Panasonic PV-L501 User manual

PalrncoPdEi .,°
palmSigl-}tTM
Panasonic°
Camcorder
Operating Instructions
Models No. PV-L501
PV-L551
PV-L601
PV-L651
(PV-L651 shown)
Please read these mstrucbons carefully before attempting to operate this product
Please save this manual
Gula para rdpida consulta en espa_ol estd incluida.
LSQTO381A

Things YouShould KnowJill
Thank you for choosing Panasonlc! DateofPurchase
Youhavepurchasedoneofthemost
sophisticatedandreliableproductsonthe
markettoday.Usedproperly,itwillbring
youyearsof enjoyment.Pleasetaketime
tofill intheinformationattheright.
Theserialnumberisonthetag locatedon
thebuttomofyourCamcorder.Besureto
retain this manual as your convenient
Camcorder information source.
DealerPurchasedFrom
DealerAddress
DealerPhone No.
ModelNo.
SerialNo.
iI
These accessories are provided in order to set up or use your Camcorder.
1pc.AC Adaptor _ 1 pc.Audio/VideoCable • 1pc.Ba0eryPack(pages9, tO)
(PV-At9) withDCPower (LSJA0283)(pages21,22) : (PV-BPt8) (PV-L551/PV-L60t/
__Cable(page10) !l° '_ i, PV-651o_
1pc. Shoulder Strap
• (LSFC0012) (page 34)
1pc. VHS PlayPak •
(PV-P1NYMW0009) and e
one "AA" battery(page 21) •
O
1pc. CR2025 Clock •
Battery (VSBW0004 •
(installed in Cameorder) •
(page 35)@ •
o
1pc. 8-Function Remote
(VSQW0038) with one CR2025
Battery. (page 19) (PV-L651 only)
Remote has been loaded with
battery. (page 35) (PV-L65t only)
(PV-BP15) (PV-L50t only)
60
O
0
O
o
Battery Charging
Confirmation /___
Marker ",,_/_Jj
(PV-L501only)
Usethismarkerasareminderto
yourselfwhenthebatteryisfully
chargedorinneedofacharge.
Thismarkerperformsnofunction
and isfor yourreferenceonly.
This operatinginstruction book is designed for use with models PV-L501 PV-L551, PV-L601, and
PV-L651. Illustrat ans n this manual show the PV-L661. Features may vary, soplease read carefully.
Differences between models
Model 8-Function
Number LCDMonitor RemoteCon_,ol
63.5mm
PV-L501 (2.5inch)Liquid
CrystalDisplay
63.5mm
PV-L551 (2.5inch)Liquid
CrystalDisplay
76.2mm
PV-L601 3.0 inch Liquid
CrystalDisplay
101.6mm
PV-L651 (4.0inch)Liquid Supplied
Crysa Dsplay
Notsupplied
Not supplied
Not supplied
Built-in Battery Electronic Viewfinder
Auto Light Pack
Notsupf_ied PV-BP15 10.2turn (0.4 inch)
Electronic Vewfinder
11 mm (0.45 inchyt4 rnm
Supplied PV-BPt8 (0.55inch Liqui Crystal Color
Eectronic Viewfinder
11 mrn (0.45 inch)/14 mrn
Supplied PV-BPt8 (O.55inch) Liqui Crystal Color
Elech'anicViewfieder
11 mm (0.45 inch)/t 4 mm
Supplied PV-BP16 (0.55 inch) Liqui Crystal Color
Elec_onic Viewfinder

Things YouShould Know
I II
WARNING : TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT
EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE,
YourCompactVHSCamcorderisdesignedtorecordandplaybackin StandardPlay(SP)
and SuperLongPlay(SLP)modes,Youcanalsoplaya CompactVHSCamcorder
recordingonyourVHSVCRusingtheVHSPlayPaksupplied.
Th_s Camcorder s equipped w_th the HQ System to prowde excellent vtdeo ptctures, and _s
compatible with standard VHS equipment. _i'
It is recommended that onlycassettetapesthat have been tested and inspectedfor use in
VCR machines with the _ and/or_ mark be used.
DONOT OPIEN
DO NOT REMOVECOVER leR BACK)
NO USER-SERVICEABLE pART_ INSIDE
This symbolwarnstheuserthat
uninsulatedvoltagewithintheunitmay
havesufficientmagnitudetocause
electricshock.Therefore,itis
dangeroustomakeanykindotcontact
withanyinsidepartofthisunit.
/_ Thissymbolalertstheuserthat
importantliteratureconcerningthe
operationandmaintenanceofthisunit
hasbeenincluded.Therefore.itshould
bereadcarefullyinordertoavoidany
problems.
The abovemarkingsarelocatedon theappliance'sbottomcover.
IFCCWarning: Anyunauthorizedchangesor modificationstothisequipmentwould
voidtheuser'sauthoritytooperate. J
This device complies with Pad 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subjectto the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) thisdevice must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply withPart 15and part 18 of the FCC
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when
operated in aresidential environment.
If thisequipment does cause interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, use the equipment in another IocetJon and/or utilize an electrical
outlet different from that used by the receiver.
if necessary, consult the dealer or an exporienced radio/TV technician for help. You may find the
booklet,'SomethingAbout Interference' available from FCC local regional offices helpful.
This productmay cause interference to radio equipment and shouldnotbe installednear maritime
safety communicationsequipment or othercritical navigationorcommunicationequipment operating
between 0.45-30 MHz.
3

