PUB.DIE-199 Digital Video Camcorder Instruction Manual English Introduction Basic Functions Advanced Functions Editing Mini Digital Video Cassette Using a Memory Card PUB. DIE-195 Please read also the following instruction manuals. · Digital Video Software (MV750i/MV730i) · DV Network Software Digital Video Software Instruction Manual Version 10 E DV Network Software Instruction Manual Version 2 E (Installation and Preparation) Direct Printing If you are using Windows operating system, use the supplied DIGITAL VIDEO SOLUTION DISK For Windows. If you are using Macintosh operating system, use the supplied DIGITAL VIDEO SOLUTION DISK For Macintosh. This manual covers the installation and the connection procedures only.For more operating instructions, refer to the PDF format manual provided on the DIGITAL VIDEO SOLUTION DISK For Windows. This software is for use with Windows® XP only. Additional Information PAL Important Usage Instructions WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL. WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS PRODUCT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK AND TO REDUCE ANNOYING INTERFERENCE, USE THE RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES ONLY. CAUTION: DISCONNECT THE MAINS PLUG FROM THE SUPPLY SOCKET WHEN NOT IN USE. CA-570 identification plate is located on the bottom. · Use of CV-150F/CV-250F DV cable is necessary to comply with the technical requirement of EMC Directive. 2 Using this Manual Thank you for purchasing the Canon MV750i/MV730i/MV700i/MV700/MV690. Please read this manual carefully before you use the camcorder and retain it for future reference. Change the display language before you begin ( 75). E Symbols and References Used in This Manual : Precautions related to the camcorder operation. : Additional topics that complement the basic operating procedures. : Reference page number. Capital letters are used to refer to buttons on the camcorder or the wireless controller (MV750i/MV730i). [ ] are used to refer to menu items displayed on the screen. "Screen" refers to the LCD and the viewfinder screen. Please note that the illustrations mainly refer to the MV750i. Setting the Time Zone, Date and Time Set the time zone, date and time when you first start using your camcorder, or when you have replaced the backup battery. Introduction E Operating modes (see below) Menu item and its default setting. Setting the Time Zone/Daylight Saving Time CAMERA PLAY (VCR) CARD CAMERA CARD PLAY ( 38) 1. Press the MENU button to open the menu. Button and switches to be operated Basic Functions - 2. Turn the SET dial to select [SYSTEM] and press the SET dial. 3. Turn the SET dial to select [T.ZONE/DST] and press the SET dial. The time zone setting appears (see table on the next page). The default setting is Paris. Operating Mode CAMERA PLAY (VCR) CARD CAMERA CARD PLAY Shaded area : MV750i/MV730i only. CAMERA CAMERA POWER Switch CAMERA PLAY (VCR) CAMERA PLAY (VCR) TAPE/CARD Switch b (TAPE) b (TAPE) (CARD) (CARD) : Function can be used in this mode. : Function cannot be used in this mode. Trademark Acknowledgements · Canon and Bubble Jet are registered trademarks of Canon Inc. · D is a trademark. · is a trademark. · Windows® is either a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. · Macintosh and Mac OS are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc., registered in the United States and other countries. · Other names and products not mentioned above may be registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective companies. 3 Table of Contents Introduction Important Usage Instructions ........................................................................................2 Using this Manual ..........................................................................................................3 Checking Supplied Accessories ......................................................................................6 Components Guide ........................................................................................................7 Basic Functions Preparations Preparing the Power Supply........................................................................................11 Loading/Unloading a Cassette ....................................................................................14 Installing the Backup Battery ......................................................................................15 Preparing the Camcorder ............................................................................................16 Using the Wireless Controller ..........................................................18 Setting the Time Zone, Date and Time......................................................................19 Recording Recording Movies on a Tape ......................................................................................22 