Canon Camcorder GL1 User Manual

DIGITAL VIDEO CAMCORDER  
ENGLISH  
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Instruction Manual  
CAMESCOPE ET LECTEUR VIDEO NUMERIQUES  
FRANÇAIS  
F
Mode d’emploi  
VIDEOCAMARA Y GRABADORA DIGITAL  
ESPAÑOL  
Es  
Manual de Instrucciones  
Digital  
Video  
Cassette  
Mini  
NTSC  
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS  
In these safety instructions the word “product” refers to  
the Canon Digital Video Camcorder DM-GL1A and all its  
accessories.  
12. Power Cord Protection — Power cords should be  
routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or  
pinched by items placed upon or against them. Pay  
particular attention to plugs and the point from which  
the cords exit the product.  
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1. Read Instructions — All the safety and operating  
instructions should be read before the product is  
operated.  
13. Outdoor Antenna Grounding — If an outside antenna  
is connected to the product, be sure the antenna is  
grounded so as to provide some protection against  
voltage surges and built-up static charges. Section  
810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA No.  
70—1984, provides information with respect to  
proper grounding of the mast and supporting  
structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna  
discharge unit, size of grounding conductors,  
location of antenna discharge unit, connection to  
grounding electrodes, and requirements for the  
grounding electrode. See figure 1.  
2. Retain Instructions — The safety and operating  
instructions should be retained for future reference.  
3. Heed Warnings — All warnings on the product and  
in the operating instructions should be adhered to.  
4. Follow Instructions — All operating and maintenance  
instructions should be followed.  
5. Cleaning — Unplug this product from the wall outlet  
before cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol  
cleaners. The product should be cleaned only as  
recommended in this manual.  
EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA GROUNDING AS  
PER NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE  
Fig. 1  
6. Accessories — Do not use accessories not  
recommended in this manual as they may be  
hazardous.  
ANTENNA  
LEAD IN  
WIRE  
GROUND  
CLAMP  
7. Avoid magnetic or electric fields — Do not use the  
camera close to TV transmitters, portable  
ANTENNA  
DISCHARGE  
UNIT  
(NEC SECTION  
810-20)  
ELECTRIC  
SERVICE  
communication devices or other sources of electric  
or magnetic radiation. They may cause picture  
interference, or permanently damage the camera.  
EQUIPMENT  
GROUNDING CONDUCTORS  
(NEC SECTION 810-21)  
GROUND CLAMPS  
POWER SERVICE  
GROUNDING ELECTRODE  
SYSTEM  
(NEC ART 250. PART H)  
NEC - NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE  
8. Water and Moisture — Hazard of electric shock —  
Do not use this product near water or in rainy/moist  
situations.  
14. Lightning — For added protection of this product  
during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended  
and unused for long periods of time, disconnect it  
from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna. This  
will prevent damage to the product due to lightning  
and power-line surges.  
9. Placing or Moving — Do not place on an unstable  
cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table. The product may  
fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and  
serious damage to the product.  
A product and cart combination  
should be moved with care. Quick  
stops, excessive force, and uneven  
surfaces may cause the product and  
cart combination to overturn.  
15. Power Lines — An outside antenna system should  
not be located in the vicinity of overhead power lines  
or other electric light or power circuits, or where it  
can fall into such power lines or circuits. When  
installing an outside antenna system, extreme care  
should be taken to keep from touching such power  
lines or circuits as contact with them might be fatal.  
10. Power Sources — The CA-910A Compact Power  
Adapter should be operated only from the type of  
power source indicated on the marking label. If you  
are not sure of the type of power supply to your  
home, consult your product dealer or local power  
company. Regarding other power sources such as  
battery power, refer to instructions in this manual.  
16. Overloading — Do not overload wall outlets and  
extension cords as this can result in a risk of fire or  
electric shock.  
17. Objects and Liquid Entry — Never push objects of  
any kind into this product through openings as they  
may touch dangerous voltage points or short out  
parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Be  
careful not to spill liquid of any kind onto the product.  
11. Polarization — The CA-910A Compact Power  
Adapter is equipped with a polarized 2-prong plug (a  
plug having one blade wider than the other).  
The 2-prong polarized plug will fit into the power  
outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you  
are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try  
reversing the plug. If the plug still fails to fit, contact  
your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do  
not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug.  
18. Servicing — Do not attempt to service this product  
yourself as opening or removing covers may expose  
you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all  
servicing to qualified service personnel.  
3
19. Damage Requiring Service — Disconnect this  
product from the wall outlet and all power sources  
including battery, and refer servicing to qualified  
service personnel under the following conditions:  
a. When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.  
b. If any liquid has been spilled onto, or objects have  
fallen into, the product.  
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c. If the product has been exposed to rain or water.  
d. If the product does not operate normally even if  
you follow the operating instructions. Adjust only  
those controls that are covered by the operation  
instructions. Improper adjustment of other controls  
may result in damage and will often require  
extensive work by a qualified technician to restore  
the product to its normal operation.  
e. If the product has been dropped or the cabinet  
has been damaged.  
f. When the product exhibits a distinct change in  
performance. This indicates a need for service.  
20. Replacement Parts — When replacement parts are  
required, be sure the service technician has used  
replacement parts that are specified by Canon or  
that have the same characteristics as the original  
part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire,  
electric shock or other hazards.  
21. Safety Check — Upon completion of any service or  
repairs to this product, ask the service technician to  
perform safety checks to determine that the product  
is in safe operating order.  
“Note to CATV system installer: This reminder is provided to call the CATV system installer’s attention to Article 820-40 of the NEC that  
provides guidelines for proper grounding and, in particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system  
of the building, as close to the point of cable entry as practical”.  
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Contents  
~ When Making Manual Adjustments ...~  
Introduction  
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Manual Exposure Adjustment..............................55  
Adjusting the Focus ............................................58  
Using AE Shift ....................................................59  
Adjusting Camera Sharpness ..............................60  
Adjusting Color Phase ........................................61  
Using the Zebra Pattern........................................62  
Adjusting the White Balance ..............................63  
Important Usage Instructions ................................2  
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ..........3  
Thank you for Choosing a Canon..........................6  
Quick Overview  
Introducing the GL1 ..............................................7  
Finding Your Way Around the GL1 ......................8  
The GL1 System Diagram ..................................12  
Optional Accessories............................................13  
Attaching the Lens Hood ....................................15  
Powering the GL1 ................................................16  
Loading a Cassette ..............................................19  
Basic Recording ..................................................21  
Zooming ..............................................................24  
Using the LCD Screen ........................................25  
Playing Back a Cassette ......................................28  
Connections for Playback on a TV Screen ..........30  
Tips for Making Better Videos ............................31  
~ For Playback ...~  
Displaying Data Code ..........................................65  
Searching the Tape (Photo Search/  
Date Search) ......................................................67  
Returning to a Pre-Marked Position ....................68  
Editing  
The Dubbing Function ........................................69  
Using the Dubbing Function for the  
First Time ..........................................................70  
Cut-In and Cut-Out Adjustments ........................73  
Simple Editing to a VCR ....................................74  
Dubbing with Digital Video Equipment ..............75  
Recording from a VCR, TV or Other  
Using the Full Range of Features  
~ General ... ~  
Camcorder (Analog Line-in) ............................76  
Recording Over Existing Scenes  
(A/V Insert Editing) ..........................................78  
Audio Dubbing ....................................................80  
Turning the Optical Image Stabilizer Off ............33  
Selecting from the Menus ....................................34  
Using the Wireless Controller/Tally Lamp ..........36  
~ For Recording ...~  
Additional Information  
Setting the Date and Time....................................39  
Using the ND Filter..............................................42  
Taking Still Pictures (Photo Mode)......................43  
Using a Canon Speedlite for Flash  
Photography (optional) ......................................45  
Choosing the Movie Mode (Normal/Frame) ......46  
Searching and Reviewing While Recording........47  
Using the Various Recording Programs ..............48  
Using Digital Effects............................................51  
Audio Recording ..................................................53  
Setting the Self-Timer..........................................54  
Preparing the Camera ..........................................82  
Notes on Using the Batteries................................83  
Setting the Audio Mix..........................................86  
Camera Holding Styles ........................................88  
Maintenance ........................................................89  
Troubleshooting....................................................92  
Screen Displays....................................................95  
Specifications ......................................................99  
Index ..................................................................100  
The serial number of this product may be found on the bottom of  
the camera. No others have the same serial number as yours.  
You should record the number and other vital information here  
and retain this book as a permanent record of your purchase to  
aid identification in case of theft.  
Date of Purchase  
Dealer Purchased From  
Dealer Address  
Dealer Phone No.  
Model Name GL1  
Serial No.  
5
Thank you for Choosing a Canon  
First, we’d like to thank you for purchasing this  
Canon camcorder. Its advanced technology makes  
it very easy to use — you will soon be making  
high-quality videos which will give you pleasure  
for years to come.  
Your camcorder is supplied with the following  
accessories:  
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WL-D73 Wireless Controller  
SS-650 Shoulder Strap  
BP-915 Battery Pack  
Two AA batteries  
To get the most out of your new camcorder, we  
recommend that you read this manual thoroughly  
— there are many sophisticated features which  
will add to your recording enjoyment.  
Lens cap  
(Attached to camera)  
Getting started  
To get started we suggest that you master the basic  
operations of the camcorder first, before moving  
on to use its full range of features.  
For quick reference (in addition to the contents and  
index) please refer to:  
• Finding Your Way Around the GL1 (p. 8)  
• Screen Displays (p. 95)  
• Troubleshooting — in case you run into any  
problems (p. 92)  
CA-910 Compact Power  
Adapter  
Note that capital letters are used to refer to settings  
displayed in the menus and buttons labeled on the  
camcorder itself e.g. Press the MENU button.  
The camera’s short operation confirmation beeps  
are indicated by ` in the illustrations. Beeps sound  
to confirm your operations, e.g. Turn the standby  
lever to STANDBY (p. 21).  
DC-905 DC Coupler  
S-150 S-video Cable  
STV-250N  
DVM-E30  
Stereo Video Cable  
Digital Video Cassette  
Lens hood  
6
Introducing the GL1  
Digital Video  
Manual Control  
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Choose to operate the GL1 using the Manual  
recording program to access the complete set of  
manual functions, for exceptional creative  
freedom.  
GL1 conforms to the new digital video D  
standard to give you outstanding picture quality.  
It is fitted with a DV terminal for digital-to-digital  
dubbing (IEEE 1394 standard).  
Dubbing Function  
L Series Fluorite 20× (100× Digital)  
Zoom Lens  
The GL1’s dubbing function  
directly controls your VCR,  
allowing you to dub at the touch  
of a button.  
From wide-angle to 20× telephoto — with  
unparalleled optical quality. The digital zoom  
magnifies this by five times for even more  
dramatic results. Fluorite incorporated into the lens  
produces images with high-contrast, true-to-life  
color.  
Audio Dubbing/A/V Insert Editing  
Add new sound to original  
sound, or replace original sound  
and images on a prerecorded  
tape.  
3 CCD System with Pixel Shift  
Technology  
Superb picture quality results from using a larger  
light capturing area for each pixel (and fewer  
pixels) to give higher sensitivity, higher SN ratio  
and a greater dynamic range, and then horizontally  
shifting the green CCD to ensure high image  
resolution. In addition, you can get stunningly  
clear still pictures from video action.  
Analog Line-in Recording  
Connect to a VCR or analog  
camcorder and record onto a DV  
tape in the GL1.  
Frame Movie Mode  
DV terminal (IEEE 1394)  
During playback, pause the video any time you  
like to view a crystal clear still image in the  
display or on a connected TV screen. It is also  
possible to transfer your favorite still pictures to a  
PC for image enhancement and printout.  
GL1 is equipped with a DV terminal that conforms  
to IEEE 1394. By connecting the GL1 to your  
computer, you can capture still or motion images  
on your computer (commercially available IEEE  
1394 computer interface board required).  
2.5” LCD Screen  
PCM Digital Sound  
An LCD screen makes it easy for  
you to shoot colorful, well  
composed video. It is also great  
for playback.  
Offers you stunning digital sound — 16-bit for  
highest quality sound, and 12-bit for audio  
dubbing.  
Optical Image Stabilizer  
Digital Effects  
Canon’s optical technology  
stabilizes your recordings even in  
long telephoto shots.  
Advanced digital technology  
allows you to add special effects  
to your videos.  
7
Finding Your Way Around the GL1  
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FF  
button (p. 28)  
button (p. 28)  
button (p. 28)  
PAUSE  
STOP  
REC  
button (p. 28)  
button (p. 28)  
PLAY  
REW  
button (p. 75, 77)  
Program selector (p. 48)  
BATTERY RELEASE button  
(p. 16)  
Viewfinder (p. 82)  
Infra-red signals transmitter (p. 69)  
LCD screen (p. 25)  
Power source attachment unit  
(p. 16)  
LCD panel open button (p. 25)  
MENU button (p. 35)  
RESET button (p. 94)  
Image stabilizer button (p. 33)  
Menu dial (p. 35)  
Self timer button (p. 54)  
Speaker (p. 27)  
VOLUME buttons (p. 27)  
LCD BRIGHT buttons (p. 26)  
Program selector  
Easy Recording  
Auto  
Shutter-Priority  
Aperture-Priority  
Manual  
DISPLAY/DATA CODE button  
(p. 23, 65, 95)  
Sand & Snow  
Spotlight  
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Carrying handle  
Zoom control (p. 24)  
PHOTO button (p. 43)  
LOCK lever (p. 88)  
MOVIE MODE switch  
(p. 46)  
Stereo microphone (p. 80)  
Strap attachment bar  
(p. 82)  
Lens hood locking screw (p. 15)  
Viewfinder focusing  
lever (p. 82)  
Focus ring (p. 58)  
Start/stop button (p. 21)  
Standby lever (p. 21)  
DC 5V terminal  
MIC terminal (p. 31, 80)  
DV terminal (p. 75)  
Grip belt (p. 82)  
DV  
IN/OUT  
REMOTE terminal  
(p. 74)  
EJECT button (p. 19)  
A/V  
Audio/video terminal  
(p. 30)  
IN/  
OUT  
S-video terminal  
(p. 30)  
Cassette compartment (p. 19)  
Cassette compartment cover  
(p. 19)  
(headphone) terminal  
(p. 27)  
OPEN button (p. 19)  
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PHOTO button (p. 43)  
Zoom control (p. 24)  
POWER switch (p. 21, 28)  
START/STOP button (p. 21)  
Power indicator (p. 28)  
Strap attachment bar (p. 82)  
Accessory shoe (p. 45)  
Tally lamp (p. 38)  
Remote sensor (p. 36)  
+
REC SEARCH button (p. 47)  
Record review button (p. 47)  
– REC SEARCH button (p. 47)  
Lens hood (p. 15)  
WHITE BALANCE  
(p. 63)  
set button  
ND FILTER button (p. 42)  
WHITE BALANCE SELECT button  
(p. 63)  
FOCUS A/M button (p. 58)  
EXPOSURE dial (p. 55)  
Tripod socket (p. 31)  
D.E. (digital effects) ON/OFF  
button (p. 52)  
10  
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PHOTO button (p. 43)  
MENU button (p. 35)  
Transmitter  
START/STOP button (p. 21)  
Zoom buttons (p. 24)  
Controller buttons (p. 35)  
SET button (p. 35)  
SELF TIMER button (p. 54)  
START  
/STOP  
ZOOM  
PHOTO  
MENU  
W
T
SELF  
TIMER  
TV SCREEN button (p. 35, 95)  
TV  
SCREEN  
SET  
DATA CODE button (p. 65, 95)  
DATA  
MIX BALANCE buttons (p. 86)  
CODE  
BAMLAINXCE  
AUDIO  
MONITOR ST-1  
ST-2  
AUDIO MONITOR button  
(p. 86)  
REC  
SEARCH  
SELECT  
Search buttons (p. 67)  
PAUSE  
ZERO SET  
MEMORY  
SEARCH SELECT button (p. 67)  
REW  
–/  
PLAY  
STOP  
SLOW  
FF  
AUDIO  
DUB.  
REC PAUSE button (p. 75)  
FF  
button (p. 28)  
button (p. 28)  
button (p. 29)  
+/  
A/V  
PAUSE  
×2  
INSERT  
PLAY  
ZERO SET MEMORY button  
(p. 68)  
REMOTE SET  
× 2 button (p. 29)  
-
AUDIO DUB. button (p. 81)  
A/V INSERT button (p. 79)  
REMOTE SET button (p. 37)  
WIRELESS CONTROLLER DW7L3  
STOP  
button (p. 28)  
SLOW  
REW  
button (p. 29)  
button (p. 28)  
button (p. 29)  
PAUSE  
button (p. 28)  
11  
The GL1 System Diagram (Availability differs from area to area)  
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SS-650 Shoulder Strap  
WL-D73  
Wireless  
Controller  
BP-900 Series  
Battery Pack  
VL-10Li  
Battery Video Light  
Stereo  
DC-905  
DC Coupler  
Microphone  
(Available  
commercially)  
CB-900 Car Battery  
Adapter  
MiniDV  
Video  
Cassette  
MB-100  
Microphone  
Boom  
BP-900 Series  
Battery Pack  
CA-910 Compact  
Power Adapter  
220EX  
Speedlite  
380EX  
Speedlite  
BP-900 Series  
Battery Pack  
CH-910 Dual Battery  
Charger/Holder  
(Available soon)  
550EX  
Speedlite  
TV  
WD-58  
Wide-converter  
(Available soon)  
S-150 S-video Cable  
Video Head  
Cleaning  
Cassette  
VCR  
STV-250N Stereo Video Cable  
CV-150F DV Cable  
Digital Device  
FR-100 Floppy Disk  
Still Image Recorder  
HC-4000  
System Case  
12  
Optional Accessories  
Call or visit your local retailer/dealer for genuine Canon video accessories. You can also obtain genuine  
accessories for your Canon camcorder by calling 1-800-828-4040, Canon U.S.A. Information Center.  
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Battery Packs  
Extra batteries for use with the GL1.  
When you use the optional BP-930R (without the  
CH-910 Dual Battery Charger/Holder), the  
remaining time indicator appears, showing you  
how many minutes you can continue to record  
before the battery is exhausted (see p. 83).  
Battery pack  
Maximum recording  
Time required for  
full charge  
using viewfinder  
using LCD screen  
55 min.  
BP-914 (optional)  
BP-915 (supplied)  
BP-930 (optional)  
BP-930R (optional)  
BP-941 (optional)  
1 hr.  
2 hrs. 10 min.  
2 hrs. 10 min.  
3 hrs. 30 min.  
3 hrs. 20 min.  
4 hrs. 10 min.  
1 hr. 5 min.  
2 hrs. 15 min.  
2 hrs. 10 min.  
3 hrs. 5 min.  
1 hr.  
2 hrs. 10 min.  
2 hrs. 5 min.  
2 hrs. 55 min.  
When you attach two battery packs to the CH-910 Dual Battery Charger/Holder, the maximum recording time will be  
almost doubled.  
Battery pack  
BP-914  
Playback time (using the LCD screen)  
1 hr. 25 min.  
BP-915  
1 hr. 35 min.  
BP-930  
3 hrs. 10 min.  
BP-930R  
BP-941  
2 hrs. 55 min.  
4 hrs. 15 min.  
These figures show how long you can view playback with the LCD, after attaching a fully-charged battery pack.  
Playback time will be shortened at low temperatures.  
CB-900 Car Battery Adapter  
Power your camera, or recharge battery packs on  
the move. The car battery adapter plugs into your  
car’s cigarette lighter socket and runs off a  
12–24 V DC negative ground battery.  
WD-58 Wide-converter  
This lens decreases focal length by a factor of 0.7,  
giving you a wide perspective for indoor shots or  
panoramic views.  
• There may be some vignetting at the extreme  
wide angle position.  
FR-100 Floppy Disk Still Image Recorder  
Connects to the GL1 or any Canon camcorder with  
a DV terminal and records still images onto a  
floppy disk in one of three resolution choices.  
Images from the disk can then be transferred to a  
computer. Available: Winter 1999  
13  
HC-4000 System Case  
A solid, lockable case that provides safe and  
stylish protection for the camera during  
transportation and storage.  
