LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY CAMCORDER VL-Z300S-S VL-Z100S-S OPERATION MANUAL Downloaded From VideoCamera-Manual.
Downloaded From VideoCamera-Manual.
Before using the camcorder, please read this operation manual carefully, especially page vi. OPERATION MANUAL WARNING To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this apparatus to dripping or splashing. No objects filled with liquids, such as vases, should be placed on the apparatus. This equipment should be used with the recommended AC adapter or battery pack. ENGLISH CAUTION To prevent shock, do not open the cabinet. No user serviceable parts inside.
Contents Supplied Accessories ......................................................................................... v Optional Accessories .......................................................................................... v Precautions ........................................................................................................ vi Operation References Part Names ............................................................. 1 Warning Indicators .......................................
Useful Features Control Buttons ..................................................... 28 Using the Mode Screens ...................................... 28 Using the Menu Screens ....................................... 29 Camera Recording Setting the Digital Zoom ....................................... 30 Backlight Compensation (BLC) ............................ 31 Gain-up ................................................................. 32 Fade In and Fade Out ...........................................
Contents Advanced Features Playback Using the Time Code ............................................ 57 Audio Dubbing Feature ......................................... 58 Selecting the Audio Playback Mode ..................... 60 Editing ................................................................... 61 Recording from an External Source (VL-Z300 only) .................................................... 62 Editing with the DV Terminal (IEEE1394) ..............
Supplied Accessories Battery pack BT-L227 AC adapter CR1216 type lithium battery for camcorder Lens cap Power cord Audio/video/S-video cable Optional Accessories Standard-life battery pack BT-L227 External battery with hand strap BT-LCA1 Downloaded From VideoCamera-Manual.
Precautions • Before recording an important scene, please perform the recording test, then playback to check if the scene was recorded properly. If noise occurs, use a commercially available cleaning tape to clean the video heads (see page viii). • When the camcorder is not in use, remember to remove the cassette tape, turn off the power, and disconnect the camcorder from the power source. • Do not aim the lens at the sun.
Dew Formation • What is “dew formation”? For example, when bringing the camcorder indoors after skiing, place it in a plastic bag. When cold water is poured into a glass, dew drops form on the glass. This clinging of water drops is called dew formation. • When dew forms in your camcorder. Dew will gradually form on the head drum of your camcorder and make the video tape stick to the head. This causes damage both to the head and the tape. When dew forms, recording and playback may not function properly.
Precautions Dirty Video Heads When the video heads have become clogged with dirt (dust and tape coating particles), Striped noise Mosaic noise • mosaic-like noise appears on the playback picture. (See illustrations above.) • playback pictures do not move. • during playback, the whole screen becomes blue. Using a Cleaning Tape (Commercially Available) You can clean the video head with a commercially available cleaning tape. Notes: • Excessive use of the cleaning tape may cause damage to the video heads.
Operation References Part Names Operation References For details on the use of each part, refer to the page number indicated in parentheses. Front view Operation button (p. 28) Zoom lens Monaural microphone DISPLAY/MODE SET button (p. 28)/ LCD LAMP button (p. 22) MENU button (p. 29) Downloaded From VideoCamera-Manual.
Operation References Operation References Left view DV terminal (pp. 64, 66) LCD monitor (p. 18) DC IN jack (pp. 7, 8) Terminal cover (pp. 27, 61, 62, 64, 66) AV terminal (pp. 27, 61, 62, 66) Lithium battery cover (p. 10) Dioptre adjustment dial (p. 17) Tripod socket* Battery release (pp. 6, 10) * When attaching a tripod with a guide pin, do not attach the pin to the bottom of the camcorder. Downloaded From VideoCamera-Manual.
Right view PHOTO button (p. 35) Operation References Window cleaning cover (p. 73) Power Zoom Wide angle/ Telephoto control (p. 21)/ VOLume control (p. 26) Viewfinder (pp. 16, 17) STANDBY button (p. 22) STANDBY indicator (p. 22) POWER/CHARGE (RED) indicator (pp. 7, 8, 20) Speaker Record Start/Stop button (p. 20) Power switch (v Camera Hand strap (p. 15) Recording mode/w Playback mode select switch) (pp. 20, 25) Cassette holder (p. 9) Cassette compartment door release (p.
