User manual RCA CC4352

IMPORTANT NOTICE Please make a note of the corrections to this manual's Assistance section listed above the Table of Contents on page 1. For Camcorder Exchange Warranty information, see pages 66-67. For Camcorder Customer Service information, see page 65. For Camcorder Accessories information, see pages 51-57. We want to make sure you enjoy your new camcorder. We regret any inconvenience this may cause. USER'S GUIDE camcordercamcordercamcor dercamcordercamcordercam cordercamcordercamcorder camcordercamcordercamcor dercamcordercamcordercam cordercamcordercamcorder camcordercamcordercamcor dercamcordercamcordercam cordercamcordercamcorder camcordercamcordercamcor dercamcordercamcordercam cordercamcordercamcorder camcordercamcordercamcor dercamcordercamcordercam cordercamcordercamcorder camcordercamcordercamcor dercamcordercamcordercam cordercamcordercamcorder camcordercamcordercamcor dercamcordercamcordercam cordercamcordercamcorder camcordercamcordercamcor dercamcordercamcordercam corderca mcorder camcor derca mcord erc am cor de rca m cord er cam co rd e r CC4352 Important Safety Information Be sure to read all the safety information before you begin to use this product. WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or shock hazard, do not expose camcorder or AC adapter/charger to rain or moisture. CAUTION RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN This symbol indicates "dangerous voltage" inside the product that presents a risk of electric shock or personal injury. A U O I N ATTENTION CT CAURISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE TION NE PAS OUVRIR This symbol indicates important instructions accompanying the product. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS ARE INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL. Cautions Safety Information CAUTION: To prevent electric shock, match wide blade of plug to wide slot, fully insert. ATTENTION: Pour éviter les chocs électriques, introduire la lame la plus large de la fiche dans la borne correspondante de la prise et pousser jusqu au fond. To reduce risk of injury, charge only rechargeable batteries recommended by the manufacturer for this camcorder. Other types of batteries may burst causing damage and personal injury. FCC Regulations state that unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment may void the user's authority to operate it. Product Registration Please fill out the product registration card and return it immediately. Returning this card allows us to contact you if needed. Keep your sales receipt for proof of purchase to obtain warranty parts and service and attach it here. Record the serial number and model numbers located on the bottom of the camcorder. Model No: Serial No: Purchase Date: Purchased From: _______________________________ CC4352 _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ i Assistance We want to make sure you enjoy your new camcorder. If you have any questions, call: Camcorder Exchange Warranty...........800-283-6503 (pages 74-75) Customer Service...................................800-336-1900 (page 73) Accessories............................................. 800-338-0376 (pages 59-62) Table of Contents Safety Information ............................. ii First Time Operation ......................... 3 Assistance ....................................... 3 Unpacking the Camcorder and Accessories .................................. 3 Adapter/Charger ...................... 12 Attaching ............................. 12 Removing ............................. 12 Powering Your Camcorder .. 12 Using the Battery ..................... 13 Charging .............................. 13 Attaching ............................. 14 Removing ............................. 14 Battery Level Indicator ........ 15 Battery Care ......................... 16 Battery Storage .................... 16 Battery Safety Precautions ... 16 Care and Storage .................. 16 Safety Precautions ............... 16 Car Cord Adapter .................... 17 Using Videocassettes ........................ 18 Erase Protection ­ Safety Tab ....... 18 Recording and Playback Speed and Times .................................. 18 Insert and Remove Cassettes ........ 19 Cassette Care and Storage ............. 19 Setting the Time and Date ............. 20 To Correct the Date or Time .... 20 Charging the Built-in Clock Battery ....................... 21 LCD Monitor or Viewfinder Displays ..................................... 21 Recording Time and Date ............. 21 AUTO Date ............................. 21 Auto TITLE ............................. 21 Date ......................................... 21 Selecting Display .......................... 21 Recording ......................................... 22 Using the LCD Monitor ................ 22 Using the Viewfinder .................... 23 Eyepiece Focus Control .......... 23 Adjusting the Viewfinder ........ 23 LCD Monitor or Viewfinder Displays ..................................... 24 AE:60 (Auto Exposure) Shutter Speed ....................... 24 Battery Level Indicator............ 24 Digital Effects (ZM:2) ............. 24 Fade Indicator .......................... 24 INDEX Indicator ..................... 25 Status Displays ........................ 25 1 Table of Contents Tape Counter with Memory Stop ....................... 25 Tape Warnings (TAPE, NO TAPE, and TAPE END) 25 Time and Date Display ............ 25 Tape-Remaining Indicator ....... 25 Zoom Indicators ...................... 25 DISPLAY Button .......................... 26 Microphone ................................... 26 Quick Review Feature ................... 26 Auto Shot Feature ......................... 27 Auto Focus .................................... 27 Macro Focus .................................. 27 Tape-Remaining Display ............... 27 Electronic Indexing ....................... 28 Zooming ........................................ 29 Using the Zoom Buttons ......... 29 Zoom Level Indicator in LCD Monitor or Viewfinder 29 Using the Instant Zoom Button (INST. ZOOM) ..................... 29 Instant Zoom Display in LCD Monitor or Viewfinder 29 I. ZOOM .................................. 29 Digital Effects ............................... 30 Selecting a Digital Effect ........ 30 LCD Monitor or Viewfinder Displays ................................ 30 16X9 Mode .............................. 31 16X9 Display in LCD Monitor or Viewfinder 31 Negative Mode ........................ 