User manual RCA CC6363

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 cordercamcordercamcorder camcordercamcordercamcor dercamcordercamcordercam cordercamcordercamcorder camcordercamcordercamcor dercamcordercamcordercam cordercamcordercamcorder camcordercamcordercamcor dercamcordercamcordercam CC6363 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. ATTENTION RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE 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 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: _______________________________ CC6363 _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ 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 75-76 ) Customer Service...................................800-336-1900 (page 74) Accessories............................................. 800-338-0376 (pages 61-66) Table of Contents First-Time Operation .................. 3 Assistance ..................................... 3 Power Your Camcorder ............. 12 Adapter/Charger .............................. 12 Rechargeable Battery ...................... 13 Charge the Battery ...................... 14 Battery Level Indicator ............... 15 Battery Care and Storage ............ 15 Optional Car Cord Adapter ............. 16 Recording ................................... 24 Time-Remaining Display ................ 24 Select a Tape Length .................. 24 Use the LCD Monitor or Viewfinder to See What You Record .............. 26 Use the LCD Monitor ................. 26 Use the Viewfinder ..................... 27 LCD Monitor and Viewfinder Displays ........................................ 28 AutoShotTM Mode ........................... 32 Five-Second Record Feature ........... 33 Quick Review Feature .................... 33 Camera Edit Feature ....................... 33 Flying Erase Head ........................... 33 MENU/DISPLAY Button ................. 33 Zooming .......................................... 34 Use the Zoom Lever (W and T) . 34 Digital Zooming ......................... 34 Tele Macro Zooming .................. 35 Focusing .......................................... 36 Auto Focus ................................. 36 Manual Focus ............................. 37 1 Date and Time Display ............. 17 Install the Clock Lithium Cell ........ 17 Set the Date and Time ..................... 18 Record AUTO DATE, Date, Time, and Title Displays ............................... 20 Videocassettes ............................. 22 Erase Protection ­ Safety Tab .... 22 Recording and Playback Speeds and Times .................... 22 Insert and Remove Cassettes ...... 23 Cassette Care and Storage .......... 23 Table of Contents White Balance ................................. 38 Auto White Balance ................... 38 Manual White Balance ............... 38 Exposure Control ............................ 40 Manual Exposure ........................ 40 Auto Exposure ............................ 40 Steady PixTM Feature ...................... 41 Fade or Wipe In or Out ................... 42 P. (Program) AE Button .................. 44 16X9 Mode ..................................... 45 Preset Titles ..................................... 46 Select a Language for the Title ... 46 Record a Preset Title .................. 47 Animation Recording ...................... 48 Time-Lapse Recording .................... 50 Demo Mode .................................... 52 Attach the Shoulder Strap ............... 53 Optional Accessories .................. 61 Using the Optional AC088 Tripod ........................................ 63 Order Form for Camcorder Model CC6363 .................................... 65 Trouble Checks .......................... 67 Specifications .............................. 71 Clean the Camcorder ...................... 72 Clean the Camcorder's Lens ........... 72 Clean the Camcorder's LCD Monitor ......................................... 72 Clean the Camcorder's Viewfinder .................................... 72 Proper Care and Storage ................. 73 Things to Avoid ............................... 73 Customer Assistance and Service ...................................... 74 Limited Warranty ...................... 75 Index ........................................... 77 Information to User ................... 81 Playback ..................................... 54 Use the LCD Monitor or Viewfinder for Playback .............. 54 To Play Back a Tape ................... 55 Playback Features .......................... 56 Position the Tape ........................ 56 Visual Search .............................. 56 Stop-Action Pause ...................... 56 Time Counter .............................. 57 Tracking ...................................... 57 TBC (Time Base Corrector) ....... 57 Playback on TV (or VCR) with Audio/Video Inputs ...................... 58 Recording Tips ........................... 60 Traveling Tips ............................ 60 2 First-Time Operation Assistance Operation First-Time This section describes the steps necessary to set up your camcorder to record. Refer to the other sections for detailed operation and feature options. Assistance The toll-free numbers are available to help you with any problem you may encounter. Camcorder Exchange Warranty...............800-283-6503 Customer Service................................... 800-336-1900 Accessories............................................. 