HITACHI Instruction Manual Video Camera/Recorder VM-1700A / VM-2700A Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc. INC. 3890 Steve Reynolds Blvd., Norcross, GA 30093 Pointe Claire, Tel. 404-279-5600 HITACHI SALES CORPORATION OF HAWAII, INC. 3219 Koapaka Street, Honolulu, HI 96819 Tel. 808-836-3621 P QR10512 ©Hitachi, Ltd. 1994 KS-F(N) HITACHI (HSC) CANADA 3300 Trans Canada Hwy., Quebec, H9R1B1, CANADA Tel.
WARNINGS ........................................................................................................................................... 4 PRECAUTIONS ..................................................................................................................................... 6 PRECAUTIONS ........................................................................................................................................ 6 FEATURES......................................................
CAMERA/RECORDER TO VCR DUBBING .................................................................................... 53 AUTOMATIC REWIND...................................................................................................................... 54 FLYING ERASE HEAD (only for VM-2700A) .................................................................................. 55 USING THE BUILT-IN CAMERA LIGHT (only for VM-2700A) ....................................................
WARNINGS WARNINGS WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. This 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.
WARNINGS is connected. --Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. Caution to the user: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. CAUTION: Avoid operating your camcorder immediately after moving it from a cold area to a warm humid area. Give the camcorder 2 to 3 hours to acclimate to the surroundings before inserting a video cassette.
PRECAUTIONS PRECAUTIONS Thank you for choosing the video camera/recorder. For maximum pleasure and convenience please read these simple instructions before operating your camera/recorder. PRECAUTIONS Any problems that occur as a result of any of the following conditions will not be covered by our warranty. Be careful that no water, dust, or sand enters the camera/recorder. When you are not using the camera/recorder, switch off the power and attach the lens cap.
PRECAUTIONS FEATURES • Solid-state camera pickup • High Quality picture technology • Auto focus power zoom Lens with macro feature • Full record and playback capability with standard • Program AE (Auto Exposure) • Flying erase head (Only for VM-2700A) • Built-in camera light (Only for VM-2700A) • Time and date • Titler • Index signal cassette * This video camera/recorder with this marking incorporates highquality picture technology and is compatible with any video cassette recorder bearing the mark.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS In addition to the careful attention devoted to quality standards in the manufacture of your video product, safety is a major factor in the design of every instrument. But, safety is your responsibility too. This page lists important information that will help to assure your enjoyment and proper use of a Video Camera/Recorder and accessory equipment. Please read it carefully before operating your video product and keep it in a handy place for future reference.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS and have it replaced by your service technician if appearance indicates damage or deteriorated insulation. 7 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 at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the appliance and cart combination to overturn. 12 Outdoor Antenna Grounding -- If an outside antenna or cable system is connected to the video product, be sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges. Section 810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA No.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS SERVICE 17 Servicing -- Do not attempt to service this video product yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. 18 Conditions Requiring Service -- Unplug this video product 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.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER 1. Save these instructions - This page contains important safety and operating instructions for AC Adaptor/Charger Model VM-AC68A (T) 2. Before using AC Adaptor/Charger, read all instructions and cautionary markings on (1) AC Adapter/Charger, (2) battery and (3) product using battery. 3. Also read all instructions on pages 4 and 5. 4.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER as close to the point of cable entry as practical".
ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER Set the viewfinder to the position shown in the figure when carrying the camcorder or storing it in the carrying case. Turn the viewfinder to the position shown below when shooting pictures. 1. Turn the viewfinder 2. Turn the eyepiece. You can adjust the position and angle of the viewfinder so you can see through it easily. Cautions: • Do not force the viewfinder to rotate completely around. This will damage the viewfinder and/or camcorder.
ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER 15
POWER SOURCES POWER SOURCES WHEN USING WITH THE BATTERY (Provided) • To attach, align the mark " " of the battery with that of the camera/recorder so that the battery fits into the groves, and slide the battery downward, as illustrated. • To remove the battery: Push and hold "Battery" release lever, then slide the battery to the upside and remove. WHEN USING WITH THE AC ADAPTER/CHARGER (Provided) 1. Plug the AC adaptor/charger power cord into AC electrical outlet. 2.
POWER SOURCES • When using the AC adaptor/charger to power the camera/recorder, the battery level indicator may display " ". This indicator is used for battery operation and has no meaning when using the AC adaptor/charger to power the camera/recorder. WHEN USING WITH THE CAR BATTERY (By using optional car battery cord Hitachi VM-CC70A) 1. Connect the small plug of the car battery cord to the "DC IN 9.6V" jack of the camera/recorder. 2.
CHECKING THE BATTERY CHECKING THE BATTERY When the " " indication appears in the viewfinder and flashes while the camera/recorder is being operated with a battery (provided), it indicates that the battery charge is low. Charge it or replace it with a charged battery. NOTE: When the camera/recorder is turned on, the battery level indicator " " is displayed in the viewfinder indicating the condition of camera/recording battery. When the battery is fully charged, " " is displayed.
CHARGING A BATTERY CHARGING A BATTERY 1. Plug the AC adaptor/charger power cord into AC electrical outlet. 2. Attach the battery to the AC adaptor/charger. Align the mark " " on the battery with that of AC adaptor/charger and push the battery flush with the AC adaptor/charger and slide it in the direction of arrow. NOTE: You must remove the DC cord from the AC adaptor/charger to charge the battery. If the DC cord is connected, "CHARGE" light will not light. 3.
CHARGING A BATTERY NOTES: 1. The time required for charging the battery is approx. two hours. 2. When fully charged, the battery should supply approx. 90 minutes of operating time (depending on how much you use zoom and pause). 2. Charge the battery after use and store it at normal room temperature. 3. Recharge the battery at least once every six months. The battery is a lead-acid battery. This battery tends to discharge if not used for an extended period of time.
MAKING A SAMPLE RECORDING MAKING A SAMPLE RECORDING 1. Connect the POWER SOURCE. (See pages 9 and 10.) 2. Press "STOP/EJECT" button and insert the cassette so the transparent window is toward you and the arrow toward the cassette holder. Slide the cassette into cassette holder as far as it will go. NOTE: Push in the center of the cassette all the way until it is latched by the cassette holder. 3. Press the cassette holder. The holder will latch in the operating position. 4.
MAKING A SAMPLE RECORDING 5. Now, press "REC/PAUSE" button to start shooting the picture. The "REC" indication appears in the viewfinder and you are now recording the picture you see through the viewfinder. 6. Press "REC/PAUSE" button to stop recording. Press the button again to resume recording. The " " indication will appear in the viewfinder instead of "REC" while the camera/recorder is in the record/pause (stand-by) mode.
MAKING A SAMPLE RECORDING 8. Press "REW" button. The tape will be rewound to the beginning 9. Press "PLAY" button. The picture you just recorded will be seen through the viewfinder. NOTE: If you connect the camera/recorder to your TV, you can see the picture played back on your TV. Refer to "VIEWING THE PICTURE PLAYED BACK ON YOUR TV" on page 28. 10. After playing, press "STOP/EJECT" button 11. Slide the "POWER" switch to "OFF" position to turn off the camera/recorder.
MAKING A SAMPLE RECORDING NOTE: If you have a cassette tape that has already been partially recorded on and you want to record the remaining blank section, see "QUICK EDIT" on page 24.
IDENTIFICATION AND OPERATION OF CONTROLS IDENTIFICATION AND OPERATION OF CONTROLS Diagram of camera Camera Light (only for VM-2700A) When the "POWER" switch is in the "CAM" position, the camera light is turned on and off automatically or manually in the record and record/pause modes depending on the position of "LIGHT" switch. Turn the camera light off after use. NOTE: The camera light turns on only in the record and record/pause modes.
