RCA ProV712 User Manual

P r o V7 1 2 / P r o V7 1 4  
USER‘S  
GUIDE  
8
C A M C O R D E R  
WARNING—FCC Regulations state that any unauthorized changes or modifica-  
tions to this equipment not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the  
user’s authority to operate this equipment.  
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the follow-  
ing two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this  
device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause  
undesired operation.  
INFORMATION  
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B  
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to  
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installa-  
tion. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and,  
if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful  
interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interfer-  
ence will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful  
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the  
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by  
one or more of the following measures:  
—Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
—Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.  
—Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the  
receiver is connected.  
—Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.  
Your Camcorder is designed to record in SP mode only. It will not perform normal  
playback for programs prerecorded in LP mode.  
This Camcorder does not have a PCM recording or playback function. PCM recordings  
made using other VCRs or audio dubbing cannot be played back on this unit.  
If you record on a tape on which PCM sound has already been recorded, the audio  
track of the new Camcorder recording may not come out if the tape is played back on  
a PCM-capable VCR. If this occurs, set the VCR’s audio monitor select switch to the  
STANDARD” position.  
NOTE  
The Camcorder’s LCD panel is a very high technology product with close to 90,000  
(ProV712)/more than 112,000 (ProV714) thin-film transistors*, giving you fine picture  
detail. Occasionally, a pixel may appear on the screen as a fixed point of blue, green,  
red, or black. Please note that this does not affect your Camcorder’s performance.  
*Specifications are subject to change without notice.  
ii  
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS  
Power-Cord Protection—Power-supply  
In addition to the careful attention devoted to  
quality standards in the manufacture of your  
video product, safety is a major factor in the  
design of every instrument. However, safety is  
your responsibility too.  
7
cords should be routed so that they are not  
likely to be walked on or pinched by items  
placed upon or against them, paying particular  
attention to cords at plugs, convenience  
receptacles, and the point where they exit from  
the video product.  
This sheet lists important information that will  
help to assure your enjoyment and proper use  
of the video product and accessory equipment.  
Please read them carefully before operating and  
using your video product.  
8
Ventilation—Slots and openings in the  
case are provided for ventilation to ensure  
reliable operation of the video product and to  
protect it from overheating. These openings  
must not be blocked or covered. The openings  
should never be blocked by placing the video  
product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar  
surface. This video product should never be  
placed near or over a radiator or heat register.  
This video product should not be placed in a  
built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack  
unless proper ventilation is provided or the  
video product manufacturer’s instructions have  
been followed.  
Installation  
1
Read and Follow Instructions—All the  
safety and operating instructions should be  
read before the video product is operated.  
Follow all operating instructions.  
2
Retain Instructions—The safety and  
operating instructions should be retained for  
future reference.  
3
Heed Warnings—Comply with all  
warnings on the video product and in the  
operating instructions.  
9
Attachments—Do not use attachments  
unless recommended by the video product  
manufacturer as they may cause hazards.  
4
Polarization—This video product is  
equipped with a polarized alternating-current  
line plug (a plug having one blade wider than  
the other). This plug will fit into the power outlet  
only one way. This is a safety feature. If you are  
unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try  
reversing the plug. If the plug still fails to fit,  
contact your electrician to replace your obsolete  
outlet. To prevent electric shock, do not use this  
polarized plug with an extension cord, recep-  
tacle, or other outlet unless the blades can be  
fully inserted without blade exposure. If you  
need an extension cord, use a polarized cord.  
10 Water and Moisture—Do not use this  
video product near water—for example, near a  
bath tub, wash bowl, kitchen sink or laundry  
tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming  
pool and the like.  
Caution: Maintain electrical safety. Powerline  
operated equipment or accessories connected  
to this unit should bear the UL listing mark or  
CSA certification mark on the accessory itself  
and should not be modified so as to defeat the  
safety features. This will help avoid any  
5
Power Sources—This video product  
potential hazard from electrical shock or fire. If  
in doubt, contact qualified service personnel.  
should be operated only from the type of power  
source indicated on the marking label. If you  
are not sure of the type of power supply to your  
home, consult your video dealer or local power  
company. For video products intended to  
operate from battery power, or other sources,  
refer to the operating instructions.  
11 Accessories—Do not place this video  
product on an unstable cart, stand, tripod,  
bracket, or table. The video product may fall,  
causing serious injury to a child or adult as well  
as serious damage to the video product. Use  
this video product only with a cart, stand, tripod,  
bracket, or table recommended by the  
manufacturer or sold with the video product.  
Any mounting of the product should follow the  
manufacturer’s instructions and use a mounting  
accessory recommended by the manufacturer.  
6
Overloading—Do not overload wall outlets  
or extension cords as this can result in a risk of  
fire or electric shock. Overloaded AC outlets,  
extension cords, frayed power cords, damaged  
or cracked wire insulation, and broken plugs are  
dangerous. They may result in a shock or fire  
hazard. Periodically examine the cord, and if its  
appearance indicates damage or deteriorated  
insulation, have it replaced by your service  
technician.  
11A A video product and cart combination  
should be moved with care. Quick stops,  
excessive force, and uneven surfaces may  
cause the video product and cart combination  
to overturn.  
(continued on next page)  
iii  
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS  
12 Outdoor Antenna Grounding—If an  
disconnect the antenna or cable system. This  
will prevent damage to the video product due  
to lightning and power line surges.  
outside antenna or cable system is connected  
to the video product, be sure the antenna or  
cable system is grounded so as to provide  
some protection against voltage surges and  
built-up static charges. Section 810 of the  
National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA No. 70  
(Section 54 of Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1)  
provides information with respect to proper  
grounding of the mast and supporting structure,  
grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna-  
discharge unit, size of grounding conductors,  
location of antenna-discharge unit, connection  
to grounding electrodes, and requirements for  
the grounding electrode. See example below.  
Service  
17 Servicing—Do not attempt to service  
this video product yourself as opening or  
removing covers may expose you to dangerous  
voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to  
qualified service personnel.  
18 Conditions Requiring Service—  
Unplug this video product from the wall outlet  
and refer servicing to qualified service  
personnel under the following conditions.  
A. When the power-supply cord or plug is  
damaged.  
Example of Antenna Grounding  
B. If liquid has been spilled, or objects have  
fallen into the video product.  
ANTENNA  
LEAD IN  
WIRE  
C. If the video product has been exposed to  
rain or water.  
GROUND CLAMP  
D. If the video product does not operate  
normally by following the operating  
instructions. Adjust only those controls that  
are covered by the operating instructions.  
Improper adjustment of other controls may  
result in damage and will often require  
extensive work by a qualified technician to  
restore the video product to its normal  
operation.  
E. If the video product has been dropped or  
the cabinet has been damaged.  
F. When the video product exhibits a distinct  
change in performance—this indicate a  
need for service.  
ANTENNA  
DISCHARGE UNIT  
(NEC SECTION 810-20)  
GROUNDING CONDUCTORS  
(NEC SECTION 810-21)  
GROUND CLAMPS  
ELECTRIC SERVICE  
POWER SERVICE GROUNDING  
EQUIPMENT  
ELECTRODE SYSTEM  
(NEC ART 250, PART H)  
13 Power Lines—An outside antenna  
system should not be located in the vicinity of  
overhead power lines, other electric light or  
power circuits, or where it can fall into such  
power lines or circuits. When installing an  
outside antenna system, extreme care should  
be taken to keep from touching or approaching  
such power lines or circuits as contact with  
them might be fatal. Installing an outdoor  
antenna can be hazardous and should be left to  
a professional antenna installer.  
19 Replacement Parts—When replace-  
ment parts are required, have the service  
technician verify that the replacements he uses  
have the same safety characteristics as the  
original parts. Use of replacements specified  
by the video product manufacturer can prevent  
fire, electric shock, or other hazards.  
Use  
14 Cleaning—Unplug this video product  
from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use  
liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a  
damp cloth for cleanig.  
20 Safety Check—Upon completion of  
any service or repairs to this video product, ask  
the service technician to perform safety checks  
recommended by the manufacturer to  
determine that the video product is in safe  
operating condition.  
15 Object and Liquid Entry—Never push  
objects of any kind into this video product  
through openings as they may touch dangerous  
voltage points or “short-out” parts that could  
result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill  
liquid of any kind on the video product.  
21 Wall or Ceiling Mounting—The  
product should be mounted to a wall or ceiling  
only as recommended by the manufacturer.  
16 Lightning—For added protection for this  
video product during a lightning storm, or when  
it is left unattended and unused for long periods  
of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and  
22 Heat—The product should be situated  
away from heat sources such as radiators, heat  
registers, stoves, or other products (including  
amplifiers) that produce heat.  
iv  
Precautions  
Dew Formation  
What is “dew formation”?  
“Dew” warning feature  
When cold water is poured into a glass, dew drops  
form on the glass. This clinging of water drops is  
called dew formation.  
If dew forms, the “DEW” indicator lights, and the power  
will automatically turn off in approximately 10 seconds.  
(See page 4)  
When dew forms in your Camcorder.  
Dew will gradually form on the head drum of your  
Camcorder and make the video tape stick to the  
head. This causes damage both to the head and  
the tape. When dew formation occurs, recording  
and playback may not function properly.  
Dew is likely to form in the following circumstances:  
when moving the Camcorder from a cold place to  
a warm place,  
when placing the Camcorder in a cold room  
which is then heated rapidly,  
when moving the Camcorder outdoors from an  
air conditioned room,  
DEW indicator  
1
2
If the “DEW” indicator lights, remove the cassette,  
leave the cassette compartment open, and wait  
several hours to allow the Camcorder to  
acclimate to the surrounding temperature.  
