JVC GR FXM40 User Manual

INSTRUCTIONS  
ENGLISH  
LYT1201-001A  
COMPACT VHS CAMCORDER  
GR-SXM50  
GR-FXM404  
GR-FXM40  
GR-SX26  
VHS  
PAL  
625  
GR-FX16  
S-VHS is compatible with  
GR-SXM50/SX26 only  
Printed in Malaysia  
1003-AS-YL-PJ  
EX  
COPYRIGHT© 2003 VICTOR COMPANY OF JAPAN, LTD  
Dear Customer,  
Thank you for purchasing the JVC Compact VHS camcorder. Before use, please read  
“PRECAUTIONS” (pg. 3, 4) to ensure safe use of this product.  
AUTOMATIC DEMONSTRATION  
Automatic Demonstration takes place when “DEMO MODE” is set to “ON”  
(factory-preset).  
Available when the Power Switch @ is set to “ ” or “ ” while pressing down the Lock Button !  
located on the switch.  
Performing any operation during the demonstration stops the demonstration temporarily. If no operation  
is performed for more than 1 minute after that, the demonstration will resume.  
DEMO MODE” remains “ON” even if the camcorder power is turned off.  
To cancel Automatic Demonstration, set the Power Switch @ to “ ” and press the MENU Wheel 1 in  
while the demo is in progress. This takes you directly to the demo mode’s Setting Menu (so you will not  
have to go through the main Menu Screen). Rotate the MENU Wheel 1 to select “OFF” and press it.  
NOTES:  
When a tape whose Erase Protection tab is in the position that allows recording is loaded in the  
camcorder, demonstration is not available.  
If you do not detach the Lens Cap, you cannot see the actual changes of the Automatic Demonstration  
activated on the LCD monitor* or viewfinder.  
* Applicable models only.  
1
PRECAUTIONS  
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS  
CAUTIONS  
WARNING:  
TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK  
HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE  
THIS UNIT TO RAIN OR  
MOISTURE.  
CAUTIONS  
To avoid electric shock or damage to the  
unit, first firmly insert the small end of the  
power cord into the AC Adapter until it is no  
longer wobbly, and then plug the larger end  
of the power cord into an AC outlet.  
To prevent shock, do not open the cabinet. No  
user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to  
qualified personnel.  
When you are not using the AC Adapter for a long  
period of time, it is recommended that you  
disconnect the power cord from AC outlet.  
Crossed Out Dust Bin Mark  
For BN-V12U (optional)  
NOTES:  
The rating plate (serial number plate) and safety  
caution are on the bottom and/or the back of the  
main unit.  
The rating information and safety caution of the  
AC Adapter are on its bottom.  
The Crossed Out Dust Bin  
Mark on the battery pack  
indicates that the product  
complies with Directives  
91/157/EEC and 93/86/EEC.  
Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd)  
battery pack must be  
CAUTIONS  
This camcorder is designed to be used with  
PAL-type colour television signals. It cannot be  
used for playback with a television of a different  
standard. However, live recording and LCD  
monitor*/viewfinder playback are possible  
anywhere.  
recycled or disposed of  
properly.  
Use the JVC BN-V10U/V12U/V20U/V400U  
battery packs and, to recharge them or to supply  
power to the camcorder from an AC outlet, use  
the provided multi-voltage AC Adapter.  
(An appropriate conversion adapter may be  
necessary to accommodate different designs of  
AC outlets in different countries.)  
* Applicable models only.  
Cassettes marked  
and  
can be used with this camcorder.  
However, S-VHS recordings are possible* only with cassettes marked  
.
* GR-SXM50/SX26 only.  
3
When the equipment is installed in a cabinet or on a shelf, make sure that it has sufficient space  
on all sides to allow for ventilation (10 cm or more on both sides, on top and at the rear).  
Do not block the ventilation holes.  
(If the ventilation holes are blocked by a newspaper, or cloth etc. the heat may not be able to get  
out.)  
No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, should be placed on the apparatus.  
When discarding batteries, environmental problems must be considered and the local rules or  
laws governing the disposal of these batteries must be followed strictly.  
The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing.  
Do not use this equipment in a bathroom or places with water.  
Also do not place any containers filled with water or liquids (such as cosmetics or medicines,  
flower vases, potted plants, cups etc.) on top of this unit.  
(If water or liquid is allowed to enter this equipment, fire or electric shock may be caused.)  
4
INDEX  
A
P
AC Adapter.................................................................pg. 6  
Animation Recording ................................................pg. 21  
Auto Date Record ....................................................pg. 21  
Auto Focus ...............................................................pg. 12  
Auto Shut Off ........................................................... pg. 11  
Picture Stabiliser ......................................................pg. 18  
Playback .................................................................. pg. 11  
Playback Special Effects ..........................................pg. 14  
Programme AE with Special Effects ........................pg. 24  
Provided Accessories................................................ pg. 2  
B
Q
Backlight Compensation ..........................................pg. 12  
Battery Pack .........................................................pg. 6, 26  
Blue Filter Effect ...................................................... pg. 24  
Brighten The Image .................................................pg. 18  
Brighten The LCD Monitor ................................. pg. 11, 22  
Quick Review ...........................................................pg. 13  
R
Recording, Advanced Features..........................pg. 23, 24  
Recording, Start/Stop............................................... pg. 11  
Recording Format (S-VHS/S-VHS ET) ....................pg. 20  
Recording Mode .......................................................pg. 20  
Record-Standby ....................................................... pg. 11  
Red Filter Effect .......................................................pg. 24  
Retake......................................................................pg. 13  
Rewind The Tape ..................................................... pg. 11  
C
Cassette Adapter .....................................................pg. 16  
Charging The Battery Pack ........................................pg. 6  
Classic Film Effect ...................................................pg. 24  
Clean The Camcorder ..............................................pg. 27  
Connection To a VCR/TV .........................................pg. 15  
Counter Memory ......................................................pg. 14  
S
Self-Recording ......................................................... pg. 11  
Sepia Mode ..............................................................pg. 24  
Shoulder Strap Attachment ........................................pg. 8  
Snapshot ..................................................................pg. 12  
Snapshot During Playback .......................................pg. 12  
Solarisation Effect ....................................................pg. 24  
Specifications ...........................................................pg. 28  
Sports Mode .............................................................pg. 24  
Still Playback............................................................ pg. 11  
Stretch Effect ...........................................................pg. 24  
Strobe Effect ............................................................pg. 24  
Sunset Mode............................................................ pg. 24  
Super LoLux (S.LX) .................................................pg. 20  
Super VHS Expansion Technology ......................... pg. 20  
Surf and Snow Mode .............................................. pg.24  
D
Darken The Image ...................................................pg. 18  
Darken The LCD Monitor ................................... pg. 11, 22  
Date/Time Display ....................................................pg. 21  
Date/Time Settings.....................................................pg. 7  
Demonstration Mode ............................................pg. 1, 22  
Digital Effects ...........................................................pg. 24  
Digital Zoom .............................................................pg. 20  
Dioptre Adjustment.....................................................pg. 8  
E
Electronic Fog Filter Mode .......................................pg. 24  
Erase Protection ........................................................pg. 8  
Exposure Control .....................................................pg. 18  
F
T
Fade-In/Out ..............................................................pg. 23  
Fast-Forward Tape ................................................... pg. 11  
5-Second Recording Mode ......................................pg. 12  
Tape Counter ...........................................................pg. 14  
Tape Dubbing ...........................................................pg. 15  
Tape Length Setting .................................................pg. 21  
Tele Macro ...............................................................pg. 21  
Time Base Corrector ............................................... pg. 14  
Time-Lapse Shooting ...............................................pg. 21  
Tracking ...................................................................pg. 14  
Tripod Mounting .........................................................pg. 8  
Twilight Mode ...........................................................pg. 24  
G
Grip Adjustment .........................................................pg. 8  
H
High Speed Shutter Mode........................................pg. 24  
I
U
Instant Titles .............................................................pg. 19  
Unload A Tape ............................................................pg. 8  
L
V
LCD Monitor/Viewfinder, Indications ..............pg. 9, 10, 17  
Load A Tape ...............................................................pg. 8  
Video Echo Effect.....................................................pg. 24  
Video Light ...............................................................pg. 13  
Viewfinder Adjustment ...............................................pg. 8  
M
Manual Focus ..........................................................pg. 12  
Menu Screen....................................................pg. 18 22  
Monotone Effect .......................................................pg. 24  
Mosaic Effect ...........................................................pg. 24  
W
White Balance Adjustment .......................................pg. 19  
Wide Mode ...............................................................pg. 20  
Wipe-In/Out ..............................................................pg. 23  
N
Z
ND Effect Mode ........................................................pg. 24  
Nega/Posi Mode ......................................................pg. 24  
Night-Scope .............................................................pg. 23  
Zooming ...................................................................pg. 13  
5
USING THE BATTERY PACK  
Perform step 1) of CHARGING THE BATTERY  
PACK.  
GETTING STARTED  
Hook on.  
Approximate recording time (unit: min.)  
Viewfinder on  
LCD monitor on  
Battery pack  
1
2
1
Push in.  