ImportantSafeguards
_IIIIII!11111II
1. Read Instructions- All the safety and
operating instructions shouldbe read before
the unitis operated.
2. Retain Instructions - The safety and
operating instructionsshouldbe retainedfor
future reference.
3. Heed Warnings - Allwarnings on the unit
and in the operatinginstructionsshouldbe
adhered to.
4. Follow Instructions - Alloperating and
maintenance instructionsshouldbe followed.
5. Cleaning - Unplug thisvideo unit from the
wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid
or aerosol cleaners. Use a dry clothfor
cleaning.
6. Attachments - Do notuse attachments not
recommended by the video product
manufacturer as they may be hazardous.
7. Water and Moisture - Do notuse this video
unitnear water - for example near a bath tub,
wash bowl,kitchensink, or laundrytub, ina
wet basement, or near a swimming pool,and
the11ke.
8. Accessories- Oonot place this video unit
on an unstablecart, stand, tripod, bracket,or
table. The video unitmay fall, causingserious
injury to a childor adult, and seriousdamage
to the unit. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod,
bracket,or table recommended by the
manufacturer,or sold withthe video unit.Any
mounting of the unit shouldfollow the
manufacturer's instructionsand shoulduse a
mounting accessoryrecommended by the
manufacturer. An appliance and cart
combination shouldbe moved
with care. Quick stops,
excessiveforce, and uneven
surfacesmay causethe
appliance and cartcombination
to overturn.
9. Ventilation - Slotsand opaninQs in the
cabinet are previded for ventilationand to
ensure reliable operationof the video unit
and to protectit from overheating. These
_Oeevningsmust not be blocked orcovered.
erplace the video uniton a bed, sofa,
rug,or other similar surface, or near orover a
radiatoror heat register.This video unit
should not be placed in a built-ininstallation
such as a bookcase or rack unless proper
ventilationisprovided orthe manufacturer's
instructionshave been adhered to.
10. Power Sources - This video unitshouldbe
operated only from the type of power source
indicated on the marking label. If you are not
sure of the type ot power supply to your
home, consultyour appliance dealer orlocal
power company. For wdeo unitsintendedto
be operated from battery power, or other
sources, refer to the operating instructions.
4
III IIHIPIIIII
11. Grounding or Polarization -This video unit
may be equipped witheither apolarized2-
wireAC ALternating Current) line plug (a
plug having one blade w der than the other)
or 3-wire groundingtype plug, a plug having
a third (grounding)pin,
The 2-wire polarized plug willfit intothe
power outlet onlyone way. This is a safety
feature. If you are unable to insertthe plug
fully intothe outlet,try reversingthe plug. If
the pluQstillfalls to fit, contactyour
elantric=anto replace yourobsolete outlet.
Do notdefeat the salety purposeof the
polarizedplug.
The 3-wire grounding type pluq willtit intoa
grounding type power outlet.This isa safety
leature. Ifyou are unableto insertthe plug
into the outlet,contactyourelectTicionto
replace yourobsoleteoutlet.Do not defeatthe
safety purposeof the groundingtype plug.
12. Power-Cord Protection - Power-supply
cords should be routedso that they are not
likely to be walked on or pinched by items
placed uponor against them. Paying
particularattentionto cords of plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point
where they exit from the unit.
13. Outdoor Antenna Grounding- Ifan
outsideantenna orcable system is
connectedto the video unit,be sure the
antenna or cable systemisgrounded so as
to provide some protectionagainst voltage
surges and built-up static charges. Part 1of
the Canadian ElectricalCede, in USA
Section 810 of the National ElectricalCode,
provides informationwithrespectto proper
grounding of the mast and supporting
structure, groundingof the lead-in wire to an
antenna dischargeunit,size of grounding
conductors, locationof antenna discharge
unit, connectionto grounding electrodes, and
requirements for the groundingelectrode.
(_
NEC SEC/I_ 110-;1 )
14. Lightning - For addedprotection ofthis
video unitreceiverduhnga lightningstorm,or
when it isleft unattendedandunused forlong
pededs of time, unplugit lromthe walloutlet
and disconnectthe antenna or cablesystem.
This willprevent damage to the videounitdue
to ligh_ng and power-treesurges.

