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RCA CC437 User Manual

Rca camcorder user's guide
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CC437
U S E R ' S
G U I D E
C A M C O
R D E R

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Summary of Contents for RCA CC437

  • Page 1 CC437 U S E R ‘ S G U I D E C A M C O R D E R...

  • Page 2: Product Registration

    To reduce risk of injury, charge only rechargeable batteries recommended by the manufacturer for this camcorder. Other types of batteries may burst causing damage and personal injury. CAUTION: Avoid operating this product immediately after moving it from a cold location to a warm location.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    We want to make sure you enjoy your new camcorder. If you have any questions, call: 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 • Assistance...3 • Unpack Camcorder and Accessories ...3...
  • Page 4 • Flying Erase Head...33 • Edit Search...33 • Audio Dubbing...34-35 • Audio/Video Dubbing...36-37 • Titler...38-40 Recording Tips ...41 Recording on the Camcorder ...42-43 Playback • Viewfinder Playback...44 • Playback Features • Stop-Action Pause...44-45 • Picture Search ...44-45 • Tracking ...45 •...

  • Page 5: First-Time Operation

    • Save the box and packing materials in case you ever need to store or ship your camcorder. • The items shown below are packed with your camcorder. If any of them are missing or appear damaged, contact your dealer immediately.

  • Page 6: Attach The Adapter/Charger

    • 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 adapter/charger. • Attach the other end of the cable to the DC IN 9.6V jack on the camcorder.

  • Page 7: Remove Lens Cap And Attach

    4. Turn on the camcorder. The position of the CAMERA / O F F / V C R switch tells the camcorder whether you want to record (CAMERA), play back tapes (VCR), or turn off the power (OFF). CAMERA/OFF/VCR Switch •...

  • Page 8: 5 . I N S E Rt A Cassette

    • Grasp the viewfinder and rotate it horizontally. • Pull the viewfinder out from the camcorder and rotate the eyepiece into a comfortable viewing position. Caution: Pulling on the eyepiece may cause damage to the eyepiece or camcorder.

  • Page 9: Start And Stop Recording

    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. Press REC/PAUSE to turn on the camcorder.

  • Page 10: Review The Camcorder's Operating Controls

    9. Review the camcorder’s operating controls. DISPLAY Button RESET Button DATE/TIME Button TITLER Button CAMERA • O F F • V C R Switch Viewfinder Microphone Light BRIGHT Control (Located Under Microphone) Lens Lens Hood DIGITAL ZOOM Button INST. (Instant) ZOOM...

  • Page 11: Operating Controls

    9. Review the camcorder’s operating controls. Shoulder Strap Attachment Ring BATTERY EJECT Lever Cassette Door DC IN 9.6V Jack REC (Record) /PAUSE Button Hand Strap with Lens Cap Holder Power Zoom Buttons (W and T) also TRACKING Buttons...

  • Page 12: Powering The Camcorder

    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

    60 minutes of operating time (depending on how much you use zoom and pause). To extend the battery’s operation time, turn off the camcorder’s power when not in use. Plug in AC Outlet (120 V, 50/60 Hz)

  • Page 14: Attaching And Removing

    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

    Using the Battery to Power Your Camcorder Battery Care • Your battery will provide better service and longer performance if you charge it before and after use, and store it at normal room temperature. • The battery should be charged at a temperature of 32ºF-95ºF (0ºC-35ºC) to...

  • Page 16: Battery Level Indicator

    However, the battery should have enough reserve power to eject the cassette when you press STOP/EJECT. If the camcorder does not eject the cassette when you press STOP/EJECT, do not force the cassette door open. This will damage your camcorder.

  • Page 17: Using The Optional Thomson Car Cord Adapter

    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: 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

    • Do not use a cassette if it has been damaged or exposed to moisture. The tape may jam or damage the camcorder. • When you are finished recording, break off the safety tab on the cassette to prevent accidental erasure.

  • Page 20: 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

    Tape Positioning When CAMERA/OFF/VCR is in VCR and the camcorder is in the stop mode, you can quickly fast-forward or rewind the tape. • Press F.FWD (fast forward) to fast forward the tape.

  • Page 22: Program Ae (Auto Exposure)

    (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. Auto focus operates on the telephoto “T” side from approximately 3.6 feet to infinity and on the wide-angle “W” side 3/8 of an inch from the lens surface to infinity.

  • Page 23: Electronic Indexing

    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

    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 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 around.

  • Page 26: Displays In Viewfinder

    16 x 9 Status Viewfinder Displays A E (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. Fade Press FADE to select white, wipe, or zoom fade.
  • Page 27 Time and Date Display • Press DATE / TIME repeatedly to display time and date, AUTO date, TITLE and date, date only, or no date display when the camcorder is in record pause. • These displays are recorded when they appear.

  • Page 28: Date And Time Display

    Set the Time and Date CAMERA/OFF/VCR 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

    Recording Date and Time, Date, or Date and Title on Your Ta p e 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

    Using Power Zoom Buttons Power Zoom Buttons T = Telephoto W = Wide Angle ZOOM and Zoom 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

    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 ZM:2 ZOOM The digital zoom feature allows you to zoom in on a subject with magnification...

  • Page 32: 16X9 Mode

    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. This is known as “letter box”...

  • Page 33: 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 Fa d e You can select white, wipe, or zoom fade.

  • Page 34: Tape Counter With Memory Stop

    Notes: Press DISPLAY to turn memory-stop feature on or off. Whenever memory stop is turned on, the camcorder will stop rewinding or fast forwarding when the counter reaches “0000M.” To continue rewinding or fast forwarding the tape, press REW (rewind) or F.FWD (fast forward) again.

