JVC GR-SXM460A User manual

LYT0529-001A
EN
COMPACT
VHS CAMCORDER
INSTRUCTIONS
GR-SXM460A
GR-SXM260A
GR-SX210A
GR-SXM46EA
GR-SXM26EA
GR-SX21EA
VHS
PAL
625
ENGLISH
CONTENTS
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS 2 – 3
MAJOR FEATURES 4
PROVIDED ACCESSORIES 5
GETTING STARTED 6 – 15
RECORDING 16 – 32
Basic Recording .......................... 16
Basic Features ........................... 18
Advanced Features ...................... 22
PLAYBACK 33 – 37
Basic Playback ........................... 33
Features .................................. 34
Using The Cassette Adapter ........... 35
Connections ............................... 36
USING THE REMOTE
CONTROL UNIT 38 – 48
Playback Zoom .......................... 41
Insert Editing ............................. 42
Audio Dubbing ........................... 43
Random Assemble Editing .............. 44
Animation And Time-Lapse ............. 48
CAUTIONS 49 – 51
TROUBLESHOOTING 52 – 53
INDEX 54 – 57
Controls, Connectors And
Indicators ............................... 54
Indications ................................ 56
SPECIFICATIONS 58 – 59

2EN
Using This Instruction Manual
•All major sections and subsections are listed in the Table Of Contents on the cover.
•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. 54 – 57) 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.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
You are recommended to carefully read the cautions on pages 49 – 51 before use.
WARNING:
TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
UNIT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
Dear Customer,
Thank you for purchasing the JVC Compact VHS camcorder. Before use, please read the safety information
and precautions contained in the following pages to ensure safe use of this product.
Cassettes marked “ ” and “ ” can be used with this camcorder.
However, S-VHS recordings are possible only with cassettes marked “ ”.
Caution on Replaceable lithium battery
The battery used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if mistreated.
Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 100°C or incinerate.
Replace battery with Panasonic (Matsushita Electric), Sanyo, Sony or Maxell CR2025.
Danger of explosion or Risk of fire if the battery is incorrectly replaced.
䡲Dispose of used battery promptly.
䡲Keep away from children.
䡲Do not disassemble and do not dispose of in fire.
625
CAUTIONS:
䡲If you notice smoke or a peculiar smell coming from the camcorder or AC adapter/charger, shut it down
and unplug it immediately. Continue using the camcorder or AC adapter/charger under these conditions
could lead to fire or electric shock. Contact your JVC dealer. Do not attempt to repair the malfunction
yourself.
䡲To prevent shock, do not open the cabinet. No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified
personnel.
䡲When 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.

EN3
When the equipment is installed in a cabinet or on a shelf, make sure that ithas 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. 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 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.)
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 Power Adapter/Charger are 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-V11U**/V12U/V20U 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.)
* GR-SXM460A/SXM260A/SXM46EA/SXM26EA only.
** GR-SXM46EA/SXM26EA/SX21EA only.
ATTENTION USERS OF RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES
DO NOT DISPOSE RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES OR PRODUCTS POWERED BY NON-
REMOVABLE RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES, THESE BATTERIES AND PRODUCTS CAN BE
RECYCLED.
AT THE END OF NORMAL LIFE,
IN AUSTRALIA, RETURN TO YOUR POINT OF PURCHASE OR MAIL TO:
Hagemeyer (Australasia) B.V. 5-7 Garema Circuit Kingsgrove NSW 2208 Australia
Attn : Service Dept.
Phone : [phone]
IN NEW ZEALAND, PLEASE RETURN BATTERIES BY MAIL TO:
Hagemeyer (NZ) Limited P.O. Box 100589 Auckland 1000
Phone : [phone]