BN-V10U  
95  
(50)  
100  
(55)  
80  
(45)  
85  
(50)  
100  
(55)  
110  
(60)  
BN-V12U  
(optional)  
Power Switch  
BATTERY RELEASE Switch  
Battery pack  
140  
(80)  
160  
(85)  
170  
(90)  
BN-V20U  
(optional)  
330  
(195)  
380  
(210)  
410  
(220)  
BN-V400U  
(optional)  
1 When using models equipped with LCD monitor  
2 When using GR-SX26/FX16  
To AC outlet  
(
):when the video light is on(GR-SXM50/FXM404/SX26)  
To DC IN  
connector  
USING AC POWER  
Connect the AC Adapter to the camcorder (step  
AC Adapter  
2) and 3) of CHARGING THE BATTERY PACK).  
CHARGING THE BATTERY PACK  
The provided AC Adapter features automatic  
voltage selection in the AC range from 110 V to  
240 V.  
1) Hook the end of the battery pack to the  
camcorder and push the battery in until it locks  
in place.  
If the battery pack is attached in the wrong  
position, a malfunction may occur.  
ATTENTION  
Before detaching the power source, make sure that  
the camcorders power is turned off. Failure to do  
so can result in a camcorder malfunction.  
2) Set the Power Switch @ to OFFwhile pressing  
down the Lock Button ! located on the switch.  
Connect the AC Adapter to the DC IN connector  
9, then connect the Power Cord to the AC  
Adapter.  
3) Plug the Power Cord into an AC outlet. The  
CHARGE lamp ) blinks to indicate charging  
has started.  
4) When the CHARGE lamp ) stops blinking but  
stays lit, charging is finished. Unplug the AC  
Adapter from the AC outlet. Disconnect the AC  
Adapter from the camcorder.  
REFRESH:  
Be sure to fully discharge a battery pack before  
recharging or storing it for a long period of time,  
otherwise the battery performance will be reduced.  
1) Perform steps 1) through 3) of CHARGING  
THE BATTERY PACK.  
2) Press REFRESH q for over 2 seconds. The  
POWER lamp $ blinks to indicate discharging  
has started.  
To Detach The Battery Pack . . .  
... slide BATTERY RELEASE 8 and pull out the  
battery pack.  
3) When discharging is finished, charging  
automatically starts and the CHARGE lamp )  
blinks.  
Charging time  
approx. 1 hr. 30 min.  
approx. 1 hr. 40 min.  
approx. 2 hrs. 40 min.  
approx. 5 hrs. 10 min.  
Battery pack  
BN-V10U  
BN-V12U (optional)  
BN-V20U (optional)  
BN-V400U (optional)  
Charging times are for a fully discharged battery pack.  
6
The following steps have the same function as  
REFRESH(pg. 6).  
1. Attach the battery to the camcorder with no  
cassette inserted.  
2. Set the Power Switch @ to “ ” or “ ” while  
pressing down the Lock Button ! located on  
the switch.  
During charging or discharging, the camcorder  
cannot be operated.  
Date/Time Settings  
1) Set the Power Switch @ to “ ” while pressing  
down the Lock Button ! located on the switch.  
2) Press the MENU Wheel 1 in. The Menu Screen  
appears.  
You can select the language (ENGLISH or  
RUSSIAN) used in all messages displayed on  
screen (pg. 18, 22 MENU LANG.in  
SYSTEM MENU).  
Charging and discharging is not possible if the  
wrong type of battery is used.  
3) Rotate the MENU Wheel 1 to select  
4TO SYSTEM MENUand press it to display  
When charging the battery pack for the first time  
or after a long storage period, the CHARGE lamp  
) may not light. Remove the battery pack from  
the camcorder, then try charging again.  
If a fully-charged batterys operation time remains  
extremely short, the battery is worn out. Please  
purchase a new one.  
Perform charging where the temperature is  
between 10°C and 35°C. 20°C to 25°C is the ideal  
temperature range for charging. If the environment  
is too cold, charging may be incomplete.  
Charging time varies according to the ambient  
temperature and the status of the battery pack.  
Since the AC Adapter processes electricity  
internally, it becomes warm during use. Be sure to  
use it only in well-ventilated areas.  
SYSTEM MENU. Rotate the MENU Wheel 1 to  
select 4NEXTand press it to display the next  
page.  
4) Rotate the MENU Wheel 1 to select DATE/  
TIMEand press it. The DATE/TIME Menu  
appears.  
5) To set YEAR, MONTH, DAYor TIME”  
(hour/minute), rotate the MENU Wheel 1 to  
select the desired item, and press it. When the  
setting begins blinking, rotate the MENU Wheel  
1 until the correct setting appears and then  
press it. The setting stops blinking.  
6) When none of these settings (YEAR,  
MONTH, DAY, TIME) blinks, rotate the  
MENU Wheel 1 to select 4EXIT, and press it.  
The Menu Screen reappears with the highlight  
bar on 4RETURN.  
The following operation stops charging or  
discharging:  
7) Press the MENU Wheel 1 in to close the Menu  
Screen.  
Set the Power Switch @ to “  
, “ ” or “ ”.  
Disconnect the AC Adapter from the camcorder.  
Unplug the AC Adapters power cord from the  
AC outlet.  
To display the date and time in the camcorders  
display and on a connected TV, see DATE/TIME  
DISP. (pg. 21) in SYSTEM MENU.  
The date/time cannot be stored in memory if the  
built-in clock battery runs out. Consult an  
authorised JVC dealer for replacement, or set the  
date/time as necessary before you start shooting.  
Detach the battery from the camcorder.  
Using the optional AA-V15EG AC Power Adapter/  
Charger, you can charge the BN-V10U/V12U/  
V20U/V400U battery pack without the camcorder.  
However, it cannot be used as an AC adapter.  
To avoid interference with reception, do not use  
the AC Adapter near a radio.  
1
@
!
Recording time is reduced significantly when  
Zoom or Record-Standby mode is engaged  
repeatedly or the LCD monitor* is used  
repeatedly.  
Before extended use, it is recommended that you  
prepare enough battery packs to cover 3 times the  
planned shooting time.  
D A T E T I M E  
* Applicable models only.  
24-hour  
indication  
Y E A R  
MO N T H  
D A Y  
2 0 0 3  
6
2 8  
T I M E  
2 0 : 2 0  
tE X I T  
7
Grip Adjustment  
1) Separate the Velcro strip.  
Tripod Mounting  
Align the screw and camera direction stud on the  
2) Pass your right hand through the loop and grasp tripod with the tripod mounting socket Q. Then  
the grip.  
tighten the screw.  
3) Adjust so that your thumb and fingers can easily  
operate the Recording Start/Stop Button 0 and  
Power Zoom Lever 3. Refasten the Velcro strip.  
CAUTION  
Q
When using a tripod, be  
sure to open and extend  
its legs fully to stabilise  
the camcorder. To  
prevent damage to the  
unit caused by falling  
over, do not use a  
3
0
!
small-sized tripod.  
Velcro strip.  
Loading/Unloading A Cassette  
Viewfinder Adjustment  
1) Open the LCD monitor* fully and keep it aligned  
vertically with the camera (do not tilt it at an  
angle). Slide EJECT ( until the cassette holder  
opens. Do not use force to open.  
2) Insert or remove a cassette. When inserting,  
make sure the label is facing outward.  
1) Set the Power Switch @ to “ ” or “ ” while  
pressing down the Lock Button ! located on the  
switch.  
2) Turn the Dioptre Adjustment Control i until the  
indications in the viewfinder are clearly focused.  
F
appears when a cassette is loaded.  
i
3) Press the Close button u to close the cassette  
holder until it locks into place. Close the LCD  
monitor*.  
Closing the LCD monitor* while the cassette  
holder is still open may cause damage to the LCD  
monitor*.  
180°  
Make sure the erase protection tab is in the  
position that allows recording. If not, slide the tab.  
Some cassettes have removable tabs. If the tab  
has been removed, cover the hole with adhesive  
tape.  
The cassette holder cannot be opened while the  
camcorder is in the record mode or detached from  
the power source.  
PAUSE  
* Applicable models only.  
Cassette holder  
Shoulder Strap Attachment  
(
Thread the strap through the eyelet t, then fold it  
back and thread it through the buckle. Repeat the  
procedure to attach the other end of the strap to  
the other eyelet t, making sure the strap is not  
twisted. Adjust the length.  
Gear  
Turn to  
take up  
slack.  
Erase Protection tab  
u
(
t
Cassette  
holder  
u
8
CONTROLS, CONNECTORS AND INDICATORS  
Eyepiece  
Refer to this diagram while reading the instructions.  
1
2
3
4
During  
shooting  
#
$
)
%
q
^ &  
*
(
5
Keep the lens  
cap attached to  
the camcorder.  
6
7
8
w
e
r
Cassette holder  
9
0
!
@
Viewfinder  
t
Turn the gear to  
take up slack.  
