VL-WD250E ;; ;; ;; ;; ;; ;; OPERATION MANUAL ENGLISH LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY CAMCORDER
Before using the camcorder, please read this operation manual carefully, especially page v. OPERATION MANUAL WARNING TO PREVENT SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. ENGLISH CAUTION To prevent shock, do not open the cabinet. No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified dealer or service centre. This equipment should be used with the recommended AC adapter/battery charger or battery pack.
Information for Australia/New Zealand Only This Camcorder must be supplied only with DC 7.4 volts from a BT-L221, BTL441, BT-LS222 or BT-LS442A battery or the AC adapter/battery charger (UADP0321TAZZ). CAUTION: As there are no user-serviceable parts inside the Camcorder or AC adapter/ battery charger, do NOT remove their cabinets as touching parts inside could result in electric shock. Please refer servicing to a qualified dealer or a Camcorder service centre approved by Sharp.
Quick Operation Guide Please consult this operation manual further for details on these and other functions of your camcorder. Inserting a Mini DV Cassette 1 Attach the power source to the camcorder, then slide the cassette compartment door release and open the cassette compartment door. 2 Insert the cassette fully with the window facing outwards, and with the erasure protect tab facing upwards. 3 Press the W mark gently until the cassette holder clicks into place.
Easy Camera Recording Tape Playback 1 Make sure that a cassette is inserted. 1 2 Remove the lens cap, and lift up the viewfinder. 3 Hold down the Lock button and set the Power switch to CAMERA. LCD monitor OPEN release button Lock button 4 Press the LCD monitor OPEN release button (1), and open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body (2). 90 Press the REC START/STOP button to begin recording.
Supplied Accessories Battery pack BT-L221 AC adapter/ battery charger Power cord DC cable Remote control AA battery for remote control K 2 CR2025 type lithium battery Audio/video cable (RCA type) Shoulder strap PixLab Video Capture Software (Lite Version) PC connecting cable Lens cap iii
Optional Accessories Standard-life battery pack BT-L221 Extended-life battery pack BT-L441 Standard-life intelligent battery pack BT-LS222 PixLab USB Digital Moving Picture Kit VR-PKU10E Mini DV cassette VR-DVM60N Extended-life intelligent battery pack BT-LS442A Soft case VR-33SC Zoom microphone VR-5MC Note: Some of these accessories may not be available in selected areas.
Precautions • When the camcorder is not in use, remember to remove the cassette tape, turn off the power, and disconnect the camcorder from the power source. • Always respect prohibitions or restrictions on the use of electronic equipment on commercial flights or in other sensitive areas. • Do not aim the lens at the sun. Do not allow direct sunlight to strike the camcorder lens or LCD monitor screen, whether or not recording is in progress, as it may damage the CCD sensor or LCD screen surface.
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.
Precautions Dirty Video Heads Using the camcorder when the video tape is dirty may cause the heads to clog, producing noise on the recorded image or preventing the image from being recorded at all. If the video heads become clogged, the v indicator appears on the screen. Contact the nearest SHARP service centre or your dealer for further advice. Using a Cleaning Tape (Commercially Available) Video head cleaning can be done by using a commercially available cleaning tape.
About Your Camcorder DV Technology Digital video, DV, is a revolutionary technology that enables recording and playback of high quality images with the use of special digital features previously unavailable with conventional analog formats. • High horizontal resolution Detailed, accurate images with the highest level of horizontal resolution for home use.
Contents Operation References Part Names ............................................................... 1 Quick Reference List ................................................. 4 On-screen Display Index ........................................... 5 Warning Indicators .................................................... 6 Preparation Charging the Battery Pack ........................................ 7 Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack ................ 8 Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet ....
Operation References Useful Features Preparation Fade In and Fade Out ............................................. 32 Still Recording ......................................................... 33 Still Recording Effect (PHOTO SHOT) .................... 34 Auto Focus .............................................................. 35 Macro Shots ............................................................ 35 Using the Remote Control .......................................
