Panasonic Palmcorder PV-GS83 Operating Instructions Manual

Panasonic Palmcorder PV-GS83 Operating Instructions Manual

Digital video camcorder
Table of Contents

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Operating Instructions

Digital Video Camcorder
PV-GS83
Model No.
Before connecting, operating or adjusting this product,
please read the instructions completely.
Spanish Quick Use Guide is included.
Guía para rápida consulta en español está incluida.
Mini
For assistance, please call: 1-800-211-PANA(7262) or, contact us via the web at: http://www.panasonic.com/contactinfo
P
LSQT1181 A

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Summary of Contents for Panasonic Palmcorder PV-GS83

  • Page 1: Operating Instructions

    Before connecting, operating or adjusting this product, please read the instructions completely. Spanish Quick Use Guide is included. Guía para rápida consulta en español está incluida. Mini For assistance, please call: 1-800-211-PANA(7262) or, contact us via the web at: http://www.panasonic.com/contactinfo LSQT1181 A...
  • Page 2: Things You Should Know

    Your Camcorder is designed to record and play back in Standard Play (SP) mode and Long Play (LP) mode It is recommended that only cassette tapes that have been tested and inspected for use in Camcorder Ò with the mark be used.
  • Page 3 Declaration of Conformity Trade Name: Panasonic Model No.: PV-GS83 Responsible party: Panasonic Corporation of North America One Panasonic Way, Secaucus, NJ 07094 Support Contact: Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company 1-800-211-PANA(7262) This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1)This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
  • Page 4: Important Safety Instructions

    IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS Read these operating instructions carefully before using the unit. Follow the safety instructions on the unit and the applicable safety instructions listed below. Keep these operating instructions handy for future reference. 1) Read these instructions. 2) Keep these instructions. 3) Heed all warnings.
  • Page 5 CARE ≥ TO CLEAN YOUR CAMCORDER ... Do not use strong or abrasive detergents when cleaning your Camcorder body. ≥ TO PROTECT THE LENS ... Do not touch the surface of the lens with your hand.
  • Page 6: Ac Adaptor

    Warning Risk of fire, explosion and burns. Do not disassemble, heat above 60xC (140oF) or incinerate. AC adaptor This AC adaptor operates on AC between 110V and 240 V. ≥In the U.S.A. and Canada, the AC adaptor must be connected to a 120V AC power supply only. ≥When connecting to an AC supply outside of the U.S.A.
  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    (Problems and solutions) ... 60 Cautions for Use... 63 Explanation of terms... 67 Specifications ... 68 Camcorder Accessory System ... 70 Camcorder Accessory Order Form ... 71 Request for Service Notice... 72 Limited Warranty ... 73 Customer Services Directory... 74 Index... 75 Spanish Quick Use Guide/ Guía española para el uso rápido...
  • Page 8: Before Using

    Quick Guide ª Charging the battery Connect the AC cable to the AC adaptor and the AC jack. Put the battery on the battery mount by aligning the mark and then securely plug it ª Attaching the battery Push the battery against the battery holder and slide it until it clicks.
  • Page 9 ª How to turn off the power While pressing the button 1, set the [OFF/ON] switch to [OFF]. ª Recording on a tape ≥Set to Tape Recording Mode. Press the recording start/stop button to start recording. Press the recording start/stop button again to pause recording.
  • Page 10: Accessories

    2) Battery pack -12- 3) AV cable -39-, -43- 4) Mini DV Tape LSQT1181 Before using Parts identification and handling ª Camcorder K2CA2CA00025 K2KC4CB00020 Built-in LED video light White balance sensor Grip belt Lens Microphone (built-in, stereo) -12- Mode select switch...
  • Page 11 (10) (11) (12) (13) (14) BATTERY Viewfinder -16- -66- Due to limitations in LCD production technology, there may be some tiny bright or dark spots on the Viewfinder screen. However, this is not a malfunction and does not affect the recorded picture. (10) Battery holder -13-...
  • Page 12: Attaching The Lens Cap

