JVC GR-DVX4EA User manual

GR-DVX4
DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA
LYT0385-001A
INSTRUCTIONS
CONTENTS
Please visit our CyberCam Homepage on the
World Wide Web and answer our Consumer
Survey (in English only):
http://www.jvc-victor.co.jp/english/index-e.html
PROVIDED ACCESSORIES 4
ABOUT DV 5
GETTING STARTED 6 – 13
RECORDING 14 – 41
Basic Recording ................................ 14
Advanced Features ............................ 20
PLAYBACK 42 – 49
Basic Playback ................................. 42
Advanced Features ............................ 44
Basic Connections ............................. 46
Advanced Connections ........................ 48
TAPE DUBBING 50 – 51
Tape Dubbing................................... 50
Digital Dubbing ................................ 51
USING THE REMOTE
CONTROL UNIT 52 – 62
Random Assemble Editing .................... 56
For More Accurate Editing.................... 60
Audio Dubbing ................................. 62
TROUBLESHOOTING 63 – 68
USER MAINTENANCE 69
INDEX 70 – 75
Controls, Connectors And Indicators ........ 70
Indications...................................... 72
Docking Station ................................ 74
Terms ........................................... 75
CAUTIONS 76 – 77
SPECIFICATIONS 78 – 79

2EN
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.
Using This Instruction Manual
•All major sections and subsections are listed in the Table Of Contents (Zcover 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. 70 – 75) 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 76 and 77 before use.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
WARNING:
TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE
THIS UNIT TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE.
Warning on lithium cell battery
(for remote control unit)
The battery used in this device may present a fire
or chemical burn hazard if mistreated. Do not
recharge, disassemble, heat above 100°C or
incinerate.
Replace the battery with Maxell, Panasonic
(Matsushita Electric), Sanyo or Sony CR2025; use
of another battery may present a risk of fire or
explosion.
nDispose of used battery promptly.
nKeep away from children.
nDo not disassemble and do not dispose of in
fire.
CAUTIONS:
nTo prevent shock, do not open the cabinet. No
user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to
qualified personnel.
nWhen you are not using the AC Power
Adapter/Charger for a long period of time, it is
recommended that you disconnect the power
cord from AC outlet.
Connection to the mains supply in the United
Kingdom.
DO NOT cut off the mains plug from this equipment.
If the plug fitted is not suitable for the power
points in your home or the cable is too short to
reach a power point, then obtain an appropriate
safety approved extension lead or consult your
dealer.
BE SURE to replace the fuse only with an
identical approved type, as originally fitted, and
to replace the fuse cover.
If nonetheless the mains plug is cut off be sure to
remove the fuse and dispose of the plug
immediately, to avoid possible shock hazard by
inadvertent connection to the mains supply.
If this product is not supplied fitted with a mains
plug then follow the instructions given below:
DO NOT make any connection to the Larger
Terminal coded E or Green.
The wires in the mains lead are coloured in
accordance with the following code:
Blue to N (Neutral) or Black
Brown to L (Live) or Red
If these colours do not correspond with the
terminal identifications of your plug, connect as
follows:
Blue wire to terminal coded N (Neutral) or
coloured black.
Brown wire to terminal coded L (Live) or
coloured Red.
If in doubt — consult a competent electrician.
IMPORTANT

