JVC GR-DVL320A User manual

Please visit our Homepage on the World Wide Web and
answer our Consumer Survey (in English only):
http://www.jvc-victor.co.jp/english/index-e.html
For Accessories:
http://www.jvc-victor.co.jp/english/accessory/
The camcorder illustrations appearing in this
instruction manual are of the GR-DVL720.
ENGLISH
CONTENTS
AUTOMATIC DEMONSTRATION 6
GETTING STARTED 7 – 14
TAPE
RECORDING & PLAYBACK 15 – 24
TAPE RECORDING ........................ 16 – 20
TAPE PLAYBACK .......................... 21 – 24
MEMORY CARD
RECORDING & PLAYBACK 25 – 34
MEMORY CARD RECORDING ......... 26 – 27
MEMORY CARD PLAYBACK ............ 28 – 34
ADVANCED FEATURES 35 – 65
FOR RECORDING ........................... 36 – 43
USING THE MENU FOR
DETAILED ADJUSTMENT ..............
44 – 49
DUBBING ..................................... 50 – 52
USING THE REMOTE CONTROL UNIT ... 53 – 64
SYSTEM CONNECTIONS ......................... 65
REFERENCES 66 – Back Cover
DETAILS ............................................. 67
TROUBLESHOOTING ...................... 68 – 73
USER MAINTENANCE ............................ 74
CAUTIONS .................................... 75 – 77
SPECIFICATIONS ........................... 78 – 79
INDEX ......................................... 80 – 86
TERMS ............................... 87 – Back Cover
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.
INSTRUCTIONS
Memory card recording features are available
on GR-DVL720 and GR-DVL520.
GR-DVL720
GR-DVL520
GR-DVL320
DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA
EN
LYT0869-001B

2 EN
Using This Instruction Manual
• All major sections and subsections 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pgs. 80 – 86) 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.
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.
You are recommended to carefully read the cautions on pages 75 through 77 before use.
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.
WARNING:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE
OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS TO
RAIN OR MOISTURE.
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.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
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 anAC outlet, use the provided multi-voltage ACAdapter. (An appropriate conversion adapter may be
necessary to accommodate different designs of AC outlets in different countries.)

EN 3
(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.
IMPORTANT PRODUCT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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.)
(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.

4 EN
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 shoulder 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 the unit on top of the TV is
not recommended, as tripping on the cables will cause the camcorder to fall, resulting in damage.
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.)
* Memory cards can be used with GR-DVL720/DVL520 only.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

EN 5
PROVIDED ACCESSORIES
NOTE:
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.
Remote Control
Unit RM-V717U
(GR-DVL720 only)
CD-ROMAAA (R03) Battery x 2
(for remote control unit)
Audio/Video Cable
(ø3.5 mini-plug to RCA plug) Editing Cable (GR-DVL720 only)
Shoulder Strap
Memory Card 8 MB
(GR-DVL720/DVL520 only)
(Already inserted in the
camcorder)
USB Cable
(GR-DVL720/DVL520 only)
Battery Pack
BN-V408U
AC Adapter AP-V10U,
AP-V11U or AP-V12U Remote Control Unit RM-V715U (GR-
DVL520/DVL320 only)
Lens Cap
(墌pg. 6 for attachment)
PC Connection Cable
(GR-DVL320 only)

6 EN
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 “
AUTO
”or
“
MANUAL
”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 minutes after that, the demonstration will resume.
䡲“DEMO MODE”remains “ON”even if the camcorder power is
turned off.
䡲To cancelAutomatic Demonstration:
1. Set the Power Switch to “
MANUAL
”while pressing down the
Lock Button located on the switch and press the MENU/
BRIGHT wheel in. The Menu Screen appears.
2. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select “SYSTEM”
and press it. The SYSTEM Menu appears.
3. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select “DEMO MODE”
and press it. The Sub Menu appears.
4. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select “OFF”and press
it.
5. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select “RETURN”,
and press it twice. The normal screen appears.
NOTE:
If you do not detach the Lens Cap, you cannot see the actual changes of the Automatic Demonstration activated on
the LCD monitor or viewfinder.
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 camera.
AUTOMATIC DEMONSTRATION
1 2 3
MODEDEMO –ON OFF
MENU/BRIGHT Wheel
Sub Menu
GR-DVL720/DVL520 only
Lock Button
Power Switch

