 60º, the
viewfinder is automatically turned off. When you close the LCD monitor, the
viewfinder is automatically turned on.
BRIGHT Control
Eyepiece
LCD Monitor
Focus
Control
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
Viewfinder
PUSH
OPEN
EJECT
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
DISPLAY
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
EJECT
CASSETTE
PUSH/OPEN Button
Use the LCD Monitor
Use the Viewfinder
• Make sure the monitor is open at
least 60º. The viewfinder will be
automatically turned off.
• Make sure the monitor is closed and
locked. The viewfinder will be
automatically turned on.
• Tilt the LCD monitor (up to 45º up
or down).
• Adjust the viewfinder for a
comfortable viewing condition.
• Adjust the brightness of the image
by turning the BRIGHT control.
• Turn the eyepiece focus control to
adjust the focus of the viewfinder for
your vision.
Note: When recording on a bright sunny
day, the LCD monitor may be hard to see.
Use the viewfinder.
(continued on next page)
7
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First-Time Operation
REW Button
STOP Button
sp•EP
UNTER R/M
W.BAL.
TRACKING
+
PLAY/PAUSE
STOP
FF
PLAY/PAUSE
Button
REW
–
+
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
BATT. RELEASE
VIDEO
Thumb Trigger
POWER (VCR/OFF/CAMERA) Switch
Power Indicator
• Press PLAY/PAUSE to play back
the tape on the LCD monitor or in
the viewfinder.
10. Start and stop recording.
• Press and release the thumb trigger
REC
to start recording.
appears in
• Press STOP when you are finished
playing back the tape.
the viewfinder or LCD monitor,
and the tally light will light when
the camcorder is recording.
• Details on viewfinder and LCD
monitor playback are on page 68.
• Press and release the thumb trigger
again to stop recording. The
camcorder is now in the record-
12. Place the POWER switch in
pause mode.
PAUSE
OFF to turn off the camcorder.
The power indicator will turn off.
appears in the viewfinder or on the
LCD monitor.
11. Play back what you have
recorded.
13. Close the lens cover and close
and lock the LCD monitor.
• Place the POWER switch in VCR.
• Press REW to rewind the tape.
8
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First-Time Operation
14. Review camcorder’s operating controls.
Microphone
Lens
Tally Light
BRIGHT
Control
Eyepiece
Focus
Viewfinder
SPEAKER
VOLUME
Control
Control
LCD
_
+
BRIGHT
Monitor
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
Eyepiece
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
EJECT
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
DISPLAY
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
EJECT
CASSETTE
Speaker
PUSH/OPEN
Button
EJECT Button
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
PUSH
Button
(continued on next page)
9
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First-Time Operation
14. Review camcorder’s operating controls. (Continued)
Power Zoom Lever
“W” - Wide Angle
“T” - Telephoto
QUICK
REC
Button
Shoulder Strap
Attachment Ring
LENS
COVER
Control
sp•EP
TRACKING
UNTER R/M
W.BAL.
+
PLAY/PAUSE
STOP
Clock Cell
FF
REW
Compartment
–
+
Attach Battery Here
VCR
DC In Jack (Attach AC
Adapter/Charger Here)
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
Shoulder Strap
Attachment Ring
RF
DC OUT
BATT. RELEASE
VIDEO
Thumb Trigger
Handstrap
BATT. RELEASE Button
POWER (VCR/OFF/CAMERA) Switch
and Indicator
AUDIO, RF DC OUT, and
VIDEO Jacks (Under Cover)
JLIP Connector
10
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First-Time Operation
14. Review camcorder’s operating controls.
TRACKING Buttons
SP•EP Button
Also COUNTER R/M
(Reset/Memory) Button
SP-EP
COUNTER R/M
MAN.W.BAL
TRACKING
MAN.W.BAL. (Manual
White Balance) Button
EDIT
–
+
SEARCH
REW (Rewind) Button
REW
FF
STOP PLAY/PAUSE
(Also EDIT SEARCH – Button)
PLAY/PAUSE Button
STOP Button
SP•EP
TRACKING
UNTER R/M
+
PLAY/PAUSE
E
W.BAL.
STOP
FF
FF (Fast Forward) Button
REW
–
+
(Also EDIT SEARCH + Button)
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
BATT. RELEASE
VIDEO
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
EJECT
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
DISPLAY
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
EJECT
CASSETTE
PROG.AE/EFFECT Button
FAR and
Button
MENU Button
+ and Button
EIS (Electronic
Image Stabilizer)
Button
PROG.AE/
+
_
EFFECT
DISPLAY
EIS
MENU
FAR
NEAR
NEAR and Button
Button
DISPLAY
FADE/
WIPE
FADE/WIPE Button
— and Button
11
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Powering Your Camcorder
Using the Adapter/Charger to Power Your Camcorder
The adapter/charger attaches to the camcorder and lets you power your camcorder
directly from standard household power. The adapter/charger operates on 100-240
volts, 50/60 Hz, so it can be used virtually anywhere in the world to power the
camcorder or recharge the battery.
To AC 100-240V, 50/60 Hz
Adapter/Charger
P
O
W
E
R
C
H
G
E
N
D
R
E
F
R
E
S
H
DC OUT Jack
POWER
Indicator
DC In
Jack
–
+
DC Cable
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
B
A
T
T
.
R
E
L
E
A
S
E
VIDEO
Remove Adapter/Charger
Attach Adapter/Charger
1. Connect one end of the DC cable
to the DC OUT jack on the
adapter/charger.
1. Unplug the adapter/charger from the
wall outlet.
2. Remove the DC cable from the
adapter/charger and camcorder.
2. Connect the other end of the DC cable
to the DC in jack on the camcorder as
shown above.
Using an Optional Plug Adapter
3. Plug the adapter/charger’s plug into
the nearest AC outlet (100-240V,
50/60Hz).
An optional plug adapter may be required
in some countries.
4. If the adapter/charger is properly
connected, its POWER indicator will
light.
Optional AC
Plug Adapter
AC 100-240V
Caution: Do not use this adapter/
charger for any other purpose other than
charging the 236130, FB1260 or FB120
battery pack or supplying power to the
camcorder.
1. Plug the adapter/charger’s plug into
the AC plug adapter.
2. Plug the AC plug adapter into the
AC outlet.
12
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Powering Your Camcorder
Using the Battery to Power Your Camcorder
The battery must be charged as described on the next page before it can be used the
first time. Initial charging will take approximately 100 minutes. When fully charged,
the battery should supply about 75 minutes of operating time (depending on how much
you use the LCD monitor, zoom, and pause). Conserve battery power by turning the
camcorder off during recording breaks.
Battery Safety
Precautions
Do not short the battery’s
terminals.
–
Do not attempt to
disassemble or modify the
battery. There are no user-
serviceable parts inside.
Use the battery only with
specified adapter/chargers
and camcorders.
VCR
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
JLIP
AUDIO
RF
BATT. RELEASE
DC OUT
Throwing the battery into
a fire or exposing it to
excessive heat – over
149ºF (65ºC) could be
hazardous.
VIDEO
POWER Switch
and Indicator
BATT. RELEASE Button
Attach the Charged Battery
If the DC cable is attached to the
camcorder, remove it before attaching the
battery. Also, install the lithium clock
cell before attaching the battery pack.
Details on page 48.
1. Hook the top end of the battery to the
back of the camcorder as shown above.
2. Press the bottom of the battery down
until it locks into place.
3. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA.
The power indicator will light.
Remove the Battery
Press and hold BATT. RELEASE on the
camcorder while removing the battery.
ATTENTION: The RBRC seal on the battery used in your
Thomson Consumer Electronics product indicates that we are
participating in a program to collect and recycle Nickel
Cadmium batteries throughout the United States. Please call
1-800-8-BATTERY for information or contact your local
recycling center.
Ni-Cd
13
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Powering Your Camcorder
Using the Battery to Power Your Camcorder (Continued)
Hold Battery
Flush and
Reference Marks
CHG
Indicator
To AC Wall
Outlet 100-240
Volts, 50/60 Hz.
POWER
Indicator
END
Indicator
POWER
REFRESH
CHG
END
REFRESH
Button
Adapter/Charger
REFRESH
Indicator
Caution: When a battery is attached to the
adapter/charger, do not turn them upside down. The
battery may fall off and be damaged or cause injury.
Charge the Battery
Use the REFRESH Button
If the DC cable is attached to the DC
OUT jack on the adapter/charger, remove
its plug.
1. Align reference mark on battery with
mark on adapter/charger.
The battery will provide increased
operation time if you “refresh” it after
five chargings. The refresh feature
“refreshes” the battery by completely
discharging it.
2. Hold the battery flush against the
adapter/charger and slide it in the
direction of the arrow.
1. Attach battery to adapter/charger.
2. Press REFRESH. The REFRESH
indicator will light and the battery will
begin discharging.
3. Plug adapter/charger into nearest AC
outlet (100-240V, 50/60Hz).
3. When discharging is completed, the
REFRESH indicator will turn off, and
the CHG indicator will light. The
battery will then charge.
4. If the battery is properly connected, the
adapter/charger’s CHG (charge)
indicator will light.
Note: If you try to charge a battery that
has not been charged for a long period of
time, it may take a few minutes for the
CHG indicator to light.
4. After the battery is charged, the END
indicator will light. Remove the
battery from the adapter/charger.
5. After the battery is charged, the END
indicator will light.
6. Remove the charged battery by sliding
it off the adapter/charger.
7. Attach the charged battery to the
camcorder.
14
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Powering Your Camcorder
Battery Level Indicator
The battery level indicator appears on the
LCD monitor or in the viewfinder and
shows you the amount of power in the
rechargeable battery.
• When
fully charged.
appears, the battery is
• As the power is used
appear.
and
• When the battery power is almost gone,
flashes. The camcorder will turn
off automatically after a few seconds.
Place the POWER switch in OFF to
turn off the camcorder before replacing
the battery.
The battery level indicator will not be
recorded on the tape when it appears.
Battery Level Indicator
on LCD Monitor or in
Viewfinder
Battery Care and Storage
• Recharging takes approximately 100
minutes depending on the battery’s
condition.
• The battery will provide better service
if its power is completely drained
before storing it for long periods of
time (30 days or more).
• Refreshing takes approximately five
hours and 30 minutes depending on the
battery’s condition.
• The battery should be charged in the
temperature range of 50-95°F (10-35ºC)
to prevent damage.
• After repeated charging and use,
operation time will gradually decrease.
When operation time becomes too short
to be useful, it is time to replace the
battery.
• Do not operate the battery at
temperatures below 32°F (0°C) or
above 104°F (40°C). The battery may
be damaged if operated at temperatures
above 122°F (50°C). Operation time
will decrease at extremely low
temperatures.
• If the battery discharging must be
stopped in the middle, remove the
battery from the adapter/charger before
unplugging it from the AC outlet.
• Store the battery at normal room
temperature.
• Let a hot battery cool down before
attaching it to the adapter/charger.
15
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Powering Your Camcorder
Optional Car Cord Adapter
The optional DCC08 car cord shown on
page 76 allows you to power your
camcorder from the cigarette lighter
socket of a car, truck, or RV. It converts
12-volts to a 6-volt output.
Cautions: The DCC08 is designed to be
used only with vehicles having negative
ground electrical systems.
Use only car cord adapter DCC08 with
this camcorder. Use of any other car
cord adapter may damage the camcorder
and void your warranty.
Note: Consult the installation and operating
instructions enclosed with the DCC08 for
complete operating instructions.
Using the DCC08 Car Cord Adapter
Cigarette
Lighter Socket
POWER Indicator
Power
L
Connector
–
+
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
BATT. RELEASE
VIDEO
Optional DCC08 Car Cord Adapter
1. Place the POWER switch in OFF to
turn off the camcorder. Power
indicator on the camcorder turns off.
5. Insert the car cord’s cigarette lighter
plug into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter
socket. The POWER indicator on the
car cord adapter will light.
2. If the battery or DC cable is attached
to the camcorder, remove it.
6. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA
to turn on the camcorder. The power
indicator on the camcorder lights.
3. Hold the top of the power connector
flush against the camcorder and press
the bottom of the power connector
down until it locks into place.
Caution: Make sure the camcorder’s
power is turned off before removing the
car cord’s plug from the cigarette lighter
socket.
4. Take the vehicle’s cigarette lighter out
of the socket.
16
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Recording Tips
• Fading in and out of scenes will make
your videos appear more professional.
• In case of fire or theft, make a video
recording of your home and contents to
store in a safe place.
• Learn to use the special effects
available with your camcorder to add
variety to your recordings.
• Try to make sure indoor scenes are
well-lit. This improves picture quality
and color reproduction.
• Be aware of video and audio
backgrounds. Background details
barely noticed while you are taping
may show up as visual “clutter” on
your recording. Background noises
(especially TV sets, radios, household
appliances, traffic sounds, etc.) can
detract from the sound you want to
record.
• Do not move the camcorder rapidly
from side-to-side while recording.
A steady, gradual “pan” avoids
blurring and “jitter”.
• Use the viewfinder or LCD monitor to
make sure the camcorder is level while
recording or your scenes will appear
“tilted”.
• Avoid long “still” shots of landmarks
and scenic attractions. Recordings are
more interesting if they include people
and details. “Local color” will give
travel videos lasting appeal. Consider
recording a familiar or landmark scene
from an unfamiliar vantage point.
• Use the LCD monitor to shoot a scene
from a high or low angle, such as over a
crowd.
• Do not bump or tap the camcorder’s
microphone while recording because
this sound will be recorded.
• Include close-ups of individuals when
taping family outings or group
functions.
17
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Video Cassettes
We recommend that our cassettes be used with your camcorder. Use of poor quality
tapes or tapes that have been damaged or mishandled can contaminate the video heads,
resulting in a snowy picture or no picture at all during playback. Because there is no
control over the type of tape purchased or rented by consumers, head cleaning is not
covered under warranty. It is considered normal maintenance.
The automatic head-cleaning system minimizes the need for accessory cleaners or
cleaning by a Servicenter. This system is activated whenever you insert or remove a
cassette.
Erase Protection – Safety Tab
You can use your video cassettes over and over again. To erase a previous recording,
just record over it.
Safety
Tab
A. Remove
B. Cover hole
safety tab or
with vinyl tape or
slide tab to REC ON to
record over tape.
slide tab to
REC OFF.
Recording and Playback Speeds and Times
The camcorder records and plays back in standard speed (SP) or extended play (EP).