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VL-10Li Battery Video Light  
This compact yet powerful video light can be used  
for both indoor and outdoor shooting.  
• Lithium ion battery packs can be used to power  
the light. Approximate usage times are as  
follows:  
BP-914 50 min.  
BP-941 2 hrs. 40 min.  
BP-930R 2 hrs.  
BP-915 1 hr.  
BP-930 2 hrs.  
CH-910 Dual Battery Charger/ Holder  
This holds two battery packs and can charge them  
both consectively.  
It can then be connected directly to the GL1 to  
give twice the playback time. It can also make use  
of the high performance battery pack BP-941, to  
give up to 6 hrs. recording time.  
220EX Speedlite  
380EX Speedlite  
220EX  
550EX  
550EX Speedlite  
Attach to the GL1 to give SLR-style flash  
photography.  
380EX  
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IN  
A
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This mark identifies genuine Canon video accessories. When you use Canon video  
equipment, we recommend Canon-brand accessories or products bearing the same mark.  
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O S  
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Provided accessories:  
Optional accessories:  
WL-D73 Wireless Controller  
CA-910 Compact Power Adapter  
DC-905 DC Coupler  
BP-915 Battery Pack  
SS-650 Shoulder Strap  
S-150 S-video Cable  
STV-250N Stereo Video Cable  
Lens Hood  
D83-0532-000  
D85-1022-201  
D85-1170-201  
D85-0952-201  
D81-1350-000  
D82-0330-202  
D82-0590-201  
D52-0110-000  
DG1-3740-000  
FR-100 Floppy Disk Still Image  
Recorder  
CB-900 Car Battery Adapter  
CH-910 Dual Battery Charger/  
Holder  
D89-0732-002  
D85-0502-201  
D85-1072-002  
D81-1360-000  
D86-0081-201  
D89-0200-202  
DY4-4530-000  
C50-0741-201  
C50-0721-201  
C50-0731-011  
D36-0032-201  
HC-4000 System Case  
VL-10Li Battery Video Light  
MB-100 Microphone Boom  
JR7.2V 10WF Halogen Bulb  
220EX Speedlite (Flash Unit)  
380EX Speedlite (Flash Unit)  
550EX Speedlite (Flash Unit)  
DVM-CL DV Cleaning Cassette  
Lens Cap  
14  
Attaching the Lens Hood  
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1. Remove the lens cap.  
• When you purchase the GL1, the lens cap cord is attached in the middle of the velcro grip belt.  
Open the velcro and slide the lens cap cord to the position shown in the illustration.  
2. Align the hood to the lens with the Canon logo facing to the left.  
3. Twist it into position (clockwise), so that the Canon logo is to the top.  
You do not need to assert any pressure — screw the hood lightly into place.  
4. Finally, tighten the locking screw.  
• To remove, reverse the above procedure.  
Since the lens hood cuts stray light that may cause flare and ghost images and protects the lens, be sure to  
attach the hood when you are recording.  
15  
Powering the GL1  
Before operating your camera, you will need to use the power adapter to:  
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provide power from an AC outlet  
or  
charge a battery pack  
Notes:  
• The power adapter converts current from a household power socket (100–240 V AC, 50–60 Hz) to the  
DC current used by your camera.  
• If the adapter is used next to a TV, it may cause the TV to emit noise — move the adapter away from  
the TV or the antenna cable.  
Connecting the camera to an AC outlet  
1
3
2
4
Use the power adapter and the DC coupler to provide your camera with instant power from an AC outlet.  
1. Attach the DC coupler to the camera.  
• Extend the viewfinder and rotate it upwards.  
• Align the edge of the DC coupler with the line on the camera.  
• Slide the coupler down in the direction of the arrow, until it clicks into place.  
2. Connect the DC coupler to the adapter.  
3. Plug the adapter into an AC outlet.  
4. Detach the DC coupler after use.  
• Press and hold the BATTERY RELEASE button, while you slide the coupler up.  
• Always turn the camera off and raise the viewfinder before removing the power source.  
16  
Charging and attaching the battery pack  
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1
2
3
4
Your battery pack was partially charged before it left the factory. It should have enough power for you to  
check that your camera is working properly. However, you must charge the battery pack fully if you want  
it to power the camera for more than a few minutes.  
1. Attach the battery pack to the power adapter.  
• Make sure the DC coupler is not connected.  
• Align the triangle on the battery pack with the line on the power adapter.  
• Slide the battery across until it clicks into place.  
2. Plug the adapter into an AC outlet.  
• The charge indicator flashes red to show that charging is in progress. Single flashes mean that the  
battery pack is less than 50% charged. Double flashes mean that it is between 50% and 75%  
charged. Triple flashes mean that it is more than 75% charged.  
• The indicator glows steadily when the battery pack is fully charged.  
3. Take the battery pack off the adapter and attach it to the camera.  
• Extend the viewfinder and rotate it upwards.  
• Align the triangle on the battery pack with the line on the camcorder, then slide the battery in the  
direction of the arrow until it clicks into place.  
4. Remove the battery pack after use.  
• Press and hold the BATTERY RELEASE button, while you slide the battery up.  
• Always turn the camera off and raise the viewfinder before removing the power source.  
Notes:  
You can find detailed notes for using the batteries in the “Notes on Using the Batteries” on p. 83. These  
notes include charging and recording times and how to charge the backup battery.  
• Using the optional CH-910 Dual Battery Charger/Holder you can power the camera from two battery  
packs for longer continuous recording. You can exchange the battery packs independently without  
cutting the power to the camcorder. In addition, the CH-910 can charge two batteries consecutively  
when it is connected to an AC outlet.  
17  
CA-910 Compact Power Adapter  
E
Specifications  
Power supply  
100–240 V AC, 50–60 Hz  
Power consumption  
Rated output  
16 W  
Adapter mode: 6.0 V, 1.7 A DC  
Charger mode: 8.4 V, 1.2 A DC  
Operating temperature range 32°F–104°F (0°C–40°C)  
Dimensions  
Weight  
2 1/2 × 5 × 1 3/4 in (63 × 127.5 × 43 mm)  
10 7/8 oz (310 g)  
Weight and dimensions are approximate.  
Errors and omissions excepted.  
Subject to change without notice.  
When replacement or repair of any product including power supply is required, please return it to the  
nearest authorized Canon Service Center and have it repaired or replaced with the same number product  
or equivalent.  
18  
Loading a Cassette  
E
EJECT  
P
CLOSE THIS FIRST.  
U
S
H
PUSH  
CLOSE THIS FIRST.  
Only use videocassettes marked with the D logo.*  
Loading and unloading  
1. Make sure that you have attached a power source.  
2. Slide the OPEN button across to release the cover.  
• Pull the cover fully open (while holding the button in the OPEN position).  
3. Press the EJECT button and wait for the cassette compartment to open.  
5
• The confirmation beep sounds.  
4. Load or unload the cassette.  
• Insert the cassette gently with the window facing out and the REC/SAVE tab to the top.  
• Remove the cassette by pulling it straight out.  
5. Press the P mark on the compartment until it clicks.  
6. Click the cover back into place.  
* D is a trade mark.  
Notes:  
• After loading a cassette, use record search (p. 47) to find the point where you want to start recording.  
• Do not interfere with the cassette compartment while it is opening or closing, or attempt to close the  
cover.  
• Be careful not to get your fingers caught in the cassette compartment cover.  
• Do not leave the cassette in the camera after use — return it to its case and store it in a cool, clean, dry  
place.  
• When a cassette is not loaded, v flashes in the display.  
• With some types of tapes, the remaining tape display may not give an accurate reading (p. 95).  
19  
Protecting tapes from accidental erasure  
E
REC  
SAVE  
REC  
SAVE  
To protect your recording from accidental erasure, slide the tab on the cassette so that it exposes the hole  
and the red mark. (This switch position is usually labeled SAVE or ERASE OFF.)  
If you load this cassette and put the camera in record pause mode (p. 21), “THE TAPE IS SET FOR  
ERASURE PREVENTION” is displayed for approx. 4 seconds and then the v mark flashes in the  
display. The camera also shows the above phrase if you accidentally press the 2 (record) button with the  
camera switched to VCR mode.  
If you want to record on the cassette again, slide the tab back so the hole is closed.  
Handling cassettes  
• To protect the tape heads, transfer cassettes directly from the tape case to the camcorder — do not open  
the tape protect cover or touch the tape itself.  
• Do not use cassettes where the tape has been damaged or spliced — they may damage the camcorder.  
• Do not insert anything into the small holes on the cassette or cover them with cellophane tape.  
• Handle cassettes with care — dropping them or exposing them to external shocks may cause internal  
damage.  
• Store cassettes in the provided case, rewinding them to the start of the tape first, and then storing them  
upright.  
• A cassette with metal plated terminals may become dirty with use, affecting information transfer.  
Therefore, after using a tape around ten times, be sure to clean the terminals with a cotton swab.  
Cassette memory  
You are unable to use the cassette memory function with this camcorder.  
20  
Basic Recording  
START  
/STOP  
OFF  
CAMERA VCR  
1
4
2
STANDBY LOCK  
STANDBY LOCK  
E
POWER  
3
Before you start recording  
• Attach a power source (p. 16).  
• Load a cassette (p. 19).  
• Fasten the grip belt (p. 82).  
• Attach the lens hood (p. 15).  
• Choose the display: viewfinder (p. 82) or LCD screen (p. 25).  
• Adjust the viewfinder or the LCD screen.  
You may also want to charge the backup battery (p. 84) in order to set the date and time display (p. 39).  
To set the movie mode, refer to p. 46.  
To record  
1. Press down and slide the POWER switch to CAMERA.  
2. Turn the standby lever to STANDBY.  
• The confirmation beep sounds.  
• The camera power indicator lights up red and PAUSE appears in the display — the camera is now in  
“record pause mode”.  
• The camera will turn itself off if you leave it in record pause mode for more than about five minutes.  
To return to record pause mode, turn the standby lever to LOCK and back to STANDBY, or slide the  
POWER switch off and back on.  
3. Turn the program selector to [ Easy Recording mode.  
• This selects the camera’s Easy Recording program. It allows you to simply point and shoot without  
making any manual adjustments (see p. 48).  
4. Press the start/stop button to begin recording.  
• There are two start/stop buttons, to give you control from both gripping positions.  
• The tally lamp flashes rapidly and REC appears in the display.  
5. Press the start/stop button again to pause recording.  
• The camera returns to record pause mode and PAUSE reappears in the display.  
You can stop and restart recording as often as you like by pressing the start/stop button.  
Using the STANDBY lever  
As long as the POWER switch is set to CAMERA, you can use the STANDBY lever to turn the camera  
on and off. This makes it easy to save battery power, and prevents accidental operation of the start/stop  
button.  
Turn the STANDBY lever to LOCK and back to STANDBY to enter/leave standby mode.  
21  
When you have finished recording  
E
• Close the LCD panel.  
• Unload the cassette.  
• Turn the standby lever to LOCK.  
• Slide the POWER switch to OFF.  
• Disconnect the power source.  
(If you have used the viewfinder, return it to its lowered and retracted position.)  
Notes:  
• To check that the camera is recording correctly, make a test recording first.  
• Before making important recordings, clean the video heads using a Canon DVM-CL Digital Video Head  
Cleaning Cassette or a commercially available digital video head cleaning cassette.  
• To close the LCD panel, rotate it vertically until the screen faces you, then push it in flat against the side  
of the camera.  
You cannot monitor the sound from the speaker when recording.  
• For tips on how to make better videos, see page 31.  
• For extra recording time, set REC MODE in the camera menu to LP.  
• The flashing of the tally lamp may be reflected into the lens during close-up recording, or when  
recording through glass. You may therefore decide to turn it off (p. 38).  
Changing the recording mode (SP/LP)  
You can record and play back a tape in SP (standard play) and LP (long play) modes. LP extends tape  
usage by 1.5 times.  
To switch to LP mode, select REC MODE from the camera or VCR menu, select LP and then close the  
menu (for instructions on how to use the menus, refer to page 35).  
You can’t add sound (audio dubbing) or images (A/V insert) to a tape that has been recorded in LP mode.  
If you plan to use either of these functions later, record in SP mode.  
REC MODE¥¥¥¥SP  
(see p. 34)  
Notes:  
• When recording and playing back tapes in LP mode, the nature of the tape and usage conditions may  
affect recording, mosaic-like noise may appear in the image and the sound may be distorted during  
playback of tapes recorded in LP mode. For important recordings, therefore, set the camera to SP mode.  
• If you record in both modes on the same tape, the picture may become distorted during playback and  
the time code may not be written correctly.  
• When the camera is set to LP mode, pausing between recordings may produce mosaic-like noise.  
• A tape recorded in LP mode on another camcorder may produce mosaic-like noise when played back on  
this camcorder, and vice versa.  
22  
Turning the camera recording displays ON/OFF  
E
You can show/hide non-essential camera recording  
displays by pressing the DISPLAY/DATA CODE  
button.  
DISPLAY  
/DATA CODE  
You cannot hide the following:  
• Recording displays (REC, PAUSE etc.)  
• Remaining battery power, flash information  
display  
• Caution phrases (“CONDENSATION HAS  
BEEN DETECTED,” etc.)  
Even if you have the displays hidden, all displays will appear for 4 seconds if you operate any of the  
recording functions.  
All displays will appear for 8 seconds if ND ON, ND OFF, the Tv mode shutter speed value or the Av  
mode aperture value starts to flash.  
Notes:  
You cannot hide the displays when in [ Easy Recording mode.  
• If you slide the POWER switch to OFF, the displays will be reset to appear.  
Microphone attenuator  
Use the microphone attenuator if during recording or audio dubbing you need to lower the volume level or  
correct audio distortion of the input audio. Monitor the level of the input sound with headphones and if  
necessary, turn the attenuator on through the camera or VCR menu by selecting MIC ATT and setting it to  
ON.  
Confirmation/Warning beeps  
The camera’s short operation confirmation beeps are indicated by ` in the illustrations. One beep sounds  
when you turn the power on. A series of beeps also sound during the self-timer countdown, right before  
the camera’s automatic shut-off and upon any unusual condition of the camera. Beeps are not recorded on  
the tape. You can turn them OFF through the menu.  
BEEP¥¥¥¥¥¥¥¥ON  
(see p. 34)  
Demonstration mode  
To see a demonstration of the camera’s main features, before loading the cassette, go to the DEMO  
MODE option in the camera menu. Select the ON setting and close the menu. The demo also starts  
automatically if the power has been on for 5 minutes without a cassette loaded into the cassette  
compartment. (You can avoid this by turning the DEMO MODE to OFF through the camera menu.) To  
cancel the demo mode once it has begun: press a camera operation button such as the menu button or the  
zoom control, turn off the power, or load a cassette.  
DEMO MODE¥¥¥ON  
(see p. 34)  
23  
Zooming  
E
Zoom in  
ZOOM  
W
T
W
T
Zoom out  
20× optical zoom  
Operate the zoom controls from either the side grip, the camera handle or the wireless controller.  
The camera’s 20× zoom lens allows you to choose the best picture angle for each scene:  
• Press the zoom control towards W to zoom out to wide-angle.  
• Press it towards T to zoom in to telephoto.  
You can control the speed of zooming from the side grip:  
• Press the control slightly to zoom slowly.  
• Press it farther to zoom more quickly. (The farther you press the zoom control, the faster the zoom  
speed.)  
The T and W buttons on the wireless controller and the camera handle adjust the picture angle, but not the  
zoom speed. Set the handle-top zoom control to one of three speeds. Open the camera menu and select  
ZOOM HANDLE , then set it to LOW, MEDIUM or FAST. The speed of the zoom control on the  
wireless controller cannot be adjusted.  
40×/100× digital zoom  
Turn the digital zoom on by choosing D.ZOOM from the camera menu, to magnify the camera’s zoom  
range by up to 5×.  
D. ZOOM¥¥¥¥¥¥40×  
(see p. 34)  
The zoom control continues to work as usual. You can freely zoom in and out between 1× and 40× or  
1× and 100× magnification — the camera automatically switches between optical zooming (up to 20×)  
and digital zooming (20× to 100×).  
Notes:  
• When zooming, as a rule, keep at least one meter between you and your subject. However when the  
zoom is at the wide-angle position, you can focus on a subject as close as 3/8 in (1 cm).  
• Image resolution decreases the further you zoom towards 100× in digital zoom range.  
• When the digital zoom is set to 40×, the zoom indicator extends (light blue).  
When the digital zoom is set to 100× zoom, the zoom indicator extends again (a darker blue).  
24  
Using the LCD Screen  
Open the LCD screen  
E
Push the LCD panel open button and open the  
panel by pulling it away from the camera. This  
automatically switches the LCD screen on and the  
viewfinder off. When you close the LCD panel,  
the LCD screen automatically switches off and the  
viewfinder switches back on.  
Changing the angle of the LCD screen  
First open out the LCD panel at a right angle (90°)  
to the camera.  
90  
K
You can now choose the angle of the panel that  
suits you best by rotating it backwards (up to  
180°) and forwards (up to 90°) about this axis.  
If you rotate the panel backwards around to 180°  
you can allow the subject to monitor the shot in  
the LCD screen or you can include yourself in the  
picture. The viewfinder is also activated when the  
panel is in this position.  
From this position you may also push the panel  
flat against the camera, with the screen facing  
outwards.  
Notes:  
• Avoid touching the LCD screen when moving the LCD panel.  
• Do not hold the camera by the LCD panel or the viewfinder.  
• Make sure you open the LCD panel at 90°, before attempting to rotate it backwards or forwards.  
• Always rotate the LCD panel vertically into place, before closing it or pushing it flat against the side of  
the camera.  
• Always fully close the LCD panel when it’s not in use.  
• Be careful not to leave the LCD, viewfinder or lens exposed to direct sunlight outdoors or in a window.  
Doing so could cause damage.  
• Bright light falling on the LCD screen may cause glare that makes it difficult for you to view the image.  
In this case, switch to using the viewfinder. You are also able to adjust the brightness of the screen (see  
“Adjusting the LCD screen” p. 26).  
25  
Adjusting the LCD screen  
E
You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen. Adjust the level with the +/– LCD BRIGHT buttons.  
A bar showing the level appears in the display and disappears after 4 seconds.  
• Press the + button to make the display brighter.  
• Press the – button to make the display darker.  
LCD  
BRIGHT  
Notes:  
• The camera will remember your brightness setting even if you slide the POWER switch to OFF.  
• The brightness of the LCD does not effect that of the recorded images or the viewfinder.  
About the LCD Screen  
The LCD screen built into this camcorder is a high precision product.  
However, small black dots or bright points of light (red, blue or green) may appear constantly on the LCD  
screen. This is not a malfunction of the LCD screen and they are not recorded on the tape. (Effective dots:  
more than 99.99%)  
Allowing the subject to monitor recording  
When you turn the LCD panel so that it faces the  
opposite direction (see diagram opposite), you can  
let your subject monitor recording, or you can  
include yourself in the picture.  
You can choose the display style, reversed  
(mirror on) or not (mirror off) from the camera  
menu.  
MI RROR¥¥¥¥¥¥ON  
(see p. 34)  
Note:  
• If you choose the mirror-on, the recording itself is unaffected.  
26  
Indicators that appear in the LCD display when “mirror” is selected:  
E
REC  
REC PAUSE  
EJECT  
• All indicators appear normally in the viewfinder.  
Built-in speaker and headphone terminal  
The camcorder has a built-in speaker and a headphone terminal so you can review the sound track  
alongside the picture during playback. Use the speaker or headphones when viewing playback with the  
LCD screen, and use headphones when viewing with the viewfinder. The built-in speaker is monaural; use  
headphones for stereo sound.  
VOLUME  
Adjust the speaker and headphone volume with the +/– VOLUME buttons.  
• Press the + button to increase the volume, and the – button to lower the volume.  
• A VOLUME bar appears in the display to indicate the current volume. It disappears in four seconds.  
You can turn off the volume completely by pressing the – button until OFF appears.  
You can also adjust the headphone volume separately from the built-in speaker, either during VCR  
mode or camera mode. The volume level is the same regardless of mode.  
