JVC GR-AX958EG User manual

2EN
Dear Customer,
Thank you for purchasing the JVC Compact VHS
camcorder. Before use, please read the safety
information and precautions contained in the
following pages to ensure safe use of your new
camcorder.
Warning on lithium battery
The battery used in this device may present a fire
or chemical burn hazard if mistreated. Do not
recharge, disassemble, heat above 100°C or
incinerate.
Replace battery with Maxell, Panasonic (Matsushita
Electric), Sanyo or Sony CR2025; use of another
battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.
nDispose of used battery promptly.
nKeep away from children.
nDo not disassemble and do not dispose of in fire.
PAL
nCamcorder is designed exclusively for the VHS-C
video cassette. Only cassettes marked VHS-C can be
used with this unit.
nHQ VHS is compatible with existing VHS equipment.
SAFETY
PRECAUTIONS
NOTES:
● The rating plate (serial number plate) and safety
caution are on the bottom and/or the back of the
main unit.
● The rating plate (serial number plate) of the AC
Power Adapter/Charger is on its bottom.
IMPORTANT
Connection to the mains supply in the United
Kingdom.
DO NOT cut off the mains plug from this
equipment. If the plug fitted is not suitable for the
power points in your home or the cable is too short
to reach a power point, then obtain an appropriate
safety approved extension lead or consult your
dealer.
BE SURE to replace the fuse only with an identical
approved type, as originally fitted, and to replace
the fuse cover.
If nonetheless the mains plug is cut off ensure to
remove the fuse and dispose of the plug immedi-
ately, to avoid a possible shock hazard by
inadvertent connection to the mains supply.
If this product is not supplied fitted with a mains
plug then follow the instructions given below:
DO NOT make any connection to the Larger
Terminal coded E or Green.
The wires in the mains lead are coloured in
accordance with the following code
Blue to N (Neutral) or Black
Brown to L (Live) or Red
If these colours do not correspond with the
terminal identifications of your plug, connect as
follows:
Blue wire to terminal coded N (Neutral) or
coloured black.
Brown wire to terminal coded L (Live) or coloured
Red.
If in doubt — consult a competent electrician.
Using This Instruction Manual
• All major sections and subsections are listed in the
Table Of Contents (Zpg. 4, 5).
• Notes appear after most subsections. Be sure to read
these as well.
• Basic and advanced features/operation are separated
for easier reference.
It is recommended that you . . .
..... refer to the Index (Zpgs. 72 – 75) and familiarize
yourself with button locations, etc. before use.
..... read thoroughly the Safety Precautions that follow
and cautions (Zpgs. 76, 77). They contain
extremely important information regarding the safe
use of your new camcorder.
WARNING:
TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
UNIT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
CAUTIONS:
nTo prevent shock, do not open the cabinet. No
user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to
qualified personnel.
nWhen you are not using the AC Power Adapter/
Battery charger for a long period of time, it is
recommended that you disconnect the power
cord from AC outlet.
This camcorder is designed to be used with PAL-
type colour television signals. It cannot be used for
playback with a television of a different standard.
However, live recording is possible anywhere. Use
the BN-V12U/V22U/V25U battery packs and, to
recharge them, the provided multi-voltage AC
Power Adapter/Charger. (An appropriate conver-
sion adapter may be necessary to accommodate
different designs of AC outlets in different
countries.)
This unit is produced to comply with Standard IEC
Publ. 65.