To use the Camcorder again, after waiting for  
several hours. Be sure that the “DEW” indicator  
has turned off.  
when placing the Camcorder in the direct path of  
air blowing from an air conditioner,  
when placing the Camcorder in a humid room.  
3
4
Do not insert a cassette while the “DEW” indicator  
is lighting; this may result in damage to the tape.  
Since dew forms gradually, it may take 10 to 15  
minutes before the dew warning feature engages.  
Note Do not disconnect the power source (battery  
pack, AC adapter, etc.) while the “DEW” indicator is  
lit. Wait until it goes out.  
How to continually maintain good recording  
If used in a variety of places, eventually your  
Camcorder may not function properly due to  
accumulation of dirt on the head drum. Please pay  
special attention to the following points when using  
your Camcorder.  
How to prevent trouble due to dew formation.  
When using the Camcorder in a place where dew  
formation is likely to occur, allow the Camcorder  
and the video tape to acclimate to the surroundings  
for about one hour.  
For example, when bringing the Camcorder  
indoors after skiing, place it in a plastic bag and  
allow it to adapt to room conditions for some period  
of time.  
1) Dew formation on the head drum.  
2) Worn video tapes:  
Using a damaged or soiled video tape may also  
soil the head drum, causing the picture to be  
blurred or nothing to be recorded on the video  
tape. Do not use such a video tape.  
3) Camcorder use in a humid or dusty place. Use  
in extremely humid or dusty places may cause  
damage to your Camcorder.  
When the video heads become clogged.  
Using the Camcorder when the video tape is dirty  
may cause the head to clog, producing noise on  
the recorded image or preventing the image from  
being recorded at all.  
Plastic bag  
Under such circumstances, contact the nearest RCA  
Customer Service or your dealer for further advice.  
1
2
Be sure to tightly seal the plastic bag containing  
the Camcorder.  
Remove the bag when the air temperature inside  
it reaches the temperature of the surroundings.  
(Video head cleaning can be done by using a  
commercially available cleaning tape. However,  
excessive use of the cleaning tape may also cause  
damage to the video heads. Please read the  
instructions accompanying the cleaning tape  
carefully, before using it.)  
v
Table of Contents  
Important Safety Information ........................................i-ii  
Important Safeguards ................................................. iii-iv  
Precautions (Dew Formation)............................................ v  
Supplied Accessories ........................................................ 2  
Important Information  
Preparation  
Camcorder Controls ....................................................... 3-4  
Warning Indicators ........................................................... 4  
Powering the Camcorder From an AC Outlet.................... 5  
Using the AC Adapter/Battery Charger ............................. 6  
Inserting and Removing the Battery Pack ......................... 7  
Using the Optional Car Battery Adapter ............................ 8  
Inserting and Removing a Cassette .................................. 9  
Handling the Lens Cap and Using the Hand Strap ......... 10  
Attaching the Shoulder Strap .......................................... 10  
Handling the LCD Monitor Screen .................................. 10  
Easy Camera Recording ................................................. 11  
Zooming .......................................................................... 11  
Tips on Recording Positions............................................ 12  
Hints For Better Shooting ................................................ 13  
Optical Picture Control .................................................... 13  
Playback .......................................................................... 14  
Volume Control ................................................................ 14  
Video Search ................................................................... 14  
Basic Operation  
Self Recording ................................................................. 15  
Auto/Manual Focus.......................................................... 16  
Backlight Compensation (BLC) and  
Useful Features for  
Camera Recording  
Gain-up (Cat’s Eye) ...................................................... 17  
Macro Shots .................................................................... 17  
Turning Off the LCD Monitor Backlight ............................ 17  
Lighting ............................................................................ 18  
Connection to a TV.......................................................... 19  
Connection to a TV Through a VCR ................................ 19  
Recording with Another VCR .......................................... 20  
Connections  
References  
Optional Accessories ....................................................... 21  
Accessory Order Form ............................................... 22-24  
Use and Care ............................................................. 25-27  
Trouble Checks................................................................ 28  
Customer Assistance and Service .................................. 29  
Limited Warranty ........................................................ 30-31  
Specifications .................................................................. 32  
Index (Alphabetical)......................................................... 33  
1
Supplied Accessories  
This section describes only the basic steps necessary to set up your camcorder to record. Refer to the  
other sections for detailed operation and feature options.  
Assistance  
The toll-free numbers are available to help you with any problem you may encounter.  
Camcorder Exchange Warranty ........ 800-283-6503  
Customer Service ..............................800-336-1900  
Accessories ....................................... 800-338-0376  
Supplied Accessories  
WARNING: NICKEL  
CADMIUM BATTERY  
MUST BE RE-  
CYCLED OR  
DISPOSED OF  
PROPERLY.  
Model ProV712 or ProV714*  
BATTERY PACK  
Stock No. BB45  
*Your camcorder may look  
slightly different from the one  
shown in this manual.  
CAUTION; Do not use this  
adapter/charger for any  
purpose other than charging  
the BB45 or BB50 battery  
pack or supplying power to  
the camcorder.  
LENS CAP  
Stock No. 233570  
AC ADAPTER/  
BATTERY CHARGER  
Stock No. 221427  
SHOULDER STRAP  
Stock No. 233784  
AUDIO/VIDEO CABLE  
Stock No. 233568  
DC OUTPUT CABLE  
Stock No. 233567  
2
Camcorder Controls  
For details on the use of each control, refer to the page number indicated in the brackets.  
Front View  
Zoom Lens  
Cassette Compartment  
Door Release [9]  
Microphone  
Cassette Compartment Door [9]  
Bottom View  
Battery Compartment  
Door [7]  
Battery Compartment  
Door Release [7]  
Tripod Socket [21]  
3
Camcorder Controls  
Rear View  
Shoulder Strap Loop  
[10]  
BLC/GAIN-UP Button [17]  
Power Zoom Wide/Telephoto  
Control Buttons [11]  
VOLume Control Buttons [14]  
RECord START/STOP Button  
(in Camera Mode) [11]  
Shoulder Strap Loop [10]  
Power Switch (CAMERA/VCR  
Select Switch) [11, 14]  
Hand Strap [10]  
AUDIO/VIDEO Jack  
Lens Cap Holder [10]  
Speaker  
Rewind/Reverse  
Search Button  
PLAY Button  
Fast Forward/Forward  
Search Button  
STOP Button  
VCR Mode  
BATTERY DEW/CLOG  
REW  
F
PLAY  
FF  
N
STOP  
REC  
RECording  
Indicator  
AUTO  
FOCUS  
LAMP OFF  
BATTERY DEW/CLOG Manual FOCUS AUTO FOCUS  
Indicator Indicator Far Button Button  
Manual FOCUS  
Near Button  
LAMP OFF  
Button  
CAMERA  
Mode  
Warning Indicators  
Indicator Status  
Description of Warning  
BATTERY DEW/CLOG  
BATTERY indicator is The battery is almost depleted. Prepare a full charged battery  
flashing.  
pack for replacement.  
Red  
Dew has formed inside the Camcorder. Wait for a few hours to  
allow dew to dry (see page v).  
DEW/CLOG indicator  
is lit.  
BATTERY DEW/CLOG  
The Camcorder automatically turns off within 10 seconds after  
this warning operation starts.  
Red  
Do not disconnect the power source from the Camcorder while  
this indicator is lit.  
BATTERY DEW/CLOG  
DEW/CLOG indicator  
is flashing.  
The Camcorder’s heads are dirty and should be cleaned (see  
page v).  
Red  
REC  
REC indicator is  
flashing.  
There is less than about one minute of tape remaining. Prepare  
to load a new cassette.  
Red  
The video cassette is defective and should be removed.  
Tape protection circuit is activated. Eject the tape from the  
Camcorder and reload it.  
BATTERY DEW/CLOG  
BATTERY and DEW/  
CLOG indicators are  
flashing in sync.  
Red  
Red  
4
Powering the Camcorder  
Powering the Camcorder from  
an AC Outlet  
1 Slide the battery compartment door release  
and open the battery compartment door as  
shown.  
4 Plug the DC cable into the DC OUT jack on  
the AC adapter.  
Insert the AC adapter’s AC plug into a wall  
outlet. The POWER indicator will light.  
Battery  
compartment  
door release  
2 Insert the DC cable connecting plate as  
shown, then push it in completely.  
To wall outlet  
Connecting plate  
DC cable  
DC OUT jack  
3 Pass the DC cable through the battery  
compartment notch. Close the door by  
pressing it firmly in the center until it clicks.  
Caution This AC adapter/battery charger is  
specially designed for use with the Camcorder, and  
should not be used as a power supply for other  
camcorders.  
Notch  
Release the lock when  
removing the connecting plate.  
Lock  
Using an Optional Plug Adapter  
An optional plug adapter may be required in some  
countries.  
AC 110-240V  
Optional AC  
Plug Adapter  
Plug the adapter/charger’s plug into the AC  
plug adapter.  
Plug the AC plug adapter into an AC outlet.  
5
Powering the Camcorder  
Using the AC Adapter/  
Battery Charger  
Precautions:  
The AC adapter/battery charger may interfere with  
reception, if used near a radio.  
Charging Time and Maximum Time for Continuous  
Recording in Camera Mode  
Max. Continuous  
Battery  
Prevent flammables, liquids, and metal objects  
from entering the adapter/charger.  
The adapter/charger is a sealed unit. Do not  
attempt to open or modify it.  
Do not damage, drop, or subject the adapter/charger  
to vibration.  
Do not leave the adapter/charger in direct sunlight.  
Avoid using the adapter/charger in humid or  
extremely hot places.  
Recording Time  
Charge Time  
Pack  
ProV712  
approx.  
1 hr. 10 min. 50 min.  
ProV714  
approx.  
45 min.  
approx.  
BB45  
BB50  
approx.  
3 hr.  
approx.  
1 hr. 35 min. 1 hr. 30 min.  
approx.  
