Canon Optura Pi User manual

DIGITAL VIDEO CAMCORDER
www.canondv.com
Sensationally Sharp Video
from Canon
Sensationally Sharp Video
from Canon

True-to-life optics
and dazzling color reproduction.
True-to-life optics
and dazzling color reproduction.
DV Format
Enter the world of DV and
realize truly amazing picture
and sound quality. Images
reaching up to 500 line
horizontal resolution reveal
stunning detail and clarity.
Clearly superior quality than
even the best analog
camcorders, by 20% at least,
and free from annoying color
noise. DV is the right format,
right now!
Actual Size
RGB Primary
Color Filter
In addition to achieving
higher resolution, the Optura
Pi's Progressive Scan CCD
integrates an RGB Primary
Color Filter which separates
light passing through the lens into
individual red, green and blue color
Progressive
Scan CCD
The Optura Pi incorporates a
Progressive Scan CCD
image sensor that delivers a
significant improvement in
performance and image
quality. Each and every light
gathering pixel on the CCD is
used to produce a full frame
video image 60 times per
second. In contrast, the conventional
interlace-type CCD produces only half a
full frame, known as a field, in the same
amount of time. The Progressive Scan
CCD provides a serious advantage to
those who desire impeccable clarity of
fast moving subjects. The interlace
method used on other
camcorders combines two
field images together, but
a time lapse between the
fields can cause a disturbing image flicker
on the television screen when playback is
paused. Recordings of subjects moving at
high speed such as athletes, wildlife and
even machinery can be viewed on a
television with superior resolution. And this
CCD type makes it possible to produce
better quality video prints than ever
before. Also, realizing people shoot video
in a variety of light levels, Canon designed
the Optura Pi to perform exceptionally well
in low light too.
IEEE 1394
DV Terminal
The Optura Pi is equipped
with a DV IN/OUT terminal that conforms
to IEEE 1394. It takes just a single digital
cable to transfer or copy your videos in
pure digital form to your DV compatible
computer or another Canon DV
camcorder. Record still images onto a
floppy disk with the optional FR-100
Floppy Disk Still Image Recorder for easy
transfer to your PC computer. You can
choose to print your images on a Canon
color printer or send them over the
Internet.
components, similar to professional
camcorders. As a result, the Optura Pi
achieves more accurate color
reproduction with finer gradations than
models using a conventional
complementary color filter. The difference
is especially noticeable, for instance, in
skin tones and scenes with a dominant
color such as sunsets, a ski slope or a
forest.

Image
stabilizer OFF
Advanced
Accessory Shoe
Simply slide on an
accessory, and the shoe transmits power
directly from the camera. Choose to
attach Canon’s DM-50 Directional Stereo
Microphone*, the world’s first shotgun mic
and stereo mic rolled into one super-
directional highly sensitive mic. Use when
recording or dubbing audio. Or, attach the
VL-3 Video Light*, which can either stay
on continuously or turn on/off
automatically in response changes in the
brightness of the
shooting
situation.
*Optional
A Genuine Canon 12X
Zoom Lens with 48X
Digital Zoom
Expertise from designing and
manufacturing 35mm camera and
broadcast TV lenses contributed to the
development of the Optura Pi's 12x optical
zoom lens. It delivers incredibly high
definition, outstanding contrast and
maximizes the resolution capability of DV.
You'll love it's ability to transform distant
subjects into dramatic close-ups quickly
and effortlessly. The digital zoom extends
the magnification to 48X, revealing details
too distant to be seen with just the eye
alone.
Optical Image Stabilizer
Canon utilizes the finest method of image stabilization
available: optical. While other manufacturers use an
electronic or digital image stabilization system, Canon's lens
design includes a dedicated optical element that preserves
image quality so your videos always look smooth, steady
and natural...whether
shooting hand-held
at full telephoto or
even from a moving
vehicle. The optical
method is also the
perfect complement
to the outstanding
image quality of DV
and offers superior
shake reduction
when light levels are
low and while
zooming.
12X Zoom
48X Digital
Image
stabilizer ON
Noise Reduction System
The Optura Pi incorporates newly
developed noise reduction circuitry to
deliver superior image quality. By
eliminating video noise, which can occur
during signal processing, Canon has
increased the signal to noise ratio. Your
videos will be cleaner overall, free from
annoying color noise or graininess when
shooting under low light levels.

