JVC GR-D728EK User manual

ENGLISH
GR-D728EK
LYT1711-001A
EN
TERMS
Dear Customer,
Thank you for purchasing this digital
video camera. Before use, please read
the safety information and precautions
contained in the pages, 3 – 6 to ensure
safe use of this product.
INSTRUCTIONS
DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA
GETTING STARTED 8
VIDEO RECORDING &
PLAYBACK 18
ADVANCED FEATURES 24
REFERENCES 35
To deactivate the demonstration,
set “DEMO MODE” to “OFF”.
(墌pg. 24, 27)
Back cover

2 EN
MasterPage: Left
Wipe/Fader Effects
You can use the Wipe/Fader Effects to make
pro-style scene transitions. (墌pg. 31)
Program AE, Effects and Shutter Effects
For example, “SPORTS” mode allows fast-
moving images to be captured one frame at a
time, for vivid, stable slow-motion. (墌pg. 32)
LED Light
You can brighten the subject in the dark place
with the LED Light. (墌pg. 29)
Backlight Compensation
Simply pressing the button brightens the
image darkened by backlight. (墌pg. 30)
Data Battery
You can check the battery status by simply
pressing the DATA button. (墌pg. 14)
Auto Button
You can change the recording mode between
manual setting to the standard mode setting
of the camcorder by pressing the AUTO
button. (墌pg. 20)
Major Features of this Camcorder
Fade in
Fade out
MAX TIMELEVEL
LCD
110min
FINDER
135min
100%
50
0
BATTERY CONDITION

EN 3
MasterPage: Start_Right
●Before recording important video, be sure to
make a trial recording.
Play back your trial recording to make sure the
video and audio have been recorded properly.
●We recommend cleaning your video heads
before use.
If you haven’t used your
camcorder for awhile, the
heads may be dirty. We
recommend periodically
cleaning the video heads with
a cleaning cassette
(optional).
●Be sure to store your cassette tapes and
camcorder in the proper environment.
Video heads can become dirty more easily if your
cassette tapes and camcorder are stored in a
dusty area. Cassette tapes should be removed
from the camcorder and stored in cassette cases.
Store the camcorder in a bag or other container.
●Use SP (Standard) mode for important video
recordings.
LP (Long Play) mode lets you record 50% more
video than SP (Standard) mode, but you may
experience mosaic-like noise during playback
depending on the tape characteristics and the
usage environment.
So, for important recordings, we recommend using
SP mode.
●For safety and reliability.
It is recommended only genuine JVC batteries
and accessories are used in this camcorder.
●This product includes patented and other
proprietary technology and will operate only
with JVC Data Battery. Use the JVC
BN-VF808U/BN-VF815U/BN-VF823U battery
packs. Using generic non-JVC batteries can
cause damage to the internal charging
circuitry.
●Make sure you only use cassettes with the Mini
DV mark .
●Remember that this camcorder is not
compatible with other digital video formats.
●It is recommended that you use JVC brand
cassette tapes.
Your camcorder is compatible with all brands of
commercially available cassette tapes complying
with the MiniDV standard, but JVC brand cassette
tapes are designed and optimised to maximised
the performance of your camcorder.
●Remember that this camcorder is intended for
private consumer use only.
Any commercial use without proper permission is
prohibited. (Even if you record an event such as a
show, performance or exhibition for personal
enjoyment, it is strongly recommended that you
obtain permission beforehand).
●DO NOT leave the unit
- in place of over 50°C.
- in place where humidity is extremely low (below
35%) or extremely high (80%).
- in direct sunlight.
- in a closed car in summer.
- near a heater.
●The LCD monitor is made with high-precision
technology. However, black spots or bright spots
of light (red, green or blue) may appear constantly
on the LCD monitor. These spots are not recorded
on the tape. This is not due to any defect of the
unit. (Effective dots: more than 99.99%).
●Do not leave the battery pack attached when
the camcorder is not in use and check the unit
regularly whether it is working or not.
Also read “CAUTIONS” on pages 36 - 38.
READ THIS FIRST !

