JVC GY-DV300U - 1/3" 3-ccd Dv Camcorder User manual

GY-DV300 INSTRUCTION MANUAL
DV CAMCORDER
This instruction manual is made from 100% recycled paper.
For Customer Use :
Enter below the Serial No. which is located on the body.
Retain this information for future reference.
Model No. GY-DV300
Serial No.
Thank you for purchasing this JVC product. Before operating
this unit, please read the instructions carefully to ensure the
best possible performance.
LWT0017-001A

2
1. Read all of these instructions.
2. Save these instructions for later use.
3. All warnings on the product and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.
4. Unplug this appliance system from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or
aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.
5. Do not use attachments not recommended by the appliance manufacturer as they may cause
hazards.
6. Do not use this appliance near water – for example, near a bathtub, washbowl,
kitchen sink, or laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, etc.
7. Do not place this appliance on an unstable cart, stand, or table. The appliance may
fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the appliance.
Use only with a cart or stand recommended by the manufacturer, or sold with the appliance.
Wall or shelf mounting should follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and should
use a mounting kit approved by the manufacturer.
An appliance and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops,
excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the appliance and cart
combination to overturn.
8. Slots and openings in the cabinet and the back or bottom are provided for ventilation, and to insure
reliable operation of the appliance and to protect it from overheating, these openings must not be
blocked or covered. The openings should never be blocked by placing the appliance on a bed, sofa,
rug, or other similar surface. This appliance should never be placed near or over a radiator or heat
register. This appliance should not be placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase unless
proper ventilation is provided.
9. This appliance should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label.
If you are not sure of the type of power supplied to your home, consult your dealer or local power
company. For appliance designed to operate from battery power, refer to the operating instructions.
10. This appliance system is equipped with a 3-wire grounding type plug (a plug having a third (grounding)
pin). This plug will only fit into a grounding-type power outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are
unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do
not defeat the safety purpose of the grounding plug.
11. For added protection for this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and
unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable
system. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and power-line surges.
12. Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord. Do not locate this appliance where the cord will be
abused by persons walking on it.
13. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the appliance.
14. Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this can result in fire or electric shock.
15. Never push objects of any kind into this appliance through cabinet slots as they may touch dangerous voltage
points or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the appliance.
16. Do not attempt to service this appliance yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to
dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
17. Unplug this appliance from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under
the following conditions:
a. When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed.
b. If liquid has been spilled into the appliance.
c. If the appliance has been exposed to rain or water.
d. If the appliance does not operate normally by following the operating instructions. Adjust only
those controls that are covered by the operating instructions as improper adjustment of other
controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to
restore the appliance to normal operation.
e. If the appliance has been dropped or the cabinet has been damaged.
f. When the appliance exhibits a distinct change in performance – this indicates a need for service.
18. When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts
specified by the manufacturer that have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized
substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.
19. Upon completion of any service or repairs to this appliance, ask the service technician to perform
routine safety checks to determine that the appliance is in safe operating condition.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

3
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
FOR USA AND CANADA
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
AUTION : TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
The exclamation point within an equilateral
triangle is intended to alert the user to the
presence of important operating and main-
tenance (servicing) instructions in the litera-
ture accompanying the appliance.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol,
within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert
the user to the presence of uninsulated “dan-
gerous voltage”within the product's enclosure
that may be of sufficient magnitude to consti-
tute a risk of electric shock to persons.
INFORMATION
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with
the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of
the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmfull interfrence to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this
equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct
the interference by one or more of the following measures:
●Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
●
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
●Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different
from that to which the receiver is connected.
●
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
CAUTION
CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS NOT APPROVED BY
JVC COULD VOID USER’S AUTHORITY TO OPERATE
THE EQUIPMENT.
INFORMATION FOR USA
THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES.
OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING TWO
CONDITIONS : (1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE
HARMFUL INTERFERENCE, AND (2) THIS DEVICE
MUST ACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED,
INCLUDING INTERFERENCE THAT MAY CAUSE
UNDESIRED OPERATION
INFORMATION (FOR CANADA)
RENSEIGNEMENT (POUR CANADA)
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian
ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la Class B est conforme à
la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
CAUTION
NOTE:
The rating plate (serial number plate) is on the body.
WARNING:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR
ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE
THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE.
This unit should be used with 7V DC only.
CAUTION:
To prevent electric shocks and fire hazards,
do NOT use any other power source.
CAUTION
To prevent electric shock, do not open the cabinet. No
user servicea-ble parts inside. Refer servicing to qual-
ified service personnel.
AVERTISSEMENT :
POUR EVITER LES RISQUES
D’INCENDIE OU D’ELECTROCUTION,
NE PAS EXPOSER L’APPAREIL A
L’HUMIDITE OU A LA PLUIE.
Ce magnétoscope ne doit être utilisé
que sur du courant direct en 7V.
ATTENTION :
Afin d’eviter tout resque d’incendie ou
d’électrocution, ne pas utillser d’autres
sources d’alimentation électrique.
REMARQUE :
La plaque d’identification (numéro de série) se trouve
sur le panneau arrière de l’appareil.

