RCA Camcorder ProV950HB User Guide
ProV950HB  
USER'S  
GUIDE  
CAMCORDER  
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IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS  
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
Power-Cord Protection—Power-supply  
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 it 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 overheat-  
ing. 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 safetyand  
operating instructions should be retained for  
future reference.  
9
Attachments—Do not use attachments  
unless recommended by the video product manufac-  
turer as they may cause hazards.  
3
Heed Warnings—Comply with all  
warnings on the video product and in the  
operating instructions.  
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.  
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.  
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  
potential hazard from electrical shock or fire. If  
in doubt, contact qualified service personnel.  
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  
5
Power Sources—This video product  
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.  
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.  
Note to CATV System Installer:  
This reminder is provided to call the CATV system  
installer’s attention to Section 820-40 of the NEC  
which provides guidelines for proper grounding and,  
in particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be  
connected to the grounding system of the building,  
as close to the point of cable entry as practical.  
(continued on next page)  
ii  
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IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS  
12  
Outdoor Antenna Grounding—If  
16  
Lightning—For added protection for this  
an outside antenna or cable system is  
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 disconnect the  
antenna or cable system. This will prevent damage to  
the video product due to lightning and power line  
surges.  
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  
video product yourself as opening or removing covers  
may expose you to dangerous voltage or other  
hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service  
personnel.  
Servicing—Do not attempt to service this  
18  
Conditions Requiring Service—Unplug  
Example of Antenna Grounding  
this video product from the wall outlet and refer  
servicing to qualified service personnel under the  
following conditions.  
ANTENNA  
LEAD IN  
WIRE  
A. When the power-supply cord or plug is  
damaged.  
GROUND CLAMP  
B. If liquid has been spilled, or objects have  
fallen into the video product.  
C. If the video product has been exposed to rain or  
water.  
ANTENNA  
DISCHARGE UNIT  
(NEC SECTION 810-20)  
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.  
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.  
F. When the video product exhibits a distinct change  
in performance—this indicates a need for service.  
19  
Replacement Parts—When replacement  
parts are required, have the service technician verify  
that the replacements he uses have the same safety  
characteristics as the original parts. Use of replace-  
ments specified by the video product manufacturer can  
prevent fire, electric shock, or other hazards.  
Use  
14  
20  
Safety Check—Upon completion of any  
Cleaning—Unplug this video  
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.  
product from the wall outlet before cleaning.  
Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners.  
Use a damp cloth for cleanig.  
15  
Object and Liquid Entry—Never  
21  
Wall or Ceiling Mounting—The product  
should be mounted to a wall or ceiling only as  
recommended by the manufacturer.  
push objects of any kind into this video product  
through openings as they may touch danger-  
ous 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.  
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.  
iii  
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Table of Contents  
Assistance  
We want to make sure you enjoy your new camcorder. If you have any questions, call:  
Camcorder Exchange Warranty................................... 800-283-6503 (pages 70–71)  
Customer Service................................................................. 800-336-1900 (page 69)  
Accessories .................................................................. 800-338-0376 (pages 58-61)  
Important Safety Information................................. i  
Important  
Information  
Important Safeguards ....................................... ii-iii  
Supplied Accessories .......................................... 3  
Camcorder Controls.......................................... 4-5  
Installing the Lithium Cell in the Camcorder ........ 6  
Installing the Lithium Cell in the Remote Control ... 6  
Attaching the AC Adapter/Battery Charger ......... 7  
Charging on the Docking Station......................... 8  
Inserting and Removing the Battery Pack ........... 9  
Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet ....... 10  
Powering the Camcorder from Your Car Battery.. 11  
Inserting and Removing a Cassette .................. 12  
Controlling the Monitor Display .......................... 13  
Using the On-Screen Menu .......................... 14-15  
Warning Indicators ............................................. 16  
Setting the Area, Date, and Time ....................... 17  
World Clock................................................... 18-20  
Picture/Backlight Adjustments ........................... 21  
Using the Hand Strap ........................................ 22  
Attaching the Shoulder Strap............................. 22  
First-Time Operation  
Easy Camera Recording with Full Auto ............. 23  
Zooming ............................................................. 24  
Setting the Digital Zoom..................................... 24  
Digital Quick Zoom (Extend Zoom) ..................... 25  
Auto Focus ......................................................... 25  
Backlight Compensation (BLC) ......................... 26  
Gain-up (Cat’s Eye) ............................................ 26  
Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) ........................ 27  
Macro Shots ....................................................... 27  
Fade In and Fade Out........................................ 28  
Recording with the Wide Screen (16:9) ............. 29  
Quick Return ...................................................... 30  
Edit Search......................................................... 30  
Tips on Recording Positions .............................. 31  
Hints for Better Shooting .................................... 31  
Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode.......... 32  
Recording the Date and Time ............................ 32  
Remaining Recording Time Display .................. 33  
Remaining Battery Power Display ..................... 33  
Basic Operations  
Camera Recording  
1
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Table of Contents  
Playback ............................................................ 34  
Volume Control ................................................... 34  
Fast Forward and Rewind .................................. 34  
Using the Stand ................................................. 35  
Video Search...................................................... 35  
Still...................................................................... 35  
Slow.................................................................... 35  
Program Search ................................................. 36  
Using the Tape Counter ..................................... 37  
Counter Memory ................................................ 38  
Turning Off the LCD Monitor Backlight .............. 38  
Using the lnfrared Remote Control .................... 39  
Basic Operations  
Playback  
Self Recording .............................................. 40-42  
Manual Focus..................................................... 43  
Scene Menu (Program AE) ................................ 44  
Setting the Shutter Speed .................................. 45  
White Balance Lock ........................................... 46  
Manual Iris.......................................................... 47  
Recording a Five-second Still Image  
Useful Features for  
Camera Recording  
(Snapshot) ...................................................... 48  
Still Recording................................................... 48  
Strobe Recording ............................................... 49  
Stopwatch ..................................................... 49-50  
Lighting .............................................................. 51  
Connection to TV Using the Docking Station..... 52  
Connection to TV Using a VCR .......................... 52  
Connections for Playback on a TV Using  
Connections and  
Editing  
Audio/Video Jacks .......................................... 53  
Use the Camcorder to Play Back Tapes on a TV ..... 53  
Using the Optional SAV103 A/V Pack ................ 54  
Editing ................................................................ 55  
Recording from an External Source ................... 56  
Fluorescent Lamp Backlight .............................. 57  
Optional Accessories......................................... 58  
Accessory Order Form ................................. 59-61  
Use and Care ................................................ 62-65  
Trouble Checks ............................................. 66-67  
Specifications..................................................... 68  
Information to User ............................................ 68  
Customer Assistance and Service..................... 69  
Limited Warranty ........................................... 70-71  
Index ............................................................. 72-75  
References  
2
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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  
These toll-free numbers are available to help you with any problems you may encounter.  
Camcorder Exchange Warranty........................ 800-283-6503  
Customer Service.............................................. 800-336-1900  
Accessories ...................................................... 800-338-0376  
Supplied Accessories  
WARNING: LITHIUM-ION  
(RECHARGEABLE) BATTERY MUST  
BE RECYCLED OR DISPOSED OF  
PROPERLY.  
DO NOT INCINERATE OR  
DISASSEMBLE–MAY EXPLODE OR  
RELEASE TOXIC MATERIALS. DO  
NOT SHORT CIRCUIT–MAY CAUSE  
BURNS.  
Rechargeable Battery Pack  
Part No. BB75  
Model ProV950HB  
REMOTE CONTROL  
REC  
START/  
STOP  
ZOOM  
CAUTION: Do not use this  
adapter/charger for any  
purpose other than  
PLAY  
REW  
STOP  
PAUSE/STILL  
FF  
Shoulder Strap  
Part No. 233580  
SLOW  
charging the BB75 or BB90  
battery pack or supplying  
power to the camcorder.  
VOLUME  
AC Adapter/Charger  
Part No. 233576  
Remote Control  
Part No. 233581  
S-Video Cable  
Part No. 233579  
DC Output Cable  
Part No. 233578  
Audio/Video Cable  
Part No. 233582  
Docking Station  
Part No. 233665  
CAUTIONS: Lithium cells must be disposed of properly. Never handle punctured or  
leaking cells. May cause burns or personal injury.  
Two Lithium Cells  
3-Volt Micro Lithium  
Cells – such as CR2025  
– are available from  
most local drug stores  
and camera shops.  
Use of other cells  
present a risk of fire or  
explosion.  
Keep out of the hands of children. Can cause death or injury if swallowed. If  
swallowed, consult a physician immediately for emergency treatment.  
The lithium cells used in these devices may explode resulting in a fire or chemical  
burn if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 212º F (100ºC), or  
incinerate.  
Never use metallic tweezers to hold the cell, and never short circuit the + and – sides  
of the cell.  
3
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Camcorder Controls  
For details on the use of each control, refer to the page number indicated in the brackets.  
Front View  
Stereo  
Microphone  
Zoom Lens  
Cassette Compartment  
Door Release [p. 12]  
A/V Pack Terminal Cover  
[p. 54]  
Retractable Stand [p. 35]  
When the cassette compartment door is opened  
Cassette Holder  
[p. 12]  
Shoulder Strap Loop  
[p. 22]  
Lens Protector  
Cassette  
Compartment  
Door [p. 12]  
Memory Backup  
Cell Compartment  
[p. 6]  
Removing the Lens Protector  
Before mounting an optional wide or  
telephoto conversion lens, remove the  
lens protector by turning it counter-  
clockwise.  
4
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Power Zoom Wide/  
Telephoto Control Buttons  
[p. 24]  
Rear View  
VOLume Control Buttons  
[p. 34]  
RECord START/STOP  
Button [p. 23]  
LCD Monitor  
MENU Button  
[p. 13]  
MODE  
DISPLAY  
Button [p.15]  
Shoulder Strap  
Loop [p. 22]  
Operation  
Button  
[p.13]  
Hand Strap [p. 22]  
SNAPshot Button [p. 48]  
EarPHONES Jack [p. 34]  
Photoreceptor  
[p. 39]  
Power Switch (CAMERA/VCR  
Select Switch) [p. 13]  
Speaker  
PLUG IN POWER MICrophone  
Jack*  
*About the PLUG IN POWER MIC Jack  
This external microphone jack outputs a DC voltage of 4.0 V. It is for use with any 2.5–4.0 volt DC use  
condenser-type microphone with a 3.5 mm diameter plug. The use of other types of microphones may  
result in damage to the microphone or the camcorder.  
Side View  
Bottom View  
When Camera Module is Rotated  
System Connector  
Fluorescent Lamp  
Compartment [p. 57]  
Battery Compartment  
door release [p. 9]  
Tripod Socket  
5
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First-Time Operation  
Installing the Lithium Cell in  
the Camcorder  
WARNING: Replace cell only with 3-volt micro lithium  
cells – such as CR2025 – available from most local drug  
stores and camera shops. Use of other cells present a risk  
of fire or explosion.  
1
Slide the release and open the cassette  
compartment door. (The cassette holder  
opens automatically.) Pull out the cell  
holder using a pointed object such as the  
point of a pen, as shown.  
Cautions:  
Lithium cells must be disposed of properly. Never handle  
punctured or leaking cells. May cause burns or personal  
injury.  
Keep out of the hands of children. Can cause death or  
injury if swallowed. If swallowed, consult a physician  
immediately for emergency treatment.  
Cassette Compartment Door Release  
The lithium cells used in these devices may explode  
resulting in a fire or chemical burn if mistreated. Do not  
recharge, disassemble, heat above 212º F (100ºC), or  
incinerate.  
Never use metallic tweezers to hold the cell, and never  
short circuit the + and - sides of the cell.  
Notes:  
• The lithium cell is used to back up the calendar and  
other memory functions.  
• The battery will last about one year of normal usage.  
• Replace the battery with a new CR2025 cell when  
the camcorder’s time indicator starts to fall behind  
the correct time.  
Installing the Lithium Cell in  
the Remote Control  
2
3
Insert the supplied lithium cell into the  
holder with the 
ם
 side facing outward.  
1
Hold the remote control  
face down. Then pull out  
the cell holder while  
pressing the tab toward  
the center.  
2
3
Install the supplied CR2025 lithium cell  
with its 
ם
 side matching the j marked  
side of the cell holder into the cell holder.  
Insert the cell holder back into its  
compartment, and push it in completely.  
Insert the cell holder in the direction of the  
arrow. Make sure that the j side faces the  
back of the remote control.  
4
Press the “PUSH” mark until the cassette  
holder clicks into place. Then, close the  
cassette compartment door firmly until it  
clicks.  
“PUSH” mark  
6
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CHARGE Indicators  
Charging starts.  
Attaching the AC Adapter/  
Battery Charger  
(Indicator starts flashing.)  
Precautions:  
• If used near a radio, the AC adapter/battery charger  
may interfere with reception.  
Now charging.  
• Prevent flammables, liquids, and metal objects from  
entering the unit.  
• This is a sealed unit. Do not attempt to open or  
modify it.  
• Do not damage, drop, or subject the unit to  
vibration.  
• Do not leave the unit in direct sunlight.  
• Avoid using the unit in humid or extremely hot  
places.  
Charging completed.  
(The indicators will turn off  
approximately 90 to 120 minutes  
after charging is completed.)  
Charging Time Using AC Adapter/Battery  
Charger  
Battery Pack  
Charging Time  
• 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.  
• The supplied AC adapter/battery charger is  
specially designed for use with this camcorder, and  
should not be used as a power supply for other  
camcorders.  
BB75  
Approx. 90 min.  
Notes:  
• The battery and charger warm up during charging.  
This is not a malfunction.  
• Charging time depends on the ambient temperature  
and the condition of the battery.  
Charging the Battery Pack  
Cautions:  
• Charge only BB75 battery pack. Other types of  
batteries may burst, causing personal injury and  
damage.  
• Do not incinerate or mutilate the battery pack. It may  
present the risk of a rise in surface temperature,  
and/or the release of flammable vapors.  
• Replace battery with BB75 only. Use of another  
battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.  
1
Be sure the DC output cable is  
disconnected from the AC adapter/battery  
charger. Insert the AC plug into a power  
outlet. The POWER indicator will light.  
To Power Outlet  
POWER Indicator  
Attaching the AC Adapter to the  
Docking Station  
Attach the AC adapter to the Docking Station  
and insert the AC plug into a power outlet.  
CHARGE Indicators  
2
Align the ĭ mark on the battery with the İ  
mark on the charger (Q). Guide the  
battery into the groove.  
Pressing the battery (W), slide it in the  
direction of the arrow (E) until it locks into  
place.  
Removing the AC Adapter from the  
Docking Station  
Press the AC adapter release button and pull  
out the adapter.  
Release Button  
3
When the battery is charged, all three  
CHARGE indicators will light. Remove the  
battery and the AC plug.  
7
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First-Time Operation  
Charging Two Battery Packs at the  
Same Time  
You can charge two battery packs at the same  
time using the Docking Station unit.  
Charging on the Docking  
Station  
If the camcorder is attached to the Docking  
Station, the battery pack in the camcorder can be  
charged automatically and continuously. The  
Docking Station keeps your camcorder ready to  
operate at any time.  
1
2
Attach the first battery pack to the AC  
adapter/battery charger.  
Insert the second battery pack in the  
camcorder and attach the camcorder to  
the Docking Station.  
1
Attach the AC adapter to the Docking  
Station and insert the AC plug into a  
power outlet (see page 7).  
• The battery pack on the AC adapter/battery  
charger will be charged first and then the  
battery pack in the camcorder will be  
charged.  
• The charge level of the battery pack in the  
camcorder can be monitored by removing  
the camcorder from the Docking Station  
and setting it to Camera or VCR mode.  
2
Insert the battery pack in the camcorder  
(see page 9).  
• Make sure that the Power switch is set to  
OFF. Charging is not possible when the  
camcorder is in the VCR or Camera mode.  
2
3
Attach the camcorder to the Docking  
Station with the LCD monitor facing the  
Docking Station’s LED lamp window side  
(Q). Then slide the camcorder securing  
lever on the Docking Station in the  
direction of the arrow to the lock position  
(W). Charging starts automatically.  
1
Note:  
• Charging the battery pack fully in the camcorder on  
the Docking Station will take approximately 11 hours  
with BB75. If you are in a hurry, we recommend you  
use the AC adapter.  
Removing the Camcorder from the  
Docking Station  
Securing lever  
Press the camcorder  
release button and  
remove the camcorder.  
Release button  
Note:  
• If the camcorder is removed from the Docking  
Station, the battery pack inside will naturally  
discharge with time, even after it has been fully  
charged. We recommend you place the camcorder  
on the Docking Station even when it is not in use.  
LED Lamp Window  
Caution:  
• If you remove the camcorder from the Docking  
Station without first setting the Power switch to OFF  
while the battery pack is in the camcorder, the  
power may turn off and not turn on even if you set  
the Power switch to CAMERA or VCR.  
Cautions:  
• Do not use excessive force with the camcorder  
and/or Docking Station. Doing so may cause  
damage or malfunction.  
• When installing the camcorder on the Docking  
Station, be sure to lock it firmly with the securing  
lever. When removing, hold the camcorder firmly  
while releasing the lock so that the camcorder will  
not fall over.  
8
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Cautions:  
Inserting and Removing the  
Battery Pack  
• BEFORE REMOVING THE BATTERY PACK,  
ALWAYS STOP THE TAPE AND TURN THE  
POWER OFF. 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 immediately.  
• Do not expose the battery compartment door to  
strong force, as it may come off.  
• Be sure to close the battery compartment door  
firmly, especially during operations. If you do not,  
the battery pack may come off or camcorder  
operation may fail because of the poor contact  
pressure.  
Inserting the Battery Pack  
1
Slide the battery compartment door  
release on the bottom of the  
camcorder in the direction of the  
arrow (Q), to open the battery  
compartment door (W).  
• 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.  
2
3
Insert the battery pack into the  
compartment (Q), as shown, and  
push it in completely (W).  
Caution:  
• Do not force the battery pack into the  
battery compartment if it does not go in  
easily.  
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.  
Close the door. Be sure to push firmly  
until it clicks.  
Removing the Battery Pack  
Perform step 1 above. Then, with the  
camcorder facing down, press the lock as  
shown (Q), and remove the battery pack  
(W).  
Lock  
9
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First-Time Operation  
5
Plug the power cord into a power outlet.  
The POWER indicator on the AC adapter  
will light.  
Powering the Camcorder  
from an AC Outlet  
1
Slide the battery compartment door  
release on the bottom of the camcorder in  
the direction of the arrow (Q), to open the  
battery compartment door (W).  
5
4
POWER indicator  
Removing the DC Cable from the  
Camcorder  
2
3
Slide the cable notch cover in the direction  
of the arrow shown in the diagram.  
1
2
Slide the battery compartment door  
release and open the door.  
Press the lock as shown (Q), remove the  
cable from the notch and then remove the  
DC cable (W).  