EN 3
MAJOR FEATURES
Programme AE with Special
Effects (Zpg. 22, 23)
nAuto Mode Lock
nAuto Mode Release
nElectronic Fog Filter
nND Effect
nSepia
nTwilight
nSports
nNega/Posi
n1/2000 sec. High Speed Shutter
Digital Hyper Zoom
(Zpg. 16)
Picture Stabiliser (Zpg. 17)
Integrated Auto Light
(Zpg. 19)
Zoom-in
Zoom-out
Digital Still Camera Built-in
(PC communication capable)
(Zpg. 44 – 59)
Program Manager II
(Zpg. 22 – 37)
Programme AE with Special Effects,
Fade/Wipe, Wide, Super LoLux,
Instant Title, Menu Adjustment
(Focus, Exposure Control and so on.) Random Assemble Editing
(Zpg. 62 – 65)
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8
8
2
2
5
5
4
4
1
1
6
6
3
3
7
7
,,
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4EN
CONTENTS
GETTING STARTED 6
Power ....................................................................................... 6
Clock (Lithium) Battery Insertion/Removal ............................................ 8
Date/Time Setting ......................................................................... 9
Grip Adjustment ......................................................................... 10
Viewfinder Adjustment ................................................................. 10
Shoulder Strap Attachment ............................................................. 11
Tripod Mounting .......................................................................... 11
Tape Length Setting ..................................................................... 12
Recording Mode Setting ................................................................ 12
Loading/Unloading A Cassette ........................................................ 13
VIDEO RECORDING 14
Basic Recording .......................................................................... 14
Basic Features ............................................................................ 16
Advanced Features ...................................................................... 22
VIDEO PLAYBACK 38
Basic Playback ........................................................................... 38
Features................................................................................... 39
Using The Cassette Adapter ............................................................ 41
BASIC CONNECTIONS TO VCR 42
TAPE DUBBING 43
DIGITAL STILL CAMERA (D.S.C.) SHOOTING 44
Basic Shooting............................................................................ 44
Advanced Features ...................................................................... 46
D.S.C. PLAYBACK 51
Basic Playback ........................................................................... 51
Advanced Features ...................................................................... 52
Connection ................................................................................ 59
USING REMOTE CONTROL UNIT 60
Random Assemble Editing .............................................................. 62
Insert Editing (VIDEO)................................................................... 66
Insert Editing (Insert A Still Image From The Built-in Memory Onto A Tape) .... 67
Audio Dubbing............................................................................ 68

EN 5
TROUBLESHOOTING 69
INDEX 72
Controls ................................................................................... 72
Connectors ................................................................................ 72
Indicators ................................................................................. 72
Other Parts ............................................................................... 72
Viewfinder Indications .................................................................. 74
CAUTIONS 76
SPECIFICATIONS 78
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES 78
PROVIDED ACCESSORIES
•AC Power Adapter/
Charger AA-V15EK •Cassette Adapter C-P7U •Battery Pack BN-V12U
•Remote Control
Unit RM-V709U
•CD-ROM including two
software programs
•PC Connection Cable x 2
•DC Cord
•Shoulder Strap
•Editing cable•AUDIO/VIDEO
(A/V) cable
(for Windows®)
(for Macintosh®)
•Lithium Battery
CR2025 x 2 (for clock
operation and remote
control unit)

6EN
1
1
2
GETTING STARTED
Power
This camcorder’s 3-way power supply system lets you
choose the most appropriate source of power.
NOTES:
● No function is available without power supply.
● Use only specified power supply.
● Do not use provided power supply units with other
equipment.
CHARGING THE BATTERY PACK
SUPPLY POWER
1
Connect the charger’s AC power cord to a wall
outlet.
ATTACH BATTERY PACK
2
Align the marks and slide the battery pack in the
direction of the arrow until it locks in place.
•The CHG. indicator begins blinking to indicate
charging has started.
DETACH BATTERY PACK
3
When the CHG. indicator stops blinking but stays lit,
charging is finished. Slide the battery pack opposite
the direction of the arrow.
USING THE BATTERY PACK
ATTACH BATTERY PACK
1
Hook its top end to the camcorder and push the
battery pack in until it locks in place.
DETACH BATTERY PACK
2
Slide BATT. RELEASE and pull out the battery pack.
ATTENTION:
Before detaching the power source,
make sure that the camcorder’s power
is turned off. Failure to do so can result
in a camcorder malfunction.
REFRESH
The AC power adapter features a REFRESH
function that allows you to fully discharge
the battery pack before recharging.
Perform the REFRESH function after no less
than 5 chargings.
To discharge the battery . . .
..... attach the battery pack to the adapter
as shown in the above illustration.
Then push REFRESH. The REFRESH
indicator lights when discharging
starts, and goes out when discharging
is complete.
CHG.
(charge)
indicator
Marks
To AC outlet
REFRESH indicator
REFRESH switch
BATT. PACK CHARGE DISCHARGE
BN-V12U approx. 1 hr. 10 min. approx. 3 hrs. 30 min.
BN-V22U approx. 2 hrs. 10 min. approx. 7 hrs.
BN-V25U approx. 2 hrs. 40 min. approx. 10 hrs.
Push in.
Hook on.
BATT. RELEASE BATT. PACK Approximate recording time (unit: min.)
BN-V12U 65 ( 40 )
BN-V22U 135 ( 85 )
BN-V25U 180 ( 110 )
( ) : when the video light is on.