32 Digital Zooming ...................... 32 Mosaic Mode ........................... 33 Mirror Mode ............................ 33 Fading In and Out of Scenes ......... 34 Selecting a Type of Fade ......... 34 Fade In ..................................... 35 Fade Out .................................. 35 2 Tape Counter ................................. 36 Using the Memory-Stop Feature ... 36 Camera Edit Feature ..................... 37 Creating a Title .............................. 39 Correcting an Error .................. 39 Chart of Characters .................. 39 Recording a Title ..................... 40 Recording Tips .............................. 41 Travel Tips .................................... 41 To Play Back a Tape ........................ 43 Playback Features ........................ 44 Tape Positioning ...................... 44 Visual Searching ...................... 44 Stop-Action Pause ................... 44 Playback on a TV/VCR with A/V jacks .............................. 46 Playback Operation ....................... 47 Copying Tapes on Your VCR ........ 47 Viewing What the Camcrder is Seeing .................................... 47 Playback Operation ....................... 49 Normal TV Viewing ...................... 49 Troubleshooting ............................... 58 Cleaning the Camcorder ............... 62 Cleaning the Lens .................... 62 Clean the LCD Monitor ........... 62 Cleaning the Viewfinder .......... 62 Proper Care and Storage .......... 63 Things to Avoid ............................. 63 Specifications ................................ 64 Customer Assistance and Service ... 65 Warranty Information .................... 66 Product Registration ....................... 67 Index ................................................. 68 First Time Operation First-Time Operation This section describes 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 First Time Operation Accessories............................................. 800-338-0376 Assistance Unpacking the Camcorder and Accessories 1. Unpacking 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: LEAD-ACID BATTERY. MUST BE DISPOSED OF PROPERLY. Rechargeable 10-Volt Battery Stock No. EP096FS Model CC4352 Shoulder Strap Stock No. 227327 or Stock No. 241305 POW ER CHA RGE AC Adapter/Charger: Stock No. 241044 DC Cable: Stock No. 233328 Caution: Do not use this adapter/ charger for any purpose other than charging the EP096FS or EP096FL battery pack or supplying power to the camcorder. (continued on next page) 3 First-Time Operation 2. Attaching the Adapter and Charger. To AC 120V, 50/60 Hz POWE R CHAR GE DC OUTPUT Jack Adapter/ Charger DC Cable DC IN 9.6V Jack Since the battery must be charged before it can be used the first time, attach the adapter/charger to the camcorder. 1. Attach one end of the adapter/ charger's DC cable to the DC OUTPUT jack on the side of the adapter/charger. 2. Attach the other end of the cable to the DC IN 9.6V jack on the camcorder. 3. Plug the adapter/charger's plug into an operating outlet. 4. Details are on page 12. 3. Adjusting the Handstrap, Removing the Lens Cap, and Attaching it to the Camcorder. POWE R CHAR GE Lens Cap on Handstrap Handstrap 1. Open the handstrap, insert your hand, and adjust the handstrap to fit your hand. 4 2. Remove the lens cap and attach it to the handstrap as shown. First-Time Operation 4. Inserting a Tape. STOP/EJECT Button Safety Tab Tape Windows Cassette Holder Cassette Door Press Here to Close 1. Press STOP/EJECT to open the cassette compartment. 2. Insert the cassette with the safety tab facing up and the tape windows facing out. 3. Press the cassette down gently until it locks into place, and close the cassette compartment door. 4. Details are on page 19. 5. Turning on the Camcorder. CAMERA/OFF/VCR Switch Note: If you want the date and time displayed on your recordings, you must set it. See Date and Time Display on pages 20-21. · Press and hold the small button on the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch while you slide it to CAMERA. The camcorder enters recordpause. · The position of this switch tells the camcorder whether you want to record (CAMERA), turn the power off (OFF), or play back tapes (VCR). · The camcorder automatically turns off if it remains in recordpause for five minutes. Place the switch to OFF and then back to CAMERA. (continued on next page) 5 First-Time Operation Electronic Viewfinder (Grasp here to move.) Eyepiece Eyepiece Focus Control OPEN Button Bright Control Shoulder Extension Pad LCD Monitor 6. Use the LCD Monitor or Viewfinder to See What's Recording. You can watch what you're recording on the LCD monitor or in the black-andwhite viewfinder. When you open the LCD monitor more than 45º, the viewfinder automatically turns off. When you close the LCD monitor, the viewfinder automatically turns on. When you extend the LCD monitor 90º and rotate it all the way around (screen side facing toward the person you're recording), both the viewfinder and the LCD monitor show what's being recorded. Use the LCD Monitor 1. Unfold the shoulder extension pad. 2. Press the OPEN button to open the LCD monitor. Make sure the monitor is open at least 45º. The viewfinder automatically turns off. 3. Rotate the monitor around only when it is open 90º. When you rotate the monitor 90º or more, the image becomes a mirror image and the viewfinder turns on. 4. To adjust the brightness of the image in the monitor, turn the bright control. 5. Fit the shoulder extension pad to your shoulder for convenient viewing using the LCD monitor. 6 Use the Viewfinder 1. Make sure the monitor is closed and locked. If the monitor is open more than 45º, the viewfinder automatically turns off. 2. Grasp the viewfinder and rotate it horizontally. 3. Pull the viewfinder out from the camcorder and rotate the eyepiece into a comfortable viewing position. Caution: Pulling on the eyepiece might cause damage to the eyepiece or camcorder. 4. Turn the eyepiece focus control to adjust the focus of the viewfinder for your vision. First-Time Operation REC/PAUSE Button 7. Start and stop recording. · Press and release the REC/PAUSE button to start recording. REC appears in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor, when the camcorder is recording. · Press and release the REC/PAUSE button again to stop recording. The camcorder is now in the record-pause mode ( appears in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor when the camcorder is in record-pause). (continued on next page) 7 First-Time Operation CAMERA/ OFF/VCR Switch REW/ REVIEW Button PLAY Button REC/PAUSE Button 8. Play back what you have recorded. 