4 EN
MasterPage: Left
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
IMPORTANT (for owners in the U.K.)
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 be sure to
remove the fuse and dispose of the plug
immediately, to avoid 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:
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.
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT TO
RAIN OR MOISTURE.
CAUTIONS:
●To prevent shock, do not open the cabinet. No
user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to
qualified personnel.
●When you are not using the AC Adapter for a
long period of time, it is recommended that you
disconnect the power cord from AC outlet.
CAUTION:
To avoid electric
shock or damage to
the unit, first firmly
insert the small end
of the power cord into
the AC Adapter until it
is no longer wobbly,
and then plug the
larger end of the power cord into an AC outlet.
Blue to N (Neutral)
or Black
Brown to L (Live)
or Red
CAUTIONS:
●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 and LCD
monitor/viewfinder playback are possible
anywhere.
●This product includes patented and other
proprietary technology and will operate only
with JVC Data Battery. Use the JVC
BN-VF808U/BN-VF815U/BN-VF823U battery
packs and, to recharge them or to supply power
to the camcorder from an AC outlet, use the
provided multi-voltage AC Adapter. (An
appropriate conversion adapter may be
necessary to accommodate different designs of
AC outlets in different countries.)
NOTES:
●The rating plate (serial number plate) and
safety caution are on the bottom and/or the
back of the main unit.
●The rating information and safety caution of the
AC Adapter are on its upper and lower sides.
WAR N IN G:
Batteries shall not be exposed to excessive heat
such as sunshine, fire or the like.
CAUTION:
The mains plug shall remain readily operable.
When the equipment is installed in a cabinet or on
a shelf, make sure that it has sufficient space on
all sides to allow for ventilation (10 cm or more on
both sides, on top and at the rear).
Do not block the ventilation holes.
(If the ventilation holes are blocked by a
newspaper, or cloth etc. the heat may not be able
to get out.)
No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles,
should be placed on the apparatus.
When discarding batteries, environmental
problems must be considered and the local rules
or laws governing the disposal of these batteries
must be followed strictly.
The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or
splashing.
Do not use this equipment in a bathroom or
places with water.
Also do not place any containers filled with water
or liquids (such as cosmetics or medicines, flower
vases, potted plants, cups etc.) on top of this unit.
(If water or liquid is allowed to enter this
equipment, fire or electric shock may be caused.)

EN 5
MasterPage: Start_Right
Do not point the lens or the viewfinder directly into
the sun. This can cause eye injuries, as well as
lead to the malfunctioning of internal circuitry.
There is also a risk of fire or electric shock.
CAUTION!
The following notes concern possible physical
damage to the camcorder and to the user.
When carrying, be sure to always securely attach
and use the provided strap. Carrying or holding the
camcorder by the viewfinder and/or the LCD
monitor can result in dropping the unit, or in a
malfunction.
Take care not to get your finger caught in the
cassette holder cover. Do not let children operate
the camcorder, as they are particularly susceptible
to this type of injury.
Do not use a tripod on unsteady or unlevel
surfaces. It could tip over, causing serious damage
to the camcorder.
CAUTION!
Connecting cables (Audio/Video, S-Video, etc.) to
the camcorder and leaving it on top of the TV is not
recommended, as tripping on the cables will cause
the camcorder to fall, resulting in damage.
[European Union]
This symbol indicates that the electrical and electronic equipment should not be disposed as
general household waste at its end-of-life. Instead, the product should be handed over to the
applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment for proper
treatment, recovery and recycling in accordance with your national legislation.
By disposing of this product correctly, you will help to conserve natural resources and will help
prevent potential negative effects on the environment and human health which could
otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. For more information
about collection point and recycling of this product, please contact your local municipal office,
your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.
Penalties may be applicable for incorrect disposal of this waste, in accordance with national
legislation.
(Business users)
If you wish to dispose of this product, please visit our web page www.jvc-europe.com to
obtain information about the take-back of the product.
[Other Countries outside the European Union]
If you wish to dispose of this product, please do so in accordance with applicable national
legislation or other rules in your country for the treatment of old electrical and electronic
equipment.
Information for Users on Disposal of Old Equipment
Dear Customer, [European Union]
This apparatus is in conformance with the valid European
directives and standards regarding electromagnetic
compatibility and electrical safety.
European representative of Victor Company of Japan
Limited is:
JVC Technology Centre Europe GmbH
Postfach 10 05 52
61145 Friedberg
Germany