EN 7
GETTING STARTED
GETTING STARTED
CONTENTS
Power.................................................. 8 – 9
Grip Adjustment ......................................... 10
Viewfinder Adjustment.................................. 10
Shoulder Strap Attachment ............................. 10
Tripod Mounting.......................................... 10
Date/Time Settings...................................... 11
Loading/Unloading A Cassette ......................... 12
Recording Mode Setting................................. 13
Loading A Memory Card (GR-DVL720/DVL520 only) ..... 14
Picture Quality/Image Size Setting
(GR-DVL720/DVL520 only).................................. 14

8 EN
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 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.
●Using the optionalAA-V40UAC 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.
Battery pack
BN-V408U
BN-V416U (optional)
BN-V428U (optional)
Charging time
approx. 1 hr. 30 min.
approx. 3 hrs.
approx. 5 hrs.
Power
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
1Tilt the viewfinder upward 1. With the arrow on
the battery pack pointing downward, push the battery
pack slightly against the battery pack mount 2, then
slide down the battery pack until it locks in place 3.
2Set the Power Switch to “OFF”. Connect the AC
Adapter to the camcorder 4.
3Plug theAC Adapter into anAC outlet 5.
The CHARGE lamp on the camcorder blinks to
indicate charging has started.
4When the CHARGE lamp stops blinking but stays
lit, charging is finished. Unplug theAC Adapter from
theAC outlet. Disconnect theAC Adapter from the
camcorder.
To Detach The Battery Pack . . .
.....Press BATT. RELEASE and pull out the battery
pack.
GETTING STARTED (cont.)
3
2
1
54
To AC outlet
Battery pack
AC Adapter
CHARGE Lamp
To DC
connector
BATT. RELEASE Button
Power Switch
For other notes, 墌pg. 67

EN 9
ATTENTION
Before detaching the power source, make sure that
the camcorder’s power is turned off. Failure to do so
can result in a camcorder malfunction.
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.
USING THE BATTERY PACK
Perform step 1of “CHARGING THE BATTERY
PACK”(墌pg. 8).
Approximate recording time
( ) : when the video light is on
USING AC POWER
Use the AC Adapter (connect as shown in the
illustration).
NOTES:
●The provided ACAdapter features automatic voltage
selection in the AC range from 110 V to 240 V.
●For other notes, 墌pg. 67.
Battery
pack
BN-V408U
BN-V416U
(optional)
BN-V428U
(optional)
BN-V840U
(optional)
BN-V856U
(optional)
LCD monitor on
1 hr.
(35 min.)
2 hrs.
(1 hr. 10 min.)
3 hrs. 30 min.
(2 hrs.)
5 hrs.
(2 hrs. 50 min.)
7 hrs.
(4 hrs.)
Viewfinder on
1 hr. 15 min.
(40 min.)
2 hrs. 30 min.
(1 hr. 20 min.)
4 hrs. 20 min.
(2 hrs. 20 min.)
6 hrs. 10 min.
(3 hrs. 20 min.)
8 hrs. 40 min.
(4 hrs. 40 min.)
INFORMATION
The extended-use battery pack kit is a set composed of a battery pack andAC Power Adapter/Charger:
VU-V840 KIT: BN-V840U battery pack & AA-V15U AC PowerAdapter/Charger
VU-V856 KIT: BN-V856U battery pack & AA-V80U AC PowerAdapter/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.
Lithium-ion is vulnerable in colder temperatures.
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.
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.)
To DC connectorTo AC outlet
AC Adapter