1. Press the REC/PAUSE button to pause recording. 2. Press and hold the small button on the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch while you slide it to VCR. 3. Press REW/REVIEW to rewind the tape. 4. Press PLAY to play back the tape. 5. Press STOP/EJECT when you are finished playing back the tape. Details on LCD monitor and viewfinder playback are on pages 42-43. 8 9. Set the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch to OFF to turn off the camcorder. 10. Close the LCD monitor and replace the lens cap. Caution: Make sure the LCD monitor is open 90º before rotating it back into position for closing. First-Time Operation 11. Review camcorder's operating controls. DISPLAY Button RESET Button DATE/TIME Button TITLER Button CAMERA/ OFF/VCR Switch REW (Rewind)/REVIEW Button (Also ­ Button) PLAY Button F.FWD (Fast Forward) Button (Also + Button) STOP/EJECT Button (Also EDIT-ADV Button) Microphone Lens Lens Hood Reset Switch (See Trouble Checks for details.) VIDEO, AUDIO OUT, and RF DC OUT Jacks (Located Behind Small Cover) (continued on next page) 9 First-Time Operation 11. Review camcorder's operating controls. (continued) Built-In Speaker LCD Monitor OPEN Button Bright Control Volume Control Attach Rechargeable Battery Here Attach Adapter/ Charger's DC Cord Here INST. (Instant) ZOOM Button FADE Button DIGITAL EFFECTS Button Shoulder Extension Pad Viewfinder Eyepiece Focus Control BRIGHT and FOCUS Controls (See Trouble Checks for details.) Shoulder Strap Attachment Ring BATTERY EJECT Button REC/PAUSE Button Power Zoom Buttons (W and T) Also TRACKING Buttons Handstrap with Lens Cap Holder DC IN 9.6V Jack Shoulder Strap Attachment Ring Cassette Door (Press here to close.) 10 Included Accessories 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 1. Unfasten one end of the shoulder strap from the buckle. Make sure you leave the buckle on the strap. Buckle 3. Thread the end of the strap back through the buckle making sure it is threaded over the outer strap. Make sure the strap is not twisted. 2. Thread one end of the shoulder strap through one of the shoulder strap rings as shown below. Shoulder Strap Attachment Ring 4. Repeat steps 1-3 to attach the other end of the strap. 5. Pull on the straps and make sure they are securely fastened before using the shoulder strap to support your camcorder. Shoulder Strap Attachment Ring Cautions: When carrying the camcorder with the shoulder strap, rotate the viewfinder up to its original position. If the monitor is open, close and lock it. This helps prevent possible damage to the viewfinder or monitor from bumping against your body as you move. Make sure the shoulder strap is firmly attached before using it to carry the camcorder. 11 Power Your Camcorder Use the Adapter/Charger to Camcorder Camcorder Powering Your Power Your The adapter/charger attaches to the camcorder and lets you power your camcorder directly from standard household power. The adapter/charger operates on 120 volts, 50/60 Hz, and can be used to power the camcorder or recharge the battery. Caution: Do not attempt to use a "power converter" to use your AC adapter/ charger on a power source other than 120 volts, 50/60 Hz, or the adapter/charger and camcorder may be damaged. If you wish to operate the AC adapter/charger on a power source other than 120 volts, 50/60 Hz, use only a transformer-type power converter. Do not use "solid-state" or "switching-type" power converters. They will damage your AC adapter/charger. An optional CPS014, shown on page 51, is designed for use on 100-240 volts, 50/60 Hz. To AC 120V, 50/60 Hz POWER Indicator POWE R CHAR GE DC IN 9.6V Jack DC OUTPUT Jack Adapter/ Charger DC Cable Caution: Do not use this adapter/charger for any other purpose other than charging the EP096FS or EP096FL battery pack or supplying power to the camcorder. Attach Adapter/Charger Adapter/Charger end of the adapter/ 1. Attach one charger's DC cable to the DC Attaching OUTPUT jack on the adapter/charger. 2. Attach the other end of the cable to Removing the DC IN 9.6V jack on the camcorder. 3. Plug the adapter/charger's plug into an operating outlet. The POWER indicator on the adapter/charger lights when it is properly connected. Notes: The adapter/charger cannot charge the battery and operate the camcorder at the same time. If you connect both, the adapter/charger powers the camcorder. Remove the adapter/ charger's cable from the DC OUTPUT jack to charge the battery. When using the adapter/charger to power the camcorder, the battery level indicator might display . This indicator is used for battery operation and has no meaning when using the adapter/charger to power the camcorder. Remove Adapter/Charger 1. Unplug the adapter/charger from the wall outlet. 2. Remove the DC cable from the adapter/charger and camcorder. 12 Power Your Camcorder Use the Battery to Power Your Camcorder Charge the Battery Using the Battery Charging The battery must be charged before it can be used the first time. Initial charging takes approximately two hours. The camcorder's operating time depends on how often you turn the power on and off and how much you use the monitor, zoom, and pause. To conserve battery power, turn the camcorder off during recording breaks. To AC 120V, 50/60 Hz Rechargeable Battery (Hold battery flush and slide down.) WARNING; LEAD ACID BATTERY. MUST BE DISPOSED OF PROPERLY. Align Arrows Adapter/ Charger CHARGE Indicator Caution: When a battery is attached to the adapter/charger, do not turn them upside down. The battery might fall off and be damaged or cause injury. Charge the Battery If the DC cable is attached to the DC OUTPUT jack on the adapter/charger, remove it. 1. Align reference mark on battery with mark on adapter/charger. 2. Hold the battery flush against the adapter/charger and slide it in the direction of the arrow. 3. Plug adapter/charger into nearest AC outlet (120V, 50/60Hz). 4. If the battery is properly connected, the adapter/charger's CHARGE indicator lights. Note: Your battery will provide better service if you charge it before and after use and store it at room temperature. 5. Remove the charged battery by sliding it up and off the adapter/charger. 