Recording Still Images on a Tape................................................................................27 Zooming ........................................................................................................................28 Tips for Making Better Videos ....................................................................................30 Playback Playing Back a Tape ......................................................................................................31 Adjusting the Volume ..................................................................................................33 Playing Back on a TV Screen........................................................................................34 Using the Full Range of Features Menus and Settings ......................................................................................................38 Recording Using the Recording Programs....................................................................................45 Using the Night Modes ................................................................................................48 Skin Detail Function......................................................................................................49 Adjusting the AE Shift ..................................................................................................50 Adjusting the Focus Manually ....................................................................................51 Setting the White Balance ..........................................................................................53 Setting the Shutter Speed............................................................................................55 Using the Self-Timer......................................................................................................57 Changing the Recording Mode (SP/LP) ......................................................................58 Audio Recording ..........................................................................................................59 Using Digital Effects......................................................................................................61 Playback Magnifying the Image ................................................................................................68 Displaying the Data Code ..........................................................................................69 End Search......................................................................................................................71 Returning to a Pre-marked Position ................................................72 Photo Search/Date Search ................................................................73 4 Other Functions Customizing the Camcorder ........................................................................................74 Changing the Display Language ................................................................................75 Changing the Remote Sensor Mode ..............................................76 Other Camcorder Settings ..........................................................................................77 E Editing Recording to a VCR or Digital Video Device ............................................................79 Recording from Analog Video Devices (VCR, TV or Camcorder) ................................................................................................................81 Recording from Digital Video Devices (DV Dubbing) ......82 Converting Analog Signals into Digital Signals (Analog-Digital Converter) ......................................................................................84 Replacing Existing Scenes (AV Insert) ..............................................86 Audio Dubbing ..................................................................................88 Connecting to a Computer Using a DV (IEEE1394) Cable ......................................91 Introduction Using a Memory Card Inserting and Removing a Memory Card ..................................................................92 Selecting the Image Quality/Size ................................................................................93 File Numbers ..................................................................................................................95 Recording Still Images on a Memory Card ................................................................96 Reviewing a Still Image Right after Recording ......................................................100 Recording Motion JPEG Movies on a Memory Card..............................................101 Selecting the Focusing Point ....................................................................................103 Recording Panoramic Images (Stitch Assist