Select the recording speed using the SP•EP switch. The selected speed will be
displayed on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder. Listed below are the maximum SP
and EP recording times for popular VHS-C cassettes.
• SP – Standard play provides the best
picture (less picture noise), but the
shortest recording time
(20 minutes with a TC-20 tape).
Recording Time
Cassette
TC-20
TC-30
TC-40
SP
EP
• EP – Extended play provides three
times the recording time as SP
(60 minutes with a TC-20 tape). EP
has slightly more picture noise than SP
in normal playback. This may not be
noticeable.
20 Min.
30 Min.
40 Min.
60 Min.
90 Min.
120 Min.
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Video Cassettes
Inserting and Removing Cassettes
Cautions:
Open monitor at least 60º
before opening cassette
compartment.
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
Tape
Wheel
4
PUSH
OPEN
Insert the cassette only one way
with the tape wheel facing up
and the tape window facing out.
The cassette should slide easily
into the compartment. Do not
force the cassette.
EJECT
P
SH
CASSETTE
EJECT
2
Tape
Window
PUSH/OPEN
Button
EJECT Button
PUSH Button
Before inserting a cassette, turn the tape
wheel on the side of the cassette in the
direction shown to remove any slack in
the tape.
2. Press EJECT to open the cassette
compartment.
• Turn the tape wheel on the cassette
to remove any slack from the tape.
• Insert the cassette with the tape
wheel facing up and the tape window
facing out.
Tape Wheel
3. Press the PUSH button to lock the
cassette door into place.
1. Press PUSH/OPEN to open the LCD
monitor. Open the monitor at least 60º
before opening the cassette
4. If you are not going to use the LCD
monitor to view what you are
recording or playing back, close and
lock the monitor.
compartment.
Cassette Care and Storage
• Keep dust from entering the cassette
compartment. All dust is abrasive and
will cause excessive wear on the tape
and the camcorder’s recording or
playback heads.
• Do not use cassettes with damaged or
spliced tape.
• Do not use a cassette if it has been
damaged or exposed to moisture. The
tape may jam and/or damage your
camcorder.
• When you are finished with a cassette,
rewind it, remove it from the
camcorder, and label it.
• Store cassettes vertically in their
protective cases at normal room
temperatures. Do not leave your
camcorder or cassettes in a car or
outdoors for an extended period.
Excessive heat or cold may damage
your cassettes.
• Keep the cassette away from strong
magnetic fields such as electric motors
and other devices.
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Recording
Making a Recording
The steps below tell you how to make a recording using some of the recording
features. Each feature is described in detail on the following pages.
SP•EP Switch
sp•EP
TRACKING
UNTER R/M
+
PLAY/PAUSE
W.BAL.
STOP
FF
REW
–
+
LENS COVER Control
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
Eyepiece
Focus
Control
RF
B
A
T
T
.
R
E
L
E
A
S
E
DC OUT
VIDEO
POWER Switch
_
Caution: Open
monitor at least
60º before
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
Tape Wheel
4
opening cassette
compartment.
PUSH
OPEN
EJECT
P
S
EJECT
CASSETTE
2
PUSH/OPEN Button
Tape Window
EJECT Button
PUSH Button
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
EJECT
CASSETTE
Button
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
MENU Button
MENU
FAR
NEAR
_
FADE/
WIPE
Button
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Recording
1. Attach a power supply.
Use the Viewfinder
• Make sure the monitor is closed and
locked. The viewfinder will be
automatically turned on.
Attach the adapter/charger, charged
battery, or optional DC car cord.
2. Insert a tape.
• Adjust the viewfinder for a
comfortable viewing position.
• Press PUSH/OPEN to open the LCD
monitor. Open the monitor at least
60º before opening the cassette
compartment.
• Turn the eyepiece focus control to
adjust the focus of the viewfinder for
your vision.
• Press EJECT to open the cassette
6. Select a recording speed and tape
length.
compartment.
• Turn the tape wheel on the cassette
to remove any slack from the tape.
A. Place the SP•EP switch in SP or EP
to select a recording speed.
• Insert the cassette with the tape
wheel facing up and the tape
window facing out.
B. Make sure the FULL AUTO/
PRESET switch is in PRESET.
• Press the PUSH button on the side of
the cassette compartment to lock the
cassette holder into place.
C. Press the MENU button and use the
or button to highlight TAPE
LENGTH. Use and to select
the length of the tape you are using
(T20, T30, or T40) so the
3. Slide the LENS COVER control to
open the lens cover.
camcorder can correctly calculate
the time remaining. Press the
MENU button again to remove the
menu.
4. Place the POWER switch in
CAMERA.
The power indicator will light and the
camcorder will enter record pause.
PAUSE
appears in the viewfinder or
on the LCD monitor.
5. Use the LCD monitor or viewfinder
to view what you are recording.
Use the LCD Monitor
• Make sure the monitor is open at
least 60º. The viewfinder will be
automatically turned off.
• Tilt the LCD monitor (up to 45º up
or down).
• Adjust the brightness of the image
by turning the BRIGHT dial.
(continued on next page)
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Recording
Making a Recording (Continued)
EDIT SEARCH – Button
EDIT SEARCH + Button
sp•EP
UNTER R/M
W.BAL.
TRACKING
+
PLAY/PAUSE
STOP
LENS
FF
REW
–
+
COVER
Control
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
BATT. RELEASE
VIDEO
Power Zoom
Lever
POWER Switch
Tally Light
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
EJECT
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
DISPLAY
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
EJECT
CASSETTE
FULL AUTO/PRESET Switch
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
Button
Button
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
MENU
FAR
NEAR
_
FADE/
WIPE
FADE/WIPE
Button
Button
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Recording
7. Select a production special effect to
add variety to your recordings.
• The effect is automatically
activated, and its indicator
appears.
A. Make sure the FULL AUTO/
• Details are on pages 60-61.
PRESET switch is in PRESET.
B. Press PROG.AE/EFFECT to
display the production effects menu
in the viewfinder or on the LCD
monitor.
9. Start and stop recording.
• Press and release the thumb trigger
REC
to start recording.
appears in
the viewfinder or on the LCD
monitor and the tally light lights
when the camcorder is recording.
• Press and release the the thumb
trigger again to stop recording. The
camcorder is now in record pause.
C. Press PROG.AE/EFFECT again to
select the effect you want. The
effect is selected automatically and
its indicator appears in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
• Select Cinema (16X9 effect),
Sepia (brown-tone effect),
Twilight (dusk and twilight
scenes), Sports (fast moving
action), or HI.S (hi-speed shutter
for even faster moving action).
• The effect is automatically
activated, and its indicator
PAUSE
appears.
• The camcorder will automatically
turn off if it remains in record pause
for five minutes. Place the POWER
switch in OFF and then back in
CAMERA.
10. Zoom in and out.
• Zoom in and out using the zoom T
and W lever.
appears.
• Details are on pages 62-63.
11. Review what you have recorded.
• Press and quickly release EDIT
SEARCH – to review the last few
seconds of your recording.
8. Add fades and wipes.
A. Make sure the FULL AUTO/
PRESET switch is in PRESET.
B. Press the FADE/WIPE button to
display the fade menu in the
• Press and hold EDIT SEARCH – or
+ to visually see what you have
recorded. Release the button to
begin recording at that point.
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
C. Repeatedly press the FADE/WIPE
button to select a fade or wipe.
• Select Black Fader, Blue Fader,
Mosaic Fader, Shutter Wipe, or
Slide Wipe.
12. When you are finished, place
POWER switch in OFF, close and
lock the LCD monitor, and close
the lens cover.
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Recording
Viewing What You Are Recording Using the LCD Monitor
or Viewfinder
You can watch what you are recording on the color LCD monitor or in the
black-and-white viewfinder. When the LCD monitor is open more than 60º
in CAMERA, the viewfinder is automatically turned off. When you close the
LCD monitor, the viewfinder is automatically turned on.
Use the LCD Monitor
Eyepiece
Focus
BRIGHT Dial
Control
LCD Monitor
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
EJECT
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
DISPLAY
EIS
MENU
Viewfinder
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
EJECT
CASSETTE
PUSH/OPEN Button
1. Press the PUSH/OPEN button and
open the LCD monitor.
3. Adjust the brightness of the image
by turning the BRIGHT dial. This
does not effect the brightness of
the recording you are making.
Make sure the monitor is open at
least 60º. The viewfinder will be
automatically turned off.
• Turn the dial toward “+” to
brighten the image.
2. You can tilt the monitor up or down
45º for convenient viewing.
• Turn the dial toward “–” to
darken the image.
• Tilt the monitor down to record
from a high angle, such as over a
crowd.
4. When you are finished, close the
monitor and lock it into place.
Note: When recording on a bright sunny
day, the LCD monitor may be hard to see.
Use the viewfinder.
• Tilt the monitor up to record
from a low angle, such as when
you are kneeling.
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Recording
Use the Viewfinder
The camcorder’s viewfinder is a miniature monitor that displays the picture
seen by the camcorder when recording. When the LCD monitor is open more
than 60º, the viewfinder is automatically turned off.
Viewfinder
Eyepiece Focus Control
–
+
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
BATT. RELEASE
VIDEO
you probably can operate the camcorder
without them.
Adjust Viewfinder for Convenient
Viewing
It is easiest to set the correct focus by
focusing on one of the viewfinder’s on-
screen displays.
For convenient viewing, you can slide the
viewfinder out from the camcorder and
rotate it up and down.
Look through the viewfinder and adjust
the eyepiece focus control for your vision.
Eyepiece Focus Control
The eyepiece focus control lets you set
the focus of the viewfinder for your
personal vision. If you wear eyeglasses,
The eyepiece focus control does not affect
the focus of the picture actually recorded
by the camcorder.
Cautions
Do not force the LCD monitor or viewfinder to rotate completely around.
This will damage the monitor, viewfinder, and/or the camcorder.
When carrying the camcorder with the shoulder strap, close and lock the
LCD monitor and put the viewfinder down and slide it in. This helps
prevent possible damage to the monitor or viewfinder from bumping
against your body as you move.
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Recording
LCD Monitor or Viewfinder Displays
8
9
10
1
W
REC SP
2
3
LENS COVER
4
5
6
7
Bk
T
PAUSE
Happy Birthday
NOV 18.97
PM 8:30:00
•
appears when you select
1
2
Tape Speed Indicators (SP or EP)
Cinema to “letterbox” record with
black bars so you can play back
your recordings on a 16X9 TV.
The tape speed selected with the
SP• EP button appears here.
• Details on page 18.
•
•
•
•
appears when you select Sepia
to give your recordings a brown-
tone like old photographs.
Status Displays
REC
•The
indicator appears when
appears when you select
Twilight to record scenes at dusk
and twilight.
the camcorder is recording.
PAUSE
• The
indicator appears
during record pause.
appears when you select Sports
to record fast moving action, such
as sporting events.
3
Production Effects Indicators
The indicator for the production
effect selected with the PROG.AE/
EFFECT button appears here.
When the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch is in FULL AUTO, Cinema is
automatically selected. Place the
switch in PRESET to select the other
effects.
appears when you select HI.S
1/2000 to record even faster
moving action than Sports.
• Details are on pages 62-63.
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Recording
6
4
Fade and Wipe Indicators
Title
The indicator for the fade or wipe
scene transition selected with the
FADE/WIPE button appears here.
When the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch is in FULL AUTO, Black
Fader is automatically selected.
Place the switch in PRESET to
select the other fades or wipes.
BK
The preset title you select or the title
you create will appear in this area.
• The title will be recorded on your
tape when it appears.
• Details are on pages 45-47.
7
Date or Date and Time
The date, time, or date and time
appears in this area when you press
the DISPLAY button.
• These displays will be recorded on
your tape when they appear.
• Details are on pages 49-51.
•
•
•
appears when you select Black
Fade and a black screen fades in
and out.
appears when you select Blue
C
Fade and a blue screen fades in and
out.
appears when you select
Mosaic Fade and the picture turns
into a mosaic pattern as you fade in
and out.
8
LENS COVER Indicator
• LENS COVER: When you turn on
the camcorder, this indicator briefly
flashes to remind you to open the
lens cover.
•
•
appears when you select
Shutter Wipe and a black screen
wipes in from top and bottom or
the image pushes open the black
screen from the center to the top
and bottom.
appears when you select Slide
Wipe and a black screen wipes in
from the left or the image moves in
from right to left..
• LENS COVER: This indicator may
flash when the camcorder is used in
dark areas — even if the lens cover
is open.
9
Battery Level Indicator
• This indicator shows power left in
the rechargeable battery.
• This indicator flashes when the
battery is almost empty.
• Details are on page 15.
• Details are on pages 60-61.
10
Zoom Indicator
5
Change Indicator (◆)
The zoom indicator appears here
when you use the zoom lever.
• Details on page 39.
This indicator will appear to let you
know that an item in the recording
menu has been changed from the
original factory setting.
(continued on next page)
27
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Recording
LCD Monitor or Viewfinder Displays
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
T 30
11
12
13
40min
15s
10s
M 0:00:00
+03
MWB
14
15
INDEX
TAPE END
11
13
Time Remaining Display
Electronic Image Stabilizer (
)
The approximate time remaining on
the tape is automatically displayed
here. The correct Tape Length must
be set in the recording menu.
Details are on page 44.
This indicator appears when the
electronic image stabilizer is turned
on with the EIS button.
• See page 38 for details.
14
Dew Warning (
)
12
Self-Timer, Animation, and Time-
Lapse Indicators
The dew indicator appears when
excessive moisture (condensation)
has entered the camcorder. The
camcorder will not operate when
this indicator appears. Place the
camcorder in a warm, dry area until
this indicator disappears.
• The interval time selected for self-
timer or time-lapse recording (
15S, 30S, 1min, or 5min) appears
here. Details are on pages 54-55
and
58-59.
• The rec time selected for animation
or time-lapse recording (
1/4S,
1/2S, 1S, or 5S) appears here.
Details are on pages 56-57
and 58-59.
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Recording
15
TAPE END Warning
20
Exposure Indicator
• TAPE END appears when the end
of the tape is reached during
recording or a cassette is inserted
with its tape already at the end.
• This indicator appears when you
are adjusting brightness manually
using the + or – button. The FULL
AUTO/PRESET switch must be in
PRESET.
16
Tape Length
• Details are on page 33.
The tape length (T20, T30, or T40)
selected with the Tape Length
feature on the recording menu
appears here. Details are on
page 44.
21
White Balance Indicators
• If you adjust white balance
manually, the indicator (MWB,
or ) for the mode you
,
,
17
select appears here. The FULL
AUTO/PRESET switch must be in
PRESET.
