RCA CC436 User Manual

RCA CC436 User Manual

Rca cc436: users guide
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CC436
USER'S
GUIDE
C A M C O
R D E R

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Summary of Contents for RCA CC436

  • Page 1 CC436 USER‘S GUIDE C A M C O R D E R...
  • Page 2: Important Safety Information

    Keep your sales receipt for proof of purchase to obtain warranty parts and service and attach it here. Record the serial and model numbers located on the bottom of the product. Model _______________________________________________________ CC436 Serial No:_____________________________________________________ Purchase Date: ________________________________________________ Purchased From: ______________________________________________ This symbol indicates “dangerous voltage”...
  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Assistance We want to make sure you enjoy your new camcorder. If you have any questions, call: Camcorder Exchange Warranty . . .800-283-6503 Customer Service... 800-336-1900 (Page 67) Accessories... 800-338-0376 (Pages 54-61) Table of Contents Safety Information...i Product Registration...i Contents...1-2 First-Time Operation •...
  • Page 4 Table of Contents Recording Features • Quick Review...19 • Tape Positioning ...19 • Microphone ...19 • AI (Artificial Intelligence) ...19 • Program AE (Auto Exposure)...20 • Auto Focus ...20 • Macro Focus...20 • Electronic Indexing ...21 • Time Remaining Display ...21 •...
  • Page 5: First-Time Operation

    • The items shown below are packed with your camcorder. If any of them are missing or appear damaged, contact your dealer immediately. Camcorder Model CC436 Shoulder Strap Stock No. 227327 Caution: Do not use this adapter/charger for any purpose other than charging the EP096FL or EP096FS battery pack or supplying power to the camcorder.
  • Page 6: Attach The Adapter/Charger

    First-Time Operation Adapter/Charger DC OUTPUT Jack Adapter/Charger’s DC Cable 2. Attach the adapter/charger. Since the battery must be charged before it can be used the first time, attach the adapter/charger to the camcorder. • Attach one end of the adapter/charger’s DC cable to the DC OUTPUT jack on the DC IN 9.6V Jack on Back of Camcorder...
  • Page 7: To Handstrap

    First-Time Operation Handstrap Lens Cap 3. Remove the lens cap and attach it to the handstrap. 4. Turn on the camcorder. The position of the CAMERA / O F F / V CR switch tells the camcorder whether you want to record (CAMERA), play back tapes (VCR), or turn off the power (OFF).
  • Page 8: Insert A Cassette

    First-Time Operation Tape Window Cassette Door Press Here to Close 5. Insert a cassette. • Press STOP/EJECT to open the cassette compartment. • Insert the cassette with the safety tab facing up and the tape windows facing out. • Press the cassette down gently until it locks into place, and close the cassette compartment door.
  • Page 9: Start And Stop Recording

    First-Time Operation REC (Record) /PAUSE 7. Start and stop recording. Start and stop recording by pressing and releasing REC/PAUSE. REC appears in the viewfinder. You do not have to hold the button to record. Notes: If you do not record within five minutes, the camcorder will automatically shut off to prevent excessive tape wear.
  • Page 10: Operating Controls

    First-Time Operation 9. Review the camcorder’s operating controls. DISPLAY Button RESET Button DATE/TIME Button Viewfinder Microphone Light BRIGHT Control (Located Under Microphone) Lens Lens Hood INST. (Instant) ZOOM Button AV DUB Button REW (Rewind/Review) Button Also Title Select – Button TITLER Button CAMERA •...
  • Page 11: Operating Controls

    First-Time Operation 9. Review the camcorder’s operating controls. Shoulder Strap Attachment Ring BATTERY EJECT Lever DC IN 9.6V Jack Cassette Door REC (Record) /PAUSE Button Hand Strap with Lens Cap Holder Power Zoom Buttons (W and T) also TRACKING Buttons...
  • Page 12: Using The Adapter/Charger