Mode) ................................................104 Playing Back a Memory Card ....................................................................................106 Protecting Images ......................................................................................................109 Erasing Images ............................................................................................................110 Combining Images (Card Mix) ..................................................................................111 Copying Still Images....................................................................................................115 Formatting a Memory Card ......................................................................................117 Connecting to a Computer Using a USB Cable ......................................................118 Creating a Start-up Image ........................................................................................119 Direct Printing Printing Still Images ....................................................................................................120 Selecting the Print Settings (Paper/Style) ................................................................123 Printing with Print Order Settings ............................................................................126 Additional Information Screen Displays ............................................................................................................128 List of Messages ..........................................................................................................131 Maintenance/Others ..................................................................................................134 Troubleshooting ..........................................................................................................140 System Diagram ..........................................................................................................143 Optional Accessories ..................................................................................................144 Specifications ..............................................................................................................147 Index ............................................................................................................................149 5 Checking Supplied Accessories Lens Cap and Lens Cap Cord Lithium Button Battery CR1616 SS-900 Shoulder Strap BP-508 Battery Pack CA-570 Compact Power Adapter (incl. power cord) STV-250N Stereo Video Cable PC-A10 SCART Adapter (Europe and Asia) WL-D82 Wireless Controller Two AA (R6) Batteries SDC-8M SD Memory Card (containing sample images) IFC-300PCU USB Cable DIGITAL VIDEO SOLUTION DISK For Windows For Macintosh WA-30.5 Wide Attachment 6 Components Guide MV750i/MV730i/MV700i/MV700/MV690 E REC SEARCH + button ( 26) / (fast forward) button ( 32) / CARD + button* ( 106) REC SEARCH button ( 26) / (record review) button ( 26) / (rewind) button ( 31) / CARD button* ( 116) FOCUS button ( 51) / (play/pause) button ( NIGHT MODE button ( (stop) button ( 31) 31) 48) / OPEN button ( Built-in speaker( LCD screen ( 22) 33) 22) 11) Introduction BATT. RELEASE button ( Backup battery compartment ( 15) Battery attachment unit ( 11) Program selector ( Easy recording Program AE Memory card slot* ( 92) DC IN terminal ( MENU button ( SET dial ( DIGITAL EFFECTS button ( 64) (self-timer) button ( 57) / DATA CODE button ( 69) CARD MIX / SLIDE SHOW / REC PAUSE AE SHIFT/ END SEARCH 46) 11) 38) 38) CHARGE indicator ( 11) / Card access indicator* ( 96) DIGITAL EFFECTS ON/OFF button ( 64) AE SHIFT button ( 50) / END SEARCH button ( 71) / CARD MIX button* ( 112) / (stitch assist) button* ( 104) / SLIDE SHOW button* ( 107) / REC PAUSE button** ( 81) * MV750i/MV730i only. ** MV750i/MV730i/MV700i only. 7 Dioptric adjustment lever ( 16) Serial number Viewfinder protect cover ( 135) PHOTO button ( Accessory shoe ( 27, 96) 145) Zoom lever ( Viewfinder ( 16) 28) TAPE/CARD switch*( 3) b Using a tape Strap mount ( 17) Using a memory card Start/stop button ( 22, 101) Grip belt ( Power switch ( 3) Strap mount ( 16) 17) POWER CAMERA OFF PLAY(VCR) CAMERA OFF PLAY(VCR) Cassette compartment ( Cassette compartment cover ( 14) 14) * MV750i/MV730i only. 8 E Introduction Terminal cover Assist lamp (White LED)** ( 48) Remote sensor* ( 18) Stereo microphone ( Terminal cover S-video terminal** ( 36) S 59) DV AV terminal ( 34) / (phones) terminal ( 33) Bottom view USB terminal* ( 118, 120) DV terminal ( 79, 80) OPEN/EJECT 5 switch ( 14) Tripod socket ( 30) * MV750i/MV730i only. ** MV750i only. 9 WL-D82 Wireless Controller q w e r t y u i o !0 !1 !2 !3 !4 !5 !6 !7 q Zoom buttons ( 28) w Select buttons ( 38) e PHOTO button ( 27, 96) r START/STOP button ( 22, 101) t SELF T. button ( 57) y D. EFFECTS button, ON/OFF button ( u TV SCREEN