    When this product is purchased, the battery is not charged. Charge the battery before using this product. ≥Battery charging time. ( ≥We recommend using Panasonic batteries. -10- -70- ≥If you use other batteries, we cannot guarantee the quality of this product.
  • Page 13 As shown in 1, there is a gap. ≥Do not use the power cord for other equipment since the power cord is exclusively designed for this Camcorder. Do not use the power cord from other equipment for this Camcorder. Before using ª...
  • Page 14: Charging Time And Recordable Time

    LCD monitor simultaneously while rotating the LCD monitor frontward to record yourself, etc. ≥The batteries heat up after use or charging. The main unit of the Camcorder being used will also heat up. This is normal. ≥Along with the reduction of the battery capacity,...
  • Page 15: Setting Date And Time

    Before using Setting date and time When the Camcorder is turned on for the first time, [SET DATE AND TIME] will appear. ≥Select [YES] and press the center of the joystick. Perform steps 2 and 3 below to set the date/time.
  • Page 16: Using The Lcd Monitor

    90o 2 towards the viewfinder. ≥The brightness and color level of the LCD monitor can be adjusted from the menu. ≥If it is forcibly opened or rotated, the Camcorder may be damaged or fail. ≥If the LCD monitor is rotated by 180o towards...
  • Page 17: Quick Start

    Viewfinder. ≥The Status indicator lights green and the unit goes into quick start standby mode. ≥The Camcorder will not go into quick start standby mode unless the LCD monitor is closed and the viewfinder is retracted. Open the LCD monitor or extend the Viewfinder.
  • Page 18: Inserting/Removing A Cassette

    Inserting/removing a cassette Fit the AC adaptor or the battery and turn on the power. Slide the [OPEN/EJECT] lever and open the cassette cover. ≥When the cover is fully opened, the cassette holder will come out. After the cassette holder is opened, insert/ remove the cassette.
  • Page 19: Inserting/Removing A Card

    Before inserting/removing a card, set the [OFF/ON] switch to [OFF]. ≥If the card is inserted or removed with the power turned on, this Camcorder may malfunction or the data recorded on the card may be lost. Turn off the power 1.
  • Page 20: Selecting A Mode

    Selecting a mode Rotate the mode dial to select the desired mode. Rotate the mode dial. ≥Set your desired mode to 1. : TAPE RECORDING MODE Use this when you record the image on a tape. (Also, you can simultaneously record still pictures on a card while recording images on a tape.) : TAPE PLAYBACK MODE Use this to play back a tape.
  • Page 21 2) Tape recording mode ([AUTO/MANUAL/FOCUS] switch is set to [MANUAL]) Iris or gain value White balance Shutter speed Manual focus adjustment ≥1 is displayed while recording on a tape. ≥2 is displayed only when the ([AUTO/MANUAL/ FOCUS] switch is set to [FOCUS]). 3) Tape playback mode Playback/pause Stop...
  • Page 22: Help Mode

    Help mode Select an icon for an explanation of the function. ≥Set to Tape/Card Recording Mode. Press the joystick to display the icon during the recording pause. Move the joystick down until icon 1 appears. Move the joystick right to select the Help mode icon [ ≥The help mode explains the operation icons that are displayed when the [AUTO/MANUAL/...
  • Page 23: Adjusting Lcd Monitor/Viewfinder

    Move the joystick right or press it to set the selection. Move the joystick up or down in order to select the item to be set. Press the joystick to determine the setting. ª To exit the menu screen Press the [MENU] button. ª...
  • Page 24: Recording With The Built-In Led Video Light

    ≥The LED video light turns off. ≥Pressing the [LIGHT] button again returns to ≥The subject should be within 1.5 metres (4.9 feet) of the Camcorder. ≥Using the LED video light reduces battery time. ≥Set the LED video light to off when not in use.
  • Page 25: Record Mode

    ≥We recommend using the SP mode for important recording. ≥In order to fully exhibit the performances of the LP mode, we recommend using Panasonic cassettes marked LP mode. ≥In the LP mode, the picture quality will not be degraded in comparison with the SP mode, but mosaic noise may appear on the playback image or some functions may be disabled.
  • Page 26: Recording On A Tape

    Recording on a tape Remove the lens cap. ( -12- (When the Camcorder is turned on with the lens cap attached, the automatic white balance adjustment may not function properly. Please turn the Camcorder on after removing the lens cap.)
  • Page 27: Recording Check