EN 7
CHARGE MARKER
A charge marker is provided on the battery pack to
help you remember whether it has been charged or
not. Two colours are provided (red and black)—you
choose which one means charged and which
means discharged.
USING A CAR BATTERY
Use the optional Car Battery Charger/Adapter
(connect as shown in the illustration above).
NOTES:
● When using the car battery, leave the engine idling.
● The optional Car Battery Charger (BH-V3E) can also
be used to charge the battery pack.
● When using the optional Car Battery Charger, refer to
the respective instruction booklet.
USING AC POWER
Use the AC Power Adapter (connect as shown in
the illustration above).
NOTES:
● The supplied AC Power Adapter/Charger features
automatic voltage selection in the AC range from 110
V to 240 V.
● When using the provided DC cord, make sure you
connect the end of the cable with the Core Filter to
the camcorder. The Core Filter improves performence
of equipment.
NOTES:
● The recording time per charge is affected by such factors as the time spent in Record-Standby mode and the
frequency of zooming. It is safer to have spare battery packs.
● Charging times noted on page 6 are for fully discharged battery pack, and discharging times are for fully charged
battery pack.
● Charging and discharging times vary according to the ambient temperature and the status of the battery pack.
● Remember to set the charge marker after charging a battery pack or after detaching a discharged one from your
camcorder.
● While the AC Power Adapter/Charger’s power cord is disconnected from the AC outlet, it is possible to discharge
the battery by pressing the REFRESH switch. During that time, the AC Power Adapter/Charger does not charge the
battery. When disharging is complete, detach the battery from the AC Power Adapter/Charger to store it.
● Perform the REFRESH function after no less than 5 chargings.
● High temperatures can damage the battery pack, so use only where good ventilation is available. Don’t allow it to
discharge in container, such as a bag.
● If you stop recharging or discharging part way through, make sure to remove the battery pack before unplugging
the adapter’s AC cord.
● Remove the battery pack from the adapter immediately after discharging.
● To avoid interference with reception, do not use the AC Power Adapter/Charger near a radio.
● Make sure you unplug the DC cord before charging or discharging the battery pack.
● The CHG. indicator may not light properly with a brand new battery pack, or with one that’s been stored for an
extended period. In this case, remove and reattach the battery pack and recharge it. The CHG. indicator should
blink during recharging. If not, contact your nearest JVC dealer.
To DC IN jack
DC cord
DC OUT
terminal
To car’s cigarette
lighter socket
AC Power
Adapter/Charger
AA-V15EK
Car Battery Charger/Adapter
BH-V3E (optional)
To AC outlet
Charge marker
Core Filter

8EN
GETTING STARTED (cont.)
Clock (Lithium) Battery Insertion/Removal
This battery is necessary for clock operation and to
perform date/time settings.
SWITCH OFF POWER
1
Switch off the unit’s power and remove the power
supply unit.
OPEN COVER
2
Open the clock battery compartment cover while
pressing the release tab.
REMOVE BATTERY (when replacing)
3
Insert a pointed, non-metallic object between the
battery and the compartment ( A) and pull the
battery out.
INSERT BATTERY
4
Ensure that the plus (+) side is up and insert a
CR2025 lithium battery and push it in.
CLOSE COVER
5
Close the compartment cover until it clicks in place.
NOTE:
See “SAFETY PRECAUTIONS” ( Z pg. 2) for information
on safe handling of lithium batteries.
A

