User Manual High Definition Digital Camcorder www.samsung.
before reading this user manual SAFETY WARNINGS What the icons and signs in this user manual mean; Means that there is a potential risk of death or serious injury. WARNING CAUTION CAUTION Means that there is a potential risk of personal injury or damage to the product. To reduce the risk of fire, explosion, electric shock, or personal injury when using your camcorder, follow these basic safety precautions. Means hints or referential pages that may be helpful when operating the camcorder.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON USE About this user manual Thank you for purchasing this Samsung Camcorder. Please read this user manual carefully before you use the camcorder and keep it handy for future reference. Should your camcorder fail to operate correctly, refer to Troubleshooting. This User Manual covers HMX-U15BN, HMX-U15LN, HMX-U15ON, HMX-U15WN models. • Illustrations of model HMX-U15BN are used in this user manual.
before reading this user manual • Copyrights: Please note that this camcorder is intended for individual use only. Data recorded on the storage media in this camcorder using other digital/analog media or devices is protected by the copyright act and cannot be used without permission of the owner of the copyright, except for personal enjoyment. Even if you record an event such as a show, performance or exhibition for personal enjoyment, it is strongly recommended that you obtain permission beforehand.
important safety instructions CAUTION RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL. This symbol indicates that dangerous voltage consisting a risk of electric shock is present within this unit. This symbol indicates that there are important operating and maintenance instructions in the literature accompanying this unit.
important safety instructions 15. Apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus. 16. VENTILATION: Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation to ensure reliable operation of the CAMCORDER and to protect it from overheating. These openings must not be blocked or covered. Never place your CAMCORDER on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface: on or near a radiator or heat register.
23. OVERLOADING: Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock. 24. OBJECTS AND LIQUIDS: Never push objects of any kind into this CAMCORDER through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out a part that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquids of any kind onto the CAMCORDER. Should spillage occur, unplug unit and have it checked by a technician before use. 25.
important safety instructions USER INSTALLER CAUTION: Your authority to operate this FCC certified equipment could be voided if you make changes or modifications not expressly approved by this party responsible for compliance to part 15 FCC rules. NOTE: Hg LAMP(S) INSIDE THIS PRODUCT CONTAIN MERCURY AND MUST BE RECYCLED OR DISPOSED OF ACCORDING TO LOCAL, STATE OR FEDERAL LAWS. For details see lamprecycle.org, eiae.
safety information The safety precautions illustrated below are to prevent personal injury or material damages. Heed all instructions carefully. WARNING Prohibited action. Do not touch the product. Do not disassemble the product. This precaution must be kept. Means that there is a potential risk of serious personal injury. CAUTION Means that there is a potential risk of personal injury or damage to the product Unplug from the power supply.
safety information x Do not connect the AC adaptor unless the plug can be fully inserted with no part of the blades exposed. Do not dispose of battery in a fire as it may explode. Never use cleaning fluid or similar chemicals to clean the camcorder. Do not spray cleaners directly on the camcorder. Keep the camcorder away from water when using it near the beach or pool or when it rains. There is a risk of malfunction or electric shock.
CAUTION Do not press the surface of the LCD with force, or hit it with a sharp object. If you push the LCD surface, display unevenness may occur. Do not drop or expose the camcorder, battery, AC adaptor or other accessories to severe vibrations or impact. This may cause a malfunction or injury. Do not use the camcorder on a tripod (not supplied) in a place where it is subject to severe vibrations or impact. Do not use the camcorder in direct sunlight or near heating equipment.
safety information Use Samsung-approved accessories only. Using products from other manufacturers may cause overheating, fire, explosion, electric shock or personal injuries caused by abnormal operation. Only use the adaptor plug in a socket that is easily accessible. If any problem occurs with the product, you must pull the plug out of the socket to disconnect the power completely. Turning off the power button on the product does not completely disconnect the power.
contents QUICK START GUIDE 06 10 11 13 What’s included with your camcorder Location of controls Identifying the screen displays 15 17 Using the battery Checking the battery state 20 20 21 22 Turning your camcorder on/off Setting the operating modes Using the shortcut menu (OK guide) Using the / / / /OK button FIRST TIME SETTINGS 23 23 24 Turning the power on and setting the date and time Selecting the OSD language GETTING TO KNOW THE CAMCORDER 10 GETTING STARTED 15 BASIC OPERATION OF THE CAMC
contents GETTING READY TO START RECORDING 25 26 28 29 29 RECORDING 30 32 30 33 BASIC PLAYBACK 35 ADVANCED RECORDING 40 ADVANCED PLAYBACK 46 4 25 Inserting/ejecting a memory card (not supplied) Selecting a suitable memory card (not supplied) Recordable time and capacity Using the wrist strap Basic camcorder positioning 34 Recording videos or photos Recording with auto scene detection (Smart auto) Capturing photos during video recording (Dual recording) Zooming in and out 35 36 38 39 Changing
52 52 53 54 54 55 55 56 56 57 57 58 58 59 Setting Menu Items Storage Info Format File No.
