TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 HITACHI Instruction Manual 8mm Video Camcorder VM-E54A Hitachi Home Electronics (America), HITACHI (HSC) CANADA, INC. Inc. 3300 Trans Canada Highway, Pointe Claire, 3890 Steve Reynolds Blvd., Norcross, GA 30093 Quebec, H9R1B1, CANADA Tel. 404-279-5600 Tel. 514-697-9150 HITACHI SALES CORPORATION OF HAWAII, INC 3219 Koapaka Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819 Tel. 808-836-3621 Thank you for buying a Hitachi product.
TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................................................................ 2 For Your Safety........................................................................................................................................... 5 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS ..................................................................................................................
TABLE OF CONTENTS Playing Back Your Recording........................................................................................................... 35 Connecting to a Television with a VCR Attached.......................................................................... 35 Connecting to a Television with Audio In and Video In Jacks..................................................... 36 Connecting to a Television without Audio In and Video In Jacks ...............................................
TABLE OF CONTENTS 4
For Your Safety For Your Safety The CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch turns the camera/recorder on and off, leaving the date/time feature unaffected. If the unit is to be left unattended for a long period of time, turn the camera/recorder off and attach the lens cap. WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. Illustrated below is the label on the bottom of your unit.
For Your Safety "This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the interference-causing equipment standard entitled "Digital Apparatus", ICES-003 of the Department of Communications." Warning: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
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 cord 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 Adapter/Charger Model VM-AC 83A. 2. Before using AC Adapter/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.
Read This First Read This First To guide you, we've included A "Before You Begin" section containing important cautions for your family's safety as well as instruction for getting your video camera/recorder ready for use. Please read and understand this section thoroughly before moving on. A "Getting Started" section to familiarize yourself with the controls and prepare you for recording.
Before You Begin Before You Begin 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 shoot at a scene which contains an extremely bright object such as the sun or a light source, a bright vertical bar may appear in the picture. Your camera/recorder is functioning properly, but the solid-state pickup device (C.C.D.) usually causes this as an inherent characteristic.
Before You Begin Components and Accessories Check that you have all the following components and accessories before preceding. 1. AV output cord 2. Battery pack 3. AC adapter/charger 4. Remote control battery 5. Shoulder strap 6. External power adapter 7. Remote control Optional RF Output Adapter If you wish to connect this camera/recorder to a television that does not have audio/video input jacks you will need to use the optional RF output adapter model VMRF86A.
Before You Begin Moisture Avoid operating your camera/recorder immediately after moving it from a cold place to a warm, humid place. Give the camera/recorder 2 to 3 hours to stabilize in the ambient conditions of the surroundings before inserting a cassette. When moved from a cold place to a warm, humid place, moisture may condense on the head drum inside the machine. This moisture could cause the tape to stick to the headwheel and damage the headwheel or tape.
Getting Started Getting Started This section guides you through the initial preparation of the camera/recorder. None of these processes are complex. Set aside some time, relax, and familiarize yourself with this quality instrument. Enjoy getting to know all about your Hitachi 8mm camera/recorder. The more comfortable and familiar you are with the machine and its features, the more you can make it do for you.
Getting Started After charging set the mark switch to red so that you may quickly identify whether the battery is charged or uncharged. Note: The marker switch is not concerned with the battery's performance. Additional Information To use a battery in optimum condition: Use the battery until the low charge light ( ) flashes. Using a battery for a short time and then recharging it may shorten the operation time.
Getting Started ATTENTION: The product that you have purchased contains 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.
Getting Started Eyepiece Adjustment To use the electronic viewfinder, pull out the eye cup all the way when using it and adjust the diopter control so that the subject is seen most clearly in the viewfinder. Always push in the eye cup after use. Attaching the Optional Wide or Tele Converter Lens 1. To remove the lens hood, turn it counterclockwise. 2. Remove both caps of the converter lens. 3. Screw the lens into the threads on the camera/recorder lens assembly.
