Panasonic Palmcorder MultiCam PV-L453 User manual

Palm coPdcP" Panasonic _
MultiCam _CamcoPdcr Camcorder
Operating Instructions
Model No. PV-L453
MultiMediaCard _" =_'_
Please read these instructions carefully before attempting to operate this product.
Please save this manual.
Guia para rapida consulta en espafiol esta inctuida.
LSQT0629A

Thank you for choosing Panasonic!
You have purchased one of the most
sophisticated and reliable products on the
market today. Used properly, it will bring
you years of enjoyment. Please take time
to fill in the information to the right.
The serial number is on the tag located on
the rear side of your Camcorder. Be sure
to retain this manual as your convenient
Camcorder information source.
Date of Purchase
Dealer Purchased From
Dealer Address
Dealer Phone No.
Model No.
Serial No.
|l| INo_. [o,] [|YLO] lId O_. I JI [o,[o] (o [_ |
These accessories are provided in order to set up or use your Camcorder.
1 pc. AC Adaptor (PV-A20)
with DC Power Cable 1 pc. Audio/Video Cable 1 pc. Battery Pack
(LSJA0390) (pages 21,22) (PV-BP18/LSSB0008)
_ (pages 9, 10)
1 pc. Shoulder Strap
(LSFC0012) (page 12) 1 pc. CR2025 Clock Battery
(installed in Camcorder)
(page 51)
1 pc. Lens Cap (LSKM0937)
with Lens Cap Strap
(LSGQ0049) (page 12)
1 pc. Digital PhotoShot Disk
for Windows 95/98/Me/2000/
XP (LSFT0541) (page 41)
1 pc. PC Connection Cable
(RS232C-2.5P)
(LSJAO276)(page 41)
SD is a trademark of the SD Card Association.
MultiMediaCard is a registered trademark of the MultiMediaCard Association.
Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft in the United States and
other countries.
All product/brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective holders.
2

WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT
EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
Your Compact VHS Camcorder is designed to record and play back in Standard Play (SP)
and Super Long Play (SLP) modes. You can also play a Compact VHS Camcorder
recording on your VHS VCR using the supplied VHS PlayPak.
This Camcorder is equipped with the NQ System to provide excellent video pictures, and
is compatible with standard VHS equipment.
It is recommended that only cassette ta_.._sthat have been tested and inspected for use in
VCR machines with the VgIYUS]__and/or L_ mark be used.
CAUTION: TO REDUCE _ItE RBKOF ELECIRIC S;'IOCK,
DO ROT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)
NO USER4DERVK:EABLE p/_T8 INSIDE
REFER SERVICING TO OUALIFIED SERVICE INEL
/_ Tbis symbol warns the user that
uninsulated voltage within the unit may
have sufficient magnitude to cause
electric shock. Therefore, it is dangerous
to make any kind of contact with any
inside part of this unit.
This symbol alerts the user that important
literature concerning the operation and
maintenance of this unit has been included.
Therefore, it should be read carefully in
order to avoid any problems.
The above markings are located on the appliance's bottom cover.
Declaration of Conformity
Model Number : PV-L453
Trade Name : Panasonic
Responsibility Party :Matsushita Electric Corporation of America
Address : One Panasonic Way Secaucus New Jersey 07094
Telephone Number : 1-800-211 -PANA(7262)
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device may net cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
Warning : To assure continued FCC compliance, the user must use only provided
shielded interfacing cable with ferfite cores when connecting to
computer. Also, any unauthorized changes or modifications to this
equipment would void the users authority to operate.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with Part 15 and part 18 of the FCC
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when
operated in a residential environment.
If this equipment does cause interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, use the equipment in another location and/or utilize an electrical
outlet different from that used by the receiver.
If necessary, consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. You may find the
booklet, 'Something About Interference' available from FCC local regional offices helpful
This product may cause interference to radio equipment and should not be installed near maritime
safety communications equipment or other critical navigation or communication equipment operating
between 0.45-30 MHz. 3

1. Read Instructions- All the safety and
operating instructions should be read before
the unit isoperated.
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
_eenings must not be blocked or covered.
vet 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.
4
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 1of 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.
,_I_NNA
DISCHARGE LINr¢
ELECTRIC (NEC 8ECTI_N 810_0)
SERVICE
EQAJIPMENT QROUNDIN G CONDUCTOfl8
EC SEC31ON 810_21)
__ GROUND CLAMF_
pOWE_ SERVICE GROUNDING
= EI_CTIqODE _N
:1_ -N_._II- E_tI_ _ _E_ _,=rr1_, p_,=rrHI
14. Lightning - 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.