Operation References Operation References Warning Indicators If a warning indicator appears on the screen, follow the specified instructions. Displayed for the first 3 seconds Displayed after 3 seconds Description of warning There is no video cassette in the camcorder. Insert a cassette (see page 9). I NSER T A CASS E T TE. E J E C T THE CAS SE T T E . E J E C T THE CAS SE T T E . The video cassette is defective and should be removed (see page 9). CASSE T T E NOT RE CORDA BL E. P RO T E C T .
Preparation Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack 3 Slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow with the “m” mark facing out. Attaching Preparation Power switch 1 2 Make sure that the Power switch is set to OFF. “m” mark 4 Push the battery pack in the direction of the arrow until it clicks. Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body. 90° Downloaded From VideoCamera-Manual.
Preparation Removing Preparation 1 Make sure that the Power switch is set to OFF, then open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body. 90° 2 Slide the battery release in the direction of the arrow. Notes: • BEFORE REMOVING THE BATTERY PACK, ALWAYS STOP RECORDING OR PLAYBACK AND TURN THE POWER OFF. Removing the battery pack while shooting or during playback may damage the tape by causing it to wrap around the video head drum.
Charging the Battery Pack Attach the battery pack to the camcorder, and make sure that the Power switch is set to OFF. 2 Connect the supplied power cord to the AC power socket on the AC adapter, and insert the AC plug into a power outlet. BT-L227 120 145 125 125 • The chart specifies the approximate times in minutes. AC power socket To power outlet 3 Max. Max.
Preparation Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet Preparation You can also power the camcorder from a power outlet by using the supplied AC adapter. Note: • The supplied AC adapter is specially designed for use with this camcorder, and should not be used as a power supply for other camcorders. 1 Make sure that the Power switch is set to OFF. 2 Connect the supplied power cord to the AC power socket on the AC adapter, and insert the AC plug into a power outlet.
Inserting and Removing a Cassette Inserting 1 4 Wait for the cassette holder to fully retract. Close the compartment door by pressing its centre until it clicks into place. • After confirmation sound, the cassette holder extends and opens automatically. Cassette compartment door release Preparation Attach the power source to the camcorder, then slide and hold the cassette compartment door release as you open the cassette compartment door. Removing Perform step 1 above, then take out the cassette.
Preparation Installing the Lithium Batteries 5 Insert the CR1216 type lithium battery into the compartment with the H side of the battery facing out. Installing the Memory Battery CR1216 type lithium battery Preparation The supplied CR1216 type lithium battery is used to store the memory of the date and time settings. 1 Make sure that the Power switch is set to OFF. 2 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body.
Installing the Battery to Remote Control (Not supplied) 1 2 Insert a pointed object such as the tip of a ballpoint pen to open the battery holder. Place the CR2032 type lithium battery on the battery holder with the H side facing down. CAUTION: Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. For camcorder, replace only with same or equivalent type CR1216, for remote control unit, replace only with same or equivalent type CR2032, both recommended by the equipment manufacturer.
Preparation Selecting the Language for the On-screen Display This camcorder allows you to choose English, German or French as the on-screen display language. 2 3 Operation button Press l or m to select Z, then press the centre of the Operation button. Press l or m to select “LANGUAGE” (“SPRACHE” or “LANGUE”), then press the centre of the Operation button. Preparation • The language selection screen appears.
Setting the Date and Time Example: Setting the date to 2 June 2005 (2. 6. 2005) and the time to 10:30 am (10:30). Operation button 4 Press m or l to select “2” (day), then press the centre of the Operation button. SE T T I NG 5 Power switch MENU button Note: • Before performing the steps below, make sure that the CR1216 type lithium battery has been installed (see page 10). • The example screens shown are for Camera mode. 1 Hold down the Lock button and set the Power switch to v or w.
Preparation Changing to the 12-hour Time Mode 1 After performing step 8 on the previous page, press l or m to select “12H/24H”, then press the centre of the Operation button. Using the Lens Cap Attach the strap of the lens cap to the hand strap as shown below. Preparation O T H E RS 2 POW E R S A V E T I ME C OD E T C OUT 2 4H 12H / 24H DA T E D I S P . 1 2 H S E T T I NG R E T UR N 2 Press l or m to select “12H”, then press the centre of the Operation button.
Adjusting the Hand Strap 1 Open the hand strap flap (1) and grip strap (2). Rotate the grip 135° forward or 105° downward so that you can record images easily from high or low angle (see page 19). Preparation Grip strap Using the Grip 135° Hand strap flap 2 Loosen the grip strap, pass your right hand through the hand strap, and put your thumb close to the Record Start/ Stop button and your index finger on the Power Zoom control. Then, pull the grip strap tight until it fits snugly.