Getting Started Loading Batteries Install the remote control battery now to prevent misplacing it. Remote Control Battery 1. Push the tab to the right of the remote control and hold it, then remove the battery holder. 2. Press the PLAY button and hold it for about two seconds. 3. Insert the battery with the "+" terminal facing in the direction of the open side of the battery holder. 4. Replace the battery holder with battery in the remote control making sure that it is full inserted.
Getting Started Removing the Battery Push the BATT EJECT switch in the direction of the arrow and hold it as you slide the battery toward the left of the camera/recorder and remove. Checking the Battery's Charge A battery charge indicator is located on the upper right corner of the viewfinder. One of three symbols displays when the battery is used. This symbol indicates a fully charged battery. This symbol indicates a partially charged battery.
Getting Started use a polarized cord or outlet accessory. 2. Align the arrow on the external power adapter with the guide arrow on the camera/recorder. 3. Hold the external power adapter firmly against the camera/recorder while sliding it towards the right of the machine. 4. Connect the external power adapter plug to the DC OUTPUT jack of the AC adapter/charger. Note: The AC adapter/charger can be used around the world. An AC plug adapter is required in some foreign countries.
Getting Started Using a Car Battery The camera/recorder can be powered with a car battery by using an optional car battery cord (Hitachi VM-CC80A) to plug the camera/recorder into the car's cigarette lighter socket. Please ensure that the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch is in the OFF position whenever attaching or detaching any power supply (ie. battery, AC adapter/charger, etc). Car Battery Cord Hookup 1. Plug the car battery cord into the car's cigarette lighter socket. 2.
Getting Started Note: If TAPE flashes in the viewfinder, remove the cassette and check that the tape is not damaged, is not slack or no dust adheres to it, etc. After making sure that there is no abnormality, reinsert the cassette. If TAPE reappears, see "Troubleshooting" on page 48. Removing a Cassette Slide the EJECT switch in the direction of the arrow. The cassette door opens automatically. Remove the cassette.
Getting Started Notes when using the DC camera light: Keep the DC camera light away from splashing or dripping water. Never cover the DC camera light with paper, plastic or other object as the cooling vents may become blocked possibly causing the camera light to overheat. Never use the DC camera light in the vicinity of explosive or highly flammable materials. Always allow the DC camera light to cool fully before storing.
Getting Started Note: Only replace the camera light bulb with VM-CP4L (optional) to reduce the risk of fire. Using Memory The linear time counter memory stops a rewinding tape at approximately 0:00:00M. This feature helps in locating a specific point in the tape to which you wish to return. An example might be that you have recorded some tape that you have already watched, you continue recording but do not care to watch the tape you recorded earlier.
Getting Started 1. Load the battery ("Loading the Batteries: Camera/Recorder battery" p 14). Press the red button on the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch as you slid it to CAMERA. 2. Press the DATE button and look into the viewfinder. The date and time should appear in the lower right with the "1" flashing. 3. Pressing the F.FWD button gives you higher numbers while the REW/REVIEW button gives you lower numbers. Select the right month and press STOP button. Use the F.
Getting Started 10 seconds when recording is restarted after the camera/recorder has been set to the standby once. Press the DATE button until " AUTO" and the date appear at the lower right of the viewfinder before you begin to record. The date will be recorded whenever it appears in the viewfinder.
Getting Started Note: When the remaining tape time becomes less than about three minutes, TAPE END flashes in the viewfinder.
Getting Started Using the Display Button Pressing the DISPLAY button on the remote control allows you to switch the displays in the viewfinder. When the camera/recorder is turned on, the linear time counter appears. Pressing the DISPLAY button once displays the linear time counter with the memory feature. Note: The linear time counter with the memory feature in the viewfinder can also be displayed on the connected television. Pressing the DISPLAY button a second time returns to the linear time counter.
