JVC GR-DV801 User manual

LYT1107-001A
Master Page: Cover1
EN
ENGLISH
GR-DV801
AUTOMATIC
DEMONSTRATION 9
GETTING STARTED 10
VIDEO RECORDING &
PLAYBACK 17
DIGITAL STILL CAMERA
(D.S.C.) RECORDING &
PLAYBACK
23
ADVANCED FEATURES 31
REFERENCES 68
TERMS 86
Please visit our Homepage on the World Wide
Web for Digital Video Camera:
For Accessories:
http://www.jvc-victor.co.jp/english/cyber/
http://www.jvc-victor.co.jp/english/accessory/
INSTRUCTIONS
For Customer Use:
Enter below the Model No. and Serial No. which is
located on the bottom of the camcorder. Retain this
information for future reference.
Model No.
Serial No.
DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA
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Using This Instruction Manual
●All major sections are listed in the Table Of Contents on the cover page.
●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 (墌pg. 80 – 85) and familiarize yourself with button locations, etc. before use.
… read thoroughly the Safety Precautions and Safety Instructions that follow. They contain extremely
important information regarding the safe use of this product.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Dear Customer,
Thank you for purchasing this digital video camera. Before use, please read the safety information and
precautions contained in the following pages to ensure safe use of this product.
You are recommended to carefully read the cautions on pages 74 through 76 before use.
WARNING:
TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
UNIT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an
equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the
product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude
to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in
the literature accompanying the appliance.
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 safty caution of the
AC Adapter are on its upper and lower sides.
CAUTIONS:
●This camcorder is designed to be used with
NTSC-type color 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.
●Use the JVC BN-V408U/V416U/V428U 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.)
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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 (3-15/16") 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.)
This product has a fluorescent lamp that contains a small amount of mercury. Disposal of these materials
may be regulated in your community due to environmental considerations.
For disposal or recycling information please contact your local authorities, or the Electronics Industries
Alliance:
<http://www.eiae.org>
IMPORTANT SAFTY INSTRUCTIONS
1) Read these instructions.
2) Keep these instructions.
3) Heed all warnings.
4) Follow all instructions.
5) Do not use this apparatus near water.
6) Clean only with dry cloth.
7) Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8) Do not install near any heat sources such as
radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce
heat.
9) Only use attachments/accessories specified by
the manufacturer.
10)Use only with the cart,
stand, tripod, bracket, or
table specified by the
manufacturer, or sold
with the apparatus.
When a cart is used, use
caution when moving
the cart/apparatus
combination to avoid
injury from tip-over.
11)Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or
when unused for long periods of time.
12)Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Servicing is required when the apparatus has
been damaged in any way, such as power-supply
cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled
or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the
apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture,
does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
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SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
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.
Attach only the optional JVC VL-V3U Video Light, VL-F3U Flash, MZ-V3U Stereo Zoom Microphone or
MZ-V5U Stereo Microphone to the camcorder’s Info-Shoe.
䡲This camcorder is designed exclusively for the digital video cassette, SD Memory Card and
MultiMediaCard. Only cassettes marked “ ” and memory cards marked “ ” or
“ ” can be used with this unit.
Before recording an important scene…
… make sure you only use cassettes with the Mini DV mark .
… make sure you only use memory cards with the mark or .
… 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.)
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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.
Provided Accessories
●AC Adapter
AP-V13U
●Battery Pack
BN-V408U-B
●Audio/Video Cable
(ø3.5 mini-plug to RCA
plug)
●USB Cable ●Editing Cable ●CD-ROM
●Remote Control Unit
RM-V717U
●Memory Card 8 MB
(Already inserted in the
camcorder)
●Lens Cap
(墌pg. 7 for
attachment)
●AAA (R03) Battery x 2
(for remote control unit)
●Shoulder Strap
(墌pg. 6 for
attachment)
●Audio Cable x 2
(for connection of
optional headphones
and external
microphone 墌pg. 6)
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How To Use The Audio Cable
When using optional headphones or external
microphone, connect to the provided Audio cable
(with a core filter attached), then connect the Audio
cable to the camcorder. The core filter reduces
interference.
How To Attach The Strap
1Following the illustration, thread the strap
through the eyelet a.
2Fold it back and thread it through the buckle b.
3Repeat the procedure to attach the other end of
the strap to the other eyelet clocated under the
Grip Strap.
4Confirm the strap is not twisted.