EN 9
Date/Time Setting
ACCESS MENU SCREEN
1
First set the Power Switch to “CAMERA”. Turn the
Select Dial to any position except AUTO LOCK,
then press the MENU Jog Dial.
SELECT FUNCTION
2
Rotate the MENU Jog Dial to move the highlight bar
to “DATE/TIME”, then press it. The DATE/TIME
Setting Menu appears.
•If you decide you want to return the date and time
to the previous settings, rotate the MENU Jog Dial
to move highlight bar to “EXIT” and press it, then
go to step 6.
•If you want to set only the time without changing
the date, go to step 4.
SET DATE
3
Rotate the MENU Jog Dial to move the highlight bar
to the item you want to set and then press it. When
the setting begins blinking, rotate the MENU Jog
Dial until the correct setting appears and then press
it. The setting stops blinking.
•Repeat this procedure until you’re satisfied with
the Date settings (“YEAR”, “MONTH” and “DAY”).
SET TIME
4
Rotate the MENU Jog Dial to move the highlight bar
to “TIME” and then press it. When the hour setting
begins blinking, rotate the MENU Jog Dial until the
correct setting appears and then press it. When the
hour setting stops blinking and the minute setting
begins blinking, rotate the MENU Jog Dial until the
correct setting appears and then press it. The minute
setting stops blinking.
START CLOCK OPERATION
5
When none of these settings (YEAR, MONTH, DAY,
TIME) blinks, rotate the MENU Jog Dial to move the
highlight bar to “EXIT”, and press it. The Menu
Screen appears and “MENU END” is highlighted.
CLOSE MENU
6
Press the MENU Jog Dial.
NOTE:
To display the date and time in the viewfinder and on a
connected TV, see “Date/Time/Character Insert”
( Z pg. 18).
DATE TIME
YEAR
MONTH
DAY
TIME
EXIT
1998
1
1
22:50
MENU
4 MENU END
FOCUS
EXPOSURE
DATE TIME
TELE MACRO
TAPE LENGTH
M. W. B.
ZOOM SPEED
4 NEXT
AUTO
AUTO
25. 12. 98
OFF
T30
AUTO
FAST
MENU
4 MENU END
FOCUS
EXPOSURE
DATE TIME
TELE MACRO
TAPE LENGTH
M. W. B.
ZOOM SPEED
4 NEXT
AUTO
AUTO
1. 1. 98
OFF
T30
AUTO
FAST
Select Dial
Viewfinder
Menu Screen
DATE/TIME
Setting Menu
24-hour
indication
MENU
Jog Dial
When the System
Select Switch is
set to “D.S.C.”,
“PICTURE” is
displayed.

10 EN
GETTING STARTED (cont.)
Grip Adjustment
EXPAND LOOP
1
Separate the Velcro strip.
INSERT HAND
2
Pass your right hand through the loop and grasp the
grip.
ADJUST STRAP LENGTH
3
Adjust so your thumb and fingers can easily operate
the Recording Start/Stop Button and Power Zoom
Button. Refasten the Velcro strip.
Viewfinder Adjustment
POSITION VIEWFINDER
1
Adjust the viewfinder manually for best viewability
(see illustration to the left).
SELECT MODE
2
Set the Power Switch to CAMERA.
ADJUST DIOPTRE
3
Turn the dioptre Adjustment Control until the
indications in the viewfinder are clearly focused.
Recording Start/Stop Button
Power Zoom Button
1
12
2
3
Set POWER to “CAMERA”.

EN 11
CAUTION:
When using a tripod, be sure to open and extend
its legs fully to stabilize the camcorder. To
prevent damage to the unit caused by falling
over, do not use a small-sized tripod.
Tripod Mounting
ALIGN AND TIGHTEN
1
Align the screw and camera direction stud on the
tripod with the camera’s mounting socket and stud
hole. Then tighten the screw.
2
4
3
1
2
1
Shoulder Strap Attachment
ATTACH STRAP
1
Following the illustration at left, thread the strap
through the top of the eyelet 1, then fold it back
and thread it through the keeper 2, and then
through the buckle 3. Repeat the procedure to
attach the other end of the strap to the other eyelet
4, making sure the strap isn’t twisted.
ADJUST LENGTH
2
Adjust as shown in the illustration at left 1, then
slide both keepers snug against the eyelets to
prevent slipping 2.