4
Thank you for purchasing the DV Camcorder GY-DV300.
These instructions are for the GY-DV300U.
This camcorder is a MiniDV video system for-
mat camcorder.
Videocassettes that are not marked with the
MiniDV symbol cannot be used with this unit.
● The following phenomena may occur when
tapes recorded on other units (including an-
other GY-DV300) are recorded or played
back on this camcorder.
•The transient section between scenes re-
corded on other units and those recorded
on this unit may appear disturbed.
•Digital noise may appear during playback
due to tracking errors.
●In the case of important recordings, do not
record within the first 2 to 3 minutes from the
beginning of the tape.
●Before recording important scenes, be sure
to perform a test recording and confirm that
both video and audio are recorded correctly.
●We recommend using the “SP”mode for
recording important scenes.
●Recorded video and audio contents are for
private use. Other use may infringe on the
rights of copyright holders.
●JVC cannot assume liabilities that may derive
from the impossibility of normal recording or
playback of video or audio due to malfunction
of the camcorder or the videocassette.
About the LP Mode
Recording and playback quality in the LP mode
is easily affected by the condition of the tape
and the environment of use. Mosaic-like noise
may appear in the playback picture and the
sound may drop out at times, etc. The picture
may also be disturbed at the transient sections
between scenes.

5
MAIN FEATURES
●Newly developed built-in 12-bit DSP employed
for high-quality picture
●High quality picture with 400% dynamic range
●Compact, lightweight design
●DV high-quality digital format
The 4:1:1, 8-bit, 25 Mbps component digital
signal processing of the format ensures recording
and playback with high picture quality.
●High sound quality thanks to PCM audio
Two types of sampling, 16-bit, 48 kHz sampling
and 12-bit, 32 kHz sampling, ensure high-quality
digital audio.
●Camera section designed with 3-CCD system for
high-quality picture
Three 1/3" CCDs with 380,000 effective pixels
employed. Digital processing for high quality
picture reproduction.
●Super sensitivity F/11, 2000 lux
Enables shooting at normal indoor illumination
eliminating the need for extra illumination.
●LOLUX for 2.65 lux (F1.6) illumination
Employment of LOLUX mode ensures +24 dB
gain. This is ideal for difficult shooting conditions
with almost no illumination.
●Zebra pattern video level indication on monitor
screen
●Built-in color bar (SMPTE type)
●Aspect ratio switchable between standard and
wide-screen
Menu allows screen format setting to be switched
between 4:3 format and LETTER BOX-screen
(16:9).
●Time code reader/generator
Recording of SMPTE time code possible.
●Edit search function for convenient recording
review
●Variable scan shutter
Eliminates flicker when shooting other screen
pictures than NTSC, such as computer monitor
screens.
Copes with the range from 60.6 Hz to 2084.6 Hz.
●DV (i. LINK) connector
DV connector (4-pin) provided. Enables transfer
of digital data to other equipment provided with
DV connector.
●Built-in camera-shake compensation function
●Built-in 2.5" color LCD display
●Network connection possible (requires
installation of the optional network pack KA-
DV300)
This allows audio and video streaming data to
be transmitted via LAN card or the data can be
recorded on a memory card.

