RCA CC634 User Manual
RCA CC634 User Manual

RCA CC634 User Manual

Vhsc camcorder
Table of Contents

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CC634
USER'S
GUIDE
C A M C O
R D E R

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Summary of Contents for RCA CC634

  • Page 1 CC634 USER‘S GUIDE C A M C O R D E R...
  • Page 2: Important Safety Information

    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. FCC Regulations state that unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment may void the user’s authority to operate it.
  • 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 77) Accessories...800-338-0376 (pages 64-69) Table of Contents Safety Information ...i Product Registration ...i Table of Contents ...1-2 First-Time Operation •...
  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Recording • Make a Recording ...22-23 • Recording Tips ...24 • Viewfinder...25 • Viewfinder Displays...26-29 • Tally Light ...30 • Microphone...30 • Flying Erase Head ...30 • Electronic Indexing ...30 • Auto Head Cleaner ...31 • Quick Review ...31 •...
  • Page 5: Unpack The Camcorder And Accessories

    First-Time Operation This section describes only the basic steps necessary to set up your camcorder to record. Refer to the other sections for detailed operation and feature options. Assistance The toll-free numbers are available to help you with any problem you may encounter.
  • Page 6: Attach The Adapter/Charger

    B. Align the reference mark on the power connector with the mark on the camcorder. Hold the top of the power connector flush against the back of the camcorder, and press the bottom of the power connector down until it locks into place.
  • Page 7: Open Lens Cover

    CAMERA. • The power indicator will light and the camcorder will enter record pause. viewfinder when the camcorder is in record pause. • The position of this switch tells the camcorder whether you want to record (CAMERA), turn the power off (OFF), or play back tapes (VCR).
  • Page 8: Select A Recording Speed

    (60 minutes with a TC-20 tape). SLP has slightly more picture noise in normal playback. Set the length of the tape you are using so the camcorder can correctly calculate the recording time remaining on the tape. Repeatedly press the SP•SLP/ T20•30•40 switch.
  • Page 9: Set The Scene Select Ae Dial

    First-Time Operation 8. Set the scene select AE dial to AUTO. • This places the camcorder in the AUTO mode. FULL AUTO will appear in the side display panel. • In the AUTO mode, the fade, 16X9, manual focus, exposure, display, and titler controls will not operate.
  • Page 10: Play Back Your Recording

    • Press and release the thumb trigger again to stop recording. The camcorder is now in the record- pause mode ( PAUSE the viewfinder). 11. Play back what you have recorded.
  • Page 11: Review Camcorder's Operating Controls

    First-Time Operation 13. Review camcorder’s operating controls. Built-in Color Enhancement Light Lens LENS COVER Control Remote Control Sensor Power Zoom Lever “W” - Wide Angle “T” - Telephoto Microphone Tally Light MODE Button F2 Button Electronic Viewfinder Eyepiece Focus Control...
  • Page 12: Operating Controls

    First-Time Operation 13. Review camcorder’s operating controls. SP•SLP/T20•30•40 Button (Also COUNTER R/M Button) MAN.W.BAL (Manual White Balance) B (Bright) and C (Color) Controls on Bottom of Viewfinder See Trouble Checks for details. Shoulder Strap Attachment Ring Clock Cell Compartment Attach Battery or...
  • Page 13: Using Adapter/Charger

    Powering Your Camcorder Using the Adapter/Charger to Power Your Camcorder The power connector attaches to the camcorder and lets you power your camcorder directly from standard household power. The adapter/charger operates on 100-240 volts, 50/60 Hz, so it can be used virtually anywhere in the world to power the camcorder or recharge the battery.
  • Page 14: Charging The Battery

    Powering Your Camcorder Charging the Battery Indicator POWER Indicator Indicator REFRESH Button REFRESH Indicator To Charge the Battery If the power connector is attached to the DC OUT jack on the adapter/charger, remove its plug. 1. Align reference mark on battery with mark on adapter/charger.
  • Page 15: Using The Battery To Power Your Camcorder