quick start guide This quick start guide introduces the basic operation and features of your camcorder. See the reference pages for more information. You can record videos in H.264 format! You can record videos in the H.264 format that are convenient to email and share with your friends and family. You can also take photos with your camcorder. STEP1: Get ready CA CA RD 1. Insert a memory card. • You can use commercially available SDHC (SD High Capacity) or SD memory cards with this camcorder.
Recording videos Recording photos Your camcorder uses advanced H.264 compression technology to give you the clearest video quality. Your camcorder can record high quality photos with a 4:3 or 16:9 aspect ratio. 1. Press the Power ( ) button. 2. Press the Recording start/stop ) button. ( • To stop recording, press the Recording start/stop ( ) button again. [90Min] 1. Press the Power ( 3. Press the Photo ( ) button fully when you are ready. 00:00:00 JAN/01/2010 12:00 AM ) button. 2.
quick start guide STEP3: Play back videos or photos Viewing videos or photos on the LCD screen You can find your desired recordings quickly by using the thumbnail index view. 1. Press the Play ( ) button to select the play mode. 2. In Play Mode, select “HD Video,” “SD Video,” or “Photo.” page 46 • The recorded videos or photos appear in the thumbnail index view. • The thumbnail of the last file you created or played is highlighted. 00:00:55 1/10 3.
Importing and viewing videos/photos from the camcorder to your PC 1. Start the Intelli-studio program by connecting the built-in USB jack of the camcorder to the PC. • A new file saving screen appears with the Intelli-studio main window. Click “Yes.” The uploading procedure starts. 2. Any new files are saved to your PC and registered to “Contents Manager” in the Intelli-studio program. • You can arrange the files by different options such as Face, Date, Location, etc.
getting to know the camcorder WHAT'S INCLUDED WITH YOUR CAMCORDER Your new camcorder comes with the following accessories. If any of these items is missing from your box, call Samsung’s Customer Care Center. Model name Color HMX-U15BN Black HMX-U15LN Blue HMX-U15ON Orange HMX-U15WN White Memory card slot LCD screen Yes Color Lens Digital zoom: x2 • The shape is the same for all models. Only the color is different.
LOCATION OF CONTROLS Front & Left side Jack cover ( HDMI jack DC IN jack OPEN lever Play ( ) button Built-in USB jack Built-in speaker ) LCD screen Recording start/stop ( Zoom (W/T) lever Photo ( ) button MENU button / / / /OK button ) button 11
getting to know the camcorder Rear/Right/Bottom side CA RD Power ( ) button CHG (Charging) indicator Share ( ) button / SMART Memory card / Battery cover Battery release switch Battery slot 12 button Memory card slot Internal microphone Lens Wrist strap hook Tripod receptacle Be careful not to cover the internal microphone and lens during recording.
IDENTIFYING THE SCREEN DISPLAYS The available functions vary depending on the operation mode you’ve selected, and different indicators appear depending on the setting values. PRECHECK! • This On Screen Display (OSD) is shown only when the camcorder is in record ( • Select the record mode by pressing the Play ( ) button. page 20 ) mode.
getting to know the camcorder PRECHECK! • This On Screen Display (OSD) is shown only when the camcorder is in video play ( • Select the play mode by pressing the Play ( ) button. page 20 / SD ) mode.
getting started USING THE BATTERY Purchase extra batteries to allow continuous use of your camcorder. CA CA RD CA RD RD Inserting the battery Ejecting the battery 1. Slide and open the battery cover as shown in the figure. 1. Slide and open the battery cover as shown in the figure. 2. Insert the battery into the battery slot until it locks. • Make sure that the SAMSUNG logo is facing up and the battery is placed as shown in the figure. 2. Slide the Battery release switch and pull out the battery.
getting started Charging the battery PRECHECK! • Be sure to charge the battery before you start using your camcorder. • Use the AC adaptor supplied with the camcorder or the built-in USB jack. 1. Press the Power ( camcorder. ) button to turn off the Using the AC power adaptor 2. Charge the battery using the adaptor or USB. • The charging (CHG) indicator lights up and charging starts. After the battery is fully charged, the charging (CHG) indicator turns green.
