Canon MV800 User Manual

PUB.DIE-217  
Digital Video Camcorder  
English  
Instruction Manual  
Introduction  
Basic  
Functions  
Advanced  
Functions  
Editing  
Digital  
Video  
Cassette  
Mini  
Additional  
Information  
PAL  
Using this Manual  
Thank you for purchasing the Canon MV800i/MV800/MV790. Please read this manual  
carefully before you use the camcorder and retain it for future reference.  
E
Change the display language before you begin ( 65).  
Symbols and References Used in This Manual  



: Precautions related to the camcorder operation.  
: Additional topics that complement the basic operating procedures.  
: Reference page number.  
 Capital letters are used to refer to buttons on the camcorder.  
 [ ] are used to refer to menu items displayed on the screen.  
 “Screen” refers to the LCD and the viewfinder screen.  
 Please note that the illustrations mainly refer to the MV800i.  
Operating modes (see below)  
Menu item showing at its default  
position  
Button and switches to be operated  
About the Operating Modes  
The operating modes are determined by the position of the POWER switch.  
Operating Mode  
CAMERA  
POWER Switch  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
PLAY (VCR)  
: Function can be used in this mode.  
: Function cannot be used in this mode.  
CAMERA  
CAMERA  
Trademark Acknowledgments  
is a trademark.  
®
• Windows is either a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United  
States and/or other countries.  
• Macintosh and Mac OS are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc., registered in the United  
States and other countries.  
• Other names and products not mentioned above may be registered trademarks or trademarks  
of their respective companies.  
3
Table of contents  
Introduction  
Using this Manual............................................................................................3  
Checking Supplied Accessories ......................................................................6  
Components Guide..........................................................................................7  
Basic Functions  
Preparations  
Preparing the Power Supply..........................................................................10  
Loading/Unloading a Cassette ......................................................................13  
Installing the Backup Battery.........................................................................14  
Preparing the Camcorder ..............................................................................15  
Adjusting the LCD Screen .............................................................................17  
Setting the Time Zone, Date and Time..........................................................18  
Recording  
Recording Movies on a Tape.........................................................................21  
Zooming.........................................................................................................25  
Tips for Making Better Videos........................................................................27  
Playback  
Playing Back a Tape......................................................................................28  
Adjusting the Volume.....................................................................................30  
Playing Back on a TV Screen........................................................................31  
Advanced Functions  
Menus and Settings.......................................................................................34  
Recording  
Using the Recording Programs .....................................................................39  
Using the Night Mode....................................................................................42  
Skin Detail Function.......................................................................................43  
Adjusting the AE Shift....................................................................................44  
Adjusting the Focus Manually........................................................................45  
Setting the White Balance .............................................................................47  
Setting the Shutter Speed..............................................................................49  
Using the Self-Timer......................................................................................51  
Changing the Recording Mode (SP/LP) ........................................................52  
Audio Recording............................................................................................53  
Using Digital Effects.......................................................................................54  
Widescreen TV Recording (16:9) ..................................................................58  
Playback  
Magnifying the Image ....................................................................................59  
Displaying the Data Code..............................................................................60  
End Search....................................................................................................62  
Playing Back a Tape with Added Sound........................................................63  
Other Functions  
Customizing the Camcorder..........................................................................64  
Changing the Display Language ...................................................................65  
Other Camcorder Settings.............................................................................66  
4
Editing  
Recording to a VCR or Digital Video Device .................................................68  
Recording from Analog Video Devices (VCR, TV or Camcorder)...70  
Recording from Digital Video Devices (DV Dubbing)......................71  
Converting Analog Signals into Digital Signals  
E
(Analog-Digital Converter) ..........................................................................73  
Transferring Video Recordings to a Computer ..............................................75  
Additional Information  
Screen Displays.............................................................................................76  
List of Messages............................................................................................78  
Maintenance/Others ......................................................................................79  
Troubleshooting.............................................................................................84  
System Diagram............................................................................................87  
Optional Accessories.....................................................................................88  
Specifications.................................................................................................90  
Index..............................................................................................................92  
5
Checking Supplied Accessories  
CA-570 Compact  
Power Adapter  
(incl. power cord)  
NB-2LH Battery Pack  
Lithium Button Battery  
CR1616  
Lens Cap and Lens  
Cap Cord  
STV-250N Stereo  
SS-900 Shoulder Strap Video Cable  
PC-A10 SCART  
Adapter*  
* Europe only.  
6
Components Guide  
MV800i/MV800/MV790  
E
REC SEARCH – button (  
(record review) button (  
24) /  
24) /  
AE SHIFT button(  
44) /  
END SEARCH button (  
62)  
(rewind) button (  
28)  
REC PAUSE button (  
Speaker ( 30)  
70)  
REC SEARCH + button (  
(fast forward) button (  
LCD BACKLIGHT button (  
WIDESCREEN button (  
24) /  
28)  
LCD screen (  
SET dial (  
17)  
17)  
34)  
58) /  
60)  
42) /  
CHARGE indicator (  
Program selector (  
10)  
39)  
DATA CODE button (  
NIGHT MODE button (  
EASY Easy recording  
Program AE  
(stop) button (  
28)  
45) /  
FOCUS button (  
Backup battery compartment (  
14)  
/
(play/pause) button (  
DIGITAL EFFECTS ON/OFF button  
54)  
28)  
Battery attachment unit (  
Serial number  
10) /  
(
DC IN terminal (  
MENU button (  
10)  
34)  
7
Dioptric adjustment lever (  
15)  
OPEN/EJECT  
Zoom lever (  
Finger rest  
switch (  
25)  
13)  
Viewfinder (  
15)  
10)  
3)  
BATT. button (  
Power switch (  
Strap mount (  
16)  
Cassette compartment cover (  
Cassette compartment ( 13)  
13)  
Grip belt (  
15)  
Start/stop button (  
21)  
8
E
Terminal cover  
DV terminal (  
68)  
27)  
Stereo microphone  
Tripod socket (  
AV terminal (  
31)  
9
Basic Functions  
Preparations  
Preparing the Power Supply  
Attaching the Battery Pack  
1. Turn the POWER switch to OFF.  
2. Attach the battery pack to the  
camcorder.  
• Remove the terminal cover of the battery  
pack.  
• Press lightly and slide it in the direction of  
the arrow until it clicks.  
Charging the Battery Pack  
1. Connect the power cord to the  
adapter.  
CHARGE indicator  
2. Plug the power cord into a power  
outlet.  
DC IN terminal  
3. Connect the power adapter to the  
camcorder’s DC IN terminal.  
The CHARGE indicator starts flashing. It  
glows steadily when charging is complete.  
4. When charging is complete,  
disconnect the power adapter  
from the camcorder. Unplug the  
power cord from the power outlet  
and disconnect it from the  
adapter.  
5. Remove the battery pack after use.  
Press the BATT. button to remove the battery.  
10  
Using a Household Power Source  
Connect to a household power source to use the camcorder without worrying about the  
battery power. You can keep the battery pack attached; the battery power will not be  
consumed.  
E
1. Turn the POWER switch to OFF.  
2. Connect the power cord to the  
power adapter.  
3. Plug the power cord into a power  
outlet.  
4. Connect the power adapter to the  
camcorder’s DC IN terminal.  
 Turn off the camcorder before connecting or disconnecting the power adapter.  
 If the adapter is used close to a TV, it may cause picture interference. Move the  
adapter away from the TV or the antenna cable.  
 Do not connect any products that are not expressly recommended to the  
camcorder’s DC IN terminal or to the power adapter.  
 You may hear some noise from the power adapter during use. This is not a  
malfunction.  
 Do not disconnect and reconnect the power cord while charging a battery pack.  
Charging may stop. The battery pack may not be charged correctly even if the  
CHARGE indicator glows steady. The battery pack may also not be charged  
correctly when a power outage occurs during charging. Remove the battery  
pack and attach it back to the camcorder.  
 When the power adapter or battery pack is defective, the CHARGE indicator  
flashes rapidly (at about 2 flashes/second) and charging stops.  
 The CHARGE indicator informs you about the charge status.  
0-50%: Flashes once every second  
More than 50%: Flashes twice every second  
100%: Glows steadily  
11  
 Charging, Recording and Playback Times  
Below times are approximate and vary according to the charging, recording or  
playback conditions.  
Battery Pack  
NB-2LH  
NB-2L  
BP-2L12 BP-2L14  
Charging Time  
Max. Recording Time  
Viewfinder  
130 min. 115 min. 205 min. 235 min.  
135 min. 115 min. 245 min. 300 min.  
LCD  
normal  
bright  
95 min.  
85 min.  
80 min.  
70 min.  
170 min. 210 min.  
145 min. 185 min.  
Typical Recording Time*  
Viewfinder  
75 min.  
55 min.  
50 min.  
100 min.  
60 min.  
45 min.  
40 min.  
85 min.  
130 min. 160 min.  
LCD  
normal  
bright  
95 min.  
85 min.  
120 min.  
105 min.  
Playback Time  
175 min. 220 min.  
* Approximate times for recording with repeated operations such as start/stop,  
zooming, power on/off. Actual time may be shorter.  
 We recommend charging the battery pack in temperatures between 10 °C and  
30 °C (50 °F and 86 °F). Outside the temperature range of 0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F  
to 104 °F), the CHARGE indicator flashes rapidly and charging stops.  
 A lithium ion battery pack can be charged at any charge state. Unlike  
conventional battery packs, you do not need to completely use or discharge it  
before charging.  
 We recommend that you prepare battery packs 2 to 3 times longer than you  
think you might need.  
 To conserve battery power, turn off the camcorder instead of leaving it in record  
pause mode.  
12  
Loading/Unloading a Cassette  
Use only videocassettes marked with the  
logo.  
E
1. Slide the OPEN/EJECT switch and  
open the cassette compartment  
cover.  
Tape protection tab  
The cassette compartment opens  
automatically.  
2. Load/unload the cassette.  
• Load the cassette with the window  
facing the grip belt.  
• Unload the cassette by pulling it straight  
out.  
3. Press the  
mark on the  
cassette compartment until it  
clicks.  
4. Wait for the cassette compartment  
to retract automatically and close  
the cassette compartment cover.  
 Do not interfere with the cassette compartment while it is opening or closing  
automatically, or attempt to close the cover before the cassette compartment  
has fully retracted.  
 Be careful not to get your fingers caught in the cassette compartment cover.  
If the camcorder is connected to a power source, cassettes can be loaded/  
unloaded even if the POWER switch is set to OFF.  
13  
Installing the Backup Battery  
The backup battery (lithium button battery CR1616) allows the camcorder to retain date,  
time (  
18) and other camcorder settings while the power source is disconnected.  
Connect a power source to the camcorder when replacing the backup battery to retain the  
settings.  
1. Open the backup battery cover.  
2. Insert the backup battery with the  
+ side facing outward.  
3. Close the cover.  
The backup battery has a life span of about a year. “  
you that it needs to be replaced.  
” flashes in red to inform  
14  
Preparing the Camcorder  
Adjusting the Viewfinder (Dioptric Adjustment)  
E
1. Turn on the camcorder and keep  
the LCD panel closed.  
