Canon MV530 Instruction Manual
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Canon MV530 Instruction Manual

Digital video camcorder
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DIGITAL VIDEO CAMCORDER

Instruction Manual

This instruction book explains the use of the MV550i and MV530i camcorders.
Please note that illustrations and explanations in this instruction book refer
mainly to the MV550i model.
PAL
PUB.DIE-166
Digital
Mini
Video
Cassette
E

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Summary of Contents for Canon MV530

  • Page 1: Instruction Manual

    DIGITAL VIDEO CAMCORDER Instruction Manual This instruction book explains the use of the MV550i and MV530i camcorders. Please note that illustrations and explanations in this instruction book refer mainly to the MV550i model. PUB.DIE-166 Digital Mini Video Cassette...

  • Page 2: Important Usage Instructions

    Important Usage Instructions WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL. WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS PRODUCT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

  • Page 3: Operating Step And Reference Guide

    Operating Step and Reference Guide Your camcorder is supplied with two manuals: the “Digital Video Camcorder MV550i/MV530i Instruction Manual” and the “Digital Video Solution Disk Instruction Manual”. Digital Video Camcorder MV550i/MV530i MC Instruction Manual Mastering the Basics Using the Full Range of Features Editing Using the memory card Digital Video Solution Disk Instruction Manual...

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Contents Introduction Important Usage Instructions ...2 Operating Step and Reference Guide ...3 Thank you for Choosing a Canon ...6 Introducing the MV550i/MV530i ...7 Mastering the Basics Finding Your Way Around the MV550i/MV530i ...8 ~ Preparations ~ Attaching the Ferrite Core...11 Powering Your Camcorder ...12...
  • Page 5 Using a Memory Card Memory Card Introduction ...104 Recording Still Images to a Memory Card ...108 Recording an Image from a Cassette as a Still Image ...110 Recording from Another DV Device as a Still Image ...111 Viewing Still Images ...112 Settings of the Still Image recorded to a memory card ...114 Preventing Accidental Erasure...

  • Page 6: Thank You For Choosing A Canon

    Thank you for Choosing a Canon First, we’d like to thank you for purchasing this Canon camcorder. Its advanced technology makes it very easy to use — you will soon be making high-quality videos which will give you pleasure for years to come.

  • Page 7: Introducing The Mv550I/Mv530I

    Stabilizes your recordings even in long telephoto shots. Advanced MV550i Accessory Shoe Allows the Canon Video Light VL-3 or the Directional Stereo Microphone DM- 50 (both optional) to be easily attached and powered by the camcorder’s own power source. Digital Effects...

  • Page 8: Finding Your Way Around The Mv550I/Mv530I

    Finding Your Way Around the MV550i/MV530i – REC (record) SEARCH Record review button (p. 39)/ (rewind) button (p. 29)/ – CARD button (p. 112) LCD screen (p. 26) Self-timer button (p. 72)/ DATA CODE button (p. 82) Card MIX button (p.
  • Page 9 Viewfinder (p. 132, 139) Strap attachment bar (p. 133) Start/Stop button (p. 20) POWER switch (p. 19) C AM ER A • O F F • PLAY(VCR) • Viewfinder focusing lever (p. 132) Serial number (Body No.) PHOTO button (p. 56, 108) Viewfinder protect cover (p.
  • Page 10 u (LANC) terminal (p. 87) USB terminal (p. 128) AV (audio/video) IN/OUT terminal (p. 33, 91)/ (phones) terminal (p. 32) CHARGE indicator (p. 13) DC IN terminal (p. 12) MIC terminal (p. 70, 98) PHOTO button (p. 56, 108) START/STOP button (p.

  • Page 11: Attaching The Ferrite Core

    Attaching the Ferrite Core Attach the enclosed ferrite core before you connect the CA-560 Compact Power Adapter to the camcorder. Attach the ferrite core to the cable about 4 cm from the plug end (the plug to be connected to the camcorder) of the CA-560 Compact Power Adapter.

  • Page 12: Powering Your Camcorder

    Powering Your Camcorder Before operating your camcorder, you will need to use the power adapter to: Provide power from a mains outlet Charge a battery pack Notes: • The power adapter converts current from a household power socket (100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz) to the DC current used by your camcorder.
  • Page 13 Attaching and charging the battery packs Your battery pack was partially charged before it left the factory. It should have enough power for you to check that your camcorder is working properly. However, you must charge the battery pack fully if you want it to power the camcorder for more than a few minutes.
  • Page 14 6. Remove the battery pack after use. • Rotate the viewfinder upwards. • Press and hold the BATT. RELEASE button while you slide the battery up. Notes: • Never connect an unspecified product to the camcorder’s DC terminal. Likewise, do not connect the power adapter to an unspecified product. •...
  • Page 15 Using the Charge Adapter CR-560 Kit (optional) The Compact Power Adapter CA-560 included with the camcorder can be used along with the CR-560 Kit for 3 different ways to power the camcorder or charge battery packs: 1. Charge the BP-500 Series battery packs with power from your car battery. 2.
  • Page 16 2. Operate the camcorder with power from your car battery. Camcorder + DC Cable + Charge Adapter + Car Battery Cable → car’s cigarette lighter 3. Charge the BP-500 Series battery packs from a household mains outlet. 1 or 2 battery pack(s) + Charge Adapter + Compact Power Adapter •...

  • Page 17: Loading A Cassette

    Loading a Cassette Only use videocassettes marked with the D logo.* Loading and unloading 1. Make sure that you have attached a power source. 2. Slide the OPEN / EJECT 5 switch (on the bottom of the camcorder) to release the cassette compartment cover. •...

  • Page 18: Cassette Memory

    Protecting tapes from accidental erasure To protect your recording from accidental erasure, slide the tab on the cassette so that it exposes the hole. (This switch position is usually labelled SAVE or ERASE OFF.) If you load this cassette and put the camcorder in record pause mode ( “THE TAPE IS SET FOR ERASURE PREVENTION”...

