JVC GR-DF428 User manual

ENGLISH
GR-DF428
LYT1462-001A 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 – 4 and 10 to ensure safe use of
this product.
Please visit our Homepage on the World Wide Web for
Digital Video Camera:
For Accessories:
http://www.jvc.co.jp/english/cyber/
http://www.jvc.co.jp/english/accessory/
INSTRUCTIONS
DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA
GETTING STARTED 6
VIDEO RECORDING &
PLAYBACK 19
ADVANCED FEATURES 27
REFERENCES 45
To deactivate the demonstration,
set “DEMO MODE” to “OFF”.
(墌pg. 27, 30)
53
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Wipe/Fader Effects
You can use the Wipe/Fader Effects to make
pro-style scene transitions. (墌pg. 38)
Program AE with Special Effects
For example, “SPORTS” mode allows fast-
moving images to be captured one frame at a
time, for vivid, stable slow-motion. (墌pg. 38)
Backlight Compensation
Simply pressing the BACK LIGHT button
brightens the image darkened by backlight.
(墌pg. 36)
●You can also select a spot metering area so
that more precise exposure compensation
is available. (墌pg. 36, Spot Exposure
Control)
Data Battery
You can check the battery status by simply
pressing the DATA button. (墌pg. 14)
Major Features of this Camcorder
Fade in
Fade out
MAX TIMELEVEL
LCD
60 min
FINDER
80 min
100 %
50
0
BATTERY CONDITION
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SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT TO
RAIN OR MOISTURE.
CAUTIONS:
●If you notice smoke or a peculiar smell coming
from the camcorder or AC Adapter, shut it down
and unplug it immediately. Continue using the
camcorder or AC Adapter under these
conditions could lead to fire or electric shock.
Contact your JVC dealer. Do not attempt to
repair the malfunction yourself.
●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.
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-VF707U/VF714U/VF733U 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.)
Caution on Replaceable 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 Panasonic (Matsushita
Electric), Sanyo, Sony or Maxell CR2025.
Danger of explosion or Risk of fire if the battery is
incorrectly replaced.
●Dispose of used battery promptly.
●Keep away from children.
●Do not disassemble and do not dispose of in
fire.
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.
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.)
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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.
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EN 5
CONTENTS
GETTING STARTED 6
Index................................................................. 6
Provided Accessories ..................................... 11
Power.............................................................. 13
Operation Mode.............................................. 15
Language Settings.......................................... 16
Date/Time Settings ......................................... 16
Grip Adjustment.............................................. 16
Viewfinder Adjustment .................................... 16
Brightness Adjustment Of The Display ........... 17
Tripod Mounting.............................................. 17
Loading/Unloading A Cassette ....................... 17
VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK 19
VIDEO RECORDING ........................................... 19
Basic Recording.............................................. 19
Tape Remaining Time ................................ 19
LCD Monitor And Viewfinder ...................... 19
Zooming...................................................... 20
Journalistic Shooting .................................. 20
Self Recording ............................................ 20
Time Code .................................................. 21
Quick Review.............................................. 21
Recording From The Middle Of A Tape...... 21
VIDEO PLAYBACK ............................................. 22
Normal Playback............................................. 22
Still Playback .............................................. 22
Shuttle Search ............................................ 22
Blank Search .............................................. 22
Connections To A TV Or VCR........................ 23
Playback Using The Remote Control.............. 24
ADVANCED FEATURES 27
MENUS FOR DETAILED ADJUSTMENT.................. 27
Changing The Menu Settings ......................... 27
Recording Menus............................................ 28
Playback Menus ............................................. 31
