Panasonic Palmcorder IQ PV-A396 User manual

Panasonic*
Palmcorder IQ'
Camcorder
Operating Instruct ion 5
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PV-A396
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Things You Should Know
Thank you for choosing Panasonic!
You have purchased one of the most
sophisticated and reliable products on the
market today. Used properly, we're sure it
will bring you and your family years of
enjoyment. Please take time to fill in the
information at right. The serial number is on
the tag located on the underside of your
Palmcorder. Be sure to retain this manual
as your convenient Palmcorder information
source.
Unpack your Palmcorder
Date of Purchase
Dealer Purchased From
Dealer Address
Dealer Phone No.
Mode! No.
Serial No.
These accessories are provided in order to set up or use your Palmcorder.
1 pc. AC Adaptor
(PV-A17)
with DC Pow er ^
Cable
1 pc. Battery Pack
(PV-BP15)
1 pc. Audio/Video 1 pc. Shoulder Strap
Cable (VJAW0032) (VYCW0108)
1 pc. VHS PlayPak
(PV-P1/VYMW0009)
and one “AA" battery
1 pc. 9-Function Remote
(VSQW0031 or VSQW0033)
with one CR2025 Battery
1 pc. CR2025 Clock
Battery (VSBW0004)
(installed in Palmcorder)
Remote has been loaded with battery and
comes stored in Palmcorder. See page 22.
Safety Precautions
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
Your Compact VHS Palmcorder is designed to record This Palmcorder is equipped with the HQ System to
and play back in Standard Play (SP) and Super Long provide excellent video pictures, and is compatible
Play (SLP) modes. You can also play a Compact VHS with standard VHS equipment.
Palmcorder recording on your VHS VCR using the It is recommended that only cassette tapes that have
VHS PlayPak supplied. been tes ted an d inspe cted tor use in VCR machines
with the IVHStH and/or IV'HSi mark be used.

Important Safeguards
1. Read Instructions — All the safety and operating
instructions should be read before the unit is
operated.
2. Retain Instructions — The safety and operating
instructions should be retained for future reference.
3. Heed Warnings — All warnings on the unit and in
the operating instructions should be adhered to.
4. Follow Instructions — All operating and
maintenance instructions should be followed.
5. Cleaning — Unplug this video unit from the wall
outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol
cleaners. Use a dry cloth for cleaning.
6. Attachments — Do not use attachments not
recommended by the video product manufacturer
as they may be hazardous.
7. Water and Moisture — Do not use this video unit
near water — for example near a bath tub, wash
bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub, in a wet
basement, or near a swimming pool, and the like.
8. Accessories — Do not place this video unit on an
unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The
video unit may fall, causing serious injury to a child
or adult, and serious damage to the unit. Use only
with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table
recommended by the manufacturer, or sold with the
video unit. Any mounting of the unit should follow
the manufacturer’s instructions and should use a
mounting accessory recommended 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.
9. Ventilation — Slots and openings in the cabinet are
provided for ventilation and to ensure reliable
operation of the video unit and to protect it from
overheating. These openings must not be blocked
or covered. Never place the video unit on a bed.
sofa, rug, or other similar surface, or near or over a
radiator or heat register. This video unit should not
be placed in a built-in installation such as a
bookcase or rack unless proper ventilation is
provided or the manufacturer's instructions have
been adhered to.
10. Power Sources — This video unit 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 supply to your home, consult
your appliance dealer or local power company. For
video units intended to be operated from battery
power, or other sources, refer to the operating
instructions.
11. Grounding or Polarization — This video unit may
be equipped with either a polarized 2-wire AC
(Alternating Current) line plug (a plug having one
blade wider than the other) or 3-wire grounding
type plug, a plug having a third (grounding) pin.
The 2-wire polarized plug will fit into the power
outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you
are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet,
try reversing the plug. If the plug still fails to fit,
contact your electrician to replace your obsolete
outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the
polarized plug.
The 3-wire grounding type plug will 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 type plug.
12. Power-Cord Protection — Power-supply cords
should be routed so that they are not likely to be
walked on or pinched by items placed upon or
against them, paying particular attention to cords
of plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point
where they exit from the unit.
13. Outdoor Antenna Grounding — If an outside
antenna or cable system is connected to the video
unit, be sure the antenna or cable system is
grounded so as to provide some protection against
voltage surges and built-up static charges. Part 1
of the Canadian Electrical Code, in USA Section
810 of the National Electrical Code, provides
information with respect to proper grounding of the
mast and supporting structure, grounding of the
lead-in wire to an antenna discharge unit, size of
grounding conductors, location of antenna
discharge unit, connection to grounding
electrodes, and requirements for the grounding
electrode.
14. L ightning — For added protection of this video unit
receiver 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 video unit due to lightning and
power-line surges.
3
Getting
Started