10 EN
GETTING STARTED (cont.)
Grip Adjustment
1Separate 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 and
Power Switch and Power Zoom Lever. Be sure to
fasten the Velcro strip to your preference.
Viewfinder Adjustment
1Set the Power Switch to “
AUTO
”or “
MANUAL
”
while pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch.
2Turn the DiopterAdjustment Control until the
indications in the viewfinder are clearly focused.
Shoulder Strap Attachment
1Make sure the battery pack is removed. Following
the illustration, thread the strap through the eyelet 1,
then fold it back and thread it through the buckle 2.
Repeat the procedure to attach the other end of the
strap to the other eyelet 3located under the Grip
Strap . Confirm the strap is not twisted.
Tripod Mounting
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.
1To 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.
PAUSE
2
1
3
Diopter
Adjustment Control
Power Switch
Recording Start/
Stop button
Power
Zoom Lever

EN 11
Date/Time Settings
The date/time is recorded onto the tape at all times,
but its display can be turned on or off during playback
(墌pg. 48, 49).
1Set the Power Switch to “
MANUAL
”while pressing
down the Lock Button located on the switch. The
power lamp lights and the camcorder is turned on.
2Press the MENU/BRIGHT wheel in to access the
Menu Screen.
3Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select
“DISPLAY”. Press it and the DISPLAY Menu
appears.
4Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select
“CLOCK ADJ.”. Press it and “month”is highlighted.
Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to input the month.
Press it. Repeat to input the day, year, hour and
minute.
Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select
“RETURN”, and press it twice. The Menu Screen
closes.
NOTE:
Even if you select “CLOCKADJ.”, 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/BRIGHT wheel
in, the date and time begin operation from the date and
time you just set.
OF F
FADER
/W I P E AM AEPROGR
ACAMERLMANUAMSYSTE
DSC
END
AYDISPL
C
AN E
W. BAL
RE NEON SC LCD / TV
UAOT
IMETDATE /
T IME CODE
CLOCK
ADJ .
–
–
–FFO
25 ’02 CED
30 PM :5
NRETUR
CLOCK
ADJ .
25 ’02 CED
30 PM :5
EXPOSURE
Display
MENU/BRIGHT Wheel
Power Switch
Lock Button
DISPLAY Menu
Power Lamp
GR-DVL720/DVL520
only

12 EN
GETTING STARTED (cont.)
Loading/Unloading A Cassette
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.
•Once the cassette holder is closed, it recedes
automatically. Wait until it recedes completely before
closing the cassette holder cover.
•When the battery’s charge is low, you may not be
able to close the cassette holder cover. Do not apply
force. Replace the battery with a fully charged one
before continuing.
3Close the cassette holder cover firmly until it
locks into place.
Tape Recording mode
SP LP
30 min. 30 min. 45 min.
60 min. 60 min. 90 min.
80 min. 80 min. 120 min.
Approximate recording time
* 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.
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.
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 comes out 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 page 20 for information about recording from the middle of a tape.
●Loosen the Grip Strap if it appears to interfere with the cassette holder cover operation (墌pg. 10).
OPEN/EJECT
Switch
Cassette
holder
PUSH HERE Cassette holder cover
Make sure the
window side is
facing out.
Erase protection tab*