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 wall outlets
and extension cords as this can result in a
risk of fire or electric shock.
17. Ob ects and Liquids - Never push objects
o any kind into th s 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. When the power-supply cord or plug is
damaged.
b. If any liquid has been spilled into, or
objects have fallen onto, 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 _nstructions,
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. If 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 Cheek - 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.
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, steet, 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 CAMCORDER 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 CAMGORDER -. 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 soIution 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. 5

II [d'lwJL_ L.WJlJ L_rJ_w_J _L_JLIUL _J
Things You Should Know ............................................................................. 2~3
Important Safeguards ................................................................................... 4~5
Precautions ........................................................................................................ 5
Self Demo Mode ................................................................................................ 7
Quick Operation Guide ..................................................................................... 8
Supplying Power (Battery Charge/Use/Refresh/Care, AC Adaptor, Car Battery Cord) .... 9~10
Cassettelnformation ...................................................................................... 11
Before Using (Usingthe Shoulder and Hand Straps, LensCap) .................................... t 2
Using MENU Mode .......................................................................................... 13
Setting the Clock (TimeZone, Auto DaylightSaving Time) ................................... t 4~15
AccuBrite "rMBuilt4n Light (Using the Light, Replacing the Bulb)............................... 16
Camera Recording (Basic,Stand-by,ProgrammedRecording)............................. 17~19
Playing Back Recordings
(Basic Playback, Visual Search, Still Picture, Tracking, TV/VCR Playback) ................. 20~21
Copying your Tapes (dubbing) ...................................................................... 22
I Four-Speed Power Zoom ............. 23
Backlight ....................................... 23
MagicPix TMImages ....................... 24
FOCUS(Auto/Manual Focus) ................. 25
High Speed Shutter (Auto/ManuaJSharer)26
Auto Fade ...................................... 27
Color Digital Fade ........................ 28
Color Digital Filter ........................ 29
Digital Zoom ................................. 30
Digital Electronic Image
Stabilization (E.I.S.) .................... 31
Still/Strobe/Wide ........................... 32
MotionSensor ............................... 33
Digital Still Camera .................. 34~40
• Memory Card (optional)
Insertion/Removal ..................... 34
•Recording ..................................... 35
Using the Light ............................. 36
Playback ........................................ 36
Displayed Directory/Image Number. 37
Delete Specific Images ................ 38
Picture in Picture Wipe Title ........ 39
Digital Wipe Mode ........................ 40
PC Connection ......................... 41 ~44
Using a SD PCMCIA Adaptor
(optional) ........................................ 45
Viewfinder/LCD Monitor Indications ....................................................... 46~49
Notes On Operations ...................................................................................... 50
Replacing Clock Battery ................................................................................. 51
Palmcorder Accessory System ..................................................................... 52
Palmcorder Accessory Order Form .............................................................. 53
Specifications .................................................................................................. 54
Before Requesting Service (Video Head Cleaning, Self Diagnostic System) ......... 55~56
Request for Service Notice ............................................................................ 56
Limited Warranty ............................................................................................. 57
Customer Services Directory ......................................................................... 58
Spanish Quick Use Guide/Guia Para Uso Rapido ........................................ 59
Index ................................................................................................................. 60

SelfDemomodeison when the screen Before you begin...
below appears. To turn it off, follow • ConnectCamcorderto powersource.
steps 1-4 below.
EVF or LCD Monitor
IN Y_UR _R
yES, IT'8 VHSI
_ox L_ I75_x D.ZOOM
gla ITAL 8TABI U ZATI ON
pnJLL-81_ HE_D _o11E M
DIGITAL
Set POWER to CAMERA.
Press MENU for
MENU mode.
Press UP or
DOWN to select aLOO*KSET P,'_E2,_1
I_Tf¢4D-BY _E ; OFF
LI FIT DE ; OFF/ON
;OFF
--oP'--oJ
SET :PUSH M,r-OGUS I_mf
END : _ MENU
Press M.FOCUS to select OFF.
14 PressMENUtoexit
\Note:
•Self Demo stops automatically if battery
_J is attached (page 9) and cassette tape is
inserted (page 11).
• Inserting a tape alone (or attaching a
partially charged battery) only temporarily
stops Self Demo.
• Self Demo stops for 30 seconds when the
Back Light is pressed.
To turn Self Demo back on:
• Set to SELF DEMO : ON in MENU screen.
7

ill if:.Ii[i I..LL[!,I I i'I_11:]EIi {:] ivl ".,]_:
Charge Battery Pack fully before operation
(page 9).
Plug in
Insert Batter's_..CHARGE Lamp flashes,
then stays lit when charging is complete.
Attach fully charged Battery (page 9).
Slide TAPE EJECT to open door.
Insert cassette (page 11).
Press here to close door.
[l_--Iil[tai_-II_(:Ii_e](!lli[il
See page 17.
Press LCD-OPEN to unlock the LCD monitor.
Swing it fully open and adjust the angle.
Set POWER to CAMERA.
Press RECORD/PAUSE to sta_ recording.
Press RECORD/PAUSE again to Pause
recording.
8
See page 20.
Press LCD-OPEN to unlock the LCD monitor.
Swing it fully open and adjust the angle.
Set POWER to VCR.
Press ,iN (REWIND/SEARCH) to rewind tape.
Press ),/11 (pLAY/STILL_) to start playback.
Press • ST(_) to stop playback.

