JVC GR-DVL820 User manual

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 – 36
MEMORY CARD RECORDING ......... 26 – 27
MEMORY CARD PLAYBACK ............ 28 – 29
ADVANCED FEATURES .................... 30 – 36
ADVANCED FEATURES 37 – 66
FOR RECORDING ........................... 38 – 45
USING MENUS FOR
DETAILED ADJUSTMENT .............. 46 – 51
DUBBING ..................................... 52 – 53
USING THE REMOTE CONTROL UNIT ... 54 – 64
SYSTEM CONNECTIONS .................. 65 – 66
REFERENCES 67 – Back Cover
DETAILS ............................................. 68
TROUBLESHOOTING ...................... 69 – 73
USER MAINTENANCE ............................ 74
CAUTIONS .................................... 75 – 77
SPECIFICATIONS ........................... 78 – 79
INDEX ......................................... 80 – 86
TERMS ............................... 87 – Back Cover
EN
LYT0963-001A
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/
INSTRUCTIONS
GR-DVL1020
GR-DVL820
GR-DVL520
GR-DVL320
DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA
The camcorder illustrations
appearing in this instruction
manual are of the
GR-DVL1020.
Memory card recording
features are available on
GR-DVL1020, GR-DVL820
and GR-DVL520

COPYRIGHT© 2002 VICTOR COMPANY OF JAPAN, LTD.
VICTOR COMPANY OF JAPAN, LIMITED
A/A-S/EA Printed in Japan
0202HOV
*
ID
*
VP
S
SD Memory Card .................................. Zpg. 14, 76
Self-Recording ............................................ Zpg. 17
Sepia ........................................................... Zpg. 39
Set Remote Control/VCR Code .................. Zpg. 58
Shuttle Search ............................................ Zpg. 21
Shutter Speed ............................................. Zpg. 39
Slow-Motion Playback........................... Zpg. 21, 56
Slow Shutter................................................ Zpg. 39
Snapshot ............................................... Zpg. 26, 42
Snapshot Mode ........................................... Zpg. 42
Snow ........................................................... Zpg. 39
Sound Mode.................................... Zpg. 47, 50, 51
Speaker Volume.......................................... Zpg. 21
Specifications ........................................ Zpg. 78, 79
Sports.......................................................... Zpg. 39
Spotlight ...................................................... Zpg. 39
Squeeze ...................................................... Zpg. 48
Still Playback............................................... Zpg. 21
Strobe ......................................................... Zpg. 39
T
Tally ............................................................. Zpg. 48
Tele Macro .................................................. Zpg. 48
Time Code..................................... Zpg. 20, 49 – 51
Tripod Mounting .......................................... Zpg. 10
Twilight ........................................................ Zpg. 39
U
Unload ATape ............................................. Zpg. 12
V
VIDEO/MEMORY Switch Position .............. Zpg. 17
Video Light .................................................. Zpg. 19
W
WebCam ..................................................... Zpg. 66
White Balance............................................. Zpg. 45
Wide Mode .................................................. Zpg. 48
Wind Cut ..................................................... Zpg. 48
Wipe In/Out ........................................... Zpg. 40, 41
Z
Zooming ...................................................... Zpg. 18
See previous page as well.

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 (Zpgs. 80 – 86) and familiarize yourself with button locations, etc. before use.
..... read thoroughly the Safety Precautions. They contain extremely important information regarding the safe use
of this product.
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 PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
UNIT 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:
●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.

EN 3
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.)
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.
● 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-voltageAC Adapter and Power Cord. (An appropriate
conversion adapter may be necessary to accommodate different designs ofAC outlets in different countries.)

