camcorder user's guide Pro852/Pro854 m p
Important Safety Information Be sure to read all the safety information or AC I camcorder WARNING: before you begin to use this product. adapter to raintheorrisk moisture.
We want to make sure you enjoy your new camcorder.If you have any questions, call: Camcorder Customer Accessories Exchange Warranty ...... 800-283-6503 Service ..................................... ......................................... (Pages 54-55) 800-336-1900 800-338-0376 (Page 53) (Pages 38-43) iii Safety Information ................................ i Product Registration ............................. i First-Time Operation • Assistance ............................................
This sectiondescribesonly the basic stepsnecessaryto setup your camcorder to record. Refer to the other sectionsfor detailed operation and feature options. Assistance The toll-free numbers are available to help you with any problem Camcorder Exchange Warranty Customer Service ................ Accessories .................... 1. Unpack the camcorder • Save the packing camcorder. materials ..... you may encounter. 800-283-6503 800-336-1900 800-338-0376 and accessories.
. Attach lens cap cord and adjust handstrap. o Attach shoulder strap. A. Unfasten one end of the shoulder strap from the buckle. you leave the buckle Make sure on the strap. A. Press in on the tabs on both sides of the lens cap to remove it. B° Thread one end of the shoulder strap through one of the shoulder strap rings B. Attach the lens cap cord to the lens cap. Shoulder Strap Rings C. Pull up the flap of the handstrap and open the strap. C.
4. Supply power to the camcorder. Attach the AC Adapter Since the battery must be charged before it can be used the first time, attach the adapter to the camcorder. To AC 100240V, 50/60 Hz DC IN Jack PUSH button - press here to open and close the battery compartment. Adapter A. Press on the PUSH release Bo the battery button to compartment door. fully. Open the compartment Insert the small plug on the AC C. Close the battery compartment.
PLA Y(VCR)/CAM Indicators and Button REW Button, PLAY Button, STOP Butt{ EJECT Butt_ POWER Switch Eyepiece Focus Control Thumb Trigger 5. Turn on the camcorder. Slide the POWER turn the camcorder Notes: switch on. The camcorder CAM (camera) mode. the PLA Y(VCR)/CAM CAM indicator beside PLA Y(VCR )/CAM . upward to on in the If it does not, press button until the red the lights in the camcorder mode CAM (camera) mode and the green indicator lights in the PLAY(VCR) mode. 6. Insert a cassette.
11. Review the camcorder's controls. Zoom Control "W" - Wide Angle "T" - Telephoto Lens Eyepiece Focus Control A (Audio), V (Video), and RF Out Jacks Viewfinder DC IN 9/6.5V Jack or DC IN 9V Jack (Located Inside Battery Compartment) Remote 'y Compartment Microphone Shoulder Remote Holder (Located in Battery Compartment) Strap Holde Cassette Model Pro854 Only: B (Bright) and C (Color) Controls Model Pr0852 Only: B (Bright) and F (Focus) Controls See "Trouble Checks"for details.
Using the AC Adapter to Power Your Camcorder The adapter lets you power your camcorder It operates on 100-240 world to power volts, 50/60 directly from standard household Hz. so it can be used virtually anywhere power. in the the camcorder. Caution: Do not use this adapter for any purpose other than supplying power to the camcorder. To AC 100240V, 50/60 Hz DC IN Jack Adapter Using Attach the AC Adapter 1. Press the PUSH button to open the battery compartment.
Using the Rechargeable Battery to Power Your Camcorder The battery must be charged as described on the next page before it can be used the first time. Initial charging will take approximately 12 hours for the battery. When fully charged, the battery should supply about 60 minutes of operating time (depending how much you use zoom and pause and load and unload cassettes). on Battery Safety Precautions Do not short the battery's terminals. Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the battery.
Using the Rechargeable The battery Battery to Power Your Camcorder must be installed as described on the previous page before it can be charged. [C._RGE P'A¥ CAM Battery Installed To AC 100240V, 50/60 Hz DC IN Jack Adapter Charge the Battery 1. Install the battery previous page. as described on the 4. Slide the POWER the CHARGE into an operating switch position. down into The CHARGE indicator will light and the battery begin charging. 5.