90°  
180°  
i
Speaker  
(applicable models only)  
y
o
u
t
180°  
LCD monitor  
(applicable models only)  
Erase  
protection tab  
Q
p
Microphone  
Video light  
(GR-SXM50/FXM404/SX26 only)  
LCD Monitor/Viewfinder Indications  
During Recording  
During Playback  
W
E R T Y U I  
F G H  
J K L : z  
O
120M I N  
REC SP  
444  
A
SET  
T
30  
S
ET  
SP  
4
:
:
TBC  
1
2 3 4 5  
P
L I GHT  
MONOTONE  
AT  
l
A
a
d
+
02  
;
S
D
s
f
SVHS REC  
MWB  
PAUSE  
1X  
b
5
M I N  
1 / 2S  
g
h
k
CONGRATULAT I ONS  
:
:
j
25. 12. 03  
11 45 18  
x
a
– – – – – – – – – –  
6
+
––––6––––  
+
BR I GHT  
VOLUME  
pg. 25 for Warning Indications .  
9
1 MENU Wheel [, +] ................................ pg. 18 W Tape Remaining Time .............................. pg. 21  
BRIGHT Wheel [, +]*1 ...........................pg. 11  
E Recording Mode Indicator ....................... pg. 20  
Speaker Volume Control [VOL.]*1 ...........pg. 11  
R Video Light Indicator*4 ............................. pg. 13  
TRACKING Wheel [, +] ........................ pg. 14  
2 Snapshot Button [SNAPSHOT]*2 ........... pg. 12  
T Backlight Compensation Indicator ........... pg. 12  
Y Recording Format Indicator (S/S-ET)*2 ... pg. 20  
U Digital Effect Indicator ............................ pg. 24  
Programme AE Indicator ....................... pg. 24  
Night-Scope Indicator*2 .......................... pg. 23  
Fade/Wipe-Standby Indicator ................ pg. 23  
I Tape Length Indicator .............................. pg. 21  
O Zoom Indicator Bar .................................. pg. 13  
Zoom Level Indicator  
5-Second Recording Button  
[5 SEC. REC]*3 ...................................... pg. 12  
3 Power Zoom Lever [T/W]......................... pg. 13  
4 Manual Focus Button [  
FOCUS]........ pg. 12  
Time Base Corrector Button [TBC] ........ pg. 14  
5 S-Video Output Connector [S]*2 .............. pg. 15  
6 Audio Output Connector [A]..................... pg. 15  
7 Video Output Connector [V] ..................... pg. 15  
Approximate Zoom Ratio  
8 Battery Release Switch  
P Recording Indicator ..................................pg. 11  
a Digital Effect Indicator .............................. pg. 24  
[BATTERY RELEASE] ............................... pg. 6  
9 DC IN Connector ....................................... pg. 6  
0 Recording Start/Stop Button .....................pg. 11  
! Lock Button...............................................pg. 11  
s Programme AE Indicator ....................... pg. 24  
Night-Scope Indicator*2 .......................... pg. 23  
d Fade/Wipe-Standby Indicator .................. pg. 23  
f Picture Stabiliser Indicator ....................... pg. 18  
@ Power Switch [  
, OFF,  
,
] ...........pg. 11  
# Video Light Button [LIGHT]*4 ................... pg. 13  
$ POWER Lamp ........................................... pg. 6  
% Digital Effect Button [DIGIFECT] ............. pg. 24  
^ Programme AE Button [P.AE] .................. pg. 24  
& Play/Pause Button ....................................pg. 11  
g Interval Time/Recording Time Indicator .... pg. 21  
5 Sec. Rec Mode Indicator*3 .................. pg. 12  
h Instant Title Display ................................. pg. 19  
j Date/Time Display ................................... pg. 21  
k Bright Level Indicator*1 .......................pg. 11, 22  
l Focus Indicator ........................................ pg. 12  
; Exposure Control Level Counter ............. pg. 18  
A White Balance Mode Indicator................. pg. 19  
* Retake Forward Button [RETAKE F] ..... pg. 13  
Fast-Forward Button [F] ..........................pg. 11  
( EJECT Switch ............................................ pg. 8  
) CHARGE Lamp ......................................... pg. 6  
S S-VHS/S-VHS ET Recording  
Indicator*2 ................................................ pg. 20  
q REFRESH Button .................................... pg. 6  
NIGHT Button*2 ...................................... pg. 23  
D Record-Standby Mode Indicator ...............pg. 11  
w Fade/Wipe Button [FADE/WIPE] ........... pg. 23  
Counter Reset/Memory Button  
[COUNTER R/M] ................................... pg. 14  
e Retake Rewind Button [RETAKE R] ...... pg. 13  
Quick Review Button [  
Rewind Button [R] ...................................pg. 11  
r Stop Button [STOP] ................................pg. 11  
Backlight Compensation Button  
F
: Cassette Indicator ............................. pg. 8  
G TBC Indicator........................................... pg. 14  
H Playback Special Effect Indicator*2 .......... pg. 14  
J Recording Format Indicator (S/S-ET)*2 ... pg. 20  
K Tape Counter ........................................... pg. 14  
L Recording Mode Indicator (SP/LP) .......... pg. 20  
: Tape Running Indicator  
R] ................. pg. 13  
[BACK LIGHT] ....................................... pg. 12  
4
: Playback  
3
2
6
: Fast-Forward/Shuttle Search  
: Rewind/Shuttle Search  
: Pause  
t Shoulder Strap Eyelets .............................. pg. 8  
y Battery Pack Mount ................................... pg. 6  
u Close Button .............................................. pg. 8  
i Dioptre Adjustment Control........................ pg. 8  
o Camera Sensor  
Be careful not to cover this area; a sensor  
necessary for shooting is built-in here.  
z Tracking Indicator .................................... pg. 14  
x BRIGHT: Bright Level Indicator*1 ............pg. 11  
VOLUME: Speaker Volume Indicator*1 ....pg. 11  
*1 Applicable models only.  
*2 GR-SXM50/SX26 only.  
*3 GR-FXM404/FXM40/FX16 only.  
*4 GR-SXM50/FXM404/SX26 only.  
p Grip Strap .................................................. pg. 8  
Q Tripod Mounting Socket ............................. pg. 8  
10  
RECORDING  
PLAYBACK  
Set REC MODE, S-VHS (S-VHS ET)**, TAPE  
LENGTH and DATE/TIME in SYSTEM MENU.  
(pg. 18 22, MENU SETTINGS)  
1 Load a tape (pg. 8, Loading/Unloading A  
Cassette).  
2 Set the Power Switch @ to “  
while  
pressing down the Lock Button ! located on the  
1 Remove the lens cap. Set the Power Switch @  
to “ ” or “ ” while pressing down the Lock  
Button ! located on the switch.  
Shooting while using the viewfinder: Make sure  
the LCD monitor* is closed and locked.  
Shooting while using the LCD monitor*: Make  
sure the LCD monitor* is fully open.  
The camcorder enters the Record-Standby mode  
and PAUSED is displayed.  
The viewfinder and LCD monitor cannot be used  
simultaneously on this camcorder. Therefore,  
when opening the LCD monitor and tilting it  
upward to 180°, you cannot view any image in the  
viewfinder, however you can shoot yourself while  
viewing your own image in the LCD monitor.  
switch. To start playback, press 4/6 &.  
To stop playback temporarily (Still Playback), press  
4/6 &. To stop playback, press 5 r. Press  
e to rewind, or * to fast-forward the tape.  
High-speed picture search (Shuttle Search) is  
possible by pressing e or * during  
playback (holding e or * down during  
2
3
2
3
2
3
playback continues search until released). To  
resume normal playback, press 4/6 &.  
For VIDEO RECORDING/VIDEO PLAYBACK  
The camcorder shuts off automatically after about  
5 minutes in the Record-Standby or Stop mode.  
To turn on again, set the Power Switch @ to  
OFF, then to “ ”, “ ” or “  
When the Power Switch @ is set to “ ”, “ ” or  
and the LCD monitor* is opened at an  
.  
2 Press the Recording Start/Stop Button 0.  
P appears while recording is in progress.  
To stop recording, press the Recording Start/Stop  
Button 0. The camcorder re-enters the Record-  
Standby mode.  
angle of 60 degrees or more, the LCD monitor*  
switches on and the viewfinder switches off  
automatically to save power.  
The playback picture can be viewed in the  
viewfinder (with the LCD monitor* shut), on the  
LCD monitor* or on a connected TV (pg. 15,  
Connections To A TV/VCR).  
To Adjust The Brightness Of The LCD Monitor*:  
When the Power Switch @ is set to “ ”, adjust  
LCD BRIGHTin SYSTEM MENU (pg. 18, 22).  
To remove the indications, pg. 21, DISPLAY or  
OSD OUTPUT in SYSTEM MENU.  
When the Power Switch @ is set to “ ” or  
OFF, this adjustment cannot be performed.  
To control the speaker* volume, rotate the MENU  
Wheel 1 towards +to turn up, or towards “–” to  
turn down. While shooting, sound is not heard  
from the speaker*.  
* Applicable models only.  
**GR-SXM50/SX26 only.  
Noise bars appear and pictures may become  
monochrome or darken during Shuttle Search.  
This is normal.  