Cable Notch  
Cover  
Lock  
Notch  
Insert the DC cable connecting plate into  
the compartment (Q), pass the DC cable  
through the battery compartment notch,  
and then close the battery compartment  
door firmly (W).  
Note:  
• The DC cable can be easily removed by facing  
the camcorder down at an angle.  
Cautions:  
• Turn the Power switch off before removing the  
DC cable.  
• When removing the DC cable, grasp the  
connecting plate, not the cable itself, and pull it  
out of the compartment.  
Notch  
Using an Optional Plug Adapter  
An optional plug adapter may be required in some  
countries.  
4
Insert the cable plug into the DC OUT jack  
on the supplied AC adapter.  
AC 100-240V  
Optional AC  
Plug Adapter  
1
2
Plug the adapter/charger’s plug into the  
AC plug adapter.  
Plug the AC plug adapter into the AC  
outlet.  
10  
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Note:  
Powering the Camcorder  
fromYour Car Battery  
• See the SDC100 operation manual for details.  
Cautions:  
• Use only in 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 car battery adapter only when the car is  
idling or being driven. Otherwise, the car’s  
battery will be drained.  
• Before starting the car engine, the car battery  
adapter must be unplugged from the cigarette  
lighter socket.  
Use the optional SDC100 car battery adapter  
(shown on page 58) to power the camcorder from  
your car battery.  
1
Open the battery compartment door  
release on the bottom of the camcorder  
and insert the DC cable connecting plate  
in the camcorder.  
• Before removing either the DC plug or the  
cigarette lighter plug, the camcorder’s Power  
switch should be set to OFF.  
• Do not apply strong force to the DC cable  
connected to the camcorder as this will cause a  
malfunction.  
2
Pass the DC cable through the battery  
compartment notch, then close the battery  
compartment door.  
3
4
Insert the DC cable plug into the DC OUT  
jack on the car battery adapter.  
Start the car engine and leave it idling.  
Then, insert the power cord plug of the car  
battery adapter into the cigarette lighter  
socket.  
DC Cable  
4
DC OUT  
Jack  
To Cigarette  
Lighter Socket  
Car Battery Adapter  
SDC100  
3
11  
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First-Time Operation  
Removing a Cassette  
Inserting and Removing a  
Cassette  
Perform step 1 and then remove the cassette.  
Cautions:  
Inserting a Cassette  
• Be careful not to get your fingers caught in the  
cassette compartment.  
1
Slide the release and fully open the  
cassette compartment door.  
• Do not apply force to the cassette compartment  
except for pressing the “PUSH” mark to close it.  
• Do not tilt the camcorder or hold it upside down  
when you are inserting or removing a cassette. It  
may damage the tape.  
• The cassette holder opens automatically.  
Cassette compartment door release  
• Remove the cassette if you will not use the  
camcorder for a long time.  
• If you do not press the cassette holder closed  
correctly in step 3, the camcorder’s cassette  
protection mechanism might eject the cassette.  
If this happens, repeat the insertion procedure.  
• Do not attempt to pick up the camcorder by the  
cassette compartment door.  
• If the compartment door does not close when  
gently pressed into position, check the  
compartment door release. The door release  
may not be completely opened as shown below  
on the left. In this case, slide the door release in  
the direction of the arrow and press the  
compartment door closed.  
2
Insert the tape cassette fully with the  
window facing out and the erasure protect  
tab facing up.  
Erasure Protect Tab  
3
Press the “PUSH” mark until the cassette  
holder clicks into place.  
• The cassette holder retracts automatically.  
• If the battery power is too low, you may not be  
able to eject the cassette or operate the Power  
switch. Replace the battery pack with a fully  
charged one.  
“PUSH” Mark  
• If the tape cassette is loaded when dew has  
formed, the camcorder’s cassette protection  
mechanism might eject the cassette (see page  
63). Check that the cassette holder has retracted  
completely before closing the cassette  
compartment door.  
4
Wait for the cassette holder to fully retract.  
Close the compartment door pressing its  
center until it clicks into place.  
Press Here.  
12  
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Controlling the Monitor Display  
You can use various functions and make mode settings while viewing the monitor display.  
Note:  
VCR Mode  
MODE DISPLAY Button  
MENU Button  
• The monitor illustrations in this operation  
manual are for the purpose of explaining the  
functions of the camcorder, and may differ  
from the actual monitor displays.  
Camera Mode  
Operation Power Lock Button  
• Hold down the Lock button when setting  
the Power switch to CAMERA or VCR.  
Button  
Switch  
Camera mode (when the Power switch  
is set to CAMERA)  
VCR mode (when the Power switch  
is set to VCR)  
• Each time you press the MENU button, the  
• Each time you press the MENU button, the  
screen changes from  
to  
.
screen changes from  
• With the screen displayed, press B on the  
button to select “MENU”. The menu screen  
to  
.
• With the screen displayed, press B on the  
operation button ( ) to select “MENU”.  
Each time you press C or B on the  
will appear.  
PLAY STILL  
button, the screen changes from MENU-PAGE  
1
to  
• If the area, date and time have not been set,  
MENU-PAGE appears when you press B  
on the button to select “MENU” on  
4
.
R
E
W
F
F
4
STOP  
SEARCH  
screen (see page 17).  
BLC  
STOP WATCH  
E
X
D
T
I
M
E
N
U
E
S
N
D
AUTO  
AUTO  
FADE  
COUNTER  
ITEM  
STOP WATCH  
M
E
EDIT  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
OFF  
OFF  
N
U
AUTO  
ON  
REMOTE  
S
E
T
S
E
T
VCR DISP.  
ON  
AUTO  
AUTO  
PREV. PAGE  
COUNTER  
ITEM  
ITEM  
1
ITEM  
Note:  
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
ON  
OFF  
PAGE  
PAGE  
DATE/TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
16 : 9  
• The above displays are those when a cassette is  
loaded in the camcorder and the power is  
supplied from a battery pack.  
OFF  
ON  
ON  
OFF  
REMOTE  
CAM. DISP.  
DGTL ZOOM  
PREV. PAGE  
S
E
T
S
E
T
S
E
T
S
E
T
AUTO  
OFF  
OFF  
ON  
SELF REC  
AUTO NO CORRECT  
PREV. PAGE  
ITEM  
ITEM  
About the Operation button  
(
)
ITEM  
1
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
2
3
4
PAGE  
PAGE  
Use this button to select and set the  
various functions on the monitor by  
pressing Q  
R B as shown.  
AREA  
EXTEND ZOOM  
PHOTO SNAP  
1.5 2.0 2.5X  
SNAP STILL  
DYLT SAVE  
SETTING  
OFF  
ON  
S
E
T
S
E
T
S
E
T
S
E
T
, W C, E A, or  
PREV. PAGE  
PREV. PAGE  
ITEM  
ITEM  
(Q Up, W Left, E Down, R Right)  
13  
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First-Time Operation  
Using the On-Screen Menu  
4
Press C or B on the  
button to  
change from MENU-PAGE  
1
to  
4
.
Lock Button  
1
To display the Camera  
mode menu screen:  
Hold down the Lock  
Ex. Camera Mode  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
button and slide the  
DATE/TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
Power switch to CAMERA.  
S
E
T
S
E
T
AUTO  
OFF  
SELF REC  
AUTO NO CORRECT  
PREV. PAGE  
ITEM  
To display the VCR  
mode menu screen:  
Hold down the Lock  
button and slide the  
Power switch to VCR.  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
ON  
OFF  
OFF  
ON  
PAGE  
16 : 9  
OFF  
ON  
ON  
OFF  
REMOTE  
CAM. DISP.  
DGTL ZOOM  
PREV. PAGE  
S
E
T
S
E
T
Lock Button  
screen  
ITEM  
ITEM  
1
2
3
Press the MENU button until  
2
3
4
PAGE  
appears. (Select  
in VCR mode.)  
EXTEND ZOOM  
PHOTO SNAP  
1.5 2.0 2.5X  
SNAP STILL  
S
E
T
S
E
T
Ex. Camera Mode  
PREV. PAGE  
STOP WATCH  
ITEM  
M
E
N
U
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
AREA  
AUTO  
COUNTER  
DYLT SAVE  
SETTING  
OFF  
ON  
S
E
T
S
E
T
PREV. PAGE  
ITEM  
Press B on the operation button ( ) to  
select “MENU”. MENU-PAGE  
on the monitor.  
1
will appear  
5
6
Press  
orAon the  
button to select the  
• There is only one menu page in VCR mode.  
Skip step 4.  
menu item you wish to set.  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
STOP WATCH  
PAGE  
DATE/TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
S
E
T
S
E
T
AUTO  
OFF  
M
E
N
U
SELF REC  
CORRECT  
AUTO NO  
PREV. PAGE  
ITEM  
ITEM  
Operation  
Button  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
DATE /TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
Press C or B on the  
button to set the  
S
E
T
S
E
T
desired mode.  
AUTO  
OFF  
SELF REC  
• Each time you press the button, the item  
setting changes as shown on the next  
page.  
AUTO NO CORRECT  
PREV. PAGE  
ITEM  
Note:  
• If the area, date and time have not been set,  
MENU-PAGE appears.  
4
14  
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1) Camera Mode  
7
After completing the setting, press the  
MENU button. The menu screen will  
disappear.  
ITEM  
Notes:  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
• Certain menu items are common to both the Camera  
and VCR modes. If the “REMOTE” menu item, for  
example, is set to “OFF” in the Camera mode, it will  
automatically be set to “OFF” in the VCR mode.  
• The menu screen cannot be displayed when the  
camcorder is recording.  
• To turn off the menu display, press the MENU button  
or MODE DISPLAY button. When the MENU button  
is pressed, the menu screen will disappear and the  
screen will be displayed. When the MODE  
DISPLAY button is pressed, operation indicators will  
disappear. Press it again to display the indicators.  
DATE/TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
OFF  
AUTO  
ON  
DATE TIME  
DATE  
S
E
T
S
E
T
AUTO  
OFF  
AUTO  
AUTO  
OFF  
NO CORRECT  
SELF REC  
CORRECT  
AUTO NO  
PREV. PAGE  
ITEM  
Press C or B on  
the button to  
change from MENU-  
1
4
PAGE  
to  
.
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
ON  
OFF  
OFF  
ON  
PAGE  
16 : 9  
OFF  
ON  
ON  
OFF  
OFF  
ON  
ON  
OFF  
ON  
REMOTE  
CAM. DISP.  
DGTL ZOOM  
PREV. PAGE  
OFF  
OFF  
ON  
S
E
T
S
E
T
Returning to the Previous Screen  
ITEM  
PressAon the  
button to select “PREV.  
PAGE” and then press C or B on the  
button to select “SET” to return to the previous  
screen.  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
EXTEND ZOOM  
PHOTO SNAP  
1.5 2.0 2.5X  
SNAP STILL  
1.5  
2.0  
2.5  
SNAP STILL  
S
E
T
S
E
T
Operation  
PREV. PAGE  
ITEM  
Button  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
ITEM  
DATE/TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
S
E
T
S
E
T
AUTO  
OFF  
SELF REC  
CORRECT  
AUTO NO  
ITEM  
1
PREV. PAGE PRESS SET  
2
3
4
PAGE  
ITEM  
AREA  
You can choose from  
24 time zones for the  
area (see pages  
17–20).  
DYLT SAVE  
SETTING  
OFF  
ON  
S
E
T
S
E
T
STOP WATCH  
PREV. PAGE  
OFF  
ON  
ITEM  
M
E
You can set the date  
and time. (see page  
17).  
N
U
AUTO  
COUNTER  
2) VCR Mode  
ITEM  
EDIT  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
OFF  
OFF  
OFF  
AUTO  
ON  
ON  
OFF  
AUTO  
ON  
REMOTE  
OFF  
OFF  
S
E
T
S
E
T
VCR DISP.  
PREV. PAGE  
ON  
ON  
ITEM  
15  
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First-Time Operation  
Warning Indicators  
Display after the first  
3 seconds  
Display for the first  
3 seconds  
Description of Warning  
The video cassette is defective and should be  
removed.  
EJECT THE CASSETTE. EJECT THE CASSETTE.  
Dew has formed inside the camcorder. Wait for a  
few hours until the dew disappears (see page 63).  
About ten seconds after this warning appears, the  
camcorder and display turn off.  
The battery is almost depleted.  
BATTERY IS TOO LOW.  
Note: Operation of the zoom may interrupt the  
camcorder power. Replace the battery pack.  
The video heads are clogged and should be  
cleaned (see page 63).  
There is no tape cassette in the camcorder.  
Load a cassette.  
INSERT A CASSETTE.  
The red erasure protect tab in the video cassette  
has been slid to the record-protect position, pre-  
venting recording.  
CASSETTE NOT RECORDABLE.  
The tape is about to end. Get ready to load a new  
cassette.  
THE TAPE ENDS SOON.  
CHANGE THE CASSETTE.  
The tape has reached its end.  
Load a new cassette.  
The fluorescent lamp behind the LCD monitor is  
close to the end of its service life. Replace it with a  
new one (see page 57). The LCD monitor turns off  
about one minute after this warning is displayed.  
REPLACE THE LAMP.  
REPLACE THE LAMP.  
During Self Recording mode, every warning indi-  
cator is replaced by a “ ” indicator displayed in  
the center of the monitor. To check the meaning of  
the warning, rotate the monitor back to the normal  
position.  
Note:  
indicates a blinking display.  
•
16  
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Setting the Area, Date and  
Time  
5 Press A on the  
button to select  
“SETTING”. Then press B on the  
button to select “SET”.  
Example:  
ITEM  
Setting the date to June 2, 1997 (JUN. 2.1997)  
and the time to 10:30 am (10:30 AM) in New York.  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
AREA  
20  
DYLT SAVE  
SETTING  
OFF  
ON  
Note:  
S
E
T
S
E
T
J A N  
1 2 0 0AM  
1 1996  
• Check that the memory backup lithium cell has  
been installed before setting the date and time.  
DYLT SAVE  
SETTING  
OFF  
ON  
S
E
T
S
E
T
1 Set the Power switch to CAMERA.  
J A N 1 1996  
1 2 0 0AM  
Press the MENU button until  
appears  
PREV. PAGE  
on the monitor (Camera mode).  
ITEM  
STOP WATCH  
6 Press  
orAon the  
button to select  
“JUN.” (month), and press B on the  
M
E
N
U
button.  
AUTO  
COUNTER  
7 Press  
orAon the  
button to select  
“2.” (day), and press B on the  
button.  
2 Press B on the operation button ( ) to  
4
select “MENU”. The MENU-PAGE  
appears.  
• If the date and time have been set, the  
8 Press  
orAon the  
button to select  
1
MENU-PAGE  
appears.  
“1997” (year), and press B on the  
Operation Button  
ITEM  
button.  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
DATE /TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
S
E
T
S
E
T
AUTO  
OFF  
9 Press  
orAon the  
“10 AM” (hour), and press B on the  
button.  
button to select  
SELF REC  
AUTO NO CORRECT  
3 Press B on the  
button to select  
4
PAGE  
.
10 Press  
orAon the  
“30” (minutes), and press B on the  
button.  
button to select  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
AREA  
DYLT SAVE  
OFF  
ON  
S
S
4 Press Aon the  
button to select “AREA”  
The date and time settings are now  
complete.  
(Q), then press C or B on the  
button  
until “20” (New York) appears (W).  
To Turn Off the Menu Display  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
Press the MENU button.  
AREA  
DYLT SAVE  
OFF  
ON  
S
S
Notes:  
• The internal clock starts operating when B on the  
operation button ( ) is pressed in step 10 above.  
• When the tape cassette is inside, if no settings are  
made within 5 minutes after the menu display  
appears, the display is automatically canceled.  
• If you set the area to the blank setting in step 4, and  
then reset the area after setting the date and time,  
the date and time will not appear on the screen even  
if you turn off the menu display. If you want to reset  
the area, perform steps 4–10 again.  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
AREA  
20  
DYLT SAVE  
OFF  
ON  
S
S
• See the time zone chart on page 19 and  
the area table on page 20 for area  
numbers and representative cities for  
each time zone.  
17  
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First-Time Operation  
World Clock  
4
5
Press B on the  
button to select  
4
PAGE  
.
This camcorder is equipped with a world clock  
feature. It allows you to easily adjust the time when  
you use the camcorder while traveling anywhere in  
the world outside your own time zone.  
Set the area, date and time if they are not already  
set. (See page 17.)  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
AREA  
20  
DYLT SAVE  
OFF  
ON  
S
S
PressAon the  
“AREA”.  
button to select  
Operation Button  
MENU Button  
Power Switch  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
AREA  
20  
DYLT SAVE  
OFF  
ON  
S
S
6
Press C or B on the  
button until  
“17” (Los Angeles) appears. The  
camcorder is now set to the L.A. time.  
Press the MENU button to turn off the  
menu.  
ITEM  
Changing the Area of the Time Zone  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
AREA  
17  
DYLT SAVE  
OFF  
ON  
S
S
Example:  
Changing the area from New York to Los Angeles.  
Lock Button  
1
2
Hold down the Lock  
button and slide the  
Power switch to  
CAMERA.  
Blank Area Setting  
If you do not want to set the area (time  
zone), you can leave the setting blank.  
In step 6 above, press C or B on the  
button until the area setting is blank  
(after “24”).  
Press the MENU button until  
on the monitor.  
STOP WATCH  
appears  
To Turn Off the MENU-PAGE Display  
M
E
N
U
Press the MENU button.  
AUTO  
COUNTER  
3
Press B on the operation button ( ) to  
select “MENU”.  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
DATE /TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
S
E
T
S
E
T
AUTO  
OFF  
SELF REC  
AUTO NO CORRECT  
18  
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To Display Area, Date and Time on the  
Monitor  
Setting Daylight Saving Time  
1
1
Refer to page 14 to display MENU-PAGE  
Press B on the operation button ( ) to  
select MENU-PAGE  
.
1
1
2
Refer to page 14 to display MENU-PAGE  
.
4
.
Operation Button  
Press Aon the operation button ( ) to  
select “DATE/TIME”.  
ITEM  
1
Operation button  
2
3
4
PAGE  
AREA  
20  
ITEM  
DYLT SAVE  
OFF  
ON  
S
S
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
DATE/TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
2
3
4
PressAon the  
button to select “DYLT  
S
S
SAVE”.  
3
4
Press C or B on the  
button to select  
ITEM  
“AUTO” or “ON”.  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
ITEM  
AREA  
20  
DYLT SAVE  
OFF  
ON  
1
2
3
4
S
S
PAGE  
DATE/TIME  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
DISPLAY  
S
S
Press B on the  
The time automatically changes to daylight  
saving time.  
button to select “ON”.  
Press the MENU button to turn off the  
menu display. The area, date and time will  
be displayed on the monitor.  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
AREA  
20  
DYLT SAVE  
OFF  
ON  
S
S
FADE  
Press the MENU button to turn off the  
menu display. The “ ” mark will be  
displayed to the left of the area indicator.  
