User manual PANASONIC NV-GS180GN

Operating Instructions Digital Video Camera Model No. NV-GS180GN Before use, please read these instructions completely. VQT0T93 Information for your safety As this equipment gets hot during use, operate it in a well-ventilated place; do not install this equipment in a confined space such as a bookcase or similar unit. To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock or product damage, do not expose this equipment to rain, moisture, dripping or splashing and ensure that no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the equipment. AC Adaptor The rating plate is on the underside of the AC Adaptor. Windows is a trademark or registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation U.S.A. SD Logo is a trademark. All other company and product names in the operating instructions are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective corporations. Files recorded on SD Memory Card It may not be possible to play back the files on this Movie Camera recorded on and created by other equipment or vice versa. For this reason, check the compatibility of the equipment in advance. Keep the Memory Card out of reach of children to prevent swallowing. Pages for reference Pages for reference are indicated by dashes either side of a number, for example: -00The menu operation flow is indicated by >> in the description. ª Carefully read the Operating Instructions and use the Movie Camera correctly. Injury or material damage resulting from any kind of use that is not in accordance with the operating procedures explained in these Operating Instructions are the sole responsibility of the user. Try out the Movie Camera. Be sure to try out the Movie Camera before recording your first important event and check that it records properly and functions correctly. The manufacturer is not liable for loss of recorded contents. The manufacturer shall in no event be liable for the loss of recordings due to malfunction or defect of this Movie Camera, its accessories or cassettes. Carefully observe copyright laws. Recording of pre-recorded tapes or discs or other published or broadcast material for purposes other than your own private use may infringe copyright laws. Even for the purpose of private use, recording of certain material may be restricted. The Movie Camera uses copyright-protected technologies and is protected by the patented technologies and intellectual properties of Japan and the U.S. To use these copyright-protected technologies, authorization of the Macrovision Company is required. It is prohibited to disassemble or modify the Movie Camera. ª Warning Do not remove the cover (or back); there are no user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel. IF THE POWER CORD OF THIS EQUIPMENT IS DAMAGED, IT MUST BE REPLACED WITH AN ELECTRICALLY APPROVED POWER CORD. Use only the recommended accessories. -If you see this symbolInformation on Disposal in other Countries outside the European Union This symbol is only valid in the European Union. If you wish to discard this product, please contact your local authorities or dealer and ask for the correct method of disposal. 2 VQT0T93 ENGLISH Contents Information for your safety ............................... 2 Playback mode Playing back tape .......................................... Slow-motion playback/frame-by-frame playback...................................................... Variable-speed search function ..................... Playback on TV ............................................. Playing back card .......................................... Deleting files recorded on a card................... Formatting a card .......................................... Protecting files on a card ............................... Writing the printing data on a card (DPOF setting) ............................................ 32 32 33 34 34 35 36 36 37 Before using Accessories ..................................................... 4 Optional ........................................................... 4 Parts identification and handling...................... 4 Fitting the lens cap........................................... 6 The grip belt..................................................... 7 Using the LCD monitor .................................... 7 Using the viewfinder ........................................ 7 Power supply ................................................... 8 Charging time and recordable time.................. 9 Inserting/removing a cassette.......................... 9 Inserting/removing a card .............................. 10 Turning the camera on................................... 11 Selecting a mode ........................................... 11 How to use the joystick .................................. 12 Switching the language.................................. 13 Using the menu screen.................................. 13 Setting date and time..................................... 14 Adjusting LCD monitor/viewfinder.................. 15 Using the remote control................................ 16 Edit mode Recording from a tape onto a card ................ Copying onto a DVD recorder or a VCR (Dubbing) .................................................... Using the DV Cable for Recording (Digital Dubbing) ......................................... Audio dubbing ............................................... Printing pictures by directly connecting to the printer (PictBridge) ................................ 38 38 39 40 41 Record mode Check before recording ................................. Recording on a tape ...................................... Recording still pictures on a card while recording image onto a tape ....................... Check the recording....................................... Blank search function .................................... Recording still pictures onto a card (Photoshot).................................................. Zoom in/out function ...................................... Recording yourself......................................... Quick start...................................................... Backlight compensation function ................... Night view functions....................................... Soft skin mode ............................................... Tele-macro function ....................................... Fade in/fade out function ............................... Wind noise reduction function........................ Self-timer recording ....................................... Recording images for wide-screen TVs......... Image stabilizer function ................................ Continuous Photoshot ................................... Recording in various situations (Scene mode).............................................. Recording in natural colours (White balance) ........................................... Manual focus adjustment............................... Manual shutter speed/aperture adjustment................................................... 