    Initial charging will take approximately 70 minutes. When fully charged, the battery should supply about 55 minutes of operating time (depending on how much you use the light, zoom, and pause). Conserve battery power by turning the camcorder off during recording breaks.
  • Page 16: Battery Level Indicator

    • As the power is used appear. • When the battery power is almost gone, flashes in the viewfinder. The camcorder will turn off automatically after a few seconds. Place the POWER switch in OFF to turn off the camcorder before replacing the battery.
  • Page 17: Using The Dcc08 Car Cord Adapter

    2. If the battery is attached to the camcorder, remove it. 3. Hold the power connector flush against the back of the camcorder and press the bottom of the power connector down until it locks into place as shown.
  • Page 18: Remote Control

    Remote Control A brief description of the remote button’s functions is given here. Many of the buttons perform the same functions as the corresponding controls on the camcorder. ZOOM (T and W) Buttons Camcorder’s POWER switch in CAMERA: • Press T to move the lens in the telephoto (close-up) direction.
  • Page 19 Used for dubbing video. See page 53. START/STOP Button When the POWER switch is in CAMERA, press START/STOP to start and stop recording. Note: If the camcorder is left in record pause for more than five minutes, power will turn off. SELF INT. (Interval)/ TIME Button...
  • Page 20: Install Lithium Cell

    However, the remote must be aimed directly at the camcorder’s remote sensor. There cannot be any obstructions between them. Remote Control Sensor Note: The camcorder may not respond to the remote if its sensor is exposed to direct sunlight or strong artificial light. Holder...
  • Page 21: 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. • Use extra care to avoid damage to your camcorder and accessories when operating them at a beach or pool.
  • Page 22: Video Cassettes

    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 23: Video Cassettes

    • Store cassettes vertically in their protective cases at normal room temperatures. Do not leave your camcorder or cassettes in a car or outdoors for an extended period. Excessive heat or cold may damage your cassettes.
  • Page 24: Make A Recording

    MODE, F1, and F2 Buttons 4. Place the POWER (CAMERA/ OFF/VCR) switch in CAMERA. The power indicator will light and the camcorder will enter record pause. appears in the viewfinder. PAUSE 5. Adjust the viewfinder and eyepiece focus control for your vision.
  • Page 25 • Press and release the thumb trigger again to stop recording. The ) sports camcorder is now in record pause. • The camcorder will automatically turn off if it remains in record pause ) back light for five minutes. Place the POWER switch in OFF and then back in CAMERA.
  • Page 26: Recording Tips

    • Use the viewfinder to make sure the camcorder is level while recording or your scenes will appear “tilted”. • Do not bump or tap the camcorder’s microphone while recording because this sound will be recorded. • Include close-ups when taping family outings or group functions.
  • Page 27: Viewfinder

    Recording Viewfinder The camcorder’s viewfinder is a miniature monitor that displays the picture seen by the camcorder when recording. Adjust Viewfinder for Convenient Viewing For convenient viewing, you can slide the viewfinder out from the camcorder and rotate it up and down.
  • Page 28: Viewfinder Displays

    Recording Viewfinder Displays Zoom Level This indicator tells you whether you are zoomed in or zoomed out. Details are on page 34. Exposure Indicator Bar This indicator appears when you are adjusting brightness manually. Details are on page 42. Preset Title •...
  • Page 29 • Details are on page 33. Tape Length: The length of the tape in the camcorder (T20, T30, or T40) selected with the SP•SLP/ T20•30•40 switch appears here. • Details are on page 33.
  • Page 30 The dew indicator appears when excessive moisture (condensation) has entered the camcorder. The camcorder will not operate when this indicator appears. Place the camcorder in a warm, dry area until this indicator disappears. When the dew indicator disappears, the camcorder will operate. I NDEX...
  • Page 31 • The indicator appears PAUSE when the camcorder is in record pause. • TAPE END appears when the end of the tape is reached during recording or a cassette is inserted with its tape already at the end.
  • Page 32: Tally Light

    Recording Microphone Tally Light The tally light lights when the camcorder is recording. Microphone The microphone picks up the sound during a recording. It is more sensitive to sounds coming from the direction the lens is pointed. Flying Erase Head...
  • Page 33: Auto Head Cleaner