6 EN
MasterPage: Left
SOME DO’S AND DON’TS ON THE SAFE USE
OF EQUIPMENT
This equipment has been designed and
manufactured to meet international safety
standards but, like any electrical equipment,
care must be taken if you are to obtain the
best results and safety is to be assured.
DO read the operating instructions before you
attempt to use the equipment.
DO ensure that all electrical connections (including
the mains plug, extension leads and
interconnections between pieces of equipment) are
properly made and in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions. Switch off and withdraw
the mains plug when making or changing
connections.
DO consult your dealer if you are ever in doubt
about the installation, operation or safety of your
equipment.
DO be careful with glass panels or doors on
equipment.
DON’T continue to operate the equipment if you are
in any doubt about it working normally, or if it is
damaged in any way - switch off, withdraw the
mains plug and consult your dealer.
DON’T remove any fixed cover as this may expose
dangerous voltages.
DON’T leave equipment switched on when it is
unattended unless it is specifically stated that it is
designed for unattended operation or has a standby
mode. Switch off using the switch on the equipment
and make sure that your family knows how to do
this. Special arrangements may need to be made
for infirm or handicapped people.
DON’T use equipment such as personal stereos or
radios so that you are distracted from the
requirements of road safety. It is illegal to watch
television whilst driving.
DON’T listen to headphones at high volume, as
such use can permanently damage your hearing.
DON’T obstruct the ventilation of the equipment, for
example with curtains or soft furnishings.
Overheating will cause damage and shorten the life
of the equipment.
DON’T use makeshift stands and NEVER fix legs
with wood screws - to ensure complete safety
always fit the manufacturer’s approved stand or legs
with the fixings provided according to the
instructions.
DON’T allow electrical equipment to be exposed to
rain or moisture.
ABOVE ALL
●NEVER let anyone especially children push
anything into holes, slots or any other opening in
the case - this could result in a fatal electrical
shock;
●NEVER guess or take chances with electrical
equipment of any kind — it is better to be safe
than sorry!
Before cleaning, turn off the camcorder and
remove the battery pack and AC Adapter.
To clean the exterior
Wipe gently with a soft cloth. Put the cloth in
diluted mild soap and wring it well to wipe off
heavy dirt. Then wipe again with a dry cloth.
To clean the LCD monitor
Wipe gently with a soft cloth. Be careful not to
damage the monitor. Close the LCD monitor.
To clean the lens
Blow it with a blower brush, then wipe gently
with lens cleaning paper.
To clean the viewfinder lens
Remove dust from the viewfinder using a blower
brush.
NOTES:
●Avoid using strong cleaning agents such as
benzine or alcohol.
●Cleaning should be done only after the battery
pack has been removed or other power units have
been disconnected.
●Mould may form if the lens is left dirty.
●When using a cleaner or chemically treated cloth
refer to the cautions of each product.
●To clean the viewfinder, please consult your
nearest JVC dealer.
Appears if dirt is detected on the heads during
recording. Use an optional cleaning cassette.
(墌pg. 3)
Cleaning The Camcorder
USE CLEANING CASSETTE
USER MAINTENANCE

MasterPage: TOC_Heading0_Right
EN 7
CONTENTS
GETTING STARTED 8
Index................................................................. 8
Regarding This Manual................................... 11
Provided Accessories ..................................... 11
Grip Adjustment.............................................. 12
Power.............................................................. 13
Language Settings.......................................... 15
Date/Time Settings ......................................... 15
Viewfinder Adjustment.................................... 15
Brightness Adjustment Of The Display........... 15
Tripod Mounting.............................................. 16
Loading/Unloading A Cassette ....................... 16
16:9 Wide Mode.............................................. 17
VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK 18
VIDEO RECORDING ........................................... 18
Basic Recording.............................................. 18
Tape Remaining Time ................................ 18
Quick Review.............................................. 18
Zooming...................................................... 19
Journalistic Shooting .................................. 19
Interface Shooting ...................................... 19
Time Code .................................................. 20
Recording From The Middle Of A Tape...... 20
Auto/Manual Mode ..................................... 20
VIDEO PLAYBACK ............................................. 21
Normal Playback............................................. 21
Still Playback .............................................. 21
Variable Shuttle Search.............................. 21
Blank Search .............................................. 22
Playback Snapshot..................................... 22
Connections To A TV Or VCR........................ 23
ADVANCED FEATURES 24
MENUS FOR DETAILED ADJUSTMENT.................. 24
Changing The Menu Settings ......................... 24
Recording Menus............................................ 25
Playback Menus ............................................. 27
FEATURES FOR RECORDING............................... 29
LED Light........................................................ 29
Snapshot (Record Still Image On Tape)......... 29
Manual Focus ................................................. 29
Exposure Control............................................ 30
Iris Lock .......................................................... 30
Backlight Compensation................................. 30
Spot Exposure Control.................................... 30
White Balance Adjustment.............................. 31
Manual White Balance Adjustment................. 31
Wipe Or Fader Effects .................................... 31
Program AE, Effects and Shutter Effects........ 32
EDITING............................................................ 33
Dubbing To A VCR ......................................... 33
Dubbing To Or From A Video Unit Equipped With
A DV Connector (Digital Dubbing).............. 33
Connection To A Personal Computer............. 34
REFERENCES 35
TROUBLESHOOTING.......................................... 35
CAUTIONS ........................................................ 36
SPECIFICATIONS................................................ 39
TERMS Back cover

8 EN
MasterPage: Left
GETTING STARTED
Index
BATT.
1
6
30
19
23
8
e
b
g
N
9
3
28
w
45
21 22
0q
29
24
27
18
25
26
P O
31
Q
20
NOTES:
●The image will not appear
simultaneously on the LCD monitor and
the viewfinder. When the viewfinder is
pulled out while the LCD monitor is
opened, you can select which one to
use. Set “PRIORITY” to the desired
mode in SYSTEM Menu. (墌pg. 27)
●Coloured bright spots may appear all
over the LCD monitor or the viewfinder.
However, this is not a malfunction.
The LCD monitor can rotate 270°.
Power-linked operation
When the power switch is set to “REC”, you
can also turn the camcorder on/off by
opening/closing the LCD monitor or pulling
out/pushing in the viewfinder.
How to open the LCD monitor
Pull on the end aof the LCD monitor.