CHECKING THE BATTERY STATE You can check the charging state and remaining battery capacity. To check the charging state The color of the LED indicates the power or charging state. Charging (CHG) indicator The color of the charging indicator shows the charging state. Charging state LED color Charging Fully charged Error (Orange) (Green) (Off) Battery level display The battery level display shows the amount of battery power remaining in the battery.
getting started Available running time for the battery Battery type IA-BH130LB Charging time 180min. (AC power adaptor) / 360min. (Built-in USB jack) Video resolution Mode HD SD Continuous recording time 110min. 120min. Playback time 240min. 280min. • Charging time: Approximate time in minutes (min.) required to fully charge a completely exhausted battery. • Recording/Playback time: Approximate time available when you have fully charged the battery. • The times are only for reference.
About the battery life • Battery capacity decreases over time and through repeated use. If decreased usage time between charges becomes significant, it is probably time to replace the battery it with a new one. • Each battery’s life is affected by storage, operating, and environmental conditions. About the running time • Times listed were measured when using the camcorder at 77˚F (25˚C).
basic operation of the camcorder This chapter introduces you to the basic operation procedures of this camcorder, such as turning the power on/off, switching modes, and setting on-screen indicators. Play ( ) button Power ( ) button TURNING YOUR CAMCORDER ON/OFF You can turn the power on or off by pressing the Power ( ) button.
USING THE SHORTCUT MENU (OK GUIDE) The Shortcut menu (OK guide) represents the most frequently accessed functions according to the selected mode. Pressing the OK button displays a shortcut menu of frequently used functions on the LCD screen. For example: Setting Display mode in the Record mode using the Shortcut menu (OK guide) 1. Press the OK button in STBY mode. • The Shortcut menu appears. [90Min] STBY 1606 2. Press the button to select the Display mode. • The Display mode ( ) icon is highlighted.
basic operation of the camcorder USING THE / / / /OK BUTTON Play mode Button Record mode Video play mode: Single view Photo play mode: Single view OK • Access the shortcut menu • Access the shortcut • Confirm selection menu • Exit the shortcut menu • Playback / Pause 22 • Access the shortcut menu • Playback / Playback zoom (x2.0 - x5.
first time settings TURNING THE POWER ON AND SETTING THE DATE AND TIME Set the date and time of your local area when you turn on the camcorder for the first time. If you do not set date and time, the date and time screen appears every time you turn on your camcorder. 1. Press the Power ( ) button to turn on the camcorder. • When you turn on your camcorder for the first time, the Date/Time Set screen appears. 2. Set each date or time value by pressing the / buttons.
first time settings SELECTING THE OSD LANGUAGE You can select the language in which the camcorder displays the menu screen and the messages. 1. Press the MENU button. • The menu screen appears. 2. Press the / button to select "Settings." • The settings menu appears. 3. Press the / button to select "Language," and then press the OK button. 4. Press the / button to select the desired OSD language, and then press the OK button. 5. To exit, press the MENU button.
getting ready to start recording INSERTING/EJECTING A MEMORY CARD (NOT SUPPLIED) CA RD CA RD To insert a memory card To eject a memory card 1. Slide and open the memory card cover as shown in the figure. 1. Slide and open the memory card cover as shown in the figure. 2. Insert the memory card into the card slot until it softly clicks. • Make sure that the terminal portion is facing up and the camcorder is placed as shown in the figure. 2. Gently push the memory card to eject it. 3.
getting ready to start recording SELECTING A SUITABLE MEMORY CARD (NOT SUPPLIED) Compatible memory cards • This camcorder can be used with SD (Secure Digital) and SDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity) cards. We recommend you use an SDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity) card. SD cards up to 2GB are supported with this camcorder. Normal operation is not guaranteed with SD cards bigger than 2GB. • MMC (Multi Media Card) and MMC Plus are not supported.
Handling a memory card • We recommend that you power off before inserting or removing the memory card to avoid data loss. • We can not guarantee that you can use memory cards formatted by other devices. Be sure to format your memory card using this camcorder. • You have to format newly-purchased memory cards, memory cards with data that your camcorder cannot recognize or with data saved by other devices. Note that formatting erases all data on the memory card.
getting ready to start recording RECORDABLE TIME AND CAPACITY • The following tables show the camcorder's maximum recording time and number of images according to video or photo resolution and memory card capacity. • For recording videos and photos, please note the approximate maximum limits.