Extended shooting time,
a full range of features and effortle
Extended shooting time,
a full range of features and effortle
3) Digital Motor DriveTM
(Progressive Scan Mode)
The Optura Pi's Digital Motor
Drive, made possible only
through the use of a
Progressive Scan CCD,
captures high resolution
pictures packed with
excitement. Faster than the
high speed motor drive of a
35mm camera, the Optura Pi's
Digital Motor Drive amazes
photo hobbyists and
professional photographers by
recording an incredible 30 full
frame images per second,
continuously. Select this mode
when you plan to capture
superior quality frames from
video for either recording onto
a floppy disk, viewing on TV,
printing or downloading to a
DV compatible computer. The
Digital Motor Drive, first
introduced by Canon,
expands the Optura Pi's
versatility and the variety of
your images. (Use Normal
Movie Mode for standard
video recording.)
3 Shooting Modes
The Optura Pi has three shooting modes to accommodate any of
your needs.
2) Digital Photo Mode
The Optura Pi functions as a
digital still camera; it's like two
cameras in one. Just press the
photo button to capture more
than 500 stunning still pictures
on a single videocassette (in
SP mode) or combine video
and still pictures together with
the added benefit of audio.
Each still picture is recorded
for approximately 6 seconds
along with your own narration
or surrounding sounds.
Flexible LCD View Screen
and Color Viewfinder
The big 3.5” view screen makes it easier to
compose sensational shots from any angle. It
swivels and flips for maximum handling
comfort and flexibility. It also tucks neatly away when bright
shooting conditions make the eyecup viewfinder the preferred
way to shoot.
Program
Auto Exposure
Ensures great video results
even in challenging shooting
conditions. Select the program
that matches your scene and
the Optura Pi adjusts internal
controls for perfect video
every time. Choose from Easy
Recording, Auto, Sports,
Portrait,
Spotlight, Sand
& Snow and Low
Light.
Portrait
Sports
Sand &
Snow
Spotlight
SLR-Style Flash
Photography
Attach a Canon E-TTL flash
(220EX, 380EX or 550EX) to
illuminate your subject when
shooting still images in the
Photo Mode. It’s just like flash
photography with a Canon
35mm SLR camera. The
intelligent flash works with the
Optura Pi to ensure the proper
exposure and overcome
backlight situations and heavy
shadows.
With
Speedlite
Without
Speedlite
1) Normal Movie Mode
Select this recording mode
when you choose to capture
smooth, full motion video for
playback on your TV. The
Progressive Scan CCD and
RGB Primary Color Filter
achieve video quality worth
watching again and again.

ess shooting.
ess shooting.
PCM Digital Sound
Optura Pi offers
two digital audio
modes to enhance
the playback experience. The
16 bit mode produces the
higher, CD equivalent, two-
channel sound quality while
the 12 bit mode records on
two of four channels leaving
two other channels free to dub
extra sound at a later date.
Analog Line-in
Now it's possible to send an
analog video signal from your
TV, VCR or camcorder into the
Optura Pi and record it onto
DV. It’s great for making
copies or
preserving
precious originals.
A/V Insert and
Audio Dubbing
Use this feature to insert new
scenes of video from your VCR
or other camcorder on to a
tape recorded in the SP mode.
Using a recording made in the
12 bit audio mode you can
also add stereo sound from
another audio source or
through the internal
microphone or an external
microphone such
as the DM-50
Directional stereo
microphone.
One Touch
Dubbing
The Optura Pi includes an
easy to use dubbing function
for making great copies of
your original recordings. You
can even apply the Faders
and Effects to your original
recordings while copying to a
tape in your VCR.
Lithium Ion Power
Lithium ion battery packs can
be recharged at any time, so
you will always be prepared
for peak shooting
performance, and never
caught without power
unexpectedly. Cut down on
charging time with the high-
capacity BP-522 battery
pack’s* quick charging
feature. When charged with
the CR-560 charger kit*, the
BP-522 gives 60 minutes of
recording after only 15
minutes’ charging.
*Optional
Pictures simulated
● Built-in Speaker
● Photo Search/Date Search
● Time Code/Date Code
● LP mode (extends a 80 min.
Mini DV tape to 120 min. or
60min. tape to 90 min.)
● Superb Playback
● Built-in charge Function
● Composite S-Video Input/
Output
● Self-Timer
● Confirming/Warning Beeps
● Zero Set Memory
● World Clock
● 16:9 Wide Screen TV Effect
● Remote Control
● Record Search & Review
● LANC Terminal
Digital Effects
The Optura Pi includes a selection of digital effects for a more
appealing look and greater imaging variety.*
*When dubbing, the Multi-image Screen Effect is not available.
Sepia
3 Multi-image
Screen
Divides your display screen
into four, nine or sixteen
pictures with the Image
Capture feature. You can
choose the speed at which the
images are captured: Manual,
Slow, Moderate, or Fast.
Art
2 Effects
Give variety to your images
during recording by adding
Art, Black and White, Sepia or
Mosaic effects.
M ULTI
I MAGE
S CREEN
1 Faders
Use the various faders to start
or end scenes with a fade to or
from black. Choose between
Fade Trigger, Wipe, Scroll and
Mosaic fades.
Manual Controls
In addition to being fully
automatic, the Optura Pi offers
manual control over focus,
exposure, white balance and
shutter speed.