    Servicenter. Quick Review Feature Press and release EDIT SEARCH – (REW on remote) when the camcorder is in record pause to review the last few seconds of a recording. The POWER switch must be in CAMERA.
  • Page 34: Time Counter With Memory Stop

    Recording Time Counter The time-counter display shows the actual time elapsed when playing back a segment of a prerecorded tape. The memory-stop feature helps locate a certain point on the tape. When memory stop is on, the tape will stop automatically during rewind or fast forward when the time counter reaches M 0:00:00.
  • Page 35: Tape Time-Remaining Display

    Recording Tape Time-Remaining Display The approximate time remaining on the tape in the camcorder is automatically displayed in the viewfinder. The SP•SLP/T20•30•40 switch must be set for the correct recording speed and tape length before the camcorder can correctly calculate time remaining.
  • Page 36: Power Zooming

    Zooming The motorized zoom lens allows you to zoom in and out for close ups or wide-angle shots just by sliding the power zoom lever on the camcorder or pressing ZOOM T or W on the remote. Power Zoom Lever...
  • Page 37: Scene Select Ae Dial

    Portrait Sepia Scene Select AE Dial Uses Places camcorder in full auto mode. 16X9, FADE, FOCUS, EXPOSURE, DISPLAY, TITLE, and MAN.W.BAL will not operate in this mode. Use this mode for normal recording. Use when playing back recording on a VCR featuring special effects, such as pause or slow motion.
  • Page 38: White Balance

    Making colors look natural is what white balance is all about. This is achieved by adjusting the way the camcorder “sees” and records the light source in the scene you wish to record. Your camcorder is equipped with automatic white balance. However,...
  • Page 39: Mode Button

    Recording MODE Button When the scene select AE dial is in any position except AUTO, you can select any one of six functions using the MODE, F1, and F2 buttons. Repeatedly press MODE to select a function. The functions selected appear in the display panel beside the F1 and F2 buttons and in the viewfinder: Repeatedly Press...
  • Page 40: Fading In And Out

    You can add a professional touch to your recordings when you fade in and out of scenes. The picture will gradually appear or disappear. The speed of the fade is automatically controlled by the camcorder. Fade In 1. Place the POWER switch to CAMERA.
  • Page 41: 16X9 Mode

    The camcorder has a 16X9 recording mode that lets you make recordings compatible with the 16X9 format. When 16X9 is activated, the camcorder records black bars at the top and bottom of the picture to produce the wide-screen effect. This is also known as “letter box”...
  • Page 42: Focus Lock Feature

    EXPOSURE Focus Lock Feature The focus lock feature is useful when objects pass between your subject and the camcorder or your main subject is not located in the center of the viewfinder. 1. Center the main object in the viewfinder.
  • Page 43: Manual Focus

    Recording Manual Focus Under certain conditions, such as those listed, you may need to focus manually. 1. Make sure the scene select AE dial is not set to AUTO. 2. Slide the power zoom lever toward T to zoom in on your subject. To maintain proper focus throughout the zoom range, you must zoom in on the subject before adjusting the focus.
  • Page 44: Exposure Control (Iris)

    Recording Exposure Control (Iris) The camcorder automatically adjusts the iris to provide the best picture. Under certain conditions, you may want to brighten or darken the image manually. To Manually Control Brightness 1. Make sure the scene select AE dial is not set to AUTO.
  • Page 45: Self-Timer (Remote Only)

    STOP PAUSE INSERT A.DUB 3. Press START/STOP on the remote (thumb trigger on camcorder). Recording will be delayed the amount of time you selected. The tally light flashes with the flash speed increasing five seconds before recording begins. REC appears in viewfinder and tally light lights when recording begins.
  • Page 46: Titler

    Recording Titler You can superimpose one of the eight preset titles stored in memory over the scene being recorded. You can also create your own title (up to 18 characters), store it, and record it alone or with one of the preset titles. Recording a Title Stored in Memory 1.
  • Page 47: Creating Your Own Title