USING THE WRIST STRAP Attach the strap and place your hand through the loop to prevent the camcorder from being dropped. BASIC CAMCORDER POSITIONING Hold your camcorder properly while recording to avoid covering the lens and the internal microphone with your fingers and pressing any buttons accidently. Adjusting the shooting angle Aim the camcorder as shown in the illustration. 1. Loop the wrist strap around your wrist. 2.
recording RECORDING VIDEOS OR PHOTOS • This camcorder supports both High Definition (HD) and Standard Definition (SD) image resolutions. • It also supports various resolutions for photos. • Set your desired resolution before recording. pages 41, 43 PRECHECK! • Insert a memory card. page 25 • Check the subject on the LCD screen. To record videos 1. Press the Recording start/stop ( ) button. • The recording indicator ( ) appears and recording starts. 2.
QUICK VIEW Using the Quick View function, you can view the most recently recorded video or photo right after recording. 1. Press the OK button in STBY mode right after recording. • The shortcut menu appears on the LCD screen. [90Min] STBY 1606 2. Press the button to view the most recent video or photo you have recorded. • During Quick View, use the / /OK buttons to JAN/01/2010 12:00 AM playback/search the current file. • Press the MENU button to delete the currently displayed recording.
recording RECORDING WITH AUTO SCENE DETECTION (SMART AUTO) User-friendly SMART AUTO optimizes your camcorder to the recording conditions automatically, providing beginners with the best performance. 1. Press the SMART AUTO button. • The Smart Auto ( ) icon appears on the LCD screen. 2. Align your subject in the frame. • The camcorder automatically detects the scene as it aligns the focus. • The scene icon for the detected scene appears on the LCD screen. [90Min] 00:00:00 Appears when recording at night.
CAPTURING PHOTOS DURING VIDEO RECORDING (DUAL RECORDING) Your camcorder can capture photos without interrupting video recording. It is convenient to record a video and photo at the same time without switching modes. ) button. 1. Press the Recording start/stop ( • The recording ( ) indicator appears, and video recording starts. 2. Aim the camcorder at the scene you want, and then press the Photo ( ) button. ) indicator disappears, the • When the ( photo image is recorded without a shutter sound.
recording ZOOMING IN AND OUT • Use the zoom function for close-up or wide-angle recording. • This camcorder allows you to record using digital zoom with the Zoom lever. W: Recording wide area (wide-angle) To zoom in Slide the Zoom lever towards T (telephoto). • The distant subject is gradually magnified. • This camcorder provides the zoom magnification as follows. - Digital zoom: x2 T: Recording enlarged image (telephoto) W: Wide angle To zoom out Slide the Zoom lever towards W (wide angle).
basic playback CHANGING THE PLAYBACK MODE • You can set the record mode and the play mode in turn with the Play ( ) button. • When you shift to the play mode, the most recently created file is highlighted in the thumbnail view. • The camcorder selects the thumbnail display options based on the standby mode you used the last time. • You can select a thumbnail display of HD Videos, SD Videos, or Photos using the “Play Mode” menu.
basic playback PLAYING VIDEOS You can find desired videos quickly using the thumbnail index view. PRECHECK! Insert a memory card. page 25 1. Press the Play ( ) button to select the play mode. • The thumbnail index view appears. • You can select a thumbnail display of HD Videos, SD Videos, or Photos using the “Play Mode” menu. page 46 • When you select a video file, the playing time appears on the screen. • The thumbnail highlight is on the latest created or played file. 2.
Various playback operations Still playback (pause) ( / ZZ ) • Press the OK button during playback. - To resume normal playback, press the OK button again. Search playback ( / ) • During playback, press and hold the / button for reverse search/forward search. • Pressing the / button repeatedly increases the search speed in each direction. - RPS (Reverse Playback Search) rate: x2 x4 x8 x16 x32 - FPS (Forward Playback Search) rate: x2 x4 x8 x16 x32 • To resume normal playback, press the OK button.
basic playback VIEWING PHOTOS You can find and view desired photos quickly using the thumbnail index view. PRECHECK! Insert a memory card. page 25 1. Press the Play ( ) button to select the play mode. • The thumbnail index view appears. • You can select a thumbnail display of HD Videos, SD Videos, or Photos using “Play Mode” menu. page 46 • The thumbnail highlight is on the latest created or played file. 2. Press the / / / button to select the desired photo, and then press the OK button.