Notes  
The use of the zoom and other functions and  
outdoor recording (see page 13) increases the  
power consumption, so that the actual recording  
time per Battery Pack may actually be 30%-50%  
less than the max. continuous recording time listed  
above.  
Charging the Battery Pack  
Disconnect the DC output cable from the  
1
AC adapter/battery charger if it is con-  
nected. Insert the AC plug into a wall outlet.  
The POWER indicator will light.  
The battery pack and charger become warm during  
charging. This is not a malfunction.  
The charging time and recording time depend on  
the ambient temperature and the condition of the  
battery pack.  
2 Align the “L” mark on the battery pack  
with the “K” mark on the charger (1).  
Next, press the other side of the battery  
pack down until it clicks into place (2). The  
CHARGE indicator lights.  
Extending Battery Pack Life  
This Camcorder uses a Ni-Cd (nickel-cadmium) type  
or Ni-MH (nickel-metal hydride) type battery pack.  
After approximately nine or ten rechargings, use  
the battery pack until its charge is fully drained and  
the camcorder stops operating before recharging.  
This will help extend the operating time of the  
battery pack.  
Recharge the battery pack right before recording.  
A battery pack stored for an extended time will  
naturally wear down, resulting in decreased  
recording time.  
1
2
To wall outlet  
POWER  
indicator  
(red)  
CHARGE indicator  
(orange)  
Do not try to recharge a fully charged battery pack  
before it has been discharged, as this will cause  
deterioration of the battery’s capacity.  
3 The CHARGE indicator will go off, when  
the battery pack is charged. Slide the  
BATTERY EJECT switch in the direction of  
arrow (1) and remove the battery pack (2).  
Then, unplug the charger’s AC plug from  
the wall outlet.  
Store the battery pack in a dry, cool place.  
Cautions  
Charge only RCA model BB45 or BB50 battery  
packs. Other types of battery packs may burst,  
causing personal injury and damage.  
2
If the power source becomes disconnected during  
recording, playback, or other operations, the tape  
will remain wrapped around the drum, causing  
possible damage to the tape. Reconnect the power  
source to the main unit immediately.  
BATTERY EJECT  
6
Powering the Camcorder  
Inserting and Removing  
the Battery Pack  
Inserting the Battery Pack  
Battery Pack Handling  
Make sure that you take enough battery packs  
with you to provide two to three times your  
estimated recording time.  
Recording time will be reduced in cold weather.  
The battery will drain in Recording Standby  
mode. Turn off the power if you will not be  
recording again soon.  
1 Slide the battery compartment door release  
on the bottom of the Camcorder in the  
direction of arrow (1), to open the battery  
compartment door (2).  
Battery  
compartment  
door release  
2
1
2 Insert the battery pack into the compart-  
Cautions  
ment and push it in completely.  
ALWAYS STOP THE TAPE AND TURN THE  
POWER OFF, BEFORE REMOVING THE  
BATTERY PACK. If you remove the battery  
pack during recording or playback, the tape will  
remain wound around the video head drum and  
may be damaged. Should the power source  
(battery or adapter) become disconnected  
during operation, reconnect it again immedi-  
ately.  
3 Close the door. Be sure to push firmly in  
Do not expose the battery compartment door to  
strong force, as it may come off.  
the center of the door until it clicks.  
Be sure to close the battery compartment door  
firmly, especially before using the Camcorder. If  
you do not, the battery pack may come out or  
Camcorder operation may fail because of the  
poor contact pressure.  
Remove the battery pack from the Camcorder  
or disconnect the Camcorder from the AC  
adapter if the Camcorder will not be used for a  
long time.  
When removing the battery pack, do not tilt the  
Camcorder so that the battery compartment  
faces down. The battery pack may fall out.  
Removing the Battery Pack  
1 Perform step 1 in the above procedure.  
2 With the Camcorder facing down, press the  
lock as shown, and remove the battery  
pack.  
ATTENTION: The RBRC  
seal on the battery used in  
your Thomson Consumer  
Electronics product indicates  
that we are participating in a  
Lock  
program to collect and  
recycle Nickel  
Ni-Cd  
Cadmium batteries thoughout the United  
States. Please call 1-800-8-BATTERY for  
informtion or contact your local recycling  
center.  
7
Powering the Camcorder  
Using the Optional SDC100 Car  
Battery Adapter  
Use the optional SDC100 car battery adapter when  
you want to power the Camcorder from the cigarette  
lighter socket of your car.  
Notes  
Perform steps 1 through 3 under “Powering the  
Camcorder from an AC Outlet” (page 5).  
Use in only DC 12 V or 24 V negative ground  
system cars. Positive-ground car batteries  
CANNOT BE USED. Check your car operation  
manual or consult a local car dealer.  
Use the SDC100 only when the car is idling or  
being driven. Otherwise, the car’s battery will be  
drained.  
Plug the DC cable into the DC OUT jack on the  
SDC100.  
Next, start the car engine and leave it idling. Then  
insert the plug into the cigarette lighter socket. (The  
POWER indicator on the SDC100 will light.)  
Cautions  
When Powering From Your Car’s Ciga-  
rette Lighter  
Before starting the car engine, the SDC100 must  
be unplugged from the cigarette lighter socket.  
Before removing either the DC plug or the cigarette  
lighter plug, the Camcorder’s Power switch should  
be set to OFF.  
Notes  
See the SDC100 operation manual for details.  
Cautions  
To Cigarette  
Lighter Socket  
DC Cable  
Car Battery Adapter  
SDC100 (Optional  
Accessory)  
DC OUTJack  
8
Cassettes  
Inserting and Removing  
a Cassette  
Inserting a Cassette  
Removing a Cassette  
1 Slide the release and open the cassette  
1 Slide the release and open the cassette  
compartment door.  
compartment door.  
The cassette holder extends automatically.  
The cassette holder extends automatically.  
Cassette compartment door release  
2 Remove the cassette.  
3
Cautions  
2
Do not try to close the cassette compartment door  
while the cassette holder is extending or retracting.  
Be careful not to get your fingers caught in the  
cassette holder.  
Do not apply force to the cassette holder except for  
pressing the “PUSH” mark to close it.  
2 Insert the tape cassette fully with the  
window facing outwards, and with the  
protect tab toward the top.  
Do not tilt the Camcorder or hold it upside down  
when a cassette is being inserted or removed. It  
may damage the tape.  
Remove the cassette if the Camcorder will not be  
used for a long time.  
If you do not press the cassette holder closed  
correctly in step 4, the Camcorder’s cassette  
protection mechanism might eject the cassette. If  
this happens, reinsert the cassette.  
Do not attempt to pick up the Camcorder by  
holding the cassette compartment door.  
• When the battery pack is almost empty, the  
cassette holder may fail to retract automatically  
when you close it in step 3. If this happens,  
replace the battery pack with a charged one. Slide  
the Power switch to the OFF position, and then  
back to the CAMERA or VCR position.  
3 Gently press the “PUSH” mark until the  
cassette holder clicks into place. The  
cassette holder retracts automatically.  
“PUSH” mark  
To Protect Recordings From Accidental Erasure  
Slide the red tab on the tape cassette in the direction  
of the arrow until the red indicator is visible. When  
you want to record on the tape again, slide the red  
tab in the reverse direction.  
4 Wait for the cassette holder to retract  
completely. Then close the compartment  
door by pressing its center until the door  
clicks into place.  
Red indicator  
Press here.  
9
Preparation  
Handling the Lens Cap and  
Using the Hand Strap  
Attaching the Shoulder Strap  
Attach the Lens Cap to the Hand Strap  
and Fit the Hand Strap to Your Hand  
Attach the Shoulder Strap  
1 Hold one end of the strap and thread it  
through the loop on the left side of the LCD  
monitor screen.  
1 Open the hand strap flap and grip strap,  
and slide the lens cap holder from the grip  
strap as shown in the illustration below.  
2 Loosen the strap in the buckle, then feed  
2 Pass the grip strap through the loop at the  
end of the lens cap cord, and replace the  
lens cap holder onto the strap.  
through the end of the strap, as shown.  
3 Pull the strap in the direction of arrow.  
3 Hold the Camcorder against your chest. Put  
your thumb close to the Power Zoom  
4, 5, 6  
Repeat steps 1 through 3 to attach the other  
end of the shoulder strap to the ring on the  
lens side.  
buttons, pull the grip strap tight until it fits  
snugly, and then close the hand strap flap.  
Caution Do not swing the Camcorder by its hand  
strap.  
Left side of the monitor  
Lens side  
screen  
1
3
Lens cap holder  
2
1
2
3
4
5
6
3
2
2
4
Insert lens cap  
holder into hole.  
Power Zoom buttons  
Buckle  
Buckle  
Handling the Lens Cap  
Lens cap  
Attach here.  
Remove the lens cap  
as shown and attach it  
to hand strap so it will  
not get in the way  
Handling the LCD Monitor  
Screen  
during shooting.  
Do not let anything press against the monitor  
screen, and do not expose it to shock, as it may  
break.  
Do not put the Camcorder on a table, or any other  
surface, with the monitor screen facing down.  
Use a soft cloth to clean the monitor screen.  
Note Always replace the lens cap on the  
Camcorder lens when the Camcorder is not in use.  
10  
Basic Operations  
Camera Recording  
Easy Camera Recording  
Zooming  
You can watch the subject on the large LCD monitor  
screen for easier, more enjoyable video-shooting.  
Zooming allows you to move visually closer to or  
farther from a subject without physically changing  
your position.  
Before you start recording, perform the operations  
described on pages 5 through 10 to prepare your  
Camcorder for recording.  
To Zoom In  
Press the Power Zoom T (telephoto) button to get a  
close-up view when you want to focus on the  
subject.  
