For Your Safety VM-E52A -1- Model No. Serial No. Date of Purchase Dealer's Name Dealer's Address City Province 1 HITACHI Instruction Manual 8mm Video Camcorder VM-E56A / VM-E58A 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.
For Your Safety -2IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS pg. 4 ................................................................................................ 6 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER pg. 8 ................... 10 Read This First .......................................................................................................................................... 11 Before You Begin................................................................................................................
For Your Safety -3Using Forward and Reverse Search ...................................................................................................... 37 Advanced Techniques pg. 37 .......................................................................................................... 38 Using the Power Zoom.......................................................................................................................... 38 Advanced Techniques pg. 37 .............................................
For Your Safety -4- 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 -5- does not indicate a fault as the LCD panel stretches the limits of current technology. Warning: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS pg. 4 -6- IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS pg. 4 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.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS pg. 4 -7- 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. 8 Ventilation -- Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation to ensure reliable operation of the video product and to protect it from overheating.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS pg. 4 -812 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 pg. 4 -9SERVICE 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 pg. 8 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER - 10 - pg. 8 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 - 11 - Read This First Thank you for buying a Hitachi product. You've chosen the best 8mm video camera/recorder for you, and we want to help you make the most of your purchase. Please take time to become familiar with the manual and how it is set up. Keep it handy for future reference. To guide you, we've included l 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.
Before You Begin - 12 - Before You Begin Any problems that occur as a result of any of the following conditions will not be covered by our warranty. n Be careful that no water, dust or sand enters the camera/recorder. n 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.
Before You Begin - 13 - Components and Accessories Check that you have all the following components and accessories before preceding. 1. Audio/Video 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 outptut adapter model VM-RF86A.
Before You Begin - 14 - 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.
Table of Contents pg. 13 Table of Contents - 15 - pg. 13 For Your Safety.....2 Important Safeguards.....4 Installation.....4 Use.....5 Service.....5 Important Safety Instructions for AC Adapter/Charger.....6 Read This First.....7 Quick Index.....7 Features.....8 Components and Accessories.....8 MOISTURE....9 Attaching the Shoulder Strap.....9 Charging the Battery.....12 Additional Information.....12 Adjusting the Electronic Viewfinder.....13 Eyepiece Adjustment.....
Table of Contents pg. 13 Connecting to a Television with a VCR Attached.....27 Connecting to a Television with Audio In and Video In Jacks.....28 Connecting to a Television without Audio In and Video In Jacks.....29 Simple Playback.....30 Using Still.....30 Using Forward and Reverse Search.....30 Using the Power Zoom.....32 Using the Digital Zoom.....32 Using the INST.ZOOM (Instant Zoom) Button.....32 Using Auto Focus.....33 Using Manual Focus.....34 Using the Electronic Image Stabilizer.....34 Using Fade..
Getting Started pg. 15 Getting Started - 17 - pg. 15 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 pg. 15 - 18 - 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: l 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. l It is recommended to refresh a battery before recharging it when it has not been used for long time; otherwise its operation time becomes short.
Getting Started pg. 15 - 19 - 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 pg. 15 - 20 - Viewfinder Bright, Color and Tint Control This small "BRIGHT", "COLOR" and "TINT" controls are set at the factory and should require no adjustment. If they ever require adjustment, use a plastic screwdriver. Make the adjustments with caution to prevent damaging the miniature controls. 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.
Getting Started pg. 15 - 21 - 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 pg. 15 - 22 - 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. This flashing symbol indicates a battery nearly out of power.
Getting Started pg. 15 - 23 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. If you need one purchase it at your Hitachi distributor.
Getting Started pg. 15 - 24 - Car Battery Cord Hookup 1. Plug the car battery cord into the car's cigarette lighter socket. 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 toward the right of the machine. 4. Connect the external power adapter plug to the DC OUTPUT jack of the car battery cord.
Getting Started pg. 15 - 25 - Slide the EJECT switch in the direction of the arrow. The cassette door opens automatically. Remove the cassette. Protecting Recorded Material Protect 8mm cassettes from accidental erasure by sliding the tab on the side of the cassette towards the opposite side until the tab is completely visible. Slide the tab in the opposite direction, until the tab disappears, to record on the cassette again.
Getting Started pg. 15 - 26 - Replacing the DC Camera Light Bulb 1. Turn the front of the case counter-clockwise and remove it. 2. Remove the bulb by pulling it out through the opened case. 3. Install the new bulb by aligning the notch in the rim of the bulb's base with the " " mark outside the socket. Avoid touching the bulb directly with your fingers. It may shorten the life of the bulb. 4.
Getting Started pg. 15 - 27 - 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. The memory feature returns you to the beginning of the most recent recording. 1.
Getting Started pg. 15 - 28 - 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 pg. 15 - 29 - Using the Linear Time Counter The linear time counter displays the tape run in hours, minutes, and seconds helping you to keep track of how long you've been filming or time you have left to film before running out of tape. Turn the camera/recorder on to display the linear time counter. The linear time counter keeps track from when you load a cassette into the camera/recorder and clears to 0:00:00 when the cassette is ejected.