EN 13
Recording Mode Setting
Set the tape recording mode depending on your
preference.
1Set the Power Switch to “
MANUAL
”while pressing
down the Lock Button located on the switch. The
power lamp lights and the camcorder is turned on.
2Press the MENU/BRIGHT wheel in. The Menu
Screen appears.
3Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select
“CAMERA”and press it. The CAMERAMenu
appears.
4Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select “REC
MODE”and press it.The Sub Menu appears. Select
“SP”or “LP”by rotating the MENU/BRIGHT wheel
and press it. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to
select “RETURN”, and press it twice. The Menu
Screen closes.
•Audio Dubbing (墌pg. 63) and Insert Editing
(墌pg. 64) are possible on tapes recorded in the
SP mode.
•“LP”(Long Play) is more economical, providing
1.5 times the recording time.
NOTES:
●If the recording mode is switched during recording, the
playback picture will be blurred at the switching point.
●It is recommended that tapes recorded in the LP mode
on this camcorder be played back on this camcorder.
●During playback of a tape recorded on another
camcorder, blocks of noise may appear or there may be
momentary pauses in the sound.
SPREC MODE –LP
Display
Menu Screen
Sub Menu
MENU/BRIGHT Wheel
Power Switch
Lock Button
Power Lamp
GR-DVL720/DVL520 only

14 EN
GETTING STARTED (cont.)
Memory card
Card Cover
Clipped edge
Label
TYQUAL I
REC SELECT
STANDARD
021X7486 IMAGE SIZE – –
–
NRETUR
Display
MENU/BRIGHT Wheel
Power Switch
Lock Button
Power Lamp
Loading A Memory Card
(GR-DVL720/DVL520 only)
The provided memory card is already inserted in the
camcorder when you receive the camcorder.
1Make sure the camcorder’s power is off.
2Press PUSH OPEN and open the LCD monitor,
then open the card cover (MEMORY CARD).
3Insert the memory card clipped edge first.
•Do not touch the terminal on the reverse side of the
label.
4To close the card cover, push it until you hear a
click.
To Unload A Memory Card . . .
..... in step 3push the memory card, which then
comes out of the camcorder automatically. Pull it
out and close the card cover.
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. 34.
ATTENTION
Do not insert/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.
Picture Quality/Image Size Setting
(GR-DVL720/DVL520 only)
The Picture Quality/Image Size can be selected to
best match your needs. Refer to the chart below for
your selection.
1Set the Power Switch to “
MANUAL
”while pressing
down the Lock Button located on the switch. The
power lamp lights and the camcorder turns on.
2Press the MENU/BRIGHT wheel in. The Menu
Screen appears.
3Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select
“DSC”and press it. The DSC Menu appears.
4Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select
“QUALITY”and press it. The Sub Menu appears.
Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select the
desired mode and press it.
5Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select
“IMAGE SIZE”and press it. The Sub Menu appears.
Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select the
desired mode and press it.
6Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to select
“RETURN”, and press it twice. The Menu Screen
closes.
NOTE:
The number of storable images depends on the selected
picture quality as well as the composition of the subjects
in the images and the type of memory card being used.
Approximate Number of Storable Images
(Provided 8 MB Memory Card)
IMAGE SIZE
1024 x 768
640 x 480
QUALITY
FINE
20
45
STANDARD
65
160
For other memory cards, 墌pg. 27.

EN 15
TAPE RECORDING
&
PLAYBACK
CONTENTS
TAPE RECORDING ....................... 16 – 20
Basic Recording..................................... 16
Journalistic Shooting ............................... 17
Self-Recording ...................................... 17
Operation Mode .................................... 17
Zooming ............................................ 18
Video Light ......................................... 19
Time Code ........................................... 20
TAPE PLAYBACK ......................... 21 – 24
Normal Playback ................................... 21
Still Playback ....................................... 21
Shuttle Search ...................................... 21
Frame-By-Frame Playback ........................ 21
Connections .................................. 22 – 23
Blank Search ........................................ 24
TAPE RECORDING & PLAYBACK