12 EN
MENU
4 MENU END
FOCUS
EXPOSURE
DATE TIME
TELE MACRO
TAPE LENGTH
M. W. B.
ZOOM SPEED
4 NEXT
AUTO
AUTO
25. 12. 98
OFF
T30
AUTO
FAST
T30
SP
T30
T45
T60
EXIT
TAPE LENGTH
MENU
4 MENU END
FOCUS
EXPOSURE
DATE TIME
TELE MACRO
TAPE LENGTH
M. W. B.
ZOOM SPEED
4 NEXT
AUTO
AUTO
25. 12. 98
OFF
T60
AUTO
FAST
VIDEO GETTING STARTED (cont.)
Tape Length Setting
Set the tape length according to the length of the tape
used.
ACCESS MENU SCREEN
1
First set the System Select Switch to “VIDEO”, then
set the Power Switch to “CAMERA”. Turn the Select
Dial to any position except AUTO LOCK, then press
the MENU Jog◊ Dial.
SELECT FUNCTION
2
Rotate the MENU Jog Dial to move the highlight bar
to “TAPE LENGTH”, then press it. The TAPE
LENGTH Setting Menu appears.
SET TAPE LENGTH
3
Rotate the MENU Jog Dial to move the highlight bar
to the correct setting. T30=30 minutes of recording
time, T45=45 minutes, and T60=60 minutes.
•If you decide you want to return the tape length to
the previous setting, rotate the MENU Jog Dial to
move the highlight bar to “EXIT”.
CLOSE MENU
4
Press the MENU Jog Dial. The Menu Screen
reappears and the highlight bar is on “MENU END”.
Then press the MENU Jog Dial again to close the
Menu Screen.
NOTES:
● The tape remaining time ( Z pg. 15) displayed in the
viewfinder is correct only if the correct tape length has
been selected.
● Once you have set the tape length, it remains un-
changed even if the Select Dial is returned to AUTO
LOCK.
● When the System Select Switch is set to “D.S.C.”, it is
not possible to set “TAPE LENGTH”.
Recording Mode Setting
Set depending on your preference.
SET RECORDING MODE
1
First set the Power Switch to “CAMERA”. Press SP/LP
Button for more than 1 second. “SP” (Standard Play)
provides higher picture and sound quality and is
better for dubbing, while “LP” (Long Play) is more
economical, providing twice the recording time.
NOTE:
If the recording mode is switched during recording, the
playback picture will be blurred at the switching point.
Menu Screen
TAPE LENGTH
Setting Menu
MENU Jog Dial
Tape length
indicator
Recording mode
indicator
SP/LP Recording
Mode Button
Select Dial
Viewfinder
Viewfinder
System Select Switch

EN 13
1
2
3
Loading/Unloading A Cassette
OPEN CASSETTE HOLDER
1
Slide EJECT until the holder opens. Do not use force
to open.
INSERT/REMOVE CASSETTE
2
Make sure the label is facing outward.
CLOSE CASSETTE HOLDER
3
Press PUSH and make sure the holder is closed and
locked.
NOTES:
● A cassette holder can’t be opened unless a power
supply is attached.
● Make sure that the tape is not slack when loading the
cassette. If there is any slack, turn the gear on the
cassette in the direction of the arrow to take up the
slack.
● Make sure the Erase Protection tab is in the position
that allows recording. If not, slide the tab. Some
cassettes have removable tabs. If the tab has been
removed, cover the hole with adhesive tape.
● The cassette holder can’t be opened while the
camcorder is in the record mode.
Erase Protection Gear
Turn to take
up slack.

14 EN
VIDEO RECORDING Basic Recording
NOTE:
You should already have performed the procedures listed
below. If not, do so before continuing.
● Power ( Z pg. 6)
● Tape Length Setting ( Z pg. 12)
● Recording Mode Setting ( Z pg. 12)
● Grip Adjustment ( Z pg. 10)
LOAD A CASSETTE
1
Slide EJECT to open the cassette holder, then insert
the cassette with the label facing out. Press PUSH to
ensure the holder is closed and locked.
ENTER RECORD-STANDBY MODE
2
Slide the LENS COVER Open/Close Switch to open
the lens cover. Set the System Select Switch to
“VIDEO”, then set the Power Switch to “CAMERA”.
•The power indicator lights and the camcorder
enters the Record-Standby mode.
•The scene you’re aimed at appears on the
viewfinder screen, with the word “PAUSE”
superimposed upon it.
START SHOOTING
3
Press the Recording Start/Stop Button.
•“
REC
” appears in the viewfinder while recording is
in progress.
LENS COVER Switch
Power
indicator
Power Switch
Start/Stop Button
Tally lamp
(lights while recording
is in progress)
System Select Switch