    Powering the Camcorder Caution: Do not attempt to use a “power converter” to use your AC adapter/charger on a power source other than 120 volts, 50/60 Hz, or the adapter/charger and camcorder may be damaged. If you wish to operate the AC adapter/charger on a power source other than 120 volts, 50/60 Hz, use only a transformer-type power converter.
  • Page 13: Charging

    Powering the Camcorder Using the Battery to Power Your Camcorder Charging the Battery The battery must be charged before it can be used the first time. Charging will take approximately two hours depending on the condition of the battery. When fully charged, the battery should supply approximately 60 minutes of operating time (depending on how much you use zoom and pause).
  • Page 14: Attaching And Removing

    Powering the Camcorder Using the Battery to Power Your Camcorder CAMERA/OFF/VCR Switch BATTERY EJECT Lever Rechargeable Battery Hold Battery Flush and Slide Down Attach Charged Battery 1. Align reference arrow on battery with arrow on camcorder. Hold battery flush against camcorder while sliding it down in the direction of the arrow as shown.
  • Page 15: Care And Storage

    Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the battery. There are no user- serviceable parts inside. Use the battery only with specified AC adapter/chargers and camcorders. If leakage from a damaged battery contacts your skin or clothing, wash it off immediately with running water.
  • Page 16: Battery Level Indicator

    Powering the Camcorder Check Battery Power (Battery Level Indicator) When DISPLAY is pressed, the battery level indicator ( ) appears in the camcorder’s viewfinder to show how much battery power is left in the rechargeable battery. This indicator is not recorded on the tape. •...
  • Page 17: Car Cord Adapter

    Powering the Camcorder Using the Optional Thomson Car Cord Adapter To power your camcorder from the cigarette lighter socket of a car, truck, or RV, you need the optional car cord adapter DCC096 shown on page 55. The DCC096 car cord is especially designed to convert power from a 12-volt battery to the 9.6-volt input jack on the camcorder.
  • Page 18: Erase Protection

    Video Cassettes We recommend that our cassettes be used with your camcorder. Use of poor quality tapes or tapes that have been damaged or mishandled can contaminate the video heads, resulting in a snowy picture or no picture at all during playback. Because there is no control over the type of tape purchased or rented by consumers, head cleaning is not covered under warranty.
  • Page 19: Inserting And Removing Cassettes

    Video Cassettes Inserting and Removing Cassettes STOP/EJECT Press Here to Close 1. Attach a power source to the camcorder (either a charged battery or adapter/charger). 2. Press STOP/EJECT on the top of the camcorder to open cassette door. Cassette Care and Storage Follow these directions for continued high-quality performance from your cassettes.
  • Page 20: Play Back What You Have Traveling Tips

    Camcorder Traveling and Cassette Tips Traveling Tips Write down your camcorder’s serial number and keep it separate from the camcorder when traveling. If your camcorder is lost or stolen, you will be able to identify it. Make sure you have any plug adapters you need before taking your camcorder to other countries.
  • Page 21: Quick Review

    Camcorder Features CAMERA/OFF/VCR Switch Microphone Quick Review Press REW/REVIEW when CAMERA/ OFF/VCR is in CAMERA and the camcorder is in record pause to review the last few seconds of a recording. The camcorder will play back the last few seconds of the recording, return the tape to its previous position, and return to record pause.
  • Page 22: Program Ae (Auto Exposure)

    Camcorder Features Program AE (Auto Exposure) Program auto exposure automatically selects the shutter speed and adjusts the iris according to the shutter speed. When DISPLAY is pressed, the AE indicator for the shutter speed selected (1/60, 1/100, 1/120, 1/180, 1/250, 1/350, Auto Focus The camcorder will focus on the subject in the center of the viewfinder.
  • Page 23: Electronic Indexing

    Camcorder Features Electronic Indexing Each time you begin recording (after the camcorder has been turned off for at least four hours), the camcorder will automatically record an index mark at the beginning of the new recording. When you play back the indexed tape in a VCR that has a compatible indexing feature called “VHS Index Search System,”...
  • Page 24: Viewfinder