18 19 19 20 20 20 22 22 23 23 24 24 25 25 26 26 26 27 27 28 29 30 30 Menu Menu list ........................................................ Menus related to taking pictures ................... Menus related to playback ............................ Other menus.................................................. 42 44 45 45 Others Indications ..................................................... Warning/alarm indications ............................. Functions cannot be used simultaneously .... Before requesting repair (Problems and solutions) ............................ Cautions for Use............................................ Explanation of terms...................................... 46 47 48 49 53 56 Specifications Specifications ................................................ 58 3 VQT0T93 Before using Before using Accessories The followings are the accessories supplied with this product. 1) Parts identification and handling ª Camera (1) (4) (5) 2) 3) 4) (2) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (3) 5) 6) 7) Recording lamp -44Grip belt -7Microphone (built-in, stereo) -22-, -26Lens White balance sensor -29Remote control sensor -17(9) 8) AV/ (6) MIC (7) 1) AC adaptor, DC input lead, AC mains lead -8- (8) (6) Audio-video output terminal [AV] -38- 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7) 8) Battery pack -8Remote control, button-type battery -16Lens cap -6AV cable -38Shoulder strap -6Digital video head cleaner -53USB cable and CD-ROM -41- Optional 1) AC adaptor (VW-AD11GN) 2) Battery pack (lithium/CGR-DU06/640mAh) 3) Battery pack (lithium/CGA-DU07/680mAh) 4) Battery pack (lithium/CGA-DU12/1150mAh) 5) Battery pack (lithium/CGA-DU14/1360mAh) 6) Battery pack (lithium/CGA-DU21/2040mAh) 7) Wide conversion lens (VW-LW3707M3E) 8) Tele conversion lens (VW-LT3714ME) 9) Filter kit (VW-LF37WE) 10) Video DC light (VW-LDC10E) 11) Light bulb for video DC light (VZ-LL10E) 12) Stereo microphone (VW-VMS2E) 13) Tripod (VW-CT45E) 14) DV cable (VW-CD1E) 15) Jacket pouch (VW-SJ05E) Some optional accessories may not be available in some countries. Use the supplied AV cable or headphones only, otherwise audio may not be played back normally. Headphone terminal [Ë] (7) Microphone terminal [MIC] A compatible plug-in powered microphone can be used as an external microphone. When the movie camera is connected with AC Adaptor, sometimes noise may be heard depending on microphone type. In that case, please switch to battery for power supply and noise will stop. (8) USB terminal [ ] -41(9) Speaker -32- 4 VQT0T93 Before using (13) (14) (10) (11) (15) (16) (17) (18) (19) (22) LCD monitor open part [OPEN] -7(23) Reset button [RESET] -47(24) Power LCD button [POWER LCD] -15Power LCD lamp -15(25) Mode select switch [AUTO/MANUAL/FOCUS] -18-, -28-, -30(26) Card access lamp -11(27) DV terminal [DV] -39(28) Card slot cover -10(29) Card slot -10- (12) (20) S-VIDEO (31) (32) (10) Viewfinder -7-, -56(33) (34) (35) Due to limitations in LCD production technology, there may be some tiny bright or dark spots on the Viewfinder screen. However, this is not a malfunction and does not affect the recorded picture. (11) (12) (13) (14) (15) (30) (16) (17) (18) (19) (20) Battery holder Battery release lever [BATT] -8Power switch [OFF/ON] -11Status indicator -11Quick start recording button [QUICK START] -23Quick start recording lamp -23Menu button [MENU] -13Joystick -12Mode dial -11Recording start/stop button -19S-Video output terminal [S-VIDEO] -34(23) (24) (21) (22) Cassette holder -9Cassette eject lever [OPEN/EJECT] -9Cassette cover -9Zoom lever [W/T] -22Volume lever [s /VOLr] -32(34) Photoshot button [PHOTO SHOT] -19(35) Accessory shoe Accessories, such as a stereo microphone (VW-VMS2E; optional), are attached here. (30) (31) (32) (33) (25) (26) (27) (28) (36) (36) Tripod receptacle (29) (21) LCD monitor -7-, -56- Due to limitations in LCD production technology, there may be some tiny bright or dark spots on the LCD monitor screen. However, this is not a malfunction and does not affect the recorded picture. This is a hole for attaching the camera to optional tripod/VW-CT45E. (Please carefully read the operating instructions for how to attach the tripod to the camera.) You cannot open the card slot cover when the tripod is used. Insert the card first and then attach the tripod. 5 VQT0T93 Before using Fitting the lens cap Fit the lens cap to protect the surface of the lens. If you do not use the movie camera when the MC protector or the ND filter of the Filter Kit (VW-LF37WE; optional) is attached to the front of the lens hood, attach the lens cap to protect the surface of the lens. 1 Run the end of the lens cap cord through the hole in the grip belt attachment part and run the lens cap through the lens cap cord. (37) (37) Shoulder strap fixture 1 3 2 Put the strap through the fixture 1 and through the stopper 2 so it will not come off. Extend part 3 by at least 2 cm. Fit the other end of the belt similarly. 1 2 The lens cap removed can be hung on the lens cap fixture. (38) (38) Lens hood In order to remove the lens hood, rotate it counterclockwise 1. In order to fit it, put into slot 2, and then rotate it clockwise. Fit the MC protector or the ND filter of the Filter Kit (VW-LF37WE; optional) in front of the lens hood. Do not fit the other accessories on the hood. (Except for the lens cap) When fitting the tele conversion lens (VW-LT3714ME; optional) or the wide conversion lens (VW-LW3707M3E; optional), first remove the lens hood. When 2 lens accessories, such as the ND filter and tele conversion lens, are fitted and the [W/T] lever is pressed toward the [W] side, the 4 corners of an image will be darkened. (Vignetting) To fit or remove the lens cap, hold both sides of the lens cap with the tips of your first 2 fingers. 6 VQT0T93 Before using The grip belt Adjust the belt length so it fits your hand. 1 Adjust the belt length and the pad position. Using the viewfinder ª Extending the viewfinder 1 Pull out the viewfinder. Extend it by pinching the extension knob and pulling. 2 13 1 Flip the belt. 2 Adjust the length. 3 Fix the belt. ª Adjusting the field of view 1 Adjust the focus by sliding the eyepiece corrector knob. Using the LCD monitor You can record the image while viewing it on the LCD monitor opened. 1 Put a finger on the LCD monitor open part and pull the LCD monitor out in the direction of the arrow. 12:30:45 12:30:45 1.4. 2006 1.4. 2006 12:30:45 1.4. 2006 You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder from the menu. OPEN The viewfinder will go off. It can open up to 90o. 2 Adjust the angle of the LCD monitor as you prefer. 1 180o 2 90o It can rotate up to 180o 1 towards the lens or 90o 2 towards the viewfinder. The brightness and colour level of the LCD monitor can be adjusted from the menu. If it is forcibly opened or rotated, the camera may be damaged or fail. Check that the card slot cover is closed. When the LCD monitor is rotated by 180o towards the lens (when recording yourself), the LCD monitor and the viewfinder will be simultaneously activated. 