6
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
Precautions for Proper Use .............................. 7
Routine and Periodical Maintenance ................ 9
Precautions for Use of Head Cleaning Tape ... 10
Videocassette to be Used ............................... 10
Condensation ................................................... 11
Characteristic CCD Phenomena ...................... 11
CONTROLS, INDICATORS AND CONNECTORS
Right Side Section .......................................... 12
Rear Section ................................................... 14
Left Side Section ............................................. 18
Front Section ................................................... 20
Top Section ..................................................... 21
Indications on LCD Screen and
Viewfinder Screen ....................................... 22
PREPARATIONS
Basic System .................................................. 32
Power Supply Preparation .............................. 33
AC Operation .................................................. 33
Battery Pack Operation ................................... 34
Attaching an External Microphone (optional) .. 36
PREPARATIONS FOR OPERATION
Turning the Power ON .................................... 37
Cassette Loading ............................................ 38
LCD Screen Adjustment .................................. 39
Adjustment the Viewfinder .............................. 40
Setting, Displaying and Recording
the Date and Time ....................................... 41
Charging the Built-in Battery ........................... 44
Setting, Displaying and Recording
the Time Code ............................................. 45
SETTINGS BEFORE SHOOTING
Shooting Mode (AUTO/MANUAL) Selection ... 47
Audio Input Signal Selection ........................... 49
Audio Monitor Selection .................................. 51
Focus Mode Selection .................................... 52
Angle of View (Zoom In/Zoom Out) ................. 53
Menu Screen Settings ..................................... 54
SHOOTING
Basic Recording Operation ............................. 57
Viewing the Recorded Scene (Edit Search) .... 59
If the Unit is Left in Recording-Standby Mode .. 60
Recording the Color Bar ................................. 61
Using the AE Function .................................... 62
MANUAL ADJUSTMENTS
Manual Focus Adjustment ............................... 63
Using ND Filter ................................................ 65
Obtaining Natural Tint (White Balance) ........... 66
Manual Iris Adjustment .................................... 68
Manual Shutter Speed Adjustment ................. 70
Manual Gain Adjustment ................................. 72
Displaying Zebra Patterns for Adjustment ....... 75
Manual Adjustment of the Audio
Recording Level .......................................... 76
Disabling Operation of the Camera-Shake
Compensation Function .............................. 78
Adjusting the Quality of Camera Image .......... 79
PLAYBACK
Playback of Tape ............................................. 80
Blank Search ................................................... 81
Adjusting the Playback Sound Volume ........... 82
Outputting CH-3/CH-4 Channel Sound ........... 83
EXTERNAL COMPONENTS
Connecting a Video Component with
DV Connector .............................................. 84
MENU SCREEN
MENU Screen Structure ................................. 86
Setting Menu Screens ..................................... 88
Contents of Menu Screens ............................. 90
TOP MENU Screen ..................................... 90
SYSTEM Menu Screen ............................... 91
DISPLAY Menu Screen ............................... 94
CAMERA Menu Screen ............................... 96
OPERATION Menu Screen ......................... 98
CLOCK/TC Menu Screen ............................ 99
VTR Menu Screen ....................................... 99
TROUBLESHOOTING
Alarm Indications and Actions ....................... 100
In case of Difficulty ........................................ 102
OTHERS
Displaying the Hour Meter Display ................ 104
Specifications ................................................ 105

7
Precautions for Proper Use
●Supply voltage
Make sure that the power is between 6 V and 12 V DC. If the power voltage is too low, abnormal colour
and increased noise may occur. Do not exceed 12 V DC in any case, or the unit could be damaged.
●Allowable ambient temperature and humidity
Be sure to use the unit within the allowable temperature range of 0°C to 40°C and a relative humidity of
30% to 80%. Using the unit at a temperature or humidity outside the allowable ranges could result not
only in malfunction but the impact on the CCD elements could be serious as small white spots may be
generated. When storing the GY-DV300 for a long time, the storage temperatures should be –20°C to
60°C.
●Strong electromagnetic waves or magnetism
Noise may appear in the picture or audio and/or the colours may be incorrect if the camera is used near
a radio or television transmitting antenna, in places where strong electromagnetic waves are generated
by transformers, motors, etc., or near devices emitting radio waves, such as transceivers or cellular
phones.
●If a transceiver or cellular telephone is used closed to the GY-DV300 while the camera-shake
compensation function is in use, the camera image may flicker due to the influence of emitted
electromagnetic waves.
●Use of wireless microphone near the camera
When a wireless microphone or wireless microphone tuner is used near the camera during recording,
the tuner could pick up noise.
●Avoid using or placing the unit in places;
•subject to extreme heat or cold;
•with excessive dirt or dust;
•with high humidity or moisture;
•subject to smoke or vapour such as near a cooking stove;
•subject to strong vibrations or on an unstable surface.
•also do not leave the unit for long hours in a parked car under direct sunlight or near room heating
equipment.
●Protect the unit from being splashed with water (especially when shooting in the rain).
●Protect the unit from being wet when shooting on a beach.
In addition, salt and sand may adhere to the camera body. Be sure to clean the camera after use.
●Protect the unit against penetration of dust when using it in a place subject to sandy dust.
●Setup level
The video signal of the unit’s video output is not provided with a setup level when shipped from the
factory. If you want to turn ON the setup level, please set the SET UP item on the SYSTEM menu
screen to ON.
●Optical performance of lens
Due to the optical performance of the lens, color divergence phenomena (magnification chromatic
aberration) may occur at the periphery of the image. This is not a camera malfunction.
●Use the unit in an upright position.
If placed on its side, heat release efficiency will deteriorate, adversely affecting the tape transport.
Depending on the circumstances, the tape may also be damaged.
●Vibrations
Colours may fail to appear during VCR playback in locations subjected to vibrations.
●Precautions for transportation
Do not drop or hit the unit against a hard object.
●Remove the videocassette before transporting the unit.
●Do not insert other objects than a videocassette in the cassette insertion slot. Be sure to close the
cassette cover when the unit is not to be used for a long period.
INTRODUCTION

8
CAUTION
Precautions for Proper Use (Cont’d)
●Do not point the lens or viewfinder directly at the sun or other strong light source
•Eye damage could result.
•If the lens or viewfinder is left pointed at the sun, rays may collect inside the unit and cause
damage or a fire.
●When carrying the camera, be sure to hold the carrying handle. Holding the LCD door, lens or
viewfinder may result in damage.
INTRODUCTION
●Do not set the POWER switch to OFF or remove the power cord during recording or playback. Otherwise
the tape may be damaged.
●When the unit is not in use, be sure to set the POWER switch to OFF in order to reduce power
consumption.
●Cleaning the camera body: Wipe the body with a dry, soft cloth. When it is extremely dirty, soak the
cloth in a solution of neutral detergent, wring it out and then wipe. To prevent deformation of the body,
etc. and to avoid operation hazards, do not allow volatile liquids such as benzene and thinner to
contact the body, and do not wipe it with a cloth soaked in such a liquid.
●The camera may be unstable for a few seconds immediately after the power is turned on, but this is not
a malfunction.