    Viewfinder The camcorder’s viewfinder is a miniature monitor that displays the picture seen by the camcorder when recording. The viewfinder also can be used for viewing the tape during playback. When carrying or storing the camcorder, return the viewfinder to the original position to prevent possible damage.
  • Page 25 Viewfinder Eyepiece BRIGHT Control BRIGHT BRIGHT Control Viewfinder brightness can be adjusted by turning the BRIGHT control. This does not affect the picture actually recorded by the camcorder. Tilt Adjustment For convenient viewing, you can rotate the eyepiece about 225º degrees. Caution: Do not force the eyepiece to rotate completely...
  • Page 26: Displays In Viewfinder

    Displays in Viewfinder AE Shutter AE:60 Speed FADE ZM:2 I.ZOOM ZOOM and 16 x 9 Status AE (Auto Exposure) Shutter Speed The shutter speed selected by the camcorder appears here. It is not recorded on the tape. • Press DISPLAY to display the shutter speed.
  • Page 27 Displays in Viewfinder Power Zoom Buttons Time Remaining ( This display shows the amount of recording or playback time remaining on the tape. It is not recorded on the tape. • Press DISPLAY to display the time remaining. • Details are on page 21. Battery Level ( This indicator shows the amount of time left for the rechargeable battery.
  • Page 28: Date And Time Display

    Date and Time Display Set the Time and Date DATE/TIME 1. Attach a power supply (battery or adapter/charger) to the camcorder. 2. Press and hold the small button on CAMERA/OFF/VCR and place in CAMERA. 3. Press DATE / T IME to display the date and time in the viewfinder.
  • Page 29: Record The Date And Time

    Date and Time Display Recording Date and Time, Date, or Date and Title on Your Tape The time and date, date only, or date and title can be recorded on your tape. Whenever one of the displays appears in the viewfinder, it will be recorded. The camcorder also has auto date and auto title features.
  • Page 30: Zooming

    Zooming Using Power Zoom Buttons Power Zoom Buttons T = Telephoto W = Wide Angle ZOOM and Zoom Level Indicator When DISPLAY is pressed so the display appears in the viewfinder and the power zoom button is pressed, the zoom level is displayed in 10 steps for several seconds.
  • Page 31: Instant Zoom

    Zooming (continued) Using INST. (Instant) ZOOM Instant Zoom Indicator • Press INST.ZOOM to magnify the subject 1.5 times regardless of the position of the power zoom buttons. When DISPLAY is pressed, I.ZOOM appears in the viewfinder during instant zoom. Digital Zooming The digital zoom feature allows you to zoom in on a subject with magnification of up to 100 times.
  • Page 32: 16X9 Mode

    Zooming (continued) 16X9 Mode The new 16 X 9 TV format provides a 30% wider picture than conventional TVs of the same height. The 16 X 9 recording mode lets you make recordings compatible with this new format. When the 16 X 9 mode is activated, the camcorder records black bars at the top and bottom of the picture to produce the wide-screen effect.
  • Page 33: Fading In And Out Of Scenes

    Fading In and Out of Scenes You can add a professional touch to your recordings when you fade in and out of scenes. Both the picture and sound will gradually appear or disappear. The speed of the fade is controlled by the camcorder. Select the Type of Fade You can select white, wipe, or zoom fade.
  • Page 34: Tape Counter With Memory Stop

    Tape Counter with Memory Stop The tape counter acts as a handy reference to help you locate tape segments. REC/PAUSE Memory Stop The tape counter’s memory stop helps you locate a certain point on the tape. When memory stop is turned on, the tape will stop automatically during fast forward or rewind when the tape counter reaches “0000M.”...
  • Page 35: Proedit Features

    ProEdit Features ® ProEdit System The camcorder incorporates a complete package of advanced editing features to make it easy and fun to edit your home videos like a professional. The ® major ProEdit System features are described here and on the following pages. Flying Erase Head Edit Search •...
  • Page 36: Audio Dubbing

