Hitachi VM-D975LA User manual

HITACHI
Instruction Manual
h\m/B
Digital 8 Video Camcorder
VM-D975LA
VM-D875LA
VM-D873LA
HITACHI AMERICA, LTD.
HOME ELECTRONICS DIVISION
1855 Dornoch Court
San Diego. CA 92154-7225
Tel DSOO-HITACHI
(1-800-448-2244)
HITACHI CANADA LTD.
DIGITAL MEDIA DIVISION
6740 Campobello Road
Mississauga. Ontario L5N 2L8
CANADA
Tel, 1~800~HITACHI
(1-800-448-2244)
Thank you for buying a Hitachi product. Please take time to become familiar with the manual and how
if is set up. Keep it handy for future reference.
QR33393 ©Hitachi. Ltd. 2001
Printed in Japan 01~G(HE)

Important Information
For Your Safety
The- CAM/OFf/VIDEO switch turns the camcorder on and oft leaving the dofe/time feature unaffec¬
ted. If the unit is to be left unattended far a long period of time, turn the camcorder off and close the
lens door.
WARNING:
1
TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO fMOTl
EXPOSE THIS Uim TO miM OR iViOiSTURE.
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD. USE THE REC»
OMMENDED' ACCESSORIES OIMLYf
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF
ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT OPEN.
NO USER-SERViCEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE
PERSONNEL.
The camcorder ar)d AC adaptor have the follow¬
ing caution marks.
A
RISK Of ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
Identifications of caution marks
This s')/'m,bo! warns the user that unin¬
sulated' voltage within the unit m.ay
have S'lifficient magnit'iide to cause
electrical shock. Therefore, it is danger¬
ous to make any kind of contact wi'th
any inside part of this unit.
This symbo:i alerts the 'user that import¬
ant literature concerning 'the operation
and maintenance of this unit has been
included. Therefore, it sho'uld be read
carefully to avoid any problems.
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR
ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH V\/IDE BLADE
OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, AND FULLY
INSERT PLUG.
Precautions
WARNING: Many television programs and films
are copyrighted. In certain circumstances, copy¬
right law' may a'ppl)^^ to private in-home video¬
taping of copyrighted materials.
This Class B digital appara'tiis complies wi'th
Canadian ICES-003.
The liquid crystal display (LCD) panel is
made by highly precise technology. More
'than. 99.99% of i'ts picture elements (pixels)
are effective, but some (less than 0.01%) may
appear as colored bright dots. This does not
indicate a fault as the LCD panel stretches
the limits of current technology.
E2
HITACHI

Warnlrig: This device complies wi'lh. Pari: 15 of 'line FCC- l ilies. Operahon is subject to tlie
two conditions: (1) This device may :iiot cause in,te:rfe.rence, and (:2) this device must accept
any interference received, including inter,ference that may cause midesired operation.
Mote: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits .for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rtiles,. These limits are desig:ned to p.rovide reasonable pro¬
tection against harmful interference in a residential instailation. This equipment generates, uses, and
can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the i:i:ist:]mctk>ns,
may cause harmful interference to radio com:ni.ii.mcations. However, there is :no guarantee 'that inter¬
ference 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 a.:nd on, 'the
user is encouraged to try to correct by one or more of the .following :fii.easiires:
— Reorient or relocate the receivi:n.g antenna.
— Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
— Connect the equipment into an outlet on a. circuit different from tliat to which tlie receiver is con¬
nected.
— Consult the dealer or an. experienced radio / TV tedmidan for help.
Caytioil to the user: Cha.:nges or modiiicatio;n,s not expressly approved by the ma:.riufactu.re could
void the user's authority to operate the equipment..
Notes
Before using: This Digital 8 camcorder uses Hi 8/Digital 8 tapes wi.th a |“ii 11 /m.a:rk and records
ill the Digital 8 format. This c.ainco:rd.er also can play back pictures on tapes recorded by other
i*ii @ and M ca;mco.rders. For mo:re smoothly recorded pictures, it is reco:m.n.ie:nd.ed that you do not
mix images recorded in these HiS and S formats, with Digital 8 || format on the same tape.
Note that this camcorder cannot play back Hi8/8 format tapes recorded in the LP mode.
I“ii S / II is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
MOISTURE
.Avoid operating your camcorder i:m:med.ia.tely after moving it from a. cold place to a w^arm, humid
place. Give the ca.mco.rder 2 to 3 hours to stabilize in the ambient conditions of the surroundings
before inserti;ng a cassette. When .moved .fro'.m. a cold place to a. warm, humid place, moisture ;m.ay
condense on the head drum inside the machine. This moisture could cause the tape to stick to the
headwheel and damage the headwheel or tape.
When a small amount of moisture is sensed, "TAPE" .fl,a.sh.es in the viewfinder or on the LCD moni¬
tor. Remove the cassette a.:n.d. set the CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch, to OFF, then wait for about one
hour.
¥M-D975LA/¥i^-D87iLA/¥M-DS73LA
E3

