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.
On-Screen Preferences ... 18 Display Menu Options ... 18 Setting the Date and Time ... 18 Displaying Information on the Camcorder or TV ... 19 Displaying Date and Time Information On Screen ... 20 Time Code Display ... 20 Using the Monitors ... 22 Seeing What You Are Recording ...
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Accessories Order Form ... 60 Trouble Checks ... 63 Specifications ... 68 Care and Maintenance ... 69 After Using the Camcorder ... 69 Cleaning The Camcorder ... 69 Proper Care and Storage ... 70 Things to Avoid... 70 Customer Assistance and Service 71 Warranty ...
Refer to the other sections for detailed operation and feature options. 1. Unpack the camcorder and accessories. • Save all packing materials and box in case the camcorder ever needs to be shipped or stored. • The items shown are packed with the camcorder. If any pieces are missing or appear damaged, contact your dealer immediately.
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3. 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 using the included DC power cable. DC In jack A. Connect one end of the DC cable to the DC OUT jack on the adapter/charger.
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4. Press in the Lock Button and rotate the Power Switch to automatic ( ) record . • The Power Indicator lights when the camcorder is turned on. • The position of the Power Switch determines whether the camcorder is in automatic (...
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First-Time Operation 6. Insert a Mini DV cassette. A. Make sure the camcorder is connected to a power supply. B. With the camcorder set to automatic ( ) record, slide and hold the OPEN/EJECT latch. Gently pull the cassette cover open until it snaps into place.
8. Start and stop recording. A. Remove the Lens Cap. B. Put the camcorder in automatic record mode by pressing the Lock Button in and rotating the Power Switch to the icon.
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PLAY in playback mode. The Power Indicator lights. B. Press the Rewind Button ( on top of the camcorder to reverse the cassette to the beginning. When rewound completely, the camcorder will automatically stop. The time counter and date/time on-screen displays will blink.
Powering the Camcorder Powering the Camcorder Using the Adapter/Charger The Adapter/Charger 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. DC IN Jack Attaching the Adapter/Charger 1.
75-95 minutes of operating time– depending on how much the monitor, zoom, and pause are used. Conserve battery power by turning the camcorder off during recording breaks. Attaching a Charged Battery If the DC cable is attached to the camcorder, remove it before attaching the battery.
CHARGE indicator stops blinking and remains lit. 6. Remove the charged battery by sliding it off the Adapter/Charger. 7. Attach the charged battery to the camcorder as described on the previous page. Lithium-ion Rechargeable Battery model 247800 (or optional model BB46L) To AC Wall Outlet 100-240 Volts, 50/60 Hz.
Before replacing the battery or plugging the DC Cable into the camcorder, set the Power Switch to OFF to turn off the camcorder. Battery Care and Storage • Recharging takes approximately 70 minutes for the battery depending on its condition.
Other Camcorder Details Other Camcorder Details Shoulder Strap The camcorder’s shoulder strap is designed to let you carry the camera from your shoulder and – when ready– bring the camcorder to shooting position in one quick movement. Attaching the Shoulder Strap 1.
This camcorder is designed to work exclusively with digital video cassettes. Only cassettes marked with a Mini DV logo can be used with this unit. Also keep in mind that this camcorder is not compatible with other digital media formats. Note: For details on loading and unloading cassettes into the digital camcorder, see page 6 in this manual.
• Store cassettes vertically in their protective cases at normal room temperatures. Never leave the camcorder or cassettes in a car or outdoors for an extended period of time. Excessive heat or cold might damage cassettes. • Keep cassettes away from strong magnetic fields such as electric motors, speakers and other devices.
(see Displaying information on the camcorder or TV on the next page for details). 1. With a power supply attached, press in the Lock Tab and rotate the Power Switch to manual ( record.
1. With a power supply attached, press in the Lock Tab and rotate the Power Switch to manual ( record. The power indicator lights. 2. Press in the MENU/BRIGHT dial to display the camcorder’s on- screen menu system. – – – –...
Lock Tab and rotate the Power Switch to manual ( record. The power indicator lights. 2. Press in the MENU/BRIGHT dial to display the camcorder’s on- screen menu system. 3. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT dial to highlight the DISPLAY MENU icon ( ).
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CLOCK ADJ. OFF 5. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT dial to select ON or OFF. ON Displays the time code on the camcorder’s viewfinder or LCD monitor as well as a connected TV or VCR display. Frame numbers are not displayed during recording.