Important Safeguards
15. Power Lines — An outside antenna system should
not be located in the vicinity of overhead power
lines or other electric light or power circuits, or
where it can fall into such power lines or circuits.
When installing an outside antenna system,
extreme care should be taken to keep from
touching such power lines or circuits as contact
with them might be fatal.
16. Overloading — Do not overload wail outlets and
extension cords as this can result in a risk of fire or
electric shock.
17. Objects and Liquids — Never push objects of any
kind into this video unit through openings 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 onto the video unit.
18. Servicing — Do not attempt to service this video
unit yourself as opening or removing covers may
expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
19. Damage Requiring Service — Unplug this video
unit from the wall outlet and refer servicing to
qualified service personnel under the following
conditions:
a. W hen the power-supply cord or plug is
damaged.
b. If any liquid has been spilled onto, or objects
have fallen into the video unit.
c. If the video unit has been exposed to rain or
water.
d. If the video unit does not operate normally by
following the operating instructions. Adjust only
those controls that are covered by the operating
instructions, as an improper adjustment of other
controls may result in damage and will often
require extensive work by a qualified technician
to restore the video unit to its normal operation.
e. tf the video unit has been dropped or the cabinet
has been damaged.
f. When the video unit exhibits a distinct change in
performance — this indicates a need for service.
20. Replacement Parts — When replacement parts are
required, be sure the service technician has used
replacement parts specified by the manufacturer or
have the same characteristics as the original part.
Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire,
electric shock or other hazards.
21. Safety Check— Upon completion of any service or
repairs to this video unit, ask the service technician
to perform safety checks to determine that the
video unit Is in safe operating order.
Precautions
USE & LOCATION
• TO AVOID SHOCK HAZARD ... Your Camcorder and power supply should not be exposed to rain or moisture.
Do not connect the power supply or operate your Camcorder if it gets wet. Your Camcorder has been designed
for outdoor use, however it is not designed to sustain direct exposure to water, rain, sleet, snow, sand, dust, or a
direct splashing from a pool or even a cup of coffee. This action could permanently damage the internal parts of
your Camcorder. Do not attempt to disassemble this unit. There are no user serviceable parts inside. Unplug
your Camcorder from the power supply before cleaning.
• DO NOT AIM YOUR CAMCORDER AT THE SUN OR OTHER BRIGHT OBJECTS
• DO NOT LEAVE THE PALMCORDER WITH THE EVF AIMED DIRECTLY AT THE SUN AS THIS MAY
CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE INTERNAL PARTS OF THE EVF
• DO NOT EXPOSE YOUR CAMCORDER TO EXTENDED HIGH TEMPERATURE ... Such as. in direct sunlight,
Inside a closed car, next to a heater, etc... This action could permanently damage the internal parts of your
Camcorder.
• AVOID SUDDEN CHANGES IN TEMPERATURE ... If the unit is suddenly moved from a cold place to a warm
place, moisture may form on the tape and inside the unit.
• DO NOT LEAVE YOUR CAMCORDER OR THE POWER SUPPLY TURNED ON WHEN NOT IN USE.
• STORAGE OF YOUR CAMCORDER ... Store and handle your Camcorder in a manner that will not subject it to
unnecessary movement (avoid shaking and striking). Your Camcorder contains a sensitive pick-up device which
could be damaged by improper handling or storage.
CARE
• TO CLEAN YOUR CAMCORDER ... Do not use strong or abrasive detergents when cleaning your Camcorder
body.
• TO PROTECT THE LENS ... Do not touch the surface of the lens with your hand. Use a commercial camcorder
lens solution and lens paper when cleaning the lens. Improper cleaning can scratch the lens coating.
• TO PROTECT THE FINISH OF YOUR CAMCORDER... Before handling your Camcorder, make sure your
hands and face are free from any chemical products, such as suntan lotion, as it may damage the finish.
4