ZOOMING DURING PHOTO PLAYBACK You can magnify the played back photo image using the OK button on the camcorder. 1. Select the photo you want to magnify. 2. Adjust the magnification with the OK button. • The screen is framed and the image is magnified starting from the center of the image. • You can zoom in from x2.0 to x5.0 by pressing the OK button. • While you use the playback zoom, you can not select other images. 1/60 3.
advanced recording CHANGING THE MENU SETTINGS • You can change the menu settings to customize your camcorder. • Access the desired menu screen by following the steps below, then change the various settings. For example: Setting the Video Resolution in the record mode 1. Press the MENU button. • The menu screen appears. 2. Press the / button to select "Video Resolution." 3. Select the desired submenu item with the / button, and then press the OK button. 4. To exit, press the MENU button.
Video Resolution You can select the resolution of video to be recorded. PRECHECK! Select the record mode by pressing the Play ( ) button. page 20 1. Press the MENU button / button “Video Resolution.” 2. Select the desired submenu item with the / button. OK button. 3. Press the MENU button to exit the menu. Video Resolution 1080/30p 720/60p 720/30p Menu Exit Submenu items • • • • 1080/30p ( ): Records in the HD (1920x1080 30p) format. 720/60p ( ): Records in the HD (1280x720 60p) format.
advanced recording Slow Motion You can record videos in slow motion. “Slow Motion” is great for analyzing the contents of your recordings such as a golf swing, viewing a bird in flight, etc. PRECHECK! Select the record mode by pressing the Play ( 1. Press the MENU button ) button. page 20 / button “Slow Motion.” 2. Select the desired submenu item with the / button. OK button. Slow Motion Off 240Frame/sec 3. Press the MENU button to exit the menu.
Photo Resolution You can select the resolution of the photo to be recorded. PRECHECK! Select the record mode by pressing the Play ( 1. Press the MENU button “Photo Resolution.” ) button. page 20 / button 2. Select the desired submenu item with the / button. OK button. 3. Press the MENU button to exit the menu. Photo Resolution 4384x3288 3648x2736 3648x2052 6MM 7.5 Menu Exit Submenu items • • • • • • 4384x3288 ( ): Records in 4384x3288 resolution with 4:3 aspect ratio.
advanced recording Time Lapse REC Using the Time Lapse feature, you can program your camcorder to create a time lapse video by recording a series of frames over a set period of time with a set time interval between each frame. The Time Lapse feature lets you create time lapse videos of blooming flowers and similar subjects. PRECHECK! Select the record mode by pressing the Play ( ) button.
Example of Time Lapse Recording Total time for recording Recording interval Timeline The Time Lapse Recording function records image frames at a predefined interval over the total recording time to produce a time-lapse video.
advanced playback PLAYBACK MENU ITEMS M : Accessible : Not accessible • The menu items you can access depend on the operation mode. • For operation details, see the corresponding page. Items Play Mode Delete Protect Edit Divide Share Mark Slide Show File Info Video Thumbnail Single view view M M M M M M M M M M M Photo Default value Thumbnail Single view view M HD Video M M M M M M M M - Page 46 47 48 49 50 51 51 • These items and default values may be changed without a prior notice.
Delete PRECHECK! • Insert a memory card. page 25 • Set the Playback mode to “HD Video,” “SD Video,” or “Photo.” page 46 1. Press the MENU button / button “Delete.” 00:00:55 1/10 2. Select the desired submenu item with the / button. OK button. • The message corresponding to the selected option appears. 3. Select “Yes” with the / /OK button. • The selected image is deleted. Menu Play Mode Delete Select Files Submenu items • Select Files: Select and delete individual videos or photos. 1.
advanced playback Protect You can protect important saved videos or photos from accidental deletion. You can not delete protected images unless you release the protection or format the memory. PRECHECK! • Insert a memory card. page 25 • Set the Playback mode to “HD Video,” “SD Video,” or “Photo.” page 46 1. Press the MENU button / button “Protect.” 00:00:55 1/10 2. Select the desired submenu item with the / button. OK button. • The message corresponding to the selected option appears. 3.