2. Pull out the viewfinder.  
3. Adjust the dioptric adjustment  
lever.  
4. Push the viewfinder back in.  
Attaching the Lens Cap  
1. Attach the cord to the lens cap.  
2. Pass the grip belt through the loop  
on the cord.  
Press the buttons on the lens cap when  
attaching/removing it. Hook the lens cap  
on the grip belt while you are recording,  
and place it over the lens when you have  
finished.  
Fastening the Grip Belt  
Hold the camcorder with your right  
hand and adjust the belt with your  
left.  
Adjust the grip belt so that you can reach the  
zoom lever with your index finger, and the  
start/stop button with your thumb.  
15  
Attaching the Shoulder Strap  
Pass the ends through the strap mount and adjust the length of the strap.  
SS-900 Shoulder  
Strap  
16  
Adjusting the LCD Screen  
Rotating the LCD Screen  
E
Open the LCD panel 90 degrees.  
• You can rotate the panel by 90 degrees  
outward.  
• You can rotate the panel by 180 degrees  
inward.  
LCD Backlight  
LCD BACKLIGHT button  
You can switch the brightness of the LCD screen between normal and bright by pressing  
the LCD BACKLIGHT button. This is useful for outdoor recordings.  
Press the LCD BACKLIGHT button.  
 This setting does not affect the brightness of the recording or the viewfinder  
screen.  
 When using a battery pack, the camcorder retains the setting even if you  
change the position of the POWER switch.  
 The battery usage time shortens when the LCD screen is set brighter (  
12).  
17  
Setting the Time Zone, Date and Time  
Set the time zone, date and time when you first start using your camcorder, or when you  
have replaced the backup battery.  
Setting the Time Zone/Daylight Saving Time  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
MENU  
34)  
SYSTEM  
T.ZONE/DST•••PARIS  
(
1. Press the MENU button to open the menu.  
2. Turn the SET dial to select [SYSTEM] and press the  
SET dial.  
3. Turn the SET dial to select [T.ZONE/DST] and press  
the SET dial.  
The time zone setting appears (see table on the next page). The  
default setting is Paris.  
4. Turn the SET dial to select the setting option that represents your time  
zone and press the SET dial.  
To adjust for daylight saving time, select the time zone with the  
next to the area.  
Setting the Date and Time  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
D/TIME SET••• 1.JAN.2005  
12:00 AM  
MENU  
34)  
SYSTEM  
(
5. Turn the SET dial to select [D/TIME SET] and press  
the SET dial.  
The year display starts to flash.  
6. Turn the SET dial to select the year, and press the  
SET dial.  
• The next part of the display starts flashing.  
• Set the month, day, hours and minutes in the same way.  
18  
7. Press the MENU button to close the menu and to  
start the clock.  
E
16  
1
4
20  
19  
2
18  
24  
3
17  
6
7
9
10  
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. Time zone  
No. Time zone  
1
2
LONDON  
PARIS  
13  
14  
15  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20  
21  
22  
23  
24  
WELLGTN (Wellington)  
SAMOA  
3
CAIRO  
HONOLU. (Honolulu)  
ANCHOR. (Anchorage)  
L.A. (Los Angeles)  
DENVER  
4
MOSCOW  
DUBAI  
5
6
KARACHI  
DACCA  
7
CHICAGO  
8
BANGKOK  
H. KONG (Hong Kong)  
TOKYO  
N.Y. (New York)  
CARACAS  
9
10  
11  
12  
RIO (Rio de Janeiro)  
SYDNEY  
SOLOMON  
FERNAN. (Fernando de Noronha)  
AZORES  
Once you have set time zone, date and time, you do not need to reset the clock  
each time you travel to another time zone. Just set the time zone to the one of  
your destination, and the camcorder automatically adjusts the clock.  
19  
Displaying Date and Time during Recording  
You can display the date and time in the lower left corner of the screen.  
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
MENU  
34)  
DISPLAY SETUP/  
D/T DISPLAY••OFF  
(
1. Press the MENU button to open the menu.  
2. Turn the SET dial to select [DISPLAY SETUP/ ] and  
press the SET dial.  
3. Turn the SET dial to select [D/T DISPLAY] and press  
the SET dial.  
4. Turn the SET dial to select [ON].  
5. Press the MENU button to close the menu.  
20  
Recording  
Recording Movies on a Tape  
Before You Begin Recording  
E
Make a test recording first to check if the camcorder operates correctly. If necessary,  
clean the video heads (  
79).  
Recording  
1. Remove the lens cap.  
2. Set the camcorder to CAMERA  
mode.  
Set the POWER switch to CAMERA.  
3. Open the LCD panel.  
)
R
C
V
(
Y
PLA  
FF  
4. Press the start/stop button to  
begin recording.  
O
A
R
E
M
A
C
ER  
W
O
P
Press the start/stop button again to pause  
recording.  
When You Have Finished Recording  
1. Turn the POWER switch to OFF.  
2. Close the LCD panel.  
3. Replace the lens cap.  
4. Unload the cassette.  
5. Disconnect the power source.  
21  
 About the LCD and viewfinder screen: The screens are produced with  
extremely high-precision manufacturing techniques, with more than  
99.99% of the pixels operating to specification. Less than 0.01% of the  
pixels may occasionally misfire or appear as black or green dots. This has  
no effect on the recorded image and does not constitute a malfunction.  
 The camcorder will shut off after 5 minutes when left in record pause  
mode to protect tape and video heads. “  
AUTO POWER OFF” appears  
20 seconds before shutoff. To continue recording, turn the POWER switch  
to OFF and then back to CAMERA.  
 Wait until the tape counter stops completely before you start recording.  
 When you do not remove the cassette, you can record the next scene without  
producing any noise or blank sections between the recordings even if you turn  
the camcorder off.  
 Bright light may make it difficult to use the LCD screen. In such case, use the  
viewfinder instead.  
 When recording near loud sounds (such as fireworks, drums or concerts),  
sound may become distorted or may be recorded not in the actual sound level.  
This is not a malfunction.  
Allowing the Subject to Monitor the LCD Screen  
You can rotate the LCD panel so that the screen faces in the  
same direction as the lens. The viewfinder switches on allowing  
you to use the viewfinder while the subject can monitor the  
screen.  
The image appears mirror reversed (LCD MIRROR ON).  
However, you can choose to display the image as it is being  
recorded (LCD MIRROR OFF).  
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
MENU  
34)  
DISPLAY SETUP/  
LCD MIRROR•••ON  
(
1. Press the MENU button to open the menu.  
2. Turn the SET dial to select [DISPLAY SETUP/ ] and  
press the SET dial.  
3. Turn the SET dial to select [LCD MIRROR] and press  
the SET dial.  
4. Turn the SET dial to select [OFF].  
22  
5. Press the MENU button to close the menu.  
E
When [LCD MIRROR] is set to [ON], some screen displays appear mirror-  
reversed.  
Screen Displays during Recording  
Remaining battery charge  
The battery symbol indicates the charge  
status of the battery pack.  
• “  
” starts flashing in red when the  
battery pack is empty.  
• When you attach an empty battery  
pack, the power may turn off without  
displaying “  
”.  
Time Code  
• The actual battery charge may not be  
indicated accurately depending on the  
condition under which battery pack  
and camcorder are used.  
Indicates the recording time in hours,  
minutes and seconds.  
Remaining tape  
Indicates the remaining time of the tape  
When “  
” flashes  
in minutes.“  
END” flashes when the  
” flashes in red when the lithium  
tape reaches the end.  
button battery is not installed, or when it  
needs replacing.  
• When the time left is less than 15  
seconds, the remaining tape time may  
not appear.  
Recording reminder  
• Depending on the type of the tape, the  
indication may not be displayed  
correctly.  
The camcorder counts from 1 to 10  
seconds when you start recording. This  
is helpful to avoid scenes that are too  
short.  
23  
Reviewing and Searching when Recording  
REC SEARCH – button/  
(record review) button  
REC SEARCH + button  
Record Review  
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
In record pause mode, this function allows you to review the last few seconds of your  
recording to check if it has been recorded properly.  
Press and release the  
(record review) button.  
The camcorder rewinds the tape, plays back the last few seconds,  
and returns to record pause mode.  
Record Search  
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
In record pause mode, this function allows you to play back the tape (forward or reverse)  
to locate the point where you wish to begin recording.  
Press and hold the REC SEARCH + button (forward) or  
– button (reverse).  
• Release the button at the point you wish to begin recording.  
• The camcorder returns to record pause mode.  
24  
Zooming  
The camcorder is equipped with optical zoom and digital zoom.  
E
Zoom in  
Zoom out  
Zoom lever  
Optical Zoom  
20x optical zoom  
18x optical zoom  
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
Move the zoom lever toward W to zoom out (wide-  
angle). Move it toward T to zoom in (telephoto).  
Press the zoom lever slightly for a slow zoom. Press harder for a  
faster zoom.  
 Keep at least 1 m (3.3 ft.) to the subject. At wide-angle, you can focus on a  
subject as close as 1 cm (0.39 in.).  
 The zoom speed is slightly faster in record pause mode.  
25  
Digital Zoom  
When the digital zoom is activated, the camcorder automatically switches between optical  
and digital zoom. With digital zoom, image resolution becomes lower the more you zoom  
in.  
80x/400x digital zoom  
72x/360x digital zoom  
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
MENU  
34)  
CAMERA SETUP  
D.ZOOM•••••••OFF  
(
1. Press the MENU button to open the menu.  
2. Turn the SET dial to select [CAMERA SETUP] and  
press the SET dial.  
3. Turn the SET dial to select [D.ZOOM] and press the  
SET dial.  
4. Turn the SET dial to select a setting option.  
5. Press the MENU button to close the menu.  
 Digital zoom cannot be used in the Night mode.  
 Digital zoom cannot be used when the multi-image screen is selected.  
 A zoom indicator appears for 4 seconds. It extends in light blue when the digital  
zoom is set to 80x (MV800i/MV800) or 72x (MV790), and extends further in  
dark blue when set to 400x (MV800i/MV800) or 360x (MV790).  
26  
Tips for Making Better Videos  
Holding the Camcorder  
E
For maximum stability, grip the camcorder in your right hand and keep your  
right elbow pressed against your body. If necessary, support the camcorder  
with your left hand. Be careful that your fingers do not touch the microphone  
or lens.  
For More Stability  
Lean against a wall  
Put the camcorder on a table  
Lie on your elbow  
Kneel on one knee  
Use a tripod  
Lighting  
When recording outdoors, we  
recommend recording with the sun at  
your back.  
 When using a tripod, do not leave the viewfinder exposed to direct sunlight as it  
may melt (due to concentration of the light by the lens).  

Do not use tripods with fastening screws longer than  
5.5 mm (0.2 in.) as it may damage the camcorder.  
27  
Playback  
Playing Back a Tape  
If the playback picture is distorted, clean the video heads using a Canon Head Cleaning  
Cassette or a commercially available digital video head-cleaning cassette (  
79).  
1. Set the camcorder to PLAY (VCR)  
mode.  
Set the POWER switch to PLAY (VCR).  