If TBC (pg. 14) is engaged during Still  
Playback, noise bars will not appear (GR-SXM50/  
SX26 only).  
* Applicable models only.  
11  
Backlight Compensation  
To quickly increase the brightness of the subject  
relative to the background.  
BASIC FEATURES  
Snapshot (GR-SXM50/SX26 only)  
You can record still images that look like  
photographs onto a tape.  
1) Perform step 1) of RECORDING(pg. 11).  
1) Press BACK LIGHT r during recording. “ ” is  
displayed and the subject is brightened.  
2) To cancel Backlight Compensation, press BACK  
LIGHT r again. “ ” disappears and the  
brightness returns to the previous level.  
Backlight Compensation functions in both  
recording modes (“ ” or “ ”).  
2) Press SNAPSHOT 2.  
There is a momentary camera shutter-type  
blackout together with the sound effect of a  
shutter closing.  
Snapshot is also available during playback.  
However, the shutter sound is not heard.  
Using BACK LIGHT r may make the subject too  
bright, resulting in a washed out or white image.  
BACK LIGHT r cannot be used when the  
manual Exposure Control mode (pg. 18) is  
engaged.  
5Sec. Rec (5-sec. Recording)  
(GR-FXM404/FXM40/FX16 only)  
To record a scene for 5 seconds, providing quick  
scene transitions like those seen in TV  
programmes.  
1) Make sure the recording mode is set to SP.  
2) During RecordStandby, press 5SEC. REC 2.  
5S g appears and 5Sec. Rec is reserved.  
3) Press the Recording Start/Stop Button 0.  
Recording starts, and after 5-second recording  
is finished, the camcorder re-enters the Record–  
Standby mode automatically.  
Auto/Manual Focus  
If correct focus cannot be obtained with Auto  
Focus, use Manual Focus.  
1) Set the Power Switch @ to “ ” while pressing  
down the Lock Button ! located on the switch.  
2) Press  
FOCUS 4. “  
appears.  
3) To focus on a distant subject, rotate the MENU  
Wheel 1 upward. “ ” appears and blinks.  
To focus on a close subject, rotate the MENU  
Wheel 1 downward. “ ” appears and blinks.  
4) To cancel the 5Sec. Rec. function, press 5SEC.  
REC 2 again so that  
5S g disappears.  
4) To cancel the Manual Focus, press  
FOCUS  
Fade/Wipe (pg. 23) cannot be activated by  
4. “  
applied.  
disappears and the Auto Focus is  
pressing 5SEC. REC 2.  
When the focus level cannot be adjusted any  
farther or closer, “ ” or “ ” will blink.  
12  
Video Light (GR-SXM50/FXM404/SX26 only)  
To brighten the scene when natural lighting is too  
dim.  
Pressing LIGHT # changes the Video Light mode  
sequentially as shown below.  
Zooming  
To produce the zoom in/out effect. Digital circuitry  
extends the maximum magnification offered by  
optical zoom. This system is called Digital Zoom.  
Slide the Power Zoom Lever 3 towards Tto  
zoom in, or Wto zoom out.  
OFF (no indication)  
AUTO (  
)
ON (  
)
The further you slide the Power Zoom Lever 3,  
the quicker the zoom action.  
Focusing may become unstable during Zooming.  
In this case, set the zoom while in Record–  
Standby, lock the focus by using the manual focus  
(pg. 12, Auto/Manual Focus), then zoom in  
or out in Record mode.  
The zoom level indicator O- moves during  
zoom. Once the zoom level indicator O-  
reaches the top, all magnification from that point  
is through digital processing.  
When using Digital Zoom, the quality of image  
may suffer. To deactivate Digital Zoom, set  
D.ZOOM(pg. 20) to OFFin SYSTEM  
MENU.  
Digital zoom cannot be used when the VIDEO  
ECHOmode (pg. 24, Digital Effects) is  
activated.  
OFF : Turns off the light.  
AUTO: Automatically turns on the light when the  
camcorder senses insufficient lighting on  
the subject.  
ON : Always keeps the light on as long as the  
camcorder is turned on.  
It is recommended to set M.W.B. (pg. 19) to  
in CAMERA MENU when you use the video  
light.  
Even if the battery indicator (  
) does not blink  
if the battery packs charge is low, the camcorder  
may turn off automatically when you turn on the  
video light, or when you start recording with the  
video light turned on.  
When the Video Light mode is set to AUTO:  
Depending on the lighting conditions, the video  
light may keep turning on and off. Press LIGHT  
# repeatedly until ONor OFFis selected as  
required.  
While the Sportsor High Speed Shuttermode  
is engaged, the light is likely to stay on. While  
the Twilightmode is engaged, the light will not  
activate. (pg. 24, Programme AE with  
Special Effects)  
Quick Review  
To check the end of the last recording.  
1) Make sure the camcorder is in the Record–  
Standby mode.  
2) Press  
2
e and release quickly.  
Tape is rewound for approx. 1 second and  
played back automatically, then pauses in  
RecordStandby mode for the next shot.  
Distortion may occur at the start of playback. This  
is normal.  
DANGER  
The video light can become  
extremely hot.  
Do not touch it either while in  
Retake  
To re-record certain segments.  
1) Make sure the camcorder is in the Record–  
Standby mode.  
2) Press and hold either RETAKE * or e to reach  
the start point for new recording. Pressing  
* forwards the tape and pressing  
reverses it.  
3) Press the Recording Start/Stop Button 0 to  
start recording.  
Noise bars appear and pictures may become  
monochrome or darken during Retake. This is  
normal.  
operation or soon after turning it off,  
otherwise serious injury may result.  
Do not place the camcorder into the carrying case  
immediately after using the video light, since it  
remains extremely hot for some time.  
When operating, keep a distance of about 30 cm  
between the video light and people or objects.  
Do not use near flammable or explosive  
materials.  
3
2
e
It is recommended that you consult your nearest  
JVC dealer for replacing the video light.  
13  
Tracking  
Counter Memory  
Eliminates noise bars that appear on-screen during Makes it easier to locate a specific tape segment.  
playback. To activate Manual Tracking:  
1) Press COUNTER R/M w and hold for more than  
1) Press the TRACKING Wheel 1 for approx.  
2 seconds. MTz appears.  
1 second. The counter K resets to 0:00:00.  
2) Press COUNTER R/M w for less than 1 second.  
Mappears.  
2) Rotate the TRACKING Wheel 1 so that the  
noise bars disappear.  
3) After recording or playback, press 5 r, then  
To return to Auto Tracking, press the TRACKING  
Wheel 1 for approx. 2 seconds or set the Power  
2
e. The tape automatically stops at or close  
to 0:00:00.  
Switch @ to OFFand then “  
again. ATz  
4) Press 4/6 & to start playback.  
blinks. When Auto Tracking finishes, the indication The counter memory functions in the Fast-  
disappears.  
Forward and Rewind modes.  
When noise bars appear during playback, the  
camcorder enters the Auto Tracking mode and  
ATz appears.  
Manual Tracking may not work with tapes  
recorded on other VCRs or camcorders.  
To disable the counter memory function, press  
COUNTER R/M w for less than 1 second so that  
Mdisappears.  
Playback Special Effects  
(GR-SXM50/SX26 only)  
TBC (Time Base Corrector)  
Allows you to add creative effects to the playback  
image. (pg. 24, Digital Effects)  
1) Activate TBCand Auto Tracking.  
2) Press DIGIFECT % repeatedly until the desired  
mode H appears.  
To cancel the effect, select OFF.  
NEGA POSI, MOSAIC and STRETCH are not  
available.  
Removes jitter from fluctuating video signals to  
deliver a stable picture even with old tapes.  
To activate/release the TBC mode, press TBC 4  
during playback for more than 1 second. When the  
TBC mode is activated, TBCG is displayed.  
The TBCindicator G turns green (grey with a  
camcorder equipped with a black/white  
viewfinder) while TBC is working, and white while  
TBC is not operative.  
Playback Special Effects do not work during  
Shuttle Search (pg. 11).  
The selected effect mode cannot be changed  
during Still Playback (pg. 11).  
TBC does not work during Still Playback and  
Shuttle Search (pg. 11).  
It may take a few seconds before TBC actually  
starts working.  
The picture may be distorted if the TBC mode is  
activated or deactivated at the edit-in/-out points  
or when normal playback resumes after Still  
Playback or Shuttle Search (pg. 11).  
If the playback picture is distorted when TBC is  
set to on, turn off TBC.  
14  
Connections To A TV/VCR  
1) Make sure all units are turned off.  
Tape Dubbing  
1) Connect the camcorder and the VCR  
2) Connect the camcorder to a TV or VCR. If using  
both TV and VCR, connect the VCR output to  
the TV input.  
3) Turn on all units. Set the VCR to its AUX input  
mode, and set the TV to its VIDEO mode.  
Use the AC Adapter as the power supply.  
Be sure to adjust the TV sound volume to its  
minimum level to avoid a sudden burst of sound  
when the camcorder is turned on.  
(Connections To A TV/VCR). Set the Power  
Switch @ to “  
while pressing down the  
Lock Button ! located on the switch, turn on the  
VCRs power, and insert the appropriate  
cassettes in the camcorder and the VCR.  