Headphones
Audio cable
(provided)
Core filter
Open the
connector cover.
To
(headphones)
Microphone
To MI C
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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.
●During shooting
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CONTENTS
AUTOMATIC DEMONSTRATION 9
GETTING STARTED 10
Power .......................................................................10
Grip Adjustment .......................................................12
Viewfinder Adjustment .............................................12
Tripod Mounting ......................................................12
LCD Monitor And Viewfinder ...................................12
Brightness Adjustment Of The Display ......................13
Operation Mode .......................................................13
Date/Time Settings ....................................................14
Loading A Cassette
/Unloading A Cassette ..........................................15
Loading A Memory Card
/Unloading A Memory Card .................................16
VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK 17
VIDEO RECORDING ....................................................17
Basic Recording ........................................................17
Tape Remaining Time ...............................................17
Zooming ...................................................................18
Journalistic Shooting .................................................18
Time Code ................................................................19
Recording From The Middle Of A Tape ....................19
VIDEO PLAYBACK ......................................................20
Normal Playback ......................................................20
Still Playback ............................................................20
Shuttle Search ...........................................................21
Blank Search ............................................................21
Connections To A TV Or VCR ..................................22
DIGITAL STILL CAMERA (D.S.C.) RECORDING &
PLAYBACK 23
D.S.C. RECORDING .....................................................23
Basic Shooting (D.S.C. Snapshot) ..............................23
D.S.C. PLAYBACK .......................................................24
Normal Playback Of Images .....................................24
Auto Playback Of Images .........................................24
Playback Of Video Clips ...........................................25
Playback Of Title Images ..........................................25
Index Playback Of Files ............................................26
Viewing File Information ..........................................26
Removing On-Screen Display ...................................26
Protecting Files .........................................................27
Deleting Files ...........................................................28
Resetting The File Name ...........................................29
Setting Print Information (DPOF Setting) ...................29
Initializing A Memory Card ......................................30
ADVANCED FEATURES 31
MENUS FOR DETAILED ADJUSTMENT .......................... 31
Changing The Menu Settings .................................... 31
RECORDING MENUS .................................................. 32
Wipe Or Fader Effects .............................................. 32
Program AE With Special Effects ...............................33
White Balance Adjustment ....................................... 34
PLAYBACK MENUS ..................................................... 40
FEATURES FOR RECORDING .......................................42
Night Alive ............................................................... 42
Snapshot (For Video Recording) ............................... 42
Self-Timer ................................................................. 43
Title Impose ............................................................. 44
Auto Focus ............................................................... 45
Manual Focus ........................................................... 45
Exposure Control ...................................................... 46
Iris Lock ................................................................... 46
Backlight Compensation ........................................... 47
White Balance Adjustment ....................................... 47
Manual White Balance Adjustment ..........................47
NAVIGATION Function ........................................... 48
E-Mail Clip Recording .............................................. 50
DUBBING .................................................................. 52
Dubbing To Or From A VCR .................................... 52
Dubbing To A Video Unit Equipped With
A DV IN Connector (Digital Dubbing) .................. 53
Dubbing From A Video Unit Equipped With
A DV OUT Connector (Digital Dubbing) .............. 54
Dubbing Still Images Recorded On A Tape To
A Memory Card .................................................... 55
USING THE REMOTE CONTROL UNIT ........................... 56
Audio Dubbing ........................................................ 59
Insert Editing ............................................................ 60
Random Assemble Editing [R.A.Edit] ........................ 60
SYSTEM CONNECTIONS .............................................. 66
Connection To A Personal Computer ....................... 66
Using The Camcorder As A WebCam ....................... 67
REFERENCE 68
DETAILS .................................................................... 68
TROUBLESHOOTING ................................................... 69
CAUTIONS ................................................................. 74
USER MAINTENANCE .................................................. 77
SPECIFICATIONS ........................................................ 78
INDEX ....................................................................... 80
TERMS 86
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AUTOMATIC DEMONSTRATION
Automatic Demonstration takes place when “DEMO
MODE” is set to “ON” (factory-preset).
䡲Automatic Demonstration starts when there is no
operation for about 3 minutes after the Power
Switch is set to “A” or “M” and no cassette is in
the camcorder.
䡲Performing any operation during the
demonstration stops the demonstration
temporarily. If no operation is performed for more
than 3 minute after that, the demonstration will
resume.
䡲“DEMO MODE” remains “ON” even if the
camcorder power is turned off.