2. Open the LCD panel.  
You can also close the LCD panel with the  
screen facing outward.  
3. Press the  
tape.  
button to rewind the  
button to begin  
button to stop  
4. Press the  
playback.  
/
5. Press the  
playback.  
 To use the viewfinder, close the LCD panel.  
 About the screen display: During playback, the time code gives the hours,  
minutes, seconds and frames. The remaining tape time may not appear when  
the time left is less than 15 seconds.  
28  
Special Playback Modes  
E
/ (Playback Pause)  
To pause playback, press the  
/
button during normal playback.  
(Fast Forward Playback) /  
(Rewind Playback)  
Plays back the tape at 11.5 times normal speed (forward or reverse). Press and hold the  
button during normal playback or fast forward.  
 There is no sound during special playback.  
 The picture may become distorted during some special playback modes.  
 The camcorder stops the tape automatically after 5 minutes in playback pause  
mode to protect tape and video heads.  
29  
Adjusting the Volume  
When you use the LCD screen for playback, the camcorder plays back the sound via  
built-in speaker. The speaker does not sound when you close the LCD panel.  
Speaker  
SET dial  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
Turn the SET dial up to increase the volume, and down  
to lower the volume.  
• A volume bar appears for 2 seconds.  
• You can turn off the volume completely by turning the SET dial  
down until [OFF] appears. Turn the SET dial up to increase the  
volume again.  
30  
Playing Back on a TV Screen  
TVs with SCART Terminal  
Refer also to the TV or VCR instruction manual.  
E
Signal flow  
STV-250N Stereo Video  
Cable (supplied)  
PC-A10 SCART  
Adapter  
1. Turn off all devices before starting the connections.  
2. Connect the PC-A10 SCART Adapter to the TV or VCR’s SCART  
terminal.  
3. Connect the STV-250N Stereo Video Cable to the camcorder’s AV  
terminal and the audio terminals on the SCART Adapter.  
Connect the white plug to the white AUDIO terminal L (left), and the red plug to the red  
AUDIO terminal R (right) and the yellow plug to the yellow VIDEO terminal.  
4. If connecting to a TV, set the input selector to VIDEO. If connecting to  
a VCR, set the input selector to LINE.  
31  
TVs with Audio/Video Terminals  
Refer also to the TV or VCR instruction manual.  
VIDEO  
AUDIO  
Signal flow  
L
STV-250N Stereo Video Cable  
(supplied)  
R
1. Turn off all devices before starting the connections.  
2. Connect the STV-250N Stereo Video Cable to the camcorder’s AV  
terminal and the audio/video terminals on the TV/VCR.  
Connect the white plug to the white audio terminal L (left), the red plug to the red audio  
terminal R (right) and the yellow plug to the yellow video terminal VIDEO.  
3. If connecting to a TV, set the input selector to VIDEO. If connecting to  
a VCR, set the input selector to LINE.  
We recommend powering the camcorder from a household power source.  
32  
Selecting the Audio Output Channel  
You can select the output channels when playing back a tape with audio recorded on two  
channels.  
E
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
MENU  
34)  
AUDIO SETUP  
OUTPUT CH••••L/R  
(
1. Press the MENU button to open the menu.  
2. Turn the SET dial to select [AUDIO SETUP] and  
press the SET dial.  
3. Turn the SET dial to select [OUTPUT CH] and press  
the SET dial.  
4. Turn the SET dial to select a setting option.  
• L/R: Stereo: L+R channels, Bilingual: Main+Sub.  
• L/L: Stereo: L channel, Bilingual: Main.  
• R/R: Stereo: R channel, Bilingual: Sub.  
5. Press the MENU button to close the menu.  
The setting resets to the L/R setting when you turn the camcorder off.  
33  
Advanced Functions  
Menus and Settings  
Many of the camcorder’s advanced functions are selected from menus that appear on the  
screen.  
SET dial  
MENU button  
Selecting Menus and Settings  
1. Press the MENU button to open the menu.  
2. Turn the SET dial to select a submenu and press the  
SET dial.  
3. Turn the SET dial to select a menu item and press  
the SET dial.  
4. Turn the SET dial to select a setting option.  
5. Press the MENU button to close the menu.  
When setting the white balance, shutter speed or language,  
press the SET dial first before pressing the MENU button.  
 Pressing the MENU button at any time closes the menu.  
 Items that are not available appear in purple.  
34  
Menu and Default Settings  
Default settings are shown in boldface.  
CAMERA MENU  
E
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
Submenu  
D.EFFECT SETUP  
Menu Item  
Setting Options  
, FADER, EFFECT, MULTI-S  
D.E.SELECT  
54  
FADER TYPE  
EFFECT TYPE  
FADE-T, WIPE, CORNER, JUMP, FLIP,  
PUZZLE, ZIGZAG, BEAM, TIDE  
ART, BLACK&WHITE, SEPIA, MOSAIC,  
BALL, CUBE, WAVE, COLOR MASK,  
MIRROR  
M.S.SPEED  
M.S.SPLIT  
SHUTTER  
MANUAL, FAST, MODERATE, SLOW  
4, 9, 16  
CAMERA SETUP  
AUTO, 1/50, 1/120, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000,  
1/2000  
49  
50  
26  
A.SL SHUTTER  
D.ZOOM  
ON, OFF  
MV800i/MV800  
MV790  
OFF, 80X, 400X  
OFF, 72X, 360X  
IMG STAB  
ON, OFF  
67  
47  
51  
43  
52  
53  
53  
66  
22  
76  
20  
65  
65  
67  
WHITE BAL.  
SELF TIMER  
SKIN DETAIL  
REC MODE  
AUTO, SET  
, INDOOR  
, OUTDOOR  
ON , OFF  
SOFT, NORMAL  
SP, LP  
VCR SETUP  
AUDIO SETUP  
WIND SCREEN  
AUDIO MODE  
BRIGHTNESS  
LCD MIRROR  
TV SCREEN  
D/T DISPLAY  
LANGUAGE  
DATE FORMAT  
DEMO MODE  
AUTO, OFF  
16bit, 12bit  
DISPLAY SETUP/  
ON, OFF  
ON, OFF  
ON, OFF  
See list of languages.  
ON, OFF  
35  
Submenu  
Menu Item  
Setting Options  
SYSTEM  
BEEP  
ON, OFF  
66  
18  
18  
64  
64  
T.ZONE/DST  
See list of time zones.  
D/TIME SET  
MY CAMERA  
START-UP IMG  
S-UP SOUND  
OPER.SOUND  
SELF-T SOUND  
ON, OFF  
OFF, PATTERN1, PATTERN2  
36  
PLAY (VCR) MENU  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
* MV800i only.  
54  
E
Submenu  
D.EFFECT SETUP  
Menu Item  
Setting Options  
, FADER, EFFECT, MULTI-S  
D.E.SELECT  
FADER TYPE  
FADE-T, WIPE, CORNER, JUMP, FLIP,  
PUZZLE, ZIGZAG, BEAM, TIDE  
EFFECT TYPE  
ART, BLACK&WHITE, SEPIA, MOSAIC,  
BALL, CUBE, WAVE, COLOR MASK,  
MIRROR  
M.S.SPEED  
M.S.SPLIT  
MANUAL, FAST, MODERATE, SLOW  
4, 9, 16  
VCR SETUP  
REC MODE*  
AV DV*  
SP, LP  
52  
73  
33  
53  
63  
63  
66  
76  
76  
61  
60  
60  
65  
65  
66  
18  
18  
ON, OFF  
L/R, L/L, R/R  
16bit, 12bit  
AUDIO SETUP  
OUTPUT CH  
AUDIO MODE*  
12bit AUDIO  
MIX BALANCE  
BRIGHTNESS  
TV SCREEN  
DISPLAYS  
STEREO1, STEREO2, MIX/FIXED,  
MIX/VARI.  
DISPLAY SETUP/  
ON, OFF  
ON, OFF <PLAYBK>  
ON, OFF  
6SEC.DATE  
DATA CODE  
D/TIME SEL.  
LANGUAGE  
DATE FORMAT  
BEEP  
DATE/TIME, CAMERA DATA, CAM.& D/T  
DATE, TIME, DATE & TIME  
See list of languages.  
SYSTEM  
ON, OFF  
T.ZONE/DST  
D/TIME SET  
See list of time zones.  
37  
Submenu  
MY CAMERA  
Menu Item  
START-UP IMG  
Setting Options  
ON, OFF  
64  
64  
S-UP SOUND  
OPER.SOUND  
SELF-T SOUND  
OFF, PATTERN1, PATTERN2  
38  
Recording  
Using the Recording Programs  
Easy Recording Program  
The camcorder adjusts focus, exposure and other settings  
automatically, allowing you to just point and shoot.  
E
Program AE Modes  
Auto  
The camcorder adjusts focus, exposure and other settings  
automatically. However, you have the option of adjusting the settings  
manually.  
Sports  
Use this mode to record sports scenes (such as tennis or golf) or  
moving objects (such as roller coasters).  
Portrait  
Use this mode to give accent to your subject by blurring the  
background or foreground. The blur effect increases the more you  
zoom to telephoto.  
Spotlight  
Use this mode to record spotlit scenes or fireworks.  
Sand & Snow  
Use this mode in bright places such as a sunny beach or ski resort. It  
prevents the subject from being underexposed.  
Low Light  
Use this mode to record in dimly lit places.  
39  
Program selector  
Availability of Functions in Each Mode:  
Recording Program  
Image Stabilizer  
Focus  
(on)  
(A)  
(A)  
(A)  
(A)  
White Balance  
Wind screen  
Shutter Speed  
AE Shift  
(A)  
Digital Effects  
: Available  
: Not available A: Auto setting  
Selecting the Easy Recording Program  
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
Set the program selector to EASY.  
EASY” appears.  
40  
Selecting the Program AE Mode  
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
E
1. Set the program selector to  
.
2. Press the SET dial.  
A list of the program AE modes appears.  
3. Select a mode and press the SET dial.  
The symbol of the mode appears on the upper left corner of the  
screen.  
 The setting resets to the Auto mode when you change the position of the  
program selector.  
 Do not change the mode during recording as the brightness of the image may  
change abruptly.  
 Sports/Portrait mode:  
The picture may not appear smooth when played back.  
 Sand & Snow mode:  
- The subject may become overexposed in dark surroundings. Check the  
image on the screen.  
- The picture may not appear smooth when played back.  
 Low Light mode:  
- Moving subjects may leave a trailing afterimage.  
- Picture quality may not be as good as in other modes.  
- The camcorder may have difficulty to focus automatically.  
41  
Using the Night Mode  
Allows you to record in dark places where lights cannot be used, without sacrificing color.  
Night Mode  
Program selector  
NIGHT MODE button  
1. Set the program selector to  
.
2. Press the NIGHT MODE button.  
• “ ” appears.  
• Pressing the NIGHT MODE button again resets the camcorder to the Auto mode.  
 Moving subjects may leave a trailing afterimage.  
 Picture quality may not be as good as in other modes.  
 White points may appear on the screen.  
 Autofocus may not work as well as in other modes. In such case, adjust the  
focus manually.  
