RCA Pro884HB User Manual
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RCA Pro884HB User Manual

RCA Pro884HB User Manual

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Pro884HB
USER'S
GUIDE
8
®
C A M C O
R D E R

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  • Page 1 Pro884HB USER‘S GUIDE ® C A M C O R D E R...

  • Page 2: Important Safety Information

    CAUTION: Avoid operating your camcorder immediately after moving it from a cold location to a warm location. Give the camcorder 1-1/2 to 2 hours to reach a stable temperature before inserting a video cassette. When moved from a cold area to a warm location, moisture may condense on the head drum inside the machine.

  • 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 71) Accessories... 800-338-0376 (Pages 61-67) Table of Contents Safety Information...i Product Registration...i Contents...1-2 First-Time Operation •...
  • Page 4 Table of Contents Recording Features • Stereo Microphone ...24 • Flying Erase Head ...24 • Tally Light...24 • Quick Review...24 • Edit Search ...25 • Tape Positioning ...25 • Time Remaining Display ...26 • Program AE (Auto Exposure)...26 • Date Search ...27 •...

  • Page 5: First-Time Operation

    • Save the packing materials and box in case you ever need to ship or store your camcorder. • The items shown below are packed with your camcorder. If any are missing or appear damaged, contact your dealer immediately. Remote Control Camcorder: Model Pro884HB Stock No.

  • Page 6: Attach The Adapter/Charger

    DC cable to the DC OUTPUT jack on the adapter/ charger. • Attach the other end of the cable to the DC IN 6V jack on the camcorder. 3. Insert a cassette. Cassette Door PUSH Here A. Slide EJECT to open the cassette compartment.

  • Page 7: Attach The Lens Cap Cord And Adjust The Handstrap

    First-Time Operation 4. Attach the lens cap cord and adjust the handstrap. A. Remove the lens cap from the camcorder. Lens Cap Lens Cap Cord B. Attach the lens cap cord to the lens cap. Lens Lens Cap Cord Handstrap...

  • Page 8: Turn On The Camcorder

    5. Turn on the camcorder. The CAM/OFF/VCR switch tells the camcorder whether you want to record (CAM), play back tapes (VCR), or turn off the camcorder’s power (OFF). Some of the controls operate differently depending on the position of the CAM/OFF/VCR switch.

  • Page 9: Adjust Eyepiece Focus Control

    The tally light will light and REC will appear in the viewfinder when the camcorder is recording. Notes: If you do not record within five minutes, the camcorder will automatically shut off to prevent excessive tape wear.

  • Page 10: Recorded

    C. Press REW to rewind the tape. D. Press PLAY to play back the tape in the viewfinder. E. Press STOP when you are finished. F. Details on viewfinder playback are on page 54. Review camcorder’s operating controls. FADE Button Stereo Microphone...

  • Page 11: Operating Controls

    First-Time Operation Review camcorder’s operating controls. CAM/OFF/VCR Switch Audio/Video In/Out Connector (Located Behind Small Cover) Audio/Video Out Jacks (Located Behind Small Cover) Power Zoom Buttons T = Telephoto W = Wide Angle INST. Accessory ZOOM Shoe Button Thumb Trigger Handstrap...

  • Page 12: Hi-Band 8Mm

    Special circuitry inside the camcorder produces high-quality recordings when using the high-band 8mm recording system. For full compatibility with existing 8mm equipment, the camcorder is capable of recording and playing back either standard or high-band 8mm. The camcorder automatically selects standard or high-band 8mm during recording or playback.

  • Page 13: Remote Control

    Never use metallic tweezers to hold the cell, and never short circuit the + and – sides of the cell. Note: The camcorder may not respond to the remote control if the camcorder’s remote sensor is exposed to direct sunlight or strong...
  • Page 14 You can use whichever is more convenient at the time. Note: An RCA VCR that is set to respond to remote when it is used to operate the camcorder.
  • Page 15 Remote Control 2 STOP Button • Press STOP when the camcorder’s CAM/OFF/VCR switch is in VCR to stop playback, rewinding, or fast forwarding. • STOP has no effect when the camcorder’s CAM/OFF/VCR switch is in CAM. To stop recording, press PAUSE/RECORD.