Cassette Warning
•The
indicator appears when a
cassette is in the camcorder.
• Details are on pages 34-35.
• The
indicator flashes when the
POWER switch is set to CAMERA
and there is no cassette in the
camcorder.
22
23
INDEX Indicator
• INDEX appears when an index
mark is being made on the tape.
Details are on page 32.
18
19
Time-Counter
• The time counter appears during
playback. It is not recorded.
Lithium Cell (
)
• This indicator flashes for a few
seconds when you first turn on the
camcorder and the time and date
have not been set.
• An “M” appears in front of the time
counter when memory-stop is on.
• Details are on page 70.
• This indicator also appears when
Manual Focus Indicators (
)
the clock cell is missing or it needs
to be replaced. Details are on
page 48.
These indicators appear when focus
is adjusted manually using the
NEAR or FAR button. The FULL
AUTO/PRESET switch must be in
PRESET.
• Manual focus lock indicators (
appear when focus is moving
toward near or far.
)
• Low-contrast indicators (
)
flash when the auto-focus system
cannot focus properly.
• Details are on pages 36-37.
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Recording
QUICK REC Button
Microphone
Tally Light
Microphone
Tally Light
The microphone picks up the sound
The tally light lights when the camcorder
during a recording. It is more sensitive to is recording.
sounds coming from the direction the
lens is pointed.
The tally light can be turned off using the
record menu. See page 53.
Flying Erase Head
Quick Record
A separate erase head is mounted on
the spinning headwheel (hence the term
“flying”). This allows you to make clean
edits without the “glitches” or “rainbow
noise” that may occur at the beginning or
the end of recordings.
Quick record lets you make five second
recordings for quick scene transitions.
Place VCR/OFF/CAMERA switch in
CAMERA.
• Press and release QUICK REC to make
a five-second recording. The
camcorder will record for five seconds
and return to record pause.
Auto Head Cleaner
• Press and hold QUICK REC to continue
recording. Release the button to return
the camcorder to record pause. Press
the thumb trigger to start normal
recording at this point.
The camcorder has an automatic head-
cleaning system. Whenever a cassette is
inserted or removed, this system is
activated.
The head-cleaning system minimizes the
need for accessory cleaners or cleaning
by a Servicenter.
Notes: Fading does not operate when you use
the QUICK REC button to record.
Quick recording cannot be used during
animation or time-lapse recording.
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Recording
sp•EP
UNTER R/M
W.BAL.
TRACKING
+
L
PLAY/PAUSE
STOP
FF
REW
–
+
REW and FF (Also EDIT
SEARCH – and +) Buttons
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
BATT. RELEASE
VIDEO
POWER Switch
Tape Positioning
Camera Edit Feature
The camera edit feature allows you to
position the tape when the camcorder is
in record pause. Place VCR/OFF/
CAMERA switch in CAMERA.
Place POWER switch in VCR and press
STOP.
• Press and quickly release REW or FF to
rewind or fast-forward the tape. Press
STOP to stop the tape.
• Press and hold EDIT SEARCH – to
visually search the recorded tape in
reverse.
Quick Review Feature
• Press and hold EDIT SEARCH +
to visually search forward on the
recorded tape.
Press and release EDIT SEARCH – when
the camcorder is in record pause to
review the last few seconds of a
recording. The POWER switch must be
in CAMERA.
Release the button to return camcorder to
record pause at that point on the tape.
Press the thumb trigger to start recording
at this point.
The camcorder will play back the last
few seconds of the recording, return the
tape to its previous position, and return to
record pause.
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Recording
Full Auto Mode
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
FULL AUTO/PRESET Switch
• The only fade/wipe that you can use
is the black fader.
1. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA.
• The power indicator will light and
• The only production special effects
you can use is cinema.
the camcorder will enter record
PAUSE
pause.
appears in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
• Menu changes cannot be made.
2. Place the FULL AUTO/PRESET
4. Place the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch in PRESET to turn off the full
auto mode.
switch in FULL AUTO.
3. Press the thumb trigger to start
recording.
• The camcorder will control the
focus, exposure, and white balance
for you.
Electronic Indexing
An index mark is automatically recorded at the beginning of a recording
after the date advances and a cassette is inserted. When you play back the
indexed tape in a VCR that has a compatible indexing feature called “VHS
Index Search System”, the invisible marks can be located automatically.
See VCR owner’s manual.
INDEX flashes in the viewfinder or on
the LCD monitor when an index mark is
recorded.
INDEX
Notes: No other function can be performed
during index recording.
If the date changes during recording, an index
mark is placed on the tape.
INDEX Indicator on LCD
Monitor or Viewfinder
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Recording
Exposure Control
When the FULL AUTO/PRESET switch is in FULL AUTO, the camcorder controls the
iris for you. Under normal conditions, the camcorder will adjust brightness
automatically. You may need to adjust brightness manually when the background is
too bright or too dark in comparison with the subject.
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
EJECT
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
DISPLAY
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
EJECT
CASSETTE
+ Button
FULL AUTO/PRESET Switch
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
MENU
FAR
NEAR
_
FADE/
WIPE
– Button
Manual Exposure
To Turn Off Manual Exposure
Press both + and – at the same time or
place the FULL AUTO/PRESET switch
in FULL AUTO.
1. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA.
• The power indicator will light and
the camcorder will enter record
PAUSE
pause.
appears in the
Conditions Requiring Manual
Exposure
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
2. Place the FULL AUTO/PRESET
• When recording with a bright
background or reverse lighting.
switch in PRESET.
• When recording with a very dark
background or very bright subject.
• Press + to brighten the image.
• Press – to darken the image.
• When recording a reflective natural
background — such as a beach or when
skiing.
• The exposure level indicator
(± 01 to 06) appears in the
viewfinder.
33
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Recording
White Balance
Making colors look natural is what white balance is all about. This is achieved by
adjusting the way the camcorder “sees” and records the light source in the scene you
wish to record. Your camcorder is equipped with automatic white balance. However,
under certain conditions, such as recording an object with various shades of the same
color or when recording a predominant red or brown object outdoors, you may want to
adjust white balance manually.
MAN.W.BAL.
Button
sp•EP
TRACKING
UNTER R/M
+
PLAY/PAUSE
W.BAL.
STOP
FF
REW
–
+
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
FULL AUTO/
PRESET
BATT. RELEASE
DC OUT
VIDEO
Switch
3. Press the MAN.W.BAL. (manual
white balance) button until one of
the manual white balance indicators
appears in the viewfinder or on the
LCD monitor.
Auto White Balance
During auto white balance, the
camcorder will automatically adjust the
white balance.
1. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA.
• Select MWB when shooting
subjects with different color
temperatures and adjust the white
balance as follows:
2. Place the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch in FULL AUTO.
Note: Connecting your camcorder to
a color TV monitor may be helpful
when making white balance
adjustments.
Manual White Balance
1. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA.
2. Place the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch in PRESET.
(continued on next page)
34
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Recording
Press the MAN.W.BAL. (Manual White Balance) Button
to Display Indicators in Viewfinder or on LCD Monitor
MWB
Auto White Balance
Manual White Balance
Outdoors — Sunny
Halogen or Tungsten
Light
Outdoors — Cloudy
A.Point camcorder at a white, flat
object such as a piece of white
paper.
• Select
when recording
outdoors on a sunny day.
• Select when recording
outdoors on a cloudy day.
B. Press and hold MAN.W.BAL .for
at least three seconds.
• Select
halogen or tungsten lighting.
when recording using
The MWB indicator will flash
while the camcorder is adjusting
white balance and stop flashing
when it is ready to record.
Note: To change the tint for special
recording, substitute colored paper
for white. The white balance is
adjusted based on the color.
4. To have camcorder automatically
control white balance, repeatedly
press MAN.W.BAL. until no white
balance indicator appears in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor
(or place the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch in PRESET).
Red paper – deeper green
Blue paper – orange
Yellow paper – deeper purple
Note: Manual white balance does not
operate if Sepia is selected as a program
effect.
35
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Recording
Focusing
Under normal conditions, the camcorder can adjust focus automatically. Under
certain conditions, you may need to focus manually.
Zoom Lever
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
E
VOLUM
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
EJECT
CASSETTE
FULL AUTO/PRESET Switch
FAR Button
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
MENU
NEAR Button
FAR
NEAR
_
FADE/
WIPE
Auto Focus
Focus Lock Feature
During auto focus the camcorder will
The focus lock feature is useful when
objects pass between your subject and the
camcorder or your main subject is not
located in the center of the viewfinder or
LCD monitor.
focus automatically on the object located
in the center area of the viewfinder or
LCD monitor.
• Place the FULL AUTO/PRESET switch
in FULL AUTO to turn on the auto
focus feature.
1. Place the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch in PRESET.
Notes: The low-contrast indicator (
in the viewfinder indicates the auto-
focus system may not operate correctly due
to low illumination, low or no contrast,
repeated patterns, or two subjects at
different distances overlapping.
)
2. Center the main object in the
viewfinder or LCD monitor.
3. Press FAR or NEAR to focus on the
main subject. The focus is locked on
the subject and (
) appears on the
LCD monitor or in the viewfinder.
4. Press FAR and NEAR together
(or place FULL AUTO/PRESET switch
in FULL AUTO) to turn auto focus
back on.
If you zoom in too close to the subject, the
camcorder will automatically zoom out so it
can focus.
36
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Recording
Manual Focus
Under certain conditions, such as those listed, you may need to focus manually.
1. Set the FULL AUTO/PRESET switch
adjusted any farther, the
will flash. When the focus cannot be
indicator
to PRESET.
adjusted any closer, the
will flash.
indicator
2. Slide the power zoom lever toward T
to zoom in on your subject. To
maintain proper focus throughout the
zoom range, you must zoom in on the
subject before adjusting the focus.
4. Release the NEAR or FAR button to
lock in the manual focus.
5. Press NEAR and FAR together
(or place FULL AUTO/PRESET switch
in FULL AUTO) to turn auto focus
back on.
3. Press NEAR or FAR to display a clear
picture in the center of the viewfinder.
The
indicators appear in the
viewfinder. The or indicator will
flash. When the focus cannot be
Conditions Requiring Manual Focus
• When recording a subject through a
window.
• When the subject is not in the center of
the viewfinder.
• When recording a subject having a close
foreground and a background that is far
away.
• When recording in low-light situations.
• When recording a scene with fast
motions, like a tennis swing.
• When recording two subjects at different
distances that overlap in the same scene.
37
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Recording
Electronic Image Stabilizer (EIS)
The electronic image stabilizer helps compensate for unstable images
caused by camera shake that can be created by recording out of a moving
vehicle or while walking.
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
E
VOLUM
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
EJECT
CASSETTE
EIS Button
PROG.AE/
+
_
EFFECT
EIS
MENU
FAR
NEAR
DISPLAY
FADE/
WIPE
To Turn On EIS
1. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA.
Turn off EIS when using a tripod.
Stabilization may not be possible if hand
shake is excessive or when shooting the
following:
2. Press the EIS button. The EIS
indicator appears in the viewfinder or
on the LCD monitor.
• Subjects with vertical or horizontal stripes.
• Low contrast subjects or backgrounds or
dark or dim subjects.
• Subject with excessive backlighting.
• Scenes with movements in various
directions.
To Turn Off EIS
Press the EIS button. The EIS indicator
disappears from the viewfinder.
EIS Indicator in Viewfinder
or on LCD Monitor
38
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Recording
Zooming
The motorized zoom lens allows you to zoom in and out for close ups or
wide-angle shots just by sliding the power zoom lever on the camcorder.
W
Power Zoom Lever
T = Telephoto
W = Wide Angle
T
T20•30•40
TRACKING
UNTER R/M
W.BAL.
+
/
PLAY
STOP
FF
REW
Zoom Level Indicator in
–
+
Viewfinder or on LCD Monitor
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
BATT. RELEASE
VIDEO
To Zoom In and Out
Digital Zooming
Optical zooming allows you to zoom in
and out up to 14X.
Digital zooming doubles the maximum
14X normal optical zooming. The zoom
indicator does not operate during digital
zooming.
• To move the lens in the telephoto
(close-up) direction, slide the power
zoom lever toward T.
Zoom speed varies according to how far
you zoom in or out.
• To move the lens in the wide angle
Notes: You may need to focus manually
during digital zooming. Zoom in, adjust the
focus manually or use focus lock, and then
zoom in or out.
direction, slide the lever toward W.
• The zoom level indicator appears in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
Note: If you are trying to zoom in very close
to a subject and the camcorder zooms out, try
using Tele Macro zooming. See page 41.
The quality of the image may not be as good
in digital zooming as optical zooming.
39
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Recording
Recording Menu
The main recording menu lets you select and set several recording features:
Tele Macro (close-up), Gain Up (light adjustment), Color Filter, Tape Length, Title,
and Date/Time. The Sub Menu lets you turn the tally light on or off, set interval and
recording times for self-timer, animation, and time-lapse recording, and set an ID
number.
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
C
A
S
S
E
T
T
E
E
J
C
T
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
Button
Button
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
MENU
FAR
NEAR
Button
MENU Button
_
FADE/
WIPE
Button
To Display the Recording Menu
4. If you select Tele Macro, Gain Up,
Color Filter, or Tape Length, press
or to select the option you want for
that feature.
1. Make sure the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch is in PRESET.
2. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
If you select Date/Time or Title, press
to access the selection menu for the
feature.
Tele Macro
Gain Up
Color Filter
Tape Length
Title
OFF
AGC
NOR.
T20
5. Press MENU to exit the menu.
Date/Time
Sub Menu
Notes: If you want to change another feature,
repeat steps 3 and 4.
If you make a change in the recording menu,
appears in the viewfinder or on the LCD
monitor.
Recording Menu in Viewfinder
or on LCD Monitor
3. Press
or to highlight the feature
you want to adjust.
40
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Recording
Recording Menu — Tele Macro Zooming Feature
Tele Macro (close-up), zooming allows you to zoom in on subjects that are too close to
focus on during normal zooming. If the subject is more than approximately 23 inches
away, use normal zooming.
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
C
A
S
S
E
T
T
E
E
J
C
T
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
Button
Button
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
MENU
FAR
NEAR
Button
MENU Button
_
FADE/
WIPE
Button
To Turn on Tele Macro
1. Make sure the FULL AUTO/PRESET
4. Press or to select OFF or ◆ON.
switch is in PRESET.
• Select ◆ON if you want to record a
small subject within approximately
23 inches.
2. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
• Select OFF for normal zooming.
5. Press MENU to exit the menu.
Tele Macro
Gain Up
Color Filter
Tape Length
Title
OFF
AGC
NOR.
T20
Note: Depending on the position of the
zoom, the lens may go out of focus.
Date/Time
Sub Menu
3. Make sure Tele Macro is highlighted
or press or to highlight it.
41
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Recording
Recording Menu — Gain Up
The gain up feature allows you to take bright and natural recordings even in areas
with low or poor lighting.
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
C
A
S
S
E
T
T
E
E
J
C
T
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
Button
Button
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
MENU
FAR
NEAR
Button
MENU Button
_
FADE/
WIPE
Button
To Set Gain Up
1. Make sure the FULL AUTO/PRESET
4. Press or to select AGC or ◆OFF.
switch is in PRESET.
• Select ◆OFF when lighting is not a
2. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
problem.
• Select AGC to record a subject in a
dark environment. The picture will
be brighter, with slightly more
“video noise”.
Tele Macro
Gain Up
Color Filter
Tape Length
Title
OFF
AGC
NOR.
T20
5. Press MENU to exit the menu.
Date/Time
Sub Menu
3. Press
or to highlight Gain Up.
42
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Recording
Recording Menu — Color Filter
This feature allows you to add a red or blue tint to the recording.
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
C
A
S
S
E
T
T
E
E
J
C
T
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
Button
Button
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
MENU
FAR
NEAR
Button
MENU Button
_
FADE/
WIPE
Button
To Set Color Filter
1. Make sure the FULL AUTO/PRESET
4. Press or to select NOR., ◆RED,
switch is in PRESET.
or ◆BLUE.
2. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
• Select NOR. for normal recording
• Select ◆RED to add a reddish tint to
your recording.
• Select ◆BLUE to add a bluish tint to
your recording.
Tele Macro
Gain Up
Color Filter
Tape Length
Title
OFF
AGC
NOR.
T20
5. Press MENU to exit the menu.
Date/Time
Sub Menu
3. Press
or to highlight Color
Filter.
43
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Recording
Recording Menu — Tape Time-Remaining Display
The approximate time remaining on the tape in the camcorder is automatically
displayed in the viewfinder. The Tape Length feature in the recording menu must be
set correctly for the length tape you are using before the camcorder can correctly
calculate time remaining.
30min
SP•EP
Switch
30min
29min
sp•EP
TRACKING
3min
UNTER R/M
+
PLAY/PAUSE
W.BAL.
STOP
FF
REW
–
+
TAPE END
2min
(Flashing)
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
1min
(Flashing)
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
BATT. RELEASE
VIDEO
0min
(Flashing)
Set the Tape Length
• Select T20 if you are using a tape
with 20 minutes recording time in
SP speed.
1. Make sure the FULL AUTO/PRESET
switch is in PRESET.
2. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
• Select T30 if you are using a tape
with 30 minutes recording time in
SP speed.
Tele Macro
Gain Up
Color Filter
Tape Length
Title
OFF
AGC
NOR.
T20
• Select T40 if you are using a tape
with 40 minutes recording time in
SP speed.
Date/Time
Sub Menu
5. Press MENU to exit the menu.
Notes: The time-remaining indicator will
start flashing when the remaining tape time
reaches two minutes.
3. Press
Length.
or to highlight Tape
TAPE END appears when the tape reaches its
end during recording or a cassette is loaded
with its tape already at the end.
4. Press or to select the length of
tape you are using:
44
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Recording
Recording Menu — Title
The title feature lets you choose one of eight preset titles or create your own title —
up to 18 characters to superimpose on a scene. The clock cell battery must be
installed as shown on page 48 before you can create or store your own title.
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
C
A
S
S
E
T
T
E
E
J
C
T
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
Button
Button
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
MENU
FAR
NEAR
Button
MENU Button
_
FADE/
WIPE
Button
To Add a Preset Title to Your Recordings
1. Make sure the FULL AUTO/PRESET
4. Press to display the title menu.
switch is in PRESET.
OFF
2. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
Happy Birthday
Our Vacation
Merry Christmas
A Special Day
Happy Holidays
Our New Baby
Wedding Day
Congratulations
(Set Character)
Tele Macro
Gain Up
Color Filter
Tape Length
Title
OFF
AGC
NOR.
T20
Date/Time
Sub Menu
5. Press
or to highlight the preset
title you wish to use.
6. Press MENU to display the title in
the viewfinder or on the LCD
3. Press or on the mode select dial
monitor. It will be superimposed on
your tape during recording.
to highlight Title.
(continued on next page)
45
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Recording
Recording Menu — Title (Continued)
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
C
A
S
S
E
T
T
E
E
J
C
T
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
Button
Button
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
MENU
FAR
NEAR
Button
MENU Button
_
FADE/
WIPE
Button
To Create Your Own Title
1. Make sure the FULL AUTO/PRESET
4. Press to display the title menu.
5. Press or to highlight (Set
Character).
switch is in PRESET.
2. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor
OFF
3. Press
or to highlight Title.
Happy Birthday
Our Vacation
Merry Christmas
A Special Day
Happy Holidays
Our New Baby
Wedding Day
Congratulations
(Set Character)
Tele Macro
Gain Up
Color Filter
Tape Length
Title
OFF
AGC
NOR.
T20
Date/Time
Sub Menu
46
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Recording
6. Press to display the set character
menu.
10.When you are finished, press
,
,
, or to highlight End.
SET:MENU KEY
11.Press MENU to return to the title
A B C D E F G H I
J K L M N O P Q R S
T U V W X Y Z Ä Ö Ü
menu, or press MENU twice to
remove all menus from the screen and
display and record your title.
` ` ˜ ˜ `
A E O I U Ñ Æ ø Å &
?
: . ,
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
- / ! ?
❤
’
Note: The title will be recorded on your
tape whenever it appears in the viewfinder
or on the LCD monitor.
End
Clear
Note: If you wish to erase a previous title,
highlight Clear, and press MENU.
7. Press
,
,
, or to highlight the
Notes: To select the location of a
character you wish to use.
character, press
,
,
, or to move
8. Press MENU to enter the character in
the cursor to the row of squares at the
bottom. Then press or to highlight
the location where you want to place the
character.
your title.
9. Repeat steps 7 and 8 until you have
completed your title (up to 18
characters).
To correct a character, highlight the
character you want to correct and press
and together.
SET:MENU KEY
If you wish to erase a previous title or all
characters, highlight Clear, and press
MENU.
A B C D E F G H I
J K L M N O P Q R S
T U V W X Y Z Ä Ö Ü
` ` ˜ ˜ `
A E O I U Ñ Æ ø Å &
?
: . ,
- / ! ?
❤
’
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
TAYLOR IS TWO!
End
Clear
To Turn Off a Title
1. Display the title menu, use
or to
2. Press MENU to remove the title menu
highlight OFF and press MENU.
from the screen.
OFF
Happy Birthday
Our Vacation
Merry Christmas
A Special Day
Happy Holidays
Our New Baby
Wedding Day
Congratulations
(Set Character)
47
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Recording
Date/Time Display — Install the Clock Lithium Cell
The clock cell indicator
will flash for a few seconds in the viewfinder or on the
LCD monitor when you turn on the camcorder if the cell has not been installed or needs
to be replaced.
Insert object here to remove cell.
Clock Cell
(+ Side Facing Out)
E
–
+
VCR
Clock Cell
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
JLIP
Compartment
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
BATT. RELEASE
VIDEO
1. Make sure camcorder is turned off, and
remove any power supply attached to
the camcorder.
To Remove Battery
To remove battery, insert a pointed non-
metallic object between battery and
compartment and lift.
2. Press release tab of clock cell compart-
ment cover and open the compartment.
3. Insert the clock cell with the “+”
terminal facing out.
4. Close the compartment cover. It will
click into place.
Cautions: Lithium cell battery. Replace only with 3-volt lithium cell – such as
CR2025. Use of other cell presents a risk of fire or explosion. Must be disposed of
properly. Never handle punctured or leaking cell. May cause burns or personal
injury.
Keep out of the hands of children. Can cause death or injury if swallowed. If
swallowed, consult a physician immediately for emergency treatment.
The lithium cell used in this device may explode resulting in a fire or chemical burn if
mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 212˚F (100˚C), or incinerate.
Never use metallic tweezers to hold the cell, and never short circuit the + and – sides
of the cell.
48
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Recording
Recording Menu — Date/Time Display
The date and time must be set before it can be displayed and recorded on your
tapes. The clock cell must be installed as shown on the previous page before the
date can be set and recorded.
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
C
A
S
S
E
T
E
EJECT
Button
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
Button
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
MENU
FAR
NEAR
Button
_
FADE/
WIPE
MENU Button
Button
To Set the Date and Time
1. Make sure the FULL AUTO/PRESET
5. Press or to enter the correct
month. Press to go forward or
to go back.
switch is in PRESET.
2. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
6. Press to start the day flashing.
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 to set the year,
hour (including AM and PM), and
minutes.
Tele Macro
Gain Up
Color Filter
Tape Length
Title
OFF
AGC
NOR.
T20
Note: If you want to return the date and
time to the previous setting, press or
to highlight Cancel and press MENU.
Date/Time
Sub Menu
8. Press or to highlight Set.
9. Press the MENU button. The
camcorder’s internal clock will start
and you will return to the recording
menu.
3. Press or to highlight Date/Time.
4. Press to display the date and time
screen.
Notes: Press MENU twice to start the
clock and remove all the menus from the
viewfinder.
JAN 1.00 AM 12:01
If you enter an invalid date, Input Error
Set
appears in the viewfinder. Press
or and enter the correct day.
,
,
,
Cancel
49
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Recording
Date/Time Display
The clock cell must be installed and the date and time set before the date and/or time
can be selected and recorded on your tape.
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
EJECT
CASSETTE
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
_
EIS
MENU
FAR
NEAR
DISPLAY
FADE/
WIPE
DISPLAY
Button
To Select the Date, Time, or Date and Time You Want to Record
On Your Tape
1. Attach a power supply and place
POWER switch in CAMERA. The
power indicator will light.
• Date Display: The date will be
displayed and recorded.
• Time: The time will be displayed
and recorded.
2. Repeatedly press DISPLAY to select
the date, time, or date and time you
want to record.
• Date and Time Display: The date
and time will be displayed and
recorded.
• Date and Time Off: No date or time
will be displayed or recorded.
50
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Recording
Date/Time Display
Viewfinder or LCD Monitor Displays
Press DISPLAY to select mode.
NOV 18.97
Date Display
Date and Time Off Display
PM 1:59:43
NOV 18.97
Time Display
Return to Date Display
NOV 18.97 PM 1:59:56
Date and Time Display
The mode selected will be recorded.
To Record the Date, Time, or Date and Time on Your Tape
1. Place the camcorder in record pause.
5. To record the display again, place
the camcorder in record pause and
press the DISPLAY button to select the
mode you want to record.
2. Repeatedly press the DISPLAY button
to display the date, time, or date and
time you have previously stored.
3. Begin recording.
4. Press the DISPLAY button to remove
the display from the viewfinder when
you are finished recording it.
Note: If you do not want to record a date
or time, press DISPLAY to select the date
and time off mode.
51
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Recording
Recording Menu — Sub Menu
The sub menu lets you turn the tally light on or off, set interval and recording times for
the self-timer, time-lapse recording, or animation recording. You can also set a JLIP
ID number for a device (such as a personal computer).
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
C
A
S
S
E
T
T
E
E
J
C
T
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
Button
Button
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
MENU
FAR
NEAR
Button
MENU Button
_
FADE/
WIPE
Button
To Change a Feature in the Sub Menu
1. Make sure the FULL AUTO/PRESET
Tally
ON
switch is in PRESET.
Interval Timer
Rec Time
JLIP ID NO.
OFF
OFF
0 7
2. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
Tele Macro
Gain Up
Color Filter
Tape Length
Title
OFF
AGC
NOR.
T20
6. Press to start the highlighted item
flashing.
Date/Time
Sub Menu
7. Press or to adjust the highlighted
item.
Note: If you want to change another
feature, repeat steps 5, 6, and 7.
3. Press or to highlight Sub Menu.
8. Press to return to the recording
menu, or press MENU to exit both
menus.
4. Press to display the sub menu.
5. Press or to highlight the item
you want to adjust.
52
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Recording
Sub Menu — Tally Light and JLIP ID NO.
sp•EP
UNTER R/M
W.BAL.
TRACKING
+
PLAY/PAUSE
STOP
FF
REW
–
+
Tally Light
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
B
A
T
T
.
R
E
L
E
A
S
E
VIDEO
JLIP Connector
To Turn the Tally Light ON or OFF
1. Follow steps 1-4 on the previous page.
2. Press or to highlight Tally.
4. Press or to turn the tally light
ON or OFF.
• Select ON to have the tally light
turn on during recording.
Tally
ON
• Select OFF if you do not want the
Interval Timer
Rec Time
JLIP ID NO.
OFF
OFF
0 7
tally light to light.
5. Press to stop Tally flashing and
return to the recording menu, or press
MENU to exit both menus.
3. Press to start Tally flashing.
Set the JLIP ID NO.
The camcorder has a JLIP (Joint Level Interface Protocol) connector that may be
used in the future to connect a device, such as a home computer.
To Select a JLIP ID NO.
1. Follow steps 1-4 on the previous page.
3. Press to start JLIP ID NO. flashing.
2. Press or to highlight JLIP ID NO.
4. Press or to select a number from
01 to 99.
Tally
ON
5. Press to stop JLIP ID NO. flashing
and return to the recording menu, or
press MENU to exit both menus.
Interval Timer
Rec Time
JLIP ID NO.
OFF
OFF
0 7
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Recording
Sub Menu — Self-Timer
The self-timer lets you set the camcorder to delay recording so you can be
in the scene when recording begins.
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
C
A
S
S
E
T
T
E
E
J
C
T
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
Button
Button
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
MENU
FAR
NEAR
Button
MENU Button
_
FADE/
WIPE
Button
To Set the Self-Timer
1. Place the POWER switch in
CAMERA. The power indicator will
light.
Tele Macro
Gain Up
Color Filter
Tape Length
Title
Date/Time
Sub Menu
OFF
AGC
NOR.
T20
2. Place FULL AUTO/PRESET switch in
PRESET.
3. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
4. Press or to highlight Sub Menu.
5. Press to display the sub menu.
54
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Recording
6. Press or to highlight Interval
9. Press twice to return to the
recording menu.
Timer.