 Digital zoom and multi-image screen cannot be used while a night mode is  
activated.  
 The program AE mode cannot be changed while a night mode is activated.  
42  
Skin Detail Function  
When shooting close-ups of people, the camcorder automatically softens details to  
reduce the appearance of skin imperfections for a more complimentary appearance.  
E
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
MENU  
34)  
CAMERA SETUP  
SKIN DETAIL••NORMAL  
(
Open the menu and select [CAMERA SETUP]. Select [SKIN DETAIL], set it  
to [SOFT] and close the menu.  
 Skin detail function cannot be used when the program selector is set to EASY.  
 [SKIN DETAIL] resets to [NORMAL] when you change the position of the  
POWER switch or the program selector.  
 To obtain the best effect, use this function when recording a person in close-up.  
Note that areas similar to the skin color may lack in detail.  
43  
Adjusting the AE Shift  
You can adjust the AE (auto exposure) function to lighten or darken the image. This  
allows you to compensate for backlit or overexposed scenes. Available Levels: –2 to +2,  
in 0.25 intervals (excluding –1.75 and +1.75).  
AE SHIFT button  
SET dial  
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
1. Set the program selector to  
.
2. Set the program AE mode to a mode other than the  
Spotlight or Sand & Snow mode.  
Easy Recording,  
3. Press the AE SHIFT button.  
“AE 0” appears in light blue.  
4. Turn the SET dial to adjust the AE shift level.  
• Turn the SET dial up to lighten the image, and down to darken  
the image.  
• If “MF” is displayed in light blue, AE shift cannot be adjusted.  
Press the AE SHIFT button again to display “AE 0” in light  
blue.  
The camcorder retains the setting even if you turn it off or change the program AE  
mode.  
44  
Adjusting the Focus Manually  
Autofocus may not work well on the following subjects. In such case, focus manually.  
E
Subjects with low  
contrast or without  
vertical lines  
Through  
dirty or wet  
windows  
Reflective  
surfaces  
Fast Moving  
Subjects  
Night Scenes  
FOCUS button  
Zoom lever  
Program selector  
SET dial  
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
1. Set the program selector to  
.
2. Adjust the zoom.  
When you operate the zoom after adjusting the focus, the  
subject may not stay in focus. Adjust the zoom before the focus.  
3. Press the FOCUS button.  
“MF” appears.  
4. Turn the SET dial to adjust the focus.  
• Turn the SET dial up or down until the image appears focused.  
• Press the FOCUS button to return to autofocus.  
 The setting resets to autofocus when you switch the program selector to EASY.  
 Readjust the focus when you have turned off the camcorder.  
45  
Infinity Focus  
Use this function when you wish to focus on faraway subjects such as mountains or  
fireworks.  
Press the FOCUS button more than 2 seconds after step 2 in Adjusting  
the Focus Manually.  
“MF ” appears.  
When you operate the zoom or turn the SET dial, “ ” disappears and the  
camcorder changes to manual focus.  
46  
Setting the White Balance  
You can use the preset modes to reproduce colors more accurately, or set a custom white  
balance to obtain the optimal setting.  
E
AUTO  
SET  
Auto white balance  
Use the custom white balance setting to make white subjects  
appear white under colored lighting.  
INDOOR  
Use this mode for recording under changing lighting condition,  
video lights or sodium lamps.  
OUTDOOR  
Use this mode for recording night scenes, fireworks, sunrise or  
sunset.  
White sheet or paper  
Zoom lever  
Program selector  
MENU button  
SET dial  
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
MENU  
(
CAMERA SETUP  
WHITE BAL.•••AUTO  
34)  
1. Set the program selector to  
.
2. For custom white balance: Point the camcorder at a white object and  
zoom in until it fills the whole screen.  
Keep the camcorder zoomed at the white object until step 3 is completed.  
3. Open the menu and select [CAMERA SETUP]. Select [WHITE BAL.],  
select a setting option and close the menu.  
When you have selected [SET ]: “ ” flashes and stops flashing when settings is  
complete.  
47  
 Use the auto setting for normal outdoor scenes.  
 When the program selector is set to EASY, white balance is preset to [AUTO].  
 The camcorder retains the custom white balance setting even if you turn it off.  
 When you have set the custom white balance:  
- Depending on the light source, “ ” may keep flashing. The result will still be  
better than with the auto setting.  
- Reset the white balance when the lighting condition changes.  
- Turn off the digital zoom.  
 Custom white balance may provide better results in the following cases:  
- Changing lighting conditions  
- Close-ups  
- Subjects in a single color (sky, sea or forest)  
- Under mercury lamps or certain types of fluorescent lights  
48  
Setting the Shutter Speed  
You can adjust the shutter speed manually to make stable shots of fast moving subjects.  
Select from AUTO, 1/50, 1/120, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000.  
E
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
MENU  
34)  
CAMERA SETUP  
SHUTTER••••••AUTO  
(
1. Set the program selector to  
.
2. Set the program AE mode to the  
(Auto) mode.  
3. Open the menu and select [CAMERA SETUP].  
4. Select [SHUTTER].  
5. Select the shutter speed and press the SET dial.  
6. Close the menu.  
 Do not point the camcorder directly at the sun when the shutter speed is set to  
1/1000 or higher.  
 The image may flicker when recording with high shutter speeds.  
 The setting resets to the auto setting when you switch the program selector to  
EASY, or change the program AE mode.  
 Guidelines for Recording with High Shutter Speeds:  
- Outdoor sports such as golf or tennis: 1/2000  
- Moving objects such as cars or roller coasters: 1/1000, 1/500 or 1/250  
- Indoor sports such as basketball: 1/120  
49  
Auto Slow Shutter  
In Easy Recording mode and when [SHUTTER] is set to [AUTO] in Auto mode, the  
camcorder uses shutter speeds down to 1/25. This allows you to record brightly in places  
with insufficient lighting. However, you can set the camcorder not to use a slow shutter  
speed.  
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
MENU  
34)  
CAMERA SETUP  
A.SL SHUTTERON  
(
Open the menu and select [CAMERA SETUP]. Select [A.SL SHUTTER],  
set it to [OFF] and close the menu.  
When set to [ON], moving subjects may leave a trailing afterimage.  
50  
Using the Self-Timer  
E
Start/stop button  
SET dial  
MENU button  
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
MENU  
34)  
CAMERA SETUP  
SELF TIMER•••OFF  
(
1. Open the menu and select [CAMERA SETUP]. Select [SELF TIMER],  
set it to [ON ] and close the menu.  
” appears.  
2. Press the start/stop button.  
The camcorder starts recording after a 10-second countdown. The count down  
appears on the screen.  
 To cancel the self-timer, set [SELF TIMER] to [OFF]. Once the countdown has  
begun, you can also press the start/stop button to cancel the self-timer.  
 The self-timer will be canceled when you turn off the camcorder.  
51  
Changing the Recording Mode (SP/LP)  
You can choose between SP (standard play) and LP (long play). LP extends the tape  
usage by 1.5 times.  
*
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
* MV800i only.  
MENU  
(
VCR SETUP  
REC MODE•••••SP  
34)  
To change to LP mode, open the menu and select [VCR SETUP]. Select  
[REC MODE], set it to [LP] and close the menu.  
Depending on the nature and usage condition of the tape, picture and sound  
recorded in LP mode may be distorted. We recommend using the SP mode  
for important recordings.  
 If you record in both SP and LP modes on the same tape, the playback picture  
may become distorted and the time code may not be written correctly.  
 If you play back a tape that has been recorded in LP mode with another digital  
device on this camcorder, or vice versa, picture and sound may become  
distorted.  
52  
Audio Recording  
Changing the Audio Mode  
E
You can record sound in two audio modes—16-bit and 12-bit. The 12-bit mode records  
sound on two channels (stereo 1), leaving 2 channels free (stereo 2) for adding new  
sound later with another editing device. Select the 16-bit mode for higher sound quality.  
*
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
* MV800i only.  
MENU  
(
AUDIO SETUP  
AUDIO MODE•••12bit  
34)  
Open the menu and select [AUDIO SETUP]. Select [AUDIO MODE], set it  
to [16bit] and close the menu.  
“16bit” appears for approximately 4 seconds.  
Wind Screen  
The camcorder reduces wind noise automatically. However, you can turn off the wind  
screen when recording indoors, or when you want the microphone to be as sensitive as  
possible.  
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
MENU  
34)  
AUDIO SETUP  
WIND SCREEN••AUTO  
(
Open the menu and select [AUDIO SETUP]. Select [WIND SCREEN], set it  
to [OFF] and close the menu.  
“WS  
” appears when you turn the wind screen off.  
53  
Using Digital Effects  
Faders ( 56)  
Begin or end scenes with a fade to or from black.  
Fade Trigger (FADE-T)  
Corner Wipe (CORNER)  
Flip (FLIP)  
Wipe (WIPE)  
Jump (JUMP)  
Puzzle (PUZZLE)  
Beam (BEAM)  
Zigzag (ZIGZAG)  
Tide (TIDE)  
54  
Effects ( 56)  
Add flavor to your recordings.  
Art (ART)  
Black and White  
(BLACK&WHITE)  
Sepia (SEPIA)  
E
Mosaic (MOSAIC)  
Ball (BALL)  
Cube (CUBE)  
Wave (WAVE)  
Color Mask (COLOR  
MASK)  
Mirror (MIRROR)  
Multi-Image Screen ( 57)  
Captures moving subjects in 4, 9 or 16 sequences of still images and displays them at  
one time. Sound will be recorded normally.  
4 Sequences  
9 Sequences  
16 Sequences  
55  
Selecting a Fader  
In CAMERA mode, set the program selector to  
.
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
1. Open the menu and select [D.EFFECT SETUP].  
2. Select [D.E.SELECT] and set it to [FADER].  
3. Select [FADER TYPE], select a setting option and  
close the menu.  
The name of the selected fader flashes.  
CAMERA mode:  
4. Fade in: In record pause mode, press the DIGITAL  
EFFECTS ON/OFF button and begin recording by  
pressing the start/stop button.  
Fade out: During recording, press the DIGITAL  
EFFECTS ON/OFF button and pause recording by  
pressing the start/stop button.  
The fader can be activated/deactivated by pressing the DIGITAL EFFECTS ON/OFF  
button.  
PLAY (VCR) mode:  
4. Fade in: In playback pause mode, press the DIGITAL  
EFFECTS ON/OFF button and begin playback by  
pressing the  
/
button.  
Fade out: During playback, press the DIGITAL  
EFFECTS ON/OFF button and pause playback by  
pressing the  
/
button.  
The fader can be activated/deactivated by pressing the DIGITAL EFFECTS ON/OFF  
button.  
Selecting an Effect  
In CAMERA mode, set the program selector to  
.
CAMERA PLAY (VCR)  
1. Open the menu and select [D.EFFECT SETUP].  
2. Select [D.E.SELECT] and set it to [EFFECT].  
3. Select [EFFECT TYPE], select a setting option and  
close the menu.  
The name of the selected effect flashes.  
4. Press the DIGITAL EFFECTS ON/OFF button.  
• The name of the selected effect stops flashing.  