EN3
NOTES:
● The rating plate (serial number plate) and safety
caution are on the bottom and/or the back of
the main unit.
● The rating plate (serial number plate) of the AC
Power Adapter/Charger is on its bottom.
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 BN-V507U/V514U battery
packs and, to recharge them, the provided multi-
voltage AC Power Adapter/Charger. (An
appropriate conversion adapter may be
necessary to accommodate different designs of
AC outlets in different countries.)
This unit is produced to comply with Standard
IEC Publ. 65.
SOME DO’S AND DON’TS ON THE SAFE
USE OF EQUIPMENT
This equipment has been designed and manufactured to meet international safety standards but, like any
electrical equipment, care must be taken if you are to obtain the best results and safety is to be assured.
DO read the operating instructions before you attempt to use the equipment.
DO ensure that all electrical connections (including the mains plug, extension leads and interconnections
between pieces of equipment) are properly made and in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions. Switch off and withdraw the mains plug when making or changing connections.
DO consult your dealer if you are ever in doubt about the installation, operation or safety of your
equipment.
DO be careful with glass panels or doors on equipment.
DON’T continue to operate the equipment if you are in any doubt about it working normally, or if it is
damaged in any way — switch off, withdraw the mains plug and consult your dealer.
DON’T remove any fixed cover as this may expose dangerous voltages.
DON’T leave equipment switched on when it is unattended unless it is specifically stated that it is designed for
unattended operation or has a standby mode. Switch off using the switch on the equipment and make
sure that your family knows how to do this. Special arrangements may need to be made for infirm or
handicapped people.
DON’T use equipment such as personal stereos or radios so that you are distracted from the requirements of
road safety. It is illegal to watch television whilst driving.
DON’T listen to headphones at high volume, as such use can permanently damage your hearing.
DON’T obstruct the ventilation of the equipment, for example with curtains or soft furnishings. Overheating
will cause damage and shorten the life of the equipment.
DON’T use makeshift stands and NEVER fix legs with wood screws — to ensure complete safety always fit the
manufacturer’s approved stand or legs with the fixings provided according to the instructions.
DON’T allow electrical equipment to be exposed to rain or moisture.
ABOVE ALL
— NEVER let anyone especially children push anything into holes, slots or any other opening in the case —
this could result in a fatal electrical shock;
— NEVER guess or take chances with electrical equipment of any kind — it is better to be safe than sorry!

4EN
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 attach and use
the provided hand strap. Hold the camcorder firmly
in your hand, with the strap securely around your
wrist. 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
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! Attaching the camcorder to the Docking
Station with cables (Audio/Video, S-Video, Editing,
DC, etc.) connected, then leaving it 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. Only cassettes
marked can be used with this unit.
Before recording an important scene . . .
.... make sure you only use cassettes with the Mini
DV mark .
.... 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, perform-
ance or exhibition for personal enjoyment, it is
strongly recommended that you obtain permis-
sion beforehand.)
PROVIDED ACCESSORIES
•AC Power
Adapter/Charger
AA-V50EK
•Remote Control Unit
RM-V713U •Battery Pack BN-V507U
•DC Cord
•Lithium Battery
CR2025
(for remote
control unit)
TW
•Editing Cable
•Cleaning Cloth
•Audio/Video (A/V)
Cable [mini-plug
to RCA plug]
•Docking Station
CU-V501E
•CD-ROM
The CD ROM contains
the following 5
software programmes:
•JLIP Video Capture
•JLIP Video Producer
Presto!
•Mr. Photo
•PhotoAlbum
•ImageFolio
•PC Connection Cable
•JLIP Cable
•Cable Adapter
•Audio/Video (A/V)
Cable [RCA plug
to RCA plug]
•S-Video Cable
•Core Filter x 3 (for
optional DV cable,
headphones and
microphone)

EN5
ABOUT DV
The digital camcorder converts incoming audio and video signals into digital form for recording.
A video signal is composed of a luminance signal (Y) and colour signals (R-Y and B-Y). These signals are
identified and recorded digitally (Digital Component Recording). The A/D (Analogue to Digital) converter
samples the Y signal at 13.5 MHz, and R-Y and B-Y at 6.75 MHz, and changes them to an 8-bit quantum
signal.
Sound sampled at 48 kHz is changed to a 16-bit quantum signal, and sound sampled at 32 kHz is converted to
a 12-bit signal.
3Audio Area
The digital audio signal is recorded here.
4ITI (Insert and Tracking
Information) Area
Insert editing and post-recording editing
tracking signals are recorded here.
1Sub-Code Area
The Time Code and Date/Time data are
written here, separate from the video data.
This enables you to display the date and
time during playback, even if they weren’t
displayed while recording.
2Video Area
The digital video signal is recorded here.
Lens
Mic
A/D
conversion
Chromatic
Analysis
12 tracks/frame
VIDEO Luminance Signal (Y)
A/D
conversion
A/D
conversion
AUDIO
Recording by
rotating head
helical scan
Tape direction
Sub-Code Area
Video Area
Audio Area
ITI Area
Head tracking
direction
5.24 mm
6.35 mm
Signal
compression
Colour Difference
Signal (R-Y/B-Y)
Chrominance (C)
This camcorder separates the data into blocks, writing one block of each data type on each track of the tape.