Operation References Operation References Operation References Part Names For details on the use of each part, refer to the page number indicated in brackets. Left view GAMMA/BRIGHTER button [pp. 29, 30, 51] W/B (White Balance) button [p. 46] CAT’S EYE switch [p. 31] AUTO ON/OFF button [p. 24] Operation button [p. 23] Lens hood Zoom lens Remote sensor [p. 35] Stereo microphone [p. 59] 1 ;; ;; MENU/DISPLAY button [p. 23] DIS (Digital Image Stabilization) switch [p.
Operation References Left view Viewfinder [p. 15] Zoom microphone mounting hole [p. 49] Dioptre adjustment [p. 15] LCD monitor [p. 16] Power source PUSH release button [pp. 8, 9] LCD monitor OPEN release button [p. 16] Power source mounting surface [pp. 8, 9] Lithium battery compartment door [p. 11] Shoulder strap loop [p.
Operation References Operation References Right view Power Zoom Wide angle/ Telephoto control [p. 18]/ VOLume control [p. 20] STILL button [pp. 33, 34] S-VIDEO socket [pp. 21, 54] VIDEO jack [pp. 21, 54] Shoulder strap loop [p. 14] AUDIO L jack [pp. 21, 54] Power switch (CAMERA/VCR select switch) [p. 23] AUDIO R jack [pp. 21, 54] Jack cover [pp. 21, 54] RECord START/STOP button [p. 17] Cassette compartment door [p. 10] Cassette compartment door release [p. 10] PC connection jack [p.
Operation References Quick Reference List Below are some examples of camcorder’s features. • To record the subject with higher-quality audio. — See page 27 (Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode) • To record powerful close-up images. — See page 28 (Setting the Digital Zoom) • To record a backlit subject. — See page 29 (Gamma Brightness Compensation) or page 45 (Manual Exposure) • To record subjects in very dim conditions, e.g. a nocturnal animal.
Operation References Operation References On-screen Display Index For details on the use of each function, refer to the page number indicated. CAMERA mode MANUAL SE T MAN. FOCUS SHU T. SP E ED E XPOSURE P I C. E F F E C T SCE NE MENU F ADE QK. RE TURN p. 27 AU TO p. 17 pp. 17, 24 MANUAL SE T MAN. FOCUS SHU T. SP E ED E XPOSURE P I C. E F F E C T SCE NE MENU F ADE QK. RE TURN CAMERA SE T PHOTO SNAP SNAP E F F. DG T L ZOOM T AP E SP E ED L I GHT AU TO 1 2 bit p. 19 p. 27 pp.
Operation References Warning Indicators If a warning indicator appears on the screen, follow the specified instructions. Displayed for the first 3 seconds Displayed after 3 seconds I NSER T A CASS E T TE. Description of warning There is no video cassette in the camcorder. Insert a cassette (see page 10). E J E C T T HE CAS SE T T E . E J E C T THE CAS SE T T E . The video cassette is defective and should be removed (see page 10). CASSE T T E NOT RE CORDA BL E. P RO T E C T .
Preparation Preparation Charging the Battery Pack Charging time and maximum continuous recording and playback times Charge the battery pack with the supplied AC adapter/battery charger before use. Preparation Note: • Remove the DC cable from the AC adapter/ battery charger when charging the battery pack. 1 Max. Max.
Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack 4 Lower the viewfinder. Attaching the Battery Pack 1 Make sure that the Power switch is set to OFF. Preparation Removing the Battery Pack Power switch 2 1 Perform steps 1 and 2 above. 2 Press the power source PUSH release button (1), and slide the battery pack up and take it out (2). Lift up the viewfinder.
Preparation Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet You can also power the camcorder from a power outlet by using the supplied AC adapter/ battery charger and DC cable. Preparation Caution: • The supplied AC adapter/battery charger is specially designed for use with this camcorder, and should not be used as a power supply for other camcorders. 1 Make sure that the Power switch is set to OFF. 2 Lift up the viewfinder.
Inserting and Removing a Mini DV Cassette 3 • A confirmation sound is made, and the cassette holder retracts automatically. Inserting a Cassette 1 Press the W mark gently until the cassette holder clicks into place. W mark Preparation Attach the power source to the camcorder, then slide the cassette compartment door release and open the cassette compartment door. • A confirmation sound is made, and the cassette holder extends and opens automatically.