    ProEdit Features Audio Dubbing AUDIO Back of Mono VCR or Tape Deck Yellow Video Plug (No connection) AUDIO R IN L R OUT L Back of stereo VCR, Tape Deck, Laser Disc Player or CD Player Note: You will need an optional audio/video cable, such as VH83 shown on page 56. If the audio source has separate left and right outputs, attach the audio plug to the one labeled MONO.
  • Page 37: Audio Dubbing

    ProEdit Features Audio Dubbing To Audio Dub 1. Press and hold the small button on CAMERA/OFF/VCR while sliding it to VCR. 2. If you are recording from a source connected to the white AUDIO jack on the side of the camcorder, place AV OUT/IN switch to IN.
  • Page 38: Audio And Video Dubbing

    ProEdit Features Audio and Video Dubbing AUDIO VIDEO Back of Yellow Video Plug VCR or TV Monitor AUDIO VIDEO Back of Stereo VCR or TV Monitor AV DUB Button AV OUT/IN Switch White Audio Plug Audio/Video Cable (such as VH83) –OR–...
  • Page 39 ProEdit Features Audio and Video Dubbing To Audio and Video Dub 1. Press and hold the small button on CAMERA/OFF/VCR while sliding it in VCR. 2. If you are recording from a source connected to the AUDIO/VIDEO jacks on the side of the camcorder, place the AV OUT/IN switch to IN.
  • Page 40: Titler

    ProEdit Features Titler CAMERA/OFF/VCR The camcorder’s built-in titler can store a title in memory. The created title can be displayed and recorded at any time. The built-in character register contains over 45 different characters for creating your titles. The title can contain up to 32 characters on two lines.
  • Page 41 ProEdit Features To Create a Title 1. Attach a power source to the camcorder, press and hold the small button on CAMERA/OFF/VCR while sliding it to CAMERA. 2. Press TITLER to display titler graphics in the viewfinder. A flashing cursor will appear. 3.
  • Page 42: Titler

    ProEdit Features Recording a Title on a Tape in the Camcorder To record a title on a tape in the camcorder, follow the steps below. 1. Attach a power source to the camcorder, slide CAMERA/OFF/VCR to CAMERA. 2. Locate the place on the tape where you want to record the title.
  • Page 43: Recording Tips

    Recording Tips Make a recording of your home and contents to store in a safe place in case of fire or theft. Practice recording under a variety of lighting conditions. This will help you respond quickly whenever you see a scene you want to record.
  • Page 44: Recording On The Camcorder

    Recording on the Camcorder from a VCR or TV Monitor To record on a tape in your camcorder from a VCR or TV monitor with AUDIO OUT and VIDEO OUT jacks, you will need an optional audio/video cable, such as VH83 shown on page 56.
  • Page 45 Recording on the Camcorder from a VCR or TV Installation Attach the white plug on one end of the audio/video cable to the AUDIO OUT jack on the VCR (or TV monitor). Note: If your VCR or TV monitor has stereo left and right AUDIO OUT jacks, attach the plug to the one labeled MONO.
  • Page 46: Viewfinder Playback

    Viewfinder Playback and Playback Features TRACKING Viewfinder Playback 1. Attach a power supply to the camcorder. 2. Press and hold the small button on CAMERA/OFF/VCR while sliding it to VCR. 3. Press STOP/EJECT and insert the cassette you want to play back. Note: The camcorder can only play back tapes recorded at SP speed.
  • Page 47: Playback Features

    Viewfinder Playback and Playback Features Playback Features Stop-Action Pause During playback, you can view one frame of the tape. • Press REC/PAUSE to stop the action. • Press REC/PAUSE again to return to normal playback. Caution: Pause is designed for momentary interruptions and should not be used for an extended period of time.
  • Page 48: Playback On Tv (Or Vcr) With Audio/Video In Jacks