• The levels you adjust for the built-in speaker and headphones are memorized separately. The camera  
remembers your levels even if you slide the POWER switch to OFF.  
Notes:  
• The speaker turns off when the camera is set to camera mode or when you use headphones.  
• Sometimes the playback picture becomes rough with “noise”, when the volume is turned up high. If this  
happens, turn down the volume.  
27  
Playing Back a Cassette  
E
OFF  
CAMERA VCR  
POWER  
You can use the LCD screen or the viewfinder for instant, on-the-spot playback. The camera also plays  
back the sound track via the built-in speaker (p. 27).  
• When you play back a tape, you can close the LCD panel with its screen side facing up.  
• When the LCD panel is closed, you can monitor the playback using the viewfinder.  
To play back your recordings on a TV, see p. 30.  
To use the wireless controller, see p. 36.  
Note:  
• To avoid accidental recording, make sure that you slide the tab on the cassette so that it exposes the hole  
(the switch position is usually labeled SAVE or ERASE OFF).  
1. Attach a power source and slide the POWER switch to VCR.  
• The power indicator lights up green.  
• The confirmation beep sounds.  
2. Load the cassette.  
3. Press the PLAY e button to start playback.  
• Open the cover to use the handle-top buttons.  
• To end playback, press the STOP 3 button.  
• To wind the tape forwards, stop playback and press the FF 1 button.  
• To wind the tape backwards, stop playback and press the REW ` button.  
• If the playback picture is rough (mosaic-like noise), clean the video heads using a Canon DVM-CL  
Digital Video Head Cleaning Cassette or a commercially available digital video head cleaning  
cassette.  
Other playback modes  
Playback Pause  
To view the video as a still picture press the PAUSE a button. To resume normal playback, press it again,  
or press the PLAY e button. The camera automatically goes into stop mode after about five minutes’  
playback pause.  
Fast Forward Playback  
To play back the recording at about 9.5 times normal speed, press and hold the FF 1 button during  
normal playback or press and hold the FF 1 button during normal fast forward.  
Rewind Playback  
For reverse playback at about 9.5 times normal speed, press and hold the REW ` button during normal  
playback or press and hold the REW ` button during normal rewind.  
28  
Special playback  
E
These can only be operated from the wireless  
controller (p. 36).  
REC  
PAUSE  
SEARCH  
SELECT  
Frame Advance  
ZERO SET  
MEMORY  
REW  
PLAY  
STOP  
FF  
To play back frame by frame, press the +/ae  
button repeatedly during playback pause.  
Press and hold to play back continuous frame  
advance.  
PAUSE SLOW  
2
Frame Reverse  
To play back in reverse frame by frame, press the  
–/4a button repeatedly during playback pause.  
Press and hold to play back continuous frame reverse.  
Slow Forward Playback  
To play back at about 1/5 normal speed, press the SLOW M button during normal playback.  
Press the PLAY e button to return to normal playback.  
• The camera automatically returns to playback after about 30 seconds of slow playback.  
Slow Reverse Playback  
To play back in reverse at about 1/5 normal speed, press the –/4a button and then the SLOW M button  
during normal playback.  
Press PLAY e to return to normal playback.  
• The camera automatically returns to ×1 reverse playback after about 30 seconds of slow playback.  
Reverse Playback  
To play back in reverse at normal speed, press the –/4a button during normal forward playback.  
Press the PLAY e button to return to normal forward playback.  
Forward ×2 Playback  
Press the ×2 button during normal playback.  
Press the PLAY e button to return to normal playback.  
Reverse ×2 Playback  
Press the –/4a button and then the ×2 button during normal playback.  
Press the PLAY e button to return to normal playback.  
Notes:  
• Mosaic-like noise appears on the screen during some of the VCR modes.  
• There’s no audio during special playback.  
29  
Connections for Playback on a TV Screen  
You can connect the camera to a TV or VCR in order to play back your recordings. You will need to  
attach a power source to the camera (see p. 16).  
E
See your TV or VCR instruction manual for further details.  
If your TV (or VCR) has an S-video input terminal  
INPUT  
S-VIDEO  
S-150 S-video Cable  
DV  
IN/OUT  
VIDEO  
A/V  
STV-250N Stereo Video Cable  
AUDIO  
L
IN/  
OUT  
R
• Use the S-150 S-video Cable to connect the S-video terminal d. Use the STV-250N Stereo Video  
Cable, to connect the AUDIO terminals. Connect the white plug to the white AUDIO terminal L (left).  
Connect the red plug to the red AUDIO terminal R (right). Do not connect the yellow plug.  
• Set the TV/VIDEO selector on the television to VIDEO.  
• If you are connecting the camera to a VCR, set the input selector on the VCR to LINE.  
If your TV (or VCR) has audio/video input terminals  
DV  
IN/OUT  
INPUT  
VIDEO  
A/V  
AUDIO  
L
IN/  
OUT  
R
STV-250N Stereo Video Cable  
• Connect the camera using the STV-250N Stereo Video Cable. Connect the white plug to the white audio  
terminal L (left). Connect the red plug to the red audio terminal R (right). Connect the yellow plug to  
the yellow video terminal V.  
• Set the TV/VIDEO selector on the television to VIDEO.  
• If you are connecting the camera to a VCR, set the input selector on the VCR to LINE.  
Note:  
• If you are going to use the TV as a monitor while you are shooting, remember to keep the TV volume  
turned down as long as the camera’s audio terminals are connected. If the sound from the TV speakers  
is picked up by the microphone, an unpleasant high-pitched squeal, called feedback may be produced.  
If your TV is already hooked up to a VCR, you can connect the camera to the VCR instead of the TV.  
Follow the instructions above.  
30  
Tips for Making Better Videos  
Holding the camera  
E
For maximum stability, grip the camera in your right hand and keep your right  
elbow pressed against your body.  
If necessary support the camera with your left hand. With practice, you will be  
able to operate the controls by touch, without taking your eye off the action.  
Using a tripod  
To prevent any unwanted movement, you can mount the camera on a tripod, (or  
any flat surface at a suitable height) and operate it with the wireless controller.  
• When you are using a tripod, be careful not to leave the viewfinder exposed to  
bright sunlight or it may melt. (The light is concentrated by the viewfinder  
lens.) Change the angle of the viewfinder so that the sun doesn’t shine into it.  
• Make sure that the fastening screw of the tripod is no longer than 1/4 inch  
(5.5 mm), or it will damage the camera.  
Sound recording  
For greater creative control, you can connect an external microphone to the MIC  
terminal.  
We recommend a microphone with a built-in power supply (condenser  
microphone).  
It is possible to connect almost any stereo microphone with a plug diameter of  
3.5 mm.  
• Use the microphone attenuator with the built-in or an external microphone if  
you need to lower the volume level of the input audio. Monitor the level of the  
input sound with headphones and if necessary, turn the attenuator on through  
the menu by selecting MIC ATT and setting it to ON.  
MIC  
31  
Composition  
E
The most important element in the scene does not have to be in the center. For a  
more interesting picture, try to position your subject so it is slightly to one side.  
Leave some space on the side of the frame that the subject is facing or moving  
towards.  
Don’t cut off the top of the subject’s head, and don’t cut people off at the neck,  
hips or knees (move a little bit above or below).  
Watch out for distracting objects in the background.  
Picture angle  
Instead of zooming while recording, try to choose your  
picture angle before you begin. A good way to tell a story  
with video is to begin with a long shot that establishes the  
situation, and then move in with medium shots and close-ups  
to show the details. Remember to change your viewpoint for  
each shot.  
Long shot  
Medium shot  
Close-up  
Remember that any camera movement or change in picture  
angle should have a definite purpose. Avoid unnecessary or  
half-hearted movements.  
Camera moves  
Use pans to record a landscape or follow a moving subject.  
Decide the area you want to cover and stand facing the end of  
your panning angle. Without moving your feet, turn your  
waist to the starting position. Start recording, and after a few  
seconds begin to turn slowly from the waist. Hold the final  
image for a few seconds before you stop recording.  
Pan  
Tilt the camera up to exaggerate the height of the subject. Tilt  
down from the top of a building, for example, as an  
introduction to subjects at the bottom.  
Tilt  
32  
Turning the Optical Image Stabilizer Off  
E
With most camcorders, even the slightest hand movements will be noticeable during telephoto recording.  
However, the GL1’s Optical Image Stabilizer allows you to obtain steady recordings even at high  
magnification. Unlike electronic image stabilizers, it causes no loss of picture quality. The Optical Image  
Stabilizer can compensate for a wide range of camera movement — you can record stable images even if  
you are shooting from a moving car.  
Before you start recording, push the i on/off button to turn the image stabilizer on or off.  
• The i mark appears in the display when the stabilizer is on.  
• The image stabilizer cannot be turned off when the program selector is set to the [ (Easy Recording)  
position.  
Notes:  
• The camcorder remembers your selection if you turn the standby lever to LOCK. However, it resets to  
the on setting if you slide the POWER switch to OFF.  
• The image stabilizer is designed to deal with a normal degree of camera shake.  
• Keep the image stabilizer turned off when the camera is mounted on a tripod.  
33  
Selecting from the Menus  
Many of the camera’s advanced functions are selected from menus which appear in the display. You must  
first pause recording before the functions in the menus can be changed.  
E
There are two main menus:  
1. Camera menu (when the camera is in record pause mode: the POWER switch set to  
CAMERA and the standby lever set to STANDBY)  
2. VCR menu (when the camera is in VCR mode: the POWER switch is set to VCR)  
Camera menu (CAM.MENU)  
CAM.MENU  
SEL.SETSET  
MENUCLOSE  
.......  
OFF  
ZEBRA  
q Zebra pattern............................................p. 62  
w Digital effects ..........................................p. 51  
e Digital zoom ............................................p. 24  
r Handle-top zoom control.........................p. 24  
t AE shift....................................................p. 59  
y 16:9 effect................................................p. 52  
u Camera sharpness ....................................p. 60  
i Camera color phase .................................p. 61  
o Wireless remote .......................................p. 37  
! Tally lamp................................................p. 38  
! Record mode............................................p. 22  
! Wind screen .............................................p. 53  
! Microphone attenuator.............................p. 23, 80  
! Audio mode .............................................p. 53  
! Confirmation beeps..................................p. 23  
! Mirror mode.............................................p. 26  
! TV screen displays ..................................p. 95  
! Demonstration mode................................p. 23  
! Date/time display.....................................p. 41  
@ Time zone/Daylight saving time .............p. 39  
@ Date/time set............................................p. 40  
....  
OFF  
D.EFFECT  
D.ZOOM  
......  
×
40  
.
ZOOM HANDLE LOW  
....  
AE SH IFT  
± 0  
........  
:
16  
9
OFF  
.
R
+
G
C.SHARPNESS  
C.PHASE  
.....  
CAM.MENU  
SEL.SETSET  
MENUCLOSE  
.
R
+
C.SHARPNESS  
.....  
C.PHASE  
G
...  
W L.REMO TE  
1
..  
TALLY LAMP ON  
....  
SP  
REC MODE  
W IND SCREEN OFF  
.....  
.
M IC ATT  
OFF  
..  
AUD IO MODE 12bit  
CAM.MENU  
M IC ATT  
SEL.SETSET  
MENUCLOSE  
OFF  
.....  
..  
AUD IO MODE 12bit  
........  
BEEP  
ON  
......  
ON  
M IRROR  
...  
TV SCREEN  
DEMO MODE  
ON  
...  
ON  
.
D /T D ISPLAY OFF  
..  
.
T
ZONE /DST N.Y.  
..  
,
1999  
D /T IME SET DEC .  
1
:
10 00 AM  
VCR menu  
VCR M ENU  
SEL.SETSET  
MENUCLOSE  
DUB MODE  
q
q To dub mode............................................p. 69  
w To recorder set up....................................p. 70  
e Wireless remote .......................................p. 37  
r Record mode............................................p. 22  
t Data code.................................................p. 65  
y Date/time select .......................................p. 41  
u Displays ...................................................p. 95  
i 6-second auto date...................................p. 41  
o Output channel.........................................p. 87  
! Audio dubbing.........................................p. 81  
! Wind screen .............................................p. 53  
! Microphone attenuator.............................p. 23, 80  
! Line audio attenuator...............................p. 80  
! Audio mode .............................................p. 53  
! Confirmation beeps..................................p. 23  
REC.SET UP  
w
r
y
i
...  
W L.REMO TE  
1
e
t
u
....  
REC MODE  
SP  
...  
DATA CODE  
DATE /T IM E  
.
D /T IME SEL. DATE  
&
T IME  
....  
D ISPLAYS  
ON  
...  
OFF  
6SEC.DATE  
VCR M ENU  
SEL.SETSET  
MENUCLOSE  
....  
ON  
D ISPLAYS  
6SEC.DATE  
OUTPUT CH  
AUD IO DUB  
...  
OFF  
...  
L /R  
o
..  
.
IN  
AUD IO  
!
!
.
–––  
–––  
W IND SCREEN  
!
!
!
.....  
M IC ATT  
....  
L INE ATT  
OFF  
..  
AUD IO MODE 12bit  
!
........  
ON  
BEEP  
Turn to the appropriate page for a detailed explanation of each function.  
34  
E
1,5  
MENU  
MENU  
TV  
SCREEN  
SET  
2,4  
3
You can also close the LCD panel with its screen facing up when you select items from the menus.  
1. Press the MENU button to open the menu.  
2. Turn the menu dial up or down to move the arrow up or down the display.  
3. Press the menu dial in to select your chosen option from the menu.  
Your selected option remains on the screen and all other options are removed.  
4. Turn the menu dial up or down to choose its setting.  
5. Press the MENU button to close the menu.  
Notes:  
You can only see eight options on the screen at one time. Pointers at the top/bottom of the screen  
indicate that there are more options that you can scroll through.  
• Unavailable functions appear in purple. (Factors such as recording program determine which functions  
are available.)  
You may often find it convenient to use the wireless controller to move around the menus. Press its  
MENU button to enter/leave the menu and use the arrow keys in place of turning the menu dial. Push  
the SET button to select.  
• Pushing the start/stop button or the PHOTO button will close the menu and start recording.  
You can display the menus on a connected TV screen using the wireless controller’s TV SCREEN  
button. See p. 30 for TV hookup instructions.  
• The camcorder will remember your chosen menu settings even if you slide the POWER switch to OFF.  
35  
Using the Wireless Controller/Tally Lamp  
The supplied wireless controller can operate the  
camera from a distance of up to 16 feet (5 m).  
Point it at the camera’s remote sensor while you  
press the buttons.  
E
The tally lamp lights up to let you know that the  
camera is in range and responding to your  
commands.  
16ft  
There are six functions which can only be operated  
using the wireless controller:  
• Special playback (p. 29)  
• Photo/date search (p. 67)  
• Zero set memory (p. 68)  
• Audio mix (p. 86)  
• A/V insert (p. 78)  
• Audio dubbing (p. 80)  
Inserting batteries  
Insert two AA batteries, following the = and -  
markings. Be careful not to reverse the polarity of  
the batteries.  
Notes:  
• When using the wireless controller in brightly lit places or outdoors, the effective range will be less.  
• The camera may have difficulty picking up the remote control signals at extremely close range.  
• Do not leave the controller exposed to direct sunlight, or in hot or humid places.  
• When the batteries run out, replace them both together.  
• Make sure the shoulder strap does not obstruct the remote sensor.  
36  
Setting the remote sensor mode  
E
To prevent interference from other Canon wireless  
controllers being used nearby, there are two remote  
sensor modes and an off setting. The wireless  
controller and the camera have to be set to the  
same mode in order to be compatible.  
ZOOM  
W
T
REMOTE SET  
The wireless controller and the camera have been preset to mode 1. If you change the mode on the  
camera, be sure to change the mode on the wireless controller to the same mode.  
A 1 : Mode 1  
A 2 : Mode 2  
WL.REMOTE•••  
1
(see p. 34)  
OFFB : Sensor off  
To turn the remote sensor off:  
1. Open either the camera or the VCR menu and select WL.REMOTE.  
2. Choose OFFB and close the menu.  
B appears in the display.  
To change the mode...  
...on the camera:  
1. Open either the camera or the VCR menu and select WL.REMOTE.  
2. Choose A 1 (mode 1) or A 2 (mode 2) and close the menu.  
• The selected mode will appear on the display for four seconds.  
...on the wireless controller:  
Press and hold the REMOTE SET button on the wireless controller.  
Simultaneously press the ZOOM W button for mode 1 or the ZOOM T button for  
mode 2. Continue to press simultaneously for over two seconds.  
• Be sure to set the wireless controller to the same mode as the camera.  
To confirm the mode settings for the camera and the wireless controller, follow the following steps.  
Notes:  
• If your wireless controller isn’t working, make sure the camera and the wireless controller are both set  
to the same mode. Check the mode the camera is set to by pushing any button other than the REMOTE  
SET button on the wireless controller. The camera’s mode appears in purple for about four seconds. Set  
the wireless controller’s mode accordingly by pressing the aforementioned button combinations. If the  
wireless controller still doesn’t work, change the batteries.  
• The mode the camera is set to also appears for four seconds when you turn the power on.  
37  
Turning off the tally lamp  
E
The tally lamp lets you know that the camera is  
recording. However, its flashing may be reflected  
into the lens during close-up recording, or when  
recording through glass.  
You may therefore decide to turn it off.  
TALLY LAMP••ON  
(see p. 34)  
1. Open the camera menu and point the  
arrow at TALLY LAMP.  
2. Select the OFF setting and close the menu.  
• The tally lamp no longer flashes during recording, but it will still light up when the camera receives  
a signal from the wireless controller.  
38  
Setting the Date and Time  
E
MENU  
The date and/or time display forms part of the data code. You can choose to display or hide it during  
playback (see p. 65).  
Set the date and time display when you first start using your camera. Charge the backup battery for a full  
day (approx. 24 hours) before you begin (see p. 84).  
• Before you start setting the date and time, select your home time zone from the menu.  
• If you are on daylight saving time now, you should set the camera to daylight saving time. You can do  
this at the same time you select your home time zone.  
• After you set the date and time, the date/time and home time zone will be displayed for about four  
seconds each time you turn the power on.  
• The camera automatically accounts for the number of days in a month and leap year.  
Setting the time zone/daylight saving time  
T.ZONE/DST••N.Y.  
(see p. 34)  
1. Set the camera to record pause mode.  
PAUSE appears in the display.  
2. Open the menu and select T.ZONE/DST.  
3. Press the menu dial in.  
• The time zone display appears on the screen.  
Your camcorder’s time zone is factory-preset to New York. If you are at another time zone, select  
your time zone first and daylight saving time (DST) setting if necessary.  
4. Move up or down the list of time zones by turning the menu dial. Press the menu dial in  
to select the option that represents your time zone.  
• If you are now in daylight saving time, select the time zone with the daylight saving time mark C  
next to the area.  
5. Press the MENU button.  
39  
E
16  
1
4
19  
2
18  
24  
20  
3
17  
6
10  
7
9
15  
8
5
21  
23  
14  
12  
22  
11  
13  
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10 11 12 13  
No.  
No.  
Time zone  
LONDON  
PARIS  
Time zone  
WELLGTN (Wellington)  
SAMOA  
CAIRO  
HONOLU (Honolulu)  
ANCHOR (Anchorage)  
L.A. (Los Angeles)  
DENVER  
MOSCOW  
DUBAI  
KARACHI  
DACCA  
CHICAGO  
BANGKOK  
H. KONG (Hong Kong)  
TOKYO  
N.Y. (New York)  
CARACAS  
RIO (Rio de Janeiro)  
SYDNEY  
SOLOMON  
FERNAN. (Fernando de Noronha)  
AZORES  
Note:  
• After you have selected your time zone and set the date and time, when you travel to another time zone,  
there is no need to reset the date and time. Just set the time zone to your destination’s representative city  
and the camera’s clock will automatically change to display the correct time for your destination.  
Setting the clock  
D/TIME SET••DEC. 1,1999  
10:00 AM  
(see p. 34)  
1. Put the camera in record pause mode.  
2. Open the menu and select D/TIME SET.  
• The year display starts to flash.  