    Move the joystick down to select the [∫] icon. ≥If the cassette tape has no blank part, then the Camcorder will stop at the end of the tape. ≥The Camcorder stops at a point approx. 1 second before the end of the last image recorded.
  • Page 28: Recording Still Pictures On A Card While Recording Image Onto A Tape

    ≥In order to record higher quality still pictures, you must use the card recording mode. ≥When recording still pictures, hold the Camcorder firmly with your hands and keep your arms stationary at your side so as not to shake the Camcorder.
  • Page 29: Zoom In/Out Function

    ≥When the zoom speed is high, the subject may not be focused easily. ≥When the zoom magnification is 1k, the Camcorder can focus on a subject approx. 2 cm (0.8 inches) away from the lens. ≥Be aware that a mechanical sound may be recorded when the [W/T] lever is released while zooming.
  • Page 30: Recording Yourself

    You can record yourself while viewing the LCD monitor. You can record persons in front of the Camcorder while presenting them the image. The image is horizontally flipped as if you see a mirror image. (However the image to be recorded is not altered.)
  • Page 31: Magicpix Function

    This function allows you to record color subjects in dark locations to stand out against the background. Attach the Camcorder to a tripod and you can record images free from vibration. ≥Recorded scene is seen as if frames were missed.
  • Page 32: Fade In/Fade Out Function

    1 appears. Move the joystick left to select the fade icon ≥The [FADE ON] indication appears on the screen of the Camcorder. Press the recording start/stop button. Start recording. (fade in) When you start recording, the image/audio disappears completely and the image/audio gradually appears.
  • Page 33: Self-Timer Recording

    1 appears. Move the joystick left to select the self-timer recording icon [ ≥The [SELF-TIMER ON] indication appears on the screen of the Camcorder. Press the Photoshot button [ ≥After the [ ] indication flashes for approx.
  • Page 34: Optical Image Stabilizer Function

    Set [ADVANCED] >> [O.I.S.] >> [OFF]. ≥In the following cases, the optical image stabilizer function may not work effectively. ≥When the digital zoom is used ≥When the Camcorder is shaken greatly ≥When you record a moving subject while tracking it Guideline function View the slope and the balance of the image while recording.
  • Page 35: Recording In Natural Colors (White Balance)

    Move the joystick left or right until the [ indication appears. Or, set the [AUTO/MANUAL/ FOCUS] switch to [AUTO]. ≥When the Camcorder is turned on with the lens cap attached, the automatic white balance adjustment may not function properly. Please turn the Camcorder on after removing the lens cap.
  • Page 36: Manual Focus Adjustment

    ª To set the white balance manually Select [ ] in Step 3. Then, while viewing a white subject on the entire screen, move the joystick up to select the [ ] indication. ≥The white balance is set when the [ indication stops flashing.
  • Page 37: Manual Shutter Speed/Aperture Adjustment

    Manual shutter speed/aperture adjustment Shutter Speed Adjust it when recording fast-moving subjects. Aperture Adjust it when the screen is too bright or too dark. ≥ Set to Tape/Card Recording Mode. Set the [AUTO/MANUAL/FOCUS] switch to [MANUAL]. Move the joystick left or right to select aperture icon [ ] or shutter speed icon Move the joystick left or right in order to...
  • Page 38: Playback Mode

    Playback mode Playing back tape ≥Set to Tape Playback Mode. (An operation icon automatically appears on the LCD monitor.) Operate with joystick. 1/;: Playback/Pause Rewind/Review playback (Reverts to playback with the 1/; icon.) Fast forward/Cue playback (Reverts to playback with the 1/; icon.) ∫: Stop ≥The power will not turn off when the LCD...
  • Page 39: Frame-By-Frame Playback

    ≥Be sure that the power of the unit is turned off before connecting it to a TV. Connect the Camcorder and a TV. ≥Connect the Camcorder and a TV by using the AV cable 1. Turn on this Camcorder and set the mode dial to the Tape Playback Mode (or Card Playback Mode).
  • Page 40: Playing Back Card

