ENGLISH LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY CAMCORDER VL-Z1Esupport.sharp.net.au/downloads/opmanuals/VLZ1Eom.pdf · vl-z1e/hyou; 03/03/25/18:00 sharp corporation vl-z1e english al liquid crystal

VL-Z1E/hyou; 03/03/25/18:00

SHARP CORPORATION

VL

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LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY CAMCORDER

VL-Z1E

OPERATION MANUAL

Printed in Japan

TINSLA076WJZZ03P04-JKG

VL-Z1E/hyou2/3; 03/03/26/18:00

ENGLISHOPERATION MANUAL

WARNINGTo prevent fire or shock hazard,do not expose this apparatus todripping or splashing. Noobjects filled with liquids, suchas vases, should be placed onthe apparatus.This equipment should be usedwith the recommended ACadapter or battery pack.

CAUTIONTo prevent electric shocks andfire hazards, do NOT use anyother power source.

CAUTIONTo prevent shock, do not open thecabinet. No user serviceable partsinside. Refer servicing to qualifieddealer or service centre.

Important:Audio-visual material may consistof copyrighted works which mustnot be recorded without theauthority of the owner of thecopyright. Please refer to relevantlaws in your country.

Power supply:This unit can be operated byconnecting it to either the ACadapter or battery pack. The ACadapter incorporates the AUTOVOLTAGE (AC 110–240 V,50/60 Hz) function.

NOTEThe LCD panel of this camcorder is a very high technology product withmore than 215,000 thin-film transistors*, giving you fine picture detail.Occasionally, a pixel may appear on the screen as a fixed point of blue,green, red, or black. Please note that this does not affect theperformance of your camcorder.

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Before using the camcorder, please read this operation manual

carefully, especially page vi.

i

WARNING:This Camcorder must be supplied only with DC 7.4 volts from a BT-L226 battery or the AC adapter (UADP-A016WJZZ).CAUTION:As there are no user-serviceable parts inside the Camcorder or ACadapter, do NOT remove their cabinets as touching parts inside couldresult in electric shock. Please refer servicing to a qualified dealer ora Camcorder service centre approved by Sharp.

Information for Australia/New Zealand OnlyE

NG

LIS

H

NOTEThis Camcorder is a high technology product.The LCD Panel comprises 215,280 TFT Transistors. Due to the highdensity of transistors, it is possible that some pixels may fail.

Important:Copyright may exist in material you wish to record.Copying such material without permission of the relevant licensees orowners of the copyright is prohibited by law.Sharp is not in a position to authorize the recording of copyright worksand nothing in this operation manual should be read or implied as givingthat authority.

ii

Part Names .............................................................1Warning Indicators .................................................. 4

Operation References

Preparation

Basic Operations

Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack ............. 5Charging the Battery Pack ...................................... 7Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet .......... 8Inserting and Removing a Cassette ....................... 9Installing the Lithium Batteries .............................. 10Setting the Date and Time .................................... 12Using the Lens Cap ..............................................13Adjusting the Hand Strap .....................................14Using the Grip .......................................................14Detaching the Lens Hood .....................................15Using the Viewfinder ............................................. 15Using the LCD Monitor .........................................17Tips on Recording Positions .................................18

Camera RecordingEasy Camera Recording in Full Auto Mode .......... 19Zooming ................................................................20Power Standby Mode ...........................................21Turning on/off the Backlight ..................................21Auto Focus ............................................................22Macro Shots ..........................................................22Remaining Recording Time Display ..................... 23Remaining Battery Power Display ........................23PlaybackPlayback ...............................................................24Volume Control ......................................................25Still ........................................................................25Video Search .........................................................25Watching Playback on a TV ..................................26

Contents

Supplied Accessories ......................................................................................... vOptional Accessories .......................................................................................... vPrecautions ........................................................................................................ vi

iii

Useful Features Control Buttons .....................................................27Using the Mode Screens ......................................27Using the Menu Screens .......................................28

Camera RecordingSetting the Digital Zoom .......................................29Backlight Compensation (BLC) ............................ 30Gain-up .................................................................31Fade in and Fade out ............................................32Quick Return .........................................................33Edit Search ............................................................34Still Recording .......................................................34Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) ...........................35Self Recording ......................................................36Wide Screen (16:9) ...............................................38Recording in LP (Long Play Recording) Mode ..... 39Windbreak .............................................................40Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode .........41

PlaybackUsing the Remote Control

(Not supplied) .....................................................42Playback Functions with the Remote Control

(Not supplied) .....................................................43Selecting the Date and Time of Recording

Display ................................................................44Picture Effect Playback .........................................45Rotate Playback ....................................................46

Advanced Features Camera RecordingManual Focus .......................................................47Returning to Auto Focus .......................................48Displaying the Manual Setting Screen ..................48White Balance Lock ..............................................49Manual Iris ............................................................50Manual Gain ..........................................................51Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode ............. 52Scene Menu (Program AE) ...................................53

iv

Advanced Features PlaybackUsing the Time Code ............................................54Editing ...................................................................55Editing with the DV Terminal (IEEE1394) .............. 56Audio Dubbing Feature .........................................57Selecting the Audio Playback Mode ..................... 59

Appendix Picture/Backlight Adjustments .............................. 60Turning off the Confirmation Sound ......................62Setting the Camcorder to Factory Presettings ...... 63Demonstration Mode ............................................64Useful Information .................................................65Troubleshooting ....................................................70Specifications .......................................................73On-screen Display Index ......................................74

Note:• Before requesting service, please read “Troubleshooting” carefully. (See pages 70–

72.)

Contents

v

Supplied Accessories

Battery packBT-L226

Audio/video/S-videocable

CR1216 typelithium battery

Lens cap

Optional Accessories

AC adapter Power cord

Note:• Some of these accessories may not be available in selected areas.

Standard-lifebattery pack

BT-L226

External battery withhand strapBT-LCA1

vi

Precautions

• Before recording an important scene,please perform the recording test, thenplayback to check if the scene was re-corded properly. If noise occurs, use acommercially available cleaning tape toclean the video heads (see page viii).

• When the camcorder is not in use, re-member to remove the cassette tape,turn off the power, and disconnect thecamcorder from the power source.

• Do not aim the lens at the sun.Do not allow direct sunlight to strike thecamcorder lens, whether or not recordingis in progress, as it may damage the CCDsensor. Be particularly careful when re-cording outside.

• Avoid magnetic sources.Using the camcorder nearstrong fluorescent lights,motors, televisions, orother magnetic sourcesmay adversely affect re-corded images.

• Using the camcorder near a broad-casting station or other powerful trans-mission source may cause buzzing orpicture deterioration.

• Avoid shocks and dropping.Do not drop or otherwise sub-ject the camcorder to hardshocks or strong vibrations.Bumping or striking the unitduring recording will gener-ate noise in the recorded im-age.

• Avoid placing thecamcorder in closeproximity to lightingequipment.The heat from in-candescent lightsmay deform thecamcorder, orcause it to malfunction.

• Always respect prohibitions or restric-tions on the use of electronic equipmenton commercial flights or in other sensi-tive areas.

• Be aware of the temperature and humid-ity.You can use your camcorder at 0°C toL40°C, and at 30% to 80% relative hu-midity. Do not store the unit in anunventilated car in the summer, in directsunlight, or nearstrong heatsources; this canresult in severedamage to the unitcasing and cir-cuitry.

• Avoid situations where water, sand, dustor other foreign matter could get on orinside the camcorder, and do not use orleave your camcorder in areas with ex-cessive smoke, steam or moisture.Such environments can cause malfunc-tions or cause mil-dew to form on thelenses. Be sure tokeep the unit in awell-ventilated loca-tion.

• Some small, portable tri-pods may be difficult toattach and may not besturdy enough to sup-port your camcorder. Besure to use only astrong, stable tripod.

• When using your camcorder in a coldenvironment, the LCD monitor screen of-ten appears less bright immediately af-ter the power is turned on. This is not amalfunction. To prevent the camcorderfrom becoming too cold, wrap it in athick cloth (a blanket, etc.).

vii

Dew Formation

• What is “dew formation”?

When cold water is poured into a glass,dew drops form on the glass. This clingingof water drops is called dew formation.

• When dew forms in your camcorder.

Dew will gradually form on the head drumof your camcorder and make the videotape stick to the head. This causesdamage both to the head and the tape.When dew forms, recording and playbackmay not function properly.