• The effect can be activated/deactivated by pressing the  
DIGITAL EFFECTS ON/OFF button.  
56  
Using the Multi-Image Screen  
You can operate the multi-image screen only in the following playback modes:  
• When [M.S.SPEED] is set to [MANUAL]: Playback pause, slow forward/reverse  
playback  
E
• When [M.S.SPEED] is set to [FAST], [MODERATE] or [SLOW]: Playback pause  
In CAMERA mode, set the program selector to  
.
CAMERA PLAY (VCR)  
1. Open the menu and select [D.EFFECT SETUP].  
2. Select [D.E.SELECT] and set it to [MULTI-S].  
3. Select [M.S.SPEED] and select the transition speed.  
Following transition speeds can be selected: fast (every 4  
frames), moderate (every 6 frames*), slow (every 8 frames*).  
* In Low Light mode: moderate (every 8 frames), slow (every 12 frames).  
4. Select [M.S.SPLIT], select the number of sequences and close the  
menu.  
“MULTI-S” flashes.  
5. Press the DIGITAL EFFECTS ON/OFF button.  
• MANUAL: Images will be captured each time you press the  
DIGITAL EFFECTS ON/OFF button. The blue frame indicating  
the next sequence disappears after the last image. Pressing  
the DIGITAL EFFECTS ON/OFF button for more than 1  
second cancels the images one after another.  
• FAST, MODERATE, SLOW: The set number of images will be captured at the set  
speed. To cancel the multi-image screen, press the DIGITAL EFFECTS ON/OFF  
button.  
6. Press the start/stop button to begin recording.  
The multi-image screen is recorded on the tape.  
 Turn off the digital effect when you do not use it.  
 The camcorder retains the setting even if you turn it off or change the program  
AE mode.  
 The image quality may be slightly lower with digital effects.  
 Digital effects cannot be used in the following cases:  
- When the program selector is set to EASY.  
- During DV dubbing.  
About the multi-image screen:  
 The multi-image screen cannot be used in the following cases:  
- In the Night mode.  
- When the widescreen mode is selected.  
 In PLAY (VCR) mode: Pressing any tape operation button (such as play or  
pause) cancels the multi-image screen.  
57  
Widescreen TV Recording (16:9)  
The camcorder uses the full width of the CCD providing high-resolution 16:9 recording.  
WIDESCREEN button  
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
Press the WIDESCREEN button.  
• “ ” appears.  
• The LCD screen switches to the “letterbox” display. The picture on the viewfinder  
appears horizontally squeezed.  
 The multi-image screen cannot be used when the widescreen mode is selected.  
 If you play back a widescreen recording on a normal TV, the image appears  
horizontally squeezed.  
58  
Playback  
Magnifying the Image  
The playback image can be magnified up to 5 times.  
E
Zoom lever  
SET dial  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
1. Move the zoom lever toward T.  
• The image is magnified by 2 times.  
• A frame appears indicating the position of the magnified area.  
To further enlarge the image, move the zoom lever toward T.  
To shrink the image below 2 times magnification, move the  
zoom lever toward W.  
2. Select the magnified area with the SET dial.  
• Turn the SET dial to move the image to the right and left, or up  
and down. Pressing the SET dial switches between the  
directions.  
To cancel the magnification, move the zoom lever toward W  
until the frame disappears.  
59  
Displaying the Data Code  
The camcorder maintains a data code containing recording date and time and other  
camera data such as shutter speed and exposure (f-stop). When you play back a tape,  
you can display the data code and select the data code combination you wish to display.  
DATA CODE button  
SET dial  
MENU button  
Selecting the Date/Time Display Combination  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
MENU  
34)  
DISPLAY SETUP/  
D/TIME SEL.••DATE & TIME  
(
Open the menu and select [DISPLAY SETUP/ ]. Select [D/TIME SEL.],  
set it to [DATE] or [TIME] and close the menu.  
Selecting the Data Code Display Combination  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
MENU  
34)  
DISPLAY SETUP/  
DATA CODE••••DATE/TIME  
(
Open the menu and select [DISPLAY SETUP/ ]. Select [DATA CODE],  
set it to [CAMERA DATA] or [CAM. & D/T] and close the menu.  
60  
Displaying the Data Code  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
E
Press the DATA CODE button.  
The data code will not display the next time you turn on the camcorder.  
Six-Second Auto Date  
Date and time appear for 6 seconds when you begin playback, or to indicate that date or  
time zone has changed.  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
MENU  
34)  
DISPLAY SETUP/  
6SEC.DATE••••OFF  
(
Open the menu and select [DISPLAY SETUP/ ]. Select [6SEC.DATE], set  
it to [ON] and close the menu.  
61  
End Search  
When you have played back a tape, you can use this function to locate the end of the last  
recorded scene.  
END SEARCH button  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
In stop mode, press the END SEARCH button.  
• “END SEARCH” appears.  
• The camcorder rewinds/fast forwards the tape, plays back the last few seconds of the  
recording and stops the tape.  
• Pressing the button again cancels the search.  
 End search cannot be used once you unload the cassette.  
 End search may not work properly if a blank section exists on the tape.  
62  
Playing Back a Tape with Added  
Sound  
E
You can select to play back Stereo 1 (original sound), Stereo 2 (added sound), or adjust  
the balance of both sounds.  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
MENU  
34)  
AUDIO SETUP  
12bit AUDIO•••STEREO1  
(
1. Open the menu and select [AUDIO SETUP]. Select [12bit AUDIO],  
select a setting and close the menu.  
• STEREO1: Plays back the original sound.  
• STEREO2: Plays back the added sound.  
• MIX/FIXED: Plays back Stereo 1 and Stereo 2 in the same level.  
• MIX/VARI.: Plays back Stereo 1 and Stereo 2. The mix balance can be adjusted.  
2. If you have selected [MIX/VARI.], adjust the mix level: Open the menu  
and select [AUDIO SETUP]. Select [MIX BALANCE], adjust the balance  
with the SET dial and close the menu.  
Turn the SET dial down to increase the volume of Stereo 1 and up to increase the  
volume of Stereo 2.  
 The camcorder resets to [STEREO1] when you turn the camcorder off.  
However, the mix balance is memorized by the camcorder.  
 Audio dubbing cannot be performed with your camcorder.  
63  
Other Functions  
Customizing the Camcorder  
You can personalize your camcorder by customizing the start-up image and the sound it  
makes for start-up, operation and self-timer (collectively called the My Camera settings).  
Changing the My Camera Settings  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
MENU  
34)  
MY CAMERA  
START-UP IMG•ON  
(
S-UP SOUND•••PATTERN1  
OPER.SOUND•••PATTERN1  
SELF-T SOUNDPATTERN1  
1. Open the menu and select [MY CAMERA].  
2. Select the menu item you wish to change.  
3. Select a setting option and close the menu.  
64  
Changing the Display Language  
The language used for screen display and menu items can be changed. The available set  
of languages varies depending on the region. Follow the procedure below to check which  
set of languages are provided with your camcorder.  
E
Language Set A  
Language Set B  
(e.g. Europe)  
(e.g. Asia, Australia)  
English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional  
Russian, Simplified Chinese, Japanese  
Chinese, Korean  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
MENU  
34)  
DISPLAY SETUP/  
LANGUAGE  
•••ENGLISH  
(
To change the display language, open the menu and select [DISPLAY  
SETUP/ ]. Select [LANGUAGE ], select a language and close the  
menu.  
 If you have mistakenly changed the language, follow the  
menu item to change the setting.  
mark next to the  
 The displays “  
button names on the camcorder and will not change when you change the  
” and “  
” at the bottom of the screen refer to the  
language.  
Changing the Date Format  
You can select between three date formats. For example, [1. JAN. 2005], [JAN. 1, 2005]  
and [2005. 1. 1].  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
MENU  
34)  
DISPLAY SETUP/  
DATE FORMAT•• 1.JAN.2005  
(
Open the menu and select [DISPLAY SETUP/ ]. Select [DATE FORMAT],  
select a format and close the menu.  
65  
Other Camcorder Settings  
Beep  
You will hear a beep upon camcorder operations such as power on/off, start/stop, self-  
timer countdown, and unusual conditions of the camcorder.  
If you turn off the beep, all camcorder sounds including the ones of the My Camera  
settings will be turned off.  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
MENU  
34)  
SYSTEM  
BEEP•••••••••ON  
(
To turn the beep off, open the menu and select [SYSTEM]. Select [BEEP],  
set it to [OFF] and close the menu.  
Adjusting the Brightness of the LCD Screen  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
MENU  
34)  
DISPLAY SETUP/  
BRIGHTNESS•••  
(
Open the menu and select [DISPLAY SETUP/ ]. Select [BRIGHTNESS],  
adjust the brightness level and close the menu.  
Changing the brightness of the LCD screen does not affect that of the viewfinder  
or the recordings.  
66  
Turning Off the Image Stabilizer  
The image stabilizer compensates for camcorder shake even at full telephoto. It tries to  
compensate for horizontal movements; therefore, you may decide to turn it off when you  
mount the camcorder on a tripod.  
E
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
MENU  
34)  
CAMERA SETUP  
IMG STAB  
•••ON  
(
Open the menu and select [CAMERA SETUP]. Select [IMG STAB  
it to [OFF] and close the menu.  
], set  
” disappears.  
 The image stabilizer cannot be turned off when the program selector is set to  
EASY.  
 The image stabilizer is designed to compensate a normal degree of camcorder  
shake.  
 The image stabilizer might not be as effective when using the Night mode.  
Demonstration Mode  
The demonstration mode displays the camcorder’s main features. It starts automatically  
when you leave the camcorder turned on without loading a recording media for more than  
5 minutes. However, you can set the camcorder not to start the demonstration mode.  
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
MENU  
34)  
DISPLAY SETUP/  
DEMO MODE••••ON  
(
Open the menu and select [DISPLAY SETUP/ ]. Select [DEMO MODE],  
set it to [OFF] and close the menu.  
To cancel the demo mode once it has begun, press any button, turn off the  
camcorder or load a recording media.  
67  
Editing  
Recording to a VCR or Digital Video  
Device  
You can copy your recordings by connecting the camcorder to a VCR or a digital video  
device. If you connect a digital video device, you can copy recordings with virtually no  
generation loss in image and sound quality.  
Connecting the Devices  
Connecting a VCR  
See Playing Back on a TV Screen (  
31).  
Connecting a Digital Video Device  
Use the optional CV-150F (4 pin-4 pin) or CV-250F (4 pin-6 pin) DV Cable.  
Refer also to the instruction manual of the digital video device.  
Signal flow  
DV cable (optional)  
Recording  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
1. Set the camcorder to PLAY (VCR) mode and load a recorded cassette.  
2. Connected device: Load a blank cassette and set the device to record  
pause mode.  
3. Locate the scene you wish to copy and pause playback shortly before  
the scene.  
4. Play back the tape.  
5. Connected device: Begin recording when the scene you wish to copy  
appears. Stop recording when copying is complete.  
6. Stop playback.  
68  
 When connecting a VCR, the quality of the edited tape will be slightly lower than  
that of the original.  