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.
nThis 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-DVL1020/DVL820/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
AAA (R03) Battery
x 2 (for remote
control unit)
Audio/Video Cable
(ø3.5 mini-plug to
RCA plug)
Editing Cable
GR-DVL320:
One plug has 3 rings
around the pin, and the
other has 1 ring around
the pin.
GR-DVL1020/DVL820/
DVL520:
Both plugs have 1 ring
around the pin.
Shoulder Strap
Memory Card 8 MB
(GR-DVL1020/DVL820/
DVL520 only) (Already
inserted in the
camcorder)
USB Cable (GR-DVL1020/
DVL820/DVL520 only)
Battery Pack
BN-V408U
AC Adapter AP-V10EG or
AP-V12EG
Lens Cap
(See below for
attachment)
PC Connection Cable
(GR-DVL320 only)
Power Cord
Lens hood (Already
attached to the camcorder;
GR-DVL1020/DVL820 only)
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.
Core Filter x 1
(for optional S-Video
cable Z pg. 6 for
attachment)
1 2 3
For GR-DVL1020/
DVL820 Owners:
The lens cap can be
attached only when
the lens hood is
attached to the
camcorder.
CD-ROM
or
or

6 EN
Automatic Demonstration takes place when “DEMO
MODE” is set to “ON” (factory-preset).
nAutomatic 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.
nPerforming 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.
n“DEMO MODE” remains “ON” even if the camcorder power is
turned off.
nTo cancel Automatic 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.
AUTOMATIC DEMONSTRATION
MODEDEMO – ON OFF
MENU/BRIGHT Wheel
Sub Menu
GR-DVL1020/DVL820/DVL520
only
Lock Button
Power Switch
How ToAttach The Core Filter
Attach the Core Filter(s) (if provided with your model Zpg. 5) to an optional cable(s). The Core Filter
reduces interference.
Release the
stoppers on both
ends of the Core
Filter.
Run 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.
• Wind the cable so that it is not slack.
NOTE:
Take care not to damage the cable.
Close the Core Filter until it
clicks shut.
3 cm
Stopper
nWhen connecting cables, attach the end with the Core Filter to the camcorder.
1
Wind once
23

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-DVL1020/DVL820/DVL520 only) ....................... 14
Picture Quality/Image Size Setting
(GR-DVL1020/DVL820/DVL520 only) ....................... 14

8 EN
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, then connect the Power
Cord to the AC Adapter 5.
3Plug the Power Cord into an AC outlet 6.
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 the Power Cord from
the AC outlet. Disconnect the AC Adapter from the
camcorder.
To Detach The Battery Pack . . .
.....Press BATT. RELEASE and pull out the battery
pack.
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 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.
GETTING STARTED (cont.)
5
6
3
2
1
4
To AC outlet
Battery pack
AC Adapter
CHARGE Lamp
To DC
connector
BATT. RELEASE Button
Power Switch
For other notes, Zpg. 68

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” (Zpg. 8).
Approximate recording time
< GR-DVL520/DVL320 >
( ) : when the video light is on
USING AC POWER
Use the AC Adapter (connect as shown in the
illustration).
NOTES:
●The provided AC Adapter features automatic voltage
selection in the AC range from 110 V to 240 V.
●For other notes, Zpg. 68.
Battery pack
BN-V408U
BN-V416U
(optional)
BN-V428U
(optional)
BN-V840U
(optional)
BN-V856U
(optional)
LCD monitor on
1 hr.
(35 min.)
2hrs.
(1 hr. 10 min.)
3 hrs. 30 min.
(2 hrs.)
5hrs.
(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 and AC Power Adapter/Charger:
VU-V840 KIT: BN-V840U battery pack & AA-V15 AC
Power Adapter/Charger
VU-V856 KIT: BN-V856U battery pack & AA-V80 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.
To DC connector
To AC outlet
AC Adapter
Approximate recording time
< GR-DVL1020/DVL820 >
( ) : when the video light is on
Battery pack
BN-V408U
BN-V416U
(optional)
BN-V428U
(optional)
BN-V840U
(optional)
BN-V856U
(optional)
LCD monitor on
55 min.
(35 min.)
1 hr. 55min.
(1 hr. 15 min.)
3 hrs. 25 min.
(2 hrs. 15 min.)
4 hrs. 25 min.
(2 hrs. 55 min.)
6 hrs. 40 min.
(4 hrs. 15 min.)
Viewfinder on
1 hr. 10 min.
(45 min.)
2 hrs. 25 min.
(1 hr. 30 min.)
4 hrs. 20 min.
(2 hrs. 40 min.)
5 hrs. 40 min.
(3 hrs. 30 min.)
8 hrs. 30 min.
(5 hrs. 5 min.)