EN 9
GETTING STARTED
MasterPage: Start_Right
GETTING STARTED
Controls
a: Left / Rewind [ 3 ] (墌pg. 21) / Quick
Review [QUICK REVIEW] (墌pg. 18)
: Right / Fast-Forward [ 5 ] (墌pg. 21) /
LED Light [LIGHT] (墌pg. 29)
: Up/Play/Pause [4/9] (墌pg. 21) /
Manual Focus [FOCUS] (墌pg. 29)
: Down / Stop [8] (墌pg. 21) / Backlight
Compensation (墌pg. 30) /
Spot Exposure (墌pg. 30)
Press down: SET
B16:9 Wide Screen Button [16:9] (墌pg. 17)
Blank Search [BLANK] (墌pg. 22)
CMenu Button [MENU] (墌pg. 24)
DData Battery Button [DATA] (墌pg. 14)
EAuto Button [AUTO] (墌pg. 20)
FDioptre Adjustment Control (墌pg. 15)
GSnapshot Button [SNAPSHOT] (墌pg. 29)
HPower Zoom Lever [T/W] (墌pg. 19)
Speaker Volume Control [VOL. +, –]
(墌pg. 21)
IRecording Start/Stop Button [START/STOP]
(墌pg. 18)
JPower Switch [REC, PLAY, OFF]
KLock Button
LBattery Release Button [BATT.] (墌pg. 13)
MCassette Open/Eject Switch [OPEN/EJECT]
(墌pg. 16)
Connectors
NDigital Video Connector [DV OUT] (i.LINK*)
(墌pg. 33, 34)
* i.LINK refers to the IEEE1394-1995 industry
specification and extensions thereof. The logo
is used for products compliant with the i.LINK
standard.
The connectors are located beneath the covers.
ODC Input Connector [DC] (墌pg. 13)
PAudio/Video Output Connector
[AV] (墌pg. 23, 33)
Indicators
QPOWER/CHARGE Lamp (墌pg. 13)
Other Parts
RLCD Monitor (墌pg. 8)
SViewfinder (墌pg. 15)
TBattery Pack Mount (墌pg. 13)
UShoulder Strap Eyelet (墌pg. 12)
VGrip Strap (墌pg. 12)
WSpeaker (墌pg. 21)
XLens
YLED Light
ZCamera Sensor
(Be careful not to cover this area, a sensor
necessary for shooting is built-in here.)
aStereo Microphone
bStud Hole (墌pg. 16)
cTripod Mounting Socket (墌pg. 16)
dCassette Holder Cover (墌pg. 16)
eConnector Cover
Power Switch Position
REC:
To perform recording on the tape.
OFF:
To switch off the camcorder.
PLAY:
To play back a recording on the tape.
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