ImportantSafeguards
t5 Power Lines -An outside en enna sys em b. If any liquid has been spilled into, or
should not be located in the vicinity of overhead objeutshave fallen onto, the video unit.
a_werlinesorotherelectriclightorpower
rculls,orwhereitcanfallintosuchpower
linesorcircuits.Wheninstallinganoutside
antennasystem,extremecareshouldbe taken
tokeepfromtouchingsuchpowerlineser
circuitsascontactwiththemmightbefatal.
t6, Overloading -Donotoverloadwalloutlets
andextensioncordsasthiscan resultina
riskoffireor electdcshock.
t7. Objects and Liquids- Neverpushobjects
ofan)'kindintothis videounitthrough
openingsastheymaytouchdangerous
voltagepointsor shortoutpartsthatcould
rasuifinafireorelectricshock,Neverspill
liquidofanykindontothevideounit.
18. Servicing- Donotattempttoservicethis
videounityourselfasopeningorremoving
coversmayexposeyoutodangerousvoltage
orotherhazards.Referallsorv=cingto
qualifiedservicepersonnel.
f9. DamageRequidng Service- Unplugthis
videounitfromthewalloutletandrefer
servicingtoqualifiedservicepersonnelunder
thetol]owingconditions:
a.Whenthepower-supplycordor plugis
damaged.
c. Ifthe videounithas beenexposedtorain
orwater.
d. Ifthevideounitdoesnotoperatenormally
byfollowingtheoperatinginstructions.
Adjustonlythosecontrolsthatarecovered
bytheoperatinginstrucliens,asanimproper
adiusknentofothercontrolsmayresultin
damageandwilloftenrequireextensive
workbya qualifiedtechniciantorestorethe
videounittoitsnormaloperation.
e. Ifthevideounithasbeendroppedorthe
cabinethasbeendamaged.
f. Whenthevideounitexhibitsadistinct
changein performance-thisindicatesa
needfor service.
20. ReplacementParts- Whenreplacement
partsarerequired,besuretheservice
technicianhasusedreplacementparts
specifiedbythemanufacturerorhavethe
samecharacteristicsastheoriginalpart.
Unauthorizedsubstitutionsmayresultinfire,
electricshockorotherhazards.
21. SafetyCheck- Uponcompletionofany
serviceorrepairstothisvideounit,askthe
servicetechniciantoperformsafetychecks
todeterminethatthevideounitisinsafe
operatingorder.
Precautions
in=l,,, ,,i,i ,i Iill I II
USE & LOCATION
• TO AVOID SHOCK HAZARD ... Your Camcorder and power supplyshould not be exposed to rain or moisture.
Do notconnect the power sup_y oroperate your Camcorder if it gets wet. Your Camcorder has been designed for
outdoor use, however it is not designed to sustain directexposure to water, rain, sleet, snow, sand, dust,or a direct
splashingfrom a podi oreven acup of coffee. This action could permanently damage the internal parts of your
Camcorder. Do notattempt to disassemble this unit. There are no user serviceable parts inside. Unplug your
Camcorder from the power supply beforecleaning.
• 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 NIGH TEMPERATURE .. SUChas, in directsunlight,
insidea dosed car, next to a heater, etc... This action codid pormanenlly damage the internal parts of your
Camcorder.
•AVOID SUDDEN CHANGES IN TEMPERATURE ... If the unitis suddeatf moved from a cold place to a warm
place, moisturemay form on the tape and inskJethe unit,
•DO NOT LEAVE YOUR CAMCORDER OR THE POWER SUPPLY TURNED ON WHEN NOT IN USE.
• STORAGE OF YOUR CAMCORDER., Store and handleyour Camcorder in a manner that will riot subjectit to
unnecessary movement (avoid shaking and striking).Your Camcorder contains a sensitive pick-updevice which
couldbe damaged by improperbendling or storage.
CARE
•TO CLEAN YOUR CAMCORDER ,.. Do not use strong orabrasive detergents when cleaning your Camcofder
body.
•TO PROTECT THE LENS .. Do nottouch the surface ol the lenswith yourhand Use a commercisl camcorder
lens solutionand lenspaper when sieading the lens, Improper cleaning can scratch the lens coating.
•TO PROTECTTHE RNISH OF YOUR CAMCORDER ... Beforehandling your Camcorder, make sure your hands
and face are free fromany chemical products, suchas suntan lotion,as it may damage the finish. 5

Table of Contents
Things You Should Know ............................................................................. 2-3
Important Safeguards ................................................................................... 4-5
Precautions ........................................................................................................ 5
Self Demo Mode ................................................................................................ 7
Quick Operation Guide ..................................................................................... 8
Supplying Power (BatteryCharge/Use/RefreslVCare,ACAdaptor,CarBatteryCord)...9-10
Cassette Information ...................................................................................... 11
Using MENU Mode .......................................................................................... 12
Setting the Clock ('rimeZone,AutoDaylightSaving]]me)................................13-14
Built-in Auto Light (PV-I.5511PV-L601/PV-L651 only) (UsingtheLight)...........15
_Camera Recording (Basic,Stand-by,ProgrammedRecording).........................16-18
8-Function Remote Control (PV-L651 only) .................................................. 19
Playing Back Recordings
(BasicPlayback,VisualSearch,StillPicture,Tracking,TV/VCRPlayback)......20-21
Copying your Tapes (dubbing) ...................................................................... 22
,iil
i! L_!!!
ii, i
Four-Speed Power Zoom................................................................................ 23
Backlight .......................................................................................................... 23
Focus (Auto/ManualFocus).........................................................................................24
High Speed Shutter (Auto/ManualShutter)..............................................................25
Auto Fade ......................................................................................................... 26
Color Digital Fade ........................................................................................... 27
Digital Zoom .................................................................................................... 28
Digital Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) .................................................. 28
Security Mode.................................................................................................. 29
Intelligent Titler (Auto/ManualTitle,PhraseTitle)...............................................30-31
Viewfinder/LCD Monitor Indications ....................................................... 32-33
Operation Notes (UsingtheShoulderandHandStraps,CleaningEVF)..................34
Replacing Clock/Remote Battery................................................................... 35
Palmcorder Accessory System ..................................................................... 36
Palmeorder Acceesory Order Form .............................................................. 37
.... Specifications .................................................................................................. 38
Before Requesting Service (VideoHeadCleaning)...............................................39
Request for Service Notice ............................................................................ 40
Limited Warranty ............................................................................................. 41
Servlcenter List ............................................................................................... 42
Spanish Quick Use Guide/Guia Para Uso Rdpido ........................................ 43
Index ................................................................................................................. 44
6