    Playback on a TV or VCR with AUDIO and VIDEO IN Jacks To connect your camcorder to a TV monitor (or VCR) with AUDIO IN and VIDEO IN jacks, you will need an optional audio/video cable, such as VH83 shown on page 56. If your TV is already connected to a VCR, you can attach the camcorder to the VCR and watch what the camcorder is recording or playing on the TV.
  • Page 49 Playback on a TV or VCR with AUDIO and VIDEO IN Jacks Attach the white plug on one end of the audio/video cable to the AUDIO IN jack on the TV or VCR. Note: If your TV (or VCR) has stereo left and right AUDIO IN jacks, attach the plug to the one labeled MONO.
  • Page 50: Playback On Tv Without Audio And Video Inputs

    Playback on a TV Without Audio and Video Inputs To connect your camcorder to a TV without audio and video input jacks. You will need an optional RF output adapter (such as CRF95) and an optional coaxial RF cable (such as VH82 or VH85) shown on page 56. Antenna Antenna Optional 300/75 ohm...
  • Page 51 Playback on a TV Without Audio and Video Inputs Playback Operation 1. Set the channel selector switch on the RF output adapter to CH3 or CH4. 2. Turn on the TV and tune it to the same channel (3 or 4) you selected with the channel selector switch on the RF output adapter.
  • Page 52: Color Enhancement Light

    Color Enhancement Light The color enhancement light helps create brighter, sharper pictures. Light To Use the Color Enhancement Light 1. Attach the rechargeable battery or AC adapter/charger to power the camcorder. 2. Press and hold the small button on CAMERA/OFF/VCR and place it in CAMERA.
  • Page 53: Color Enhancement Light

    Color Enhancement Light Removing and Replacing the Front Case of the Light To Remove and Replace Light Case 1. To remove front case, press and hold the lower hook while removing it. 2. To replace the front case, pass the bulb through the hole of the reflection plate, and attach the lower hook to the light.
  • Page 54: Attaching The Shoulder Strap

    Attaching the Shoulder Strap The shoulder strap is designed to let you carry the camcorder from your shoulder and — when you are ready to shoot — bring the camcorder to shooting position in one quick movement. Cautions: When carrying the camcorder with the shoulder strap, place the viewfinder in its original position.
  • Page 55: Information To User

    Information to User This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device and RF lighting device, pursuant to Part 15 and part 18 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
  • Page 56: Specifications

    Weight: (390 grams) Dimensions: (78 x 52 x 155 mm) This case provides exceptional protection and utility for full size camcorders and most accessories. It is constructed of rugged nylon fabric for years of reliable service and good looks. Three outside pockets provide ample...
  • Page 57 Optional Accessories DCC096 DC (Battery) Car Cord CPS014 AC Adapter/Charger EP096FS and EP096FL Rechargeable Batteries This DC car cord enables you to operate your camcorder from your car, truck, or RV by plugging the car cord directly into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter. Caution: Do not use any other car cord with this camcorder.
  • Page 58: Audio/Video Dubbing

    Optional Accessories VH83 Audio/Video Cable This six foot audio/video dubbing cable is used to connect your camcorder to a VCR or TV monitor to copy tapes. CRF95 RF Output Adapter This adapter is used with coaxial RF cable (VH82 or VH85) to connect your camcorder to a standard TV (one without audio/video input jacks) for playback.
  • Page 59: Removing The Lens Hood

    Optional Accessories Removing the Lens Hood The lens hood can be removed so you can attach optional accessories, such as wide- angle lens, lens extender, or lens filter kit. Do not grasp the end of the lens hood. Attach the lens cap over the lens hood, then turn them counterclockwise to remove them.
  • Page 60 Optional Accessories Using an Optional Tripod Mounting the camcorder on a tripod, such as AC093, will keep the camcorder steady and produce excellent video results. Caution: Before using a tripod, make sure it is stable enough to hold the camcorder without falling over.
  • Page 61: Accessory Order Form