Preparation Detaching the Lens Hood You can record the subject using the electronic viewfinder. You can also watch playback through the viewfinder. Viewfinder Preparation Before using a commercially available conversion lens, detach the lens hood as shown below. Using the Viewfinder Power switch 1 Pull out the viewfinder completely. 2 Hold down the Lock button and set the Power switch to v or w. Note: • You cannot attach the supplied lens hood or lens cap to a conversion lens.
Closing the viewfinder Adjusting the dioptre Push in the viewfinder completely. Adjust the dioptre according to your eyesight when the picture in the viewfinder or the characters on the on-screen display is not clear. Pull out the viewfinder completely. 3 While looking through the viewfinder, turn the dioptre adjustment dial until the indicators in the viewfinder are clearly visible. Hold down the Lock button and set the Power switch to v.
Preparation Using the LCD Monitor • You can also fold the LCD monitor into the camcorder with the screen facing out for watching playback on the monitor. Preparation You can use the LCD monitor to play back recordings that you have made or to watch the subject during recording. 3 Power switch LCD monitor 1 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body. Hold down the Lock button and set the Power switch to v or w. • A picture displays on the LCD monitor.
Tips on Recording Positions To create images that are easy to watch during playback, try to record with an upright posture and steady hands to prevent a shaky image. Holding the camcorder Basic posture Shooting from a high angle Place the viewfinder eyecup firmly against your eye. Turn the LCD monitor so that the screen faces downward. Place your elbows against your sides. Shooting from a low angle Balance your weight on both legs. Turn the LCD monitor so that the screen faces upward.
Basic Operations Basic Operations Camera Recording Camera Recording 3 Easy Camera Recording in Full Auto Mode Press the Record Start/Stop button to begin recording. Basic Operations • Before you start recording, perform the operations described on pages 5 through 19 to prepare your camcorder for recording. REC Note: • Before recording an important scene, please perform the recording test, then playback to check if the scene was recorded properly.
Zooming To pause recording Press the Record Start/Stop button again. Recording pauses, and the camcorder enters Recording Standby mode. Zooming allows you to move visually closer to or further from a subject without physically changing your position. When using the optical zoom, you can enlarge the subject up to 10K.
Basic Operations Camera Recording Power Standby Mode Basic Operations Power Standby mode allows you to prevent accidental recording by locking all operations except cancelling the mode. Turning on/off the Backlight You can see the on-screen display outdoors on a sunny day or in a location with bright lighting even when the backlight turns off. Also, this function is useful when watching playback on a TV. STANDBY button Hold down the STANDBY button for more than 2 seconds when you pause recording.
Auto Focus The camcorder is preset to Auto Focus mode, which is designed to focus on most types of subjects. In Auto Focus mode, the camcorder automatically focuses on the subject in the centre of the scene. Always keep the subject in the centre of the scene. Macro Shots This camcorder lets you shoot close-up images of small objects such as flowers and insects, or make title frames for your videos. When you want to record a magnified image of a subject which is within approximately 1.
Basic Operations Camera Recording Remaining Battery Power Display When using the camcorder with the battery pack as the power source, the remaining battery power indicator is displayed. If the battery power becomes very low, a warning indicator appears. Replace the battery pack. Information Display for Battery Usage When the camcorder operates with the battery pack, the battery usage indicator appears beside the remaining battery power indicator.
Basic Operations Playback Playback The LCD monitor screen functions as a handy playback monitor. Nothing needs to be connected, allowing instant on-screen playback with the sound through the built-in speaker. Note: • If you press the Record Start/Stop button in Playback mode, the “g” mark appears and the camcorder enters Recording Standby mode. If you do not intend to record, press l to turn the “g” mark off, then press m to begin playback.
Basic Operations Playback Volume Control Video Search Basic Operations When the camcorder is in Playback mode, push the Volume control to the L or + side to increase (1) or decrease (2) the volume. The volume level indicator will appear on the LCD screen during adjustment only. Once the Volume control is released, the volume level indicator will disappear shortly afterwards. The video search function makes it easy to search for a desired scene on the tape.
Watching Playback on a TV Note: • Check that the camcorder, TV, VCR and other equipment to be used are turned off before making any connections. Picture noise or malfunction may occur if any of the above is left on while making a connection. You can connect the camcorder to a TV to allow a larger audience to enjoy playback. 1 Open the terminal cover on the camcorder (see page 2). 3 Turn on the TV and set it to the “AV” or “VIDEO” channel. (See the operation manual of your TV.