 When connecting a digital video device:  
- If the picture does not appear, reconnect the DV cable or turn the camcorder  
off and back on again.  
E
- Proper operation cannot be guaranteed for all digital video devices equipped  
with a DV terminal. If operation does not work, use the AV terminal.  
 We recommend powering the camcorder from a household power source.  
69  
Recording from Analog Video  
Devices (VCR, TV or Camcorder)  
You can record videos or TV programs from a VCR or analog camcorder on the tape in  
the camcorder.  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
1. Connect the camcorder to the analog video device.  
See Playing Back on a TV Screen ( 31).  
2. Set the camcorder to PLAY (VCR) mode and load a blank cassette.  
3. Connected device: Load the recorded cassette.  
4. Press the REC PAUSE button.  
In record pause mode and during recording, you can check the  
picture on the screen.  
5. Connected device: Play back the tape.  
6. Press the  
/
record appears.  
button when the scene you wish to  
Recording starts.  
7. Press the  
• Press the  
button to stop recording.  
button to pause recording.  
/
/
• Press the  
button again to restart recording.  
8. Connected device: Stop playback.  
 When connecting to a TV/Video with SCART terminal, use a SCART adapter  
with input capability (commercially available). The supplied SCART Adapter  
PC-A10 is for output only.  
 Depending on the signal sent from the connected device, dubbing may not work  
properly (e.g. signals that include copyright protective signals or anomalous  
signals such as ghost signals).  
We recommend powering the camcorder from a household power source.  
70  
Recording from Digital Video  
Devices (DV Dubbing)  
E
You can record from other digital video devices equipped with a DV terminal with virtually  
no loss in picture and sound quality.  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
1. Connect the camcorder to the digital video device.  
See Connecting a Digital Video Device ( 68).  
2. Set the camcorder to PLAY (VCR) mode and load a blank cassette.  
Make sure that [AV DV] is set to [OFF] ( 73).  
3. Connected device: Load the recorded cassette.  
4. Press the REC PAUSE button.  
In record pause mode and during recording, you can check the  
picture on the screen.  
5. Connected Device: Play back the tape.  
6. Press the  
record appears.  
/
button when the scene you wish to  
Recording starts.  
7. Press the  
• Press the  
button to stop recording.  
button to pause recording.  
/
/
• Press the  
button again to restart recording.  
8. Connected Device: Stop playback.  
 Blank sections may be recorded as anomalous picture.  
 If the picture does not appear, reconnect the DV cable or turn the camcorder off  
and back on again.  
 You can only record signals from devices with the logo recording in SD  
system in SP or LP format (note that signals from identically shaped terminals  
may be of different format).  
We recommend powering the camcorder from a household power source.  
71  
Concerning Copyright  
Copyright Precaution  
Certain pre-recorded video tapes, films and other materials, as well as some television  
programmes are copyrighted. Unauthorised recording of these materials may violate  
copyright protection laws.  
Copyright Signals  
During playback: If you try to play back a tape that contains copyright control signals for  
protection of software, “COPYRIGHT PROTECTED PLAYBACK IS RESTRICTED”  
appears for a few seconds and the camcorder displays a blank blue screen. You cannot  
playback the contents of the tape.  
During recording: If you try to record from software that contains copyright control signals  
for protection of software, “COPYRIGHT PROTECTED DUBBING RESTRICTED”  
appears. You cannot record the contents of the software.  
You cannot record copyright protection signals to a tape using this camcorder.  
72  
Converting Analog Signals into Digital  
Signals (Analog-Digital Converter)  
E
By connecting the camcorder to a VCR or 8mm video camcorder, you can convert analog  
video/audio signals to digital signals and output the digital signals via the DV terminal.  
The DV terminal serves as output terminal only.  
Connecting the Devices  
Turn off all devices before starting the connections. Unload the tape from the camcorder.  
Refer also to the instruction manual of the connected device. Use the optional CV-150F  
(4 pin-4 pin) or CV-250F (4 pin-6 pin) DV Cable.  
VIDEO  
L
Signal flow  
AUDIO  
STV-250N Stereo Video  
Cable (supplied)  
R
Signal flow  
DV cable (optional)  
Turning On the Analog-Digital Converter  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
MENU  
34)  
VCR SETUP  
AV  
DV••••••••OFF  
(
Open the menu and select [VCR SETUP]. Select [AV DV], set it to [ON]  
and close the menu.  
73  
 Depending on the signal sent from the connected device, the conversion from  
analog to digital signals might not work properly (e.g., signals that include  
copyright protective signals or anomalous signals such as ghost signals).  
 When connecting to a TV/Video with SCART terminal, use a SCART adapter  
with input capability (commercially available). The supplied SCART Adapter  
PC-A10 is for output only.  
 For normal use, set [AV DV] to [OFF]. If it is set to [ON], digital signals cannot  
be input via the camcorder’s DV terminal.  
 Depending on the software and the specifications of your computer, you may  
not be able to transfer converted signals via the DV terminal.  
We recommend powering the camcorder from a household power source.  
74  
Transferring Video Recordings to a  
Computer  
E
Transferring Using a DV Cable  
You can transfer recordings to a computer equipped with a IEEE1394 (DV) terminal or  
IEEE1394 capture board. Use the editing software supplied with your computer/capture  
board to transfer video recording from tape to computer. Refer to the instruction manual of  
the software. A driver is preinstalled on Windows operating systems later than Windows  
98 Second Edition and Mac operating systems later than Mac OS 9, and will be installed  
automatically.  
Use the optional CV-150F (4 pin-4 pin) or CV-250F (4 pin-6 pin) DV Cable.  
IEEE1394 (DV) terminal  
DV cable (optional)  
6-pin  
4-pin  
 Operation may not work correctly depending on the software and the  
specifications/settings of your computer.  
 If the computer freezes while you have connected the camcorder, disconnect  
and reconnect the DV cable. If the problem persists, disconnect the interface  
cable, turn off camcorder and computer, turn camcorder and computer back on  
and reconnect them.  
 We recommend powering the camcorder from a household power source while  
it is connected to the computer.  
 Refer also to the instruction manual of the computer.  
 Users of Windows XP can download the DV Messenger software from below  
homepage. With DV Messenger, you can perform a videoconference using your  
camcorder. For details, refer to the DV Network Software Instruction Manual  
supplied with the software.  
75  
Additional Information  
Screen Displays  
Hiding the Displays on the LCD Screen  
You can hide the displays on the LCD screen to have a clear screen for playback.  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
MENU  
34)  
DISPLAY SETUP/  
DISPLAYS•••••ON  
(
Open the menu and select [DISPLAY SETUP/ ]. Select [DISPLAYS], set  
it to [OFF <PLAYBK>] and close the menu.  
• Warning messages still appear, and the data code appears if turned on.  
• The displays appear while a playback image is magnified or a digital effect is activated.  
Tape operation displays appear for 2 seconds.  
Hiding/Showing the Displays on the TV Screen  
When you connect a TV for recording, you can select to hide the camcorder displays on  
the TV screen. For playback, you can show the camcorder displays on the TV screen.  
PLAY (VCR)  
CAMERA  
MENU  
34)  
DISPLAY SETUP/  
TV SCREEN••••ON  
(
Open the menu and select [DISPLAY SETUP/ ]. Select [TV SCREEN],  
set it to [OFF] and close the menu.  
The displays disappear from the TV screen.  
CAMERA  
PLAY (VCR)  
MENU  
34)  
DISPLAY SETUP/  
TV SCREEN••••OFF  
(
Open the menu and select [DISPLAY SETUP/ ]. Select [TV SCREEN],  
set it to [ON] and close the menu.  
The displays appear on the TV screen.  
76  
Screen Displays during Recording/Playback  
CAMERA Mode (see also  
23)  
E
White balance (  
Digital effects (  
Date and time (  
Skin detail (  
47)  
54)  
18)  
43)  
Zoom (  
25)  
Self-timer (  
51)  
Image stabilizer (  
67)  
Self-timer countdown (  
51)  
Recording mode (  
Tape operation  
52)  
Program AE (  
39)  
Condensation warning (  
80)  
AE Shift (  
44)  
Wind screen (  
Audio mode (  
53)  
53)  
Shutter speed (  
Manual focus (  
49)  
45)  
Widescreen mode (  
58)  
PLAY (VCR) Mode  
12 bit audio (  
End search (  
Data code (  
63)  
62)  
60)  
Volume level of speaker (  
30)  
REC  
/
: Fast forward  
PAUSE  
STOP  
EJECT  
playback/rewind  
playback (  
29)  
: Playback pause  
(
29)  
FF  
REW  
77  
List of Messages  
Message  
Explanation  
SET THE TIME ZONE,  
DATE AND TIME  
You have not set the time zone, date and time. This message  
appears each time you turn the power on until you set the time  
zone, date and time.  
18  
CHANGE THE BATTERY Battery pack is exhausted. Replace or charge the battery pack.  
PACK  
10  
82  
13  
68  
80  
THE TAPE IS SET FOR Cassette is protected. Replace the cassette or change the  
ERASURE PREVENTION position of the protect switch.  
REMOVE THE  
CASSETTE  
Camcorder stopped operating to protect the tape. Unload and  
reload the cassette.  
CHECK THE INPUT  
DV cable is not connected, or the connected digital device is  
turned off.  
CONDENSATION HAS  
BEEN DETECTED  
Condensation has been detected in the camcorder.  
TAPE END  
Tape reached the end. Rewind the tape or replace the cassette.  
You attempted to play back a tape recorded in HD format.  
WRONG FORMAT  
PLAYBACK NOT  
POSSIBLE  
COPYRIGHT PROTECTED  
PLAYBACK IS RESTRICTED  
You attempted to play back a copyright protected tape.  
72  
72  
COPYRIGHT  
PROTECTED DUBBING  
RESTRICTED  
You attempted to dub a copyright protected tape. May also appear  
when an anomalous signal is received during analog line-in  
recording, or during analog-digital conversion of a copyright  
protected tape.  
78  
Maintenance/Others  
Camcorder Handling Precautions  
E
 Do not carry the camcorder by the LCD panel or viewfinder.  
 Do not leave the camcorder in places subject to high temperatures, such as a sun-  
heated car, and high humidity.  
 Do not use the camcorder near strong electric or magnetic fields such as above TVs,  
near plasma TVs or mobile phones.  
 Do not point the lens or viewfinder at strong light sources. Do not leave the camcorder  
pointed at a bright subject.  
 Do not use the camcorder in dusty or sandy places. Dust or sand getting inside the  
cassette or camcorder may cause damage. Dust and sand can also damage the lens.  
Attach the lens cap after use.  
 The camcorder is not waterproof. Water, mud or salt getting inside the cassette or  
camcorder may cause damage.  
 Be careful of heat generated by lighting equipment.  
 Do not disassemble the camcorder. If the camcorder does not function properly,  
consult qualified service personnel.  
 Handle the camcorder with care. Do not subject the camcorder to shocks or vibration  
as this may cause damage.  
 Avoid sudden changes in temperature. Moving the camcorder rapidly between hot and  
cold temperatures may cause condensation to form on its internal surfaces (  
80).  