FEATURES FOR RECORDING............................... 33
LED Light........................................................ 33
5-Second Recording ....................................... 33
Night-Scope.................................................... 34
Snapshot (For Video Recording) .................... 34
Manual Focus ................................................. 35
Exposure Control ............................................ 35
Iris Lock .......................................................... 36
Backlight Compensation ................................. 36
Spot Exposure Control.................................... 36
White Balance Adjustment.............................. 37
Manual White Balance Adjustment................. 37
Wipe Or Fader Effects .................................... 38
Program AE With Special Effects ................... 38
EDITING............................................................ 40
Dubbing To A VCR ......................................... 40
Dubbing To A Video Unit Equipped With A DV
Connector (Digital Dubbing) ....................... 41
Connection To A Personal Computer ............. 42
Audio Dubbing ................................................ 43
Insert Editing................................................... 44
REFERENCES 45
TROUBLESHOOTING.......................................... 45
USER MAINTENANCE......................................... 49
CAUTIONS ........................................................ 49
SPECIFICATIONS................................................ 52
TERMS 53
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GETTING STARTED
Index
8
7O
S
R
Q
LMN
VU
ed T
W
X
Y
ZaKP
gf
90
cb
62
1
3
54
hi
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GETTING STARTED
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GETTING STARTED
Controls
AMenu Button [MENU] (墌pg. 27)
Data Battery Button [BATT. DATA] (墌pg. 14)
BSet Button [SET] (墌pg. 27)
CFast-Forward Button [ 5 ] (墌pg. 22)
LED Light Button [LIGHT] (墌pg. 33)
Right Button [>] (墌pg. 27)
DStop Button [8] (墌pg. 22)
Backlight Compensation Button [BACK
LIGHT] (墌pg. 36)
Down Button [ ] (墌pg. 27)
ERewind Button [ 3 ] (墌pg. 22)
Quick Review Button [Q.REVIEW] (墌pg. 21)
Left Button [<] (墌pg. 27)
FPlay/Pause Button [4/9] (墌pg. 22)
Manual Focus Button [FOCUS] (墌pg. 35)
Up Button [ ] (墌pg. 27)
GDioptre Adjustment Control (墌pg. 16)
HBattery Release Button [BATT. RELEASE]
(墌pg. 14)
ISnapshot Button [SNAPSHOT] (墌pg. 34)
JPower Zoom Lever [T/W] (墌pg. 20)
Speaker Volume Control [VOL. +, –]
(墌pg. 22)
KCassette Open/Eject Switch [OPEN/EJECT]
(墌pg. 17)
LRecording Start/Stop Button (墌pg. 19)
MPower Switch [A, M, PLAY, OFF] (墌pg. 15)
NLock Button (墌pg. 15)
Connectors
The connectors are located beneath the covers.
OS-Video Output Connector [S] (墌pg. 23, 40)
PMicrophone connector [MIC] (墌pg. 43)
QDigital Video (i.Link) Connector [DV OUT]
(墌pg. 41, 42)
i.Link: i.Link refers to the IEEE1394-1995
industry specification and extensions
thereof. The logo is used for products
compliant with the i.Link standard.
RAudio/Video Output Connector [AV]
(墌pg. 23, 40)
SDC Input Connector [DC] (墌pg. 13)
Indicators
TPOWER/CHARGE Lamp (墌pg. 13, 19)
Other Parts
ULCD Monitor (墌pg. 19, 20)
VShoe
(Before you purchase optional shoe
accessories, make sure the items are
compatible and can attach to the shoe on
your camcorder. There may be cases where a
part of an accessory item obtrudes onto the
camcorder’s body, preventing attachment to
your unit.)
WViewfinder (墌pg. 16)
XSpeaker (墌pg. 22)
YBattery Pack Mount (墌pg. 14)
ZCassette Holder Cover (墌pg. 17)
aLens
bLED Light (墌pg. 33)
(When using an optional conversion lens, it
may cover this area and block the light.)
cRemote Sensor (墌pg. 24)
dCamera Sensor
(Be careful not to cover this area, a sensor
necessary for shooting is built-in here.)
eStereo Microphone (墌pg. 43)
fShoulder Strap Eyelet (墌pg. 12)
gGrip Strap (墌pg. 16)
hTripod Mounting Socket (墌pg. 17)
iStud Hole (墌pg. 17)
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GETTING STARTED
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LCD Monitor/Viewfinder Indications
During Video Recording
aOperation Mode (墌pg. 15)
B: Gain Up Mode (墌pg. 28)
CWhite Balance Indicator (墌pg. 37)
D: Spot Exposure Control Indicator
(墌pg. 36)
: Backlight Compensation Indicator
(墌pg. 36)
±: Exposure Adjustment Indicator (墌pg. 35)
ESelected Program AE With Special Effects
Indicator (墌pg. 38)
: Night-Scope Indicator (墌pg. 34)
FIris Lock Indicator (墌pg. 36)
GSOUND 12BIT/16BIT: Sound Mode Indicator
(墌pg. 28) (Appears for approx. 5 seconds
after turning on the camcorder.)