  • Page 35: 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.

  • Page 36: Audio Dubbing

    ProEdit Features Audio Dubbing 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. If one is not labeled MONO, you may need a Y-adapter, as shown on page 56, to record audio from both the left and right channels.

  • Page 37: Audio Dubbing

    The new audio can be added two different ways. • You can speak into the camcorder’s built-in microphone. • You can connect an external sound system to the white AUDIO jack on the camcorder.

  • Page 38: Audio/Video Dubbing

    ProEdit Features Audio and Video Dubbing...

  • Page 39: Audio And Video Dubbing

    The audio and video dubbing feature lets you record new audio (sound) and video (picture) on a previously recorded tape in the camcorder. The source for the dubbing is the camcorder’s microphone and camera or a source connected to the AUDIO/VIDEO jacks on the side of the camcorder.

  • Page 40: Titler

    Titler 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 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.

  • Page 42: Titler

    Recording a Title While Copying a Tape from Camcorder to Another VCR This method of adding titles lets you keep the original tape as it is, and add titles to the copy you are making on another VCR. Connect your camcorder to a VCR as shown on pages 46-47.

  • Page 43: Recording Tips

    Fading in and out of scenes may make your videos appear more professional. Do not move the camcorder rapidly from side-to-side while recording. A steady, gradual “pan” avoids blurring and “jitter”. Use the viewfinder to make sure the camcorder is level while recording or your scenes will appear “tilted”.

  • 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...
  • Page 45 MONO, you may need a Y-adapter, such as AH25 shown on page 56, to hear both channels. Recording Operation and How to Copy Tapes on the Camcorder 1. A. Camcorder connected directly to TV monitor: Turn on the TV and tune it to the channel you want to record.

  • Page 46: Viewfinder Playback

    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. REW (Rewind)/REVIEW F.FWD (Fast Forward) STOP/EJECT 4.

  • Page 47: Playback Features

    Caution: Pause is designed for momentary interruptions and should not be used for an extended period of time. If the camcorder remains in pause for more than five minutes, it will automatically remove the tape from the spinning heads to prevent excessive tape wear.

  • Page 48: Playback On Tv (Or Vcr) With Audio/Video In Jacks

    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 VCR. 2. Press and hold the small button on the camcorder’s CAMERA/OFF/VCR Watching What the Camcorder is Seeing or Recording on the TV 1. A. Camcorder connected directly to TV: Turn on the TV, and tune it to its video input channel.

  • Page 50: Playback On 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. Disconnect the VHF antenna from your TV.

  • Page 51: Playback Operation

    Note: The camcorder can only play back tapes recorded at the SP speed. Watch What the Camcorder is Seeing or Recording on the TV 1. Turn on the TV and tune it to channel 3 or 4 (the same channel you selected with the CH3/CH4 switch on the RF output adapter).

  • Page 52: Color Enhancement Light

    • Place in ON to have the light turn on whenever CAMERA/OFF/VCR is in CAMERA. • Place in OFF to turn off the light. If the camcorder is left in record pause for more than five minutes, the power LIGHT AUTO/OFF/ON and light automatically turn off.
  • Page 53 Removing and Replacing the Front Case of the Light Reflection Plate 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

    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: Packing Carrying Case

    The carrying case that came with your camcorder is specially designed to provide protection for your camcorder and its accessories. See below for details on packing your case. Two Hour Battery Type One Hour Battery Type Adapter/Charger Information to User...

  • Page 56: Specifications

    We invite you to take a look at some great ideas for sparking creativity and adding to the fun of using your camcorder. These pages have a selection of accessories to help make your memorable moments look and sound even better.
  • Page 57 CPS014 AC A d a p t e r / C h a r g e r 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.
  • Page 58 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 Attaching Accessory Lens Remove the lens hood as shown above. Turn the accessory lens clockwise into the camcorder’s lens. Make sure the lens is tightened firmly, but do not over tighten. All specifications and descriptions of accessories are subject to change without notice.
  • Page 60 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. Do not transport the camcorder attached to the tripod.

  • Page 61: Accessory Order Form

    Order Form for Camcorder Models CC437 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 DC Cable...
  • Page 62 Accessory Order Form...
  • Page 63 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

    Things to Avoid Do not aim your camcorder at the sun or other bright objects or leave your camcorder in direct sunlight. Doing so could permanently damage the camcorder’s internal parts.

  • Page 65: Cleaning The Camcorder

    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 If the picture contains black-and-white streaks, press one of the TRACKING buttons to correct. • Camcorder only has one speed (SP). If the tape was recorded on a different VCR at a different speed, it cannot be played back in this camcorder.
  • Page 68 Date and Time Appear • Make sure the date and time have been set. Details Incorrect on page 26. • The camcorder’s internal clock battery may need recharging. Details on page 27. Camcorder Does Not • Remove the power source.

  • Page 69: Limited Warranty

    • One year for parts. The warranty period for rental units begins with the first rental. What we will do: • Pay any Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter the labor charges to repair your camcorder. • Pay any Authorized RCA Camcorder...

  • Page 70: Index (Alphabetical)

    BRIGHT Control ....23 Bulb Replacement,Video Light ..51 Camcorder, Cleaning ... . .63 Camcorder Operating Controls ..8-9 Camcorder, Powering .

  • Page 71: Audio/Video In Jacks

    Trouble Checks ....64-66 Unpacking the Camcorder ..3 Using a Tripod ....58 Using Adapter/Charger .
  • Page 72 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-CC437-1 QR14433...

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