3. Turn the menu dial up and down to change the year. Press the dial in to move to  
another part of the display.  
• Once you move from the year, the next part of the display starts flashing.  
4. Set the month, day, hours, and minutes in the same way.  
5. Press the MENU button when finished, and to start the clock.  
• The date can be set to any year between 1999 and 2020.  
• If you press the MENU button in the middle of setting the date and time the seconds are set to zero, you  
leave the menu, and the clock starts.  
• If you press the menu dial in after setting the minutes you can set the date and time again from the start.  
40  
Setting the display style  
E
Select whether you want the date, the time, or both to show up on your data code display (p. 66).  
D/TIME SEL.•DATE & TIME  
(see p. 34)  
1. Turn the POWER switch to VCR.  
2. Open the menu and select D/TIME SEL.  
3. Choose between DATE, TIME and DATE & TIME.  
4. Press the MENU button to close the menu.  
Date and time display  
You can choose to display or hide the date and time display during recording. When the date and time  
display is set to ON, the date and time show in the display but the time zone disappears in about four  
seconds. It is not recorded onto your tape.  
D/T DISPLAY•OFF  
(see p. 34)  
1. Put the camera in record pause mode.  
2. Open the menu and select D/T DISPLAY.  
3. Select ON and close the menu.  
Six-second auto date  
The six-second auto date appears for six seconds to mark the changeover of a day if the tape was being  
recorded at 12:00 midnight. It also appears for six seconds when you start playback and have the data  
code turned off. The six-second auto date will adjust for any time zone changes you have indicated.  
6SEC.DATE•••OFF  
(see p. 34)  
You can turn the six-second auto date on:  
1. Turn the POWER switch to VCR.  
2. Open the menu and select 6SEC.DATE.  
3. Select ON and close the menu.  
Note:  
• When 6SEC.DATE is turned on and DISPLAYS (p. 95) is turned off, the six-second auto date appears  
for six seconds.  
41  
Using the ND Filter  
E
On bright days or when recording very bright scenes, despite the iris being at its smallest aperture,  
blurring of the image may occur. If this happens, using the ND filter should remove this problem.  
Turn the ND filter on by pressing the ND FILTER button.  
• ND is shown continuously in the display while the ND filter is turned on.  
– ND ON flashes in the display to advise you to switch the ND filter on. (However it doesn’t appear in  
the Manual mode or during exposure lock.)  
– ND OFF with the “OFF” flashing warns you that the ND filter is no longer suitable for the current  
conditions. If this warning appears, turn the ND filter off by pressing the ND FILTER button again.  
Notes:  
You cannot turn the ND filter on/off during exposure lock or while the PHOTO button is pressed  
halfway down.  
• The camcorder remembers your selection if you turn the standby lever to LOCK. However, it resets to  
the off setting if you slide the POWER switch to OFF.  
42  
Taking Still Pictures (Photo Mode)  
E
PHOTO  
PHOTO  
PHOTO  
Take still photos to download into your PC for image enhancement and printout. Also, starting your  
shooting with a still photo makes it easy to find the beginning again later with the Photo Search function  
(p. 67).  
You can record still pictures like a photograph. The camera records the picture and sound to tape for  
approximately 6 seconds. The exposure is automatically adjusted.  
There are two PHOTO buttons, to let you take still images from both gripping positions, or, you can take  
still pictures from the wireless controller.  
You can take a still picture at any time during regular video recording, or you can put the camcorder into  
record pause mode first, then take a still picture.  
1. Set the camera to record or record pause mode.  
2. Press the photo button halfway or all the way.  
• If you are now in regular video recording mode, press the button all the way down, and the still  
picture will be taken immediately.  
• If you press the button halfway down:  
– “PHOTO” flashes at the bottom right of the display.  
– Exposure is locked the instant the photo button is pressed halfway down.  
– During autofocus flashes white in the display as the camcorder adjusts the focus and it is  
F
displayed continuously as a green mark when the camera is ready to take the still picture.  
– To change the still picture before recording: release the button, select a new picture and then press  
down the PHOTO button lightly once more.  
– If the subject is unsuitable for autofocus (p. 93), the camera may not be able to focus, and may  
F
continue to flash white in the display. Press the PHOTO button down halfway and adjust the focus  
manually with the focus ring.  
– If you are using manual focus (p. 58), the mark starts as a continuous as a white mark. Focus  
F
with the focus ring.  
3. Press the PHOTO button fully down to take the still picture.  
• The camera takes the image almost immediately, and then records the “photo” to the tape for  
approximately 6 seconds. During this time the camera also records the sound, and the display also  
shows the still picture.  
• A counter display is shown, that counts up to 6 secs as the camcorder records the picture.  
disappears from the display.  
F
43  
Notes:  
• While the camera records the still, you cannot use the camera functions (POWER switch/STANDBY  
lever do not respond until recording is complete). This applies even when you haven’t loaded a cassette.  
• The wireless controller’s PHOTO button has no half-way setting, press the button fully and the camera  
immediately takes the “photo”.  
E
• For even greater versatility attach a Canon Speedlite for flash photography (available as optional  
accessories, see page 45), when taking still pictures directly from record pause mode.  
• Only take “photos” where it is bright enough to see the image in the display.  
• If you want to use an effect, make sure you set it before you take your picture (you cannot use the fade  
trigger while taking a still picture).  
• Depending on the subject (fast moving subject, for example), the picture may be blurred.  
44  
Using a Canon Speedlite for Flash Photography (optional)  
For SLR-style flash photography, attach a Canon  
Speedlite 220EX, 380EX or 550EX to the  
camcorder’s accessory shoe. Attach the Speedlite  
380EX and 550EX with their locking collars as in  
the illustration. Attach the Speedlite 220EX with its  
hot shoe lock release.  
E
Set the camera to record pause mode. Turn on the  
Speedlite using its main switch, and wait for it to  
charge. When you press the PHOTO button  
halfway down, the camera sets the autofocus and  
the zoom is locked. Pressing the PHOTO button  
fully down releases a pre-exposure flash that sets  
the flash intensity, exposure and white balance. The  
main flash is then sent out.  
• In dark recording situations, during autofocus, a supplementary light beam is sent out by the Speedlite  
for approx. eight seconds to illuminate the subject while you hold the camera’s PHOTO button halfway  
down.  
Flash Charging  
While the Speedlite is charging, a white S flashes in the display.  
When the Speedlite is fully charged a green S lights up constantly in the display.  
• Although it is possible to record a still image while the Speedlite is still charging, the flash will not go  
off. In addition, the Speedlite cannot charge while you are holding the PHOTO button halfway down.  
S disappears from the display while the camera records the still picture.  
• If the S mark does not appear in the display when you turn the Speedlite on, make sure that the  
Speedlite unit is slid fully onto the accessory shoe.  
Notes:  
• For full details of how to use the Speedlite, refer to its instruction manual.  
• If you use the Speedlite in the shutter-priority (Tv) mode, you can choose any shutter speed between  
1/60 and 1/1000.  
• In the aperture-priority (Av), you can choose any F number, but an F number of less than f/5.6 gives the  
best results.  
You cannot use the Speedlite with the:  
– Manual recording program.  
– Exposure Lock. (S goes out if you press the EXPOSURE dial in. It reappears when you turn the lock  
off, by pressing the EXPOSURE dial in again.)  
• Turn the Speedlite unit off when you do not require a flash.  
You are unable to use the bounce flash on the 380EX and 550EX Speedlites with the GL1.  
You cannot use the Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2 for the 550EX.  
You cannot use the 550EX’s multiple Speedlite control.  
45  
Choosing the Movie Mode (Normal/Frame)  
The Frame mode can be used when you want to look at a video, scene by scene, free from field slippage  
(the “flicker” that normally occurs when you pause a video). The vertical resolution of the image is  
improved by 1.5×. During playback, pause the video any time you like to view a crystal clear still image  
in the display or on a connected TV screen. It is also possible to transfer your favorite still pictures to a  
PC for image enhancement and print out.  
E
If you are going to play back movie normally, we recommend recording in normal movie mode.  
OFF  
CAMERA VCR  
1
2
MOVIE MODE  
FRAME NORMAL  
POWER  
1. Set the camera to record pause mode.  
2. Slide the MOVIE MODE switch to FRAME.  
• FRAME appears in the display.  
Notes:  
• Frame mode cannot be used with the Easy Recording program.  
• Frame video may not appear completely smooth during normal playback.  
• Some subjects may not be suitable for Frame mode. You will often get better results when shooting  
everyday subjects using normal mode.  
46  
Searching and Reviewing While Recording  
Record search  
E
When the camera is in record pause mode, you can  
use record search to play the tape forwards or  
backwards to find the point where you want to  
start or restart recording. This is useful when you  
want to add a new scene to a previously used  
cassette. By using record search, you can ensure a  
smooth, noise-free join between the new scene and  
the old one.  
REC SEARCH  
1. Make sure the camera is in record pause  
mode.  
2. Press and hold the REC SEARCH + or  
– button while you check the picture in  
the display.  
• The + button plays the recording forwards and the – button plays it backwards.  
3. Release the button when you find the point where you want to start recording.  
• The camera returns to record pause mode.  
Record review  
When the camera is in record pause mode, you can use record review to play back the last few seconds of  
your recording and then return automatically to record pause mode. You can quickly make sure that a  
scene has recorded properly and then go on to shoot the next scene, without producing any noise in the  
picture.  
1. Make sure the camera is in record pause mode.  
2. Press and release the c (record review) button while you check the picture in the  
display.  
• The camera rewinds the tape, plays back the last few seconds, and returns to record pause mode.  
Note:  
• Noise may appear on the screen during record search and record review.  
47  
Using the Various Recording Programs  
E
The camera provides you with a choice of seven recording programs. They use different combinations of  
camera settings in order to adjust the exposure and other functions to match the recording situation.  
The name of your selected recording program appears constantly on the left of the display, with the  
exception of the AUTO Recording program whose n mark is displayed and then disappears after  
4 seconds.  
Notes:  
• Avoid changing programs during recording as the brightness of the image may change suddenly.  
• The specialized AE programs are not suitable for all kinds of lighting. The image may flicker, or a  
bright line may appear on the screen if you use them in the wrong lighting conditions.  
Availability of functions in each recording program  
Easy Recording Auto  
Tv Av  
(shutter priority) (aperature priority)  
Manual Sand & Snow Spotlight  
Shutter speed  
Iris  
Gain  
A
A
A
M
A
A
A
M
A
M
M
M
A
A
A
Exposure lock/  
adjustment  
AE Shift  
White balance  
Focus  
Image stabilizer  
Digital effects  
Camera sharpness  
and color phase  
16:9  
×
M
M
×
×
M
×
A
A
ON  
×
×
M
M
M
M
×
×
M
M
A=Automatic  
M=Manual  
×=Not available  
Easy Recording  
The simplest way to use the camera is with the  
program selector set to the [ position. The camera  
will take care of focus, exposure and other  
[
adjustments, leaving you free to point and shoot.  
48  
Auto  
E
In normal recording conditions, set the program  
selector to n (Auto). This is the same as the Easy  
Recording program, except that you now have the  
option of using any of the camera’s manual functions.  
AUTO  
A
Giving priority to shutter speed (shutter-priority:Tv)  
Use this program to select the shutter speed.  
The camera automatically sets all other values  
necessary to give the correct exposure.  
When you turn the program selector to Tv, the current  
shutter speed is shown in the display. Select your  
desired shutter speed by turning the EXPOSURE dial  
toward + for a slower shutter or – for a faster shutter.  
Tv 2000  
Tv  
You can choose 9 shutter speeds between 1/60 and 1/15000 of a second.  
When shooting outside on clear, bright days, the camera will often set a large F number to adjust the  
amount of light entering the camera, throwing the focus off. Setting a fast shutter speed or decreasing the  
amount of light with the ND filter can help correct this.  
• If you try to set a shutter speed that is either too high or too low for the shooting conditions, the  
indicator flashes in the display. In this case, increase or decrease the setting until the flashing stops, or  
turn the ND FILTER ON/OFF as appropriate before changing the setting.  
Notes:  
• When recording in extreme low-light conditions, we recommend the use of a Canon Speedlite (p. 45) or  
Video Light (available as optional accessories, see page 14).  
• The Tv values are reset if you turn the power off or change the recording program. If you use the  
STANDBY lever, however, the camera remembers your chosen values.  
49  
Giving priority to the aperture (aperture-priority: Av)  
E
Use this program to select the aperture (iris diameter)  
to give you maximum control over the depth of field.  
A large F number (a small aperture) gives a greater  
depth of field.  
Av F1.6  
Av  
You can choose 12 F numbers between f/1.6 and f/11.  
If you try to set an F number that is too high or too  
low for the shooting conditions, the indicator flashes in  
the display. In this case, increase or decrease the  
setting until the flashing stops.  
The camera sets all the other values necessary to give the correct exposure.  
When you turn the program selector to Av, the current shutter speed is shown in the display. Select your  
desired F number by turning the EXPOSURE dial.  
• Under very bright conditions when you have set the F number to f/11, blurring of the image may occur.  
Check the image in the display while setting the aperture.  
Notes:  
• The f/1.6–f/2.4 Av values are not available when you zoom in near the telephoto end.  
• The Av values are reset if you turn the power off or change the recording program. If you use the  
STANDBY lever, however, the camera remembers your chosen values.  
Manual (See also p. 55)  
Select this program for total creative freedom when  
operating the camcorder. You can set aperture and  
shutter speeds completely independently to give you  
exactly the exposure you require.  
M
There are 27 shutter speed settings, between 1/60 and  
1/15000 of a second; 23 aperture values, between f/1.6  
and f/11 (you can also close the iris); and 5 gain  
values, between 0dB and +12dB.  
Sand & Snow  
Use this program in places where the background is so  
SAND&SNOW  
bright that the subject appears underexposed in the  
display — a sunny beach or ski resort, for example.  
You may notice some shudder when recording moving  
subjects.  
Spotlight  
This program is designed for recording spotlit scenes,  
SPOTLIGHT  
such as on a stage. The exposure is automatically  
adjusted for glare-free recordings of subjects lit by a  
concentrated light source.  
50  
Using Digital Effects  
Add the camera’s digital effects during recording for more interesting productions. Except for the fade  
trigger, all digital effects can be used for both still photos and video, and sound is recorded normally.  
E
Fade Trigger  
When you start recording, the scene gradually  
fades in from a black screen. When you stop  
recording, it gradually fades out.  
Set the fade trigger each time you wish to use it  
(both before you fade in and again before you fade  
out).  
FADE-T is shown constantly in the display when it  
is ready for use.  
Black and White  
Records the image in black and white.  
Slim  
The image appears compressed horizontally.  
Stretch  
The image appears compressed vertically.  
Strobe  
This effect converts on-screen action to a series of  
still images, giving an effect similar to slow-  
motion.  
51  
Operating the digital effects  
E
1. Set the camera to record pause mode.  
2. Set the program selector to any mode other than [ Easy Recording.  
3. Open the camera menu and select D.EFFECT.  
4. Select your desired effect and close the menu.  
Your chosen effect flashes in the display.  
• Select OFF to deselect all effects.  
5. Press the D.E. ON/OFF button.  
• If you have chosen FADE-T, FADE-T stops flashing.  
• If you have chosen any other effect, it will take effect on the screen.  
6. Press the start/stop button to start/stop recording.  
• If you have chosen FADE-T, the scene fades in from black (together with the sound) and FADE-T  
starts to flash again in the display.  
• If you wish to use the fade trigger again, press the D.E. ON/OFF button. If not, you can select a  
different digital effect, or turn the digital effects off completely through D.EFFECT in the camera  
menu.  
Notes:  
You cannot use fade trigger while taking a still picture.  
You cannot select a different digital effect while the fade trigger is still turned on.  
You can turn the fade trigger off before you use it by pressing the D.E. ON/OFF button again.  
You are unable to use digital effects in the Easy Recording program.  
• The camcorder will remember your D.E. ON/OFF button setting even if you change the program  
selector (to any program other than Easy Recording).  
• If you slide the POWER switch to OFF or turn the standby lever to LOCK, digital effects will be turned  
off.  
16:9 (Widescreen TV recording)  
Produces images in the 16:9 format for playback  
on widescreen TVs.  
16:9••••••••OFF  
(see p. 34)  
1. Select 16:9 from the camera menu and turn the effect ON/OFF.  
2. Press the MENU button once more to close the menu.  
Notes:  
• “16:9” is shown in the display when you switch the 16:9 effect on.  
You cannot use the 16:9 digital effect with the Easy Recording program.  
• If you play back a recording made for 16:9 on a normal TV screen, the image will appear to be  
vertically “squashed” (compressed).  
52  
Audio Recording  
Selecting the audio mode  
E
The GL1 can record sound in two audio modes:  
• 16-bit (48 kHz, 2 channel) for the highest sound quality  
• 12-bit (32 kHz, 2 from 4 channels) for recording on two channels (stereo 1), leaving two channels  
(stereo 2) free for you to add new sound at a later date.  
AUDIO MODE••12bit  
(see p. 34)  
1. To switch the mode, open the camera or VCR menu and select AUDIO MODE.  
2. Select a mode, and close the menu.  
• The name of your chosen mode is displayed for 4 seconds.  
Note:  
• For audio output details, including how to play back a tape that has new sound on stereo 2, see page 86.  
Wind screen  
The camera has an automatic wind screen to prevent wind noise from interfering with the sound track.  
Make sure it’s off when you want the microphone to be as sensitive as possible. Use the wind screen when  
recording in windy places such as the beach or near buildings.  
The wind screen does not operate with an external microphone. The WIND SCREEN menu options  
disappear (“— — —”) when an external microphone is connected to the MIC terminal.  
WIND SCREEN•OFF  
(see p. 34)  
1. Open the camera or VCR menu and point the arrow at WIND SCREEN.  
2. Select the ON setting and close the menu.  
• WS O is shown in the display.  
53  
Setting the Self-Timer  
E
START  
/STOP  
STANDBY LOCK  
SELF  
TIMER  
This is useful when you want to include yourself in the picture when recording.  
1. Set the camera to record pause mode.  
2. Press the self-timer button on the body of the camera  
or  
the SELF TIMER button on the wireless controller.  
• SELF T. appears in the display.  
• To have the subject monitor recording, rotate the LCD panel 180° (p. 26).  
3. Press the start/stop button.  
• The camera starts to record after a 10-second countdown period (or after two seconds when you use  
the wireless controller). The time remaining counts down in the display (e.g. “5 SEC”).  
• SELF T. disappears from the display when recording begins.  
• The tally lamp starts flashing.  
4. Press the start/stop button to end recording.  
• After recording a still picture for about six seconds, the camera automatically goes into record pause  
mode.  
Notes:  
• Initially the tally lamp flashes once a second, then just before recording it starts flashing more quickly  
for a few seconds before the camera starts to record.  
• If you have the beep turned on, it sounds each time the tally lamp flashes before recording.  
• To cancel the self-timer before the countdown has begun, press the self-timer button again.  
• To cancel the self-timer once the countdown has begun, press start/stop or the self-timer button on the  
wireless controller or the body of the camera.  
• When taking a still photo, set the self-timer and press a PHOTO button on the camera body or the  
wireless controller. The camera automatically adjusts the focus two seconds before the countdown is  
complete. The mark flashes white then turns green after the focus and exposure are set. If you are  
F
using the wireless controller, the mark starts flashing immediately after you press the photo button.  
F
The camcorder takes the picture for approximately six seconds.  
54  
Manual Exposure Adjustment  
E
EXPOSURE  
1. Turn the program selector to the Manual  
recording program.  
s h u t t e r  
s p e e d  
i r i s  
2. Press the EXPOSURE dial in.  
• An arrow appears next to the shutter speed  
value.  
3. Turn the EXPOSURE dial to increase or  
decrease the shutter speed.  
n o  
d i s p l a y  
You can choose 27 shutter speeds between  
1/60 and 1/15000 of a second.  
g a i n  
• See “About the shutter speed” (p. 56).  
4. Press the EXPOSURE dial in again.  
• The arrow moves next to the F number.  