To reset to standard time, set the “DYLT  
SAVE” menu item to “OFF”.  
Notes:  
• When “AUTO” is selected, the date/time is  
displayed for 10 seconds at the beginning of the  
first recording of each day. When “ON” is  
selected, the date/time is continuously displayed  
along with the subject.  
• During recording and playback, the position of  
the date/time displayed on the LCD may differ,  
however, this does not indicate a malfunction.  
FADE  
Time Zone Chart  
ANCHRGE  
LONDON  
PARIS  
MOSCOW  
CHICAGO  
AZORES  
NEWYORK  
CARACAS  
DENVER  
CAIRO  
L. A.  
TOKYO  
HNGKNG  
KARACHI  
DUBAI  
DACCA  
HAWAII  
BANGKOK  
FN ISL.  
SOLOMON  
SAMOA  
RIO  
SYDNEY  
WLLNGTN  
120˚  
90˚  
60˚  
30˚  
150˚  
0˚  
30˚  
60˚  
90˚  
120˚  
150˚  
180˚  
Area  
Number  
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10 11 12 13  
19  
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First-Time Operation  
Area Table  
Area Number Area Name  
Countries or Areas*  
1
2
LONDON  
PARIS  
England, Morocco, GMT (Greenwich mean time)  
Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden,  
Switzerland, Portugal, CST (Continental Standard Time), Tunisia  
3
4
CAIRO  
Egypt, Finland, Greece, Turkey  
MOSCOW  
Ethiopia, Iraq, Kenya, Mauritius, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Russia  
(Moscow)  
5
6
7
8
9
DUBAI  
United Arab Emirates  
KARACHI  
DACCA  
Maldives, Pakistan  
Bangladesh, India, Myanmar  
Cambodia, Indonesia (Jakarta), Thailand, Vietnam  
BANGKOK  
HNGKNG  
Australia (Perth), China, Hong Kong, Indonesia (Borneo, Bali), Malaysia,  
Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20  
TOKYO  
Japan, Korea  
SYDNEY  
SOLOMON  
WLLNGTN  
SAMOA  
Australia (Sydney)  
New Caledonia  
Fiji, New Zealand  
Western Samoa  
HAWAII  
Hawaii Is., Tahiti, HST (Hawaii Standard Time)  
U.S.A. (Alaska), AST (Alaska Standard Time)  
U.S.A. (Los Angeles, San Francisco), PST (Pacific Standard Time)  
U.S.A. (Denver), MST (Mountain Standard Time)  
Mexico, U.S.A. (Chicago), CST (Central Standard Time)  
ANCHRGE  
L.A.  
DENVER  
CHICAGO  
NEWYORK  
Canada (Montreal), Jamaica, Peru, U.S.A. (New York, Washington D.C.),  
EST (Eastern Standard Time)  
21  
22  
23  
24  
CARACAS  
RIO  
Chile, Dominica, Venezuela  
Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay  
Fernando de Noronha  
Azores Islands  
FN ISL.  
AZORES  
* These are common names. The formal may be different.  
20  
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Picture/Backlight Adjustments  
Operation Button  
5
Press C or B on the  
button to adjust  
the picture or backlight to your preference.  
ITEM  
MENU Button  
Power Switch  
BACKLIGHT NORM. BRIGHT  
BRIGHT  
COLOR  
S
E
T
S
E
T
TINT  
PREV. PAGE  
ITEM  
NORM.  
BRIGHT  
BRIGHT  
Darker Brighter  
COLOR  
Decrease Increase  
TINT  
R
G
Red Green  
6
When you are finished, press the MENU  
button to turn off the adjustment display.  
If the picture is difficult to see due to ambient  
lighting, etc., adjust the monitor picture.  
1
Set the Power switch  
to CAMERA.  
When the Camcorder is in VCR Mode  
Press the MENU button until  
appears on the  
monitor. Then perform steps 3 through 6 as  
shown.  
2
Press the MENU button until  
on the monitor.  
appears  
Notes:  
• In bright daylight, the monitor picture will be  
easier to see if you set the backlight  
(“BACKLIGHT”) to “BRIGHT”.  
STOP WATCH  
• The picture adjustments have been factory  
preset to neutral settings, and the backlight  
mode (“BACKLIGHT”) has been factory preset to  
normal (“NORM”).  
• When the color or tint is adjusted, the picture on  
the screen may differ from the picture actually  
recorded. Do not change the color and tint  
settings unless it is necessary.  
M
E
N
U
AUTO  
COUNTER  
3
4
Press C on the operation button ( ) to  
select “PICTURE”.  
STOP WATCH  
M
E
N
U
PressAor  
on the  
button to select the  
menu item you wish to adjust.  
ITEM  
BACKLIGHT NORM. BRIGHT  
BRIGHT  
COLOR  
TINT  
S
E
T
S
E
T
PREV. PAGE  
ITEM  
21  
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First-Time Operation  
Using the Hand Strap  
Attaching the Shoulder Strap  
1
Hold one end of the strap and thread it  
through the loop on the left side of the  
monitor.  
Fitting the Strap toYour Hand  
Hold the camcorder against your chest, and pull  
the strap down until the velcro patches open. Then  
put your thumb close to the Power Zoom buttons,  
pull the strap tight until it fits snugly, and seal the  
velcro closures.  
2
Thread the end of the strap through the long  
slider and move the long slider in the  
direction of the arrow to secure.  
3
4
Loosen the strap in the buckle, and then feed  
the end of the strap through, as shown.  
Caution:  
• Do not swing the camcorder by its hand strap.  
Draw the strap in the direction of the arrow  
(Q), and then secure the end of the strap  
with the short slider (W).  
Power Zoom Buttons  
5-8 Use the same procedure to attach the other  
end of the strap.  
1
2
3
4
5
Loop  
Loop  
6
Long  
slider  
Long slider  
Buckle  
7
Buckle  
8
Short  
slider  
Short  
slider  
Handling the LCD Monitor  
• Do not let anything press against the monitor  
screen or expose the screen 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 clean cloth to clean the screen.  
22  
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Basic Operations  
Camera Recording  
• Refer to pages 13-15 on how to operate the  
monitor display.  
Unlike conventional camcorders, this model frees  
you from having to peer into a small viewfinder.  
You can watch the subject on the large LCD  
monitor screen for easier, more enjoyable video-  
shooting.  
To Pause Recording  
Press the REC START/STOP button again.  
Recording pauses, and the camcorder enters  
Recording Standby mode.  
Easy Camera Recording with  
Full Auto  
BLC  
PAUSE  
Before you start recording, perform the operations  
described on pages 6 through 22 to prepare your  
camcorder for recording.  
D
Lock Button  
To turn the Power switch to OFF, slide the  
switch to OFF without pressing the Lock button.  
1
Hold down the lock button  
and slide the Power switch  
to CAMERA.  
Notes:  
2
Press the MENU button until any of  
,
• To leave Camera Recording mode, set the Power  
switch to OFF.  
• During Camera Recording mode, the speaker is off,  
and the PHONES (earphones) jack below the  
monitor cannot be used.  
• If the camcorder is kept in Recording Standby mode  
for more than approximately 5 minutes, the power  
will automatically turn 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.  
,
or  
appears on the monitor.  
• The picture from the lens is now displayed  
on the LCD monitor.  
Operation indicator  
BLC  
PAUSE  
E
X
D
T
I
E
S
N
D
AUTO  
FADE  
“AUTO” appears.  
• The operation indicators can be turned off or back  
on again with the MODE DISPLAY button.  
3
Press the REC START/STOP button to start  
recording.  
Maximum Time for Continuous Camera  
Recording  
BLC  
Max. Camera Recording  
Battery Pack  
Time  
REC  
BB75  
Approx. 65 min.  
D
Note:  
• The use of the zoom and other functions will  
accelerate power consumption. The actual  
recording time per battery pack may be 30%–  
50% less than the maximum camera recording  
time shown above.  
Note:  
• When you set the Power switch to CAMERA, it may  
take some time until the screen appears. Wait until  
the screen appears before starting operation.  
23  
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Camera Recording  
Zooming  
1
Press the MENU button until  
on the monitor (Camera mode).  
appears  
Zooming allows you to move visually closer to or  
farther from a subject without physically changing  
your position.  
STOP WATCH  
M
E
N
U
Zooming In (when you want to center  
attention on the subject)  
AUTO  
COUNTER  
Tele-  
Wide  
photo  
Angle  
2
3
Press B on the operation button ( ) to  
select “MENU”.  
ITEM  
Zooming Out (when you want to  
show the surroundings)  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
DATE /TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
S
E
T
S
E
T
To Zoom In  
AUTO  
OFF  
SELF REC  
AUTO NO CORRECT  
Press the Power Zoom T (telephoto) button to get  
Operation Button  
a close-up view (Q).  
Press B on the  
button to select  
To Zoom Out  
2
MENU-PAGE  
then press Aon the  
Press the Power Zoom W (wide angle) button to  
get a wide field of view (W).  
button to select “DGTL ZOOM”.  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
ON  
OFF  
OFF  
ON  
PAGE  
16 : 9  
OFF  
ON  
ON  
OFF  
REMOTE  
CAM. DISP.  
DGTL ZOOM  
S
E
T
S
E
T
Power Zoom  
Buttons  
E
T
CAM. DISP.  
DGTL ZOOM  
PREV. PAGE  
ON  
OFF  
ON  
E
T
OFF  
ITEM  
• The zoom speed changes depending on the  
degree of pressure placed on the Power Zoom  
buttons.  
• The on-screen display will show you the current  
zoom setting.  
4
5
Press B on the  
“ON”.  
button to select  
E
T
CAM. DISP.  
DGTL ZOOM  
PREV. PAGE  
ON  
OFF  
ON  
E
T
OFF  
Notes:  
ITEM  
• The camcorder is unable to focus when zooming  
in on subjects within 5 feet (1.5 m). The  
camcorder will automatically zoom out until it  
focuses on the subject.  
The digital zoom is now on. Press the  
MENU button to turn off the menu.  
• Frequent zooming produces unattractive  
pictures. It also increases battery power  
consumption.  
To return to normal zoom, set “DGTL ZOOM” to  
“OFF” in step 4 above.  
Note:  
Setting the Digital Zoom  
• When the digital zoom is used, the picture  
quality may suffer in the 12–30
ן
 range. At  
maximum zoom, the horizontal resolution  
decreases by a maximum of 60% of the optical  
zoom.  
You can select between two zoom ranges: normal  
=1–12
ן
 (optical) or digital = 1–12
ן
 (optical) plus  
12–30
ן
 (digital). The digital option adds the  
12–30 
ן
 digital range to the normal zoom, allowing  
you to record powerful close-up pictures using the  
same zoom features as normal zoom. The zoom  
option is factory preset to 1–12
ן
 optical zoom. In  
the 12–30
ן
 zoom range, the picture quality may  
suffer slightly.  
24  
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Digital Quick Zoom (Extend  
Zoom)  
Use the digital quick zoom function (extend zoom)  
to instantly zoom in on a subject. This is useful  
when you want to instantly capture a particular  
subject.  
Auto Focus  
The 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. Always  
keep the subject in the center of the screen.  
The auto focus may not be able to focus on the  
subject in the situations shown in the chart.  
In such situations, set the camcorder to  
Manual Focus mode and focus manually (see  
page 43).  
Setting Digital Quick Zoom Ranges  
3
Refer to page 14 to display MENU-PAGE , and  
then pressAon the operation button ( ) to  
select “EXTEND ZOOM”.  
Press C or B on the  
button to select  
"1.5 
ן
”, “2.0 
ן
”, or “2.5 
ן
”.  
Operation Button  
Lack of contrast, e.g.  
Subject is too dark.  
ITEM  
1
snow scene.  
2
3
4
PAGE  
EXTEND ZOOM  
1.5 2.0 2.5X  
SNAP STILL  
PHOTO SNAP  
S
S
Using Digital Quick Zoom (Extend  
Zoom)  
Fast-moving subject.  
Background is too bright.  
1
Press the MENU button until  
the monitor (Camera mode).  
appears on  
BLC  
Subject is being shot through  
a dirty or wet window.  
Subject has vertical or  
horizontal stripes.  
E
X
T
D
I
S
E
N
D
2
During recording, press C on the  
operation button ( ) to select “EXTEND”  
when you want to instantly zoom in on a  
subject.  
Two subjects at different distances  
overlap in the same scene.  
Light reflects off the subject.  
BLC  
E
X
D
T
I
E
Subjects at different distances  
appear in the center of the scene  
at the same time.  
S
N
Subject has fine, repeated  
patterns.  
D
BLC  
BLC  
REC  
E
X
T
E
X
T
EXTEND2.5X  
D
I
S
D
I
S
E
N
D
E
N
D
AUTO  
AUTO  
FADE  
FADE  
“EXTEND 2.5
ן
” is displayed.  
High-speed shutter being  
used under fluorescent  
lighting.  
To return to the previous magnification, press  
C on the  
button to select “EXTEND” again.  
Notes:  
• If no subject is in the center of the monitor, the focus  
area will expand and the subject nearest the center  
will be focused on.  
• If no subject is displayed on the monitor, the  
camcorder will automatically zoom out until some  
Notes:  
• When the digital quick zoom is used, the picture  
quality decreases by a maximum of 60% of the  
optical zoom.  
• When digital zoom is on, EXTEND function does not subject comes into the frame.  
• If the image being recorded is not sharp, the auto focus  
work in the digital zoom (12–30
ן
) range. (EXTEND  
becomes disabled and appears dimmed.)  
• If the optical zoom is at 12X when you turn the  
“EXTEND ZOOM” to “ON”, 1.5
ן
 becomes 18
ן
,  
2.0
ן
 becomes 24
ן
, and 2.5
ן
 becomes 30
ן
.  
may not function and the image will be blurred. If this  
occurs, press the Power Zoom W button to zoom out, or  
pan the camcorder to shoot some other subject. The  
auto focus will resume operation.  
25  
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Camera Recording  
Backlight Compensation  
(BLC)  
Gain-up (Cat’s Eye)  
When you are recording in a dark or poorly  
illuminated location, “LIGHT” (warning of too  
little ambient illumination) is displayed on the  
monitor. Use the gain-up feature to record a  
brighter picture.  
When the subject is backlit, the image will be  
darkened if it is recorded normally. Use the  
backlight compensation (BLC) feature to  
improve the picture.  
1
Press the MENU button until  
the monitor (Camera mode).  
appears on  
1
Press the MENU button until  
on the monitor (Camera mode).  
appears  
GAIN-UP  
BLC  
E
X
T
E
X
T
D
I
S
D
I
S
E
N
D
E
N
D
Note:  
Note:  
• At locations where lighting is adequate, the  
“LIGHT” indicator will not appear. “BLC”  
instead of “GAIN-UP” appears indicating the  
gain-up function cannot be used.  
• At locations where lighting is insufficient,  
“LIGHT” appears on the monitor. “GAIN-  
UP” appears indicating the BLC function  
cannot be used.  
2
Press  
on the operation button ( ) to  
2
Press  
on the operation button ( ) to  
select “GAIN-UP”. The “LIGHT” display  
changes to the gain-up (cat's eye) display  
select “BLC”. The backlight compensation  
indicator “ ” appears on the monitor,  
indicating that the BLC function is now  
working.  
“
”, indicating that the gain-up function  
is now working.  
GAIN-UP  
LIGHT  
BLC  
E
X
T
D
I
S
E
E
N
D
X
D
T
I
E
S
N
D
Operation  
Button  
GAIN-UP  
Operation  
Button  
BLC  
E
X
T
D
I
E
X
T
D
I
To turn off the gain-up function, press  
on  
the  
“
button to select “GAIN-UP” again. The  
To turn off the BLC function, press  
button to select “BLC” again. The “  
indicator goes off.  
on the  
”
” display changes to the “LIGHT” display.  
Notes:  
• If the camcorder is moved to a bright location after it  
is engaged in Gain-up mode, the Gain-up mode will  
disengage automatically.  
• There is more picture noise in Gain-up mode.  
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Caution:  
Digital Image Stabilization  
(DIS)  
• The DIS function cannot compensate for excessive  
image shake, or for the subjects or situations  
described below.  
• Subject with low contrast*  
• Subject with a plain background*  
• Dark or dimly lit subject*  
• Subject with vertical or horizontal stripes  
• Many moving subjects in a single frame  
• A shutter speed other than 1/100 sec. is used  
under the light of fluorescent lamps.  
(*The “ ” indicator blinks during these  
conditions.)  
The DIS function lets you stabilize the image by  
electronically canceling relatively small image  
shakes that are often annoying in close-up  
shots.  
1
2
Press the MENU button until  
appears  
on the monitor (Camera mode).  
Press B on the operation button ( ) to  
select “DIS”. The “ ” indicator appears on  
the monitor, and the camcorder enters DIS  
Macro Shots  
mode.  
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, and then move the  
camcorder closer to the subject until you obtain  
the desired angle of view. The camcorder will  
automatically focus on the subject when the  
lens is set for the widest angle.  
BLC  
E
X
D
T
I
E
S
N
D
AUTO  
FADE  
Operation  
Button  
To return to normal recording mode, press B  
on the  
button to select “DIS” again. The “  
”
indicator will disappear.  
Notes:  
• While this function is in progress, the image on the  
monitor is slightly magnified, and the shutter speed  
is automatically switched from the standard speed  
(1/60 sec.) to 1/100 sec.  
Power Zoom Buttons  
Tripod  
• Image resolution slightly decreases in DIS mode.  
• Under the light of fluorescent lamps, the picture may  
brighten and dim.  
• The DIS feature does not work during Still Recording  
mode.  
• Battery consumption is larger in DIS mode. We  
recommend that you not use the DIS feature when  
using the camcorder on a tripod.  
Notes:  
• When you are recording a macro shot, be sure that  
the subject receives sufficient illumination.  
• It is recommended that you use a tripod for  
recording macro shots to prevent image shake.  
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Camera Recording  
Fade Out  
Fade In and Fade Out  
1
Press the MENU button until  
appears  
With the fade function, it is possible to fade in or  
out of scenes smoothly. It is effective especially for  
indicating a dramatic change in scenery.  
on the monitor (Camera mode).  
BLC  
Fade In  
E
X
D
T
E
N
D
I
S
AUTO  
FADE  
2
3
Press the REC START/STOP button to start  
recording.  
Fade Out  
Fade In  
1
Press the MENU button until  
on the monitor (Camera mode).  
appears  
BLC  
PressAon the operation button ( ) to  
select “FADE”.  
E
X
T
D
I
S
E
N
D
E
X
D
T
I
E
S
N
AUTO  
D
FADE  
AUTO  
FADE  
2
3
PressAon the operation button ( ) to  
select “FADE”.  
4
Press the REC START/STOP button at the  
point where you wish to stop recording.  
