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Sharp VL Z 1 H Operation Manual

Liquid crystal display camcorder
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LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY CAMCORDER
MODEL
VL - Z1H
OPERATION MANUAL
Please read this operation manual
carefully before using the camcorder.
If you require any advice or assistance
regarding your Sharp product, please
visit our web-site www.sharp.co.uk/
customersupport. Customers without
Internet access may telephone 08705
274277 during office hours (or (01)676
0648 if telephoning from Ireland) .

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Summary of Contents for Sharp VL Z 1 H

  • Page 1 OPERATION MANUAL Please read this operation manual carefully before using the camcorder. If you require any advice or assistance regarding your Sharp product, please visit our web-site www.sharp.co.uk/ customersupport. Customers without Internet access may telephone 08705 274277 during office hours (or (01)676...
  • Page 2 This equipment complies with the requirements of Directives 89/336/EEC and 73/ 23/EEC as amended by 93/68/EEC. Dieses Gerät entspricht den Anforderungen der EG-Richtlinien 89/336/EWG und 73/23/EWG mit Änderung 93/68/EWG. Ce matériel répond aux exigences contenues dans les directives 89/336/CEE et 73/23/CEE modifiées par la directive 93/68/CEE.
  • Page 3 Power supply: WARNING: THIS AC ADAPTER IS NOT FOR USE WITH TOYS. THIS AC ADAPTER IS FOR USE WITH SHARP CAMCORDER MODEL VL-Z1H ONLY. This unit can be operated by connecting it to either the AC adapter or battery pack. The AC adapter incorporates the AUTO VOLTAGE (AC 110–240 V, 50/60 Hz) function.
  • Page 4 SPECIAL NOTE FOR USERS IN THE U.K. The mains lead of this product is fitted with a non-rewireable (moulded) plug incorporating a 3A fuse. Should the fuse need to be replaced, a BSI or ASTA approved BS 1362 fuse marked is also indicated on the pin face of the plug, must be used.
  • Page 5 NOTE: The LCD panel of this camcorder is a very high technology product with more than 215,000 thin-film transistors*, giving you fine picture detail. Occasionally, a pixel may appear on the screen as a fixed point of blue, green, red, or black.

  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    Warning Indicators ... 4 Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack ... 5 Charging the Battery Pack ... 7 Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet ... 8 Inserting and Removing a Cassette ... 9 Installing the Lithium Batteries ... 10 Setting the Date and Time ...
  • Page 7 Returning to Auto Focus ... 48 Displaying the Manual Setting Screen ... 48 White Balance Lock ... 49 Manual Iris ... 50 Manual Gain ... 51 Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode ... 52 Scene Menu (Program AE) ... 53...
  • Page 8 Audio Dubbing Feature ... 57 Selecting the Audio Playback Mode ... 59 Picture/Backlight Adjustments ... 60 Turning off the Confirmation Sound ... 62 Setting the Camcorder to Factory Presettings ... 63 Demonstration Mode ... 64 Useful Information ... 65 Troubleshooting ... 70 Specifications ...

  • Page 9: Supplied Accessories

    Supplied Accessories Battery pack Audio/video/S-video BT-L226 AC adapter Power cord cable CR1216 type Lens cap lithium battery Optional Accessories Standard-life External battery with battery pack hand strap BT-L226 BT-LCA1...

  • Page 10: Precautions

    If noise occurs, use a commercially available cleaning tape to clean the video heads (see page xii). • When the camcorder is not in use, re- member to remove the cassette tape, turn off the power, and disconnect the camcorder from the power source.

  • Page 11: Dew Formation

    2 To use the camcorder again, turn on the power after waiting for a few hours. Be sure that “DEW” has disappeared. 3 Do not insert a cassette while “DEW” is flashing;...

  • Page 12: Dirty Video Heads

    • Long-time use • Dew formation If the video heads become clogged, the v indicator appears on the screen. Contact your SHARP dealer for further advice or refer to page 70 “Troubleshooting”. Using a Cleaning Tape (Commer- cially Available) You can clean the video head with a commercially available cleaning tape.