Using the Monitors Seeing What You Are Recording To see what the camcorder’s recording, use either the LCD monitor or the viewfinder monitor. When the LCD monitor is open more than 25 degrees, the viewfinder turns off. When you close the LCD monitor, the viewfinder turns on.
Never force the viewfinder to rotate completely around. This will damage the viewfinder and/or the camcorder. When carrying the camcorder with the shoulder strap, put the viewfinder down to help prevent possible damage to it from bumping against your body as you move.
Several displays appear on the LCD monitor or in the viewfinder to aid in the operation of the camcorder. Although it may look crowded, all of the icons shown below do not appear on-screen at the same time. Also, not all screen icons are shown in the illustration.
Appears when the date and time are not set. Appears when the built-in clock battery runs out and the previously set date/time is erased. Consult your nearest RCA service center for replacement. Appears when in automatic ( Displays the fade/wipe effect in use (see pages 29-30 for details about fade and wipe effects.)
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Snapshot Indicator — Exposure Adjustment Icon — Iris Lock Indicator Appears when the camcorder is in 16x9 mode (wide screen). Display of the set recording speed (either Standard Play [SP] or Long Play [LP]). Displays the approximate zoom ratio during zooming.
LCD monitor. • SOUND displays the sound mode for approximately five seconds after the camcorder is turned on. Appears when the focus is adjusted manually. Displays the date and time briefly when the camcorder is turned on. Displays the time code.
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TC 10:06:20 Time Code Display Date/Time Display Tape progress indicators appear on screen after the corresponding button on top of the camcorder has been pressed. BRIGHT Displays the brightness of the • LCD monitor. • SOUND displays the speaker volume.
On-Screen Menus On-screen Menus Your digital camcorder has a variety of modes to choose from to achieve recordings with professional results. You can change detailed settings using the camcorder’s on-screen menu system. Accessing Menus 1. Press in the Thumb Release and rotate the Power Switch to manual ) record.
WIPE - SHUTTER new scenes wipe in over the preceding one from the center toward top and bottom. RANDOM when activated, the camcorder randomly selects the effect used for transitions. Picture wipe/ dissolve is not available.
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On-Screen Menus Program AE with Special Effects Your digital camcorder offers a variety of special effects to add a professional touch to recordings. Note: Program AE with special effects can be changed during recording or during record-standby modes. To Open the PROGRAM AE menu: 1.
Pressing the backlight button has no effect when exposure is set to MANUAL. Iris Lock The iris controls the amount of light that enters the camcorder. Use Iris Control in the following situations: • When shooting a moving subject.
• When zooming. When the subject is close, keep the iris locked. Even when the subject moves away from the camcorder, the image will not darken or lighten. Setting Iris Lock: 1. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT dial to highlight the EXPOSURE icon ).
Notes: It may be difficult for the camcorder to focus on a white sheet of paper. Use manual focus instead. Because color temperature is different depending on lighting sources (natural or fluorescent light, candlelight, etc.), the...
• Scenes with movement in various directions. • Scenes with low-contrast backgrounds. Switch off DIS when the camcorder is mounted to a tripod. icon blinks or disappears if DIS cannot be used. Activating Image Stabilization: 1. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT dial to highlight the MANUAL icon ).
16X9 TV. When played on a regular TV, CINEMA mode creates black bars in the picture. The camcorder lets you make recordings compatible with the 16X9 (wide screen) format. When Wide Mode is activated, the camcorder records black bars at the top and bottom of the picture to produce the wide-screen effect.
RETURN. Press in the MENU/ BRIGHT dial twice to return to normal viewing. Resetting Camcorder Defaults If you ever want to set the camcorder back to its original factory settings, use the CAM RESET function. 1. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT dial to...
250 times (250X) the normal view using digital interpretation. There is also an optical zoom, the amount actually supported by the camcorder’s lens, of up to 10 times (or 10X). Selecting Zoom Mode: 1. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT dial...
On-Screen Menus • 10X the maximum optical zoom. If the camcorder is using digital zoom and then is set to 10X zoom mode, the magnification will reset. • 40X allows use of digital zoom. By digitally processing and magnifying images, zooming is possible from 10X (the optical limit) to 40X.
RETURN. Press in the MENU/ BRIGHT dial twice to return to normal viewing. ID Number In order to connect the camcorder to a device such as a video editor using the Service Terminal, a unique ID number must be assigned. The numbers available range from 01 to 99.
You can also set the date and time. On-Screen Displays You can set what information is shown on which displays the camcorder is using, including the LCD monitor, viewfinder, or even a TV screen. Accessing On Screen Settings: 1.