Engage the VCRs AUX and Record-Pause  
modes.  
2) Press 4/6 & to find a spot just before the edit-  
in point. Once it is reached, press 4/6 & again.  
3) Press 4/6 & and engage the VCRs Record  
mode.  
If you have a TV or speakers that are not  
specially shielded, do not place the speakers  
adjacent to the TV as interference will occur in the 4) Engage the VCRs Record-Pause mode and  
camcorder playback picture.  
If your TV/VCR has a 21-pin connector, use the  
provided Cable Adapter.  
press 4/6 &.  
Repeat steps 2) through 4) for additional editing,  
then stop the VCR and camcorder when finished.  
The S-Video cable connection can improve the  
dubbed picture quality. If your TV/VCR has a  
21-pin connector, use a commercially available  
cable adapter with an S-Video connector  
(GR-SXM50/SX26 only).  
White to  
Audio  
To S-Video  
Output 5  
Output 6  
Yellow to  
Video  
Output 7  
Connector cover  
S-Video  
cable  
A/V cable  
TV  
White to  
Audio Input  
To S-Video  
Input  
VCR  
Yellow to  
Video Input  
15  
Using The Cassette Adapter  
(optional)  
Use this to play back an S-VHS-C/VHS-C video  
cassette recorded with this camcorder on a S-VHS/  
VHS VCR.  
1) Slide the battery cover up to remove it, install  
one AA (R6)size battery, then reattach the  
cover.  
2) Slide the latch to open the compartment door,  
then insert the cassette and close the  
compartment door.  
3) Load the cassette adapter into the VCR and  
play the tape back.  
4) Slide the latch and the compartment door opens  
automatically. This may take around 10 seconds.  
Do not attempt to force the adapter open. Then,  
insert your finger in the hole, and push up and  
remove the cassette.  
During tape loading and unloading, do not touch  
the reels for safety and tape protection.  
Tapes recorded in S-VHS or S-VHS ET mode  
cannot be played back on a regular VHS VCR.  
Playback is possible with a VCR equipped with  
the S-VHS function. (GR-SXM50/SX26 only)  
During special-effect playback (slow motion, still  
frame, etc.), the picture may vibrate or noise bars  
may appear on the screen.  
To record on a VCR using a compact cassette  
and the adapter, cover the adapters recording  
safety hole with adhesive tape.  
Sliding Latch  
Compartment Door  
Recording  
Safety Hole  
Hole  
Reels  
Battery Cover  
16  
INSTRUCTIONS  
Eyepiece  
Refer to this diagram while reading the instructions.  
1
2
3
4
During  
shooting  
#
$
%
^ &  
*
(
5
Keep the lens  
cap attached to  
the camcorder.  
6
7
8
)
q
w
e
r
Cassette holder  
9
0
!
@
Viewfinder  
t
Turn the gear to  
take up slack.  
90°  
180°  
i
Speaker  
(applicable models only)  
y
o
u
t
180°  
LCD monitor  
(applicable models only)  
Erase  
protection tab  
Q
p
Microphone  
Video light  
(GR-SXM50/FXM404/SX26 only)  
LCD Monitor/Viewfinder Indications  
During Recording  
During Playback  
W
E R T Y U I  
F G H  
J K L : z  
O
120M I N  
REC SP  
444  
A
SET  
T
30  
S
ET  
SP  
4
:
:
TBC  
1
2 3 4 5  
AT  
P
L I GHT  
MONOTONE  
l
A
a
d
+
02  
;
S
D
s
f
SVHS REC  
MWB  
PAUSE  
1X  
b
5
M I N  
1 / 2S  
g
h
k
CONGRATULAT I ONS  
:
:
j
25. 12. 03  
11 45 18  
x
a
– – – – – – – – – –  
6
+
––––6––––  
+
BR I GHT  
VOLUME  
pg. 25 for Warning Indications .  
17  
CAMERA MENU  
MENU SETTINGS  
EXPOSURE  
1 Set the Power Switch @ to “ ” while pressing  
Manual exposure adjustment is recommended in  
the following situations:  
When shooting using reverse lighting or when the  
background is too bright.  
When shooting on a reflective natural background  
such as at the beach or when skiing.  
When the background is overly dark or the  
subject light.  
1) Rotate the MENU Wheel 1 to select  
MANUAL, then press it.  
2) To brighten the image, rotate the MENU Wheel  
1 downward.  
down the Lock Button ! located on the switch.  
2 Press the MENU Wheel 1 in. The Menu  
Screen appears. Rotate the MENU Wheel 1 to  
select the desired function.  
To go from CAMERA MENU to SYSTEM MENU,  
rotate the MENU Wheel 1 to select 4TO  
SYSTEM MENUand press it. SYSTEM MENU is  
composed of 2 pages. To go to the next page,  
rotate the MENU Wheel 1 to select 4NEXT”  
and press it.  
To return to CAMERA MENU from page 2 of  
SYSTEM MENU, rotate the MENU Wheel 1 to  
select 4TO CAMERA MENUand press it.  
To darken the image, rotate the MENU Wheel  
1 upward.  
The exposure control level increases/decreases  
(maximum 06).  
C AM E R A M E N U  
tT O S Y S T E M M E N U  
E X P O S U R E  
S T A B I L I Z E R  
M . W . B .  
T I T L E  
T I T L E S E T U P  
A U T O  
O N  
A U T O  
H A P .  
STABILIZER  
B
The Picture Stabiliser compensates for unstable  
images caused by camera-shake, particularly at  
high magnification.  
ON : The Picture Stabiliser is activated.  
f appears.  
tR E T U R N  
OFF : The Picture Stabiliser is disactivated.  
f disappears.  
S Y S T E M M E N U  
tN E X T  
Accurate stabilisation may not be possible in  
certain conditions including excessive hand  
shake.  
R E C MO D E  
D . Z OOM  
S . L X  
S P  
5 0 x  
N O RMA L  
O F F  
O N  
W I D E  
S
V H S  
f appears blinking if the Stabiliser cannot be  
used.  
T A P E L E N G T H T 3 0  
D I S P L A Y  
F U L L  
D A T E T I M E D I S P .  
This function cannot be activated during the  
Night-Scope, CLASSIC FILM, STROBEand  
VIDEO ECHOmodes (pg. 24, Digital  
Effects).  
tR E T U R N  
3 Press the MENU Wheel 1 in to display the  
Setting Menu and rotate it to select the desired  
setting.  
4 Press the MENU Wheel 1 in. The Menu  
Screen reappears with the highlight bar on  
4RETURN. Press the MENU Wheel 1 in. The  
normal screen reappears.  
18  
M.W.B.  
TITLE  
If the white balance is correct, all other colours will  
be accurately reproduced.  
Allows you to superimpose one of eight preset  
titles in 11 different languages. Change the  
language in LANGUAGE in TITLE SETUP in  
CAMERA MENU (pg. 19).  
j shows the selected title which remains until  
OFF is selected.  
AUTO  
: White balance is adjusted  
automatically.  
FINE  
CLOUD  
:Outdoors on a sunny day.  
:Outdoors on a cloudy day.  
TITLE SETUP  
HALOGEN :A video light or similar type of  
lighting is used.  
Adjust the settings for TITLE.  
MWB: White balance is set manually. Hold a sheet  
of plain white paper in front of the subject. Adjust  
zoom or position yourself so that the white paper  
fills the screen. If it is difficult to focus on the white  
paper, adjust focus manually (pg. 12, Auto/  
Manual Focus). Press the MENU Wheel 1 in until  
MWBbegins blinking. When the setting is  
completed, MWBstops blinking.  
Once you adjust white balance manually, the  
setting is retained even if the power is turned off  
or the battery removed.  
White balance cannot be used when the SEPIA”  
or MONOTONEmode (pg. 24, Digital  
Effects) is activated.  
SIZE  
:When LARGEis selected, the title  
is twice enlarged vertically more  
than selected NORMAL.  
:When ONis selected, the title is  
scrolled from right to left.  
SCROLL  
LANGUAGE :Select the language (ENGLISH,  
FRENCH, RUSSIAN, UKRAINIAN,  
GERMAN, ITALIAN, SPANISH,  
CZECH, POLISH, HUNGARIAN,  
BULGARIAN) for TITLE.  
To set SIZE, SCROLLor LANGUAGE, rotate  
the MENU Wheel 1 to select the desired item, and  
press it. When the setting begins blinking, rotate  
the MENU Wheel 1 until the correct setting  
appears and then press it. The setting stops  
blinking.  
19  
With some tapes, better picture quality may not  
be obtained even with S-VHS ET recording. It is  
recommended that you do test record beforehand  
to make sure whether better results can be  
obtained.  
If the S-VHS ET mode or recording format is  
switched during recording, the playback picture  
will be blurred at the switching point.  
It is recommended that tapes recorded on this  
camcorder be played back on this camcorder.  
Tapes recorded in S-VHS or S-VHS ET mode can  
be played back not only on this camcorder but  
also on a Super VHS VCR.  