Dew is likely to form in the followingcircumstances:

—When moving the camcorder from acold place to a warm place.

—When placing the camcorder in a coldroom which is then heated rapidly.

—When moving the camcorder outdoorsfrom an air conditioned room or car.

—When placing the camcorder in thedirect path of airblowing from an airconditioner.

—When placing thecamcorder in ahumid room.

• How to prevent trouble.

When using the camcorder in a placewhere dew is likely to form, allow thecamcorder and the video tape toacclimatise to the surroundings for aboutone hour.

For example, when bringing thecamcorder indoors after skiing, place it ina plastic bag.

1Be sure to tightly seal the plastic bagcontaining the camcorder.

2Remove the bag when the air tem-perature inside it reaches the tempera-ture of the room.

• “Dew” warning feature

If dew forms, the word “DEW” flashes onthe screen, and the power will automati-cally turn off in approximately 10 seconds.

Plastic bag

1 If “DEW” flashes, remove the cassette,leave the cassette compartment open,and wait for a few hours to allow thecamcorder to acclimatise to thesurrounding temperature.

2To use the camcorder again, turn on thepower after waiting for a few hours. Besure that “DEW” has disappeared.

3Do not insert a cassette while “DEW” isflashing; this may result in damage tothe tape.

4Since dew forms gradually, it may take10 to 15 minutes before the dewwarning feature engages.

viii

Dirty Video HeadsWhen the video heads have becomeclogged with dirt (dust and tape coatingparticles),

• mosaic-like noise appears on theplayback picture. (see illustrations above)

• playback pictures do not move.

• during playback, the whole screenbecomes blue.

Using a Cleaning Tape (Commer-cially Available)

You can clean the video head with acommercially available cleaning tape.

Notes:• Excessive use of the cleaning tape may

cause damage to the video heads. Pleaseread the instructions accompanying thecleaning tape carefully before using it.

• The fast forward and rewind functions cannotbe used when the cleaning tape is in thecamcorder.

• If the video heads again become cloggedwith dirt soon after cleaning, this might becaused by a damaged tape. In this case,stop using that cassette immediately.

1 Insert a cleaning tape into thecamcorder.

2 Hold down the Lock button and setthe Power switch to w.• The video head cleaning screen

appears.

3 Press m on the Operation button tobegin video head cleaning.• “NOW CLEANING” flashes during

cleaning.

• After about 20 seconds, video headcleaning automatically finishes, and“EJECT THE CASSETTE.” displays.

4 Remove the cleaning tape.

To cancel cleaning, press l.

Causes of video head clogging

• High-temperature and high-humidityenvironment

• A lot of dust in the air• Damaged tape• Worn tape• Long-time use• Dew formation

If the video heads become clogged, thev indicator appears on the screen. Contactthe nearest SHARP service centre or yourdealer for further advice.

Precautions

S T O PS T A R T

CL EAN I NG

CLE AN I NGNOW

Striped noise Mosaic noise


1


Part Names

For details on the use of each part, refer to the page number indicated inparentheses.

Front view

Zoom lens

DISPLAY button (p. 27)

Operation button (p. 27)

Monaural microphone LCD LAMP button (p. 21)

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2

Lithium battery cover (p. 10)

Tripod socket*

Left view

Dioptre adjustment dial (p. 16)

Battery release (pp. 6, 10)

* When attaching a tripodwith a guide pin, do notattach the pin to the bottomof the camcorder.

LCD monitor(p. 17)

DV terminal (p. 56)

DC IN jack (pp. 7, 8)

AV terminal(pp. 26, 55)Terminal cover

(pp. 26, 55, 56)


3

Viewfinder (pp. 15, 16)

Power Zoom Wide angle/Telephoto control (p. 20)/VOLume control (p. 25)

Start/Stop button(p. 19)

PHOTO button(p. 34)

Power switch (v CameraRecording mode/w Playbackmode select switch) (pp. 19, 24)

STANDBY button(p. 21)

STANDBY indicator(p. 21)

POWER/CHARGE(RED) indicator

(pp. 7, 8, 19)

DC IN jack cover(pp. 7, 8)

Cassette holder (p. 9)

Cassette compartmentdoor release (p. 9)

Cassette compartment door (p. 9)

Right view

Hand strap (p. 14)

Speaker

Window cleaning cover (p. 68)

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4

Warning Indicators

If a warning indicator appears on the screen, follow the specified instructions.

Displayed for thefirst 3 seconds

Displayed after3 seconds Description of warning

There is no video cassette in the camcorder.Insert a cassette (see page 9).

I NSERTA CASSE T TE.

BAT TERY I STOO LOW.

PROT EC T. TAB

CHANGE THECASSE TTE.

E J E CT THECASSE TTE.

E J E CT THECASSE TTE.

CASSE TTE NOTRECORDABL E.

The video cassette is defective and should beremoved (see page 9).

The erasure protect tab on the video cassettehas been slid to the record-protect position,preventing recording (see page 66).

The tape is about to end. Prepare a newcassette.

THEENDS SOON.

TAPE

DEW

LAMP LAMP

DEW

The tape has reached the end. Replace it with anew cassette (see page 9).

The battery is almost depleted. Replace it witha fully charged battery pack (see pages 5, 6).

Dew has formed inside the camcorder. Wait afew hours for the dew to dry away (see pagevii).About 10 seconds after this warning appears,the camcorder automatically turns off.

The video heads are clogged and should becleaned (see page viii).

The fluorescent lamp behind the LCD monitor isclose to the end of its service life. Call your localauthorized Sharp dealer to have it replaced.

TAPE END

TAPE END

Note:• N indicates a flashing display.

Preparation

5

Preparation

Attaching andRemoving the BatteryPack

Attaching

1 Make sure that the Powerswitch is set to OFF.

2 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angleto the camcorder body.

3 Slide the battery pack in the directionof the arrow with the “m” mark facingout.

4 Push the battery pack in the directionof the arrow until it clicks.

90˚

Power switch “m” mark

Prep

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Preparation

6

Removing

1 Make sure that the Power switch isset to OFF, then open the LCDmonitor to a 90° angle to thecamcorder body.

90˚

2 Slide the battery release in thedirection of the arrow.

3 Take the battery pack out.

Notes:• BEFORE REMOVING THE BATTERY PACK,

ALWAYS STOP RECORDING OR PLAY-BACK AND TURN THE POWER OFF.Removing the battery pack while shooting orduring playback may damage the tape bycausing it to wrap around the video headdrum.

• Remove the battery pack from the camcorderif you will not use the camcorder for a longperiod of time.

• Make sure that the battery pack is firmlyattached during operation. If it is not, thebattery pack may come off or camcorderoperation may fail because of the poorcontact pressure.

• To prevent damage to the battery pack whenremoving, be sure to firmly hold the batterypack while pressing the release.

• Use only SHARP model BT-L226 batterypacks with this camcorder. Use of otherbatteries may create a risk of fire orexplosion.

• Before closing the LCD monitor, make surethe battery pack is properly attached to thecamcorder, otherwise the monitor may bedamaged.

Battery release

Preparation

7

Charging the BatteryPack

1 Attach the battery pack on thecamcorder, and make sure that thePower switch is set to OFF.

2 Open the DC IN jack cover.

3 Connect the supplied power cordto the AC power socket on the ACadapter, and insert the AC pluginto a power outlet.

4 Insert the DC plug into the DC INjack of the camcorder.• The POWER/CHARGE (RED)

indicator lights up red.

• The POWER/CHARGE (RED) indicatorturns off when the battery is charged.

BT-L226

Chargingtime

Batterypack

Max.continuous

recording timeMax.

continuousplayback time

on LCD

120 120 105

LCDclosed

LCDopen

105

5 Remove the DC plug from the DC INjack, then remove the AC adapterfrom the power outlet.

Charging time and maximumcontinuous recording and playbacktimes

• The chart specifies the approximate times inminutes.

Notes:• Charge the battery pack between 10°C and

30°C. The battery pack may not chargeproperly at temperatures too low or toohigh.

• The battery pack and AC adapter becomewarm during charging. This is not amalfunction.

• Using the zoom (see page 20) and otherfunctions or turning the power on and offfrequently will increase power consump-tion. This may result in a decrease in theactual recording time compared to themaximum continuous recording time listedabove.