Preparation Installing the Lithium Memory 5 Battery Installing the Lithium Battery Preparation The supplied lithium battery is used to store the memory of the date and time settings. 1 Press the LCD monitor OPEN release button (1) and open the LCD monitor (2). LCD monitor OPEN release button Close the LCD monitor until it clicks into place. Removing the lithium battery Perform steps 1 and 2 above. Lift up the battery using a pointed object, and take it out.
Setting the Date and Time 4 Press r on the Operation button. CL OCK SE T D I SPL AY SE T T I NG Example: Setting the date to 2 June 2002 (2. 6. 2002) and the time to 10:30 am (10:30). 1 2H 2 4H MENU/DISPLAY button Power switch 5 Press d or y (1) to select “2” (day), and then press r (2). CL OCK SE T D I SPL AY SE T T I NG 1 2H 2 4H 2. 1 . 2 0 0 1 0 : 00 Operation button 1 Press the LCD monitor OPEN release button (1) and open the LCD monitor (2).
Preparation Changing to the 12-hour Time Mode 1 After performing step 9 above, press d or y (1) to select “12H/24H”, and then press r (2). CL OCK SE T D I SPL AY SE T T I NG Preparation 1 2H 2 4H 2 Press d or y to select “12H”, and then press e. 1 2 H 2 4H 3 2 4H 1 2H Displaying the Date and Time of Recording Follow the procedure below to display the date, or both the date and time, of recording on the screen. You can display the date and time during both recording and playback.
Adjusting the Hand Strap 1 Open the hand strap flap (1) and the grip strap (2). When attaching or removing the lens cap, press both tabs on the top and bottom of the cap. Tabs Hook Preparation When recording, hang the hook of the lens cap on the hand strap so that the cap will not get in the way. 2 Loosen the grip strap, pass your right hand through the loop, and put your thumb on the REC START/STOP button. Then, pull the grip strap tight until it fits snugly.
Preparation Using the Viewfinder Closing the viewfinder You can record the subject using the electronic LCD viewfinder. You can also watch playback through the viewfinder. Viewfinder Lower the viewfinder. Cautions: • Do not use excessive force when moving the viewfinder. • Do not pick up the camcorder by the viewfinder. Preparation Notes: • The viewfinder automatically turns off when the LCD monitor is opened.
Using the LCD Monitor You can use the LCD monitor to play back recordings that you have made. You can also watch the subject on the LCD monitor while recording. Power switch 3 Hold down the Lock button and set the Power switch to CAMERA or VCR. Lock button Preparation Notes: • Battery consumption is larger when the LCD monitor is open. Use the viewfinder instead of the LCD monitor when you want to save battery power. • Use the viewfinder if the LCD screen becomes difficult to see in bright daylight.
Basic Operations Basic Operations Camera Recording Camera Recording Easy Camera Recording in Full Auto Mode • Before you start recording, perform the To pause recording Press the REC START/STOP button again. Recording pauses, and the camcorder enters Recording Standby mode. operations described on pages 7 through 16 to prepare your camcorder for recording. PAUSE Basic Operations REC START/ STOP button To turn the power off Power switch 1 Remove the lens cap, and lift up the viewfinder.
Zooming Tips on Recording Positions Zooming allows you to move visually closer to or farther from a subject without physically changing your position. To create images that are easy to watch during playback, try to record with a stable posture while steadying your camcorder to prevent the image from shaking.
Basic Operations Camera Recording Remaining Recording Time Display Remaining Battery Power Display When the camcorder is recording in CAMERA mode, an on-screen indicator displays the approximate remaining tape time in minutes. When using the camcorder with the battery pack as the power source, you can turn on and off the remaining battery power indicator by pressing the MENU/DISPLAY button. If the battery power becomes very low, a warning indicator will appear. Replace the battery pack.