5. Turn the EXPOSURE dial to open or close the iris.  
• Choose among 23 F numbers between f/1.6 and f/11, and CLOSE to shut the iris completely.  
• See “About the iris” (p. 56).  
6. Press the EXPOSURE dial in once more.  
• The arrow moves next to the gain value.  
7. Turn the EXPOSURE dial to increase or decrease the gain.  
• Set the gain to 0dB, +3dB, +6dB, +9dB or +12dB.  
• See “About the gain” (p. 56).  
Notes:  
• The shutter speed, F number and gain values are all reset if you slide the POWER switch to OFF. If you  
use the standby lever, however, the camcorder remembers your chosen values.  
• A bar showing the standard exposure appears in the display.  
You can also vary the exposure manually in the Auto, Tv and Av modes, but you must first lock the  
exposure to adjust the shutter speed and iris.  
55  
About the shutter speed  
E
Turn the EXPOSURE dial toward + for a slower shutter speed or – for a faster shutter speed.  
Available shutter speeds:  
1/60 sec  
1/500 sec  
1/600 sec  
1/75 sec  
1/420 sec  
1/90 sec  
1/100 sec  
1/120 sec  
1/150 sec  
1/250 sec  
1/180 sec  
1/210 sec  
1/1400 sec  
1/360 sec  
1/300 sec  
1/720 sec  
1/840 sec  
1/1000 sec  
1/2300 sec  
1/1200 sec  
1/2000 sec  
1/4000 sec  
1/8000 sec  
1/3000 sec  
1/15000 sec  
1/2600 sec  
1/1700 sec  
About the iris  
Turn the EXPOSURE dial toward + for a shorter depth of field or – for a greater depth of field.  
Available F numbers:  
F1.6*  
F6.2  
F6.7  
F1.8*  
F5.6  
F7.3  
F2*  
F5.2  
F8  
F2.2*  
F4.8  
F8.7  
F2.4*  
F4.4  
F9.5  
F2.6*  
F4  
F2.8  
F3.7  
F11  
F3.2  
F3.4  
F10  
CLOSE  
* These values not available when you zoom in near the telephoto end.  
• Under very bright conditions when you have set the F number to f/11, blurring of the image may occur.  
Check the image in the viewfinder while setting the aperture.  
About the gain  
Turn the EXPOSURE dial toward + to increase the gain or – to lower it.  
Available gain values: 0dB, +3dB, +6dB, +9dB, +12dB  
56  
Exposure lock/adjustment  
E
Exposure lock  
Lock the exposure at the current level in order to  
control the brightness of the image.  
EXPOSURE  
To lock the exposure, press the EXPOSURE dial  
in once. Press it again to return to the  
automatically set exposure level.  
Notes:  
You cannot lock the exposure in the [ (Easy Recording) or M (Manual) recording programs.  
• The standard exposure level depends on which recording program you have selected, but the shutter  
normally operates at 1/60 of a second.  
• The brightness of the subject may change if you zoom during exposure lock.  
If you slide the POWER switch to OFF or the standby lever to LOCK, the camcorder resets to auto  
exposure.  
Exposure adjustment  
When the exposure is locked, you can adjust it  
manually, making the picture brighter or darker in  
order to deal with difficult lighting conditions, or  
to manipulate the mood of the scene. The camera’s  
EXPOSURE  
iris can be manually set to any position from fully  
closed to fully open.  
To make the recorded image brighter, turn the  
E .LO CK + 11  
E .LO CK ± 0  
EXPOSURE dial upwards (to a maximum of +11).  
This may be necessary if the background is very  
bright, or if the subject is lit from behind.  
To make the recorded image darker, turn the  
EXPOSURE dial downwards (to a minimum of  
–11). This may be necessary if the background is  
very dark, or if the subject is spotlit.  
E .LO CK ± 0  
E .LO CK 11  
57  
Adjusting the Focus  
The camera can focus automatically. All you have to do is point it, and whatever is in the center of the  
display will usually be in sharp focus. If it does not seem to be focusing well, it may be because the  
subject is not suitable for autofocus (page 93). Also, if you attach a filter other than UV or ND, the  
autofocus may not work as effectively.  
E
Temporary focus override  
You can adjust the focus temporarily without  
turning autofocus off. Turn the lens’s focus ring  
counterclockwise to set the focus farther away  
from the camcorder or clockwise to set the focus  
closer to the camcorder. Autofocus will resume as  
soon as you take your hand away from the  
focusing ring. This is convenient when shooting  
through glass.  
Manual focus  
1. Turn the program selector to any  
recording program other than [ (Easy  
Recording) program.  
2. Push the FOCUS A/M button so that  
MF appears in the display.  
3. Using the zoom lever, zoom all the way  
in to the telephoto end.  
4. Rotate the focusing ring to adjust the  
focus.  
5. Use the zoom lever to reframe the  
subject.  
• To resume autofocus, press the FOCUS A/M  
button again.  
Notes:  
• The picture in the LCD screen may appear out of focus when shooting in dark conditions.  
• When zooming during manual focus, zoom out wide only after setting the focus at the telephoto end.  
The focus may be thrown off if you zoom into telephoto after setting the focus at the wide angle end.  
Autofocus is recommended for zooming in to telephoto from the wide end.  
• If you slide the POWER switch to OFF or the standby lever to LOCK, the camcorder resets to auto  
focus.  
58  
Using AE Shift  
By controlling the level of the automatic exposure (AE) function, you can lighten or darken the image  
slightly. This allows you to compensate for backlit, overexposed scenes.  
E
1. Turn the program selector to the Auto, Tv or Av recording program.  
2. Open the camera menu and select AE SHIFT.  
3. Turn the menu dial to choose your desired level.  
• Levels are from –2 to +2, in 0.25 intervals (excluding –1.75 and +1.75).  
• The higher the setting, the brighter the image.  
4. Close the menu.  
Note:  
• AE shift does not function in the Easy, Manual, Sand & Snow or Spotlight Recording programs.  
59  
Adjusting Camera Sharpness  
Change the sharpness level before shooting for more creative videos.  
E
+
C.SHARPNESS•  
(see p. 34)  
1. Select C.SHARPNESS from the camera menu.  
2. Set your desired sharpness level.  
• Adjust toward + for a sharper picture, and toward – to soften the contour.  
• CP (custom preset) appears in the display.  
60  
Adjusting Color Phase  
Change the color phase level before shooting for more creative videos.  
E
C.PHASE•••••R  
G
(see p. 34)  
1. Select C. (color) PHASE from the camera menu.  
2. Set your desired color level.  
• Adjust toward R for a redder picture, and toward G for a greener picture.  
• CP (custom preset) appears in the display.  
61  
Using the Zebra Pattern  
E
MENU  
The zebra pattern is a series of diagonal stripes that appear in the display to highlight areas of  
overexposure. Use as a guide to setting the aperture (iris) and shutter speed.  
ZEBRA•••••••OFF  
(see p. 34)  
1. Open the camera menu and select ZEBRA.  
2. Select the ON setting and close the menu.  
Note:  
• The camera does not record the zebra pattern, it is only shown in the display.  
62  
Adjusting the White Balance  
The camera’s auto white balance system  
compensates for a wide range of lighting  
conditions. Although slight variations are  
unavoidable, colors will appear natural in virtually  
every situation.  
E
In some cases, you will get better results by setting  
the white balance yourself, or using one of the two  
preset modes:  
T Indoor Mode  
• Under halogen or studio/video lighting  
• Subject is of one dominant color  
• Close ups  
U Outdoor mode  
• In daylight, especially for close-ups and  
where the subject is of one dominant color  
Setting the white balance  
1. Turn the program selector to any recording program (except the [ Easy Recording  
program).  
2. a) For auto white balance, indoor lighting or outdoor lighting, press the WHITE  
BALANCE SELECT button.  
T/U appears in the display when you set the white balance to the indoor/outdoor modes.  
b) To set the white balance manually:  
q Point the camera at a white object (such as a sheet of paper) and zoom in until it fills the  
display.  
w Press the WHITE BALANCE SELECT button.  
W appears in the display.  
e Press the WHITE BALANCE W set button.  
W flashes quickly in the display and then remains lit, to show that the camera has set the  
white balance.  
• Depending on the light source, the flashing may at times change to a slower speed, rather  
than remaining lit. The result will remain better than with the auto setting, and you can  
continue recording.  
Setting the white balance manually will probably work better than auto white balance when shooting:  
Subjects with one dominant color, such as sky, sea or forest  
Close-ups  
In rapidly changing lighting conditions  
In places lit by certain types of fluorescent or mercury vapor lights  
63  
Notes:  
• Turn the digital zoom off (if necessary) to set a more accurate white balance.  
• If the lighting conditions change, reset the white balance by first returning to the auto setting, and then  
reselecting the manual balance.  
E
• Try to record with light from a single source. Correct white balance cannot be obtained for two types of  
lighting at once.  
You cannot set the white balance manually or use the indoor/outdoor modes when the program selector  
is set to the [ (Easy Recording) program.  
• The camera returns to auto white balance when the program selector is turned to [ (Easy Recording).  
• When you turn the camera on, the white balance returns to auto white balance. If you then press the  
WHITE BALANCE W set button, the camera will remember your last setting.  
• If you shoot with studio/video lighting, use the T (indoor) mode.  
• During normal outdoor shooting, setting the camcorder to auto white balance may provide better results.  
64  
Displaying Data Code  
A data code, containing the date and time the recording was made and other camera data (shutter speed,  
exposure and gain settings) is automatically recorded on a special data section of the tape.  
E
DISPLAY  
/DATA CODE  
DATA  
CODE  
During VCR mode, the data code can be displayed or hidden while the camera is in play, slow, or still  
mode.  
Camera data may be displayed as “— — —” during fast forward, rewind, reverse playback, forward and  
reverse ×2 playback.  
Press the DATA CODE button on the wireless controller or the body of the camera.  
• Press it once to display, once more to hide it.  
You can also choose which type of data code to display — either the date/time, camera data or both.  
DATA CODE•••DATE/TIME  
(see p. 34)  
1. Select DATA CODE from the VCR menu.  
2. Choose between DATE/TIME, CAMERA DATA and CAM. & D/T.  
3. Press the MENU button once more to close the menu.  
65  
Notes:  
• To avoid accidental recording, make sure that you slide the tab on the cassette so that it exposes the hole  
(the switch position is usually labeled SAVE or ERASE OFF).  
• The data code will read “— — —” in the following situations:  
– During playback of a blank section of tape.  
E
– If the tape was recorded before entering the date and time in the camera’s memory.  
– If the tape was recorded on a camera without a data code function.  
– If noise or tape damage prevents the data code from being read.  
• Data code is sometimes not displayed during high speed playback modes.  
• If a recording made on GL1 is played back on a different DV camcorder, the data code may not be  
displayed correctly.  
• Contents of data code display may change according to D/TIME SEL. (p. 41) or DATA CODE settings  
made on the menu.  
Setting the  
Data Code”  
Date/Time &  
Camera data  
Date/Time  
Camera data  
Setting  
Select Date/Time”  
0
dB  
Date  
Time  
F 1 .  
6
0
dB  
F 1 .  
6
1
/ 2 0 0 0  
DEC. 1 , 1 9 9 9  
1
/ 2 0 0 0  
DEC. 1 , 1 9 9 9  
0
dB  
0
dB  
F 1 .  
6
F 1 .  
6
1
/ 2 0 0 0  
:
:
1 0 0 0 0 0 AM  
:
:
1
/ 2 0 0 0  
1 0 0 0 0 0 AM  
0
dB  
F 1 .  
6
Date & Time  
0
dB  
1
/ 2 0 0 0  
:
1 0 0 0 AM  
F 1  
.
6
1 0 0 0 AM  
:
DEC. 1 , 1 9 9 9  
1
/ 2 0 0 0  
DEC. 1 , 1 9 9 9  
• The data code will appear in the display even if DISPLAYS (p. 95) has been set to OFF through the  
VCR menu.  
66  
Searching the Tape (Photo Search/Date Search)  
OFF  
CAMERA VCR  
E
REC  
PAUSE  
SEARCH  
SELECT  
POWER  
ZERO SET  
MEMORY  
REW  
PLAY  
STOP  
SLOW  
FF  
AUDIO  
DUB.  
+ /  
/  
A/V  
PAUSE  
×2  
INSERT  
This allows you to move quickly through still pictures recorded anywhere on a tape (photo search) or  
between different days or areas of recording (date search).  
You can only use this function from the wireless controller.  
1. Slide the POWER switch to VCR.  
2. Press the SEARCH SELECT button to choose between photo/date search.  
• PHOTO SEARCH or DATE SEARCH is shown in the display for four seconds.  
3. Press the - and + buttons to move backwards or forwards through the still pictures  
or between different days of recording.  
• Press once to move to the start of the previous/next still picture or day on the tape.  
You can press more than once to move to the corresponding still picture or day (up to a maximum of  
ten times), e.g. press the + button five times to move forward five still pictures or days.  
• PHOTO SEARCH/DATE SEARCH appears in the middle of the display alongside the - or +  
mark and number to search through. The date also appears during date search.  
• When the camcorder locates the indicated date or still picture, it enters playback or still playback  
mode.  
Notes:  
• Press 3 (stop) to stop mid-search.  
• If you begin a search very close to the start of a recorded still picture during photo search, the camera  
may skip straight past it.  
• When you have set the area for the World Clock, date search also looks for the change in date based on  
the adjusted time.  
• A date/area cannot be identified if the total recording time on that day/area was less than one minute.  
• Date search playback may start just before or after the beginning of the located section.  
• If the data code is not displayed correctly you will not be able to operate the date search correctly.  
67  
Returning to a Pre-Marked Position  
E
OFF  
CAMERA VCR  
POWER  
REC  
PAUSE  
SEARCH  
SELECT  
ZERO SET  
MEMORY  
REW  
PLAY  
STOP  
SLOW  
FF  
AUDIO  
DUB.  
+ /  
/  
A/V  
PAUSE  
×2  
INSERT  
Use the wireless controller to go back to a pre-determined point on a tape following playback.  
1. Press the ZERO SET MEMORY button on the wireless controller at a point you want  
to return to later.  
• The time code is replaced by a tape counter that is set to zero with the  
Â
indication.  
• Press the ZERO SET MEMORY button once more to cancel the zero set memory.  
2. When you have finished playback, fast forward or rewind the tape. The tape stops  
automatically when it reaches the zero set position.  
• RTN1 or `RTN appears in the display.  
• The tape counter with  
Â
indication disappears from the display and the time code reappears.  
Notes:  
• The zero set memory may not function correctly where there is a break between recordings on the tape.  
You can also use zero set memory to mark a position on a tape in record pause mode. When you then  
play back the tape, pressing rewind will take you back to the pre-marked position.  
• There may be a slight difference between the timecode and the tape counter readings.  
• If you remove the tape while the zero set memory is set, the memory is canceled and the tape counter  
reverts to timecode.  
• The camera remembers your setting even if you slide the POWER switch to OFF.  
68  
The Dubbing Function  
The GL1 dubs your pre-recorded scenes onto a tape in your  
VCR or another camcorder. You can add audio to a tape (audio  
dubbing, p. 80) or both audio and visual (A/V insert, p. 78).  
You can also adjust the starting and ending points of the scene  
(the “cut-in” and “cut-out” points, p. 73). In addition, the GL1  
can record from a VCR, TV or analog camcorder (analog line-  
in, p. 76).  
E
If you connect another Canon digital video camcorder to the  
camera instead of a VCR, you can use the Dubbing Function  
for digital-to-digital dubbing, with virtually no generation loss  
in image and sound quality. However, you cannot set the cut-in  
and cut-out adjustments using the built-in digital timer (p. 73).  
Preparing for Dubbing  
1. Connect the camera to the VCR.  
• See the “Connections for Playback on a TV Screen” instructions on page 30.  
2. Turn the TV on.  
• Be sure to set it to the video channel, or set the TV/Video selector to Video.  
3. Turn on the VCR and load a blank cassette.  
• See your VCR instruction manual.  
4. Open the VCR menu and select \ DUB MODE.  
• When you select DUB MODE all the displayed information is also displayed on the screen of the  
TV connected your VCR. However, this information will not be recorded onto the tape in the VCR.  
Setting the camera to control your VCR  
The camcorder’s Dubbing Function controls your VCR by using  
the same infra-red signals as the VCR’s remote control.  
Infra-red signals  
transmitter  
Make sure the camera is in a spot where it can remotely control  
your VCR.  
1. Check where the remote control sensor is on your  
VCR using its normal remote control.  
2. Place the camera pointing directly at the sensor, not  
more than 20 inches (50 cm) away.  
• Check that the sensor will pick up signals easily from this  
spot using the VCR’s normal remote control.  
• Make sure that the cables and the camera’s shoulder strap do not obstruct the signals.  
3. Make sure that the VCR is in record pause mode.  
4. Make sure that all other video equipment is turned off to avoid accidental recording.  
69  
Using the Dubbing Function for the First Time  
When you use the dubbing function for the first time, or with a  
different VCR, you should set your camcorder to send the  
correct remote control signals to your VCR.  
The camera will not forget this setting unless you change it. Do  
not alter it again unless you change VCR.  
REC. SET UP  
SE L . SE T SE T  
MENUCLOSE  
E
DUB MODE  
. . . .  
CUT I N AD J  
CUT OUT AD J  
[
]
– [  
0 0  
0 0  
]
RECORDER  
. .  
.
-
:
:
.
0
0
-
.
Preparations & setting up  
1. Make sure that the camera and VCR are set up as in “Preparing for Dubbing,” p. 69  
and “Setting the camera to control your VCR,” p. 69.  
2. Open the VCR menu and select \ REC.SET UP.  
• This takes you to the REC.SET UP menu.  
• It is easiest to view the menu on the TV screen.  
3. Point the arrow to RECORDER and push the menu dial.  
You are now unable to use the wireless controller (B appears in the display).  
Setting RECORDER  
Use the chart on the next page to find the RECORDER settings for your brand of VCR. Make sure the  
camcorder’s infra-red control signals can reach the VCR, and the VCR is in record pause mode. (Ready to  
record and on pause.)  
1. Set RECORDER to the first setting for your brand of VCR.  
• For example, 7-A if you have a JVC VCR.  
• Turn the menu dial to scan the numbers.  
[ 7][A]  
• Press the menu dial in to select the number corresponding your brand of VCR.  
[ 7][A]  
• Turn the menu dial to scan the letters. TRANSMITTING DATA appears in the display each time you  
turn the menu dial.  
• After you scan past the last letter for each number, the number advances to the next number.  
2. If the setting is correct, the VCR will start recording automatically.  
• This will occur as long as the camera is pointing at the VCR’s remote sensor while you change the  
setting.  
3. If the VCR does not start recording, try the next setting.  
• Turn the menu dial (to 7-B in the above example).  
• Try each setting in turn until the VCR starts to record.  
4. Depending on the brand of VCR, the signals to start and pause recording may differ.  
Once the VCR starts to record, check that the setting is right.  
Set the VCR to record pause again, then press the camera’s start/stop button.  
• The VCR should start to record for a few seconds, and REC appears in the display and on the TV  
screen. Then it will automatically pause and PAUSE appears in the display and on screen.  
• During these REC, PAUSE operations, the VCR records a digital timer, which you will use later for  
Cut-In and Cut-Out Adjustments. For more accurate adjustments, we recommend that you repeat  
pressing the start/stop button to record a couple of times.  
• If not, then the setting is still not right. Try the next setting.  
70  
RECORDER  
E
The camera’s Dubbing Function can remotely control almost all brands and models of VCR. VCR  
remote control signals vary depending on model and brand. First, choose the right RECORDER  
setting for your VCR. The number indicates the VCR brand. The letter indicates the set of signals.  