Divide You can divide a video into two, and easily delete a section you no longer need. As this function edits the original file, make sure to back up important recordings separately. PRECHECK! • Insert a memory card. page 25 • Set the Playback mode to “HD Video” or “SD Video.” page 46 1. Press the MENU button button. / button “Edit: Divide” 2. Select the desired video with the / / / • The selected video pause. OK Edit Divide OK button. 3.
advanced playback Share Mark You can set the share mark on a video and directly upload the marked file to the YouTube site. PRECHECK! • Insert a memory card. page 25 • Set the Playback mode to “HD Video” or “SD Video.” page 46 1. Press the MENU button OK button. / button “Share Mark” 2. Select the desired video with the / / / OK button. • The indicator ( ) is displayed on the selected videos. • You can also set the share mark on the video by simply pressing the Share ( ) button. 3.
Slide Show You can playback all the photos stored in the storage media automatically. PRECHECK! • Insert a memory card. page 25 • Set the Playback mode to “Photo.” page 46 Press the MENU button / button “Slide Show” OK button. • The indicator ( ) is displayed and the slide show starts from the current image. • All photos are played back consecutively for 3 seconds each. • To stop the slide show, press the , , OK or MENU button.
system setting SETTING MENU ITEMS You can setup the date/time, OSD language, and display settings of the camcorder. For operation details, see the corresponding page. Items Storage Info Format File No.
Format The format function deletes all files (including protected files) and options on the storage media. You can also use this function if you want to correct problems with the storage media. PRECHECK! Insert a memory card. page 25 1. Press the MENU button / button “Settings.” Settings 2. Press the / button “Format” 3. Select “Yes” with the / /OK button. OK button. Storage Info Format File No.
system setting File No. The camcorder assigns file numbers to recorded files in the order they were recorded. 1. Press the MENU button / button “Settings.” Settings 2. Press the / button “File No.” OK button. 3. Select the desired submenu item with the / button. OK button. Storage Info Format Series File No. Reset Menu Exit Move 4. Press the MENU button to exit the menu.
LCD Brightness You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen to compensate for ambient lighting conditions. 1. Press the MENU button 2. Press the / button / button “Settings.” Settings “LCD Brightness” OK button. 3. Select the desired submenu item with the / button. OK button. LCD Brightness Normal Auto LCD OffBright Beep Sound Menu Exit Move 4. Press the MENU button to exit the menu. Submenu items • Normal: Standard brightness. • Bright: Brightens the LCD screen.
system setting Beep Sound You can set the beep sound on or off. If you hear a beep sound when operating the menu settings, the setting is turned on. 1. Press the MENU button 2. Press the / button / button “Settings.” Settings “Beep Sound” OK button. Beep Sound Off On Shutter Sound Auto Power Off 3. Select the desired submenu item with the / button. OK button. Menu Exit Move 4. Press the MENU button to exit the menu. Submenu items • Off: The beep sound is off.
Auto Power Off To save battery power, you can set the "Auto Power Off" function to 5 Min. This setting turns off the camcorder if there is no operation for five minutes. 1. Press the MENU button / button “Settings.” 2. Press the / button “Auto Power Off” OK button. 3. Select the desired submenu item with the / button. OK button. 4. Press the MENU button to exit the menu.
system setting TV Display When the camcorder is connected to a TV, you can turn the camcorder’s on screen display (OSD) on and off on the TV screen. 1. Press the MENU button 2. Press the / button / button “Settings.” “TV Display” OK button. Settings 3. Select the desired submenu item with the / button. OK button. TV Display Off Default Set On Language Menu Exit Move 4. Press the MENU button to exit the menu.
Language You can select a language in which to display the menu and messages. page 24 Settings TV Display : Default Set Language Menu Submenu items “English” “한국어” “Français” “Deutsch” “Italiano” “Español” “Português” “Русский” “中文” ” “ Exit Settings TV Display English Default Set 한국어 Language : Français Menu Exit Move • “Language” options may be changed without prior notice.
using with a Windows computer WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH A WINDOWS COMPUTER You can perform the following functions by connecting your camcorder to your Windows computer with the built-in USB plug and using the Intelli-studio software built into your camcorder. Main functions • Intelli-studio editing software main functions: - Playing back recorded videos or photos. page 63 - Editing recorded videos or photos. page 63 - Uploading the recorded videos and photos to Youtube, Flickr, FaceBook, etc.