Basic Operations Playback Playback To stop playback The LCD monitor screen functions as a handy playback monitor. Nothing needs to be connected, allowing instant on-screen playback with the sound through the built-in speaker. Power switch Operation button 2 Hold down the Lock button and set the Power switch to VCR. Notes: • The tape is automatically rewound when playback reaches the end of the tape. • Stereo earphones (commercially available) with a 3.
Basic Operations Playback Watching the Playback on a TV 3 • When connecting to a TV via a VCR, turn on the VCR and set it to the “AV” or “LINE” input channel. Operate the TV as you normally do to see the signal from the VCR. (See the operation manuals of your TV and VCR.) You can connect the camcorder to a TV to allow a larger audience to enjoy playback. 1 Open the jack cover on the camcorder.
Video Search Still The video search function makes it easy to search for a desired scene on the tape. The still function makes it possible to pause playback. Operation button 1 During playback, press r (or e) on the Operation button. • The playback picture fast forwards (or reverses). Operation button During playback, press y on the Operation button. Basic Operations AUDIO1+ 2 AUDIO1+ 2 2 When you find the desired scene, press y to return to normal playback.
Useful Features Useful Features Using the Controls MENU/DISPLAY button The following controls on the camcorder can be used to select and operate the various functions, settings and on-screen displays. MENU/DISPLAY button Power switch The MENU/DISPLAY button is used to turn the on-screen indicators and the menu screens on or off. Each time you press the MENU/DISPLAY button, the on-screen display changes as shown below.
Selecting the User Mode This camcorder features three user modes for camera recording functions. The selectable items on the menu screen are different depending on the user mode. 2 Press the AUTO ON/OFF button. • Each time you press the AUTO ON/OFF button, the user mode changes between Auto mode and Manual mode. • To select Easy mode, hold down the AUTO ON/OFF button for more than two seconds. User mode Auto mode (AUTO): Lets you adjust all menu settings except manual settings.
Useful Features Using the Menu Screens 4 The menu screens can be used to adjust the various settings of camcorder. 1 Press d or y (1) to select the desired menu item, then press r (2). Example CAMERA SE T PHOTO SNAP SNAP E F F. DG T L ZOOM OF F T AP E SP E E D 5 0 100 780 Hold down the Lock button and set the Power switch to CAMERA or VCR. Lock button 2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears. MANUAL SE T MAN. FOCUS SHU T. SP E ED E XPOSURE P I C.
Useful Features Camera Recording Recording in LP (Long Play Recording) Mode This camcorder allows you to record in LP (Long Play Recording) mode for approximately 50% more recording time with the same picture quality as that in SP (Standard Play Recording) mode. 1 Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode. 2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears. MANUAL SE T MAN. FOCUS SHU T. SP E ED E XPOSURE P I C. E F F E C T SCE NE MENU F ADE QK. RE TURN 3 CAMERA SE T PHOTO SNAP SNAP E F F.
Useful Features Camera Recording Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) This camcorder allows you to select between the 12-bit and 16-bit audio recording modes. The camcorder normally records audio in the 12-bit audio recording mode. For higher-quality audio recording, select the 16-bit audio recording mode.
Setting the Digital Zoom You can select from among four different zoom ranges: 1–26K (optical zoom), 26–50K (digital zoom), 26–100K (digital zoom) or 26–780K (digital zoom). The digital zoom allows you to record powerful close-up pictures with the same operation as normal zooming. Notes: • The digital zoom is in addition to the optical zoom giving a combined maximum zoom range of 1–780K. • As the image is enlarged digitally, the picture quality decreases when higher digital zoom settings are used.
Useful Features Camera Recording Gamma Brightness Compensation To obtain a brighter picture Press the GAMMA/BRIGHTER button again. • The x indicator appears. When the subject is backlit, the image will appear dark if it is recorded normally. The gamma brightness compensation function improves the picture by increasing the brightness of the subject while leaving the brighter portion of the image unaffected.
Gain-up To obtain a brighter picture When you are recording in a dark or poorlyilluminated location, “LIGHT” is displayed on the screen. Use the gain-up function to record a brighter picture. Press the GAMMA/BRIGHTER button again. • The ` indicator appears. GAMMA AUTO Note: • At locations where lighting is adequate, “LIGHT” will not appear. The gain-up function cannot be used in this case. GAMMA/BRIGHTER button To cancel the gain-up function Press the GAMMA/BRIGHTER button until “GAMMA” disappears.