7 VQT0T93 Before using Power supply ª Charging the battery When this product is purchased, the battery is not charged. Charge the battery before using this product. Battery charging time (-9-) We recommend using Panasonic batteries. If you use other batteries, we cannot guarantee the quality of this product. If the DC input lead is connected to the AC adaptor, then the battery will not get charged. Remove the DC input lead from the AC adaptor. 1 Connect the AC mains lead to the AC adaptor and the AC mains socket. 2 Put the battery on the battery mount by aligning the mark, and then securely plug it in. ª Connecting to the AC outlet 1 1 Connect the AC mains lead to the AC adaptor and the AC mains socket. 2 Connect the DC input lead to the AC adaptor. 3 Connect the DC input lead to this product. The output plug of the AC mains lead is not completely connected to the AC adaptor socket. As shown in 1, there is a gap. Do not use the AC mains lead for other equipment since the AC mains lead is exclusively designed for the movie camera. Or do not use the AC mains lead of other equipment for the movie camera. ª Charging lamp Lights up: Charging Goes off: Charging completed Flashing: The battery is over discharged (discharged excessively). In a while, the lamp will light up and normal charging will start. When the battery temperature is excessively high or low, the [CHARGE] lamp flashes and the charging time will be longer than normal. ª Fitting the battery Push the battery against the battery holder and slide it until it clicks. ª Removing the battery While sliding the [BATT] lever, slide the battery (or the DC input lead) to remove it. BATT Hold the battery with your hand so it does not fall. 8 VQT0T93 Before using Charging time and recordable time The times shown in the table below show the times at a temperature of 25 oC and a humidity of 60%. This is just a guide. If the temperature is higher or lower than the specified value, the charging time will become longer. Supplied battery/ CGR-DU06 (7.2 V/ 640 mAh) CGA-DU12 (7.2 V/ 1150 mAh) A B C A B C CGA-DU14 (7.2 V/ 1360 mAh) A B C CGA-DU21 (7.2 V/ 2040 mAh) A B C CGA-DU07 (7.2 V/ 680 mAh) A B C 1 h 40 min 1 h 15 min (1 h 10 min) 40 min (35 min) 2 h 25 min 2 h 15 min (2 h 5 min) 1 h 10 min (1 h 5 min) 2 h 45 min 2 h 40 min (2 h 30 min) 1 h 20 min (1 h 15 min) 3 h 55 min 4h (3 h 45 min) 2h (1 h 55 min) 1 h 30 min 1 h 20 min (1 h 15 min) 40 min (40 min) The recordable time will become shorter in the following cases: When you use both the viewfinder and the LCD monitor simultaneously while rotating the LCD monitor frontward to record yourself, using the 0 Lux night view function, etc. When you use this camera with the LCD monitor lit up by pressing the [POWER LCD] button. The batteries heat up after use or charging. The main unit of the movie camera being used will also heat up. This is normal. Along with the reduction of the battery capacity, the display will change: r # s # t # u # v. If the battery discharges, then u (v) will flash. Inserting/removing a cassette 1 Slide the [OPEN/EJECT] lever and open the cassette cover. OPEN/ EJECT When the cover is fully opened, the cassette holder will come out. 2 After the cassette holder is opened, insert/ remove the cassette. A Charging time B Maximum continuously recordable time C Intermittent recordable time (The intermittent recordable time refers to recordable time when the recording and stopping operations are repeated.) "1 h 10 min" indicates 1 hour 10 minutes. The battery CGR-DU06 is supplied. The times shown in the table are rough estimates. The times indicate the recordable times when the viewfinder is used. The times in parentheses indicate the recordable times when the LCD monitor is used. We recommend the Battery Pack CGA-DU12, CGA-DU14 and CGA-DU21 for long time recording (2 hours or more for continuous recording, 1 hour or more for intermittent recording). When inserting a cassette, orient it as shown in the figure, and then securely insert it as far as it goes. When removing, pull it straight out. 3 Push the [PUSH] mark 1 in order to close the cassette holder. 1 PUSH 4 Only after the cassette holder is completely housed, close the cassette cover. 9 VQT0T93 Before using After using, make sure to rewind the cassette completely, remove it, and put it in a case. Store the case in an upright position. (-55-) When condensation is formed on the lens or the main unit of the movie camera, even if no condensation alarm is indicated, condensation may have formed on the heads or the cassette tape. Do not open the cassette cover. (-53-) ª When the cassette holder does not Inserting/removing a card Before inserting/removing a card, be sure to set the [OFF/ON] switch to [OFF]. If the card is inserted or removed with the power turned on, this camera may malfunction or the data recorded on the card may be lost. 1 Open the LCD monitor and then open the card slot cover. come out Close the cassette cover completely, and then open it again completely. Check if the battery has run down. ª When the cassette holder cannot be housed Set the [OFF/ON] switch to [OFF], then to [ON] again. Check if the battery has run down. ª Inserting/removing the cassette When the cassette holder is in action, do not touch anything except the [PUSH] mark. When inserting a previously recorded cassette, use the blank search function to find the position where you want to continue recording. If you overwrite-record on a previously recorded cassette, be sure to find the position where you continue recording. Close the cassette cover tightly. When closing the cassette cover, do not get anything, such as a cable, caught in the cover. ª Accidental erasure prevention If the accidental erasure prevention slider 1 of a cassette is opened (slide in the direction of the [SAVE] arrow), the cassette cannot be recorded. When recording, close the accidental erasure prevention slider of the cassette (slide in the direction of the [REC] arrow). 2 Insert/remove the card into/from the card slot. 1 When inserting a card, face the label side 1 towards you and push it straight in with one stroke as far as it goes. When removing the card, open the card slot cover and press the centre of the card and then pull it straight out. 3 Securely close the card slot cover. ª Concerning the card Do not touch the terminals on the back of the card. Do not format the card with another movie camera or any personal computer. This operation may make the card unusable. Electrical noise, static electricity, or failure of the movie camera or the card may damage or erase the data stored on the card. We recommend saving important data on a personal computer by using a USB cable, PC card adaptor or USB reader/writer. 