Storage  
 If you do not intend to use the camcorder for a long time, store it in a place free of dust,  
in low humidity, and at temperatures not higher than 30 °C (86 °F).  
 After storage, check the functions of your camcorder to make sure that the camcorder  
is still working properly.  
Cleaning  
Camcorder Body and Lens  
 Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the camcorder body and lens. Never use chemically  
treated cloth or volatile solvents such as paint thinner.  
LCD Screen  
 Clean the LCD screen using a commercially available cleaning cloth for glasses.  
 Condensation may form on the surface of the screen when the temperature changes  
suddenly. Wipe it with a soft dry cloth.  
 At cold temperatures, the screen may be darker than usual. This is not a malfunction.  
The screen returns to normal when the camcorder warms up.  
Viewfinder  
 Clean the viewfinder screen using a blower brush or a commercially available cleaning  
cloth for glasses.  
Video Heads  
 When the playback picture becomes distorted, the video heads need to be cleaned.  
79  
 To maintain the best picture quality, we recommend cleaning the video heads  
frequently with the Canon DVM-CL Digital Video Head Cleaning Cassette or a  
commercially available dry cleaning cassette.  
 Tapes already recorded with dirty video heads may not be played back correctly even  
when you clean the video heads.  
 Do not use wet type cleaning cassettes as this may damage the camcorder.  
Condensation  
Moving the camcorder rapidly between hot and cold temperature may cause  
condensation (water droplets) to form on its internal surfaces. Stop using the camcorder if  
condensation is detected. Continued use may damage the camcorder.  
Condensation may form in the following cases:  
When the camcorder is moved from an  
air-conditioned room to warm, humid  
place  
When the camcorder is moved from a  
cold place to a warm room  
When the camcorder is left in a humid  
room  
When a cold room is heated rapidly  
How to avoid condensation:  
 Unload the cassette, place the camcorder in an airtight plastic bag and let it adjust to  
temperature changes slowly before removing it from the bag.  
When condensation is detected:  
 The camcorder stops operating and the warning message “CONDENSATION HAS  
BEEN DETECTED” appears for approx. 4 seconds and “ ” starts flashing.  
 If a cassette is loaded, the warning message “REMOVE THE CASSETTE” appears  
and “ ” starts flashing. Remove the cassette immediately and leave the cassette  
compartment open. Leaving the cassette in the camcorder may damage the tape.  
 A cassette cannot be loaded when condensation is detected.  
Resuming use:  
 It takes about 1 hour until the water droplets evaporate. After the condensation warning  
stops flashing, wait for 1 more hour before resuming use.  
80  
Battery Pack Handling Precautions  
DANGER!  
Treat the battery pack with care.  
E
• Keep it away from fire (or it might explode).  
• Do not expose the battery pack to temperature higher than 60 °C (140 °F). Do not  
leave it near a heater or inside a car in hot weather.  
• Do not try to disassemble or modify it.  
• Do not drop or knock it.  
• Do not get it wet.  
 Charged battery packs continue to discharge naturally. Therefore, charge them on the  
day of use, or the day before, to ensure a full charge.  
 Attach the terminal cover whenever a battery pack is not in use. Contact to metallic  
objects may cause a short circuit and damage the battery pack.  
 Dirty terminals may cause a poor contact between the battery pack and the camcorder.  
Wipe the terminals with a soft cloth.  
 Since storing a charged battery pack for a long time (about 1 year) can shorten its  
lifecycle or affect performance, we recommend to discharge the battery pack fully and  
to store it in a dry place at temperatures no higher than 30 °C (86 °F). If you do not use  
the battery pack for long periods, charge and discharge it fully at least once a year. If  
you have more than 1 battery pack, perform these precautions at the same time for all  
battery packs.  
 Although the battery pack’s operating temperature range is from 0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F  
to 104 °F), the optimal range is from 10 °C to 30 °C (50 °F to 86 °F). At cold  
temperatures, performance will temporarily decline. Warm it in your pocket before use.  
 Replace the battery pack if the usable time after full charge diminishes substantially at  
normal temperatures.  
About the battery terminal cover  
The battery terminal cover has a [  
]-shaped hole. This is useful when you wish to  
differentiate between charged and uncharged battery packs. For example, with charged  
battery packs, attach the terminal cover so that the [  
label.  
]-shaped hole shows the blue  
Back side of the  
battery pack  
Terminal cover attached  
Charged  
Uncharged  
81  
Lithium Button Battery Handling Precautions  
WARNING!  
• The battery used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if  
mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 100 °C (212 °F) or incinerate  
the battery.  
• Replace the battery with a CR1616 made by Panasonic, Hitachi Maxell, Sony,  
Toshiba, Varta or Renata. Use of other batteries may present a risk of fire or  
explosion.  
• The used battery should be returned to the supplier for safe disposal.  
 Do not pick up the battery using tweezers or other metal tools as this will cause a short  
circuit.  
 Wipe the battery with a clean dry cloth to ensure proper contact.  
 Keep the battery out of reach of children. If it is swallowed, seek medical assistance  
immediately. The battery case may break and the battery fluids may damage stomach  
and intestines.  
 Do not disassemble, heat or immerse the battery in water to avoid the risk of explosion.  
Cassette Handling Precautions  
 Rewind tapes after use. If the tape becomes slack and damaged, it may cause picture  
and sound distortion.  
 Return cassettes in the case and store them upright.  
 Do not leave the cassette in the camcorder after use.  
 Do not use spliced tapes or nonstandard cassettes as they may damage the  
camcorder.  
 Do not use tapes that have been jammed as video heads may become dirty.  
 Do not insert anything into the small holes of the cassette, or cover them with  
cellophane tape.  
 Handle cassettes with care. Do not drop or subject them to severe impact as this may  
damage the cassettes.  
 Rewind tapes from time to time if they are stored for a long time.  
 With cassettes equipped with a memory function, metal plated terminals may become  
dirty with use. Clean the terminals with a cotton swab after about 10 times of loading/  
unloading. The memory function is not supported by the camcorder.  
Protecting Tapes from Accidental Erasure  
To protect your recordings from accidental  
erasure, slide the tab on the cassette to the  
left. (This switch position is usually labeled  
SAVE or ERASE OFF.)  
REC  
SAVE  
If you load a protected cassette in CAMERA  
mode, the message “THE TAPE IS SET FOR  
ERASURE PREVENTION” appears for  
REC  
SAVE  
approx. 4 seconds and “ ” starts flashing. If  
you wish to record on that cassette, slide the tab back to the right.  
82  
Using the Camcorder Abroad  
Power Sources  
You can use the compact power adapter to operate the camcorder and to charge battery  
packs in any country with power supply between 100 and 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz. Consult  
the Canon Service Center for information on plug adapters for overseas use.  
E
Playback on a TV Screen  
You can only play back your recordings on TVs with PAL system. The PAL system is used  
in the following countries/areas:  
Algeria, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brunei, China, Denmark, Finland,  
Germany, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland,  
Italy, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Liberia, Malaysia, Malta, Mozambique, the Netherlands,  
New Zealand, North Korea, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Portugal, Qatar, Sierra Leone,  
Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Tanzania,  
Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Yemen, former  
Yugoslavia, Zambia.  
83  
Troubleshooting  
If you have a problem with your camcorder, refer to this checklist. Consult your dealer or a  
Canon Service Center if the problem persists.  
Power Source  
Problem  
Cause  
Solution  
Camcorder will not turn on.  
Battery pack is exhausted.  
Replace or charge the battery  
pack.  
10  
10  
10  
21  
10  
13  
10  
Battery pack is not correctly  
attached.  
Attach the battery pack  
correctly.  
The camcorder switches off  
by itself.  
Battery pack is exhausted.  
Replace or charge the battery  
pack.  
Power save function has  
been activated.  
Turn on the camcorder.  
Cassette compartment will  
not open.  
Battery pack is exhausted.  
Replace or charge the battery  
pack.  
Cassette compartment cover Open the cassette  
is not fully open.  
compartment cover fully.  
Cassette compartment  
stopped during loading/  
unloading.  
Battery pack is exhausted.  
Replace or charge the battery  
pack.  
The camcorder malfunctions. Consult a Canon Service  
Center.  
LCD/viewfinder switches on  
and off.  
Battery pack is exhausted.  
Replace or charge the battery  
pack.  
10  
Battery pack will not charge.  
Battery packs will not charge Charge the battery pack in  
outside the temperature  
range of 0 °C and 40°C (32  
°F and 104 °F).  
temperatures between 0 °C  
and 40 °C (32 °F and 104 °F).  
Battery packs become hot  
Wait until the battery pack  
with use and may not charge. temperature is below 40 °C  
(104 °F) and retry charging.  
The battery pack is damaged. Use a different battery pack.  
Recording/Playback  
Problem  
Cause  
Solution  
Turn on the camcorder.  
Load a cassette.  
Buttons will not work.  
Camcorder is not turned on.  
Cassette is not loaded.  
Cassette is not loaded.  
21  
13  
13  
10  
” flashes on the screen.  
Load a cassette.  
” flashes on the screen. Battery pack is exhausted.  
Replace or charge the battery  
pack.  
” flashes on the screen. Condensation is detected.  
See reference page.  
80  
13  
“REMOVE THE CASSETTE” Camcorder stopped operating Unload and reload the  
appears on the screen. to protect the tape. cassette.  
84  
Recording  
Problem  
Cause  
Solution  
Image will not appear on the  
screen.  
Camcorder is not set to  
CAMERA mode.  
Set the camcorder to  
CAMERA mode.  
21  
18  
14  
E
“SET THE TIME ZONE,  
DATE AND TIME” appears on not set.  
the screen.  
Time zone, date and time are Set the time zone, date and  
time.  
Backup battery is exhausted. Replace the backup battery  
and reset the time zone, date  
and time.  
Battery pack is inserted the  
wrong way.  
Insert the backup battery with  
the + side facing outward and  
set the time zone, date and  
time.  
14  
Pressing the start/stop button Camcorder is turned off.  
will not start recording.  
Cassette is not loaded.  
Turn on the power.  
Load a cassette.  
21  
13  
13  
Tape reached the end  
(“ END” flashes on the  
screen).  
Rewind the tape or replace  
the cassette.  
Cassette is protected (“  
flashes on the screen).  
Change the position of the  
protect switch.  
82  
21  
Camcorder is set to a mode  
other than the CAMERA  
mode.  
Set the camcorder to  
CAMERA mode.  
Camcorder will not focus.  
Autofocus does not work on  
that subject.  
Focus manually.  
45  
15  
Viewfinder is not adjusted.  
Adjust the viewfinder with the  
dioptric adjustment lever.  
Lens is dirty.  
Clean the lens.  
79  
A vertical light bar appears on Bright light in a dark scene  
the screen.  
may cause a vertical light bar  
(smear) to appear. This is not  
a malfunction.  
– – –  
Viewfinder picture is blurred.  
Viewfinder is not adjusted.  
Adjust the viewfinder with the  
dioptric adjustment lever.  
15  
Sound is distorted or  
recorded in a lower volume  
than the actual volume.  
