RCA CC421 User Manual
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RCA CC421 User Manual

RCA CC421 User Manual

Rca cc421: users guide
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CC421
USER'S
GUIDE
C A M C O
R D E R

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  • Page 1 CC421 USER‘S GUIDE C A M C O R D E R...

  • Page 2: Important Safety Information

    Keep your sales receipt for proof of purchase to obtain warranty parts and service and attach it here. Record the serial and model numbers located on the bottom of the camcorder. Model _______________________________________________________ CC421 Serial No:_____________________________________________________ Purchase Date: ________________________________________________ Purchased From: ______________________________________________ This symbol indicates “dangerous voltage”...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Assistance We want to make sure you enjoy your new camcorder. If you have any questions, call: Camcorder Exchange Warranty... 800-283-6503 Customer Service... 800-336-1900 (Page 65) Accessories... 800-338-0376 (Pages 52-59) Table of Contents Safety Information...i Product Registration...i Contents...1-2 First-Time Operation •...
  • Page 4 Table of Contents Recording Features • Quick Review...19 • Tape Positioning ...19 • Microphone ...19 • AI (Artificial Intelligence) ...19 • Program AE (Auto Exposure)...20 • Auto Focus ...20 • Macro Focus...20 • Electronic Indexing ...21 • Time Remaining Display ...21 •...

  • Page 5: Unpack The Camcorder And Accessories

    • The items shown below are packed with your camcorder. If any of them are missing or appear damaged, contact your dealer immediately. Camcorder Model CC421 AC Adapter/Charger: Stock No. 221355 or 221356 DC Cable: Stock No. 209342 WARNING: LEAD- ACID BATTERY.

  • Page 6: Attach The Adapter/Charger

    First-Time Operation Adapter/ Charger DC OUTPUT Jack Adapter/Charger’s DC Cable 2. Attach the adapter/charger. Since the battery must be charged before it can be used the first time, attach the adapter/charger to the camcorder. • Attach one end of the adapter/charger’s DC cable to the DC OUTPUT jack on the adapter/charger.

  • Page 7: To Handstrap

    First-Time Operation Handstrap Lens Cap 3. Remove the lens cap and attach it to the handstrap. 4. Turn on the camcorder. The position of the POWER (CAMERA/O F F / VCR) switch tells the camcorder whether you want to record (CAMERA), play back tapes (VCR), or turn off the power (OFF).

  • Page 8: Insert A Cassette

    First-Time Operation Tape Window Cassette Door Press Here to Close 5. Insert a cassette. • Press STOP/EJECT to open the cassette compartment. • Insert the cassette with the safety tab facing up and the tape windows facing out. • Press the cassette down gently until it locks into place, and close the cassette compartment door.

  • Page 9: Start And Stop Recording

    First-Time Operation REC (Record) /PAUSE 7. Start and stop recording. Start and stop recording by pressing and releasing REC/PAUSE. REC appears in the viewfinder. You do not have to hold the button to record. Notes: If you do not record within five minutes, the camcorder will automatically shut off to prevent excessive tape wear.

  • Page 10: Review The Camcorder's Operating Controls

    First-Time Operation 9. Review the camcorder’s operating controls. REVIEW Button DISPLAY Button RESET Button DATE/TIME Button TITLER Button REVIEW DISPLAY RESET DATE TITLER /TIME Microphone Light Lens AV DUB Button REW (Rewind) Button Also TITLE SEL – Button CAMERA AV DUB POWER POWER (CAMERA / O F F /V C R) Switch...

  • Page 11: Review The Camcorder's

    First-Time Operation 9. Review the camcorder’s operating controls. Shoulder Strap Attachment Ring BATTERY Eject Lever DC IN 9.6V Jack Shoulder Strap Attachment Ring Cassette Door BRIGHT and FOCUS Controls Power Zoom Buttons (W and T) also TRACKING Buttons REC (Record) /PAUSE Button Hand Strap with Lens Cap Holder...

  • Page 12: Using The Adapter/Charger To Power Your Camcorder

    Powering the Camcorder Caution: Do not attempt to use a “power converter” to use your AC adapter/charger on a power source other than 120 volts, 50/60 Hz, or the adapter/charger and camcorder may be damaged. If you wish to operate the AC adapter/charger on a power source other than 120 volts, 50/60 Hz, use only a transformer-type power converter.

  • Page 13: Using The Battery To Power Your Camcorder

    Powering the Camcorder Using the Battery to Power Your Camcorder Charging the Battery The battery must be charged before it can be used the first time. Charging will take approximately two hours depending on the condition of the battery. When fully charged, the battery should supply approximately 60 minutes of operating time (depending on how much you use zoom and pause).

  • Page 14: Using The Battery To Power Your Camcorder

    Powering the Camcorder Using the Battery to Power Your Camcorder BATTERY Eject Switch Rechargeable Battery Hold Battery Flush and Slide Down Attach Charged Battery 1. Align reference arrow on battery with arrow on camcorder. Hold battery flush against camcorder while sliding it down in the direction of the arrow as shown.