“FADE” changes to “FADE OUT”, and the  
picture and sound fade out as the screen  
gradually turns white. The camcorder then  
returns to Recording Standby mode.  
Operation  
Button  
E
X
D
T
I
E
S
N
D
AUTO  
FADE  
BLC  
Press the REC START/STOP button.  
“FADE” changes to “FADE IN”, and after  
the screen turns white, recording begins  
and the picture and sound fade into the  
monitor screen.  
FADE  
E
X
D
T
I
BLC  
FADE OUT  
E
BLC  
X
D
T
I
FADE  
E
X
D
T
I
BLC  
REC  
FADE IN  
E
X
D
T
I
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Recording with the Wide  
Screen (16:9)  
5
To return to the normal picture, press C on  
the button to select “OFF” in step 4.  
Notes:  
This feature lets you record scenes with the  
wide-screen feel of a movie shown in a theater.  
The top and the bottom of the picture are  
masked with black bands to produce an  
effective screen aspect ratio of 16:9.  
• The masked portion of the screen will appear green  
when recording; however, during playback it will be  
black.  
• When using the fade function (see page 28) in the  
Wide Screen mode, only the unmasked portion of  
the screen will fade in or out.  
• You can only use the Wide Screen mode when the  
camcorder is in Camera mode.  
Setting the Wide Screen Mode  
1
Press the MENU button until  
on the monitor (Camera mode).  
STOP WATCH  
appears  
To Cancel Automatic Display of the  
Screen in Camera Mode  
Normally, when the power is turned on in Camera  
mode, the  
screen with the indicators such as  
M
E
N
U
“BLC” and “EXTEND” is automatically displayed  
on the monitor.  
If you do not want these indicators to be  
automatically displayed, follow the procedure  
below.  
AUTO  
COUNTER  
2
3
Press B on the operation button ( ) to  
select “MENU”.  
1
2
Press the MENU button until  
the monitor.  
appears on  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
Press B on the  
button to select “MENU”.  
DATE /TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
S
E
T
S
E
T
AUTO  
OFF  
ITEM  
SELF REC  
AUTO NO CORRECT  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
Operation  
Button  
DATE /TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
S
E
T
S
E
T
AUTO  
OFF  
Press  
Press B on the  
PAGE and then pressAon the  
to select “16:9”.  
on the button to select “PAGE”.  
button to select MENU-  
button  
SELF REC  
AUTO NO CORRECT  
2
3
Press B on the  
PAGE and then pressAon the  
select “CAM. DISP.”.  
button to select MENU-  
2
button to  
ITEM  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
ON  
OFF  
PAGE  
1
2
2
3
3
4
ON  
OFF  
PAGE  
16 : 9  
OFF  
ON  
16 : 9  
OFF  
ON  
REMOTE  
REMOTE  
S
S
S
S
S
S
ITEM  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
ON  
OFF  
PAGE  
1
4
ON  
OFF  
OFF  
ON  
PAGE  
16 : 9  
OFF  
ON  
16 : 9  
OFF  
ON  
ON  
OFF  
REMOTE  
REMOTE  
CAM. DISP.  
DGTL ZOOM  
S
E
T
S
E
T
4
Press B on the  
button to select “OFF”.  
4
Press B on the  
button to select “ON”.  
Then, press the MENU button to remove the  
menu. Turn camera off, then on again.  
Indicators will not appear.  
ITEM  
Then, press the MENU button to remove the  
menu.  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
ON  
OFF  
PAGE  
1
2
3
4
ON  
OFF  
OFF  
ON  
PAGE  
16 : 9  
OFF  
ON  
16 : 9  
OFF  
ON  
ON  
OFF  
REMOTE  
S
S
REMOTE  
CAM. DISP.  
DGTL ZOOM  
S
E
T
S
E
T
Notes:  
• You can cancel the automatic display of  
screen  
in VCR mode by setting “VCR DISP.” to “OFF” on  
the VCR menu screen.  
• If you want the indicators to be displayed, press the  
MODE DISPLAY button.  
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Normal Screen Mode  
Wide Screen Mode  
29  
Camera Recording  
Note:  
Quick Return  
• If the cassette has been removed since the last  
recording or if no recording has been made since  
the cassette was loaded, the “RETURN” indicator  
will be faintly displayed and the quick return  
function will not operate.  
When you have been playing back what you  
have recorded, and wish to quickly return to  
recording again from the end of the last  
recorded scene, use the quick return function.  
Edit Search  
1
Set the Power switch  
to CAMERA.  
The edit search feature lets you search, without  
switching from Camera Recording mode to  
VCR mode, for the point on the tape where you  
wish to start recording next.  
1
In Recording Standby mode, make sure  
that no operation indicators are displayed  
on the monitor.  
2
Press the MENU button until  
on the monitor.  
appears  
• If they are displayed on the monitor, turn  
them off by pressing the MODE DISPLAY  
button.  
2
Press the MENU button until  
the monitor.  
appears on  
3
PressAon the operation button ( ) to  
select “RETURN”. The tape will begin  
winding or rewinding to the end of the last  
recorded scene.  
3
4
Press C for reverse edit search or B for  
forward edit search on the button.  
AUTO  
When you find the point where you want to  
begin recording, release the button.  
Operation  
Button  
AUTO  
Notes:  
• Some picture noise appears during reverse edit  
search.  
• Forward edit search is performed at the same speed  
as normal playback, and reverse edit search is  
performed at three times the normal playback speed.  
• The sound is off during edit search.  
• To cancel, pressAon the  
button to  
select “RETURN” again.  
4
When the tape reaches the end of the last  
recorded scene, the camcorder enters  
Recording Standby mode.  
PAUSE  
AUTO  
AUTO  
30  
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Notes:  
Tips on Recording Positions  
• 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.  
The rotating LCD monitor screen lets you enjoy  
easy video recording in relaxed postures.  
• You can record using more natural body pos-  
tures since you can see the subject on-screen,  
without having to hold the camcorder against  
your eye.  
• The LCD monitor also makes high-angle and  
low-angle shots easy.  
• In hand-held recording, the camcorder has to be  
steadied to prevent image shake.  
Hints for Better Shooting  
• Use a tripod for very stable recording.  
• Position the subject in the center of the screen.  
When you are using auto focus, whatever is in  
the center of the screen is kept in focus.  
Basic Recording Positions  
Put the fingers of your right hand through the hand  
strap, and place 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.  
Basic Posture  
Position the subject in  
the center.  
Focus manually when  
you need to position the  
subject off center (see  
page 43).  
Look at the  
monitor with  
both eyes.  
• Avoid backlit subjects. For the best picture, have  
the light source behind you.  
When the background is brighter than the sub-  
ject, the subject often becomes too dark. If you  
Press your elbows  
against your sides. need to record with this lighting, correct the gain  
or iris to improve the picture (see pages 26  
Kneeling  
and 47).  
Place your feet at a  
45° angle and take  
a firm stance.  
Light from  
Behind  
Back-  
lighting  
High Angle  
• Before zooming, think about how to best frame  
the shot. 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.  
You can record  
and still see the  
monitor screen.  
This is convenient  
when you want to  
record over a  
crowd.  
Low Angle  
• 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.  
When kneeling, put  
one knee on the  
ground for the best  
stability.  
• Use wide-angle settings for fast-moving  
subjects.  
Prone  
Note:  
• It may take longer to focus when zooming and  
panning are used frequently.  
Rest on both  
elbows to  
stabilize the  
camcorder.  
31  
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Camera Recording  
Setting the Camcorder to Full  
Auto Mode  
This camcorder is equipped with auto focus, auto  
white balance, auto exposure, and auto shutter  
speed functions. Setting the camcorder to Full  
Auto mode lets you record high-quality pictures  
easily.  
1
2
Refer to page 14 to display MENU-PAGE  
Press A on the operation button ( ) to  
select “DATE/TIME”.  
1
.
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
DATE/TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
S
S
Press C or B on the  
“AUTO”, “ON” or “OFF”.  
button to select  
When “AUTO” is not displayed on the monitor the  
camcorder is not in Full Auto mode. Perform the  
procedure below to set the camcorder to Full Auto  
mode.  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
DATE/TIME  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
DISPLAY  
S
S
1
2
While the camcorder is in Camera mode,  
press the MENU button until appears.  
When “ON” is selected, the date/time is  
continuously displayed and recorded along with  
the subject.  
Press  
on the operation button ( ) to  
select “MANUAL”.  
When “AUTO” is selected, the date/time is  
displayed and recorded for 10 seconds at the  
beginning of the first recording of each day.  
When “OFF” is selected, the date/time is neither  
displayed nor recorded.  
Operation Button  
Note:  
Note:  
• If the camcorder is in manual focus mode  
(“FOCUS” selected on  
the  
• Select “AUTO” if continuous date/time display  
annoys you during recording or playback.  
screen), press A on  
button to return to Auto Focus mode (see  
page 43).  
3
4
Press A on the  
“DISPLAY”.  
button to select  
3
Select “CAMERA MODE” and then press C  
on the  
ITEM  
button to select “AUTO”.  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
DATE/TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
ITEM  
S
E
T
S
E
T
CAMERA MODE  
SCENE MENU  
SHUT. SPEED  
WHITE BALANCE  
IRIS  
AUTO MANUAL  
AUTO  
OFF  
S
E
T
S
E
T
SELF REC  
AUTO NO CORRECT  
Press C or B on the  
“DATE+ TIME” or “DATE”.  
button to select  
ITEM  
4
Press the MENU button until  
During normal operation, use the  
for the Full Auto mode. “AUTO” appears on  
the monitor.  
appears.  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
screen  
DATE/TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
S
E
T
S
E
T
AUTO  
OFF  
SELF REC  
AUTO NO CORRECT  
BLC  
When “DATE+TIME” is selected, both the  
date and the time are displayed and  
recorded.  
E
X
D
T
I
E
S
N
D
When “DATE” is selected, only the date is  
displayed and recorded.  
AUTO  
FADE  
5
Press the MENU button to turn off the menu  
display.  
“AUTO” appears.  
Recording the Date and Time  
Note:  
• When “AUTO” is selected in step 2, the date/  
time is not displayed and recorded even if the  
date changes during recording.  
Follow the procedure shown in the next column to  
record the date and time – or the date only – along  
with the subject.  
32  
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Remaining Recording Time  
Display  
Remaining Battery Power  
Display  
When the camcorder is recording in Camera  
mode, an on-screen indicator will begin to show  
how much time you have left as shown below. You  
might want to get a new tape ready at this time.  
To turn off the remaining recording time display,  
press the MODE DISPLAY button.  
When you turn on the camcorder, the remaining  
battery power display automatically appears on  
the monitor. By pressing the MODE DISPLAY  
button, you can turn the display on and off.  
The remaining power is displayed in five levels, as  
shown.  
If the battery power is very low, a warning  
message will appear. Replace the battery pack.  
Notes:  
MODE DISPLAY Button  
Approx. Remaining  
Monitor Display  
Recording Time  
This icon will appear  
when less than half the  
tape is remaining.  
Monitor Display  
(Green)  
(Green)  
10 min.–8 min.  
8 min.–6 min.  
6 min.–4 min.  
4 min.–2 min.  
2 min.–1 min.  
(Green)  
(Yellow)  
(Red)  
5-Level Display  
THE TAPE ENDS SOON.  
(after 3 sec.)  
1 min.–0 min.  
0 min.  
(The tape has  
reached its end.)  
CHANGE THE CASSETTE.  
Notes:  
(after 3 sec.)  
• Use the remaining battery power display only as  
an indication.  
TAPE END  
• Battery consumption may vary depending on the  
condition of use.  
• The battery power display may change to either  
a higher or lower level if you set the Power  
switch to OFF and then back to CAMERA or VCR  
again.  
• The time-remaining indicators only show  
approximate time left. Also, they vary slightly  
depending on the length of tape used. (This  
function’s design is based on the P6-120 tape  
standard.)  
• Use of the zoom functions when the warning  
message “BATTERY IS TOO LOW.” is displayed  
may cause the camcorder to suddenly lose  
power. Replace the battery pack.  
• Remaining battery power display will not be  
displayed when using a DC cable or Docking  
station.  
• If the MODE DISPLAY button is pressed to turn off  
the remaining recording time display, this display  
will reappear after a short interval to indicate the  
new time remaining.  
• The time-remaining indicators above appear after  
5 seconds from the time you press the REC  
START/STOP button to start recording.  
33  
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Basic Operations  
Playback  
• Refer to pages 13-15 on how to operate the  
monitor display.  
Playback  
The LCD monitor 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 or via your own stereo earphones.  
You can also watch prerecorded 8 mm video  
tapes on this camcorder.  
PHONE Jack  
Caution:  
• To use the infrared remote control, make sure that  
the remote control menu item (“REMOTE”) is set to  
“ON”. The remote control cannot be used to  
operate the camcorder when this menu item is set to  
“OFF”. See page 39.  
1
Hold down the Lock  
button and slide the Power  
switch to VCR. It make  
take some time for the  
screen to appear. Wait  
until the screen appears  
before starting operation.  
Volume Control  
Lock Button  
appears  
While the camcorder is in the VCR mode, press  
the VOL. İ or ĭ button to increase or decrease  
the volume to your preference.  
2
3
Press the MENU button until  
on the monitor.  
The volume control indicator will appear on the  
monitor. After adjusting the volume, if the Volume  
control buttons are not pressed, the indicator will  
disappear by itself shortly.  
PLAY STILL  
R
F
F
E
W
If the tape is not at the desired point, press  
C or B on the operation button ( ) to  
select “FF” (Q) or “REW” (W).  
/
PLAY STILL  
R
E
W
F
F
Operation button  
Volume  
Control  
Buttons  
4
Press  
on the  
button to select “PLAY”.  
VOLUME  
PLAY STILL  
Decrease  
Increase  
R
E
W
F
F
Note:  
• The volume can also be adjusted with the remote  
control.  
To Stop Playback  
Fast Forward and Rewind  
Press Aon the  
button to select “STOP”.  
Press B or C on the  
button to select “FF”  
(Fast Forward) or “REW” (Rewind) on the  
screen (VCR mode) during a stop mode.  
AutoTape Rewind  
The tape is automatically rewound when  
playback reaches the end of the tape.  
Searching for and Playing Back a  
Scene Far from the CurrentTape  
Position  
Notes:  
• If you wish to turn off the operation indicators on the  
monitor (e.g. because they interfere with your view of  
the picture), press the MODE DISPLAY button. The  
buttons will still function as indicated even after their  
indicators are turned off.  
• Stereo earphones with a 3.5 mm diameter plug can be  
plugged directly into the PHONES jack below the  
monitor. When you use this jack, the speaker  
automatically turns off.  
When fast forwarding (or rewinding) a tape,  
press B on the  
button to select “FF” (or C  
screen (VCR mode).  
to select “REW”) on the  
The fast forward (or reverse) playback picture  
is displayed on-screen.  
Release the button to return to normal fast  
forward (or reverse) mode.  
34  
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Using the Stand  
Still  
Pull out the stand and lock it into position when  
you put the camcorder on a table or other flat  
surface.  
This function makes it possible to freeze the  
picture. During playback, press  
button to select “STILL” on the  
on the  
screen (VCR  
mode). To return to normal playback, press  
Cautions:  
on the  
button to select “STILL” once again.  
• Protect the stand from strong forces. Otherwise it  
may break.  
• To retract the stand, press it in the direction of the  
arrow.  
PLAY STILL  
R
F
F
E
Pulling the Stand Out  
Retracting the Stand  
W
• Still image playback can also be operated with the  
remote control. (See page 39.)  
Slow  
Placing  
This function makes it possible to play back in  
slow motion. During playback, press the SLOW  
button (E) on the remote control. To return to  
normal playback, press PLAY button on the  
remote control to select “PLAY”.  
To stabilize the  
camcorder, make sure  
the camera module  
stands vertically.  
PLAY  
REW  
STOP  
PAUSE/STILL  
PLAY Button  
FF  
Video Search  
SLOW  
This function makes it easy for you to search for  
a scene near the current tape position.  
SLOW Button  
VOLUME  
1
During playback, press B on the operation  
button ( ) to select “FF” (Q) (or C to select  
“REW” (W)) on the  
screen (VCR mode).  
The fast forward (or reverse) playback  
picture is displayed on-screen.  
PLAY STILL  
Operation  
Button  
/
PLAY STILL  
R
E
W
F
F
R
E
W
F
F
STOP  
2
When you find the desired scene, press  
the  
on the  
button to select “PLAY” to  
Notes:  
return to normal playback.  
• The sound is off during Still and Slow modes.  
• To protect the tape, the camcorder automatically  
returns to ordinary playback mode if it is left in Still  
mode for more than 5 minutes or in Slow mode for  
more than about 40 seconds.  
• If still or slow functions are used when connected to  
a TV, noise will appear and distort the image.  
• Slow function cannot be operated from the  
camcorder.  
PLAY STILL  
R
E
W
F
F
Notes:  
• The sound is off during these searches.  
• Some picture noise appears during these searches.  
This is not a malfunction.  
35  
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Basic Operations Playback  
Program Search  
4
Press C on the  
button to select REW (or  
B to select FF) button. “SEARCH” will start  
flashing. The tape rewinds (or fast forwards)  
to the beginning of a scene immediately  
before (or after) the current tape position;  
playback then starts automatically.  
The program search feature automatically finds  
the beginning of a number of previously recorded  
scenes. Up to 10 different scenes can be found on  
one tape.  
The “REW” and “FF” indicators automatically  
disappear after about 10 seconds.  
1
Set the Power switch  
to VCR.  
R
F
F
E
W
2
Press the MENU button until  
appears on the monitor.  
screen  
SEARCH  
FINISHED  
5
To continue searching, press C on the  
button to select REW (or B to select FF)  
while its indicator is displayed.  
SEARCH  
3
Press A on the operation button ( ) to  
select “SEARCH”.  
The camcorder enters the Program Search  
mode. Both the “REW” and “FF”  
indicators, or one of them will start  
flashing.  
Notes:  
• Use this feature when the tape is stopped or being  
played back.  
• This function finds the beginning of the scene  
immediately before or after the current tape position,  
stopping at every scene. It is not possible to skip a  
scene.  
To cancel, press A on the  
select SEARCH again.  
button to  
• This function cannot spot recordings that are shorter  
than 10 seconds in length.  
• In steps 3 and 5, if the tape is at a point ahead of  
the most recent recording, only the “REW” indicator  
will flash, and the “FF” indicator will not appear.  
• In steps 3 and 5, if the tape is at a point before the  
oldest recording, only the “FF” indicator will flash,  
and the “REW” indicator will not appear.  
• This feature does not function if no recording has  
been made since the cassette was loaded, or if the  
cassette has been removed after the recordings  
were made. “SEARCH” is faintly displayed in this  
case.  