Useful Features Camera Recording Night Recording (Cat’s Eye) The night recording function allows you to record the subject in darkness. This is useful when you want to record subjects in very dim conditions, e.g. a nocturnal animal. Note: • Use Night Recording when “LIGHT” is displayed. Do not use in a bright location such as outdoors in broad daylight. CAT’S EYE switch To cancel Night Recording Set the CAT’S EYE switch to OFF.
Fade In and Fade Out Using Fade Mode The fade function allows you to gradually bring the image and sound in or out at the beginning or end of a scene for creating scene transitions. This is especially effective for indicating a dramatic change in scenery. 1 Press the REC START/STOP button to begin recording. • The picture turns white, and the image and sound fade in. AUTO Fade in 1 2 bit F ADE I N 3 0 min SP Fade out 2 Setting Fade Mode 1 2 Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode.
Useful Features Camera Recording 6 Still Recording You can record still images of subjects with normal sound by selecting one of two still recording modes. PHOTO SNAP S T I L L 7 Type of Still Recording modes SNAP: A still picture is recorded for 6 seconds. STILL: A continuous still image is recorded. Selecting Still Recording Mode 1 Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode. 2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears. 3 Select Y, then press r on the Operation button. Select “SNAP EFF.
Still Recording Effect (PHOTO Using PHOTO SHOT mode SHOT) 1 In Recording Standby mode, press the STILL button. You can use a still recording effect to record the still images. A still picture is recorded following the sound and visual effects of a camera shutter closing. Setting a still recording effect 1 Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode. 2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears. 3 Select Y, then press r on the Operation button. Select “PHOTO SNAP” (1), then press r (2).
Useful Features Camera Recording Auto Focus Using the Remote Control The camcorder is preset to Auto Focus mode, which is designed to focus on most types of subjects. In Auto Focus mode, the camcorder automatically focuses on whatever is in the centre of the scene. Always keep the subject in the centre of the scene. Use the supplied 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.
3 Press d or y to select “ON”, then press e. ON REMOT E 4 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button to turn off the menu screen. Operating the Remote Control 1 Open the LCD monitor completely (1), then rotate it 180° vertically (2). REW button [p. 20] REC START/STOP button [p. 17] ZOOM W/T buttons [pp. 18, 50] VOL. +/L buttons [p. 20] PLAY button [p. 20] FF button [p. 20] STOP button [p. 20] 180 SLOW button [p. 39] 90 Shift buttons [p. 50] Advance/reverse buttons [p. 39] PAUSE/STILL button [pp.
Useful Features Camera Recording Letting the Subject Monitor the Shot 2 Set the Power switch to CAMERA. • The subject is displayed in the viewfinder, and a mirror image of the subject is displayed on the LCD monitor. Open the LCD monitor and rotate it 180° vertically so that the screen faces the other way and the subject can monitor the shot while you are recording with the viewfinder. If the camcorder is steadied, you can record yourself in the scene by watching yourself on the LCD monitor.
Quick Return Edit Search When you have been playing back what you have recorded, and wish to quickly return to recording from the end of the last recorded scene, use the quick return function. The edit search function lets you search, without switching from CAMERA mode to VCR mode, for the point on the tape where you wish to start recording next. 1 In Recording Standby mode, press the MENU/DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears. 2 Select T, then press r on the Operation button. Select “QK.
Useful Features Useful Features Playback Playback Playback Functions with the Remote Control These playback functions can be operated using the supplied remote control. (See pages 35 and 36 for use of the remote control.) Frame Advance The frame advance function allows you to play back still images frame by frame. 1 During playback, press the PAUSE/STILL button (g) to pause playback. PAUSE/STILL button 2 PLAY button Press the h (or j) button.