GETTING STARTED
10 EN
MasterPage: Left
LCD Monitor/Viewfinder Indications
During Video Recording
aBattery Remaining Power Indicator
(墌pg. 36)
BOperation Mode
A: Auto Mode
M: Manual Mode
CLED Light Indicator (墌pg. 29)
D: Night Indicator (墌pg. 32)
: Gain Up Mode (墌pg. 25)
EShutter Speed (墌pg. 32)
FWhite Balance Indicator (墌pg. 31)
GSelected Effect Indicator (墌pg. 32)
HSelected Program AE Indicator (墌pg. 32)
ISOUND 12BIT/16BIT: Sound Mode Indicator
(墌pg. 26) (Appears for approx. 5 seconds
after turning on the camcorder.)
JDigital Image Stabiliser (“DIS”) (墌pg. 25)
(only indicator is displayed)
KTime Code (墌pg. 26)
LManual Focus Adjustment Indicator
(墌pg. 29)
MDate/Time (墌pg. 26)
NWind Cut Indicator (墌pg. 25)
OSelected Wipe/Fader Effect Indicator
(墌pg. 31)
P: Spot Exposure Control Indicator
(墌pg. 30)
: Backlight Compensation Indicator
(墌pg. 30)
±: Exposure Adjustment Indicator (墌pg. 30)
: Iris Lock Indicator (墌pg. 30)
QPHOTO: (Appears when taking Snapshot.)
REC: (Appears during recording.)
RTape Running Indicator
(Rotates while tape is running.)
STape Remaining Time (墌pg. 18)
TRecording Speed Mode (SP/LP) (墌pg. 25)
(only LP indicator is displayed)
USelected Wide Mode Indicator (墌pg. 17)
(only 16:9 indicator is displayed)
VZoom Indicator (墌pg. 19)
WApproximate Zoom Ratio (墌pg. 19)
During Video Playback
aBattery Remaining Power Indicator
(墌pg. 36)
BSound L/R Indicator (墌pg. 27)
CBlank Search Indicator (墌pg. 22)
DTape Speed (SP/LP)
(only LP indicator is displayed)
EVariable Search Speed Indicator: x-10, x-3,
x3 and x10 (墌pg. 21)
F4: Playback
5 : Fast-Forward/Shuttle Search
3 : Rewind/Shuttle Search
9: Pause
GDate/Time (墌pg. 28)
HVOLUME: Volume Level Indicator (墌pg. 21)
ITime Code (墌pg. 28)
3
10 x
M
SOUND 12 BIT
15:55
9
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
q
11:13
12. 6. 2007
REC
W H
LP
– – –min
16:9
we
i
r
t
y
u
aopsd
L
2 0 :2
V
1
O
:
L
2
1 2
. . 200
7
x3
6
U
5
M E
11:13
21 3465
7
8
9
12 BIT/MIX
LP
BLANK SEARCH
PUSH "STOP" BUTTON
TO CANCEL
L
2 0 :2
V
1
O
:
L
2
1 2
. . 200
7
x3
6
U
5
M E
11:13
21 346
5
7
8
9
12 BIT/MIX
LP
BLANK SEARCH
PUSH "STOP" BUTTON
TO CANCEL

EN 11
GETTING STARTED
MasterPage: Start_Right
GETTING STARTED
Control Lever
.
There are two kinds of operation using the
control lever: moving the lever towards up/down/
left/right, or pressing down the lever.
They are described and illustrated as shown
below.
1. Move the control lever up/down/left/right
(///) to select.
2. Press down the control lever to select SET.
NOTES:
●In order to maintain optimum performance of the
camcorder, provided cables may be equipped with
one or more core filter. If a cable has only one core
filter, the end that is closest to the filter should be
connected to the camcorder.
●Make sure to use the provided cables for
connections. Do not use any other cables.
Regarding This Manual
Operation To select
4/9FOCUS Move the control lever up.
8Move the control lever
down.
5 LIGHT Move the control lever right.
3 QUICK
REVIEW
Move the control lever left.
MENU 16:9 / BLANK
LCD Monitor
Control lever
Select
SET
Provided Accessories
Shoulder Strap
(墌 pg. 12)
Lens Cap
(墌 pg. 12)
Battery Pack
BN-VF808U
AC Adapter AP-V14E
Audio/Video Cable
(Ø3.5 mini-plug to RCA plug)
or
Power Cord
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

GETTING STARTED
12 EN
MasterPage: Left
How To Attach The Lens Cap
To protect the lens, attach
the provided lens cap to the
camcorder as shown in the
illustration.
NOTE:
To confirm the lens cap is on
correctly make sure the cap is
flush to the camcorder.
How To Attach The Shoulder Strap
1Peel off the pad
and thread the end
of the strap through
the eyelet.
2Thread the strap
through the buckle,
adjust its length, and
use the strap guide
to fix it in place.
3Position the
buckle near the
eyelet and reattach
the pad.
Open the pad and make grip adjustments.
●Before making the adjustment, remove any
security tags that may be attached to the velcro.
Place here
during shooting
Eyelet
Strap Guide
Buckle
Grip Adjustment

EN 13
GETTING STARTED
MasterPage: Start_Right
GETTING STARTED
Charging The Battery Pack
1Set the Power Switch to “OFF”.
2With the arrow on the battery pack pointing
upward, push the battery pack slightly against
the battery pack mount a.
3Slide up the battery pack until it locks in
place b.
4Connect the Power Cord to the AC Adapter.
5Plug the AC Adapter into an AC outlet.
6Connect the AC Adapter to the camcorder.
●The POWER/CHARGE lamp on the camcorder
blinks to indicate charging has started.
●When the POWER/CHARGE lamp goes out,
charging is finished. Unplug the AC Adapter from
the AC outlet. Disconnect the AC Adapter from the
camcorder.
To detach the battery pack
Slide the battery pack upward while pressing
BATT. to detach it.
* Provided
NOTES:
●If the protective cap is attached to the battery
pack, remove it first.
●During charging, the camcorder cannot be
operated.
●Charging is not possible if the wrong type of
battery is used.
●When charging the battery pack for the first time
or after a long storage period, the POWER/
CHARGE lamp may not light. In this case, remove
the battery pack from the camcorder, then try
charging again.
●If a fully charged battery pack is attached to the
unit, POWER/CHARGE lamp will blink for approx.
10 seconds before it turns off.
●If the battery operation time remains extremely
short even after having been fully charged, the
battery is worn out and needs to be replaced.
Please purchase a new one.
●Since the AC Adapter processes electricity
internally, it becomes warm during use. Be sure to
use it only in well-ventilated areas.
●After 5 minutes have elapsed in Record-Standby
mode with the cassette inserted, and no operation
is performed, the camcorder will automatically turn
off its power supplied from the AC Adapter. In this
case, the battery charge starts if the battery is
attached to the camcorder.
●Please do not pull or bend the AC Adapter plug
and cable. This may damage the AC Adapter.
Power
1
2
To DC
connector
BATT
Battery
pack
Power switch
Battery pack mount
Arrow
To AC outlet
AC Adapter
POWER/
CHARGE lamp
Lock
button
Battery pack Charging time
BN-VF808U* Approx. 1 hr. 30 min.
BN-VF815U Approx. 2 hrs. 40 min.
BN-VF823U Approx. 3 hrs. 50 min.
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