Table of Contents
Getting Started
Things You Should Know.2
Important Safeguards.3, 4
Precautions.4
Quick Operation Guide.6
Supplying Power
Charge the Battery Pack.7
Use the Battery Pack.7
Battery Refresh Feature.8
Battery Care.8
AC Adaptor.9
Car Battery Cord (Optional).9
Cassette Information.10
Setting the Clock
Set the Time Zone.11
Set the Daylight Saving Time.12
Set the Date and Time.13
Replace the Battery.14
Electronic Viewfinder Indications.15, 16, 17
Attaching the Shoulder Strap.18
Basic Operation
Camera Recording
Simple Recording.19
Stand-by Mode.20
Stand-by Release.20
Easy Edit Stand-by.21
Manual Easy Editing.21
9-Function Remote Control.22
Programmed Recording.23
Playback your Recordings
Playback using the EVF.24
Playback using the PlayPak.25
Playback or View on a TV.26
Special Features
Four-Speed Power Zoom.27
One-Touch Auto Fade.27
Focus.28
High Speed Shutter.29
Backlight.29
Intelligent Titler.30
Copying your Tapes (dubbing).31
For Your Information
Palmcorder Accessory System.32
Notes Regarding Operations.33
Specifications.34
Before Requesting Service.34, 35
Index of Controls.36, 37, 38
Index.38
Spanish Quick Use Guide/Guia Para Uso R^pido.39, Back Cover
5
Getting
Started

Quick Operat ion Guide
Camera Recording
Charge the Battery Pack fully before operation (see page 7).
?['4
Attach the Battery (see page 7).
Make sure Battery is charged before
^use (see page 7).
Slide the TAPE EJECT switch to open
the door.
insert a cassette (see page 10).
Press here to close the door.
Set the POWER switch to CAMERA.
Built-In Lens Cover opens and POWER
Lamp lights.
i
* Slide the TAPE SPEED Selector for
SP or SLP (see page 10).
r
With the Eye Cup up to your eye,
adjust the Vision Adjustment Control
to your eyesight.
>
> Press RECORD/PAUSE to start
recording.
Press RECORD/PAUSE again to pause
recording (see page 19).
POWER Lamp
To Watch Playback in the EVF (Electronic Viewfinder)
Set the POWER switch to VCR.
Press REWIND/SEARCH to rewind the
tape.
I
1 Press PLAY to start playback.
Press STOP to stop playback.

Supplying Power
Charge the Battery Park
Charge the Battery Pack fully
before operation.
POWER
Lamps.
CHARGE
Lamp
X Plug in the AC Adaptor.
POWER Lamp lights up.
2 I nsert the Battery
® Align the right side of the Battery with
the line on the AC Adaptor.
(8) Press down on the Battery and then
slide it in the direction of the arrow.
CHARGE Lamp lights up. It goes out
when charging is done (about one hour).
Remove the Battery
Slide the Battery out and then lift up.
• The useful operation time of the Battery will
gradually decrease after repeated use and
recharging. The Battery is no longer serviceable
if the operation time is very short, even after a
sufficient charge.
Note:
After recharging the Battery Pack about 5 times,
use the BATTERY REFRESH feature as
explained on page 8.
Battery Charging
Confirmation Marker
Use this marker as a reminder to yourself
when the battery is fully charged or in
need of a charge. This marker performs
no function and is for your reference only.
Use the Battery Pack
With a fully charged Battery Pack, you will have a maximum of about one hour of
continuous use. -g
_ ( -Z Attach the Battery
=r v / ® Align the Battery with the top of the
y L - E tfl ]yj/ mounting surface.
fl . j tfji j —v ® Press it into place until it locks with a
1/ 1 click.
' Remove the Battery
While sliding the BATTERY RELEASE
button, remove the Battery.
Getting
Started