• The charging time and recording time mayvary depending on the ambient tempera-ture and the condition of the battery pack.

• See pages 67 and 68 for more information onusing the battery pack.

• Charge only SHARP model BT-L226 batterypacks. Other types of battery packs mayburst, causing personal injury and damage.

• When attaching the supplied audio/video/S-video cable, remove the DC plug, open theterminal cover and connect it.

DC IN jack cover

DC plug

DC IN jack

POWER/CHARGE (RED)indicator

AC power socket

To poweroutlet

Prep

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Preparation

8

Powering theCamcorder from anAC Outlet

You can also power the camcorder from apower outlet by using the supplied ACadapter.

Note:• The supplied AC adapter is specially

designed for use with this camcorder, andshould not be used as a power supply forother camcorders.

1 Make sure that the Power switch isset to OFF.

2 Open the DC IN jack cover.

3 Connect the supplied power cordto the AC power socket on the ACadapter, and insert the AC pluginto a power outlet.

4 Insert the DC plug into the DC INjack of the camcorder.

5 Hold down the Lock button and setthe Power switch to v or w.• The POWER/CHARGE (RED)

indicator lights up green.

Notes:• BEFORE REMOVING THE DC PLUG,

ALWAYS STOP RECORDING OR PLAY-BACK AND TURN THE POWER OFF.Removing the DC plug while shooting orduring playback may damage the tape bycausing it to wrap around the video headdrum.

• Disconnect the AC adapter from thecamcorder if you will not use the camcorderfor a long period of time.

To poweroutlet

AC power socket

DC IN jack

DC IN jack cover

POWER/CHARGE (RED)indicator

DC plug

Preparation

9

Inserting andRemoving a Cassette

Inserting

1 Attach the power source to thecamcorder, then slide and hold thecassette compartment door releaseas you open the cassette compart-ment door.• After confirmation sound, the

cassette holder extends and opensautomatically.

2 Insert a commercially available MiniDV cassette fully with the windowfacing outwards, and with the erasureprotect tab facing upwards.

3 Press the “PUSH” mark gently untilthe cassette holder clicks into place.• The cassette holder retracts

automatically.

4 Wait for the cassette holder to fullyretract. Close the compartment doorby pressing its centre until it clicksinto place.

Removing

Perform step 1 above, then take out thecassette.

Notes:• Do not try to close the cassette compartment

door while the cassette holder is extending orretracting.

• Be careful not to get your fingers caught inthe cassette holder.

• Do not apply force to the cassette holderexcept when pressing the “PUSH” mark toclose it.

• Do not tilt the camcorder or hold it upsidedown when you are inserting or removing acassette. It may damage the tape.

• Remove the cassette if you will not use thecamcorder for a long period of time.

• If you do not correctly close the cassetteholder in step 3, the cassette protectionmechanism of the camcorder might eject thecassette. If this happens, repeat the insertionprocedure.

• Do not attempt to pick up the camcorder bythe cassette compartment door.

• If the battery power is too low, you may notbe able to eject the cassette. Replace thebattery pack with a fully charged one.

• You can only use Mini DV cassettes. LargeDV cassettes cannot be used. Be sure to useMini DV cassettes with the i mark.

• See page 66 for more information on thevideo cassette tapes intended for use withthis camcorder.

SAVE

REC

Cassette compartment door release

“PUSH” mark

Erasure protect tab

Prep

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Preparation

10

Installing the LithiumBatteries

Installing the Memory Battery

The supplied CR 1216 type lithium battery isused to store the memory of the date andtime settings.

1 Make sure that the Power switch isset to OFF.


3 Slide the battery release in thedirection of the arrow, then take thebattery pack out.

4 Pull out the lithium battery cover inthe direction of the arrow.

5 Insert the CR 1216 type lithiumbattery into the compartment with theH side of the battery facing out.

6 Close the lithium battery cover firmlyuntil it clicks into place.

Removing the MemoryBattery

Perform steps 1 to 4 above,then lift out the battery byusing a pointed object suchas the tip of a ballpoint pen.

Battery release

Lithiumbattery cover

CR 1216 typelithium battery

Preparation

11

Installing the Battery toRemote Control (Not Sup-plied)

The remote control (RRMCGA149WJSA)is not supplied with this camcorder.Contact the nearest SHARP servicecentre or your dealer for purchasing asspecified part.The CR 2025 type lithium battery is usedto power the remote control unit.

1 Hold the remote control facing down,and pull out the battery holder whilepressing the tab toward the centre.

2 Insert the CR 2025 type lithiumbattery into the battery holder withthe H side of the battery facing them side of the holder.

3 Insert the battery holder back intoposition.

Notes on the Use of the Lithiumbattery

• Do not short-circuit, recharge, disassemble,or heat the lithium battery.

• Should the lithium battery leak, wipe thebattery compartment clean, and then insert anew battery.

• The lithium batteries will last about one yearunder normal usage.

CAUTION: Danger of explosion ifbattery is incorrectly replaced. Forcamcorder, replace only with same orequivalent type CR1216, for remotecontrol unit, replace only with same orequivalent type CR2025, both recom-mended by the equipment manufac-turer.X KEEP THIS BATTERYAWAY FROM CHILDREN. IF SWAL-LOWED, CONSULT A PHYSICIANIMMEDIATELY FOR EMERGENCYTREATMENT.Z BATTERY MAY EXPLODEIF MISUSED OR INSTALLED WITHPOLARITY REVERSED. DO NOTRECHARGE, DISASSEMBLE ORDISPOSE OF IN FIRE.

“m” side

H side, CR 2025 typelithium battery

Tab

Prep

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Preparation

12

4 Press m or l to select “EXECUTE”,then press the centre of the Operationbutton.

5 Press the centre of the Operationbutton.

6 Press m or l to select “2” (day),then press the centre of the Operationbutton.

7 Press m or l to select “6” (month),then press the centre of the Operationbutton.

8 Press m or l to select “2004” (year),then press the centre of the Operationbutton.

9 Press m or l to select “10” (hour),then press the centre of the Operationbutton.

Setting the Date andTime

Example: Setting the date to 2 June 2004(2. 6. 2004) and the time to 10:30 am(10:30).

Note:• Before performing the steps below, make

sure that the CR1216 type lithium battery hasbeen installed (see page 10).

1 Hold down the Lockbutton and set thePower switch to v.

2 Press the DISPLAY button until themode screen appears.

3 Press l or m on the Operationbutton to select “MENU”, then pressthe centre of the Operation button.

B L C G A I N/ O F FF A D EM E NUSC E N E M E NU

E X E C U T EF A D EM E NUSC E N E M E NU

B L C G A I N/

O T H E RS 2

R E T URN

T I ME C OD E O F FO F FT C O U T

S E T T I NG1 2 H 2 4 H/ 2 4 H

. 11 2 00 0 0:

0 3.

2.0 0 0:

1 2 0 0 3.SE T T I NG

SE T T I NG 2.0 0 0:

6 2 0 0 3.

SE T T I NG 2.0 0 0:

6 2 0 0 4.

SE T T I NG 2.01 0 0:

6 2 0 0 4.

Operation button

Power switch

DISPLAY button

Lock button

Preparation

13

Changing to the 12-hourTime Mode

1 After performing step 10 above, pressl or m to select “12H/24H”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

2 Press l or m to select “12H”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

3 Press the DISPLAY button to turn offthe menu screen.

Notes:• The date and time, once set, are internally

recorded even when not displayed on thescreen.

• The menu screen automatically turns off if nosettings are made within 5 minutes.

Using the Lens Cap

Attach the strap of the lens cap to the handstrap as shown below.

When attaching or removing the lens cap,grasp the indents on both sides of the cap.

When recording, remove the lens cap andattach the lens cap cord to the fastener sothat the cap will not get in the way.

Note:• Always attach the lens cap over the lens

when not using the camcorder.

1 2H21 H 2 4H

10 Press m or l to select “30” (minute),then press the centre of the Operationbutton.

• The internal clock now startsoperating with the seconds display.


Note:• If the date and time have been set, the

SETTING 1 screen (T) appears in step 4.Select “SETTING” in the OTHERS 2 screen(~) using the Operation button.

SE T T I NG 2.01 3 0: 0 0:

6 2 0 0 4.