IDENTIFICATION AND OPERATION OF CONTROLS To close the cover, first hook the tab onto the case. Diagram of Buttons "TITLE" Button Press this button to create and record personalized titles on your videos with the camera/recorder's built-in titler. "DATE / TIME" Button Press this button to display the date and time in the viewfinder. Whenever the date and time appear in the viewfinder, they will be recorded on the tape.
IDENTIFICATION AND OPERATION OF CONTROLS "M" is displayed. "POWER" Switch This switch changes the camera/recorder to the record mode or to the playback mode. Press and hold the small button on this switch, and then slide it to "CAM" or "VIDEO". "REW" Button Press this button during stop or fast forward mode, and fast-rewinding starts. " " appears in the viewfinder.
IDENTIFICATION AND OPERATION OF CONTROLS mode. (See "DATE/TIME SETTING" on page 20.) Diagram of Camera Diopter Control To use the electronic viewfinder without eyeglasses on, turn this control for your optimum focus adjustment. "BATTERY" Release Lever Releases the battery attached to the video camera/recorder. "DC IN 9.
IDENTIFICATION AND OPERATION OF CONTROLS Graphics in the Electronic Viewfinder 29
DATE/TIME Setting DATE/TIME Setting The date and time can be recorded on your tape to act as a handy reference when viewing them at a later time. Use the following procedure to set up this display for the current date and time. The time backup battery is rechargeable. Charge the backup battery every two months. Set "POWER" switch to "OFF" position and connect a charged battery or AC adaptor/charger to the camera/recorder for 24 hours.
DATE/TIME Setting button. 6. Press "F.FWD" or "REW" button as many times as may be required to select the correct hour, and then press "STOP/EJECT" button. 7. Repeat step 6 to select minute and AM/PM. 8. After setting AM or PM, press "DATE/TIME" button to change the display and start the internal clock. It is recommended that you press "DATE/TIME" button to match the time signal. 9. Press "DATE/TIME" button after setting the clock. The display will change as follows each time the button is pressed.
AUTOMATIC DATE RECORDING AUTOMATIC DATE RECORDING This feature records the date automatically once a day. After you begin recording, the date is recorded automatically for 10 seconds. The same date is recorded again in the following cases. • When the cassette is replaced. • When " " is displayed again after being switched to the date display. • When the recording is for less than 10 seconds.
AUTO FOCUS AUTO FOCUS • You can always focus the object automatically. The range of the object with which auto focus can be used. • On "T" side: about 3.6 feet (1.1m) from the lens surface to infinity. • On "W" side: about 1.2 inches (3cm) from the lens surface to infinity. The auto focus will not work under the following conditions. 1. Objects not in the center of the viewfinder. 2. Objects at far and near positions at the same time. 3. Objects lit by a spotlight or neon signs, etc. 4.
AUTO FOCUS 6. Objects moving rapidly. 7. Dark objects.
POWER ZOOM POWER ZOOM • Press power zoom switch on the "W" side, and the picture gradually widens. • Press power zoom switch on the "T" side, and the picture gradually becomes telescopic. • The zooming speed is slow when the power zoom switch is pressed lightly, and the zooming speed is fast when the switch is pressed strongly. • When power zoom switch is operated, the zoom position is displayed in the viewfinder in 10 steps for several seconds.
MACRO MACRO Allows you to shoot objects as close as 1.2 inches (3cm) from the lens tip. Press and hold "W" side of power zoom switch. An object is auto focused. NOTES: • Determine the size of the object by moving the camera backward and forward. • Be careful as the lighting may tend to be insufficient when shooting in the above conditions.
PROGRAM AE (Auto Exposure) PROGRAM AE (Auto Exposure) Program AE automatically selects the shutter speed 1/60, 1/100, 1/120, 1/180, 1/250, 1/350, 1/500, 1/750, 1/1000, 1/1500, 1/2000, or 1/4000 second that is optimum for the brightness of the subject. The iris is also adjusted automatically in response to the shutter speed.