EN 15
STOP RECORDING
4
Press the Recording Start/Stop Button again to stop
recording.
•The camcorder re-enters the Record-Standby
mode.
NOTES:
● A cassette holder can’t be opened unless a power
supply is attached.
● There may be a delay after you slide EJECT until the
holder opens. Do not use force.
● The displayed remaining time is approximate.
● The time required to calculate the remaining tape
length, and the accuracy of the calculation, may vary
according to the type of tape used.
● The tape remaining time indicator is correct only if the
correct tape length has been selected ( Z pg. 12).
● “TAPE END” appears when the tape reaches its end,
and the power goes off automatically if left in this
condition for 5 minutes. “TAPE END” also appears
when a cassette whose tape is already at its end is
loaded.
● If the Record-Standby mode continues for 5 minutes
without performing Zoom or any other operations, the
camcorder’s power shuts off automatically. Set the
Power Switch to “POWER OFF”, and then back to
“CAMERA” to turn the camcorder on again.
● If the Recording Start/Stop Button is pressed after the
Record-Standby mode has continued for over
5 minutes, recording may not start immediately.
● If you’re recording on a cassette from the middle (such
as when a tape is removed and re-inserted during
recording), use the Retake function ( Z pg. 17) to find
the end of the last recording so you don’t erase any of
it.
● The LENS COVER warning blinks for about 5 seconds
when the camcorder is turned on when the cover is
closed.
25MIN
120MIN
119MIN
3MIN
2MIN
1MIN
0MIN
MIN
Tape remaining time indicator
(Blinking)
(Blinking)
(Blinking)
Start/Stop Button
(Now calculating)

16 EN
ZOOM SPEED
FAST
SLOW
EXIT
MENU
4 MENU END
FOCUS
EXPOSURE
DATE TIME
TELE MACRO
TAPE LENGTH
M. W. B.
ZOOM SPEED
4 NEXT
AUTO
AUTO
25. 12. 98
OFF
T30
AUTO
FAST
VIDEO RECORDING Basic Features
FEATURE: Zooming
PURPOSE: To produce the zoom in/out effect, or
an instantaneous change in image
magnification.
Digital circuitly doubles the maximum
22x magnification offered by optical
zoom. This system is called Digital
Zoom.
OPERATION:
Zoom In
Press the “T” of the Power Zoom Button.
Zoom Out
Press “W” of the Power Zoom Button.
nZooming speed is available. A total of
4 zoom speeds are available. 2
speeds can be selected depending on
how hard the Power Zoom Button is
pressed (press the button fully for
regular-speed, press it lightly for slow-
speed), while 2 speed levels (FAST/
SLOW) can be selected in the
ZOOM SPEED Menu depending on
the overall speed you prefer.
The combinations of zoom speeds are
shown in the chart below.
Changing the ZOOM SPEED in the
Menu
1) Set the Select Dial to any position
except AUTO LOCK and press the
MENU Jog Dial. The Menu Screen
appears.
2) Rotate the MENU Jog Dial to move
the highlight bar to “ZOOM SPEED”,
then press it. The ZOOM SPEED
Setting Menu appears.
3) Rotate the MENU Jog Dial to move
the highlight bar to the desired speed
and press it twice. The Menu Screen
disappears and setting is completed.
NOTES: ●
Focusing may become unstable
during Zooming. In this case, set the
zoom while in Record-Standby, lock
the focus by using the manual focus
(
Z pg. 33), then zoom in or out in
Record mode.
● The zoom level indicator ( 5 ) moves
during zoom. Once the zoom level
indicator reaches the top of the zoom
indicator bar, all magnification from
that point is through digital
processing.
● During Digital Zoom, the quality of
image may suffer. To deactivate Digital
Zoom, set “D.ZOOM” to “OFF” in the
Menu Screen (
Z pg. 30).
Zoom-in
: when the Select Dial is set to AUTO LOCK.
Zooming Speed (1– 4 in order of speed)
Pressing the Power Zoom Button
fully lightly
FAST 1 (fastest) 3
SLOW 2 4 (slowest)
Zoom-out
Zoom indicator bar
Zoom Level
indicator
Viewfinder
ZOOM SPEED
Setting Menu
MENU Jog Dial
Power Zoom button
Select Dial
Menu Screen
“ZOOM SPEED” in
the Menu Screen