O T H E RS 2T I ME C OD ET C O U T

2 4H1 2H

R E T URNS E T T I NG1 2 H 2 4 H/

Indents

Fastener

Prep

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Preparation

14

Adjusting the HandStrap

1 Open the hand strap flap (1) and gripstrap (2).

2 Loosen the grip strap, pass your righthand through the hand strap, and putyour thumb close to the Start/Stopbutton and your index finger on thePower Zoom control. Then, pull thegrip strap tight until it fits snugly.

3 Seal the Velcro® fasteners of the gripstrap and the hand strap flap.

Using the Grip

Rotate the grip 135° forward or 90°downward so that you can record imageseasily from high or low angle (see page 18).

Note:• The grip cannot rotate when a tripod is

attached.

Grip strap

Hand strap flap

135°

90°

Preparation

15

Using the Viewfinder

You can record the subject using theelectronic viewfinder. You can also watchplayback through the viewfinder.

1 Pull out the viewfinder completely.

2 Hold down the Lockbutton and set thePower switch to v orw.

Detaching the LensHood

Before using a commercially availableconversion lens, detach the lens hood asshown below.

(Continued on the next page)

Note:• You cannot attach the supplied lens hood or

lens cap to a conversion lens.

Power switch

Viewfinder

Lock button

Prep

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ion

Preparation

16

Closing the viewfinder

Push in the viewfinder completely.

Notes:• Do not use excessive force when moving

the viewfinder.• Do not pick up the camcorder by the

viewfinder.• The viewfinder automatically turns off when

the LCD monitor is opened. If the verticalrotation of the monitor is 180° when inCamera mode, however, the viewfinder is onand the subject is displayed both in theviewfinder and on the monitor (see page 36).

• You can adjust the settings on the MENUscreen through the viewfinder by using theOperation button (see page 27 for use of theOperation button).

• Be sure to close the viewfinder after use.

Adjusting the dioptreAdjust the dioptre according to youreyesight when the picture in the viewfinderor the characters on the on-screen displayis not clear.

1 Pull out the viewfinder completely.2 Hold down the Lock button and set

the Power switch to v.

3 While looking through the viewfinder,turn the dioptre adjustment dial untilthe indicators in the viewfinder areclearly visible.

Note:• For cleaning the viewfinder, see page 68.

Dioptre adjustment dial

Preparation

17

Using the LCDMonitor

You can use the LCD monitor to play backrecordings that you have made or to watchthe subject during recording.


2 Adjust the LCD monitor to an anglethat allow easy viewing of the on-screen picture.• The LCD monitor rotates 270°

vertically.

Note: Do not try to rotate the LCDmonitor vertically until the monitor iscompletely opened.

• You can also fold the LCD monitorinto the camcorder with the screenfacing out for watching playback onthe monitor.

3 Hold down the Lockbutton and set thePower switch to v orw.• A picture displays on

the LCD monitor.

Note:• Battery consumption is larger when the LCD

monitor is opened. Use the viewfinder insteadof the LCD monitor when you want to savethe battery power.

Closing the LCD monitor

Return the LCD monitor to the vertical 90°position with the screen facing in, and fold itinto the camcorder into place.

Notes:• Do not use excessive force when moving

the LCD monitor.• When closing the LCD monitor, do not tilt

it; otherwise the monitor may not closeproperly and may become damaged.

• Do not pick up the camcorder by the LCDmonitor.

• Do not place the camcorder with the LCDmonitor screen facing down.

• Close the LCD monitor completely with thescreen facing in when not in use.

• Before closing the LCD monitor, make surethe battery pack is properly attached to thecamcorder, otherwise the monitor may bedamaged.

90˚

180

90

Lock buttonLCD monitorPower switch

Prep

arat

ion

Preparation

18

Tips on RecordingPositions

Turn the LCDmonitor so that thescreen facesupward.

Balance yourweight on both

legs.

Turn the LCDmonitor so that the

screen facesdownward.

Place your elbowsagainst your sides.

To create images that are easy to watch during playback, try to record with an uprightposture and steady hands to prevent a shaky image.

Holding the camcorder

Put your right hand through the hand strap, and place your left hand under the camcorderfor support.

Basic posture

Place the viewfindereyecup firmly against

your eye.

Shooting from a low angle

Shooting from a high angle

Note:• Take care not to touch the microphone with your fingers during recording. It will cause noise on

the audio track.

Basic Operations

19

Easy CameraRecording in FullAuto Mode

• Before you start recording, perform theoperations described on pages 5 through18 to prepare your camcorder forrecording.

1 Remove the lens cap.2 Hold down the Lock button and set

the Power switch to v.• The picture from the lens now

displays and the POWER/CHARGE(RED) indicator lights up green.

• The camcorder is now ready torecord (Recording Standby mode).

Note:• If “AUTO” is not displayed at this time,

set the camcorder to Full Auto mode(see page 52).

AU T OAU T O

3 Press the Start/Stop button to beginrecording.

R E C

Note:• Before recording an important scene,

please perform the recording test, thenplayback to check if the scene wasrecorded properly. If noise occurs, use acommercially available cleaning tape toclean the video heads (see page viii).

Maximum continuous recording andactual recording times

Note:• Using the zoom (see page 20) and other

functions or turning the power on and offfrequently will increase power consump-tion. This may result in a decrease in theactual recording time compared to themaximum continuous recording time listedabove.

Basic OperationsCamera Recording

BT-L226

Batterypack

Max. continuousrecording time

120

LCDclosed

LCDopen

105

Actualrecording time

60

LCDclosed

LCDopen

55

Start/Stop button

Power switch

Lock button

POWER/CHARGE(RED) indicator

Basi

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20


P A U S E

To pause recording

Press the Start/Stop button again. Record-ing pauses, and the camcorder entersRecording Standby mode.

To turn the power off

Set the Power switch to OFF withoutpressing the Lock button.

Note:• If the camcorder remains in Recording

Standby mode for more than 5 minutes, thepower will automatically turn off to savebattery power and to protect the tape frombeing damaged. To resume recording, setthe Power switch to OFF and then back to v.(The camcorder will make a confirmationsound when it is left in Recording Standbymode for about 4 minutes.)

Zooming

Zooming allows you to move visually closerto or farther from a subject without physi-cally changing your position.When using the optical zoom, you canenlarge the subject up to 10K.

Zooming inPush the Power Zoom control to the T(telephoto) side to get a close-up view (1).Zooming outPush the Power Zoom control to the W (wideangle) side to get a wide field of view (2).

• The zoom range indicator shows you thecurrent zoom setting.

• The zoom speed depends on how far youpush the Power Zoom control.

Notes:• The camcorder is unable to focus when

zooming in on subjects within 1.5 m.• See page 29 for how to use the digital zoom.

Zooming in (when you want to centreattention on the subject)

Zooming out (when you want to includethe surroundings)

W T 3ZOOMPower Zoom

control

Zoom range indicator

Basic Operations

21

Power Standby Mode

Power Standby mode allows you to preventaccidental recording by locking alloperations except cancelling the mode.

Hold down the STANDBY button for morethan 2 seconds when you pause record-ing.• The screen turns off and the STANDBY

indicator lights up.

To resume operation

Turning on/off theBacklight

You can see the on-screen display outdoorson a sunny day or in a location with brightlighting even when the backlight turns off.Also, this function is useful when watchingplayback on a TV.

Hold down the LCD LAMP button formore than 2 seconds to turn off thebacklight.• “BACKLIGHT OFF” will flash for two seconds,

then H appears on the LCD screen.

To turn on the backlight

Press the LCD LAMP button.

Note:• The BACKLIGHT OFF mode will cancel when

you close the LCD monitor.Press the STANDBY button again toreturn to the Recording Standby mode.• It takes about 2 seconds to be able to start

recording.

Notes:• Power Standby will cancel and the STANDBY

indicator will turn off in these situations below:— When the camcorder remains in Power

Standby mode more than 5 minutes— When the camcorder is set to Playback

mode— When removing the battery pack— When removing a cassette

• The camcorder will turn off automatically in 5minutes after setting Power Standby mode ifit remains in Recording Standby mode aftercanceling Power Standby mode.— When Power Standby mode, for example,

is cancelled after 3 minutes, thecamcorder will turn off if recording is notstarted within 2 minutes.