GETTING STARTED
14 EN
MasterPage: Left
About Batteries
DANGER! Do not attempt to take the batteries
apart, or expose them to flame or excessive
heat, as it may cause a fire or explosion.
WARNING! Do not allow the battery or its
terminals to come in contact with metals, as this
can result in a short circuit and possibly start a
fire.
To restore the accuracy of the battery power
indicator
If the battery power indication differs from the
actual operating time, fully charge the battery,
and then run it down.
However this method may not work if the battery
was used for a long period of time under
extremely high/low temperature condition or
charged too many times.
Using The Battery Pack
Perform steps 2–3in “Charging The Battery
Pack”. (墌pg. 13)
Maximum continuous recording time
* Provided
NOTES:
●Recording time is reduced significantly under the
following conditions:
•Zoom or Record-Standby mode is engaged
repeatedly.
•The LCD monitor is used repeatedly.
•The playback mode is engaged repeatedly.
•The LED Light is used.
●Before extended use, it is recommended that you
prepare enough battery packs to cover 3 times the
planned shooting time.
A
TTENTION:
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.
Data Battery System
You can check the remaining battery power and
the recordable time.
When the battery is attached, press DATA.
●When the Power Switch is set to “OFF”, it is
displayed. for approx 3 seconds if the button is
pressed and released quickly, and for approx.
15 seconds if the button is pressed and hold
for approx several seconds.
●When the Power Switch is set to “PLAY” or
“REC”, press DATA again to return to the
normal screen.
●Data battery status cannot be displayed during
playback or while recording is in progress.
●If “COMMUNICATION ERROR” appears
instead of the battery status even though you
tried to press DATA several times, there may
be a problem on the battery. In such a case,
consult your nearest JVC dealer.
Using AC Power
Perform steps 4–6in “Charging The Battery
Pack”. (墌pg. 13)
NOTE:
The provided AC Adapter features automatic voltage
selection in the AC range from 110 V to 240 V.
INFORMATION:
The following explanations in this manual
supposes the use of LCD monitor in your
operation. If you want to use the viewfinder,
close the LCD monitor and pull out the
viewfinder fully.
Battery pack LCD monitor on Viewfinder on
BN-VF808U* 1 hr. 50 min. 2 hrs. 15 min.
BN-VF815U 3 hrs. 40 min. 4 hrs. 30 min.
BN-VF823U 5 hrs. 30 min. 6 hrs. 45 min.
MAX TIMELEVEL
LCD
110min
FINDER
135min
100%
50
0
BATTERY CONDITION

EN 15
GETTING STARTED
MasterPage: Start_Right
GETTING STARTED
The language on the display can be changed.
(墌pg. 24, 27)
1Open the LCD monitor fully.
2Set the Power Switch to “REC” or “PLAY”
while pressing down the Lock Button located on
the switch.
●If set to “REC”, the recording mode should be
set to “M”. (墌pg. 20)
3Press MENU.
4Select “SYSTEM”, press SET or .
5Select “LANGUAGE”, press SET or .
6Select the desired language, press SET or .
7Press MENU.
Press whenever you want to return to the
previous menu screen.
The date/time is recorded onto the tape at all
times, but its display can be turned on or off.
(墌pg. 26, 28)
Perform steps 1–3in “Language Settings”.
(墌pg. 15)
1Select “DISPLAY”, press SET or .
2Select “CLOCK ADJ.” press SET or .
3Select the desired date display format, press
SET or .
●Repeat this step to input time display format (Select
from “24h” or “12h”), month, date, year, hour and
minutes.
4Press MENU.
Press whenever you want to return to the
previous menu screen/setting.
1Set the Power Switch to “REC” while
pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch.
2Make sure the LCD monitor is closed and
locked. Pull out the viewfinder fully.
3Turn the Dioptre Adjustment Control until the
indications in the viewfinder are clearly focused.
CAUTION:
When retracting the viewfinder, take care not to
pinch your fingers.
Perform steps 1–3in “Language Settings”.
(墌pg. 15)
●To adjust the brightness of the viewfinder, pull
out the viewfinder fully and set “PRIORITY” to
“FINDER”. (墌pg. 27)
1Select “DISPLAY”, press SET or .
2Select “BRIGHT”, press SET or .
3Select the appropriate brightness,
press SET or .
4Press MENU.
Press whenever you want to return to the
previous menu screen/setting.
Language Settings
Date/Time Settings
LANGUAGE
ENGLISH
FRANCAIS
NEDERLANDS
ITALIANO
ESPAÑOL
1
2SET
Select
CLOCK ADJ.
DATE. MONTH.YEAR 24 h
2 : 26
6. 9. 2007
1
2
Select
SET
Viewfinder Adjustment
Brightness Adjustment Of The
Display
Dioptre Adjustment Control
Example:
BRIGHT
± 0
1
2SET
Select