4EN
MAJOR FEATURES
Integrated Auto Light
(GR-SXM460A/SXM260A/
SXM46EA/SXM26EA only)
(墌pg. 20)
Programme AE with Special
Effects (墌pg. 23)
䡲Electronic Fog Filter
䡲ND Effect
䡲Sepia
䡲Twilight
䡲Sports
䡲Nega/Posi
䡲1/2000 sec. High Speed Shutter
Super VHS-ET (墌pg. 12)
Picture Stabiliser (墌pg. 18)
TBC (Time Base Corrector)
(墌pg. 34)
NOTES about Automatic Demonstration
Automatic Demonstration takes place when “DEMO MODE” is set to “ON”
(factory-preset).
䡲 Available when the Power Switch is set to “AUTO”or “PRO.”.
䡲 Operating the Power Zoom Lever during the demonstration stops
the demonstration temporarily. If the Power Zoom Lever is not
moved for more than 1 minute after that, the demonstration will
resume.
䡲 “DEMO MODE”remains “ON”even if the camcorder power is
turned off.
䡲 To cancel Automatic Demonstration, set the Power Switch to
“PRO.”and press MENU while the demo is in progress. This
takes you directly to the demo mode’s Setting Menu (so you will
not have to go through the main Menu Screen.) Rotate the Select
Wheel to select “OFF”and press it.
NOTE:
When a tape whose Erase Protection tab is in the position that allows recording is loaded in the
camcorder, demonstration is not available.
O
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DEMO MODE
Setting Menu
Digital Hyper Zoom
(墌pg. 18)
Zoom in
Zoom out

EN5
•R6 (AA) Battery (for
Cassetter Adapter)
•AC Power Adapter/
Charger AA-V16A
or AA-V16AS
(GR-SXM460A/
SXM260A/SX210A),
AA-V16EA
(GR-SXM46EA/
SXM26EA/SX21EA)
•Shoulder Strap
•DC Cord
•Lithium Battery
CR2025 (for
clock operation)
•Battery Pack
BN-V11U
(GR-SXM460A/
SXM260A/SX210A),
BN-V20U
(GR-SXM46EA/
SXM26EA/SX21EA)
•Audio/Video
(A/V) Cable
•Editing Cable
(GR-SXM460A/
SXM46EA only)
•S-Video Cable
PROVIDED ACCESSORIES
12 3
How to Attach The Core Filter
Attach the provided Core Filters to the provided Audio/Video cable and S-video cable.
The Core Filter reduces interference.
1. Release the
stoppers on
both ends of
the Core Filter.
•Core Filter x 2 (for
provided Audio/
Video Cable and
S-Video Cable)
2. Run the cable through the Core Filter, leaving
approx. 5 cm of cable between the cable plug and
the Core Filter. Wind the cable 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.
3. Close the Core Filter until it
clicks shut.
Connect the end of the
cable with the Core Filter to
the camcorder.
5 cm
Stopper
•Cassette Adapter
C-P7U
•Remote Control
Unit RM-V716U
(GR-SXM460A/
SXM46EA only)
•R03 (AAA) Battery x 2
(for Remote Control
Unit, GR-SXM460A/
SXM46EA only)