STANDBY indicator

STANDBY button

LCD LAMP button

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22


Auto Focus

The camcorder is preset to Auto Focusmode, which is designed to focus on mosttypes of subjects. In Auto Focus mode, thecamcorder automatically focuses on thesubject in the centre of the scene. Alwayskeep the subject in the centre of the scene.

Notes:• If no subject is in the centre of the scene, the

focus area will expand and the subjectnearest the centre will be focused on.

• Auto Focus may not work in the situationsdescribed on page 47. In these situations,use the manual focus function.

• The camcorder may not be able to focuscorrectly if the subject is closer thanapproximately 1.5 m. Set the zoom control towide angle, and try refocusing again.

• If the lens is dirty or fogged, the camcordermay not be able to focus correctly.

Macro Shots

This camcorder lets you shoot close-upimages of small objects such as flowers andinsects, or make title frames for your videos.When you want to record a magnified imageof a subject which is within approximately1.5 m of the camcorder, do not zoom in onit. Instead, zoom out all the way by pushingthe Power Zoom control to the W side, andthen move the camcorder closer to thesubject until you obtain the desired angle ofview. The camcorder will automaticallyfocus on the subject when the lens is set forthe widest angle.

Note:• When you are recording a macro shot, be

sure that the subject receives sufficientillumination.

Power Zoomcontrol

Basic Operations

23

3 0 min

Remaining RecordingTime Display

When the camcorder is recording, an on-screen indicator displays the approximateremaining tape time in minutes.

Notes:• The remaining recording time indicator

appears when the on-screen indicators areturned on.

• The remaining recording time indicatorappears 10 seconds after pressing theStart/Stop button to begin recording.

• The remaining recording time indicator onlyshows the approximate time left. Also, itvaries slightly depending on the length of thetape used. (This function is based on theDVM60 tape standard.)

When the remaining recording time reaches1 minute, a warning indicator will appear.Prepare a new cassette.

THEENDS SOON.

TAPE

TAPE END

Warning indicatorApprox. remaining

time

Less than 1 min.

The tape has reachedthe end.

CHANGE THECASSE TTE.

TAPE END

Remaining BatteryPower Display

When using the camcorder with the batterypack as the power source, the remainingbattery power indicator is displayed. If thebattery power becomes very low, a warningindicator appears. Replace the batterypack.

Notes:• The remaining battery power indicator

appears when the on-screen indicators areturned on.

• Use the remaining battery power indicatoronly as an approximate indication.

• The remaining battery power indicator maychange to either a higher or lower level if youset the Power switch to OFF and then back tov or w.

• In cold environments, the red remainingbattery power indicator may appear sooner.

• Use of the zoom functions when the warningindicator is displayed may cause thecamcorder to suddenly lose power.

BAT TERY I STOO LOW.

Remainingrecording timeindicator

Remainingbattery powerindicator

Warningindicator

(Green)

(Green)

(Red)

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24


To stop playback

Press l.

To turn the power off

Set the Power switch to OFF withoutpressing the Lock button.

Note:• The tape automatically rewinds when

playback reaches the end of the tape.

Watching the playback inthe viewfinder

You can also watch the playback in theviewfinder by closing the LCD monitor withthe screen facing in. You cannot monitor thesound through the speaker when watchingthe playback in the viewfinder.

Playback

The LCD monitor screen functions as ahandy playback monitor. Nothing needs tobe connected, allowing instant on-screenplayback with the sound through the built-inspeaker.

1 Hold down the Lockbutton and set thePower switch to w.

2 Press j (or k) on the Operationbutton to rewind (or fast forward) thetape to the desired point.

3 Press m to begin playback.

Basic OperationsPlayback

Power switch

Operation button

Lock button

Basic Operations

25

VOLUME

Video Search

The video search function makes it easy tosearch for a desired scene on the tape.

Searching for a Scene Nearthe Current Tape Position

1 During playback, press k (or j) onthe Operation button.• The playback picture fast forwards

(or reverses).

2 When you find the scene, press m toreturn to normal playback.

Searching for a Scene Farfrom the Current Tape Posi-tion

1 During fast forward (or rewind), pressand hold k (or j) on the Operationbutton.• The fast forward (or rewind) picture

displays.

2 If the scene is still rather far from thecurrent tape position, release theOperation button to normal fastforward (or rewind).

3 Repeat steps 1 and 2 above until youfind the scene.

4 Press m to begin normal playback.Notes:• The sound is off during search.• You may experience picture noise during

search. This is not a malfunction.

Still

The still function allows you to pauseplayback.

During playback, press m on the Operationbutton.

To return to normal playback, press magain.Notes:• The sound is off in Still mode.• To protect the tape, the camcorder automati-

cally returns to normal playback if it is left inStill mode for more than 5 minutes.

Volume Control

When the camcorder is in Playback mode,push the Volume control to the L or + sideto increase (1) or decrease (2) thevolume.The volume level indicator will appear onthe LCD screen during adjustment only.Once the Volume control is released, thevolume level indicator will disappear shortlyafterwards.

Volumecontrol

IncreaseDecrease

Basic OperationsPlayback

Basi

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26

Watching Playbackon a TV

You can connect the camcorder to a TV toallow a larger audience to enjoy playback.

1 Open the terminal cover on thecamcorder (see page 2).

2 Connect the camcorder to your TV (orVCR) with the supplied audio/video/S-video cable, as shown.

About the S-video socket

S-video sockets are used to separately passthe chroma (colour) and luminance(brightness) components of video signals.They serve to improve the picture quality inboth recording and playback.

Note:• Check that the camcorder, TV, VCR and

other equipment to be used are turnedoff before making any connections.Picture noise or malfunction may occurif any of the above is left on whilemaking a connection.

3 Turn on the TV and set it to the “AV”or “VIDEO” channel. (See theoperation manual of your TV.)• When connecting to a TV via a VCR,

turn on the VCR and set it to the “AV”or “LINE” input channel. Operate theTV as you normally do to view thesignal from the VCR. (See theoperation manuals of your TV andVCR.)

4 Set the Power switch on thecamcorder to w, and begin playback(see page 24).

Notes:• If your TV or VCR has only one audio input

jack, use the white plug for the audioconnection on the TV or VCR.

• If your TV or VCR has an S-video inputsocket, you do not need to connect theyellow video plug.

• Close the terminal cover after use.

VIDEOS-VIDEO

L-AUDIO-R(MONO)AV-IN

:

Terminal cover

To AVterminal

Black: To S-video input socketYellow: To video input jackWhite: To audio input (L) jackRed: To audio input (R) jack

Audio/video/S-video cable (supplied)

The arrow shows the signal flow.

TV or VCR

Useful Features

27

Operation button

DISPLAY buttonPower switch

Informationdisplay on

Mode screen

Informationdisplay off

Example

Example

Useful Features

Control Buttons

Operation button

Use the Operation button to select and setthe desired setting.

Using the Mode Screens

In the mode screens, you can adjust thecamcorder settings by using the Operationbutton.

1 Hold down the Lock button and setthe Power switch to v or w.• See pages 74 and 75 for the mode

items you can select in each mode.• Steps 2 to 4 show how to change the

SCENE MENU setting in Cameramode.


3 Press l or m on the Operationbutton to select the desired modeitem (SCENE MENU), then press thecentre of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select the desiredmode setting (DUSK), then press thecentre of the Operation button.

To turn off the mode screen

Press the DISPLAY button.

Note:• Items that are not selectable are greyed out.

3 0minAU T O

3 0minAU T O

S E L E C T S E T

O F FF A D EM E NUS C E N E M E NU

B L C G A I N/

4002.203:01

6 .


F A D EM E NUSC E N E M E NU OF F

B L C G A I N/

S C E N E M E NU

F A D EM E NU

DUS K

B L C G A I N/

DISPLAY buttonEach time you press the DISPLAY button,the screen changes as shown below.• The example screens shown are for Camera

mode.

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Useful Features

28

DISPLAY button

Operation button

Power switch

Example

Example

Example

Using the Menu Screens

Use the menu screens to adjust the variouscamcorder settings.

1 Hold down the Lock button and setthe Power switch to v or w.• See pages 74 and 75 for the menu

items you can select in each mode.

• Steps 2 to 8 show how to change theDGTL ZOOM menu setting inCamera mode.

2 Press the DISPLAY button until themode screen appears (see page 27).


4 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,then press the centre of the Operationbutton.

Note:• The menu screen does not appear

during recording.