On-Screen Menus Date and Time Display You can turn the date and time display on or off on the camcorder. 1. Rotate the MENU/BRIGHT dial to highlight the DISPLAY MENU icon ( ). Press in the MENU/ BRIGHT dial in to highlight the submenus.
Recording Recording Recording Details To get the most out of your camcorder, make sure to review this chapter. Here you will find out about the camcorder’s built-in color-enhancement light, about focusing, and about Snapshot mode. Video Light To brighten the scene when natural lighting is too dim, the camcorder uses a built-in video light.
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Warning The video light and bulb need to cool for approximately 30 minutes after the camcorder has been used before the bulb assembly is replaced. Do not touch the light bulb with your fingers. If the bulb is accidentally touched, wipe it with a soft cloth. A dirty bulb may cause smoke and have a reduced service life.
Recording Camcorder Focus Your digital camcorder can be set to automatically focus images, or you can manually set the focus. Auto Focus The full-range auto focus system offers continuous shooting ability from close up (as near as approximately 2 inches from the subject) to the horizon.
Press the FOCUS button ( set the Power Switch to automatic ( record. If FOCUS ( ) is pressed once, the camcorder will enter the Focus Adjustment mode again. Notes: Be sure to focus the lens in the maximum telephoto position when using manual focus.
Digital and Optical Zooming You can zoom in and out for close-up or wide-angle shots just by moving the zoom lever on the camcorder. The camcorder automatically focuses at most distances when zooming. Optical zooming is possible up to 10 times, and digital zooming allows up to 250 times normal magnification.
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Optical zoom (see pages 38-39 for details) is the natural, non-enhanced magnification that the camcorder’s lens will support. This digital camcorder has an optical zoom of 10 times (10X). • For a wide angle zoom, rotate the lever toward W.
FORWARD, REVERSE, STOP) can be handled using the camcorder’s buttons. This camcorder can also be controlled by most RCA, GE, or PROSCAN universal remote controls using the VCR2 button. Such remotes without a VCR2 button should be able to be programmed to control the camcorder using the AUX button.
Adjust the TV sound volume to its minimum level to avoid a sudden burst of sound when the camcorder is turned on. If you have a TV or speakers that are not specially shielded, do not place the...
11. Press the camcorder’s Play/Pause Button ( ) to begin playback. Note: The camcorder and some TVs have an S-Video Jack which can be used for a better image quality. If using an optional S-Video Cable, it must have a core filter...
Playback Capturing Recordings to a VCR Using A/V Input Jacks Connecting the Camcorder to a VCR Using A/V Input Jacks: 1. Locate the A/V cable that came with the camcorder. 2. Make sure all units are turned off. 3. Connect the white plug of the A/V cables to the VCR’s Left AUDIO...
Playback Connecting the Camcorder to a Computer Using IEEE 1394 Jacks Connecting the Camcorder to a Computer Using an IEEE 1394 Jack It is also possible to transfer video and still images to a computer equipped for digital video capture using an IEEE 1394 board.
Playback Connecting the Camcorder to a VCR to Capture Sound Only Dubbing Sound to a VCR Using A/V Input Jacks: 1. Locate the A/V cable that came with the camcorder. 2. Make sure all units are turned off. 3. Connect the white plug of the A/V cables to the VCR’s Left AUDIO...
Playback Dubbing to Another Digital Video Camcorder Equipped With an IEEE 1394 Connection Port Digital Dubbing Using IEEE 1394 Jacks When sending a digital signal from one DV device to another, there is little if any image or sound deterioration.
Fading in and out of scenes makes your videos appear more professional. • Learn to use the special production effects available with your camcorder to add variety to your recordings. • Be aware of video and audio backgrounds. Background details barely noticed while you are taping may show up as visual “clutter”...
We invite you to take a look at some great ideas for sparking creativity and adding to the fun of using your digital camcorder. The following pages have a selection of accessories to help make your memorable moments look and sound even better.
Control The RCU800 ON • OFF ANTENNA INPUT • CABLE universal remote MUTE SEARCH CH + control is an RCA- branded unit which CH - SPEED GO BACK GUIDE INFO can control your digital camcorder MENU CLEAR using the VCR2 or AUX buttons.
This tripod’s fluid-effect head provides smooth camera pan and tilt. The quick- release mount makes it easy to attach or remove the camcorder. The grooved, tubular 3-section leg design folds down to 26" when not in use. Rubber feet allow for sure footing.
