Page 1: Instruction Manual

DIGITAL VIDEO CAMCORDER Instruction Manual CAMESCOPE ET LECTEUR VIDEO NUMERIQUES Mode d’emploi VIDEOCAMARA Y GRABADORA DIGITAL Manual de Instrucciones NTSC PUB. DIM-462 ENGLISH Digital Mini Video Cassette...
Page 2: Important Usage Instructions

Do not make any changes or modifications to the equipment unless otherwise specified in the manual. If such changes or modifications should be made, you could be required to stop operation of the equipment. Canon U.S.A. Inc. One Canon Plaza, Lake Success, NY 11042, U.S.A. Tel No. (516)328-5600 CAUTION: TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.
Page 3: Important Safety Instructions

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS In these safety instructions the word “product” refers to the Canon Digital Video Camcorder GL2 and all its accessories. 1. Read Instructions — All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the product is operated.
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19. Replacement Parts — When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts that are specified by Canon or that have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock or other hazards.
Page 5: Operating Steps And Reference Guide

Operating Steps and Reference Guide Your camcorder is supplied with two manuals: the “Digital Video Camcorder GL2 Instruction Manual” and the “Digital Video Solution Disk Instruction Manual”. Digital Video Camcorder GL2 Instruction Manual Preparations Recording Playback Editing Using the Memory Card...
Page 6: Table Of Contents

Introduction Important Usage Instructions ... 2 Important Safety Instructions ... 3 Operating Steps and Reference Guide ... 5 Thank You For Choosing a Canon ... 8 Introducing the GL2 ... 9 Preparations Finding Your Way Around the GL2... 10 Preparing the Camcorder ... 14 Powering the Camcorder ...
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Settings of the Still Images Recorded on a Memory Card ... 122 Preventing Accidental Erasure (Protect)... 124 Marking a Still Image for Printing (Print Mark)... 125 Erasing Still Images ... 127 Combining Images and Recording Them onto a Tape (Title Mix) ... 129 Copying Still Images from Memory Card to Tape ...
Page 8: 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 9: Introducing The Gl2

Introducing the GL2 3CCD System with Pixel Shift Technology The Canon GL2 has three CCDs, delivering outstanding picture quality, highly accurate color reproduction and a wide dynamic range with virtually no color noise. On top of that, Canon uses a broadcast technology called Pixel...
Page 10: Finding Your Way Around The Gl2

Finding Your Way Around the GL2 (rewind) button (p. 87)/ – CARD button (p. 120) (stop) button (p. 87)/ INDEX SCREEN button (p. 121) PHOTO button (p. 48, 118) START/STOP button (p. 35) Zoom controller (p. 42) LCD screen (p. 43) CUSTOM KEY (p.
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Carrying handle PHOTO button (p. 48, 118) Strap mount (p. 15) Eyepiece adapter (p. 14) Viewfinder focusing lever (p. 14) TAPE/CARD switch (p. 20, 35) Start/stop button (p. 35) u (LANC) terminal (p. 98) USB terminal (p. 134) DV IN/OUT terminal (p.
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ND FILTER ON/OFF button (p. 47) FOCUS A/M button (p. 79) Focus ring (p. 79) Advanced accessory shoe (p. 68, 73-75) Tally lamp (p. 31) Remote sensor (p. 29) Strap mount (p. 15) Audio level indicator (p. 57) D.EFFECTS ON/OFF button (p.
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PHOTO button (p. 48, 118) MENU button (p. 21) START/STOP button (p. 35) SELF TIMER button (p. 71) TV SCREEN button (p. 150) DATA CODE button (p. 90) AUDIO MONITOR button (p. 111) REC PAUSE button (p. 100, 102) CARD buttons (p.
Page 14: Preparing The Camcorder

Open the Velcro and slide the lens cap cord to the position as shown in the illustration. 2. Align the hood to the lens with the Canon logo facing to the left. 3. Twist it into position (clockwise), so that the Canon logo is to the top.
Page 15: Attaching The Shoulder Strap

Attaching the Shoulder Strap • For extra security and portability, attach the shoulder strap before using the camcorder. • Pass the ends through the strap mount and adjust the length as shown. • Be careful not to leave the viewfinder exposed to bright sunlight as it may melt.
Page 16: Powering The Camcorder

TV or the antenna cable. Using a Household Power Source Use the power adapter and the DC coupler to provide your camcorder with instant power from an household power socket. 1. Connect the power cord to the power adapter.
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4. Take the battery pack off the adapter and attach it to the camcorder. • Extend the viewfinder and rotate it upwards. • Align the triangle on the battery pack with the line on the camcorder, then slide the battery in the direction of the arrow until it clicks into place.
Page 18: Loading A Cassette

• Be careful not to get your fingers caught in the cassette compartment cover. • Do not leave the cassette in the camcorder after use — return it to its case and store it in a cool, clean, dry place.
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If you wish to record on the cassette again, slide the tab back so that the hole is closed. Cassette Handling Precautions • To protect the tape heads, transfer cassettes directly from the tape case to the camcorder — do not open the tape protect cover or touch the tape itself.
Page 20: 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 Camera menu VCR MENU VCR menu C.CAM. MENU Card camera menu C.PLAY MENU Card play menu CAM.
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Selecting From the Menus 1. Slide 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 depending on the settings of the POWER switch and TAPE/CARD switch.
Page 22: List Of Menus