EN 17
FEATURE: Quick Review
PURPOSE: To check the end of the last
recording.
OPERATION: 1) Press “ ” and release quickly
during the Record-Standby mode.
nTape is rewound for about 2
seconds and played back
automatically, then pauses in
Record-Standby mode for the
next shot.
NOTE: Distortion may occur at start of
playback. This is normal.
FEATURE: Retake
PURPOSE: To re-record certain segments.
OPERATION: 1) Make sure the camcorder is in the
Record-Standby mode.
2) Press either RETAKE button to
reach the start point for new
recording. Pressing “F” forwards
the tape and pressing “R” reverses
it.
3) Press Recording Start/Stop Button
to start recording.
NOTE:
Noise may appear during Retake.
This is normal.
FEATURE: Picture Stabiliser
PURPOSE: To compensate for unstable images
caused by camera-shake, particularly
at high magnification.
OPERATION: 1) Press P. STABILIZER. “ ”appears.
nTo switch off the Picture
Stabiliser, press P. STABILIZER.
The indicator disappears.
NOTES: ●
Accurate stabilisation may not be
possible if hand shake is excessive,
or under the following conditions:
• When shooting subjects with
vertical or horizontal stripes.
• When shooting dark or dim
subjects.
• When shooting subjects with
excessive backlighting.
• When shooting scenes with
movement in various directions.
• When shooting scenes with low-
contrast backgrounds.
● Switch off the Picture Stabiliser
when recording with the
camcorder on a tripod.
RETAKE (R/F)
P. STABILIZER

18 EN
Auto Date
Record mode Date-off mode (No display)
Date display
Time display
Date/Time display
The characters you have set using
Character Generator (Zpg. 27)
22:50:00
Date display
Time display
Date/Time display
25.12.98
25.12.98 22:50:00
Auto date record mode
Auto date record
executed
25.12.98
AUTO DATE
Auto Date Record mode
FEATURE: Date/Time/Character Insert
PURPOSE: To display the date and time in the
viewfinder or on a connected colour
monitor, as well as to record them
manually or automatically.
OPERATION: 1) Turn the Select Dial to any
position except AUTO LOCK.
2) Choose a display mode by
pressing DATE/TIME repeatedly
while in Record-Standby to cycle
through the modes as shown in the
illustration to the left.
nYou should have already
performed the Date/Time Setting
procedure (Z pg. 9). If you
haven’t, do so first.
NOTES: DISPLAY
● The selected display can be
recorded.
● If you don’t want to record the
display, select the Date-off mode
before shooting.
● If you want to delete the display
during shooting, press DATE/TIME.
● To recall the display, engage the
Record-Standby mode and press
DATE/TIME repeatedly until the
desired display appears.
● Even if you shoot with the date/
time displayed during Digital Still
Camera Shooting, they will not be
recorded.
AUTO DATE RECORD
● Your camcorder automatically
records the date for about 5
seconds after recording is initiated
in the following situations:
• After changing the date.
• After loading a cassette.
• After Auto Date Record mode is
selected by pressing DATE/TIME.
In this mode, the date is replaced
after 5 seconds with “AUTO DATE”
but this is not recorded.
● Setting the Select Dial to AUTO
LOCK always engages the Auto
Date Record mode, and disables
all other modes.
DATE/TIME
Select Dial Display
VIDEO RECORDING Basic Features (cont.)

EN 19
FEATURE: Video Light
PURPOSE: To brighten the scene when natural
lighting is too dim.
OPERATION: 1) Set the LIGHT OFF/AUTO/ON
Switch as required:
ON : Always keeps the light on
as long as the camcorder
is turned on.
AUTO : Automatically turns on
the light when the
camcorder senses
insufficient lighting on the
subject.
OFF : Turns off the light.
nThe video light can only be used
with the camcorder’s power on.
nIt is recommended to set the
white balance (Zpg. 34) to
HALOGEN mode ( ) when you
use the video light.
nWhen not using the video light,
turn it off to save battery power.
NOTES: ●
Even if the battery indicator ( )
does not blink if the battery pack’s
charge is low, the camcorder may
turn off automatically when you
turn on the video light, or when
you start recording with the video
light turned on.
● When the LIGHT OFF/AUTO/ON
Switch is set to “AUTO”:
• Depending on the lighting
conditions, the video light may
keep turning on and off. In this
case, manually switch the light
on or off using the LIGHT OFF/
AUTO/ON switch.
• While the Sports or High-Speed
Shutter mode ( Z pg. 23) is
engaged, the light is likely to stay
on.
• While the Twilight mode
( Z pg. 23) is engaged, the light
will not activate.
DANGER
nThe video light can become extremely
hot. Do not touch it either while in
operation or soon after turning it off,
otherwise serious injury may result.
nDo not place the camcorder into the
carrying case immediately after using
the video light, since it remains
extremely hot for some time.
nWhen operating, keep a distance of
about 30 cm. between the video light
and people or objects.
nDo not use near flammable or explosive
materials.
nIt is recommended that you consult your
nearest JVC dealer for replacing the
video light.
LIGHT OFF/AUTO/ON