  • Page 19: Basic Recording

    Basic Recording Before you start recording Have you completed the following steps? • Attached a power source ( • Removed the lens cap ( • Fasten the grip belt ( 132). • Chosen the display: viewfinder ( Notes: • When you’re using the viewfinder, fully close the LCD or rotate the LCD so that it faces the same direction as the lens ( •...
  • Page 20 Notes: • To check that the camcorder is recording correctly, make a test recording first. • Before making important recordings, clean the video heads using a Canon DVM-CL Digital Video Head Cleaning Cassette or a commercially available digital video head cleaning cassette.
  • Page 21 Changing the recording mode MV550i Choose from 4 recording modes: SP (standard play), 1.5× SP, 2× SP or 3× SP. • Only SP and LP modes are available when the camcorder is set to CARD PLAY (VCR) mode. MV530i You can record and play back a tape in SP (standard play) and LP (long play) modes.
  • Page 22 • If you record in more than one mode on the same tape, the picture may become distorted during playback and the time code may not be written correctly. • A tape recorded in LP mode on other digital equipment may produce the mosaic-like noise and the sound may become distorted when playing back on this camcorder.
  • Page 23 Confirmation/Warning beeps The camcorder’s short operation confirmation beeps are indicated by ` in the illustrations. Beeps sound upon certain camcorder operations such as when you turn the camcorder on, during the self-timer countdown, right before the camcorder’s automatic shut-off, and also upon any unusual condition of the camcorder.

  • Page 24: Zooming

    Zooming 22× optical zoom/ MV550i The camcorder’s zoom lens allows you to choose the best picture angle for each scene: • Move the zoom control towards W to zoom out to wide-angle. • Move it towards T to zoom in to telephoto. You can also control the speed of zooming: •...
  • Page 25 MV530i Magnifies the camcorder’s zoom range by up to 20× in TAPE CAMERA mode. The zoom control continues to work as usual. You can freely zoom in and out between 1× and 360× magnification — the camcorder automatically switches between optical zooming (up to 18×) and digital zooming (18× to 72× or 18× to 360×).

  • Page 26: Using The Lcd Screen

    Using the LCD Screen Opening and closing the LCD screen Slide the LCD panel OPEN button and open the panel by pulling it away from the camcorder. This automatically switches the LCD screen on and the viewfinder off. To close the LCD panel, press the upper right corner until it clicks securely closed.

  • Page 27: Brightness

    • Always rotate the LCD panel vertically into place, before closing it or pushing it flat against the side of the camcorder. • Always fully close the LCD panel until it clicks securely. • Be careful not to leave the LCD, viewfinder or lens exposed to direct sunlight outdoors or in a window.

  • Page 28: Allowing The Subject To Monitor Recording

    Allowing the subject to monitor recording When you turn the LCD panel so that it faces the same direction as the lens, you can watch yourself during recording or let your subject monitor recording. The viewfinder is also activated when the panel is in this position.

  • Page 29: Playing Back A Cassette

    • To wind the tape backwards, stop playback and press the button. • If the playback picture is rough (mosaic-like noise), clean the video heads using a Canon DVM-CL Digital Video Head Cleaning Cassette or a commercially available digital video head cleaning cassette. CARD...
  • Page 30 Other playback modes Playback pause Press the (pause) button. To resume normal playback, press it again, or press (play) button. The camcorder automatically goes into stop mode after about 5 minutes’ playback pause. Fast forward playback To play back the recording at about 11.5 times normal speed, press and hold the (fast forward) button during normal playback or press and hold the forward) button during normal fast forward.
  • Page 31 Reverse Playback To play back in reverse at normal speed, press the –/4a button during normal forward playback. Press the PLAY e button to return to normal forward playback. • The camcorder automatically goes into stop mode after about 2 minutes of paused reverse playback.

  • Page 32: Built-In Speaker

    Built-in speaker The camcorder has a built-in speaker so you can review the sound track alongside the picture when you’re using the LCD screen to play back a tape. The built-in speaker is monaural. Adjust the speaker volume by turning the selector dial. •...

  • Page 33: Connections For Playback On A Tv Screen

    Connections for Playback on a TV Screen You can connect the camcorder to a TV or VCR in order to play back your recordings. You will need to attach a power source to the camcorder ( Power off all devices before starting the connections. See your TV or VCR instruction manual for further details.
  • Page 34 If your TV (or VCR) has a SCART terminal (without S (S1)-video) • Connect the PC-A10 SCART adapter to the TV or VCR’s SCART terminal. • Connect the camcorder to the adapter. Connect the camcorder using the STV-250N Stereo Video Cable. Connect the white plug to the white audio terminal L (left).
  • Page 35 If your TV (or VCR) has an S (S1) -video input terminal For higher picture quality, we recommend playing back recordings on a TV with an S (S1) terminal. STV-250N Stereo Video Cable • Use the optional S-150 S-video Cable to connect the S-video terminals. Use the STV-250N Stereo Video Cable to connect the AUDIO terminals.
  • Page 36 If your TV (or VCR) has audio/video input terminals • Connect the camcorder using the STV-250N Stereo Video Cable. Connect the white plug to the white audio terminal L (left). Connect the red plug to the red audio terminal R (right). Connect the yellow plug to the yellow video terminal VIDEO.

  • Page 37: Tips For Making Better Videos

    Tips for Making Better Videos Holding the camcorder For maximum stability, grip the camcorder in your right hand and keep your right elbow pressed against your body. If necessary support the camcorder with your left hand. With practice, you will be able to operate the controls by touch, without taking your eye off the action.

  • Page 38: Picture Angle

    Picture angle Instead of zooming while recording, try to choose your picture angle before you begin. A good way to tell a story with video is to begin with a long shot that establishes the situation, and then move in with medium shots and close-ups to show the details.

  • Page 39: Searching And Reviewing While Recording

    Searching and Reviewing While Recording Record search When the camcorder is in record pause mode, you can use record search to play the tape forwards or backwards to find the point where you want to start or resume recording. This is useful when you want to add a new scene to a previously used cassette.

  • Page 40: Using The Menus

    Using the Menus Many of the camcorder’s advanced functions are selected from menus which appear in the display. There are 4 main menus: CAM. MENU VCR MENU C. CAM. MENU C.PLAY MENU CAM. MENU TAPE VCR MENU TAPE C.CAM. MENU C.PLAY MENU Camera menu Card camera menu...

  • Page 41: Tv Screen

    Selecting from the Menus 2, 11 MENU MENU 1. Turn the POWER switch and the TAPE/CARD switch to the desired settings. 2. Press the MENU button to open the menu. • One of the main menus appears, according to the settings of the TAPE/CARD switch and the POWER switch.
  • Page 42 • Pressing the start/stop button or the PHOTO button will close the menu and start recording. • You can display the menus on a connected TV screen by turning TV SCREEN 150) on through the menu or using the wireless controller’s TV SCREEN button.
  • Page 43 e VCR set up submenu o Record mode... !0 Wind screen ... !1 Audio mode ... !2 AV or headphones... !3 Return r Display set up submenu !4 Brightness ... !5 Mirror mode... !6 TV screen... !7 Date/time display... !8 Card access display... !9 Demo mode...

  • Page 44: Card Access Display

    VCR MENU, cont. q VCR set up submenu q Record mode... w Output channel... e Audio dubbing ... r Wind screen ... t Audio mode ... y AV or headphones... u Analog-digital converter... i Return w Card set up submenu o Image quality ...

  • Page 45: System Submenu

    t System submenu Light-up buttons... MV550i Button light colour ... MV550i @3 Wireless controller... @4 Beep ... @5 Return 2 C. CAM MENU Set the POWER switch to There are 5 submenus within the C. CAM. MENU. q To camera set up submenu w To card set up submenu e To VCR set up submenu r To display set up submenu...
  • Page 46 C. CAM MENU, cont. e VCR set up submenu !0 AV or headphones... r Display set up submenu !1 Brightness ... !2 Mirror mode... !3 TV screen... !4 Date/time display... !5 Card access display... !6 Demo mode... !7 Return t System submenu Light-up buttons...
  • Page 47 q-1 Card operations submenu (when playing back a single image) q Copy from card to cassette ... w Erase all print marks ... e Image erase ... r Format... t Return q-2 Card operations submenu (when displaying an index screen) y To image protect ...
  • Page 48 C. PLAY MENU, cont. r System submenu Light-up buttons... MV550i Button light colour ... MV550i !9 Wireless controller... @0 Beep ... @1 Return...

  • Page 49: Using The Wireless Controller

    Using the Wireless Controller The supplied wireless controller can operate the camcorder from a distance of up to 5 m (16 feet). Point it at the camcorder’s remote sensor while you press the buttons. There are some functions that cannot be operated without the wireless controller: •...
  • Page 50 When Operating 2 Canon DV Camcorders (Remote Sensor Mode) To prevent interference from other Canon wireless controllers being used nearby, there are 2 remote sensor modes and an off setting. The wireless controller and the camcorder have to be set to the same mode in order to be compatible.
  • Page 51 If your wireless controller isn’t working: Make sure the camcorder and the wireless controller are both set to the same mode. Check the mode the camcorder is set to by pushing any button other than the REMOTE SET button on the wireless controller. The camcorder’s mode appears in purple for about 4 seconds.

  • Page 52: Mv550I Adjusting The Selectable Colour Light-Up Buttons

    MV550i Adjusting the Selectable Colour Light-up Buttons The clear buttons above the LCD panel light up when the camcorder’s power is on, or only when one of the buttons is pressed, making it possible to play back cassettes when in dark surroundings. You can also change the colour in which they light up to green, orange, blue, yellow, turquoise (greenish blue) or purple.

  • Page 53: Setting The Date And Time

    Setting the Date and Time MENU MENU The date and/or time display forms part of the data code. You can choose to display or hide it during playback ( Set the date and time display when you first start using your camcorder. Install the backup battery before you begin ( •...
  • Page 54 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Time zone LONDON PARIS CAIRO MOSCOW DUBAI KARACHI DACCA BANGKOK H. KONG (Hong Kong) TOKYO SYDNEY SOLOMON Notes: • After you have selected your time zone and set the date and time, when you travel to another time zone, there is no need to reset the date and time.

  • Page 55: Date And Time Display

    Setting the clock After you set the date and time, the date/time and home time zone will be displayed for about 4 seconds each time you turn the power on. TAPE CAMERA CARD 1. Open the menu and select SYSTEM. 2.

  • Page 56: Taking Still Pictures To A Cassette

    Taking Still Pictures to a Cassette To take still images on a memory card, see p. 108. You can record still pictures like a photograph. The camcorder records the picture and sound to tape for several seconds. The exposure is automatically adjusted. Copy still photos automatically to a memory card ( image enhancement and printout.
  • Page 57 • If the subject is unsuitable for autofocus ( be able to focus, and F may continue to flash white in the display. Continue to hold the PHOTO button halfway down, then adjust the focus manually with the selector dial. •...

  • Page 58: Turning The Image Stabilizer Off

    Turning the Image Stabilizer Off With most camcorders, even the slightest hand movements will be noticeable during telephoto recording. However, the MV550i/MV530i’s image stabilizer allows you to obtain steady recordings even at high magnification. TAPE CAMERA To turn the image stabilizer off, open the menu and select CAM.SET UP.

  • Page 59: Using The Various Recording Programs

    Using the Various Recording Programs The camcorder provides you with a choice of 8 recording programs. They use different combinations of camcorder settings in order to adjust the exposure and other functions to match the recording situation. • For simple point-and-shoot operation, select the Easy Recording program. Slide the program selector to the [ position.
  • Page 60 • If you switch the camcorder from the [ program to the camcorder returns to the Auto mode. • When recording in dark places a bright light in the scene may cause a vertical light bar (“smear”) to appear. This is a normal feature of camcorders. CARD CAMERA program, the...
  • Page 61 Easy Recording The simplest way to use the camcorder is with the program selector set to the [ position. The camcorder will take care of focus, exposure and other adjustments, leaving you free to point and shoot. Auto This is the same as the Easy Recording program, except that you now have the option of using any of the camcorder’s manual functions.

  • Page 62: Sand & Snow

    Sand & Snow Use this program in places where the background is so bright that the subject appears underexposed in the display — a sunny beach or ski resort, for example. You may notice some shudder when recording moving subjects. Low Light This program allows you to record in dimly lit places.

  • Page 63: Using Digital Effects

    Using Digital Effects Use the camcorder’s digital effects for more interesting productions. • Faders: Start or end scenes on a tape with a fade to or from black 64). Fade Trigger, Vertical Wipe, Horizontal Wipe, Mosaic Fade* • Effects: Add flavour to your recordings ( Art, Black and White, Sepia, Mosaic** •...
  • Page 64 Faders Fade Trigger (FADE-T) When you start recording, the scene gradually fades in from a black screen. Wipe (WIPE When you start recording, the picture begins as a thin vertical line in the center of the screen which gradually expands sideways until it fills the whole of the screen.
  • Page 65 Effects Sepia (SEPIA) Makes a monochrome image with a brownish tint. Art (ART) Adds a paint- like effect, called solarization, to the image. *Available during TAPE CAMERA or TAPE PLAY (VCR) mode only. Mosaic (MOSAIC)* Blurs the image by enlarging the size of some Black and White pixels.

  • Page 66: Operating Faders

    Digital effects can be set with the controls on the body of the camcorder or the wireless controller. Pressing the L/M buttons on the wireless controller correspond to turning the selector dial up and down, and pressing the SET button corresponds to pressing the selector dial in.
  • Page 67 6. If you’re in TAPE CAMERA mode: If you’re in TAPE PLAY (VCR) mode: Operating effects Sound records/plays back normally. When operating effects in TAPE CAMERA or CARD CAMERA mode, make sure the program selector is set to Q. TAPE CAMERA TAPE Select effect...

  • Page 68: Using The Multi-Image Screen

    Using the Multi-Image Screen Divides your display image into 4, 9 or 16 smaller images with the Image Capture feature. With this feature, the camcorder captures the current scene being shot or replayed. Choose the transition speed — manual, fast (every 4 frames), moderate (every 6 frames*) or slow (every 8 frames*) —...
  • Page 69 7. Select the desired setting. • You return to the digital effects menu. 8. Press the DIGITAL EFFECTS button to close the menu. • The digital effects menu disappears. • MULTI-S flashes in the display. Multi-image screen on/off 9. Push the ON/OFF button. •...

  • Page 70: Audio Recording

    Audio Recording Selecting the audio mode The comcorder can record sound in two audio modes — 16-bit and 12-bit. The 16-bit mode produces the higher sound quality (slightly superior to CD) while the 12-bit mode records on 2 channels (stereo 1), leaving 2 channels free (stereo 2) for you to add new sound at a later date.

  • Page 71: Wind Screen

    Notes: • When using an external microphone, use a microphone cable not longer than 3 meters to avoid electromagnetic inerference. • For details on using the optional DM-50 microphone, see p. 75. MV550i • Be careful when using long microphones as they may extend into the frame. Wind screen The camcorder has an automatic wind screen to prevent wind noise from interfering with the sound track.

  • Page 72: Setting The Self-Timer

    Setting the Self-Timer DATA DATA CODE CODE This is useful when you want to include yourself in the picture when recording movies or still photographs. TAPE CAMERA 1. Press the self-timer button on the body of the camcorder the SELF TIMER button on the wireless controller. •...
  • Page 73 • The camcorder takes the picture for approximately 6 seconds ( seconds in SP or • If you’re in TAPE CAMERA mode, the camcorder returns to record pause mode after recording to a tape. If you’re in CARD CAMERA mode, the currently recording image appears after recording onto a memory card.

  • Page 74: Mv550I Using The Vl-3 Video Light (Optional)

    MV550i Using the VL-3 Video Light (optional) When recording in dark rooms, attach the Video Light to the camcorder’s advanced accessory shoe. The Video Light is powered by the same power source as the camcorder. Also refer to the VL-3 Video Light instructions. Turn the camcorder’s power off before attaching/removing the Video Light.

  • Page 75: Mv550I Using The Dm-50 Microphone (Optional)

    MV550i Using the DM-50 Microphone (optional) The highly sensitive Directional Stereo Microphone DM-50 has been designed exclusively for camcorders equipped with an advanced accessory shoe powered by the camcorder’s power supply. Use during cassette recording or audio dubbing ( 98).

  • Page 76: Ajusting Ae Shift

    Ajusting AE Shift By controlling the level of the automatic exposure (AE) function, you can lighten or darken the image slightly. This allows you to compensate for backlit, overexposed scenes. TAPE CAMERA Make sure the program selector is set to 1.

  • Page 77: Setting The Shutter Speed

    Setting the Shutter Speed Set the shutter speed manually to take stable shots of quickly moving subjects. TAPE CAMERA CARD 1. Make sure the camcorder is set to the Q (program AE) mode. 2. Press the selector dial in and choose AUTO from the program menu.
  • Page 78 Guidelines for shooting using high shutter speeds • When shooting with a shutter speed of 1/1000 or higher, do not shoot the sun directly. Recommended shutter speeds when shooting: • People doing outdoor sports such as golf or tennis • Moving cars or trains or other rapidly moving vehicles such as roller coasters •...

  • Page 79: Adjusting Focus Manually

    Adjusting Focus Manually The camcorder can focus automatically. All you have to do is point it, and whatever is in the centre of the display will usually be in sharp focus. If it does not seem to be focusing well, it may be because the subject is not suitable for autofocus.

  • Page 80: Setting The White Balance

    Setting the White Balance The camcorder’s auto white balance system compensates for a wide range of lighting conditions. Although slight variations are unavoidable, colours will appear natural in virtually every situation. In some cases, you will get better results by setting the white balance yourself, or using one of the two preset modes: T Indoor Mode...
  • Page 81 Setting the white balance manually will probably work better than auto white balance when shooting: Subjects with one dominant colour, such as sky, sea or forest Close-ups In rapidly changing lighting conditions In places lit by certain types of fluorescent or mercury vapour lights Notes: •...

  • Page 82: Displaying Date, Time And Camcorder Data (Data Code)

    Displaying Date, Time and Camcorder Data (Data Code) A data code, containing the date and time the recording was made and other camcorder data (shutter speed and exposure settings) is automatically recorded on a special data section of the tape. •...

  • Page 83: Setting The Data Code

    Setting the data code You can also choose to display camcorder data (shutter speed and exposure settings) in cassette data codes. PLAY TAPE (VCR) To change, open the menu and select DISP.SET UP. Then select DATA CODE, set it to DATE/TIME, CAMERA DATA or CAM. & D/T and close the menu.
  • Page 84 Six-second auto date The 6-second auto date appears for 6 seconds to mark the changeover of a day if the tape was being recorded at 12:00 midnight. It also appears for 6 seconds when you start playback and have the data code turned off. The 6-second auto date will adjust for any time zone changes you have indicated.

  • Page 85: Searching The Tape (Photo Search/Date Search)

    Searching the Tape (Photo Search/Date Search) This allows you to move quickly through still pictures recorded anywhere on a tape (photo search) or between different days or areas of recording (date search) on a tape. PLAY TAPE (VCR) 1. Press the SEARCH SELECT button to choose between photo/date search.

  • Page 86: Returning To A Pre-Marked Position

    Returning to a Pre-Marked Position Use the wireless controller to mark a point on a tape that you want to return to following playback. TAPE CAMERA 1. Press the ZERO SET MEMORY button on the wireless controller during playback at a point you want to return to later. •...

  • Page 87: Editing

    Editing to a VCR By connecting the camcorder to a VCR, you can edit your recordings in order to remove unwanted scenes — or combine different shots to create your own video productions. Preparations 1. Connect the camcorder to the VCR. •...

  • Page 88: Dubbing To/From A Cassette With Digital Video Equipment

    Example dubbing to the camcorder 1. Connect the camcorder and the other digital device. • Connect the Canon CV-150F DV cable (optional) with the sides of the plugs marked with the arrows facing as shown above. 2. Prepare the other device.
  • Page 89 Dubbing 1. Find a point on your recorded cassette slightly before the section you want to copy and set it to playback pause mode. 2. Press the REC PAUSE button on the wireless controller. • The camcorder enters record pause mode. 3.
  • Page 90 Concerning copyrighting Copyright precaution Certain pre-recorded video tapes, films and other materials, as well as some television programmes are copyrighted. Unauthorized recording of these materials may violate copyright protection laws. Copyright signals When playing back: If you try to play back a tape that contains copyright control signals for the protection of software, “COPYRIGHT PROTECTED PLAYBACK IS RESTRICTED”...

  • Page 91: Recording From A Vcr, Tv Or Analog Camcorder (Analog Line-In)

    (Analog Line-in) You can record a video played on your VCR or analog camcorder (for digital camcorders, see p. 88) or a TV program onto a tape in the MV550i/MV530i, if the TV or other device has audio/video outputs. • If an anomalous signal is sent from the TV or VCR, the images recorded on the...
  • Page 92 Dubbing 1. Find a point on your recorded cassette slightly before the section you want to copy and set it to playback pause mode. 2. Press the REC PAUSE button on the wireless controller. • S-video and AV IN/OUT terminals work as input terminals. •...

  • Page 93: Digitally Outputting Analog Video And Audio Signals (Analog-Digital Converter)

    Digitally Outputting Analog Video and Audio Signals (Analog-Digital Converter) Connecting the camcorder to your VCR or 8 mm video camera allows conversion of recorded analog video and audio signals to digital signals in an instant. The digital signals can be output to the other equipment with a DV terminal. The camcorder’s DV terminal works exclusively as an output terminal.
  • Page 94 Turning the analog-digital converter on PLAY TAPE (VCR) VCR.SET UP To turn the analog-digital converter on, open the menu and select VCR SET UP. Then select AV \ DV OUT, set it to ON and close the menu. Caution: • For normal use, set AV \ \ DV OUT to OFF through the menu. If it is set to ON, you cannot input digital signals through the camcorder’s DV terminal.

  • Page 95: Recording Over Existing Scenes (Av Insert Editing)

    Recording Over Existing Scenes (AV Insert Editing) You can insert new scenes from your VCR or other camcorder onto your pre- recorded tape using the MV550i/MV530i’s analog line-in or DV in terminals. Original video and audio will be replaced with the new video and audio. The playback tape Before inserting The tape in the...
  • Page 96 Preparations The tape in the MV550i/MV530i: When using the MV550/MV530i’s AV insert function, only record to tapes recorded in SP mode. If there are non-recorded portions or portions recorded in a mode other than SP mode on the tape, recording will stop. The playback tape: Use only tapes without non-recorded portions.
  • Page 97 Editing 1. On the VCR, locate a point 3 seconds before the scene to be inserted. Set the VCR to playback pause mode. 2. On the camcorder, press PLAY and locate the recording start point. Set the camcorder to playback pause mode. •...

  • Page 98: Audio Dubbing

    Audio Dubbing You can add sound to the original sound on a pre-recorded tape from audio products (AUDIO IN) or with the internal or external microphone (MIC. IN). The original sound will not be erased. For best results, add sound to tapes that have been recorded with this camcorder in SP mode with 12-bit sound.
  • Page 99 Notes: When using an external microphone \ Connect it to the • MV550i When using the DM-50 microphone \ Make sure nothing is When using the built-in microphone \ Make sure nothing is • When you add sound using the built-in microphone make sure not to MV530i connect any cables to the MIC terminal.
  • Page 100 3. Select AUDIO IN or MIC. IN and close the menu. 4. Locate the point where you want to start audio dubbing, then press the PAUSE button. • You can use the playback buttons on the body of the camcorder or the special playback functions on the wireless controller in the same way as in playback mode.

  • Page 101: Setting The Audio Mix

    Setting the Audio Mix When you play back a tape that was recorded in 12-bit mode, you can set the audio output to play: stereo 1 (the original sound), stereo 2 (any new sound, dubbed to the tape after recording), or mix the balance between the two. •...

  • Page 102: Selecting Audio Output Channels

    Selecting audio output channels When you play back a tape whose audio has been recorded on multiple channels, you can change the output channels of that sound. PLAY TAPE (VCR) VCR SET UP 1. Load a tape recorded with multiple-channel audio. 2.

  • Page 103: Connecting To A Pc Using A Dv Cable

    Connecting to a PC Using a DV Cable To transfer still images from a memory card to your PC by using a USB cable, see p. 128. By using a DV cable and connecting the camcorder to a PC equipped with a DV terminal conforming to IEEE 1394/DV compatible capture board, you can transfer images taken with the camcorder to your PC.

  • Page 104: Memory Card Introduction

    Memory Card Introduction The camcorder can take, store and manage still images on 2 types of memory cards: the MultiMediaCard (supplied with the camcorder) or an SD Memory Card (commercially available). The MultiMediaCard is an ultra-small, ultra-light media that can record still images. About the same size as a MultiMediaCard, the SD (Secure Digital) Memory Card has the protect switch to protect your recording from accidental erasure, and fits into the same slot as the MultiMediaCard.

  • Page 105: Inserting And Removing The Memory Card

    Inserting and removing the memory card 1. Turn the POWER switch to OFF. • When removing the memory card, make sure the card access indicator is off. 2. Open the memory card compartment cover in the direction of the arrow. 3.
  • Page 106 Notes: • Depending on the image you are recording, sometimes there will be no difference in image quality between settings. • Images are compressed and recorded in the JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) format. • The number of pixels is 768 × 576 in both FINE and STANDARD modes. Image Necessary memory quality...
  • Page 107 File numbers The images you take are automatically assigned file numbers from 0101-9900 and stored in folders of 100 images each. Each folder is numbered from 101 to 998 and recorded on the memory card. Sample images have been pre-recorded on the supplied MultiMediaCard, entering folder number 100 (folder name is “100canon”).

  • Page 108: Recording Still Images To A Memory Card

    Recording Still Images to a Memory Card CARD CARD TAPE TAPE The camcorder is equipped with a mechanical shutter so that you can record vivid still images onto a memory card. (Progressive Photo function) You can also record onto a memory card images from a tape in the camcorder, or images input through the DV in terminal.
  • Page 109 4. Press the PHOTO button fully down to record the still picture. • F disappears from the display. The shutter sound sounds and simultaneously the display appears to close for an instant as if it were a shutter releasing. • The card access indicator flashes and the card access display appears in the display (See “The indicators that appear in the LCD display when MIRROR is turned on”...

  • Page 110: Recording An Image From A Cassette As A Still Image

    Recording an Image from a Cassette as a Still Image FOCUS SLIDE SHOW Record an image from a cassette onto a memory card. To automatically record multiple still images from a cassette to a memory card, refer to “Copying Still Images from a Cassette”...

  • Page 111: Recording From Another Dv Device As A Still Image

    TAPE Preparations 1. Connect the camcorder to the other digital device. • Connect the Canon CV-150F DV cable (optional) with the sides of the plugs marked with the arrows facing as shown above. 2. Prepare the other device. • Turn on the power and load a recorded cassette.

  • Page 112: Viewing Still Images

    TV, see “Connections for Playback on a TV Screen” on p. 33) • The camcorder may not be able to copy or play, etc., images recorded on a non- Canon camcorder. • When viewing on the LCD screen or TV screen still images that you recorded to a memory card with this camcorder, the images appear with black frame in the display.

  • Page 113: Slide Show

    G Card Jump Function You can jump from the current image to the desired image of unadjacent image number without displaying the images one by one. The numbers shown in the upper right in CARD PLAY (VCR) mode indicate the image number of the current still image / total number of still images on the memory card.

  • Page 114: Settings Of The Still Image Recorded To A Memory Card

    An image on a memory card must be marked before it can be printed. The camcorder supports the Images can be automatically printed on a DPOF-supporting Canon Printer. Up to 50 images per memory card can be print marked. There are 3 ways to mark a still image for printing (including the ways to cancel the setting).
  • Page 115 Erasing still images Erase images singly or all at once. • You cannot erase protected images. Cancel image protection first in order to erase an image. • Erase images with caution. Once an image has been erased, it cannot be restored. There are 3 ways to erase a single image.
  • Page 116 File Operation (FILE OPER.) PLAY CARD (VCR) 1. With an image in the display, press the selector dial in to open the FILE OPER. menu. • PROTECT • If you select |RETURN, the menu disappears from the display. To protect an image 2.

  • Page 117: Preventing Accidental Erasure (Protect)

    Preventing Accidental Erasure (Protect) SEARCH SEARCH This section describes how to protect the still image from the Card Operation submenu when displaying an index screen in CARD PLAY (VCR) mode (including the way to cancel the setting) . You can also protect a still image through CARD PHOTO REVIEW ( File Operation menu ( 116).

  • Page 118: Marking A Still Image For Printing (Print Mark)

    Marking a Still Image for Printing (Print Mark) This section describes how to mark the still image for printing from Card operation submenu in CARD PLAY (VCR) mode (including the way to cancel the setting). – When displaying an index screen, you can mark the image for printing. –...
  • Page 119 Erasing all print marks PLAY CARD (VCR) CARD OPER. Make sure a memory card that has images recorded on it has been inserted into the camcorder. 1. With an image in the display, open the menu and select CARD OPER. 2.

  • Page 120: Erasing Still Images

    Erasing Still Images SEARCH SEARCH This section describes how to erase the still image from the Card Operation submenu when playing back a single image in CARD PLAY (VCR) mode. (SINGLE or ALL) You can also erase a still image through CARD PHOTO REVIEW ( File Operation menu ( PLAY CARD...
  • Page 121 5. Select YES. • The image erases and the previous image appears for erasing. • To erase another single image, move to that image with the CARD +/– buttons, and select YES. • If the image you are trying to erase is a protected image, YES appears in purple and is unselectable.

  • Page 122: Combining Images And Recording Them To A Cassette (Card Mix)

    Combining Images and Recording Them to a Cassette (Card Mix) Liven up your productions by superimposing one image on top of the other. Combine 2 still images or a still image and a moving image. Choose a still image from the memory card, either one of the pre-recorded sample images ( one you have recorded yourself, then combine it with the currently recording image, moving or still.
  • Page 123 CAM. CHROMA (Camera chroma key) Superimpose the currently recording image on top of a still image, which becomes its background. Shoot the subject of the currently recording image against a blue background, such as a blue curtain. The original still image will appear in place of the blue area.
  • Page 124 4. Select MIX TYPE. • CARD CHROMA, CARD LUMI., CAM. CHROMA settings appear. 5. Select the desired setting. • Your currently recording image is combined with the pre-recorded still image. 6. Select MIX LEVEL. 7. Adjust the mix level. • Turning the selector dial upwards adjusts to the right and turning downwards adjusts to the left.

  • Page 125: Copying Still Images From A Cassette

    Copying Still Images from a Cassette SEARCH SEARCH Copies multiple still images from a tape to the memory card, using the Photo Search function. • The still images’ data codes will reflect the date and time the copies are made. PLAY TAPE (VCR)

  • Page 126: Copying Memory Card Still Images To A Cassette

    Copying Memory Card Still Images to a Cassette Copies multiple still images from the memory card to a cassette. • The still images’ data codes will reflect the date and time the copies are made. • SP and MV550i memory card images to a cassette. CARD OPER.

  • Page 127: Formatting A Memory Card

    Formatting a Memory Card Format new memory cards, if you get the message CARD ERROR, or to permanently and quickly erase all the images on a memory card, including protected images (this includes the pre-recorded card mix sample images). The MultiMediaCard supplied with this camcorder has already been formatted for you.

  • Page 128: Utilizing Memory Card Still Images On A Pc

    When printing still images, you can add titles and frames to them. Use the USB cable and the Canon Digital Video Solution Disk software provided with the camcorder. • For details on how to connect the camcorder to a PC and install and operate the software, refer to the Canon Digital Video Solution Disk instruction manual.

  • Page 129: Other Information And Precautions

    • However, we cannot guarantee that all of these memory cards work properly. If you mistakenly erase the card mix sample images provided on the MultiMediaCard, they can be downloaded from the following home pages:* http://www.canon-europa.com/products/products.html http://www.canon-asia.com/ http://www.canon.com.au *If you are unable to connect the camcorder to a PC using a USB cable, you will need a PC Card Adapter or USB Card Reader to be able to download to a memory card.

  • Page 130: Sample Images

    • Do not use memory cards in places subject to strong magnetic fields. • Do not disassemble memory cards. • Do not bend or drop memory cards, or expose them to strong vibrations or external shocks. • Do not get memory cards wet. •...
  • Page 131 Card luminance key Camera chroma key • The pre-recorded sample images on the MultiMediaCard included with this camcorder are intended solely for the personal enjoyment gained from combining them with personal videos taken with this camcorder. Do not use the pre-recorded sample images for any other purpose.

  • Page 132: Preparing The Camcorder

    Preparing the Camcorder Adjust the viewfinder • Set the camcorder to TAPE CAMERA mode. Extend the viewfinder straight out, then adjust the viewfinder focusing lever to suit your eyesight. • Rotate the viewfinder to an angle that allows you to view comfortably. Store the camcorder with the viewfinder flush with the body of the camcorder.
  • Page 133 Attach the shoulder strap • For extra security and portability, attach the shoulder strap before using the camcorder. • Pass the ends through the attachment bars and adjust the length as shown.

  • Page 134: Notes On Using The Batteries

    Notes on Using the Batteries Charging and recording times • These times vary — the safest policy is always to have 2 or 3 times as many battery packs as you think you will need. • You will get more recording time if you turn the camcorder off between shots, instead of leaving it in record pause mode.
  • Page 135 Playback time (using the LCD screen) MV530i BP-508 BP-512 (optional) BP-511 (optional) BP-522 (optional) BP-535 (optional) How much power is left? The indicator in the display shows you approximately how much charge the battery pack has left: Notes: • When the power is completely exhausted, “CHANGE THE BATTERY PACK”...

  • Page 136: Installing The Backup Battery

    Taking care of the battery pack Always attach the terminal cover. • Do not allow any metal objects to touch the terminals, as this can cause a short circuit and damage the battery pack. Attach the terminal cover whenever the battery pack is not being used.
  • Page 137 DANGER! Treat the battery pack with care. • Keep it away from fire (or it might explode). • Do not expose the battery pack to temperatures greater than 60°C (140°F). Do not leave it near a heater, or inside a car in hot weather, for example. •...

  • Page 138: Maintenance

    Maintenance Cautions Avoid high temperatures and high humidity. • Do not leave the camcorder inside a car in hot weather, for example. • Be careful of heat radiating from video lighting equipment. • Do not take the camcorder into a humid room. Avoid sudden changes in temperature.
  • Page 139 Storage If you do not intend to use the camcorder for some time, store it in an area which is free of dust and moisture, and where the temperature is no higher than 30°C (86°F). After storage, check each part and function of your camcorder to make sure everything is still working properly.

  • Page 140: Using The Camcorder Abroad

    • You can use the compact power adapter to operate your camcorder and charge battery packs in any country where the electricity supply is between 100 and 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz. Contact your Canon dealer for information about plug adapters for overseas use.
  • Page 141 Condensation Condensation may form on the camcorder when it is moved from a cold place to a warm place. Using the camcorder while condensation is present can damage both the tape and the camcorder. Condensation may become a problem: When you take the camcorder from a cold place to a warm room When the camcorder is left in a humid room...

  • Page 142: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting Refer to this checklist first if you have any problems with your camcorder. Possible explanations are given for each problem on the list — turn to the page numbers in parentheses for more information. Make sure that the camcorder is properly connected if you are using it with a TV or VCR.
  • Page 143 • The cassette has reached the end. • When recording in dark places a bright light in the scene may cause a vertical light bar (“smear”) to appear. This is a normal feature of camcorders. • The video heads need cleaning 140). 139). Without much contrast (e.g.

  • Page 144: Memory Card Operations

    ? There’s no picture on the TV screen. ? There’s no picture on the TV screen, even though the tape is moving. ? There’s no sound coming from the speaker during playback. Memory card operations Problem ? The memory card will not insert. ? The mark flashes red in the display even though a memory...
  • Page 145 ? The PHOTO button doesn’t work. ? The image cannot be erased. Miscellaneous Problem ? The wireless controller doesn’t work. ? The power indicator is flashing. ? The camcorder malfunctions. ? The DV cable is connected correctly, but there’s nothing in the display.

  • Page 146: The Mv550I/Mv530I System Diagram

    The MV550i/MV530i System Diagram WD-30.5 Wide- converter TL-30.5 Tele- converter FS-30.5U Filter Set ZR-1000 Zoom Remote Controller MV550i VL-3 Video Light MV550i DM-50 Directional Stereo Microphone VL-10Li BP-900 Series Battery Video Light Battery Pack Stereo Microphone (commercially available) SC-1000 Soft Carrying Case (Availability differs from area to area) WL-D77...

  • Page 147: Optional Accessories

    Optional Accessories BP-500 Series Battery Packs The battery pack BP-508 is not available as an option. When you need extra battery packs, select from the following: BP-511, BP-512, BP-522 and BP-535. CR-560 Charge Adapter/Car Battery Cable Kit Connect the car battery cable to power your camcorder or recharge battery packs on the move.
  • Page 148 FS-30.5U Filter Set Neutral density and MC protector filters to help you take control of difficult lighting conditions. VL-3 Video Light MV550i Attach the Video Light to a camcorder when recording in dark rooms. When on its automatic setting, the Video Light turns on/off automatically according to the brightness level of shooting conditions.
  • Page 149 SC-1000 Soft Carrying Case A handy camcorder bag with padded compartments and plenty of space for accessories. This mark identifies genuine Canon video accessories. When you use Canon video equipment, we recommend Canon-brand accessories or products bearing the same mark.

  • Page 150: Screen Displays

    Screen Displays To display the date and time, press the DATA CODE button. See also p. 82. Press the wireless controller’s TV SCREEN button or turn TV SCREEN on through the menu to see the other displays on the TV screen. (The displays appear white on-screen.) They will not be added to any recordings you make with the camcorder.
  • Page 151 Shows how much battery power remains 135). The battery pack is exhausted ( 135). No cassette is loaded, or it is set for erasure prevention 17, 18). Remaining tape (Green: more than five minutes. Yellow: less than five minutes. Red: final few seconds.) ...finally, it tells you when you have...
  • Page 152 Zoom display ( 24): Optical zoom Optical plus 88×/72× digital zoom Optical plus 440×/ 360× digital zoom Zoom in Zoom out The image stabilizer is turned on ( 58). CAM. MENU VCR MENU ( C.CAM. MENU C.PLAY MENU CARD PHOTO REVIEW MENU 115) FILE OPER.
  • Page 153 Shutter speed ( White balance is Indoor Outdoor U The 16:9 mode: the display flashes when the effect is being selected, and appears steadily when it is activated ( 22). Digital effects. The display flashes when the function is being selected and appears steadily when it is activated (...
  • Page 154 The number of still images that can still be recorded on the memory card ( 106) (Green: 6 or more images. Yellow: Between 1 and 5 images Red: No more images) Accessing a memory card ( 112) Current still image/Total number of still images on the memory card 112)

  • Page 155: Caution Phrases

    Caution phrases The camcorder displays various caution phrases — they appear for 4 seconds before disappearing. Appears each time you turn the power on, until you set the time zone, date and time ( 53). Appears when the battery pack is exhausted 135).
  • Page 156 Appears immediately after you start recording, and the video heads are badly contaminated. Make sure to clean the video heads when this caution appears. 140) Memory card caution phrases An error has occurred with the memory card. The camcorder can not record or play back.

  • Page 157: Specifications

    Specifications MV550i/MV530i Power Supply (rated): 7.4 V DC Power Consumption (while recording with the AF turned on): 3.3 W (Using viewfinder), MV550i 4.1 W (Using LCD screen) 3.3 W (Using viewfinder), MV530i 4.0 W (Using LCD screen) Television system: CCIR standard (625 lines, 50 fields) PAL colour signal Video recording system: 3 rotary heads, helical scanning...
  • Page 158 DV Terminal: Special 4-pin connector (conforms to IEEE1394) AV/headphones terminal: ø 3.5 mm minijack Audio input: –10 dBV/at least 40 kohms, (L, R), unbalanced output: –10 dBV (47 kohm load)/ less than 3 kohms, unbalanced Video: 1 Vp-p/75 ohms unbalanced S-video terminal: 1 Vp-p (Y signal), 0.3 Vp-p (C signal) MIC terminal input: ø...

  • Page 159: Index

    Index 16:9, 22 Å Abroad, Using the Camcorder, 140 Accessories, 6, 147 Adapter, AC, 12-14,16 AE Programs, 59 AE Shift, 76 Analog-digital converter, 93 Analog line-in, 91 Audio Dubbing, 98 Audio Mix, 101 Audio Mode, 70 Audio Output, 101 Audio Recording and Playback, 70, 101 Audio/Video Terminal, 33 Auto, 61...
  • Page 160 Ò LANC, 87 LCD Screen, 26 Lens Cap, 132 Light-up Buttons, 52 Loading Cassettes, 17 Low Light, 62 LP Mode, 21 ˜ Maintenance, 138 Making Better Videos, 37 Manual Focus, 79 Memory Card Introduction, 104 Menus, 40 Microphone, 70, 75, 98 Monitor Recording, 28 Multi-Image Screen, 68 ˆ...
  • Page 161 Ê Tape Protection, 18 Telephoto, 24 Temperature, 14, 131, 134, 137, 158 Time Code, 154 Time Zone, 53 Tips for Making Better Videos, 37 Tripod, 37 Troubleshooting, 142 TV, 33, 150 ◊ VCR, 33 Video Heads, 140 Video Light, 74, 148 Videocassettes, 17 Viewfinder, 132, 139 Viewing Still Images, 112...

  • Page 162: Menu At A Glance

    Menu at a Glance Use the list below to quickly navigate the camcorder’s menu. Functions are listed alphabetically. Function 16:9 effect 6-sec. Date Audio dub Audio mode AV/headphones AV → DV out Beep Brightness Button light MV550i Button light colour MV550i Card access display Card mix...
  • Page 163 Function Displays Erase Erase all print marks File numbers Format Image stabilizer Mirror mode Mix level Mix type Output channel Print mark Protect Quality Record mode Remote sensor mode Shutter sound Shutter speed Time zone/DST TV screen White balance Wind screen First make sure the camera is set to...
  • Page 164 Canon UK Ltd. Ribcon Way Luton Bedfordshire LU4 9UR Telephone 0870-241-2161 Canon Australia Pty. Ltd 1 Thomas Holt Drive, North Ryde, N.S.W. 2113, Australia Telephone 805-2000, Fax 887-4484 Canon New Zealand Ltd Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna, P.O. Box 33-336, Auckland, New Zealand Telephone 486-1570, Fax 486-6420 Canon Singapore Pte.

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