Useful Features Useful Features Control Buttons Operation button Using the Mode Screens In the mode screens, you can adjust the camcorder settings by using the Operation button. 1 • See pages 80 and 81 for the mode items you can select in each mode. • Steps 2 to 4 show how to change the SCENE MENU setting in Camera mode. Power switch DISPLAY/MODE SET button 2 Operation button Hold down the Lock button and set the Power switch to v or w.
Using the Menu Screens 4 Use the menu screens to adjust the various camcorder settings. Press l or m to select the desired menu item (DGTL ZOOM), then press the centre of the Operation button. Example Operation button S E T T I NG 1 Q K . R E T U RN W I D E MOD E DG T L Z O OM OF F TAPE SPEE D 4 0 R E T URN 500 • You can press k, instead of the centre of the Operation button. Power switch MENU button 1 Hold down the Lock button and set the Power switch to v or w.
Useful Features Useful Features Camera Recording Setting the Digital Zoom The “D” digital zoom indicator is displayed during digital zooming. You can select three different zoom ranges: 1–10K (optical zoom), 10–40K (digital zoom) or 10–500K (digital zoom). The digital zoom allows you to record powerful close-up pictures with the same operation as normal zooming. Useful Features Notes: • The digital zoom is in addition to the optical zoom giving a combined maximum zoom range of 1–500K.
Backlight Compensation (BLC) When the subject is backlit, the image will appear dark if it is recorded normally. Use the backlight compensation (BLC) function to brighten the entire screen. 1 4 Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET button to turn off the mode screen. • “x” appears when on-screen indicators are turned on, indicating that the backlight compensation is now working. PAUSE In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY/ MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.
Useful Features Camera Recording To cancel the gain-up function Gain-up When you are recording in a dark or poorly illuminated location, “LIGHT” is displayed on the screen. Use the gain-up function to record a brighter picture. Note: • At locations where lighting is adequate, “LIGHT” will not appear. The gain-up function cannot be used in this case. 1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY/ MODE SET button until the mode screen appears. Select “OFF” in step 3 above.
Fade In and Fade Out The fade function allows you to gradually bring the image and sound in or out at the beginning or end of a scene for creating scene transitions. This is especially effective in creating a dramatic change in scenery. 4 Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET button until on-screen indicators appear. 5 Press the Record Start/Stop button to begin recording. • The picture turns white, and the image and sound fade in.
Useful Features Camera Recording Quick Return If while playing back your tape you want to quickly return to the last recorded scene and start recording again, use the quick return function. 1 In Recording Standby mode, press the MENU button to display the menu screen. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select T, then press the centre of the Operation button. 3 Press l or m to select “QK. RETURN”, then press the centre of the Operation button.
Edit Search The edit search function lets you search, without switching from Camera mode to Playback mode, for the point on the tape where you wish to start recording next. Still Recording You can record continuous still images of subjects. 1 In Recording Standby mode, press the PHOTO button fully. • A still image of the subject is displayed. 2 Operation button 1 When you find the point where you want to begin recording, release the button. • The still image of the subject will be recorded.
Useful Features Camera Recording Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) Wide Mode The digital image stabilization (DIS) function allows you to stabilize the image by electronically compensating for relatively minor image shaking that is often annoying in close-up shots. 1 In Camera mode, press the MENU button to display the menu screen. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select Y, then press the centre of the Operation button.
Power Save Mode Power save mode will turn off the camcorder automatically to save battery power when the camcorder is not in use for 5 or 10 minutes. Note: • To resume recording or playback, set the Power switch to OFF, then back to v or w. • The example screens shown are for Camera mode. Turn on the camcorder, then press the MENU button to display the menu screen. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select ~, then press the centre of the Operation button.
Useful Features Camera Recording Self Recording 2 Set the Power switch to v. • The subject is displayed in the viewfinder, and a mirror image of the subject is displayed on the LCD monitor. Normal self recording Open the LCD monitor and rotate it 180° vertically so that the screen faces the other way and the subject can monitor the shot while you are recording with the viewfinder. If the camcorder is steadied, you can record yourself in the scene by watching yourself on the LCD monitor.
Self recording with reversed grip 3 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body (1), and then rotate it 180° vertically (2). Rotate the grip 105° and the LCD monitor 180° vertically so that you can record yourself while holding the grip. 90° 180° 1 Rotate the lens section 105° vertically as shown below. 4 5 Set the Power switch to v. Begin recording. Notes: • Do not rotate the monitor section to the self recording position during recording or playback.