9
Routine and Periodical Maintenance
The GY-DV300 incorporates precision mechanical parts, which will collect dirt, wear out and deteriorate
as the unit is used. On the other hand, when the unit has been used for a long period in a normal
environment, the heads, drums and tape transport mechanisms also accumulate dirt that is deposited on
them. Furthermore, dust which penetrates the inside of the VCR section especially during outdoor use
will promote the wear and deterioration of mechanical parts by causing poor contact between tape and
heads or failure to maintain the video and audio quality at high levels. To prevent wear and deterioration,
clean the mechanical parts using a head cleaning tape as routine maintenance. However, as cleaning
with a head cleaning tape alone is not enough for cleaning the entire tape transport mechanism, it is also
recommended to apply periodical maintenance (inspection) to prevent troubles that may be caused by
the sudden occurrence of failure. As the replacement, adjustment and servicing of parts require advanced
skill and equipment, please consult the person in charge of professional video equipment at your nearest
JVC-authorized service agent.
Head Cleaning
●To maintain beautiful video and sound, be sure
to use a head cleaning tape to clean the head
periodically. (Read “Precautions for Use of Head
Cleaning Tape”on page 10.) If head cleaning is
not performed periodically, a type of mosaic noise
called block noise may appear in the picture or
sound may be interrupted.
●Use the optional head cleaning tape M-DV12CL.
Do not use other than the designated head
cleaning tapes. For instructions on how to use
the head cleaning tape and precautions for its
use, read “Precautions for Use of Head Cleaning
Tape”on page 10.
●When dirt adheres to the video heads of the GY-
DV300, the warning message “HEAD
CLEANING REQUIRED!”appears on the LCD
screen and the viewfinder screen during edit
search in the recording mode and during
playback.
Block Noise
Periodical Maintenance
Contents: Check or replace the following mechanical
parts according to the running time.
Running Time 500H 1000H 1500H 2000H
Drum assembly 
(including heads)
Head cleaner 
Tape guides & rollers 
Rotary encoder ––
Belts & gears ––
Drive parts 
: Clean, check and adjust.
: Clean and check. Replace as required.
: Replace.
•The maintenance contents vary depending on
the operating environment and method.
Therefore, the above data should be considered
as a reference.
Time management
The accumulated running time of the unit can be
confirmed with the hour meter display (which shows
the accumulated drum running time). For details,
see “Displaying the Hour Meter Display”on page
104.
For consultations related to the maintenance
programming or cost, please contact the person
in charge of professional video equipment at
your nearest JVC-authorized service agent.
HEAD CLEANING REQUIRED!

10
Precautions for Use of Head Cleaning Tape
Use the separately sold head cleaning tape M-
DV12CL.
Adhere to the following precautions when using
the head cleaning tape.
1. The tape runs for 10 seconds at a time in the
PLAY mode. (The tape stops automatically and
the unit enters the STOP MODE.)
●Set the MODE switch on the unit to “VTR”.
●Press the BAR (f/w) button after the
cleaning tape is fully loaded.
2. Do not use the tape more than four times at
the most for each cleaning.
3. The cleaning tape can be used approximately
100 times.
Use the following chart as a guide for
periodical head cleaning.
Note 1) When used in a low humidity environment
(10% RH to 30% RH), head cleaning
should be conducted at intervals half of
those given in the above chart.
Note 2) If an ME80 tape is used immediately after
head cleaning, the VTR WARNING
(HEAD) indicator may remain on. In this
case, let the tape run as the indicator will
turn off after the tape has run for a while.
Note 3) Use the cleaning tape at room temperature
(10°C to 35°C).
Note 4) The cleaning tape case contains instructions
for use of the cleaning tape. However,
some of these instructions differ from the
contents given in this document. When
using the cleaning tape, please follow the
instructions of this document.
Note 5) Perform head cleaning before using the
GY-DV300 in the LP mode.
Operating Low temperature Room temperature High temperature
environment 0°C to 10°C10°C to 35°C35°C to 40°C
Yardstick for 1 to 2 times 1 to 2 times 1 to 2 times
use of cleaning every 5 hours every 20 to 30 hours every 5 hours
tape
●Use JVC videocassette tapes marked with
MiniDV for this unit.
Please use DVM60 or DVM30 type videocassettes.
●Malfunctions may occur if a DVM80
videocassette is used in the LP mode.
●When recording in the LP mode, use
videocassettes bearing the “LP Mode”mark on
the package.
The following phenomena may occur when tapes
recorded in the LP mode are attempted played
back on another set.
•Noise may appear in the picture and sound
•The sound may fall out and the picture may
fail to appear
•The tape counter indication may be irregular
●Please play back a tape that is recorded in the
LP mode on the unit on which the tape was
recorded. Also, these tapes cannot be played
back on digital video units that do not support
the LP mode.
●Videocassettes cannot be used upside down.
Videocassette to be Used
●Avoid storing a videocassette with unevenly
wound tape, as this may damage the tape.
Rewind it to the beginning before placing a
cassette into storage.
●Store videocassettes in a place with little humidity
and good ventilation where mould does not form.
●After a videocassette tape has been used
repeatedly, it becomes unable to maintain full
performance due to an increase in noise caused
by dropouts, etc. Do not continue to use a dirty
or damaged tape, as this will reduce the rotary
head life.
●Videocassette tapes marked MiniDV are
provided with a switch on the back for use in
preventing accidental erasure.
●Slide the switch to “SAVE”to protect the required
recording in the tape from being overwritten.
●To record on the tape, slide the switch to “REC”.
REC
SAVE
Switch
INTRODUCTION