  • Page 16: Using The Adapter/Charger To Power Your Camcorder

    Powering Your Camcorder Using the Adapter/Charger to Power Your Camcorder 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 OUTPUT DC IN 6V Jack on Side...

  • Page 17: Powering Your Camcorder

    Powering Your Camcorder Using the Rechargeable Battery to Power Your Camcorder The battery must be charged before it can be used the first time. Initial charging will take approximately one hour. When fully charged, the battery should supply about 45-55 minutes of operating time (depending on how much you use zoom and pause).

  • Page 18: Remove The Battery

    Powering Your Camcorder Using the Rechargeable Battery to Power Your Camcorder Insert the Battery 1. Make sure the CAM/OFF/VCR switch is in OFF. 2. Lift the OPEN lever and pull up the battery compartment cover. OPEN Lever 3. Insert the battery into the battery compartment aligning the reference marks.

  • Page 19: Care And Storage

    Powering Your Camcorder Proper Care and Storage of Your Battery The battery will provide better service and longer performance if you refresh it before charging and store it at normal room temperature. Do not operate the battery at temperatures below 14°F (–10°C) or above 95°F (35°C).

  • Page 20: Insert The Batteries

    Using Alkaline “AA” Batteries to Power Your Camcorder The camcorder can be powered by six alkaline dry-cell “AA” batteries. The operation time of the camcorder depends on the type of alkaline batteries used. Insert the Batteries 1. Make sure the CAM/OFF/VCR switch is in OFF.

  • Page 21: Safety Precautions

    Batteries become warm during and after use. Use caution when removing them. Use “AA” alkaline batteries only during their recommended lifetime. Remove at least one battery if you will not be using the camcorder for a long period of time to extend the batteries useful life.

  • Page 22: Adapter

    The optional DCC06 car cord adapter and DCC80 car cord adapter/charger allow you to power your camcorder from the cigarette lighter socket of a car, truck, or RV. They convert 24- and 12-volts to a 6-volt output. The DCC80 can also charge the battery that came with your camcorder and the BB150 battery.

  • Page 23: Adapter/Charger

    Powering Your Camcorder Use DCC80 Car Cord Adapter/Charger to Power Camcorder DC IN 6V Jack 1. Make sure the camcorder’s CAM/OFF/VCR switch is in OFF. 2. Connect the DC cable’s small plug into the DC OUTPUT jack on the car cord adapter/charger.

  • Page 24: Video Cassettes

    You can use your video cassettes over and over again. To erase a previous recording, just record over it. Safety Tab Recording and Playback Speed and Times The camcorder records and plays back in standard speed (SP). Listed below are the maximum SP recording times for some popular 8mm cassettes. Cassette P6-15...

  • Page 25: Inserting And Removing Cassettes

    4. When you are finished with a cassette, rewind it, remove it from the camcorder, and label it. • Store cassettes vertically in their protective cases at normal room temperatures. Excessive heat or cold may damage your cassettes.

  • Page 26: Recording Features

    The camcorder will play back the last few seconds of the recording, return the tape to its previous position, and return to record pause. Note: Do not press and hold EDIT SEARCH or the camcorder will go into edit search.

  • Page 27: Edit Search

    Edit Search Edit search uses EDIT SEARCH EDIT SEARCH (REW and F.FWD on remote), and PLAY to precisely position the tape while the camcorder is in record pause. • Press and hold EDIT SEARCH visually search the recorded tape in reverse.

  • Page 28: Time Remaining Display

    Recording Features Time-Remaining Display The time-remaining display shows the amount of recording or playback time left on the tape in the camcorder. The display will display “– – – – – –” for approximately ten seconds when you first start playing or recording a tape while the camcorder calculates the time remaining.