800-338-0376 1. Unpack the camcorder and accessories. · Save the packing materials and box in case you ever need to ship or store your camcorder. · The items shown below are packed with your camcorder. If any are missing or appear damaged, contact your dealer immediately. WARNING: NICKEL CADMIUM BATTERY MUST BE RECYCLED OR DISPOSED OF PROPERLY. Model CC6363 Shoulder Strap Part No. ACS091 Rechargeable Nickel Cadmium Battery Part No FB1260 Caution: Do not use this adapter/charger for any purpose other than charging the FB1260, or BB99L battery pack or supplying power to the camcorder. AC Adapter/Charger -- Part No. 242740 and DC Cable -- Part No. 244268 Audio/Video Cable Part No. VH83 Clock Cell 3-Volt Micro Lithium Cell ­ such as CR2025 ­ available from most local drug stores and camera shops. Use of other cells present a risk of fire or explosion. CAUTIONS: Lithium cell must be disposed of properly. Never handle punctured or leaking cell. May cause burns or personal injury. Keep out of the hands of children. Can cause death or injury if swallowed. If swallowed, consult a physician immediately for emergency treatment. The lithium cell used in this device may explode resulting in a fire or chemical burn if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 212°F (100°C), or incinerate. Never use metallic tweezers to hold the cell, and never short circuit the + and ­ sides of the cell. (Continued on next page) 3 First-Time Operation 2. Attach the adapter/charger. To AC 100-240, 50/60 Hz DC In Jack DC Cable Adapter/ Charger DC OUT Jack Since the battery must be charged before it can be used the first time, attach the adapter/charger to the camcorder. · Connect one end of the DC cable to the DC OUT jack on the adapter/charger. · Connect the other end of the DC cable to the DC in jack on the camcorder as shown above. · Plug the adapter/charger's plug into an operating outlet. 3. Adjust the handstrap to fit your hand. · Lift the flap on the handstrap and separate the velcro strip. Handstrap · Insert your hand, adjust the strap to fit snugly, Handstrap Velcro refasten the strap, and Strip (Under Flap) close the flap. LENS COVER Control 4. Rotate LENS COVER control to open lens cover. 4 First-Time Operation 5. Set POWER (CAMERA MAN/CAMERA AUTO/OFF/VCR) switch to CAMERA AUTO. POWER Switch and Indicator · The power indicator lights. · The position of this switch tells the camcorder whether you want to record (CAMERA MAN or CAMERA AUTO), turn the power off (OFF), or play back tapes (VCR). · CAMERA AUTO places the camcorder in the AutoShotTM mode. In the AutoShotTM mode, the focus, exposure, and white balance are automatically controlled by the camcorder. Many of the special effects do not operate in this mode. Details on page 32. · CAMERA MAN allows you to control many of the special features of the camcorder. · The camcorder automatically turns off if it remains in recordpause for five minutes. Set the POWER switch to OFF and then back to CAMERA. (Continued on next page) 5 First-Time Operation 6. Insert a tape. WARNING: Never try to open the door by prying as you could damage the camcorder. Press Here to Close Cassette Compartment Tape Wheel Tape Window EJECT Switch · Open the LCD monitor at least 60° before opening the cassette holder. · Slide the EJECT switch. The cassette holder opens automatically. · Turn the tape wheel on the cassette to remove any slack from the tape. · Insert the cassette with the tape wheel facing up and the tape window facing out. · Press on the area shown above until the cassette holder locks into place. · PAUSE appears when a recordable tape is inserted in the camcorder and the camcorder enters record-pause mode. 7. Select a recording speed. SP/SLP Button Select SP or SLP recording speed. Press and hold the SP/SLP button to select a recording speed. The tape speed you select (SP or SLP) appears in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. · SP ­ Standard play provides the best picture, but the shortest recording time (20 minutes with a TC-20 tape). 6 · SLP ­ Extended play provides three times the recording time as SP (60 minutes with a TC-20 tape). SLP has slightly more picture noise in normal playback. First-Time Operation 8. Use the Monitor or Viewfinder to See What You Record You can see what you record on the color LCD monitor or in the viewfinder. When the LCD monitor is open more than 60°, the viewfinder is automatically turned off. When you close the LCD monitor, the viewfinder is automatically turned on. To enable both you and the person you're recording to see what's being recorded, you can rotate the LCD monitor completely around 105° so the front of the monitor faces the person you're recording. The viewfinder turns on automatically when you turn the LCD monitor all the way around so it faces forward. Electronic Viewfinder Eyepiece Focus Control LCD Monitor Menu PUSH Dial (Also Bright Control) Use the LCD Monitor · Make sure the monitor is open at least 60°. The viewfinder turns off. · You can tilt the monitor 180° up or 90° down for convenient viewing. · Rotate the menu PUSH dial to adjust the brightness of the image in the monitor. Use the Viewfinder · Close the monitor. If the monitor is open more than 60°, the viewfinder turns off. · Adjust the viewfinder for a comfortable viewing position. · Turn the eyepiece focus control to adjust the focus of the viewfinder for your vision. Eyepiece Focus Control 180 ° 180° Electronic Viewfinder (Continued on next page) 7 First-Time Operation 9. Select a tape length. MENU/DISPLAY Button + PUSH ­ POWER Switch and Indicator Menu PUSH Dial (Rotate or Push In) 1. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA MAN. 2. Press the PUSH dial in to display the menu in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. FOCUS EXPOSURE M. W. B. 16 X 9 TAPE LENGTH TITLE DATE/TIME DISP. RETURN AUTO AUTO AUTO OFF T30 TAPE LENGTH T20 T30 T35 T40 EXIT 3. Rotate the menu PUSH dial to highlight TAPE LENGTH. FOCUS EXPOSURE M. W. B. 16 X 9 TAPE LENGTH TITLE DATE/TIME DISP. RETURN AUTO AUTO AUTO OFF T30 5. Rotate the menu PUSH dial to highlight the type of tape you are using. · Select T20 for a tape with 20 minutes or less recording time in SP . · Select T30 for a tape with 30 minutes recording time in SP . · Select T35 for a tape with 35 minutes recording time in SP . · Select T40 for a tape with 40 minutes recording time in SP . 6. Press the menu PUSH dial twice to select the tape length and remove the menus. · Details are on pages 24-25. 