1 REC SAVE 10 VQT0T93 Before using ª Card access lamp ª How to turn off the power 1 While pressing the button 1, set the [OFF/ON] switch to [OFF]. The status indicator goes off. 1 When the camera accesses the card (reading, recording, playback, erasing, etc.), the access lamp lights up. If the following operations are performed when the access lamp is lit, then the card or the recorded data may be damaged or the camera may malfunction. Opening the card slot cover and inserting or removing the card. Operating the [OFF/ON] switch or the mode dial. ª SD Memory Card The memory capacity indicated on the SD Memory Card label corresponds to the total amount of capacity to protect and manage the copyright and the capacity available as conventional memory for a movie camera, personal computer or other equipment. ª Concerning the write protection OFF ON Selecting a mode Rotate the mode dial to select the desired mode. 1 Rotate the mode dial. Set your desired mode to 1. 1 PC : Tape recording mode Use this when you record the image on a tape. (Also, you can simultaneously record still pictures on a card while recording images on a tape.) : Tape playback mode Use this to play back a tape. : Card recording mode Use this to record still pictures on a card. : Picture playback mode Use this to play back the still pictures recorded on a card. switch on the SD Memory Card The SD Memory Card has a write protection switch on it. If the switch is moved to [LOCK], you cannot write to the card, erase the data on it, or format it. If it is moved back, you can. Turning the camera on When the camera is turned on with the lens cap fitted, the automatic white balance adjustment may not function properly. Please turn the camera on after removing the lens cap. ª How to turn on the power 1 While pressing the button 1, set the [OFF/ON] switch to [ON]. The status indicator lights up. 1 OFF ON PC : PC mode Use this to view or edit the images recorded on a card on your personal computer. (Refer to the operating instructions for PC connection.) 11 VQT0T93 Before using How to use the joystick ª Basic joystick operations Operations on the menu screen and selection of files to be played back on the multi-image display Move the joystick up, down, left, or right to select an item or file, and then push in the centre to set it. 2) Tape recording mode ([AUTO/MANUAL/FOCUS] switch is set to [MANUAL]) OFF 1 3 4 2 1 2 3 4 5 Select by moving up. Select by moving down. Select by moving left. Select by moving right. Determine by pushing the centre. 4 5 1 2 White balance Shutter speed Iris or gain value Select/Adjust Select/Adjust -29- -29-29- 3) Tape playback mode OFF ª Joystick and screen display Push the centre of the joystick, and icons will be displayed on the screen. Each push switches the display as follows depending on the mode. (In the Tape playback mode or the Picture playback mode, the icons will be automatically displayed on the screen.) 1) Tape recording mode ([AUTO/MANUAL/FOCUS] switch is set to [AUTO]) 3 4 2 1 Playback/pause Stop Rewind (review playback) Fast forward (cue playback) -32-32-32-32- 4) Card recording mode ([AUTO/MANUAL/FOCUS] switch is set to [AUTO]) OFF OFF 3 4 2 1 3 4 Tele-macro Soft skin mode Fade Backlight compensation Night view/0 Lux night view Recording check -25-24-25-23-24-20- 3 4 1 Tele-macro Soft skin mode Backlight compensation -25-24-23- 12 VQT0T93 Before using 5) Card recording mode ([AUTO/MANUAL/FOCUS] switch is set to [MANUAL]) Using the menu screen For each individual menu, please refer to -42-. 1 Press the [MENU] button. OFF MENU The menu corresponding to the mode selected by the mode dial is displayed. Do not switch the mode dial when the menu is displayed. 2 Move the joystick up or down in order to select the top menu. 4 1 2 White balance Shutter speed Iris or gain value Select/Adjust Select/Adjust -29- -29-29- 6) Picture playback mode OFF 3 Move the joystick right or press it to set the 3 4 2 1 Playback/stop Erase Playback previous picture Playback next picture -34-35-34-34- selection. Switching the language You can switch the language on the screen display or the menu screen. 1 Set [LANGUAGE] >> select the desired language. 4 Move the joystick up or down in order to select the sub-menu. 5 Move the joystick right or press it to set the selection. 6 Move the joystick up or down in order to select the item to be set. 13 VQT0T93 Before using 7 Press the joystick to determine the setting. Setting date and time If the screen shows the incorrect date/time, then adjust it. Set to Tape Recording Mode or Card Recording Mode. 1 Set [BASIC] >> [CLOCK SET] >> [YES]. ª To exit the menu screen Press the [MENU] button. ª To get back to the previous screen Move the joystick left. 2006 ª About the menu setting The menu screen does not appear during recording. And you cannot record when the menu screen appears. ª Operating with remote control The menu screen transition is the same as when the buttons on the main unit are used. 1 Press the [MENU] button. 2 Move the joystick left or right in order to select the item to be set. Then move the joystick up or down to set the desired value. The year will change as follows: 2000, 2001, ..., 2089, 2000, ... The 24-hour clock is used. 3 Press the joystick to determine the setting. The clock function starts at [00] seconds. ª About date/time The date and time function are driven by a built-in lithium battery. Make sure to check the time before recording because the built-in clock is not very accurate. ª Recharging the built-in lithium battery If [0] or [--] is indicated when the camera is turned on, then the built-in lithium battery runs down. Connect the AC adaptor to the camera or place the battery on the camera, and the built-in lithium battery will be recharged. Leave the camera as is for approx. 24 hours, and the battery will drive the date and time for approx. 6 months. (Even if the [OFF/ON] switch is set to [OFF], the battery is still being recharged.) WARNING THE LITHIUM BATTERY IN THIS UNIT MUST ONLY BE REPLACED BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL. IF THIS IS NECESSARY, CONTACT THE PANASONIC CUSTOMER CARE CENTRE ON 132600 FOR YOUR NEAREST AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTRE. 2 Select a menu item. Use the direction buttons (3, 2, 1, 4) and [ENTER] button in place of the joystick on the main unit. 3 Press the [MENU] button to exit the menu screen. 14 VQT0T93 Before using Adjusting LCD monitor/viewfinder ª Adjusting the brightness and colour ª In order to increase the brightness of the entire LCD monitor 1 Press the [POWER LCD] button. level 1 Set [SETUP] >> [LCD SET] or [EVF SET] >> [YES]. POWER LCD The [POWER LCD] lamp lights up. If the [POWER LCD] button is pressed, the entire LCD monitor will become approx. twice as bright as the normal. 2 Move the joystick up or down in order to select the item to be adjusted. [LCD SET] : Brightness of the LCD monitor : Colour level of the LCD monitor [EVF SET] EVF Press this button again, and the lamp will go off and the brightness will revert back to the original brightness. This will not affect the images to be recorded. If you turn on the camera when the AC adaptor is used, the [POWER LCD] function will automatically be activated. ª Changing the picture quality on the : Brightness of the viewfinder 3 Move the joystick left or right to move the bar indication representing the brightness. 