  • Page 29: Date Search

    SEARCH disappears from the viewfinder. Notes: The cassette must remain in the camcorder for this feature to function. If you insert a cassette and start recording, this location will be the starting position for that day.

  • Page 30: Date And Time Display

    REW Button STOP Button F.F Button 1. Attach a power supply to the camcorder. Press and hold the small button on the CAM/OFF/VCR switch while you slide it in CAM. 2. If the date and time display does not appear in the viewfinder, press DATE/TITLE.

  • Page 31: Record The Date And Time

    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 32: Install The Clock Lithium Cell

    4. Place the cell holder into the camcorder. Note: Remove the battery from the camcorder if it will not be used for a month or more. This will prevent possible damage from battery leakage. If leakage occurs, wipe up the liquid inside the...

  • Page 33: Viewfinder

    Eyepiece Focus Control The eyepiece focus control lets you set the focus of the viewfinder for your personal vision. If you wear eyeglasses, you can probably operate the camcorder without them. 1. Attach a power supply to the camcorder. Press and hold the small button on the CAM/OFF/VCR switch while you slide it to CAM.

  • Page 34: Displays In Viewfinder

    I.ZOOM, and Zoom Level Status Several displays that aid in the operation of the camcorder appear in the viewfinder. The only display that is recorded on the tape when it appears is the date display. 1 Manual Focus • FOCUS appears when manual focus is turned on.
  • Page 35 Moisture may develop when the camcorder is moved from a cold area to a warm area. Remove the tape and wait an hour before reinserting. If the tape is damaged, remove the tape and replace it.

  • Page 36: Focusing Your Camcorder

    Focusing Your Camcorder FOCUS F (Far) and N (Near) Buttons Auto Focus The camcorder will focus automatically whenever FOCUS does not appear in the viewfinder. • If FOCUS appears, press FOCUS F and N at the same time to turn on auto focus.

  • Page 37: Manual Focus

    • Recording through a window. Notes: Zooming is not possible when using macro focus. To change the size of the subject, move the camcorder’s lens closer or farther away from it. For best results, increase illumination when recording using macro focus.

  • Page 38: Zooming

    Zooming The motorized zoom lens allows you to zoom in (enlarge the image from 1-12 times) for close-ups or out for wide-angle shots. Digital zoom lets you zoom in on a subject with magnification up to 24 times. Instant zoom lets you magnify the picture 1.5 times regardless of the position of the zoom buttons.

  • Page 39: 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 40: Fading In And Out Of Scenes

    • Select zoom fade to fade in and out while zooming. appears in the viewfinder. Fade In 1. Place the camcorder in record pause. 2. Repeatedly press FADE to select fade mode. Note: The last fade mode used will appear the first time you press FADE.

  • Page 41: Electronic Image Stabilizer (Eis)

    Electronic Image Stabilizer (EIS) The electronic image stabilizer (EIS) corrects slight shaking of images during some recording modes. • While zooming in on a distant object. • When recording an approaching small object. • When recording while walking or riding in a vehicle. •...

  • Page 42: Time Counter With Memory Stop

    An “M” appears behind the time counter. 0:00:00M Time Counter With Memory Stop Turned On in Viewfinder Note: During playback or play pause, you can also press DISPLAY on the camcorder to turn memory stop on and off.
  • Page 43 3. Continue to record or play the tape. When you want to return to the place you marked, press the thumb trigger on the camcorder (or PAUSE/RECORD on the remote) to stop recording or the STOP button to stop playing back the tape.

  • Page 44: Titler

    Note: If the CAM/OFF/VCR switch is in CAM, pressing DATE/TITLE on the camcorder will also display the title page. 3. Press STOP to move the flashing cursor to the place you want to begin. 4. Select the first character by pressing F.F (F.FWD on remote) or REW until...