Useful Features Camera Recording Recording in LP (Long Play Recording) Mode Useful Features This camcorder allows you to record in LP (Long Play Recording) mode for approximately 50% more recording time with the same picture quality as that in SP (Standard Play Recording) mode. 1 In Camera mode, press the MENU button to display the menu screen. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select T, then press the centre of the Operation button.
Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode The camcorder normally records audio in the 12-bit audio recording mode. For higherquality audio recording, select the 16-bit audio recording mode. 1 In Camera mode, press the MENU button to display the menu screen. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select Y, then press the centre of the Operation button. 3 Press l or m to select “AUDIO MODE”, then press the centre of the Operation button.
Useful Features Useful Features Playback Playback Using the Remote Control (Not Supplied) Operating Aim the remote control at the remote sensor of the camcorder, and press the control buttons to operate. The remote control (RRMCGA237WJSA) is not supplied with this camcorder. Contact the nearest SHARP service centre or your dealer for purchasing as specified part. Press the MENU button to display the menu screen.
Selecting the Date and Time of Recording Display 5 Press the MENU button until the date (or date and time) appears. 2. Follow the procedure below to select the date, or both the date and time, of recording display on the screen. You can display the date and time during both recording and playback. • The example screens shown are for Playback mode. Press the MENU button to display the menu screen. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select ~, then press the centre of the Operation button.
Useful Features Playback Picture Effect Playback These picture effects let you play back images with a more dramatic effect. Types Useful Features B/W: The picture is displayed in black-and-white. SEPIA: The picture is displayed in sepia colour similar to that of an old photograph. SOLARI: The contrast of the subject is enhanced, creating an unique artistic image. NEGA: The blacks and whites of the image are reversed and colours of the image are inverted.
Rotate Playback This function allows you to play back images rotated 180°. 1 In Playback mode, press the MENU button to display the menu screen. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select V, then press the centre of the Operation button. 3 Press l or m to select “ROTATE PB”, then press the centre of the Operation button. Notes: • When executing rotate playback during playback, playback will stop. Press m to begin rotate playback.
Useful Features Playback Stretch Playback To cancel stretch playback Stretch playback allows you to playback a squeezed image with the wide screen feel of a movie shown in a theatre. Useful when you want to play back images recorded by a camera other than this camcorder in wide mode on a 4:3 TV. Squeezed image (4:3) Stretch playback (16:9) In Playback mode, press the DISPLAY/MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.
Advanced Features Camera Recording Manual Focus Operation button Power Zoom control Auto Focus may not be able to focus on the subject in the situations shown below. In such situations, set the camcorder to Manual Focus mode and focus manually. Subject is too dark. Lack of contrast, e.g. snow scene. Fast-moving subject. Background is too bright. Subject has horizontal stripes. Subject is being shot through a dirty or wet window. Two subjects at different distances overlap in the same scene.
Advanced Features Camera Recording Returning to Auto Focus Displaying the Manual Setting Screen You can set Manual Focus mode to Auto Focus mode with the operation below. You can manually adjust these settings as shown below in the manual setting screen. 1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY/ MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.
Adjusting White Balance 3 Press l or m to select “WHITE BAL.”, then press the centre of the Operation button. The colour of the subject on the screen looks different depending on lighting conditions. Selecting a White Balance setting that matches the lighting conditions. FULL AUTO WH I T E B A L . A U T O IRIS GA I N S HU T . S P E E D R E T U RN Types AUTO: Colouring adjusted automatically for the current lighting condition. 4 LOCK MODE: Fix the setting to the standard balance (White Balance Lock).
Advanced Features Camera Recording Locking 1 2 Select “LOCK MODE” in step 4 in “Selecting” on the previous page. To return to Auto White Balance mode Aim the lens at a white object. Press j in step 4 in “Selecting” on the previous page or step 3 in “Locking” to display “AUTO”. • Adjust the distance of the object so that the entire screen is white. To return to Full Auto mode White paper or white cloth Set the camcorder to Full Auto mode (see page 54).
Manual Iris 3 The camcorder is preset to Auto Iris mode, which automatically selects the optimal aperture. However, when there is too much contrast in brightness between the subject and background, you may not be able to record a clear image. In this case, use the manual iris function to correct the iris value. Background is too bright and subject too dark (backlit subject). Press l or m to select “IRIS”, then press the centre of the Operation button. FULL AUTO WH I T E B A L . AUTO IRIS GA I N S HU T .