10.Press MENU to exit the menu.
and
the amount of delayed recording time
appear in the viewfinder or on the
LCD monitor.
Tally
ON
Interval Timer
Rec Time
JLIP ID NO.
OFF
OFF
0 7
5min
PAUSE
7. Press to start Interval Timer
flashing.
Self-Timer Indicator in Viewfinder
or on LCD Monitor
11. Press the thumb trigger to start self-
timer recording. The camcorder will
start recording after the amount of time
you have set. It will continue
Tally
ON
15S
Interval Timer
Rec Time
JLIP ID NO.
OFF
OFF
0 7
30S
recording until you press the thumb
trigger to stop recording.
1min
5min
OFF
Notes: If the tally light is turned on, it
starts flashing. About five seconds before
recording begins, the tally light will start
flashing faster. It will stop flashing when
recording begins.
8. Press or to select the amount of
time you want the recording delayed.
• Select 15S to delay the recording
for 15 seconds.
To stop self-timer recording before it has
started, press the thumb trigger again, and
set the Interval Timer to OFF.
• Select 30S to delay the recording
for 30 seconds.
• Select 1min to delay the recording
for one minute.
12.Turn off the interval time when you are
finished by selecting Interval Time
OFF in the Sub Menu.
• Select 5min to delay the recording
for five minutes.
• Select OFF if you do not want the
camcorder to delay recording.
55
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Recording
Sub Menu — Animation Recording
Animation recording produces an illusion of movement for an otherwise stationary
scene or object by shooting a series of pictures of slightly different poses (such as
cartooning).
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
C
A
S
S
E
T
T
E
E
J
C
T
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
Button
Button
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
MENU
FAR
NEAR
Button
MENU Button
_
FADE/
WIPE
Button
To Record Using Animation
1. Place the POWER switch in
CAMERA. The power indicator will
light.
Tele Macro
Gain Up
Color Filter
Tape Length
Title
Date/Time
Sub Menu
OFF
AGC
NOR.
T20
2. Place FULL AUTO/PRESET switch in
PRESET.
3. Make sure the recording speed is set
to SP.
4. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
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Recording
10. Press MENU to select a
5. Press or to highlight Sub Menu.
recording time.
6. Press to display the sub menu.
11. Press MENU to exit the menu.
and the amount of recording
time appear in the viewfinder or
on the LCD monitor.
Tally
ON
Interval Timer
Rec Time
JLIP ID NO.
OFF
OFF
0 7
1/4S
PAUSE
7. Press or to highlight Rec Time.
8. Press to start Rec Time flashing.
12. Press the thumb trigger to start
recording.
Tally
ON
Note: The recording stops
automatically after the selected
period of recording time. You may
want to take two to five shots of the
subject in the same position.
Interval Timer
Rec Time
JLIP ID NO.
OFF
OFF
0 7
1/4S
1/2S
13. Move the subject and repeat
step 11 for the desired number
of shots.
1S
14. Turn off the recording time
when you are finished by
selecting Rec Time OFF in the
Sub Menu.
5S
OFF
9. Press or to select the amount of
time you want the camcorder to
record.
• Select 1/4S, 1/2S, 1S, or 5S to have
the camcorder record for 1/4
second, 1/2 second, one second, or
five seconds.
Note: Fades and wipes do not operate
during animation recording.
• Select OFF to turn off the
recording time.
57
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Recording
Sub Menu — Time-Lapse Recording
Time-lapse recording makes automatic recordings at preset time intervals.
The recording will show subtle changes (such as shifts in cloud formations
or plant growth) when it remains focused on an object.
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
C
A
S
S
E
T
T
E
E
J
C
T
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
Button
Button
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
MENU
FAR
NEAR
Button
MENU Button
_
FADE/
WIPE
Button
To Record Using Time Lapse
1. Place the POWER switch in
CAMERA. The power indicator will
light.
Tele Macro
Gain Up
Color Filter
Tape Length
Title
Date/Time
Sub Menu
OFF
AGC
NOR.
T20
2. Place FULL AUTO/PRESET switch in
PRESET.
3. Make sure the recording speed is set
to SP.
4. Press the MENU button. The
recording menu will appear in the
viewfinder or on the LCD monitor.
5. Press or to highlight Sub Menu.
58
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Recording
13.If necessary, adjust the exposure
control, focus, and stabilizer before
step 14.
6. Press to display the Sub Menu.
Tally
ON
14.Press MENU to exit the menu.
and
15S
30S
Interval Timer
Rec Time
JLIP ID NO.
OFF
OFF
0 7
the amount of recording time, and
1/4S
1/2S
and the amount of interval time appear
in the viewfinder or on the LCD
monitor.
1min
5min
OFF
1S
5min
1/4S
5S
OFF
PAUSE
7. Press or to highlight Rec Time.
8. Press to start Rec Time flashing.
9. Press or to select the amount of
time you want the camcorder to
record.
15.Press the thumb trigger to start
recording.
• Select 1/4S, 1/2S, 1S, or 5S to have
the camcorder record for 1/4
second, 1/2 second, one second, or
five seconds.
• Select OFF to turn off the
recording time.
Notes: The camcorder will start and stop
recording the selected amount of time.
If the tally light is turned on, it flashes
with the flash speed increasing five
seconds before recording begins.
16.Turn off the interval and recording
time when you are finished by
10.Press to highlight Interval Timer.
selecting Interval Timer OFF and Rec
Time OFF in the Sub Menu.
11.Press to start Interval Timer
flashing.
Note: Fades and wipes do not operate during
time-lapse recording.
12.Press or to select the amount of
time you want between recordings.
• Select 15S, 30S, 1min, or 5min to
set the intervals between recording
to 15 seconds, 30 seconds, one
minute, or five minutes.
• Select OFF to turn off the Interval
Timer.
59
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Recording
Fading or Wiping In and Out
You can add a professional touch to your recordings when you use the fade or
wipe features. The picture gradually appears on a black or blue screen and
disappears leaving a black or blue screen. The speed of the fade or wipe is
automatically controlled by the camcorder.
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
C
A
S
S
E
T
T
E
E
J
C
T
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
Button
Button
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
MENU
FAR
NEAR
Button
_
FADE/
WIPE
FADE/WIPE Button
Button
Indicator
Menu
Function
Fades in or out on a black screen.
Black Fader
BK
C
Fades in or out on a blue screen.
Blue Fader
Mosaic Fader
Shutter Wipe
Fades in or out with a full screen mosaic effect.
Wipes in with a black screen from the top and
bottom. Wipes out from the center towards the top
and bottom leaving a black screen.
Wipes in with a black screen from the left. Wipes
out with the image moving from right to left
leaving a black screen.
Slide Wipe
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Recording
To Fade or Wipe
1. Place the POWER switch in
CAMERA. The power indicator will
light.
• FULL AUTO/PRESET Switch in
PRESET
Press the FADE/WIPE button to
2. Place FULL AUTO/PRESET switch in
display the fade/wipe menu.
FULL AUTO or PRESET.
• FULL AUTO/PRESET Switch in
FULL AUTO
OFF
BK
C
Black Fader
Blue Fader
Mosaic Fader
Shutter Wipe
Slide Wipe
1
2
3
4
5
Press the FADE/WIPE button to turn
the black fader on or off.
BK
appears in the viewfinder or on
the LCD monitor.
3.Press FADE/WIPE to highlight the
fade or wipe you want to select.
Note: The fade or wipe you select is
automatically activated and the
fade/wipe menu is removed from the
viewfinder or LCD monitor in
approximately two seconds.
BK
4.Press the thumb trigger to start
recording and fade or wipe in.
Note: If you select a fade or wipe
during recording, press the thumb trigger
to fade or wipe out.
Note: This is the only fade you can use
in the full auto mode.
To Turn Off Fade or Wipe
When FULL AUTO/PRESET switch is in
FULL AUTO, press FADE/WIPE.
OFF
BK
C
Black Fader
Blue Fader
Mosaic Fader
Shutter Wipe
Slide Wipe
1
2
3
4
5
When FULL AUTO/PRESET switch is in
PRESET, press FADE/WIPE to display
the fade/wipe menu, and then press
FADE/WIPE repeatedly to highlight
OFF.
Note: The fade or wipe will be turned
off and the menu will automatically be
removed from the viewfinder or LCD
monitor in approximately two seconds.
61
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Recording
Production Effects
You can add a professional touch to your recordings when you use some of the
production effects while recording.
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
C
A
S
S
E
T
T
E
E
J
C
T
FULL AUTO/
PRESET Switch
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
+
PROG. AE/
EFFECT Button
MENU
FAR
NEAR
_
FADE/
WIPE
Indicator
Menu
Function
The camcorder records black bars at the top and
bottom of the picture to produce the wide-screen
effect. This is also known as “letter box” recording.
Use when you play back your recordings on a 16X9
TV.
Cinema
Gives your recording a brownish tint like old photos.
Combine with cinema mode for a classic look.
Sepia
Use to record a scene at dusk or twilight. Also used
to record fireworks for a more natural and dramatic
look. Auto gain is turned off, and white balance is
set to outdoors.
Twilight
Use to clearly capture fast-moving action with less
blurring. Use when playing back the recording on a
VCR featuring special effects, such as pause or slow
motion.
Sports
HI.S 1/2000
Sets shutter speed to 1/2000. Use to record fast-
moving action with less blurring. Can capture faster
action than sports mode. Use outdoors and in well-
lit situations when playing back recording on VCR
featuring special effects, such as pause or slow
motion.
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Recording
To Use a Production Effect
1. Place the POWER switch in
CAMERA. The power indicator will
light.
OFF
1
2
3
4
5
Cinema
Sepia
Twilight
Sports
HI.S 1/2000
2. Place FULL AUTO/PRESET switch in
FULL AUTO or PRESET.
• FULL AUTO/PRESET Switch in
FULL AUTO
Press the PROG.AE/EFFECT button
to turn the Cinema mode on or off.
3. Press PROG.AE/EFFECT to highlight
the effect you want to select.
appears in the viewfinder or on
the LCD monitor.
Note: The effect you select is
automatically activated and the menu is
removed from the viewfinder or LCD
monitor in approximately two seconds.
4. Press the thumb trigger to start
recording with the effect you selected.
Notes: When Sepia is activated, pressing
MAN.W.BAL. has no effect.
Note: This is the only production effect
you can use in FULL AUTO.
Certain effects cannot be used together with
other functions. When an effect not suitable
in the current situation is selected, its
indicator flashes in the viewfinder or in the
LCD monitor.
• FULL AUTO/PRESET in PRESET
Press the PROG.AE/EFFECT button
to display the production effect
menu.
To Turn Off a Production Effect
When FULL AUTO/PRESET switch is
in FULL AUTO, press PROG.AE/
EFFECT.
OFF
1
2
3
4
5
Cinema
Sepia
Twilight
Sports
HI.S 1/2000
When FULL AUTO/PRESET switch is
in PRESET, press PROG.AE/EFFECT
to display the production effect menu,
and then press PROG.AE/EFFECT
repeatedly to highlight OFF.
Note: The effect will be turned off and the
menu will automatically be removed from
the viewfinder or LCD monitor in
approximately two seconds.
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Recording
Attaching the Shoulder Strap
The camcorder’s shoulder strap is designed to let you carry the camcorder from your
shoulder and – when you are ready to shoot – bring the camcorder to shooting position
in one quick movement.
To Attach the Shoulder Strap
4. Attach the other end of the strap to the
other shoulder strap attachment ring.
1. If the strap keeper is
over a double section
of the strap, slide the
strap keeper off the
end of the strap.
Replace the keeper
on the strap between
the buckle and the
end of the strap as
shown.
Keeper
–
+
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
BATT. RELEASE
2. Loop the end of the strap over the top
of the shoulder strap attachment ring.
VIDEO
5. Adjust the shoulder strap to the desired
length.
Keeper
Buckle
6. Slide both keepers up snugly against
the shoulder strap attachment rings to
prevent the strap from slipping.
–
+
Cautions: When carrying the
camcorder with the shoulder strap,
close and lock the LCD monitor and
rotate the viewfinder down and slide
it to the front. This helps prevent
possible damage from bumping
against your body as you move.
Make sure the shoulder strap is
firmly attached before using it to
carry the camcorder.
Attachment
Rings
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
BATT. RELEASE
VIDEO
3. Thread the end of the strap back
through the keeper and buckle making
sure it is threaded under the outer
strap. Make sure the strap is not
twisted.
64
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Traveling Tips
• Write down your camcorder’s
serial number and keep it separate
from the camcorder when
traveling. If your camcorder is
lost or stolen, you will be able to
identify it.
• Make sure you have any plug
adapters that you may need
before taking your camcorder to
other countries. Consult your
dealer for advice.
• Carry your camcorder in a
carrying case when traveling.
See page 76 for a case designed
especially for this camcorder.
An ordinary suitcase or carry
bag does not offer the protection
your camcorder needs. Treat
your camcorder as carry-on
luggage to protect it from rough
handling.
• Use extra care to avoid damage to
your camcorder and accessories
when operating them at a beach
or pool. Spray, sand, and dust
should be avoided. If your lens
has been exposed to the elements,
clean it only with proper lens
cleaning supplies.
65
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Playback
Using the Cassette Adapter
The camcorder uses a smaller size cassette, but records in standard VHS format. The
cassette adapter allows you to play your VHS-C cassettes in a VCR just like other
standard VHS cassettes.
Insert the VHS-C cassette into the cassette adapter. Insert the cassette adapter into the
VHS VCR like a normal VHS cassette.
Install Cassette Adapter’s Battery
Battery
Compartment
Cover
1. Remove battery compartment cover.
Notes: Replace the battery when the load
time becomes much longer than normal.
2. Install supplied “AA” battery so
positive (+) and negative (–) ends
align properly with (+) and (–)
terminals in battery compartment.
Remove the battery from the cassette adapter
if it will not be used for a month or more.
This will prevent possible damage from
battery leakage. If leakage occurs, wipe up
the liquid inside the compartment and replace
the battery with a new one.
3. Replace battery compartment cover.
Insert Cassette into Cassette Adapter
Cassette
Compartment
Lid
Tape Wheel
EJECT Switch
1. Before inserting the cassette into the
adapter, remove any slack in the tape
by turning the tape wheel on the side
of the cassette.
3. Insert the cassette with the tape
window on the left and facing up.
Allow the cassette to drop into the
adapter. Do not force the cassette.
2. Slide EJECT to the right to open the
cassette compartment lid.