4 Press the [MENU] button or the joystick to complete the settings. In order to adjust the brightness of the viewfinder, close the LCD monitor, and the viewfinder will be activated. When the LCD monitor is rotated by 180° towards the lens, the brightness of the LCD monitor cannot be adjusted. These settings will not affect the images actually recorded. LCD monitor 1 Set [SETUP] >> [LCD AI] >> [DYNAMIC] or [NORMAL]. [DYNAMIC]: The image on the LCD monitor becomes clear and vivid. Optimum contrast and brightness are set depending on the scenes recorded. Clear and brilliant images are presented. (The effect will vary depending on the images recorded.) [NORMAL]: Switches to the standard picture quality. The effect will vary depending on the scene recorded. The picture quality on the viewfinder will not be affected. This function is automatically set to [DYNAMIC] when the brightness of the LCD monitor is increased (when the [POWER LCD] lamp lights up) and cannot be set to [NORMAL] independently. This will not affect the images to be recorded. When the LCD monitor is rotated by 180° towards the lens, the picture quality of the LCD monitor is temporarily adjusted as if the [LCD AI] is set to [NORMAL]. 15 VQT0T93 Before using Using the remote control ª Remote control Using the remote control supplied will enable controlling almost all the functions of this camera to be controlled. (10) (14) (15) (16) (11) (12) (13) (17) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14) (1) On-screen display button [EXT DISPLAY] -34(2) Date/time button [DATE/TIME] -42(3) Audio dubbing button [AUDIO DUB] -40(4) Record button [¥REC] -39(5) Direction buttons [3, 2, 1, 4] -14- Photoshot button [PHOTO SHOT] ¢ Rewind/review button [6] Pause button [;] Stop button [] Recording start/stop button [START/STOP] ¢ (15) Playback button [PLAY 1] (16) Fast forward/cue button [5] (17) Enter button [ENTER] -14¢ means that these buttons function in the same manner as the corresponding buttons on the movie camera. (7) (6) (8) (9) (6) Slow/frame-by-frame forward buttons [E, D] (E: reverse, D: forward) -32(7) Zoom/volume button [ZOOM/VOL] ¢ (8) Search button [VAR SEARCH] -33(9) Menu button [MENU] -14- 16 VQT0T93 Before using ª Install a button-type battery Install the button-type battery supplied in the remote control before using it. 1 While pressing the stopper 1, pull out the battery holder. ª Selecting the remote control mode If 2 cameras are used simultaneously, set the mode for one pair of movie camera and remote control to [VCR1] and that of the other pair to [VCR2]. This will prevent interference between the 2 pairs. (The default setting is [VCR1]. When the button-type battery is replaced, the setting will revert to the default [VCR1].) 1 Setting on the camera: Set [SETUP] >> [REMOTE] >> [VCR1] or [VCR2]. 2 Setting on the remote control: 1 2 Set the button-type battery with its (i) mark facing upward and get the battery holder back in place. 2 1 Caution Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the equipment manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to manufacturer's instructions. Warning Risk of fire, explosion and burns. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 100 xC or incinerate. Keep the Button-Type battery out of the reach of children. Never put Button-Type battery in mouth. If swallowed call your doctor. ª Remote control usable range [VCR1]: Press [D] and [] simultaneously. 1 [VCR2]: Press [E] and [] simultaneously. 2 ª Concerning the button-type battery When the button-type battery runs down, replace it with a new battery (part number: CR2025). The battery is normally expected to last about 1 year, but it depends on operation frequency. Keep the button-type battery out of the reach of children. If the remote control mode of the camera and that of the remote control do not match with each other, "REMOTE" will appear. When the remote control is operated for the first time after the camera is turned on, "CHECK REMOTE MODE" (-47-) will appear and operation is impossible. Set the same remote control mode. The remote control is intended for indoor operation. Outdoors or under strong light, the movie camera may not operate properly even within the usable ranges. Within a 1 metre range, you can operate the remote control from beside the remote control sensor (LCD monitor side) of the movie camera. The distance between the remote control and the camera: Within approx. 5 m Angle: Approx. 10o up and 15o down, left, and right 17 VQT0T93 Record mode Record mode Check before recording Check the following by trying recording before important events such as weddings in order to verify that the image recording and audio recording work properly and that you know how to use the movie camera. ª Basic camera holding ª About auto mode Set the [AUTO/MANUAL/FOCUS] switch to [AUTO], and colour balance (white balance) and focusing will be adjusted automatically. Auto white balance: -57Auto focusing: -57- 1) AUTO MANUAL FOCUS Colour balance and focus may not be adjusted depending on light sources or scenes. If so, manually adjust the white balance and focus. Scene mode setting (-28-) White balance setting (-29-) Shutter speed setting (-30-) Iris/gain value setting (-30-) Focus setting (-30-) ª Recording mode You can switch the tape recording mode. Set to Tape Recording/Playback Mode. 1 Set [BASIC] or [ADVANCE] >> [REC SPEED] >> [SP] or [LP]. If the LP mode is selected, the recording time will be 1.5 times the SP mode, but some functions will be disabled. 2) 4) 3) 5) 1) Hold the camera with both hands. 2) Run your hand through the grip belt. 3) Do not cover the microphones or sensors with your hands. 4) Keep your arms near your body. 5) Slightly open your legs. When you are in the open air, record pictures with the sunlight as far in the background as possible. If the subject is backlit, it will become dark in the recording. ª Check points Remove the lens cap. (-6-) (When the camera is turned on with the lens cap fitted, the automatic white balance adjustment may not function properly. Please turn the camera on after removing the lens cap.) Grip belt adjustment (-7-) Power supply (-8-) Insert a cassette/card (-9-, -10-) Setting date/time (-14-) Adjustment of LCD monitor/viewfinder (-15-) Getting the remote control ready (-16-) Setting SP/LP mode (-18-) We recommend using the SP mode for important recording. In order to fully exhibit the performances of the LP mode, we recommend using Panasonic cassettes marked LP mode. It is not possible to dub audio onto image recorded in the LP mode. (-40-) In the LP mode, the picture quality will not be degraded in comparison with the SP mode, but mosaic noise may appear on the playback image or some functions may be disabled. Playback on other digital video equipment or on digital video equipment without the LP mode. Playback of the image on other digital video equipment recorded in the LP mode. Slow/frame-by-frame playback. 