button ( 128) i DATA CODE button ( 69) o -/+ buttons ( 73) !0 SEARCH SELECT button ( 73) !1 ZERO SET MEMORY button ( 72) !2 12bit AUDIO OUT button ( 89) !3 AUDIO DUB. button ( 88) !4 REC PAUSE button ( 81) !5 AV INSERT button ( 86) !6 AV DV button ( 84) REC PAUSE WIRELESS CONTROLLER WL-D82 START /STOP PHOTO W ZOOM T SELF T. D.EFFECTS TV SCREEN ON/OFF DATA CODE SLIDE SHOW SEARCH SELECT ZERO SET MEMORY REW 12bit AUDIO OUT AUDIO DUB. PAUSE PLAY STOP SLOW MENU SET CARD FF 2 !8 !9 @0 @1 @2 @3 @4 @5 @6 @7 @8 @9 #0 #1 AV INSERT AV DV REMOTE SET 64) !7 REMOTE SET button ( 76) !8 Transmitter !9 MENU button ( 38) @0 SET button ( 38) buttons ( 106) @1 CARD @2 SLIDE SHOW button ( 107) @3 REW button ( 31) @4 PLAY button ( 31) @5 FF button ( 32) button ( 32) @6 @7 STOP button ( 31) button ( 32) @8 @9 PAUSE button ( 32) #0 SLOW button ( 32) #1 2 button ( 32) 10 Preparing the Power Supply Attaching the Battery Pack 1. Turn the POWER switch to OFF. 2. Move the viewfinder upward. 3. Attach the battery pack to the camcorder. · Remove the terminal cover of the battery pack. · Press lightly and slide it in the direction of the arrow until it clicks. E w q POWER CAMERA OFF R) PLAY(VCR) e Basic Functions Preparations Charging the Battery Pack 1. Connect the power cord to the adapter. 2. Plug the power cord into a power outlet. 3. Connect the power adapter to the camcorder's DC IN terminal. The CHARGE indicator starts flashing. It glows steadily when charging is complete. CHARGE indicator CARD/CHARGE DC IN terminal DC IN 8.4V e 4. When charging is complete, disconnect the power adapter from the camcorder. Unplug the power cord from the power outlet and disconnect it from the adapter. 5. Remove the battery pack after use. Press the BATT. RELEASE button to remove the battery. q w 11 Using a Household Power Source 1. Turn the POWER switch to OFF. 2. Connect the power cord to the power adapter. 3. Plug the power cord into a power outlet. 4. Connect the power adapter to the camcorder's DC IN terminal. q POWER CAMERA OFF R) PLAY(VCR) r e w Turn off the camcorder before connecting or disconnecting the power adapter. If the adapter is used close to a TV, it may cause picture interference. Move the adapter away from the TV or the arerial cable. Do not connect any products that are not expressly recommended to the camcorder's DC IN terminal or to the power adapter. You may hear some noise from the power adapter during use. This is not a malfunction. Do not disconnect and reconnect the power cord while charging a battery pack. The battery pack may not be charged correctly even if the CHARGE indicator glows steady. The battery pack may also not be charged correctly when a power outage occurs during charging. Remove the battery pack and attach it back to the camcorder. The battery pack may be defective when the CHARGE indicator flashes rapidly. The CHARGE indicator informs you about the charge status. 0-50%: Flashes once every second More than 50%: Flashes twice every second 100%: Glows steadily Charging, Recording and Playback Times Below times are approximate and vary according to the charging, recording or playback conditions. BP-512/ BP-511 (Supplied) (Optional) Charging Time 110 min. 120 min. Max. Recording Viewfinder 125 min. 225 min. Time LCD 85 min. 155 min. Typical Recording Viewfinder 65 min. 125 min. Time* LCD 45 min. 85 min. Playback Time 90 min. 170 min. BP-508 BP-514 (Optional) 150 min. 260 min. 180 min. 145 min. 100 min. 195 min. BP-522 (Optional) 210 min. 455 min. 320 min. 255 min. 175 min. 345 min. BP-535 (Optional) 310 min. 730 min. 520 min. 405 min. 280 min. 550 min. 12 * Approximate times for recording with repeated operations such as start/stop, zooming, power on/off. Actual time may be shorter. · Charge the battery pack in temperatures between 5 ºC and 40 ºC. · A lithium ion battery pack can be charged at any charge state. Unlike conventional battery packs, you do not need to completely use or discharge it before charging. · We recommend that you prepare battery packs 2 to 3 times longer than you think you might need. · To conserve battery charge, turn off the camcorder instead of leaving it in record pause mode. E Basic Functions Preparations 13 Loading/Unloading a Cassette Use only video cassettes marked with the D logo. 1. Slide and hold the OPEN/EJECT switch and open the cassette compartment cover. The cassette compartment opens automatically. Tape protection tab w q 2. Load/unload the cassette. · Load the cassette with the window facing the grip belt. · Unload the cassette by pulling it straight out. e 3. Press the P mark on the cassette compartment until it clicks. 