6. Attach the charged battery to the camcorder as shown on the next page. 13 Power Your Camcorder Use the Battery to Power Your Camcorder (continued) CAMERA/ OFF/VCR Switch BATTERY EJECT Button Rechargeable Battery Hold Battery Flush and Slide Down Attaching Attaching the Charged Battery If the DC cable is attached to the camcorder, remove it before attaching the battery. 1. Align the reference arrow on the battery to the arrow on the back of the camcorder. 2. Hold the battery flush against the camcorder while you slide it down in the direction of the arrow. Removing 3. Press and hold the small button on the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch while you set it to CAMERA. Removing the Battery 1. Set the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch to OFF. 2. Press and hold the BATTERY EJECT button while removing the battery. ATTENTION: THE RECHARGABLE BATTERY CONTAINED IN THIS PRODUCT IS RECYCLABLE. AT THE END OF ITS USEFUL LIFE, UNDER VARIOUS STATE LAWS, IT MAY BE ILLEGAL TO DISPOSE OF THIS BATTERY IN THE MUNICIPAL WASTE STREAM. CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL SOLID WASTE OFFICIALS FOR DETAILS IN YOUR AREA FOR RECYCLING OPTIONS OR PROPER DISPOSAL. RE LE AD TU RN RECYCLE Pb 14 Power Your Camcorder Use the Battery to Power Your Camcorder (continued) Battery Level Indicator The battery level indicator appears in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor and shows you the amount of power in the rechargeable battery. Battery Level Indicator Display in Viewfinder or on the LCD Monitor Note: If you can't see the battery level display, press DISPLAY. Notes: When you record using the rechargeable battery, the battery level indicator still flashes to warn you of low battery power even if you do not have the battery level indicator displayed. The battery level indicator isn't recorded on the tape. The battery level indicator has no meaning when you use the adapter/charger or optional car cord to power the camcorder. · When appears, the battery is fully charged. · As the power is used and appear. · When the battery power is almost gone, flashes in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. Recharge the battery or use the adapter/charger before continuing to use the camcorder. Set the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch to OFF to turn off the camcorder before replacing the battery. Cautions: When a battery reaches empty during use, the camcorder turns off. The battery should still have enough reserve power to eject the cassette when you press STOP/EJECT. If the camcorder does not eject the cassette when you press STOP/EJECT, do not force the cassette door open. This will damage your camcorder. Before attempting to eject the cassette, power the camcorder with the adapter/ charger or recharge the battery. 15 Power Your Camcorder Use the Battery to Power Your Camcorder (continued) Care and Storage Battery Care · Your battery will provide better service and longer performance if you charge if before and after use, and store it at normal room temperature. · The battery should be charged at a temperature of 32ºF-95ºF (0ºC-35ºC) to prevent damage. · Do not operate the battery at temperatures below 14ºF (-10ºC) or above 95ºF Safety Precautions damage the (35ºC). You might battery if you use it at temperatures above 122ºF (50ºC). Operation time decreases at extremely low temperatures. · After repeated chargings and use the operation time decreases. When the operation time becomes too short to be useful, it is time to replace the battery. Battery Storage · Store the battery at normal room temperature. · Lead acid batteries discharge if not used. Recharge the battery at least once ever six months or you may not be able to recharge it. · A battery stored for long periods might not supply power for the specified time. Additional rechargings might help restore the battery's operation time. Battery Safety Precautions · Batteries being recharged that have not been used for an extended period may continue to charge after the normal time. Do not charge a battery for more than 24 hours. · If the CHARGE indicator on the adapter/charger starts flashing, remove the battery, and reattach it. If after several attempts, the indicator continues to flash, your battery cannot take a charge and must be replaced. · Throwing the battery into a fire or exposing the battery to excessive heat ­ over 149ºF (65ºC) could be hazardous. 16 · Do not short the battery's terminals. · Allow the battery to cool down before attaching it to the adapter/charger. The CHARGE indicator will not light and the battery will not charge if you attach a hot battery. · Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the battery. There are no userserviceable parts inside. · Use the battery only with specified AC adapter/chargers and camcorders. · If leakage from a damaged battery contacts your skin or clothing, wash it off immediately with running water. Power Your Camcorder Use the RCA Optional Car Cord AdapterCar Cord Adapter The optional DCC096 car cord shown on page 50 allows you to power your camcorder from the cigarette lighter socket of a car, truck, or RV. It converts 12-volts to a 9.6-volt output. Note: Consult the installation and operating instructions enclosed with the DCC096 for complete operating instructions. Caution: The DCC096 car cord is designed to be used only with vehicles having 12-volt negative ground electrical systems. Warning: To avoid possible damage to the camcorder, use only the DCC096 car cord. It has positive tip polarity and is capable of converting 12 volts to 9.6 volts. Use the DCC096 Car Cord Adapter Cigarette Lighter Socket Optional Car Cord (DCC096) DC IN 9.6V Jack 1. Set the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch to OFF to turn off the camcorder. 2. If the battery or DC cable is attached to the camcorder, remove it. 3. Insert the small plug on the car cord to the DC IN 9.6V jack located on the back of the camcorder. 4. Take the vehicle's cigarette lighter out of the socket. 5. Insert the car cord's cigarette lighter plug into the vehicle's cigarette lighter socket. 6. To turn on the camcorder, press and hold the small button on the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch while you set it to CAMERA. Notes: The vehicle does not have to be running for the camcorder to operate from the DC car cord. The battery level indicator has no meaning when you use the car cord to power the camcorder. 