6EN
GETTING STARTED
Power
This camcorder’s 3-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
1
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.
2
Align the marks and slide the battery pack in the
direction of the arrow until it locks in place. The
CHARGE indicator begins blinking to indicate
charging has started.
3
When the CHARGE indicator stops blinking but stays
lit, charging is finished. Slide the battery in the
opposite direction of the arrow and lift off. Remember
to unplug the AC Adapter/Charger’s power cord from
the AC outlet.
To AC outlet
Marks
CHARGE
indicator
Battery pack BN-V11U*, BN-V12U or BN-V20U
AC Power
Adapter/
Charger
Battery pack
BN-V11U*
BN-V12U (optional)
BN-V20U** (optional)
Charging time
approx. 1 hr. 10 min.
approx. 1 hr. 10 min.
approx. 1 hr. 50 min.
Charge Marker
A charge marker is provided on the battery pack to help
you remember whether it has been charged or not. Two
colours are provided (red and black)—you choose which
one means charged and which means discharged.
NOTES:
● Perform charging where the temperature is between
10°C and 35°C. 20°C 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 a 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 CHARGE 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.
● Remember to set the charge marker after charging a
battery pack or after detaching a discharged one from
your camcorder.
Charge marker
DC OUT connector
ATTENTION:
Charging a battery with some charge
remaining reduces that battery’s capacity.
Perform the procedure below to fully
discharge the battery pack before
recharging.
1. Attach the battery pack to the camcorder
and make sure a cassette is not inserted,
then set the Power Switch to ”AUTO”or
”PRO.”.
2. The camcorder power turns off
automatically when discharging is
complete.
When you are not using a battery pack for
a long period of time, be sure to fully
discharge it before storing because leaving
a battery with some charge left over also
reduces performance.
* GR-SXM460A/SXM260A/SX210A only.
** Provided with GR-SXM46EA/SXM26EA/SX21EA.
* GR-SXM460A/SXM260A/SX210A only.

EN7
A
B
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.
USING THE BATTERY PACK
Hook its end to the camcorder and push the battery
pack in until it locks in place .
• If the battery pack is attached in the wrong position, a
malfunction may occur.
To Detach The Battery Pack . . .
.... slide BATTERY RELEASE and pull out the battery pack.
Approximate recording time (unit: min.)
BATTERY RELEASE Switch
Hook on.
Push in.
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, 墌 pg. 6.
USING A CAR BATTERY
Use the optional Car Battery Charger/Adapter (connect as
shown in the illustration).
NOTES:
● When using the car battery, leave the engine idling.
● The optional Car Battery Charger (BH-V3E) can also be
used to charge the battery pack (except BN-V20U/
V856U).
● When using the optional Car Battery Charger, refer to the
respective instruction booklet.
1When using GR-SXM460A/SXM260A/SXM46EA/SXM26EA
2When using GR-SX210A/SX21EA
( ) : when the video light is on (GR-SXM460A/SXM260A/
SXM46EA/SXM26EA only).
NOTES:
● Recording time is reduced significantly under the
following conditions:
• Zoom or Record-Standby mode is engaged repeatedly.
• The LCD monitor is used repeatedly (GR-SXM460A/
SXM260A/SXM46EA/SXM26EA only).
● Before extended use, it is recommended that you
prepare enough battery packs to cover 3 times the
planned shooting time.
Battery pack
BN-V11U
BN-V12U
(optional)
BN-V20U
(optional)
BN-V856U
(optional)
LCD
monitor off/
Viewfinder on
12
90 100
(45)
90 100
(45)
140 165
(80)
570 650
(330)
LCD
monitor on/
Viewfinder off
1
80
(45)
80
(45)
130
(75)
520
(310)
LCD
monitor on/
Viewfinder on
1
70
(40)
70
(40)
115
(70)
460
(290)
Core
filter
To DC IN
connector
To DC OUT
connector
To AC
outlet
AC Power
Adapter/
Charger
DC Cord
To car’s cigarette
lighter socket
Car Battery
Charger/Adapter
BH-V3E (optional)
INFORMATION:
VU-V856KIT is a set composed of the
BN-V856U battery pack and AA-V80EG or
AA-V80EA AC Power Adapter/Charger.
Read the VU-V856KIT’s instruction manuals
before using.
It is impossible to charge the BN-V856U battery
pack using the provided AC Power Adapter/
Charger. Use the optional AA-V80EG or
AA-V80EA AC Power Adapter/Charger.