1 Remove the lens cap and secure it to the  
hand strap. (See page 10)  
To Zoom Out  
Press the Power Zoom W (wide angle) button to get  
a wide field of view when you want to show the  
surroundings.  
2 Hold down the Power switch and slide it to  
CAMERA.  
(The picture from the lens is now displayed  
on the LCD monitor screen.)  
3 Press the REC START/STOP button to start  
recording. Make sure the REC indicator lights.  
Zooming in  
4 Press the REC START/STOP button again  
to finish recording. The Camcorder is  
engaged in Recording Standby mode.  
Make sure the REC indicator turns off.  
Wide  
angle  
Telephoto  
OFF  
VCR  
Zooming out  
3, 4  
CAMERA  
REC START/  
STOP button  
Notes  
• If the REC indicator starts to flash when you press  
the REC START/STOP button to begin recording,  
check for the following and correct the situation.  
There is less than one minute until the end of the  
tape is reached.  
• A blank white area may appear at the beginning of  
the recording if you slide the Power switch to  
CAMERA and then press REC START/STOP  
before an image has appeared on the monitor  
screen.  
FF  
N
STOP  
REC  
3, 4  
REC indicator  
LAMP OFF  
To exit Recording mode, slide the Power  
switch to OFF.  
Notes  
During Recording mode, the speaker is off.  
If the Camcorder is kept in Recording Standby  
mode for more than approximately 5 minutes, the  
power will be automatically turned off to save battery  
power and to protect the tape from being damaged.  
To continue recording after this, set the Power  
switch to OFF, and then back to CAMERA again.  
If you will not be recording again for a while, turn  
off the power by sliding the Power switch to OFF.  
This will make the battery last longer.  
11  
Camera Recording  
Tips on Recording Positions  
The rotating LCD monitor screen lets you enjoy easy  
video recording in relaxed postures.  
Basic Posture  
You can record using more natural body postures  
since you can see the subject on-screen, without  
having to hold the Camcorder against your eye.  
The LCD monitor screen also makes high-angle  
and low-angle shots easy.  
Look at the  
monitor screen  
with both eyes.  
In hand-held recording, the Camcorder has to be  
steadied to prevent image shake.  
Use a tripod for very stable recording.  
Press your  
elbows against  
your sides.  
Basic Recording Positions  
Put the fingers of your right hand through the hand  
strap, and position your right thumb close to the  
REC START/STOP and Power Zoom buttons. Place  
your left thumb in the indentation on the left side of  
the LCD monitor screen.  
Position your feet  
at a 45° angle and  
take a firm stance.  
Notes  
High Angle  
Take care not to touch the monitor screen with your  
fingers, as perspiration and dirt will smudge it.  
Unless you intend to create a special effect, keep  
the Camcorder level with the horizontal plane.  
Take care not to touch the microphone with your  
fingers when the Camcorder is recording. It will  
cause noise on the audio track.  
Kneeling  
You can record  
and still view the  
monitor screen.  
This is convenient  
when you want to  
record over a  
crowd.  
Low Angle  
When kneeling, put  
one knee on the  
ground for the best  
stability.  
Prone  
Rest on both  
elbows to  
stabilize the  
Camcorder.  
12  
Camera Recording  
More Hints For Shooting Better Videos  
Hints for Better Shooting  
Before zooming, think about how to frame the shot  
best. Stop zooming when the shot is well framed.  
When image shake is noticeable during zoomed-in  
telephoto shooting, use a tripod or press the Power  
Zoom W (wide angle) button to zoom out. Screw  
the tripod into the tripod socket on the bottom of  
the Camcorder.  
Horizontal panning (lateral movement) and tilting  
(vertical movement) should be done slowly to  
emphasize the wide expanse of a scene or the  
height of a building, and to make them easy to  
watch on playback.  
Position the subject in the center of the screen.  
Notes  
When you are using auto focus, whatever is in the  
center of the screen is kept in focus.  
Use wide-angle settings for fast-moving subjects.  
Position the subject in  
the center.  
Note It may take longer to focus when zooming  
and panning are used frequently.  
Focus manually when  
you need to position  
the subject off center  
(see page 16).  
Optical Picture Control  
Avoid backlit subjects. For the best picture, the  
light source should be located behind the  
Camcorder.  
This function automatically causes the LCD’s  
backlight to become brighter for easier viewing when  
recording outdoors.  
When the background is brighter than the subject,  
the subject often becomes too dark. If you need to  
record under such conditions, use the backlight  
compensation (BLC) function to improve the  
picture (see page 17).  
Note Outdoor recording depletes battery pack  
power more quickly than indoor recording.  
Light from behind  
Backlighting  
13  
Basic Operations  
Playback  
Playback  
Video Search  
The LCD monitor screen makes it possible to play  
back and see what you have just recorded. Nothing  
needs to be connected, allowing instant on-screen  
playback. You can hear the sound through the built-  
in speaker. You can also watch prerecorded 8 mm  
video tapes on this Camcorder.  
Searching For and Playing Back a Scene  
Near the One Currently Being Played  
Back  
1 During playback, press the FF (forward  
search) q or REW (reverse search) e  
button. The fast forward (or reverse)  
1 Hold down the Power switch and slide it to  
playback picture is displayed on-screen.  
VCR.  
2 When you find the desired scene, press the  
2 If the tape is not at the desired point, press  
the REW (or FF) button to rewind (or fast  
forward) the tape.  
PLAY button to return to normal playback.  
1
BATTERY DEW/CLOG  
REW  
PLAY  
FF  
STOP  
REC  
3 Press the PLAY (w) button.  
LAMP OFF  
2
Searching for and Playing Back a Scene  
Far from the Current One  
1 During fast forward (or rewind), press and  
hold down the FF (forward search) q or  
REW (reverse search) e button. The fast  
forward (or reverse) playback picture is  
displayed on-screen.  
OFF  
VCR  
1
CAMERA  
BATTERY DEW/CLOG  
REW  
F
PLAY  
FF  
N
STOP  
REC  
AUTO  
FOCUS  
LAMP OFF  
2 If the desired scene is still rather far from  
that point, release the Forward Search (or  
Reverse Search) button to return to Fast  
Forward (or Rewind) mode, and repeat the  
operation.  
3
2
To Stop Playback  
Press the STOP button (r).  
BATTERY DEW/CLOG  
REW  
PLAY  
FF  
STOP  
REC  
3 When you finally find the desired scene,  
press the STOP button and then the PLAY  
button to start normal playback.  
AUTO  
FOCUS  
F
N
LAF  
BATTERY DEW/CLOG  
REW  
PLAY  
FF  
STOP  
REC  
Auto Tape Rewind  
The tape is automatically rewound when playback  
reaches the end of the tape.  
AUTO  
FOCUS  
LAMP OFF  
1, 2  
Volume Control  
BATTERY DEW/CLOG  
REW  
F
PLAY  
FF  
N
STOP  
REC  
F
LAF  
While the Camcorder is in VCR mode, press the  
VOL. K or L button to increase or decrease the  
volume to your preference.  
3 - 2  
3 - 1  
VOLume  
control buttons  
Notes  
The sound is turned off during these searches.  
Some picture noise appears during these  
searches. This is not a malfunction.  
Decrease  
Increase  
14  
Useful Features for Camera Recording  
Self Recording  
The LCD monitor screen can be rotated 180°  
vertically so that the monitor screen faces the  
subject. This lets you record yourself while watching  
yourself on the monitor screen.  
Using Self Recording  
1 Rotate Camcorder’s monitor part 180°  
vertically. The screen image will be inverted  
to show a mirror image of the subject.  
Example of Recording in Self  
Recording Mode  
2 Press the Power Zoom W (Wide angle) or  
T (Telephoto) button to obtain the desired  
angle of view.  
3 Press the REC START/STOP button to  
start recording. To pause recording, press  
the REC START/STOP button.  
Recording yourself and your friends together at a  
party, while monitoring yourselves on the  
Camcorder’s screen.  
2
3
Cautions  
Do not rotate the monitor part to the self recording  
position while the Camcorder is recording or  
playing back.  
For recording in Self Recording mode, be sure to  
rotate the monitor part, NOT the lens. If you hold  
the Camcorder upside down with its lens at the  
bottom, the subject will be recorded upside down.  
Note You can enjoy playback by sliding the Power  
switch to VCR, even while the monitor part is rotated  
180°.  
Note The screen image is automatically inverted  
when the monitor rotation is between 140° and 200°.  
When the monitor screen is turned back to its normal  
position, the image returns to normal.  
15  
Useful Features for Camera Recording  
Auto/Manual Focus  
Auto Focus  
Using the Manual Focus  
The Camcorder’s Auto Focus feature is designed to  
focus on most types of subjects. In Auto Focus mode,  
the Camcorder automatically focuses on whatever is  
in the center of the scene. Therefore, always keep the  
subject in the center of the monitor screen.  
1 Press the Power Zoom T button to set the  
zoom power to the maximum.  
2 Press the FOCUS Far or FOCUS Near  
button for 1 second to set Manual Focus  
mode. Then press the buttons to focus on  
the subject.  
Notes  
If no subject is in the center of the monitor screen,  
the focus area will expand and the Camcorder will  
focus on the subject nearest the center.  
If no subject is displayed on the monitor screen,  
the Camcorder will automatically zoom out until  
some subject comes into the monitor screen.  
3 Press the Power Zoom buttons to frame the  
subject as you desire.  
1, 3  
Auto focus may not be able to focus correctly in the  
situations shown in the chart. In such situations, set  
the Camcorder to Manual Focus mode and focus  
manually.  
2
Subject is too dark.  
Fast-moving subject.  
Lack of contrast, e.g.  
snow scene.  
Near button  
Far button  
To Go Back to Auto Focus  
Press the AUTO FOCUS button to set the  
Camcorder to Auto Focus mode.  