  • Page 13: Operation References

    Operation References Part Names For details on the use of each part, refer to the page number indicated in parentheses. Front view Operation button (p. 27) Zoom lens DISPLAY button (p. 27) Monaural microphone LCD LAMP button (p. 21)
  • Page 14 (p. 17) Tripod socket* * When attaching a tripod with a guide pin, do not attach the pin to the bottom of the camcorder. DC IN jack (pp. 7, 8) AV terminal (pp. 26, 55) Terminal cover (pp. 26, 55, 56) DV terminal (p.
  • Page 15 Right view Window cleaning cover (p. 68) Viewfinder (pp. 15, 16) STANDBY indicator (p. 21) POWER/CHARGE (RED) indicator (pp. 7, 8, 19) DC IN jack cover (pp. 7, 8) Start/Stop button (p. 19) Power switch (v Camera Recording mode/w Playback mode select switch) (pp.

  • Page 16: Warning Indicators

    The video heads are clogged and should be cleaned (see page xii). The fluorescent lamp behind the LCD monitor is close to the end of its service life. Call your local L AMP authorized Sharp dealer to have it replaced. Description of warning...

  • Page 17: Preparation

    Attaching Make sure that the Power switch is set to OFF. Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body. 90˚ Slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow with the “m” mark facing out.
  • Page 18 • To prevent damage to the battery pack when removing, be sure to firmly hold the battery pack while pressing the release. • Use only SHARP model BT-L226 battery packs with this camcorder. Use of other batteries may create a risk of fire or explosion.

  • Page 19: Charging The Battery Pack

    • See pages 67 and 68 for more information on indicator using the battery pack. • Charge only SHARP model BT-L226 battery packs. Other types of battery packs may burst, causing personal injury and damage. • When attaching the supplied audio/video/S- video cable, remove the DC plug, open the terminal cover and connect it.

  • Page 20: Powering The Camcorder From An Ac Outlet

    Preparation Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet You can also power the camcorder from a power outlet by using the supplied AC adapter. Note: • The supplied AC adapter is specially designed for use with this camcorder, and should not be used as a power supply for other camcorders.

  • Page 21: Inserting And Removing A Cassette

    • Do not apply force to the cassette holder except when pressing the “PUSH” mark to close it. • Do not tilt the camcorder or hold it upside down when you are inserting or removing a cassette. It may damage the tape.

  • Page 22: Installing The Lithium Batteries

    Make sure that the Power switch is set to OFF. Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body. Slide the battery release in the direction of the arrow, then take the battery pack out.
  • Page 23 Remote Control (Not Sup- plied) The remote control (RRMCGA149WJSA) is not supplied with this camcorder. Contact the nearest SHARP service centre or your dealer for purchasing as specified part. The CR 2025 type lithium battery is used to power the remote control unit.

  • Page 24: Setting The Date And Time

    Preparation Setting the Date and Time Example: Setting the date to 2 June 2004 (2. 6. 2004) and the time to 10:30 am (10:30). Operation button DISPLAY button Note: • Before performing the steps below, make sure that the CR1216 type lithium battery has been installed (see page 10).

  • Page 25: Using The Lens Cap

    When recording, remove the lens cap and attach the lens cap cord to the fastener so that the cap will not get in the way. Note: • Always attach the lens cap over the lens when not using the camcorder. Fastener...

  • Page 26: Adjusting The Hand Strap

    Preparation Adjusting the Hand Strap Open the hand strap flap (1) and grip strap (2). Hand strap flap Loosen the grip strap, pass your right hand through the hand strap, and put your thumb close to the Start/Stop button and your index finger on the Power Zoom control.

  • Page 27: Detaching The Lens Hood

    Detaching the Lens Hood Before using a commercially available conversion lens, detach the lens hood as shown below. Note: • You cannot attach the supplied lens hood or lens cap to a conversion lens. Using the Viewfinder You can record the subject using the electronic viewfinder.

  • Page 28: Adjusting The Dioptre

    Push in the viewfinder completely. Notes: • Do not use excessive force when moving the viewfinder. • Do not pick up the camcorder by the viewfinder. • The viewfinder automatically turns off when the LCD monitor is opened. If the vertical rotation of the monitor is 180°...