Getting Started pg. 15 - 30 - 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 into 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.
Getting Started - Identifying Controls pg. 30 - 31 - Getting Started - Identifying Controls pg. 30 Left side / Front Controls Illustration 1. Lens F1.8 (5~60mm) 12:1 power zoom lens with auto focus and auto iris functions. 2. Record Indicator This indicator lights when the camera/recorder is recording. 3. Infrared Receiver The area where infrared signals from the wireless remote are received. Aim the remote control to this area for best results. 4. INST.
Getting Started - Identifying Controls pg. 30 - 32 - 13. FADE Button The FADE button features three modes; white fade, wipe fade, and zoom fade ("Using Fade," p. 35) 14. FOCUS Control (AUTO/MAN) Buttons Press these buttons simultaneously to select manual or automatic focus. For manual focusing ("Using Manual Focus" p 34), press the or buttons to bring the subject into focus. When using manual focus, FOCUS appears in the viewfinder. Right side / Rear Illustration 15.
Getting Started - Identifying Controls pg. 30 - 33 - 25. AV IN/OUT Jack (Behind the jack cover) Use this jack to connect the camera/recorder to a VCR or television ("Playing Back Your Recordings," p. 27, "Dubbing from the Camera/Recorder to a VCR," p. 39 and "Recording Television Programs", p. 44). 26. DATE Button Use this button to record the date and time on your tape. Any time that the date and time display is in the viewfinder they are recorded on your tape. 27.
Basic Techniques pg. 33 Basic Techniques - 34 - pg. 33 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 pg. 33 - 35 - Playing Back Your Recording Depending on the setup of your video equipment, you connect the camera/recorder in one of the 3 methods explained below. Connecting to a Television with a VCR Attached 1. Connect the provided AV stereo output cord to the AUDIO IN and VIDEO IN jacks of your VCR. Connect either the right of left audio plug into your VCR if it has only one AUDIO in jack.
Basic Techniques pg. 33 - 36 5. Hold down the red button on the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch while sliding the switch to VIDEO. 6. Press the PLAY button to begin playback. 7. Press the STOP button when finished. Connecting to a Television without Audio In and Video In Jacks 1. Disconnect the VHF antenna leads from the back of the television. Leave the UHF antenna leads connected. 2. Connect the VHF antenna lead to ANT IN of the RF output adapter.
Basic Techniques pg. 33 - 37 - 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. l 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. l Press REW/REVIEW button during playback to play the tape backwards at approximately 7 times normal speed. Press PLAY button to return to normal playback.
Advanced Techniques pg. 37 Advanced Techniques - 38 - pg. 37 The Hitachi VM-E56A/E58A 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 pg.
Advanced Techniques pg. 37 Advanced Techniques - 40 - pg. 37 Using the Digital Zoom The digital zoom increases the magnification of the power zoom by 2 times. You must place the subject you wish to magnify at the center of the viewfinder. Note: When the digital zoom is used, the more the image is magnified, the rougher the picture becomes. Also even a slight shaking of the camera/recorder is conspicuous. Press and hold the power zoom T control until you find the picture you want.
Advanced Techniques pg. 37 - 41 - Using Auto Focus The camera/recorder focuses the subject in the center of the viewfinder automatically unless the manual focus is engaged. If FOCUS appears in the viewfinder, manual focus is engaged. Press the FOCUS control (AUTO/MAN) buttons simultaneously to return to auto focus.
Advanced Techniques pg. 37 - 42 - Dark objects Note: With the T zoom control you can use the auto focus with subjects that are 3.6 feet away from the lens and further away to infinity. With the W zoom control you can use the auto focus with subjects 1.2 inches away from the lens and further away to infinity. Using Manual Focus 1. Press the FOCUS control (AUTO/MAN) buttons simultaneously. FOCUS displays in the viewfinder. You can adjust the focus manually. 2.
Advanced Techniques pg. 37 - 43 - l While you record from inside a moving vehicle. 1. Press the EIS button. The EIS icon appears in the viewfinder. 2. Press the Start/Stop button to start recording. When EIS is engaged the viewfinder image shakes with a slight delay. Note: EIS may not function you use a wide or teleconverter lens.
Advanced Techniques pg. 37 Note: When fading out be sure to wait until the PAUSE indicator ( - 44 ) is visible in the viewfinder before attempting to put the camera/recorder into the record mode again. Using Instant Review Use this feature to view the last few seconds of the tape you shot. 1. Set the camera/recorder to record/pause mode and tap the REW/REVIEW button. The last few seconds of tape play back in reverse and then in normal playback mode. 2.
Advanced Techniques pg. 37 - 45 This function allows you to shoot subjects as close as 1.2 inches. Press and hold the power zoom control W. The camera focuses on the subject automatically. Check your lighting as it tends to be insufficient when filming close up. Creating and Recording Titles Create titles easily and personalize your recordings while keeping a permanent visual record of what is contained on a tape. The camera/recorder can store 2 different titles in its memory.