8EN
Clock (Lithium) Battery Insertion/Removal
This battery is necessary for clock operation and to
perform date/time settings.
1
Switch off the unit’s power and remove the power
supply unit (battery pack, AC Power Adapter/Battery
Charger, etc.).
2
Pull out the battery holder to remove it from the
camcorder.
3
Insert the battery in the holder, and be sure to have
the “+”mark visible.
4
Slide the holder back into the slot until you hear a
click.
NOTES:
● See “SAFETY PRECAUTIONS”( 墌 pg. 2) for information
on safe handling of lithium batteries.
● To avoid losing the battery and/or battery holder, place
the camcorder with the grip side up as shown in the
illustration when inserting/removing the battery.
GETTING STARTED (cont.)
Slot
Battery holder

EN9
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24-hour indication
Menu Screen 1
DATE/TIME Menu
Select Wheel
MENU Button
Power Switch
Display
Date/Time Settings
1
Set the Power Switch to “PRO.”. The power lamp
comes on.
2
Press MENU. The Menu Screen appears.
3
Rotate the Select Wheel to move the highlight bar to
“NEXT”in Menu Screen 1 and press it to display
Menu Screen 2. Then, rotate it to move the highlight
bar to “DATE/TIME”and press it. The DATE/TIME
Menu appears.
•To return to the previous settings, rotate the Select
Wheel to move the highlight bar to “EXIT”and
press it, then go to step 7.
•To set only the time without changing the date, go
to step 5.
4
To set “YEAR”, “MONTH”or “DAY”, rotate the Select
Wheel to move the highlight bar to the desired item,
and press it. When the setting begins blinking, rotate
the Select Wheel until the correct setting appears and
then press it. The setting stops blinking.
Repeat for other date settings.
5
Rotate the Select Wheel to move the highlight bar to
“TIME”and then press it. When the hour setting
begins blinking, rotate the Select Wheel until the
correct setting appears and then press it. When the
hour setting stops blinking and the minute setting
begins blinking, rotate the Select Wheel until the
correct setting appears and then press it. The minute
setting stops blinking.
6
When none of these settings (“YEAR”, “MONTH”,
“DAY”, “TIME”) blinks, rotate the Select Wheel to
move the highlight bar to “EXIT”, and press it. The
Menu Screen reappears with the highlight bar on
“RETURN”.
7
Press the Select Wheel to close the Menu Screen.
NOTE:
To display the date and time in the camcorder’s display
and on a connected TV, see “Date/Time Insert”
( 墌 pg. 27).
Menu Screen 2

10 EN
GETTING STARTED (cont.)
SP T30
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TAPE LENGTH
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Tape length indicator
TAPE LENGTH
Setting Menu
Select Wheel Power Switch
MENU Button
Viewfinder
Tape Length Setting
Set the tape length according to the length of the tape
used.
1
Set the Power Switch to “PRO.”, then press MENU.
2
Rotate the Select Wheel to move the highlight bar to
“TAPE LENGTH”, then press it. The TAPE LENGTH
Setting Menu appears.
3
Rotate the Select Wheel to move the highlight bar to
the correct tape length setting. T30=30 minutes of
recording time, T45=45 minutes, T50=50 minutes
and T60=60 minutes.
•To return to the previous setting, rotate the Select
Wheel to move the highlight bar to “EXIT”.
4
Press the Select Wheel. The Menu Screen reappears
with the highlight bar on “RETURN”. Press the Select
Wheel again to close the Menu Screen.
NOTE:
The tape remaining time ( 墌 pg. 16) displayed in the
viewfinder is correct only if the correct tape length has
been selected.
Menu Screen
Display
Recording Mode Setting
Set depending on your preference.
1
Set the Power Switch to “AUTO”or “PRO.”. Press
SP/LP for more than 1 second. “SP”(Standard Play)
provides higher picture and sound quality and is
better for dubbing, while “LP”(Long Play) is more
economical, providing twice the recording time.
NOTES:
● If the recording mode is switched during recording, the
playback picture will be blurred at the switching point.
● S-VHS/S-VHS ET recording is not possible when the
recording mode is set to “LP”( 墌 pg. 12, 26).
Recording mode
indicator
SP/LP Recording
Mode Button