6EN
1
GETTING STARTED
CHARGING THE BATTERY PACK
1
SUPPLY POWER TO CHARGER
Make sure you unplug the camcorder’s DC cord from the
AC Power Adapter/Charger.
Plug the AC Adapter/Charger’s power cord into an AC
outlet. The power lamp comes on.
2
ATTACH BATTERY/BATTERIES
Attach the battery pack while making sure its terminal
side 1is in contact with the indicator side of the battery
pack mount on the AC Power Adapter/Charger.
• The Charger Indicator (1 or 2) begins blinking to indicate
charging has started.
3
CONFIRM STATUS
When the charger indicator stops blinking but stays lit,
charging is finished.
• If two batteries are attached to the charger, they will be
charged in the order that they were attached.
4
DETACH BATTERY/BATTERIES
Slide the battery or batteries in the opposite direction of
the arrow and lift off. Remember to unplug the AC
Adapter/Charger’s power cord from an AC outlet.
To AC outlet
Charger
indicator 1
Power lamp
Charger indicator 2
Battery pack
BN-V507U or
BN-V514U
Power cord
DC OUT terminal
AC Power
Adapter/Charger
AA-V50EK
NOTES:
● Perform charging where the temperature is between 10° and 30°C. 20° to 25°C is the ideal temperature range for charging.
If the environment is too cold, charging may be incomplete.
● Charging times noted above are for fully discharged battery pack.
● Charging time varies according to the ambient temperature and the status of the battery pack.
● To avoid interference with reception, do not use the AC Power Adapter/Charger near a radio.
● If you connect the camcorder’s DC cord to the adapter during battery charging, power is supplied to the camcorder and
charging stops.
● Since the AC Power Adapter/Charger processes electricity internally, it becomes warm during use. Be sure to use it only in
well-ventilated areas.
● When charging the battery pack for the first time or after a long storage period, the charger indicator may not light. In this
case, remove the battery pack from the AC Power Adapter/Charger, 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.
Lithium-ion is vulnerable in colder
temperatures.
Power
This camcorder’s 2-way power supply system lets
you choose the most appropriate source of power.
NOTES:
● No function is available without power supply.
● Use only specified power supply.
● Do not use provided power supply units with other
equipment.
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), 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.)
Battery pack ONE TWO
BN-V507U approx. 1 hr. 30 min. approx. 3 hrs.
BN-V514U approx. 3 hrs. approx. 6 hrs.
(optional)
Charging time

EN7
1
2
To battery
pack mount
To DC OUT
terminal
To AC outlet
AC Power
Adapter/
Charger
AA-V50EK
DC cord
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.
INFORMATION:
VU-V856KIT is a set composed of the BN-V856U battery
pack and AA-V80EK AC Power Adapter/Charger.
Also read thoroughly the VU-V856KIT's instruction
manuals.
It is impossible to charge the BN-V856U battery pack
using the provided AC Power Adapter/Charger. Use the
optional AA-V80EK AC Power Adapter/Charger.
USING AC POWER
Use the AC Power Adapter/Charger (connect as shown in
the illustration).
NOTES:
● The provided AC Power Adapter/Charger features
automatic voltage selection in the AC range from 110 V
to 240 V.
● For other notes, Z pg. 6.
USING THE BATTERY PACK
1
ATTACH BATTERY PACK
Insert the terminal end 1of the battery pack into the
battery pack mount, then firmly push the end 2of
the battery pack in the direction of the arrow until it
locks into place as shown in the illustration.
• If the battery pack is attached in the wrong position,
a malfunction may occur.
To Detach The Battery Pack . . .
.... while sliding down BATT. RELEASE, detach it.
NOTES:
● Continuous shooting is possible when the temperature is
approx. 20˚C.
● However, continuous shooting capability is reduced
significantly under the following conditions:
• The temperature is below 10˚C.
• Zoom or Record-Standby mode is engaged repeatedly.
• The LCD monitor is used repeatedly.
Before extended use, it is recommended that you
prepare enough battery packs to cover 3 times the
planned shooting time.
Power cord
Approximate recording time
BATT. RELEASE
Switch
Battery pack LCD monitor on/ LCD monitor off/
Viewfinder off Viewfinder on
BN-V507U 55 min. 65 min.
BN-V514U 115 min. 130 min.
BN-V856U 7 hrs. 30 min. 8 hrs. 30 min.