Advanced Techniques pg. 37 - 46 - 8. When you complete your title, press PLAY to create a second title as required, or press the TITLE ON/OFF button on the remote control to store the title in memory and remove the title graphics from the viewfinder. Note: As long as the correct current time can be displayed, the title is held in memory. Correcting Errors 1. Press the TITLE ON/OFF button on the remote control. 2. Select the title with the PLAY button. 3.
Advanced Techniques pg. 37 - 47 6. Press the TITLE ON/OFF button on the remote control at the point on the tape where you wish to record the title. 7. Press the TITLE ON/OFF button on the remote control again to stop recording the title. Note: Recording the title during tape transfer will erase a portion of your recorded material. Using the Wireless Remote Control Use the wireless remote control to operate the camera/recorder from a distance. The PLAY, F.
Advanced Techniques pg. 37 - 48 Note: If the VCR is connected to a television and the VCR/TV selector is set to VCR, you can monitor the tape being dubbed. Using Synchro Edit Use synchro edit to record only segments of a previously recorded tape when dubbing from the camera/recorder to a VCR. This requires an optional synchro edit cord. The Hitachi VME56A/E58A uses a flying erase head to eliminate glitches or rainbow noise that sometimes occurs between edits.
Advanced Techniques pg. 37 - 49 - Controlling Your TV with the Camera/Recorder's Remote Control The remote control is designed to be compatible with many televisions, but will not work with every one made. If your TV does not respond the way it should when you program it as explained below, this remote may be incapable of operating it. Once you have programmed the remote, you won't have to do it again until you change the batteries.
Advanced Techniques pg. 37 RCA DISPLAY Panasonic TITLE ON/OFF Mitsubishi ZOOM.(T) JVC COUNTER RESET Sharp S.EDIT - 50 - Controlling the TV Once programmed, the camera/recorder's remote control is ready to control the TV. l Press the button of the TV function that you want. 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.
Advanced Techniques pg. 37 - 51 3. Hold down the red button on the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch while sliding the switch to VIDEO. 4. Insert a previously recorded tape in the camera/recorder. 5. Use the wireless remote control and press the PLAY button. Use the PLAY, F.FWD, and REW buttons to find the place where you want to stop dubbing. Press the PAUSE (START/STOP) button. 6. Display the linear timer counter with memory ("Using Memory," p 19).
Advanced Techniques pg. 37 - 52 - Note: If the tape is played back while the AV input cord is left connected to the camera/recorder, noise may appear in the picture. In this event, press the STOP button to stop the camera/recorder, unplug the AV input cord and play back the tape again. Note: To monitor the picture being recorded, connect the AV stereo output cord (provided) to the VIDEO IN jack of the television as shown above.
General Maintenance pg. 51 - 53 - General Maintenance pg. 51 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 pg. 51 - 54 - 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. INSERTING OR REMOVING THE CASSETTE SYMPTOM Cassette holder cannot be opened when you push EJECT switch. Cassette cannot be inserted into cassette compartment.
General Maintenance pg. 51 - 55 Picture bends at the top of the TV screen. Color of your TV screen is too bright, too faint or change. BATTERY CONDITION SYMPTOM The ( ) indication in the electronic viewfinder flashes. NO OPERATION IS ACCEPTED SYMPTOM Power is not turned on and no button operations are accepted. TAPE DISPLAY SYMPTOM TAPE appears in the viewfinder. TV receiver is older type. It needs to be modified to work properly with camera/recorder. Tape is damaged. Try another cassette.
Specifications pg. 54 Specifications General Specifications Power requirements Power consumption Dimensions Weight Operating temperature Storage temperature - 56 - pg. 54 6V DC VM-E56A: 5.5W (when recording) VM-E58A: 5.6W (when recording) 3-11/16" W x 4-8/16" H x 8-7/16" D (94mm x 114mm x 214mm) VM-E56A: 1.65 lbs (750g) without battery pack, lens hood, lens cap or cassette VM-E58A: 1.
Specifications pg. 54 - 57 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. 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.
Accessories Add Excitement pg. 56 - 58 - Accessories Add Excitement pg. 56 We know that once you discover how much your Hitachi VM-E56A/E58A 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) - 59 - 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 Back) - 60 - 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 (Front) CANADA ONLY - 61 HITACHI 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 - 62 cables, batteries, etc. E - THIS PROTECTION PLAN DOES NOT COVER: (1) Damage caused by incorrect use or negligence, unauthorized alteration, improper 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....
HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (Front) CANADA ONLY - 63 Video Tape Recorder, Tuner, Timer, 1 year parts and labour. Camera, camcorder, AC Adaptor, Charger, 1 year parts and labour. All goods returned to either Hitachi or a Hitachi Authorized Service Center must be shipped on a "PREPAID BASIS". To avoid any damage to the returned goods, please ensure that proper packaging procedures are followed. A short written description of the problem along with proof of warranty should accompany the product returned for repair.
HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (Front) CANADA ONLY - 64 - 64