Brand  
Canon  
Aiwa  
Akai  
Fujitsu  
Funai  
Hitachi  
JVC  
Mitsubishi  
NEC  
Panasonic  
Blaupunkt  
Quasar  
Settings  
Brand  
Pioneer  
Sanyo  
Fisher  
Sharp  
Sony  
Toshiba  
GE  
RCA  
Magnavox  
Philips  
Seleco  
Rex  
Settings  
11-A  
12-A to 12-C  
Brand  
Thomson  
Saba  
Nordmende  
Ferguson  
Grundig  
Nokia  
Telefunken  
Zenith  
Settings  
18-A to 18-C  
1-A to 1-C  
2-A to 2-C  
3-A to 3-C  
4-A  
13-A to 13-C  
14-A to 14-F  
15-A to 15-B  
16-A to 16-B  
19-A to 19-C  
20-A to 20-C  
21-A to 21-C  
22-A to 22-B  
23-A  
5-A  
6-A to 6-B  
7-A to 7-C  
8-A to 8-D  
9-A to 9-D  
10-A to 10-G  
17-A to 17-B  
18-A to 18-C  
Samsung  
GoldStar  
24-A to 24-B  
25-A  
as of March 1999  
Notes:  
• Once you find the correct setting, remember this and do not change it unless you change VCRs.  
• See p. 73 for details of the “cut-in” and “cut-out” adjustments.  
• If you try all the numbers and letters, but the VCR has still not started to record:  
– Check the VCR is ready to record, and on pause.  
– Check the VCR can receive signals from where the camera is, and that nothing is blocking the signals.  
– Go back and try to set it again.  
• If your brand of VCR is not on the chart, or you cannot find the correct setting, try all the numbers  
with the menu dial until the VCR starts to record.  
• It is unlikely, but you may have a VCR the Dubbing Function cannot control. If so use the Simple  
Editing method on p. 74.  
71  
Dubbing to a VCR  
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1. Make sure you are in DUB MODE (see p. 69).  
• WIND THE TAPES AND PAUSE \ SET appears in the display.  
2. Set the tape in the VCR to the point where you want to start recording, set it to record  
pause mode.  
Set the tape in the camera to the point where you want to start dubbing, set the camera  
to playback pause mode.  
You can use the `, 1, e, a and 3 buttons or special playback functions in the same way as in  
playback mode.  
3. Press the menu dial in.  
.......  
• START  
PRESS e TO START DUB appears in the DUB MODE screen.  
• Now you are unable to use the wireless controller.  
4. Press e on the body of the camera.  
• Recording starts.  
• NOW DUBBING CUT-OUT PUSH a appears in the display.  
5. When you reach the end of the scene you want to record, press a on the body of the  
camera.  
• The camera returns to playback pause mode and the VCR automatically switches to record pause  
mode.  
• When you finish dubbing, press the MENU button. The camera returns to VCR mode.  
• If you set the zero set memory at the position on the tape where you want to stop dubbing, every  
time you return to that point, the camera will cancel its dubbing and enter playback pause mode, and  
the VCR will enter record pause mode.  
Note:  
• To cancel during dubbing, push on the body of the camera.  
3
72  
Cut-In and Cut-Out Adjustments  
Setting the Cut-In and Cut-Out Adjustments  
E
The point where a scene starts is called the “cut-in” point, and the point where it ends is called the “cut-  
out” point.  
Some VCR models take a second or more to actually start recording after they receive the command  
signal. If this happens you could lose the beginning of the scene. CUT-IN ADJ. prevents this by sending  
the command a little early.  
Similarly, some models take some time to react to the command to stop recording. Some models also  
rewind slightly after they stop. You could therefore record more than you wanted, or lose the end of the  
scene. CUT-OUT ADJ. prevents this, by sending the command a little early or late.  
If you have these problems with your VCR, reset these adjustments.  
Use the REC.SET UP menu to set the “cut-in” and “cut-out” adjustments.  
CUT–IN ADJ.•• 0:00  
CUT–OUT ADJ.• 0:00  
(see p. 70)  
1. Open the REC.SET UP menu and point the arrow at CUT-IN ADJ.  
• Point it at “CUT-OUT ADJ.” to set the cut out adjustment.  
2. Adjust the setting.  
• CUT-IN ADJ. can be set up to five seconds early. (–5:00 to 0:00)  
• CUT-OUT ADJ. can be set from one second early to five seconds late. (–1:00 to +5:00)  
• This can be set to an accuracy of one frame.  
How to calculate the best adjustment for the “cut-in” and “cut-out” points  
Use the tape on which you recorded the digital timer in “Setting RECORDER” to calculate the cut-in and  
cut-out adjustment values.  
1. Rewind the tape in the VCR and start playback to play back the recorded digital timer.  
• Look at the time the CUT-OUT timer stops and CUT-IN timer starts. These times are what the CUT-  
OUT ADJ. and CUT-IN ADJ. settings should be.  
• For maximum accuracy, take an average of at least three readings.  
• If your VCR has a frame advance function or a jog dial, you can use it to find the precise starting  
times more conveniently.  
2. Set the CUT-OUT ADJ. and CUT-IN ADJ. settings to the center of the three readings.  
Note:  
• The camcorder will remember the cut-in and cut-out adjustment settings until you change them.  
73  
Simple Editing to a VCR  
If you cannot find the appropriate remote control setting for the camcorder to control your VCR, you still  
can edit a tape to the VCR as follows.  
E
Preparations  
1. Connect the camera to the VCR.  
• See “Connections for Playback on a TV Screen” on p. 30.  
2. Prepare the TV and VCR.  
• Turn on the TV and set it to the video channel, or set the TV/VIDEO selector to VIDEO.  
• Turn on the VCR, and set its input selector to LINE. Load a blank cassette, and put the VCR in  
record pause mode.  
• See your TV and VCR instruction manuals for details.  
3. Turn the camera’s POWER switch to VCR, and load your recorded cassette.  
Basic editing  
1. Find a point on your recorded cassette slightly before the section you want to copy.  
2. Start to play it back while you monitor the picture on the TV.  
3. Start recording on the VCR as soon as the section you want to copy appears on the  
screen.  
4. Pause the VCR at the end of the section you want to copy, then stop playback on the  
camera.  
5. Repeat steps 1 to 4 until your edited recording is complete.  
Note:  
• The quality of the edited tape will be slightly lower than that of the original.  
m REMOTE terminal  
The m REMOTE terminal allows you to connect the camera to  
equipment. Some buttons on editing equipment may operate  
DV  
IN/OUT  
differently from those on the camera.  
A/V  
IN/  
OUT  
Notes:  
m (LANC) is a trademark. It stands for Local Application Control Bus System.  
• We cannot guarantee the results when connecting to equipment not bearing the LANC m symbol.  
74  
Dubbing with Digital Video Equipment  
DV terminal/connections  
E
REC  
PAUSE  
SEARCH  
SELECT  
ZERO SET  
MEMORY  
REW  
/  
PLAY  
STOP  
SLOW  
FF  
AUDIO  
DUB.  
+ /  
A/V  
PAUSE  
×2  
INSERT  
Digital video equipment fitted with this terminal lets you edit, copy and transfer data digitally, with  
virtually no generation loss in image and sound quality. The DV terminal is for both line-in and line-out,  
since a single DV cable can handle data in both directions.  
• If another Canon digital video camcorder is connected, the Dubbing Function can be used for digital-to-  
digital dubbing (i.e. with virtually no generation loss in image quality).  
• If a VCR is connected and an anomalous signal is sent from the VCR, the images recorded on the tape  
may also be anomalous (although it may not appear so on the TV image), or not recorded at all.  
You may not be able to dub tapes recorded with the copyright protective signal.  
Use a Canon CV-150F DV cable (optional) to connect two digital devices together. When you are  
recording from the GL1, make sure you connect the cable to the GL1 before connecting the other end of  
the cable to the recording device. When you are recording to the GL1, slide the POWER switch to VCR  
and press its 2 (record) and a (pause) buttons down simultaneously, or press the REC PAUSE button on  
the wireless controller (“DV IN” appears in the display when you press “play” on the playback device).  
Then press its pause button to start/pause recording.  
• The image displayed by the camcorder that is being recorded to (for example on its LCD screen, an  
attached TV, or in its viewfinder) may become distorted during digital dubbing. The actual recording on  
the tape, however, is not affected.  
• Blanks between recordings on the playback tape are recorded as anomalous images on the tape that is  
being recorded to.  
• Do not turn the power off when operating either camcorder with the DV cable connected.  
Copyright signal  
Certain pre-recorded software tapes are copyright protected. If you try to play back such a cassette,  
“COPYRIGHT PROTECTED PLAYBACK IS RESTRICTED” appears in the display for a few seconds  
and then the camera displays a blank blue screen; you cannot view the contents of the cassette.  
If you try to record from such a tape via the digital cable “COPYRIGHT PROTECTED DUBBING  
RESTRICTED” appears in the display; you cannot record the contents of the tape.  
75  
Recording from a VCR, TV or Other Camcorder (Analog Line-in)  
You can record a TV program or a video played on your VCR or analog camcorder (digital camcorders,  
see p. 75) onto a tape in the GL1, if the TV or other device has audio/video outputs.  
• If an anomalous signal is sent from the TV or VCR, the images recorded on the tape may also be  
anomalous (although it may not appear so on the TV image), or not recorded at all.  
You may not be able to dub tapes recorded with the copyright protective signal.  
• The GL1 cannot record or play back tapes with closed captioning.  
E
OUTPUT  
S-VIDEO  
S-150 S-video Cable  
DV  
IN/OUT  
VIDEO  
A/V  
AUDIO  
STV-250N Stereo Video Cable  
L
IN/  
OUT  
R
DV  
IN/OUT  
OUTPUT  
STV-250N Stereo  
Video Cable  
VIDEO  
A/V  
AUDIO  
L
IN/  
OUT  
R
Preparations  
1. Connect the camera to the VCR, TV or other camcorder.  
• See “Connections for Playback on a TV Screen” on p. 30.  
2. Prepare the TV and VCR.  
• Turn on the TV and set it to the video channel, or set the TV/VIDEO selector to VIDEO.  
• Turn on the VCR. Load your recorded cassette, and put the VCR in playback pause mode.  
• See your TV and VCR instruction manuals for details.  
3. Slide the camera’s POWER switch to VCR, and load a blank cassette.  
76  
Basic editing  
E
1. Find a point on your recorded cassette slightly before the section you want to copy.  
2. Start to play it back while you monitor the picture on the TV.  
3. Press the 2 and a buttons on the body of the GL1 simultaneously or REC PAUSE on  
the wireless controller.  
• S-video and A/V IN/OUT terminals automatically work as input terminals.  
4. Press the pause button.  
• Recording starts.  
5. When you get to the point where you want to stop recording, press the stop button or  
the pause button.  
• Recording stops.  
6. Repeat steps 1 to 5 until your edited recording is complete.  
Notes:  
You can monitor the picture in the viewfinder or LCD.  
• If your VCR or TV is a monaural type, connect only the white plug for audio on both the camcorder and  
the VCR or TV.  
77  
Recording Over Existing Scenes (A/V Insert Editing)  
You can insert new scenes from your VCR or other camcorder onto your pre-recorded tape using the  
GL1’s analog line-in or DV in terminals. Original video and audio will be replaced with the new video  
and audio.  
E
OUTPUT  
S-VIDEO  
S-150 S-video Cable  
DV  
IN/OUT  
VIDEO  
A/V  
AUDIO  
A/V  
INSERT  
L
IN/  
OUT  
R
STV-250N  
Stereo Video Cable  
The tape in the camera:  
When using the GL1’s A/V insert function, only record to tapes recorded in SP mode with continuously  
recorded time codes.  
If there are non-recorded portions or portions recorded in LP mode on the tape, recording may be  
interrupted or you may not be able to insert A/V correctly.  
The playback tape:  
Use only tapes without non-recorded portions.  
If there are non-recorded portions or changes in the recording mode, you may not be able to insert A/V  
correctly.  
You cannot insert A/V in the following cases:  
• The playback tape has been poorly recorded.  
• During special playback: fast forward playback, rewind playback or slow playback etc.  
TV:  
You cannot insert A/V from a TV program with anomalous synchronized signals, such as when the  
program itself received poor signals.  
78  
Scene to be inserted  
E
The playback tape  
Insert start point  
Insert end point  
Before inserting  
The tape in the camera  
After inserting  
The tape in the camera  
The video and audio of the new scene replace that of the old.  
1. Connect the camera to the VCR (p. 30), load recorded tapes into both the camcorder  
and VCR.  
• Make sure the REC/SAVE tab on the tape has been slid to REC (closed position).  
2.  
Slide the POWER switch to VCR.  
3. On the VCR, locate a point three seconds before the scene to be inserted (to ensure a  
stable picture). Set the VCR to playback pause mode.  
4. On the camera, locate the recording start point. Set the camera to playback pause  
mode.  
You can use the camera’s `, 1, e, a and 3 buttons or special playback functions just as when  
in playback mode.  
5. Press the A/V INSERT button on the wireless controller.  
• A/V INSERT and 2a appear in the display.  
6. On the VCR, play back the tape.  
7. When you get to the starting point of the scene to be inserted, push the pause button on  
the camera.  
• A/V insert starts.  
2a changes to 2.  
8. When you get to the point where you want to stop inserting, press the stop button of the  
camera.  
• Inserting stops and A/V INSERT disappears from the display. The camera returns to stop mode.  
• If instead of pressing 3 (STOP) you press a (PAUSE), the camera returns to the A/V insert pause  
mode.  
• If you set the zero set memory at the position on the tape where you want to stop inserting, every  
time you return to that point, the camera will cancel its A/V inserting and enter stop mode.  
9. Press the stop button of the VCR.  
79  
Audio Dubbing  
You can add sound to the original sound on a prerecorded tape from audio products (AUDIO IN) or with  
the internal or an external microphone (MIC IN). Audio added through audio dubbing is dubbed onto  
Stereo 2. The original sound will not be erased. For best results, add sound to tapes that have been  
recorded with this camera in SP mode with 12-bit sound. If there are non-recorded portions on the tape, or  
portions recorded in LP mode, or with 16-bit or 12-bit, 4-channel sound, dubbing may be interrupted or  
you may not be able to dub audio correctly. You cannot dub audio onto a tape recorded with 12-bit and  
16-bit sound intermingled. If your tape hasn’t been recorded with 12-bit sound, we recommend dubbing  
your original tape onto a blank tape using the GL1’s analog line-in function, then dubbing audio onto the  
new tape. Make absolutely sure to set the audio mode of the new tape to 12-bit and the recording mode to  
SP.  
E
To connect other audio equipment:  
DV  
OUTPUT  
IN/OUT  
AUDIO  
An audio device  
(i.e. CD player)  
STV-250N Stereo  
Video Cable  
L
A/V  
R
IN/  
OUT  
Notes:  
• Do not use the yellow video terminal.  
• The A/V terminal doesn’t put out any video, so connect the S-video terminals and check your TV, or  
check the LCD or the viewfinder as you add new sound. Always check the new sound with the speaker,  
or the headphones if you have the docking unit attached.  
To connect the external microphone:  
Notes:  
• Use the audio or the microphone attenuator during audio dubbing if you need to lower the volume level  
or correct audio distortion of the input audio. Monitor the level of the input sound with headphones and  
if necessary, turn the attenuator on through the menu by selecting LINE ATT or MIC ATT and setting it  
to ON.  
• When you add sound using the built-in microphone, make sure not to connect any cables to the MIC  
terminal.  
• To use your TV to monitor video, connect the S-video terminal and the A/V terminal to your TV. You  
can monitor the sound with headphones.  
80  
E
OFF  
CAMERA VCR  
POWER  
AUDIO  
DUB.  
AUDIO DUB.••AUDIO IN  
(see p. 34)  
1. Load your recorded tape into the camcorder.  
2. Slide the POWER switch to VCR.  
3. Open the VCR menu, select AUDIO DUB.  
4. Select AUDIO IN or MIC IN with the menu dial and close the menu.  
5. Set the tape to the point where you want to start audio dubbing.  
You can use the `, 1, e, a and 3 buttons or special playback functions just as when in  
playback mode.  
6. Press the pause button.  
• The camera becomes set to playback pause mode.  
7. Press AUDIO DUB. on the wireless controller.  
• AUDIO DUB. and  
appear on the display.  
8. Press the pause button (and start play on the other audio device if AUDIO IN).  
• Audio dubbing starts.  
• If MIC IN, direct your voice into the microphone.  
changes to  
.
9. When you get to the point where you want to stop dubbing, press the stop button (and  
then stop play on the other audio device if AUDIO IN).  
• Audio dubbing stops and AUDIO DUB. disappears from the display.  
• The camera returns to stop mode.  
You can also set zero set memory (p. 68) at the place you want to stop audio dubbing, then every  
time you return to that position, audio dubbing will cancel.  
• If instead of pressing 3 (STOP) you press a (PAUSE), the camera will return to the playback pause  
mode.  
Notes:  
You can not use the DV terminal while adding sound.  
You might want to adjust the audio mix (p. 86) when playing back a tape with added sound.  
• There may be a loss of sound quality if you add sound to a tape recorded on a camcorder other than the  
GL1.  
• After adding sound three or more times to the same place on a tape, there may be some loss in sound  
quality.  
81  
Preparing the Camera  
Adjust the viewfinder  
E
• In record pause mode, adjust the viewfinder  
focusing lever to suit your eyesight.  
• The viewfinder extends straight out and rotates  
upwards for comfortable viewing. Store the  
camera with the viewfinder flush with the body  
of the camera.  
• To view with the viewfinder, make sure the LCD  
panel is either turned so that the subject can  
monitor viewing, or totally closed with the  
screen facing inwards.  
Adjust the grip belt  
• Adjust the length of the grip belt strap so that  
you can operate the start/stop button and zoom  
control effectively.  
Attach the shoulder strap  
• For extra security and portability, attach the  
shoulder strap before using the camera.  
• Pass the ends through the attachment bars and  
adjust the length as shown.  
Note:  
• Be careful not to leave the viewfinder exposed to bright sunlight, or it will melt. (The light is  
concentrated by the viewfinder lens.) Change the angle of the viewfinder so that the sun doesn’t shine  
into it.  
82  
Notes on Using the Batteries  
Charging and recording times  
E
• These times vary — the safest policy is always to have two or three times as many battery packs as you  
think you will need.  
You will get more recording time if you turn the camera off between shots, instead of leaving it in  
record pause mode.  
Battery pack  
BP-915  
2 hrs. 10 min.  
Time needed for  
full recharge  
65 min.  
60 min.  
Maximum  
recording time  
Using the viewfinder:  
Using the LCD screen:  
• Recording time will be shorter than usual at low temperatures. You can use the battery pack between  
32° and 104°F (0° to 40°C), but it works best between 50° and 86°F (10° to 30°C).  
• If the battery pack starts to give you much less recording time than usual, it has reached the end of its  
life and must be replaced.  
• See p. 13 for times for other battery packs.  
How much power is left?  
The indicator in the display shows you  
approximately how much charge the battery pack  
has left:  
100%  
75%  
50%  
25%  
Notes:  
• “CHANGE THE BATTERY PACK” appears in  
the display for 4 seconds when the power is  
completely exhausted. The empty battery mark  
then appears and starts to flash. The power  
indicator light also flashes.  
• The indicator is not constant — different levels  
will be shown when you subject the battery pack  
and camcorder to different conditions.  
0%  
CHANGE THE BATTERY PACK  
Remaining time indicator  
Tells you how many minutes of power remain in the battery pack.  
Only appears when you attach the BP-930R battery pack directly to  
the camera. (It doesn’t appear if you use the CH-910 Dual Battery  
Charger/Holder.)  
5 6 min  
When to recharge  
You can recharge a lithium ion battery pack whenever it is convenient. Unlike a conventional battery  
pack, it does not have to be fully discharged first. However, as the battery pack will naturally discharge  
itself over time, it is best to charge it the same day you plan to use it, or the day before.  
83  
Taking care of the battery pack  
E
Always attach the terminal cover.  
• Do not allow any metal objects to touch the  
terminals, as this can cause a short circuit and  
damage the battery pack. Attach the terminal  
cover whenever the battery pack is not being  
used.  
Keep the terminals clean.  
• The camera, adapter or battery pack will not  
work properly if the terminals are dirty. Check  
them before use, and wipe them with a dry cloth  
or tissue if necessary.  
Storing the battery pack.  
• If you do not use a battery pack for a period of more than a few months any remaining charge may  
cause damage to the battery pack, and reduce usage time. To prevent damage therefore, aim to use a  
battery pack’s complete charge before storage.  