USING THE Intelli-studio PROGRAM Using the Intelli-studio program built into your camcorder, you can transfer video and photo files to your PC and edit them on your PC screen. Intelli-studio offers the most convenient way for you to manage your video and photo files. Step 1. Connecting the USB plug 1. Set “PC Software: On.” page 57 • This is the default setting. 2. Connect the built-in USB plug of the camcorder to the USB port of the PC. • A new file saving screen appears with the Intelli-studio main window.
using with a Windows computer Step 2. About the Intelli-studio main window When the Intelli-studio starts up, thumbnails of videos and photos are displayed in the main window. 1 2 3 4 5 6 ! 0 7 9 8 1. Menu items 2. Switches to Library of the computer and connected camcorder. 3. Switches to Photo Edit mode. 4. Switches to Movie Edit mode. 5. Switches to Share mode. 6. Changes the size of thumbnails. Displays all files (videos and photos). Displays video files only. Displays photo files only.
Step 3. Playing back videos or photos You can play back recordings conveniently using the Intelli-studio application. 1. Run the Intelli-studio program. page 62 2. Click the desired folder to display your recordings. • Video or photo thumbnails appear on the screen, depending on the folder you selected. 3. Choose the video or photo that you want to play. • You can view the file information by moving the mouse over the thumbnail.
using with a Windows computer Step 5. Sharing the videos/photos online Share your contents with the world by uploading photos and videos directly to a web site with one click. 1. Select the videos or photos you want to share. 2. Click “Share” on the Intelli-studio browser. • The selected file appears on the sharing window. 3. Click the web site you would like to upload files to. • You can choose “YouTube,” “Flickr,” “Facebook,” or another web site you want to use for your uploading management. 4.
Direct uploading your videos onto YouTube The One-Press Share ( ) button lets you directly upload and share your videos on YouTube. Just press the Share ( ) button while your camcorder is connected to a Windows computer using the built-in USB plug. Step 1 On the camcorder, select a video you want to upload in the video thumbnail index view, and then press the Share ( ) button. Repeat for each video you want to upload. • The Share mark ( ) appears on each video.
using with a Windows computer Installing Intelli-studio on a Windows computer • The Intelli-studio application will run faster if you install it on your Windows computer. Also, if you install it on your computer, it can be updated automatically. • Follow these directions to install Intelli-studio onto your Windows computer: Click “Tool” “Install Intelli-studio on PC” on the Intelli-studio screen, then follow the steps below.
USING AS A REMOVABLE STORAGE DEVICE You can transfer or copy recorded data to a Windows computer by connecting the camcorder’s USB plug to the computer’s USB port. Viewing the contents of storage media 1. Set “PC Software: Off.” page 57 2. Insert a memory card. 3. Connect the built-in USB plug of the camcorder to the USB port of the PC. page 61 • The “Removable Disk” or “Samsung” window appears on the PC’s screen after a moment.
using with a Windows computer Structure of folders and files on the storage media • The folder and file structure for storage media is below. • File naming follows DCF (Design rule for Camera File System) rules. Video file (H.264) ➀ • The HD-quality (1920x1080 30p, 1280x720 60p, or 1280x720 30p) videos have an HDV_####.MP4 format. • The SD-quality videos have an SDV_####.MP4 format. • The file number automatically increases when a new video file is created. • Up to 9,999 files can be stored in one folder.
connecting to other devices CONNECTING TO A TV You can view the recorded videos and photos on a large screen by connecting the camcorder to an HDTV or Standard TV. PRECHECK! Insert a memory card. page 25 Using a mini HDMI cable (not supplied) To play back the HD-quality (1080/30p, 720/60p, or 720/30p) videos, you need an HDTV (high definition TV). Camcorder HDTV Signal flow Mini HDMI Cable (not supplied) 1.
connecting to other devices Understanding the HDMI cable HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) is a compact audio/video interface for transmitting uncompressed digital data. • You can use only a C to A type mini HDMI cable with this camcorder. • The HDMI jack on the camcorder provides output only. • Use only HDMI 1.3 cable when connecting to the HDMI jack of this camcorder. If you connect using HDMI cable that is not version 1.3 compatible, the screen display may not work.
troubleshooting Before contacting a Samsung authorized service center, perform the following simple checks. They may save you the time and expense of an unnecessary call. WARNING INDICATORS AND MESSAGES Power source Message Icon Low Battery - Check the authenticity of this battery - Informs that... The battery is almost discharged. Action • Charge the battery or use the AC power adaptor. The battery can not pass authenticity check. • Check whether the battery is authentic.
troubleshooting Recording Message Icon Informs that ... Action Write Error - Problems occured while writing data to the storage media. • Back up important files on the storage media to your PC, and then format the storage media using the camcorder. The limit of video files is reached. Cannot record video. - Folder and files have reached their maximum capacity and you can not record. • Back up important files on the storage media to your PC, and then format the storage media using the camcorder.