IMPOFnANT SAFEGUARDS
in addition to the careful attention devoted to quality standards in the manufacture of your video prodifct, safety is a major factor in the design
of every instrurner'it. But, safety is your responsibilih/ too.
1 his page lists important information that will help to assure your enjoyment and proper use of a Video camcorder and accessorv equipment.
Please read it carefulfy before operating your video product and keep it in a handy place for future reference.
tIMSTALLATiOM
1 Read and FoHow Instructions — All the safety and
operating instructions should be read before the video
product is operated. Foiiow-ail operating and use instructions.
2 Retain Instructions -.- The safety and operating instruc¬
tions should be retained for future reference.
3 Heed Warnings . Comply with ail warnings on the video
product and in the operating instructions.
4 Polarized Plug . 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 v\-'ay. This is safety feature, if you are unable to insert the
plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the piug. if the plug should
still fail to fit, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet.
To prevent electric shock do not use this
polarized piug with an extension cord, recep¬
tacle or other outlet unless the blades can be
fully inserted without blade exposure. If you
need an extension, use a polarized cord.
5 Power Soorces — This video product should be operated
only from the type of power source indicated on
the rriarking 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.
S Overloading — Do not overload wall outlets and extension
cords as this can result in a risk of fire or electric
shock. Overloaded .AC outlets and extension cords are dangerous,
and so are frayed power cords, damaged or cracked wire insulation
and broken plugs. They may result in a shock or fire hazard.
Periodicaliy examine the cord and have it replaced by your service
technician if appearance indicates damage or deteriorated insu¬
lation.
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
atterition to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point
where they exit from the appliance,
8 Veotilatlon . Slots and openings in the cabinet are pro¬
vided for ventilation to ensure reliable operation of the video
product and to protect it from overheating, These openings must
not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be blocked
by placing the video product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar sur¬
face, This video product should never be placed near or over a radi¬
ator or heat register. This video product should not be placed in a
built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack unless proper venti¬
lation is provided or the video product manufacturer's instructions
have been followed.
9 Attachments — Do not use attachments unless
recommended by the video product manufacturer as they
may cause hazards.
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 have been modified so as to defeat the safety features.
This will help avoid any potential hazard from electric shock or fire.
If in doubt, contact qualified service personnel.
10 Water and iVioisture . 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.
11 Accessories Do not place this video product on an un¬
stable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The video
product may fall, causing sertous injury to a child or adult, and
serious dam.age to the appliance. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod,
bracket, or table recomimended by the manufacturer, or sold with
the video product. Any mounting of the product should follow the
manufacturer's instructions, and should use a mounting accessory
recommended by the manufacturer,
12 An appliance and cart combi¬
nation should be
moved with care. Quick stops,
excessive force, and une;ven sur¬
faces may cause the appliance and
cart comibination to overturn.
E4
HITACHI

13 Power Lines --- An outside antenna system should not be
located in the vicinity of overhead power lines or other
electric light or power circuits, or where it can fall into such power
lines or circuits. When installing an outside antenna system,
e.xtreme 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.
USE
14 CIsaning . Unplug this video product from the wall outlet
before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol
cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.
15 Object and Liquid Entry . ■ Never push objects of any
kind into this video product through openings as they may
touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that could result in
a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the video
product.
16 Lightning — For added protection for this video product
during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and
unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and
disconnect the antenna or cable-system. This will prevent damage
to the video product due to lightning and power-line surges.
SERVICE
17 Servicing. Do not attempt to service this video product
yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to
dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified
service personnel.
18 Conditions Requiring Service . Unplug this video
product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified
service personnel under the following conditions.
a. When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.
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.
d. if the video product does not operate normally by following the
operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are
covered by the operating instructions. Improper adjustment of
other controls may result in damage and will often require
extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the video
product to its normal operation.
e. if the video product has been dropped or the cabinet has been
damaged.
f. VA/hen the video product exhibits a distinct change in perform¬
ance .- this indicates a need for service,
19 Rep,lacerr!ent 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 replacements specified by the video product
manufacturer can prevent fire, electric shock or other hazards.
20 Safety Check . Upon completion of any service or repairs
to this video product, ask the service technician to
perform safety checks recommended by the manufacturer to deter¬
mine that the video product is in safe operating condition.
21 Heat . The product should be situated away from heat
sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
VM-D975LA/VM-D875LA/VM-D873LA
E5