SEARCH  
Operation  
Button  
R
F
F
E
W
SEARCH  
Example: To find the beginning of five different scenes:  
R
R
E
W
F
F
F
F
E
W
Monitor Display  
SEARCH  
SEARCH  
SEARCH  
Current Tape Position  
Video Tape  
Beginnings of Scenes  
Oldest Recording  
Most Recent Recording  
When you are at this position:  
Press C on the  
Press B on the  
button to select “REW” to rewind the tape to E and begin playback.  
button to select “FF” to forward the tape to R and begin playback.  
36  
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Using the Tape Counter  
To Turn Off the Counter Display  
Use the tape counter feature when you want to  
know the recording or playback time.  
Press A on the  
“COUNTER” in step 2.  
button again to select  
1
Press the MENU button until  
(VCR  
To Reset the Counter to Zero  
mode) or  
(Camera mode) appears on  
the monitor.  
During playback or recording, perform steps 1  
and 2, and then press B on the  
button to  
STOP WATCH  
select “RESET”.  
PREV. PAGE  
M
E
N
U
0
0 0 0 0  
M
E
R
E
S
E
T
M
O
R
Y
COUNTER  
2
Press Aon the operation button ( ) to  
select “COUNTER”. The counter display  
will appear.  
M
E
N
U
COUNTER  
Operation Button  
Tape Counter  
PREV. PAGE  
3 1 0 8  
0
M
E
M
O
R
Y
R
E
S
E
T
COUNTER  
3
Begin playback or recording. You can  
check the recording or playback time on  
the monitor.  
Tape Counter  
PLAY  
3 1 0 8  
/STILL  
0
R
E
W
F
F
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Basic Operations Playback  
Counter Memory  
5
6
Press C on the  
on the screen. The tape will automatically  
stop when the counter reaches 0:00.00.  
button to select “REW”  
Use the counter memory when you want to return  
to the beginning of a particular scene. The  
position where the counter memory is reset,  
(0:00.00) is stored in memory to make it easier to  
return the tape to that point.  
PLAY STILL  
0
0 0 0 0  
R
E
W
F
F
1
During playback or recording, press the  
MENU button until (VCR mode) or  
STOP  
(Camera mode) appears on the monitor.  
Press  
on the  
on the  
button to select “PLAY”  
STOP WATCH  
screen to view the desired scene.  
M
E
N
U
To Cancel the Counter Memory Mode  
Perform step 1. Then press A on the operation  
button ( ) to select “COUNTER” and then press  
COUNTER  
C on the  
button to select “MEMORY”. “M” will  
disappear. The Counter Memory mode is now  
canceled.  
2
Press A on the button to select “COUNTER”  
then press C on the  
button to select  
“MEMORY”. “M” will appear to the left of the  
counter display.  
Notes:  
• In Step 5, Bon the  
“FF” in the same way.  
• This function does not work during video searches.  
• In step 5, the tape may stop slightly ahead or  
behind the point where you reset the counter to “M  
0:00.00”.  
button can be used to select  
M
E
N
U
COUNTER  
PREV. PAGE  
Turning Off the LCD Monitor  
Backlight  
0
3 1 0 8  
M
E
M
O
R
Y
R
E
S
E
T
This camcorder’s LCD monitor uses a fluorescent  
lamp for backlighting (see page 57). In order to  
reduce battery consumption, you can turn off the  
lamp when backlighting is not necessary (e.g.  
when you are watching a playback on a  
connected TV’s screen).  
Memory Indicator  
3
4
Press B on the  
button to select “RESET”  
at the beginning of a scene you want to  
return to later.  
While the camcorder is in Camera or VCR mode,  
hold down the MODE DISPLAY button for more  
than 5 seconds. The backlight will turn off and the  
LAMP OFF indicator will light.  
To turn it on again, press the MODE DISPLAY  
button or set the Power switch to OFF, and then  
back to CAMERA or VCR.  
PREV. PAGE  
0
0 0 0 0  
M
E
M
O
R
Y
R
E
S
E
T
MODE  
DISPLAY  
MENU  
After playback, press A on the  
button to  
LAMP OFF  
Indicator  
select “STOP” on the screen. If you have  
been recording, stop the tape and set the  
Power switch to VCR.  
Notes:  
• The LAMP OFF indicator will blink when the monitor  
is off to indicate that there is a warning message.  
Press the MODE DISPLAY button and check the  
message on the monitor.  
• Turning the LCD monitor on and off repeatedly may  
deplete battery power.  
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38  
Using the Infrared Remote  
Control  
Use the remote control to operate the camcorder  
from a distance, such as when you want to record  
yourself in a scene, or when the camcorder is  
connected to a TV for use as a VCR.  
1
Set the Power switch  
to CAMERA or VCR.  
Photoreceptor  
2
Press the MENU button until  
mode) or  
monitor.  
(Camera  
(VCR mode) appears on the  
Approximate  
Operating Range  
of Remote Control  
STOP WATCH  
M
E
N
U
Notes:  
• Be careful not to allow direct sunlight or bright light  
from interior illumination to fall onto the camcorder’s  
photoreceptor, as this may prevent the remote  
control from operating properly.  
• Be sure that there are no obstacles between the  
remote control and the camcorder’s photoreceptor.  
• When the “REMOTE” item setting is changed in  
either Camera or VCR mode, the setting for the  
other mode is automatically set to the same.  
• The lithium cell normally lasts about one year. It can  
be shorter under some operating conditions. When  
the lithium cell is dead and the remote control does  
not operate, replace the cell with a new one by  
following the instructions on page 6.  
AUTO  
COUNTER  
3
4
Press B on the operation button ( ) to  
select “MENU”.  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
DATE /TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
S
E
T
S
E
T
AUTO  
OFF  
SELF REC  
AUTO NO CORRECT  
Operation Button  
Press B on the  
button to select MENU-  
PAGE  
2
and then press A on the  
button to select “REMOTE”. Make sure  
REMOTE CONTROL  
the "REMOTE" is set to "ON".  
ITEM  
1
2
2
3
3
4
ON  
OFF  
REC  
START/  
STOP  
PAGE  
16 : 9  
REMOTE  
OFF  
ON  
ZOOM  
ZOOM  
Button  
S
S
S
S
REC START/  
STOP Button  
ITEM  
1
4
ON  
OFF  
PAGE  
16 : 9  
REMOTE  
PLAY  
REW  
STOP  
PAUSE/STILL  
FF  
OFF  
ON  
PAUSE/  
STILL  
Button  
PLAY  
Button  
REW  
Button  
FF Button  
If the "REMOTE" is set to "OFF", press C  
SLOW  
on the  
button to select “ON”.  
SLOW  
Button  
STOP  
Button  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
ON  
OFF  
VOLUME  
PAGE  
16 : 9  
OFF  
ON  
REMOTE  
S
S
VOLUME  
Button  
5
Aim the remote control at the  
photoreceptor of the camcorder, and  
press the control buttons for operation.  
39  
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Useful Features for Camera Recording  
Note:  
Self Recording  
• If the image on the monitor is upside-down, rerotate  
the monitor (normal position) and display MENU-  
The LCD monitor can be rotated 180° vertically  
1
PAGE  
(Camera mode), press A on the  
so that the monitor screen faces the subject.  
This lets you record yourself while watching  
yourself on the screen.  
operation button ( ) to select “SELF REC” and  
then press C on the  
button to select “AUTO”.  
Operation Button  
ITEM  
Enjoy recording your own portrait by yourself,  
or recording yourself and your friend together  
at a party.  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
DATE/TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
S
E
T
S
E
T
AUTO  
OFF  
SELF REC  
AUTO NO CORRECT  
Example of Recording in Self Recording  
Mode  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
DATE/TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
S
E
T
S
E
T
AUTO  
OFF  
SELF REC  
AUTO NO CORRECT  
2
3
Press C or B to select “WIDE ” or “TELE”.  
REC START  
W
I
D
E
T
E
L
E
Press A on the button to select “REC  
START”.  
Cautions:  
• Do not rotate the monitor to the self recording  
position while the camcorder is recording or playing  
back.  
REC START  
• For recording in Self Recording mode, be sure to  
rotate the monitor, NOT the lens. If you hold the  
camcorder upside down with its lens at the  
bottom, the subject will be recorded upside  
down.  
W
I
T
E
L
D
E
E
Normal Self Recording  
REC STOP  
1
Rotate the camcorder’s monitor section  
180° vertically. The camcorder will show  
a mirror image of the subject. Playback  
image will not be reversed even though  
the monitor shows the mirror image  
during self recording.  
W
I
T
E
L
D
E
E
To pause recording, press A on the button.  
40  
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Self Recording Message OSD  
3
When the remaining recording time  
reaches 5 seconds, “EXTEND” will flash.  
• When you want to extend the recording  
In Self Recording mode, by following some simple  
instructions that appear on the monitor screen,  
you can easily record a short video message for  
someone. This feature is especially convenient for  
editing video letters.  
time, press  
on the  
button to select  
“EXTEND” within 5 seconds. After pressing  
the button, you may record continuously for  
10 more seconds.  
• Complete steps 1 and 2 of “Normal Self  
Recording” on page 40. Then perform the  
procedure below.  
W
I
T
E
L
D
E
E
1
Press  
on the operation button ( ) to  
select “MESSAGE”. The instruction “PRESS  
REC START FOR LEAVING YOUR  
EXTEND  
MESSAGE.” appears on the monitor, and  
the “REC START” indicator starts flashing.  
4
At the end of recording, the screen fades  
out, and recording stops automatically.  
The camcorder returns to Recording  
Standby mode, and “PRESS REC START  
FOR LEAVING YOUR MESSAGE.”  
W
I
T
E
L
D
E
E
appears again on the monitor screen.  
MESSAGE  
REC START  
Operation  
Button  
REC STOP  
PRESS REC START FOR  
LEAVING YOUR MESSAGE.  
W
I
T
E
L
W
I
T
E
D
E
E
2
Press A on the button to select “REC”.  
START”. Say your message while facing the  
lens of the camcorder.  
• The recording time is preset for 20 seconds.  
• The remaining number of seconds is  
displayed in the upper right hand corner.  
MESSAGE  
REC START  
PRESS REC START FOR  
LEAVING YOUR MESSAGE.  
W
I
T
E
L
D
E
E
MESSAGE  
REC START  
PRESS REC START FOR  
LEAVING YOUR MESSAGE.  
W
I
T
E
L
Note:  
D
E
E
• When you want to stop recording before  
message recording stops automatically, press  
REC STOP  
A on the  
button to select “REC STOP”. The  
20  
screen fades out immediately and the cam-  
corder returns to Recording Standby mode.  
W
I
T
E
20 15 10  
5
4
3
2
1
(remaining number of seconds)  
41  
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Useful Features for Camera Recording  
More Information on Self Recording  
• In Self Recording mode, it is not possible  
to record using manual recording modes,  
change picture adjustments, display  
menus, record the date and time, or use  
the quick-return and some of the other  
features.  
• The screen image is automatically inverted  
when the monitor rotation is between 140°  
and 200°.  
When the monitor is turned back to the  
normal position, the image returns to  
normal.  
• You can begin playback by setting the  
Power switch to VCR, even while the  
monitor is rotated 180°. The functions  
displayed on the monitor during normal  
playback still operate even though not  
• During Self Recording mode, only the REC  
START/STOP, Zoom Wide and Telephoto  
buttons function on the remote control (see  
page 39).  
displayed. (For example, the  
on the  
operation button ( ) works as the Play  
button.)  
Photoreceptor  
After recording in Self Recording mode,  
you can enjoy instant playback without  
having to re-rotate the monitor. In this case,  
the indicators will not be displayed on the  
monitor.  
•If you set “SELF REC” to “NO CORRECT”  
1
on MENU-PAGE  
(Camera mode), the  
screen image on the monitor will be  
displayed upside-down.  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
DATE/TIME  
DISPLAY  
OFF AUTO ON  
DATE TIME DATE  
S
E
T
S
E
T
AUTO  
OFF  
SELF REC  
AUTO NO CORRECT  
PREV. PAGE  
Usable Buttons  
During Self  
Recording Mode  
• In the Self Recording mode, all standard  
warning indicators on the monitor are  
replaced by a flashing “ ” indicator. To  
check the meaning of the warning, turn the  
monitor back to the normal position.  
42  
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To Return to Auto Focus Mode  
Manual Focus  
PressAon the  
in step 1.  
button to select “FOCUS”  
The auto focus may not be able to focus on  
the subject in the situations shown in the  
chart on page 25. In such situations, set the  
camcorder to Manual Focus mode and  
focus manually.  
MANUAL  
N
E
A
R
F
A
R
Operation Button  
FOCUS  
MANUAL  
AUTO  
FOCUS  
Setting the Manual Focus  
Notes:  
• When recording in the 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.  
1
Press the MENU button until  
appears  
on the monitor (Camera mode).  
PressAon the operation button ( ) to  
select “FOCUS  
• If you focus on a subject in wide angle and then  
set the zoom to maximum, the subject may go  
out of focus. (First focus on the subject at  
maximum zoom setting and then shoot at the  
desired zoom setting.)  
AUTO  
• If the lens is dirty or fogged, you may not be able  
to obtain correct focus.  
MANUAL  
N
E
A
R
F
A
R
FOCUS  
2
Press C or B on the  
select “NEAR”or “FAR”.  
button to  
MANUAL  
N
E
A
R
F
A
R
FOCUS  
43  
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Useful Features for Camera Recording  
Operation Button  
MENU Button  
Scene Menu (Program AE)  
You can set the camcorder to the shooting mode  
that will bring the best results for a specific type of  
shooting situation. Just select one of the four scene  
settings shown below. The camcorder will  
automatically set the exposure, white balance, and  
shutter speed to produce the optimum picture  
quality for the selected situation.  
Scene  
Camcorder Adjustment  
Situation  
To record a fast-moving subject. The shutter speed is set to 1/500 sec. for a clear,  
unblurred picture of fast-moving objects. The  
Sport  
white balance is set for outdoor sunlight.  
When the background is too  
bright.  
The aperture is adjusted to maintain the  
appropriate brightness. The white balance is set  
for outdoor sunlight.  
Ski or sand  
Twilight  
Party  
When you want to faithfully record The white balance is fixed to optimize the red of  
the red of the setting sun, and the the sunset. Light sensitivity and contrast are  
surrounding twilight.  
reduced to reproduce the surrounding twilight.  
When the illumination is from a  
spotlight or candles.  
Brightness is adjusted to reduce white flaring  
(overexposure) from faces when the spotlight or  
candles are too bright.  
1
Press the MENU button until  
the monitor (Camera mode).  
appears on  
4
Press C or B on the  
the scene setting that best fits the recording  
button to select  
Press  
select “MANUAL”.  
on the operation button ( ) to  
situation.  
Each time you press C or B on the  
button, the scene indicator changes as  
shown.  
ITEM  
CAMERA MODE  
SCENE MENU  
OFF  
S
S
2
3
Select “CAMERA MODE” and then press B  
OFF  
on the  
button to select “MANUAL”.  
To Go Back to Auto Mode  
ITEM  
Select “SCENE MENU” in step 3 above, and then  
press C on the operation button ( ) to select  
“OFF”.  
CAMERA MODE  
SCENE MENU  
SHUT. SPEED  
WHITE BALANCE  
IRIS  
AUTO MANUAL  
S
E
T
S
E
T
To reset the camcorder to Full Auto mode, press  
on the  
button to select “CAMERA MODE”  
and then press C on the  
button to select  
PressAon the  
button to select “SCENE  
“AUTO” in step 2.  
MENU”.  
Notes:  
• When “  
” is selected, recording under the light of  
ITEM  
fluorescent lamps, mercury lamps, or sodium lamps  
may cause color shifts or fluctuations in picture  
brightness.  
CAMERA MODE  
SCENE MENU  
OFF  
S
E
T
S
E
T
WHITE BALANCE  
IRIS  
” is selected, the picture may not be  
• When “  
satisfactory if the lighting is very dim.  
• We recommend that you use Auto mode (“SCENE  
MENU: OFF”) to record outdoor parties.  
PREV. PAGE  
ITEM  
• If other manual items are adjusted after setting the  
Scene Menu, the Scene Menu will automatically  
return to “OFF”.  
Note:  
• Pressing A on the  
select “SHUT. SPEED”, not “WHITE BALANCE”.  
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button once again will  
44  
To Return to the Standard Shutter  
Speed  
Setting the Shutter Speed  
Operation Button  
MENU Button  
In step 4, press C on the operation button ( ) to  
select “NORMAL”.  
To reset the camcorder to Full Auto mode, press  
on the  
button to select “CAMERA MODE”  
and then press C on the  
button to select  
“AUTO” in step 2.  
Recommended Shutter Speeds  
The faster the shutter speed, the darker the pic-  
ture becomes. Select the most appropriate shutter  
speed for the ambient light.  
1
Press the MENU button until  
the monitor (Camera mode).  
appears on  
Press  
select “MANUAL”.  
on the operation button ( ) to  
Recommended  
Situation  
Shutter Speed  
• Recording sports action in  
1/10000 sec.  
bright daylight  
I
• Recording in bright day-  
1/1000 sec.  
light at a ski resort  
2
3
Select “CAMERA MODE” and then press B  
• Recording outdoor sports  
on a somewhat cloudy day  
• Recording an outside  
scene through a car win-  
dow (when you want to  
minimize blurs caused by  
camera shake)  
on the  
button to select “MANUAL”.  
1/1000 sec.  
ITEM  
CAMERA MODE  
SCENE MENU  
SHUT. SPEED  
WHITE BALANCE  
IRIS  
AUTO MANUAL  
l
S
E
T
S
E
T
1/250 sec.  
• When you want to reduce  
the light by half. Use as a  
substitute for an ND2 filter.  
PressAon the  
SPEED”.  
button to select “SHUT.  
1/100 sec.  
ITEM  
Note on Recording under Fluorescent  
Lighting  
If the picture on the monitor flickers when  
recording under fluorescent lighting, you may be  
able to compensate by changing the shutter  
speed to 1/100 sec.  
CAMERA MODE  
SCENE MENU  
SHUT. SPEED  
S
E
T
S
E
T
NORMAL  
100 250 400 1000 10000  
IRIS  
NORMAL  
100 250 400 1000 10000  
Notes:  
Note:  
• Using a fast shutter speed under fluorescent lighting  
will cause flickering in the picture and possibly  
periodic color shifts.  
• Pressing A on the  
select “WHITE BALANCE”, not “IRIS”.  
button once again will  
• Recording with a shutter speed higher than 1/60 sec.  
(standard) tends to darken the picture. Record in bright  
locations when you use a high shutter speed.  
• If the Scene Menu is set after setting the shutter  
speed, the shutter speed will automatically return to  
“NORMAL” (1/60).  
4
Press B on the  
desired shutter speed.  