    DCF (Design rule for Camera File system) established by JEITA (Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association). ≥The file format supported by this Camcorder is JPEG. (Not all JPEG formatted files will be played back.) ≥If an out-of-specs file is played back, the folder/ file name may not be displayed.
  • Page 41: Deleting Files Recorded On A Card

    ª Deleting still picture files recorded on a card by other equipment ≥A still picture file (other than JPEG) that cannot be played back on the Camcorder may be deleted. Note: To delete multiple files on the SD Card (selected files) connect to a PC and use the SD Drive feature.
  • Page 42: Protecting Files On A Card

    ≥2 or more files can be set in succession. ª To complete the settings Press the [MENU] button. ≥DPOF settings made on another Camcorder may not be recognized by this Camcorder. Please perform the DPOF settings on your Camcorder. ª To set so that all pictures are not printed Select [CANCEL ALL] in Step 1.
  • Page 43: Edit Mode

    PV-DDC9 (Only for equipment with a DV terminal) ] (4:3). ] without Turn on the Camcorder and set to Tape Playback Mode. Select the input channel on the TV set and recorder. Move the joystick up to select the [1/ icon to start playback.
  • Page 44: Using The Dv Interface Cable For Recording (Digital Dubbing)

    Using the DV Interface Cable for Recording (Digital Dubbing) By connecting other digital video equipment with DV terminal and the Camcorder by using the DV cable PV-DDC9 (optional) 1, high-image-quality dubbing can be done in digital format. ≥Set to Tape Playback Mode.
  • Page 45: Pc Connection With The Dv Interface Cable

    Using products from video editing software companies allows you to capture and edit video clips using the DV Interface. Panasonic DVC are OHCI compliant and should have no problem working with any OHCI compliant FireWire Card/Video — Editing software package.
  • Page 46: With A Pc

    [Windows Explorer] to check that the drive is displayed as a removable disk drive (only when card is inserted into the Camcorder). It enables you to operate it in the same way as a floppy disk drive and you can use the same drag and...
  • Page 47: Using As A Web Camera

    Center Edition, Tablet PC Edition and 64 bit Messenger/ operating system is not guaranteed. Windows Live To use the Camcorder as a Web camera, the Messenger following conditions must be met. ≥If the installed version is not the latest, update it Messenger/ by performing the Windows update.
  • Page 48 (software) as you are. (The only exception is the combination of MSN Messenger and Windows Live Messenger.) ≥If the Camcorder is used as a Web Camera, the quality of the video to be exchanged will depend on the Internet connection status.
  • Page 49 ≥Please refer to the HELP file of Windows Messenger to understand its operation. ≥During set up, if [Primary video capture device] selection screen is displayed, [Panasonic DVC Web Camera] is selected. With a PC ª Setting up MSN Messenger/ Windows Live Messenger...
  • Page 50: Using On Macintosh

    [Finish]. ≥For other information about MSN Messenger/ Windows Live Messenger, please refer to Help. ≥When access is finished, close MSN Messenger/Windows Live Messenger, then turn off the Camcorder. Finally, disconnect the USB cable. LSQT1181 With a PC Using on Macintosh ª...
  • Page 51: To Disconnect Usb Cable Safely

    The driver name displayed will differ depending on your OS, operating environment and the mode of the Camcorder. ≥Make sure Camcorder’s Card Access Lamp is off and disconnect the cable. Also, the icon will not be displayed when in Tape Recording Mode or Tape Playback Mode.
  • Page 52: Notes

    Operating Instructions which accompany your personal computer. ≥Do not disconnect USB cable while the status indicator of Camcorder is on. It may freeze the software or destroy the data in transfer. ≥If the Camcorder is used as a Web Camera while virus checking software is running, the Camcorder’s operation may stop midway...
  • Page 53 ≥[DCIM] etc. are necessary items in the folder structure. They have nothing to do with actual operation. ≥In Card Mode, the Camcorder automatically saves file numbers (IMGA0001.JPG, etc.) along with the images. The file numbers are recorded with each image as consecutive numbers.
  • Page 54: Menu