: Auxiliary Microphone Level
Indicator
(Appears when an optional microphone is
connected. 墌pg. 30, “AUDIO LEV.”)
HDigital Image Stabiliser (“DIS”) (墌pg. 29)
IApproximate Zoom Ratio (墌pg. 20)
JZoom Indicator (墌pg. 20)
KSelected Wipe/Fader Effect Indicator
(墌pg. 38)
LTape Running Indicator (墌pg. 19)
(Rotates while tape is running.)
MSelected Wide Mode Indicator (墌pg. 29)
NRecording Speed Mode (SP/LP) (墌pg. 28)
OTape Remaining Time (墌pg. 19)
PREC: (Appears during recording.) (墌pg. 19)
PAUSE: (Appears during Record-Standby
mode.) (墌pg. 19)
O: (Appears when taking Snapshot.)
(墌pg. 34)
Q5S/Anim.: Displays the 5-Second Recording
mode or Animation recording mode.
(墌pg. 29)
RWind Cut Indicator (墌pg. 29)
SBattery Remaining Power Indicator
(墌pg. 47)
TDate/Time (墌pg. 16)
UBrightness Control Indicator (LCD monitor/
Viewfinder) (墌pg. 17)
VManual Focus Adjustment Indicator
(墌pg. 35)
WTime Code (墌pg. 30, 32)
50m
1 0 1
1
1
0
.
:
0
0
5
0
.
15
x
W
T
BRIGHT
SOUND 12 BIT
1h40m
15:55
REC
4
5
6
1
2
3
90
p
as
8
qwe t
y
u
i
o
r
7
d
L
R
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GETTING STARTED
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GETTING STARTED
During Video Playback
aSound Mode Indicator (墌pg. 31)
BBlank Search Indicator (墌pg. 22)
CTape Speed (墌pg. 28)
D4: Playback
5 : Fast-Forward/Shuttle Search
3 : Rewind/Shuttle Search
9: Pause
9U: Forward Frame-By-Frame Playback/
Slow-Motion
Y9: Reverse Frame-By-Frame Playback/
Slow-Motion
D: Audio Dubbing
9D: Audio Dubbing Pause
(Appear while a tape is running.)
EBattery Remaining Power Indicator
(墌pg. 47)
FDate/Time (墌pg. 30, 32)
GVOLUME: Volume Level Indicator (墌pg. 22)
BRIGHT: Brightness Control Indicator (LCD
monitor/Viewfinder) (墌pg. 17)
HTime Code (墌pg. 30, 32)
1
L
2
2 0 :
/
2
M
V
1
I
O
:
X
L
2
1 0 1
1
1
0
.
:
0
0
5
0
BLANK SEARCH
PUSH "STOP" BUTTON
TO CANCEL
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GETTING STARTED
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Before Using This Camcorder
Make sure you only use cassettes with the Mini
DV mark .
This camcorder is designed exclusively for the
digital video cassette. Only cassettes marked
“ ” can be used with this unit.
Remember that this camcorder is not
compatible with other digital video formats.
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.)
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 a while, 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.
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 optimized to maximize the
performance of your camcorder.
Also read “Battery Packs” on pages 49 – 51.
●Microsoft®and Windows®are either registered
trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation in the United States and/or other
countries.
●Macintosh is a registered trademark of Apple
Computer, Inc.
●QuickTime is a registered trademark of Apple
Computer, Inc.
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GETTING STARTED
aAC Adapter AP-V14E
bPower Cord
cBattery Pack BN-VF707U
dAV Cable
eAudio Extension Cable
(for optional microphone, 墌pg. 12 for
connection)
fCore Filter [small] x 2
(for Audio extention cable 墌pg. 13 for
attachment)
gCore Filter
(for AV cable 墌pg. 13 for attachment)
hRemote Control Unit RM-V720U
iLithium Battery CR2025*
(for remote control unit)
jShoulder Strap (墌pg. 12 for attachment)
kLens Cap (see the right column for
attachment)
* A lithium battery is pre-installed in the Remote
Control Unit at time of shipment (with insulation
sheet). To use the Remote Control Unit, remove
the insulation sheet.