Getting Started 6. CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO Power Switch Hold down the red button as you slide the switch to CAMERA or VIDEO. You do not need to hold down the red button to slide the switch to OFF. 7. EJECT Switch A power source must be connected before cassettes can be inserted or removed though the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch may be set to OFF ("Inserting and Removing Cassettes," p 17). 8. BATT EJECT (Battery Eject) Switch Slide this switch to remove the battery, battery case or external power adapter. 9.
Getting Started 17. Camera Light Shoe Attach the DC camera light here. 18. Hand Strap Refer to page 24. 19. Start/Stop Button When the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch is in CAMERA press this button to start recording. When pressed a second time the camera pauses. During playback use this button to stop the tape temporarily. Pressing a second time resumes normal playback. 20. REW/REVIEW Button Use this button to fast rewind tapes or for visual search.
Getting Started corresponding buttons on the camera/recorder. 27. S.EDIT (Synchro Edit) Button (only on the remote control) Use this button to activate the synchro edit function for dubbing ("Using Synchro Edit", p 39). 28. COUNTER RESET Button (only on the remote control) Use this button to reset the linear time counter to 0:00:00. 29. TITLE ON/OFF Button (only on the remote control) Use this button to create and record titles for your tapes ("Creating and Recording Titles," p 35). 30.
Basic Techniques Basic Techniques The batteries are in place and charged, the date and time are set, and you are familiar with the controls it's time to make a recording. Basic recording is easy and simple. Hooking up the camera/recorder to your TV is not complicated but give yourself plenty of time to ensure connections are correct. This section guides you through basic recording and playback.
Basic Techniques Note: TAPE flashes in the viewfinder when the tab on the side of the cassette is completely visible. 6. To stop recording press the Start/Stop button and REC disappears from the viewfinder replaced by . This places the camera/recorder in standby. Note: TAPE END flashes in the viewfinder when about 3 minutes or less remain of the tape cassette. Note: If the camera/recorder is left in record/pause mode for more than 5 minutes, the camera/recorder turns off automatically.
Basic Techniques 6. Press the PLAY button to begin playback. 7. Press the STOP button when finished. Connecting to a Television with Audio In and Video In Jacks 1. Connect the provided AV output cord to the AUDIO IN and VIDEO IN jacks of your television. 2. Connect the free square plug to the AV IN/OUT jack of your camera/recorder. 3. Turn on your television. 4. Insert the previously recorded cassette into the camera/recorder. 5.
Basic Techniques damage to the tape. Note: When you engage play/pause mode the still picture will have some interference or noise. This is normal. Using Forward and Reverse Search When looking for a particular point in your videotape use the F.FWD button and REW/REVIEW button to find the spot quickly. Press F.FWD button during playback to play the tape forward at approximately 9 times normal speed. Press PLAY button to return to normal playback.
Advanced Techniques Advanced Techniques The Hitachi VM-E54A offers a diverse group of features that add interest and excitement to your videos. Adding fades to smooth transitions creates videos with a professional look. As you learn and practice with these features think of situations that they might fit in and add a special touch.
Advanced Techniques Press and hold the power zoom T control until you find the picture you want. You control the zoom with the power zoom T and W controls. When ZOOM is not displayed in the viewfinder, normal zoom functions resume. Using the INST. ZOOM (Instant Zoom) Button The instant zoom feature activates the digital zoom to magnify the subject 1.5 times regardless of zooming engaged by the power zoom T and W controls. Press the INST. ZOOM button. I.
Advanced Techniques The auto focus will not work under the following conditions and you must focus manually: Objects outside the center of the viewfinder Objects at different distances in the center of the viewfinder Brightly lit objects such as a neon light, objects lit by spotlight, etc.
Advanced Techniques Using Quick Edit Use quick edit to search for the end of previously recorded material, find a particular spot on your tape, begin editing, or record new material. While the camera is in record/pause mode hold down the F.FWD, REW/REVIEW, or PLAY button and visually search the tape. Release the button and the camera/recorder stops the tape at the exact position you selected. Using Macro This function allows you to shoot subjects as close as 1.2 inches.