4. Press the PUSH dial in to display the TAPE LENGTH menu in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. 8 First-Time Operation LENS COVER Control REW Button STOP Button PLAY/PAUSE Button Thumb Trigger Power Indicator POWER Switch 10. Start and stop recording. · Place the POWER switch in CAMERA AUTO. · Press and release the thumb trigger to start recording. REC appears in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. · Press and release the thumb trigger again to stop recording. The camcorder is now in the recordpause mode. P AUSE appears in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. · Press REW to rewind the tape. · Press PLAY/PAUSE to play back the tape. · Press STOP when you are finished playing back the tape. · Details on LCD monitor and viewfinder playback are on pages 56-57. 12. Set the POWER switch to OFF to turn off the camcorder. The power indicator turns off. 11. Play back what you have recorded. · Set the POWER switch to VCR. 13. Close the LCD monitor and lens cover. (Continued on next page) 9 First-Time Operation 14. Review camcorder operating controls. FADES Button P. (Program) AE Button SEARCH R and F Buttons (Also REW and FF Buttons) STOP Button PLAY/PAUSE Button Menu PUSH Dial (Also Bright Control) EJECT Switch Shoulder Strap Attachment Ring Shoulder Strap Attachment Ring MENU/DISPLAY Button SP/SLP Button (Also COUNTER R/M Button) Eyepiece Focus Control Viewfinder Speaker LCD Monitor Press Here to Close Cassette Door Cassette Compartment 10 First-Time Operation 14. Review camcorder's operating controls. 5SEC. REC Button (Continued) Zoom Lever (Also VOL. +/­ Control) Speaker for Playback STEADY PIX Button Thumb Trigger BATTERY RELEASE Lever Service Port (Located Under Cover) This connector is for use by qualified service personnel only. POWER Switch and Indicator LENS COVER Control Attach Adapter/Charger's DC Cord (DC In Jack Located Under Battery) or Rechargeable Battery Here Lens Handstrap Microphone A (Audio) and V (Video) Jacks (Behind Small Cover) Clock Cell Battery Compartment Threaded Tripod Mount Hole 11 Power the Camcorder Power Your Camcorder Adapter/Charger The adapter/charger attaches to the camcorder and lets you power your camcorder directly from standard household power. The adapter/charger operates on 100-240 volts, 50/60 Hz, so it can be used virtually anywhere in the world to power the camcorder or recharge the battery. To AC 100-240, 50/60 Hz DC In Jack DC Cable Adapter/ Charger DC OUT Jack Attach Adapter/Charger 1. Connect one end of the DC cable to the DC OUT jack on the adapter/ charger. 2. Connect the other end of the DC cable to the DC in jack on the camcorder as shown above. 3. Plug the adapter/charger's plug into the nearest AC outlet (100-240V, 50/60Hz). CAUTION: Do not use this adapter/ charger for any other purpose other than charging the FB1260 or BB99L battery pack or supplying power to 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. Using an Optional Plug Adapter An optional plug adapter might be required in some countries. Optional AC Plug Adapter AC 100-240V 1. Plug the adapter/charger's plug into the AC plug adapter. 2. Plug the AC plug adapter into the AC outlet. 12 Power the Camcorder Rechargeable Battery The battery must be charged as described on the next page before it can be used the first time. Initial charging takes approximately 70 minutes. When fully charged, the battery supplies approximately 80-90 minutes of operating time ­ depending on how much you use the monitor, zoom, and pause. Conserve battery power by turning the camcorder off during recording breaks. Note: Use the small marker switch on the top of the battery to help remind yourself to charge the battery. It has no other purpose. Battery Safety Precautions Do not short the battery's terminals. Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the battery. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Use the battery only with specified adapter/chargers and camcorders. Throwing the battery into a fire or exposing it to excessive heat ­ over 149°F (65°C) could be hazardous. Marker Switch BATTERY RELEASE Lever Attach the Charged Battery If the DC cable is attached to the camcorder, remove it before attaching the battery. Also, install the lithium clock cell before attaching the battery. Details are on page 17. 1. Hook the battery to the side of the camcorder as shown above. 2. Press the battery down until it locks into place. 3. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA. The power indicator lights. Remove the Battery Slide and hold the BATTERY RELEASE lever down while removing the battery. ATTENTION: The EPA certified RBRC® Battery Recycling Seal on the nickelcadmium (Ni-Cd) battery indicates Thomson Consumer Electronics is voluntarily participating in an industry program to collect and recycle these batteries at the end of their useful life, when taken out of service in the United States or Canada. The RBRC® program provides a convenient alternative to placing used Ni-Cd batteries Ni-Cd into the trash or the municipal waste stream, which may be illegal in your area. Please call 1-800-8-BATTERYTM for information on Ni-Cd battery recycling and disposal bans/restrictions in your area. Thomson Consumer Electronics' involvement in this program is part of our commitment to preserving our environment and conserving our natural resources. RB RC RB RC 13 Power the Camcorder Use the Battery to Power Your Camcorder (Continued) Reference Marks Hold Battery Flush and Slide To AC Wall Outlet 100240 Volts, 50/60 Hz. CHG (Charge) Indicator REFRESH Indicator REFRESH Button Adapter/Charger Caution: When a battery is attached to the adapter/charger, do not turn them upside down. The battery may fall off and be damaged or cause injury. Charge the Battery If the DC cable is attached to the DC OUT 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 (100-240V, 50/60Hz). 4. If the battery is properly connected, the CHG indicator flashes. Note: If you try to charge a battery that has not been charged for a long period of time, it may take a few minutes for the CHG indicator to flash. 