EN11
Loading/Unloading A Cassette
1
Open the LCD monitor fully (GR-SXM460A/
SXM260A/SXM46EA/SXM26EA only).
2
Slide EJECT until the cassette holder opens. Do not
use force to open.
3
Insert or remove a cassette. When inserting, make
sure the label is facing outward.
4
Press the Close button to close the cassette holder
until it locks into place.
5
Close the LCD monitor (GR-SXM460A/SXM260A/
SXM46EA/SXM26EA only).
NOTES:
● Closing the LCD monitor while the cassette holder is still
open may cause damage to the LCD monitor
(GR-SXM460A/SXM260A/SXM46EA/SXM26EA only).
● The cassette holder can’t be opened unless a power
supply is attached.
● Make sure that the tape is not slack when loading the
cassette. If there is any slack, turn the gear on the
cassette in the direction of the arrow to take up the
slack.
● Make sure the Erase Protection tab is in the position that
allows recording. If not, slide the tab. Some cassettes
have removable tabs. If the tab has been removed, cover
the hole with adhesive tape.
● The cassette holder cannot be opened while the
camcorder is in the record mode.
Cassette holder
Erase Protection tab Gear
Turn to take
up slack.
EJECT SwitchClose Button
Close Button EJECT Switch
Cassette holder

12 EN
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S–VHS ET
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Normal Screen
Select Wheel
MENU Button
Power Switch
Menu Screen
Setting Menu
Display: when a VHS cassette is loaded.
Menu Screen
Recording Format Setting
Set the recording format according to the format of the
tape used or type of recording you wish to perform.
NOTE:
Before performing the following steps, make sure that the
recording mode is set to “SP”( 墌 pg. 10).
1
Set the Power Switch to “PRO.”. Press MENU.
2If a VHS cassette is loaded . . . .... rotate the Select Wheel to move the highlight bar
to “S-VHS ET”, then press it. The S-VHS ET
Setting Menu appears.
If an S-VHS cassette is loaded . . .
.... rotate the Select Wheel to move the highlight bar
to “S-VHS”, then press it. The S-VHS Setting
Menu appears.
3
Rotate the Select Wheel to set to either of the
parameters, then press it. Press the Select Wheel
again. The Menu Screen reappears with the highlight
bar on “RETURN”.
In the S-VHS ET Setting Menu,
ON : Records with S-VHS picture quality on a VHS
cassette (factory-preset). This is called Super
VHS ET (Expansion Technology).
OFF : Records in VHS.
In the S-VHS Setting Menu,
ON : Records in S-VHS on an S-VHS cassette
(factory-preset).
OFF : Records in VHS on an S-VHS cassette.
4
Press the Select Wheel to close the Menu Screen.
•When the S-VHS ET mode is engaged, “S-ET”is
displayed.
•During S-VHS record mode, “S”is displayed.
•When S-VHS ET or S-VHS recording starts, “S-VHS
REC.”is displayed for approx. 3 seconds.
NOTES:
● If a cassette is not loaded, “S-VHS”will be displayed in
the Menu Screen.
● S-VHS/S-VHS ET recording is not possible when the
recording mode is set to “LP”( 墌 pg. 10).
When an S-VHS
cassette is loaded:
S-VHS
GETTING STARTED (cont.)