8EN
AM
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FOCUS
EXPOSURE AUTO
OFF
OFF
AUTO
AUTO
W. BALANCE
FADER
/ WIPE
P. AE
/ EFFECT
END
0FLASH ADJ.
TO MODE MENU
4
– – – – –6– – – – –
REC MODE
WIDE MODE OFF
40X
SP
ZOOM
GAIN UP
DIS
END
ON
AGC
OFF
SELF-TIMER
TO DATE / TIME MENU
TO SYSTEM MENU
AUTO
FLASH
4
ON SCREEN OFF
ONDISPLAY
INDICATION ON
DATE / TIME
RETURN
DATE/TIME
1 . 1 . 00
00 : 00
4
Date/Time Settings
Date and time will automatically be recorded on tape at
all times. It is your choice to display it or not during
playback (Zpg. 45).
1
SELECT OPERATION MODE
Set the Operation Switch to “ ”. Then, set the
Power Switch to “ ” or “5S” while pressing
down the Lock Button. Open the LCD monitor fully
or pull out the viewfinder fully.
•The power lamp comes on and the camcorder is
turned on.
2
ACCESS RECORDING MENU
Press MENU/SET. The Recording Menu appears.
3
ACCESS MODE MENU
Move the highlight bar to “TO MODE MENU” by
rotating MENU/SET. Press it and the Mode Menu
appears.
4
ACCESS DATE/TIME MENU
Move the highlight bar to “TO DATE/TIME MENU”
by rotating MENU/SET. Press it and the Date/Time
Menu appears.
5
INPUT DATE AND TIME
Move the highlight bar to “DATE/TIME” by rotating
MENU/SET. Press it and “day” is highlighted and
begins blinking.
Rotating MENU/SET, input the day. Press it. Repeat the
procedure to input the month, year, hour and minute.
•Press MENU/SET twice when the highlight bar is set
to “RETURN” to exit.
Regarding 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 Power
Adapter/Charger, or while the battery pack attached to the
camcorder continues to supply power to the camcorder, the
clock’s rechargeable lithium battery is always charged.
However, if the camcorder is not used for approx. 3 months,
the clock 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
Power Adapter/Charger for over 24 hours to charge the
clock’s rechargeable lithium battery. Then perform the date/
time setting before using the camcorder.
It is also possible to use the camcorder without the date/
time setting.
GETTING STARTED (cont.)
Power lamp
Mode Menu
Display
Date/Time Menu
MENU/SET Dial Power Switch
Recording Menu
Lock Button
Operation Switch
NOTE:
Even if you select “DATE/TIME”, 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 MENU/SET, the date and time begin operation from the date and time you
just set.

EN9
Loading/Unloading A Cassette
The camcorder needs to be powered up to load or eject a
cassette.
1
OPEN CASSETTE COVER
Slide OPEN/EJECT in the direction of the arrow then
swing the cover open until it locks. The holder opens
automatically.
•Do not touch internal components.
2
INSERT/REMOVE TAPE
Insert 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 cover.
•When the battery’s charge is low, you may not be
able to close the cover. Do not apply force. Replace
the battery with a fully charged one before
continuing.
3
CLOSE CASSETTE COVER
Close the cassette cover firmly until it locks into
place.
OPEN/EJECT Switch
Cassette holder
PUSH HERE
Cassette cover
Make sure the
window side is
facing out.
Erase protection
switch*
Tape Recording mode
SP LP
DVM-30 30 min. 45 min.
DVM-60 60 min. 90 min.
Approximate recording time
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 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 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 cover.
● Closing the cassette 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 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 19 for information about recording from the middle of a tape.
* To Protect Valuable Recordings . . .
.... slide the erase protection switch on the
back of the tape in the direction of “SAVE”.
This prevents this tape from being recorded
over. If you decide later that you do want
to record on this tape, slide the switch back
to “REC” before loading the tape.