SYMPTOMS AND SOLUTIONS If these instructions do not solve your problem, contact your nearest Samsung authorized service center. Power Symptom Explanation/Solution The camcorder does not turn on. • Charge the battery. • If you use an AC power adaptor, make sure it is properly connected to the wall outlet. • Unplug the AC power adaptor, and reconnect the power supply to the camcorder before turning it on. The power automatically turns off.
troubleshooting Storage Media Symptom Explanation/Solution Memory card functions are not operable. • Insert a memory card into your camcorder properly. page 26 • If you are using a memory card formatted on a computer, format it again directly on your camcorder. page 53 Image cannot be deleted. • Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the memory card (SDHC/SD memory card), if any. page 26 • You cannot delete protected images. Remove protection from the image.
Recording Symptom Explanation/Solution The recording stops automatically. • There is no more free space for recording on the storage media. Back up important files on your PC and format the storage media or delete unnecessary files. • If you use a memory card with a low write speed, the camcorder automatically stops recording videos and the corresponding message appears on the LCD screen. When recording a subject illuminated by bright light, vertical lines appear.
troubleshooting Adjusting the image during recording Symptom It is out of focus. Explanation/Solution • This camcorder has no user-adjustable focus control function. • The minimum focal length between the camcorder and the subject is 20cm (about 7.87 inches). Playback on your camcorder Symptom Explanation/Solution Playback (play/pause) function does not work. • Press the Play ( ) button to set the Play mode. • Image files recorded on another camcorder may not play on your camcorder.
Connecting to a computer Symptom Explanation/Solution Your computer does not recognize your camcorder. • Disconnect the built-in USB plug of the camcorder from the PC, restart the PC, and then reconnect camcorder correctly. Cannot play a video file properly on a PC. • A video codec is needed to play the file recorded on your camcorder. Install or run the built-in edit software (Intelli-studio). • Check whether the built-in USB plug of the camcorder is connected in the proper direction.
troubleshooting General operations Symptom The date and time are incorrect. Explanation/Solution • Has the camcorder been left unused for a long period of time? The backup built-in rechargeable battery may be discharged. page 16 Menu Symptom Menu items are grayed out 78 Explanation/Solution • You cannot select grayed items in the current recording/playback mode. • If there is no storage media inserted, it cannot be selected and will be dimmed on the menu : "Storage Info", "Format", etc.
maintenance & additional information MAINTENANCE Cautions when storing • For safekeeping of the camcorder, turn off the camcorder. - Remove the battery and AC power adaptor. pages 15, 16 - Remove the memory card. page 25 LCD screen • Do not push the LCD screen too hard or strike it with anything. • When using the camcorder in cold conditions, an afterimage may appear on the LCD screen. This is not a malfunction. • If you leave the power on for a long time, the surface around the LCD screen becomes hot.
maintenance & additional information USING YOUR CAMCORDER ABROAD • Each country or region has its own electric and color systems. • Before using your camcorder abroad, check the following items. Power sources The provided AC adaptor lets you power and use your camcorder in any country/region that has AC power in the 100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz range. You may need a commercially available AC plug adaptor depending on the design of local wall outlets.
specifications Model name HMX-U15BN/HMX-U15LN/HMX-U15ON/HMX-U15WN Video signal Picture compression format Audio compression format Image device Lens Focal length NTSC H.264 (MPEG-4.AVC) AAC (Advanced Audio Coding) 1/2.3”, CMOS (Complementary MetalOxide Semiconductor) F2.6, Digital zoom: x2 6.5mm LCD screen Size/dot number LCD screen method 2 inch / 154k TFT LCD Connectors HDMI output USB output C type connector Built-in USB Power source 5.0V (using AC power adaptor), 3.
warranty SAMSUNG LIMITED WARRANTY SAMSUNG Electronics America Inc. (SEA), warrants that this product is free from defective material and workmanship. SEA further warrants that if product fails to operate properly within the specified warranty period and the failure is due to improper workmanship or defective material, SEA will repair or replace the product at it’s option. All warranty repairs must be performed by a SEA authorized service center.
If you have any questions or comments relating to Samsung products, please contact the SAMSUNG customer care center Samsung Electronics America, inc. 1-800-SAMSUNG (726-7864) www.samsung.