INDEX SIGNAL RECORDING INDEX SIGNAL RECORDING Indexing your tapes while recording makes it easy to find desired program segments when you play back the tape in a VCR that has a compatible indexing feature called the "VHS Index Search System". See your VCR's instruction manual for index playback instructions. "INDEX" signals are recorded when the following operations are performed. • When power is turned on about 4 hours after it is switched off and then recording is started.
QUICK EDIT (Edit Search) QUICK EDIT (Edit Search) The quick edit feature allows you to search for the end of previously recorded material, or find a particular spot on your tape, to begin your editing, or recording new material. Quick edit is used while the camera/recorder is in the record/pause (stand-by) mode. By holding down the "F.FWD", "REW", or "PLAY" button, you can visually search or play your tape. Releasing the buttons ("F.FWD", "REW", or "PLAY") immediately stops the tape at that position.
INSTANT REVIEW INSTANT REVIEW 1. In record/pause (stand-by) mode, press "REVIEW" button, and the last few seconds of the recorded scene is played back in the reverse direction and then played back in the forward direction. 2. When the tape reaches the end of the scene you have just recorded, the camera/recorder returns to the record/pause (stand-by) mode. Recording starts again when the "REC/PAUSE" button is pressed again.
DISPLAY BUTTON DISPLAY BUTTON Each time the "DISPLAY" button is pressed, the display in the viewfinder switches as follows. When the linear time tape counter with memory is displayed in the viewfinder, the same display appears on the screen of the connected TV/monitor receiver.
LINEAR TIME COUNTER LINEAR TIME COUNTER Shows length of tape run in hours, minutes and seconds. Load a cassette into the camera/recorder and perform recording or playback; the counter indicates the elapsed time. NOTES: • The linear time counter does not operate when nothing is recorded on the tape. • Counter changes to 0:00:00 when cassette is ejected.
REMAINING TAPE REMAINING TAPE The tape remaining display shows the remaining tape that can be used for recording and playback, using seven dashes. This feature is handy when recording since it lets you know how long you can record on the loaded tape. Insert a cassette in the camera/recorder and start recording or playback; 10 seconds later, the remaining tape will be displayed. When the cassette is ejected, the display will disappear. " " is displayed for 10 seconds after the tape starts to run.
TITLE RECORDING TITLE RECORDING You can easily create and record personalized titles on your videos with the camera/recorder's built-in titler. The titler will store 2 different title pages in memory. Once a title is stored, it can be displayed and recorded at any time. Each title page can contain two lines of 16 characters each. The titler contains 47 different characters for creating titles. NOTE: A cassette cannot be loaded or ejected when creating a title.
TITLE RECORDING Creating a title 1. Attach a power source to the camera/recorder and slide "POWER" switch to either "CAM" or "VIDEO" position. 2. Press "TITLE" button. The flashing cursor will appear in the viewfinder. 3. Press "SHIFT" button repeatedly to move the flashing cursor to the place you want to begin your title. 4. Select the first character for your title by pressing the "-" or "+" button repeatedly until the desired character appears.
TITLE RECORDING Correcting errors during title storage 1. Press "Shift" button repeatedly until the character to be corrected will flash. 2. Press either "-" or "+" button until the correct character appears. NOTE: The correct character may flash, however it will be recorded correctly without flashing. Recording titles on a tape in the camera/recorder 1. Slide "POWER" switch to "VIDEO". 2. Locate the position on the tape that you wish to record the title. 3. Set "POWER" switch to "CAM". 4.
TITLE RECORDING Recording titles on another VCR while playing a tape back with the camcorder 1. Connect the camera/recorder and VCR. (See page 31.) 2. Select the title you wish to record from page 1 or page 2. The last title selected will appear first. Press "TITLE" button to turn title off. 3. Set the VCR in the recording mode and camera/recorder in the playback mode. 4. Press "TITLE" button when you see the scene where you want to record the title. 5.