    Menu Menu list Menu figures and illustrations are provided for easy-to-understand explanations and so they are different from the actual menu indications. ª [TAPE RECORDING MENU] 1) [BASIC] [SCENE MODE] -34- [REC SPEED] -25- [WIND CUT] -32- [ASPECT] -33- [CLOCK SET] -15- 2) [ADVANCED] [PICT.QUALITY]...
  • Page 55 ª [CARD RECORDING MENU] 1) [BASIC] [SCENE MODE] -34- [PICT.QUALITY] -29- [ASPECT] -33- [CLOCK SET] -15- 2) [ADVANCED] [O.I.S.] -34- [GUIDE LINES] -34- [SHTR EFFECT] -29- 3) [SETUP] [DISPLAY] -56- [DATE/TIME] -56- [POWER SAVE] -27- [QUICK START] -17- [BEEP SOUND] -56- [LCD SET] -23-...
  • Page 56: Menus Related To Recording

    ª [DEMO MODE] If you set to [DEMO MODE] >> [ON] without inserting a cassette and a card, the Camcorder is automatically set to the demonstration mode for introducing its functions. If any button is pressed or operated, the demonstration mode is canceled.
  • Page 57: Others

    Others Indications Various functions and the Camcorder status are shown on the screen. Basic indications Remaining battery power 0h00m00s00f: Time code 3:30:45PM: Date/Time indication Recording indications R 0:45: Remaining tape time ≥Remaining tape time is indicated in minutes. (When it reaches less than 3 minutes, the indication starts flashing.)
  • Page 58: Warning/Alarm Indications

    DISCONNECT USB CABLE: You are attempting to turn the mode dial in PC Connection Mode with the USB cable connected to the Camcorder. You are attempting to record pictures on a tape/card with the USB cable connected to the Camcorder.
  • Page 59: Functions That Cannot Be Used Simultaneously

    Functions that cannot be used simultaneously Some functions in the Camcorder are disabled or cannot be selected due to its specifications. The table below shows examples of functions restricted by conditions. Functions Conditions which disable the functions ≥Digital zoom ≥When the Card Recording ≥Fade...
  • Page 60: Before Requesting Repair (Problems And Solutions)

    • The battery protection circuit may have operated. Attach the battery to the AC adaptor for 5 to 10 seconds. If the Camcorder still cannot be used, the battery is faulty. • Is the LCD monitor opened or the viewfinder...
  • Page 61 • Horizontal stripes may appear depending on the scene, but this is not a malfunction. 4: Playback picture is not clear. • Are the heads of the Camcorder dirty? If the heads are dirty, playback image cannot be clear. Clean the heads by using the head cleaner for digital video (optional).
  • Page 62 1: The indication disappears, the screen is frozen or no operation can be performed. • Turn off the power to the Camcorder. If the power cannot be turned off, press the [RESET] button or detach the battery or AC adaptor and then reattach it.
  • Page 63: Cautions For Use

    ≥The status indicator blinks for about 1 minute and then the Camcorder automatically turns off. Leave it for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Turn the Camcorder on again, set it to the Tape Recording/Playback Mode and then check if the condensation indication disappears.
  • Page 64 (such as microwave ovens, TVs, video games etc.). ≥If you use the Digital Video Camcorder on top of or near a TV, the pictures and sound on the Digital Video Camcorder may be disrupted by electromagnetic wave radiation.
  • Page 65 If you drop the battery accidentally, check to see if the terminals are deformed. ≥Attaching a deformed battery to the Camcorder or AC adaptor may damage the Camcorder or AC adaptor. Do not throw old battery into fire. ≥Heating a battery or throwing it into a fire may result in an explosion.
  • Page 66 ª Folder structure of the card The folder structure of the card formatted by the Camcorder will be displayed on the PC as the illustration below. ≥Up to 999 pictures can be recorded on 100CDPFP folder etc.
  • Page 67: Explanation Of Terms

    Automatic white balance White balance adjustment recognizes the color of light and adjusts so the white color will become a pure white. The Camcorder determines the hue of light that comes through the lens and white balance sensor, thereby judging the recording condition and selects the closest hue setting.
  • Page 68: Specifications