    Accessory Order Form Order Form for Camcorder Models CC436 Description Soft Camcorder Case Deluxe Tripod Audio/Video Cable Cable Transformer RF Coaxial Cable (6-ft.) RF Coaxial Cable (12-ft.) Y-Adapter Rechargeable Battery Rechargeable Battery AC Adapter/Charger RF Output Adapter Car Cord 300-75 Cable Transformer...
  • Page 62 Accessory Order Form USE YOUR CREDIT CARD IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number Copy Number above your MasterCard IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number Print or type your name and address clearly. This will be your mailing label. Name: Street: City:...
  • Page 63 Accessory Order Form To order accessories, contact your local Dealer. If a dealer is not nearby, you can also follow the directions below to order by telephone or direct-by-mail. United States and Canada Orders To place your order by phone, have your Visa, MasterCard, or Discover Card ready and call the toll-free number listed below between 8AM and 8PM (EST) Mon.
  • Page 64: Care And Maintenance

    40ºF (4ºC) or above 95ºF (35ºC). Do not expose the camcorder or adapter/charger to rain or moisture. If either component becomes wet, turn off the power and take the unit to an Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter.
  • Page 65: Care And Maintenance

    Care and Maintenance Cleaning the Camcorder To clean the camcorder’s exterior, remove any power source connected to the camcorder and gently wipe it with a clean soft cloth. Cleaning the Camcorder’s Lens To clean the camcorder’s lens, blow it with a blower brush, and then gently wipe the lens with cleaning tissue and commercially prepared cleaning solution designed for use on camera lens.
  • Page 66: Trouble Checks

    Before you call or take your camcorder to an Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter, look below for the type of trouble you are experiencing. Then perform the simple checks and adjustments listed for that trouble.
  • Page 67 Trouble Checks Trouble Tape Stops During Rewind or Fast Forward Camcorder Remains in Play Pause Poor Picture Quality During Recording Viewfinder Displays Are Out of Focus Poor Auto-Focus Operation Poor Picture Quality During Playback Recorded Audio is Too Checks and Adjustments •...
  • Page 68 Trouble Checks Trouble AE Shutter-Speed or INDEX Indicator Does Not Appear in Viewfinder Date and Time (or Date) were Recorded on the Tape Date and Time Appear Incorrect Camcorder Does Not Turn On and/or Function Buttons Will Not Operate Checks and Adjustments •...
  • Page 69 Customer Assistance and Service You can reach Thomson at the following number: 800-283-6503 (Toll free inside U.S.A.) Our toll-free Camcorder number operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., CST Monday – Friday for U.S. customers only Returning equipment to Thomson for repair or exchange If we are unable to resolve your problem over the phone, we will gladly service your unit or exchange it for a new or...
  • Page 70: Limited Warranty

    Limited Warranty What your warranty covers: • Any defect in materials or workmanship. For how long after your purchase: • 90 days for labor charges. • One year for parts. What we will do: During the initial 90 days • Exchange your camcorder with a new or, at our option, a refurbished unit or at your option, repair your camcorder at no cost to you.
  • Page 71: Limited Warranty

    • Check with your dealer or call 1-800- 336-1900 for the Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter nearest you. • Take your unit to the Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter of your choice. • Show the Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter representative your sales receipt or other, evidence of purchase.
  • Page 72: Index (Alphabetical)

    Index A.(Audio) DUB Indicator ..24,35,37 A/V DUB Indicator ... . .24,37 Accessories, Included ....3 Accessories, Optional .
  • Page 73: Audio/Video In Jacks

    Index Lens Cap Holder ....9 Lens Cap, Remove ....5 Lens Hood, Removing .
  • Page 74 Index Title Select Button ...8,38-40 TITLER Button ....8,38-40 Titler ..... . .38-40 TRACKING (Also Power Zoom) Buttons .
  • Page 75 Notes...
  • Page 76 Indianapolis address listed in this manual or on the carton. This will only add delays in service for your product. 10330 N Meridian Street Indianapolis, IN 46290 © 1996 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. Trademark(s) ® Registered Marca(s) Registrada(s) Printed in Japan Part Number 96-CC436-1 QR14432...

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