11
Condensation
●If the unit has been cooled down in a cold place
and is then carried to a warm place, the moisture
contained in the warm air may adhere to the head
drum or tape guides and be cooled into water
droplets. This phenomenon is referred to as
condensation (dewing). When this occurs, the
head drum and tape guides are covered with
droplets allowing the tape to stick to them, leading
to tape damage.
●Condensation occurs in the following cases:
•When the unit is suddenly
moved from a cold place
to a warm place.
•When a room heater has
just started or when the
unit is exposed directly to
cold air from an air
conditioner.
•When the unit is placed in a very humid place.
Do not leave the videocassette inserted when
moving the camera under conditions where the
temperature environment changes.
After moving the unit, do not use until the
internal parts have stabilized.
●When condensation occurs in this unit, the “VTR
WARNING (DEW)”appears on the LCD screen
and the viewfinder screen.
To remedy, leave the unit with the power ON and
wait until the WARNING indicator disappears.
●Prevention of condensation
When quickly transporting the GY-DV300 from a
cold to a warmer place, first take out the cassette.
Then place the GY-DV300 in a plastic bag and
seal it before transporting the camera. Leave the
GY-DV300 in the sealed plastic bag until the
camera has the same temperature as the
surroundings. This will prevent condensation.
Monitor screen
Smear
(Vertical pale streaking
appearing at high
luminous object)
High luminous object
(Electric light, sunlight, etc.)
Blooming
(Blurring in highlight)
Videotape
Head drum
VTR WARNING (DEW)
Characteristic CCD Phenomena
Smear and Blooming
Due to the physical structure of a CCD it is possible
to induce vertical streaking (called “smear”) when
shooting an extremely bright light source. Another
effect is the expansion of light around a bright light
or object (called “blooming”).
The CCD employed in this unit is characterized by
inducing very little smear or blooming.
Nevertheless, please be careful when shooting a
bright light source.
Moire or Aliasing
Shooting stripes or fine patterns may cause a
jagged effect or a banding in fine mesh patterns.
White dots
High temperatures can cause CCD sensor pixels
to malfunction with the effect of white dots in the
image. This condition is conspicuous especially
when gain is applied.
This is a characteristic of the charged-couple device
(CCD). As far as possible, use the unit under
conditions where the temperature of the unit does
not increase.

12
CONTROLS,
INDICATORS AND CONNECTORS Right Side Section
1FOCUS ring
Manual focus ring.
Set the FOCUS switch 5to “MANUAL”before
turning this ring to adjust the focus manually. If
the FOCUS switch is set to “AUTO”, this ring
will not work.
2[ND. FILTER] ND-filter switch
Turns the built-in ND-filter ON or OFF. When
the shooting conditions are too bright during
outdoor shooting, set this switch to “ON”. This
will adjust the quantity of light to approximately
1/32. When this switch is ON, the “ND”indicator
is shown on the LCD screen. (☞ See page 24.)
3[IRIS] IRIS adjustment dial
Dial for manual adjustment of iris. To allow iris
adjustment with this dial, set the IRIS item to
MANUAL on the OPERATION menu screen.
When the MANUAL mode is selected for the
iris adjustment, this dial can be rotated to move
the iris from fully opened to fully closed. Rotating
the dial upward opens the iris, and rotating it
downward closes the iris.
When the AUTO mode is selected for the iris
adjustment, this dial can be rotated to adjust the
iris from +3 steps to –3 steps from the auto iris
condition. Rotating the dial upward opens the
iris, and rotating it downward closes the iris.
(See “OPERATION Menu Screen”on page 98.)
4[IRIS PUSH AUTO] Iris push auto button
Pressing this button when the MANUAL mode
is selected for the iris adjustment engages the
forced auto iris mode as long as the button is
pressed. When the button is released, the
manual mode is restored.
When the AUTO mode is selected for the iris
adjustment, this button does not work.
5[FOCUS] Focus switch
This is used to switch between AUTO and
MANUAL focus adjustment.
Set this switch to “MANU”when the focus ring
1should be used to adjust the focus.
PROFESSINAL
DV CAMCORDER GY-DV300
IRIS
AUDIO
LEVEL
CH-1 CH-2
ND FILTER
ON
OFF
FOCUS
AUTO
PUSH
AUTO
MANU
OPEN
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u
q w etr y i o
!1
!2