    SDHC Memory Card (4 GB (Maximum)) (FAT32 format corresponding) Please confirm the latest information on the following website. http://panasonic.co.jp/pavc/global/cs Still picture recording file format: JPEG (Design rule for Camera File system, based on Exif 2.2 standard), DPOF corresponding Still picture size:...
  • Page 69 Power source: AC 110 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz Power consumption: 19 W DC output: DC 7.9 V, 1.4 A (Camcorder operation) DC 8.4 V, 0.65 A (Battery charging) Dimensions: 61 mm (W) 32 mm (H) 91 mm (D) 2.40 inch (W)
  • Page 70: Camcorder Accessory System

    Camcorder Accessory System Accessory# PV-DAC14 *CGR-DU06A/1B *CGA-DU12A/1B *CGA-DU21A/1B PV-DDC9 RP-SDR04GU1K RP-SDR02GU1A RP-SDR01GU1A RP-SDR512U1A RP-SDR256U1A RP-SDK02GU1A RP-SDH01GU1A RP-SDK512U1A RP-SDH256U1A RP-SDV04GU1K RP-SDV02GU1A RP-SDV01GU1A RP-SS01GU1K RP-SS512BU1K RP-SS256BU1K VW-LDC10 PV-HB002 *Please refer to page , concerning the battery charging time and available recording time.
  • Page 71: Camcorder Accessory Order Form

    City TO OBTAIN ANY OF OUR PALMCORDER ACCESSORIES YOU CAN DO ANY OF CALL PANASONIC’S ACCESSORY ORDER LINE AT 1-800-332-5368 MAIL THIS ORDER TO: PANASONIC SERVICES COMPANY ACCESSORY ORDER OFFICE Others P rice Each Your State & Local Sales Tax Shipping &...
  • Page 72: Request For Service Notice

    Please photocopy this form when making a request for service notice, in the unlikely event this product needs service. Request for Service Notice: Mail this completed form and your Proof of Purchase along with your unit to: Panasonic Camera and Digital Service Center LSQT1181 Others • Please include your proof of purchase.
  • Page 73: Limited Warranty

    If your product does not work properly because of a defect in materials or workmanship, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company or Panasonic Puerto Rico, Inc. (collectively referred to as “the warrantor”) will, for the length of the period indicated on the chart below, which starts with the date of original purchase (“warranty period”), at its option either (a) repair your product with new or refurbished...
  • Page 74: Customer Services Directory

    1-800-211-PANA (7262), Monday-Friday 9 am-9 pm; Saturday-Sunday 10 am-7 pm, EST For hearing or speech impaired TTY users, TTY : 1-877-833-8855 Purchase Parts, Accessories and Instruction Books online for all Panasonic Products by visiting our Web Site at: http://www.pasc.panasonic.com or, send your request by E-mail to: npcparts@us.panasonic.com...
  • Page 75: Index

    Aperture ...37 ª B Backlight Compensation ...30 Blank Search ...27 Built-in LED Video Light ...24 ª C Camcorder Accessory Order Form ...71 Card Playback ...40 Charging the Battery ...12 Condensation ...63 Customer Services Directory ...74 ª D Date/Time Setting ...15 Digital Dubbing ...44...
  • Page 76: Spanish Quick Use Guide/Guía Española Para El Uso Rápido

    Spanish Quick Use Guide/ Guía española para el uso rápido ª Carga de la batería Conecte el cable eléctrico de CA al adaptador de CA y a la toma de la red de Meta la batería en el respectivo soporte alineando la marca, luego encájela.
  • Page 77 ª Cómo apagar la alimentación Mientras que oprime el botón 1, ponga el interruptor [OFF/ON] en [OFF]. ª Grabación en una cinta ≥Ajuste al modo de grabación de cinta. Oprima el botón de inicio/parada de la grabación para empezar a grabar. Oprima de nuevo el botón de inicio/parada de la grabación para detener brevemente la grabación.
  • Page 78 LSQT1181...
  • Page 79 LSQT1181...
  • Page 80 Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company, Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America One Panasonic Way, Secaucus, NJ 07094 Panasonic Puerto Rico, Inc. Ave. 65 de Infantería, Km. 9.5, San Gabriel Industrial Park, Carolina, Puerto Rico 00985 Printed in Indonesia LSQT1181 A F1206Ak ©...

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