Background is too bright.  
AUTO FOCUS button  
BATTERY DEW/CLOG  
REW  
F
PLAY  
FF  
N
STOP  
REC  
A
F
LAMP OFF  
Subject has vertical or  
horizontal stripes.  
Subject is being shot  
through a dirty or wet  
window.  
Light reflects off the  
subject.  
Two subjects at different  
distances overlap in the  
same scene.  
Notes  
While recording in Manual Focus mode, you may  
not be able to focus correctly if the subject is within  
approximately 5 feet (1.5 m) of the Camcorder. In  
such a case, shift the zoom control toward wide  
angle, and then try focusing again.  
If you focus on a subject without first setting the  
zoom power to the maximum, the subject may go  
out of focus when you zoom farther in on it later.  
If the lens is dirty or fogged, you may not be able to  
obtain correct focus.  
Subject has fine, repeated  
patterns.  
Subjects at different  
distances appear in the  
center of the scene at the  
same time.  
16  
Useful Features for Camera Recording  
Backlight Compensation (BLC)  
and Gain-up (Cat’s Eye)  
Macro Shots  
This Camcorder lets you shoot close-up images of  
small objects such as flowers and insects or make  
title frames for your videos. When you want to record  
a magnified image of a subject which is within  
approximately 5 feet (1.5 m) of the Camcorder, do  
not zoom in on the subject. Instead, zoom out all the  
way by holding down the Power Zoom W button.  
Then move the Camcorder closer to the subject until  
you obtain the desired image on the monitor screen.  
The Camcorder will automatically focus on the  
subject when the lens is set for the widest angle.  
Backlight Compensation (BLC)  
When the subject is backlit, the image will be  
darkened if it is recorded normally. The Camcorder’s  
backlight compensation (BLC) feature can improve  
the picture.  
Gain-up (Cat’s Eye)  
When you are recording in a dark or poorly  
illuminated location, the gain-up function lets you  
record a brighter picture.  
Notes  
Using BLC/GAIN-UP  
When you are recording a macro shot, be sure that  
there is sufficient illumination on the subject.  
It is recommended that you use a tripod for  
recording macro shots, to prevent camera shake.  
1 Press and hold down the BLC/GAIN-UP  
button.  
2 To turn off the BLC (or Gain-up) function,  
release the BLC/GAIN-UP button.  
BLC/GAIN-UP button  
Tripod  
Power Zoom buttons  
Turning Off the LCD Monitor  
Backlight  
When lighting is  
When lighting is  
adequate, the BLC/  
GAIN-UP button works  
as “BLC” while holding  
it down.  
insufficient, the BLC/  
GAIN-UP button works  
as “GAIN-UP” while  
holding it down.  
This Camcorder’s LCD monitor screen uses a  
fluorescent lamp for backlighting. In order to reduce  
battery consumption, you can turn off the lamp when  
backlighting is not necessary during camera  
recording (e.g. when you are shooting at fixed angle  
when using a tripod).  
During camera recording, hold down the LAMP OFF  
button for four seconds to turn off the lamp.  
To turn it on again, press the REC START/STOP  
button, or Power zoom button.  
Power zoom button  
REC START/STOP  
button  
Note There is more picture noise in the Gain-up  
mode.  
LAMP OFF button  
17  
Lighting  
500 to 100,000 lux of light is best for clear, good-  
quality recordings. Though recording is possible with  
less light, insufficient lighting can result in poor  
picture quality.  
Brightness  
(Lux)  
Situation (Lux)  
Blue sky  
100,000  
Clear day at noon (100,000)  
Clear day at 10 am (65,000)  
Clear day at 3 pm (35,000)  
Cloudy day at noon (32,000)  
Cloudy day at 10 am (25,000)  
Reference  
10,000  
Lighting is not only one of the most important areas  
in producing home videos, but also one of the most  
overlooked. Good lighting can often mean the  
difference between a great picture and a poor one.  
Lighting is also essential for correct white balance.  
Cloudy day, one hour after sunrise (2,000)  
Clear day, one hour before sunset (1,000)  
Fluorescent light near window (1,000)  
1,000  
100  
Factory floor (700-800)  
Sales counter in department store (500-700)  
Bowling alley (500)  
In most outdoor, daytime scenes, natural lighting is  
adequate for home videos. Indoors, the situation  
becomes more complicated. Artificial lighting is  
required, and halogen lamps provide the most  
natural artificial light while maintaining a constant  
color temperature over a long period.  
Library (400-500)  
Office with fluorescent lighting (400-500)  
Fluorescent desk lamp (400)  
Flashlight at 3 ft (1 m) (250)  
Shop stairway (100)  
During intermission at movie theater (15-35)  
Cigarette lighter at 1 ft (30 cm) (15-20)  
Candles on birthday cake at 8 inches (20 cm)  
(10-15)  
Good lighting is difficult to achieve. There are many  
problems waiting to catch the unwary. Simply  
mounting one light or several lights on either side of  
the Camcorder will only make your subject look flat  
and two-dimensional. To make a subject more  
interesting, use lighting to model your subject and to  
add or create emphasis in a scene.  
10  
Candlelight  
Color Tem-  
perature  
(degrees  
Kelvin)  
White  
Color Balance  
Range  
Notes  
Situation  
The figures in the charts are approximations.  
The auto white balance operates automatically  
within the range of “AUTO” shown in the chart.  
However, it will satisfactorily operate from 2,500 K  
up to 8,000 K, although the picture may take on a  
red or blue tint.  
10,000  
9,000  
8,000  
7,000  
6,500  
6,000  
5,500  
5,000  
4,500  
3,500  
Clear day  
Blue  
Cloudy day  
Rainy day  
Daylight fluorescent light  
Camera flashbulb  
A
U
Blue photolamp  
White  
White fluorescent light  
T
Off-white fluorescent light  
Tungsten photolamp  
O
3,200  
2,800  
Halogen lamp  
Tungsten lamp  
lodine lamp  
Yellow  
Red  
2,500  
2,000  
Acetylene lamp  
Kerosene lamp  
Candlelight  
18  
Connections for Playback on a TV  
Although you can enjoy playback on the  
Camcorder’s LCD monitor screen, you can also  
watch tape playback on your TV screen.  
Connection to a TV through  
a VCR  
Connection to a TV  
1 Connect the Camcorder to your TV with the  
supplied audio/video cable, as shown.  
1 Connect the Camcorder to your VCR with  
the supplied audio/video cable, as shown.  
2 Set the TV to its “AV” or “VIDEO” channel.  
(See the operation manual for your TV.)  
2 Set the VCR to its “LINE” or “VIDEO” input  
channel. Operate the TV as you normally  
do to see the signal from the VCR. (See  
the operation manuals for your TV and  
VCR.)  
TV  
Yellow: To VIDEO IN jack  
White: To AUDIO IN (L) jack  
TV  
Yellow: To VIDEO IN jack  
White: To AUDIO IN (L) jack  
VCR  
AUDIO/VIDEO jack  
Caution Make sure that the Camcorder, TV and  
other equipment to be connected have been turned  
AUDIO/VIDEO jack  
off before you make connections. Making connections  
with any of the components left turned on may cause  
picture noise or malfunction.  
Automatic Switching of the Audio/Video  
Jack’s Input/Output Mode  
The AUDIO/VIDEO jack mode is normally set to  
input. It automatically switches to output when the  
Camcorder is playing back.  
Note When the Camcorder is connected to a TV for  
playback, the picture on the TV screen may flicker if the  
volume on the Camcorder is set to maximum. Should  
this occur, turn the volume down (see page 14).  
19  
Recording with Another VCR  
Your Camcorder can be used as the playback  
source deck for dubbing and editing a tape with  
another VCR.  
Recording with Another VCR  
1 On the Camcorder, play back the tape to be  
edited, and locate the beginning and end of  
the sequence you wish to cut. Then rewind  
the tape to the beginning of the portion that  
you wish to keep.  
Connect the Camcorder to a VCR with the supplied  
audio/video cable, as shown.  
Playback  
Set the Power  
switch to VCR.  
2 Load a blank tape cassette into the  
recording VCR.  
OFF  
VCR  
3 Press the Camcorder’s PLAY button (J)  
and the VCR’s REC (Record) button at the  
same time.  
CAMERA  
4 Press the VCR’s Pause/Still button to  
pause recording when the source tape  
reaches the beginning of the sequence to  
be cut.  
5 Press the VCR’s Pause/Still (or REC)  
button to resume recording when the  
source tape reaches the end of the  
sequence to be cut.  
To AUDIO/  
VIDEO jack  
To Stop Dubbing  
Press the Stop buttons on the Camcorder (r) and  
the VCR.  
BATTERY DEW/CLOG  
REW  
F
PLAY  
FF  
N
STOP  
REC  
AUTO  
FOCUS  
LAF  
Recording  
VCR  
Notes  
Make sure that you press the Pause/Still button at  
exactly the right moments in steps 4 and 5 above.  
Otherwise, some of the transitions between edited  
sequences may be slightly off.  
Yellow: To VIDEO IN jack  
White: To AUDIO IN (L) jack  
The picture may be disturbed during video search  
picture playback. This does not imply a defect in  
the Camcorder.  
Audio/video cable  
(supplied accessory)  
Note This Camcorder lets you monitor the source  
program on the built-in LCD monitor screen without  
having to connect it to an external TV or video  
monitor.  
20  
Optional Accessories  
Optional Accessories  
Using the Optional AC088 Tripod  
We invite you to take a look at some great ideas for  
sparking creativity and adding to the fun of using  
your Camcorder. These accessories are designed to  
make the process of recording and watching your  
videos more enjoyable.  
Mounting the Camcorder on a tripod, such as  
AC088, will keep the camcorder steady and  
produce excellent video results.  