To cancel Automatic Demonstration
1Set the Power Switch to “M” while pressing down
the Lock Button located on the switch.
2Open the LCD monitor fully, or pull out the
viewfinder fully.
3Press the MENU Wheel in. The Menu Screen
appears.
4Rotate the MENU Wheel to select “s”, and
press it. The SYSTEM Menu appears.
5Rotate the MENU Wheel to select “DEMO
MODE”, and press it. The Sub Menu appears.
6Rotate the MENU Wheel to select “OFF”, and
press it.
7Rotate the MENU Wheel to select “BRETURN”,
and press it twice. The normal screen appears.
NOTE:
Detach the lens cap to see the actual changes of the
Automatic Demonstration activated on the LCD
monitor or viewfinder.
Automatic Demonstration
ST
MSY E
DEM–MODE O
NO
OFF
Power Switch
Lock Button
MENU Wheel
Sub Menu
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10 EN
GETTING STARTED
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
1With the arrow on the battery pack pointing
upward, push the battery pack slightly against the
battery pack mount a.
2Slide up the battery pack until it locks in place b.
3Set the Power Switch to “OFF” while pressing
down the Lock Button located on the switch.
4Connect the AC Adapter to the camcorder c.
5Plug the AC Adapter into an AC outlet d.
6The power/charge lamp on the camcorder blinks
to indicate charging has started.
7When the power/charge lamp goes out, charging
is finished.
8Unplug the AC Adapter from the AC outlet.
9Disconnect the AC Adapter from the camcorder.
To detach the battery pack...
Slide the battery pack down slightly while sliding
BATT. RELEASE to detach it.
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 AC Adapter, 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.
●Using the optional AA-V40 AC Power Adapter/
Charger, you can charge the BN-V408U/V416U/
V428U battery pack without the camcorder.
However, it cannot be used as an AC Adapter.
●For other notes, 墌pg. 68.
Using The Battery Pack
Perform steps 1and 2in “Charging The Battery
Pack” in the left column.
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.
●Before extended use, it is recommended that you
prepare enough battery packs to cover 3 times the
planned shooting time.
Power
BATT.RELEASE Switch
To AC o utlet
d
Open the cover.
AC Adapter
Power Switch
Power/Charge Lamp
Lock Button
To DC connector
c
Arrow
Battery pack Charging time
BN-V408U Approx. 1 hr. 30 min.
BN-V416U
(optional) Approx. 2 hr.
BN-V428U
(optional) Approx. 3 hr. 20 min.
Battery pack LCD monitor on Viewfinder on
BN-V408U* 1 hr. 10 min. 1 hr. 30 min.
BN-V416U 2 hr. 20 min. 3 hr.
BN-V428U 4 hr. 5 hr. 10 min.
BN-V840U 5 hr. 30 min. 7 hr. 15 min.
BN-V856U 7 hr. 40 min. 10 hr. 20 min.
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INFORMATION:
The optional extended-use battery pack kit is a set
composed of a battery pack and AC Power Adapter/
Charger:
VU-V840 KIT: BN-V840U battery pack & AA-V15U
AC Power Adapter/Charger
VU-V856 KIT: BN-V856U battery pack & AA-V80U
AC Power Adapter/Charger
Read the kit’s instruction manual before using.
Also, by using the optional JVC VC-VBN856U DC
Cord, it will be possible to connect BN-V840U or
BN-V856U battery packs to the camcorder and
supply power directly to the camcorder.
NOTE:
It is not possible to use the optional VL-V3U Video
Light, VL-F3U Flash, MZ-V3U Stereo Zoom
Microphone or MZ-V5U Stereo Microphone if the
BN-V840U or BN-V856U battery pack is used.
Using AC Power
1Connect the AC Adapter to the camcorder a.
2Plug the AC Adapter into an AC outlet b.
NOTES:
●The provided AC Adapter features automatic
voltage selection in the AC range from 110 V to
240 V.
●For other notes, 墌pg. 68.
About Batteries
Lithium-ion is vulnerable in colder temperatures.
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.
The Benefits Of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion battery packs are small but have a large
power capacity. However, when one is exposed to
cold temperatures (below 10°C/50°F), its usage time
becomes shorter and it may cease to function. If this
happens, place the battery pack in your pocket or
other warm, protected place for a short time, then
re-attach it to the camcorder. As long as the battery
pack itself is not cold, it should not affect
performance.