  • Page 29: Using The Lcd Monitor

    • When closing the LCD monitor, do not tilt it; otherwise the monitor may not close properly and may become damaged. • Do not pick up the camcorder by the LCD monitor. • Do not place the camcorder with the LCD monitor screen facing down.

  • Page 30: Tips On Recording Positions

    To create images that are easy to watch during playback, try to record with an upright posture and steady hands to prevent a shaky image. Holding the camcorder Put your right hand through the hand strap, and place your left hand under the camcorder for support. Basic posture...

  • Page 31: Basic Operations

    Hold down the Lock button and set the Power switch to v. • The picture from the lens now displays and the POWER/CHARGE (RED) indicator lights up green. • The camcorder is now ready to record (Recording Standby mode). POWER/CHARGE (RED) indicator A U T O...

  • Page 32: Zooming

    • The zoom speed depends on how far you push the Power Zoom control. Notes: • The camcorder is unable to focus when zooming in on subjects within 1.5 m. • See page 29 for how to use the digital zoom.

  • Page 33: Power Standby Mode

    — When the camcorder is set to Playback mode — When removing the battery pack — When removing a cassette • The camcorder will turn off automatically in 5 minutes after setting Power Standby mode if it remains in Recording Standby mode after canceling Power Standby mode.

  • Page 34: Auto Focus

    1.5 m. Set the zoom control to wide angle, and try refocusing again. • If the lens is dirty or fogged, the camcorder may not be able to focus correctly. Macro Shots...

  • Page 35: Remaining Recording Time Display

    Remaining Recording Time Display When the camcorder is recording, an on- screen indicator displays the approximate remaining tape time in minutes. Remaining recording time 3 0 min indicator Notes: • The remaining recording time indicator appears when the on-screen indicators are turned on.

  • Page 36: Playback

    Basic Operations Basic Operations Camera Recording Playback Playback The LCD monitor screen functions as a handy playback monitor. Nothing needs to be connected, allowing instant on-screen playback with the sound through the built-in speaker. Operation button Hold down the Lock button and set the Power switch to w.

  • Page 37: Volume Control

    To return to normal playback, press m again. Notes: • The sound is off in Still mode. • To protect the tape, the camcorder automati- cally returns to normal playback if it is left in Still mode for more than 5 minutes. Video Search The video search function makes it easy to search for a desired scene on the tape.

  • Page 38: Watching Playback On A Tv

    Basic Operations Playback Watching Playback on a TV You can connect the camcorder to a TV to allow a larger audience to enjoy playback. Open the terminal cover on the camcorder (see page 2). Terminal cover Connect the camcorder to your TV (or VCR) with the supplied audio/video/S- video cable, as shown.

  • Page 39: Useful Features

    S E L E C T S E T Using the Mode Screens In the mode screens, you can adjust the camcorder settings by using the Operation button. Hold down the Lock button and set the Power switch to v or w.

  • Page 40: Using The Menu Screens

    Useful Features Using the Menu Screens Use the menu screens to adjust the various camcorder settings. Operation button DISPLAY button Hold down the Lock button and set the Power switch to v or w. • See pages 74 and 75 for the menu items you can select in each mode.

  • Page 41: Camera Recording

    Useful Features Camera Recording Setting the Digital Zoom You can select three different zoom ranges: 1–10K (optical zoom), 10–40K (digital zoom) or 10–500K (digital zoom). The digital zoom allows you to record powerful close-up pictures with the same operation as normal zooming. Notes: •...

  • Page 42: Backlight Compensation (Blc)

    Useful Features Camera Recording Backlight Compensation (BLC) When the subject is backlit, the image will appear dark if it is recorded normally. Use the backlight compensation (BLC) function to improve the picture. In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY button until the mode screen appears. B L C G A I N F A D E M E N U...

  • Page 43: Gain-Up

    • Fine brightness adjustments are possible when using manual iris (see page 50). • The e indicator will disappear and Gain-up mode will cancel if you aim the camcorder in a bright location. O F F...