This tripod’s fluid-effect head provides smooth  
camera pan and tilt. The quick-release mount  
makes it easy to attach or remove the Camcorder.  
The grooved, tubular 3-section leg design folds  
down to 26 inches when not in use. Rubber feet  
allow for sure footing.  
To order accessories, contact your local Dealer. If a  
dealer is not nearby, all accessories are available  
through toll-free ordering or by using the order form  
on page 23.  
BB45 and BB50 Battery Packs  
BB45  
BB50  
These rechargeable batteries are designed  
specifically for long life. The BB45 is the same  
battery that came packed with your camcorder. The  
BB50 is an extended battery pack. Both can be  
recharged with the adapter/charger that came with  
your Camcorder.  
SUN102 Sun Hood  
This sun hood helps protect the lens from strong  
sunlight when recording on a bright sunny day.  
Cautions: Before using a tripod, make sure it is  
stable enough to hold the Camcoder without falling  
over. Do not transport the Camcorder attached to  
the tripod.  
SDC100 Car Battery Adapter  
When attaching your Camcorder to a tripod, be  
careful not to force the tripod screw into the  
Camcorder’s tripod mounting hold.  
This car battery adapter enables you to operate  
your Camcorder from your car, truck, or RV by  
plugging the car cord directly into the vehicle’s  
cigarette lighter socket. The SDC100 is designed  
specifically to convert power from only a 12-volt or a  
24-volt negative ground car battery to a 4.5-volt  
output.  
The tripod screw should not protrude into the  
camcorder more than approximately three-eighth  
(3/8) inch. Forcing the screw could damage the  
mounting hole on the bottom of the camcorder.  
Caution: Do not use any other car battery  
adapter with with Camcorder.  
21  
Accessory Order Form  
To order accessories, contact your local Dealer.  
If a dealer is not nearby, you can also follow the directions below to order by  
telephone or direct-by-mail.  
United States and Canada Orders  
To place your order by phone, have your Visa, MasterCard, or Discover card  
ready and call the toll-free number listed below between 8AM and 8PM (EST)  
Monday through Friday or between 9AM and 5PM (EST) Saturday.  
Use this number only to place an order for accessory items listed on this  
order form.  
1-800–338–0376  
To place your order by mail, detach and mail the completed order form with credit  
card information, money order, or check in U.S. currency (made payable to  
Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.) to the following address:  
Video Accessories  
PO Box 8419  
Ronks, PA 17573  
22  
Accessory Order Form  
Order Form for Camcorder Model ProV712/ProV714  
Description  
Part No.  
AC088  
BB45  
Price  
Qty.  
Total  
Tripod  
$ 39.95  
$ 59.95  
$ 99.95  
$119.00  
$ 69.95  
$110.35  
$ 12.40  
$ 10.20  
Rechargeable Battery (Standard Type)  
Rechargeable Battery (Extended Type)  
Car Battery Adapter  
Sun Hood  
BB50  
SDC100  
SUN102  
221427  
233567  
233568  
233570  
233784  
AC Adapter/Battery Charger  
DC Output Cable  
Audio/Video Cable  
Lens Cap  
$
1.50  
Shoulder Strap  
$ 10.20  
Prices are subject to change without notice.  
Total Merchandise .............................................................. $  
Sales Tax ............................................................................ $  
We are required by law to collect the appropri-  
ate sales tax for each individual state, county,  
and locality to which the merchandise is being  
sent.  
Shipping and Handling ....................................................... $  
5.00  
Total Amount Enclosed .................................................... $  
Use VISA, MasterCard, or Discover.  
Money order or check must be in U.S.  
currency only. No COD.  
Please complete other side also  
23  
Accessory Order Form  
Charge your order on your VISA,  
MasterCard, or Discover Card by  
filling in below  
USE YOUR CREDIT CARD  
®
IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number  
from your VISA card  
My card expires:  
s
r
r
TM  
IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number  
from your MasterCard  
Copy Number  
above your  
name on  
My card  
expires:  
MasterCard  
IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number  
from your Discover Card  
My card expires:  
AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE  
Prices are subject to change without notice.  
Print or type your name and  
address clearly. This will be  
your mailing label.  
A complete and correct  
order will save you days  
of waiting.  
Name:  
Street:  
Apt:  
City:  
State:  
Zip:  
Please make sure that both sides of this form  
have been filled out completely.  
• Allow 4 weeks for delivery.  
• All accessories are subject to availability.  
24  
Use and Care  
Precautions  
After operation, remove the battery pack from  
Watch the temperature and humidity.  
the unit.  
You can use your Camcorder at 0°C to +40°C  
(32°F to 104°F), and at 30% to 80% relative  
humidity. Do not store the unit in an unventilated  
car in the summer, in direct sunlight, or near strong  
heat sources; this can result in severe damage to  
the unit’s casing and circuitry. Be careful when  
handling the unit after it has been left in a hot  
place, such as the ones described above.  
Do not aim the lens at the sun.  
Do not allow direct sunlight to strike the Camcorder  
lens or LCD panel, whether recording is in  
progress or not, as it may damage the CCD sensor  
or LCD panel surface. Be particularly careful when  
recording outside.  
When shooting in dark places, avoid sudden  
brightly lit objects or light sources, such as the sun.  
Otherwise, the image may white out. Should this  
happen, point the camera in a different direction  
until the picture returns to normal.  
Avoid magnetic sources.  
Using the Camcorder near strong fluorescent  
lights, motors, televisions, or other magnetic  
sources may adversely affect recorded images.  
Avoid situations where water, sand, dust or  
other foreign matter could get on or inside the  
Camcorder. Such substances could cause  
malfunctions.  
Do not use your Camcorder in areas with  
excessive smoke or steam.  
Do not leave your Camcorder in areas with  
excessive dust or moisture.  
Such environments can cause mildew to form on this  
unit’s lenses. Be sure to provide ample ventilation.  
Remember to remove the cassette tape, turn off  
the power, and remove the battery pack when  
the Camcorder is not in use.  
Using the Camcorder near a broadcasting  
station or other powerful transmission source  
may cause buzzing or picture deterioration.  
Some small, portable tripods may be difficult to  
attach and may not be sturdy enough to  
support your Camcorder. Be sure to use only a  
strong, stable tripod.  
Avoid shocks and dropping.  
Do not drop or otherwise subject the Camcorder to  
hard shocks or strong vibrations. Bumping or  
striking the unit during recording will generate  
noise in the recorded image.  
When you use the Camcorder at a ski resort or  
in some other cold environment, the LCD  
monitor screen may get cold giving you an  
image which is less bright than normal for a  
while after it is turned on. This is not a malfunc-  
tion. If this occurs, put the Camcorder in a  
warmer location for some time before use. To  
prevent excessive cooling, wrap the Camcorder  
in a thick cloth (a blanket, etc.).  
25  
Use and Care  
Battery Packs  
Battery Pack Consumption  
How to Use the Battery Pack Cover  
Recording with many starts and stops, frequent  
zooming, and recording in low temperatures will  
somewhat shorten actual recording time.  
Accordingly, be sure to turn off the power when not  
recording. Use of an auxiliary battery pack is  
recommended to prevent undesirable interruptions  
in your recording.  
After the battery pack is charged, put the cover on  
it so that the “CHARGE” mark printed on the label  
is seen through the window, as shown.  
CHARGE  
Do not use an insufficiently charged or weak  
battery pack. Such battery packs may cause the  
power to automatically stop during Camcorder  
operation to protect both the battery pack and the  
unit.  
Window  
Battery  
pack  
Cover  
Label  
Battery power is consumed even when the  
Camcorder’s power is turned off. If the Camcorder  
will not be used, remove the battery pack. (See  
page 7.)  
Before the battery pack is charged, put the cover  
upside down so that only the battery pack casing is  
seen through the window.  
Temperature During Charging  
Note Use only the RCA BB45 or BB50 battery  
packs. They are designed specifically for use with this  
Camcorder.  
The Ni-Cd (nickel-cadmium) type BB45 battery  
pack can be charged at temperatures of 0°C to  
40°C (32°F to 104°F). To utilize the battery’s full  
capacity, it is recommended that charging take  
place at temperatures of 10°C to 35°C (50°F to  
95°F).  
The Ni-MH (nickel-metal hydride) type BB50  
battery pack can be charged at temperatures of  
10°C to 30°C (50°F to 86°F).  
Battery Pack Life  
The battery pack has a limited service life. If the  
period of use becomes noticeably shorter with a  
normal charge, the battery pack is at the end of its  
service life. Replace it with a new battery pack.  
Caution For safety, keep the battery pack in its  
protective cover when it is not being used. If the  
metal parts of the battery pack come in contact with  
other metal items, there is a danger that a short  
circuit may occur.  
Extending Battery Pack Life  
This Camcorder uses a Ni-Cd (nickel-cadmium) type  
or Ni-MH (nickel-metal hydride) type battery pack.  
We recommend that you use the battery pack until  
its charge is fully drained and the Camcorder is  
inoperable before recharging the pack.  
Recharge the battery pack right before recording.  
A battery pack stored for an extended time will  
naturally wear down, resulting in decreased  
recording time.  
Do not try to recharge a fully charged battery pack  
before it has been discharged, as this will cause  
deterioration of the battery’s capacity.  
Store the battery pack in a dry, cool place.  
26  
Use and Care  
Video Cassette Tapes  
Using Your Camcorder Abroad  
To Protect Recordings From Erasure  
Television system signals and electrical system  
voltages and frequencies vary substantially from  
country to country. When you are abroad, check  
the sections below before using the AC adapter or  
connecting the Camcorder to a TV.  
When a previously recorded cassette is used again  
for recording, the previously recorded material is  
erased. To protect a recording from accidental  
erasure, slide the tab on the cassette to cover the  
hole. (A red mark will be exposed.)  