(If you’re using a heating pad, make sure the battery
pack does not come in direct contact with it.)
For other notes, 墌pg. 68.
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.
To AC outlet
b
Open the cover.
AC Adapter
To DC connector
a
GETTING STARTED
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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.
2Pull out the viewfinder fully and adjust it
manually for best viewability.
3Turn the Diopter Adjustment Control until the
indications in the viewfinder are clearly focused.
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.
While using the LCD monitor:
Make sure the viewfinder is pushed back in. Press
PUSH OPEN and open the LCD monitor fully. It can
rotate 270º (90º downward, 180º upward).
While using the viewfinder:
Make sure the LCD monitor is closed and locked.
Pull out the viewfinder fully.
●Be sure to pull out the viewfinder until you hear a
click, otherwise it may be pushed back in during
use.
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. 31, 38)
●Colored bright spots may appear all over the LCD
monitor or the viewfinder. However, this is not a
malfunction. (墌pg. 73)
Grip Adjustment
Viewfinder Adjustment
Tripod Mounting
PAUSE
Diopter Adjustment
Control
CAUTION:
When attaching the camcorder to a tripod, extend
its legs to stabilize the camcorder. It is not advised
to use small sized tripods. This may cause damage
to the unit by falling over.
LCD Monitor And Viewfinder
180˚
PUSH OPEN Button
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1Set the Power Switch to “M” or “PLAY” while
pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch.
2Open the LCD monitor fully, or pull out the
viewfinder fully.
3Press the MENU Wheel in. The Menu Screen
appears.
4Rotate the MENU Wheel to select “n”, and
press it. The CAMERA DISPLAY Menu appears.
5Rotate the MENU Wheel to select “BRIGHT”,
and press it. The Menu Screen closes and the
brightness control indicator appears.
6Rotate the MENU Wheel until the appropriate
brightness is reached.
7Press the MENU Wheel in.
●It is also possible to adjust the brightness of the
viewfinder.
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 and
VIDEO/MEMORY 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.
Brightness Adjustment Of The
Display
Operation Mode
BR I GHT
MENU Wheel
Power/Charge
Lamp
VIDEO/MEMORY Switch
Power Switch
Lock Button
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.
M(Manual Recording):
Allows you to set various recording functions
using the Menus. (墌pg. 31)
If you want more creative capabilities than Full
Auto Recording, try this mode.
There is no indication on the display.
OFF:
Allows you to switch off the camcorder.
PLAY:
●Allows you to play back a recording on the tape.
●Allows you to play back a video clip on the
memory card.
●Allows you to display a still image stored in the
memory card or to transfer a still image stored in
the memory card to a PC.
●Allows you to set various playback functions
using the Menus. (墌pg. 31)
VIDEO/MEMORY Switch Position
VIDEO:
Allows you to record on a tape or play back a
tape. If “REC SELECT” is set to “ / ”
(墌pg. 39), still images are recorded both on the
tape and the memory card.
MEMORY:
●Allows you to record in a memory card or
access data stored in a memory card.
●When the Power Switch is set to “A” or “M”, the
currently selected image size appears.
GETTING STARTED
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The date/time is recorded onto the tape at all times,
but its display can be turned on or off during
playback. (墌pg. 31, 41)
1Set the Power Switch to “M” while pressing down
the Lock Button located on the switch.
2Open the LCD monitor fully, or pull out the
viewfinder fully.
3Press the MENU Wheel in.
The Menu Screen appears.
4Rotate the MENU Wheel
to select “n”, and press
it. The CAMERA DISPLAY
Menu appears.
5Rotate the MENU Wheel
to select “CLOCK ADJ.”,
and press it. The
parameter for “Month” is highlighted.
6Rotate the MENU Wheel
to input the month, and
press it. Repeat to input
the day, year, hour and
minute.
7Rotate the MENU Wheel
to select “BRETURN”, and
press it twice. The Menu Screen closes.
Built-in Clock’s Rechargeable Lithium Battery
To store the date/time in memory, the clock’s
rechargeable lithium battery is integrated in the
camcorder. While the camcorder is connected to an
AC outlet using the AC Adapter, or while the battery
pack attached to the camcorder continues to supply
power, the clock’s rechargeable lithium battery is
always charged. However, if the camcorder is not
used for approx. 3 months, the clock’s lithium
battery will become discharged and the date/time
stored in memory will be lost. When this occurs, first
connect the camcorder to an AC outlet using the AC
Adapter for over 24 hours to charge the clock’s
rechargeable lithium battery. Then perform the date/
time setting before using the camcorder.