Self Demo mode ison when the screen
below appears. To turn it off, follow
steps 1-4 below.
EVForLCDMonitor
Panasonic J
ITS TAF_S FI.Ay
IN YOUR
YES,II" $ V_BI
2_ LENS /t5_< O ZOOM
DIGITAL STASIUZATION
FULL-SIZE HEAD SYSTEM
At/TO/pI';RA_ TITLER
Self Demo Mode
Before you begin...
•Connect Camcorder to power source.
Set POWER to CAMERA.
2 PressMENUfor r"D"'L"V;o. "_ _1
MENUmode. _ !,_
PressuP* or L"_°_',_ j
DOWNTtoselect a_T:_,_,_
: P'_GH DISPLAy KEf
Press DISPLAY to selectOFF.
Press MENU to exit.
Note:
• SelfDemostopsautomaticallyifbattery
isattached(page9) andcassettetapeis
inseded(page11).
• Insertinga tapealone(orattachinga
partiallychargedbattery)onlytemporarily
stopsSelfDemo.
•SelfDemostopsfor30 secondswhena
functionkey otherthanLight,Play,Rewind
Search,FastForwardSearch,Stop,and
Stillispressed.
To turnSelfDemobackon:
•SettoSELFDEMO:ONin MENUscreen
7

Quick Operation Guide
I I'11'I'll
Ilil"7t'ii_ ir !
ChargeBatteryPackfullybefore
operation(page9).
Adaotor.Plugin_
InsertH_. CHARGE
Lampflashes,thenstayslit
whenchargingiscomplete.
Ili_.i ii[.--lCi:ll f:t_f,,]t, ilil
/1Attach fully
_/ charged
_:T_ (page 9),
t11_Id toopendoor.
3,nsertc.....
(page 11).
65_ 4Press he_ to cl°se
Protection Film door.
Note:
• Remove the ProtectionFilmbefore use.
_l - I1TT1,I
When the LCD monitor isopen, the EVF automaticallyturns OFF (page 16).
Press LCD-OPEN to unlock the LCD monitor.
Swing it fully open and adjust the angle•
Set POWER to CAMERA.
Press
tosta_ recording
•••
vc.o_ _Press
--Protection Film again _recording.
(PV-L651shown) Note:
•Remove the ProtectionFilm before use.
ii"j'_ ,'_ :i, f.-ll;l'tll _1_ii_ill] ,,,t_111i,I
When the LCD monitoris open, the EVF automaticallyturns OFF (page 20).
I Press LCD-OPEN to unlock the LCD monitor.
Swing it fully open and adjust the angle (see above).
Set POWER to VCR.
_o_'c,_ \ _ _ R Press REWIND/SEARCH to
,_ _ _ w rewind tape.
_ - _ 4 Press PLAY t° start playback'
I_ _/P_ _ rioP"_ 5 PresS STOP to StOpplayback-

m iii I
Charge Battery Pack fully before use.
POWER 2_/_
(Top View)
Supplying Power
Plug in
POWER Lamp lights.
2Insert Ba___.@._.
e Alignleftside of Battery withle. edge of
ACAdaptor.
Q Press Battery down and slide in direction
of arrow.
The CHARGE Lamp flashes,then stays lit
when charging is complete.
Remove BaHerv.
Slide Batteryto the left and lift off.
Note:
• ChargingtakesaboutI hour(PV-L501)or 1and 1/2
• hours PV-L551/PV-L601/PV-L651,
Whe the DCPowerCabe supped) sconnected
totheAC Adaptor,theBatterycannotbecharged.
• Aftercharging5times,useBatteryRefreshfeature
asexplainedbelow.
• Batterylifegraduallydecreasesafterrepeateduse
andrecharging.If operationtimebecomesvery
shodevenafterasufficientcharge,discardBattery
propedy(page10).
AfullychargedBatteryprovidesa maximumofabout1hour10minutes(PV-LS01)or2hours
(PV-L551/PV-L601/PV-L651)of continuoususe(LCDmonitoroff)or about 55minutes(PV-L501)or
1.5hours(PV-L551/PV-L601/PV-L651) (LCDmonitoron).Actualtimemayvarydueto operating
conditions.UsingtheBuilt-inLightdecreasesoperatingtime(PV-L551/PV-L601tPV-L651only).
B
A Attach Battery=.
OInserttop of Battery into top ofmounting
surface.
(_ Press and snap into place.
B RemoveBattery.
SlideBATTERYRELEASEandremove
Ba_ely.
This feature completelydischarges
Batterybefore recharging begins.
Use after every 5 chargesfor optimum
Batteryperformance.
REFRESH
REFRESH
To use battery refresh, insert Battery on AC
Adaptor (see steps 1~2 above), then press
The REFRESH Lamp lights,then goesout
when dischargeis complete, Batterycharging
willthenstad automatically.
If_ is pressed by mistake,
removeBaRelyfromAC Adaptorandreinsert it
for normal charging.
Note:
•Chargingtakesabout5 hours(PV-L501)or7 and
1/2hours(PV-L551/PV-L601/PV-L651)when
BatteryRefreshisused.
• Batterywillnotoperateinextremelyhigh
temperatures. 9