EN13
Recording Playback
NOTES about S-VHS and S-VHS ET
䡲 JVC EHG (Extra High Grade) tapes are recommended for superior results.
Use S-VHS tape for storing recordings for an extended period or for recording important scenes, as it
enables higher-quality recording and playback.
—It is recommended to specifically label S-VHS ET recordings so you can easily distinguish them from
regular VHS recordings.
䡲 With some tapes, better picture quality may not be obtained even with S-VHS ET recording. It is
recommended that you do test record beforehand to make sure whether better results can be obtained.
䡲 If the S-VHS ET mode or recording format is switched during recording, the playback picture will be
blurred at the switching point.
䡲 It is recommended that tapes recorded on this camcorder be played back on this camcorder.
䡲 Tapes recorded in S-VHS or S-VHS ET mode can be played back not only on this camcorder but also on
a Super VHS VCR.
—Tapes recorded in S-VHS ET mode cannot be played back on some VCRs, including some JVC VCRs.
䡲 Tapes recorded in S-VHS or S-VHS ET mode cannot be played back correctly on a normal VHS VCR.
䡲 S-VHS ET does not work with S-VHS tapes.
䡲 To avoid on-screen noise, do not perform Still Playback or Shuttle Search repeatedly.
䡲 If the picture contains a lot of jitter or noise, use a cleaning cassette.
Compatibility Between S-VHS And VHS
Cassette adapter
S-VHS VCR
Regular VHS VCR
VHS
recordings
•The recorded format (S-VHS or
VHS) is automatically detected
when playback begins.
•S-VHS recorded tapes cannot be
viewed on regular VHS VCRs.
Blank tape Camcorder Recorded tape
S-VHS-C
cassette
VHS-C
cassette
S-VHS/S-VHS ET
recordings
Cassette adapterBlank tape Camcorder Recorded tape

14 EN
1
33
22
180 ° 180 °
PAUSE
GETTING STARTED (cont.)
Power Zoom Lever
Recording
Start/Stop Button
Set to “CAMERA”
(“AUTO”or “PRO.”).
Grip Adjustment
1
Separate the Velcro strip.
2
Pass your right hand through the loop and grasp the
grip.
3
Adjust so that your thumb and fingers can easily
operate the Recording Start/Stop Button and Power
Zoom Lever. Refasten the Velcro strip.
Viewfinder Adjustment
1
Set the Power Switch to “CAMERA”(“AUTO”or
“PRO.”).
2
Adjust the viewfinder manually for best viewability.
3
Turn the Dioptre Adjustment Control until the
indications in the viewfinder are clearly focused.

EN15
Shoulder Strap Attachment
1
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 3, making sure
the strap is not twisted.
2
Adjust as shown in the illustration 4.
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 the screw and camera direction stud on the
tripod with the camera’s mounting socket and stud
hole. Then tighten the screw.
2
3
1
4

16 EN
180°90°
BR I GHT ––––––6––––– +
25MIN
120MIN
3MIN
2MIN
MIN 119MIN
1MIN0MIN
NOTE:
You should already have performed the procedures listed
below. If not, do so before continuing.
● Power ( 墌 pg. 6)
● Recording Mode Setting ( 墌 pg. 10)
● Tape Length Setting ( 墌 pg. 10)
● Load A Cassette ( 墌 pg. 11)
● Grip Adjustment ( 墌 pg. 14)
● Viewfinder Adjustment ( 墌 pg. 14)
Shooting While Watching The Viewfinder
1
Make sure the LCD monitor is closed and locked
(GR-SXM460A/SXM260A/SXM46EA/SXM26EA only).
Turn the LENS COVER Open/Close Ring to open the
lens cover. Set the Power Switch to “CAMERA”
(“AUTO”or “PRO.”). The power lamp lights and the
camcorder enters the Record-Standby mode.
“PAUSE”is displayed in the viewfinder.
2
Press the Recording Start/Stop Button. “ ” appears
in the viewfinder while recording is in progress.
To Stop Recording . . .
.... press the Recording Start/Stop Button. The camcorder
re-enters the Record-Standby mode.
Shooting While Watching The LCD Monitor
(GR-SXM460A/SXM260A/SXM46EA/
SXM26EA only)
1
Make sure the LCD monitor is fully open. Turn the
LENS COVER Open/Close Ring to open the lens
cover. Set the Power Switch to “CAMERA”(“AUTO”
or “PRO.”). The power lamp lights and the
camcorder enters the Record-Standby mode.
“PAUSE”is displayed in the LCD monitor.
2
Tilt the LCD monitor upward/downward for best
viewability and press the Recording Start/Stop Button.
“ ” appears in the LCD monitor while recording is
in progress.
NOTE:
When you use the LCD monitor outdoors in direct
sunlight, the LCD monitor may be difficult to see. If this
happens, use the viewfinder instead.
To Stop Recording . . .
.... press the Recording Start/Stop Button. The camcorder
re-enters the Record-Standby mode.
Power Switch
Select Wheel (BRIGHT)
Recording Start/Stop Button
Tape remaining time
indicator
(Approximate)
(Now calculating)
(Blinking) (Blinking) (Blinking)
To Adjust The Brightness Of The LCD Monitor
.... rotate the Select Wheel (BRIGHT) until the
bright level indicator on the display moves
and the appropriate brightness is reached.
LENS COVER Open/Close Ring
RECORDING Basic Recording
Power Switch Position
AUTO : Suitable for standard recording using NO special effects or manual adjustments.
PRO. : Allows you to set recording functions using the menus for more creative capabilities.
OFF : Switches off the camcorder.
PLAY : Allows you to play back your recordings.
DISPLAY Button