Advanced Features Camera Recording Manual Gain When recording in a dark or poorly illuminated location with Auto Gain mode, the light sensitivity of the camcorder (gain) will be automatically adjusted and the recorded image may be brighter than the subject actually is. If you want to faithfully record a dark scene in this case, use the manual gain function. You can also adjust the gain to record a backlit subject brighter. 3 Press l or m to select “GAIN”, then press the centre of the Operation button.
Setting the Shutter Speed To return to Auto Shutter Speed mode Press j in step 4 above to display “AUTO”. The shutter speed is preset to auto mode, which automatically selects the optimal shutter speed for the ambient light. However, depending on the subject or situation, you may want to set the shutter speed manually to create a high-quality picture. 1 2 3 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY/ MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.
Advanced Features Camera Recording Tips on Using the Manual Shutter Speed • Fast shutter speeds can be used with the still recording functions (see page 35) to record higher quality still images of fast-moving subjects. • If the on-screen picture flickers when recording under fluorescent lighting, you may be able to compensate by setting the shutter speed to 1/120 sec. Advanced Features Notes: • Recording with a shutter speed faster than 1/50 sec. tends to darken the picture.
Scene Menu (Program AE) You can set the camcorder to a shooting mode that will create the best results for a specific situation. Just select one of the six scene settings shown below. The camcorder will automatically set the exposure, white balance, and shutter speed to produce the optimum picture quality for the selected situation. 1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY/ MODE SET button until the mode screen appears.
Advanced Features Camera Recording Digital Picture Effects These digital picture effects let you record the subject with a more dramatic effect. 1 In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY/ MODE SET button until the mode screen appears. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select “PIC.EFFECT”, then press the centre of the Operation button. Types B/W: To record in black-and-white. BLC / GA I N FADE SC E N E M E N U P I C .
Advanced Features Playback Using the Time Code 5 Press the MENU button to turn off the menu screen. • The time code appears when the onscreen indicators are turned on. The time code shows the hour, minute and second of recording, and the frame number (1 frame = approx. 1/25 sec.). This is automatically recorded along with the subject when you are recording on the tape. You can display the time code on the screen as an accurate counter in both Playback and Camera modes.
Advanced Features Playback Audio Dubbing Feature You can add narration to recordings made with this camcorder, while preserving the original audio and video recordings. Microphone for Audio Dubbing You can use the built-in monaural microphone to record narration. Audio Recording In normal recording mode 12-bit audio recording The audio is recorded in monaural on Audio 1. Audio 1: Monaural sound Audio 2: No audio 16-bit audio recording The audio is recorded in monaural on two separate channels.
Audio Dubbing 1 Play back the Mini DV cassette recorded in SP mode and locate the tape position where you wish to start audio dubbing. 2 Press m on the Operation button to pause playback. 3 Press the DISPLAY/MODE SET button until the mode screen appears. 4 Press l or m to select “AUDIO DUB”, then press the centre of the Operation button. • The audio dubbing screen appears. P I C.
Advanced Features Playback Selecting the Audio Playback Mode 3 Press l or m on the Operation button to select V, then press the centre of the Operation button. You can select any of the following audio playback modes. 4 Press l or m to select “AUDIO”, then press the centre of the Operation button.
Editing Cutting Unwanted Sequences Video editing lets you refine your videos by removing unwanted sequences from your tape, or transposing one sequence with another. This camcorder lets you monitor the source program on the built-in LCD monitor without having to connect it to an external TV or video monitor. 1 Play back the tape to be edited on the camcorder, and locate the beginning and end of the sequence you wish to cut.
Advanced Features Playback Recording from an External Source (VL-Z300 only) You can use this camcorder to record or edit videos from another source, such as a VCR or TV. Preparation 21-pin Euro-SCART on TV or VCR 0 VIDEO Connect the camcorder to the source equipment with the supplied audio/video/Svideo cable, as shown. Playback (VCR or TV) S-VIDEO Notes: • This function cannot be used with VLZ100.
To Record from an External Source 1 2 3 In Playback mode, press the MENU button to display the menu screen. Press l or m on the Operation button to select Z, then press the centre of the Operation button. Press l or m to select “S-VIDEO IN”, then press the centre of the Operation button. Notes: • To pause recording, press m. Press m again to resume recording.