To record, slide the tab to open the hole.  
AC Adapter/Battery Charger  
(Supplied Accessory)  
The supplied AC adapter is compatible with 50 Hz  
and 60 Hz electrical systems in the range of 100 V  
to 240 V AC.  
Notes  
Do not insert anything into the erasure-protection  
hole in the cassette.  
Television Signal Systems  
Use only those tapes with the 8 mark.  
This unit is designed to operate with MP tapes,  
so playing back ME tapes will result in “noisy”  
pictures. Use MP-type tapes whenever  
possible.  
Do not put anything into the holes on the bottom of  
the cassette.  
Do not store or place your video tapes in direct  
sunlight, near heaters, or in places with excessive  
moisture or dust.  
Do not keep video tapes near magnetic objects.  
They may erase the recording.  
Do not drop or subject the tapes to excessive shocks.  
Uneven tape winding will damage the tape. If the  
tape is not properly wound, reinsert it in the  
Camcorder and rewind the tape.  
In any country, you can always watch the video  
picture by using the LCD monitor screen.  
However, if you want to watch the picture on a TV  
screen, the TV must be NTSC-M system  
compatible. NTSC-M is used in the following  
areas:  
The Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Myanmar  
(previously Burma), Canada, Chile, Colombia,  
Costa Rica, Cuba, The Dominican Republic,  
Ecuador, El Salvador, Greenland, Guam,  
Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Japan,  
South Korea, Mexico, The Netherland Antilles,  
Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, The Philippines,  
Puerto Rico, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, Surinam, Taiwan,  
Trinidad, the U.S.A., Venezuela, southern part of  
Vietnam, and the Virgin Islands.  
Store the cassettes in their cases and stand them  
on edge.  
Care  
Cleaning and Maintenance  
Many plastic parts are used in the Camcorder  
casing. Do not use thinners, benzenes or other  
strong chemical cleaners. These may cause  
discoloration and damage to the casing.  
Clean the casing with a soft, dry cloth. If the casing  
is particularly dirty, wipe it with a tightly wrung cloth  
dampened with a diluted, neutral detergent. Then  
wipe it again with a soft, dry cloth.  
Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe finger marks and other  
soiling off the LCD monitor screen and lens protector.  
If the lens needs cleaning, first remove the lens  
cap and then clean the lens with a soft, dry cloth,  
or compressed air and lens papers designed for  
photographic lenses.  
27  
Trouble Checks  
Troubles sometimes are caused by simple “faults” that you can easily correct without the help of a service  
technician by first checking a few basic remedies.  
Before you call or take your camcorder to an Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter, look below for the type  
of trouble you are experiencing. Then perform the simple checks and adjustments listed for that trouble.  
If service should be necessary, the warranty information lists what your warranty covers and explains how to  
get service.  
SYMPTOM  
POSSIBLE CAUSE  
SUGGESTED SOLUTION  
Power  
No power  
Battery pack is not charged.  
Charge battery pack sufficiently (p. 6).  
Power source is not properly  
connected.  
Connect power source properly  
(pp. 5,7,8).  
Power goes off soon Depleted battery pack  
Use a fully charged battery pack (p. 7).  
Wait until dew dries (pp. v, 4).  
after coming on.  
Dew in Camcorder  
Record-  
ing  
Power on but no  
image on monitor.  
Camcorder is in VCR mode.  
Set Power switch to CAMERA (p. 11).  
Cannot record.  
Erasure protection hole is  
covered.  
Slide red projection to open hole (p. 9).  
Clean lens.  
Fuzzy picture  
Dust or other foreign matter  
on lens.  
Not properly focused.  
Adjust focus manually or set Camcorder  
to Auto Focus mode (p. 16).  
Playback No image appears  
on connected TV’s  
screen.  
Improperly connected to TV.  
Reconnect properly (p. 19).  
TV’s channel or TV’s VIDEO  
channel not selected  
Set TV to its VIDEO input channel  
(p. 19).  
Camcorder does not Dirty video heads  
Call for Customer Service.  
playback in color on  
connected TV.  
Video noise in  
image.  
Worn video heads  
Old or worn tape  
Call for Customer Service.  
Use a new tape cassette (p. 9).  
Cassette is not right side up,  
or is backwards.  
Check cassette positioning and reinsert  
(p. 9).  
Cassette cannot be inserted.  
Cassette won’t eject.  
Camcorder is in Recording  
mode.  
Press REC START/STOP (or STOP)  
button to stop tape, and try again (p. 11).  
Tape already completely  
wound.  
Rewind tape to desired point (p. 14).  
No tape movement in Fast  
Forward mode.  
Tape already completely  
rewound.  
Fast forward tape to desired point (p. 14).  
No tape movement in Rewind  
mode.  
Tape protection circuit is  
activated.  
Eject the tape from the Camcorder and  
reload it.  
BATTERY DEW/CLOG  
Red  
Red  
BATTERY and DEW/CLOG  
indicators are flashing in sync.  
Note This unit is equipped with a microprocessor. Its performance could be adversely affected by external  
electrical noise or interference. If this should happen, turn off the power and disconnect the unit from any  
power sources. Then reconnect the power sources (to resume operation).  
28  
Customer Assistance and Service  
Thomson provides a toll-free telephone number  
to help you with any problems you may encoun-  
ter with your camcorder.  
You can reach Thomson at the following  
number:  
Many can be diagnosed over the phone, and if  
necessary, a replacement unit can be shipped to  
you. Please have your camcorder model/serial  
number and date of purchase ready when you  
call. If your unit is out of warranty, we will quote  
the cost of an exchange unit to you.  
800–283–6503  
(Toll free inside U.S.A.)  
Our toll-free Camcorder number operates  
from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., CST  
Monday–Friday  
for U.S. customers only  
Returning equipment to Thomson for repair or exchange  
If we are unable to resolve your problem over the  
phone, we will gladly service your unit or  
exchange it for a new or refurbished camcorder.  
Refer to the limited warranty on the reverse side  
to learn about your specific rights and responsi-  
bilities.  
Always consult Thomson and get a Return  
Authorization number before returning anything!  
Obtain a Return Authorization (RA) number from  
the telephone representative before returning  
your equipment to avoid delays, accounting  
errors, or even loss of your unit.  
Important information to customers who ship defective equipment to  
Thomson Consumer Electronics  
The Thomson representative who authorized the  
return of your equipment will give you an RA  
number over the phone. They will also provide  
you with instructions on where and how to return  
your camcorder. Write the number in large, clear  
characters on the outside of the box. To avoid  
confusion and misunderstandings, shipments  
without an RA number clearly visible on the  
outside of the box will be returned to you at your  
expense.  
For your protection, insure all shipments for full  
replacement value and use a reliable shipper.  
Thomson assumes no responsibility for warranty  
shipments from the customer to the factory if not  
shipped in the manner prescribed by Thomson.  
Include a brief note describing the problem and  
any conversations about the problem you have  
had with Thomson personnel. Include your name,  
address, and model/serial number of your  
camcorder. These numbers are located on the  
bottom of your unit. If your camcorder is within  
the warranty period, please provide a copy of the  
bill of sale to verify purchase date. Use the  
original box and packing material to protect the  
equipment from damage in shipment.  
29  
Limited Warranty  
What your warranty covers:  
Any defect in materials or workmanship.  
If you are not located near an exchange  
point:  
1. Provide your Discover, MasterCard or Visa  
account number and expiration date to our  
phone representative. This is for security  
purposes. If we receive your unit including all  
accessories within 14 days from the date you  
were provided a Return Authorization number,  
only items not covered by warranty will be  
charged to your account. IF YOUR UNIT  
INCLUDING ALL ACCESSORIES IS NOT  
RECEIVED WITHIN 14 DAYS, THE SUG-  
GESTED RETAIL VALUE OF THE  
For how long after your purchase:  
90 days for labor charges.  
One year for parts.  
What we will do:  
During the initial 90 days  
Exchange your camcorder with a new or, at our  
option, a refurbished unit or at your option,  
repair your camcorder at no cost to you.  
After the 90 days and within one year  
Exchange your camcorder with a new or, at our  
option, a refurbished unit or at your option,  
repair your camcorder. Parts will be provided at  
no charge, but you will be responsible for the  
cost of labor required for the repair.  
CAMCORDER AND/OR ACCESSORIES  
WILL BE CHARGED TO YOUR CREDIT  
CARD. This amount will be credited if the unit  
is subsequently received.  
2. We will send you a replacement unit next  
business day delivery.  
How you get service:  
3. You will receive an invoice packed with the  
replacement product, but will not be charged  
for the unit portion of the invoice amount if we  
receive your unit including all accessories  
within 14 days from the date you were  
provided the RA number. Any labor and parts  
charges not covered by our warranty will be  
included and charged against your account.  
4. Ship the unit back to us along with all  
accessories included with your camcorder  
using the replacement unit’s carton. Shipping  
instructions will be included in the carton  
along with your RA number, which will allow  
you to easily ship the unit back to us. Make  
sure you insure your shipment in case of  
damage or loss.  
Call 1-800-283-6503 and have your unit’s date  
of purchase and model/serial number ready.  
The model/serial number information is on the  
bottom of your camcorder.  
A representative will troubleshoot your problem  
over the phone. If the representative deter-  
mines that you should receive a replacement  
unit, you will be provided with a Return  
Authorization (RA) number and the location of a  
nearby exchange point if one exists. No returns  
will be accepted without the RA number.  
To receive a replacement camcorder before  
you return yours:  
If you are located near an exchange point:  
1. We will send a replacement unit to the  
exchange point next business day delivery.  
2. The exchange location will notify you of its  
arrival.  
3. Take your unit, including all accessories, and  
your bill of sale which validates date of  
purchase to the exchange location and you  
will be provided the new or refurbished unit.  