4 Using the Time Code • The time code appears. The time code shows the hour, minute and second of recording, and the frame number (1 frame = approx. 1/25 sec.). This is automatically recorded along with the subject. You can display the time code on the screen as an accurate counter in both VCR and CAMERA modes. Select “DISP. OFF” in step 3 above. TC0 00 10 20 Frame number* Second Minute Hour * Displayed during still or frame advance playback. • The example screens for this feature are for VCR mode.
Advanced Advanced FeaturesFeatures Camera Recording Camera Recording Manual Focus Auto Focus may not be able to focus on the subject in the situations shown below. In such situations, set the camcorder to Manual Focus mode and focus manually. Subject is too dark. Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode. 2 Press the AUTO ON/OFF button to select Manual mode. 3 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears. 4 Select T, then press r on the Operation button. Select “MAN.
7 Press d or y (1) to focus on the subject, then press e (2). MANUAL MF 1 2 bit F OCUS F AR NE AR SP SET [ MANUAL BUT TON] MF 1 2 bit To cancel Manual Focus mode After performing step 4 above, select “AUTO”, then press e. Notes: • The camcorder may not be able to focus correctly if the subject is within approximately 1.8 m. Set the zoom control to wide angle, and then try refocusing. • If the lens is dirty or fogged, the camcorder may not be able to correctly focus.
Advanced Features Camera Recording Setting the Shutter Speed 6 The shutter speed is preset to auto mode, which automatically chooses the optimal shutter speed for the ambient light. However, depending on the subject or situation, you may want to set the shutter speed manually to create a high-quality picture. 1 Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode. 2 Press the AUTO ON/OFF button to select Manual mode. 3 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears.
Recommended Shutter Speeds The faster the shutter speed, the darker the picture becomes. Select the most appropriate shutter speed for the ambient light. Situation Recommended shutter speed • Recording sports action in bright daylight. • Recording in bright daylight at a ski resort. 1/10,000 sec. l 1/1,000 sec. • Recording outdoor sports on a partially cloudy day. • Recording an outside scene through a car window (when you want to minimize blur caused by the camera shaking). 1/1,000 sec. l 1/250 sec.
Advanced Features Camera Recording Manual Exposure 5 Press e to display the exposure setting screen. The camcorder is preset to Auto Exposure mode, which automatically chooses the optimal aperture. When there is too much contrast in brightness between the subject and background, however, you may not be able to record a clear image. In this case, use the manual exposure function to correct the exposure level. Background is too bright and subject too dark (backlit subject).
White Balance Lock 4 • “W/B LOCK” flashes during the locking procedure. To cancel the locking procedure, press the MENU/DISPLAY button while “W/B LOCK” flashes. The colour of the subject on the screen tends to look different depending on the lighting condition. The camcorder is preset to Auto White Balance mode, which automatically adjusts the hue of the picture for the current lighting condition. Auto White Balance may not work properly for the following subjects.
Advanced Features Camera Recording Scene Menu (Program AE) 3 You can set the camcorder to the shooting mode that will create the best results for a specific situation. Just select one of 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. MANUAL S E T MAN. FOCUS SHU T. SP E ED E XPOSURE P I C. E F F E C T SCE NE MENU OF F F ADE SPORT QK.
Digital Picture Effects These digital picture effects let you record the subject with a more dramatic effect. Type of Digital Picture Effects B/W: To record in black-and-white. SEPIA: To record in sepia colour similar to that of an old photograph. MOSAIC: To record a picture divided up into tiles. 1 Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode. 2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears. 3 Select T, then press r on the Operation button. Select “PIC. EFFECT” (1), then press r (2).
Advanced Features Camera Recording Using the Zoom Microphone Selecting Zoom Microphone Mode (Optional Accessory) Select a Zoom Microphone mode when the zoom microphone is mounted. With the optional zoom microphone VR-5MC, you can record audio according to the magnification of the zoom lens for producing the optimum sound. You can also set the zoom microphone to record only sounds at a distance.
Advanced Features Playback Playback Zoom To cancel Playback Zoom The playback zoom function allows you to magnify the playback picture up to 10 times its original size and to shift the magnified picture by using the remote control (see pages 35 and 36 for use of the remote control). Press the ZOOM W button to zoom out to the widest angle. Notes: • Use of Playback Zoom may cause a reduction in picture quality for still images. • Images in Playback Zoom mode cannot be transferred to a personal computer.