6. Remove the charged battery by sliding it off the adapter/charger. 7. Attach the charged battery to the camcorder. Use the REFRESH Button The battery provides increased operation time if you "refresh" it after five chargings. The refresh feature "refreshes" the battery by completely discharging it. 1. Attach battery to adapter/charger. 2. Press REFRESH. The REFRESH indicator lights and the battery begins discharging. 3. When discharging is completed, the REFRESH indicator turns off, and the CHG indicator flashes. The battery now charges. 5. After the battery is charged, the CHG indicator stops flashing and lights. 14 Power the Camcorder Use the Battery to Power Your Camcorder (Continued) 4. After the battery is charged, the CHG (charge) indicator stops flashing and lights. 5. Remove the battery from the adapter/ charger. Battery Care and Storage · Recharging takes approximately 70 minutes for the battery depending on its condition. · Refreshing takes approximately 3-1/2 hours for the battery depending on its condition. · After repeated charging and use, operation time gradually decreases. When operation time is too short to be useful, it is time to replace the battery. · If the battery discharging must be stopped in the middle, remove the battery from the adapter/charger before unplugging it from the AC outlet. · If the battery pack becomes too hot, remove it from the charger and let it cool down. · Let a hot battery cool down before attaching it to the AC adapter/charger. 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. · 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. The camcorder turns off automatically after a few seconds. Set the POWER switch to OFF to turn off the camcorder before replacing the battery. The battery level indicator is not recorded on the tape. 15 Power the Camcorder Optional Car Cord Adapter The optional DCC08 car cord shown on page 61 allows you to power your camcorder from the cigarette lighter socket of a car, truck, or RV. It converts 12-volts to a 6-volt output. Note: Consult the installation and operating instructions enclosed with the DCC08 for complete operating instructions. Cautions: The DCC08 is designed to be used only with vehicles having negative ground electrical systems. Use only car cord adapter DCC08 with this camcorder. Use of any other car cord adapter might damage the camcorder and void your warranty. Use the DCC08 Car Cord Adapter Power Connector To Cigarette Lighter Socket Optional DCC08 Car Cord Adapter 1. Set the POWER switch to OFF to turn off the camcorder. The power indicator on the camcorder turns off. 2. If the battery or DC cable is attached to the camcorder, remove it. 3. Hold the bottom of the power connector flush against the camcorder, and press the connector down until it locks into place as shown above. 4. Take the vehicle's cigarette lighter out of the socket. 16 5. Insert the car cord's cigarette lighter plug into the vehicle's cigarette lighter socket. The power indicator on the car cord adapter lights. 6. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA to turn on the camcorder. The power indicator on the camcorder lights. Caution: Make sure the camcorder's power is turned off before removing the car cord's plug from the cigarette lighter socket. Date and Time Display Date and Time Display Install the Clock Lithium Cell The clock cell indicator flashes for a few seconds in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor when you turn on the camcorder if the cell is not installed or needs replacing. Clock Cell Compartment Clock Cell Holder Insert Object Here to Remove Cell Clock Cell (+ Side Facing Out) 1. Make sure camcorder is turned off, and remove any power supply attached to the camcorder. 2. Pull the clock cell holder out of the clock cell compartment. 3. Insert the clock cell with the "+" terminal facing out, and press it in. 4. Place the clock cell holder into the clock cell compartment. Be sure to insert the holder fully into the compartment. To Remove Lithium Cell To remove battery, insert a pointed nonmetallic object between battery and clock cell holder and lift. Cautions: Lithium cell battery. Replace only with 3-volt lithium cell ­ such as CR2025. Use of other cell presents a risk of fire or explosion. Must be disposed of properly. Never handle punctured or leaking cell. May cause burns or personal injury. Keep out of the hands of children. Can cause death or injury if swallowed. If swallowed, consult a physician immediately for emergency treatment. The lithium cell used in this device may explode resulting in a fire or chemical burn if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 212°F (100°C), or incinerate. Never use metallic tweezers to hold the cell, and never short the + and ­ sides of the cell. 17 Date and Time Display Set the Date and Time You must set the correct date and time before you can display and record it on your tapes. The clock cell must be installed as shown on the previous page before you can set the date. + PUSH -- Menu PUSH Dial (Rotate or Press In) POWER Switch in CAMERA MAN MENU/DISPLAY Button 1. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA MAN. 2. Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to display the menu in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. 