GETTING STARTED
16 EN
MasterPage: Left
To attach the camcorder
to a tripod, align the
direction stud and screw
to the mounting socket
and stud hole on the
camcorder. Then tighten
the screw clockwise.
●Some tripods are not
equipped with studs.
The camcorder needs to be powered up to load
or eject a cassette.
1Slide and hold OPEN/EJECT in the direction
of the arrow, then pull the cassette holder cover
open until it locks. The cassette holder opens
automatically.
●Do not touch internal components.
2Insert or remove a tape and press “PUSH” to
close the cassette holder.
●Be sure to press only the section labelled “PUSH”
to close the cassette holder; touching other parts
may cause your finger to get caught in the
cassette holder, resulting in injury or product
damage.
●Once the cassette holder is closed, it recedes
automatically. Wait until it recedes completely
before closing the cassette holder cover.
●When the battery pack’s charge is low, you may
not be able to close the cassette holder cover. Do
not apply force. Replace the battery pack with a
fully charged one or use AC power before
continuing.
3Close the cassette holder cover firmly until it
locks into place.
NOTES:
●If you wait a few seconds and the cassette holder
does not open, close the cassette holder cover
and try again. If the cassette holder still does
open, turn the camcorder off then on again.
●If the tape does not load properly, open the
cassette holder cover fully and remove the
cassette. A few minutes later, insert it again.
●When the camcorder is suddenly moved from a
cold place to a warm environment, wait a short
time before opening the cassette holder cover.
●Appears if a tape is loaded while the Power
Switch is set to “REC”.
●Blinks when no tape is loaded.
Appears if a tape is not loaded when the
Recording Start/Stop Button or SNAPSHOT
Button is pressed while the Power Switch is set
to “REC”.
Appears when the erase protection tab is set to
“SAVE” while the Power Switch is set to “REC”.
(墌pg. 9)
Tripod Mounting
Loading/Unloading A Cassette
Make sure the window
side is facing out
Cassette holder
PUSH
Erase
protection tab
Cassette
holder cover
OPEN/EJECT
TAPE!
CHECK TAPE’S ERASE PROTECTION TAB

EN 17
GETTING STARTED
MasterPage: Start_Right
GETTING STARTED
You can record videos at 4:3 size and 16:9 size.
By default, the camera is set to record videos at
the 16:9 size.
1Set the Power Switch to “REC”.
2Each press 16:9 switches the screen size.
On the LCD monitor:
NOTE:
If you record videos in 16:9 size, the image may
appear to be slightly vertically stretched when
playing back on TV with the 4:3 screen.
(墌pg. 26, 28)
16:9 Wide Mode
16:9
4 : 3
16 : 9
4 : 3
16 : 9
On the viewfinder :