4. Wait for the cassette compartment to retract automatically and close the cassette compartment cover. r Do not interfere with the cassette compartment while it is opening or closing automatically, or attempt to close the cover before the cassette compartment has fully retracted. Be careful not to get your fingers caught in the cassette compartment cover. If the camcorder is connected to a power source, cassettes can be loaded/ unloaded even if the POWER switch is set to OFF. 14 Installing the Backup Battery The backup battery allows the camcorder to retain date, time ( 19) and other camcorder settings while the power source is disconnected. Power the camcorder from a household power source or with a battery pack when replacing the backup battery to retain the settings. E 1. Open the backup battery cover. 2. Insert the lithium battery with the + side facing outward. q w e 3. Close the cover. Basic Functions Preparations WARNING! · The battery used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 100 °C or incinerate the battery. · Replace the battery with a CR1616 made by Panasonic, Hitachi Maxell, Sony, Toshiba, Varta or Renata. Use of other batteries may present a risk of fire or explosion. · The used battery should be returned to the supplier for safe disposal. Do not pick up the battery using tweezers or other metal tools as this will cause a short circuit. Wipe the battery with a clean dry cloth to ensure proper contact. Keep the battery out of reach of children. If it is swallowed, seek medical assistance immediately. The battery case may break and the battery fluids may damage stomach and intestines. Do not disassemble, heat or immerse the battery in water to avoid the risk of explosion. The backup battery has a life span of about a year. j flashes in red to inform you that it needs to be replaced. 15 Preparing the Camcorder Adjusting the Viewfinder (Dioptric Adjustment) 1. Turn on the camcorder and keep the LCD panel closed. 2. Pull out the viewfinder. 3. Adjust the diopter adjustment lever. Attaching the Lens Cap 1. Attach the cord to the lens cap. 2. Pass the grip belt through the loop with the metal fitting on the cord. Press the buttons on the lens cap when attaching/removing it. Hook the lens cap on the grip belt while you are recording, and place it over the lens when you have finished. Metal fitting Fastening the Grip Belt Hold the camcorder with your right hand and adjust the belt with your left. Adjust the grip belt so that you can reach the zoom lever and photo button with your index finger, and the start/stop button with your thumb. 16 Attaching the Shoulder Strap Pass the ends through the strap mount and adjust the length of the strap. E SS-900 Shoulder Strap Mounting the Wide Attachment The WA-30.5 Wide Attachment gives you a wide perspective for indoor shots or panoramic views (0.6×). The wide attachment is for use at maximum wide-angle. Screw the wide attachment fully into the lens filter thread. Basic Functions Preparations Do not look directly at the sun or other strong light sources through the wide attachment. It could damage your eyesight. If you zoom to telephoto, the picture will not be in focus. The wide attachment may obstruct the remote sensor (the range of the wireless controller narrows), or may cause a shadow to appear on the picture when recording with a video light or the assist lamp (White LED). Filters cannot be used with the wide attachment. If dust accumulates on the wide attachment or on the camcorder lens, clean both lenses gently with a blower brush. Do not touch the lens to avoid smudges and fingerprints. Do not store the wide attachment in a humid place as it may mold. 17 Using the Wireless Controller Point it at the camcorder's remote sensor when you press the buttons. Inserting Batteries The wireless controller operates with two AA (R6) batteries. 1. Open the battery cover. 2. Insert the batteries following the + and ­ markings. Replace both batteries. 3. Close the battery cover. Camcorder and wireless controller are equipped with 2 remote sensor modes ( 46). If the wireless controller does not work, check if camcorder and wireless controller are set to the same mode. The wireless controller may not work properly when the remote sensor is subjected to strong light sources or direct sunlight. 18 Setting the Time Zone, Date and Time Set the time zone, date and time when you first start using your camcorder, or when you have replaced the backup battery. E Setting the Time Zone/Daylight Saving Time CAMERA PLAY (VCR) CARD CAMERA CARD PLAY ( 38) SYSTEM T.ZONE/DST···PARIS 1. Press the MENU button to open the menu. Basic Functions Preparations 2. Turn the SET dial to select [SYSTEM] and press the SET dial. 3. Turn the SET dial to select [T.ZONE/DST] and press the SET dial. The time zone setting appears (see table on the next page). The default setting is Paris. 4. Turn the SET dial to select the setting option that represents your time zone and press the SET dial. To adjust for daylight saving time, select the time zone with the U next to the area. Setting the Date and Time CAMERA PLAY (VCR) CARD CAMERA CARD PLAY SYSTEM ( 38) D/TIME SET··· 1.JAN.2004 12:00 PM 5. Turn the SET dial to select [D/TIME SET] and press the SET dial. The year display starts to flash. 