(continued on next page)
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Playback
Load Detector
4. Gently close the cassette compartment
lid until it locks into place. Make sure
the cassette reel area under the adapter
is free to turn while the cassette is
loading.
Caution: If the load detector is still
extending from the side of the cassette
adapter after you have attempted to load
the cassette, loading is not complete.
Try to load the cassette again.
Note: You should hear a whirring sound
while the tape loads. The adapter’s load
detector will automatically retract into the
adapter.
Attempting to insert the cassette adapter
into a VCR with the load detector
extending may cause damage to the
adapter and/or VCR.
Remove Cassette from Cassette Adapter
Access Hole
Caution: Do not touch the reels
during loading or unloading. It
could cause injury or damage the
cassette adapter and/or tape.
Reels
1. Slide the adapter’s EJECT switch to
the right. The load detector will
extend from the side and the whirring
sound indicates the tape is being
released before the adapter’s cassette
compartment lid opens.
2. Use the access hole on the bottom of
the adapter to push the cassette up and
remove it from the adapter.
3. Gently close the adapter’s cassette
compartment lid.
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Playback
Playback Using the LCD Monitor or Viewfinder
You can view tapes in color using the LCD monitor or black-and-white using
the viewfinder. You can hear the sound from the tapes on the built-in speaker
when you use the monitor.
BRIGHT
Control
Eyepiece Focus
Control
SPEAKER
VOLUME
Control
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUM
E
Viewfinder
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EJECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
EJECT
CASSETTE
PUSH/OPEN
Button
EJECT Button
PUSH Button
LCD
Monitor
To Play Back a Tape
Use the LCD Monitor
• Make sure the monitor is open at
least 60º. The viewfinder will be
automatically turned off.
• Tilt the LCD monitor (up to 45º up
or down).
1. Attach a power supply.
Attach the adapter/charger, charged
battery, or optional DC car cord.
2. Insert a tape.
• Press PUSH/OPEN to open the LCD
monitor. Open the monitor at least
60º before opening the cassette
compartment.
• Press EJECT to open the cassette
compartment.
• Turn the tape wheel on the cassette
to remove any slack from the tape.
• Insert the cassette with the tape
wheel facing up and the tape window
facing out.
• Adjust the brightness of the image
by turning the BRIGHT dial.
• Adjust speaker volume with the
SPEAKER VOLUME control.
Use the Viewfinder
• Make sure the monitor is closed and
locked. The viewfinder will be
automatically turned on.
• Adjust the viewfinder for a
comfortable viewing condition.
• Turn the eyepiece focus control to
adjust the focus of the viewfinder for
your vision.
• Press the PUSH button to lock the
cassette compartment closed.
3. Place the POWER switch in VCR.
5. Press PLAY/PAUSE to begin
playback.
The power indicator will light .
• If necessary, adjust tracking.
• During playback, use the playback
features on the next pages.
4. Use the LCD monitor or viewfinder
to view what you are recording.
6. Press STOP when you are finished.
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Playback
Playback Features
sp•EP
UNTER R/M
W.BAL.
TRACKING
PLAY/PAUSE
Button
+
PLAY/PAUSE
STOP
FF
REW
–
+
STOP Button
FF Button
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
REW Button
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
BATT. RELEASE
VIDEO
POWER Switch in VCR
Visual Searching
Tape Positioning
• During playback, press and release FF
or REW if you want to search the tape
visually in forward or reverse.
Place POWER switch in VCR and press
STOP.
• Press REW or FF to rewind or fast-
• Press PLAY/PAUSE on the camcorder
forward the tape.
to return to normal playback.
• Press STOP to stop the tape.
• For brief searching, press and hold FF
or REW for more than two seconds.
• Release the button to return to normal
playback.
Note: Noise bars may appear and the picture
may become monochrome or darken during
searching.
Stop-Action Pause
• During playback, press PLAY/PAUSE
to “stop the action” and view one frame
of the tape.
Caution: Pause is designed for momentary
interruptions and should not be used for an
extended period of time. If the camcorder
remains in pause for more than five minutes,
it will automatically enter the stop mode and
then turn off to prevent excessive tape wear.
• Press PLAY/PAUSE on the camcorder
to return to normal playback.
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Playback
Playback Features (Continued)
COUNTER R/M (Reset/Memory) Button
sp•EP
TRACKING
UNTER R/M
+
PLAY/PAUSE
W.BAL.
STOP
FF
REW
–
+
STOP Button
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
REW Button
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
BATT. RELEASE
VIDEO
POWER Switch in VCR
Thumb Trigger
Time Counter
The time-counter display shows the actual time elapsed when playing back a segment
of tape. The memory-stop feature helps locate a certain point on the tape. When
memory stop is on, the tape will stop automatically during rewind or fast forward
when the time counter reaches M 0:00:00.
To Use the Memory-Stop Feature
1. Place the POWER switch in VCR,
locate the place on the tape you want
to return to, and press COUNTER R/M
for more than two seconds to reset the
counter to 0:00:00.
2. Press COUNTER R/M again to turn on
memory stop. An M appears before
the time counter.
3. Continue to play the tape. When you
want to return to the place you marked,
press the STOP button.
M
0:00:00
4. Press REW. The tape will rewind to
the time counter reading of M 0:00:00.
5. Press COUNTER R/M to turn off
memory stop. The M disappears.
Note: The time counter does not operate on
blank portions of tape.
Time Counter With
Memory Stop Turned On
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Playback
Playback Features (Continued)
TRACKING Buttons
sp•EP
UNTER R/M
W.BAL.
TRACKING
+
PLAY/PAUSE
STOP
FF
REW
–
+
VCR
JLIP
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
AUDIO
RF
DC OUT
BATT. RELEASE
VIDEO
Tracking
During playback, streaks may appear in the playback picture. Press either
TRACKING button to move the streaks up or down and out of the picture.
• During stop-action playback, pressing
one of the TRACKING buttons may
reduce picture “jitter” (picture bouncing
up and down). Some “jitter” is normal.
Note: The TRACKING buttons may have no
effect on tapes recorded on other camcorders
or VCRs.
Simultaneously press both TRACKING
buttons to return tracking to its preset
center.
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Playback
Playback on TV (or VCR) with AUDIO/VIDEO IN Jacks
To connect your camcorder to a TV monitor (or VCR) with AUDIO/VIDEO IN jacks,
you will need an optional audio/video cable such as VH83 shown on page 78.
If your TV is already connected to a VCR, you can attach the camcorder to the VCR
and watch what the camcorder is recording or playing on the TV.
Back of
Mono VCR or
TV Monitor
1 White
Audio Plug
Audio/Video
Output Cable
(Optional)
AUDIO
IN
–
+
AUDIO Jack
VIDEO
IN
3
VCR
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
JLIP
2
Yellow Video Plug
4
AUDIO
OR
RF
BATT. RELEASE
DC OUT
VIDEO
Back of
Stereo VCR or
TV Monitor
1 White
Audio
Plug
Y-Adapter
(Optional)
Audio/Video
Output Cable
(Optional)
L
AUDIO
IN
3
VIDEO Jack
R
VIDEO
IN
4
2
Yellow Video Plug
Installation
2 Attach the yellow plug to the VIDEO
1 Attach the white plug on one end of
the audio/video cable to the AUDIO
IN jack on the TV (or VCR).
IN jack on the TV (or VCR).
3 Attach the white plug on the other end
of the audio/video cable to the AUDIO
jack (located under the small cover)
on the back of the camcorder.
Notes: If your cable does not have white
and yellow plugs, just be sure to attach the
same color to the audio jacks.
If your TV (or VCR) has stereo AUDIO IN
jacks, attach the plug to the one labeled
MONO. If one is not labeled MONO, you
may need a Y-adapter, such as AH25,
shown on page 78 to hear both channels.
4 Attach the yellow plug to the yellow
VIDEO jack on the camcorder.
(continued on next page)
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Playback
Playback Operation and How to Copy Tapes on the VCR
1. A. Camcorder connected directly to
TV: Turn on the TV and tune it to
the video input channel.
• If noise bars appear on the screen,
adjust tracking as described on
page 71.
4. To copy what the camcorder is playing,
place a blank cassette in the VCR, and
press the VCR’s RECORD button.
B. Camcorder connected to VCR that
is already connected to TV: Turn
on VCR and place it in the line,
video, or camera mode. (If your
VCR does not have a line, video, or
camera mode, consult the VCR
owner’s manual.) Operate the TV
as you normally do to see the signal
coming from the VCR.
Make sure the memory-stop feature is
turned off (press COUNTER R/M) or the
camcorder will enter play pause when the
counter reaches M 0:00:00.
5. Press STOP when you are finished.
2. Place the POWER switch in VCR to
turn on the camcorder. The power
indicator will light.
Caution: The unauthorized recording
of copyrighted material may infringe
the rights of others.
3. Press PLAY/PAUSE.
• During playback, use the playback
features described on pages 69-70.
Viewing What the Camcorder is Seeing (or Recording)
1. A. Camcorder connected directly to
TV: Turn on the TV, and tune it to
the video input channel.
3. Press the thumb trigger to begin
recording. You can watch what the
camcorder is seeing (or recording) on
the TV screen.
Notes: When the camcorder is used as a
camera, turn the TV’s volume down to
prevent a high-pitched squeal caused by
feedback.
B. Camcorder connected to VCR that
is already connected to TV: Turn
on VCR and place it in the line,
video, or camera mode. (If your
VCR does not have a line, video, or
camera mode, consult the VCR
owner’s manual.) Operate the TV
as you normally do to see the signal
coming from the VCR.
4. Press the thumb trigger on the
camcorder to pause recording.
2. Place the POWER switch
in CAMERA.
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Playback
Playback on a TV Without Audio/Video Inputs
To connect your camcorder to a TV without audio/video inputs, you will need an
optional 1CVA147C RF output adapter and an optional coaxial RF cable, such as VH82
or VH90 shown on page 78. If your TV has AUDIO and VIDEO IN jacks (or is
connected to a VCR), refer to pages 72-73.
VHF Antenna
Optional Coaxial
RF Cable
(such as VH82 or VH90)
1
–
+
OR
Back of TV
VCR
VHF
2
POWER
OFF
CAMERA
OR
AUDIO
Optional
Transformer
(Such as VH54)
RF
DC OUT
BATT. RELEASE
VIDEO
VHF
AUDIO, RF DC
OUT, VIDEO Jacks
3
2
OR
OUT TO TV Connector
RF Output
Adapter's Plug
Optional
300-75 Ohm
VCR/TV Switch
Transformer
IN FROM ANT
Connector
Optional RF Output Adapter
(1CVA147C)
CH3/CH4 Switch
Installation
1 Disconnect the VHF antenna from
your TV. Connect the antenna to the
IN FROM ANT connector on the RF
output adapter if you are going to leave
the adapter connected to the TV.
2 Attach one end of the optional coaxial
RF cable to the OUT TO TV
connector on the adapter, and attach
the other end to the VHF input on
your TV as shown.
Note: If your VHF antenna is the flat
twin-lead type attached by two screws,
you will also need an optional 300/75 ohm
transformer.
Note: If your TV has 300 ohm screw
terminals, you will need a 75/300 ohm
transformer, such as VH54, shown on
page 78.
3 Attach the RF output adapter’s plug to
the AUDIO, RF DC OUT, and
VIDEO jacks located under the small
cover on the back of the camcorder.
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Playback
Playback Operation
5. Press PLAY/PAUSE on the camcorder.
1. Set the CH3/CH4 switch on the RF
output adapter to channel 3 or 4.
• During playback, use the playback
features described on pages 69-70.
2. Turn on the TV, and tune it to the
same channel you selected with the
RF output adapter’s CH3/CH4 switch.
• If noise bars appear on the screen,
adjust tracking as described on
page 71.
3. Place adapter’s VCR/TV switch in
VCR.
6. Press STOP on the camcorder when
you are finished.
4. Place POWER in VCR. Power
indicator will light.
Viewing What the Camcorder Is Recording
1. Turn on the TV and tune it to channel
3 or 4.
2. Set the CH3/CH4 switch on the RF
output adapter to the same channel
you selected on the TV.
5. Press the thumb trigger to begin
recording. You can watch what the
camcorder is seeing (or recording) on
the TV screen.
Note: When the camcorder is used as a
camera, turn the TV’s volume down to
prevent a high-pitched squeal caused by
feedback.
3. Place adapter’s VCR/TV switch in
VCR.
4. Place POWER in CAMERA. Power
6. Press the thumb trigger on the
camcorder to pause recording.
indicator will light.
Normal TV Viewing
For normal TV viewing, you may leave
the RF output adapter hooked up to the
TV. Disconnect the adapter’s plug from
the camcorder and place the adapter’s
VCR/TV switch in TV.
Note to Cable TV Installer
This reminder is provided to call your attention to Article 820-40 of the
National Electrical Code (Section 54 of Canadian Electrical Code, Part I),
that provides guidelines for proper grounding and, in particular, specifies
that the cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system of the
building as close to the point of cable entry as practical.
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Optional Accessories
We invite you to take a look at some great ideas for sparking creativity
and adding to the fun of using your compact VHS camcorder. The
following pages have a selection of accessories to help make your
memorable moments look and sound even better.
These accessories are designed to make the process of recording and
watching your videos more enjoyable.
To order accessories, contact your local Dealer.
If a dealer is not nearby, all accessories are available through toll-free
ordering or by using the order form on page 79.
AC201A Soft Carrying Case
DCC08 Car Cord Adapter
This car cord adapter enables you to
operate your camcorder from your car,
truck, or RV by plugging the car cord
directly into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter
socket. The DCC08 is designed
Custom compact soft case designed
especially to provide protection and utility
for your compact VHS camcorder and
most accessories. Rugged fabric lined
with soft non-abrasive material and
generous padding. Has three outside
pockets with storage for lens filters,
adapters, batteries, and tapes.
specifically to convert power from a
12-volt battery to a 6-volt output.
Cautions: The DCC08 is designed to
be used only with vehicles having
negative ground electrical systems.
Use only car cord adapter DCC08 with
this camcorder. Use of any other car
cord adapter may damage the
camcorder and void your warranty.
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Optional Accessories
FB1260 and FB120 Rechargeable
Batteries
Using the Optional AC088 Tripod
Mounting the camcorder on a tripod,
such as AC088, will keep the camcorder
steady and produce excellent video
results.
This tripod’s fluid-effect head provides
smooth camera pan and tilt. The quick-
release mount makes it easy to attach or
remove the camcorder. The grooved,
tubular 3-section leg design folds down to
26" when not in use. Rubber feet allow
for sure footing.