Charging the backup battery  
A rechargeable lithium battery installed into the camera unit allows the camera to remember settings such  
as the date and time, even when the battery pack is disconnected. It is automatically recharged when you  
attach a power source to the camcorder.  
When you first use the camera, bring the backup battery to full charge by connecting a power source to  
the camera for a full day (about 24 hours). You do not need to turn the camera on for charging to take  
place.  
• If you use the camcorder regularly, the backup battery will remain charged. If it is stored, however, it  
slowly discharges and eventually (in excess of 6 months from being fully charged) there will be  
insufficient power to maintain the date and time. In this case, connect a power source to the camcorder,  
reset the date and time (p. 39) and recharge the backup battery.  
• If you discard this product, dispose of the lithium backup battery separately to prevent pollution. For  
further information, contact your local Canon service center or dealer.  
84  
DANGER!  
Treat the battery pack with care.  
E
• Keep it away from fire (or it might explode).  
• Do not expose the battery pack to temperatures greater than 140°F (60°C). Do not leave it near a  
heater, or inside a car in hot weather, for example.  
• Do not try to disassemble or modify it.  
• Do not drop or knock it.  
• Do not get it wet.  
85  
Setting the Audio Mix  
E
OFF  
CAMERA VCR  
POWER  
MIX  
AUDIO  
BALANCE  
MONITOR ST-1  
ST-2  
When you play back a tape that was recorded in 12-bit mode, you can set the audio output to play:  
stereo 1 (the original sound), stereo 2 (any new sound, dubbed to the tape after recording), or mix the  
balance between the two.  
• Audio from the 16-bit mode only contains stereo 1 sound and so you cannot/do not need to select the  
audio mix. The same is true for the 12-bit stereo 1 mode, unless new sound has been added post-  
recording.  
You can choose the output using the wireless controller only.  
1. Set the camera to VCR mode.  
2. Choose the output.  
• Press AUDIO MONITOR on the wireless controller.  
• Four settings appear as you push the button:  
– STEREO1 for just stereo 1.  
– STEREO2 for just stereo 2.  
– MIX/FIXED for an equal mix of stereo 1 and 2.  
– MIX/VARI. (mix variable) for when you want to mix the balance between stereo 1 and 2.  
• To simply choose STEREO1, STEREO2 or MIX/FIXED, make sure your choice appears on the  
display.  
• If you choose MIX/VARI., you can go on to mix the balance.  
• Use the ST-1/ST-2 keys to mix the balance. A bar showing the mix appears on the screen for four  
seconds.  
Notes:  
• When you have chosen the output, STEREO1, STEREO2, MIX/FIXED or MIX/VARI. is shown in the  
top left of the display for a few seconds.  
• If you turn the power off the output is set to STEREO1, however, if you select MIX/VARI. again with  
the wireless controller, your previously mixed balance will appear.  
86  
Selecting audio output channels  
E
When you play back a tape whose audio has been recorded on multiple channels, you can change the  
output channels of that sound.  
OUTPUT CH•••L/R  
(see p. 34)  
1. Set the camera to VCR, load a tape recorded with multiple-channel audio.  
2. Open the VCR menu and select OUTPUT CH.  
3. Select the output channel.  
• Refer to the following list.  
OUTPUT CH setting  
Played back sound  
Tape recorded with  
stereo sound  
Tape recorded on  
multiple channels  
L/R  
L/L  
R/R  
L + R channels  
L channel only  
R channel only  
main + sub  
main only  
sub only  
87  
Camera Holding Styles  
Choose the grip  
E
You can grip the camera from the side grip or  
the top handle.  
• Either gripping position allows you to start/stop  
recording, take a “photo’’ and zoom in and out.  
• Lock the top controls to prevent accidental  
operation by sliding across the LOCK lever.  
START/  
STOP  
PHOTO  
LOCK  
Standard holding style  
For maximum stability, place your right hand through the side grip belt and keep your right elbow pressed  
against your body. Support the lens with your left hand.  
Low-angle recording  
Grip the camera using the top handle and steady the lens with the other hand.  
88  
Maintenance  
Cautions  
E
Avoid high temperatures and high humidity.  
• Do not leave the camera inside a car in hot weather, for example.  
• Be careful of heat radiating from video lighting equipment.  
• Do not take the camera into a humid room.  
Avoid sudden changes in temperature.  
• If you take the camera from a cold place to a warm place, condensation may form on the lens and  
internal parts (see p. 91).  
Do not point the lens or viewfinder at strong light sources.  
• Never point it at the sun, and do not leave it aimed at a bright subject.  
• Be especially careful when leaving the camera on a tripod.  
Avoid magnetic or electric fields.  
• Do not use the camera close to TV transmitters, portable communication devices or other sources of  
electric or magnetic radiation. They may cause picture interference, or permanently damage the camera.  
Do not expose the camera to water.  
• Cover the camera when you are recording in rain or mist.  
• There is a risk of electric shock if water gets inside the camera — contact qualified service personnel as  
soon as possible.  
Protect the lens.  
• Sand and dust can damage the lens — be especially careful on windy days.  
Handle the camera gently.  
• Vibration or shock can cause damage.  
• Do not use the viewfinder, LCD panel or microphone as a carrying handle.  
• Do not swing the camera around when carrying it by the handle; knocking the camera against things  
may cause it to malfunction.  
Do not disassemble the camera.  
• This is very dangerous as there is a risk of electric shock — if the camera does not function properly,  
take it to qualified service personnel.  
Storage  
If you do not intend to use the camera for some time, turn the POWER switch to OFF and store it in an  
area which is free of dust and moisture, and where the temperature is no higher than 86°F (30°C). After  
storage, check each part and function of your camera to make sure everything is still working properly.  
Note:  
• These cautions also apply to accessories such as battery packs and cassettes.  
89  
Maintenance  
E
LCD  
• Clean the LCD screen using a commercially available glass cleaner.  
• Where there is a big change in temperature, moisture may form on the surface of the screen. Wipe clean  
with a soft, dry cloth.  
• At low temperatures the display may appear to be much darker than usual. This is not a fault, and as the  
screen warms up the display will return to normal.  
Camera body and lens  
• Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the camera body or lens. Never use chemically treated cloth or volatile  
solvents such as paint thinner.  
Video heads  
• When mosaic-like noise appears on the playback picture, the video heads  
may be dirty. When the video heads are badly contaminated, the camera may  
show a blank blue screen.  
• Clean the video heads using Canon’s DVM-CL Digital Video Head Cleaning  
Cassette. If the “noise” remains, repeat the cleaning (up to maximum of five  
times).  
• Do not use a wet-type cleaning cassette, as this can cause damage.  
Using the camera abroad  
Power sources  
You can use the compact power adapter to operate your camera and charge battery packs in any country  
where the electricity supply is between 100 and 240 V AC, 50–60 Hz. Contact your Canon dealer for  
information about plug adapters for overseas use.  
TV playback  
• Although you can always play back your recordings in the viewfinder, your camera can only be  
connected to TVs which use its NTSC system. This TV system is used in the following countries:  
American Samoa, Bahama, Barbados, Bermuda, Bolivia, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba,  
Ecuador, El Salvador, Guam, Guatemala, Greenland, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Japan, Korea, Mexico,  
Micronesia, Myanmar, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Saint Lucia, Surinam,  
Taiwan, Trinidad and Tobago, USA, Venezuela.  
90  
Condensation  
E
Condensation may form on the camera when it is moved from a cold place to a warm place. Using the  
camera while condensation is present can damage both the tape and the camera.  
Condensation may become a problem:  
When you take the camera from a cold place to a warm  
room  
When a cold room is heated rapidly  
When the camera is left in a humid room  
When the camera is taken from an air-conditioned room  
to a warm, humid place  
Protecting the camera from condensation  
• Before you bring the camera to a warm or humid place where condensation is likely to be a problem,  
unload the cassette and put the camera in a plastic bag. Wait until the camera reaches room temperature  
before you take it out of the bag.  
What happens when condensation is detected  
• “CONDENSATION HAS BEEN DETECTED” is displayed for approximately four seconds. Then, the  
power indicator flashes and the mark flashes in the display. If there is a cassette in the camera, it  
h
stops automatically and “REMOVE THE CASSETTE” is displayed for approximately four seconds and  
then v flashes in the display. If you have the beep turned on, it will sound five times.  
• The camera may not detect the condensation immediately — the condensation warning may not start  
flashing for 10 to 15 minutes.  
You cannot load a cassette when condensation is detected.  
What you should do  
• Remove the cassette, leave the cassette compartment open, and turn the camera off.  
• Leave it in a dry place until the condensation evaporates. After the condensation warning stops flashing,  
wait at least another hour before trying to use the camera.  
91  
Troubleshooting  
Refer to this checklist first if you have any problems with your camcorder. Possible explanations are given  
for each problem on the list — turn to the page numbers in brackets for more information.  
E
Make sure that the camera is properly connected if you are using it with a TV or VCR. Consult your  
dealer or service outlet if problems persist.  
Recording/Playback  
Problem  
Cause and/or what to do about it  
? Nothing happens when I press the buttons.  
• The camera is not switched on (p. 21, 28).  
• The cassette is not loaded or is set for erasure  
prevention (p. 19-20).  
• The tape has reached the end.  
• The battery pack is exhausted or not properly  
attached (p. 16-17, 83).  
• The function cannot be used in that recording  
program (p. 48).  
• The top controls are locked by the lock lever  
(p. 88).  
? The camera turned itself off.  
• The camera was in record pause mode for more  
than about five minutes (p. 21).  
• The battery pack is exhausted (p. 17, 83).  
? The start/stop button doesn’t work.  
• The POWER switch is not set to CAMERA.  
• The standby lever is set to LOCK (p. 21).  
• The cassette is not loaded or is set for erasure  
prevention (p. 19-20).  
• The tape has reached the end.  
? There’s no picture in the display.  
• The POWER switch is not set to CAMERA.  
• The standby lever is set to LOCK (p. 21).  
• The camera has not been used for a long while,  
it is not a malfunction. Take off the battery and  
reattach.  
• The lens cap is attached.  
? There’s a blank blue screen in the display.  
You are attempting to play back or record from a  
copyright protected cassette (p. 75).  
• The video heads are badly contaminated (p. 90).  
? The camera won’t focus.  
• The camera is on manual focus (p. 58).  
• The viewfinder lens needs adjusting (p. 82).  
• The lens is dirty (p. 90).  
92  
Note:  
• Some subjects are not suitable for autofocus. In these situations, you will often get better results using  
manual focus (see p. 58). Focus on something which is about the same distance away, lock the focus,  
and then point the camera at your original, hard-to-focus subject.  
E
Horizontal stripes  
Many subjects at  
different distances  
Behind glass  
Without much  
contrast (e.g. a white  
wall)  
Reflective surfaces  
(e.g. shiny car  
surfaces)  
Fast moving objects  
Night scenes  
Slanted subjects  
Dark subjects  
Recording/Playback (Contd.)  
Problem  
Cause and/or what to do about it  
? Some/all of the digital effects don’t work, or  
• There are a number of restrictions on using the  
digital effects. Refer to the notes on p. 52.  
can’t be set.  
? The e (play) button doesn’t work.  
• The POWER switch is not set to VCR (p. 28).  
• The cassette is not loaded (p. 19).  
• The tape has reached the end.  
? There’s a bright stripe on the screen.  
• When recording in dark places a bright light in  
the scene may cause a vertical light bar  
(“smear”) to appear. This is a normal feature of  
camcorders.  
? The playback picture is rough (with mosaic-  
• The video heads need cleaning (p. 90).  
like noise).  
? There’s no picture on the TV screen, even  
• The video heads need cleaning (p. 90).  
• The TV/VIDEO selector on the TV isn’t set to  
VIDEO (p. 30).  
though the tape is moving.  
? There’s no sound coming from the speaker  
• The speaker has been turned off with the volume  
buttons (p. 27).  
during playback.  
• Headphones are being used.  
93  
Miscellaneous  
E
Problem  
Cause and/or what to do about it  
? The wireless controller doesn’t work.  
• The remote sensor mode is set to OFFB in  
the menu (p. 37).  
• The remote sensor modes of the wireless  
controller and the camera itself are different  
(p. 37).  
• The batteries are dead or not inserted.  
? The tally lamp doesn’t flash.  
• It is turned off (p. 38).  
? There are air bubbles inside the lens.  
• This is unlikely, but may happen if you use the  
camera in places where the air pressure is low, in  
an airplane for example. The bubbles will  
disappear a week or so after you return the  
camera to normal atmospheric pressure.  
? After sliding the POWER switch to  
CAMERA, there is visible movement in the  
lens for about 2 seconds.  
• The camcorder is preparing the lens for image  
stabilization. This is not a malfunction.  
? The camera malfunctions.  
• External interference may cause the camera’s  
microprocessor to malfunction temporarily. If  
random letters appear in the display or if normal  
operation is interrupted, remove and then replace  
the power source.  
• If the camera still does not operate properly,  
press the RESET button (on the camera body  
behind the LCD panel, p. 8) using the tip of a  
ball point pen (or similar). Camera functions  
return to their default settings.  
? The DV cable is connected correctly, but  
• Remove the cable and then reconnect it or turn  
the power off and back on again.  
there’s nothing in the display.  
? The camera becomes warm during use.  
• This is not a malfunction.  
About the LCD Viewfinder  
Liquid Crystal Viewfinders use extremely high-precision technology, but there will be pixels which do not  
light up or which are continuously lit. This is not an error and will not affect the recording.  
About the CCD  
Due to the construction of the CCD, in low-light recording, small specks of light may become visible in  
the viewfinder. In such cases, increase the shutter speed, reduce the gain or use an additional light source  
such as a video light.  
94  
Screen Displays  
To display the date and time on a connected TV,  
press the wireless controller’s DATA CODE button  
when the camera is in VCR mode with a tape  
loaded. See p. 65 also.  
E
TV  
SCREEN  
DATA  
Press the wireless controller’s TV SCREEN button  
to see or hide the other displays on the TV screen.  
(The displays appear white on-screen.) They will  
not be added to any recordings you make with the  
camera. You can also display or hide (for a clear  
screen while recording) the displays through TV  
SCREEN in the camera menu. For instructions on  
how to hook the camera up to your TV, see p. 30.  
CODE  
If you slide the POWER switch to OFF while in VCR mode, the DATA CODE and TV SCREEN will  
reset to show a clear screen.  
indicates a flashing display.  
Turning off the LCD screen displays  
You can turn off the displays to give you a clear screen for playback.  
Set the camera to VCR mode, open the VCR menu (page 34) and choose the DISPLAYS option. Set the  
displays to OFF <PLAYBK> and then close the menu.  
• The LCD screen will now be completely blank, but the camera will continue to show warning/caution  
displays when necessary.  
PAUSE  
Record pause mode  
(p. 21)  
The safety mechanism is  
activated. Unload the  
cassette and turn the  
camera off. Turn it on  
again and reload the  
cassette.  
E J ECT  
REC  
Recording (p. 21)  
Shows how much battery  
power remains (p. 83).  
SP  
Recording mode (p. 22)  
S TOP  
Playback is stopped  
(p. 28).  
The battery pack is  
exhausted (p. 83).  
Normal playback (p. 28)  
Fast forward (p. 28)  
Rewind (p. 28)  
No cassette is loaded, or it  
is set for erasure  
prevention (p. 19-20).  
F F  
REW  
Remaining tape  
5min  
(Green: more than 5 min.  
Yellow: less than 5 min.  
Red: final few secs).  
Fast forward playback  
(p. 28)  
Rewind playback (p. 28)  
...finally, it tells you when  
you have completely run  
out of tape.  
END  
Frame advance playback  
(p. 29)  
E J ECT  
The camera is ejecting the  
tape (p. 19).  
95  
VCR MENU  
SEL . SETSET  
MENUCLOSE  
Frame reverse playback  
(p. 29)  
VCR menu (p. 34)  
DUB MODE  
REC . SET UP  
E
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
WL . REMOTE  
1
.
REC MODE  
SP  
DATA CODE  
DATE / T I ME  
Playback pause (forward  
and reverse) (p. 28)  
D / T I ME SEL . DATE  
&
T I ME  
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
D I SPLAYS  
ON  
6 SEC. DATE  
OF F  
/
5
Slow playback (forward  
and reverse) (p. 29)  
REC. SET UP  
DUB MODE  
SE L . SE T SE T  
MENUCLOSE  
Record set up menu  
(p. 70)  
/ 5  
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
[
]
[
]
RECORDER  
A
1
:
-
CUT I N AD J  
0
0
0 0  
0 0  
-
:
CUT OUT AD J  
× 2  
×2 playback (forward and  
reverse) (p. 29)  
×
2
× 1  
×1 playback (forward and  
reverse) (p. 29)  
×
1
The remote sensor is  
turned off (p. 37).  
5
Photo Search (p. 67)  
Date Search (p. 67)  
PHOTO SEARCH  
DATE SEARCH  
5
Self-timer countdown  
(p. 54)  
1 0sec  
SEL F T .  
Photo search is complete.  
0
Audio mode (p. 53)  
Data code (p. 65)  
1 2 bit  
0
Zero set memory  
(forward and reverse)  
(p. 68)  
RTN  
RTN  
0
dB  
.
F 1  
6
1
/
5 0 0  
:
1 0 0 0 AM  
DEC . 1 , 1 9 9 9  
Zero set memory  
(p. 68)  
:
:
0
0 0 0 0  
M
Photo mode (p. 43)  
• Setting the AF  
A/V Insert Editing  
(p. 79)  
mark flashes white  
F
Audio Dubbing  
(p. 81)  
• AF locked  
mark lights up green  
F
Zoom display (p. 24):  
Optical zoom  
• Timer  
W
T
1 0sec  
Optical plus 40× digital  
zoom  
W
T
Movie mode (p. 46)  
40×  
FRAME  
Optical plus 100× digital  
W
T
100×  
Recording programs  
(p. 48)  
zoom  
AUTO  
Zoom in  
W
T
T v 6 0  
Av F 1.  
6
MANUAL  
Zoom out  
W
T
SAND&SNOW  
SPOT L I GHT  
Flash is charging  
S mark flashes white  
(p. 45) or charged  
The image stabilizer is  
turned on (p. 33).  
CAM .MENU  
SEL .SETSET  
MENUCLOSE  
Camera menu (p. 34)  
.......  
ZEBRA  
OFF  
S mark lights up green  
(p. 45)  
....  
.
D
EFFECT  
D.ZOOM  
ZOOM HANDLE LOW  
....  
OFF  
×
......  
40  
.
±
AE SH IFT  
........  
OFF  
0
:
16  
C
9
.
+
G
R
SHARPNESS  
.
.....  
C.PHASE  
96  
Manual exposure display  
(p. 57):  
Exposure locked  
Volume level (p. 27)  
E
VOLUME  
+
±
+
E.LOCK  
E . LOCK  
E . LOCK  
0
VOLUME  
OFF  
Brighter than standard  
exposure level  
Screen brightness (p. 26)  
5
BR I GHT  
+
Darker than standard  
exposure level  
Gain (p. 56)  
5
0
dB  
+
Manual setting of shutter  
speed, F number and gain  
value (p. 55)  
MANUAL  
S 1 / 6 0  
F 1 .  
6
STEREO1  
Audio output (p. 86)  
3
dB  
STEREO2  
The iris is closed.  
M I X / F I X ED  
M I X / VAR I .  
F
CLOSE  
Mix balance (p. 86)  
ND Filter (p. 42)  
S T – 1  
S T – 2  
ND  
Audio/visual insert  
(p. 79)  
A / V I NS ERT  
Manual focus is selected  
(p. 58).  
Audio dubbing (p. 81)  
MF  
AUD I O DUB.  
White balance is (p. 63)  
Microphone attenuator  
(p. 23, 31, 80)  
Set  
Indoor  
Outdoor  
W
T
U
M I C AT T  
Line audio attenuator  
(p. 80)  
L I NE AT T  
AUD I O I N  
AE Shift (p. 59)  
+
AE  
CP  
2 .  