13
6[FOCUS PUSH AUTO] Focus push auto
button
Pressing this button when the MANUAL mode
is selected for the focus adjustment engages
the forced auto focus mode as long as the button
is pressed. When the button is released, the
manual mode is restored.
When the [FOCUS] switch 5is set to “AUTO”,
this button does not work.
7[CH1/CH2 AUDIO LEVEL] CH-1/CH-2 audio
recording level controls
Used to adjust the recording level of the CH-1
and CH-2 audio channels. To use these controls
to adjust the audio level, set the CH1 AUDIO
LEVEL or CH2 AUDIO LEVEL item to MANUAL
on the OPERATION menu screen.
Rotating clockwise increases the recording level.
The recording level meter is displayed on the
LCD screen and the viewfinder screen.
8LCD door
This is the door behind which the LCD screen is
located. The LCD screen can be viewed when
the door is open.
This door can be turned to face the LCD screen
toward the lens (vertically inverted image) or
downward. (☞ See page 39.)
9LCD door lock release button
Slide the button toward the rear side to open
the LCD door.
0Viewfinder
Displays the camera image and the playback
picture.
The brightness and color saturation of the
viewfinder screen can be adjusted on the
DISPLAY [2/2] menu screen. The viewfinder can
be turned approximately 75 degrees upward.
AViewfinder diopter adjustment knob
Knob for adjusting until the viewfinder screen
image is clearly visible.
Raise the viewfinder to facilitate the adjustment.
BTally lamp
This lamp lights up red when the GY-DV300 is
in the recording mode. It blinks slowly when the
battery pack is exhausted and when there is
about 3 minutes or less tape remaining.
When the tape has run out, or the VTR enters
the warning mode, it blinks quickly.
Use the TALLY item on the SYSTEM [2/2] menu
screen to select whether or not the lamp should
light during recording. (☞ See page 92.)

14
CONTROLS,
INDICATORS AND CONNECTORS Rear Section
POWER
OFF ON
MODE PUSH
CAM-B
VTR
SHUTTER
MENU
AUDIO
MONITOR
MIC1
MIC2
CH-2CH-1
CH-2
MIX
CH-1
GAIN
CAM-A
BAR
AW
FWD
REV
!3
!5
!4
!6
!7
@0
!9
!8
@4@3@2@1
C[POWER] POWER switch
Turn the power ON and OFF with this switch.
DBattery holder
Mount the provided battery pack BN-V428 here.
(☞ See page 34.)
EBattery lock release button
Press this button to remove the battery pack.
F[DC INPUT] DC connector
Power input connector for 7 V DC. Accepts the
optional AC adapter AA-P30. The power range
is 6 V to 12 V.
GREC Start/Stop button
This button starts and stops recording. When
the GY-DV300 is in the shooting mode, pressing
this button starts the recording. Pressing the
button during a recording engages the
recording-pause (standby) mode.
H[MODE] Mode selector switch
Set in accordance with the operating mode of
the GY-DV300. When used in the shooting mode,
the switch is set to “CAM-A”or “CAM-B”. When
used in the VTR playback mode, it is set to
“VTR”. When set to “CAM-A”or “CAM-B”in the
shooting mode, two separate sets of setting
values for recording can be set by means of the
menu screens.
“CAM-A”: In this position, shooting takes
place in accordance with the
conditions set for “CAM-A”on the
menu screen.
“CAM-B”: In this position, shooting takes
place in accordance with the
conditions set for “CAM-B”on the
menu screen.
“VTR”: Set to this position when performing
VTR playback.
Also set to this position to record
the video signal input from the DV
connector.
I[GAIN] Sensitivity selector button
This button is for manual adjustment of
sensitivity. It works when the AE item is set to
OFF on the OPERATION menu screen.