6. Turn the SET dial to select the year, and press the SET dial. · The next part of the display starts flashing. · Set the month, day, hours and minutes in the same way. 19 7. Press the MENU button to close the menu and to start the clock. 16 1 19 18 17 15 21 20 24 2 4 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 23 14 12 22 11 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 No. Time zone LONDON PARIS CAIRO MOSCOW DUBAI KARACHI DACCA BANGKOK H. KONG (Hong Kong) TOKYO SYDNEY SOLOMON No. Time zone WELLGTN (Wellington) SAMOA HONOLU. (Honolulu) ANCHOR. (Anchorage) L.A. (Los Angeles) DENVER CHICAGO N.Y. (New York) CARACAS RIO (Rio de Janeiro) FERNAN. (Fernando de Noronha) AZORES Once you have set time zone, date and time, you do not need to reset the clock each time you travel to another time zone. Just set the time zone to the one of your destination, and the camcorder automatically adjusts the clock. 20 Displaying Date and Time during Recording You can display the date and time in the lower left corner of the screen. CAMERA PLAY (VCR) CARD CAMERA CARD PLAY E ( 38) DISPLAY SETUP/ D/T DISPLAY··OFF 1. Press the MENU button to open the menu. 2. Turn the SET dial to select [DISPLAY SETUP/ press the SET dial. ] and 3. Turn the SET dial to select [D/T DISPLAY] and press the SET dial. 4. Turn the SET dial to select [ON]. 5. Press the MENU button to close the menu. Basic Functions Preparations 21 Recording Movies on a Tape Before You Begin Recording Make a test recording first to check if the camcorder operates correctly. Before you make important recordings, clean the video heads ( 135). Recording 1. Remove the lens cap. 2. Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode. · Set the POWER switch to CAMERA and the TAPE/CARD switch to b. · Set the POWER switch to CAMERA. q w POWER CAMERA OFF PLAY(VCR) 3. Push the OPEN button at the LCD panel and open the LCD panel. 4. Press the start/stop button to begin recording. Press the start/stop button again to pause recording. r POWER CAMERA CAMERA OFF PLAY (VCR) e When You Have Finished Recording 1. Turn the POWER switch to OFF. 2. Close the LCD panel and return the viewfinder into its initial position. 3. Replace the lens cap. 4. Unload the cassette. 5. Disconnect the power source. 22 Wait until the tape counter stops completely before you start recording. When you do not remove the cassette, you can record the next scene without producing any noise or blank sections between the recordings even if you turn the camcorder off. Bright light may make it difficult to use the LCD screen. In such case, use the viewfinder instead. You can rotate the LCD panel. Make sure to open the LCD panel at 90 degrees before rotating it. E When recording near loud sounds (such as fireworks, drums or concerts), sound may become distorted or may be recorded not in the actual sound level. The camcorder will shut off after 5 minutes when left in record pause mode to protect tape and video heads. " AUTO POWER OFF" appears 20 seconds before shutoff. To continue recording, turn the POWER switch to OFF and then back to CAMERA. About the LCD and viewfinder screen: The screens are produced with extremely high-precision manufacturing techniques, with more than 99.99% of the pixels operating to specification. Less than 0.01% of the pixels may occasionally misfire or appear as black or green dots. This has no effect on the recorded image and does not constitute a malfunction. Basic Functions Recording Allowing the Subject to Monitor the LCD Screen You can rotate the LCD panel so that the screen faces in the same direction as the lens. The viewfinder switches on allowing you to use the viewfinder while the subject can monitor the screen. The image appears mirror reversed (LCD MIRROR ON). However, you can choose to display the image as it is being recorded (LCD MIRROR OFF). CAMERA PLAY (VCR) CARD CAMERA CARD PLAY ( 38) DISPLAY SETUP/ LCD MIRROR···ON 1. Press the MENU button to open the menu. 23 2. Turn the SET dial to select [DISPLAY SETUP/ press the SET dial. ] and 3. Turn the SET dial to select [LCD MIRROR] and press the SET dial. 4. Turn the SET dial to select [OFF]. 5. Press the MENU button to close the menu. When [LCD MIRROR] is set to [ON], only tape (MV750i/MV730i: or card) operation and self-timer displays appear on the LCD screen (all displays appear on the viewfinder screen). Adjusting the Brightness of the LCD Screen CAMERA PLAY (VCR) CARD CAMERA CARD PLAY ( 38) DISPLAY SETUP/ BRIGHTNESS···­ + 1. Press the MENU button to open the menu. 2. Turn the SET dial to select [DISPLAY SETUP/ press the SET dial. ] and 3. Turn the SET dial to select [BRIGHTNESS] and press the SET dial. 4. Turn the SET dial to adjust the brightness level. 