  • Page 44: Fade In And Fade Out

    • The image and sound fade out as the picture gradually turns white. The camcorder then returns to Recording Standby mode. To cancel Fade mode Select “OFF” in step 3 above. To use Fade Out only...

  • Page 45: Quick Return

    • When the tape reaches the end of the last recorded scene, “FINISHED” is displayed, and the camcorder enters Recording Standby mode. Press the DISPLAY button to turn off the menu screen.

  • Page 46: Edit Search

    Useful Features Camera Recording Edit Search The edit search function lets you search, without switching from Camera mode to Playback mode, for the point on the tape where you wish to start recording next. Operation button In Recording Standby mode, press and hold down j (reverse edit search) or k...

  • Page 47: Digital Image Stabilization (Dis)

    • The DIS function cannot compensate for excessive image shaking. • When image shaking does not occur (e.g. when using the camcorder on a tripod), turn off the DIS function. The picture will appear more natural when the DIS function is off.

  • Page 48: Self Recording

    If the camcorder is steadied, you can record yourself in the scene by watching yourself on the LCD monitor.

  • Page 49: Self Recording With Reversed Grip

    Rotate the lens section 90° vertically as shown below. 90° Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body (1), and then rotate it 180° vertically (2). 90˚ 180˚ Set the Power switch to v.

  • Page 50: Wide Screen (16:9)

    Useful Features Camera Recording Wide Screen (16:9) The wide screen function lets you record scenes with the wide-screen feel of a movie shown in a theatre. The top and bottom of the picture are masked with black bands to produce an effective screen aspect ratio of 16:9.

  • Page 51: Recording In Lp (Long Play Recording) Mode

    Recording in LP (Long Play Recording) Mode This camcorder allows you to record in LP (Long Play Recording) mode for approxi- mately 50% more recording time with the same picture quality as that in SP (Standard Play Recording) mode. In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY button until the mode screen appears.

  • Page 52: Windbreak

    Useful Features Camera Recording Windbreak The windbreak function allows you to reduce annoying noise from strong winds when recording. In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY button until the mode screen appears (see page 27). Press l or m on the Operation button to select “MENU”, then press the centre of the Operation button.

  • Page 53: Selecting The 16-Bit Audio Recording Mode

    Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode The camcorder normally records audio in the 12-bit audio recording mode. For higher- quality audio recording, select the 16-bit audio recording mode. In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY button until the mode screen appears (see page 27).

  • Page 54: Using The Remote Control (Not Supplied)

    Using the Remote Control (Not supplied) The remote control (RRMCGA149WJSA) is not supplied with this camcorder. Contact the nearest SHARP service centre or your dealer for purchasing as specified part. Activating • The example screens shown are for Playback mode.

  • Page 55: Playback Functions With The Remote Control (Not Supplied)

    You can use the following playback functions with the remote control (not supplied), if you purchase it as a specified part by contacting the nearest SHARP service centre or your dealer. (See page 42 for use of the remote control.)

  • Page 56: Selecting The Date And Time Of Recording Display

    Useful Features Playback Selecting the Date and Time of Recording Display Follow the procedure below to select the date, or both the date and time, of recording display on the screen. You can display the date and time during both recording and playback.

  • Page 57: Picture Effect Playback

    Picture Effect Playback These picture effects let you play back images with a more dramatic effect. Types B/W: The picture is displayed in black-and-white. SEPIA: The picture is displayed in sepia colour similar to that of an old photograph. SOLARI: The contrast of the subject is enhanced, creating an unique artistic image.

  • Page 58: Rotate Playback

    • When executing Rotate Playback during playback, playback will stop. Press m to begin Rotate Playback. • Even if the camcorder is in Rotate Playback mode, the image output via a DV connection will display as normal playback. • The camcorder will stop and cancel Rotate Playback when the LCD monitor is closed.

  • Page 59: Advanced Features

    Camera Recording Manual Focus Auto Focus may not be able to focus on the subject in the situations shown below. In such situations, set the camcorder to Manual Focus mode and focus manually. Lack of contrast, e.g. Subject is too dark.

  • Page 60: Returning To Auto Focus

    Advanced Features Camera Recording Returning to Auto Focus You can set Manual Focus mode to Auto Focus mode with the operation below. In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY button until the mode screen appears. Press l or m on the Operation button to select “AUTO FOCUS”, then press the centre of the Operation button.

  • Page 61: White Balance Lock

    Press k in step 5 above, then press the centre of the Operation button. To return to Full Auto mode Set the camcorder to Full Auto mode (see page 52). Note: • White Balance setting cannot be used when a scene setting is selected.

  • Page 62: Manual Iris

    Advanced Features Camera Recording Manual Iris The camcorder is preset to Auto Iris mode, which automatically selects the optimal aperture. However, when there is too much contrast in brightness between the subject and background, you may not be able to record a clear image.

  • Page 63: Manual Gain

    Press k in step 5 above, then press the centre of the Operation button. To return to Full Auto mode Set the camcorder to Full Auto mode (see page 52). Note: • Manual Gain mode cannot be used when a scene setting is selected.

  • Page 64: Setting The Camcorder To Full Auto Mode

    Advanced Features Camera Recording Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode You can set all manual settings, including white balance, iris, gain, but not focus, to Full Auto mode in one operation. In Camera mode, press the DISPLAY button until the mode screen appears.

  • Page 65: Scene Menu (Program Ae)

    Scene Menu (Program AE) You can set the camcorder to a shooting mode that will create the best results for a specific situation. Just select one of the six scene settings shown below. The camcorder will automatically set the exposure, white balance, and shutter speed to produce the optimum picture quality for the selected situation.

  • Page 66: Using The Time Code

    Advanced Features Advanced Features Playback Playback Using the Time Code The time code shows the hour, minute and second of recording, and the frame number (1 frame = approx. 1/25 sec.). This is automatically recorded along with the subject when you are recording on the tape. You can display the time code on the screen as an accurate counter in both Playback and Camera modes.

  • Page 67: Editing

    This camcorder lets you monitor the source program on the built-in LCD monitor without having to connect it to an external TV or video monitor. Preparation Connect the camcorder to a VCR with the supplied audio/video/S-video cable, as shown. Recording (VCR) L-AUDIO-R...

  • Page 68: Editing With The Dv Terminal (Ieee1394)

    Advanced Features Playback Editing with the DV Terminal (IEEE1394) This camcorder enables you to perform digital video editing. A DV cable transfers all dubbing signals including video and audio. Preparation Connect the camcorder to video equipment with a DV terminal using a commercially available DV cable.

  • Page 69: Audio Dubbing Feature

    Audio Dubbing Feature You can add narration to recordings made with this camcorder, while preserving the original audio and video recordings. Microphone for Audio Dubbing You can use the built-in monaural micro- phone to record narration. Built-in monaural microphone Note: •...

  • Page 70: Audio Dubbing

    Notes: • It is recommended that you use Audio Dubbing only with recordings made with this camcorder. Use of recordings made with other digital video equipment may result in poor audio quality. • Audio dubbing will automatically pause if the original audio changes from 12-bit mode to 16-bit mode or vice versa.

  • Page 71: Selecting The Audio Playback Mode

    • 12-bit recording in mono (Audio 2 channel only) • 16-bit recording in mono Note: • This camcorder can output stereo sound when a tape is recorded in stereo. Playback a Mini DV cassette with dubbed audio. Press the DISPLAY button until the mode screen appears.

  • Page 72: Picture/Backlight Adjustments

    Appendix Appendix Picture/Backlight Adjustments If the picture is difficult to see due to ambient light or other factors, adjust the monitor picture settings. • The example screens shown are for Camera mode. Adjusting the Picture Press the DISPLAY button until the mode screen appears.

  • Page 73: Adjusting The Backlight

    Adjusting the Backlight Press the DISPLAY button until the mode screen appears. Press l or m on the Operation button to select “MENU”, then press the centre of the Operation button. Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”, then press the centre of the Operation button.