Battery Level Indicator The battery level indicator appears in the viewfinder when approximately half the battery power is left. This indicator shows you the amount of power in the • When there is approximately five minutes of battery power left in the battery, _ appears in the viewfinder. The camcorder will turn off automatically battery. after a few minutes. Slide the POWER switch upward to turn off the camcorder before replacing the battery.
Using Optional You can power Alkaline "AA" Batteries the camcorder with six alkaline dry-cell "AA" batteries. Install the Alkaline Batteries 1. Press the PUSH battery button compartment. the compartment Notes: to open the Carefully The camcorder properly open below 50°F (10o c). fully. The camcorder 2.
Using the Optional AC Adapter/Charger The optional CPS801C camcorder and charge AC adapter/charger your rechargeable shown ol7 page 39 will power nickel cadmium the battery. To AC Wall Outlet 100-240 Volts, 50/60 Hz. Caution: When a battery is attached to the adapter/ charger, do not turn them Battery Pack -- REFRESH Button POWER Indicator Charging and Refreshing upside down. The battery may fall off and be damaged or cause injury.
Power the Camcorder The optional CPS801C AC adapter/charger and optional DCC 100 DC cable let you power your camcorder directly from standard household power. It operates on 100-240 volts, 50/60 Hz, so it can be used virtually world to power the camcorder or recharge your battery plug adapter in some countries. Consult your dealer. pack.
Powering Lithium Cell Installation The remote's lithium cell is packed separately. Install it as follows: Pencil Here Insert Lithium Cell _ I. Turn remote over, insert a pencil or paper clip in the small hole, and slide cell holder in the direction of the arrow to remove it. Holder Notes: in remote Never place anything heavy control cell from remote for a month or more. possible occurs, damage until it on top of or lay it upside-down. Replace cell when camcorder to remote.
Remote Sensor The remote operates the camcorder by infrared light, so it is protected from electrical and sound interference. However, the remote must be aimed directly at the camcorder's remote sensor. There cannot be any obstructions between them. Remote Control Sensor Note: The camcorder may not respond to the remote if its sensor is exposed to direct sunlight or strong artificial light.
A brief description perform battery of the remote the same functions must be installed button's functions as the corresponding as shown on page DISPLAY is given here. controls Many of the buttons on the camcorder. The 14. REC O- STOP PLAY REW F FWD -Q®-® ®- _ ZOOM (T and I40 Buttons During record or record pause: • Press T to move the lens in the telephoto (close-up) direction. • Press W to move the lens in the wide-angle DISPLAY 16 direction.
® REW (Rewind) Camcorder mode: @ REC Button When is in CAM (camera) mode, ® search the tape in reverse. REW to return to record- press REC to start PLA Y Button Press PLAY when the camcorder in PLAY(VCR) pause. ® is stopped, press REW to rewind the tape. Press STOP to stop rewinding the tape. mode to begin F FWD (Fast Camcorder mode: Forward) press and hold REW to visually search in reverse. Release REW to return to normal playback.
Recording Video Cassettes We recommend that our cassettes or damaged tapes can contaminate under warranty and is considered Inserting or Removing be used with your camcorder. Use of poor quality the video heads. Head cleaning is not covered normal maintenance. Cassettes ......... Caution: Insert the cassette so the safety tab is at the top and the tape window is facing out. The cassette should slide easily in the compartment. Do not force the cassette. Button Here to Close 1.
Making a Recording The steps below tell you how to make a recording and suggest using some of the recording features. Each feature is described in detail on the following pages. -- Eyepiece Focus Control Zoom Control (Camera) Indicator REW Butt_ Switch Thumb Trigger EJECT Button To Make a Recording: 1. Attach a power supply. Attach the adapter, charged install optional batteries. "AA" battery, or alkaline 2. Remove the lens cap and attach the handstrap. 3.