Advanced Features Playback Gamma Playback The gamma playback function improves the playback picture by increasing the brightness of the subject while leaving the brighter portions of the image unaffected. GAMMA/BRIGHTER button During playback, press the GAMMA/ BRIGHTER button once. • “GAMMA1” appears, and the picture becomes brighter. GAMMA 1 AUDIO1+ 2 SP To obtain a brighter picture, press the GAMMA/ BRIGHTER button again. • “GAMMA2” appears.
Playback Effects Playback effects can be used to create an interesting scene transition between a still image and the following image during playback. Using Playback Effect 1 In VCR mode, press the MENU/ DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears. 2 Select V, then press r on the Operation button. Select “PB EFFECT” (1), then press r (2). Type of Playback Effects OVERLAP: A still image fades out as the next image fades in, replacing the previous image. The two scenes momentarily dissolve.
Advanced Features Playback Picture Effect Playback These picture effects let you play back images with a more dramatic effect. Type of Picture Effects B/W: The picture is displayed in black-andwhite. SEPIA: The picture is displayed in sepia colour similar to that of an old photograph. MOSAIC: The picture is divided up into tiles. • The example screens for this feature are for VCR mode. 1 During playback, press the MENU/ DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears.
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 audio/video cable, as shown.
Advanced Features Playback Editing with the DV Terminal (IEEE1394) This camcorder enables you to perform digital video editing. Connect the camcorder to video equipment with a DV terminal using a commercially available DV cable. A DV cable is able to transfer all dubbing signals including video and audio. To Record to Video Equipment See “Cutting Unwanted Sequences” on page 54, using the video equipment as the recording source.
Cutting Unwanted Sequences Copyright Protection 1 Press y to pause recording when the source tape reaches the beginning of the sequence to be cut. 2 Press y to resume recording when the source tape reaches the end of the sequence to be cut. The digital VCR has far superior recording and playback ability than the traditional analog VCR, and in order to protect digital video software copyrights, a system for managing copyrights has been established.
Advanced Features Playback Configuring Software for PC Connection This camcorder can transfer still playback images in VCR mode or still images in CAMERA mode to a personal computer by using the supplied Video Capture Software. Connecting the camcorder to a Personal Computer 1 Turn off the PC. 2 Connect the camcorder as shown below. • Before connecting the camcorder to the PC, make sure that the PC power is off to insure that images are transferred properly.
Using the Software 3 Double click on the CD-ROM drive icon. For tips on how to use the Video Capture Software, refer to the operation manual located on the CD-ROM in PDF format. Follow the steps below to open the PDF file containing the manual. 4 Double click on the “Acroread” folder. 5 Double click on the desired language version. 6 Follow the instructions as they appear on the PC monitor until the installation is complete. 7 Restart the PC.
Advanced Features Playback Transferring Motion Images to a PC It is possible to use the optional VR-PKU10E PixLab USB Digital Moving Picture Kit to transfer motion images with audio from the camcoeder to a personal computer via a USB port. Audio Dubbing Feature You can add narration to recordings made with this camcorder, while preserving the original audio and video recordings. Microphone for Audio Dubbing You can use the built-in stereo microphone to record narration.
Audio Dubbing To pause audio dubbing 1 Press e. Play back the recorded Mini DV cassette and locate the tape position where you wish to start audio dubbing. To quit audio dubbing 2 Press y to pause playback. Press the MENU/DISPLAY button. The audio dubbing screen disappears. 3 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears. If you wish to change the dubbed audio or dub additional scenes 4 Select V, then press r on the Operation button. Select “AUDIO DUB” (1), then press r (2).
Advanced Features Playback Selecting the Audio Playback Mode You can select any of the following audio playback modes. Audio 1+2 • 12-bit recording in stereo (Audio 1 and Audio 2 channels) • 16-bit recording in stereo (left and right channels) 1 Play back a Mini DV cassette with dubbed audio. 2 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears. 3 Select V, then press r on the Operation button. Select “AUDIO” (1), then press r (2). PL AY BACK SE T AUD I O DUB AUD I O 1+2 P I C.