10EN
– – – – – 6 – – – – –
REC MODE
WIDE MODE OFF
40X
SP
ZOOM
SELF-TIMER
GAIN UP
DIS
4
END
ON
AGC
OFF
FLASH
TO DATE / TIME MENU
TO SYSTEM MENU
AUTO
– – – – –
6 – – – – –
SP SP LP
AM
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5
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FOCUS
EXPOSURE AUTO
OFF
OFF
AUTO
AUTO
W. BALANCE
FADER
/ WIPE
P. AE
/ EFFECT
END
0FLASH ADJ.
TO MODE MENU
4
– – – – – 6 – – – – –
REC MODE
WIDE MODE OFF
40X
SP
ZOOM
SELF-TIMER
GAIN UP
DIS
END
ON
AGC
OFF
FLASH
TO DATE / TIME MENU
TO SYSTEM MENU
AUTO
4
Recording Mode Setting
Set depending on your preference.
1
SELECT OPERATION MODE
Set the Operation Switch to “ ”. Then, set the Power
Switch to “ ” or “5S” while pressing down the
Lock Button. Open the LCD monitor fully or pull out
the viewfinder fully.
•The power lamp comes on and the camcorder is
turned on.
2
ACCESS RECORDING MENU
Press MENU/SET. The Recording Menu appears.
3
ACCESS MODE MENU
Move the highlight bar to “TO MODE MENU” by
rotating MENU/SET. Press it and the Mode Menu
appears.
4
SET RECORDING MODE
First move the highlight bar to “REC MODE” by
rotating MENU/SET. Press it and the parameter “SP”
or “LP” is highlighted. Select “SP” or “LP” by rotating
MENU/SET. Press it twice to exit from the Recording
Menu.
•Audio Dubbing is impossible on a tape recorded in
the LP 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.
Power lamp
Display
Recording mode indicator
MENU/SET Dial Power Switch
GETTING STARTED (cont.)
Mode Menu
Recording Menu
Lock Button
Operation Switch

EN11
PAUSE
1
2
3
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Grip Adjustment
1
EXPAND LOOP
Separate the Velcro strip.
2
INSERT HAND
Pass your right hand through the loop and grasp the
grip.
3
ADJUST STRAP LENGTH
Adjust so that your thumb and fingers can easily
operate START/STOP and Power Zoom Lever.
Refasten the Velcro strip.
NOTE:
When carrying the camcorder inside a bag, etc., the grip
belt’s metal buckle may damage the camcorder. It is
recommended that you place it inside the Velcro strip.
Viewfinder Adjustment
1
SELECT OPERATION MODE
Set the Power Switch to “ ” or “5S” while
pressing down the Lock Button .
2
POSITION VIEWFINDER
Pull out the viewfinder fully.
•The power lamp comes on and the camcorder is
turned on.
3
ADJUST DIOPTRE
Slide the Dioptre Adjustment Control until the
indications in the viewfinder are clearly focused.
START/STOP Button
Power Zoom Lever
Set to “ ”
or “5S”.
Lock Button

12EN
CAUTION:
When using a tripod, be sure to open and extend
its legs fully to stabilise the camcorder. To
prevent damage to the unit caused by falling
over, do not use a small-sized tripod.
Tripod Mounting
1
ALIGN AND TIGHTEN
Align the screw on the tripod with the camera’s
mounting socket. Then tighten the screw.
GETTING STARTED (cont.)