Accessories Accessories Order Form (Model CC9370) Description Super Lightweight Tripod Soft Camcorder Case Shoulder Strap Rechargeable Battery Extended Life Battery AC Adapter/Charger A/V Cable DC Cable IEEE 1394 Connection Cable RCA Universal Remote Control All prices subject to change without notice.
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Accessories Charge your order on your VISA,MasterCard, USE YOUR CREDIT CARD IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number from your VISA card IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number from your MasterCard Copy Number above your name on MasterCard IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number from your Discover Card Expiration date: Prices are subject to change without notice.
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Accessories 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.
Troubles sometimes are caused by simple “faults” that you can easily correct without the help of a service technician by first checking a few basic remedies. Before you call or take your camcorder to an Authorized RCA Camcorder Service Center, look below for the type of trouble you are experiencing. Then perform the simple checks and adjustments listed for that trouble.
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• Set it in the right position (page 6). • Install a fully charged battery (pages 12-14)or connect the camcorder to the AC Adapter (page 4). • Make sure to use only Mini DV cassettes (page 16). • Turn off Squeeze mode in the MANUAL MENU (pages 36-37).
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• Select Picture Wipe or Dissolve before recording. The effects are then automatically activated (pages 29-30). • The camcorder automatically shuts off after five minutes in Record-Standby mode. Make sure you continue using the camcorder within five minutes after pausing a tape (page 26).
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Checks and Adjustments • Close the LCD monitor to turn it off or set the Power Switch to OFF and let the camcorder cool down (page 22). • This can occur in certain conditions including using Fade and Wipe effects (pages 29-30), Program AE with Special Effects (pages 31-32), and Digital Image Stabilization (page 35).
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Fahrenheit (10°C to 35°C) (pages 13-14). • Remove the lens cap. • Adjust the brightness of the LCD monitor (page 22). • If the LCD is rotated forward, make sure it is fully rotated 180 degrees. • Turn the camcorder’s power off and on again.
Specifications Specifications General Power requirement: 6.3 VDC Power consumption: Viewfinder on: 4.3 watts LCD monitor on: 5.3 watts Weight: 1.3 lbs. (550g) Dimensions – Including Viewfinder: 3-3/16" (W) x 3-13/16" (H) x 6-5/16" (D) 80 (W) x 96 (H) x 159 (D) mm Video Recorder Section Format: DV Record/playback system:...
Care and Maintenance Care and Maintenance After Using the Camcorder 1. Turn off the camcorder. 2. Slide and hold the OPEN/EJECT latch in the direction of the arrow, then pull the cassette holder cover open until it locks. The cassette holder opens automatically.
Do not expose the camcorder or adapter/charger to rain or moisture. If any component becomes wet, turn off the power and take the unit to an authorized RCA camcorder service provider. • Do not use an adapter/charger or batteries other than the ones specified for the camcorder.
These numbers are located on the bottom of the camcorder. If the camcorder is within the warranty period, please provide a copy of the bill of sale to verify purchase date. Use the original box and packing material to protect the equipment from damage in shipment.
What we will do: During the initial 90 days • Exchange your camcorder with a new or refurbished unit, or repair your camcorder. The option will be ours. There will be no cost to you.
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• Check with your dealer or call 1-800-336- 1900 for the Authorized RCA Camcorder Service Center nearest you. • Take your unit to the Authorized RCA Camcorder Service Center of your choice. • Show the Authorized RCA Camcorder Service Center representative evidence of purchase date, such as a bill of sale.
Optional S-Video Cables Working With the Core Filter Attaching a Core Filter to an Optional S-Video Cable Your digital camcorder and some TVs and video units have an S-Video jack. S-Video provides excellent video transfer abilities (not sound). You can purchase an S-Video cable at many retail electronics stores.
54 to a computer 53 to a TV 51 to a VCR 52 to another DV camcorder 55 using A/V jacks 51, 52, 54 using an IEEE 1394 cable 53, 55 Connectivity Jacks 9 Core Filter 74...
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LP Speed 38 Manual Focus 46 Manual Menu using 35 Manual White Balance operation 34 Menu Options 18 displaying camcorder 18 TV 18 MENU/BRIGHT Dial 7, 9, 10, 21, 29, 35 Menus accessing 29 Microphone 9 Mini DV 16 Missing Cassette Warning Indicator...
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna (that is, the antenna for the radio or television that is “receiving” the interference). Change the position of the Camcorder with respect to the radio or television equipment that is receiving interference. Move the Camcorder away from the equipment that is receiving interference.