  • Page 45: Recording Titles On A Tape In The Camcorder

    0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 ? ’ . / , - ; : < > ! (Blank Space) Recording Titles on a Tape in the Camcorder 1. Attach a power source and slide CAM/OFF/VCR to CAM.

  • Page 46: Audio/Video Dubbing

    Audio/Video Dubbing A/V (audio/video) DUB on the remote lets you record new audio and video from another VCR or camcorder to a previously recorded tape in the camcorder. You will need an optional VAA008 audio/video input cable shown on page 63.
  • Page 47 PLAY, and locate a place on the tape a few seconds before where you want the dubbing to begin. 3. Place the camcorder in play pause exactly where you want to begin dubbing using the thumb trigger (PAUSE/RECORD on remote).

  • Page 48: Synchro Edit

    VCR. This is convenient when you want to copy only selected segments from a previously recorded tape. An optional AVS80 synchro edit cable shown on page 63 is required. Note: Not all RCA VCRs have compatible synchro edit jacks. Audio/Video In/Out Connector (Located behind small cover)

  • Page 49: Synchro Edit

    Button To Synchro Edit 1. Connect your camcorder to a compatible VCR as shown. 2. Prepare the camcorder to play back the tape you want to copy. • Slide the CAM/OFF/VCR switch to VCR. • Insert the tape you want to copy.

  • Page 50: Recording From Vcr Or Tv Monitor

    Recording from VCR or TV Monitor To connect your camcorder to a TV (or VCR) with AUDIO and VIDEO OUT jacks, you will need an optional VAA008 audio/video input cable shown on page 63. If your TV is already connected to a VCR, you can attach the camcorder to the VCR and watch what the camcorder is recording on the TV.
  • Page 51 VIDEO OUT jack on the TV or VCR. How to Record from a Monitor TV (or VCR) 1. A. Camcorder connected directly to TV monitor: Turn on the TV, and tune it to the channel you want to record.

  • Page 52: Optional Color Enhancement Light

    Notes: Turn on the light only when needed. The power consumption of the light is much more than that of the camcorder. When the light is turned on, the operation time of the rechargeable battery is reduced by more than half.
  • Page 53 Do not use the light when powering your camcorder with the optional car cord adapter because the car cord will become very hot. Removing and Replacing the Light Bulb...

  • Page 54: Attaching The Shoulder Strap

    Attaching the Shoulder Strap The shoulder strap packed with your camcorder 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.

  • Page 55: Holding The Camcorder

    • When possible, rest your elbows on a table or other stable surface to help keep the camcorder steady. • Do not pick up the camcorder by the viewfinder. • Carry your camcorder in a carrying case when traveling. See page 61 for a case especially designed for this camcorder.

  • Page 56: Viewfinder Playback

    Viewfinder Playback and Playback Features Viewfinder Playback Viewfinder playback is the simplest way to watch tapes using the camcorder. This method is generally used only to review scenes immediately after recording. EJECT Switch PLAY Button Button F.F Button STOP Button To Play Back a Tape Through the Viewfinder 1.

  • Page 57: 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 move the tape away from the spinning heads to prevent excessive tape wear.

  • Page 58: Playback On Tv Or Vcr Using Audio/Video In Jacks

    To connect your camcorder to a TV or VCR using AUDIO/VIDEO IN jacks, use the audio/video cable that was packed with the camcorder. 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 59: Playback On Tv (Or Vcr) With

    2. Attach a power supply and place the camcorder’s CAM/OFF/VCR switch in VCR. Insert the cassette you want to playback. Viewing What the Camcorder is Seeing (or Recording) 1. A. Camcorder connected directly to TV: Turn on the TV, and tune it to the video input channel.