Supplying Power
]l! I!
Caution:
•Chargeonlywithspecifiedcharger.
•Batterycanbechargedwithina temperaturerangeof
10°C (50°F) ar_ 35°C (95 °F).
•Batteryisnormallywarmafterchargingor ustafteruse.
•Donotuseaninsufficientlychargadorworn-outBattery.
Safetyprecautions:
• DonotgetBatterynear,ordisposeofinfire.
•Donotdirectlyconnect(shodcircuit)thepositive(+)and
negative(-) terminals.
•NeverattempttodisassembleorreassembleBattery.
IU.S.A. CONSUMERS: ATTENTION:
The productyou have purchasedis poweredby a nickel cadmiumbattery
whichisrecyclable.At the end of its useful life under variousstate and local
laws, itisillegal todisposeof this batteryintoyour municipalwaste stream.
Please call 1-8OO-8-BATI'ERYfor informationonhow to recyclethis battery.
To•void Batt•ry damage:
•Donotdroporjar Battery.
•UseBatterywithspecifiedunitsonly.
•IfBatteryisusedinextremelyhigh
temperatures,a safetydevicewill
automaticallypreventoperation,
To prolongBatterylife:
•Whilenotinuse,removeBattery
fromtheCamcorderandACAdaptor
andstoreinacool,dark,dryplace.
•KeepBatteryterminalsclean. I
DC _ower Cable =•
POWER Lamp l_ !_ "_-'-'_ •
Cn'n"e""
ctor •
II
Car Battery Cord
i(optional)
Connector
ConnectACAdantorVCRD(_OUTto
Camcorder DC IN withsuppliedDC
Power Cable.
Plug in AC Adaptor.
POWER Lamp lights.
Note:
•While the DC PowerCable (supplied)is
connectedtothe AC Adaptor,the Battery
cannotbe charged.
•When notin use, unplugAC Adaptorfrom
AC outlet.(Adaptoruses 1.2 W of electricit
whilepluggedin.)
, CAUTION:
Thisunitwilloperateon 110/120/220/240V AC.
AnACplugadaptormaybe requiredforvoltages
otherthant20 V AC.Pleasecontacteithera
localorforeignelectricalpartsdistributorfor
assistanceinselectinganalternateACplug.We
recommendusingtheaccessorypowerplug
adaptor(VJSS0070)inanareawhichhas
specialAC outlets.
Cigarette
Lighter
Socket (12 V)
Cigarette
LighterPlug
:1Connect PV-C16 Car Battery Cord
•(optional) to Camcorder DC IN.
i2_Startenginefirst.
Plug Car Battery Cord into
•Cigarette lighter socket.
=•if Car Battery cord fuse needs
•replacing,use exact currentrating
•(in amps).
•Note"
• _"
•Ths cord only works in vehicles
aequippedwith DC 12 V (negative
•ground) battery. Check withyour car/
•truckdealer. Use onlyspecifiedcar
•batterycord.
••To avoid blowingthecar batterycord
• fuse, do step 2 in the proper order.
••Runningvehicles mustbe well ventilated
•• When not in use, disconnectcigarette
•lighterplug.

Cassette Information
3
(PV-L65t shown)
2
Turn Taoe Wh_l indirection of arrow
until there is no slack.
Attach Bakery (page 9).
Slide TAPE EJECT to open door.
Insert _as shown.
Press here to closedoor
•To remove the cassette, slide the TAPE
EJECT switch.
Usetapeswiththe_ markinthis unit.
Tape Speed
Selector Position
SP
(Standard Play)
SLP
(Super Long Play)
•SLP playback may containmore picture noise.
Cassette type
TC-20 TC-30 TC-40
20 minutes 30 minutes 40 minutes
1 hour 1hour
30 minutes 2 hours
Protects tapes from being accidentally 4
erased. | To prevent accidental erasing,
_1_ _ .b.!.e,.8.!L.0..!__J_withscrewdriver.
(Or, slide tab open.)
22TO record again,
Slidetabtype _ with adhesive tape.
(Or, slide tab closed.)
11