Any problems that occur as a result of any of the
following conditions will not be covered by our
warranty.
9 Do not shoot the sun, directly. Othejrwise^ the
lens will be faulty.
B Be careful that no water, dust or sand enters the
camcorder and all accessories.
■ When you shoot at a scene m'hich contains an
extremely bright object such as a light source, a
bright vertical bar may appear in, the picture.
Your camcorder is functioning pro-perly, but the
solid-state pickup device (C.C.D) usually
causes this as an, inherent characteristic. Try to
avoid shooting an excessive bright object di¬
rectly..
9 Be sure not to leave the camcorder in a. pTace
where the temperature exceeds 140°F (60^C), or
the pickup device may be damaged.
Dangerous includes:
Inside a. car with the windoivs closed and in
direct sunshine.
» Near heating appliances.
If Do not leave the viewfinder lens and the liquid
crystal display (LCD) screen facing sunlight for
a prolonged period., or the phosphorescent sur¬
face of the cathode ray tube and the LCD panel
may be damaged.
Read This First
To guide you we've included:
• An "Important Information" section containing
important cautions for your family's safety as
well as instruction for getting your video cam¬
corder ready to use. Please read and under¬
stand this section, thorough!)^ before moving on.
« A "Getting Stcirted" section to familiarize your¬
self with the controls and prepare you for
recording.
« ■ A "Basic Teclmiques" section to allow 3 .^ 011 . to
use your video camcorder quickly and confi¬
dently before adva.ncing to the more sophisti¬
cated features of the Hitachi VM-r)975LA./VM-
D875L A / VM-D873LA.,
^ "Advanced Techniques" to help you with some
of the exciting, sophisticated features of the
Hitachi VM~D975LA/W~D875LA/VMT)873LA,
We hope you will take the time to learn about
these functions since they have been designed
for you. You can use the video camcorder wi.th-
out reading this section.
* .A "General Mainte.na,nce" section to help keep
your purchase in good repair.
We wont this manual to be as helpful as possible,
so if Includes two easy ways to find the infor¬
mation you need:
» A quick, index jfor the information you use most
often (this page).
* A detailed table of contents directing you to spe¬
cific information quickly (page 8 ).
Get to know your video camicorder by using this
manuai and get to know Hitachi. We appreciate
your business.
Quick Index
Charging the Battery............... 17
Setting the Date and Time... 24
Making a Basic Recording.. 26
Zooming......... 29
Playback........... 32
Dubbing from Camcorder to a VCR....62
E 6
HITACHI

Features
Easy to use
* Color liquid crystal display (LCD) monitor witli
speaker
* Color electronic viewfinder (for VM-D975LA)
» Active screen
» Perfect power (LitMum-ion battery)
* Built-in DC light (for VM-D975LA/VM-
D875LA)
* X22 optical zoom ratio
® XlOO digital zoom ratio (switchabie to X500)
® Digital effects
® Stable pix (Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS))
® Fade in / fade out
» Recorded date search
« Types of differences
VIVI-D976LA
¥y-D876LA
¥y-Da73LA
Bullt-iii DC fight
Yes
Yes
No
Photo (still)
recording
Yes
No
No
Analog In (A.1N)-+
Digital Out(D,OUT)
Yes
No
No
Electronic
viewfinder
0.44-inch color
0.4~incli black-
and-white
().4~inch black-
and-white
Recording of exter¬
na! analog input
Yes '
No
No
Audio
Stereo
Monaural
Monaural
With this camcorder you can view the picture being recorded or the playback picture whether on the
LCD monitor or in the viewfinder. Opening or closing the LCD monitor switches the picture to
appear on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder. The following text describes the operation as¬
suming that the viewfinder is used as a major monitor device.
VM-DS75LA/VM-D876LA/VIV1-D873LA
E7