Viewfinder Displays REC AE:100 T M 0:00 I FOCUSLOCK _W BEEP ON r c:l PM 8:30:00 11.18.1996 (_ Status causes Displays times. Details • The REC indicator the camcorder appears when is recording. • The PA USE indicator during record appears • The REW indicator rewind. during appears during indicator during blank search Zoom when appears operation. The zoom indicator appears here when you use the zoom control. Warnings on page 25.
Elapsed Tape Time-Counter • The time counter appears during recording and playback. • An "M" appears in front of the time counter when memory-stop is on. Time Remaining This indicator shows Indicator the approximate amount of tape remaining in the cassette. • Details on page 23. ° Details are on page 30.
Viewfinder The camcorder's the camcorder Adjust viewfinder is a miniature monitor that displays the picture seen by when recording. Viewfinder for Convenient Viewing For convenient viewing, you can rotate the viewfinder up and down. Viewfinder Cautions Do not force the viewfinder Eyepiece to rotate completely around. This damages the viewfinder and/or the camcorder. Focus Place the viewfinder in the down position when carrying with a shoulder strap.
DISPLAY Button 'c5 DISPLAY Button Microphone Tape Time Remaining Flying Erase Head A separate erase head is mounted The camcorder on Display will automatically the spinning headwheel (hence the term "flying"). This allows you to make clean edits without the "glitches" or "rainbow calculate the tape time remaining cassette in the camcorder during noise" appear in the viewfinder that may occur at the beginning or recording or playback.
PLA Y/CAM Button and Indicators -REC CO_VER o Y©T Button BLANK ,F FWD REW-- Button Button Button Thumb Trigger Quick Review Feature Blank Search Press and quickly release REW when the camcorder is in record pause to review With the press of a button, the camcorder advances through the tape looking for a blank section. This feature saves time the last few seconds of a recording. The PLAY(VCR)/CAM button must be in the and tape by locating CAM position.
Zooming You can zoom in and out for close ups or wide-angle shots just: by sliding the zoom control on the camcorder or pressing the button on the remote. The camcorder can automatically focus when you zoom at most distances. ZOOM T and W Butt°nx Control ! COIINTER T W Viewfinder Display Using the Zoom Control 1. To zoom in or out, slide the zoom control on the camcorder or press the ZOOM T or W button on the remote.
Focusing Under normal conditions, the camcorder can adjust located in the center area of the viewfinder. to use the focus lock feature. Under focus automatically certain PLA Y(VCR)/CAM Indicators FOCUS Using Focus The focus lock feature is useful when conditions, you may want Button LOCK Conditions Lock on the object Button Requiring Focus • When recording dirty window. a subject the camcorder or your main subject is not located in the center of the viewfinder.
Install the Clock Lithium Cell The clock cell indicator 88:88 will flash for a few seconds turn on the camcorder if the cell has not been installed in the viewfinder or needs when you to be replaced. Clock Cell Holder Install Cell Remove 1. Make sure camcorder remove any power the camcorder. is turned off, and supply attached to Cell To remove cell, slide the cell out of the cell holder. 2. Pull out the clock cell holder. 3.
Set the Date and Time The date and time must be set before The clock cell must be installed it can be displayed as shown and recorded on page 27 before on your tapes. the date can be set and recorded. PLA Y(VCR)/CAM Button and Indicators AM or PM POWER ,_ Hours Minutes Switch -- Seconds 0:00:00 AM 1 .I .1996-- Year I Day Month L K Button DA TE/TIME Button Attach a power supply to the camcorder. Slide the POWER . . switch upward to turn on the camcorder.
Recording Date or Date and Time on Your Tape The date or date and time can be recorded on your tape. Whenever one of the displays appears in the viewfinder, it will be recorded. The camcorder also has an AUTO DATE feature. The clock cell must be installed and the clock set. DA TE/TIME=_ AUTO DATE 11.18.1996 Auto Date DateOMy AM 12:00:00 11.18.1996 Dateand No Display Select the Display to Record . ................. :' :_: :: : Time ........
Time Counter The time-counter display shows the actual time elapsed when recording or playing back a segment of tape. During playback, the memory-stop feature helps locate a certain point on the tape. When memory stop is on, the tape will stop automatically during rewind or fast forward when the time counter reaches M 0:00:00.