VIEWING THE PICTURE PLAYED BACK ON YOUR TV VIEWING THE PICTURE PLAYED BACK ON YOUR TV To play back a tape recorded on your camera/recorder and view it on your TV receiver, you must connect the camera/recorder to the TV receiver using either audio/video cord (not provided) or RF converter unit (optional). You also may play back the tape recorded by your camera/recorder on any other VHS video cassette recorder. The camera/recorder records and plays back in VHS standard speed (SP).
VIEWING THE PICTURE PLAYED BACK ON YOUR TV NOTE: When noise appears in the played back picture, adjust "TRACKING" control on the VCR so there is no noise. Example 3: If your TV is a regular TV, Diagram of Hookup 1. Disconnect the VHF antenna leads from the rear of the TV receiver. NOTE: Leave the UHF antenna leads connected to the TV. 2. Connect the VHF antenna lead to "IN FROM ANT" on the RF converter unit. If the cable is round (75 Ohm), it will connect directly to the "IN FROM ANT".
STILL STILL When "REC/PAUSE" button is pressed during playback, a still picture can be seen. To start again press "REC/PAUSE" button and playback will be resumed. NOTE: There will be some noise (interference) in the still picture.
FORWARD AND REVERSE SEARCH FORWARD AND REVERSE SEARCH When you press "F.FWD" or "REW" button during playback, the tape will be played back at a speed about 3 times faster than normal playback speed, and you can easily locate a certain spot on the tape. Press "PLAY" button to return to normal playback mode or press "STOP/EJECT" button to stop tape movement. NOTE: There will be some noise (interference) in the forward or reverse search pictures while visually scanning.
MEMORY MEMORY When the tape counter with memory indication appears in the viewfinder, a tape that is being rewound automatically stops when the counter reads approximately "0:00:00". This is useful if there is a section of tape you want to review immediately after recording or if you want to return to the same point several times in a row. 1. Press "DISPLAY" button. (The indicator "M" appears beside the linear time counter.) 2. Start playing or recording a tape. 3.
CAMERA/RECORDER TO VCR DUBBING CAMERA/RECORDER TO VCR DUBBING If you wish to exchange or copy some of your friend's favorite home recordings, the following instructions can be used to connect camera/recorder to VCR for this purpose. 1. Connect the video/audio cord (not provided) to "AUDIO" and "VIDEO" of your camera/recorder. 2. Connect the other ends to "AUDIO IN", "VIDEO IN" of your VCR as shown in the diagram above. 3. Play the tape on the camera/recorder and record it on the VCR.
AUTOMATIC REWIND AUTOMATIC REWIND When the tape reaches its end during playback, it automatically rewinds to the beginning and stops.
FLYING ERASE HEAD (only for VM-2700A) FLYING ERASE HEAD (only for VM-2700A) A rotating erase head which eliminates glitches and rainbow noise that occurs at the joints between recorded segments.
USING THE BUILT-IN CAMERA LIGHT (only for VM-2700A) USING THE BUILT-IN CAMERA LIGHT (only for VM-2700A) Use the built-in camera light it you wish to shoot objects in dark places. When the "LIGHT" switch is set to "AUTO", the camera light turns on automatically when the camera/recorder is pointed at objects in a dark place and turns off when it is pointed at objects in a bright place. CAUTION: The power consumption of the built-in camera light is about a half that of the camera/recorder.
USING THE BUILT-IN CAMERA LIGHT (only for VM-2700A) 3. After use, set the "LIGHT" switch to "OFF" or set the "POWER" switch of the camera/recorder to "OFF" position.
USING THE BUILT-IN CAMERA LIGHT (only for VM-2700A) CAUTION: • During operation and/or after use of the camera light, the front surface and lamp of the camera light will be very hot. To avoid burns or hair damage, do not touch them with your hand. • When the camera light is on, do not allow water to drop on the light. • When the camera light is on, avoid subjecting the camera light to impacts or sharp vibrations. • Do not allow the cooling vents to become blocked.