3. Rotate the menu PUSH dial to highlight DATE/TIME. D. ZOOM TELE MACRO REC TIME INT. TIME DATE/TIME TITLE LANG. DEMO MODE RETURN ON OFF OFF OFF ENGLISH OFF D. ZOOM TELE MACRO REC TIME INT. TIME DATE/TIME TITLE LANG. DEMO MODE RETURN ON OFF OFF OFF ENGLISH OFF 4. Press the menu PUSH dial in to display the DATE/TIME menu. 18 Date and Time Display Set the Date and Time (Continued) DATE/TIME YEAR MONTH DAY TIME 2000 JAN 1 AM 12:00 10. Press the menu PUSH dial in. When none of the settings are flashing, rotate the menu PUSH dial to highlight EXIT. DATE/TIME EXIT 5. Rotate the menu PUSH dial to highlight YEAR. Press the menu PUSH dial in. When the year starts flashing, rotate the menu PUSH dial to select the year. When the correct year appears, press the menu PUSH dial in to set the year. 6. Repeat step 5 to set the MONTH and DAY. 7. Rotate the menu PUSH dial to highlight TIME. DATE/TIME YEAR MONTH DAY TIME 2000 NOV 18 PM 11:00 YEAR MONTH DAY TIME 2000 NOV 18 AM 8:00 EXIT 11. Press the menu PUSH dial in twice to remove the menus. EXIT Notes: If you decide to return the date and time to the previous settings while the DATE/ TIME menu is displayed, rotate the menu PUSH dial to highlight EXIT, and press. Press the menu PUSH dial twice to remove the menus. To display and record the date and/or time, see the following pages. 8. Press the menu PUSH dial in. When the hour starts flashing, rotate the menu PUSH dial to set the hour including AM or PM. 9. Press the menu PUSH dial in. When the hour stops flashing and the minutes start flashing, rotate the menu PUSH dial to set the minutes. 19 Date and Time Display Record AUTO DATE, Date, Time, and Title Displays You must install the clock cell and set the date and time (as shown on the previous pages) before the you can select and record the correct date and time. + PUSH -- Menu PUSH Dial (Rotate or Press In) POWER Switch in CAMERA MAN Select AUTO DATE, Date, Time, or Date and Time to Record on Your Tape 1. Attach a power supply and set POWER switch to CAMERA MAN. The power indicator lights. Note: AUTO DATE is selected when the POWER switch is set to CAMERA AUTO. FOCUS EXPOSURE M. W. B. 16 X 9 TAPE LENGTH TITLE DATE/TIME DISP. RETURN AUTO AUTO AUTO OFF T30 2. Press the menu PUSH dial in to display the menu in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. FOCUS EXPOSURE M. W. B. 16 X 9 TAPE LENGTH TITLE DATE/TIME DISP. RETURN AUTO AUTO AUTO OFF T30 4. Press the menu PUSH dial in to display the DATE/TIME DISP. menu. DATE/TIME DISP. AUTO DATE DATE TIME DATE/TIME OFF EXIT 3. Rotate the menu PUSH dial to highlight DATE/TIME DISP. 20 Date and Time Display Record AUTO DATE, Date, Time, and Title Displays (Continued) LCD Monitor or Viewfinder Displays Select the Display on the DATE/TIME DISP. Menu AUTO DATE NOV 18.00 AUTO DATE Display DATE Display AM 10:25:00 OFF: No Display TIME Display NOV 18.00 AM 10:25:00 DATE/TIME Display 5. Rotate the menu PUSH dial to highlight the date/time display you want to record. · AUTO DATE: The date is automatically recorded for approximately five seconds and then AUTO DATE is displayed whenever: · The date is set or changed. · This display mode is selected. · The tape is changed or the tape compartment opened. · This display is selected whenever the POWER switch is set to CAMERA AUTO. · DATE Display: The date is displayed and recorded. · TIME: The time is displayed and recorded. · DATE/TIME Display: The date and time are displayed and recorded. · OFF: No display is displayed or recorded. 6. Press the menu PUSH dial in to select the date/time display you want to record. 7. Press the menu PUSH dial in to remove the menu. 8. Press the thumb trigger to begin recording. 21 Videocassettes 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. Erase Protection ­ Safety Tab You can use your videocassettes over and over again. To erase a previous recording, just record over it. Safety Tab A. Remove safety tab or slide tab to REC OFF. B. Cover hole with vinyl tape or slide tab to REC ON to record over tape. Recording and Playback Speeds and Times The camcorder records and plays back in standard speed (SP) or extended play (SLP). Select the recording speed by pressing and holding the SP/SLP button. The selected speed is displayed on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder. Listed below are the maximum SP and SLP recording times for popular VHS-C cassettes. · SP ­ Standard play provides the best picture (less picture noise), but the shortest recording time (20 minutes with a TC-20 tape). · SLP ­ Extended play provides three times the recording time as SP (60 minutes with a TC-20 tape). SLP has slightly more picture noise than SP in normal playback. This might not be noticeable. 22 Cassette TC-20 TC-30 TC-35 TC-40 Recording Time SP SLP 20 Min. 60 Min. 30 Min. 90 Min. 35 Min. 105 Min. 40 Min. 120 Min. Videocassettes Insert and Remove Cassettes CAUTIONS Insert the cassette only one way with the tape wheel facing up and the tape window facing out. The cassette should slide easily into the holder. Do not force the cassette. Never try to open the door by prying as you could damage the camcorder. Tape Wheel Push Here to Close Cassette Compartment EJECT Button SP/SLP Tape Button Window Before inserting a cassette, turn the tape wheel on the side of the cassette in the direction shown to remove any slack in the tape. Tape Wheel 1. Open the LCD monitor at least 60° before opening the cassette holder. 2. Slide EJECT. The cassette holder opens automatically. 3. Insert the cassette with the tape wheel facing up and tape window facing out. 4. Press on the area shown above until the cassette holder locks into place. 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 causes 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. 23 Recording Recording Time-Remaining Display The approximate time remaining on the tape in the camcorder for the tape speed you select is displayed. You must set the correct tape length in the TAPE LENGTH feature of the menu before the camcorder can correctly calculate time remaining. + PUSH -- Menu PUSH Dial (Rotate or Press In) SP/SLP Button Select a Tape Length 1. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA MAN. 2. Press and hold the SP/SLP button to select a tape speed. 3. Press the PUSH dial in to display the menu in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. 