Using MENU Mode
Before you begin...
•ConnectCamcordertopowersource.
•SetPOWERto CAMERAor VCR.
3
Press MENU_for MENU mode.
The CAMERA or VCR MENU screen(see
below left) appears when Menu mode is
entered.
Press .U..P__orDOWNT to highlight the
desiredmenu item.
PressDISPLAYtosetselection.
PressMENUtoexit.
Note:
• The Menu mode is canceled if_,
DISPLAY, or MENU are not pressedwithin5
minuteswhen Self Demo mode is off.
•The Menu mode is canceled if UP/DOWN(,IJV_.
DISPLAY, or MENU are not pressedwithin30
secondswhen Self Demo mode is on.
il|||ill|ll||l|lll| ||1|
CMENU Mode (CAMERA) Screen_ 1
1\--- ._u --- P.,__
-TITLE ;
-- -SHUTrER ;
57 •
SELECT: PUSHV/A _
SET ; PUSHDISPLAYKL=Y
6"_ _END• : PUSHM_IUp_E_ _
7_ DISPLAy ;ON
"SELFDEMO ; OFF
8I"SECURITY ; Off=
_VIDL=O BCFECT8 ; FADE
9/ _
SELECT: Pt_H 'l_l& SEY
_ : _ DISPLAY_
CMENU Mode (VCR) Screen _)
--- MENU---
5"- CLOCK SET
6-- -DISPLAY ; ON
SELEGT: PL_H _l& IO_Y
lililillliliNilllnliill
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
PROGRAMMEDREC(page18).
Camcorderstartsandstopsrecordingata
presettime.
TITLE (pages 30, 31).
AUTO/MANUAL : 16 items
PHRASE : 10 items
SHUTTER(page25).
Selectdesiredshutterspeed.
STAND-BY RELEASE (page 17).
ON: Enablesquick resumptionof recording
from Stand-bymode.
CLOCK SET (pages 13, 14).
Selectto setclock.
DISPLAY(page32).
ON: On-screenDisplay(OSD)screensare
displayed.
SELFDEMO(page7).
ON: SELFDEMOscreenisdisplayed.
SECURITY(page29).
ON: EnablesMotionSecurityrecording.
VIDEO EFFECTS (pages 26, 27).
AUTO FADE : BLACKor WHITE
DIGITAL FADE : TYPE -P, 7 types
COLOR --I, 8 colors

Setting the Clock
Set the followingitems in order:Time Before you begin...
Zone, DaylightSaving Time, Date, • ConnectCamcordertopowersource.
and Time. • Set POWERto CAMERAor VCR.
,2,3,4
PressMENUfor MENUmode.
PressUP& or DQWNT toselect
_ET : pWH Dl_lJ4y _cy 8_r : P_N DISPLAy )_[Y
[CAMERA MODEl [VCR MODE]
2Press DISPLAY for
CLOCK SET menu,
Press P_ or W_
to selectTIME ZONE,
DST, or DATErrlME.
_1.. CLOr4(IET ...
D. S, T, ;MJTO
D_TEITtME ; 12:00:¢¢,4kl
JAN 1 ;_Ot
_ELECI* : Ft_ WA_'y
SET : I_ 01,_y _=y
: p_ MENU KEy
Press DISPLAY for menu of itemselected in
step2.
To change the setting:
r_'_l--.IF,t'_ -) Go to step 3a on page 14.
I}]k_ i! -') Go to step 3b on page 14.
--)Go to step 3(:on page 14.
Press _twice to exit.
iii!_
(continued on next page)
13

Setting the Clock (continued)
IIII
The Camcorder ispreset to Eastern time.
Time Zone chart ]
III
Press _or
DOWNY to select
local time zone.
Press DISPLAY to
confirmentry. [ . *. _l.L_'r TIIaEZONE ...
A'i_ANTIO p_ClFIC
•When traveling,repeatthis operation and
select one ofthe 8 listedtime zones to
set the clockto localtime.
Note :
•Clockmay lose orgain upto 2 minutes
permonth.
•When travelingoutsidethe listedtime
zones, setclocktolocaltimemanually.
• To adjust or set clock,see "SettingDate
and Time"bottomofpage.
Clockwill auto-adjust to daylightsaving
time (DST).
•DST: AUTO
Spring (First Sunday in April) :
ahead one hour.
iNormalTime _a.m. •
3:00a.m.4:00a.m.
Autumn (Last Sunday in October) :
back one hour.
DaylightSaving1:00a._ 2:00a.rn.
1:00a.m.2:00a.m.
C " ! I I I,"dIII "
The Camcorderis presetto DST:_111_"_.
IfDSTis notobservedinyourarea,set
tor_"J"Jbydoingthefollowing.
Press _or
DOWNY to select
OFF or AUTO.
Press _to
confirm entry,
.. DAYLI_T _A'VlI_ _IE..
m
SELECT: _ ,Id, KE¢
Note:
•Auto DST does not functionif timezone is
set to Hawaii or Samoa (see =Settingthe
Time Zone"above).
Date and time including leap year are
calculatedup to DEC 31, 2099.
-EXAMPLE : _,R •DISPLAY
rO-
/**" OAlTdt'll_ 11_31_1""" /
-12_O0:OeAM-
IZOO?i
Press or hold down _or
DOWN Tto selecthour, then
press _tofix.
Repeat for minute,month,day,
and year.
Clock startswhen year is
entered and DISPLAY is
,pressed.