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.
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.
Provided Accessories
Place here during
shooting.
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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How To Attach The Shoulder Strap
Follow the illustration.
1Thread the strap through the eyelet.
2Fold it back and thread it through the strap
guide and the buckle.
●To adjust the length of the strap, loosen and then
tighten the strap in the buckle.
3Slide the strap guide fully towards the eyelet.
How To Use The Audio Extension Cable
When using an optional external microphone,
connect to the provided Audio extension cable
(with a core filter attached), then connect the
Audio extension cable to the camcorder. The
core filter reduces interference. (墌pg. 13)
2
13
Strap guide
Buckle
Eyelet Audio extension
cable (provided)
Core filter
Open the
cover.
Stereo
microphone
To MIC
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GETTING STARTED
How To Attach The Core Filter
Attach the core filters to the cables. The core
filter reduces interference.
1Release the stoppers on both ends of the
core filter.
2Run the cable through the core filter, leaving
approx. 3 cm of cable between the cable plug
and the core filter.
Wind the cable once around the outside of the
core filter as shown in the illustration.
3Close the core filter until it clicks shut.
NOTES:
●Take care not to damage the cable.
●When connecting a cable, attach the end with the
core filter to the camcorder.
This camcorder’s 2-way power supply system
lets you choose the most appropriate source of
power. Do not use provided power supply units
with other equipment.
Charging The Battery Pack
1Set the Power Switch to “OFF”.
2With the arrow on the battery pack pointing
right, push the battery pack slightly against the
battery pack mount a.
3Slide the battery pack to the right until it locks
in place b.
4Connect the AC Adapter to the camcorder.
5Connect the Power Cord to the AC Adapter.
6Plug the AC Adapter into an AC outlet. The
POWER/CHARGE lamp on the camcorder
blinks to indicate charging has started.
7When the POWER/CHARGE lamp goes out,
charging is finished. Unplug the AC Adapter
from the AC outlet. Disconnect the AC Adapter
from the camcorder.
Stopper
3 cm
Wind once.
Core filter
Power
POWER/CHARGE lamp
Battery pack
BATT. RELEASE Open the
cover.
Power switch
mark
Arrow Battery pack
mount
To
DC connector
To AC outlet
AC Adapter
Power cord
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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GETTING STARTED
14 EN
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To detach the battery pack
Slide the battery pack to the left while pressing
BATT. RELEASE to detach it.
* Provided
NOTES:
●This product includes patented and other
proprietary technology and will operate only
with JVC Data Battery. Use the JVC BN-
VF707U/VF714U/VF733U battery packs. Using
generic non-JVC batteries can cause damage
to the internal charging circuitry.
●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 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.
●Using the optional AA-VF7 Battery Charger, you
can charge the BN-VF707U/VF714U/VF733U
battery pack without the camcorder.
●After 5 minutes has elapsed in Record-Standby
mode with the cassette inserted, 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.
Using The Battery Pack
Perform steps 2– 3in “Charging The Battery
Pack”.
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.
1) Make sure the battery is attached and the
Power Switch is set to “OFF”.
2) Open the LCD monitor fully.
3) Press BATT. DATA, and the battery status
screen appears.
●It can be displayed on the viewfinder when the
LCD monitor is closed.
●It is displayed for 5 seconds if the button is
pressed and released quickly, and for 15
seconds if the button is pressed and hold for
several seconds.
●If “COMMUNICATION ERROR” appears
instead of the battery status even though you
tried to press BATT. DATA several times, there
may be a problem on the battery. In such a
case, consult your nearest JVC dealer.
Battery pack Charging time
BN-VF707U* Approx. 1 hr. 30 min.
BN-VF714U Approx. 2 hr. 40 min.
BN-VF733U Approx. 5 hr. 40 min.
Battery pack LCD monitor on Viewfinder on
BN-VF707U* 1hr.5min. 1hr.25min.
BN-VF714U 2 hr. 20 min. 3 hr.
BN-VF733U 5 hr. 25 min. 7 hr. 5 min.