• You can select from 6 shutter speed  
settings from 1/60 (NORMAL) to 1/10000.  
button to select the  
ITEM  
CAMERA MODE  
SCENE MENU  
SHUT. SPEED  
S
E
T
S
E
T
NORMAL  
100 250 400 1000 10000  
IRIS  
45  
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Useful Features for Camera Recording  
White Balance Lock  
To Return to the Auto Mode  
In step 5, press C on the operation button ( ) to  
select “AUTO”. The white balance mode display  
will change to “AUTO”.  
Operation Button  
MENU Button  
To reset the camcorder to Full Auto mode, press  
on the  
button to select “CAMERA MODE”  
and then press C on the  
button to select  
“AUTO” in step 2.  
Notes:  
• When recording with the white balance locked, if  
the light source changes or if you move from  
indoor to outdoor, or vice versa, the white  
balance may shift. Reset the white balance.  
• Even after the white balance has been locked,  
white balance shifts may occur due to slight  
changes in illumination or depending on the  
subject.  
1
Press the MENU button until  
the monitor (Camera mode).  
appears on  
Press  
on the operation button ( ) to  
select “MANUAL”.  
• Do not move the camcorder while “LOCK” is  
flashing in step 5.  
• If the “LOCK” indicator does not stop flashing,  
set the white balance to “AUTO” and reset to  
“LOCK”.  
• If the Scene Menu is set after setting the white  
balance to “LOCK”, the white balance will  
automatically return to “AUTO”.  
2
3
Select “CAMERA MODE” and then press B  
on the  
button to select “MANUAL”.  
ITEM  
CAMERA MODE  
SCENE MENU  
SHUT. SPEED  
WHITE BALANCE  
IRIS  
AUTO MANUAL  
S
E
T
S
E
T
PressAon the  
button to select “WHITE  
BALANCE”.  
ITEM  
CAMERA MODE  
SCENE MENU  
SHUT. SPEED  
WHITE BALANCE  
IRIS  
S
E
T
S
E
T
AUTO LOCK  
4
5
Aim the camcorder at a solid white subject  
in the light.  
Press B on the  
button to select  
“LOCK”.  
The “LOCK” display flashes and the white  
balance is automatically locked. The  
“LOCK” display stops flashing when the  
locking procedure is completed.  
ITEM  
CAMERA MODE  
SCENE MENU  
SHUT. SPEED  
S
E
T
S
E
T
WHITE BALANCE  
AUTO LOCK  
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46  
Manual Iris  
4
Press C or B on the operation button (  
to select the desired value setting.  
• The number shows the selected aperture  
value. The adjustable range is from 
מ
6  
(least light) to 
ם
6 (most light).  
)
The camcorder is normally set to Auto Iris  
mode, which automatically chooses the optimal  
aperture. When there is too much contrast in  
brightness between the subject and  
background, you may not be able to record a  
clear image. Correct the iris to adjust the  
aperture.  
ITEM  
CAMERA MODE  
SCENE MENU  
SHUT. SPEED  
S
E
T
S
E
T
WHITE BALANCE  
IRIS  
-6  
PREV. PAGE  
Operation Button  
MENU Button  
ITEM  
To Return to the Auto Mode  
In step 4, press C or B on the operation button  
) to select “0”.  
(
To reset the camcorder to Full Auto mode, press  
on the  
button to select “CAMERA MODE”  
and then press C on the  
button to select  
“AUTO” in step 2.  
Note:  
• If the Scene Menu is set after setting the manual  
iris, the aperture setting will automatically return  
to “0” (normal).  
1
Press the MENU button until  
the monitor (Camera mode).  
appears on  
Press  
on the operation button ( ) to  
select “MANUAL”.  
2
3
Select “CAMERA MODE” and then press B  
on the  
button to select “MANUAL”.  
ITEM  
CAMERA MODE  
SCENE MENU  
SHUT. SPEED  
WHITE BALANCE  
IRIS  
AUTO MANUAL  
S
E
T
S
E
T
PressAon the  
button to select “IRIS”.  
ITEM  
CAMERA MODE  
SCENE MENU  
SHUT. SPEED  
WHITE BALANCE  
IRIS  
S
E
T
S
E
T
0
PREV. PAGE  
ITEM  
47  
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Useful Features for Camera Recording  
Recording a Five-Second Still Still Recording  
Image (Snapshot)  
You can record still images of subjects with normal  
sound.  
You can record a still picture (snapshot) for about  
five seconds with normal sound simply by  
pressing the SNAP button.  
You will find it useful when you want to record a  
shot of a tourist information board during  
sightseeing.  
This is useful when you want to record a scene like  
a photograph.  
1
Refer to page 14 to display “MENU-PAGE  
(Camera mode). PressAon the button to  
select “PHOTO SNAP” and then press B on  
3
”
3
1
Refer to page 14 to display MENU-PAGE  
(Camera mode).  
the  
button to select “STILL”.  
PressAon the operation button ( ) to  
select “PHOTO SNAP” and then press C on  
ITEM  
the  
button to select “SNAP”. Press the  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
MENU button to turn off the menu.  
EXTEND ZOOM  
PHOTO SNAP  
1.5 2.0 2.5X  
SNAP STILL  
S
E
T
S
E
T
Operation Button  
PREV. PAGE  
ITEM  
1
2
3
4
PAGE  
ITEM  
EXTEND ZOOM  
PHOTO SNAP  
1.5 2.0 2.5X  
SNAP STILL  
S
E
T
S
E
T
2
Press the SNAP button while the camcorder  
is in Recording Standby mode.  
PREV. PAGE  
ITEM  
3
4
Press the REC START/STOP button.  
To return to normal recording, press the  
SNAP button again in the Still Recording  
mode.  
2
3
Press the SNAP button while the camcorder  
is in Recording Standby mode.  
Notes:  
SNAP  
Button  
SNAP  
• Once the Still Recording mode is set, the  
camcorder will remain in that mode until it is  
canceled, even when switching between  
Recording mode and Recording Standby mode.  
• The picture quality in this mode will be slightly  
lower than normal pictures.  
Press the REC START/STOP button.  
• The  
indicator is displayed during  
snapshot recording.  
Caution:  
BLC  
• Do not keep the camcorder in Still Recording  
mode too long. The monitor may hold an after-  
image. Turn off the power and wait for a while.  
The monitor will return to normal.  
E
X
T
D
I
S
E
N
D
To Stop Snapshot or Still  
Recording  
A still image of the subject will be recorded  
for about five seconds, then the camcorder  
automatically enters Recording Standby  
mode.  
Press the REC START/STOP button.  
Notes:  
• The image on the monitor will also be frozen  
during snapshot recording.  
• If the electronic high-speed shutter is used with  
the snapshot function, you can record a  
complete still image without any blurring.  
• The picture quality of the snapshot is slightly  
lower than normal picture quality.  
48  
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Using the Stopwatch Function  
Strobe Recording  
1
During playback (or recording), press the  
MENU button until (VCR mode) or  
(Camera mode) appears on the monitor.  
You can record strobe images (still pictures that  
capture continuous motion at 1/5 sec. intervals) of  
subjects with normal sound. You will find it useful  
when you want to produce a special effect while  
recording moving subjects such as your friends  
waving at you.  
2
Press  
on the operation button ( ) to  
select “STOP WATCH”.  
STOP WATCH  
1
Press  
on the operation button ( ) to  
screen (Camera  
M
E
select “STROBE” on the  
mode) while the camcorder is in Recording  
Standby mode.  
N
U
3
4
Press  
“START”.  
on the  
button to select  
The “START” indicator changes to “STOP”,  
and the stopwatch begins to show elapsed  
time.  
• Each time you press the button, the  
recording mode changes as shown below.  
START  
0 0 0 0 0 0  
L
R
E
S
E
T
Normal ↔ Strobe  
A
P
T
I
M
E
2
3
Press the REC START/STOP button.  
To return to normal recording, press  
the button to select “STROBE” again.  
on  
STOP  
0 0 0 1  
2
Press  
“STOP”.  
on the  
button to select  
Notes:  
• Once the Strobe Recording mode is set, the  
camcorder will remain in that mode until it is  
canceled, even when switching between  
The stopwatch display now shows the total  
elapsed time.  
Recording mode and Recording Standby mode.  
• The picture quality in this mode will be slightly  
lower than normal pictures.  
STOP  
0 1 2 6  
4
L
A
P
T
I
M
E
R
E
S
E
T
To Reset the Stopwatch  
Stopwatch  
Press B on the  
button to select “RESET”.  
The stopwatch feature is useful for measuring  
times in athletic races and other time competi-  
tions. You can measure down to 1/100 second.  
The function is available for both Camera and  
VCR modes.  
START  
0 0 0 0 0 0  
L
R
E
S
E
T
A
P
T
I
M
E
Operation Button  
MENU Button  
Notes:  
• While the stopwatch is running, the elapsed time  
is displayed down to 1/10 second.  
• After completing step 4, if you press A on the  
button to select “PREV. PAGE”, the monitor  
display will return to step 1.  
• When using the stopwatch during recording, the  
stopwatch display is not recorded.  
49  
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Useful Features for Camera Recording  
Displaying Lap Times  
Notes:  
• When using the stopwatch during  
recording, the lap time display is not  
recorded.  
• Each time you select “LAP TIME”, the  
stopwatch display indicates the time  
elapsed from the moment the stopwatch  
was started to the moment you pressed C  
When using the stopwatch in an athletic  
competition such as a 100 m swimming race,  
the stopwatch can display lap times, e.g. at the  
50 m turn, while continuing to measure elapsed  
time. This function is available for both Camera  
and VCR modes.  
on the  
button to select “LAP TIME”.  
• The stopwatch cannot measure lap time for  
any intermediate period.  
Operation Button  
3
Press  
on the  
button to select  
“STOP”. The stopwatch stops measuring,  
and shows the time elapsed between the  
start and the moment you pressed stop,  
e.g. from the start to the goal of the 100 m  
race.  
STOP  
0 1 0 5  
2
L
A
P
T
I
M
E
R
E
S
E
T
4
Press C on the  
TIME” once to display the most recent lap  
time. Press C on the button to select  
“LAP TIME” a second time to display the  
total time elapsed.  
• You can switch between these two displays  
by selecting “LAP TIME”.  
button to select “LAP  
1
When measuring time with the stopwatch  
function, press C on the operation button  
(
) to select “LAP TIME” at the moment  
that you want to know the time elapsed so  
far, e.g. at the 50 m turning point.  
The elapsed time is replaced by the lap  
time.  
The stopwatch continues to measure  
internally.  
START  
0 0 3 1 0 8  
L
R
E
S
E
T
STOP  
A
P
0 0 3 1 0 8  
T
I
M
E
L
R
E
S
E
T
A
P
T
I
M
E
START  
0 1 0 5 3 1  
L
A
P
T
I
M
E
R
E
S
E
T
2
Press C on the  
TIME” again. The elapsed time will  
reappear.  
button to select “LAP  
STOP  
0 1 0 5  
1
L
A
P
T
I
M
E
R
E
S
E
T
50  
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Lighting  
Color Tem-  
perature  
(degrees  
Kelvin)  
White  
Balance  
Range  
For clear, good-quality recording, 500 to 100,000  
lux is needed. Recording is also possible with less  
light, but the picture quality may suffer. Adequate  
lighting is also essential for correct white balance.  
Situation  
Color  
10,000  
9,000  
8,000  
7,000  
6,500  
6,000  
5,500  
5,000  
4,500  
3,500  
Clear day  
Blue  
Brightness  
(Lux)  
Situation (Lux)  
Cloudy day  
Blue sky  
Rainy day  
100,000  
Clear day at noon (100,000)  
Clear day at 10 am (65,000)  
Daylight fluorescent light  
Camera flashbulb  
A
U
T
Clear day at 3 pm (35,000)  
Cloudy day at noon (32,000)  
Cloudy day at 10 am (25,000)  
Blue photolamp  
White  
10,000  
1,000  
White fluorescent light  
Cloudy day, one hour after sunrise (2,000)  
Clear day, one hour before sunset (1,000)  
Fluorescent light near window (1,000)  
O
Off-white fluorescent light  
Tungsten photolamp  
Factory floor (700–800)  
3,200  
2,800  
Halogen lamp  
Sales counter in department store (500–700)  
Bowling alley (500)  
Tungsten lamp  
Iodine lamp  
Yellow  
Red  
Library (400–500)  
Office with fluorescent lighting (400–500)  
Fluorescent desk lamp (400)  
Flashlight at 3 ft (1 m) (250)  
Shop stairway (100)  
2,500  
Acetylene lamp  
Kerosene lamp  
100  
2,000  
Candlelight  
During intermission at movie theater (15–35)  
Cigarette lighter at 1 ft (30 cm) (15–20)  
Notes:  
Candles on birthday cake at 8 inches (20 cm) (10–15)  
• 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  
Candlelight  
Reference  
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.  
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 operating life.  
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 the lighting to model  
your subject and to add or create emphasis in a  
scene.  
Lighting indicator (“LIGHT”)  
When the “LIGHT” indicator appears on the moni-  
tor, it means that there is not enough illumination  
for recording. Either move to a brighter location or  
increase the light. You can also correct the  
problem by manually setting the gain (see  
page 26).  
GAIN-UP  
LIGHT  
E
X
D
T
I
S
E
N
D
51  
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Connections and Editing  
Connections for Playback on a TV  
Connection toTV Using a VCR  
Although you can enjoy playback on the  
camcorder’s LCD monitor, you can also play back  
tapes on your TV screen.  
1
Connect the Docking Station to your VCR  
with the supplied audio/video cable.  
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.)  
• If your VCR has an S-video input connector,  
connect it to the Docking Station’s S-VIDEO  
connector with the supplied S-video cable.  
Connection to TV Using the  
Docking Station  
1
2
3
Attach the camcorder to the Docking Station  
(see page 8).  
Connect the Docking Station to your TV with  
the supplied audio/video cable.  
Set the TV to its “AV” or “VIDEO” channel.  
(See the operation manual for your TV.)  
• If your TV has an S-video input connector,  
connect it to the Docking Station’s S-VIDEO  
connector with the supplied S-video cable.  
Yellow: To VIDEO IN Jack  
Red: To AUDIO IN (R) Jack  
White: To AUDIO IN (L) Jack*  
2
CHANNEL  
P
AUSE  
/STILL  
PLAY  
STOP/  
EJECT  
POWER  
T
V
/
V
C
R
S
E
T
U
P
REC  
3
*If your VCR has only one  
To S-VIDEO  
Input  
Connector  
Yellow: To VIDEO IN jack  
Red: To AUDIO IN (R) jack  
White: To AUDIO IN (L) jack*  
audio input jack, use the white  
plugs for the audio connection  
on the VCR and camcorder.  
* If your TV has only one audio  
input jack, use the white  
1
To S-VIDEO  
plugs for the audio  
Input  
connection on the TV and  
Connector  
camcorder.  
2
1
Yellow: To VIDEO Jack  
Red: To AUDIO R Jack  
White: To AUDIO L Jack*  
About the S-video Connector  
Yellow: To VIDEO Jack  
Red: To AUDIO R Jack  
White: To AUDIO L Jack*  
S-video connectors are used to pass the chroma  
(color) and luminance (brightness) components of  
video signals separately. They serve to improve  
the picture quality in both recording and playback.  
Caution:  
• Make sure that the camcorder, TV and other  
equipment to be connected have been turned  
off before you make connections. Making  
connections with any of the components left  
turned on may cause picture noise or  
malfunction.  
Note:  
• When both the normal A/V cable and the  
S-video cable are connected to the Docking  
Station, video signals are output only through the  
S-video cable. Do not connect the S-video cable  
to the Docking Station if the video equipment to  
be connected does not have an S-video  
connector.  
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 34).  
52  
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Connections for Playback on Use the Camcorder to Play  
a TV Using Audio/Video  
Jacks  
Although you can enjoy playback on the  
camcorder’s LCD monitor, you can also play back  
tapes on your TV screen.  
Back Tapes on a TV  
1
Set the Power switch to VCR.  
Connect the camcorder to your TV with the  
supplied audio/video cable, as shown.  
2
Press  
on the operation button (  
)
to select “PLAY”.  
PLAY STILL  
R
E
W
F
F
A/V pack  
Caution:  
• Make sure that the camcorder, TV and other  
equipment to be connected have been turned  
off before you make connections. Making  
connections with any of the components left  
turned on may cause picture noise or  
malfunction.  
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 34).  
53  
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Connections and Editing  
Detaching the A/V Pack  
Using the Optional SAV103  
A/V Pack  
Slide the A/V PACK EJECT release in the direction  
of the arrow, and then pull the A/V pack straight  
out.  
The optional SAV103 A/V pack (shown on  
page 58) lets you connect the camcorder to other  
audio-visual equipment. Small and lightweight, it  
comes in handy when traveling or any time you  
are away from home.  
A/V Pack  
VIDEO Jack  
EJECT  
Release  
RF DC OUT Jack  
AUDIO L Jack  
Caution:  
AUDIO R Jack  
• Do not use the A/V pack as a handle. It will  
cause malfunctions.  
S-VIDEO Input  
Connector  
Attaching the A/V Pack  
1
Pull the A/V pack terminal cover of the  
camcorder in the direction of the arrow as  
shown below.  
Note:  
• Be careful not to lose the A/V pack terminal  
cover once it is removed.  
2
Align the projections on the A/V pack with  
the openings on the camcorder’s mounting  
panel, and insert the A/V pack as shown.  
Then push the A/V pack firmly against the  
mounting panel until it clicks into place.  
1
2
A/V Pack Terminal Cover  
54  
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Cutting Unwanted Sequences  
Editing  
1
Play back the tape to be edited, and locate  
the beginning and end of the sequence you  
wish to cut. Write down the tape counter  
readings at the beginning and end of that  
sequence (see page 37). Then rewind the  
tape to the beginning of the portion that you  
wish to keep.  
Video editing lets you refine your videos by  
removing unwanted sequences from your tape  
or transposing one sequence with another.  
This camcorder lets you monitor the source  
program on the built-in LCD monitor without  
having to connect it to an external TV or video  
monitor.  
Connect the camcorder to a VCR with the  
supplied Docking Station unit and audio/video  
2
3
Load a blank tape cassette into the recording  
VCR.  
cable.  
Yellow: To VIDEO IN Jack  
Red: To AUDIO IN (R) Jack  
White: To AUDIO IN (L) Jack*  
Set the Power switch to VCR. Press  
on  
the operation button ( ) to select “PLAY”  
and press the VCR’s REC (Record) button at  
the same time.  
Recording  
CHANNEL  
PAUSE  
/STILL  
PLAY  
STOP/  
EJECT  
POWER  
TV/VCR SET UP  
REC  
4
5
Press the VCR’s Pause/Still button to pause  
recording when the source tape reaches the  
beginning of the sequence to be cut.  
To S-VIDEO Input Connector  
*If your VCR has only one audio input  
jack, use the white plugs for the audio  
connection on the VCR and  
camcorder.  
Press the VCR’s Pause/Still (or Record)  
button to resume recording when the source  
tape reaches the end of the sequence to be  
cut.  