18 EN
MasterPage: Left
VIDEO RECORDING
NOTE:
Before continuing, perform the procedures listed
below:
●Power. (墌pg. 13)
●Loading A Cassette. (墌pg. 16)
●Remove the lens cap. (墌pg. 12)
●Open the LCD monitor fully. (墌pg. 8)
●Select videos at 4:3 size of 16:9 (wide) size.
(墌pg. 17)
1Set the Power Switch to “REC” while
pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch.
2Press START/STOP button to start recording.
“REC” appears on the display while recording is
in progress. To stop recording, press
START/STOP again.
Approximate recording time
NOTES:
●If the Record-Standby mode continues for 5
minutes and no operation is performed, the
camcorder’s power shuts off automatically. To turn
the camcorder on again, push back and pull out
the viewfinder again or close and re-open the LCD
monitor.
●When a blank portion is left between recorded
scenes on the tape, the time code is interrupted
and errors may occur when editing the tape. To
avoid this, refer to “Recording From The Middle Of
A Tape”. (墌pg. 20)
●To record in LP (Long Play) mode. (墌pg. 26)
Tape Remaining Time
Approximate tape remaining
time appears on the display.
“---min” means the
camcorder is calculating the
remaining time. When the
remaining time reaches 2 minutes, the indication
starts blinking.
●The time required to calculate and display the
remaining tape length, and the accuracy of the
calculation, may vary according to the type of tape
used.
Quick Review
Enables to check the end of the
last recording.
1) Press QUICK REVIEW during
the Recording-Standby mode.
2) Tape is rewound for about
several seconds and played back automatically,
then pauses in the Recording-Standby mode for
the next shot.
●Distortion may occur at start of playback. This
is normal.
●Slide the Power Zoom lever repeatedly to
change the sound setting to on/off.
Basic Recording
Tape Recording mode
SP LP
30 min. 30 min. 45 min.
60 min. 60 min. 90 min.
80 min. 80 min. 120 min.
Recording Start/Stop Button
Lock Button
Zoom Lever
62 min
VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK

EN 19
VIDEO RECORDING
MasterPage: Start_Right
VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK
Zooming
While recording
●You can zoom in up to 28X by using the optical
zoom.
●Zoom magnification over 28X is done through
digital image Digital zooming is possible up to
800X. Set (ZOOM) to [56X] or [800X]. (墌pg. 25)
NOTES:
●Macro shooting is possible as close as approx.
5 cm to the subject when the zoom lever is set all
the way to W.
●When you zoom into a subject close to the lens,
the camera may automatically zoom out
depending on the distance to the subject. In this
case, set “TELE MACRO” to “ON”. (墌pg. 25)
Journalistic Shooting
In some situations,
different shooting
angles may provide
more dramatic
results. Hold the
camcorder in the
desired position and
tilt the LCD monitor in
the most convenient
direction. It can
rotate 270°
(90° downward,
180° upward).
Interface Shooting
The person you
shoot can view
himself/herself in
the LCD monitor,
and you can even
shoot yourself
while viewing your
own image in the
LCD monitor.
1) Open the LCD
monitor and tilt it
upward to 180° so
that it faces
forward. Then, pull
out the viewfinder
fully.
2) Point the lens
toward the subject (yourself when self-recording)
and start recording.
●During Interface Shooting, the monitor image
appears inverted as it would when viewing a
mirror. However, the actual recorded image does
not appear inverted.
●If the Quick Review (墌pg. 18) is executed during
the interface- shooting, the LCD monitor will be
turned off. In such a case, check the playback
picture in the viewfinder.
●To check the playback picture in the LCD monitor,
close the viewfinder.
Zoom out Zoom in
T: TelephotoW: Wide angle
800X
28X
Optical zoom (up to 28X)
Digital zoom (up to 800X)

VIDEO RECORDING
20 EN
MasterPage: Left
Time Code
During recording, a time code is recorded on the
tape. This code is to confirm the location of the
recorded scene on the tape during playback.
* Frames are not displayed during recording.
If recording starts from a blank portion, the time
code begins counting from “00:00:00”
(minute:second:frame). If recording starts from
the end of a previously recorded scene,
the time code continues from the last time code
number. If during recording a blank portion is left
partway through the tape, the time code is
interrupted. When recording is resumed, the
time code starts counting up again from
“00:00:00”. This means the camcorder may
record the same time codes as those existing in
a previously recorded scene. To prevent this,
perform “Recording From The Middle Of A Tape”
(墌pg. 20) in the following cases;
●When shooting again after playing back a
recorded tape.
●When power shuts off during shooting.
●When a tape is removed and re-inserted during
shooting.
●When shooting using a partially recorded tape.
●When shooting on a blank portion located partway
through the tape.
●When shooting again after shooting a scene then
opening/closing the cassette holder cover.
NOTES:
●The time code cannot be reset.
●During fast-forwarding and rewinding, the time
code indication does not move smoothly.
●The time code is displayed only when “TIME
CODE” is set to “ON”. (墌pg. 26)
Recording From The Middle Of A Tape
1) Play back a tape or use Blank Search
(墌pg. 22) to find the spot at which you want to
start recording, then engage the Still Playback
mode. (墌pg. 21)
2) Set the Power Switch to “REC” while
pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch, then start recording.
Auto/Manual Mode
Press AUTO button repeatedly to switch to auto/
manual recording mode. When manual mode is
selected, the indicator “M” appears on the LCD
monitor.
Auto Mode: A
You can record using no special effects or
manual adjustments.
Manual Mode: M
Manual recording is possible by setting various
functions.
12:34:24
Minutes
Seconds
Frames*
(25 frames = 1 second)
Display
M