www.canondv.com
Printed on
40% reused paper.
This mark identifies genuine Canon video accessories.
When you use Canon video equipment, we recommend Canon-brand
accessories or products bearing the same mark.
CR-560 Charge Adapter/
Car Battery Cable Kit
Connects to your car's cigarette
lighter to power the camcorder or
recharge BP-500 Series battery
packs on the move. Can also draw
power from an AC outlet when
connected to the camcorder's CA-
560 Compact Power Adapter.
Lithium Ion
Battery
Packs
Extra batteries for use with the Optura Pi.
Availability differs from
area to area.
Errors and omissions excepted.
Weight and dimensions are approximate.
Subject to change without notice.
*Connect only equipment bearing the LANC symbol.
Canon is a trademark of Canon Inc.
Digital Motor Drive is a trademark of Canon Inc.
Warning: Unauthorized recording of copyrighted materials may infringe
on the rights of copyright owners and be contrary to copyright laws.
FS-46 Filter Set
Includes multiple-image,
R-cross and zoom-spot filters.
VL-3 Video Light
This 3W light attaches to the
shoe for cable-free operation.
Continuous on and auto on/
off settings. Powered by the
camera’s power source.
DVM-CL
Digital Video
Head
Cleaning
Cassette
DVM-E60
Digital
Video
Cassette
FS-46U Filter Set
Includes neutral density (ND 8),
polarizing and ultraviolet filters.
Power
Sources
Creative Shooting Accessories
Canon Digital
Videocassettes
Carrying
Accessories
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©CANON INC. 2000 PRINTED IN JAPAN
IMPRIME AU JAPON
PUB. DCE-118
0200P18
FR-100
Floppy Disk
Still Image Recorder
Connects to the Optura Pi or
any Canon digital camcorder
with a DV terminal and
records still images onto a
floppy disk in one of three
resolution choices. Images
from the disk can then be
transferred to a computer.
Floppy Disk
Adapter
Advanced
Accessory Shoe
SC-A50
Soft Carrying
Case
SC-1000
Soft
Carrying
Case
Genuine Leather
SR-30.5/46
Step Up Ring
To attach the converter lenses and
filters to Optura Pi.
WD-46
Wide-converter
Gives wide-angle coverage
at 0.7X.
TL-46
Tele-converter
Increases focal length by
1.4X.
220EX/380EX/550EX
Speedlite Flash
Attaches directly to Optura Pi's
accessory shoe to give SLR-style
flash photography.
WS-20
Wrist Strap
THE CANON Optura Pi KIT
Optura Pi Specifications
Power supply (rated): 7.4 V DC (Battery)
9.5 V DC (DC IN)
Power consumption: 4.7 W (using
viewfinder), 5.5 W (using LCD screen)
Television system: EIA standard (525
lines, 60 fields) NTSC color signal
Video recording system: 2 rotary heads,
helical scanning system DV system
(Consumer digital VCR SD system)
Digital component recording
Audio recording system: PCM digital
sound: 16 bit (48kHz/2ch), 12 bit
(32kHz/4ch)
Image sensor: 1/4" Progressive Scan
CCD (charge coupled device) 380,000
pixels (360,000 effective pixels)
Tape format: Videocassettes bearing the
(Mini DV) mark.
•Optura Pi
•BP-511 Battery Pack
•CA-560 Compact Power Adapter
•SS-600 Shoulder Strap
•WL-D74 Wireless Controller
•S-150 S-video Cable
•STV-250N Stereo Video Cable
Tape speed: SP: 3/4ips (18.81 mm/s); LP:
1/2ips (12.56 mm/s)
Maximum recording time: SP: 80 minutes
(with a 80 min. cassette); LP: 120
minutes (with a 80 min. cassette)
Fast forward/rewind time: 2 mins 30 sec.
(with a 60 min. cassette)
Lens: F/1.6-2.5, 12x power zoom, 4.1-49.2
mm
Focusing system: TTL autofocus, manual
focusing possible
Minimum focusing distance: 3 ft 33/8in.
(1 m), 3/8in (1 cm) on maximum wide
angle
Maximum shutter speed: 1/4,000 sec
Minimum illumination: 2.5 lx using the
Low Light program
Recommended illumination: More than
100 lx
Filter diameter: 30.5 mm
Viewfinder: 0.44-inch, color LCD
(approx. 113,000 pixels)
LCD screen: 3.5 in measured diagonally
200,000 pixels (approx.)
Microphone: Stereo electret condenser
microphone
DV terminal: Special 4 pin connector
(based on IEEE1394)
Video terminal: 1 Vp-p/75 ohms
unbalanced
S-video terminal: 1 Vp-p (Y signal),
0.286 Vp-p (C signal)
Audio terminal: Input level: -10 dBV/47
kohms, unbalanced; Output level: -10
dBV, less than 3 kohms, unbalanced
Operating temperature range: 32 - 104°
F (0 - 40°C)
Dimensions: 25/8x 33/8 x 57/8in (68 x 87 x
148 mm)
Weight: 1 lb 67/8oz (650 g)
DM-50
Directional
StereoMicrophone
Attaches to the shoe for cable-free
operation. Picks up shotgun or shotgun
+ surrounding sound. Powered by the
camera’s power source.
BP-511 (supplied, single-level )
BP-522 (optional, double-level)
1 hr. 40 min.
3 hr. 40 min.
1 hr. 30 min.
3 hr. 10 min.
Battery pack Maximum recording time
using
viewfinder using LCD screen