5. Press the MENU button to close the menu. Changing the brightness of the LCD screen does not affect that of the viewfinder or the recordings. 24 Screen Displays during Recording e Remaining battery charge q w e r t The battery symbol indicates the charge status of the battery pack. E q Time code Indicates the recording time in hours, minutes and seconds. · k starts flashing in red when the battery pack is empty. · When you attach an empty battery pack, the power may turn off without displaying k. · The actual battery charge may not be indicated accurately depending on the condition under which battery pack and camcorder are used. Basic Functions Recording w Remaining tape Indicates the remaining time of the tape in minutes. b END flashes when the tape reaches the end. · When the time left is less than 15 seconds, the remaining tape time may not appear. · Depending on the type of the tape, the indication may not be displayed correctly. r When j flashes j flashes in red when the lithium button battery is not installed, or when it runs out. t Recording reminder The camcorder counts from 1 to 10 seconds when you start recording. This is helpful to avoid scenes that are too short. 25 Searching and Reviewing when Recording REC SEARCH ­ button/ v (record review) button REC SEARCH + button Record Review CAMERA PLAY (VCR) CARD CAMERA CARD PLAY In record pause mode, this function allows you to review the last few seconds of your recording to check if it has been recorded properly. Press and release the c (record review) button. The camcorder rewinds the tape, plays back the last few seconds, and returns to record pause mode. Record Search CAMERA PLAY (VCR) CARD CAMERA CARD PLAY In record pause mode, this function allows you to play back the tape (forward or reverse) to locate the point where you wish to begin recording. Press and hold the REC SEARCH + button (forward) or ­ button (reverse). · Release the button at the point you wish to begin recording. · The camcorder returns to record pause mode. CARD 26 Recording Still Images on a Tape E PHOTO button CAMERA PLAY (VCR) CARD CAMERA CARD PLAY 1. Open the menu and select [CAMERA SETUP]. Select [PHOTO REC], confirm that [TAPE b] is selected and close the menu. Basic Functions Recording 2. Press the PHOTO button halfway. · F appears in green. If it does not appear in green, adjust the focus with the SET dial. · Exposure is locked. · When you press the PHOTO button on the wireless controller, recording starts immediately. PH OT O 3. Press the PHOTO button fully. · F disappears. · The camcorder records the still image for approx. 6 seconds. During this time, the camcorder displays the still image and keeps recording the sound. · The camcorder returns to record pause mode. PH OT O You can also record a still image while you are recording a movie by pressing the PHOTO button fully. Starting your recording with a still image allows you to easily locate the beginning of the recording with the Photo Search function ( 73). 27 Zooming The camcorder automatically switches between optical zooming and digital zooming. Image resolution is slightly lower with the digital zoom. Zoom in T W Zoom out Zoom lever MENU button SET dial Optical Zoom 22× optical zoom CAMERA 20× optical zoom PLAY (VCR) CARD CAMERA 18× optical zoom CARD PLAY Move the zoom lever toward W to zoom out (wideangle). Move it toward T to zoom in (telephoto). Press the zoom lever slightly for a slow zoom. Press harder for a faster zoom. You can also use the T and W buttons on the wireless controller. However, you cannot control the zoom speed. 28 Digital Zoom 88×/440× digital zoom 80×/400× digital zoom 72×/360× digital zoom (88× in CARD CAMERA mode) (80× in CARD CAMERA mode) CAMERA PLAY (VCR) CARD CAMERA CARD PLAY E ( 38) CAMERA SETUP D.ZOOM·······88X 1. Press the MENU button to open the menu. 2. Turn the SET dial to select [CAMERA SETUP] and press the SET dial. 3. Turn the SET dial to select [D.ZOOM] and press the SET dial. 4. Turn the SET dial to select a setting option. 5. Press the MENU button to close the menu. Basic Functions Recording Digital zoom cannot be used in the Night modes. Digital zoom cannot be used when the multi-image screen is selected. A zoom indicator appears for 4 seconds. It extends in light blue when the digital zoom is set to 88× (MV750i), 80× (MV730i) or 72× (MV700i/MV700/ MV690), and extends further in dark blue when set to 440× (MV750i), 400× (MV730i) or 360× (MV700i/MV700/MV690). Keep at least 1 m to the subject. At wide-angle, you can focus on a subject as close as 1 cm. 29 Tips for Making Better Videos Holding the Camcorder For maximum stability, grip the camcorder in your right hand and keep your right elbow pressed against your body. If necessary, support the camcorder with your left hand. Be careful that your fingers do not touch the microphone or lens. For More Stability Lean against a wall Put the camcorder on a table