  • Page 60: Playback On Tv Without Audio And Video Inputs

    Playback on TV without Audio/Video Inputs To connect your camcorder to a TV without audio and video inputs, you need an optional RF output adapter, such as CRF81 shown on page 63. Back of TV Optional 75/300 ohm Transformer (Such as AH011)

  • Page 61: Playback Operation

    Viewing What the Camcorder Is Recording 1. Turn on the TV and tune it to channel 3 or 4. Note: When the camcorder is used as a camera, turn the TV’s volume down to prevent a high-pitched squeal caused by feedback.

  • Page 62: Care And Maintenance

    -22°F (-30°C) or above 149°F (65°C). • Do not operate the camcorder in extremely humid environments. • Do not aim your camcorder at the sun or other bright objects. • Do not leave your camcorder in direct sunlight. Doing so could permanently damage the camcorder’s internal parts.

  • Page 63: Optional Accessories

    We invite you to take a look at some great ideas for sparking creativity and adding to the fun of using your 8mm camcorder. These pages have a selection of accessories to help make your memorable moments look and sound even better.
  • Page 64 These rechargeable nickel-cadmium batteries are specifically designed for long life. The BV060 can power your camcorder up to 1 hour, and the BB150 up to 1.4 hours (depending on how much you use zoom and pause). Both can be recharged with the AC adapter/charger that came with your camcorder.
  • Page 65 75-300 ohm transformer, such as AH011. VAA008 Audio/Video Input Cable This audio/video input cable will enable you to use your camcorder to record from other devices which have audio/video output jacks (such as another VCR, camcorder, or TV monitor). This makes it convenient to copy tapes or record a television broadcast.
  • Page 66 3-section leg design folds down to 26" when not in use. Rubber feet allow for sure footing. Cautions: Before using a tripod, make sure it is stable enough to hold the camcorder without falling over. Do not transport camcorder attached to tripod.

  • Page 67: Accessory Order Form

    Accessory Order Form Order Form for Camcorder Model Pro884HB Description Soft Camcorder Case Super Lightweight Tripod 75-300 Cable Transformer Y-Adapter Synchro Edit Cable Rechargeable Battery Rechargeable Battery AC Battery Charger RF Output Adapter Car Cord Adapter Car Adapter/Charger Audio/Video Input Cable...
  • Page 68 Accessory Order Form Charge your order on your VISA USE YOUR CREDIT CARD IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number Copy Number above your name on MasterCard AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE Prices are subject to change without notice. Print or type your name and address clearly.
  • Page 69 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 or MasterCard ready and call the toll- free number listed below between 8AM and 8PM Eastern Standard Time.

  • Page 70: Trouble Checks

    Before you call or take your camcorder to an Authorized RCA Compact Camcorder Servicenter, look below for the type of trouble you are experiencing. Then perform the simple checks and adjustments listed for that trouble.
  • Page 71 • Date and/or time may need to be set. See page 28. Remote control • Aim remote at remote sensor on camcorder. will not operate • Remote must be within 13 feet from the camcorder to camcorder operate it. • Remote control cell may need replacing. See page 11.

  • Page 72: User Information

    (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. may void the user’s FCC authority to operate this camcorder.

  • Page 73: 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 74: 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 75: 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 76: Specifications

    Specifications General Power requirement: 6VDC Power consumption: 5.9 W (when FOCUS indicator appears in viewfinder) Weight: 1.89 lbs. (without battery pack, lens hood, lens cap, and cassette) Dimensions: 3-11/16" (W) x 4-3/4" (H) x 8-5/16" (D) (94 x 120 x 211mm) Camera Section Scanning: 525 Lines/60 Fields/30 Frames...

  • Page 77: Index (Alphabetical)

    Camcorder, Powering ..14-20 Camcorder, Turning On ... .6 Camcorder, Unpacking ... . .3 Car Cord Adapter, Optional .
  • Page 78 High Band 8mm, Recording ..10 Holding the Camcorder ... .53 I.ZOOM Indicator ...32-33,36 Included Accessories .
  • Page 79 Trouble Checks ....68-69 Turning On the Camcorder ..6 Unpacking the Camcorder ..3 User Information .
  • Page 80 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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