Advanced Features Playback Editing with the DV Terminal (IEEE1394) This camcorder can be used as a digital video editor. A DV cable transfers all dubbing signals including video and audio directly to the camcorder. Preparation To Record to Video Equipment See “Cutting Unwanted Sequences” on page 61 using the video equipment as the recording source. Note: • Make sure that the video equipment to which you are recording can input dubbing signals via the DV terminal.
To Record from Video Equipment (VL-Z300 only) 1 Set the camcorder to Playback mode, and insert a Mini DV cassette. 2 Begin playback on the video equipment connected to the camcorder. • Check the camcorder screen to see if the picture is properly received. 3 Press the Record Start/Stop button on the camcorder. • The camcorder enters Recording Standby mode. 4 Press m on the Operation button to begin recording. To stop recording Press l on the Operation button.
Advanced Features Playback Using the Camcorder as a Converter (VL-Z300 only) You can use this camcorder to convert from analog signal (e.g. video recorded on 8 mm or Hi8 tapes) to digital signal. Preparation Connect the audio/video/S-video cable and DV cable as shown below. 1 Set the camcorder to Playback mode, and make sure that playback is stopped. 2 Press the MENU button to display the menu screen. 3 Press l or m on the Operation button to select V, then press the centre of the Operation button.
Appendix 5 Picture/Backlight Adjustments If the picture is difficult to see due to ambient light or other factors, adjust the monitor picture settings. • The example screens shown are for Camera mode. Press the MENU button to turn off the menu screen. Note: • When adjusting the colour, the picture on the LCD monitor may differ from the picture actually recorded. Do not change the colour setting unless necessary. (This adjustment only affects the monitor picture, not the recorded image.
Appendix Turning off the Confirmation Sound Setting the Camcorder to Factory Presettings A confirmation sound is made when you turn on or off the Power switch, press the Record Start/Stop button, or perform other designated operations. Use the procedure below to turn off the confirmation sounds. You can set the camcorder to the factory presettings in one operation. • The example screens shown are for Camera mode. 1 Press the MENU button to display the menu screen.
Demonstration Mode You can watch a brief demonstration of the special camcorder features in Demo mode. If the demonstration appears on the screen when you turn on the camcorder for the first time, cancel the Demo mode to use your camcorder. 5 DEMO MODE 6 Remove the Mini DV cassette from the camcorder (see page 9). 2 In Camera mode, press the MENU button to display the menu screen. 3 Press l or m on the Operation button to select Z, then press the centre of the Operation button.
Appendix Useful Information Hints for Better Shooting • Position the subject in the centre of the scene. When using auto focus, whatever is in the centre of the scene is kept in focus. • Horizontal panning (lateral movement) and tilting (vertical movement) should be done slowly to emphasize the wide expanse of a scene or the height of a building, and to make scenes easy to watch during playback. • Use a wide-angle setting for fast-moving subjects.
Mini DV Cassette To protect recordings against accidental erasure Slide the protect tab on the rear of the Mini DV cassette to the “SAVE” position. Erasure protect tab Precautions when using a Mini DV cassette • Be sure to use only Mini DV cassettes with the i mark. To record over a previously recorded tape, slide the protect tab to the “REC” position. • This camcorder can record and play back using Mini DV cassettes with cassette memory, but it cannot record or play back this memory.
Appendix Battery Pack This camcorder uses a lithium-ion type battery pack. Charging • Charge the battery pack immediately (or a day) before use. The battery pack gradually self-discharges even if stored in a fully charged state. • Charge the battery pack between 10°C and 30°C. • Fully charge the battery pack. Use of an insufficiently charged battery pack will shorten actual time of use. • Refresh (discharging before charging) is unnecessary.
Extending battery pack life Even when the battery pack is not used, the capacity of the battery pack will naturally deteriorate over time. To limit the deterioration of the capacity, it is recommended to perform the following procedure at least once every six months: 1 Charge the battery pack until the POWER/CHARGE (RED) indicator turns off. 2 Attach the battery pack to the camcorder, and set the Power switch to v without inserting a cassette and turn off the power save mode.
Appendix Using Your Camcorder Abroad Television signal standards and electrical voltages and frequencies vary substantially from country to country. When you are abroad, check the sections below before using the AC adapter or connecting the camcorder to a TV. AC Adapter (Supplied Accessory) The supplied AC adapter is compatible with 50 Hz and 60 Hz electrical systems in the range of 110 V to 240 V AC.