17 Videocassettes Make sure you select good quality tapes for 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. If a snowy picture or no-picture condition persists, consider the use of a dry chemical nonabrasive head-cleaning tape. Be sure to follow the directions with the headcleaning kit carefully. Improper use of a head cleaner might damage your camcorder. Using Videocassettes Erase Protection ­ Safety Tab You can use your videocassettes over and over again. To erase a previous recording, just record over it. Safety Tab To prevent accidental erasure, break off the tab. To record on the tape again, cover the hole with vinyl tape. Recording and Playback Speed and Times The camcorder records and plays back in VHS standard speed (SP). Listed below are the maximum recording times for popular VHS cassettes. CASSETTE T-60 T-120 T-160 T-180 RECORDING TIME 60 Min. 2 Hrs. 2 Hrs., 40 Min. 3 Hrs. 18 Videocassettes Insert and Remove Cassettes Caution: Insert the cassette only one way with the tape wheel facing up and the tape windows facing out. The cassette should slide easily into the holder. Gently push the cassette down until it locks into place. STOP/ EJECT Button Safety Tab Tape Windows Press here to close. 1. Attach a power source to the camcorder. 2. Press the STOP/EJECT button. The cassette holder opens automatically. 3. Insert the cassette with the tape wheel facing up and tape windows facing out. Gently push the cassette down until it locks into place. 4. Gently close the cassette holder with your hand. Cassette Care and Storage · 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 might damage your cassettes. · Keep the cassette away from strong magnetic fields such as electric motors and other devices. · 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 might jam and/or damage your camcorder. · Break off the safety tab to prevent accidental erasure of your recording. 19 Date and Time Display Setting the Time and Date You must set the correct date and time before it can be displayed and recorded on your tapes. The built-in clock cell must be charged as described on the next page. NOTE: If you leave the camcorder on for 10 minutes without a cassette inserted when the date has not been set or the builtin clock battery is dead, the camcorder demonstration mode will start. To cancel the demonstration mode, disconnect power from the camcorder and reconnect it, or insert a cassette. DATE/TIME Button CAMERA/ OFF/VCR Switch REW/ REVIEW Button F.FWD Button STOP/EJECT Button 1. Attach a power supply to the camcorder. 2. Press and hold the small button on the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch while you set it to CAMERA. 3. Press the DATE/TIME button to display the date and time on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder. A flashing cursor lets you know which part of the display you are setting. If the flashing cursor does not appear, press and hold DATE/TIME and then press STOP/EJECT. 4. Repeatedly press the F.FWD or REW/ REVIEW until the correct month appears. Press and hold the button to advance the digits faster. 5. When the correct month is displayed, press STOP/EJECT. The cursor moves to the next part of the display. 6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 to set the correct month, day, year, hour, minute(s), and AM/PM. 7. After setting AM or PM, press the DATE/TIME button to remove the flashing cursor and start the internal clock. To Correct the Date or Time To correct the date or time, press and hold the DATE/TIME button and then press STOP/EJECT. The display and the flashing cursor appear. Use STOP/ EJECT, F.FWD, and REW/REVIEW to correct the time or date. Press DATE/ TIME to remove the flashing cursor and start the clock. 1 12:00AM 1/1999 20 Date and Time Display Record the Time and Date, AUTO Date, Auto TITLE, or Date Recording Time and Date The timeAUTO Date and date, AUTO date, auto TITLE, date only, or no date can be recorded on Auto TITLE your tape. Whenever one of these displays appear, it will be recorded. Date LCD Monitor or Viewfinder Displays Repeatedly Press DATE/TIME 10:25AM 11/18/1999 AUTO 11/18/1999 Date and Time Display AUTO Date Display TITLE 11/18/1999 No Display AUTO Title Display 11/18/1999 Date Display Selecting Display Selecting the Display to Record 1. Repeatedly press DATE/TIME to select the display you want to record. · Date and Time Display: The date and time will be displayed and recorded. AUTO Date: The date is · automatically recorded for approximately 10 seconds at the beginning of the recording. TITLE: The date and title you have created are displayed and recorded for approximately 10 seconds at the beginning of the recording. · Date Display: The date is displayed and recorded. · No Display: No display is displayed or recorded. · Charging the Built-in Clock Battery The camcorder has a built-in rechargeable battery that must be charged approximately every two months. Cautions: If this battery is not charged every two 1. Attach a power supply and set the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch to OFF. 2. Leave the power supply attached at least 24 hours. months, it will over-discharge and shorten its useful life. Do not attempt to replace this battery. Take the camcorder to an authorized RCA Service Center. 21 Recording Use the LCD Monitor or Viewfinder to See What You Record You can watch what you are recording on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder. When the LCD monitor is open more than approximately 45º, the viewfinder automatically turns off. Close the LCD monitor and the viewfinder automatically turns on. Use the LCD Monitor Recording Using the LCD Monitor Cautions: Do not force the monitor to open farther than 90º. This will damage the monitor and/or the camcorder. Open the monitor 90º before rotating it up or down or reversing its direction. Make sure the monitor is not rotated or tilted before closing it. Do not touch the LCD monitor with your fingers. Use a soft cloth to clean the monitor. Monitor can open up to 90º. Open monitor 90º before rotating it. OPEN Button Bright Control When carrying the camcorder with the shoulder strap, close and lock the monitor. This helps prevent possible damage to the monitor from bumping against your body as you move. monitor completely around so the front of the monitor faces the person you're recording.The viewfinder turns on automatically when you turn the monitor all the way around. 3. To adjust the brightness of the image on the monitor, turn the bright control. This does not affect the brightness of the recording you are making. 