18 VQT0T93 Record mode Recording on a tape Remove the lens cap. (-6-) (When the camera is turned on with the lens cap fitted, the automatic white balance adjustment may not function properly. Please turn the camera on after removing the lens cap.) Set to Tape Recording Mode. PC ª Concerning the remaining tape time indication on the screen The remaining tape time is indicated in minutes. (When it reaches less than 3 minutes, the indication starts flashing.) During a 15 seconds or shorter recording, the remaining tape time indication may not be displayed or the remaining tape time may not be displayed correctly. In some cases, the remaining tape time indication may display remaining tape time that is 2 to 3 minutes shorter than the actual remaining tape time. 1 Press the recording start/stop button to start recording. Recording still pictures on a card while recording image onto a tape You can record still pictures while recording image onto a tape. Set to Tape Recording Mode. 1 Press the [PHOTO SHOT] button fully while recording image onto a tape. 2 Press the recording start/stop button again to pause recording. ; PHOTO SHOT For the recording time on a tape, refer to -9-. Carry out a recording check (-20-) to verify that the image is recorded properly. In order to find the unrecorded section, carry out the blank search (-20-). ª On-screen display in the tape recording mode 1) 2) 3)¢ 4)¢ 5)¢ For the number of still pictures to be recorded on a card, refer to -59-. When recording pictures onto a card, the recording start/stop button is disabled. You can select a picture quality for still pictures to be recorded. (-21-) The sizes of pictures to be recorded are [640]. In order to record still pictures with higher quality, we recommend using the card recording mode. If the wide mode is used, you cannot record images onto the card. The [PHOTO SHOT] button does not work if it is pressed halfway. ¢These indications are displayed only when the card is inserted. 1) Recording time elapse 2) Remaining tape time indication 3) Still picture size 4) Number of recordable still pictures (When no picture can be recorded, this indication will flash in red.) 5) Quality of still pictures 19 VQT0T93 Record mode Check the recording The last image recorded is played back for 2 to 3 seconds. After checking, the camera will be set to a recording pause. Set to Tape Recording Mode. 1 Press the joystick during the recording pause until the icon 1 appears. 2 Move the joystick down to select the recording check icon [ ]. Recording still pictures onto a card (Photoshot) Set to Card Recording Mode. PC 1 Press the [PHOTO SHOT] button halfway in order to adjust focusing. (For auto focusing only) The iris/gain value is fixed and this camera focuses on the subject automatically. 1 Blank search function Searches for the last part of the image recorded (unused part of the tape). Set to Tape Recording/Playback Mode. 1 Set [BASIC] or [ADVANCE] >> [BLANK SEARCH] >> [YES]. ª Stopping blank search midway PHOTO SHOT 1 2 1 Shutter chance mark ± (The white lamp flashes.): Focusing ¥ (The green lamp lights up.): When in focus No mark: When focusing is unsuccessful The shutter chance mark is indicated as follows when the [PHOTO SHOT] button is not pressed halfway. Please use it as a guide for recording. ¥ (The green lamp lights up.): When in focus and a good picture can be recorded ± (The white lamp lights up.): Almost in focus 2 Focus area 2 Press the [PHOTO SHOT] button fully. ª To record still pictures clearly When zooming in on the subject with a magnification of 4k to 10k or higher, it is difficult to reduce the slight shaking from holding the movie camera by hand. We recommend decreasing the zoom magnification and approaching the subject when recording. When recording still pictures, hold the movie camera firmly with your hands and keep your arms stationary at your side so as not to shake the movie camera. You can record stable pictures without shaking by using a tripod and the remote control. through Move the joystick down to select the [] icon. If the cassette tape has no blank part, then the camera will stop at the end of the tape. The camera stops at a point approx. 1 second before the end of the last image recorded. When you start recording at that point, the image can be recorded seamlessly from the last image. 20 VQT0T93 Record mode For the number of still pictures to be recorded on a card, refer to -59-. The sound cannot be recorded. While data are recorded on a card, do not operate the mode dial. When the access lamp is lit, do not insert or remove a card. Another product may degrade or not play back data recorded on this camera. If set [PICT. QUALITY] >> [ ], mosaic-pattern noise may appear on a playback image depending on the picture content. When the [PICTURE SIZE] is set to other than [640], the mega pixel recording mode is set. When the picture size setting is other than [640], the scene around the subject can be recorded wider than that in [640]. ª On-screen display in the card ª Select the size of still pictures to be recorded on a card 1 Set [BASIC] >> [PICTURE SIZE] >> select the desired picture size. [1760]: 1760k1320 [1280]: 1280k960 [640]: 640k480 ª Select the picture quality for photoshot images 1 Set [BASIC] >> [PICT. QUALITY] >> select the desired picture quality. [ ]: High picture quality [ ]: Normal picture quality You can also change the picture quality on [ADVANCE] >> [PICT. QUALITY] in the tape recording mode. ª Recording with a shutter operation recording mode effect You can add a shutter operation simulating sound. 1 Set [ADVANCE] >> [SHTR EFFECT] >> [ON]. ª About the shutter chance mark The shutter chance mark does not appear in manual focus mode. When the subject is not easily focused, focus on the subject manually. You can record still pictures on the card even if the shutter chance mark does not appear, but pictures may be recorded without being focused. The shutter chance mark does not appear or becomes difficult to be displayed in the following cases. When the zoom magnification is high. When the movie camera is shaken. When the subject is moving. When the subject stands against the light source. When close subjects and far subjects are included in the same scene. When the scene is dark. When there is a bright part in the scene. When the scene is filled with only horizontal lines. When the scene lacks contrast. ª Concerning the focusing area When there is a contrasting object ahead or behind the subject in the focus area, the subject may not be focused. If so, move the contrasting object out of the focus area. 1) 2) 3) 1) Still picture size 2) Number of recordable still pictures (When no pictures can be recorded, the red light will flash.) 