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 Dioptre Adjustment 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 stabilise 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
Dioptre
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
(Zpg. 50, 51).
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 “day” is highlighted.
Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT wheel to input the day.
Press it. Repeat to input the month, 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 “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 (day), 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
UAOTIMETDATE /
T IME CODE
CLOCK
ADJ .
–
–
–FFO
12..02 52
17 30 :
NRETUR
CLOCK
ADJ .
EXPOSURE
12..02 52
17 30 :
Display
MENU/BRIGHT Wheel
Power Switch
Lock Button
DISPLAY Menu
Power Lamp
GR-DVL1020/DVL820/
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 (Zpg. 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 CAMERA Menu
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 (Zpg. 63) and Insert Editing
(Zpg. 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-DVL1020/DVL820/DVL520 only

14 EN
GETTING STARTED (cont.)
Memory card
Card Cover
Clipped edge
Label
TYQUAL I
REC SELECT
FINE
021X7486 IMAGE SIZE – –
–
NRETUR
Display
MENU/BRIGHT Wheel
Power Switch
Lock Button
Power Lamp
Loading A Memory Card
(GR-DVL1020/DVL820/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. Zpg. 36.
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-DVL1020/DVL820/DVL520 only)
The Picture Quality/Image Size can be selected to
best match your needs. Refer to the chart on page 27
for your selection.
1Set the VIDEO/MEMORY Switch to “MEMORY”,
then set 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.

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 (Zpg. 8)
●Grip Adjustment (Zpg. 10)
●Viewfinder Adjustment (Zpg. 10)
●Load A Cassette (Zpg. 12)
●Recording Mode Setting (Zpg. 13)
1Remove the lens cap.
GR-DVL1020/DVL820/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.
•If you are using GR-DVL1020, it is also possible to
adjust the brightness of the viewfinder by closing the
LCD monitor and adjusting as described above.
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” (Zpg. 20).
●To turn the tally lamp or beep sounds off, Zpg. 46,
48.
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-DVL1020/DVL820/
DVL520 only)
During
shooting
For other notes, Zpg. 68

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-DVL1020/DVL820/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-DVL1020/DVL820/
DVL520 only).
VIDEO/MEMORY Switch Position
(GR-DVL1020/DVL820/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
(Zpg. 18, 47).
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-DVL1020/DVL820/DVL520 only;
open the LCD monitor to access this
switch.)
(GR-DVL1020/DVL820/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”.
nThe 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
(Zpg. 43), 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 (Zpg. 47).
●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” (Zpg. 17).
●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
the Menu Screen on page 48.
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.
nThe video light can only be used with the
camcorder’s power on.
nIt is recommended to set the white balance
(Zpg. 45) to when you use the video light.
nWhen not using the video light, turn it off to save
battery power.
NOTES:
●Even if the battery indicator ( ) does not blink
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
(Zpg. 39) is engaged, the light is likely to stay
on.
• While the “TWILIGHT” mode (Zpg. 39) is
engaged, the light will not activate.
• While the “Night-Scope” mode (Zpg. 38) is
engaged, the light will not activate.
LIGHT OFF/AUTO/ON Switch
(Open the LCD monitor to
access this switch.)
DANGER
nThe video light can become extremely
hot. Do not touch it either while in
operation or soon after turning it off,
otherwise serious injury may result.
nDo not place the camcorder into the carrying case
immediately after using the video light, since it remains
extremely hot for some time.
nWhen operating, keep a distance of about 30 cm
between the video light and people or objects.
nDo not use near flammable or explosive materials.
nDo not place the camcorder in a cabinet or box while
the video light is in operation.
nWhen 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.
nIt is recommended that you consult your nearest JVC
dealer for replacing the video light.