Note that the camcorder can be used without setting
the date/time.
NOTE:
Even if you select “CLOCK ADJ.”, if the parameter is
not highlighted, the camcorder’s internal clock
continues to operate. Once you move the highlight
bar to the first date/time parameter (month), the
clock stops. When you finish setting the minute and
press the MENU Wheel in, the date and time begin
operation from the date and time you have just set.
Date/Time Settings
Power/Charge
Lamp
Power Switch
Lock Button
MENU Wheel
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EN 15
Master Page: Right
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 labeled
“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.
Approximate recording time
To switch the recording mode, refer to pages 31 and
34.
NOTES:
●It takes a few seconds for the cassette holder to
open. Do not apply force.
●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.
●Closing the cassette holder cover before the
cassette holder recedes may cause damage to the
camcorder.
●Even when the camcorder is switched off, a
cassette can be loaded or unloaded. After the
cassette holder is closed with the camcorder
switched off, however, it may not recede. It is
recommended to turn the power on before
loading or unloading.
●When resuming recording, once you open the
cassette holder cover a blank portion will be
recorded on the tape or a previously recorded
scene will be erased (recorded over) regardless of
whether the cassette holder came out or not. See
“Recording From The Middle Of A Tape”
(墌pg. 19).
Loading A Cassette
/Unloading A Cassette
Make sure the
window side is
facing out.
Cassette
holder cover
Cassette holder
PUSH HERE
OPEN/EJECT Switch
Erase protection tab
Tape Recording mode
SP LP
30 min. 30 min. 45 min.
60 min. 60 min. 90 min.
80 min. 80 min. 120 min.
GETTING STARTED
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16 EN
Master Page: Left-Heading0
The provided memory card is already inserted in the
camcorder at the time of purchase.
1Make sure the camcorder’s power is off.
2Open the card cover (MEMORY CARD).
3To load a memory card, firmly insert it with its
clipped edge first.
To unload a memory card, push it once. After the
memory card comes out of the camcorder, pull it
out.
●Do not touch the terminal on the reverse side
of the label.
4Close the card cover.
To protect valuable files (available only for SD
Memory Card)…
Slide the write/erase protection tab on the side of the
memory card in the direction of “LOCK”. This
prevents the memory card from being recorded over.
To record on this memory card, slide the tab back to
the position opposite to “LOCK” before loading it.
NOTES:
●Be sure to use only SD Memory Cards marked
“ ” or MultiMediaCards marked
“”.
●Some brands of memory cards are not compatible
with this camcorder. Before purchasing a memory
card, consult its manufacturer or dealer.
●Before using a new memory card, it is necessary to
FORMAT the card. (墌pg. 30)
A
TTENTION:
Do not insert or remove the memory card while the
camcorder is turned on, as this may cause the
memory card to be corrupted or cause the
camcorder to become unable to recognize whether
or not the card is installed.
Loading A Memory Card
/Unloading A Memory Card
Memory card
Clipped edge
Card Cover (MEMORY CARD)
Label
Write/erase protection tab
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EN 17
Master Page: Right-start
VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK
VIDEO RECORDING
NOTE:
Before continuing, perform the procedures listed
below:
●Power (墌pg. 10)
●Loading A Cassette (墌pg. 15)
1Remove the lens cap.
2Press PUSH OPEN and open the LCD monitor
fully, or pull out the viewfinder fully.
3Set the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch to “VIDEO”.
4Set 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.
5To start recording, press the Recording Start/Stop
Button. The tally lamp lights and “TREC”
appears on the display while recording is in
progress.
6To stop recording, press the Recording Start/Stop
Button again. The camcorder re-enters the
Record-Standby mode.
NOTES:
●The image will not appear simultaneously on the
LCD monitor and the viewfinder.
●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.
●LCD monitor/viewfinder indications:
• When power is supplied from a battery: the
“ ” battery indicator is displayed. (墌pg. 84)
• When power is supplied from an AC outlet: the
“ ” battery indicator does not appear.
●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. 19).
●To turn the tally lamp or beep sounds off,
墌pg. 31, 37.
●To record in LP (Long Play) mode, 墌pg. 31, 34.
●For other notes, 墌pg. 68.