3) Quality of still pictures ª Progressive Photoshot You can record still pictures with higher picture quality and frames. (You cannot switch the progressive function off/on.) In the tape recording mode, the progressive function may be disabled depending on the other functions used. (-48-) 21 VQT0T93 Record mode Zoom in/out function You can zoom in up to 10k optically. Set to Tape/Card Recording Mode. 1 Wide-angle recording (zoom out): Push the [W/T] lever towards [W]. Close-up recording (zoom in): Push the [W/T] lever towards [T]. ª To use the zoom microphone function Interlocked with the zooming operation, the microphone will collect sounds clearly far away with the tele-shot or those in the vicinity with the wide-angle shot. Set to Tape Recording Mode. 1 Set [ADVANCE] >> [ZOOM MIC] >> [ON]. /VOL ZOOM W 1tW T 5tW T 10tW T T ª About the variable speed zoom function When pushing the [W/T] lever as far as it will go, you can zoom from 1k to 10k in 2.1 seconds at the maximum. The zoom speed varies according to the amount of movement of the [W/T] lever. The variable speed zoom function cannot be used with the remote control. When zooming in and taking a picture while holding the movie camera by hand, we recommend using the image stabilizer function. When you are zooming on a faraway subject, a sharper focus is achieved if the recording subject is 1.2 metres or further from the movie camera. When the zoom speed is high, the subject may not be focused easily. When the zoom magnification is 1k, the movie camera can focus on a subject approx. 4 cm distant from the lens. ª Digital zoom function If the zoom magnification exceeds 10 times, then the digital zoom function will be activated. The digital zoom function allows you to select a magnification from 20k to 500k. 1 Set [ADVANCE] >> [D.ZOOM] >> [20k] or [500k]. 20tW 20 T Recording yourself You can record yourself while viewing the LCD monitor. You can record persons in front of the camera while presenting them the image. The image is horizontally flipped as if you see a mirror image. (The image to be recorded is the same as that recording.) 1 Rotate the LCD monitor towards the lens side. [OFF]: Optical zoom only (Up to 10k) [20k]: Up to 20k [500k]: Up to 500k The larger the digital zoom magnification, the more the image quality is degraded. When the Card Recording mode is used, the digital zoom function cannot be used. When the LCD monitor is opened, the viewfinder will be automatically turned off. If the LCD monitor is rotated towards the lens side though, then the viewfinder will be activated. When the LCD monitor is rotated towards the lens side, the icon will not be displayed even if you push the centre of the joystick. 22 VQT0T93 Record mode Quick start This camera will be put into standby in approx. 1.7 seconds after the power is turned on. Please note in Quick Start Mode approximately half the pause recording power is being consumed. Using Quick Start Mode will reduce the battery recording/playback time. This is only activated in the following cases. A tape or a card is inserted, while the Tape Recording Mode is set. A card is inserted, while the Card Recording Mode is set. 1 Press the [QUICK START] button. When the camera is quick-started with the white balance on automatic, it may take some time until the white balance is adjusted if the scene being recorded has a light source different from the scene last recorded. (When the colour night view function is used, however, the white balance of the scene last recorded is retained.) The zoom magnification may differ from when it is in the quick start standby mode and when the recording starts. Backlight compensation function This protects a backlit subject from being darkened. Set to Tape/Card Recording Mode. 1 Press the joystick until the icon 1 appears. 2 Move the joystick right to select the backlight compensation icon [ ]. QUICK START The quick start recording lamp lights up. (Press the button again to cancel it.) 2 Set the [OFF/ON] switch to [OFF]. ª 1 The image on the screen will become brighter. OFF ON ª To return to normal recording Select the [ ] icon again. If you operate the [OFF/ON] switch or the mode dial, the backlight compensation is cancelled. The quick start is now ready. 3 Set the [OFF/ON] switch to [ON]. This camera will be put into a recording pause in approx. 1.7 seconds after it is turned on. ª To cancel the quick start when the power is set to [OFF] Press and hold the [QUICK START] button for approx. 2 seconds. The lamp will go off and the camera will be completely turned off. If the standby continues for approx. 30 minutes, then the lamp will go off and the camera will be completely turned off. When you rotate the mode dial or remove the battery, the quick start recording lamp is turned off and the quick start mode is cancelled. If the movie camera is turned on and the Tape/Card Recording Mode is set though, the lamp turns on and the quick start mode is restored. 23 VQT0T93 Record mode Night view functions This function allows you to record colour subjects in dark locations to stand out against the background. Attach the camera to a tripod, and you can record images free from vibration. Only manual focusing can be used. Recorded scene is seen as if frames were missed. Colour night view function You can record dark locations brightly in colour. 0 Lux night view function You can record completely dark locations with the light of the LCD monitor. Set to Tape Recording Mode. 1 Press the joystick until the icon 1 appears. 2 Move the joystick up to select the night view icon [ ]. ª To cancel the colour night view function Select the night view icon until the night view indication disappear. If set in a bright place, the screen may become whitish for a while. The night view function makes the signal charging time of CCD up to approximately 25k longer than usual, so that dark scenes invisible to the naked eye can be recorded brightly. For this reason, bright dots that are usually invisible may be seen, but this is not a malfunction. The night view function is cancelled when you operate the power switch or the mode dial. Soft skin mode This allows the skin colour to be recorded in a softer tone. This is more effective if you record the bust image of a person. Set to Tape/Card Recording Mode. 1 Press the joystick until the icon 1 appears. 2 Move the joystick down to select the soft skin icon [ ]. 1 Each upward press switches the modes. OFF # Colour night view function # 0 Lux night view function # OFF 3 (In the case of 0 Lux night view function) Rotate the LCD monitor towards the lens side. 1 ª To cancel the soft skin mode Select the [ ] icon again. If the background or anything else in the scene has colours similar to the skin colour, they will also be smoothed. If the brightness is insufficient, the effect may not be clear. When the LCD monitor is reversed, the Power LCD Lamp turns on and the screen is lit in white. Record the subject while viewing it on the viewfinder. The light of the LCD monitor reaches approx. 1.2 m or less. 24 VQT0T93 Record mode Tele-macro function By focusing only on the subject and blurring the background, the image can be impressive. This camera can focus on the subject at a distance of approx. 40 cm. Set to Tape/Card Recording Mode. 1 Press the joystick until the icon 1 appears. 2 Move the joystick up to select the tele-macro icon [ ]. Fade in/fade out function Fade in The image and audio gradually appear. Fade out The image and audio gradually disappear. Set to Tape Recording Mode. 1 Press the joystick until the icon 1 appears. 2 Move the joystick left to select the fade icon [ ]. 