Charge Battery Pack fully before use.
(Top View)
Plug in
POWER Lamp lights.
Insert._,
Align {eftside of Battery with left edge of
AC Adaptor.
_! Press Battery down and sflde in direction
of arrow.
The CHARGE Lamp flashes, then stays lit
when charging is complete.
Remove Bakery,
Slide Battery to the left and tilt off.
Note:
•Cha_ging takes about fand 1/2 hours
• While the DC Power Cable (supplied) is connected
to the AC Adaptor, the Battery cannot be charged.
* Afte_ charging 5 times, use Battery Refresh feature
as explained below,
• Battery tile gradually decreases after repeated use
and recharging, it operation time becomes very
short even after a sufficient charge, discard Battery
propedy (pages tO, 50).
A fully charged Battery provides a maximum of about 2 hours of continuous use (LCD
monitor off) or about 1.5 hours (LCD monitor on). Actual time may vary due to operating
conditions. Using the Built-in L(ght decreases operating time.
A Lift up EV_Fand attach ._.
Insert top of Battery into top of mounting
surface.
(_ Press and snap into place.
B Remove Battery.
Slide BATTERY RELEASE and remove
Battery.
This feature compLeteLy discharges
Battery before recharging begins.
Use after every 5 charges for optimum
Battery performance.
REFRESH
REFRESH
To use battery refresh, insert Battery on AC
Adaptor (see steps 1~2 above), then press
BATTERY REFRESH,
The REFRESH Lamp lights then goes out when
d scharge is complete. Batter_] charging wil_then
start automatica({y.
If BATTERY REFRESH is pressed by mistake,
remove Battery from AC Adaptor and reinsert if
for normal charging.
Note:
• Chargin_ takes about 7 and 1/2 hours when
Battery Refresh is used.
• Battery will not operate in extremely high
temperatures. 9

Caution:
Charge on_ywith specified charger.
Battery can be charged wifhir\ a temperature range et
•1£,°G (50 °F and 35 °C {95 "_F>.
Battery }s normally warm atter charging or ust after use.
Do not use an nsu# e ently cttargedor worn-out Battery
Safety precautions:
• [30 not get Battery near, or dispose of in, tire.
DO not directly connect {short circuit) the positive (+)
• and negati'_e - terminals,
Never attempt to disassemb aor reassemb e Battery.
To avoid Battery damage:
• Do not drop or jar 6artery.
• Use Battery with specified units only.
_tBattery is used in extreme}y high
temperatures, asafety device wi}}
automatically prevent operation.
To prolong Battery life:
• While not in use, remove Battery from
the Camcorder and AC Adaplor, and
stere in a coo_, dark, dry place.
• Keep Battery terminals clean.
DC IN
"Connector
Connect AC Adaetor DC OUT to
Camcorder DC IN with supp(ied DC
Power Cable.
2 Plug in AC Adaptor.
POWER Lamp lights.
Note,'
• While the DC Power CaMe (supplied) is
connected to the AC Adaptor, the Battery
cannot be charged.
• When not in use, unplug AC Adaptor from
AC outlet. (Adaptor uses 1.2 W of electricity
DC OUT Connector while plugged in.)
CAUTION: 1
This unit will operate on t 1G/t20/220/240 V AC 50/60 Hz. An AC plug adaptormay be required
for voltagesother than120 V AC. Pleasecontact either a Iocator foreign electrisatparts
distributor for assistance in salecting an alternate AC plug. We recommend using the accessory
powerplug adaptor (VJSSOOTOIK2DB42EO0001)in anarea which has special AC outlets.
• 1Connect PV-C16 Car Battery Cord
_- #'J} (optional) to Camcorder DC IN.
___ _-_ Start engine first,
(B_Plug Car Battery Cord into
Cigarette •Cigarette lighter socket.
_=_/_ J_ _Y Lighter
_C/Necto r
• (fCar Batterycordfuse needsreplacing,
useexact currentrating (inamps).
•This cord on}}'works in vehicles equipped
with OC 12 V(negative ground) battery.
Check with your car/truck dealer. Use only
specified car battery cord,
•To avoid blow(ng the car battery cord fuse,
) do step 2 in the proper order.
J•Running vehicles must be wel} ventilated.
Car Battery Cord Cigarette • When not in use, disconnect cigarette
(optional) Lighter Plug _ighter plug.
•For personal safety the driver of the vehicle
should not attempt to operate the
camcorder while driving.