Tape Remaining Time
Approximate tape remaining time appears on the
display. “– h – – m” means the camcorder is
calculating the remaining time. When the remaining
time reaches 2 minutes, the indication starts
blinking.
Basic Recording
Power/Charge Lamp
VIDEO/MEMORY Switch
Recording Start/Stop Button
Power Switch
Lock Button
Tally Lamp
(Lights while recording is in
progress.)
Power Zoom Lever
PUSH OPEN Button
0 h 25 m
– h– – m1 h 0 m0 h 3 m
0
h 2 m0 h 1 m0 h 0 m
0
h 5 9 m
(Blinking) (Blinking) (Blinking)
(Now calculating)
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18 EN
Master Page: Left
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. 45), then zoom in or out in Record mode.
●Zooming is possible to a maximum of 300X, or it
can be switched to 10X magnification using the
optical zoom. (墌pg. 35)
●Zoom magnification of over 10X is done through
Digital image processing, and is therefore called
Digital Zoom.
●During Digital zoom, the quality of image may
suffer.
●Digital zoom cannot be used when the VIDEO/
MEMORY Switch is set to “MEMORY”.
●Macro shooting (as close as approx. 5 cm (2”) 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 36.
●For other notes, 墌pg. 68.
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 270º (90º downward,
180º upward).
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)
10X (optical) zoom zone
Approximate zoom ratio
VIDEO RECORDING (cont.)
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EN 19
Master Page: Right
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.
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.
To perform Random Assemble Editing (墌pg. 60 –
65), time code is necessary. 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. 19)
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.
Recording From The Middle Of A Tape
1) Play back a tape or use Blank Search (墌pg. 21)
to find the spot at which you want to start
recording, then engage the Still Playback mode.
(墌pg. 20)
2) Set the Power Switch to “A” or “M” while
pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch, then start recording.
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. 38)
When a blank portion is recorded on a tape
Proper recording
12:34:24
Frames are not displayed
during recording.
Minutes
Seconds
Frames
(30 frames = 1 second)
Display
Time code
00:00:00
Tape Already
recorded scene Blank Newlyrecorded
scene
Time code
05:43:21 Time code 00:00:00
Shooting start
point Shooting stop point Shooting start point
Time code
00:00:00
Tap e Already
recorded scene New
scene Latest scene
Time code
05:43:21 Time code 05:44:00
Shooting start
point Shooting start point Shooting start point
VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK
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20 EN
Master Page: Left-Heading0
VIDEO PLAYBACK
1Load a cassette. (墌pg. 15)
2Set the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch to “VIDEO”.
3Set the Power Switch to “PLAY” while pressing
down the Lock Button located on the switch.
4To start playback, press 4/9.
5To stop playback, press 8.
●During Stop mode, press 3to rewind, or
5to fast-forward the tape.
NOTES:
●Clean the video heads using an optional dry
cleaning cassette when:
• No picture during playback.
• Blocks of noise appear during playback.
For details, 墌pg. 75.
●If Stop mode continues for 5 minutes when power
is supplied from a battery, the camcorder shuts off
automatically. To turn on again, set the Power
Switch to “OFF”, then to “PLAY”.
●The playback picture can be viewed in the LCD
monitor, viewfinder or on a connected TV.
(墌pg. 22)
●You can also view the playback picture on the
LCD monitor with it flipped over and pushed
against the camcorder body.
●LCD monitor/viewfinder indications:
• When power is supplied from a battery: the
“ ” battery indicator is displayed. (墌pg. 84)
• When power is supplied from an AC outlet: the
“ ” battery indicator does not appear.
●When a cable is connected to the AV connector,
the sound is not heard from the speaker.
To control the speaker volume…
Rotate the MENU Wheel towards “+” to turn up the
volume, or towards “–” to turn down the volume.
Still Playback
Pauses during video playback.
1) Press 4/9during playback.
2) To resume normal playback, press 4/9again.
●If still playback continues for more than about
3 minutes, the camcorder’s Stop mode is
automatically engaged.
●When 4/9is pressed, the image may not
pause immediately while the camcorder
stabilizes the still image.
Normal Playback
Speaker
Play/Pause Button (4/9)
Lock Button
Rewind Button (3)
VIDEO/MEMORY Switch
Power Switch
Stop Button (8)
MENU Wheel (VOLUME)
Fast-Forward Button (5
)
GR-DV801US.book Page 20 Wednesday, January 22, 2003 5:39 PM