Troubleshooting Before calling for service, please check the following troubleshooting table. Symptom Power No power. Camera mode The Record Start/ Stop button does not work. Possible cause Suggested solution Power source is not properly connected. Connect power source properly (pp. 5, 8). Battery pack is not charged. Charge battery pack sufficiently (p. 7). Dew in camcorder. Wait until dew dries (p. vii). Safety function is in effect. Set the Power switch to OFF and remove battery pack.
Appendix Symptom No image appears on connected TV screen. Possible cause Select video input channel or TV channel properly (p. 27). Audio/video/S-video cable is not properly connected. Connect audio/video/S-video cable properly (p. 27). No image from an ex- DV cable or audio/video/S-video ternal source apcable is not properly connected. pears on the camcorder screen. (VL-Z300 only) The cable connection does not match the S-VIDEO IN menu setting.
Symptom Clock has been reset. General Cassette will not eject. Warm up battery pack, for example in your pocket, just before using it. Battery pack is not fully charged. Charge battery pack sufficiently (p. 7). Lithium battery is not properly installed. Install lithium battery properly (p. 10). Lithium battery is depleted. Replace new lithium battery (p. 10). Power source is not properly connected. Connect power source properly (pp. 5, 8). Battery pack is not charged.
Appendix General Symptom “E007” is displayed on the screen, and unable to operate normally. Possible cause The camcorder may be damaged. Suggested solution Do not take out a cassette, and call for service. Appendix Notes: • This unit is equipped with a microprocessor. Its performance could be adversely affected by external electrical noise or interference. If this should happen, turn off the power and disconnect the unit from any power sources, including the lithium battery, etc.
Specifications Camcorder Signal System: Recording System: Cassette: Recording/Playback Time: Tape Speed: Pickup Device: Lens: Lens Filter Diameter: Monitor: Viewfinder: Built-in microphone: Colour Temperature Compensation: Minimum Illumination: DV terminal: Power Requirement: Power Consumption: Operating Temperature: Operating Humidity: Storage Temperature: Dimensions (WKHKD) (approx.): Weight (approx.
Appendix On-screen Display Index MENU button Camera mode PA US E p. 24 p. 36 DISPLAY/MODE SET button p. 54 p. 23 AU TO 3 0min 2. 6. 200 5 10:30 MENU button DISPLAY/MODE SET button Menu screens PA US E M A NU A L S E T E X E C U T E F OCUS AUTO F OCUS BLC / GA I N AU TO 3 0min SE L E CT SET Mode screens p. 48 p. 47 p. 48 pp. 31, 32 p. 33 p. 55 p. 56 M A NU AL S E T F O C US A U T O F O C US BLC / GA I N FADE SC E N E M E N U P I C. E F FEC T Appendix PA US E S E T T I NG 1 Q K .
Playback mode p. 24 AUDIO1 + 2 p. 60 PLAY MENU button STOP 2. 6. 200 5 10:30 FF Menu screens R EW DISPLAY/MODE SET button AUDIO1 + 2 P I C . E FFECT OF F AUD I O DUB S TRE TCH P B SE L E CT SET Mode screens p. 44 p. 59 p. 46 P I C. EF F ECT AU D I O DU B STRETCH PB P L AY BACK SE T ROTA T E PB AUD I O * ANL G DGT L R E T U RN p. 45 p. 60 p. 66 OTHE RS 1 DE F AUL T R EMO T E BEEP L A NG U A G E *S - V I DEO I N R E T U RN p. 68 p. 42 p. 68 p. 12 p.
Appendix Index A E AC adapter ....................................... 7, 8 Audio dubbing .............................. 58, 59 Audio playback mode ......................... 60 Audio recording mode ........................ 41 Auto focus ........................................... 23 AV terminal ........................ 27, 61, 62, 66 Edit search .......................................... 35 Erasure protect tab ............................. 71 B G Backlight .......................................
M S Manual focus ...................................... 47 Manual setting .................................... 48 MENU button ...................................... 29 Menu screen ....................................... 29 Mini DV cassette ............................... 9, 71 Mode screen ....................................... 28 Scene menu ........................................ 55 Self recording ................................ 38, 39 Shutter speed ............................... 53, 54 SP mode .....
Note Downloaded From VideoCamera-Manual.
Downloaded From VideoCamera-Manual.
LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY CAMCORDER VL-Z300S-S VL-Z100S-S OPERATION MANUAL Downloaded From VideoCamera-Manual.