4. When you are finished, carefully rotate the monitor back into position and close and lock it into place. Note: When recording on a bright sunny day, the LCD monitor might be hard to see. Use the viewfinder. 1. Press the OPEN button and open the LCD monitor. Make sure the monitor is open 90º. The viewfinder automatically turns off. 2 Rotate the monitor. · Tilt the monitor down to record from a high angle, such as over a crowd. · Tilt the monitor up to record from a low angle, such as when you are kneeling. · To enable both you and the person you're recording to see what's being recorded, rotate the LCD 22 Recording Using 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 45º, the viewfinder automatically turns off. Viewfinder Cautions: Do not pull on the eyepiece. Do not force the eyepiece to rotate completely around. This might damage the viewfinder and/or the camcorder. When carrying the camcorder with the shoulder strap, put the viewfinder back in its original position. This helps prevent possible damage to the viewfinder from bumping against your body as you move. Adjusting the Viewfinder Eyepiece Adjusting the Viewfinder for Convenient Viewing For convenient viewing, rotate the viewfinder horizontally, pull it out from the camcorder, and adjust the eyepiece. Eyepiece Focus Control Eyepiece Focus Control The eyepiece focus control lets you set the focus of the viewfinder for your vision. If you wear eyeglasses, you probably can operate the camcorder without them. It is easiest to set the correct focus by focusing on one of the viewfinder's onscreen displays. Look through the viewfinder and adjust the eyepiece focus control for your vision. The eyepiece focus control does not affect the focus of the picture actually recorded by the camcorder. 23 Recording LCD Monitor or Viewfinder Displays AE:60 ZM:2 I.ZOOM T NO TAPE 0000M INDEX W REC 10:30AM 11/18/1999 AE:60 (Auto Exposure) Shutter Speed Press the DISPLAY button to display the shutter speed selected by the camcorder. Battery Level Indicator ( ) · · · · Press the DISPLAY button to display the amount of time left on the rechargeable battery. Details are on page 15. Digital Effects (ZM:2) Press the DISPLAY button to display the indicator for the digital effect mode selected. Press the DIGITAL EFFECTS button to select a digital effect mode. · Select 16X9 to make a recording that you're going to play back on a 16X9 TV. · Select NEGPOS to reverse the image from positive to negative. Select ZM:2 to activate the extended zoom mode ­ wide angle to 240 times with instant zoom. ZOOM appears when you zoom over 16 times. Select MIRROR to record a symmetric image on the left and right. Select MOSAIC to record a mosaic image. Details are on pages 30-33. ) Fade Indicator ( Press the DISPLAY button to display the indicator for the fade mode selected. Press the FADE button to select a fade. · Select to white fade. · Select to wipe fade. · Select to zoom fade. · Select B/W to black-and-white fade. · Details are on pages 34-35. 24 Recording INDEX Indicator Press the DISPLAY button to display this indicator when the camcorder is placing an index mark on the tape. Details are on page 28. Status Displays The following displays appear to tell you the status of the camcorder. · The REC indicator appears during recording. · The indicator appears when the camcorder is fast-forwarding. indicator appears when the · The camcorder is rewinding. · The indicator appears during record-pause. Tape Counter with Memory Stop (0000M) Press the DISPLAY button to display the tape counter. The tape counter helps locate segments of tape. · · Memory stop is turned on whenever the tape counter appears. Details are on page 36. · TAPE END flashes when there is approximately five minutes of recording time left on the tape. TAPE END briefly appears when you reach the end of the cassette when you're recording. · Time and Date Display Press the DATE/TIME button to display the time and date, AUTO date, auto TITLE, date only, or no date when the camcorder is in record-pause. · These displays are recorded on the tape when they appear in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. Details are on pages 20-21. ) · Tape-Remaining Indicator ( Press the DISPLAY button to display the tape-remaining indicator. This display shows the approximate amount of tape left for recording or playback. Details are on page 27. Zoom Indicators Zoom ( ), ZOOM, and I.ZOOM Indicators · The zoom indicator ( ) appears when you use the power zoom buttons (T and W). ZOOM appears when you zoom with the T button more than 16 times. I.ZOOM appears when you press the INST. ZOOM button to immediately enlarge the picture 1.5 times. Details are on page 29. Tape Warnings (TAPE, NO TAPE, and TAPE END) · · TAPE flashes when you try to record with the safety tab removed. TAPE flashes when a damaged tape is inserted. Remove the tape and replace it with a new one. NO TAPE flashes when you try to record with no cassette inserted. · · · · 25 Recording DISPLAY Button REW/REVIEW Button Microphone Zoom Buttons (T and W) CAMERA/OFF/ VCR Switch DISPLAY Button The DISPLAY button lets you remove the battery level, steady pix, tape speed, tape counter with memory stop, remaining tape display, index, fade, zoom and digital effects indicators from the viewfinder or LCD monitor. · Press DISPLAY to remove the indicators. · Press DISPLAY again to display the indicators. Microphone The microphone picks up the sound during a recording. It is more sensitive to sounds coming from the direction the lens is pointed. Quick Review Feature Press and release REW/REVIEW when the camcorder is in record-pause to review the last few seconds of a recording. The CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch must be set to CAMERA. The camcorder will play back the last few seconds of the recording, return the tape to its previous position, and return to record-pause. 26 Recording Auto ShotTM Feature The camcorder automatically adjusts focus, white balance, iris, shutter speed, and light according to the recording conditions. 