Tapes recorded in S-VHS ET mode cannot be  
played back on some VCRs, including some  
JVC VCRs.  
Tapes recorded in S-VHS or S-VHS ET mode  
cannot be played back correctly on a normal VHS  
VCR.  
SYSTEM MENU  
This Menu Screen cannot be accessed while  
recording.  
REC MODE  
Allows you to set the recording mode. LP(Long  
Play) is more economical, providing twice the  
recording time.  
If the recording mode is switched during  
recording, the playback picture will be blurred at  
the switching point.  
D. ZOOM  
Zooming is possible from 16X (the optical zoom  
limit), to a maximum of 50X or 700X digital  
magnification.  
When set to OFFonly optical zoom (maximum  
16x magnification) can function.  
S.LX  
S-VHS ET does not work with S-VHS tapes.  
To avoid on-screen noise, do not perform Still  
Playback or Shuttle Search repeatedly.  
If the picture contains a lot of jitter or noise, use a  
cleaning cassette.  
MAX: To record a subject in a darkly lit  
environment, when it is more convenient to shoot  
the subject with a brighter image even if the picture  
becomes slightly coarse.  
NORMAL: To record a subject in a dimly lit  
environment, when it is more convenient to shoot  
with a less coarse picture although the subject  
becomes slightly dark.  
OFF: Allows you to shoot dark scenes with no  
picture brightness adjustment.  
WIDE  
When set to ONblack bars will be recorded at the  
top and bottom of the screen to produce a cinema-  
like wide-screeneffect. Not effective with  
Snapshot(GR-SXM50/SX26 only, pg. 12).  
S-VHS (S-VHS ET)  
(GR-SXM50/SX26 only)  
ON: With an S-VHS cassette, Sappears and  
the camcorder records in S-VHS.  
With a VHS cassette, S-ETappears and the  
camcorder records with S-VHS picture quality,  
which is called Super VHS ET (Expansion  
Technology). S-VHS REC appears during  
recording.  
OFF: Records in VHS on a VHS or S-VHS  
cassette.  
JVC EHG (Extra High Grade) tapes are  
recommended for superior results.  
Use S-VHS tape for storing recordings for an  
extended period or for recording important  
scenes, as it enables higher-quality recording and  
playback.  
20  
TAPE LENGTH  
INT. TIME  
Allows you to set the tape length depending on the  
tape used: T30=30 minutes, T45=45 minutes,  
T50=50 minutes, T60=60 minutes.  
Tape remaining time W is correct only if the  
correct tape length has been selected.  
You can record sequentially at preset time spans.  
Leaving the camcorder aimed at a specific subject,  
you can record subtle changes over an extended  
period of time (Time-Lapse). REC MODE should  
be set to SP.  
(Please note that it is necessary to set the REC  
TIME (Animation) in the SYSTEM MENU before  
performing the INT. TIME (Time-Lapse) function.)  
DISPLAY  
FULL: Makes all of the indications appear on the  
LCD monitor*/viewfinder during playback or  
recording.  
Select the desired interval time and press the  
Recording Start/Stop Button 0.  
Fade- or wipe-in/out cannot be performed.  
This function is cancelled when the power is shut  
off or when the cassette is ejected.  
To use this function, it is recommended that  
SCROLL in TITLE SETUP (pg. 18, 19) be set  
to OFF.  
SIMPLE: Makes the following indications  
disappear from the LCD monitor*/viewfinder during  
recording or playback:  
, tape length (pg. 9, 17).  
* Applicable models only.  
, tape remaining time,  
DATE/TIME DISP.  
Makes the date/time appear in the camcorder or on  
a connected monitor (set DATE/TIME in SYSTEM  
MENU first pg. 7).  
The selected display will be recorded. If you do  
not want to record the display, select OFF before  
shooting.  
TELE MACRO  
When set to ON, you can shoot a subject as large  
as possible at a distance of approx. 60 cm.  
Depending on the zoom position, the lens may go  
out of focus.  
In the AUTO DATE mode, the camcorder records  
the date for about 5 seconds when recording is  
initiated after the date is changed, a cassette is  
loaded, or AUTO DATE is selected. The date is  
replaced after 5 seconds with AUTO DATEbut  
this is not recorded.  
OSD OUTPUT  
ON: On-screen indications are displayed.  
OFF: On-screen indications are turned off except  
Date/Time, Instant Title and Warning Indication.  
REC TIME  
You can shoot a series of pictures, each slightly  
different, of the same object for a brief selected  
period of time (Animation). REC MODE should be  
set to SP.  
Select the desired recording time and press the  
Recording Start/Stop Button 0 after focusing on  
the subject.  
Fade- or wipe-in/out cannot be performed.  
This function is cancelled when the power is shut  
off or when the cassette is ejected.  
To use this function, it is recommended that  
SCROLL in TITLE SETUP (pg. 18, 19) be set  
to OFF.  
21  
MENU LANG.  
LCD BRIGHT  
(Applicable models only)  
Allows you to select the language (ENGLISH or  
RUSSIAN) used in all messages displayed on  
screen.  
To adjust the brightness of the LCD monitor,  
perform the following steps quickly (within approx.  
1 second by each interval):  
DEMO MODE  
1) Select LCD BRIGHTin SYSTEM MENU. The  
BRIGHT ONmessage appears.  
2) Press the BRIGHT Wheel 1 in to return to  
normal screen.  
3) Rotate the BRIGHT Wheel 1 to display the  
bright level indicator k.  
4) Rotate the BRIGHT Wheel 1 until the  
appropriate brightness is reached. After the  
BRIGHT Wheel 1 is released, the indicator  
soon disappears and adjustment is completed.  
Demonstrates certain functions automatically.  
Available when the Power Switch @ is set to “  
or “ ” and DEMO MODEis set to ON(factory-  
preset). Performing any operation during the  
demonstration stops the demonstration  
temporarily. Set to OFF to stop completely.  
When a tape whose erase protection tab is in the  
position that allows recording is loaded in the  
camcorder, demonstration is not available.  
If you do not detach the Lens Cap, you cannot  
see the actual changes of the Automatic  
Demonstration activated on the LCD monitor* or  
viewfinder.  
* Applicable models only.  
DATE/TIME  
Allows you to set the current date and time.  
(pg. 7)  
22  
Fade/Wipe Effects  
Fade- or wipe-in works at recording start, and fade-  
or wipe-out works at recording end.  
ADVANCED FEATURES  
Night-Scope (GR-SXM50/SX26 only)  
Makes dark subjects or areas even brighter than  
they would be under good natural lighting.  
1) Set the Power Switch @ to “ ” while pressing  
down the Lock Button ! located on the switch.  
2) Press FADE/WIPE w repeatedly until the  
desired mode appears.  
3) Press the Recording Start/Stop Button 0 to  
activate fade-in/out or wipe-in/out.  
Pressing and holding the Recording Start/Stop  
Button 0 allows you to vary the length for the  
image during fade in/out or wipe in/out.  
To cancel a fade or wipe, press FADE/WIPE w  
repeatedly until OFFappears.  
1) Set the Power Switch @ to “ ” or “ ” while  
pressing down the Lock Button ! located on the  
switch.  
2) Press NIGHT q repeatedly until the desired  
mode appears.  
A NIGHT AUTO: The shutter speed is  
automatically adjusted (maximum 1/2 sec.).  
1 NIGHT 20X (only when the Power Switch @  
is set to “ ”): The shutter speed is set to 2/5th of  
a second to provide 20 times the sensitivity.  
FADER: Fades in/out to a black screen.  
FADER: Fades in/out to a white screen.  
2 NIGHT 50X (only when the Power Switch @  
is set to “ ”): The shutter speed is set to 1 second  
to provide 50 times the sensitivity.  
MOSAIC (Fader): Gradually turns/returns the  
picture into/from a mosaic pattern.  
LIGHT (only when the Power Switch @ is  
set to “ ”): The camcorders light is on and the  
shutter speed is automatically adjusted (maximum  
1/2 sec.).  
SHUTTER (Wipe): A black screen moves in  
from the top and bottom, closing over the image  
like a shutter, or a new image pushes open the  
black screen vertically from the centre.  
To cancel the effect, press NIGHT q repeatedly  
SLIDE (Wipe): A black screen moves in from  
the left to gradually cover the image, or a new  
image moves in from right to left.  
until OFFappears.  
During Night-Scope, the following cannot be  
activated: Picture Stabiliser, Programme AE  
With Special Effects, Digital Effectsand S.LX”  
in SYSTEM MENU (pg. 20).  
Night-Scope does not work when the Video Light  
mode is set to AUTOor ON(pg. 13, Video  
Light).  
During Night-Scope, it may be difficult to bring the  
camcorder into focus. To prevent this, use of a  
tripod is recommended.  
DOOR (Wipe): Wipes in as the two halves of  
a black screen open to the left and right, revealing  
the scene, or wipes out and the black screen  
reappears from left and right to cover the scene.  
CORNER (Wipe): Wipes in on a black screen  
from the upper right to the lower left corner,  
revealing the scene, or wipes out from lower left to  
upper right, leaving a black screen.  