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GETTING STARTED
Using AC Power
Perform steps 4– 5in “Charging The Battery
Pack”.
NOTE:
The provided AC Adapter features automatic
voltage selection in the AC range from 110 V to
240 V.
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 resume the original function of the
accurate battery power indication
If the battery power indication differs from the
actual operating time, fully charge the battery, and
then run it down. However this function may not
turn back if the battery was used for a long period
of time under extremely high/low temperature
condition or charged too many times.
To turn on the camcorder, set the Power Switch
to any operation mode except “OFF” while
pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch.
Choose the appropriate operation mode
according to your preference using the Power
Switch.
Power-Linked Operation
When the Power Switch is set to “A” or “M”, you
can also turn on/off the camcorder by opening/
closing the LCD monitor or pulling out/pushing in
the viewfinder.
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.
Operation Mode
Power Switch Position
A(Full Auto Recording):
Allows you to record using NO special effects
or manual adjustments. Suitable for standard
recording.
The “A” indicator appears on the display.
POWER/
CHARGE lamp
Power Switch
Lock Button
M(Manual Recording):
Allows you to set various recording functions
using the Menus. (墌pg. 27)
If you want more creative capabilities than Full
Auto Recording, try this mode.
OFF:
Allows you to switch off the camcorder.
PLAY:
●Allows you to play back a recording on the
tape.
●Allows you to set various playback functions
using the Menus. (墌pg. 27)
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16 EN
MasterPage: Left
The language on the display can be changed.
(墌pg. 27, 30, 32)
1Set the Power Switch to “M” while pressing
down the Lock Button located on the switch.
2Open the LCD monitor fully. (墌pg. 19)
3Press MENU. The Menu Screen appears.
4Press or to select
“n”, and press SET. The
CAMERA DISPLAY Menu
appears.
5Press or to select
“LANGUAGE”, and press
SET.
6Press or to select
the desired language, and
press SET.
7Press or to select
“BRETURN”, and press
SET twice. The Menu
Screen closes.
The date/time is recorded onto the tape at all
times, but its display can be turned on or off
during playback. (墌pg. 27, 32)
1Perform steps 1–4in “Language Settings”
above.
2Press or to select “CLOCK ADJ.”, and
press SET. The parameter for “Day” is
highlighted.
3Press or to input
the day, and press SET.
Repeat to input the month,
year, hour and minute.
4Press or to select
“BRETURN”, and press
SET twice. The Menu
Screen closes.
1Adjust the velcro strip.
2Pass your right hand
through the loop and grasp
the grip.
3Adjust your thumb and
fingers through the grip to
easily operate the
Recording Start/Stop
Button, Power Switch and
Power Zoom Lever. Be
sure to fasten the velcro strip to your preference.
1Set the Power Switch to “A” or “M” while
pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch.
2Make sure the LCD monitor is closed and
locked. Pull out the viewfinder fully and adjust it
manually for best viewability.
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.
Language Settings
Date/Time Settings
ON
D–OLEV.AU
NRETUR
LA
DASERACM I
YP
BRIGHT
LC
–
T/D
AU
MET–/TIDA E OT
OF
DEM–COTI E F
V
–
2
OKCL C
I
210.
JAD . 7
1
. 0 5
:30
NCREON S E
LANGUAGE ENGLISH
LA
DASERACM I YP
ENGLISH
LANGUAGE –
LA
D
ASERACM IY
P
2
OKCL C 210.
JAD . 7
1
. 0 5
:30
Grip Adjustment
Viewfinder Adjustment
PAUSE
Dioptre Adjustment Control
Example:
GR-DF428AH.book Page 16 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

EN 17
GETTING STARTED
MasterPage: Start_Right
GETTING STARTED
1Set the Power Switch
to “M” or “PLAY” while
pressing down the Lock
Button located on the
switch.
2Open the LCD monitor
fully. (墌pg. 19)
●To adjust the brightness of
the viewfinder, pull out the
viewfinder fully and set
“PRIORITY” to “FINDER”
(墌pg. 27, 30).
3Press MENU. The
Menu Screen appears.
4Press or to select “n”, and press SET.
The CAMERA DISPLAY or VIDEO DISPLAY
Menu appears.