Picture/Backlight Adjustments Adjusting the Backlight If the picture is difficult to see due to ambient lighting or other factors, adjust the monitor picture settings. 1 Press the MENU/DISPLAY button until the menu screen appears. 2 Select O, then press r on the Operation button. Select “BACKLIGHT” (1), then press r (2). • The example screens for this feature are for CAMERA mode.
Appendix Appendix Useful Information Hints for Better Shooting • Position the subject in the centre of the scene. When you are using auto focus, whatever is in the centre of the scene is kept in focus. Lighting For clear, good-quality recording, 500 to 100,000 lux is needed. Recording is possible with less light, but the picture quality may suffer. Adequate lighting is also essential for correct white balance. Brightness (Lux) Situation (Lux) Blue sky 100,000 • Avoid backlit subjects.
Mini DV Cassette To protect recordings against accidental erasure Slide the protect tab on the rear of the Mini DV cassette to the “SAVE” position. Erasure protect tab Precautions when using a Mini DV cassette • Be sure to use only Mini DV cassettes with the i mark. • This camcorder can record and play back using Mini DV cassettes with cassette memory, but it cannot record or play back this memory. • To record in LP mode, use a Mini DV cassette labelled for use with LP mode.
Appendix Battery Pack This camcorder uses a lithium-ion type battery pack. Charging • Charge the battery pack immediately (or a day) before use. The battery pack gradually self-discharges even if stored in a fully charged state. • Charge the battery pack between 10°C and 30°C. • Fully charge the battery pack. Use of an insufficiently charged battery pack will shorten actual time of use. • Refresh (discharging before charging) is unnecessary.
AC Adapter/Battery Charger Using Your Camcorder Abroad • The AC adapter/battery charger may interfere with reception if used near a radio. • Prevent flammables, liquids, and metal objects from entering the adapter/charger. • The adapter/charger is a sealed unit. Do not attempt to open or modify it. • Do not damage, drop, or subject the adapter/ charger to vibration. • Do not leave the adapter/charger in direct sunlight. • Avoid using the adapter/charger in humid or extremely hot places.
Appendix 4 Demonstration Mode You can watch a brief demonstration of the special camcorder features in Demo mode. If the demonstration appears on the screen when you turn on the camcorder for the first time, cancel the Demo mode to use your camcorder. Select I, then press r on the Operation button. Select “DEMO MODE” (1), then press r (2). OTHERS REMOT E SOUND T I ME CODE T C OUT DEMO MODE OF F ON CAT’S EYE switch MENU/DISPLAY button Power switch 5 Press d or y to select “ON”, then press e.
Before Requesting Service Before calling for service, please check the following troubleshooting table. Symptom Connect power source properly (pp. 8, 9). Battery pack is not charged. Charge battery pack sufficiently (p. 7). Dew in camcorder. Wait until dew dries (p. vi). Safety function is in effect. Set Power switch to OFF and remove battery pack; wait for 2 seconds, then reinstall battery pack and turn on power (p. 8). REC START/STOP button does not work.
Appendix VCR mode Symptom Cannot play back, rewind Position at beginning or end of tape. or fast forward tape. General Suggested solution Rewind or fast forward tape to desired point (p. 20). Dirty video heads. Call for service, or use a commercially available video head cleaning tape (p. vii). Old or worn tape. Use a new cassette. Power source is not properly connected. Connect power source properly (pp. 8, 9). Battery pack is not charged. Charge battery pack sufficiently (p. 7).
Specifications Camcorder Signal System: Recording System: Cassette: Recording/Playback Time: Tape Speed: Pickup Device: Lens: Lens Filter Diameter: Viewfinder: Monitor: Microphone: Colour Temperature Compensation: Minimum Illumination: Power Requirement: Power Consumption: Operating Temperature: Operating Humidity: Storage Temperature: Dimensions (approx.): Weight (approx.): PAL standard 2 rotary heads, helical scanning system Digital VCR Mini DV video cassette 90 minutes (DVM60, LP mode) SP mode: 18.
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