EN17
NOTES:
● When the Power Switch is set to CAMERA and the LCD monitor is opened at an angle of 60 degrees or more,
the LCD monitor switches on and the viewfinder switches off automatically to save power (GR-SXM460A/
SXM260A/SXM46EA/SXM26EA only).
● The cassette holder cannot be opened unless a power supply is attached.
● There may be a delay after you slide EJECT until the cassette holder opens. Do not use force.
● The time required to calculate the remaining tape length, and the accuracy of the calculation, may vary
according to the type of tape used.
● The tape remaining time indicator is correct only if the correct tape length has been selected ( 墌 pg. 10).
● “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 without performing Zoom or any other operations, the
camcorder’s power shuts off automatically. Set the Power Switch to “OFF”, and then back to “CAMERA”to
turn the camcorder on again.
● If the Recording Start/Stop button is pressed after the Record-Standby mode has continued for over
5 minutes, recording may not start immediately.
● If you are recording on a cassette from the middle (such as when a tape is removed and re-inserted during
recording), use the Retake function ( 墌 pg. 19) to find the end of the last recording so you do not erase any of it.
● While shooting, sound is not heard from the speaker (GR-SXM460A/SXM260A/SXM46EA/SXM26EA only).
Self-Recording
JOURNALISTIC SHOOTING (GR-SXM460A/
SXM260A/SXM46EA/SXM26EA only)
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).
INTERFACE SHOOTING (GR-SXM460A/
SXM260A/SXM46EA/SXM26EA only)
The 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.
Open the LCD monitor and tilt it upward to 180 degrees
so that it faces forward. When the LCD monitor is tilted
upward to an angle of over approx. 105 degrees, the
monitor image is inverted vertically, and the viewfinder
also switches on.
Point the lens toward the subject (yourself when self-
recording) and start recording.
During Interface Shooting, the monitor image and
indications do not appear inverted as they would when
viewing a mirror.
NOTE:
The monitored image can be viewed on the LCD monitor
and in the viewfinder.
LCD MONITOR*/VIEWFINDER INDICATIONS
Press DISPLAY for more than 1 second to make the
following indications appear/disappear from the
camcorder’s display: cassette warning, tape remaining
time, battery pack remaining power indicator and tape
length indicator (墌pg. 56, 57).
NOTE:
Even if the indications are off, the tape remaining time
appears blinking when the tape is near its end, and the
battery pack remaining power indicator appears blinking
when the power is almost gone.
* GR-SXM460A/SXM260A/SXM46EA/SXM26EA only.