Table of Contents
Important Information ............................... 2
For Your Safety................................................ 2
Important Safeguards................................... 4
Before You Begin........................................... 6
Read This First............................................... 6
Features............................. 7
Getting Started
Components and Accessories..... 9
Identifying Controls.... 10
Loading Clock Battery.. 13
Clock Battery.. 13
Using the Infrared Remote Control................ 13
LCD fyionitor.................................................... 14
Opening the LCD Monitor.. 14
Adjusting the Brightness of the
LCD Screen............................................... 14
Range in which the LCD Monitor can be
moved...................................................... 14
Active Screen................................................. 15
Adjusting the Electronic Viewfinder.......... 15
Eyepiece Adjustment... 16
Adjustment the Hand Strap............. 16
Attaching the Shoulder Strap...... 16
Charging the Battery................................... 17
Removing the Battery Pack........................... 18
Reference of Charged Level.......................... 18
Charging Time.. 18
Operating Time.............................................. 18
Checking the Battery's Charge................... 19
Camcorder Power Sources......................... 20
Using Battery Pack.................................... 20
Using the AC Adaptor................. 2 0
Using a Car Battery................................... 20
Inserting and Removing Cassettes............. 21
Inserting a Cassette................................... 21
Removing a Cassette................................ 21
Protecting Recorded Material.................. 21
Items Selectable with Menu Displays........ 22
Menu selectable in the CAM mode ......... 22
Menu selectable in the VIDEO mode....... 22
How to select items and set them ........... 22
Remaining Tape ............................................ 23
Using the Linear Time Counter.. 23
Switching On-Screen Display On/Off........ 23
Demonstration Mode.................................. 23
Setting the Date and Time.......................... 24
Basic Techniques
Making a Basic Recording .......................... 26
Changing the Angie of the LCD Monitor
when Recording.......................................... 27
Using Instant Review ..................................... 27
Using Auto Focus......................................... 28
Using the Power Zoom ................................ 29
Using the Digital Zoom............................... 29
Using Macro................................................. 29
Setting Recording Audio Mode 30
Setting Recording Mode ■ ■ • • ■ • • * •• • • - ■ “ ■ • •• • “ • * ” 3 0
Recording Still Pictures IPhotof (for VM~
D975LA) .”“.“.“““31
Playback.......................................................... 32
Using Still................................................... 33
Using Forward and Reverse Search....33
Displaying Date/Time during playback...... 34
Advanced Techniques
Using Manual Focus ................................... 36
Using x500 Digital Zoom ............................ 36
Special Effects Recording ..............................37
Activating Special Effects Recording ...38
Using Fade.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . S S
Using the PROGRAM AE Button ............... 41
Using the Backlight Compensation ........... 42
Locking the White Balance ......................... 42
Using the Electronic Image Stabilizer “**‘•43
Using Q.yick Edit.. 43
{O'S'ip ^P Arr*hi 44
Photo SearchlforVM-D97*5L^^ 44
Using Memory...................... 44
Creating and Recording a Title... 45
Selecting Stored Title (Prememo).. 46
Creating a Title.. 47
Recording Title on a Tape in the
Camcorder................... 48
Recording a Title while Transferring a
Tape.. 48
Switching On-Screen Display On/Off *•***•49
Sett!ng Playback Mode .. 4 9
Setting Playback Audio Mode “••“•““••“49
Converting Analog Signal to Digital Signal
(forVM-D975LA) .................““,49
Playing Back Your Recording
on YourTV****...*.. 50
Connecting to Television (or VCR) with
AudioA/ideo Input Jacks........................ 50
Playing Back Your Recording on the TV
Screen.......................................................... 51
Dubbing from^ the Camcorder to a VCR..... 52
Using AudioA/ideo Dubbing....................... 53
Analog-to-Digital Conversion (for VM-
D975LA)..................................................... 54
Recording from your VCR or TV.... 54
TBC (Tim.e Base Corrector) ON or OFF...... 56
Attaching a filter.. 56
Using the Built-in DC Light
(for VM-D975LAA/M~D875LA).................... 57
General Maintenance
Cleaning the Camcorder Heads ................. 58
Cleaning the Lens and Picture Tube
of the Electronic Viewfinder..................... 58
Periodic Maintenance .... 59
Troubleshooting.......................................... 59
Specifications .. 61
Available Accessories.. 63
E8
HITACHI

Getting Started
This section guides you through the initiai preparation of the cam¬
corder. None of these processes are complex. Set aside' some
time, relax, and familiarize yourself with this quaiify instrument
Enjoy getting to know all about your Hitachi 8mm. camcorder. The
more comfortable and familiar you are with the machine and its
features, the more you can make it do for you. Let's get started I
It Is crucial that you read and understand ail the safety insfrucfions
before you begin. If you haven't read the safety insfrucfions yet
please take the time to do so now.
Components and Accessories
Check tiiat you have all the following components and accessories before proceeding.
VIV1-D975LA/VM-D875LA/VIVI-D873LA

Identifying Controls
! I I
8 9 10
1. Built-in DC Light (p57) (for VM-
D975LA/VM-D875LA)
2. Lens Door (p26)
The lens door will open automatically when the
camcorder is set to the camera (CAM) mode.
3. Power Zoom Control (p29)
4. Cassette Eject Switch (p21)
5. Shoulder Strap Slot (pi 6)
6. Charge Indicator (pi 7)
7. Record Indicator (p26)
8. Infrared Receiver (p 14)
9. Microphone
10. C AM/OFF/VIDEO Power Switch
(p26)
QAM: Set to this po^-sitioii, to record.
VIDEO: Set to this position, to play back a. tape or
input external signal.
11. D i o pter Control (pi6)
To adjust the viewfinder e 3 /epiece to suit your eye¬
sight.
12. Electronic Viewfinder (pi5)
13. DC Light Switch (p57)
(for VM-D975LA/VM-D876LA)
To switch the DC light between ON, OFF and
AUTO.
11 12 13
14. H a n d strap (pi 6)
15. C assette Holder (p21)
Insert cassette here.
16. M i c r ophone Jack
(forVIVl-D975LA)
Connect external microphone (not supplied) here.
17. A udio/Video Jacks (Behind the
jack cover) (p50)
Connect the pro\ idcd AV cable fro.ni this jack to
the AV jack of yotii TV or VCR.
The jacks on camcoi der differ for each model as
follows:
¥i¥l-DS75LA VIV1-D875LA/
ViVl-^0873LA
E10
HITACHI