2. Position the subject in the center of the scene. Notes: Zooming is not possible when using macro-focus. To change the size of the subject, move the camcorder lens closer or farther away from it. For best results increase illumination when recording with macro-focus. Auto Focus The camcorder focuses on the subject in the center of the LCD monitor or viewfinder. Auto focus operates on the telephoto (T) side from approximately 2-1/2 feet to infinity. It operates on the wide-angle (W) side from 3/8 inch from the lens surface (macro-focus) to infinity. Note: When the displays appear, the AE indicator for the shutter speed selected by the camcorder (1/60, 1/100, 1/120, 1/180, 1/250, 1/350, 1/500, 1/750, 1/1000, 1/1500, 1/2000, or 1/4000) appears in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. Tape-Remaining Display The tape-remaining display shows the approximate amount of tape remaining for recording or playback. The following conditions may prevent auto focus from operating properly. · Recording a subject through a window. · Recording a subject that has a close foreground and a far background. · Recording two subjects at different distances that overlap. · Subject that isn't in center of scene. · Recording in low-light situations. · Recording a scene with fast motions, like a tennis swing. Tape-Remaining Display in LCD Monitor or Viewfinder · Press DISPLAY to display the taperemaining indicator in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. The camcorder takes approximately ten seconds to calculate the tape remaining when you first start playing or recording a tape. "_ _ _ _ _ _" appears while the camcorder calculates the amount of tape-remaining. Once tape-remaining has been calculated, it automatically updates and is readily available as long as the same tape remains in the camcorder. (Continued on next page) · Macro Focus The macro-focus feature lets you focus on objects as close as 3/8 inch from the camcorder lens. 1. Press and hold zoom button W until the lens is completely zoomed out. 27 Recording · When appears, all or most of the tape remains. and appear as the tape is being used. · When the tape is almost at its end, TAPE END flashes in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. · Electronic Indexing Each time you begin recording (after the camcorder has been turned off for at least four hours), the camcorder automatically records an index mark at the beginning of the new recording. 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 your VCR Owner's Manual for index playback instructions. When the DISPLAY button is pressed so the displays appear, INDEX appears briefly to let you know the camcorder is recording an index mark. Note: The camcorder does not record index marks every time you stop and start recording. An index mark is recorded only once ­ at the start of each day's recording session (or whenever the camcorder has been turned off for four hours). INDEX INDEX Display in LCD Monitor or Viewfinder 28 Recording Zooming Press one of the zoom buttons to zoom in and out for close ups or wide-angle shots. Instant zooming immediately magnifies the picture 1.5 times. Zoom Buttons (T and W) INST. ZOOM Button Using the Zoom Buttons (T and W) 1. To zoom in or out from wide angle to 72 times, press zoom button T or W. · To move the lens in the telephoto (close-up) direction, press T. · To move the lens in the wide angle direction, press W. When DISPLAY is pressed so the displays appear, the zoom level indicator appears in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor during normal zooming. ZOOM appears when you zoom more than 16 times. Using the Instant Zoom Button (INST. ZOOM) 1. To magnify the subject 1.5 times, from any normal zoom position, press the INST. ZOOM button. When DISPLAY is pressed so the displays appear, I. ZOOM appears in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor during instant zooming. I. ZOOM ZOOM T W Zoom Level Indicator in LCD Monitor or Viewfinder Instant Zoom Display in LCD Monitor or Viewfinder 29 Recording Digital Effects The camcorder has a digital processor that allows you to record using five special digital effects: 16X9, a negative image, 240 times digital zoom (with instant zoom), a symmetric mirror image, or a mosaic image. Each effect is described in detail on the next pages. Selecting a Digital Effect 1. Make sure the displays appear in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. If they do not, press the DISPLAY button. 2. Repeatedly press the DIGITAL EFFECTS button. The indicator for the digital effect you select appears in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. DIGITAL EFFECTS Button LCD Monitor or Viewfinder Displays Repeatedly Press DIGITAL EFFECTS 16X9 NEGPOS 16 X 9 Mode Negative Mode ZM:2 Normal Picture (No Display) Digital Zoom Mode MOSAIC MIRROR Mosaic Mode Mirror Mode 30 Recording Digital Effects (continued) 16X9 Mode The camcorder has a wide recording mode that lets you make recordings compatible with the 16X9 format. When 16X9 is activated, the camcorder records black bars at the top and bottom of the picture to produce the wide-screen effect. This is also known as "letterbox" recording. New 16x9 TV Screen Caution: Do not use this mode unless you have a compatible 16 X 9 TV. When played on a regular TV, black bars appear in the picture. Standard Shape TV Screen Recording in 16X9 Mode 1. Place the camcorder in record pause. Make sure the displays appear in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. If they do not, press DISPLAY. 2. Repeatedly press the DIGITAL EFFECTS button until 16X9 appears. 3. Press REC/PAUSE to start recording. 4. To turn off 16X9 recording, press REC/PAUSE to pause recording, and repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS until no digital effects display appears. 16X9 16X9 Display in LCD Monitor or Viewfinder 16X9 Mode Normal Mode 31 Recording Digital Effects (continued) Negative Mode The camcorder has a negative mode that lets you turn the image negative. 1. Place the camcorder in record-pause. 3. Press REC/PAUSE to start recording. Make sure the displays appears in the 4. To turn off negative recording, press viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. If REC/PAUSE to pause recording, and they do not, press DISPLAY. repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS 2. Repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS until no digital effects display appears. until NEGPOS appears. Negative Mode Normal Mode Digital Zooming The camcorder has digital zooming that allows you to zoom in on a subject with magnification up to 160 times. Normal zooming is up to 72 times. NOTE: This function can magnify an image up to 240 times when instant zoom is used at the same time 1. Place the camcorder in record-pause. Make sure the displays appear in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. If they do not, press DISPLAY. 2. Repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS until ZM:2 appears. Use the zoom buttons to zoom in and out. ZOOM appears when you zoom above 16X. 3. Press REC/PAUSE to start recording. 4. To turn off digital zooming, press REC/PAUSE to pause recording, and repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS until no digital effects display appears. NOTE: As the zoom level increases during digital zooming, the picture will gradually become less sharp. Use the high zoom levels mainly for special effects. Digital Zooming Mode Normal Mode 32 Recording Digital Effects (continued) Mirror Mode The camcorder has a mirror mode that lets you display a symmetric image on the left and right, obtained by placing a mirror at the center of the screen. 1. Place the camcorder in record-pause. Make sure the displays appear in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. If they do not, press DISPLAY. 2. Repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS until MIRROR appears. 3. Press REC/PAUSE to start recording. 4. To turn off mirror recording, press REC/PAUSE to pause recording, and repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS until no digital effects display appears. Mirror Mode Normal Mode Mosaic Mode The mosaic feature lets you add a mosaic effect to your recording. 1. Make sure the displays appear in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. If they do not, press DISPLAY. 2. Repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS until MOSAIC appears. 3. Press REC/PAUSE to start recording. 4. To turn off mosaic recording, press REC/PAUSE to pause recording, and repeatedly press DIGITAL EFFECTS until no digital effects display appears. Note: Mosaic recording cannot be used with digital zooming, instant zooming, or the zoom fade features. Mosaic Mode Normal Mode 33 Recording Fading In and Out of Scenes You can add a professional touch to your recordings when you fade in and out of scenes. Both the picture and sound gradually appear or disappear. The speed of the fade is controlled by the camcorder. FADE Button Selecting a Type of Fade You can select white fade, black, yellow, blue, and green wipe fade, zoom fade, or black-and-white fade. 1. Press REC/PAUSE to pause recording. Make sure the displays appear in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. If they do not, press DISPLAY. 2. Repeatedly press the FADE button. The indicator for the fade you select will appear. · Select (white) to fade in and out to/from a white screen. · Select (black wipe) to fade in and out to/from a black screen. · Select YEL, BLU, GRN (yellow, blue, or green wipe) to fade in and out to/from a yellow, blue, or green screen. · Select (zoom) to fade in and out while zooming. · Select B/W (black-and-white) to fade in and out to/from a black-andwhite picture. · Select no fade indicator if you do not want to fade in or out. Notes: Zoom fade does not operate with MIRROR and MOSAIC special effects modes. Pressing the DIGITAL EFFECTS button turns off the fade mode. Set the digital effect you want, and then set the fade. 34 Recording Fade In and Out of Scenes (continued) LCD Monitor or Viewfinder Displays Repeatedly Press FADE Button White Fade Black Wipe Fade YEL Normal Picture (No Fade) Yellow Wipe Fade B/W BLU Black-and-White Fade Blue Wipe Fade GRN Zoom Fade Green Wipe Fade Fade In 1. Press REC/PAUSE to pause recording. 2. Repeatedly press FADE to select the fade you want to use. Note: The last fade used appears the first time you press FADE. Fade Out 1. During recording, repeatedly press FADE to select a fade. Note: The last fade used appears the first time you press FADE. 3. Press REC/PAUSE to start recording. The picture and sound gradually appears in place of the blank screen. 2. Press REC/PAUSE to stop recording. The picture and sound gradually disappears. 35 Recording Tape Counter The tape counter acts as a handy reference to help you locate tape segments. The memory-stop feature helps locate a certain point on the tape. When the tape counter appears, the tape stops automatically during rewind or fast forward when the tape counter reaches 0000M. DISPLAY Button RESET Button CAMERA/ OFF/VCR Switch REW/ REVIEW Button F.FWD Button STOP/EJECT Button Using the Memory-Stop Feature 1. Press REC/PAUSE to pause recording. Make sure the displays appear in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. If they do not, press DISPLAY. 2. Locate the place on the tape you want to return to, and press RESET to reset the counter to 0000M. 0000M you marked, press the REC/PAUSE button to stop recording or the STOP/ EJECT button to stop playback. 4. Press and hold the small red button while you set the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch to VCR. 5. Press the REW/REVIEW button. The tape rewinds to the counter reading of 0000M. Notes: Press DISPLAY to display or remove the tape counter. Memory stop is turned on whenever the tape counter appears. The camcorder stops rewinding or fast forwarding when the counter reaches 0000M. To continue rewinding or fast forwarding, press the button again. The tape counter automatically resets to 0000M whenever a cassette is inserted. Tape Counter With Memory Stop 3. Continue to record or play the tape. When you want to return to the place 36 Recording Editing Features The camcorder incorporates a complete package of advanced editing features to make it easy and fun to edit your home videos like a professional. The major features are described on the following pages. · Camera Edit · Titler CAMERA/OFF/ VCR Switch REW/REVIEW Button F.FWD Button Camera Edit Feature The camera edit feature allows you to position the tape when the camcorder is in record-pause. Press and hold the small red button on the CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch while you slide it to CAMERA. · Press and hold REW/REVIEW to visually search the recorded tape in reverse. · Press and hold F.FWD to visually search forward on the recorded tape. · Press and hold PLAY to view the recorded tape at normal speed. When you release the button, the camcorder returns to record-pause at that point on the tape. 37 Recording Editing Features (continued) Titler The camcorder's built-in titler can store a title in memory. The created title can be displayed and recorded at any time. The built-in character register contains more than 45 different characters. Your title can contain up to 32 characters on two lines. ­ Button (Also REW/REVIEW Button) + Button (Also F.FWD Button) EDIT-ADV Button (Also STOP/ EJECT Button)