Playback  
To Stop Editing  
PressAon the  
button to select “STOP” on the  
VCR  
VCR.  
screen and press the STOP button on the  
Yellow: To VIDEO Jack  
Red: To AUDIO R Jack  
White: To AUDIO L Jack*  
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.  
• The picture may be disturbed during video search  
or still picture playback. This does not imply a  
defect in the camcorder.  
Notes:  
• If your VCR has an S-video input connector, connect  
it to the S-VIDEO connector on the Docking Station  
with the supplied S-video cable.  
• When both the normal A/V cable and the S-video  
cable are connected to the Docking Station, video  
signals are output only through the S-video cable.  
Do not connect the S-video cable to the Docking  
Station if the video equipment to be connected does  
not have an S-video connector.  
Setting the Edit Mode  
Picture quality inevitably declines during dubbing  
from the camcorder to a VCR. To minimize the  
quality reduction, set the camcorder to Edit mode.  
1
Set the camcorder to VCR mode, and press  
the MENU button until appears.  
2
3
Press B on the  
button to select “MENU”.  
button to set “EDIT” to  
Press B on the  
“ON”.  
Notes:  
• The “EDIT” setting is ineffective when the cam-  
corder is recording.  
• After you finish dubbing, set the “EDIT” menu  
item back to “OFF”.  
55  
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Connections and Editing  
To Record from an External Source  
Recording from an External  
Source  
1
2
Set the Power switch to VCR.  
You can use this camcorder to record or edit video  
from another source, such as a VCR, TV, or video  
disc player.  
Start sending audio/video signals from the  
source equipment connected to the Docking  
Station. Check the camcorder's monitor to  
see if the picture is being properly received.  
Connect the camcorder to the source equipment,  
using the Docking Station and audio/video cable,  
as shown.  
3
Press the REC START/STOP button on the  
camcorder to start recording.  
Recording  
Source Equipment  
Yellow: To VIDEO Jack  
Red: To AUDIO R Jack  
White: To AUDIO L Jack  
Yellow: To VIDEO OUT  
To S-video Output  
Jack  
Connector  
Red: To AUDIO  
OUT (R) Jack  
Operation Button  
White: To AUDIO  
Note:  
Playback  
OUT (L) Jack  
• To pause recording, press  
on the operation  
button ( ) on the camcorder. Press the button  
again to resume recording.  
TV With Monitor Output  
VCR  
To Stop Recording  
Press Aon the  
button on the camcorder.  
Video Disc Player  
Caution: The unauthorized recording of  
television programs and other materials may  
infringe the rights of others.  
Notes:  
• If the source equipment has an S-video output  
connector, connect it to the S-VIDEO connector  
on the Docking Station with the supplied S-video  
cable.  
• If the source equipment has only one audio  
output jack, use the white plugs for the audio  
connection on the source equipment and  
Docking Station.  
Automatic Switching of the Audio/  
Video Jack’s Input/Output Mode  
The AUDIO/VIDEO jack’s mode is normally set to  
input. It automatically switches to output when the  
camcorder is playing back.  
56  
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Fluorescent Lamp Backlight  
The fluorescent lamp backlight used in this  
4
Carefully hold the end (white knob) of the  
lamp unit with tweezers, and pull it out.  
camcorder will eventually need replacing. If you  
continue to use the camcorder when the  
fluorescent lamp has almost reached the end of its  
service life, the “REPLACE THE LAMP.” indicator  
will be displayed on the monitor for approximately  
one minute. When this occurs, purchase a  
replacement lamp (235179) and replace the old  
lamp.  
Fluorescent Lamp Unit  
5
6
Insert the replacement lamp unit into the  
compartment. See note below.  
REPLACE THE LAMP.  
Power Switch  
Fluorescent Lamp Unit  
Replace the fluorescent lamp compartment  
cover.  
Lamp Compartment Cover  
Fluorescent Lamp Unit  
Replacing the Fluorescent  
Lamp Backlight  
Notes:  
• Be sure to insert the replacement fluorescent  
lamp straight in, in the direction of the arrow, into  
the compartment. Do not press diagonally as it  
may cause contact failure.  
• The fluorescent light may flicker when first turned  
on. Should this occur, turn off the camcorder,  
and then turn it on again.  
1
Set the Power switch to OFF  
to turn off the camcorder, and  
wait about 15 minutes for the  
lamp unit to cool down.  
Make sure the battery pack is  
removed from the camcorder  
before replacing the lamp.  
• When used in cold locations, the fluorescent  
lamp may lose some of its brightness.  
Lamp Com-  
2
3
Rotate the camera  
partment Cover  
module of the  
camcorder halfway  
forward in the  
direction of the  
arrow.  
Caution:  
• The fluorescent lamp is hot during and  
immediately after use of the camcorder. Wait  
at least 15 minutes after turning the power off  
before attempting to change the lamp, to  
allow time for it to cool down. Attempting to  
change the lamp unit while it is still hot may  
result in burns or other injuries.  
Remove the lamp compartment cover: insert  
a pointed object such as the point of a pen,  
push the cover release “ ” down, and then  
pull off the cover.  
Lamp Compartment Cover  
57  
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Optional Accessories  
We invite you to 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.  
SAV103 A/V Pack  
This A/V pack lets you connect  
your camcorder to other audio/  
video equipment. Small and  
lightweight, it comes in handy  
when traveling.  
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 the next page.  
STP104 Tuner Pack  
This tuner pack lets you view TV  
channels on your camcorder.  
You can use the tuner pack's  
built-in antenna or attach an  
external antenna to receive the  
TV signal. See the tuner pack  
User's Guide for details.  
BB75 Battery Pack  
This rechargeable battery is  
designed specifically for long  
life. The BB75 is the same  
battery that came packed with  
BB75  
your camcorder. It can be  
charged using the adapter/  
charger that came with your  
camcorder.  
Using the Optional AC088 Tripod  
Mounting the camcorder on a  
tripod, such as AC088, will  
keep the camcorder steady  
and produce excellent video  
results.  
SUN102 Sun Hood  
This sun hood helps protect the  
lens from strong sunlight when  
recording on a bright sunny day.  
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.  
SDC100 Car Battery Adapter  
This car battery adapter  
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.  
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 a 24-  
or12-volt negative ground car battery to a 4.5-volt  
output.  
When attaching your camcorder to a tripod, be  
careful not to force the tripod screw into the  
Camcorder’s tripod mounting hold.  
Caution: Do not use any other car  
battery adapter with this camcorder.  
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.  
58  
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Accessory Order Form  
Order Form for Camcorder Model ProV950HB  
Description  
Part No.  
AC088  
Price  
Qty.  
Total  
Tripod  
$ 39.95  
$ 99.95  
$ 49.95  
$119.95  
$ 249.00  
$ 69.95  
$ 169.95  
$ 14.95  
$ 12.95  
$ 9.95  
Rechargeable Battery  
Audio/Video Pack  
Car Battery Adapter  
Tuner Pack  
BB75  
SAV103  
SDC100  
STP104  
SUN102  
233576  
233578  
233579  
233580  
233581  
233582  
233665  
235179  
Sun Hood  
AC Adapter/Battery Charger  
DC Output Cable  
S-Video Cable  
Shoulder Strap  
Remote Control  
Audio/Video Cable  
Docking Station  
Replacement Lamp Unit  
$ 13.95  
$ 9.95  
$119.95  
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.  
5.00  
Shipping and Handling ....................................................... $  
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  
59  
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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.  
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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  
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Use and Care  
• Always respect prohibitions or restrictions  
on the use of electronic equipment on  
commercial flights or in other sensitive  
areas. The camcorder generates electrical  
interference that can disable vital equipment,  
leading to the risk of a serious accident.  
Precautions  
• After operation, remove the battery pack  
from the unit.  
• 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.  
• Watch the temperature and humidity.  
You can use your camcorder at 0ЊC to  
ם
40ЊC (32ЊF to 104ЊF), 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  
• 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.  
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.  
• Avoid magnetic  
sources.  
• 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 ex-  
cessive smoke or steam.  
Using the camcorder  
near strong fluorescent  
lights, motors, televisions,  
or other magnetic  
sources may adversely affect recorded  
images.  
Do not leave your  
camcorder in areas  
• Remember to remove the cassette tape,  
turn off the power, and remove the battery  
pack when the camcorder is not in use.  
with excessive dust or  
moisture.  
Such environments can  
cause mildew to form on this unit’s lenses. Be  
sure to provide ample ventilation.  
• 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 using your camcorder in a cold  
environment, the color LCD view screen  
may appear less bright.This often occurs  
in cold environments immediately after the  
power is turned on.This is not a  
malfunction. 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.).  
• Avoid placing the  
camcorder in close  
proximity to lighting  
equipment.  
The heat from  
incandescent lights may  
deform the camcorder, or  
cause it to malfunction.  
62  
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• “Dew” warning feature  
Dew Formation  
• What is “dew formation”?  
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 word “DEW” flashes on the  
LCD monitor, and the power will automatically  
turn off in approximately 10 seconds.  
• 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 circum-  
stances:  
• when moving the camcorder from a cold  
place to a warm place,  
Q If the word “DEW” flashes on the LCD  
monitor, remove the cassette, leave the  
cassette compartment open, and wait  
several hours to allow the camcorder to  
acclimate to the surrounding temperature.  
W To use the camcorder again, turn on the  
power after waiting for several hours. Be  
sure that the word “DEW” has disappeared  
from the monitor screen.  
E Do not insert a cassette while the word  
“DEW” is flashing; this may result in damage  
to the tape.  
R Since dew forms gradually, it may take 10 to  
15 minutes before the dew warning feature  
engages.  
• when placing the camcorder in a cold room  
which is then heated rapidly,  
• when moving the camcorder outdoors from  
an air conditioned room,  
• when placing the  
camcorder in the direct  
path of air blowing from  
an air conditioner,  
• when placing the  
• 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.  
1) Dew formation on the head drum.  
2) Worn video tapes:  
camcorder in a humid  
room.  
• 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.  
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 no use  
such a video tape.  
3) The 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.  
Under such circumstances, contact the  
nearest Authorized RCA Camcorder  
Servicenter or your dealer for further advice.  
(Video head cleaning can be done by using a  
commercially available cleaning tape.  
Plastic bag  
Q Be sure to tightly seal the plastic bag  
containing the camcorder.  
W Remove the bag when the air temperature  
inside it reaches the temperature of the sur-  
roundings.  
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.)  
63  
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Use and Care  
How to use the marker on the battery pack  
Care  
The marker is provided  
to indicate the battery’s  
Cleaning and maintenance  
Red  
mark  
• 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 the casing  
with a tightly wrung cloth dampened with a  
diluted, neutral detergent. Then wipe it again  
with a soft, dry cloth.  
• Use a cloth to wipe finger marks and other  
soiling off the LCD monitor and lens protector.  
• If the lens needs cleaning, first remove the  
lens protector by turning it counterclockwise.  
Then clean the lens with a cloth, or  
compressed air and lens papers designed for  
photographic lenses.  
charge condition. Slide  
the switch to indicate  
the charge condition as shown below.  
Position  
Charge condition  
Before charging  
After charging  
Temperature during charging  
• Store the battery pack in a dry, cool place.  
• Charge the battery pack at temperature of  
10°C to 30°C (50°F to 86°F).  
For long battery lifetime  
• Charge the battery pack (lithium-ion type) at  
least once every six months.  
• Do not leave the battery pack being charged  
for long periods of time.  
Battery Pack  
Cautions:  
This camcorder uses a lithium-ion type battery  
pack. It is not necessary to store the lithium-ion  
battery pack in a fully discharged state. Also, if  
stored in the charged state, the battery will  
gradually self-discharge, resulting in  
• If the battery pack is misused, there is danger  
of fire or explosion. Pay close attention to the  
following:  
1. Do not dispose of in fire.  
2. Do not allow metallic objects to come in  
contact with the terminals. This can cause  
a short circuit.  
3. Do not disassemble or repair by yourself.  
4. Do not use any battery charger other than  
those designed for use with these battery  
packs.  
5. Do not place the battery pack under direct  
sunlight or in excessively hot places (over  
60°C or 140°F) such as the dashboard of  
cars.  
6. Do not expose to moisture, water, or salt  
water.  
7. Do not drop or subject to strong force.  
8. Keep battery out of reach of children and  
in the original package until ready to use.  
9. Dispose of used batteries promptly.  
• The battery pack will become warm during  
charging and use. This is normal and not a  
malfunction.  
• 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.  
decreased recording time. Charge the battery  
pack soon (a day) before use.  
Battery pack consumption  
• Recording with many starts and stops,  
frequent zooming, and recording in low  
temperatures will somewhat shorten actual  
recording times. 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.  
• 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.  
Battery power is consumed even when the  
camcorder’s power is turned off. If you are  
not going to use your camcorder  
immediately, remove the battery pack. (See  
page 9.)  
Replace it with a new battery pack.  
• For safety, keep the battery pack in its pro-  
tective cover when it is not being used. If the  
metal parts of the battery pack come in con-  
tact with other metal objects, there is a  
danger that a short circuit may occur.  
Note:  
• Use only the BB75 battery pack. It is  
designed specifically for use with this  
camcorder.  
64  
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• If you want to record with a Hi8 tape in normal  
Video Cassette Tapes  
8 mm format, set the menu item “  
” to  
To protect recordings against erasure  
When a previously recorded cassette is used  
again for recording, the previously recorded  
material is erased. To protect a recording  
against 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.  
1
“OFF” on the MENU-PAGE  
(Camera mode  
) screen before recording. (See page 14  
for the menu screen.)  
UsingYour Camcorder  
Abroad  
Television system signals and electrical system  
voltages and frequencies vary substantially  
from country to country. When you are abroad,  
please check the sections below before using  
the AC adapter or connecting the camcorder to  
a TV.  
Notes:  
• Do not insert anything into the erasure-  
protection hole in the cassette.  
• Only use those tapes with the  
mark.  
• Do not put anything into the holes on the  
bottom of the cassette.  
AC Power Sources  
or the  
The AC adapter is compatible with 50 Hz and  
60 Hz electrical systems in the range of 100 V  
to 240 V AC.  
• Do not store or place your video tapes in  
direct sunlight, near heaters, or in places with  
excessive moisture or dust.  
Optional SDC100 Car Battery  
Adapter  
• Do not keep video tapes near magnetic  
objects as they may erase the recording.  
• Do not drop or subject the tapes to excessive  
shocks.  
This can be used with 12-V and 24-V negative-  
ground cars only. Do not use it with positive-  
ground electrical systems.  
• Uneven tape winding will damage the tape. If  
the tape is not properly wound, reinsert it in  
the camcorder and rewind the tape.  
• Store the cassettes in their cases and stand  
them on edge.  
Television Signal Systems  
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:  
What is  
?
Hi8 is a high-performance extension of the  
ordinary 8 mm format. It uses advanced  
technology to achieve even higher resolution  
and picture quality. Hi8 recording on special  
Hi8 tape results in a revolutionary improvement  
in picture quality, realizing vivid, realistic, high-  
quality pictures. Use a video cassette with the  
mark on it for high-quality recording and  
playback, or use one with the mark to enjoy  
ordinary 8 mm recording and playback.  
• When you load a Hi8 tape, recording is in Hi8  
format. (The Hi8 indicator on the view screen  
lights up.) When you load a normal 8 mm  
tape, recording is in ordinary 8 mm format.  
(The Hi8 indicator on the view screen is off.)  
• During playback, the format recorded is  
automatically detected.  
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 Vietnam, and the Virgin Islands.  
• Video equipment not for use with Hi8 is  
unable to play back a tape recorded in Hi8  
format.  
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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  
No power.  
Possible cause  
Suggested solution  
• Power source is not properly  
connected.  
• Connect power source properly.  
(pp. 9, 10, 11)  
• Battery pack is not charged.  
• Charge battery pack sufficiently.  
(pp.7, 8)  
• Dew in camcorder.  
• Wait until dew dries. (p. 63)  
• Safety function is in effect.  
• Set Power switch to OFF and  
remove battery pack; wait for two  
seconds, then re-install battery  
pack and turn on power. (p.9)  
REC START/STOP button  
does not work.  
• Erasure protect tab on video  
cassette is closed.  
• Open tab or use a new cassette.  
(p.65)  
Power suddenly turns off.  
• Camcorder left in Recording  
Standby mode for five minutes.  
• Set Power switch to OFF and then  
back to CAMERA.  
Monitor picture is hard to  
see.  
• Inappropriate picture adjustments.  
• Adjust picture. (p. 21)  
Auto focus does not  
work.  
• Manual Focus mode is engaged.  
• Zoom used on close subject.  
• Set to Auto Focus mode. (p. 43)  
• Zoom out on subject. (p. 24)  
• Focus manually. (p. 43)  
• Subject has little contrast in  
brightness or is full of horizontal or  
vertical stripes.  
• Occurs when shooting subject with  
strong contrast to the background.  
Does not indicate a malfunction.  
Bright subject produces  
wide vertical lines.  
——  
• Speaker does not work during  
Camera mode. (Volume control in  
Camera mode only affects  
earphone volume.)  
No audio from speaker  
when recording.  
——  
• Camcorder is unable to focus when  
zooming in on subject within 5 feet  
(1.5 m), and automatically zooms  
out until it focuses on subject.  
Automatically zooms out  
without operating Zoom  
buttons.  
• Zoom out. (p. 24)  
• No subject in the field of view.  
• Direct lens to some subject, or set  
zoom to widest angle before  
shooting. (p. 24)  
• Counter is in memory mode.  
• Disengage the memory mode.  
(p. 38)  
Tape stops midway  
through rewind or fast  
forward.  
• Video input channel on TV or TV  
channel is not selected properly.  
• Select video input channel or TV  
channel properly. (p. 52)  
No image appears on  
connected TV screen.  
• A/V cable is not properly connected. • Connect A/V cable properly. (p. 52)  
• Docking Station is not properly  
connected.  
• Connect the Docking Station  
properly. (p. 8)  
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Symptom  
Possible cause  
Suggested solution  
Cannot play back, rewind • Tape already wound or rewound  
• Rewind or fast forward tape to  
desired point. (p. 34)  
or fast forward tape.  
Video noise in image.  
completely.  
• Dirty video heads.  
• Old or worn tape.  
• Depleted battery pack.  
• Call for service.  
• Use a new video cassette.  
No power in VCR or  
Camera mode.  
• Use fully charged battery pack.  
(pp.7, 8)  
• AC adapter cord removed from  
power outlet.  
• Plug AC adapter cord into power  
outlet. (p.10)  
Cassette will not eject.  
• Power source is not properly  
connected.  
• Connect power source properly.  
(pp. 9, 10, 11)  
• Battery pack is not charged.  
• Charge battery pack sufficiently.  
(pp. 7, 8)  
• Camcorder is recording.  
• Dew in camcorder.  
• Stop tape and try again.  
No buttons operate.  
No image on monitor.  
• Wait until dew dries. (p. 63)  
• Backlight has been turned off.  