When recording near loud  
sound (such as fireworks,  
drums or concerts), sound  
may become distorted or may  
not be recorded in the actual  
sound level. This is not a  
malfunction.  
– – –  
85  
Playback  
Problem  
Cause  
Solution  
Pressing the playback button Camcorder is turned off, or is Set the camcorder to PLAY  
does not start playback.  
28  
not set to PLAY (VCR) mode. (VCR) mode.  
Cassette is not loaded.  
Load a cassette.  
Rewind the tape.  
13  
28  
Tape reached the end  
(“  
screen).  
[AV DV] is set to [ON].  
END” flashes on the  
Image will not appear on the  
TV screen.  
Set [AV  
DV] to [OFF].  
73  
31  
Tape is running, but image will TV/VIDEO selector on the TV Set the selector to VIDEO.  
not appear on the TV screen. is not set to VIDEO.  
Video heads are dirty.  
Clean the video heads.  
79  
You attempted to play back or Stop playback/dubbing.  
dub copyright protected tape.  
No sound from the built-in  
speaker.  
Speaker volume is turned off. Adjust the volume with the  
SET dial.  
30  
Editing  
Problem  
Cause  
Solution  
Dubbing via the camcorder’s  
DV terminal does not work.  
[AV  
DV] is set to [ON].  
Set [AV  
DV] to [OFF].  
73  
Wrong signal format.  
Dubbing may work via the AV  
terminal.  
Refer also to the instruction  
manual of the connected  
device.  
86  
System Diagram  
(Availability differs from area to area)  
E
WS-20 Wrist Strap  
Shoulder Strap  
CBC-NB2  
Car Battery Charger  
WD-28  
MiniDV  
Wide-converter  
Video Cassette  
NB-2L, NB-2LH,  
BP-2L12, BP-2L14  
Battery Pack  
CB-2LTE  
Battery Charger  
TL-28  
Tele-converter  
CA-570 Compact  
Power Adapter  
NB-2L, NB-2LH,  
BP-2L12, BP-2L14  
Battery Pack  
FS-28U  
Filter Set  
PC-A10 SCART  
Adapter  
TV  
STV-250N  
Stereo Video Cable  
VCR  
CV-150F/CV-250F  
DV Cable  
Digital Device  
SC-2000 Soft  
Carrying Case  
87  
Optional Accessories  
Use of genuine Canon accessories is recommended.  
This product is designed to achieve excellent performance when used with genuine  
Canon accessories. Canon shall not be liable for any damage to this product and/or  
accidents such as fire, etc., caused by the malfunction of non-genuine Canon  
accessories (e.g., a leakage and/or explosion of a battery pack). Please note that this  
warranty does not apply to repairs arising out of the malfunction of non-genuine Canon  
accessories, although you may request such repairs on a chargeable basis.  
Battery Packs  
When you need extra battery packs, select  
from the following: NB-2L, NB-2LH, BP-2L12,  
BP-2L14.  
CB-2LTE Battery Charger  
Use the battery charger for charging the  
battery packs.  
Battery Pack  
NB-2LH  
Charging Time  
90 min.  
NB-2L  
80 min.  
BP-2L12  
BP-2L14  
150 min.  
170 min.  
Charging time varies according to the charging condition.  
CBC-NB2 Car Battery Charger  
Use the car battery charger to charge battery  
packs on the move. The car battery cable  
plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter and runs  
off a 12-24 V DC negative ground battery.  
88  
TL-28 Tele-converter  
This Tele-converter lens increases the focal  
length of the camcorder lens by a factor of  
1.7.  
E
• The image stabilizer is not as effective when  
the Tele-converter is attached.  
• The minimum focusing distance with the TL-28 is 3 m (9.8 ft.); 3 cm (1.2 in.) at  
maximum wide angle.  
WD-28 Wide-converter  
This lens decreases focal length by a factor of  
0.7, giving you a wide perspective for indoor  
shots or panoramic views.  
FS-28U Filter Set  
Neutral density and MC protector filters help  
you to control difficult lighting conditions.  
WS-20 Wrist Strap  
Use this for extra additional protection for  
active shooting.  
SC-2000 Soft Carrying Case  
A handy camcorder bag with padded  
compartments and plenty of space for  
accessories.  
This mark identifies genuine Canon video accessories. When you  
use Canon video equipment, we recommend Canon-brand  
accessories or products bearing the same mark.  
89  
Specifications  
MV800i/MV800/MV790  
System  
Video Recording System  
2 rotary heads, helical scanning DV system (consumer digital VCR SD  
system), digital component recording  
Audio Recording System  
Television System  
Image Sensor  
PCM digital sound: 16 bit (48 kHz/2 ch); 12 bit (32 kHz/4 ch)  
EIA standard (625 lines, 50 fields) PAL color signal  
1/6-inch CCD, approx. 800,000 pixels  
Effective pixels: approx. 400,000 pixels  
Tape Format  
Tape Speed  
Videocassettes bearing the “MiniDV” mark.  
SP: 18.83 mm/s (0.74 ips), LP: 12.57 mm/s (0.49 ips)  
SP: 80 min., LP: 120 min.  
Maximum Recording Time  
(80 min. cassette)  
Fast Forward/Rewind Time  
LCD Screen  
Approx. 2 min. 20 sec. (with a 60 min. cassette)  
2.4-inch. TFT color, approx. 112,000 pixels  
0.33-inch. TFT color, approx. 113,000 pixels  
Stereo electret condenser microphone  
Viewfinder  
Microphone  
Lens  
MV800i/MV800: f=2.8-56 mm, f/1.6-3.2, 20x power zoom  
35mm equivalent:  
4:3 recording: 53.7-1074 mm  
16:9 recording: 44.2-884 mm  
f=2.8-50.4 mm, f/1.6-2.9, 18x power zoom  
35mm equivalent:  
MV790:  
4:3 recording: 53.7-967 mm  
16:9 recording: 44.2-796 mm  
Lens Configuration  
Filter Diameter  
11 elements in 8 groups  
28 mm  
AF System  
TTL autofocus, manual focusing possible  
1 m (3.3 ft.); 1 cm (0.39 in.) on maximum wide angle  
Minimum Focusing Distance  
White Balance  
Auto white balance, pre-set white balance (indoor, outdoor) or custom  
white balance  
Minimum Illumination  
Recommended Illumination  
Image Stabilization  
2.0 lx (using the Night mode)  
More than 100 lx  
Electronic  
Input/Output Terminals (MV800/MV790: Output only)  
Ø3.5 mm minijack  
Video:  
AV Terminal  
1 Vp-p/75 ohms unbalanced  
–10 dBV (47 kohm load)/3 kohms or less  
–10 dBV/40 kohms or more  
Audio output:  
Audio input*:  
DV Terminal  
Special 4-pin connector (IEEE 1394 compliant)  
* MV800i only.  
Power/Others  
Power supply (rated)  
7.4 V DC  
Power consumption (AF on)  
Operating temperature  
Dimensions (W x H x D)  
Weight (camcorder body only)  
2.3W (using viewfinder), 3.1 W (using LCD screen in normal brightness)  
0 – 40 °C (32 – 104 °F)  
51 x 93 x 130 mm (2.0 x 3.7 x 5.1 in.) excluding protrusions  
430 g (15.2 oz.)  
90  
CA-570 Compact Power Adapter  
Power supply  
Power consumption  
Rated output  
100 – 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz  
17W  
E
8.4 V DC, 1.5 A  
Operating temperature  
Dimensions  
0 – 40 °C (32 – 104 °F)  
52 x 90 x 29 mm (2.1 x 3.5 x 1.1 in.)  
135 g (4.8 oz.)  
Weight  
NB-2LH Battery Pack  
Battery type  
Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery  
Rated voltage  
Operating temperature  
Battery capacity  
Dimensions  
7.4 V DC  
0 – 40 °C (32 – 104 °F)  
720 mAh  
33.3 x 16.2 x 45.2 mm (1.3 x 0.64 x 1.8 in.)  
43 g (1.5 oz.)  
Weight  
Weight and dimensions are approximate. Errors and omissions excepted. Subject to  
change without notice.  
91  
Index  
12bit audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63  
16:9 widescreen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58  
6-second auto date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61  
F
Faders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54  
Fast forward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29  
Focusing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45  
A
Abroad, using the camcorder . . . . . . . . 83  
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6, 88  
AE Shift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44  
Analog line-in . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70  
Analog-digital converter . . . . . . . . . . . . 73  
Audio mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53  
Auto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39  
Autofocus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45  
AV terminal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32  
G
Grip belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15  
I
Image stabilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67  
Infinity focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46  
L
AV-DV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Language . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65  
LCD Backlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17  
LCD mirror mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22  
B
Backlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17  
LCD screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17  
Lens cap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15  
Backup battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14  
Low light mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39  
Battery charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88  
LP mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52  
Battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10  
Beep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66  
M
Brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66  
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79  
Manual focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45  
Menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34  
Multi-image screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55  
My Camera settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64  
C
Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75  
Condensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80  
Connections - TV, VCR . . . . . . . . . . . . 31  
Copyright signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72  
N
Night mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42  
D
Data code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60  
Date and time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18  
O
Date format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Operating Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3  
Demo mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Output channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33  
Digital effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54  
Digital zoom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26  
P
Playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28  
DV dubbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71  
DV terminal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68, 75  
Playback pause . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29  
Portrait mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39  
E
Power adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10  
Easy recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Program AE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39  
Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55  
End search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62  
92  
R
Record review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24  
Record search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24  
Recording movies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21  
Recording programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39  
Rewind . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28  
E
S
Sand & Snow mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39  
Screen displays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76  
Self-timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51  
Shoulder strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16  
Shutter speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49  
Skin detail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43  
SP mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52  
Speaker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30  
Sports mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39  
Spotlight mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39  
T
Tape protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82  
Time code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23  
Time zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18  
Tripod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27  
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84  
TV Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76  
V
Video heads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79  
Videocassettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13  
Viewfinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15  
W
White balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47  
Widescreen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58  
Wind screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53  
Z
Zooming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25  
93  
CANON INC.  
Canon Europa N.V.  
P.O. Box 2262, 1180 EG Amstelveen, the Netherlands  
Canon UK Ltd.  
CCI Service Centre, Unit 130  
Centennial Park, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, WD6 3SE, England  
Telephone 0870-241-2161  
Canon Australia Pty. Ltd.  
Info-Line: 131383  
Canon New Zealand Ltd.  
Customer Care: (09) 489 0470  
Canon Singapore Pte. Ltd  
1 HarbourFront Avenue, #04-01 Keppel Bay Tower, Singapore 098632  
Tel: (65) 6799 8888  
Fax: (65) 6799 8882  
Canon Hongkong Company Ltd  
19/F., The Metropolis Tower, 10 Metropolis Drive, Hunghom, Kowloon, Hong Kong  
Canon Latin America, Inc.  
Sales & Enquiries: 703 Waterford Way Suite 400 Miami, FL 33126 USA  
Printed on 100% reused paper.  
0046W579  
PUB.DIE-217  
0704A/Ni3.0  
© CANON INC. 2005  
DY8-9020-145-000  
PRINTED IN JAPAN  

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