List of Menus Turn to the appropriate page for a detailed explanation of each function. 2 CAM. MENU Set the POWER switch to There are 7 submenus within the CAM. MENU. 1 Camera Set Up Submenu 2 Custom Preset Submenu 3 VCR Set Up Submenu 4 Display Set Up Submenu 5 System Submenu...
Page 23: Power Save

3 VCR Set Up Submenu !9 Recording Mode ... @0 Microphone ... @1 Microphone Attenuator ... @2 Audio Mode ... @3 Power Save ... @4 Return 4 Display Set Up Submenu @5 LCD Brightness ... @6 Viewfinder Brightness ... @7 LCD Mirror Mode ... @8 16:9 Guides ...
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7 Title Mix Submenu $5 Selecting a Title ... $6 Creating a Title ... $7 Return 2 VCR MENU Set the POWER switch to There are 4 submenus within the VCR MENU. 1 VCR Set Up Submenu 2 Display Set Up Submenu 3 System Submenu 4 Custom Key Submenu 5 Close Main Menu...
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3 System Submenu !8 Wireless Controller... !9 Tally Lamp... @0 Beep ... @1 Time Zone/Daylight Saving Time ... @2 Setting Date and Time ... @3 Return 4 Custom Key Submenu @4 Custom Key ... @5 Return 2 C. CAM. MENU Set the POWER switch to CAMERA There are 6 submenus within the C.
Page 26: Lcd Brightness

2 Custom Preset Submenu o Color Gain ... !0 Color Phase ... !1 Sharpness ... !2 Setup Level ... !3 Return 3 Card Set Up Submenu !4 Image Quality ... !5 Image Resolution ... !6 File Numbers... !7 Shutter Sound... !8 Return 4 Display Set Up Submenu !9 LCD Brightness ...
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6 Custom Key Submenu #2 Custom Key ... #3 Return 2 C. PLAY MENU PLAY Set the POWER switch to (VCR) There are 5 submenus within the C. PLAY MENU. 1 Card Operation Submenu 2 VCR Set Up Submenu 3 Display Set Up Submenu 4 System Submenu 5 Custom Key Submenu 6 Close Main Menu...
Page 28: Wireless Controller

2 VCR Set Up Submenu !0 Recording Mode ... !1 Return 3 Display Set Up Submenu !2 LCD Brightness ... !3 Viewfinder Brightness ... !4 Displays ... !5 Selecting Date/Time ... !6 Custom Key Display ... !7 Card Access Display ... !8 Return 4 System Submenu !9 Wireless Controller...
Page 29: Using The Wireless Controller/tally Lamp

• When using the wireless controller in brightly lit places or outdoors, the effective range will be less. • The camcorder may have difficulty picking up the remote control signals at extremely close range. • Do not leave the controller exposed to direct sunlight, or in hot or humid places.
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The wireless controller and the camcorder have been preset to mode 1. If you change the mode on the camcorder, be sure to change the mode on the wireless controller to the same mode.
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1. Open the menu and select TALLY LAMP. 2. Select the OFF setting and close the menu. • The tally lamp no longer flashes during recording, but it will still light up when the camcorder receives a signal from the wireless controller.
Page 32: Setting The Date And Time

The date and/ time display forms part of the data code. You can choose to display or hide it during playback ( 90). Set the date and time display when you first start using your camcorder. Install the backup battery before you begin ( 138).
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Just set the time zone to your destination and the camcorder’s clock will automatically change to display the correct time for your destination. • The camcorder automatically accounts for the number of days in a month and leap year. 24 1 Time zone...
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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 (in TAPE CAMERA and CARD CAMERA mode). TAPE CAMERA SYSTEM 1.
Page 35: Recording

1. Slide the POWER switch to CAMERA and the TAPE/CARD switch to TAPE. 2. Turn the standby lever to STANDBY. • The camcorder power indicator lights up red and PAUSE appears in the display — the camcorder is now in “record pause mode”.
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• 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.
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• When the camcorder is set to LP mode, pausing between recordings may produce mosaic-like noise. • A tape recorded in LP mode on another camcorder may produce mosaic-like noise when played back on this camcorder, and vice versa. 16:9 (Wide-Screen TV Recording) Produces images in the 16:9 format for playback on wide-screen TVs.
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“squashed” (compressed). • If you connect the camcorder to a TV with an S1 terminal or the Video ID-1 system, recordings made in the 16:9 mode for wide screen TVs will automatically play back in wide screen mode on the TV screen.
Page 39: Demonstration Mode

• With no cassette or memory card inserted, turn the DEMO MODE on in the CAM.MENU or C.CAM.MENU and close the menu. • Leave the camcorder with no cassette or memory card inserted for five minutes after turning it TAPE...
Page 40: 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 41: Picture Angle

Remember to change your viewpoint for each shot. Remember that any camcorder movement or change in picture angle should have a definite purpose. Avoid unnecessary or half-hearted movements.
Page 42: Zooming