4. If the repairs were covered by your warranty,  
you will not be billed.  
Include with the shipment:  
A copy of your dated bill of sale to verify  
your unit's warranty eligibility.  
A brief note describing your camcorder  
problem.  
Your name, address, and phone number.  
Return transportation, storage, and handling  
costs and insurance are your sole responsibility.  
We accept no liability in case of damage or loss.  
30  
Limited Warranty  
To receive a replacement unit after we have  
received your unit:  
1. Write the RA number on the outside of the  
carton used to return the unit.  
What your warranty does not cover:  
Adjustment of customer controls.  
Damage from misuse or neglect.  
A unit that has been modified or incorporated  
into other products or is used for institutional or  
other commercial purposes.  
Make sure you insure your shipment in  
case of damage or loss.  
2. Carefully pack the unit along with all accesso-  
ries included with your camcorder, using the  
original box and packing material if possible.  
3. Include with the shipment:  
Battery for clock and other features.  
Cleaning of video/audio heads.  
Camcorders purchased or serviced outside the  
U.S.A.  
A copy of your dated bill of sale to verify  
Return transportation, storage and handling  
costs of your unit, including insurance for loss  
or damage.  
Acts of God, such as but not limited to lightning  
damage.  
your unit’s warranty eligibility.  
A brief note describing your camcorder  
problem.  
Your name, address, and phone number.  
Return transportation, storage, and handling  
costs, and insurance are your responsibility. We  
accept no liability in case of damage or loss.  
4. Include a cashier’s check or money order for  
payment if there are any out of warranty labor  
or parts charges which were indicated by the  
representative, and you elected not to use  
your credit card.  
Product Registration:  
Please complete and mail the Product Registra-  
tion Card packed with your camcorder. It will  
make it easier to contact you should it ever be  
necessary. The return of the card is not required  
for warranty coverage.  
How State Law relates to warranty:  
This warranty gives you specific legal rights and  
you may have other rights that vary from state  
to state.  
5. Upon receipt of your product, a new or  
refurbished unit will be shipped to you next day  
delivery.  
To have your Camcorder repaired by an  
Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter:  
Check with your dealer or call 1-800-336-1900  
for the Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter  
nearest you.  
If you purchased your Camcorder outside the  
United States:  
Contact your dealer for warranty information.  
Take your unit to the Authorized RCA  
Camcorder Servicenter of your choice.  
Show the Authorized RCA Camcorder  
Servicenter representative your sales receipt or  
other, evidence of purchase.  
Pick up your camcorder when repairs are  
complete.  
31  
Specifications  
Specifications  
Signal System: NTSC standard  
Recording System: 2 rotary heads, helical scanning system  
Cassette: 8 mm video tape, MP type  
Recording/Playback Time: 120 minutes (P6-120)  
Tape Speed: 14.345 mm/second  
Pickup Device: 1/4" (6.4mm, effective size: 4.5 mm) CCD image sensor with approx.  
270,000 pixels including optical black  
Lens: 12 × power zoom lens (F1.8, f=4.2-50.4 mm) and full-range auto focus  
Lens Filter Diameter: 37 mm  
Monitor: ProV712: 3" (7.5 cm), ProV714: 4" (10 cm)—full-color LCD screen (TFT  
active matrix)  
Microphone: Electret monaural microphone  
Power Requirement: DC 3.6 V  
Power Consumption: ProV712: 5.6 W, ProV714: 5.8 W (during indoor camera recording in Full  
Auto mode with zoom motor off)  
Operating Temperature: 0°C to +40°C (32°F to 104°F)  
Operating Humidity: 30% to 80%  
Storage Temperature: –20°C to +60°C (–4°F to 140°F)  
13  
13  
5
Dimensions (approx.): 7  
/
32  
" (W) × 4  
/
16  
" (H) × 3  
/
8
" (D)  
[188 mm (W) × 122 mm (H) × 92 mm (D)]  
Weight (approx.): ProV712: 1.63 Ibs (740 g), ProV714: 1.68 lbs (760 g)  
(without battery pack, video cassette, and lens cap)  
AC Adapter/Battery Charger  
Power Requirement: AC 100-240 V, 50/60 Hz  
DC Output: 4.5 V  
Power Consumption: 27 W  
31  
5
Dimensions (approx.): 2  
/
32  
" (W) × 2" (H) × 5  
/
" (D)  
16  
[75 mm (W) × 51 mm (H) × 135 mm (D)]  
Weight (approx.): 0.71 Ibs (320 g)  
32  
Index  
Lens Cap...................................................... 10  
Accessories, Included .......................... 2,22-24  
Accessories, Optional ............................. 21-24  
Accessory, Order Form ........................... 22-24  
Adapter/Charger, Using ................................. 6  
Assistance ............................................... i,2,29  
Attaching the Lens Cap and Hand Strap ..... 10  
Attaching the Shoulder Strap ....................... 10  
AUDIO/VIDEO Jack ............................. 4,19-20  
Auto Focus ................................................... 16  
Auto Tape Rewind ........................................ 14  
Backlight Compensation .............................. 17  
Backlight, Monitor......................................... 17  
Basic Operations ..................................... 11-14  
Battery Compartment ............................... 3,5,7  
Battery Indicator ............................................. 4  
Battery Pack ........................................... 6,7,26  
Battery Pack, Use and Care......................... 26  
Battery Pack, Using to Power the  
Camcorder............................................... 7  
BLC/GAIN-UP Button ................................ 4,17  
Camcorder Controls .................................... 3-4  
CAMERA/OFF/VCR Switch ................. 4,11,14  
Car Battery Adapter, Using ............................ 8  
Cassette Compartment Door ...................... 3,9  
Cassette Compartment Door Release ........ 3,9  
Cassette, Inserting and Removing ................. 9  
Cassette Tapes ......................................... 9,27  
Cautions ....................................................... i-v  
Charging the Battery Pack ............................. 6  
Checks, Trouble ............................................ 28  
Connections, Playback on a TV ................... 19  
Connetions, Playback Through a VCR ......... 19  
Connections, Recording With Another  
VCR ....................................................... 20  
Contents ......................................................... 1  
Copying Tapes.............................................. 20  
Customer Assistance .............................. i,2,29  
Customer Assistance and Service ............... 29  
Design Specifications ................................... 32  
Dew Warning ................................................ v,4  
DEW/CLOG Indicator ................................... v,4  
Dubbing ........................................................ 20  
FF (Fast Forward) Button .......................... 4,14  
FOCUS Buttons ........................................ 4,16  
Focus, Auto and Manual .............................. 16  
Hand Strap ................................................ 4,10  
Important Safeguards ................................ iii-iv  
Important Safety Information........................ i,ii,  
Included Accessories ........................... 2,22-24  
Indicators, Warning ........................................ 4  
Inserting and Removing a Cassette ............... 9  
LAMP OFF Button ..................................... 4,17  
LCD Monitor Backlight ............................ 12,17  
LCD Monitor Screen .................................... 17  
Lens Cap Holder ....................................... 4,10  
Lighting Requirements ................................. 18  
Limited Warranty ..................................... 30-31  
Macro Shots ................................................. 17  
Manual Focus............................................... 16  
Microphone .................................................... 3  
Monitor Screen, Handling ............................ 10  
Optional Accessories ................................... 21  
Order Form, Accessory ........................... 22-24  
PLAY Button ......................................... 4,14,20  
Playback....................................................... 14  
Playback Connections.................................. 19  
Power Zoom Buttons ................................. 4,11  
Powering the Camcorder ............................ 5-8  
Precautions, Use and Care ................. v, 25-27  
Problem Solving ........................................... 28  
Product Registration ....................................... i  
REC Indicator............................................... 11  
RECord START/STOP Button .............. 4,11,15  
Recording ...................................... 11-13,15-18  
RECording Indicator ....................................... 4  
Recording Tips ........................................ 12-13  
Recording With Another VCR....................... 20  
Registration Card ............................................ i  
REWind Button ......................................... 4,14  
Safety Tab ................................................. 9,27  
Self Recording ............................................. 15  
Shoulder Strap Loop ................................. 4,10  
Shoulder Strap, Attaching ............................ 10  
Solving Problems ......................................... 28  
Speaker .......................................................... 4  
Specifications ............................................... 32  
STOP Button ............................................. 4,14  
Table of Contents ........................................... 1  
Tape Copying ............................................... 20  
Tapes, Cassette ........................................ 9,27  
Tips on Recording ................................... 12-13  
Traveling Tips ............................................... 27  
Tripod Socket ............................................ 3,21  
Trouble Checks ............................................ 28  
Use and Care Precautions ...................... 25-27  
Using an AC Outlet to Power the  
Camcorder............................................... 5  
Using the Adapter/Charger ......................... 5,6  
Using the Battery Pack........................... 6,7,26  
Video Search ............................................... 14  
VOLume Control ....................................... 4,14  
Warning Indicators ......................................... 4  
Warranty, Limited .................................... 30-31  
Zoom Buttons..................................... 11,16,17  
Zoom Lens ................................................ 3,11  
Zooming ....................................................... 11  
33  
Need Assistance? We want to help!  
U.S. Consumers:  
Camcorder Exchange Warranty.............................. 800-283-6503  
Customer Service ................................................... 800-336-1900  
Accessories ............................................................ 800-338-0376  
Canadian Consumers:  
English .................................................................... 800-522-0338  
French..................................................................... 800-522-0445  
Please do not send any products to the  
Indianapolis address listed in this manual or on  
the carton. This will only add delays in service  
for your product.  
10330 N Meridian Street  
Indianapolis, IN 46290  
©1996 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.  
Trademark(s) ®Registered  
Marca(s) Registrada(s)  
Printed in Japan  
Part Number 96-ProV712/ProV714-1  
TINSE0207TAZZ  

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