These rechargeable nickel-cadmium
batteries are designed specifically for long
life. The FB1260 is a 1-hour battery. The
FB120 powers your camcorder
approximately twice as long as the
FB1260 (depending on how much you use
the LCD monitor, zoom, and pause). Both
can be recharged with the AC
adapter/charger that came with your
camcorder.
CPS91 AC Battery Charger
The CPS91 battery charger plugs directly
into an AC outlet and charges the FB1260
and FB120 camcorder batteries. Because
the CPS91 operates on 100-240 Volts,
50/60 Hz, it can be used virtually
anywhere in the world. A plug adapter
may be required in some countries.
Charging takes approximately nine hours
for the battery that came with your
camcorder, seven hours for the FB1260
(1-hour battery), and 13 hours for the
FB120 (2-hour battery).
Cautions: Before using a tripod, make sure it is
stable enough to hold the camcorder without
falling over. Do not transport the camcorder
attached to the tripod.
When attaching your camcorder to a tripod, be
careful not to force the tripod screw into the
camcorder’s tripod mounting hole.
The tripod screw should not protrude into the
camcorder more than approximately three-eighth
(3/8) inch. Forcing the screw could damage the
mounting hole on the bottom of the camcorder.
All specifications and
descriptions of accessories are
subject to change without notice.
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Optional Accessories
1CVA147C RF Output Adapter
VH54 Cable Transformer
This 75-to-300 ohm transformer is used to
connect a standard 75-ohm antenna cable
(such as VH82 or VH90) to the 300 ohm
screw terminals on a TV.
This RF output adapter is used with a
coaxial RF cable, such as VH82 or VH90,
to connect your camcorder to a standard
TV (one without audio/video inputs) for
playback. If your antenna cable is the flat
twin-lead type attached by two screws,
you will also need a 300-to-75 ohm
transformer. If your TV has 300 ohm
antenna screw terminals, you will need an
optional 75-to-300 ohm transformer such
as VH54.
VH83 Audio/Video Cable
This six foot audio/video dubbing cable
can be used for copying tapes from the
camcorder to another VCR or camcorder.
Coaxial RF Cables
VH82 (6-ft)
VH90 (12-ft)
AH25 Y-Adapter
These RF cables are used with the RF
output adapter to connect your camcorder
to a standard TV (one without
audio/video input jacks) for playback.
If your TV has 300 ohm antenna screw
terminals, you will need an optional
75-to-300 ohm transformer such as
VH54. If your antenna cable is the flat
twin-lead type attached by two screws,
you will also need an optional 300-to-75
ohm transformer.
This Y-adapter allows you to connect
your camcorder’s mono audio cable to a
stereo TV or VCR.
All specifications and descriptions of accessories
are subject to change without notice.
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Accessory Order Form
Order Form for Camcorder Model ProV800C
Description
Part No.
AC088
AC201A
AH25
Price
$ 39.95
$ 39.95
Qty. Total
Super Lightweight Tripod
Soft Camcorder Case
Y-Adapter
$
2.95
AC Battery Charger
Car Cord Adapter
Rechargeable Battery (Extended)
Rechargeable Battery (Standard)
75-300 Cable Transformer
Coaxial RF Cable
CPS91
DCC08
FB120
FB1260
VH54
VH82
VH83
VH90
$ 59.95
$ 89.95
$ 89.95
$ 49.95
$
$
$
$
2.95
6.95
5.95
7.95
Audio/Video Cable
Coaxial RF Cable
RF Output Adapter
Shoulder Strap
AC Adapter/Charger
and
1CVA147C $ 59.95
218858
236689
$ 12.95
$ 96.45
DC Cable
233087
237583
$ 27.80
$ 71.35
Cassette Adapter
Prices are subject to change without notice.
Total Merchandise...........................................................$__________
Sales Tax.........................................................................$__________
We are required by law to collect the appropriate
sales tax for each individual state, county, and
locality to which the merchandise is being sent.
Shipping and Handling....................................................$
5.00
Total Amount Enclosed ................................................$__________
Use VISA, MasterCard, or Discover.
Money order or check must be in U.S.
currency only. No COD or cash.
Please complete other side also
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Accessory Order Form
Charge your order on your VISA,
MasterCard, or Discover Card by
filling in below
USE YOUR CREDIT CARD
®
IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number
from your VISA card
My card expires:
s
r
r
TM
IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number
from your MasterCard
Copy Number
above your
name on
My card
expires:
MasterCard
IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number
from your Discover Card
My card expires:
AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE
Prices are subject to change without notice.
Print or type your name and
address clearly. This will be
your mailing label.
A complete and correct
order will save you days
of waiting.
Name:
Street:
Apt:
City:
State:
Zip:
Please make sure that both sides of this form
have been filled out completely.
• Allow 4 weeks for delivery.
• All accessories are subject to availability.
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Accessory Order Form
To order accessories, contact your local Dealer.
If a dealer is not nearby, you can also follow the directions below to order by
telephone or direct-by-mail.
United States and Canada Orders
To place your order by phone, have your Visa, MasterCard, or Discover card
ready and call the toll-free number listed below between 8AM and 8PM (EST)
Monday through Friday or between 9AM and 5PM (EST) Saturday.
Use this number only to place an order for accessory items listed on
this order form.
1 – 800 – 338 – 0376
To place your order by mail, detach and mail the completed order form with
credit card information, money order, or check in U.S. currency (made payable
to Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.) to the following address:
Video Accessories
PO Box 8419
Ronks, PA 17573
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Care and Maintenance
Cleaning the Camcorder
To clean the camcorder’s exterior,
remove any power source connected to
the camcorder and gently wipe it with a
clean soft cloth.
Caution: Use of strong cleaning
products, such as those containing
alcohol or benzine, may damage
the camcorder.
Cleaning the Camcorder’s Lens
To clean the camcorder’s lens, blow it with a blower brush, and then
gently wipe the lens with a cleaning tissue and commercially prepared
cleaning solution designed for use on camera lens. Improper cleaning
may scratch the lens.
Caution: Do not
touch the lens with
your fingers. The
oil from your skin
can damage the
Lens
lens.
Cleaning the Camcorder’s LCD Monitor
1. Press PUSH/OPEN and open the
LCD monitor.
_
+
BRIGHT
MAX
MIN
SPEAKER
VOLUME
2. Carefully wipe the monitor with a
clean soft cloth.
PUSH
PUSH
OPEN
EJECT
DISPLAY
PROG.AE/
EFFECT
EIS
MENU
FADE/
WIPE
+
FAR
NEAR
_
3. Close the monitor.
CASSETTE
EJECT
LCD Monitor
Cleaning the Camcorder’s Viewfinder
The viewfinder eyepiece can be removed for cleaning.
1. Turn the eyepiece
counterclockwise and pull it out.
2. Remove dust using a blower brush.
3. Reattach the eyepiece by aligning
the reference marks, and then turn
the eyepiece clockwise until it
clicks.
Reference
Marks
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Care and Maintenance
Proper Care and Storage
• The camcorder can be damaged by
improper storage or handling. Do not
subject the camcorder to swinging,
shaking, or dropping.
• Keep dust and grit from entering the
camcorder’s cassette door. Dust and
grit are abrasive and will cause
excessive wear to both the camcorder’s
recording/playback heads and cassettes.
• Do not store the camcorder in
temperatures below -22°F (-30C) or
above 149°F (65C).
• Always close the lens cover and LCD
monitor when the camcorder is not in
use.
• When the camcorder is not in use,
always remove the cassette and
AC adapter/charger or battery.
• Before handling your camcorder, make
sure your hands and face are free from
any chemical products such as suntan
lotion, as it may damage the finish.
• Retain the original carton for future
storage or shipping purposes.
Things to Avoid
• Do not operate the camcorder near the
ocean as salt water or salt water spray
may damage the internal parts of the
camcorder.
• Do not operate the camcorder for
extended periods in temperatures below
40°F (4C) or above 95°F (35C).
• Do not expose the camcorder or
adapter/charger to rain or moisture. If
either component becomes wet, turn off
the power and take the unit to an
Authorized RCA Camcorder
Servicenter.
• Do not attempt to disassemble your
camcorder. There are no user-
serviceable parts inside.
• Avoid operating your camcorder
immediately after moving it from a cold
location to a warm location. Give the
camcorder 1-1/2 to 2 hours to reach a
stable temperature before inserting a
cassette. When the camcorder is
moved from cold to warm,
condensation may cause the tape to
stick to the headwheel and damage the
headwheel or tape.
• Do not use an adapter/charger or
batteries other than the ones specified
for the camcorder. Use of the wrong
accessories may cause damage to the
camcorder.
• Do not operate the LCD monitor if the
back becomes hot. Close and lock the
monitor or turn off the camcorder to
cool down the monitor.
• Do not aim your camcorder at the sun
or other bright objects.
• Do not leave your camcorder in direct
sunlight for extended periods of time.
The resulting heat buildup could
permanently damage the camcorder’s
internal parts.
• Do not operate the camcorder in
extremely humid environments.
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Trouble Checks
Troubles sometimes are caused by simple “faults” that you can easily correct without
the help of a service technician by first checking a few basic remedies.
Before you call or take your camcorder to an Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter,
look below for the type of trouble you are experiencing. Then perform the simple
checks and adjustments listed for that trouble.
If service should be necessary, the warranty information lists what your warranty
covers and explains how to get service.
Trouble
Checks and Adjustments
No power
• Place the POWER switch in CAMERA or VCR to turn on
the camcorder. The POWER indicator will light.
• If using battery, it may need to be recharged.
• If using AC adapter/charger, make sure it is plugged into a
working outlet.
Won’t record or
playback
• If using AC adapter/charger, make sure it is plugged into a
working outlet.
• If the dew indicator ( ) flashes on the LCD monitor or in
the viewfinder, there is moisture in the camcorder. Wait
until the dew indicator no longer appears before operating
the camcorder.
• Make sure POWER switch is in correct position for desired
operation.
• There may not be a cassette in the camcorder.
• Try ejecting and reinserting the cassette.
• The cassette tape may be broken, try another cassette.
• You may have reached the end of the cassette, try
rewinding it.
Won’t playback
Won’t record
• POWER switch must be in VCR position.
• Safety tab has been removed. (See page 18.)
• POWER switch must be in CAMERA.
No picture
• Open lens cover.
Camcorder turns
itself off
• Place POWER switch to OFF and then in CAMERA or
VCR to turn back on. If camcorder is left in record pause
or play pause for several minutes, it will turn itself off to
prevent tape wear.
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Trouble Checks
Trouble
Checks and Adjustments
• Time-counter memory may be on. Whenever an “M”
appears with the time-counter display, the camcorder will
stop rewinding (or fast forwarding) when counter reads
M 0:00:00. Press REW or FF again to continue
rewinding or fast forwarding, or press COUNTER R/M to
turn off the memory-stop feature.
Tape stops during
rewind or fast
forward
• Press PLAY/PAUSE to return to normal playback.
Camcorder remains
in pause mode
• Subject was too far from camcorder.
Sound is too low or
distorted
• If the dew indicator ( ) flashes on the LCD monitor or
in the viewfinder, there is moisture in the camcorder.
Wait until this indicator no longer appears before
operating the camcorder.
Dew indicator
flashing in
viewfinder or LCD
monitor
• Subject is dark or behind glass. Auto-focus may not
work under these conditions. Place the FULL
AUTO/PRESET switch in PRESET and focus manually.
See pages 36-37.
Poor auto-focus
operation
• Subject is not in center of LCD monitor or viewfinder or
two subjects are at different distances. Place FULL
AUTO/PRESET switch in PRESET and focus manually.
See pages 36-37.
• Auto focus is automatically turned off when some effects are
selected with the FULL AUTO/PRESET switch. Place FULL
AUTO/PRESET switch in FULL AUTO. See page 32.
• This may occur when background extremely contrasts
with the subject.
Vertical white lines
appear when shoot-
ing bright object
• Lens is smudged, and image appears unfocused.
• Eyepiece focus control is misadjusted.
• Adjust BRIGHT control on LCD monitor.
Viewfinder or LCD
monitor displays are
dark or out of focus
• For best results, only use higher shutter speeds outdoors.
Place the FULL AUTO/PRESET switch in FULL AUTO.
• Add more light using the exposure control. See page 33.
Picture is too dark or
subject too dark
(continued on next page)
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Trouble Checks
Trouble
Checks and Adjustments
Colors do not look
natural on recording
• Try adjusting white balance. See pages 34-35.
Picture recorded
• Program effect may be selected. Press PROG.AE/EFFECT
with special effect
to turn off the special effect. See pages 62-63.
Picture recorded in
brown tone
• Sepia ( ) selected with PROG.AE/EFFECT. Press
PROG.AE/EFFECT to turn off Sepia. See page 62-63.
Picture recorded
with black bars at
top and bottom
• Camcorder is set to the Cinema mode. Press
PROG.AE/EFFECT to turn off Cinema. See pages 62-63.
Title recorded on
tape
• Title is recorded whenever it appears in viewfinder or on
LCD monitor. Remove the title. See pages 45-47.
Date and/or time
were recorded on
tape
• Displays will be recorded on tape whenever they appear.
Press DISPLAY to remove them from viewfinder when
recording. See pages 50-51.
Date and/or time are
incorrect
• Clock lithium cell battery may need replacing. See page 48.
• Date or time may need to be set. See page 49.
No picture in
viewfinder
• Viewfinder is automatically turned off when you open LCD
monitor more than 60º. Close and lock LCD monitor to see
picture in viewfinder.
No sound from
built-in speaker
during playback
• Speaker is automatically turned off when LCD monitor is
not open more than 60º. Open LCD monitor.
• Volume turned down. Adjust SPEAKER VOLUME control.
Tally light does not
turn on during
recording
• Turn the Tally Light feature on. See page 53.
Tape won’t eject
• Battery too low. Recharge battery.
• LCD monitor must be open at least 60º.
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Trouble Checks
Trouble
Checks and Adjustments
Back of LCD
monitor is hot
• Light used for monitor causes it to get hot. Close the
monitor or turn off the unit to cool the monitor down.
Bright spots appear
on monitor or areas
of color are not
clear
• Due to high-precision technology, black spots or bright spots
may appear on LCD monitor. These are not recorded on the
tape.
• Pressing on the surface or edge of the monitor may cause
blurring.
Error number
(E01, E02, etc.)
appears on LCD
monitor or in
viewfinder
• Try disconnecting power source. Wait ten seconds and then
connect power source again. If error number does not
disappear from viewfinder, consult your Authorized RCA
Camcorder Servicenter.