18
19
20
21 22 23 24 25 26
18. LCD Brightness Controls <pl4)
19.2.5-inch LCD Monitor <p14)
20.Speaker (p32)
21 .Power Supply Attachment
Section (pi7)
22.Clock Battery Compartment
(pi 3)
23.Sub Power Switch (p26,31)
PHOTO (for ¥iVI“D975LA.): Pressing the Start/Stop
button will record still
pictures.
STANDBY: Pressing the Start/Stop button will
start recording..
LOCK: The camco.rder will not e.nter the
.record naocie even if the Sta.rt/Stop
butto:n. is pressed.
24.Start/Stop Button <p26,31,33)
This works as a recording start/stop button in. the
CAM mode and as a playback pause button in the
VIDEO mode..
25.BAIT. EJECT Lever (pi 8)
Sliding, and then holding, this switch, remove the
battery from the ca.mcor.d.e,r.
26.Shouider Strap Slot (p16)
27.LCD Monitor OPEN Button (pi4)
To open the LCD monitor.
28.DATE Button (p24)
To set the date or display it.
29JFFECT Button (p37)
To .record digitally processed image v/ith digital
e,ffect added.
30 .TITLE Button Cp45)
To select or create a title, or display one.
31 .Menu Button(p22)
To display the .menu.
32. F O CUS/VOL Control Buttons
(p32,36)
CAM ■ mod©: To siAd.tc.h betwi^eeri. auto .focus and
ma.nua! focus, or to control focus
■ while ill manual .focus mode..
VIDEO mode: To co.ri.trol playback volume.
33. B L C (Backlight Compensation)
Button (p42)
When recording a subject in bright light, hold this
bu,tto.n down to compensate for lighting on tape.
34«FADE Button Cp40)
To select the desi.re.d .fade made..
35.DC IN Jack Cp20)
Use this jack to power the camcorder from, the .AC
adapter or from battery in your vehicle.
VM»D975LA/¥M»0875LA/¥iVl ™ D 873LA
Ell

36. Tape Transport and Menu
Setting Buttons {p22,32)
Tape Transport Buttons:
PLAY: To play back tape.
REW; To rewind tape.
P STOP: To stop tape.
FW'D: To fast forward tape.
Menu Setting Buttons:
To select menu items and set details.
37. PROGRAM AE Button (p41)
To change the exposure.
38» Tripod Mounting Threaded
Sockef
39. D V JACK (p5a5455)
REMOTE COfsiTiOL
40. Camcorder Control Buttons
The buttons have the same functions as the corre¬
sponding buttons on the camcorder. Howevep if
the START/STOP button is pressed when the cam¬
corder is off after the pause mode has continued for
5 minutes or longer, the camcorder will not reenter
the record/ pause (standby) mode.
41. COUNTER RESET Button (only on
the remote control) (p44)
To reset the time counter to 0:00:00.
42. A/V DUB Button (only on the
remote control) (p53)
To dub audio and video.
E12
HITACHI

Loading Clock Battery
The clock battery backs up any Information set in the camcorder: It allows the camcorder to retain the
date, time and any of her settings when the power source is removed. It has a life span of about a year.
® Clock Battery
Instaii the batten/ to prevent misplacing It
J Open the clock battery cover.
Instaii the battery with terminal facing
outwcirds.
3 Close the cover.
WARfyilMG: KEEP THE BATTERY AWAY
FROM CHILDREIM AMD PETS,
IF SWALLOWED
COiMSULT A PHYSiCIAIM IMMEDIATELY
FOR EMERGEiMCY TREATMEIMT.
WARIMIIMG: BATTERY MAY EXPLODE IF
IMOT HAi^OLED PROPERLY, DO IMOT
RECHARGE. DiSASSEiVlBLE OR DISPOSE
OF ilM FIRE.
Note: Reps'lace the battery with a Hitachi
Maxell Sony Panasonic, Sanyo or Toshiba bat¬
tery, part no. CR2025 only. Use of another bat¬
tery could lead to risk of fire or explosion.
Note: Dispose of battery safely in accordance
with local laws. Do not dispose of in fire,
Note: Do not short circuit the battery.
Note: Do not hold the battery y/ith the metallic
tweezers,
Note: Keep the battery in a dark, cool dry
place.
¥IVI»M75LA/¥M-D875LA/¥iVi»D873LA
E13