Supplying Power
Battery Refresh Feature
This feature completely discharges the Battery before recharging begins.
To maintain your battery's operating capacity, use the refresh feature after about every five charges.
CHARGE Lamp
ONLY FOR U.S.A.
1 Plug in AC Adaptor.
Place the Battery into the
AC Adaptor.
3
4
Press the BATTERY REFRESH
button.
The CHARGE Lamp will flash when
discharging begins and stop flashing
when fully discharged. POWER Lamp
will stay lit when fully charged.
Remove the Battery
• Should you accidentally press the BATTERY
REFRESH button, remove Battery and then
re-insert it to begin charging.
• It takes about five hours when both Battery
Refresh and charging are performed.
ATTENTION:
The product that you have purchased is powered by a rechargeable battery. The battery
is recyclable. At the end of its useful life, under various state and local laws, it may be
illegal to dispose of this battery into the municipal waste stream. Check with your local
solid waste officials for details in your area for recycling options or proper disposal.
Battery Care
Caution:
• Charge only with specified charger.
• The Battery can be charged within a tempera¬
ture range of 32° F (0° C) and 104° F (40° C).
• The Battery may be warm after charging or
just after use. This is normal.
• Do not use an insufficiently charged or worn
out Battery.
Safety precautions:
• Oo not get the Battery near, or dispose of in
fire.
• Do not directly connect (short circuit) the
positive (+) and negative (-) terminals.
• Never attempt to disassemble or reassemble
the Battery.
8
To avoid damage to the Battery:
• Do not drop or jar the Battery.
• Use the Battery with specified units only.
• If the Battery is used in extremely high
temperatures, a safety device will automati¬
cally prevent operation.
To insure longer battery life:
• While not in use, remove Battery from the
Palmcorder and AC Adaptor and store in a
cool, dark, dry place.
• Keep the Battery terminals clean.

AC Adaptor
DC Power Cable
POWER Lamp
Supplying Power
VCR DC OUT Connector
DC IN
Connector
Connect the VCR DC OUT on
the AC Adaptor to the DC IN on
the Palmcorder with the DC
Power Cable (supplied).
Plug in the AC Adaptor.
The POWER Lamp will light up.
Note:
• AC Adaptor can not be used to power the Palmcorder while charging the Battery.
* While not in use, unplug the AC Adaptor from the AC outlet. (AC Adaptor consumes
1.2W of electric power if it is plugged into an AC outlet even when not in use.)
Car Battery Cord (Optional)
Car Battery Cord Cigarette
(optional) Lighter Plug
1 Connect a PV-C16 Car Battery Cord
(optional) to the DC IN of the
Palmcorder.
Start your car engine and then insert
the Car Battery Cord plug into your
cigarette lighter socket.
• There is a fuse located in the lighter plug
end of the cord.
Should fuse replacement be necessary
use the exact current rating (in amps).
Note:
• This cord can only be used in vehicles
equipped with DC 12V (negative ground)
batteries. Use only the specified car battery
cord. If you are not sure check with your local
car/truck dealer as to what type of DC battery
ground you have in your vehicle.
• Be sure to start your car engine before
inserting the cigarette tighter plug of the
Car Battery Cord into the lighter socket;
otherwise, the cigarette lighter plug fuse
may burn out.
• Because the car is running while your
Palmcorder is in operation, make sure
you’re in a well ventilated area.
• Disconnect the cigarette lighter plug when
your Palmcorder is not being used.
9
Getting
Started

Cassette Information
Cassette InsertionlRemoval
Turn the Tape Wheel in the direction
of the arrow until there is no slack.
Attach the Battery (see page 7).
Slide the TAPE EJECT switch
to open the door.
Insert the cassette vertically
with its window side facing
out.
Press here to close the door.
To remove the cassette, slide the TAPE EJECT switch.
TAPE SPEED Selector
Record/Playback Time
Use tapes with the IVHSffl mark in this unit.
Tape Speed Selector
Position
Cassette type
T-20
T-30
T-40
SP (Standard Play) 20 minutes
30 minutes
40 minutes
SLP (Super Long Play)
1 hour
1 hour
30 minutes
2 hours
SP provides the best picture.
SLP has slightly more picture noise during playback.
Erase Protection Tab
Cassettes have a record tab to ensure that recordings are not accidentally erased.
1 To prevent accidental erasure
Break off the tab with a screwdriver.
(Or, slide tab open.)
To record again
Cover the hole with adhesive tape.
(Or, slide tab closed.)