  • Page 15: Care And Storage

    Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the battery. There are no user- serviceable parts inside. Use the battery only with specified AC adapter/chargers and camcorders. If leakage from a damaged battery contacts your skin or clothing, wash it off immediately with running water.

  • Page 16: Battery Level Indicator

    Powering the Camcorder Check Battery Power (Battery Level Indicator) The battery level indicator ( always appears in the camcorder’s viewfinder to show how much battery power is left in the rechargeable battery. This indicator is not recorded on the tape. •...

  • Page 17: Using The Optional Thomson Car Cord Adapter

    Powering the Camcorder Using the Optional Thomson Car Cord Adapter To power your camcorder from the cigarette lighter socket of a car, truck, or RV, you need the optional car cord adapter DCC096 shown on page 53. The DCC096 car cord is especially designed to convert power from a 12-volt battery to the 9.6-volt input jack on the camcorder.

  • Page 18: Video Cassettes

    Video Cassettes We recommend that our cassettes be used with your camcorder. Use of poor quality tapes or tapes that have been damaged or mishandled can contaminate the video heads, resulting in a snowy picture or no picture at all during playback. Because there is no control over the type of tape purchased or rented by consumers, head cleaning is not covered under warranty.

  • Page 19: Inserting And Removing Cassettes

    Video Cassettes Inserting and Removing Cassettes STOP/EJECT Press Here to Close 1. Attach a power source to the camcorder (either a charged battery or adapter/charger). 2. Press STOP/EJECT on the top of the camcorder to open cassette door. Cassette Care and Storage Follow these directions for continued high-quality performance from your cassettes.

  • Page 20: Play Back What You Have Traveling Tips

    Camcorder Traveling and Cassette Tips Traveling Tips Write down your camcorder’s serial number and keep it separate from the camcorder when traveling. If your camcorder is lost or stolen, you will be able to identify it. Make sure you have any plug adapters you need before taking your camcorder to other countries.

  • Page 21: Camcorder Features

    Camcorder Features POWER Switch in CAMERA Microphone Quick Review Press REVIEW when POWER is in CAMERA and the camcorder is in record pause to review the last few seconds of a recording. The camcorder will play back the last few seconds of the recording, return the tape to its previous position, and return to record pause.

  • Page 22: Program Ae (Auto Exposure)

    Camcorder Features Program AE (Auto Exposure) Program auto exposure automatically selects the shutter speed and adjusts the iris according to the shutter speed. The AE indicator for the shutter speed selected (1/60, 1/100, 1/120, 1/180, 1/250, 1/350, 1/500, 1/750, 1/1000, Auto Focus The camcorder will focus on the subject in the center of the viewfinder.

  • Page 23: Electronic Indexing

    Camcorder Features Electronic Indexing Each time you begin recording (after the camcorder has been turned off for at least four hours), the camcorder will automatically record an index mark at the beginning of the new recording. When you play back the indexed tape in a VCR that has a compatible indexing feature called “VHS Index Search System”, the invisible marks can be located automatically.

  • Page 24: Viewfinder

    Viewfinder The camcorder’s viewfinder is a miniature monitor that displays the picture seen by the camcorder when recording. The viewfinder also can be used for viewing the tape during playback. When carrying or storing the camcorder, return the viewfinder to the original position to prevent possible damage.

  • Page 25: Viewfinder

    Viewfinder Eyepiece BRIGHT and FOCUS Controls BRIGHT FOCUS BRIGHT and FOCUS Controls The small BRIGHT and FOCUS controls are set at the factory and should require no adjustment. If they ever require adjustment, use a plastic screwdriver. Make the adjustments with caution to prevent damaging the miniature controls. Tilt Adjustment For convenient viewing, you can rotate the eyepiece about 225º...

  • Page 26: Displays In Viewfinder

    Displays in Viewfinder AE Shutter Speed FADE ZOOM and Zoom Level Indicator Status AE (Auto Exposure) Shutter Speed The shutter speed selected by the camcorder appears here. It is not recorded on the tape. Fade Press FADE to select white, wipe, or zoom fade.
  • Page 27 Displays in Viewfinder Battery Level ( This indicator shows the amount of time left for the rechargeable battery. It is not recorded on the tape. Details are on page 14. INDEX INDEX appears briefly when the camcorder automatically indexes the tape.

  • Page 28: Date And Time Display

    Date and Time Display Set the Time and Date DATE/TIME REVIEW DISPLAY RESET 1. Attach a power supply (battery or adapter/charger) to the camcorder. 2. Press and hold the small button on POWER and place in CAMERA. 3. Press DATE / T IME to display the date and time in the viewfinder.

  • Page 29: Record The Date And Time (Or Date) On Your Tape

    Date and Time Display Recording Date and Time (or Date) on Your Tape The time and date (or date only) can be recorded on your tape. Whenever one of the displays appears in the viewfinder, it will be recorded. The camcorder has an auto-date feature that will record the date only for approximately ten seconds when you begin recording.