Operating Your Camcorder
Use the wireless remote control to operate the camcorder fromi a distance. The PIJKV, F.F, REW, STOP,
PAUSE (START/STOP) and ZOOM buttons on the wireless remote control operate the functions of the cor¬
responding buttons on the- camcorder. Aim the wireless remote control at the Infrared receiver of the
camcorder.
Note: Use the wireless remote control within the
range of the infrared receiver of the cam-
cord€?r shown above,
Note: The Vv'irefess remiote control may not
function in strong light such as direct suniight or
very bright artificial lighting.
Note: Clear a direct path from the wireless
remote control to the infrared receiver. The
vYireless remote control v</on't Vt/ork if an ob¬
stacle blocks the infrared rays.
Note: The renrrote control code of this cam¬
corder is Hitachi code VCR2.. if you have a VCR
v^ith the same code your Hitachi VCR may mal¬
function when you use the camcorder's wire¬
less remote control.
When using the LCD monitor during recording and playback, you can adjust the brightness of its screen
and the angle of the monitor.
® Opening the LCD Monitor
J Press the OPEN button to open the LCD moni¬
tor.
fsiote: Opening or closing, the LCD monitor
switches the picture to appear on the LCD
monitor or in the viewfinder,
® Adjusting the Brightness of the LCD
Screen
Note: Even vYhen the picture on the LCD moni¬
tor is adjusted, the recorded video will not
change.
1 Load the batter)^ ("Camcorder Power Sources",
p20.)
2 Press the small button on. the C.AM/OPF/
VIDEO switch as you slide it to CAM or VIDEO.
CAM/OFF/VIDEO
Switch
2 Use the brightness control buttons to adjust the
brightness of the LCD screen. When either but¬
ton is pressed, the brightness control display
will appear on the LCD monitor for about 5 sec¬
onds. Press A. to increase brightness, or ▼ to
E14
decrease it. After 5 seconds, the adjustment dis¬
play wn;ll automatically disappear.
® Range in which the LCD Monitor
con be moved

» If the LCD monitor is turned 90° so that it faces
the same direction as the lens when the camera
signal is being recorded during recording,
recording pause, instant review, editing. A/V
dubbing or A/V dubbing pause, the image on
the monitor screen will beco:fn.e a mirror image;,
and the view’-finder will turn on. The on-screen
display on the LCD monitor will disappear.
Cautions on LCD Monitor Screen
® Do not touch the LCD screen with your fingers
as the screen could get dirty and the picture will
not be seen clearly. If the LCD screen becomes
dirty, use a soft cloth to w^ipe off the dirt.
® If the camcorder is used in a cold place and
becomes too cold, the LCD screen will be dim
for a while after the power is turned on. When
the teiiaperatiire inside the camcorder rises, the
brightness of the picture will become normal.
® Do not hold by the LCD monitor as this could
cause a malfunction.
« Open the LCD monitor by 90° before changing
its direction. If you were to attempt to invert its
direction before opening it completely, it could
cause a malfunction.
^ The LCD monitor cannot be closed if it is tilted.
® Close the LCD monitor after making sure it is
parailei with the camcorder. If you were to close
the monitor while it faces the same direction as
the lens or it is diagonal, it could damage the
LCD monitor.
» Do not disassemble the LCD monitor as this
might cause a malfunction.
* VVlien. opening the LCD monitor, be careful that
no water droplets adhere the monitor screen
and that no water or dust enters the camcorder
through the gap as it could cause a malfunction.
Active Screen
The camcorder automatically brightens the backlight of the LCD monitor when you are recording a bright
subject outdoors, so that the LCD screen is easy to see.
Mote: When you record a bright subject outdoors, the camcorder operating time wi!i be less than when
recording indoors,
Note: Even if you record outdoors, the LCD monitor backlight may not brighten, if you are aiming at a
dark subject.
Note: While the battery charge indicator ” " is flashing, the Active Screen function will not operate.
Adlusting the Electronic Viewfinder
Adjust the electronic viewfinder to the position of
optimum., visibility. Place the viewfinder back in its
origi.nal position before stori.iig the camcorder in its
case or carrying the camcorder around to avoid
da.magi.ng the viewfinder or camcorder.
¥iVI-0975LA/¥IVI-P875LA/¥W-D873LA
E15

Eyepiece Adjustment
To 'lise the electronic viewfinder, turn the diopter
control for your optimum, focus adjustment.
Adjustment the Hand Strap
Adjust the hand strap to best fit your hand.
Note: After adjustment, close the hand strap's
pad securely.
Attaching the Shoulder Strap
Thread the ends of the provided shoulder strap through the slots at the back of the camcorder and. th.read
through the shoulder strap's buckles.
Note: Make sure that the straps are securely fastened before using the shoulder strap to carry the
camcorder.
E16
HITACHI