15
●When the AE (Auto Exposure) function is OFF
and this button is pressed, the condition of
the current gain setting is shown on the LCD
screen or the viewfinder screen for about 3
seconds. In this condition, it possible to set
the gain setting of the GY-DV300. Gain is set
by rotating the SELECT dial L. Rotating the
dial upward moves gain in the plus direction,
and rotating it downward moves it in the minus
direction.
When rotation of the dial stops, the set gain is
indicated for about 3 seconds.
[The variable range is –3 dB to +18 dB (1 dB
step)]
●Pressing the button for 1 second or more
engages the LOLUX mode.
J[SHUTTER] Shutter speed selector button
This button is for manual adjustment of the
shutter speed.
●It works when the AE item on the OPERATION
menu screen is set to OFF. Using the
SHUTTER item on the OPERATION menu
screen, select the shutter speed mode as
STEP or VARIABLE.
Set to VARIABLE when shooting computer
display screens.
●When the button is pressed in MANUAL mode,
the current shutter speed setting is shown on
the LCD screen or the viewfinder screen for
about 3 seconds. In this condition, it possible
to set the shutter speed of the GY-DV300. The
shutter speed is set by rotating the SELECT
dial L. When rotation of the dial stops, the
set shutter speed is indicated for about 3
seconds.
[Variable range
STEP: 1/60, 1/100, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000,
1/2000
VARIABLE: 1/60.1 to 1/2084.6]
K[MENU] Menu button
Press this button for 1 second or more to display
the MENU setting screen. The MENU setting
screen is shown on the LCD screen and the
viewfinder screen.
When the OUTPUT CHAR. item on the DISPLAY
[2/2] menu screen is set to MIX, the MENU
setting screen can also be output for display via
the VIDEO OUT or Y/C OUT connector.
Selections and settings in the menu are
performed with the SELECT dial L.
The normal screen returns when this button is
pressed while the MENU setting screen is
displayed.
LSELECT dial
●When gain and shutter adjustment is set to
the MANUAL mode, this dial is rotated to set
the gain or shutter speed.
●When the white balance adjustment is set to
the MANUAL mode, the white balance setting
mode can be selected by rotating this dial.
[Variable range: PRESET, MEMORY 1, 2, 3]
●When the MENU setting screen is displayed,
this dial is used to select and set items in the
menu.
To confirm menu items and set values, press
the dial.
M[CH-1/CH-2 AUDIO] CH-1/CH-2 audio input
selector switch
Used to select the audio source input to the CH-
1/CH-2 channel. Separate inputs can be
selected for the CH-1/CH-2 channels.
MIC 1 : The sound from the built-in microphone
or from the MIC 1 input connector is
input. Select the input from the built-in
microphone or from the MIC 1 input
connector with the MIC1 INPUT SEL
item on the SYSTEM [1/2] menu screen.
MIC 2 : The sound from the MIC 2 input
connector is input.
N[MONITOR] Audio monitor selector switch
Selects the monitor sound heard from the
EARPHONE jack Xor the built-in speaker.
CH-1 : CH-1 audio signal
CH-2 : CH-2 audio signal
MIX : Mixed signal consisting of the CH-1 and
CH-2 audio signals.

16
CONTROLS,
INDICATORS AND CONNECTORS Rear Section (cont’d)
@8
@5
@7
@9 @6
#0
O[BAR] Color bar/Playback & still button
●Pressing this button in the shooting mode
switches the setting between color bar output
and camera image output.
●Pressing this button in the VTR playback
mode starts playback. Pressing this button
during playback engages the playback mode.
●Pressing this button during playback engages
the still picture mode.
P[AW] White balance/Stop button
●Used when white balance adjustment is
performed in the shooting mode.
To use this button for white balance
adjustment, the WHITE BALANCE item on the
OPERATION menu screen should be set to
PUSH AUTO.
When this button is pressed, the current white
balance setting mode is displayed for about 3
seconds on the LCD screen or the viewfinder
screen after which white balance adjustment
of the GY-DV300 becomes possible.
The white balance adjustment setting mode
is selected by rotating the SELECT dial L.
When rotation of the dial stops, the selected
LCD door storage
compartment
setting mode is displayed for about 3 seconds.
When the button is then pressed for 1 second
or more, the white balance adjustment starts.
[Variable range: PRESET, MEMORY 1, 2, 3]
Memo:
The PRESET mode is fixed at 3200 K (colour
temperature). Even if the AW button is pressed,
white balance adjustment is not performed.
●Pressing this button in the VTR playback
mode engages the Stop mode.
Q[FWD] FORWARD/FF button
●Pressing this button in the shooting mode
engages playback in forward direction at
normal speed for as long as the button is
pressed. When the button is released, the
recording-standby mode is engaged.
●Pressing this button in the VTR playback
mode during stop or rewind operation initiates
the fast forward mode. Pressing this button
during playback, still picture playback, or
reverse search initiates forward search mode.

17
●Pressing this button simultaneously with the
REV button Rduring stop in the VTR playback
mode initiates the blank search mode (for
locating the end point of recordings).
R[REV] REVERSE/REW button
●Pressing this button in the shooting mode
engages playback in reverse direction at
normal speed for as long as the button is
pressed. When the button is released, the
recording-standby mode is engaged.
●Pressing this button in the VTR playback
mode during stop or fast forward operation
initiates the rewind mode. Pressing this button
during playback, still picture playback, or
forward search initiates reverse search.
SLCD monitor screen
●Shows a color camera image or the VTR
playback picture.
It is also used for displaying the following:
•Menu setting screens
•Characters showing the whether the GY-
DV300 is set to shooting mode or VTR
playback mode
•Date and time and time code
•Audio level meter
•Warning indications, etc.
For details, ☞ see page 22.
•The angle of the LCD screen can be rotated
to make the LCD screen face toward the lens
or downward.
•The brightness and color saturation can be
adjusted and set on the DISPLAY [1/2] menu
screen.
TBuilt-in speaker
Outputs the VTR playback sound. The playback
sound level is adjusted with the ZOOM/Playback
sound level adjustment lever . The monitor
sound is not output in the shooting mode. The
audio from the loudspeaker is not output when
an earphone is plugged into the EARPHONE
jack X. (☞ See page 82.)