5 Press l or m to select the desiredmenu screen (T), then press thecentre of the Operation button.

• You can press k, instead of thecentre of Operation button.

6 Press l or m to select the desiredmenu item (DGTL ZOOM), then pressthe centre of the Operation button.

• You can press k, instead of thecentre of the Operation button.

7 Press l or m to select the desiredmenu setting (40), then press thecentre of the Operation button.

• You can press j, instead of thecentre of the Operation button.

• To adjust another menu item, pressl or m to select “RETURN” andpress the centre of the Operationbutton, then perform steps 5 to 7.


Notes:• Certain menu items are common in both

Camera and Playback modes. If the BEEPmenu item, for example, is set to “OFF” inCamera mode, it will be automatically set to“OFF” in Playback mode.

• The menu screen automatically turns off if nosettings are made within 5 minutes.

• Items that are not selectable are greyed out.

S E T T I NG 1QK .DG T L

RE T URN

Z OOMT A P E S P E E D

R E T URN S T A R TOF FS P

S C E N E ME NUE X E C U T EM E NU

F A D EB L C G A I N/


RE T URN


R E T URN S T AR TOF FS P


RE T URN


R E T URNOF F4 05 0 0

04DGTL ZOOM

Useful Features

29

Power Zoomcontrol

Digital zoom indicator

Useful FeaturesCamera Recording

5 Press l or m to select “DGTLZOOM”, then press the centre of theOperation button.

6 Press l or m to select “40” or “500”,then press the centre of the Operationbutton.


The “D” digital zoom indicator is displayedduring digital zooming.

To use optical zoom only

Select “OFF” in step 6 above.

Setting the DigitalZoom

You can select three different zoom ranges:1–10K (optical zoom), 10–40K (digitalzoom) or 10–500K (digital zoom). Thedigital zoom allows you to record powerfulclose-up pictures with the same operationas normal zooming.

Notes:• The digital zoom is in addition to the optical

zoom giving a combined maximum zoomrange of 1–500K.

• As the image is enlarged digitally, thepicture quality decreases when higherdigital zoom settings are used.

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAYbutton until the mode screen appears.



4 Press l or m to select T, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.



RE T URN


R E T URNOF F4 05 0 0

W T 52D-ZOOM

04DGTL ZOOM


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BacklightCompensation (BLC)

When the subject is backlit, the image willappear dark if it is recorded normally. Usethe backlight compensation (BLC) functionto improve the picture.


2 Press l or m on the Operationbutton to select “BLC/GAIN”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

3 Press l or m to select “ON x”,then press the centre of the Operationbutton.


BLC / GA I N ON

AU T OAU T O3 0min3 0min

4 Press the DISPLAY button to turn offthe mode screen.• “x” appears when on-screen

indicators are turned on, indicating thatthe backlight compensation is nowworking.

To cancel the backlight compensa-tion function


Useful Features

31

Gain-up

When you are recording in a dark or poorlyilluminated location, “LIGHT” is displayedon the screen. Use the gain-up function torecord a brighter picture.

Note:• At locations where lighting is adequate,

“LIGHT” will not appear. The gain-up functioncannot be used in this case.


AU T O3 0min3 0min

BLC / GA I N ON

To cancel the gain-up function


Notes:• You may experience some picture noise in

Gain-up mode, which increases when thee appears.

• When the e indicator appears, you mayget a shadow image behind a subject that ismoving around a lot.

• Fine brightness adjustments are possiblewhen using manual iris (see page 50).

• The e indicator will disappear andGain-up mode will cancel if you aim thecamcorder in a bright location.

2 Press l or m on the Operationbutton to select “BLC/GAIN”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

3 Press l or m to select “ON e”,then press the centre of the Operationbutton.

4 Press the DISPLAY button to turn offthe mode screen.• “e” appears when on-screen

indicators are turned on, indicating thatthe gain-up function is now working.



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Fade In and Fade Out

The fade function allows you to graduallybring the image and sound in or out at thebeginning or end of a scene for creatingscene transitions. This is especially effectivein creating a dramatic change in scenery.

4 Press the DISPLAY button until on-screen indicators appear.

5 Press the Start/Stop button to beginrecording.• The picture turns white, and the

image and sound fade in.

6 Press the Start/Stop button at thepoint where you wish to stoprecording.• The image and sound fade out as the

picture gradually turns white. Thecamcorder then returns to RecordingStandby mode.

To cancel Fade mode


To use Fade Out only

1 During camera recording, press theDISPLAY button until the modescreen appears.

2 Perform steps 2 and 3 in “Using”.3 Press the Start/Stop button at the

point where you wish to stoprecording.

Note:• Fade mode automatically cancels after Fade

Out.

Using


2 Press l or m on the Operationbutton to select “FADE”, then pressthe centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “ON”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

F A D EM E NUSC E N E M E NU

OF FB L C G A I N/

R E C

3 0minAU T O

F A D E I N

R E C

3 0minAU T O

F A D E I N

R E C

2 72 7minAU T O

F A D E OUTOUT

minAU T O

F A D E

Fade in

Fade out

Operation button

DISPLAY buttonStart/Stop button

Useful Features

33

Quick Return

If while playing back your tape you want toquickly return to the last recorded sceneand start recording again, use the quickreturn function.

1 In Recording Standby mode, pressthe DISPLAY button until the modescreen appears.




5 Press l or m to select “QK.RETURN”, then press the centre ofthe Operation button.

6 Press l or m to select “START”,then press the centre of the Operationbutton.• “SEARCH” flashes, and the tape

begins fast forwarding or rewindingto the end of the last recorded scene.

• When the tape reaches the end ofthe last recorded scene, “FINISHED”is displayed, and the camcorderenters Recording Standby mode.


Notes:• To cancel the quick return function while

“SEARCH” is flashing, press the centre ofOperation button twice.

• Quick return will not work if you remove thecassette and reload it after recording or ifnothing has been recorded since loading.


RE T URN


R E T URN S T AR TS T OP

SE A RC H


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Still Recording

You can record continuous still images ofsubjects.

1 In Recording Standby mode,press the PHOTO button fully.• A still image of the subject is

displayed.

2 Press the Start/Stopbutton.• The still image of the

subject will be recorded.

To pause recording

Press the Start/Stop button.

To cancel the still image

Press the PHOTO button fully.

Notes:• Still Recording can also be used during

recording by pressing the PHOTO buttonfully.

• The picture quality in Still Recording functionwill be slightly lower than normal pictures.

Edit Search

The edit search function lets you search,without switching from Camera mode toPlayback mode, for the point on the tapewhere you wish to start recording next.

1 In RecordingStandby mode,press and holddown j (reverseedit search) or k(forward editsearch) on theOperation button.

2 When you find the point where youwant to begin recording, release thebutton.

Notes:• The sound is off during search.• Forward edit search is performed at the same

speed as normal playback, and reverse editsearch at 6.5 times the normal playback.

• You may experience picture noise duringreverse edit search.

Operation button

Useful Features

35

Digital ImageStabilization (DIS)

The digital image stabilization (DIS) functionallows you to stabilize the image byelectronically compensating for relativelyminor image shaking that is often annoyingin close-up shots.




4 Press l or m to select Y, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

5 Press l or m to select “DIS”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.


7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn offthe menu screen.• The DIS indicator only appears when

the on-screen indicators are turnedon.

To cancel DIS function

Select “OFF” in step 6 above. The zindicator will disappear.

Notes:• The DIS function cannot compensate for

excessive image shaking.• When image shaking does not occur (e.g.

when using the camcorder on a tripod), turnoff the DIS function. The picture will appearmore natural when the DIS function is off.

S E T T I NG 2D I S1 6 9:A UD I O MOD E

R E T URNW I N D

ONO F F

T A P E

OND I S

DIS indicator


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Self Recording

Normal self recording

Open the LCD monitor and rotate it 180°vertically so that the screen faces the otherway and the subject can monitor the shotwhile you are recording with the viewfinder.

If the camcorder is steadied, you can recordyourself in the scene by watching yourselfon the LCD monitor.

1 Pull out the viewfinder completely.Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angleto the camcorder body (1), and thenrotate it 180° vertically (2).

180˚

90˚

2 Set the Power switch to v.• The subject is displayed in the

viewfinder, and a mirror image of thesubject is displayed on the LCDmonitor.