The first step is to set the battery for charging. To charge the battery attach if to the camcorder, and
connect the VM-ACE5A AC adaptor. Charge the battery at a temperature range of 50°F 00°C) ~ 86°F
(30°C) to prevent damage to the battery.
Note: This camcorder operates with a iithium ion battery such as V1V1~BPL13,/VIV}-BPL30/VM-BPL60.
Note; We cannot be responsible for any maifunctions of the camcorder which occur when you use bat¬
tery packs other than those specified.
Charge the battery on a flat surface this is free of
vibration.
2 Attach the? battery pack to the camcorder.
^ Place the battery on the guide platform and
slide it down so that it fits into the camcorder.
IMofe: Always attcjch a battery only by the pro¬
cedure described here, Attaching a battery
forcibly could damage it,
Plug the AC adaptor power cord into an. AC
outlet.
Make sure t.h.at t.he \A/ide blade fits into t.he -wide
slot, if it doesn't fit,, try reversing it. If the
blades still do not fit fully .into the outlet, either
contact an electrician to .replace your obsolete
oiiilet or use a polarized cord or outlet access¬
ory.
^ Connect the .AC adaptor DC plug to the DC IN
jack of the camcorder.
Charging will start within five seconds. During
charging, the BAIT. CH.A.RGE indicator of the
camcorder will flash or light to give you a refe¬
rence of the charged level.
Mote: If the BAIT. CHARGE indicator flashes
once every Aa/o seconds, the battery couid be
defective.
Note: The BATf. CH,ARGE indicator will not light
at ai! when the AC adaptor is defective.
Note: You can use the battery before it is com¬
pletely charged.
Note: When charging is complete, the BAIT.
CHARGE indicator on the camcorder will light,
if the fully charged battery is removed and
then reattached, the camcorder will again
enter the charge mode, and the QATL
CHARGE indicator will flash, it will take a few
minutes for the camcorder to enter the charge
complete status.
Note: Charging at low temperatures will
decrease charge capacity,
g After charging is co.mplete, disconnect the AC
adaptor DC plug .from, the ca.nicorder.
.Disconnect the AC plug from the .,AC outlet.
2" Detach the battery from the camcorder.
Note: Always remove? the battery from the
camcorder after use.
Note: Charging will not be performed S/Vhen
the CAM/OFF/V!DEO S'witch of the camcorder
is set to CAM or VIDEO. However, if recording
pause continues for more than 5 minutes in the
C.AM mode, the camcorder wiii autornaticaliy
turn off, after v/hich charciing v/iil start. If the
sub-power switch Is set to LOCK, charging wiii
be performed even when the CAM/OFF/VIDEO
svelteh is set to CAM,
Note: If the DC plug is disconnected when the
battery is attached and the CAM/OFF/VIDEO
s^vitch is set to CAM or VIDEO, the camcorder
will turn off once, but then autornaticaliy turn
on again, Note that the battery will discharge
if the camcorder is left as is.
¥M-D975LA/¥M~D875L,A/¥ri^»D873LA,
E17

# Removing fhe Battery Pack
Slide the BA FI. EJECT lever in the direction of the
arrow and fiold it; iiien slide ihe battery to the
upper side and reniove.
• Reference of Charged Level
You can know the app’roxirnate charge level of bat¬
tery by observing hcn/c tlie BAIT. CHARGE indica¬
tor of camcorder flashes or lights:
Charge level
CHARGE indicafor
0-“50% charge
Flashes once at appro.x. one-
second in te:rv a.i s.
50^75% charge
Flashes twice at approx, one-
secon d i nterv als.
IViore fhoii
76% charge
Flashes three times at app:rox.
one-second iiiteirvals.
Full charge
Steady light
# Charging Tiine
Battery
i
SPilS i
vm-
BPL30
^ VI4»
mm
Full charge
3h
5h 30 min
9h 50 min
75% charge
Ih 50 mill;
3h 40 min
' 7h.
• Operafing Time
The camcorder operating time depends on how
often you turn power on/off and use start/stop
and zoom.
Cooflriyous Recording
EVF: when using the viewfinder
LCD: when using the LCD monitor
Battery VM»BPL30 ¥M-BPi6CI
EVF
Ih 45 min
3h 55 min 8h'5 min
LCD
111 35 min i
3h 25 min
7h 5 min
Typical Recording
EVF: when using the viewfinder
LCD: when using the LCD monitor
Battery jvy'-BPLia
VM‘'BPL30
ym-mM
2h 20 min 4h 50 min
1 LCD i 5'0 mill
2h 1
4h, 10. min I
Notes on the Battery
® It is recommended that the battery aiwoys be left'
in the discharged state when not in use, and
charged before you use it.
• Avoid storing a fully cr-ergeeJ ba'ltery, and do not
store it in a place where Tie lernperature is high:
this v/ifi damage the bane'v
• Do not operate the boftery nt lernperature belov;
14°F (~]0‘'C) or above 1134- (45°C),. At extremely
low temperatur€JS operolpOii tirr^o ciecreases, while
at high temperature the battery may be dam¬
aged.
• Do not attach a hot battery to the camcorder.
Allow It to cool.
THERE ARE NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS
INSIDE THE BAHERY
OR AC ADAPTOR,
THROWING THE BATTERY INTO FIRE
OR EXPOSING IT TO EXCESSIVE HEAT
(ABOVE 140°F (60“C))
MAY CAUSE INJURY.
SHORTING THE BATTERY'S TERMINAL
INCREASES RISK OF FIRE OR
ELECTRICAL SHOCK.
E18
HITACHI