Battery runs down
sooner than
• LCD monitor requires more battery power to operate than
the viewfinder.
expected
• If camcorder has not been used for some time, charge the
battery using the REFRESH feature on the adapter/charger.
• Battery run times are measured when the camcorder is
recording continuously. You can check your battery by first
fully charging it and then aiming the camcorder at a clock
and recording the picture of the clock. When the recording
stops, play the last recorded section, and note the clock time.
A one-hour battery should give you about 60 minutes of
recording time. In practical use, you may not be able to
record for the full time because the camera uses battery
current when it is waiting between recordings (record-pause
mode) and while you focus and zoom.
87
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Specifications
Tripod Mount
General
One 1/4" x 20 Threaded Hole
Power requirement: 6VDC
Power consumption:
LCD Monitor off,
Viewfinder on: 5.7 watts
LCD Monitor on,
Video Recorder Section
Format: VHS-C
Record/Playback System:
Four VideoRecord/Playback Heads
One Flying Erase Head
Video Signal: EIA Standard NTSC
Color
Viewfinder off: 7.5 watts
Weight: 2.3 lbs. (1,000g)
Dimensions – Including Viewfinder
4-15/16"(W) x 4-1/2"(H) x 9-1/16"(D)
124 (W) x 113(H) x 230(D) mm
Output: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ohms, Unbalanced
(via VIDEO Out Jack)
Camera Section
Audio Section
Image Sensor: 1/4" CCD Imager
Lens: F1.2, (f = 4.1-57.4 mm)
Filter Diameter: 46 mm
Output: -8dBs, 1 k-ohm (via AUDIO
Out Jack)
Speaker: 20mm Round x 1, Monaural
Viewfinder
AC Adapter/Charger
1/2" Black and White CRT
Power requirement: 100-240 V, 50/60 Hz.
Power consumption: 23 watts
Weight: .7 lbs. (320g)
Dimensions:
6"(W) x 1.7"(H) x 2.7"(D)
150 (W) x 42(H) x 68(D) mm
LCD Monitor
3" Diagonally Measured
LCD/TFT Active Matrix System
Information to User
This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device and RF lighting device pursuant to
Part 15 and part 18 of the FCC Rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may
cause harmful interference to radio
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the
equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a
circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced
radio/TV technician for help.
Alterations or modifications carried out
without appropriate authorization may
invalidate the user’s FCC right to operate the
equipment.
communications.
However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference
by one or more of the following measures:
This Class B digital apparatus meets all
requirements of the Canadian Interference
— Causing Equipment Regulations.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B
respecte toutes les exigences du Réglement
sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.
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Customer Assistance and Service
Thomson provides a toll-free telephone
You can reach Thomson at the
following number:
number to help you with any problems
you may encounter with your camcorder.
Many can be diagnosed over the phone,
and if necessary, a replacement unit can
be shipped to you. Please have your
camcorder model/serial number and date
of purchase ready when you call. If your
unit is out of warranty, we will quote the
cost of an exchange unit to you.
800-283-6503
(Toll free inside U.S.A.)
Our toll-free Camcorder number
operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., CST
Monday – Friday
for U.S. customers only
Returning equipment to Thomson for repair or exchange
If we are unable to resolve your problem
over the phone, we will gladly service
your unit or exchange it for a new or, at
our option, refurbished camcorder.
Refer to the limited warranty to learn
about your specific rights and
Always consult Thomson and get a
Return Authorization number before
returning anything! Obtain a Return
Authorization (RA) number from the
telephone representative before returning
your equipment to avoid delays,
accounting errors, or even loss of your
unit.
responsibilities.
Important information to customers who ship defective equipment to
Thomson Consumer Electronics
The Thomson representative who
authorized the return of your equipment
will give you an RA number over the
phone. They will also provide you with
instructions on where and how to return
your camcorder. Write the number in
large, clear characters on the outside of
the box to avoid confusion and
and model/serial number of your
camcorder. These numbers are located
on the bottom of your unit. If your
camcorder is within the warranty period,
please provide a copy of the bill of sale
to verify purchase date. Use the original
box and packing material to protect the
equipment from damage in shipment.
misunderstandings. Shipments without
an RA number clearly visible on the
outside of the box will be returned to you
at your expense.
For your protection, insure all shipments
for full replacement value and use a
reliable shipper. Thomson assumes no
responsibility for warranty shipments
from the customer to the factory if not
shipped in the manner prescribed by
Thomson.
Include a brief note describing the
problem and any conversations about the
problem you have had with Thomson
personnel. Include your name, address
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Limited Warranty
What your warranty covers:
• Any defect in materials or
workmanship.
For how long after your purchase:
• 90 days for labor charges.
• One year for parts.
(The warranty period for rental units
begins with the first rental or 45 days
from date of shipment to the rental firm,
whichever comes first.)
3. Take your unit, including all
accessories, and your evidence of
purchase date, such as a bill of sale, to
the exchange location and you will be
provided the new or refurbished unit.
4. If the repairs were covered by your
warranty, you will not be billed.
If you are not located near an
exchange point:
1. Provide your Discover, MasterCard or
Visa account number and expiration
date to our phone representative. This
is for security purposes. If we receive
your unit including all accessories
within 14 days from the date you were
provided an RA number, only items
not covered by warranty will be
charged to your account. IF YOUR
UNIT INCLUDING ALL
What we will do:
During the initial 90 days
• Exchange your camcorder with a new
or refurbished unit, or repair your
camcorder. The option will be ours.
There will be no cost to you.
After the 90 days and within one year
• Exchange your camcorder with a new
or refurbished unit, or repair your
camcorder. The option will be ours.
Parts will be provided at no charge,
but you will be responsible for the cost
of labor required for the repair.
ACCESSORIES IS NOT
RECEIVED WITHIN 14 DAYS,
THE SUGGESTED RETAIL
VALUE OF THE CAMCORDER
AND/OR ACCESSORIES WILL
BE CHARGED TO YOUR
How you get service:
• Call 1-800-283-6503 and have your
unit’s date of purchase and
CREDIT CARD. This amount will
be credited if the unit is subsequently
received.
model/serial number ready. The
model/serial number information is on
the bottom of your camcorder.
2. We will send you a replacement unit
next business day delivery in the
continental USA.
• A representative will troubleshoot
your problem over the phone. If the
representative determines that you
should receive a replacement unit, you
will be provided with a Return
Authorization (RA) number and the
location of a nearby exchange point if
one exists. No returns will be
accepted without the RA number.
To receive a replacement camcorder
before you return yours:
3. You will receive an invoice packed
with the replacement product, but will
not be charged for the unit portion of
the invoice amount if we receive your
unit including all accessories within
14 days from the date you were
provided the RA number. Any labor
and parts charges not covered by the
warranty will be included and charged
against your account.
4. Ship the unit back to us along with all
accessories included with your
camcorder using the replacement
unit’s carton. Shipping instructions
will be included in the carton along
with your RA number, which will
allow you to easily ship the unit back
If you are located near an
exchange point:
1. We will send a replacement unit to
the exchange point next business day
delivery in the continental USA.
2. The exchange location will notify you
of its arrival.
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Limited Warranty
to us. Make sure you insure your
shipment in case of damage or loss.
Include with the shipment:
To have your Camcorder repaired by
an Authorized RCA Camcorder
Servicenter:
•
Evidence of purchase date, such as a
bill of sale, to verify your unit’s
warranty eligibility.
A brief note describing your
camcorder’s problem.
Your name, address, and phone
number.
•
•
•
Check with your dealer or call 1-800-
336-1900 for the Authorized RCA
Camcorder Servicenter nearest you.
Take your unit to the Authorized RCA
Camcorder Servicenter of your
choice.
Show the Authorized RCA
Camcorder Servicenter representative
evidence of purchase date, such as a
bill of sale.
•
•
Return transportation, storage, handling,
and insurance costs are your sole
responsibility. We accept no liability in
case of damage or loss.
To receive a replacement unit after we
have received your unit:
1. Write the RA number on the outside
of the carton used to return the unit.
Make sure you insure your ship-
ment in case of damage or loss.
2. Carefully pack the unit along with all
accessories included with your
•
Pick up your camcorder when repairs
are complete.
What your warranty does not cover:
•
•
•
Adjustment of customer controls.
Damage from misuse or neglect.
A unit that has been modified or
incorporated into other products or is
used for institutional or other
commercial purposes.
•
•
•
Batteries for remote control and clock.
Cleaning of video/audio heads.
Camcorders purchased or serviced
outside the USA.
Return transportation, storage, and
handling costs of your unit, including
insurance for loss or damage.
Acts of God, such as but not limited
to lightning damage.
camcorder, using the original box and
packing material if possible.
3. Include with the shipment:
•
Evidence of purchase date, such as
a bill of sale, to verify your unit’s
warranty eligibility.
•
•
•
A brief note describing your
camcorder’s problem.
Your name, address, and phone
number.
•
Product Registration:
•
Please complete and mail the Product
Registration Card packed with your
camcorder. It will make it easier to
contact you should it ever be
Return transportation, storage, handling,
and insurance costs are your
responsibility. We accept no liability in
case of damage or loss.
4. Include a cashier’s check or money
order for payment if there are any out
of warranty labor or parts charges
which were indicated by the
necessary. The return of the card is
not required for warranty coverage.
How State Law relates to warranty:
•
This warranty gives you specific legal
rights, and you may have other rights
that vary from state to state.
representative, and you elected not to
use your credit card.
5. Upon receipt of your product, a new
or refurbished unit will be shipped to
you next day delivery in the
If you purchased your camcorder
outside the USA:
•
This warranty does not apply. Contact
your dealer for warranty information.
continental USA.
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Index
Dew Warning Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
DISPLAY Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11,50-51
Displays, Viewfinder and LCD Monitor . . . .26-29
EIS (Electronic Image Stabilizer) Button . . . .11,38
EIS Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28,38
Erase Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Exposure Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Exposure Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28-29
Fade and Wipe Indicators . . . . . . . . . .26-27,60-61
Fading In and Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60-61
FAR and NEAR Buttons
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11,29,36-37,40-47,49,52-59
First-Time Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-11
Flying Erase Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Focus Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28-29,36-37
Focusing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36-37
. . . . . . . .29,32-37,40-47,49,52,54,56,58,60-63
High Shutter Speed Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62-63
Included Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Installing Clock Cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
JLIP ID No. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
LCD Monitor or Viewfinder Playback . . . . . . . .68
Lens, Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
LENS COVER Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26-27
Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90-91
Maintenance and Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82-83
Making a Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20-23
Manual Focus Indicators . . . . . . . . . . .28-29,36-37
Mosaic Fader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60-61
NEAR and FAR Buttons
+
and – Buttons
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11,20-21,33,40-47,49,52-59
Accessories, Included . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Accessories, Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76-81
Accessory, Order Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79-81
Animation Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56-57
Battery, Care and Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Battery, Using Rechargeable . . . . . . . . . . . . .13-15
Black Fader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60-61
Blue Fader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60-61
Camcorder, Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
Camcorder, Powering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-16
Camcorder, Turning On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Camera Edit Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
CAMERA/OFF/VCR Switch
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5,8,10,13,15,16,20-23,29-31
. . . . . . . . . . . . .33,34,38,50,54,56,68,69,70,73
Care and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82-83
Care and Storage of Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Cassette Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66-67
Cassette Adapter, Install Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . .66
Cassette Warning Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28-29
Cassettes, Care and Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Cautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Front Cover
Change Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26-27
Charging the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Checking Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84-87
Cinema Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62-63
Cleaning Camcorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
Clock Cell, Installing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2
Controls, Camcorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-11
Copying Tapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72-73
Date and Time Display . . . . . . . . . . . .26-27,48-49
Date and Time, Record on Tape . . . . . . . . . .50-51
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11,29,36-37,40-47,49,52-59
Operation, First-Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-11
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Index
Optional Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76-81
Order Form, Accessory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79-81
Playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66-75
Playback Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69-71
Playback on a TV With AUDIO/VIDEO IN
Status Displays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Stop-Action Pause . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
Sub Menu of Recording Menu . . . . . . . . . . . .52-59
Table of Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2
Tally Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8,22-23,30,53
Tape Copying . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72-73
Tape Length Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28-29
Tape Positioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31,69
Tape Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5,19
Things to Avoid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
Tilt, LCD Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Tilt, Viewfinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Time and Date Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48-49
Time and Date, Record on Tape . . . . . . . . . .50-51
Time-Lapse Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58-59
Tips, Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Tips, Traveling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
Title Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26-27
Titles, Preset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
Tracking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71
Tripod, Using . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
Trouble Checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84-87
Turning On the Camcorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Twilight Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62-63
Unpacking the Camcorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Using Cassette Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66-67
Video Cassettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18-19
Viewfinder Displays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26-29
Viewfinder or LCD Monitor Playback . . . . . . . .68
Warranty, Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90-91
White Balance Indicators . . . . . . . . . . .28-29,34-35
Wipe and Fade Indicators . . . . . . . . . .26-27,60-61
Wiping In and Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60-61
Zoom Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10,22-23,27,39
Jacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72-73
Playback on a TV Without Audio/Video
Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74-75
Playback Speeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Playback, First . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Playback, Viewfinder or LCD Monitor . . . . . . . .68
POWER (CAMERA/OFF/VCR) Switch
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5,8,10,13,15,16,20-23,29,31
. . . . . . . . . . . . .33,34,38,50,54,56,68,69,70,73
Powering the Camcorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-16
Problem Solving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84-87
Product Registration . . . . . . . . .Inside Front Cover
Production Effects Indicators . . . . . . . . . .26,62-63
Quick Review Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
REC
Recording Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40-46,49,52
Recording Menu – Sub Menu . . . . . . . . . . . .52-59
Recording Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6,18
Recording, First . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Recording, Making . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20-23
Refreshing the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Registration Card . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Front Cover
Safety Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Searching, Visual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
Self-Timer Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54-55
Sepia Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62-63
Shoulder Strap, Attaching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
Shutter Wipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60-61
Slide Wipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60-61
Solving Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84-87
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
Sports Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62-63
93
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U.S. Consumers:
Customer Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-336-1900
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-338-0376
Canadian Consumers:
English . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-522-0338
French . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-522-0445
If your camcorder needs service, please
contact your dealer or the nearest Servicenter
from the yellow pages. Please do not send
any products to the Indianapolis address listed
in this manual or on the carton. This will only
add delays in service for your product.
10330 N Meridian Street
Indianapolis, IN 46290
©
1996 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.
®
Trademark(s) Registered
Marca(s) Registrada(s)
Printed in Japan
Part Number 96-ProV800C-1
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