• Fluorescent lamp is burned out.  
• Press MODE DISPLAY button, or set  
Power switch to OFF and then back  
to CAMERA or VCR. (p. 38)  
• Replace with new fluorescent lamp  
unit. (p. 57)  
• A/V or S-video cable is not properly • Connect A/V or S-video cable  
Cannot edit to connected  
VCR.  
connected.  
properly. (p. 52)  
• Docking Station is not properly  
connected.  
• Connect Docking Station properly.  
(p. 8)  
Lens makes rattling sound  
when camcorder is moved in  
VCR mode or with power off.  
• Does not indicate a malfunction.  
——  
Remote control does not  
function.  
• “REMOTE” menu item is set to “OFF”.  
•
Set “REMOTE” menu item to “ON”. (p. 39)  
• Remote control lithium cell has run  
down.  
• Replace remote control lithium cell  
with a new one. (p. 6)  
• Remote control used beyond  
operating range.  
• Use remote control within operating  
range. (p. 39)  
• Intense daylight falling on  
camcorder’s photoreceptor.  
• Protect photoreceptor from  
exposure to intense daylight. (p. 39)  
• Obstacle between remote control  
and camcorder’s photoreceptor.  
• Remove obstacle or use remote  
control from different angle. (p. 39)  
Notes:  
• 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, including lithium batteries, etc. Then reconnect the power sources (to resume operation).  
• If the characters displayed on the monitor screen appear to malfunction, disconnect the power source and  
remove the lithium cell, then reconnect the power source, insert the lithium cell, and turn the power on again.  
The characters on the monitor should be normal. Set the date and time, then resume operation.  
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Specifications  
Signal System: NTSC standard  
Recording System: 2 rotary heads, helical scanning system  
Cassette: 8 mm video tape, MP type or Hi8 MP, ME type  
Recording/Playback Time: 120 minutes (P6-120)  
Tape Speed: 14.345 mm/second  
1
Pickup Device: ⁄4 Љ (6.4 mm, effective size: 4.5 mm) CCD image sensor (with  
approx. 410,000 pixels including optical black)  
Lens: 12
ן
 power zoom lens (F1.8, f
ס
4.2–50.4 mm), full-range auto  
focus  
Lens Filter Diameter: 37 mm  
Monitor: 4Љ (10.1 cm)—full-color LCD screen (TFT active matrix)  
Microphone: Electret stereo microphone  
Power Requirement: DC 3.6 V  
Power Consumption: 7.1 W (during camera recording in full auto mode with zoom  
motor off, backlight in normal mode)  
Operating Temperature: 0ЊC to 
ם
40ЊC (32ЊF to 104ЊF)  
Operating Humidity: 30% to 80%  
Storage Temperature: 
מ
20ЊC to 
ם
60ЊC (
מ
4ЊF to 140ЊF)  
Dimensions (approx.): 715⁄32Љ (W) 
ן
 419⁄32Љ (H)
ן
 313⁄16Љ (D) [190 mm (W) 
ן
 117 mm (H)
ן
 
97 mm (D)]  
Weight (approx.): 1.8 lbs (820 g) (without battery pack, lithium battery, video  
cassette)  
AC Adapter/Battery Charger  
Power Requirement: AC 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz  
DC Output: 4.5 V  
Power Consumption: 25 W  
Dimensions (approx.): 4 3⁄4Љ (W) 
ן
 2Љ (H) 
ן
 4Љ (D) [120 mm (W) 
ן
 51 mm (H) 
ן
 101.5 mm (D)]  
Weight (approx.): 0.86 lbs (390 g)  
Specifications are subject to change without notice.  
INFORMATION TO USER  
This device complies with Part 15 and Part 18 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to  
the following 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.  
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B  
digital device and RF lighting device pursuant to Part 15 and Part 18 of the FCC  
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful  
interference in a residential installation. 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 interference 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.  
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Customer Assistance and Service  
Thomson provides a toll-free telephone  
You can reach Thomson at the  
number to help you with any problems  
following number:  
you may encounter with your  
camcorder. Many can be diagnosed  
800-283-6503  
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.  
(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  
responsibilities.  
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  
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.  
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  
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Limited warranty  
What your warranty covers:  
• Any defect in materials or  
workmanship.  
For how long after your purchase:  
• 90 days for labor charges.  
• One year for parts.  
(The warranty period for rental units  
begins with the first rental or 45 days from  
date of shipment to the rental firm,  
whichever comes first.)  
3. Take your unit, including all  
accessories, and your evidence of  
purchase date, such as a bill of sale,  
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.  
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 an RA number, only items  
not covered by warranty will be  
charged to your account. IF YOUR  
UNIT INCLUDING ALL  
What we will do:  
During the initial 90 days  
• Exchange your camcorder with a new  
or refurbished unit, or repair your  
camcorder. The option will be ours.  
There will be no cost to you.  
After the 90 days and within one year  
• Exchange your camcorder with a new  
or refurbished unit, or repair your  
camcorder. The option will be ours.  
Parts will be provided at no charge, but  
you will be responsible for the cost of  
labor required for the repair.  
ACCESSORIES IS NOT RECEIVED  
WITHIN 14 DAYS, THE SUGGESTED  
RETAIL VALUE OF THE  
CAMCORDER AND/OR  
How you get service:  
ACCESSORIES WILL BE CHARGED  
TO YOUR CREDIT CARD. This  
amount will be credited if the unit is  
subsequently received.  
• 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 determines that you  
should receive a replacement unit, you  
will be provided with a Return  
2. We will send you a replacement unit  
next business day delivery in the  
continental USA.  
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 the warranty  
will be included and charged against  
your account.  
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:  
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  
If you are located near an  
exchange point:  
1. We will send a replacement unit to the  
exchange point next business day  
delivery in the continental USA.  
2. The exchange location will notify you of  
its arrival.  
shipment in case of damage or  
loss.  
70  
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Include with the shipment:  
To have your Camcorder repaired by an  
Authorized RCA Camcorder  
bill of sale, to verify your unit’s warranty Servicenter:  
•
Evidence of purchase date, such as a  
eligibility.  
•
Check with your dealer or call 1-800-  
336-1900 for the Authorized RCA  
Camcorder Servicenter nearest you.  
Take your unit to the Authorized RCA  
Camcorder Servicenter of your choice.  
Show the Authorized RCA Camcorder  
Servicenter representative evidence of  
purchase date, such as a bill of sale.  
Pick up your camcorder when repairs  
are complete.  
•
•
A brief note describing your  
camcorder’s problem.  
Your name, address, and phone  
number.  
•
•
Return transportation, storage, handling,  
and insurance costs are your sole  
responsibility. We accept no liability in  
case of damage or loss.  
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.  
Make sure you insure your shipment in  
case of damage or loss.  
•
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.  
2. Carefully pack the unit along with all  
accessories included with your  
camcorder, using the original box and  
packing material if possible.  
•
•
•
Batteries.  
Cleaning of video/audio heads.  
Camcorders purchased or serviced  
outside the USA.  
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.  
3. Include with the shipment:  
•
Evidence of purchase date, such as a  
bill of sale, to verify your unit’s warranty  
eligibility.  
•
•
•
A brief note describing your  
camcorder's problem.  
Your name, address, and phone  
number.  
•
Product Registration:  
•
Please complete and mail the Product  
Registration Card packed with your  
camcorder. It will make it easier to  
contact you should it ever be  
Return transportation, storage, handling,  
and insurance costs 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  
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.  
representative, and you elected not to  
use your credit card.  
5. Upon receipt of your product, a new or  
refurbished unit will be shipped to you  
next day delivery in the continental  
USA.  
If you purchased your camcorder  
outside the USA:  
•
This warranty does not apply. Contact  
your dealer for warranty information.  
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Index  
Canceling Automatic Screen Display . 29  
Car Battery Adapter, Using ................. 11  
Care and Use ................................. 62-65  
Cassette Compartment ................. 4,6,12  
CASSETTE NOT RECORDABLE  
Indicator .................................... 16  
Cassettes, Care .................................. 65  
Cassettes, Hi8..................................... 65  
Cassettes, Inserting and Removing.... 12  
Cat’s Eye (Gain Up) ............................ 26  
Cautions ..................................................i  
Cell, Installing in Camcorder................. 6  
Cell, Installing in Remote Control .......... 6  
CHANGE THE CASSETTE  
Indicator ............................... 16,33  
Charging the Battery, Adapter/  
Charger ....................................... 7  
Charging the Battery, Docking  
Station ......................................... 8  
Chart for Time Zone ............................ 20  
Checks, Trouble ............................. 66-67  
Clock, World........................................ 18  
Connections and Editing................ 52-56  
Connections, TV Using  
— A —  
16:9 Recording ................................... 29  
A/V Pack Terminal Cover ...................... 4  
A/V Pack, Optional .................... 54,58-61  
AC Adapter, Using .............................. 10  
AC Adapter/Battery Charger ................ 7  
Accessories, Included ................ 3,59-61  
Accessories, Optional.................... 58-61  
Accessories, Order Form ............... 59-61  
Area Table for Time Zones .................. 20  
Area, Date, and Time Displaying ........ 19  
Area, Date, and Time Setting .............. 17  
Assistance.....................3,69,Back Cover  
Auto Focus .......................................... 25  
Auto Tape Rewind ............................... 34  
Automatic Screen Display,  
Canceling .................................. 29  
— B —  
Docking Station ......................... 52  
Connections, TV With Audio/Video  
Jacks ......................................... 53  
Connections, VCR Using Docking  
Station ....................................... 52  
Contents ............................................. 1-2  
Controls, Camcorder.......................... 4-5  
Counter Memory ................................. 38  
Customer Assistance .... 3,69,Back Cover  
Customer Assistance and Service. 69-71  
Backlight Compensation..................... 26  
Backlight/Picture Adjustment .............. 21  
Basic Operations – Camera  
Recording ............................ 23-33  
Basic Operations – Playback......... 34-39  
Battery Compartment.................... 5,9,11  
BATTERY IS TOO LOW Indicator ... 16,33  
Battery Pack.......................... 7,8,9,33,64  
Battery Pack, Care .............................. 64  
Battery Power Display......................... 33  
Buttons, Remote Control ..................... 39  
— D —  
— C —  
Date and Time Recording ................... 32  
Date, Area, and Time Displaying ........ 19  
Date, Area, and Time Setting .............. 17  
DC Cable ....................................... 10,11  
Design Specifications ......................... 68  
Dew in Camcorder .............................. 63  
DEW Indicator ................................ 16,63  
Digital Image Stabilization .................. 27  
Digital Quick Zoom ............................. 25  
Digital Zoom ........................................ 24  
Camcorder, Care................................. 64  
Camcorder Cell, Installing .................... 6  
Camcorder Controls........................... 4-5  
Camcorder, Cleaning .......................... 64  
Camcorder, Powering ...................... 9-11  
Camera Mode ................. 13-15,21,28,32  
Camera Recording – Basic  
Operations ........................... 23-33  
Camera Recording – Useful  
Features ............................... 40-51  
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Display of Remaining Recording  
Time .......................................... 33  
— L —  
Docking Station, Using ................. 7,8,52  
EarPHONE Jack............................... 5,34  
Edit Search.......................................... 30  
Editing ................................................. 55  
Editing and Connections................ 52-56  
EJECT THE CASSETTE Indicator........ 16  
Erasure Protect Tab........................ 12,65  
Extend Zoom....................................... 25  
External Microphone Jack .................... 5  
External Source, Recording From ....... 56  
LAMP OFF Indicator............................ 38  
Lamp, Fluorescent .............................. 57  
Lap Times ........................................... 50  
LCD Monitor .......................................... 5  
LCD Monitor Backlight, Turning Off .... 38  
LCD Monitor, Handling........................ 22  
LCD Monitor, Replacing Lamp............ 57  
Lens Protector ....................................... 4  
LIGHT Indicator................................... 51  
Lighting ............................................... 51  
Limited Warranty ............................ 70-71  
— F —  
Fading ................................................. 28  
Fast Forward Operation ...................... 34  
Features – Camera Recording ....... 40-51  
FF (Fast Forward) Button .................... 39  
First-Time Operation ........................ 6-22  
Fluorescent Lamp Backlight ............... 57  
Fluorescent Lamp Compartment .......... 5  
Focus Auto .......................................... 25  
Focus, Manual..................................... 43  
Full Auto Mode ............................... 23,32  
— M —  
Macro Shots ........................................ 27  
Manual Focus...................................... 43  
Memory, Counter................................. 38  
MENU Button .... 5,13-15,17,18,19,24,26,  
............... 27,28,29,30,32,34,36,37  
............... 38,43,44,45,46,47,48,49  
Menus, On-Screen ......................... 13-15  
Messages, Self-Recording.................. 41  
MICrophone Jack.................................. 5  
Microphone, Stereo............................... 4  
MODE DISPLAY  
— G —  
Gain-Up (Cat’s Eye) ............................ 26  
— H —  
Button............ 5,13-15,29,30,33,38  
— O —  
Handstrap, Adjusting ....................... 5,22  
Hi8 Cassettes...................................... 65  
Operation Button.......... 5,13-15,17,18,19  
.......... 21,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30  
.......... 32,34,35,36,37-38,40-42,43  
.................... 44,45,46,47,48,49-50  
Operation  
— I —  
Backlight Compensation........... 26  
Digital Image Stabilization ........ 27  
Fading ....................................... 28  
First-Time ............................... 6-22  
Focus, Auto ............................... 25  
Focusing, Manual...................... 43  
Full Auto ............................... 23,32  
Gain-Up..................................... 26  
Important Safeguards ........................ ii-iii  
Important Safety Information...................i  
Included Accessories ................. 3,59-61  
Information, Important......................... i-5  
INSERT A CASSETTE Indicator .......... 16  
Inserting and Removing Cassettes..... 12  
Iris, Manual.......................................... 47  
73  
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Index  
Iris ............................................. 47  
Playback ................................... 34  
Recording ............................ 23-33  
Remote Control ......................... 39  
Self-Recording ..................... 40-42  
Snapshot Recording ................. 48  
Still Recording ........................... 48  
Strobe Recording ...................... 49  
Stopwatch ............................ 49-50  
Tape Counter........................ 37-38  
White Balance ........................... 46  
Wide Screen Recording ............ 29  
Zooming ............................... 24-25  
Optional Accessories..................... 58-61  
Optional Car Battery Adapter ........ 11,58  
Optional Plug Adapter ........................ 10  
Order Form, Accessories............... 59-61  
— R —  
RECord START/STOP Button ..................  
..................................... 5,23,28,39  
Recording Date and Time ................... 32  
Recording on the Camcorder ............. 56  
Recording Pause ................................ 23  
Recording Positions ............................ 31  
Recording Tips.................................... 31  
References ..................................... 57-75  
Registration Card ....................................i  
Registration, Product .............................. i  
Remaining Battery Power Display ...... 33  
Remaining Recording Time Display ... 33  
Remote Cell, Installing .......................... 6  
Remote Control Buttons ...................... 39  
Remote, Using .................................... 39  
Removing the Lens Protector................ 4  
REPLACE THE LAMP Indicator........... 16  
Return, Quick ...................................... 30  
REW Button ......................................... 39  
Rewind Operation ............................... 34  
— P —  
Party Mode.......................................... 44  
Pause Recording ................................ 23  
PAUSE/STILL Button ........................... 39  
Photoreceptor .................................. 5,39  
Picture/Backlight Adjustment .............. 21  
Play Back Tapes Using Camcorder .... 53  
PLAY Button ........................................ 39  
Playback ............................................. 34  
Playback – Basic Operations......... 34-39  
Positions, Recording ........................... 31  
Power (CAMERA/VCR) Switch .............. 5  
..... 13-15,17,18,19,21,23,30,33,36  
Power Zoom Buttons.............. 5,24,27,39  
Powering the Camcorder ................. 9-11  
PREV. PAGE Menu Feature ................. 15  
Problem Solving ............................. 66-67  
Product Registration ...............................i  
Program AE ......................................... 44  
Program Search .................................. 36  
PUSH Mark.......................................... 12  
— S —  
S-Video Connector .................... 52,54-56  
Safeguards, Important ....................... ii-iii  
Scene Menu ........................................ 44  
Search, Edit......................................... 30  
Search, Program ................................. 36  
Search, Video...................................... 35  
Self Recording ............................... 40-42  
Sensor, Remote ................................... 39  
Setting Area, Date, and Time .............. 17  
Setting the Shutter Speed ................... 45  
Shoulder Strap, Attaching................... 22  
Shoulder Strap ................................. 5,22  
Shutter Speed ..................................... 45  
Ski or Sand Mode................................ 44  
SLOW Button.................................. 35,39  
Slow Feature ....................................... 35  
SNAPshot Button.............................. 5,48  
Snapshot Feature ................................ 48  
Solving Problems ........................... 66-67  
Specifications...................................... 68  
— Q —  
Quick Return ....................................... 30  
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Sport Mode ......................................... 44  
Stabilization, Digital Image ................. 27  
Stand, Retractable ................................ 4  
Stand, Using ....................................... 35  
Stereo Microphone................................ 4  
Still Feature ......................................... 35  
Still Image Recording.......................... 48  
Still Recording ..................................... 48  
STOP Button........................................ 39  
Stopwatch ...................................... 49-50  
Strobe Recording ................................ 49  
Supplied Accessories ................. 3,59-61  
— V —  
VCR Mode....................... 13-15,21,34,35  
Video Heads Clogged Indicator ......... 16  
Video Search....................................... 35  
VOLume Buttons ......................... 5,34,39  
— W —  
Warning ...................................................i  
Warning Indicator During  
Self-Recording Mode ................ 16  
Warning Indicators .............................. 16  
Warranty, Limited ........................... 70-71  
White Balance ..................................... 46  
Wide Screen Recording ...................... 29  
World Clock......................................... 18  
— T —  
Table of Contents ............................... 1-2  
Tape Counter.................................. 37-38  
TAPE END Indicator ............................ 33  
Tape Rewind, Auto .............................. 34  
THE TAPE ENDS SOON Indicator.. 16,33  
Time and Date Recording ................... 32  
Time Zone Chart ................................. 19  
Time, Area and Date Displaying ......... 19  
Time, Area and Date Setting ............... 17  
Times Zones Table .............................. 20  
Tips on Traveling Abroad .................... 65  
Tips, Recording................................... 31  
Traveling Abroad Tips ......................... 65  
Tripod ............................................. 27,58  
Tripod Socket ................................... 5,58  
Trouble Checks .............................. 66-67  
Twilight Mode ...................................... 44  
— Z —  
Zoom Buttons......................... 5,24,27,39  
Zoom Lens ............................................ 4  
Zooming ......................................... 24,25  
— U —  
Use and Care ................................. 62-65  
Useful Features – Camera  
Recording ............................ 40-51  
Using Remote ..................................... 39  
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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-ProV950HB-1  
TINSE0206TAZZ  
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