EYEPIECE ADJUSTMENT EYEPIECE ADJUSTMENT To use the electronic viewfinder without eyeglasses on, adjust the diopter control for optimum focus adjustment.
HOW TO ATTACH THE SHOULDER STRAP HOW TO ATTACH THE SHOULDER STRAP Attach the shoulder strap (provided), as illustrated.
TROUBLESHOOTING TROUBLESHOOTING Your camera/recorder is a highly sophisticated instrument. It has been carefully checked and adjusted at the factory under the most rigid quality control and inspection systems. However, should problems develop, check the following points and take the necessary corrective measures. INSERTING OR REMOVING THE CASSETTE Symptom Check Point & Correction Cassette holder cannot be opened Connect the power source.
TROUBLESHOOTING switch gently using a toothpick, etc. until you feel a click. The display will be reset. Then set the information again. PLAYBACK OF PRE-RECORDED CASSETTE Symptom Check Point & Correction “PLAY” button cannot be engaged. Set the power switch to “VIDEO” position. No picture appears on television Set the television to the screen when “PLAY” button is pressed. camera/recorder channel (3 or 4) depending upon the selected channel in the RF channel select switch of RF output adapter.
TROUBLESHOOTING CLEANING THE INSIDE OF THE ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER If dust or foreign matter adheres inside the viewfinder, clean it by using the following procedure. 1. Push the tab and hold it, then open the cover, 2. Clean the picture tube face and lens. To prevent scratching, use a soft non abrasive cloth, swab or lens cleaning paper. 3. Close the cover.
HEAD CLEANING HEAD CLEANING • Picture playback may become blurred or be interrupted. This does not mean that the recorded program has been erased. • Dirt accumulated on the head after long periods of use causes this problem. In this case, head cleaning requiring highly technical care is necessary. • Consult your nearest dealer or VCR service center before using a head cleaning tape.
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE PERIODIC MAINTENANCE The video camera/recorder is a precision electromechanical device which will require periodic maintenance after a period of normal use. We expect that no maintenance other than head cleaning will be required during the warranty period of most users, unless the video camera/recorder is heavily used or seldom used. Normal maintenance is the responsibility of the user, although defective parts are covered during the warranty period.
SPECIFICATIONS SPECIFICATIONS General Power requirements Power consumption Dimensions: Weight 9.6V DC 7 watts (nominal) 4-3/8"(W) x 8-1/16" (H) x 12-1/4" (D) 111(W) x 205(H) x 311(D) mm 4.4 lbs (2.0 kg) Video Recorder Section Format VHS Record/playback system VM-2700A: Two video record/playback heads plus a flying erase head VM-1700A: Two video record/playback heads Video signal EIA standard NTSC color Tape speed 33.35 mm/sec. Video output 1.0 Vp-p, 75 ohm Audio output -7.
HOTLINE HOTLINE For U.S.A. only HITACHI Service Hotline To locate an authorized HITACHI service facility in the continental U.S.A. DIAL TOLL FREE 7 days a week, 24 hours a day 800 HITACHI 1-800-448-2244 Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc. Hitachi has made every effort to assure you hours of trouble free operation from your unit. However, should you require service, a network of Hitachi Authorized Service Facilities has been established in all 50 states and Puerto Rico.
ACCESSORY TO ADD MORE EXCITEMENT ACCESSORY TO ADD MORE EXCITEMENT You're ready to add more excitement to your home videos, and Hitachi's right there with you. With our new line of video accessories, you can go anywhere your imagination takes you. Now that you know how much fun video recording can be, you'll want to add new dimensions to your home videos. With convertor lenses, adaptors, extra. We are preparing two kinds of accessory. 1. Included accessory See page 3. 2.