3 Press the Start/Stop button to beginrecording.

Note:• You can play back images while the monitor

is in the self recording position. Set thecamcorder to Playback mode.

Useful Features

37

Self recording with reversedgrip

Rotate the grip 90° and the LCD monitor180° vertically so that you can recordyourself while holding the grip.

3 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angleto the camcorder body (1), and thenrotate it 180° vertically (2).

4 Set the Power switch to v.5 Press the Start/Stop button to begin

recording.

Notes:• Do not rotate the monitor section to the self

recording position during recording orplayback.

• During self recording, the mode or menuscreen cannot be displayed.

• All of the manual settings are set to AUTOand some other settings will set to OFF in selfrecording.

• You may experience image noise when usingself recording.

• To operate self recording with reversed gripcorrectly, make sure to turn the grip and thelens section so that the Start/Stop button andthe tripod socket face upward, and the lensfaces toward you. The I indicator willappear.

• Be sure that the LCD monitor rotation isexactly 180°, otherwise the image recordedwill be rotated 180° upside-down.

• The viewfinder does not work in selfrecording with reversed grip.

1 Turn the camcorder downward asshown below.

2 Rotate the lens section 90° verticallyas shown below.

90˚

180˚

90°


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Wide Screen (16:9)

The wide screen function lets you recordscenes with the wide-screen feel of a movieshown in a theatre. The top and bottom ofthe picture are masked with black bands toproduce an effective screen aspect ratio of16:9.





5 Press l or m to select “16:9”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

6 Press l or m to select “ON”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.• The picture is displayed with the top

and bottom portions masked.


To return to normal screen




R E T URNW I N D

ONO F F

ON1 6 9:

Normal screen Wide screen

Useful Features

39

Recording in LP (LongPlay Recording) Mode

This camcorder allows you to record in LP(Long Play Recording) mode for approxi-mately 50% more recording time with thesame picture quality as that in SP (StandardPlay Recording) mode.





5 Press l or m to select “TAPESPEED”, then press the centre of theOperation button.

6 Press l or m to select “LP”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn offthe menu screen.• The long play recording mode

indicator only appears when the on-screen indicators are turned on.

To return to SP mode

Select “SP” in step 6 above.

Notes on the use of LPmode

• To record in LP mode, be sure to use aMini DV cassette labelled for use with LPmode.

• Frozen images, mosaic-pattern picturenoise, audio interruptions or audio lossmay occur in the following cases:—When using a tape which is not

designated for use with LP mode.—When a tape recorded in LP mode

under high temperature conditions isplayed back.

—When a tape recorded in LP mode withthe camcorder is played back on a MiniDV player or camcorder from anothermanufacturer.

—When a tape recorded in LP mode isplayed back on a Mini DV player orcamcorder without an LP function.

• Audio dubbing is not possible with LPmode recording.



RE T URN


R E T URN

S PL P

T A P ELP

LPT APE SPE ED

Long play recording mode indicator


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Windbreak

The windbreak function allows you toreduce annoying noise from strong windswhen recording.

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAYbutton until the mode screen appears(see page 27).




5 Press l or m to select “WIND”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.




R E T URNW I N D O F F

ON

ONW I ND

To cancel Windbreak


Note:• Keep the windbreak function off during

normal recording. If left on, the recordedaudio may sound somewhat muffled whenplayed back.

Useful Features

41

Selecting the 16-bitAudio RecordingMode

The camcorder normally records audio inthe 12-bit audio recording mode. For higher-quality audio recording, select the 16-bitaudio recording mode.

1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAYbutton until the mode screen appears(see page 27).




5 Press l or m to select “AUDIOMODE”, then press the centre of theOperation button.

6 Press l or m to select “16bit”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn offthe menu screen.• The 16-bit audio recording mode

indicator only appears when the on-screen indicators are turned on.

To return to 12-bit audio recordingmode

Select “12bit” in step 6 above.

Note:• When using Audio Dubbing with 16-bit audio

recordings, both the dubbed and originalsounds will be recorded in mono (see page57).

1 6 bitAUD I O MODE


R E T URNW I N D

11

26

bitbit

T A P E16 bit

16-bit audio recording mode indicator

Useful FeaturesPlayback

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Using the RemoteControl(Not supplied)

The remote control (RRMCGA149WJSA) isnot supplied with this camcorder. Contactthe nearest SHARP service centre or yourdealer for purchasing as specified part.

Activating

• The example screens shown are forPlayback mode.




4 Press l or m to select Z, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

5 Press l or m to select “REMOTE”,then press the centre of the Operationbutton.




Operating

Aim the remote control at the remote sensorof the camcorder, and press the controlbuttons to operate.

Notes:• Be careful not to expose the remote sensor to

direct sunlight or strong interior lighting, asthis may prevent the remote control fromoperating properly.

• Be sure that there are no obstacles betweenthe remote control and the remote sensor.

• The buttons with an asterisk mark (*) do notwork with this camcorder.

O T H E R S 1

B E E PR EMO T ED E F AU L T

R E T U RN

O NO F F

REMOT E ON

ZOOM (W/T) buttons

SLOW button

* CARD PLAY/MULTI button

Advance/reverse buttons

* Shift buttons

VOLUME +/L buttons

PLAY button

STOP button

PAUSE/STILLbutton

REW button

FF button

DATE button

T/C (TimeCode) button

* CARD REC buttonTAPE REC START/STOP button

Remote sensor

5 m

Useful Features

43

Playback Functionswith the RemoteControl(Not supplied)

You can use the following playbackfunctions with the remote control (notsupplied), if you purchase it as a specifiedpart by contacting the nearest SHARPservice centre or your dealer. (See page 42for use of the remote control.)

Reverse Playback

The reverse playback function allows you toplay back images in reverse.

During playback, press the jbutton.

Slow

The slow function allows you to play backimages in slow motion.

During playback, press the SLOWbutton (f).Then, select the tape direction usingthe advance/reverse buttons (j orh).

To return to normal playback, press thePLAY button (t).

Note:• To protect the tape, the camcorder automati-

cally returns to normal playback if it is left inSlow mode for more than 10 minutes.

Frame Advance

The frame advance function allows you toplay back still images frame by frame.

1 During playback, press thePAUSE/STILL button (g) topause playback.

2 Press the h (or j)button.• Each time you press the

button, the pictureadvances one frameforward (or backward).


Notes:• The sound is off during reverse, slow, and

frame advance playback.• If you use the slow or frame advance function

with the tape recorded in LP mode, thepicture may advance several frames at atime.

• The reverse frame advance moves about 30frames.


Note:• The camcorder automatically returns to

normal playback if it is left in reverseplayback for more than 30 minutes.

Advance/reversebuttons

PAUSE/STILLbutton

SLOW button


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44

Selecting the Dateand Time ofRecording Display

Follow the procedure below to select thedate, or both the date and time, of recordingdisplay on the screen. You can display thedate and time during both recording andplayback.

• The example screens shown are for Playbackmode.

1 Hold down the Lock button and setthe Power switch to v or w.


3 Press l or m on the Operationbutton to select “DATE DISP.”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

4 Press l or m to select the desiredsetting, then press the centre of theOperation button.

• Each time you press l or m, thesetting changes as shown below.

5 Press the DISPLAY button until thedate (or date and time) appears.

Notes:• The date (or date and time) appears when

the on-screen indicators are turned on.• Before recording, make sure that the date

and time have been correctly set. If they havenot been set, the display will be left blankwhen playing back the recording. (Thedisplay will also be left blank for unrecordedor damaged portions of the tape.)

• In Playback mode, the current date and timeare displayed when the tape is not beingplayed back.

OF FAUD I O DUBM E NUD A T E D I SP.

P I C. E F F E C T

DA T E D I S P. DA T E + T I ME

AUD I O DUBP I C . E F F E C T

M E NU

DATEOFF

DATE + T I ME

4002.2 6 .

F FR EWS T O PP L A Y

DATE D I S P. DATE

Useful Features

45

Picture EffectPlayback

These picture effects let you play backimages with a more dramatic effect.

4 Press the DISPLAY button to turn offthe mode screen.

To cancel Picture Effect Playback


Note:• Video images in Picture Effect Playback

mode cannot be transferred via DV cable to apersonal computer.

Types

B/W: The picture is displayed inblack-and-white.

SEPIA: The picture is displayed insepia colour similar to that of an oldphotograph.