WINDOW (Wipe): Wipes in on a black screen  
from the centre of the screen towards the corners,  
revealing the scene, or wipe out from the corners  
to the centre, leaving a black screen.  
SCROLL (Wipe): Wipes in on a black screen  
from the bottom to the top, revealing the scenes, or  
wipes out from the top to the bottom, leaving a  
black screen.  
23  
Programme AE With Special Effects  
Digital Effects  
1) Set the Power Switch @ to “ ” while pressing  
down the Lock Button ! located on the switch.  
2) Press P.AE ^ repeatedly until the desired mode  
appears.  
1)Set the Power Switch @ to “ ” while pressing  
down the Lock Button ! located on the switch.  
2)Press DIGIFECT % repeatedly until the desired  
mode appears.  
To cancel the effect, press P.AE ^ repeatedly  
until OFFappears.  
To cancel the effect, press DIGIFECT %  
repeatedly until OFFappears.  
Only one mode can be engaged at a time.  
In the High Speed Shutteror Sportsmodes,  
picture colour may be adversely affected if the  
subject is lit by alternating discharge-type light  
sources such as flourescent or mercury-vapour  
lights.  
This function cannot be activated during Night-  
Scope (pg. 23).  
Picture Stabiliser (pg. 18) cannot be activated  
during the CLASSIC FILM, STROBEand  
VIDEO ECHOmode.  
SEPIA: Recorded scenes have a brownish tint  
like old photos. Combine this with WIDE in  
SYSTEM MENU for a classic look.  
This function cannot be activated during Night-  
Scope (pg. 23).  
SPORTS: High shutter speed clearly captures  
fast-moving action.  
MONOTONE: Like black and white films, your  
footage is shot in B/W. Combine this with WIDE in  
SYSTEM MENU for a classic look.  
ND : ND EFFECT: A black mist darkens the  
picture, as when an ND filter is used. Helps to  
counter the effects of glare on the subject.  
B. FILTER: Recorded scenes have a bluish  
tint.  
FG : FOG: Makes the picture look misty white, as  
when an external fog filter is attached to the lens.  
Softens the image and gives it a fantasylook.  
This mode cannot be used when the VIDEO  
ECHOmode (Digital Effects) is activated.  
R. FILTER: Recorded scenes have a reddish  
tint.  
SOLARI: The picture is recorded with an effect  
similar to a painting.  
NEGA POSI: The colours of a picture are  
reversed.  
TWILIGHT: Dusk, twilight scenery, fireworks,  
etc., look more natural and dramatic. In this mode,  
the Auto Focus (pg. 12) and S.LX (pg. 20)  
may not work.  
MOSAIC: Turns recorded scenes into a mosaic  
pattern.  
STRETCH: Doubles the width of the picture  
horizontally.  
S1/2000 (1/2000 sec. High Speed Shutter):  
Captures faster action than Sports mode. The  
screen becomes slightly dark. Use in well-lit  
situations.  
CLASSIC FILM*: Makes your footage look like  
a classic movie by shooting in black and white,  
with a strobing effect, and black bars added at the  
top and bottom.  
SUNSET: Makes scenes have a reddish tint  
like a sunset.  
STROBE*: Your recording looks like a series  
of consecutive snapshots.  
SURF & SNOW: Compensates for subjects  
that may otherwise appear too dark when shooting  
in extremely bright surroundings such as in the  
snow or beach. In this mode, the fast-moving  
images can be recorded since the shutter speed  
becomes fast.  
VIDEO ECHO*: Adds a ghostto the subject,  
giving your recording a fantasyfeeling. Zoom  
magnification of over 10X is not available.  
* GR-SXM50/SX26 only.  
24  
TROUBLESHOOTING  
Before consulting your JVC dealer, please check the following to see if you can correct the problem yourself.  
Vertical white lines appear when shooting a very  
bright object.  
This sometimes occurs when the contrast between the  
back-ground and the object is great. It is not a defect of  
the camcorder.  
Playback picture is blurred or interrupted.  
The video heads are dirty or worn out. Consult your  
nearest JVC dealer for head cleaning or replacement.  
The tape stops during fast-forward or rewind.  
The Counter Memory Function has been activated  
(pg. 14, Counter Memory).  
Bright, crystal-shaped spots appear in the LCD  
monitor and the viewfinder.  
Sunlight is directly entering the lens. This is not a defect  
of the camcorder.  
The date and time displays disappear.  
If you remove the power source from the camcorder  
while the power is on, all settings and selections are  
erased. Make sure to turn the camcorders power off  
before disconnecting the power source.  
Coloured bright spots appear all over the LCD  
monitor or the viewfinder.  
The LCD monitor and the viewfinder are made with high-  
precision technology. However, black spots or bright  
spots of light (red, green or blue) may appear constantly  
on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder. These spots are  
not recorded on the tape. This is not due to any defect of  
the unit. (Effective dots: more than 99.99 %.)  
The tape will not eject.  
The battery pack is running low.  
If the LCD monitor is not open over 60 degrees, the  
EJECT switch ( does not function.  
The camcorder is a microcomputer-controlled device.  
External noise and interference (from a TV, a radio,  
etc.) might prevent it from functioning properly. In such  
cases, first disconnect its power supply unit (battery  
pack, AC Adapter, etc.); and then re-connect it and  
proceed as usual from the beginning.  
Animation or Time-Lapse is not available.  
Before recording in the Animation mode at the very  
beginning of a tape, set the camcorder to the Recording  
mode for about 5 seconds, so that the tape runs  
smoothly. Using the Fade-in function at this point is a  
good way to begin an animated programme  
(pg. 21, REC TIME/INT. TIME in SYSTEM MENU).  
The tape is running, but there is no playback picture.  
The TV has not been set to its VIDEO mode or channel.  
If A/V connection is used, the TVs VIDEO/TV Switch  
has not been set to VIDEO.  
Warning Indications  
(high)  
(exhausted) : Displays the battery remaining power level. As the battery power comes  
blinks (battery power warning). When the battery power is exhausted, power  
close to nil, the battery indicator  
turns off automatically.  
: Blinks when no cassette is loaded, or when the erase protection tab is not in the position that allows recording.  
TAPE END: Appears when the tape ends during recording, playback or fast-forward.  
LENS CAP: Appears for 5 seconds after power is turned on if the lens cap is attached.  
CONDENSATION OPERATION PAUSED PLEASE WAIT: These 2 warnings appear alternately every 3 seconds  
if condensation occurs. In this case, all functions except tape eject and power on/off are disabled. Remove the tape,  
turn the unit off (without removing the power supply), wait a few minutes for the warnings to clear, and turn it on again.  
HEAD CLEANING REQUIRED USE CLEANING CASSETTE: These 2 warnings appear alternately every 3  
seconds if dirt is detected on the heads during recording. In this case, use an optional cleaning cassette. If the  
warning remains after cleaning, consult your nearest JVC dealer.  
E01E06 UNIT IN SAFEGUARD MODE REMOVE AND REATTACH BATTERY: The error indications (E01 E06)  
show what type of malfunction has occured. If an error indication and warning appear, turn the unit off, remove the  
power supply (battery, etc.) and wait a few minutes for them to clear. When it does, you can resume using the  
camcorder. If the indication remains, consult your nearest JVC dealer.  
25  
CAUTIONS  
2. To prevent damage and prolong service  
life . . .  
Video Light (for applicable models)  
DANGER:  
.... do not subject to unnecessary shock.  
.... avoid repeated charging without fully discharging.  
.... charge in an environment where temperatures are within  
the tolerances shown in the chart below. This is a  
chemical reaction type batterycooler temperatures  
impede chemical reaction, while warmer temperatures can  
prevent complete charging.  
.... store in a cool, dry place. Extended exposure to high  
temperatures will increase natural discharge and shorten  
service life.  
.... fully charge and then fully discharge the battery every  
6 months when storing the battery pack over a long period  
time.  
.... remove from charger or powered unit when not in use, as  
some machines use current even when switched off.  
It is normal for the battery pack to be warm after charging, or  
after use.  
The video light becomes extremely hot. Do  
not touch it either while in operation or soon  
after turning it off, otherwise serious injury  
may result.  
Do not place the camcorder into the carrying case  
immediately after using the video light, since it remains  
extremely hot for some time.  
When operating, keep a distance of about 30 cm  
between the video light and people or object.  
Do not use near flammable or explosive materials.  
It is recommended that you consult your nearest JVC dealer  
for replacing the video light.  
General Battery Precautions  
If the cassette adapter is not functioning even if it is being  
operated correctly, the batteries are exhausted. Replace them  
with fresh ones.  
Temperature Range Specifications  
Charging ................ 10°C to 35°C  
Please make note of the following rules for battery use. When  
misused, the batteries can leak or explode.  
Operation ............... 0°C to 40°C  
Storage .................. 10°C to 30°C  
Recharging time is based on room temperature of 20°C.  
The lower the temperature, the longer recharging takes.  
1. When replacing batteries, read the cassette adapter  
(C-P6U/C-P7U) instructions.  
2. Do not use any different size of batteries from those  
specified.  