EN13
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5
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PAUSE
F . AUTO
PAUSE
MANUAL
Operation Mode
Turning the Power Switch and Operation Switch allows
you to choose the appropriate operation mode among the
following table:
According to the Operation Switch position
you have selected, “F.AUTO” or “MANUAL”
appears in the upper left corner.
To turn on the camcorder, first set the Power
Switch to any operation mode except “OFF”,
then pull out the viewfinder fully or open the
LCD monitor. When setting the Power Switch,
press and hold the Lock Button.
When set to “ ”
When set to “ ”
(When the Power
Switch is set to “5S”,
“MANUAL” blinks.)
Power lamp
Power Switch/
Operation Function
Switch Position
Suitable for standard recording.
Allows you to record in 5-second
clips to keep the action moving.
Enables shooting in Manual
mode. However, Focus and
Exposure are the same as in the
Full Auto mode, and it is not
possible to change menu settings
using the MENU/SET Dial.
Allows you to play back a
recording. Zpg. 42 – 49.
Allows you to switch off the
camcorder. After setting to this
position, Manual Focus and
Exposure Control are automati-
cally reset to “AUTO”.
Allows you to record using NO
special effects or manual
adjustments. Suitable for standard
recording.
Allows you to set various
recording functions using the
Menus. If you want more creative
capabilities than Full Auto
recording, try this mode.
Manual:
5 second
recording
mode:
5S
OFF
Power Switch
Power Switch Position
If the Power Switch is set to “ ”, these
indications do not appear.
Operation Switch Position
Full Auto:
Playback:
Lock Button
Operation Switch

14EN
P
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5
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AM
RECORDING Basic Recording
NOTE:
You should already have performed the procedures listed
below. If not, do so before continuing.
● Power ( Z pg. 6)
● Recording Mode Setting ( Z pg. 10)
● Grip Adjustment ( Z pg. 11)
● Viewfinder Adjustment ( Z pg. 11)
1
LOAD A CASSETTE
Slide OPEN/EJECT in the direction of the arrow then
swing the cover open until it locks. The holder opens
automatically.
Insert 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 cover.
Shooting While Watching The Viewfinder
2
ENTER RECORD-STANDBY MODE
Make sure the LCD monitor is closed and locked. Set
the Operation Switch to “ ” or “ ”. Then, set the
Power Switch to “ ” while pressing down the
Lock Button. Pull out the viewfinder fully.
•The lens cover opens, the power lamp lights and the
camcorder enters the Record-Standby mode.
•The scene you are aimed at appears on the
viewfinder screen, with the word “PAUSE”
superimposed upon it.
3
START SHOOTING
Press START/STOP.
•“ ” appears in the viewfinder while recording is
in progress.
Power lamp
OPEN/EJECT Switch
Power Switch
Tally lamp
(lights while
recording is
in progress)
Lock Button
Operation Switch
START/STOP Button

EN15
25 min
90 min
89 min
3 min
2 min
1 min
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4
STOP RECORDING
Press START/STOP again to stop recording.
•The camcorder re-enters the Record-Standby mode.
NOTES:
● The image will not appear simultaneously in the LCD
monitor and the viewfinder. No image appears on the
LCD monitor when the viewfinder is pulled out. It is not
possible to shoot using both LCD monitor and view-
finder. However, during Interface Shooting ( Z pg. 17)
the image appears simultaneously in the LCD monitor
and the viewfinder.
● The cassette holder cannot be opened unless a power
supply is attached.
● There may be a delay after you open the cassette cover
until the holder opens. Do not use force.
● The indicated tape remaining time is approximate.
● The time required to calculate and to display the
remaining tape length, and the accuracy of the calcula-
tion, may vary according to the type of tape used.
● “TAPE END” appears when the tape reaches its end, and
the power goes off automatically if left in this condition
for 5 minutes. “TAPE END” also appears when a cassette
whose tape is already at its end is loaded.
● If the Record-Standby mode continues for 5 minutes, the
camcorder’s power shuts off automatically. To turn the
camcorder on again, push back and pull out the
viewfinder again or close and re-open the LCD monitor.
● When a blank portion is left between recorded scenes
on the tape, the time code is interrupted and errors may
occur when editing the tape. Continue recording from
where you stop so that there are no gaps by following
“Recording from the middle of a tape” ( Z pg. 19).
● During recording, sound is not heard from the speaker. If
you want to hear the sound, connect optional head-
phones to the headphones connector. The sound
volume at this point is the same as the level it was
adjusted during playback.
● To turn the tally lamp off during recording, refer to
pgs. 28 and 30.
Tape remaining time indicator
(Now calculating)
(Blinking)
(Blinking)
(Blinking)
START/STOP Button