SOLARI: The contrast of the subjectis enhanced, creating an uniqueartistic image.

NEGA: The blacks and whites of theimage are reversed and colours ofthe image are inverted.

1 During playback, press the DISPLAYbutton until the mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operationbutton to select “PIC. EFFECT”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

3 Press l or m to select the desiredpicture effect, then press the centre ofthe Operation button.

DA T E D I S P.

OF FAUD I O DUBP I C . E F F E C T

M E NU

B WP I C. E F FECT


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46

Rotate Playback

This function allows you to play backimages rotated 180°.

1 In Playback mode, press the DIS-PLAY button until the mode screenappears.



4 Press l or m to select V, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

5 Press l or m to select “ROTATEPB”, then press the centre of theOperation button.

6 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,then press the centre of the Operationbutton.• Rotate Playback indicator appears.

7 Press m to begin Rotate Playback.• The image is rotated 180° upside

down.

P L A Y B A C K

A UD I OR E T U RN

S E TE X E C UT ER E T U RN

R O T A T E P B

AUDIORO T A T E PB

21 +

To cancel Rotate Playback

Press the centre of the Operation buttonin step 7 above.

Notes:• When executing Rotate Playback during

playback, playback will stop. Press m tobegin Rotate Playback.

• Even if the camcorder is in Rotate Playbackmode, the image output via a DV connectionwill display as normal playback.

• The camcorder will stop and cancel RotatePlayback when the LCD monitor is closed.

• When you want to display the menu screenduring Rotate Playback, press the centre ofthe Operation button.

• In Rotate Playback mode, you cannotperform frame advance, slow, or pictureeffect playback.

Rotate Playback indicator

Advanced Features

47

Power Zoom controlOperation button

DISPLAY button

Manual focus indicator

Manual Focus

Auto Focus may not be able to focus on thesubject in the situations shown below. Insuch situations, set the camcorder toManual Focus mode and focus manually.

Fast-speed shutter beingused under fluorescent

lighting.

Subject is too dark. Lack of contrast, e.g.snow scene.

Fast-moving subject. Background is too bright.

Subject has horizontalstripes.

Subject is being shot through adirty or wet window.

Light reflects off thesubject.

Two subjects at different distancesoverlap in the same scene.

Subject has fine, repeatedpatterns.

Subjects at different distancesappear in the centre of the scene

at the same time.

Advanced FeaturesCamera Recording


2 Press l or m on the Operationbutton to select “FOCUS”, then pressthe centre of the Operation button.

3 Adjust the Power Zoom control toframe the subject as you desire.

4 Press l or m to focus on thesubject.p: To focus on a closer subjecto: To focus on a more distant subject

5 Press the DISPLAY button to turn offthe mode screen.• “MF” appears when the on-screen

indicators are turned on.

Note:• When “MF” is displayed, you can manually

adjust the focus by pressing l or m, even ifthe focus setting screen is not displayed.

S C EN E ME NUS E TM ANU A L

F O CU S /

M E NU

3 0min3 0minMF


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48

Displaying the ManualSetting Screen

You can manually adjust these settings asshown below in the manual setting screen.• White Balance (see page 49)• Manual Iris (see page 50)• Manual Gain (see page 51)


2 Press l or m on the Operationbutton to select “MANUAL SET”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.


Note:• Items that are not selectable are greyed out.

Returning to AutoFocus

You can set Manual Focus mode to AutoFocus mode with the operation below.


2 Press l or m on the Operationbutton to select “AUTO FOCUS”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,then press the centre of the Operationbutton.• The FOCUS setting returns to Auto

Focus mode.

4 Press the DISPLAY button to turn offthe mode screen.

S C EN E ME NUS E TM ANU A L

F O CU SA U T O F O CU S E X E C UT E

S C E N E ME NUE X E C U T E

M E NUF A D E

S E TM ANU A L

WH I T E B A L .I R I SGA I N

F U L L A U T O

R E T URN

E X E C U T E

A U T OA U T O

A U T O

Advanced Features

49

White paper or white clothWhite Balance Lock

The colour of the subject on the screenlooks different depending on lightingconditions. Lock the White Balance if theAuto White Balance does not work properly.


2 Press l or m on the Operationbutton to select “MANUAL SET”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton (see page 48).


4 Press l or m to select “WHITEBAL.”, then press the centre of theOperation button.

5 Press l or m to select “LOCKMODE”.

6 Aim the lens at a white object.

• Adjust the distance of the object sothat the entire screen is white.

7 Press the centre of the Operationbutton to set the white balance lock.• “LOCK MODE” will change to

“LOCK” after pressing the centre ofthe Operation button.

• “LOCK” flashes during the lockingprocedure, and stops flashing afterlocking the white balance.

Note:• If you move the camcorder while

“LOCK” is flashing, “LOCK” may notstop flashing. If this occurs, repeatstep 7.

8 Press the DISPLAY button to turn offthe MANUAL SET screen.

To return to Auto White Balancemode

Press k in step 5 above, then press thecentre of the Operation button.

To return to Full Auto mode

Set the camcorder to Full Auto mode (seepage 52).

Note:• White Balance setting cannot be used

when a scene setting is selected.

WH I T E B A L .I R I S

A U T O

GA I N

F U L L A U T O

R E T URN

L O C K MODEWH I TE B A L .


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50

Manual Iris

The camcorder is preset to Auto Iris mode,which automatically selects the optimalaperture. However, when there is too muchcontrast in brightness between the subjectand background, you may not be able torecord a clear image. In this case, use themanual iris function to correct the iris value.

Background is too bright and subject toodark (backlit subject).• Decrease the iris value to allow more light

through the lens.

Subject is too bright against background.• Increase the iris value to allow less light

through the lens.




4 Press l or m to select “IRIS”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

5 Press l or m to select the desirediris value, then press the centre of theOperation button.

• The number shown is the selectediris value. The adjustment range is 15steps from F1.8 (most light) to F19(least light).


To return to Auto Iris mode




Note:• Manual Iris mode cannot be used when a

scene setting is selected.

WH I T E B A L .I R I S A U T OGA I N

F U L L A U T O

R E T URN


F U L L A U T O

R E T URN

F 2 . 0

E X E C U T EA U T O

A U T O

Advanced Features

51

Manual Gain

When recording in a dark or poorlyilluminated location with Auto Gain mode,the light sensitivity of the camcorder (gain)will be automatically adjusted and therecorded image may be brighter than thesubject actually is. If you want to faithfullyrecord a dark scene in this case, use themanual gain function. You can also adjustthe gain to record a backlit subject brighter.

Example of use

Faithfully recording a dark scene• Select a smaller gain value (to decrease the

light sensitivity).

Background is too bright and subject istoo dark (backlit subject)• Select a larger gain value (to increase the

light sensitivity).




4 Press l or m to select “GAIN”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

5 Press l or m to select the desiredgain value, then press the centre ofthe Operation button.

• The number shown is the selectedgain value. The adjustment range is 7steps from 0dB (lowest sensitivity) toL18dB (highest sensitivity).

Note: If you select a large gain value,the image may appear grainy.


To return to Auto Gain mode




Note:• Manual Gain mode cannot be used when a

scene setting is selected.


A U T OGA I N

F U L L A U T O

R E T URN


F U L L A U T O

R E T URN+ 3 d B

E X E C U T E

A U T OA U T O


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52

Setting theCamcorder to FullAuto Mode

You can set all manual settings, includingwhite balance, iris, gain, but not focus, toFull Auto mode in one operation.




4 Press l or m to select “FULLAUTO”, then press the centre of theOperation button.


E X E C U T EL OC K

GA I N

F U L L A U T O

R E T URN+ 3 d BF 4 0.


F U L L A U T O

R E T URN

E X E C U T E

A U T OA U T O

A U T O



Note:• You cannot select “FULL AUTO” when no

manual settings are currently in use.


E X E C U T E

GA I N

F U L L A U T O

R E T URN

Advanced Features

53

Scene setting indicator

Scene Menu(Program AE)

You can set the camcorder to a shootingmode that

Documents

ENGLISH LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY CAMCORDER VL-Z1Esupport.sharp.net.au/downloads/opmanuals/VLZ1Eom.pdf · vl-z1e/hyou; 03/03/25/18:00 sharp corporation vl-z1e english al liquid crystal