4. Rotate the menu PUSH dial to highlight TAPE LENGTH. FOCUS EXPOSURE M. W. B. 16 X 9 TAPE LENGTH TITLE DATE/TIME DISP. RETURN AUTO AUTO AUTO OFF T30 FOCUS EXPOSURE M. W. B. 16 X 9 TAPE LENGTH TITLE DATE/TIME DISP. RETURN AUTO AUTO AUTO OFF T30 5. Press the menu PUSH dial in to display the TAPE LENGTH menu. 24 Recording Time-Remaining Display (Continued) --MIN (Calculating) --MIN SP 29MIN T30 Tape Length Indicator 3MIN TAPE END Tape Speed Indicator 2MIN (Flashing) 1MIN (Flashing) Time-Remaining Display in Viewfinder or on LCD Monitor 0MIN (Flashing) TAPE LENGTH T20 T30 T35 T40 EXIT 6. Rotate the menu PUSH dial to highlight the type of tape you are using. · Select T20 for a tape with 20 minutes or less recording time in SP . · Select T30 for a tape with 30 minutes recording time in SP . · Select T35 for a tape with 35 minutes recording time in SP . · Select T40 for a tape with 40 minutes recording time in SP . 7. Press the menu PUSH dial in twice to select the tape length and remove the menus. 25 Recording Use the LCD Monitor or Viewfinder to See What You Record You can see what you are recording on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder. When the LCD monitor is open more than 60°, the viewfinder turns off. When you close the LCD monitor, the viewfinder turns on. To enable both you and the person you're recording to see what's being recorded, rotate the LCD monitor completely around 105° 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. Use the LCD Monitor The camcorder's LCD monitor is a miniature color monitor that displays the picture seen by the camcorder when recording or playing back a tape. Cautions: Do not force the monitor to rotate completely around. This damages the monitor and/or the camcorder. When carrying the camcorder with the shoulder strap, close the monitor to prevent possible damage to the monitor from bumping against your body as you move. · Turn the dial toward + to brighten the image. · Turn the dial toward ­ to darken the image. 4. When you are finished, close the monitor and lock it into place. Notes: When recording on a bright sunny day, the LCD monitor might be hard to see. Use the viewfinder. The LCD monitor is manufactured using highprecision technology. However, there may be some tiny black dots and/or bright dots (red, blue, or green in color) that appear on the screen. These points are a normal result of the manufacturing process. These dots won't appear on the video you are recording. Over 99.99% are operational for effective use. 180° 90° Menu PUSH Dial (Also Bright Control) 1. Open the LCD monitor. Make sure the monitor is open at least 60°. The viewfinder turns off. 2. You can tilt the monitor up 180° or down 90° for convenient viewing. · 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. 3. Adjust the brightness of the image by turning the bright control (menu PUSH dial). This does not affect the brightness of the recording you are making. 26 Recording Use the LCD Monitor or Viewfinder to See What You Record (Continued) Use the Viewfinder The camcorder's viewfinder is a miniature monitor that displays the picture seen by the camcorder when recording. When the LCD monitor is open more than 60°, the viewfinder turns off. Eyepiece Focus Control Viewfinder Cautions Do not force the viewfinder to rotate completely around. This will damage the viewfinder and/or the camcorder. 180 ° 180° When carrying the camcorder with the shoulder strap, put the viewfinder down to help prevent possible damage to the viewfinder from bumping against your body as you move. Adjust Viewfinder for Convenient Viewing For convenient viewing, rotate the viewfinder up or down. 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. 27 Recording LCD Monitor and Viewfinder Displays Several displays appear on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder to aid in the operation of the camcorder. You can press and hold the MENU/DISPLAY button for more than one second to remove or display the battery level indicator, tape-length indicator, and tape-remaining display. REC SEPIA AT MWB P AUSE 4X HAPPY BIRTHDAY NOV 18.00 PM 8:30:03 Battery Level Indicator ( · · ) This indicator shows the amount of power left in the rechargeable battery. This indicator flashes when the battery is almost empty. AUTO DATE, Date, Time, or Date and Time Display the DATE/TIME DISP. menu to display AUTO DATE, Date, Time, or the Date and Time · These displays are recorded when they are displayed. If you do not want to record one of them, select OFF in the menu. · Details are on pages 20-21. P. (Program) AE Button Special Effect Indicators · SEPIA This indicator appears when you select SEPIA to give your recordings a brown-tone like old photographs. Cassette Warning · The indicator flashes when the POWER switch is set to CAMERA and there is no cassette in the camcorder. · The indicator flashes when the POWER switch is set to CAMERA and the safety tab is set to REC OFF or removed from the cassette. 28 Recording LCD Monitor and Viewfinder Displays (Continued) · SPORTS This indicator appears when you select SPORTS to record fast-moving action, such as sporting events. · appears here. · appears when you select :FINE to record outdoors on a sunny day. SD:SHADOW appears when you select This indicator appears when you select · SD:SHADOW to darken the picture :CLOUD to record outdoors on a and reduce glare. cloudy day. · HZ: HAZE · appears when you select This indicator appears when you select :HALOGEN to record using HZ:HAZE to soften the picture and halogen or tungsten lighting. give it a misty white effect. · MWB appears when you select MWB TWILIGHT · to adjust the color temperatures. This indicator appears when you select · Details are on pages 38-39. TWILIGHT to record scenes at Status Displays twilight, fireworks, etc. · The REC indicator appears when the · 2 S 1/2000 camcorder is recording. This indicator appears when you select · The P AUSE indicator appears 1/2000 to record faster-moving action during record-pause. than the SPORTS mode. · appears when the camcorder plays NEGA POSI · back a tape. appears during play-pause. This indicator appears when you select · NEGA POSI to reverse the colors and · appears during fast forward and create a negative image. flashes during forward search. · Details are on page 44. · appears during rewind and flashes during reverse search. Preset Titles · (AT or MT) Tracking Indicator The preset title selected in the TITLE menu appears here. It will be recorded · AT appears during automatic tracking. on the tape when it appears. · MT appears during manual tracking. · Details are on pages 46-47. Zoom Indicator (4X ) The zoom indicators appear here when you use the zoom lever. 