20 EN
Snapshot
This interesting feature lets you record two types of
digital still images that look like photographs onto a tape,
as well as keeping them in the camcorder’s built-in
memory. It is a great way to spice up footage of events
such as parties, weddings and graduations.
SELECT SNAPSHOT MODE
1
Turn the Select Dial to any position except AUTO
LOCK, then press the MODE Button to switch from
one mode to the other as shown in the illustration to
the left.
•When the Select Dial is set to AUTO LOCK, it is
not possible to select the Snapshot Mode. Only the
Full image (no display) is available. Go to step 2.
TAKE SNAPSHOT
2
Press the SNAPSHOT Button.
•A still image is recorded onto the tape and into the
camcorder’s built-in memory.
•
There are two Picture Modes you can choose from
when storing in the camcorder’s memory: FINE and
STANDARD. The maximum number of shots you
can take varies according to the selected setting.
The selected Picture Mode and remaining number
of shots are displayed on the screen. The factory-
preset is FINE. If you want to change the setting,
perform “Picture Mode Setting” (
Z pg. 45).
FINE
Allows you to shoot up to approx. 22 still images.
STD (Standard)
Allows you to shoot up to approx. 44 still images.
If you press during recording . . .
.... first there is a momentary camera shutter-type
blackout together with the sound effect of a
shutter closing, then a still image appears. The
next image starts in the centre of a black screen
and wipes in toward the corners. The screen
changes as shown in the illustrations 1to 5to
the left and the screens 1to 5are recorded
onto the tape in the selected mode. Only the
still image 3is stored in the built-in memory in
the selected mode, then the camcorder resumes
normal recording.
If you press during Record-Standby mode . . .
.... first there is a momentary camera shutter-type
blackout together with the sound effect of a
shutter closing, then a still image appears. The
scene you are currently aimed at starts in the
centre of a black screen and wipes in toward the
corners. The screen changes as shown in the
illustrations 1to 5to the left. The screens 1
to 3are recorded onto the tape in the selected
mode. Only the still image 3is stored in the
built-in memory in the selected mode, then the
camcorder re-enters the Record-Standby mode.
VIDEO RECORDING Basic Features
P
1
2
3
4
5
MODE
SNAPSHOT
Viewfinder
No display (Full)
P(Pin-Up)
SNAPSHOT
Viewfinder
(ex. Pin-Up)

EN 21
FINE 12
22 21 1 0
Viewfinder
Remaining number
of shots
Pin-Up
A still image on a white
background. A shadow
effect is added to give it
a three dimensional feel.
Full
A still image that
occupies the entire
image field is recorded.
(Blinking)
NOTES:
● Six sample images have been stored in the built-in
memory at the factory.
If you wish to delete them, first remove the “Protect”
function ( Z pg. 55), then perform the “Delete”
function ( Z pg. 56).
● When the remaining number indicator displays “0”
(bliking), the still image will be recorded onto the tape
but not in the built-in memory. If you wish to store a
still image in the built-in memory, perform the
“DELETE” function in the Menu Screen to remove still
images you do not need ( Z pg. 56).
● The Picture Mode can be switched to either “FINE” or
“STANDARD”. Since the remaining number of shots
available depends on the selected Picture Mode,
switching the Picture Mode will vary this number.
● If the SNAPSHOT Button is pressed with the System
Select Switch set to “D.S.C.”, the still image cannot be
recorded onto the tape, but will be stored in the
camcorder's built-in memory ( Z pg. 44).
● Image data stored in the camcorder’s built-in memory
can be transferred to a Windows
®
PC or Macintosh
®
and saved using the provided image transfer software
( Z pg. 59). The image data transferred to a personal
computer can also be further processed using Paint
Software.
● When a Pin-Up is taken with the Wide mode
( Z pg. 25) activated, the black bars at the top and
bottom of the screen will disappear.
● When a Snapshot is taken in a dark environment, the
still image recorded onto the tape and stored in
memory will become coarse and its true colours will
be lost.
Pictrue mode display:
FINE or STD (standard)