5Press or to select “BRIGHT”, and press
SET. The Menu Screen closes and the
brightness control indicator appears.
6Press <or >until the appropriate brightness
is reached.
7Press MENU to clear the brightness control
indicator from the display.
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
HERE” to close the cassette holder.
●Be sure to press only the section labelled “PUSH
HERE” 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.
To protect valuable recordings
Slide the erase protection tab on the back of the
tape in the direction of “SAVE”. This prevents the
tape from being recorded over. To record on this
tape, slide the tab back to “REC” before loading
it.
Brightness Adjustment Of The
Display
Tripod Mounting
BRIGHT
MENU
SET
<
>
Loading/Unloading A Cassette
Make sure the window
side is facing out.
Cassette holder cover
Cassette holder
PUSH HERE
OPEN/EJECT
Erase
protection tab
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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GETTING STARTED
18 EN
MasterPage: Left
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 not
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.
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MasterPage: Video_Heading0_Right
EN 19
VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK
VIDEO RECORDING
NOTE:
Before continuing, perform the procedures listed
below:
●Power (墌pg. 13)
●Loading A Cassette (墌pg. 17)
1Remove the lens cap. (墌pg. 11)
2Open the LCD monitor fully.
3Set the Power Switch to “A” or “M” while
pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch.
●The POWER/CHARGE lamp lights and the
camcorder enters the Record-Standby mode.
“PAUSE” is displayed.
●To record in LP (Long Play) mode, 墌pg. 28.
4To start recording, press the Recording Start/
Stop Button. “TREC” appears on the display
while recording is in progress.
5To stop recording, press the Recording Start/
Stop Button again. The camcorder re-enters the
Record-Standby mode.
Approximate recording time
NOTES:
●If the Record-Standby mode continues for
5 minutes, 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. 21).
●To turn the beep sounds off, 墌pg. 27, 29.
Tape Remaining Time
Approximate tape remaining
time appears on the display.
“–h––m”meansthe
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.
LCD Monitor And Viewfinder
While using the LCD monitor:
Make sure the viewfinder is pushed back in. Pull
on the end of the LCD monitor and open the
LCD monitor fully. It can rotate 270° (90°
downward, 180° upward).
While using the viewfinder:
Make sure the LCD monitor is closed and
locked. Pull out the viewfinder fully.
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.
POWER/CHARGE Lamp
Recording Start/Stop Button
Power Switch
Lock Button
Power Zoom Lever
180˚
90˚
VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
GR-DF428AH.book Page 19 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

VIDEO RECORDING
20 EN
MasterPage: Left
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, 30)
●Coloured bright spots may appear all over the
LCD monitor or the viewfinder. However, this is not
a malfunction. (墌pg. 46)
Zooming
Produces the zoom in/out effect, or an
instantaneous change in image magnification.
Zoom In
Slide the Power Zoom Lever towards “T”.
Zoom Out
Slide the Power Zoom Lever towards “W”.
●The further you slide the Power Zoom Lever, the
quicker the zoom action.
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
(墌pg. 35), then zoom in or out in Record mode.
●Zooming is possible to a maximum of 700X, or it
can be switched to 15X magnification using the
optical zoom. (墌pg. 28)
●Zoom magnification of over 15X is done through
Digital image processing, and is therefore called
Digital Zoom.
●During Digital zoom, the quality of image may
suffer.
●
Macro shooting (as close as approx. 5 cm to the
subject) is possible when the Power Zoom Lever is
set all the way to “W”. Also see “TELE MACRO” in
MANUAL Menu on page 29.
●When shooting a subject close to the lens, zoom
out first. If zoomed-in in the auto focus mode, the
camcorder may automatically zoom out
depending on the distance between the
camcorder and the subject. This will not occur
when “TELE MACRO” is set to “ON”. (墌pg. 29)
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).
Self Recording
Open the LCD
monitor and tilt it
upward to 180° so
that it faces forward,
point the lens toward
yourself and start
recording.
10 x W T
1 x W T
10 x W T
20 x W T
40 x W T
Digital zoom zone
Zoom in (T: Telephoto)
Zoom out (W: Wide angle)
15X (optical) zoom zone
Approximate zoom ratio
Self
Recording
GR-DF428AH.book Page 20 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM