ProV950HB USER'S GUIDE CAMCORDER
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION Be sure to read all safety information before you begin to use this product. WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS CAMCORDER OR AC ADAPTER/ CHARGER TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USERSERVICEABLE PARTS ARE INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL. This symbol warns the user of uninsulated voltage within the unit that can cause dangerous electric shocks.
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. However, safety is your responsibility too. This sheet lists important information that will help to assure your enjoyment and proper use of the video product and accessory equipment. Please read it carefully before operating and using your video product.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS 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.
Table of Contents Important Information Assistance We want to make sure you enjoy your new camcorder. If you have any questions, call: Camcorder Exchange Warranty ................................... 800-283-6503 (pages 70–71) Customer Service ................................................................. 800-336-1900 (page 69) Accessories .................................................................. 800-338-0376 (pages 58-61) Important Safety Information .................................
Table of Contents Playback ............................................................ 34 Volume Control ................................................... 34 Fast Forward and Rewind .................................. 34 Using the Stand ................................................. 35 Video Search ...................................................... 35 Still ...................................................................... 35 Slow ...............................................................
This section describes only the basic steps necessary to set up your camcorder to record. Refer to the other sections for detailed operation and feature options. Important Information Supplied Accessories Assistance These toll-free numbers are available to help you with any problems you may encounter. Camcorder Exchange Warranty ........................ 800-283-6503 Customer Service .............................................. 800-336-1900 Accessories ...................................................
Camcorder Controls For details on the use of each control, refer to the page number indicated in the brackets. Front View Stereo Microphone Zoom Lens Cassette Compartment Door Release [p. 12] A/V Pack Terminal Cover [p. 54] Retractable Stand [p. 35] When the cassette compartment door is opened Cassette Holder [p. 12] Shoulder Strap Loop [p. 22] Lens Protector Cassette Compartment Door [p. 12] Memory Backup Cell Compartment [p.
LCD Monitor MENU Button [p. 13] MODE DISPLAY Button [p.15] Important Information Power Zoom Wide/ Telephoto Control Buttons [p. 24] VOLume Control Buttons [p. 34] RECord START/STOP Button [p. 23] Rear View Shoulder Strap Loop [p. 22] Operation Button [p.13] Hand Strap [p. 22] SNAPshot Button [p. 48] EarPHONES Jack [p. 34] Photoreceptor [p. 39] PLUG IN POWER MICrophone Jack* Power Switch (CAMERA/VCR Select Switch) [p.
First-Time Operation Installing the Lithium Cell in the Camcorder 1 Slide the release and open the cassette compartment door. (The cassette holder opens automatically.) Pull out the cell holder using a pointed object such as the point of a pen, as shown. Cassette Compartment Door Release WARNING: Replace cell only with 3-volt micro lithium cells – such as CR2025 – available from most local drug stores and camera shops. Use of other cells present a risk of fire or explosion.
Attaching the AC Adapter/ Battery Charger Charging the Battery Pack 1 Be sure the DC output cable is disconnected from the AC adapter/battery charger. Insert the AC plug into a power outlet. The POWER indicator will light. To Power Outlet POWER Indicator Charging starts. (Indicator starts flashing.) Now charging. Charging completed. (The indicators will turn off approximately 90 to 120 minutes after charging is completed.
First-Time Operation Charging on the Docking Station If the camcorder is attached to the Docking Station, the battery pack in the camcorder can be charged automatically and continuously. The Docking Station keeps your camcorder ready to operate at any time. 1 2 Attach the AC adapter to the Docking Station and insert the AC plug into a power outlet (see page 7). Insert the battery pack in the camcorder (see page 9). • Make sure that the Power switch is set to OFF.
Inserting and Removing the Battery Pack 1 Slide the battery compartment door release on the bottom of the camcorder in the direction of the arrow (Q), to open the battery compartment door (W). 2 Insert the battery pack into the compartment (Q), as shown, and push it in completely (W). Caution: • Do not force the battery pack into the battery compartment if it does not go in easily. 3 Close the door. Be sure to push firmly until it clicks.
First-Time Operation Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet 1 5 Plug the power cord into a power outlet. The POWER indicator on the AC adapter will light. Slide the battery compartment door release on the bottom of the camcorder in the direction of the arrow (Q), to open the battery compartment door (W). 5 4 POWER indicator Removing the DC Cable from the Camcorder 2 Slide the cable notch cover in the direction of the arrow shown in the diagram.
Powering the Camcorder from Your Car Battery Note: • See the SDC100 operation manual for details. 1 Open the battery compartment door release on the bottom of the camcorder and insert the DC cable connecting plate in the camcorder. 2 Pass the DC cable through the battery compartment notch, then close the battery compartment door. 3 Insert the DC cable plug into the DC OUT jack on the car battery adapter. 4 Start the car engine and leave it idling.
First-Time Operation Inserting and Removing a Cassette Removing a Cassette Inserting a Cassette Cautions: • Be careful not to get your fingers caught in the cassette compartment. • Do not apply force to the cassette compartment except for pressing the “PUSH” mark to close it. • Do not tilt the camcorder or hold it upside down when you are inserting or removing a cassette. It may damage the tape. • Remove the cassette if you will not use the camcorder for a long time.
Controlling the Monitor Display You can use various functions and make mode settings while viewing the monitor display. Note: • The monitor illustrations in this operation manual are for the purpose of explaining the functions of the camcorder, and may differ from the actual monitor displays. First-Time Operation VCR Mode MODE DISPLAY Button MENU Button Camera Mode Operation Button Power Switch Lock Button • Hold down the Lock button when setting the Power switch to CAMERA or VCR.
First-Time Operation Using the On-Screen Menu 1 To display the Camera mode menu screen: Hold down the Lock button and slide the Power switch to CAMERA. 4 Lock Button Press C or B on the button to change from MENU-PAGE 1 to 4 . Ex. Camera Mode ITEM 1 2 3 4 OFF AUTO ON PAGE DATE/TIME S DISPLAY E T SELF REC PREV. PAGE DATE TIME DATE S AUTO OFF E T AUTO NO CORRECT ITEM To display the VCR mode menu screen: Hold down the Lock button and slide the Power switch to VCR. ITEM 1 PAGE 16 : 9 REMOTE S E CAM.
7 1) Camera Mode ITEM 1 2 3 4 OFF AUTO ON OFF DATE TIME DATE S AUTO OFF E AUTO NO CORRECT T DATE TIME DATE AUTO OFF AUTO NO CORRECT ITEM 1 ON Press C or B on the button to change from MENUPAGE 1 to 4 . ITEM PAGE 16 : 9 S REMOTE E CAM. DISP. T DGTL ZOOM PREV. PAGE AUTO 2 3 OFF ON ON OFF 4 ON OFF S OFF E ON T OFF ON ON OFF ON OFF OFF ON Returning to the Previous Screen ITEM ITEM PAGE EXTEND ZOOM S PHOTO SNAP E T PREV. PAGE 1 2 3 4 1.5 2.0 2.5X SNAP STILL S E T 1.5 2.0 2.
First-Time Operation Warning Indicators Display for the first 3 seconds Display after the first 3 seconds EJECT THE CASSETTE. EJECT THE CASSETTE. Description of Warning The video cassette is defective and should be removed. Dew has formed inside the camcorder. Wait for a few hours until the dew disappears (see page 63). About ten seconds after this warning appears, the camcorder and display turn off. The battery is almost depleted. BATTERY IS TOO LOW.
Setting the Area, Date and Time 5 ITEM PAGE AREA S DYLT SAVE E SETTING T Note: • Check that the memory backup lithium cell has been installed before setting the date and time. 1 S DYLT SAVE E SETTING T Set the Power switch to CAMERA. Press the MENU button until appears on the monitor (Camera mode). STOP WATCH 1 2 3 20 4 OFF JAN 12 ON S 1 1996 E 0 0AM T OFF ON S 1 1996 E 0 0AM T JAN 12 First-Time Operation Example: Setting the date to June 2, 1997 (JUN. 2.
First-Time Operation World Clock 4 This camcorder is equipped with a world clock feature. It allows you to easily adjust the time when you use the camcorder while traveling anywhere in the world outside your own time zone. Set the area, date and time if they are not already set. (See page 17.) MENU Button button to select ITEM PAGE AREA S DYLT SAVE 5 Operation Button Press B on the PAGE 4 . PressAon the “AREA”.
To Display Area, Date and Time on the Monitor Setting Daylight Saving Time 1 Refer to page 14 to display MENU-PAGE 1 . 2 Press Aon the operation button ( select “DATE/TIME”. Refer to page 14 to display MENU-PAGE 1 . Press B on the operation button ( ) to select MENU-PAGE 4 . Operation Button ) to ITEM Operation button ITEM 1 2 3 4 OFF AUTO ON PAGE DATE/TIME S DISPLAY 3 2 DATE TIME DATE S Press C or B on the “AUTO” or “ON”. PressAon the SAVE”.
First-Time Operation Area Table Area Number Area Name Countries or Areas* 1 LONDON England, Morocco, GMT (Greenwich mean time) 2 PARIS Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Portugal, CST (Continental Standard Time), Tunisia 3 CAIRO Egypt, Finland, Greece, Turkey 4 MOSCOW Ethiopia, Iraq, Kenya, Mauritius, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Russia (Moscow) 5 DUBAI United Arab Emirates 6 KARACHI Maldives, Pakistan 7 DACCA Bangladesh, India, Myanmar 8 BANGKOK
Picture/Backlight Adjustments 5 Operation Button Press C or B on the button to adjust the picture or backlight to your preference. ITEM Power Switch BACKLIGHT BRIGHT S COLOR E TINT T PREV. PAGE NORM. BRIGHT S E T First-Time Operation MENU Button ITEM Brighter COLOR Decrease Increase TINT R Red If the picture is difficult to see due to ambient lighting, etc., adjust the monitor picture. 1 Set the Power switch to CAMERA. 6 NORM.
First-Time Operation Using the Hand Strap Attaching the Shoulder Strap Fitting the Strap to Your Hand 1 Hold the camcorder against your chest, and pull the strap down until the velcro patches open. Then put your thumb close to the Power Zoom buttons, pull the strap tight until it fits snugly, and seal the velcro closures. Hold one end of the strap and thread it through the loop on the left side of the monitor.
Basic Operations Camera Recording • Refer to pages 13-15 on how to operate the monitor display. Unlike conventional camcorders, this model frees you from having to peer into a small viewfinder. You can watch the subject on the large LCD monitor screen for easier, more enjoyable videoshooting. To Pause Recording Press the REC START/STOP button again. Recording pauses, and the camcorder enters Recording Standby mode.
Camera Recording Zooming 1 Press the MENU button until appears on the monitor (Camera mode). Zooming allows you to move visually closer to or farther from a subject without physically changing your position. STOP WATCH M E N U Zooming In (when you want to center attention on the subject) AUTO COUNTER Telephoto Wide Angle 2 Press B on the operation button ( select “MENU”.
Digital Quick Zoom (Extend Zoom) Use the digital quick zoom function (extend zoom) to instantly zoom in on a subject. This is useful when you want to instantly capture a particular subject. Setting Digital Quick Zoom Ranges The auto focus feature is designed to focus on most types of subjects. In Auto Focus mode, the camcorder automatically focuses on whatever is in the center of the scene. Always keep the subject in the center of the screen.
Camera Recording Backlight Compensation (BLC) When the subject is backlit, the image will be darkened if it is recorded normally. Use the backlight compensation (BLC) feature to improve the picture. 1 Press the MENU button until appears on the monitor (Camera mode). Gain-up (Cat’s Eye) When you are recording in a dark or poorly illuminated location, “LIGHT” (warning of too little ambient illumination) is displayed on the monitor. Use the gain-up feature to record a brighter picture.
Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) The DIS function lets you stabilize the image by electronically canceling relatively small image shakes that are often annoying in close-up shots. Press the MENU button until appears on the monitor (Camera mode). 2 Press B on the operation button ( ) to select “DIS”. The “ ” indicator appears on the monitor, and the camcorder enters DIS mode.
Camera Recording Fade In and Fade Out Fade Out With the fade function, it is possible to fade in or out of scenes smoothly. It is effective especially for indicating a dramatic change in scenery. 1 Press the MENU button until appears on the monitor (Camera mode). BLC Fade In E X T E N D D I S AUTO FADE 2 Press the REC START/STOP button to start recording. 3 PressAon the operation button ( select “FADE”. Fade Out Fade In 1 Press the MENU button until appears on the monitor (Camera mode).
Recording with the Wide Screen (16:9) 5 This feature lets you record scenes with the wide-screen feel of a movie shown in a theater. The top and the bottom of the picture are masked with black bands to produce an effective screen aspect ratio of 16:9. 1 Press the MENU button until appears on the monitor (Camera mode). Notes: • The masked portion of the screen will appear green when recording; however, during playback it will be black.
Camera Recording Quick Return When you have been playing back what you have recorded, and wish to quickly return to recording again from the end of the last recorded scene, use the quick return function. 1 2 Note: • If the cassette has been removed since the last recording or if no recording has been made since the cassette was loaded, the “RETURN” indicator will be faintly displayed and the quick return function will not operate. Edit Search Set the Power switch to CAMERA.
Tips on Recording Positions Basic Recording Positions Put the fingers of your right hand through the hand strap, and place your right thumb close to the REC START/STOP and Power Zoom buttons. Place your left thumb in the indentation on the left side of the LCD monitor. Basic Posture Hints for Better Shooting • Position the subject in the center of the screen. When you are using auto focus, whatever is in the center of the screen is kept in focus. Position the subject in the center.
Camera Recording Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode 1 This camcorder is equipped with auto focus, auto white balance, auto exposure, and auto shutter speed functions. Setting the camcorder to Full Auto mode lets you record high-quality pictures easily. When “AUTO” is not displayed on the monitor the camcorder is not in Full Auto mode. Perform the procedure below to set the camcorder to Full Auto mode. 1 While the camcorder is in Camera mode, press the MENU button until appears.
Remaining Battery Power Display When the camcorder is recording in Camera mode, an on-screen indicator will begin to show how much time you have left as shown below. You might want to get a new tape ready at this time. To turn off the remaining recording time display, press the MODE DISPLAY button. When you turn on the camcorder, the remaining battery power display automatically appears on the monitor. By pressing the MODE DISPLAY button, you can turn the display on and off.
Basic Operations Playback • Refer to pages 13-15 on how to operate the monitor display. Playback The LCD monitor makes it possible to play back and see what you have just recorded. Nothing needs to be connected, allowing instant on-screen playback. You can hear the sound through the built-in speaker or via your own stereo earphones. You can also watch prerecorded 8 mm video tapes on this camcorder. 1 2 Hold down the Lock button and slide the Power switch to VCR.
Using the Stand Still Pull out the stand and lock it into position when you put the camcorder on a table or other flat surface. This function makes it possible to freeze the picture. During playback, press on the button to select “STILL” on the screen (VCR mode). To return to normal playback, press on the button to select “STILL” once again. Cautions: • Protect the stand from strong forces. Otherwise it may break. • To retract the stand, press it in the direction of the arrow.
Basic Operations Playback Program Search 4 Press C on the button to select REW (or B to select FF) button. “SEARCH” will start flashing. The tape rewinds (or fast forwards) to the beginning of a scene immediately before (or after) the current tape position; playback then starts automatically. The “REW” and “FF” indicators automatically disappear after about 10 seconds. The program search feature automatically finds the beginning of a number of previously recorded scenes.
Using the Tape Counter To Turn Off the Counter Display Use the tape counter feature when you want to know the recording or playback time. Press A on the button again to select “COUNTER” in step 2. 1 Press the MENU button until (VCR mode) or (Camera mode) appears on the monitor. STOP WATCH To Reset the Counter to Zero During playback or recording, perform steps 1 button to and 2, and then press B on the select “RESET”. PREV.
Basic Operations Playback Counter Memory 5 Use the counter memory when you want to return to the beginning of a particular scene. The position where the counter memory is reset, (0:00.00) is stored in memory to make it easier to return the tape to that point. 1 PLAY STILL 0 00 00 R E W During playback or recording, press the MENU button until (VCR mode) or (Camera mode) appears on the monitor. M E N U COUNTER Press A on the button to select “COUNTER” then press C on the button to select “MEMORY”.
Using the Infrared Remote Control Use the remote control to operate the camcorder from a distance, such as when you want to record yourself in a scene, or when the camcorder is connected to a TV for use as a VCR. 1 Set the Power switch to CAMERA or VCR. ) m 16 2 Press the MENU button until (Camera mode) or (VCR mode) appears on the monitor. 3 Press B on the operation button ( select “MENU”.
Useful Features for Camera Recording Self Recording The LCD monitor can be rotated 180° vertically so that the monitor screen faces the subject. This lets you record yourself while watching yourself on the screen. Note: • If the image on the monitor is upside-down, rerotate the monitor (normal position) and display MENUPAGE 1 (Camera mode), press A on the operation button ( ) to select “SELF REC” and button to select “AUTO”.
Self Recording Message OSD 3 In Self Recording mode, by following some simple instructions that appear on the monitor screen, you can easily record a short video message for someone. This feature is especially convenient for editing video letters. • When you want to extend the recording time, press on the button to select “EXTEND” within 5 seconds. After pressing the button, you may record continuously for 10 more seconds. • Complete steps 1 and 2 of “Normal Self Recording” on page 40.
Useful Features for Camera Recording More Information on Self Recording • The screen image is automatically inverted when the monitor rotation is between 140° and 200°. When the monitor is turned back to the normal position, the image returns to normal. • During Self Recording mode, only the REC START/STOP, Zoom Wide and Telephoto buttons function on the remote control (see page 39).
Manual Focus To Return to Auto Focus Mode The auto focus may not be able to focus on the subject in the situations shown in the chart on page 25. In such situations, set the camcorder to Manual Focus mode and focus manually. PressAon the in step 1. Operation Button button to select “FOCUS” MANUAL N E A R F A R FOCUS MANUAL AUTO FOCUS Setting the Manual Focus 1 Press the MENU button until appears on the monitor (Camera mode).
Useful Features for Camera Recording Scene Menu (Program AE) Operation Button MENU Button You can set the camcorder to the shooting mode that will bring the best results for a specific type of shooting situation. Just select one of the four scene settings shown below. The camcorder will automatically set the exposure, white balance, and shutter speed to produce the optimum picture quality for the selected situation. Scene Situation Camcorder Adjustment Sport To record a fast-moving subject.
Setting the Shutter Speed Operation Button MENU Button To Return to the Standard Shutter Speed In step 4, press C on the operation button ( select “NORMAL”. ) to To reset the camcorder to Full Auto mode, press on the button to select “CAMERA MODE” and then press C on the button to select “AUTO” in step 2. Recommended Shutter Speeds 1 2 Press the MENU button until appears on the monitor (Camera mode). Press on the operation button ( ) to select “MANUAL”.
Useful Features for Camera Recording White Balance Lock To Return to the Auto Mode In step 5, press C on the operation button ( ) to select “AUTO”. The white balance mode display will change to “AUTO”. Operation Button MENU Button To reset the camcorder to Full Auto mode, press on the button to select “CAMERA MODE” and then press C on the button to select “AUTO” in step 2. 1 Press the MENU button until appears on the monitor (Camera mode). Press on the operation button ( ) to select “MANUAL”.
Manual Iris 4 The camcorder is normally set to Auto Iris mode, which automatically chooses the optimal aperture. When there is too much contrast in brightness between the subject and background, you may not be able to record a clear image. Correct the iris to adjust the aperture. Operation Button MENU Button Press C or B on the operation button ( ) to select the desired value setting. • The number shows the selected aperture value. The adjustable range is from 16 (least light) to `6 (most light).
Useful Features for Camera Recording Recording a Five-Second Still Image (Snapshot) You can record a still picture (snapshot) for about five seconds with normal sound simply by pressing the SNAP button. This is useful when you want to record a scene like a photograph. 1 Still Recording You can record still images of subjects with normal sound. You will find it useful when you want to record a shot of a tourist information board during sightseeing.
Strobe Recording You can record strobe images (still pictures that capture continuous motion at 1/5 sec. intervals) of subjects with normal sound. You will find it useful when you want to produce a special effect while recording moving subjects such as your friends waving at you. Using the Stopwatch Function 1 During playback (or recording), press the MENU button until (VCR mode) or (Camera mode) appears on the monitor. 2 Press on the operation button ( select “STOP WATCH”.
Useful Features for Camera Recording Displaying Lap Times Notes: • When using the stopwatch during recording, the lap time display is not recorded. • Each time you select “LAP TIME”, the stopwatch display indicates the time elapsed from the moment the stopwatch was started to the moment you pressed C on the button to select “LAP TIME”. • The stopwatch cannot measure lap time for any intermediate period.
Lighting For clear, good-quality recording, 500 to 100,000 lux is needed. Recording is also possible with less light, but the picture quality may suffer. Adequate lighting is also essential for correct white balance.
Connections and Editing Connections for Playback on a TV Connection to TV Using a VCR Although you can enjoy playback on the camcorder’s LCD monitor, you can also play back tapes on your TV screen. 1 Connect the Docking Station to your VCR with the supplied audio/video cable. 2 Set the VCR to its “LINE” or “VIDEO” input channel. Operate the TV as you normally do to see the signal from the VCR. (See the operation manuals for your TV and VCR.
Connections for Playback on a TV Using Audio/Video Jacks Use the Camcorder to Play Back Tapes on a TV 1 Set the Power switch to VCR. Although you can enjoy playback on the camcorder’s LCD monitor, you can also play back tapes on your TV screen. Connect the camcorder to your TV with the supplied audio/video cable, as shown. 2 Press on the operation button ( to select “PLAY”.
Connections and Editing Using the Optional SAV103 A / V Pack The optional SAV103 A/V pack (shown on page 58) lets you connect the camcorder to other audio-visual equipment. Small and lightweight, it comes in handy when traveling or any time you are away from home. Detaching the A/V Pack Slide the A/V PACK EJECT release in the direction of the arrow, and then pull the A/V pack straight out.
Editing Cutting Unwanted Sequences Video editing lets you refine your videos by removing unwanted sequences from your tape or transposing one sequence with another. This camcorder lets you monitor the source program on the built-in LCD monitor without having to connect it to an external TV or video monitor. Connect the camcorder to a VCR with the supplied Docking Station unit and audio/video cable.
Connections and Editing Recording from an External Source You can use this camcorder to record or edit video from another source, such as a VCR, TV, or video disc player. Connect the camcorder to the source equipment, using the Docking Station and audio/video cable, as shown. To Record from an External Source 1 2 Set the Power switch to VCR. 3 Press the REC START/STOP button on the camcorder to start recording.
Fluorescent Lamp Backlight The fluorescent lamp backlight used in this camcorder will eventually need replacing. If you continue to use the camcorder when the fluorescent lamp has almost reached the end of its service life, the “REPLACE THE LAMP.” indicator will be displayed on the monitor for approximately one minute. When this occurs, purchase a replacement lamp (235179) and replace the old lamp. 4 Fluorescent Lamp Unit 5 REPLACE THE LAMP.
Optional Accessories We invite you to look at some great ideas for sparking creativity and adding to the fun of using your camcorder. These accessories are designed to make the process of recording and watching your videos more enjoyable. To order accessories, contact your local Dealer. If a dealer is not nearby, all accessories are available through toll-free ordering or by using the order form on the next page. SAV103 A/V Pack This A/V pack lets you connect your camcorder to other audio/ video equipment.
Accessory Order Form Order Form for Camcorder Model ProV950HB Description Part No. Price Tripod AC088 $ 39.95 Rechargeable Battery BB75 $ 99.95 Audio/Video Pack SAV103 $ 49.95 Car Battery Adapter SDC100 $119.95 Tuner Pack STP104 $ 249.00 Sun Hood SUN102 $ 69.95 AC Adapter/Battery Charger 233576 $ 169.95 DC Output Cable 233578 $ 14.95 S-Video Cable 233579 $ 12.95 Shoulder Strap 233580 $ 9.95 Remote Control 233581 $ 13.95 Audio/Video Cable 233582 $ 9.
Accessory Order Form Charge your order on your VISA, MasterCard, or Discover Card by filling in below USE YOUR CREDIT CARD ® IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number from your VISA card My card expires: IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number from your MasterCard Copy Number above your name on MasterCard s r r TM My card expires: IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number from your Discover Card My card expires: AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE Prices are subject to change without notice.
To order accessories, contact your local Dealer. If a dealer is not nearby, you can also follow the directions below to order by telephone or direct-by-mail. 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 items listed on this order form.
Use and Care Precautions • After operation, remove the battery pack from the unit. • Do not aim the lens at the sun. Do not allow direct sunlight to strike the camcorder lens or LCD panel, whether recording is in progress or not, as it may damage the CCD sensor or LCD panel surface. Be particularly careful when recording outside. • When shooting in dark places, avoid sudden brightly lit objects or light sources, such as the sun. Otherwise, the image may white out.
Dew Formation • What is “dew formation”? When cold water is poured into a glass, dew drops form on the glass. This clinging of water drops is called dew formation. • When dew forms in your camcorder. Dew will gradually form on the head drum of your camcorder and make the video tape stick to the head. This causes damage both to the head and the tape. When dew formation occurs, recording and playback may not function properly.
Use and Care Care Cleaning and maintenance • Many plastic parts are used in the camcorder casing. Do not use thinners, benzenes or other strong chemical cleaners. These may cause discoloration and damage to the casing. • Clean the casing with a soft, dry cloth. If the casing is particularly dirty, wipe the casing with a tightly wrung cloth dampened with a diluted, neutral detergent. Then wipe it again with a soft, dry cloth.
Video Cassette Tapes To protect recordings against erasure When a previously recorded cassette is used again for recording, the previously recorded material is erased. To protect a recording against accidental erasure, slide the tab on the cassette to cover the hole. (A red mark will be exposed.) To record, slide the tab to open the hole. Notes: • Do not insert anything into the erasureprotection hole in the cassette. • Only use those tapes with the or the mark.
Trouble Checks 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 lists what your warranty covers and explains how to get service.
Playback Symptom Cannot play back, rewind • Tape already wound or rewound completely. or fast forward tape. Suggested solution • Rewind or fast forward tape to desired point. (p. 34) • Dirty video heads. • Call for service. • Old or worn tape. • Use a new video cassette. • Depleted battery pack. • Use fully charged battery pack. (pp.7, 8) • AC adapter cord removed from power outlet. • Plug AC adapter cord into power outlet. (p.10) • Power source is not properly connected.
Specifications Signal System: Recording System: Cassette: Recording/Playback Time: Tape Speed: Pickup Device: Lens: Lens Filter Diameter: Monitor: Microphone: Power Requirement: Power Consumption: Operating Temperature: Operating Humidity: Storage Temperature: Dimensions (approx.): Weight (approx.): NTSC standard 2 rotary heads, helical scanning system 8 mm video tape, MP type or Hi8 MP, ME type 120 minutes (P6-120) 14.345 mm/second 1⁄4 9 (6.4 mm, effective size: 4.5 mm) CCD image sensor (with approx.
Customer Assistance and Service You can reach Thomson at the following number: 800-283-6503 (Toll free inside U.S.A.) Our toll-free Camcorder number operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., CST Monday - Friday for U.S. customers only Thomson provides a toll-free telephone number to help you with any problems you may encounter with your camcorder. Many can be diagnosed over the phone, and if necessary, a replacement unit can be shipped to you.
Limited warranty What your warranty covers: • Any defect in materials or workmanship. 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.) What we will do: During the initial 90 days • Exchange your camcorder with a new or refurbished unit, or repair your camcorder. The option will be ours. There will be no cost to you.
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. Write the RA number on the outside of the carton used to return the unit.
Index —A— 16:9 Recording ................................... 29 A/V Pack Terminal Cover ...................... 4 A/V Pack, Optional .................... 54,58-61 AC Adapter, Using .............................. 10 AC Adapter/Battery Charger ................ 7 Accessories, Included ................ 3,59-61 Accessories, Optional .................... 58-61 Accessories, Order Form ............... 59-61 Area Table for Time Zones .................. 20 Area, Date, and Time Displaying ........
Display of Remaining Recording Time .......................................... 33 Docking Station, Using ................. 7,8,52 EarPHONE Jack ............................... 5,34 Edit Search .......................................... 30 Editing ................................................. 55 Editing and Connections ................ 52-56 EJECT THE CASSETTE Indicator ........ 16 Erasure Protect Tab ........................ 12,65 Extend Zoom .......................................
Index Iris ............................................. 47 Playback ................................... 34 Recording ............................ 23-33 Remote Control ......................... 39 Self-Recording ..................... 40-42 Snapshot Recording ................. 48 Still Recording ........................... 48 Strobe Recording ...................... 49 Stopwatch ............................ 49-50 Tape Counter ........................ 37-38 White Balance ...........................
Sport Mode ......................................... 44 Stabilization, Digital Image ................. 27 Stand, Retractable ................................ 4 Stand, Using ....................................... 35 Stereo Microphone ................................ 4 Still Feature ......................................... 35 Still Image Recording .......................... 48 Still Recording ..................................... 48 STOP Button ........................................ 39 Stopwatch .........
Need Assistance? We want to help! U.S. Consumers: Camcorder Exchange Warranty .... 800-283-6503 Customer Service ......................... 800-336-1900 Accessories .................................. 800-338-0376 Canadian Consumers: English .......................................... 800-522-0338 French ........................................... 800-522-0445 Please do not send any products to the Indianapolis address listed in this manual or on the carton.