  • Page 74: Turning Off The Confirmation Sound

    Appendix Turning off the Confirmation Sound A confirmation sound is made when you turn on or off the Power switch, press the Start/Stop button, or perform other designated operations. Use the procedure below to turn off the confirmation sounds. • The example screens shown are for Camera mode.

  • Page 75: Setting The Camcorder To Factory Presettings

    Setting the Camcorder to Factory Presettings You can set the camcorder to the factory presettings in one operation. • The example screens shown are for Camera mode. Press the DISPLAY button until the mode screen appears. Press l or m on the Operation button to select “MENU”, then press...

  • Page 76: Demonstration Mode

    You can watch a brief demonstration of the special camcorder features in Demo mode. If the demonstration appears on the screen when you turn on the camcorder for the first time, cancel the Demo mode to use your camcorder. Watching Remove the Mini DV cassette from the camcorder (see page 9).

  • Page 77: Useful Information

    Useful Information Hints for Better Shooting • Position the subject in the centre of the scene. When using auto focus, whatever is in the centre of the scene is kept in focus. Focus manually when Position the you need to position subject in the the subject off centre centre.

  • Page 78: Mini Dv Cassette

    Precautions when using a Mini DV cassette • Be sure to use only Mini DV cassettes with the i mark. • This camcorder can record and play back using Mini DV cassettes with cassette memory, but it cannot record or play back this memory.

  • Page 79: Battery Pack

    (see page 6). Note: • Use only SHARP BT-L226 battery packs. These are designed specifically for use with this camcorder. Storage • Store the battery pack in a fully dis- charged state.
  • Page 80 LCD monitor. If the monitor becomes dark or difficult to view, the fluorescent lamp may need to be replaced. Contact the nearest SHARP service centre or your dealer for further advice. Cleaning • Many plastic parts are used in the camcorder casing.

  • Page 81: Using Your Camcorder Abroad

    When you are abroad, check the sections below before using the AC adapter or connecting the camcorder to a TV. AC Adapter (Supplied Accessory) The supplied AC adapter is compatible with 50 Hz and 60 Hz electrical systems in the range of 110 V to 240 V AC.

  • Page 82: Troubleshooting

    Where this is not possible, please visit our web-site www.sharp.co.uk/customersupport. Customers without Internet access may telephone 08705 274277 during office hours (or (01)676 0648 if telephoning from Ireland).
  • Page 83 Battery pack is depleted. Motion images are Improper self recording. rotated 180° upside down. Battery pack is easily Using camcorder in extremely cold depleted. environment. Battery pack is not fully charged. Clock has been re- Lithium battery is not properly in- set.
  • Page 84 Inappropriate picture adjustments. AC adapter or battery pack may have malfunctioned. Audio/video/S-video cable is not properly connected. The camcorder may be damaged. Suggested solution Adjust dioptre (p. 16). Adjust picture (p. 60). Adjust picture (p. 60). Call for service (p. 70).

  • Page 85: Specifications

    Specifications Camcorder Signal System: PAL standard Recording System: 2 rotary heads, helical scanning system Recording/Playback Time: 90 minutes (DVM60, LP mode) Tape Speed: SP mode: 18.831 mm/second Pickup Device: Lens Filter Diameter: 30 mm Built-in microphone: Electret monaural microphone Colour Temperature Compensation: Auto white balance with white balance lock Minimum Illumination: 2 lux* (with gain-up, F1.8)

  • Page 86: On-Screen Display Index

    Appendix On-screen Display Index Camera mode p. 35 p. 23 p. 52 p. 23 A U T O A U T O A U T O 3 0min B L C G A I N O F F F A D E M E N U SC E N E M E N U A U T O...

  • Page 87: Playback Mode

    Playback mode p. 23 AUDIO 2 p. 59 P L A Y S T O P R EW P I C . E F F E C T O F F AU D I O DU B M E N U D A T E D I S P .
  • Page 88 SHARP CORPORATION SHARP ELECTRONICS (U.K.) LTD. Sharp House, Thorp Road, Newton Heath Manchester M40 5BE Printed in Japan TINSEA058WJZZ 03P04-JKG...

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