Cassettes  
To properly use and store your cassettes, be sure to read the  
following cautions:  
3. Be sure to install batteries in the correct direction.  
1. During use . . .  
4. Do not use rechargeable batteries.  
.... make sure the cassette bears the S-VHS-C or  
VHS-C mark.  
.... be aware that recording onto prerecorded tapes  
automatically erases the previously recorded  
video and audio signals.  
5. Do not expose the batteries to excessive heat as they can  
leak or explode.  
6. Do not dispose of the batteries in a fire.  
7. Remove the batteries from the unit if it is to be stored for an  
extended period to avoid battery leakage which can cause  
malfunctions.  
.... make sure the cassette is positioned properly when  
inserting.  
.... do not load and unload the cassette repeatedly without  
allowing the tape to run at all. This slackens the tape and  
can result in damage.  
.... do not open the front tape cover. This exposes the tape to  
fingerprints and dust.  
Battery Packs  
The battery packs are nickel-cadmium or  
nickel metal-hydride batteries. Before using  
the supplied battery pack or an optional  
battery pack, be sure to read the following  
cautions:  
2. Store cassettes . . .  
.... away from heaters or other heat sources.  
.... out of direct sunlight.  
.... where they wont be subject to unnecessary shock or  
vibration.  
.... where they wont be exposed to strong magnetic fields  
(such as those generated by motors, transformers or  
magnets).  
1. To avoid hazard . . .  
.... do not burn.  
.... do not short-circuit the terminals.  
.... do not modify or disassemble.  
.... use only specified chargers.  
Terminals  
.... vertically, in their original cases.  
Main Unit  
1. For safety, DO NOT . . .  
.... open the camcorders chassis.  
.... disassemble or modify the unit.  
.... short-circuit the terminals of the battery pack. Keep it  
away from metallic objects when not in use.  
.... allow inflammables, water or metallic objects to enter the  
unit.  
.... remove the battery pack or disconnect the power supply  
while the power is on.  
.... leave the battery pack attached when the camcorder is not  
in use.  
26  
2. Avoid using the unit . . .  
For Your Maintenance  
1. After Use  
.... in places subject to excessive humidity or dust.  
.... in places subject to soot or steam such as near a cooking  
stove.  
.... in places subject to excessive shock or vibration.  
.... near a television set.  
.... near appliances generating strong magnetic or electric  
fields (speakers, broadcasting antennas, etc.).  
.... in places subject to extremely high (over 40°C) extremely  
low (under 0°C) temperatures.  
1 Set the Power Switch to OFFto turn off the  
camcorder.  
2 Open the LCD monitor* to an angle of over 60 degrees.  
Slide EJECT to open the cassette holder, then remove  
the cassette.  
3 Close and lock the cassette holder by pressing the  
Close button.  
3. DO NOT leave the unit . . .  
.... in places of over 50°C.  
.... in places where humidity is extremely low (below 35%) or  
extremely high (above 80%).  
.... in direct sunlight.  
.... in a closed car in summer.  
.... near a heater.  
.... in dusty places such as a beach.  
4 Close and lock the LCD monitor*.  
5 Slide BATTERY RELEASE to remove the battery pack.  
6 Attach the provided lens cap to the camcorders lens.  
2. Cleaning The Camcorder  
1 Wipe gently the exterior with a soft cloth. Put cloth in  
diluted mild soap and wring it well to wipe off heavy dirt,  
then wipe again with a dry cloth.  
4. To protect the unit, DO NOT . . .  
.... allow it to become wet.  
.... drop the unit or strike it against hard objects.  
.... subject it to shock or excessive vibration during  
transportation.  
.... keep the lens directed at extremely bright objects for long  
periods.  
.... direct the eyepiece of the viewfinder at the sun.  
.... carry it by holding the viewfinder or the LCD monitor*. Be  
sure to hold the main unit with both hands or use the grip.  
* Applicable models only.  
2 Open the LCD monitor* and wipe it gently with a soft  
cloth. Be careful not to damage the monitor. Close the  
LCD monitor*.  
3 Blow the lens with a blower brush, then wipe it gently  
with lens cleaning paper.  
4 Turn the eyepiece counterclockwise and pull it out.  
5 Remove dust from the viewfinder using a blower brush.  
6 Re-attach the eyepiece and turn it clockwise.  
* Applicable models only.  
.... swing it excessively when using the shoulder strap.  
Avoid using strong cleaning agents such as benzine or  
alcohol.  
Cleaning should be done only after the battery pack has  
been removed or other power units have been disconnected.  
Mould may form if the lens is left dirty.  
When using a cleaner or chemically treated cloth, refer to  
the cautions that came with it.  
LCD Monitor (for applicable models)  
1. To prevent damage to the LCD monitor,  
DO NOT . . .  
.... push it strongly or apply any shocks.  
.... place the camcorder with the LCD monitor on the bottom.  
2. To prolong service life . . .  
.... avoid rubbing it with coarse cloth.  
When removing the eyepiece, be sure to hold the viewfinder  
securely.  
3. Be aware of the following phenomena for LCD monitor  
use. These are not malfunctions:  
While using the camcorder, the surface around the LCD  
monitor and/or the back of the LCD monitor may heat up.  
If you leave power on for a long time, the surface around the  
LCD monitor becomes hot.  
About moisture condensation . . .  
You may have observed that pouring a cold liquid into a  
glass will cause drops of water to form on the glass’  
outer surface. This same phenomenon occurs on the  
head drum of a camcorder when it is moved from a cool  
place to a warm place, after heating a cold room, under  
extremely humid conditions or in a place directly  
subjected to the cool air from an air conditioner.  
Moisture on the head drum can cause severe damage to  
the video tape, and can lead to internal damage to the  
camcorder itself.  
Serious malfunctioning  
If malfunctioning occurs, stop using the unit immediately  
and consult your local JVC dealer.  
27  
SPECIFICATIONS  
Pickup  
Lens  
: 1/6" format CCD  
Camcorder  
: F1.6, f = 2.7 mm to 43.2 mm,  
16:1 power zoom lens with auto  
iris and macro control, filter  
diameter 40.5 mm  
: Electronic viewfinder with 0.5"  
black/white CRT  
General  
Format  
: S-VHS (GR-SXM50/SX26 only)/  
VHS PAL standard  
Viewfinder  
Power source  
: DC 11 V  
DC 6 V  
(Using AC Adapter)  
(Using battery pack)  
White balance  
adjustment  
LCD monitor  
(Applicable models panel/TFT active matrix system  
only)  
Speaker  
(Applicable models  
only)  
Power consumption  
Viewfinder on  
: Auto/Manual adjustment  
: 2.50" diagonally measured, LCD  
: 3.7 W (GR-SXM50/FXM404/  
FXM40 only)  
3.5 W (GR-SX26/FX16 only)  
LCD monitor* on : 4.3 W  
Video light** : 3.0 W  
* Applicable models only.  
: Monaural  
** GR-SXM50/FXM404/SX26 only.  
Signal system  
Video recording system  
Luminance  
Colour  
: PAL-type  
Connectors  
Video  
: 1 V (p-p , 75 unbalanced,  
)
: FM recording  
: Converted sub-carrier direct  
recording  
analogue output  
(via Video output connector)  
Conforms to VHS standard  
Audio  
: 300 mV (rms), 1 kΩ, analogue  
output  
Cassette  
Tape speed  
SP  
:
/
cassette  
(via Audio output connector)  
S-Video  
(GR-SXM50/  
SX26 only)  
: Y : 1 V (p-p , 75 , analogue  
)
: 23.39 mm/sec.  
: 11.70 mm/sec.  
output  
LP  
C : 0.30 V (p-p , 75 , analogue  
)
Recording time (max.)  
SP  
LP  
output  
: 60 minutes  
: 120 minutes  
AC Adapter  
(with EC-60 cassette)  
Power requirement : AC 110 V 240 V`,  
Operating  
temperature  
: 0°C to 40°C  
50 Hz/60 Hz  
Operating humidity : 35% to 80%  
Output  
: DC 11 V  
, 1 A  
Storage temperature : 20°C to 50°C  
Weight  
: Approx. 830 g  
(GR-SXM50/FXM404/FXM40  
only)  
Approx. 750 g (GR-SX26 only)  
Approx. 740 g (GR-FX16 only)  
: 113 mm x 117 mm x 199 mm  
(GR-SXM50/FXM404/FXM40  
only)  
Optional Accessories  
Battery Packs BN-V12U, BN-V20U, BN-V400U  
Compact S-VHS (  
Compact VHS (  
) Cassettes SE-C45/30  
) Cassettes EC-60/45/30  
Dimensions  
(W x H x D)  
Active Carrying Bag CB-V7U  
Cassette Adapter C-P7U  
108 mm x 117 mm x 199 mm  
(GR-SX26/FX16 only)  
(with the LCD monitor* closed and  
with the viewfinder fully tilted  
downward)  
Some accessories are not available in some areas.  
Please consult your nearest JVC dealer for details on  
accessories and their availability.  
* Applicable models only.  
Specifications shown are for SP mode unless otherwise indicated. E & O.E. Design and specifications subject to  
change without notice.  
28  

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