Press it towards T to zoom in to telephoto. • The speed of the zoom controls on the camcorder can be changed in the CAMERA SET UP submenu (grip zoom: variable, low, medium and fast; handle zoom: low, medium and fast).
Page 43: Using The Lcd Screen

• Avoid touching the LCD screen when moving the LCD panel. • Do not hold the camcorder by the LCD panel or the viewfinder. • Make sure you open the LCD panel at 90°, before attempting to rotate it backwards or forwards.
Page 44: Allowing The Subject To Monitor Recording

3. Close the menu. Notes: • The camcorder retains your brightness setting even if you slide the POWER switch to OFF. • The brightness of the LCD screen/viewfinder does not effect that of the recorded images. About the LCD Screen The LCD screen built into this camcorder is a high precision product.
Page 45

To turn the mirror mode off, open the menu and select DISP.SET UP. Then select MIRROR, set it to OFF and close the menu. • LCD MIRROR ON: The picture appears reversed like in a mirror. • LCD MIRROR OFF: The picture appears the same as the recording. •...
Page 46: Turning The Optical Image Stabilizer Off

Unlike electronic image stabilizers, it causes no loss of picture quality. The Optical Image Stabilizer can compensate for a wide range of camcorder movement — you can record stable images even if you are shooting from a moving car.
Page 47: Using The Nd Filter

• You cannot turn the ND filter on/off during exposure lock or while the PHOTO button is pressed halfway down. • The camcorder retains your selection if you turn the standby lever to LOCK. However, it resets to the OFF setting if you slide the POWER switch to OFF.
Page 48: Recording Still Images Onto A Tape

Starting your shooting with a still image makes it easy to find the beginning again later with the Photo Search function ( You can take a still image at any time during regular video recording, or you can put the camcorder into record pause mode first, then take a still image.
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2. Press the PHOTO button fully down to take the still image • The camcorder takes the image immediately, and then records the “photo” to the tape for approximately 6 seconds. During this time the camcorder also records the sound, and the display shows the still image.
Page 50: Selecting The Movie Mode (normal/frame)

Selecting the Movie Mode The frame mode can be used when you wish to look at a video, scene by scene, free from field slippage (the “flicker” that normally occurs when you pause a video). The vertical resolution of the image is improved by 1.5×.
Page 51: Searching And Reviewing While Recording

• The camcorder returns to record pause mode. Record Review When the camcorder is in record pause mode, you can use record review to play back the last few seconds of your recording and then return automatically to record pause mode. You can quickly make sure that a scene has recorded properly and then go on to shoot the next scene, without producing any noise in the picture.
Page 52: Using The Various Recording Programs

Using the Various Recording Programs The camcorder provides you with a choice of seven recording programs. They use different combinations of camcorder settings in order to adjust the exposure and other functions to match the recording situation. Availability of Functions in Each Recording Program...
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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.
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• The image may not appear smooth when a high shutter speed is set. Notes: • When recording in extreme low-light conditions, we recommend the use of a Canon Speedlite 68) or Video Light ( • The selected shutter speed will reset if you turn the power off, change the recording program or adjust the exposure.
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Manual ( Select this program for total creative freedom when operating the camcorder. You can set aperture, shutter speed and gain independently to give you exactly the exposure you require. You can select between 30 shutter speed settings (1/8 to 1/15000), 19 aperture values (f/1.6 to f/8.0) and 4 gain values (0dB to +18dB) in TAPE CAMERA mode.
Page 56: Audio Recording

Audio Recording Selecting the Audio Mode The GL2 can record sound in two audio modes: • 16-bit (48 kHz, 2 channel) for the highest sound quality • 12-bit (32 kHz, 2 from 4 channels) for recording on two channels (stereo 1), leaving two channels (stereo 2) free for you to add new sound at a later date.
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MA-300 Microphone Adapter). The camcorder is equipped with a audio level indicator at the side. You can also display the audio level indicator on the LCD or viewfinder screen (open the menu, select DISPLAY SET UP and set AUDIO LEVEL to ON).
Page 58: Using The Custom Key

Using the Custom Key You can assign frequently used functions to the custom key (independently for TAPE CAMERA mode, TAPE PLAY (VCR) mode, CARD CAMERA mode and CARD PLAY (VCR) mode). This allows you to customize the camcoder to your recording situations. Default settings: TAPE CAMERA mode: TAPE PLAY (VCR) mode:...
Page 59

VCR Stop TAPE CAMERA You can turn the recorder section off and leave the camcorder section turned on. This allows you to adjust the camcorder regardless of the 5-minute timer. • VCR STOP can be operated only by the custom key.
Page 60

TV Screen TAPE CAMERA You can display the information on the LCD screen/viewfinder on a connected TV. Press the “TV SCREEN” button to display the information on the TV screen. Press the button again to cancel. TAPE Microphone * Only available when AUDIO DUB. has been set to MIC. IN. Press the “MIC”...
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Audio Level Indicator Press the “AUDIO LEVEL” button to display the audio level indicator on the LCD screen/viewfinder. Press the button again to cancel. AE Shift TAPE CAMERA • Only available when the recording program is set to AUTO, Tv or Av. Press the “AE SHIFT”...
Page 62: Using Digital Effects

• When you do not wish to use digital effects, press the D.EFFECTS/BARS SELECT button and select D.EFFECTS |. Press the D.EFFECTS/BARS ON/OFF button to close the menu. • The camcorder retains the selected digital effect setting even if you turn the camcorder off. • Digital effects can also be operated from the wireless controller.
Page 63

Overlap The camcorder retains the last recorded scene as a still image before entering the record pause mode. When you start recording, the still image gradually changes to the scene you are recording. Operating the Fade Trigger Sound and image fade together.
Page 64

During recording 5. Press the start/stop button. • The last scene is memorized as a still image and the camcorder goes into record pause mode. 6. Press the start /stop button. • Recording starts, and the still image gradually changes to the scene you are recording.
Page 65

The image is blurred through enlarging the size of some pixels. Strobe The image is shown in a series of still images, giving an effect similar to slow-motion. Trail Moving the camcorder or moving subjects leave an afterimage like a trail.
Page 66

Operating the Effects TAPE CAMERA EFFECT 151) 1. Press the D.EFFECTS/BARS SELECT button. • The digital effects menu appears. 2. Select EFFECT and press the SELECT dial in. • The settings appear. 3. Select the effect setting and press the D.EFFECTS/BARS SELECT button. •...
Page 67: Using The Color Bars

Using the Color Bars You can display and record industry standard SMPTE color bars. Activating the Color Bars TAPE CAMERA COLOR BARS 151) 1. Press the D. EFFECTS/BARS SELECT button. • The digital effects menu appears. 2. Select COLOR BARS and press the SELECT dial in. •...
Page 68: Using A Canon Speedlite For Flash Photography (optional)

Using a Canon Speedlite for Flash Photography (Optional) For SLR-style flash photography, attach a Canon Speedlite 220EX, 420EX or 550EX to the camcorder’s accessory shoe. Refer also to the Speedlite instruction manual. Attaching the Speedlite Turn the camcorder’s power off before attaching/detaching the Speedlite.
Page 69: Recording With The Interval Timer

• The interval recording starts and INT T. appears in the display. • When the interval time is set to 30 seconds or 1 minute, the camcorder enters into record pause mode between recordings. When it is set to 5 or 10 minutes, the camcorder stops between recordings.
Page 70

Pausing the Interval Recording Press the Start/Stop button. • The camcorder returns to record pause mode and INT T. flashes in the display. • Press the Start/Stop button again to restart recording. Ending the Interval Recording Set the camcorder to record pause mode and set INTERVAL T to OFF in the interval menu.
Page 71: Recording With The Self-timer

• To have the subject monitor recording, rotate the LCD panel 180° ( For movies 2. Press the start/stop button. • The camcorder starts to record after a 10-second countdown period (or after 2 seconds when you use the wireless controller). The time remaining counts down in the display (e.g. “5 SEC”).
Page 72: Using The Dv Control

• DV control may not work properly depending on the connected device. • The DV control setting is retained by the camcorder even if you turn the power off. Make sure to check the setting after use of the DV control function, as the tape in the connected device may be overwritten.
Page 73: Using The Vl-3 Video Light (optional)

• Insert the Video Light oriented in the direction indicated by the arrow on the bottom until it clicks. • Be careful not to pull off the Video Light when fastening the screw. 2. Set the camcorder to TAPE CAMERA mode or CARD CAMERA mode. 3. Turn the Video Light’s power switch to AUTO or ON. •...
Page 74: Using The Dm-50 Microphone (optional)

STEREO 2: For recording surrounding sound in a wider range than in STEREO 1. Notes: • Never carry the camcorder holding the microphone. • The DM-50 will not pick up any sound if another microphone is attached to the camcorder’s MIC terminal. advanced accessory...
Page 75: Using The Ma-300 Microphone Adapter (optional)

1. Loosen the microphone clamp screw and open the microphone clamp. 2. Place the microphone into the microphone clamp and tighten the clamp screw. • Position the microphone so that it does not appear on the camcorder’s LCD or viewfinder screen.
Page 76: Adjusting The Exposure Manually

• The shutter speed, F number and gain values will be reset if you slide the POWER switch to OFF. If you use the standby lever, the camcorder retains your chosen values. • A bar showing the standard exposure appears in the display.
Page 77

● About the Shutter Speeds Pull the EXP dial toward + for a slower shutter speed, or toward – for a faster shutter speed. Available shutter speeds in TAPE CAMERA mode: 1/8 sec 1/15 sec 1/300 sec 1/250 sec 1/360 sec 1/420 sec 1/2300 sec 1/2000 sec...
Page 78: Exposure Adjustment

1/60 of a second. • The brightness of the subject may change if you zoom during exposure lock. • If you slide the POWER switch to OFF or the standby lever to LOCK, the camcorder resets to auto exposure.
Page 79: Adjusting The Focus Manually

• Autofocus is recommended for zooming in to telephoto from the wide end. • If you slide the POWER switch to OFF or the standby lever to LOCK, the camcorder resets to auto focus. 144). Also, if you attach a filter other than UV or ND,...
Page 80: Setting The White Balance

• x/U appears in the display when you set the white balance to the indoor/outdoor mode. b) For setting the white balance manually: q Point the camcorder at a white object (such as a sheet of paper) and zoom in until it fills the display.
Page 81

• The camcorder returns to auto white balance when the program selector is set to [ (Easy Recording). • When you turn the camcorder on, the white balance returns to auto white balance. If you then press the WHITE BALANCE W button, the camcorder will remember your last setting.
Page 82: Using The Ae Shift

Using 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 CAM. SET UP 1. Set the recording program to Auto, Tv or Av. 2.
Page 83: Using The Custom Preset

Using the Custom Preset You can adjust the color gain, color phase, sharpness and setup level for more creative recordings. Setting the Custom Preset Functions When you adjust the custom preset functions, be sure to check the picture before you start recording.
Page 84

Adjusting the Setup Level CSTM PRESET Adjust toward + for a brighter picture, and toward – for a darker picture. Activating the Custom Preset Functions 1. Turn the program selector to Q. 2. Press the CSTM PRESET button. • The picture reflects your preferences. SETUP LEVEL•...
Page 85: Using The Zebra Pattern

1. Open the menu and select CAM. SET UP. 2. Select ZEBRA LEVEL and set it to ON. 3. Close the menu. Note: • The camcorder does not record the zebra pattern, it is only shown in the display. CAMERA ZEBRA LEVEL• 90 CAMERA...
Page 86: Recording Pc Screens And Other Screens Using Clear Scan

Recording PC Screens and Other Screens Using CLEAR SCAN You can use the Clear Scan function to record PC screens or other screens without black bands caused by differences in the field frequencies of screens. TAPE CAMERA CAM. SET UP 1.
Page 87: Playing Back A Tape

• To wind the tape backwards, stop playback and press the ` (rewind) 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.
Page 88

Playback pause Press the a (pause) button. To resume normal playback, press it again, or press the e (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 9.5 times normal speed, press and hold the 1 (fast forward) button during normal playback or press and hold the 1 (fast forward) button during normal fast forward.
Page 89

Built-in Speaker and Headphone Terminal The camcorder has a built-in speaker and a headphone terminal. You can listen to the sound during playback. Use the speaker or headphones when using the LCD screen for playback, and use headphones when using the viewfinder. The built-in speaker is monaural; use headphones for stereo sound.
Page 90: Displaying Date, Time And Camcorder Data (data Code)

• Only the date and time appear in the data code when using a memory card. During TAPE PLAY (VCR) mode, the data code can be displayed or hidden while the camcorder is in play, slow or still mode.
Page 91: Setting The Data Code

– If the tape was recorded on a camcorder without a data code function. – If noise or tape damage prevents the data code from being read. • If a recording made on the GL2 is played back on a different DV camcorder, the data code may not be displayed correctly.
Page 92

Six-second Auto Date The date can be displayed for 6 seconds when you start playback, or to indicate that the date or time zone of the recording has changed. The 6-second auto date automatically adjusts to the time zone you have selected. PLAY TAPE (VCR)
Page 93: Searching The Tape (photo Search/date Search/index Search)

• If you begin a search very close to the start of a recorded still image during photo search, the camcorder may skip straight past it. • When you have set the time zone, date search also looks for the change in date based on the adjusted time.
Page 94: Returning To A Pre-marked Position (zero Set Memory)

Returning to a Pre-Marked Position (Zero Set Memory) Use the wireless controller to mark a point on a tape to which you wish to return following the playback. TAPE CAMERA 1. Press the ZERO SET MEMORY button on the wireless controller during playback at a point you wish to return to later.
Page 95: Connections For Playback On A Tv Screen

(left). Connect the red plug to the red AUDIO terminal R (right). Do not connect the yellow plug. • Set the TV/VIDEO selector on the television to VIDEO. • If you are connecting the camcorder to a VCR, set the input selector on the VCR to LINE. STV-250N Stereo Video Cable...
Page 96

• If your TV is already connected to a VCR, you can connect the camcorder to the VCR instead of the TV. Follow the instructions above.
Page 97: Editing

Editing to a VCR Playback the tape on the camcorder. By connecting the camcorder to a VCR, you can edit your recordings in order to remove unwanted scenes, or to combine different shots to create your own video productions. Preparations 1.
Page 98

LANC compatible. Some buttons on editing equipment may operate differently from those on the camcorder. Notes: • m (LANC) is a trademark. It stands for Local Application Control Bus System.
Page 99: Dubbing To/from A Tape With Digital Video Equipment

Preparations Example dubbing to the camcorder 1. Connect the camcorder and the other digital device. • Connect the Canon CV-150F DV cable (optional). 2. Prepare the other device. • Turn on the power and load a recorded cassette. 3. Slide the camcorder’s POWER switch to PLAY (VCR) and the TAPE/CARD switch to TAPE.
Page 100

• If the cable is not connected properly, or if the cable is not connected when you press REC PAUSE, the camcorder displays the caution ‘ ‘ C HECK THE DV INPUT.’’ An anomalous image may also flash onto the screen.
Page 101: Recording From A Vcr, Tv Or Analog Camcorder (analog Line-in)

Recording from a VCR, TV or Analog Camcorder (Analog Line-in) You can record a video played on your VCR or analog camcorder (for digital camcorder, see p. 99) or a TV program onto a tape in the GL2, if the TV or other device has audio/video outputs.
Page 102

3. Start playback on the other device or turn on the TV to see the desired program while you monitor the picture. 4. Press the e/a (play/pause) button on the camcorder or the PAUSE a button on the wireless controller.
Page 103: 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.
Page 104

• 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. • If you attempt to perform analog-digital conversion with a cassette inserted to the camcorder, the converted signals may not be output to the connected digital video equipment.
Page 105: Recording Over Existing Scenes (av Insert Editing)

Recording Over Existing Scenes (AV Insert Editing) You can insert and replace images/audio recorded on the camcorder’s tape with images/audio recorded with other video equipment using analog line-in or DV terminals. Original video and audio will be replaced with the new video and audio.
Page 106

• Turn on the VCR and load a recorded cassette. • See your TV and VCR instruction manuals for details. 3. Slide the camcorder’s POWER switch to PLAY (VCR) and load a recorded cassette. • Make sure the REC/SAVE tab on the cassette has been slid to REC (closed position).
Page 107

2. On the camcorder, press PLAY and locate the recording start point. Set the camcorder to playback pause mode. • 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 108: Audio Dubbing

12-bit and the recording mode to SP. Add sound to tapes that have been recorded with this camcorder in SP mode with 12-bit sound. To connect other audio devices: Note: •...
Page 109

4. Locate the point where you wish to start audio dubbing, then press the e/a button or the PAUSE button. • You can use the playback buttons on the camcorder or the special playback functions on the wireless controller in the same way as in playback mode.
Page 110

• You cannot use the DV terminal while adding sound. • You might want to adjust the audio mix ( • There may be a loss of sound quality if you add sound to a tape recorded on a camcorder other than the GL2.
Page 111: 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 stereo 1 (the original sound), stereo 2 (any new sound, dubbed to the tape after recording), or mix the balance between the two.
Page 112: 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 113: Connecting To A Pc Using A Dv Cable

Connecting to a PC Using a DV Cable 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 114: Memory Card Introduction

Memory Card Introduction The camcorder can record, store and manage still images on 2 types of memory cards: the SD Memory Card (supplied with the camcorder) or the MultiMediaCard (commercially available). The SD Memory Card has the protect switch to protect your recordings from accidental erasure. The SD Memory Card and the MultiMediaCard fit into the same slot.
Page 115: Selecting The Image Quality

Notes: • When you set the camcorder to CARD PLAY (VCR) mode, the last image recorded appears. If there are no images recorded on the memory card, NO IMAGES appears in the display. • Do not touch the memory card terminals.
Page 116: Selecting The Image Size

Selecting the Image Size × 1128 pixels/640 × 480 pixels Image Size: 1488 CARD CAMERA Still Images CARD SET UP To change the image size of a still image, open the menu and select CARD SET UP. Then select IMAGES RES., set it to “640 × 480” and close the menu. •...
Page 117: File Numbers

File Numbers The still images are automatically assigned file numbers from 0001 to 9999 and stored in folders of 9999 images each. Each folder is numbered from 100 to 999 and recorded on the memory card. Set the image file numbers so that they reset each time a new memory card is inserted, or so that they count up continuously.
Page 118: Recording Still Images Onto A Memory Card

• The remaining number of images that can be recorded on the memory card, and other information appear in the display. • The camcorder will turn itself off if you are using a battery and do not operate the camcorder for more than about 5 minutes. Set the Standby lever to STANDBY.
Page 119

The indicators that appear in the display when recording to a memory card: Backup battery 138) See also “The indicator that appear on the LCD screen when LCD mirror is turned on” ( Memory Card Indication: flashing in red: No card in green: 6 or more images in yellow:...
Page 120: Playing Back A Memory Card

Play back and view still images recorded on a memory card. (For details on connecting to a TV, see “Connections for Playback on a TV Screen” ( • The camcorder may not be able to copy or play, etc., images recorded with a non-Canon camcorder.
Page 121: Slide Show

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 corner in CARD PLAY (VCR) mode indicate the image number of the current still image and the total number of still images on the memory card.
Page 122: Settings Of The Still Images Recorded On A Memory Card

● Marking a Still Image for Printing (Print Mark An image on a memory card must be marked before it can be printed. The camcorder supports the DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) print format. Images can be automatically printed on a DPOF- supporting Canon printer.
Page 123

File Operation (FILE OPER.) PLAY CARD (VCR) 1. With an image in the display, press the SELECT dial in to open the FILE OPER. menu. • PROTECT , PRINT MARK |RETURN, the menu disappears from the display. • If you select To protect an image 2.
Page 124: Preventing Accidental Erasure (protect)

(VCR) CARD OPER. Make sure a memory card that has images recorded on it is inserted into the camcorder. 1. With an image in the display, press the INDEX SCREEN button. • Up to 6 images appear in the display.
Page 125: Marking A Still Image For Printing (print Mark)

(VCR) CARD OPER. Make sure a memory card that has images recorded on it has been inserted into the camcorder. 1. With a still image in the display, press the INDEX SCREEN button. • Up to 6 images appear in the display.
Page 126

CARD (VCR) CARD OPER. Make sure a memory card that has images recorded on it has been inserted into the camcorder. 1. With a still image in the display, open the menu and select CARD OPER. 2. Select PRINT MARKS •...
Page 127: Erasing Still Images

CARD (VCR) CARD OPER. Make sure a memory card that has images recorded on it is inserted into the camcorder. To erase still images one at a time 1. Select the still image you wish to erase. • Use the index screen ( 121) or card jump function ( image you wish to erase fills the display.
Page 128

To erase all still images in a folder 1. Open the menu and select CARD OPER. 2. Select IMAGE ERASE. • CANCEL, SINGLE and ALL settings appear. • To cancel erasing, select CANCEL and close the menu. 3. Select ALL. •...
Page 129: Combining Images And Recording Them Onto A Tape (title Mix)

Combining Images and Recording Them onto a Tape (Title Mix) Combine a title image recorded on a memory card with camcorder recordings. You can change the color of a title and adjust the mix level. Creating a Title Image • Speedlite and video light cannot be used when creating a title.
Page 130

• F flashes white and turns green and glows steady. 2. Press the PHOTO button fully. • F disappears and the camcorder records the still image. Protecting a Title Image You can protect a title image to prevent accidental erasure.
Page 131

Erasing a Title Image 1. Open the menu and select CARD OPER. 2. Select \ TITLE ERASE and press the SELECT dial in. • The title erase index screen appears. 3. Select the title image you wish to erase and press the SELECT dial in. •...
Page 132: Copying Still Images From Memory Card To Tape

• The still images’ data codes will reflect the date and time the copies are made. CARD OPER. Make sure a memory card that has images recorded on it and a cassette that has enough recordable space have been inserted into the camcorder. PLAY TAPE (VCR) 1.
Page 133: Formatting A Memory Card

Format new memory cards if you get the message CARD ERROR, or to permanently and quickly erase all still images on a memory card, including protected images. The SD Memory Card supplied with this camcorder has already been formatted for you. • Be cautious when formatting recorded memory cards. All images will be permanently erased.
Page 134: Connecting To A Pc Using A Usb Cable

USB interface. By using the supplied software, you can organize, store and print out still images. When printing still images, you can add titles and frames to them. Use the USB cable and the Canon Digital Video Solution Disk software supplied with the camcorder.
Page 135: Other Information And Precautions

The camcorder formats memory cards in DCF (Design rule for Camera File system). Images recorded on a memory card with this camcorder can also be transferred to a PC with the use of the following products made for SD Memory Cards or MultiMediaCards: PC Card Adapter: Holds a memory card and fits into a PC card slot found on most types of laptop PCs.
Page 136: Notes On Using The Batteries

• 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 137

Attach the terminal cover whenever the battery pack is not being used. Keep the terminals clean. • The camcorder adapter or battery pack will not work properly if the terminals are dirty. Attach the terminal cover whenever the battery pack is not being used. Storing the battery pack •...
Page 138: Installing The Backup Battery

Remove the old battery by pushing it up, releasing and lifting it out. Make sure to attach a power source to the camcorder first, so it will retain your chosen settings when you change the battery. DANGER! Treat the battery pack with care.
Page 139: Maintenance

• Do not take the camcorder into a humid room. Avoid sudden changes in temperature. • If you take the camcorder from a cold place to a warm place, condensation may form on the lens and internal parts ( 142).
Page 140

Storage If you do not intend to use the camcorder for a longer time, store it in a dry area free of dust, and at temperatures no higher than 86° F (30° C ). After storage, check each part and function of your camcorder to make sure everything is still working properly.
Page 141: Using The Camcorder Abroad

Using the Camcorder Abroad Power sources • 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 142

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 form: When you take the camcorder from a cold place to...
Page 143: Troubleshooting

— 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. Consult your dealer or service outlet if problems persist.
Page 144

Note: • Some subjects are not suitable for autofocus. In these situations, you will often get better results using manual focus ( focus, and then point the camcorder at your original, hard-to-focus subject. Horizontal stripes Reflective surfaces (e.g. shiny car surfaces) Recording/Playback (Cont.)
Page 145: Memory Card Operations

If the mark continues to flash, format the memory card. • The camcorder is not set to CARD CAMERA or CARD PLAY (VCR) mode ( 118, 120). • The memory card is not inserted ( •...
Page 146

• Check the screen displays ( • This is unlikely, but may happen if you use the camcorder in places where the air pressure is low, in an airplane for example. The bubbles will disappear a week or so after you return the camcorder to normal atmospheric pressure.
Page 147: The Gl2 System Diagram

The GL2 System Diagram VL-3 Video Light WL-D77 Wireless DM-50 Directional Controller Stereo Microphone MA-300 Microphone Adapter WD-58H ZR-1000 Zoom Remote Controller 220EX/420EX/550EX Speedlight BP-900 Series VL-10Li Battery Pack Battery Video Light Stereo Microphone (commercially available) (Availability differs from area to area) SS-650 Shoulder Strap MiniDV DC-920...
Page 148: Optional Accessories

Optional Accessories Call or visit your local retailer/dealer for genuine Canon video accessories. You can also obtain genuine accessories for your Canon camcorder by calling: 1-800-828-4040, Canon U.S.A. Information Center. BP-915, BP-930, BP-945 Battery Packs Extra batteries for use with the GL2.
Page 149

A solid, lockable case that provides safe and stylish protection for the camcorder during transportation and storage. 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

• If you turn the displays off, the LCD screen will be completely blank (also the connected TV screen), but the camcorder will continue to show warning/caution displays. • When operating the camcorder, the operating state display appears for 2 seconds. However, the displays do not disappear when using an index screen.
Page 151

Screen Displays in TAPE CAMERA Mode q White Balance ( w Recording Reminder ( 35)/ Self-Timer Countdown ( 71)/ Photo Recording Timer e Image Stabilizer ( r Backup Battery ( 138) t Recording Mode ( y Condensation Warning 142) u Operating Mode ( [REC, PAUSE, EJECT, STOP, K (Rec Search)] i Tape Counter...
Page 152

Screen Displays in CARD CAMERA Mode q White Balance ( w Self-Timer Countdown ( e Image Stabilizer ( r Image Quality ( 115) t Remaining Card Capacity 119) y Image Size ( 116) u Remaining Battery Charge 137) Screen Displays in CARD PLAY (VCR) Mode q Print Mark ( 125) w Protect Mark (...
Page 153: Caution Phrases

Caution Phrases The camcorder displays various caution phrases for approx. 4 seconds. SET THE TIME ZONE, DATE AND TIME CHANGE THE BATTERY PACK THE TAPE IS SET FOR ERASURE PREVENTION REMOVE THE CASSETTE CHECK THE DV INPUT CONDENSATION HAS BEEN DETECTED...
Page 154

A memory card error occurred. The camcorder cannot record/play back. The error may be temporary. If CARD ERROR disappears after 4 seconds and camcorder’s power off, remove the card and reinsert the card. changes to green, you can continue recording/playback 118, 120).
Page 155: Specifications

Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) compliant (only still images marked for printing) * This camcorder supports Exif 2.2 (also called “Exif Print”). Exif Print is a standard for enhancing the communication between camcorders and printers. By connecting to an Exif Print-compliant printer, the camcorder’s image data at the...
Page 156

The adapter can be used with a power supply between 100 and 240 V AC. For areas where 120 V AC power is not used, you will need a special plug adapter. Contact your nearest Canon Service Center for further information.
Page 157: Index

Index 16:9 Guides ···············································38 16:9 Wide Screen ······································37 6-Second Auto Date.··································92 Å Abroad, Using the Camcorder··················141 Accessories ··········································8, 148 AE Shift······················································82 Analog Line-in··········································101 Analog-Digital Converter··························103 Aperture-Priority Av····································54 Audio Attenuator·····································108 Audio Dubbing ········································108 Audio Level Indicator ···························45, 57 Audio Mix ················································111 Audio Mode···············································56...
Page 158

ˆ ND Filter·····················································47 Ø Output Channel ·······································111 ∏ Photo Search··············································93 Playback Tape·····················································87 Memory Card·····································120 Playback Pause···········································88 Power Adapter···········································16 Power Save ················································36 Print Mark················································125 Protecting a Title ·····································130 Protecting an Image ·································124 Â Record Pause Mode ···································35 Record Review ···········································51 Record Search ············································51 Recording Tape···············································35, 48 Memory Card·····································118...
Page 159: Menu At A Glance

LCD Mirror Mode Microphone Microphone Attenuator Movie Mode Output Channel Power Save Protecting a Title Recording Mode Self-Timer Camcorder Setting Submenu CAM. SET UP DISP. SET UP DISP. SET UP CAM. SET UP VCR SET UP VCR SET UP VCR SET UP DISP.
Page 160

Sharpness Shutter Sound Tally Lamp Time Zone/DST Title Mix TV Screen Viewfinder Brightness Wireless Controller Zebra Pattern Zebra Pattern Level Camcorder Setting Submenu CUSTOM PRESET CUSTOM PRESET CARD SET UP SYSTEM SYSTEM →TITLE MIX DISP. SET UP DISP. SET UP SYSTEM CAM.
Page 161

CANON GL2 DIGITAL VIDEO CAMCORDER LIMITED WARRANTY The limited warranty set forth below is given by Canon U.S.A., Inc. (“CUSA”) with respect to each Canon GL2 Digital Video Camcorder (“DV Camcorder”) purchased and used in the United States. Each Canon DV Camcorder, when delivered to you in new condition in its original container, is warranted against defective material or workmanship as follows: for a period of one (1) year from the date of original purchase (three (3) months in the case of the video head part), defective parts or DV Camcorders returned to a CUSA factory service center (“CUSA Center”) or an authorized DV...
Page 162

Canon Canada any other liability with respect to this Canon product. This warranty does not extend to any person other than the original purchaser of this Canon product or the person for whom it was purchased as a gift and states your exclusive remedy.
Page 163

15955 Alton Parkway, Irvine, CA 92618 USA CANON U.S.A., INC. HONOLULU OFFICE 210 Ward Avenue, Suite 200, Honolulu, HI 96814 USA ● If you have any questions, call the Canon U.S.A. Information Center toll-free at 1-800-828-4040 (U.S.A. only). CANADA CANON CANADA INC. NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS 6390 Dixie Road, Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1P7 CANON CANADA INC.

This manual also for:

Gl2, 7920a001 - gl 2 camcorder