16EN
RECORDING Basic Recording (cont.)
Shooting While Watching The LCD Monitor
Before the following steps, perform step 1(Zpg. 14).
2
ENTER RECORD–STANDBY MODE
Make sure the viewfinder is pushed back in. Set the
Operation Switch to “ ” or “ ”. Then, set the
Power Switch to “ ” while pressing down the
Lock Button.
Open the LCD monitor fully.
•The lens cover opens, the power lamp lights and the
camcorder enters the Record-Standby mode.
•The scene you are aimed at appears in the LCD
monitor, with the word “PAUSE” superimposed
upon it.
3
START SHOOTING
Tilt the LCD monitor upward/downward for best
viewability (Zpg. 17) and press START/STOP.
•“ ” appears in the LCD monitor while recording
is in progress.
4
STOP RECORDING
Press START/STOP again to stop recording.
•The camcorder re-enters the Record-Standby mode.
NOTES:
● When you use the LCD monitor outdoors in direct
sunlight, the LCD monitor may be difficult to see. If this
happens, we recommend that you use the viewfinder
( Z pg. 14).
● To turn the tally lamp off during recording, refer to
pgs. 28 and 30.
● For other notes, refer to pg. 15.
180°90°
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Power Switch
Lock Button
Power lamp
START/STOP Button
Tally lamp
(lights while
recording is
in progress)
Operation Switch

EN17
BRIGHT – – – – –
6 – – – – –
Journalistic Shooting
In some situations different angles of shooting may be
required for more dramatic results.
1
OPEN LCD MONITOR
Make sure the LCD monitor is fully open.
2
TILT LCD MONITOR
Tilt the LCD monitor in the most convenient
direction.
•The LCD monitor can rotate almost full circle (270°:
90° downward, 180° upward).
Interface Shooting
A person you shoot can view himself/herself in the LCD
monitor, and you can even shoot yourself while viewing
your own image in the LCD monitor.
1
TILT LCD MONITOR UPWARD
Open the LCD monitor and tilt it upward to 180
degrees so that it faces forward.
•The monitor image is inverted vertically. If the
viewfinder is pulled out at that time, it will also
switch on.
2
START RECORDING
Point the lens toward the subject (yourself when self-
recording) and start recording.
•During Interface Shooting, the “Tape Running”
indicator and warning indications (Zpg. 72, 73)
are the only ones that are shown; they appear
reversed in the display as they would when viewing
a mirror, but are not reversed in the recording.
NOTE:
The tape remaining indicator does not appear during
interface shooting. However, when the remaining time
reaches 2 minutes, the indicator appears showing the
remaining time: (blinking) (blinking)
(blinking)
Brightness Control
You can adjust the brightness of the display by rotating
MENU/SET.
1
ADJUST BRIGHTNESS
Rotate MENU/SET until the brightness indicator moves
and the display reaches its appropriate brightness.
•The brightness indication appears on the display.
•If the viewfinder is pulled out, it is also possible to
adjust its brightness.
MENU/SET
Dial
Self-Recording