1 If the magnification is 10k or less, then it is automatically set to 10k. ª To cancel the tele-macro function Select the [ ] icon again. If a sharper focus cannot be achieved, adjust the focus manually. In the following cases, the tele-macro function is cancelled. The zoom magnification becomes lower than 10k. The [OFF/ON] switch or the mode dial is operated. B 1 3 Press the recording start/stop button. Start recording. (fade in) When you start recording, the image/audio disappeared completely and the image/audio gradually appears. Pause recording. (fade out) The image/audio gradually disappears. After the image/audio completely disappears, recording stops. ª To cancel fading Select the [ ] icon again. ª To select the colour for fade in/out The colour which appears in fading pictures can be selected. 1 Set [SETUP] >> [FADE COLOUR] >> [WHITE] or [BLACK]. While the fade in/fade out function is selected, it takes several seconds to display the image when you start recording images. Besides, it also takes several seconds to pause recording. 25 VQT0T93 Record mode Wind noise reduction function This reduces the wind noise coming into the microphone when recording. Set to Tape Recording Mode. 1 Set [BASIC] >> [WIND CUT] >> [ON]. Recording images for wide-screen TVs This allows you to record images compatible with wide-screen TVs. Wide Function Images are recorded with a 16:9 aspect ratio. Cinema Function Images are recorded with a black belt appearing along the top and bottom of the screen so that they look like theatre movies. Set to Tape Recording Mode. 1 Wide Function Set [ADVANCE] >> [ASPECT] >> [16:9]. Cinema Function Set [ADVANCE] >> [CINEMA] >> [ON]. CINEMA ª To cancel the wind noise reduction function Set [BASIC] >> [WIND CUT] >> [OFF]. Reduces the wind noise depending on the wind strength. (If this function is activated in strong winds, the stereo effect may be reduced. When the wind weakens, the stereo effect will be restored.) Self-timer recording You can record still pictures on a card using the timer. Set to Card Recording Mode. 1 Set [BASIC] >> [SELF TIMER] >> [YES]. 2 Press the [PHOTO SHOT] button. ª To cancel the Wide/Cinema function Wide Function Set [ADVANCE] >> [ASPECT] >> [4:3]. Cinema Function Set [ADVANCE] >> [CINEMA] >> [OFF]. When the Wide Function is activated, the display such as the menu screen or the operation icon is expanded horizontally. Images played back vary depending on the TV connected. Please refer to the operating instructions for your TV. This function does not widen the recording range. When images are played back on a TV screen, the date/time indication may be erased in some cases. Depending on the TV, the picture quality may deteriorate. When a cinema picture is imported into a personal computer, the imported picture may not be displayed correctly, depending on the software in used. If you use a TV with an aspect ratio of 4:3, we do not recommend using the wide mode. (Images are vertically stretched.) If the wide function is set when the Image stabilizer function is used, the image stabilizer function will be cancelled. PHOTO SHOT After the recording lamp and the [ ] indication flashes for approx. 10 seconds, recording will start. After recording, the self-timer will be cancelled. You cannot press the [PHOTO SHOT] button half way. Focusing will be carried out with reference to the focusing frame. ª To stop the timer midway through Press the [MENU] button. By operating the [OFF/ON] switch or mode dial, the self-timer standby mode is cancelled. If the continuous photoshot recording is set, the maximum recordable pictures are recorded. 26 VQT0T93 Record mode Image stabilizer function Reduces the image shaking due to hand movement when recording. Set to Tape Recording Mode. 1 Set [ADVANCE] >> [SIS] >> [ON]. Continuous Photoshot Records still pictures continuously at a certain interval. Set to Card Recording Mode. 1 Set [BASIC] >> [PICTURE SIZE] >> [640]. 2 Set [ADVANCE] >> [BURST MODE] >> [ON]. ª To cancel the image stabilizer function Set [ADVANCE] >> [SIS] >> [OFF]. When a tripod is used, we recommend that you turn the image stabilizer off. Under fluorescent lighting, image brightness may change or colours may not look natural. If the image stabilizer is set when the wide function is used, the wide function will be cancelled. When the night view function is used, the image stabilizer function does not work. If so, the [[] indication flashes. In the following cases, the image stabilizer function may not work effectively. When the digital zoom is used When a conversion lens is used When recording is done in an extremely dark place When the camera is shaken greatly When you record a moving subject while tracking it 3 Press and hold the [PHOTO SHOT] button. PHOTO SHOT ª To stop continuous photoshot midway through Release the [PHOTO SHOT] button. The camera records up to 10 still pictures at intervals of 0.5 seconds. If the shutter speed is manually set to 1/25, then the still pictures can be recorded at intervals of 0.7 seconds. One more still picture may be recorded after you release the [PHOTO SHOT] button. If set [SELF TIMER] >> [YES], the movie camera records the maximum number of pictures recordable. Intervals between recording pictures may become longer depending on the card. We recommend using a Panasonic SD Memory Card. When using the card formatted by other equipment or a card that was recorded and erased repeatedly, the intervals between recording pictures may become longer. If so, back up your important data on a PC, and format your card with this movie camera. 27 VQT0T93 Record mode Recording in various situations (Scene mode) When you record images in different situations, this mode automatically sets optimum shutter speeds and apertures. Set to Tape/Card Recording Mode. 1 Set the [AUTO/MANUAL/FOCUS] switch to [MANUAL]. ª To cancel the scene mode function Set [BASIC] >> [SCENE MODE] >> [OFF] or set the [AUTO/MANUAL/FOCUS] switch to [AUTO]. Sports mode For slow-motion playback or playback pause of recorded pictures, this mode presents free of camera shakes. During normal playback, the image movement may not look smooth. Avoid recording under fluorescent light, mercury light or sodium light because the colour and brightness of the playback image may change. If you record a subject illuminated with strong light or a highly reflective subject, vertical lines of light may appear. If the brightness is insufficient, the sports mode does not function. The [5] indication flashes. If this mode is used indoors, the screen may flicker. Portrait mode If this mode is used indoors, the screen may flicker. If so, change the scene mode setting to [OFF]. Low light mode Extremely dark scenes may not be able to be recorded finely. Spotlight mode If the recording subject is extremely bright, the recorded image may become whitish and the periphery of the recorded image extremely dark. Surf & snow mode If the recording subject is extremely bright, the recorded image may become whitish. AUTO MANUAL FOCUS 2 Set [BASIC] >> [SCENE MODE] >> select the desired mode.