    Recording Creating Your Own Title After you create a title you can store it and record it alone or with one of the preset titles as described on pages 48-49. The clock cell battery must be installed as shown on page 46. 1.
  • Page 48: Install The Clock Lithium Cell

    The cell should last approximately one year. Insert object here to remove cell. Clock Cell (+ Side Facing Out) 1. Make sure camcorder is turned off, and remove any power supply attached to the camcorder. 2. Press release tab of clock cell compart- ment cover and open the compartment.
  • Page 49: Set The Date And Time

    Recording Set the Date and Time After the date and time have been set, they can be displayed and recorded on your tapes. The clock cell must be installed. DATE/TIME/CHAR + and – Buttons 1. Make sure the clock cell is installed. 2.
  • Page 50: Select The Date, Time, Or Title To Record

    • TV On-Screen Display: The viewfinder displays will appear on the screen of a TV connected to the camcorder during record pause. In this mode the date will be displayed and recorded. Note: This mode is not available during recording.
  • Page 51: Date And Time Displays

    Date/Time Display The mode selected will be recorded. To Record the Date, Time, or Title Display on Your Tape 1. Place the camcorder in record pause. 2. Place scene select AE in MAN. Note: Whenever the scene select AE dial is in AUTO, AUTO DATE is automatically selected.
  • Page 52: Animation Recording

    Using the fade feature is a good way to begin. The fade feature will not operate during animation recording. Use a tripod to keep the camcorder steady.
  • Page 53: Time-Lapse Recording

    1. Use the SP•SLP/T20•30•40 switch to set the tape speed to SP. 2. Place the POWER switch in CAMERA to put the camcorder in record pause. 3. Press TIME LAPSE ANIM. REC/TIME on remote to select the amount of recording time (1/4, 1/2 or 1 second).
  • Page 54: Audio Dubbing (Remote Only)

    PLAY/PAUSE (PAUSE on remote). 4. Press COUNTER R/M for more than two seconds on the camcorder to set the time counter back to 0:00:00. 5. Press COUNTER R/M again for less than one second to turn on memory stop (M).
  • Page 55: Edit Insert (Remote Only)

    PLAY/PAUSE (PAUSE on remote). 4. Press COUNTER R/M for more than two seconds on the camcorder to set the time counter back to 0:00:00. 5. Press COUNTER R/M again for less than one second to turn on memory stop (M).
  • Page 56: Built-In Color Enhancement Light

    Note: When the light is turned on, the camcorder may turn off if the battery’s power is low even though the battery level indicator is not flashing. Cautions:...
  • Page 57 Recording Replacing the Bulb We recommend you consult your dealer or Servicenter to replace the bulb.
  • Page 58: Attaching The Shoulder Strap

    Attaching the Shoulder Strap The camcorder’s 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. To Attach the Shoulder Strap 1.
  • Page 59: Playback Viewfinder Playback

    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 enter the stop mode and then turn off to prevent excessive tape wear.
  • Page 60: Using The Cassette Adapter

    Playback Using the Cassette Adapter The camcorder uses a smaller size cassette, but records in standard VHS format. The cassette adapter allows you to play your VHS-C cassettes in a VCR just like other standard VHS cassettes. Insert the VHS-C cassette into the cassette adapter. Insert the cassette adapter into the VHS VCR like a normal VHS cassette.
  • Page 61 Playback Load Detector 4. Gently close the cassette compartment lid until it locks into place. Make sure the cassette reel area under the adapter is free to turn while the cassette is loading. Note: You should hear a whirring sound while the tape loads.
  • Page 62: Playback On Tv (Or Vcr) With Audio/Video In Jacks

    VH83 shown on page 64. 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 63 VCR. Notes: The remote control will operate the camcorder. During record pause, you can use the display feature to see the camcorder’s displays on the TV screen. Details are on pages 48-49. • During playback, use the playback features on page 57.
  • Page 64 Playback Playback on a TV Without Audio/Video Inputs To connect your camcorder to a TV without audio/video inputs, you will need an optional 1CVA147C RF output adapter and an optional coaxial RF cable, such as VH82 or VH84 shown on page 66. If your TV has AUDIO and VIDEO IN jacks (or is connected to a VCR), refer to pages 60-61.
  • Page 65 Viewing What the Camcorder Is Recording 1. Turn on the TV and tune it to channel 3 or 4. When the camcorder is used as a camera, turn the TV’s volume down to prevent a high-pitched squeal caused by feedback.
  • Page 66: Optional Accessories