18EN
10X
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1X T
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10X T
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20X T
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RECORDING Basic Recording (cont.)
Zoom in (T: Telephoto)
Zoom out (W: Wide angle)
Power Zoom Lever
Zoom display
Operation Switch
FEATURE: Zooming
PURPOSE:
To produce the zoom in/out effect, or an instantaneous
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
( Z pg. 37), then zoom in or out in Record mode.
● In Full Auto mode (when the Operation Switch is
set to “ ”), zoom magnification of up to 40X is
possible. In Manual mode (when the Operation
Switch is set to “ ”), zooming is possible to a
maximum of 100X or can be switched to 10X
magnification offered by optical zoom.
● 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 while functions done
through Digital image processing (Picture Wipe/
Dissolve function, Z pg. 32, Video Echo, Z pg. 35,
etc.) are activated.
● 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 System Menu on page 30.
Approximate zoom ratio
Digital
zoom zone
10X (optical)
zoom zone
Power lamp
Power Switch

EN19
NOTE: Recording From The Middle Of A Tape
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 (Zpg. 56 – 61), time code is necessary. If during recording a blank
portion is recorded 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 leaving a blank portion on a tape,
perform the procedure in “Recording From The Middle of A Tape” (see below) in the following cases;
•After playing back the recorded tape, when you
shoot again.
•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 already shooting a
scene and opening/closing the cassette cover.
Recording From The Middle Of A Tape
1. Play back a tape to find the spot at which you want to start recording, then engage the Still Playback
mode (Zpg. 43).
2. Set the Operation Switch to “ ” or “ ”. Then, set the Power Switch to “ ” or “5S” while
pressing down the Lock Button and start recording.
NOTES:
● The Time Code cannot be reset.
● During fast-forwarding and rewinding, time code indication does not move smoothly.
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
TC 12 : 34 : 24
Display
When blank portion is recorded on a tape
Shooting start point
Time code
05:43:21 Time code
05:44:00
Tape
Time code
00:00:00
Shooting start pointShooting start point
Proper recording
Latest sceneNew sceneAlready recorded scene
Frames
(25 frames = 1 second)
Seconds
Minutes
Time code is displayed
during playback.

20EN
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FADER
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END
0FLASH ADJ.
TO MODE MENU
4
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REC MODE
WIDE MODE OFF
40X
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DIS
END
ON
AGC
OFF
SELF-TIMER
TO DATE / TIME MENU
TO SYSTEM MENU
AUTO
FLASH
4
ON SCREEN OFF
ONDISPLAY
INDICATION ON
DATE / TIME
RETURN
DATE/TIME
25 . 12 . 99
16 :
40
4
RECORDING Advanced Features
Displaying The Date And Time During
Recording
When the Operation Switch is set to “ ”, you can choose
whether to display the date and time during recording or
not. You must first set the date and time (“Date/Time
Settings”, Zpg. 8). Set “DISPLAY” to “ON” in the Date/
Time Menu. The Date/Time is always displayed when the
Operaton Switch is set to “ ”.
1
SELECT OPERATION MODE
Set the Operation Switch to “ ”. Then, set the
Power Switch to “ ” or “5S” while pressing
down the Lock Button.
2
ACCESS RECORDING MENU
Press MENU/SET. The Recording Menu appears.
3
ACCESS MODE MENU
Move the highlight bar to “TO MODE MENU” by
rotating MENU/SET. Press it and the Mode Menu
appears.
4
ACCESS DATE/TIME MENU
Move the highlight bar to “TO DATE/TIME MENU”
by rotating MENU/SET. Press it and the Date/Time
Menu appears.
5
SELECT FUNCTION
Move the highlight bar to “DISPLAY” by rotating
MENU/SET, then press it.
6
SET FUNCTION PARAMETERS
Cycle through the available settings of the selected
functions by rotating MENU/SET and stop when the
one you want is displayed. Then press it and the
highlight bar automatically moves to “RETURN”.
7
CLOSE RECORDING MENU
Press MENU/SET twice. Selection is complete and the
menu disappears.
NOTES:
● Connect the camcorder to a TV and set “ON SCREEN”
to “ON” in the Date/Time Menu. The display appears on
the connected TV .
● Even if “ON SCREEN” is set to “ON”, the indications are
removed from the TV if “INDICATION” is set to “OFF”
( Z pg. 21).
Display
MENU/SET Dial Power Switch
Mode Menu
RECORDING Advanced Features
Date/Time Menu
Power lamp
Recording Menu
Lock Button
Operation Switch