29 M. W. B. (Manual White Balance Indicators) The indicator for the manual white balance selected in the MWB menu Recording LCD Monitor and Viewfinder Displays (Continued) T 30 5MIN EFFECT M 0:00:00 TBC SP BK FADER +03 BK 15 S 1S LENS COVER TAPE END BRIGHT ­ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - + BRIGHT (or VOLUME) Indicator · The BRIGHT indicator appears when you adjust the brightness of the monitor with the bright control (also menu PUSH dial). During playback, the VOLUME indicator appears when you adjust the volume of the speaker with the VOL control (also zoom lever). · · · · · · SCROLL for scroll wipe. SLIDE for slide wipe. DOOR for door wipe. CW: CORNER for corner wipe. WW: WINDOW for window wipe. Details are on pages 42-43. ) · Focus Indicators ( Exposure Indicators (+03) This indicator appears when you are adjusting brightness manually using the EXPOSURE menu. Make sure the POWER switch is set to CAMERA MAN. · Details are on pages 40-41. Fade and Wipe Indicators ( BK FADER) Press the FADES button to display the indicator for the fade or wipe you want to select. · BK FADER for black fade. · MOSAIC for mosaic fade. 30 These indicators appear when you are adjusting focus manually using the FOCUS menu. Make sure the POWER switch is set to CAMERA MAN. · The focus indicators ( ) flash when the auto-focus system cannot operate properly. · appear when you have selected MENU in the FOCUS menu. · and flash while you adjust manual focus and and flash when you cannot adjust the focus any farther . · Details are on pages 36-37. Recording LCD Monitor and Viewfinder Displays (Continued) Lithium Cell ( ) · This indicator appears for a few seconds when you turn on the camcorder and the clock cell is missing or needs to be replaced. · Details are on page 17. Animation, Time-Lapse, and FiveSecond Recording Indicators ( 15S and 5S ) · 5S appears when you press the 5SEC. REC button for five-second recording. Details are on page 33. · The interval time selected for timelapse recording ( 15S, 30S, 1MIN, or 5MIN) appears here. Details are on pages 50-51. · The recording time selected for animation or time-lapse recording ( 1/4S, 1/2S, 1S, or 5S) appears here.Details are on pages 48-50 and 50-51. Steady PixTM Indicator ( ) · Press the STEADY PIX button to turn the Steady Pix feature on or off. · The Steady Pix indicator ( ) appears when the Steady Pix feature is on. · Details are on page 41. Tape Length (T30) The tape length (T20, T30, T35, or T40) selected in the TAPE LENGTH menu appears here. · Details are on pages 24-25. Tape Speed Indicators (SP or SLP) The tape speed selected with the SP/SLP button appears here. · Details are on page 22. TBC (Time Base Corrector) · During playback, press and hold the STEADY PIX button to turn TBC on or off. TBC appears when the time base corrector is turned on. Details are on page 57. Time Counter (M0:00:00) · The time counter appears during playback. It is not recorded. · An "M" appears in front of the time counter when memory-stop is on. · Details are on page 57. Time-Remaining Display (5MIN) The approximate time remaining on the tape is automatically displayed. The correct tape length must be set in the TAPE LENGTH menu. · Details are on pages 24-25. Warnings and Information · CONDENSATION OPERATION PAUSED PLEASE WAIT appears when excessive moisture has entered the camcorder. Place the camcorder in a warm, dry area until this indicator disappears. · LENS COVER briefly flashes to remind you to open the lens cover. LENS COVER might flash when the camcorder is used in dark areas -- even if the lens cover is open. · TAPE END appears when the end of the tape is reached during recording or a cassette is inserted with its tape already at the end. · TAPE HEAD IS DIRTY HEAD CLEANING REQUIRED USE CLEANING CASSETTE when tape head is dirty. 31 Recording 5SEC. REC Button SEARCH R Button SEARCH F Button MENU/ DISPLAY Button SP/SLP Button POWER Switch Thumb Trigger Microphone AutoShotTM Mode The POWER switch lets you select automatic or manual control of several features. · The camcorder automatically controls focus, exposure, and white balance. · The MENU/DISPLAY button and menu PUSH dial will not operate. · AUTO DATE is selected for the date and time display. To Turn on the AutoShotTM Mode 1. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA AUTO. The power indicator lights and the camcorder enters recordpause. appears in the P AUSE viewfinder and on the LCD monitor. 2. Press the thumb trigger to start recording. 32 To Turn Off the AutoShotTM Mode 1. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA MAN. Recording Five-Second Record Feature The five-second record feature allows you to record for five seconds providing short scene transitions. 1. Set POWER switch to CAMERA AUTO or CAMERA MAN. 2. Make sure the SP/SLP button is set to SP. Press and hold to change. 3. Press 5SEC. REC to display 5S in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. 4. Press the thumb trigger to start recording. The camcorder records for five seconds and enters record-pause. To Turn Off the Five-Second Record Mode 1. Press the 5SEC. REC button to remove 5S from the viewfinder or LCD monitor. Camera Edit Feature The camera edit feature allows you to position the tape when the camcorder is in record-pause. Set POWER switch to CAMERA AUTO or CAMERA MAN. · Press and hold SEARCH R to visually search the recorded tape in reverse. · Press and hold SEARCH F to visually search forward on the recorded tape. Release the button to return the camcorder to record-pause at that point on the tape. Press the thumb trigger to start recording at this point. Flying Erase Head A separate erase head is mounted on the spinning headwheel (hence the term "flying"). This allows you to make clean edits without the "glitches" or "rainbow noise" that might occur at the beginning or the end of recordings. Quick Review Feature Press and release SEARCH R when the camcorder is in record-pause to review the last few seconds of a recording. The POWER switch must be set to CAMERA AUTO or CAMERA MAN. The camcorder plays back the last few seconds of the recording, returns the tape to its previous position, and returns to record-pause. MENU/DISPLAY Button Press and hold the MENU/DISPLAY button for more than one second to remove or display the battery level indicator, tape-length indicator, and taperemaining display in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. 33 Recording Zooming You can zoom in and out for close ups or wide-angle shots just by moving the zoom lever on the camcorder. The camcorder automatically focuses when you zoom at most distances. Digital zooming allows you to zoom up to 200 times. To record a close-up of a small subject closer than three feet, turn on the TELE MACRO feature in the menu. You can record at a distance of approximately 23 inches. Zoom Lever (T and W) + PUSH -- Menu PUSH Dial (Rotate or Press In) MENU/DISPLAY Button POWER Switch in CAMERA MAN Use the Zoom Lever (W and T) 1. To zoom in or out (up to 16 times), rotate the zoom lever. · To move the lens in the telephoto (close-up) direction, rotate the zoom lever toward T. · To move the lens in the wide angle direction, rotate the zoom lever toward W. · The zoom level indicator appears in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor during zooming. Digital Zooming Digital zooming makes zooming possible from 16X (the optical zoom limit) to a maximum of 200X. 1. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA MAN. 2. Press MENU/DISPLAY to display the menu in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. Rotate the menu PUSH dial to highlight D. ZOOM. D. ZOOM TELE MACRO REC TIME INT. TIME DATE/TIME TITLE LANG. DEMO MODE RETURN ON OFF OFF OFF ENGLISH OFF 4X 34 Recording Zooming (Continued) 3. Press the menu PUSH dial in to display the D. ZOOM menu. D. ZOOM ON OFF · Select ON to turn digital zooming on. · Select OFF to turn D. ZOOM off. 5. Press the menu PUSH dial twice to turn digital zooming on or off and remove the menus from the viewfinder or LCD monitor. Notes: As the zoom level increases, the picture gradually becomes less sharp. Digital zooming is recommended mainly for special effects. EXIT 4. Rotate the menu PUSH dial to highlight OFF or ON. Tele Macro Zooming 1. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA MAN. 2. Press MENU/DISPLAY to display the menu in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. Rotate the menu PUSH dial to highlight TELE MACRO. D. ZOOM TELE MACRO REC TIME INT. TIME DATE/TIME TITLE LANG. DEMO MODE RETURN ON OFF OFF OFF ENGLISH OFF TELE MACRO OFF ON EXIT 3. Press the menu PUSH dial in to display the TELE MACRO menu. 4. Rotate the menu PUSH dial to highlight ON or OFF and press the dial in. · Select ON if you want to record a small subject within approximately 24 inches. · Select OFF for normal zooming. 5. Press the menu PUSH dial twice to turn tele macro zooming on or off and remove the menus. 35 Recording Focusing The camcorder adjusts focus automatically under normal conditions. You might need to focus manually under certain conditions. + PUSH -- Menu PUSH Dial (Rotate or Press In) POWER Switch in CAMERA MAN Auto Focus During auto focus the camcorder focuses on the object located in the center area of the viewfinder. · Set the POWER switch to CAMERA AUTO to turn on the auto focus feature. No focus indicator appears in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. Notes: The low-contrast indicator ( ) in the viewfinder or LCD monitor indicates the auto-focus system might not operate correctly due to low illumination, low or no contrast, repeated patterns, or two subjects at different distances overlapping. Use tele macro zooming when recording a subject close to the lens or the camcorder may zoom out to focus. The lens must be clean for the camcorder to focus accurately. 36 Recording Focusing (Continued) Manual Focus You might need to focus manually under certain conditions. 1. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA MAN. 2. Rotate the zoom lever to T to zoom in on the subject and center the subject in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. 3. Press the menu PUSH dial in to display the menu in the viewfinder or on the LCD monitor. FOCUS is highlighted. 6. Adjust the focus for a subject nearer or farther away. · Rotate the menu PUSH dial up to focus on a subject farther away. flashes while you are adjusting the focus and flashes when you cannot adjust the focus any more. · Rotate the menu PUSH dial down to focus on a subject nearer. flashes while you are adjusting the focus and flashes when you cannot adjust the focus any more. 7. Press the menu PUSH dial twice to remove the menus. Note: To return to auto focus, select AUTO in the FOCUS menu or set the POWER switch to CAMERA AUTO. FOCUS EXPOSURE M. W. B. 16 X 9 TAPE LENGTH TITLE DATE/TIME DISP. RETURN AUTO AUTO AUTO OFF T30 Conditions Requiring Manual Focus · When recording a subject through a window or when scene is affected by sunbeams or light reflecting off water. · When recording a subject having a close foreground and a background that is far away. · When recording in low-light situations. · When recording two subjects at different distances that overlap in the same scene. · When recording a subject with no contrast (such as a clear blue sky). · When the subject is not in the center of the scene. · When recording a scene with fast motions, like a tennis swing. 37 4. Press the menu PUSH dial in to display the FOCUS menu.