18
CONTROLS,
INDICATORS AND CONNECTORS Left Side Section
U[VIDEO OUT] Video output connector (RCA)
Output connector for composite video signal.
Outputs the input video signal and playback
picture.
●When the OUTPUT CHAR. item on the
DISPLAY [2/2] menu screen is set to MIX, on-
screen-indicators like those shown on the LCD
monitor screen can be output (black and white
display).
●When the SETUP item on the SYSTEM [2/2]
menu screen is set to ON, signals with setup
information can be output. (black and white
display)
V[Y/C OUT] Y/C video output connector (4-pin)
Separate YC video signal output connector.
Outputs the input video signal and playback
picture.
●When the OUTPUT CHAR. item on the
DISPLAY [2/2] menu screen is set to MIX, on-
screen-indicators like those shown on the LCD
monitor screen can be output (black and white
display).
●When the SETUP item on the SYSTEM [2/2]
menu screen is set to ON, signals with setup
information can be output. (black and white
display)
●When the ASPECT item is set to LETTER on
the SYSTEM [2/2] menu screen, an ID signal
for identifying the wide-screen aspect is
output.
W[CH-1/CH-2 LINE OUT] CH-1/CH-2 audio
output connector (RCA)
Output connector for audio signal. In the
shooting mode the input audio signal is output.
In the VTR mode the playback sound is output.
X[EARPHONE] Earphone jack
This is a jack for connecting an earphone for
monitoring the sound. Plug in an earphone or
headphone with a 3.5 mm diameter plug.
Monaural sound is output.
Select the output sound with the MONITOR
switch N. The volume of the monitor sound in
the shooting mode is set with the EARPHONE
LEVEL item on the TOP MENU screen.
MIC 2 IN
MIC 1 IN
Y/C OUT
VIDEO OUT
LINE
OUT
CH-1CH-2
EARPHONE
DV
#7
#1#5#2#6 #3#4

19
The playback sound from the built-in speaker is
not output when an earphone is plugged into
this jack.
Y[DV] DV connector
Using a DV cable (optional), a digital video
component with DV connector can be connected
here.
To record DV signals (IEEE1394 signals) from
this connector, the MODE switch Hshould be
set to “VTR”.
ZCassette cover
Sliding the EJECT switch located on the top
section opens this cover to allow insertion or
removal of the videocassette. The cover locks
into place when it is closed after the cassette
holder has been properly locked. (☞ See page
38.)
[Microphone holder attachment base
Use for attaching an optional microphone holder.
Attach the optional microphone holder KA-A33
here. (☞ See page 36.)
Memo:
•When inserting a cassette, push the “PUSH
HERE”section on the cassette holder to lock
the cassette holder correctly, and then close
the cassette cover.
•To prevent foreign matter from penetrating into
the interior of the GY-DV300, never leave the
unit with this cover left open.
•The GY-DV300 does not function if the
cassette cover is not closed.

20
Memo:
•The audio input channel is selected with the
CH-1/CH-2 audio input selector switch M.
•To reduce the wind noise of the microphone,
set the WIND CUT MIC1/MIC2 item on the
SYSTEM [1/2] menu screen to ON.
CONTROLS,
INDICATORS AND CONNECTORS Front Section
\Built-in microphone
Built-in monaural microphone.
●To use this microphone, set the MIC1 INPUT
SEL item to INT on the SYSTEM [1/2] menu
screen.
][MIC 1] Microphone 1 input connector (XLR-
3P)
Connect an external microphone to this
connector. Monaural signals are recorded.
●To use the microphone connected to this
connector, set the MIC1 INPUT SEL item to
XLR on the SYSTEM [1/2] menu screen.
●To use a microphone requiring +48 V power
supply (phantom microphone), set the +48V
MIC1 item on the SYSTEM [1/2] menu screen
to ON. This connector will then supply +48 V
DC current.
When using a microphone other than a
phantom microphone, set the +48V MIC1 item
to OFF.
`[MIC 2] Microphone 2 input connector (XLR-
3P)
Connect an external microphone to this
connector. Monaural signals are recorded.
●To use a microphone requiring +48 V power
supply (phantom microphone), set the +48V
MIC2 item on the SYSTEM [1/2] menu screen
to ON. This connector will then supply +48 V
DC current.
When using a microphone other than a
phantom microphone, set the +48V MIC2 item
to OFF.
\
]
`