16 EN
TAPE RECORDING
Basic Recording
NOTE:
You should already have performed the procedures
listed below. If not, do so before continuing.
●Power (墌pg. 8)
●GripAdjustment (墌pg. 10)
●Viewfinder Adjustment (墌pg. 10)
●LoadACassette (墌pg. 12)
●Recording Mode Setting (墌pg. 13)
1Remove the lens cap.
GR-DVL720/DVL520 only: Press PUSH OPEN,
open the LCD monitor and set the VIDEO/MEMORY
Switch to “VIDEO”.
2Set the Power Switch to “
AUTO
”or “
MANUAL
”
while pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch.
Shooting while using the LCD monitor: Make sure
the LCD monitor is fully open. Tilt it upward/
downward for best viewability.
Shooting while using the viewfinder: Close the
LCD monitor.
•The power lamp lights and the camcorder enters the
Record-Standby mode. “PAUSE”is displayed.
3Press the Recording Start/Stop Button. “ ”
appears while recording is in progress.
To Stop Recording . . .
.....press the Recording Start/Stop Button. The
camcorder re-enters the Record-Standby mode.
To Adjust The Brightness Of The Display . . .
.....rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel until the bright
level indicator on the display moves and the
appropriate brightness is reached.
NOTES:
●If the Record-Standby mode continues for 5 minutes,
the camcorder’s power shuts off automatically. To turn
the camcorder on again, set the Power Switch to
“OFF”, then back to “
AUTO
”or “
MANUAL
”.
●The image will not appear simultaneously on the LCD
monitor and the viewfinder. It will appear in the
viewfinder when the LCD monitor is in the lock position,
and it will appear on the LCD monitor when fully
extended.
●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 turn the tally lamp or beep sounds off, 墌pg. 44,
46.
25 min
BR I GHT
90 min 89 min 3 min
2 min
1 min0 min
min
180°90°
Power lamp
Tally lamp (lights
while recording is
in progress)
Lock Button
Recording Start/Stop Button
Tape remaining
time indicator
(Approximate)
(Now calculating)
(Blinking) (Blinking) (Blinking)
Display
MENU/BRIGHT Wheel
Power Switch
PUSH OPEN Button VIDEO/MEMORY Switch
(GR-DVL720/DVL520 only)
During
shooting
For other notes, 墌pg. 67

EN 17
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
You can shoot yourself while viewing your own image
in the LCD monitor. Open the LCD monitor and tilt it
upward 180°so that it faces forward, then point the
lens toward yourself and start recording.
Operation Mode
Choose the appropriate operation mode according to
your preference using the Power Switch and VIDEO/
MEMORY Switch (GR-DVL720/DVL520 only).
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.
Power Switch Position
MANUAL
:
Allows you to set various recording functions using the
Menus. If you want more creative capabilities than Full
Auto recording, try this mode.
AUTO
(Full Auto):
Allows you to record using NO special effects or
manual adjustments. Suitable for standard recording.
OFF:
Allows you to switch off the camcorder.
PLAY:
•Allows you to play back a recording on the tape.
•Allows you to transfer a still image recorded on the
tape to a computer (GR-DVL320 only).
•Allows you to access data stored on the memory
card or to transfer a still image stored on the
memory card to a computer (GR-DVL720/DVL520
only).
VIDEO/MEMORY Switch Position
(GR-DVL720/DVL520 only)
VIDEO:
•Allows you to record on a tape or play back a tape.
If “REC SELECT”is set to “/”in the
DSC Menu Screen, still images are recorded on the
memory card as well.
•Zoom magnification over 10X is available
(墌pg. 18, 45).
MEMORY:
Allows you to record on a memory card or access
data stored on a memory card.
When the Power Switch is set to “
AUTO
”or “
MANUAL
”and
the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch is set to “MEMORY”, the
currently selected image size appears. When set to
“VIDEO”, there is no indication.
1024
MANUAL
AUTO
PLAY
OFF
Power Switch
Lock Button
When the Power Switch is set to “
AUTO
”, “ ”
appears. When set to “
MANUAL
”or “PLAY”, there is
no indication.
Power lamp
VIDEO/MEMORY Switch
(GR-DVL720/DVL520 only; open the
LCD monitor to access this switch.)
(GR-DVL720/DVL520 only)
Self-
Recording