Recording Tips In case of fire or theft, make a video recording of your home and contents Be aware of video and audio to store in a safe place. from side-to-side A steady, gradual blurring appliances, rapidly and "jitter". to make sure the camcorder is level while recording your scenes will appear "tilted". or Do not bump or tap the camcorder's microphone while recording this sound will be recorded. Include close-ups taping family functions.
Viewfinder Playback and Features Viewfinder playback is the simplest way to watch tapes using the camcorder. VCR(PLA Y)/CAM Button and Indicators DISPLAY BLANK O® REW_.___. Button PLA Y/ Button STOP / Button EJECT Button . . -.. :.,.-:_-,=.-:d . ,._ _.. : -(.t %< Viewfinder Playback 1. Slide the POWER switch turn on the camcorder. 2. Press the VCR(PLA put the camcorder upward to D/CAM button in the playback mode. The green VCR(PLAY) indicator will light. 3.
DISPLAY REC OO COUNTER STOP Button -- PLAY --Button REW Button -- - F FWD Button PAUSE-Button Remote Playback Features Visual Searching Tape • To visually search forward on the tape during playback or play pause, press and hold F FWD. Release the button to 1. Slide the POWER switch turn on the camcorder. return to normal playback. • To visually search in reverse on the tape during playback or play pause, press and hold REW. Release the button to return to normal playback. Positioning 2.
Playback on TV (or VCR) with AUDIO/VIDEO To connect your camcorder to a TV monitor (or VCR) IN Jacks with AUDIO/VIDEO IN jacks, you will need the supplied audio/video cable. If your TV is already connected VCR, you can attach the camcorder to the VCR and watch what the camcorder recording or playing to a is on the TV. Back of Yellow Video Plug J 4' _ . Audio/v iaeo White Auai _ u ,, / $ Plug -_-_( - / / :" ." :" ' ,° / : i Audio and Video Jacks : .. Located Behind A/V Cover / :.
Playback Operation and How to Copy Tapes on the VCR 1. A. Camcorder connected directly to TV: Turn on the TV and tune it to 4. Press PLAY • During playback, use the playback features on page 33. the video input channel. B. Camcorder connected to VCR that . is already connected to TV: Turn on VCR and place it in the "line" or "camera mode".
Playback on a TV Without Audio/Video Inputs To connect your camcorder to a TV without audio/video inputs, you will need an optional CRF800 output adapter and an optional coaxial RF cable, VH90 shown on pages 38-39. If your TV has AUDIO and VIDEO connected to a VCR), refer to pages 34-35. such as VH82 or 1N jacks (or is Back of TV Optional ---) RF Coaxial Cable (such as VH82 or VHg0) Optional---> Transformer %, (Such as VH54) CHANNEL _'_,! " _('_ 11.311 "°%. }'" _ I | "...
Playback ° Operation Set the CHANNEL 4CH/3CH switch 5. Press PLA Y(VCR)/CAM button to place the camcorder in the PLAY(VCR) mode. The green PLAY(VCR) indicator will light. on the RF output adapter to CHANNEL 4CH or 3CH. . , Turn on the TV, and tune it to the same channel you selected with the RF output adapter's CHANNEL switch. 6. Press PLAY. • During playback, features described Attach a power supply and turn on the camcorder. 4. Insert 2.
We invite you to take a look at somegreat ideas for sparking creativity and adding to the fun of using your compact VHS camcorder. The following pageshave a selection of accessoriesto help make your memorablemoments look and soundeven better. These accessoriesare designedto make the processof recording and watching your videos more enjoyable: To order accessories, If a dealer ordering is not nearby, contact your all accessories local Dealer.
CPS801C AC Adapter/Charger CRF800 RF Output This adapter Adapter is used with a coaxial RF cable to connect your camcorder to a standard TV (one without audio/video). This adapter/charger DCC100 and the optional DC cable enable you to operate VH54 Cable Transformer your camcorder directly from standard household power. It operates on 100-240 volts, 50/60H. It will also charge the 234330 and 234329 battery. Caution: Do not use any other adapter/chargers with this camcorder.
Using the Optional AC088 Tripod Mounting the camcorder on a tripod, and produce excellent video results. This tripod's mount fluid-effect such as AC088, head provides makes it easy to attach or remove leg design smooth camera the camcorder. folds down to 26" when not in use. Rubber will keep the camcorder steady pan and tilt. The quick-release The grooved, tubular 3-section feet allow for. sure footing.
Order Form for Camcorder Models Pro852/854 Description Part No. Price Super Lightweight Tripod Soft Camcorder Case AC088 $ 39.95 AC201A $ 39.95 Y-Adapter AH25 $ DC Cable DCC 100 $ 12.95 RF Output Adapter 75-300 Cable Transformer CRF800 $ 59.95 VH54 $ 1.95 Coaxial RF Cable (6 Feet) VH82 $ 4.95 Coaxial RF Cable (12 Feet) VH90 $ 5.95 Shoulder Strap Audio/Video Cable 213004 $ 12.95 AC Adapter/Charger CPS801C _$118.75 AC Adapter Remote Control 221424 $104.
Charge your order on your VISA,MasterCard, or Discover Card by filling in below USE IMPORTANT: I lll CREDIT IMPORTANT: II--V]-7I---I--_ Copy complete account number I[-T-T-_ [-VT_ Copy Number Copy complete account Expirationdate:[--_r--"_ from your MasterCard I I I I I above your name on MasterCard IMPORTANT: IIII CARD Copy complete account number from your VISA card IIII IIII YOUR number _ Expiration from your Discover date: _ Card II I I I II I I I II--T-T--_ Expiration dat
To order accessories, contact your local Dealer. If a dealer is not nearby, you can also follow telephone or direct-by-mail. the directions below to order by United States and Canada Orders To place your order by phone, have your Visa, MasterCard, or Discover card ready and call the toll-free number listed below between 8AM and 8PM (EST) Monday through Friday or between 9AM and 5PM (EST) Saturday. Use this number only to place an order for accessory this order form.
Cleaning the Camcorder To clean the camcorder's remove any power exterior, source connected the camcorder and gently clean soft cloth. to wipe it with a alcohol or benzine, may damage the camcorder. Cleaning the Camcorder's Lens :v: To clean the camcorder's lens, blow it with a blower gently wipe the lens with cleaning cleaning solution designed may scratch the lens. :=,'.::_::: :,, brush, tissue and commercially for use on camera lens.
Proper Care and Storage • Keep dust and grit from entering the camcorder's cassette door. Dust and grit are abrasive and will cause excessive wear to both the camcorder's recording/playback heads and cassettes. • Always replace the lens cap when the camcorder is not in use. • Before handling your camcorder, make sure your hands and face are free from any chemical products such as suntan lotion, as it may damage the finish. • The camcorder can be damaged by improper storage or handling.
Troubles sometimes are caused by simple "faults" that you can easily correct without the help of a service technician by first checking a few basic remedies. Before you call or take your camcorder to an Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter, look below for the type of trouble you are experiencing. Then perform the simple checks and adjustments listed for that trouble. If service should be necessary, the warranty information covers and explains how to get service.
Camcorder respond control does not to remote • Aim remote • Remote's lithium See page 14. • Remote • Remote sunlight Tape stops during rewind or fast forward at camcorder's remote cell battery control sensor. may be installed incorrectly. control's lithium cell battery may need replacing. control sensor on camcorder exposed to direct or strong artificial Time-counter memory light. may be on.
Date and/or time were recordedon tape Date and/or time are incorrect Displays will be recordedon tape wheneverthey appearin the viewfinder. Removethem from viewfinder when recording. See page 29. • When AUTO be recorded DATE is selected, display when you begin recording cassette. See page 29. • Clock lithium cell battery Rechargeable battery runs down soonerthan expected or change may need replacing. • Date or time may need to be set.
Thomson provides a toll-free telephone You canreachThomsonatthe followingnumber: number to help you with any problems you may encounter with your camcorder. 800-283-6503 Many can be diagnosed over the phone, and if necessary, a replacement unit can (Toll free inside U.S.A.) be shipped camcorder Our toll-free Camcorder number operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., CST Monday - Friday for U.S. customers only of purchase to you. Please have your model/serial number and date ready when you call.
What your warranty covers: • Any defect in materials or workmanship. 2. The exchange of its arrival. For how long after your purchase: • 90 days for labor charges. • One year for parts. (The warranty period for rental units begins with the first rental or 45 days from date of shipment to the rental firm, whichever comes first.) 3.
insure your shipment in case of damage or loss. Include with the shipment: • Evidence of purchase date, such as a bill of sale, to verify your unit's warranty eligibility. • A brief note describing your camcorder's problem. • Your name, address and phone number. Return transportation, storage, handling and insurance costs are your sole responsibility. We accept no liability in case of damage or loss. To receive a replacement unit after we have received your unit: 1.
Camcorder Television system: NTSC, EIA Video recording system: Rotating 2-head, Audio recording system: Rotating head helical-scan system FM system Cassette type: Tape speed: Maximum recording time: Fast forward/Rewind time: Image Sensor: Viewfinder: 8 mm video cassette tape SP mode - Approx. 14.345 120 minutes (P6-120 Approximately Pro852:0.6 White type (270,000 inch electronic 16x zoom F1.4-2.
This equipment hasbeen testedand found to comply with the limits for a ClassB digital device and RF lighting device, pursuant to Part 15 and Part 18of the FCC Rules. These limits are designedto provide reasonableprotection againstharmful interferencein a residential installation. This equipment generates,uses,andcan radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and usedin accordancewith the instructions, may causeharmful interference to radio communications.
A/V (Audio/Video) Jacks ................... Accessories, Included ........ 6,34,36 2,41-43 Accessories, Optional .......... 41-43 Accessory, Order Form ........ 41-43 Adapter, Using ................. 4,7 Adapter/Charger, Optional ... 12,13,39 Adjusting Handstrap .............. 3 Adjusting the Viewfinder ......... 22 AE (Auto Exposure) Indicators .............. 20,21,25 AE (Automatic Exposure) Control . .25 Assistance .......... 2,49,Back Cover Attaching Lens Cap and Cord ....... 3 AUTO DATE Indicator ...
Date andTime, Setting ........... DA TE/TIME DC IN Jack 28 Button .......... ................. 6,28,29 4,6,7,9 Handstrap Handstrap, Design Specifications ............ 52 Dew Indicator ( [-/]) .............. 20 DISPLAY Button ....... 6,16,23,35,37 Displays, Viewfinder .......... Button ............ External MIC (Microphone) Jack (Model Pro848 Only) Eyepiece, Focus Control Removing .............. 3 Important Safety Information .............. Inside Front Cover Included Accessories .........
Operation, First-Time Optional Accessories ............ .......... Optional Plug Adapter Order Form, Accessory 2-6 38-43 .......... ........ 7,13 41-43 PA USE Button ............. PA USE Indicator ............ 16,17,33 5,19,20 Pause, Stop-Action .............. Picture Search .................. 33 33 PLAY Button .5,6,16,17,30,32,33,35,37 PLA Y/CAM Button and Indicators ......... Features ............. Playback on a TV With A UDIO/ VIDEO IN Jacks ...........
Sensor, Remote ................. Set the Time and Date ............ 15 27 Shoulder Shoulder 2,3 3,6 Strap ................. Strap Holders ........... Shutter Speed Control, Solving Problems Automatic...25 ............. 46-48 SP Speed ...................... Specifications ................... 18 52 Status Displays .................. STOP Button .... 5,6,16,30,32,33,35,37 STOP Indicator ................. 20 Stop-Action Pause ............... Storage and Care ................
Need Assistance.9 We want to help! U.S. Consumers: Camcorder Exchange Warranty Customer Service ................. Accessories ..................... ...... 800-283-6503 800-336-1900 800-338-0376 Canadian Consumers: English ......................... 800-522-0338 French ......................... 800- 522-0445 If your camcorder contact needs service, your dealer from the yellow any products add delays _ pages. Please to the Indianapolis in this manual or on the carton.