18 EN
1X
Zoom in (T: Telephoto)
Zoom out (W: Wide angle)
Power Zoom Lever
Zoom indicator bar
FEATURE: Zooming
PURPOSE:
To produce the zoom in/out effect, or an instantaneous
change in image magnification.
Digital circuitry extends the maximum magnification
offered by optical zoom. This system is called Digital
Zoom.
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. 31), then zoom in or out in Record mode.
● The zoom level indicator ( 5 ) moves during zoom.
Once the zoom level indicator reaches the top of
the zoom indicator bar, all magnification from that
point is through digital processing.
● When using Digital Zoom, the quality of image may
suffer. To deactivate Digital Zoom, set “D.ZOOM”
to “OFF”in the Menu Screen ( 墌 pg. 25).
FEATURE: Picture Stabiliser
PURPOSE:
To compensate for unstable images caused by camera-
shake, particularly at high magnification.
OPERATION:
Press P. STABILIZER. “ ”appears.
䡲To switch off the Picture Stabiliser, press
P. STABILIZER. The indicator disappears.
NOTES:
● Accurate stabilisation may not be possible if hand
shake is excessive, or under the following conditions:
• When shooting subjects with vertical or horizontal
stripes.
• When shooting dark or dim subjects.
• When shooting subjects with excessive backlighting.
• When shooting scenes with movement in various
directions.
• When shooting scenes with low-contrast backgrounds.
● Switch off the Picture Stabiliser when recording
with the camcorder on a tripod.
● The “ ” indicator appears blinking if the Stabiliser
cannot be used.
Zoom level
indicator
Display
Approximate
zoom ratio
P. STABILIZER Button
Picture Stabiliser indicator
RECORDING Basic Features

EN19
5S
PAUSE
FEATURE: Quick Review
PURPOSE:
To check the end of the last recording.
OPERATION:
1) Set the Power Switch to “CAMERA”(“AUTO”or
“PRO.”).
2) Press 2 and release quickly during the Record–
Standby mode.
䡲Tape is rewound for approx. 1 second and played
back automatically, then pauses in Record–Standby
mode for the next shot.
NOTE:
Distortion may occur at the start of playback. This is
normal.
FEATURE: Retake
PURPOSE:
To re-record certain segments.
OPERATION:
1) Make sure the camcorder is in the Record–Standby
mode.
2) Press and hold either RETAKE to reach the start point
for new recording. Pressing 3 forwards the tape
and pressing 2 reverses it.
3) Press the Recording Start/Stop Button to start
recording.
NOTE:
Noise bars appear and pictures may become
monochrome or darken during Retake. This is normal.
FEATURE: 5Sec. Rec (5-sec. Recording)
(GR-SXM260A/SX210A/
SXM26EA/SX21EA only)
PURPOSE:
To record a scene for 5 seconds, providing quick scene
transitions like those seen in TV programmes.
OPERATION:
䡲Make sure the recording mode is set to “SP”.
1) During Record–Standby, press 5SEC. REC. “5S”
appears and 5Sec. Rec is reserved.
2) Press the Recording Start/Stop Button. Recording
starts, and after 5-second recording is finished, the
camcorder reenters the Record–Standby mode
automatically.
䡲To cancel the 5Sec. Rec function, press 5SEC. REC
again so that “5S”disappears.
NOTE:
Fade/Wipe ( 墌 pg. 22) cannot be activated by
pressing 5SEC. REC.
RETAKE
( 2 / 3 )
Button
5 SEC. REC Button
(GR-SXM260A/SX210A/
SXM26EA/SX21EA only)
Display
5 Sec. Rec mode indicator
(GR-SXM260A/SX210A/SXM26EA/SX21EA only)

20 EN
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 between the video light and
people or objects.
䡲Do not use near flammable or explosive
materials.
䡲It is recommended that you consult your
nearest JVC dealer for replacing the video
light.
LIGHT OFF/AUTO/ON Switch
FEATURE: Video Light (GR-SXM460A/
SXM260A/SXM46EA/
SXM26EA only)
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. 32) 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 if
the battery pack’s charge is low, 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 “Sports”or “High Speed Shutter”mode
( 墌 pg. 23) is engaged, the light is likely to stay on.
• While the “Twilight”mode ( 墌 pg. 23) is engaged,
the light will not activate.
RECORDING Basic Features (cont.)