    Optional Accessories We invite you to take a look at some great ideas for sparking creativity and adding to the fun of using your compact VHS camcorder. The following pages have a selection of accessories to help make your memorable moments look and sound even better.
  • Page 67 Do not transport the camcorder attached to the tripod. When attaching your camcorder to a tripod, be careful not to force the tripod screw into the camcorder’s tripod mounting hole. The tripod screw should not protrude into the camcorder more than approximately three-eighth (3/8) inch.
  • Page 68 1CVA147C RF Output Adapter This RF output adapter is used with a coaxial RF cable, such as VH82 or VH90, to connect your camcorder to a standard TV (one without audio/video inputs) for playback. If your antenna cable is the flat...
  • Page 69: Accessory Order Form

    Accessory Order Form Order Form for Camcorder Model CC634 Description Super Lightweight Tripod Soft Camcorder Case Shoulder Strap Y-Adapter AC Battery Charger Car Cord Adapter Rechargeable Battery (Extended) Rechargeable Battery (Standard) 75-300 Cable Transformer Coaxial RF Cable Audio/Video Cable Coaxial RF Cable...
  • Page 70 Accessory Order Form Charge your order on your VISA, MasterCard, or Discover Card by USE YOUR CREDIT CARD IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number from your VISA card My card expires: IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number from your MasterCard Copy Number above your name on MasterCard...
  • Page 71 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) Monday through Friday or between 9AM and 5PM (EST) Saturday.
  • Page 72: 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 73 • Subject was too far from camcorder. • If the dew indicator ( ) flashes in the viewfinder, there is moisture in the camcorder. Wait until this indicator no longer appears before operating the camcorder. • Subject is dark or behind glass. Auto-focus may not work under these conditions.
  • Page 74 Picture recorded in • SEPIA ( brown tone Picture recorded • Camcorder is set to the 16X9 mode. Turn off 16X9. with black bars at top and bottom Colors do not look • Try adjusting white balance. See page 36.
  • Page 75 (E01, E02, etc.) appears in viewfinder Battery runs down • If camcorder has not been used for some time, charge the sooner than expected • Battery run times are measured when the camcorder is the viewfinder. Remove them from viewfinder when recording.
  • Page 76: Care And Maintenance

    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. Improper cleaning may scratch the lens.
  • Page 77: Proper Care And Storage

    • Do not aim your camcorder at the sun or other bright objects. • Do not leave your camcorder in direct sunlight for extended periods of time.
  • Page 78: Specifications

    Specifications General Power requirement: 6VDC Power consumption: 5.9 watts (normal) Weight: 1.7 lbs. (770g) Dimensions – Including Viewfinder 4-4/8"(W) x 4-1/2"(H) x 8-1/8"(D) 111 (W) x 113(H) x 206(D) mm Video Recorder Section Format: VHS-C Record/Playback System: Four video record/playback heads One flying erase head Video Signal: EIA Standard NTSC color...
  • Page 79: Customer Assistance And Service

    RA number over the phone. They will also provide you with instructions on where and how to return your camcorder. Write the number in large, clear characters on the outside of the box. To avoid confusion and...
  • Page 80: Limited Warranty

    • 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 81 • 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 82: Index (Alphabetical)

    Camcorder Lens, Cleaning ... . .74 Camcorder, Cleaning ....74 Camcorder, Powering ....11-15 Camcorder, Turning On .
  • Page 83 Trouble Checks ....70-73 Turning On the Camcorder ... . .8 Unpacking the Camcorder ....3 User Information .
  • Page 84 Need Assistance? We want to help! U.S. Consumers: Camcorder Exchange Warranty ..800-283-6503 Customer Service ....800-336-1900 Accessories .....800-338-0376 Canadian Consumers: English .

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