Advanced Techniques contains two lines of up to 16 characters per line. The camera/recorder contains 47 different characters for creating a title. Titler Buttons Creating a Title 1. Connect the camera/recorder to a power source. 2. Hold down the red button on the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch and slide it to either CAMERA or VIDEO. 3. Press the TITLE ON/OFF button on the remote control and a flashing cursor appears in the viewfinder. 4. Use the STOP button to place the cursor where you wish to begin your title.
Advanced Techniques 5. Press the TITLE ON/OFF button on the remote control to store the corrected title in memory. Recording Title on a Tape in the Camera/Recorder 1. Hold down the red button on the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch while sliding the switch to CAMERA. 2. Locate the point of the tape where you wish to record the title ("Using Quick Edit," p 34). 3. Press the TITLE ON/OFF button on the remote control. 4. Use the PLAY button to select the title you wish to record. 5.
Advanced Techniques camera recorder. Aiming the remote. Note: Use the wireless remote control within the range of the infrared ray receiver of the camera/recorder shown above. Note: The wireless remote control may not function in strong light such as direct sunlight or very bright artificial lighting. Note: Clear a direct path from the wireless remote control to the infrared ray receiver. The wireless remote control won't work if an obstacle blocks the infrared rays.
Advanced Techniques 1. Connect the synchro edit cord to the AV IN/OUT jack of your camera/recorder. 2. Connect the synchro edit cord to the AUDIO IN, VIDEO IN, and EDIT IN jacks of your VCR. Connect either the right or left audio plug into your VCR if it has only one AUDIO IN jack. 3. Insert the recorded tape in the camera/recorder and a blank tape into the VCR. 4. Play the tape in the camera/recorder until you find the place you want to record. Press the Start/Stop button. 5.
Advanced Techniques for your TV. Every TV that comes with a remote control is set up to detect certain infrared signals. You need to program the camera/recorder remote control to send signals that your TV will recognize and respond to. Here's what to do: Programming the Remote Control Turn the television on (any channel is okay). Aim the camera/recorder's remote control at your TV set.
Advanced Techniques Be aware that not all of your TV's functions may work even though the remote control is correctly programmed. Note: It may not be possible to control all TVs listed in this Table. Note: The AVX Button can't be used with Gold Star 2 and Sharp TVs. Using Audio/Video Dubbing Use audio/video dubbing to record audio and video from the camera/recorder's built-in microphone and camera onto a previously recorded tape in the camera/recorder. Audio/Video Dubbing Diagram 1.
Advanced Techniques recording only the portion of the tape that you selected. Remote Control Buttons Note: If the camera/recorder is in AV DUB pause or STILL mode for more than 5 minutes, the camera/recorder stops automatically to protect the tape. Note: Automatic date recording is disabled during audio/video dubbing. Note: When the audio/video dubbed portion is played back, noise may appear at the end of the dubbed portion.
General Maintenance General Maintenance Cleaning the Camera/Recorder Heads Dirt can accumulate on the video heads on the camera causing the playback picture to become blurred or appear as if video information is lost. This often means that the video heads are dirty. Use a video head cleaner such as Maxell 8M-CLT to clean the heads. If after cleaning the heads the picture does not clear up consult your nearest dealer or VCR service center for professional head cleaning.
General Maintenance and the age of the camera/recorder. Troubleshooting Quality is very important at Hitachi. We inspect and check every camera/recorder carefully at the factory under the most rigid quality control and inspection systems. If problems develop please check the following possible solutions before inquiring about professional service.
General Maintenance PLAYBACK OF PRE-RECORDED CASSETTE SYMPTOM “PLAY” button cannot be engaged. CHECK POINT & CORRECTION *Set the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch to VIDEO No picture appears on television Set the television to the screen when “PLAY” is pressed. camera/.recorder channel (3 or 4) depending upon the selected channel in the RF channel. (TV is connected to the camera/recorder by using RF output adapter.