Built-inAutoLight(PV-L551/PV-L601/PV-L651only)
For recording in dim lighting.
Note:
• Using Light reduces battery operating time.
• Provide proper ventilation when using
Light extensively in a hot environment.
•Using Light when the Camcorder is
powered by a car battery may shorten bulb
life.
• Set Light to OFF when not in use.
I
Before you begin...
•ConnectCamcorderto powersource.
•SetPOWERto CAMERA
Set LIGHT to AUTO.
Lightturns on/offautomaticallyaccording
tolightingconditions.
Or, set LIGHT to ON/OFF manually.
=-- _- _E) appears in EVF Or
| LCD monitor when
] Light is on.
!
I. 1_,OOl
ILcauti°n: I
ightbecomeshot.NevercoverLight
hileon.
4
3
Before you begin...
•OrderPart No.VULS0001(VLLW0015and
cushions)forreplacementbulbunit,
•SetPOWERto OFF.
Press in on both sides of leas cover
and pull straight out and off,
Using Tweezers or needle-nose
pliers, carefully remove bulb.
• Take unit to servicecenter ifyou need
assistance.
Replacebulbusinga cleanclothor
tissue.(Donottouchwithfingers.)
Replace lens cover.
Note:
•Handle bulbgently.Excessiveforce may
cause bulb to crack.
ruDANGER: I
se only replacementbulb (PART NO, VLLW0015) suppliedby Panasonicto reduce |
Ifisk offire, ,, I
I Handle newbulbwithclothor tissueas skin oilswilldecreasebulbhre.
_Remove lens coverand allowbulbto coolbeforereplacingto avoidpossibleburn
Lhazard. 15

Camera Recording
II]1' LI I '1
ViewrecordingsceneonEVF(Electronic
Viewfinder)or LCD (LiquidCrystalDisplay)
monitor.
I
Before you begin...
•ConnectCamcordertopowersource.
•Insertcassettewithrecordtab(pagetl).
PressLCD-OPENtounlocktheLCD
monitor.SwingLCDmonitorfullyopen
3andadjustviewingangle.
•If youwanttorecordusingEVF,close
andlockLCDmonitor.
LensCoveropens.
(PV-L651shown) PowerLamplights.
-CAUTION:
RotatingpartiallyopenLCD I•BesurePOWER EVForLCDMonitor
monitormayblockcassettedoor/ isfullyturnedto (Recard/Pausemode)
anddamageCamcorderbody.J CAMERAposition.
•EVForLCOmonitorturnson/offbythe
VISION POWERswitch.
ADJUSTMENT • EVFshutsoffwhenLCDmonitoris
('_[_ _Built-inTwin openedandturnsbackonwhenLCDis
J_1_ _1 Capsule2-Way closed.
J_" 11 Microphone • BothEVFandLCDmonitorturnon
I_ 11 _ System whenLCDisat 180° (seeaboveleft).
_-_ I' _ Thisallowsbothyouandthesubjectto
viewtherecording.
_"_LCD : TurnBRIGHTcontrolto
monitor adjustLCDmonitor
brightnesslevel.
EVF : Look intoEVFandadjust
VISIONADJUSTMENTto
youreyesight.
Holddown_for about1
secondtochangetapespeedtoSP/SLP
(page 11). Tapespeed
5P.ss,,_r.o Lr--1
PAUSEto startor /
pauserecording. | RECORD
6Set_ L
Note: OFFwhenfinished. EVForLCDMonitor
•WhenCamcorderisaimedatexcessively (Recordmode)
brightobjects,or brightlights,avertical • Toremove the cassette,slidetheTAPE
bar mayappearinthepicture.This is _ switch(page11).
normalfortheCCDpick-up.Try toavoid
thiswhenpossible. WARNING(PV-L551/PV.L601/PV-L651only):
•UsingLCDmonitorreducesbattery •rDonotleavethecamcorderwiththeEVF
operationtime.ReturnLCDmonitorto aimeddirectlyatthe sun,Thismay cause
lockedpositionwhennotinuse. damagetotheInternalparisoftheEVF.
Ill I_k-k-Ib'll_. ti[l_..m !l_. I.'_..!_. Illl_{_lIl_,li BI./_l| _ r_rsl_4 ill l_t ii |_i_1 ii (I |dll ik'_l ii i[d i i 1(.*it iiilll.'_l}l iI_.!-'_l] II[tl[_ll

Camera Recording
Before you begin...
• ConnectCamcordertopowersource.
•Insertcassettewithrecordtab(page11).
1
b,c, a,d,
B A,C D
If leftin RECORD/PAUSE mode for 5
minutes, Camcorder switchesto Stand-
by mode to conserve battery. When set
to ON, Stand-by Quick Release lets
you resume recordingby pressing
two times. Stand-By
Quick Release is set to OFF at the
factory.
Set POWER to CAMERA.
... aeNu.-. ps,_l,'Z
MENU mode. I_ 1,
•r ___=__,o_
Press_o J'_ , | ,
se ecl
Press _ to se ect ON/OFF [,
ON . From Stand-by mode, press _
RECORD/PAUSE two times
toresume recording.
OFF :From Stand-by mode,
set POWER to OFF. thento
CAMERA. Press RECORD/
to record.
PressMENUto exit.
For proper continuity when taping fromStop
mode orafter attachinga new Battery.
A Set POWER to VCR.
aoPress _to rewind
afew secondsoftape.
(_Press PLAY to review recording.
_Press STILL where youwant to
continuerecording.
C Set POWER to CAMERA.
D Press RECORD/PAUSE to resume
recording.
For a smoothtransitionbetween scenes if
recordingisstopped,and then staded
within24 hours.
a.,j=
€I Press RE(_ORD/pAUSE to stop
recording•
b set pOWER to OFF and leave
cassette inCamcorder.
CTo resumerecording,set POWER to
CAMERA.
d Press RECORDIPAUSE to resume
recording.
Note:
•Use Manual EasyEdit (left) if more than
24 hoursbefore recordingisresumed. 17