Checking the Battery’s Charge
A battery charge indicator is located on the
upper fight corner of the viewfinder or LCD rnonh
for One of six symbols displays when the battery
is used.
Mofe: The battery charge indfcator does not
appear when the camcorder is powered by
the AC adaptor.
(
F«ii
Low
This flashing symbol indi¬
cates a battery out of
power. Use an alternative
power source or charge the
battery before continuing to
use the camcorder.
Knowing Remaining Battery Power Time
if you use the VM-BPL30 lithiumhon battery
(opfionai) to power the camcorder you can find¬
ing out how much camcorder operating time
remains, with the batten/.
The VM-BPL3 jO nieastires the battery consiimptioty
calculates the reniainiiig battery time, ao,d displays
it (in minutes) in the viewfinder or o.n the LCD
monitor. Since the camcorder power consumption
varies according to how frequently aiitofocusing or
zooming is used, the displayed time may decrease
or increase several minutes at a time, or may not
change for some time.
Note: The remaining battery time will appear
10" 15 seconds after the CAM/OFF/VDEO
switch is set to CAM; it wil! not appear in the
VIDEO position.
Note: When the remaining time decreaS'es to 5
minutes or less,, the time display will disappear.
We recommend that you replace the battery
earlier.
Note: If you connect the VM-BPL30 battery with
the remaining battery time of 5 minutes or iess.
the time will not be displayed.
Note: If the correct remaining time does not
appear use up the battery attached to the
camcorder, and then fuliy charge it.
Note: if you repeat charging and discharging
the battery before using it up, the correct
remaining time may not be displayed.
Note: If the battery is used at low temperatures,
the actual operating time with battery Vvlll be
substantialiy different from the ciispiayed time,
and the correct time may not appear.
Note: If the battery which has been used at
low temperature is subsequently used at nor¬
mal terriperature, display of remaining battery
time Will be incorrect. For display of correct
remcjining time, fully charge the battery.
'v V 'i V ‘I'l'. .'i .'r . Ti,'-".Ji . *- - .X..' "h ' V
Note: The remaining battery time will not
appear when you are recording an image of
yourself, or the LCD monitor is put back to cam¬
corder with its screen facing to the side.
Note: If you eject and reinsert cassette after
the battery is discharged, power will shut off
midway and the camcorder wii! .stop. When
the battery is discharged, immediately remove
it from the camcorder and charge it again.
Note: When the Vfvi-BPL30 battery is used, the
battery charge Indicator " <t:j " may not
match the remaining battery time display (in
minutes). In this case, reffer to the remaining
time display when using the camcorder.
To display the correct remaining battery
time on camcorder
» Fiiily charge the battery be?fore use,
* Turn the camcorder on and leave it pointing at a
still subject for about 30 seconds. Do not move
the camcorder during this time.
* If display does not change some time, open and
dose the LCD monitor while you are iisiog the
camcorder.
¥fyi-D975LA/¥M ™ D 875LA/¥l^-«D873LA
E19

Camcorder Power Sources
You can use the charged battery pack AC adaptor (provided) or car batter/ cord (optional) to power
the camcorder. After use, be sure to remove the power supply.
Using Battery Pack
Attach the charged battery pack to the cam¬
corder. (See pages 17-18 for attachment and
charging of battery pack.)
Using the AC Adaptor . ^^
Ple^ase ensure that the CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch Is in the OFF position whenever attaching or detaching
any power supply (ie. battery: AC adaptor, etc.).
Plug the AC adaptor power cord into an AC
outlet. Make sure that the wide blade fits into
the wide slot. If it doesn't fit try reversing it. If
you still cannot make fit the blades fully into the
outlet either contact an electrician to replace
your obsolete outlet or use a polarized cord or
outlet accessory.
Connect the DC plug of the AC adaptor to the
DC IN jack of the camcorder.
Note: The AC adaptor can be used around the
v^orld. An AC plug adaptor is rec|uired in some
foreign countries, if you need one purchase it
at your Hitachi distributor.
AC Ping Adaptor AC 200 - 240V
(not supplied)
Using a Car Battery -I*-'.. ■ "'V'- ‘i.
The- camcorder can be powered with a car battery by using an optional car battery cord (Hitachi VM-
CC80A KIT) to plug the camcorder info the car's clgarefie lighter socket Please ensure that the
CAM/OFF/VIDEG switch is in the OFF position whenever attaching or detaching any power supply (ie.
battery, AC adaptor, etc.).
Plug the car battery cord into the car's cigarette
lighter socket.
2 Connect one end of the DC cord (optional) to the
' DC IN jack of the camcorder. Connect the other
end of the DC cord to the DC C3UTPUT of the
car battery cord,
E2:0
Note: Only use the car battery cord V'/ith cars
having 12/24 voits negative ground system,
Note: You cannot use the car battery cord to
charge a battery.
Note: You need the optionai VIVi-CC80A KIT,
HITACHI