General Maintenance 52
Specifications Specifications General Specifications Power requirements Power consumption Dimensions 214mm) Weight 6V DC VM-E54A: 4.9W (when recording) 3-9/16" W x 4-9/16" H x 8-7/16" D (91mm x 116mm x Operating temperature Storage temperature VM-E54A: 1.63 lbs (740g) without battery pack, lens hood, lens cap or cassette 32°F ~ 104°F -4°F ~ 140°F Video Recorder Specifications Format 8mm Record/playback Two video record/playback heads Video signal EIA standard NTSC color Tape speed 14.
Specifications Facilities has been established in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Each facility will provide you with convenient and expedient assistance. Our service "Hotline" operator will direct you to the Hitachi Authorized Service Facility nearest you. Just present proof of purchase and/or delivery receipts to the Hitachi Authorized Service Facility and service will be rendered in accordance with the terms of the limited warranty as stated on your warranty card or operating guide.
Accessories Add Excitement Accessories Add Excitement We know that once you discover how much your Hitachi VM-E54A can add to your life you will want to use these accessories for even more excitement. Converter lenses, adapters for synchro editing, and car cords are just a few of the exciting accessories available to you from Hitachi. Hitachi takes you to wherever your imagination leads.
HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Front) HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Front) U. S. A. ONLY NOT VALID IN CANADA HITACHI Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc. Hitachi Sales Corporation of Hawaii, Inc. LIMITED WARRANTY Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc.
HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Front) Norcross, GA 30093 Tel: 404-279-5600 HITACHI SALES CORPORATION OF HAWAII 3219 Koapaka St.
HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Back) HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Back) Warranty Limitations The Limited Warranty provided by Hitachi does not cover: A. Cabinet (exterior finish items), Battery Packs, Accessories, Head Cleanings, Video Tape Damage, or TV Set Modifications. B. Any defect, malfunction, or failure caused by or resulting from improper service, maintenance, repair, use of Video Cleaning Cassettes, or from abuse, neglect, accident, or any other cause beyond the control of Hitachi. C.
HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Back) (for your record) Model No. Serial No.
HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (Front) CANADA ONLY HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (Front) CANADA ONLY NOT VALID IN U. S. A. HITACHI VIDEO PRODUCTS GOLD CARD WARRANTY * See inside for the GOLD CARD advantages and how to get it. HITACHI EXCEPTIONAL PERFORMANCE HITACHI (HSC) CANADA INC. 3300 Trans Canada Highway, Pointe Claire, Quebec H9R 1B1 IMPORTANT NOTICE: This warranty will not apply to products purchased outside of Canada OR sold by any organization other than HITACHI (HSC) CANADA INC.
HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (Front) CANADA ONLY storage or repairs done by an unauthorized service depot; (2) Damage caused by fire, flood, lightning, acts of God or other events beyond the control of Hitachi; (3) External parts such as the cabinet, knobs, remote control case, antenna, cords, etc....; (4) Any repairs if the product is used for rental or other commercial use.
HITACHI CANADA WARRANTY CARD (Back) HITACHI CANADA WARRANTY CARD (Back) Hitachi VIDEO PRODUCTS are guaranteed to be free from defects in workmanship and material. If any failure resulting from either workmanship or material defect should occur under normal and proper usage within the period stated hereunder from the original provable date of purchase, such failure should be repaired at no cost to the buyer, provided the defective product is brought to a HITACHI AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER in Canada.
HITACHI CANADA WARRANTY CARD (Back) 5. PRODUCTS PURCHASED OUTSIDE CANADA. 6. Products used outside Canada 7. In transit damage claims, improper handling by carrier or post offices. 8. Products or parts thereof which have had serial numbers removed, altered or defaced. 9. Products used for commercial purposes. 10. ***PRODUCTS USED FOR RENTAL*** 11. In home service at the customer's location. 12. Original installation (set-up) and all normal maintenance needed such as CLEANING OF VIDEO HEADS. 13.