Camera Recording
II
_j_,lt=z,ltti[_,|,[:z_,l_,, r_m_i Before you begin...
•ConnectCamcordertopowersource.
Seta recordingstartand stoptime. Or, UseACAdaptorforlongerrecordings.
seta 5 or 10 second intervalrecording •Insertcassettewithrecordtab(paget1).
tobe done each minute, •Set POWERtoCAMERA.
-REC TIME •
_iiNTIOMIN.----_20MIN._ 30MIN.
ERVAL'2,,INTERVALt,pTOTAPEJ
10$EC/MIN. 5SEC/MIN. END
'1 Record 5secondseach minute.
•2 Record10 secondseach minute.
Press MENU for MENU --- _--- p,_e,J_
mode. Press Up_.&or ,_,,,_
to select
PressDISPLAY.
(Currenttime is
displayed.)
Each additional press
of DISPLAY increases
start time by 30 minutes.
Press _to
select I_.
Press DISPLAY
repeatedlytoselectone
ofthe optionsshownat
left.
F_CTIdE ; tOIt_N.
p4_: Iz_ TfAl_f
aTART : Ftl_ p,_ I_=y
_p_ MB_J I_'Y
; l_qt.
To cancel the setup,press _twice.
PressRECORD/PAUSEI STAND-BY ]
toplaceCamcorderin { _i_
stand-bymode. [._=_
Recordingwill bedoneasscheduled.
Note:
• Starttimemaynotbesetover24 hoursfi'om
currenttime.
•Camcordershutsoffattapeend,or12hours
afterIntervalRecordingstarts.
•Tocancel,setPOWERtoOFF.

8-FunctionRemoteControl(PV-L651only)
iii
Operate Camcorder's main functionsupto about 5 m (16 feet) away.
Aim remote at sensor on Carncorder.
2_.
3-
J
/5
--6
"-7
Controlled Functions
1 POWER ZOOM
page 23.
2 REWIND/SEARCH
page 20.
3 PLAY
page 20.
4 STOP
page 20.
5 RECORD/PAUSE
page 16.
6 FAST FORWARD/SEARCH
page 20.
7 STILL
page 20.
Note:
• If you press _on the remote
control with the LCD monitor rotated 180°
to face the same direction as the lens/
subject, =RECORD" or "PAUSE" is
displayed on-screen in extra large
characters for confirmation.
Remote Important Note:
•After 5 minutesin Record/Pause mode,
the cemcorder willshut offto conserve
battery power. If recordingis resumed
within 30 minutes, press
once.
If over 30 minutes, set POWER to OFF.
then CAMERA, then press _.
19

_playing Back Recordings ...........
Before you begin...
•ConnectCamcorderto powersource.
•Insertrecordedtape,
Z
(PV-L651 shown) Speaker
PowerLamp
•t I I
IAuto Tracking I
Continuouslyanalyzeseachrecordingfor
optimumpicturequality,
IManual Tracking }
Somerecordingsrequiremanual
adjustmenttoreducenoise.
PressP_ or DOWNY untilPlayback
pictureclearsup.
PressDISPLAYtoreturntoAutoTracking.
Press LCD-OPEN and swingLCD
monitorfully open.
•Ifyou want to playbackon EVF,close
and lock LCD monitor.
Set POWER to VCR.
PowerLamp lights.
•Iftape has no recordtab, auto
playback begins.
•EVF or LCD monitorturnson/offby
the POWER switch.
•EVF shutsoffwhen LCD monitoris
opened and turnsback onwhen LCD
isclosed.
Playback function buttons.
_REW : Rewind tape.
tj,)PL..P__I : Play tape.
(_EOJ_ :Stop tape.
!._BRIGHT : Adjust LCD monitor
brightness.
@Y_OJ..U.M_:Adjust volume of speaker.
Press"7" :Volume "t
, up (+). J
Press'W":Volume
down (-).
Note: *=_'1_''""" _
•Using LCD monitorreducesbattery
operatingtime.
•Return LCDmonitor to lockedposition
when not inuse.
IQuick Visual Search i
Search Speed
•SP (StandardPlay) :3timesnormal.
• SLP(SuperLongPlay):9timesnormal.
During playback, press:
•FF :fastforwardsearch
• _ : rewindsearch
PressagainorpressPLAYfornormalplay.
I Still Picture I
Press STILL to freeze picture.
Press again fornormalplay,
ThisfeatureworksbestinSLPmode(page11),
Note:
•Duringsearch,horizontalnoisebarswillappear,
Audioismuted.
•Toprotectvideoheadsandtape,operating
modeswillrevertasfollowsafter5 minutes:
Still_ Stand-by
Stand-by.-_Poweroff(whenBatteryPackis
used).
•Tapeauto-rewindsifp_ayedorfastfocwardedtoend.