0
Audio input (p. 81)  
Microphone input (p. 81)  
DV input (p. 75)  
Camera Sharpness (p. 60)  
and Color Phase (p. 61)  
M I C I N  
The 16:9 effects: the  
display flashes when the  
effect has been selected,  
and appears steadily when  
it is activated (p. 52).  
:
1 6  
9
DV I N  
Condensation warning  
(p. 91)  
Digital effects: the display  
flashes when the function  
has being selected and  
appears steadily when it is  
activated (p. 51).  
FADE – T  
BLK&WHT  
SL I M  
STRETCH  
STROBE  
The wind screen is turned  
on (p. 53).  
WSON  
97  
Time Code  
Refer to page 20.  
Refer to page 91.  
E
THE TAPE I S SET FOR  
:
:
:
0
1 2 3 4 5 6  
PREVENT ION  
ERASURE  
This records counter information, including hour,  
minute, second, and frame number on a special  
data code area on the tape itself. It is reset  
automatically when a new tape is loaded. In  
camera mode, the frame number doesn’t appear in  
the display.  
CONDENSAT ION  
HAS BEEN DETECTED  
Appears as a warning to  
protect the tape and also  
when condensation is  
detected. Remove the tape  
as soon as possible after  
the camera has displayed  
the caution.  
REMOVE THE CASSETTE  
Recording reminder  
0sec  
Refer to page 75.  
COPYR IGHT PROTECTED  
1 0sec  
PLAYBACK I S RESTR I CTED  
When you start recording, the camera counts from  
0SEC to 10SEC. Shots which are shorter than  
10 seconds may be difficult to edit later. On the  
other hand, if you are not planning to edit the  
recording, remember that a shot which does not  
contain action should generally last no longer than  
10 seconds.  
Refer to page 75.  
COPYR IGHT PROTECTED  
RESTR I CTED  
DUBB ING  
Appears when you try to  
do audio dubbing or A/V  
insert on a tape recorded in  
LP mode. Refer to  
CHECK THE CASSETTE  
[
]
Caution phrases  
LP MODE  
The camera displays various caution phrases —  
they appear for 4 seconds before disappearing.  
page 78, 80.  
Appears when you try to  
do audio dubbing on a tape  
recorded in 16-bit audio or  
12-bit, 4-channel mode.  
Refer to page 80.  
Appears each time you  
turn the power on, until  
you set the date and time  
(p. 39).  
CHECK THE CASSETTE  
[
]
SET THE T IME ZONE,  
DATE AND T IME  
AUD I O MODE  
Appears when the camera  
detects a blank section of a  
tape during audio dubbing  
or A/V insert. Refer to  
page 78, 80.  
Appears when the battery  
pack is exhausted (p. 83).  
CHECK THE CASSETTE  
ERY PACK  
CHANGE THE BATT  
[
]
BLANK  
Appears when the tape has  
reached the end.  
TAPE EN  
D
98  
Specifications  
GL1  
E
Power Supply (rated): 7.2 V DC  
Power Consumption (While recording with  
the AF turned on):  
Output level:  
Video terminal: ø 3.5 mm, 1 Vp-p/75  
unbalanced  
6.7 W (Using viewfinder),  
7.4 W (Using LCD screen)  
Television system:  
S-video terminal: 4 pin mini DIN, 1 Vp-p  
(Y signal), 0.286 Vp-p (C signal)  
Audio terminal: ø 3.5 mm  
EIA standard (525 lines, 60 fields) NTSC  
color signal  
4 dBm (47 kload)/3 kor less, unbalanced  
Input level:  
Video recording system:  
Audio terminal: ø 3.5 mm (L, R)  
0 dBV/47 k(LINE ATT), unbalanced  
–10 dBV/47 k(LINE), unbalanced  
Microphone terminal: ø 3.5 mm stereo mini-  
jack,  
–55 dBV (with 600 mic) (MIC)/600 Ω  
–35 dBV (with 600 mic) (MIC ATT)/600 Ω  
Operating temperature range:  
32°–104°F (0°–40°C)  
2 rotary heads, helical scanning system  
DV system (Consumer digital VCR SD  
system)  
Digital component recording  
Audio recording system: PCM digital sound:  
16 bit (48 kHz/2 ch), 12 bit (32 kHz/4 ch)  
1
Image sensor: 3 CCD /4” Pixel Shift (charge  
coupled device) 270,000 pixels  
(250,000 effective pixels)  
Tape format: Videocassettes bearing the D  
mark  
5
3
3
Dimensions: 4 /8 × 5 /8 × 10 /4 in  
(117 × 135 × 272 mm)  
Weight: 2 lbs 12 /8 oz approx. (1.25 kg)  
1
Tape speed:  
3
SP: /4 ips (18.81 mm/s);  
1
LP: /2 ips (12.56 mm/s)  
BP-915 Battery Pack  
Maximum recording time:  
Battery type: Rechargeable lithium ion battery  
Rated voltage: 7.2 V DC  
Operating temperature: 32°–104°F (0°–40°C)  
Battery capacity: 1,500 mAh  
SP: 80 minutes (with an 80 min. cassette);  
LP: 120 minutes (with an 80 min. cassette)  
Fast forward/rewind time:  
Approx. 2 min. 50 sec. (with a 60 min.  
cassette)  
Lens: F/1.6–2.9, 20× power zoom, 4.2–84 mm  
Focusing system: TTL autofocus, manual  
focusing possible  
1
3
3
Dimensions: 1 /2 × /4 × 2 /4 in  
(38.2 × 20.5 × 70.5 mm)  
Weight: 3 /8 oz (96 g)  
3
Minimum focusing distance:  
Weight and dimensions are approximate.  
Errors and omissions excepted.  
Subject to change without notice.  
3
/8 inch (10 mm) on maximum wide angle;  
telephoto end: 3 ft 4 in (1 m)  
Maximum shutter speed:  
1/15,000 sec.  
Canon is a trademark of Canon Inc.  
Minimum illumination: 6 lx (using the auto  
program)  
Recommended illumination:  
More than 100 lx  
Filter diameter: 58 mm  
Viewfinder: 0.55-inch, color LCD  
(approx. 180,000 pixels)  
LCD screen: 2.5 in measured diagonally  
(6.4 cm), 122,000 pixels (approx.)  
Microphone: Stereo electret condenser  
microphone  
DV Terminal: Special 4 pin connector  
(conforms to IEEE 1394)  
99  
Index  
Å
Ï
Abroad, Using the Camera, 90  
Accessories, 6  
F Number, 56  
Fade Trigger, 51  
E
Adapter, AC, 16  
AE Programs, 48  
AE Shift, 59  
Analog Line-in, 76  
Audio Dubbing, 80  
Audio Mix, 86  
Fast Forward, 28  
Feedback, 30  
Finding Your Way Around the GL1, 8-11  
Flash Photography, 45  
Focusing, 58  
Frame Mode, 46  
Audio Mode, 53  
Audio Output, 87  
Audio Recording, 53  
Audio/Video Terminal, 30  
Auto, 49  
Autofocus, 58  
A/V Insert, 78  
Av Recording Mode, 50  
Ì
Ó
È
Ò
Gain, 56  
Grip Belt, 82  
Head Cleaning, 90  
Headphones, 27  
ı
Ç
Backup Battery, 84  
Basic Recording, 21  
Battery Pack, 6, 13, 17, 83  
Beep, 23  
Image Stabilizer, 33  
Introducing the GL1, 7  
LANC, 74  
LCD Screen, 25  
Lens Cap, 6  
Cables, 6, 30  
Cassettes, 6, 19  
Lens Hood, 6, 15  
Loading Cassettes, 19  
Low-angle Recording, 88  
LP Mode, 22  
Charging the Battery Pack, 17  
Choosing a Recording Program, 48  
Cleaning the Camera, 90  
Clock, 40  
Color Phase, 61  
˜
Condensation, 91  
Connection to TV or VCR, 30  
Cut-in and Cut-out, 73  
Maintenance, 89  
Manual Focus, 58  
Manual Recording Program, 50  
Menus, 34  
Î
Microphone, 80  
Mirror, 26  
Movie Mode, 46  
Date and Time, 39  
DC Coupler, 6, 16  
Demo Mode, 23  
Digital Effects, 51  
Digital Video, 7  
Digital Zoom, 7, 24  
Displaying Data Code, 65  
Dubbing Function, 69  
DV Dubbing, 75  
ˆ
Ø
ND Filter, 42  
Optical Image Stabilizer, 33  
Optional Accessories, 13  
Easy Recording, 48  
Effects, 51  
Exposure, 55, 57  
External Microphone, 80  
100  
Û
Photo Mode, 43  
Photo Search, 67  
Playback, 28  
Playback Connection, 30  
Playback Pause, 28  
Power Adapter, 6, 16  
Powering Your Camcoder, 16  
Pre-marked Position, 68  
Preparing the Camera, 82  
Problems, 92  
VCR, 30  
E
Video Heads, 90  
Videocassettes, 19  
Viewfinder, 82  
White Balance, 63  
Wide-angle, 24  
Widescreen TV, 52  
Wireless Controller, 6, 36  
Â
Recharging the Battery Pack, 83  
Record Pause Mode, 21  
Record Review, 47  
Record Search, 47  
Zebra Pattern, 62  
Zooming, 24  
Recording, 21  
Recording Programs, 48  
Remote Control, 36  
Remote Sensor, 37  
Rewind, 28  
Í
S-video, 6, 30  
Sand and Snow, 50  
Screen Displays, 95  
Self-Timer, 54  
Sharpness, 60  
Shoulder Strap, 6, 82  
Shutter Speed, 56  
16:9, 52  
SP Mode, 22  
Specifications, 99  
Speedlite, 45  
Spotlight, 50  
STANDBY Lever, 21  
Still Pictures, 43  
Storage, 89  
System Diagram, 12  
Ê
Tally Lamp, 36  
Tape Protection, 20  
Telephoto, 24  
Temperature, 85, 89  
Time Code, 98  
Tripod, 31  
Troubleshooting, 92  
TV, 30, 95  
Tv Recording Mode, 49  
Ë
Using the Camera Abroad, 90  
Using the Menus, 34  
101  
U.S.A.  
CANON® GL1 DIGITAL VIDEO CAMCORDER LIMITED WARRANTY  
The limited warranty set forth below is given by Canon U.S.A., Inc. (“CUSA”) with respect to each Canon GL1 Digital  
Video Camcorder (“DV Camcorder”) purchased and used in the United States.  
E
Each Canon DV Camcorder, when delivered to you in new condition in its original container, is warranted against defective  
material or workmanship as follows: for a period of one (1) year from the date of original purchase (three (3) months in the  
case of the video head part), defective parts or DV Camcorders returned to a CUSA factory service center (“CUSA Center”)  
or an authorized DV Camcorder service facility (“Service Facility”), and proven to be defective upon inspection, will be  
repaired or exchanged for new or comparable rebuilt parts or DV Camcorders. The warranty period for repaired or  
replacement parts or DV Camcorders shall begin upon shipment of the same, but shall in no event exceed the original  
warranty period of the defective part or DV Camcorder.  
Non-Canon brand peripheral equipment and software which may be distributed with Canon DV Camcorders are  
sold “AS IS”, without warranty of any kind by CUSA, including any implied warranty regarding merchantability or  
fitness for a particular purpose. The sole warranty with respect to such non-Canon brand items is given by the  
manufacturer or producer thereof.  
CUSA shall have no responsibility under this limited warranty for use of Canon DV Camcorders in conjunction with  
incompatible peripheral equipment and incompatible software.  
In order to obtain warranty service, contact the authorized Canon retail dealer from whom you purchased the DV Camcorder  
or call the CANON INFORMATION CENTER AT 1-800-828-4040 (which is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (E.S.T.),  
Monday through Friday, excluding holidays). Have your unit serial number and your date of purchase available when you  
make the call to expedite service. In either case you will be directerd to ship the DV Camcorder, postage prepaid, to the  
CUSA Center or Service Facility nearest to you. You must include a copy of the proof of purchase (bill of sale) and a  
complete explanation of the problem. DV Camcorders covered by this limited warranty will be repaired and returned to you  
without charge by the CUSA Center or the Service Facility. Repairs not under warranty will be at such cost as the CUSA  
Center or Service Facility may from time to time generally establish.  
This limited warranty covers all defects encountered in normal use of the DV Camcorder, and does not apply in the  
following cases:  
(a) Loss of or damage to the DV Camcorder due to abuse, mishandling, improper packaging by you, alteration, accident,  
leaking batteries, exterior nicks, scratches or dents, electrical current fluctuations, failure to follow operating instructions,  
maintenance and environmental instructions prescribed in CUSA’s instruction manual, or service performed by other than a  
CUSA Center or Service Facility.  
(b) Use of parts or supplies (other than those sold by CUSA) which cause damage to the DV Camcorder or cause  
abnormally frequent service calls or service problems.  
(c) If any DV Camcorder has had its serial number or dating altered or removed.  
This limited warranty does not apply to accessories or consumables for the DV Camcorder, which are sold “AS IS”, without  
warranty of any kind by CUSA.  
NO IMPLIED WARRANTY, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS  
FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, APPLIES TO THE DV CAMCORDER AFTER THE APPLICABLE PERIOD  
OF EXPRESS WARRANTY STATED ABOVE, AND NO OTHER EXPRESS WARRANTY OR GUARANTY,  
EXCEPT AS MENTIONED ABOVE, GIVEN BY ANY PERSON, FIRM OR CORPORATION WITH RESPECT TO  
THE DV CAMCORDER SHALL BIND CUSA. (SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW  
LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU) CUSA  
SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR LOSS OF REVENUES OR PROFITS, EXPENSE FOR SUBSTITUTE  
EQUIPMENT OR SERVICE, STORAGE CHARGES, LOSS OF DATA, OR ANY OTHER SPECIAL,  
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES CAUSED BY THE USE, MISUSE OR INABILITY TO USE  
THE DV CAMCORDER, REGARDLESS OF THE LEGAL THEORY ON WHICH THE CLAIM IS BASED, AND  
EVEN IF CUSA HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. NOR SHALL RECOVERY  
OF ANY KIND AGAINST CUSA BE GREATER IN AMOUNT THAN THE PURCHASE PRICE OF THE DV  
CAMCORDER SOLD BY CUSA AND CAUSING THE ALLEGED DAMAGE. WITHOUT LIMITING THE  
FOREGOING, YOU ASSUME ALL RISK AND LIABILITY FOR LOSS, DAMAGE OR INJURY TO YOU AND  
YOUR PROPERTY AND TO OTHERS AND THEIR PROPERTY ARISING OUT OF USE, MISUSE OR  
INABILITY TO USE THE DV CAMCORDER NOT CAUSED DIRECTLY BY THE NEGLIGENCE OF CUSA.  
(SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR  
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.) THIS LIMITED  
WARRANTY SHALL NOT EXTEND TO ANYONE OTHER THAN THE ORIGINAL PURCHASER OF ANY DV  
CAMCORDER, OR THE PERSON FOR WHOM IT WAS PURCHASED AS A GIFT, AND STATES YOUR  
EXCLUSIVE REMEDY.  
This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.  
Canon U.S.A., Inc.  
One Canon Plaza  
Lake Success, New York 11042  
102  
CANADA  
CANON CONSUMER DIGITAL VIDEO EQUIPMENT LIMITED WARRANTY  
The limited warranty set forth below is given by Canon Canada Inc. (“Canon Canada”) with respect to Canon digital video equipment purchased in  
Canada. This limited warranty is only effective upon presentation of a bill of sale or other proof of purchase for this Canon digital video equipment to a  
Canon Service Facility when repairs are required.  
E
Canon consumer video digital equipment is warranted under normal, non-commercial, personal use, against defective materials or workmanship as  
follows:  
Parts:  
Defective parts will be exchanged for new parts or, at Canon Canada’s option, comparable rebuilt parts for a period of one year from the date  
of original purchase, except Video Heads which will be exchanged for a period of 3 months from the date of purchase.  
Labour: For a period of one year from the date of original purchase, labour will be provided free of charge by our Canon Service Facilities in Canada.  
This limited warranty covers all defects except where:  
(a) The loss or damage to the product results from:  
i) accident, natural disaster, mishandling, abuse, neglect, unauthorized product modification or failure to follow instructions contained in the  
instruction manual;  
ii) the use of accessories, attachments, products, supplies, parts or devices with this Canon product that do not conform to Canon specifications  
or that cause abnormally frequent service problems;  
iii) repairs or services performed by any party other than a Canon Service Facility;  
iv) defective batteries or any exposure to water, sand or dirt;  
v) shipping (claim must be presented to the shipper);  
(b) Any serial number on the video equipment is altered or removed.  
(c) The digital video equipment is used for commercial, professional or industrial purposes.  
This limited warranty does not cover the cabinet (exterior finish) of the digital video equipment, video cassette tapes, head cleanings, nor does it apply  
to digital video equipment purchased outside Canada.  
TO OBTAIN WARRANTY SERVICE  
Ship your Canon digital video equipment in its original carton, box or equivalent, properly packed, fully insured with shipping charges prepaid, together  
with a copy of your bill of sale or other proof of purchase and a description of the problem to any of the Canon Service Facilities in Canada.  
LIMITATIONS  
Except as otherwise required by applicable legislation, this warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, conditions, guarantees or representations, express  
or implied, statutory or otherwise, relative to this Canon product, including implied warranties or conditions of merchantability or fitness for a particular  
purpose.  
Canon Canada assumes no liability for special, consequential or incidental damages or loss that may arise, whether on account of negligence or  
otherwise, from the use, misuse or inability to use this Canon product (including loss of profit, revenue, video tapes or enjoyment) or from failure to  
conform to any express or implied warranties, conditions, guarantees or representations. Any recovery under this limited warranty shall not exceed the  
purchase price of the product. Canon Canada does not assume or authorize any other person to assume for Canon Canada any other liability with  
respect to this Canon product.  
This warranty does not extend to any person other than the original purchaser of this Canon product or the person for whom it was purchased as a gift  
and states your exclusive remedy.  
NOTICE TO CONSUMER  
If you plan to take important videos or if the product has not been used for some time, please check all functions with the instruction book before using  
it.  
103  
CANON INC.  
U.S.A.  
CANON U.S.A., INC. NEW JERSEY OFFICE  
100 Jamesburg Road, Jamesburg, NJ 08831 USA  
CANON U.S.A., INC. CHICAGO OFFICE  
100 Park Blvd., Itasca, IL 60143 USA  
CANON U.S.A., INC. LOS ANGELES OFFICE  
15955 Alton Parkway, Irvine, CA 92718 USA  
CANON U.S.A., INC. HONOLULU OFFICE  
1020 Auahi Street, Bldg. #8, Honolulu, HI 96814 USA  
If you have any questions, call the Canon U.S.A. Information Center toll-free at  
1-800-828-4040 (U.S.A. only).  
CANADA  
CANON CANADA INC. NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS  
6390 Dixie Road, Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1P7  
CANON CANADA INC. CALGARY  
2828, 16th Street, N.E. Calgary, Alberta T2E 7K7  
CANON CANADA INC. MONTREAL  
5990 Côte de Liesse, Quebec H4T 1V7  
If you have any questions, call the Canon Canada Information Center toll-free at  
1-800-828-4040 (Canada only).  
Si vous avez des questions, veuillez téléphoner sans frais au Canada  
1-800-828-4040 (Canada seulement).  
MEXICO  
CANON MEXICANA, S. DE R.L. DE C.V.  
Periferico Sur No. 4124 Col. Ex-Rancho de Anzaldo C.P. 01900  
México, D.F., México  
CENTRO Y  
SURAMÉRICA  
CANON LATIN AMERICA, INC.  
6505 Blue Lagoon Drive Suite 325 Miami FL 33126 USA  
ASIA  
CANON HONGKONG COMPANY LTD.  
9/F, The Hong Kong Club Building, 3A Chater Road, Central, Hong Kong  
Printed on 70% reused paper.  
Document réalisé avec du papier recyclé à 70%.  
El papel aqui utilizado es 70% reciclado.  
PUB.DIM-312A  
© CANON INC. 1999  
DY8-9120-211-000  
PRINTED IN JAPAN  
IMPRIME AU JAPON  

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