18 EN
TAPE RECORDING (cont.)
FEATURE: Zooming
PURPOSE:
To produce the zoom in/out effect, or an instanta-
neous change in image magnification.
OPERATION:
Zoom In
Slide the Power Zoom Lever towards “T”.
Zoom Out
Slide the Power Zoom Lever towards “W”.
䡲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. 41), then zoom in or out in Record mode.
●Zooming is possible to a maximum of 700X, or it
can be switched to 10X magnification using the
optical zoom (墌pg. 45).
●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”(墌pg. 17).
●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 the Menu Screen on page 46.
1x WT
01x WT
01x WT
02x WT
04x WT
Zoom in (T: Telephoto)
Zoom out (W: Wide angle)
Power Zoom Lever
Zoom display
Approximate zoom ratio
Digital zoom zone
10X (optical)
zoom zone

EN 19
FEATURE: Video Light
PURPOSE:
To brighten the scene when natural lighting is too
dim.
OPERATION:
Set LIGHT OFF/AUTO/ON as required:
OFF : Turns off the light.
AUTO : Automatically turns on the light when the
camcorder senses insufficient lighting on
the subject.
ON : Always keeps the light on as long as the
camcorder is turned on.
䡲The video light can only be used with the
camcorder’s power on.
䡲It is recommended to set the white balance
(墌pg. 43) to when you use the video light.
䡲When not using the video light, turn it off to save
battery power.
NOTES:
●Even if the battery indicator ( ) does not blink
due to low battery charge, the camcorder may turn
off automatically when you turn on the video light, or
when you start recording with the video light turned
on.
●When LIGHT OFF/AUTO/ON is set to “AUTO”:
•Depending on the lighting conditions, the video
light may keep turning on and off. In this case,
manually switch the light on or off using LIGHT
OFF/AUTO/ON.
•While the “SHUTTER”or “SPORTS”mode
(墌pg. 37) is engaged, the light is likely to stay
on.
•While the “TWILIGHT”mode (墌pg. 37) is
engaged, the light will not activate.
•While the “Night-Alive”mode (墌pg. 36) is
engaged, the light will not activate.
LIGHT OFF/AUTO/ON Switch
(Open the LCD monitor to access this switch.)
DANGER
䡲The video light can become extremely
hot. Do not touch it either while in
operation or soon after turning it off,
otherwise serious injury may result.
䡲Do not place the camcorder into the
carrying case immediately after using the
video light, since it remains extremely hot for some
time.
䡲When operating, keep a distance of about 30 cm
(11-13/16") between the video light and people or
objects.
䡲Do not use near flammable or explosive materials.
䡲Do not place the camcorder in a cabinet or box while
the video light is in operation.
䡲When using the video light, if you wish to install the
camcorder in a fixed position, attach it to a tripod, etc.
Do not affix it directly to a surface such as a table top.
䡲It is recommended that you consult your nearest JVC
dealer for replacing the video light.

20 EN
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 RandomAssemble Editing (pg. 58 – 62), 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” below 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 (pg. 24) to find the spot at which you want to start recording,
then engage the Still Playback mode (pg. 21).
2. Set the Power Switch to “
AUTO
” or “
MANUAL
” 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” (pg. 47, 48).
Shooting start point
Newly recorded sceneBlankAlready recorded scene
Time code
05:43:21 Time code 00:00:00
Tape
Time code
00:00:00
Shooting start pointShooting stop point
Latest sceneNew sceneAlready recorded scene
Frames
(30 frames = 1 second)
Seconds
Minutes
Frames are not displayed
during recording.
When a blank portion is recorded on a tape
Proper recording
Time code
00:00:00 Time code 05:43:21 Time code 05:44:00
Shooting start point Shooting start point Shooting start point
Tape
12:34:24
TAPE RECORDING (cont.)
Display