  • Page 30: Zooming

    Zooming Power Zoom Buttons T = Telephoto W = Wide Angle Using Power Zoom Buttons ZOOM and Zoom Level Indicator To zoom in or out slowly, press the zoom button lightly. To zoom in or out quickly, press the zoom button firmly. The zoom level indicator will appear briefly in the viewfinder.

  • Page 31: Fading In And Out Of Scenes

    Fading In and Out of Scenes You can add a professional touch to your recordings when you fade in and out of scenes. Both the picture and sound will gradually appear or disappear. The speed of the fade is controlled by the camcorder. Select the Type of Fade You can select white, wipe, or zoom fade.

  • Page 32: Tape Counter With Memory Stop

    Tape Counter with Memory Stop The tape counter is automatically displayed in the viewfinder and acts as a handy reference to help you locate tape segments. Memory Stop The tape counter’s memory stop helps you locate a certain point on the tape. When memory stop is turned on, the tape will stop automatically during fast forward or rewind when the tape counter reaches “0000M”.

  • Page 33: Proedit Features

    ProEdit Features ® ProEdit System The camcorder incorporates a complete package of advanced editing features to make it easy and fun to edit your home videos like a professional. The ® major ProEdit System features are described here and on the following pages. Flying Erase Head Edit Search •...

  • Page 34: Audio Dubbing

    ProEdit Features Audio Dubbing AUDIO Back of Mono VCR or Tape Deck Yellow Video Plug (No connection) AUDIO R IN L R OUT L Back of stereo VCR, Tape Deck, Laser Disc Player or CD Player Note: You will need an optional audio/video cable, such as AH005 shown on page 54. If the audio source has separate left and right outputs, attach the audio plug to the one labeled MONO.
  • Page 35 ProEdit Features Audio Dubbing To Audio Dub 1. Press and hold the small button on POWER while sliding it to VCR. 2. If you are recording from a source connected to the white AUDIO jack on the side of the camcorder, place AV OUT/IN switch to IN.

  • Page 36: Audio And Video Dubbing

    ProEdit Features Audio and Video Dubbing AUDIO VIDEO Back of Yellow Video Plug VCR or TV Monitor AUDIO VIDEO Back of Stereo VCR or TV Monitor AV DUB Button AV OUT/IN Switch White Audio Plug Audio/Video Cable (such as AH005) –OR–...
  • Page 37 ProEdit Features Audio and Video Dubbing To Audio and Video Dub 1. Press and hold the small button on POWER while sliding it in VCR. 2. If you are recording from a source connected to the AUDIO/VIDEO jacks on the side of the camcorder, place the AV OUT/IN switch to IN.
  • Page 38 ProEdit Features Titler POWER in CAMERA REVIEW DISPLAY RESET The camcorder’s built-in titler can store two different titles in memory. Either title can be displayed and recorded at any time. The built-in character register contains over 45 different characters for creating your titles. Each title can contain up to 32 characters on two lines.
  • Page 39 ProEdit Features To Create a Title 1. Attach a power source to the camcorder, press and hold the small button on POWER while sliding it to CAMERA. POWER indicator will light. 2. Press TITLER to display titler graphics in the viewfinder. A flashing cursor will appear.

  • Page 40: Titler

    ProEdit Features Recording Titles on a Tape in the Camcorder To record a title on a tape in the camcorder, follow the steps below. 1. Attach a power source to the camcorder, slide POWER to CAMERA. 2. Locate the place on the tape where you want to record the title.

  • Page 41: Recording Tips

    Recording Tips Make a recording of your home and contents to store in a safe place in case of fire or theft. Practice recording under a variety of lighting conditions. This will help you respond quickly whenever you see a scene you want to record.

  • Page 42: Recording On The Camcorder

    Recording on the Camcorder from a VCR or TV Monitor To record on a tape in your camcorder from a VCR or TV monitor with AUDIO OUT and VIDEO OUT jacks, you will need an optional audio/video cable, such as AH005 shown on page 54.

  • Page 43: Installation

    Recording on the Camcorder from a VCR or TV Installation Attach the white plug on one end of the audio/video cable to the AUDIO OUT jack on the VCR (or TV monitor). Note: If your VCR or TV monitor has stereo left and right AUDIO OUT jacks, attach the plug to the one labeled MONO.

  • Page 44: Viewfinder Playback

    POWER Switch in VCR REVIEW DISPLAY RESET DATE TITLER CAMERA /TIME TRACKING Viewfinder Playback 1. Attach a power supply to the camcorder. 2. Press and hold the small button on POWER while sliding it to VCR. 3. Press STOP/EJECT and insert the cassette you want to play back.

  • Page 45: Tracking

    • Press REC/PAUSE to stop the action. • Press REC/PAUSE again to return to normal playback. Caution: Pause is designed for momentary interruptions and should not be used for an extended period of time. If the camcorder remains in pause for more than five minutes, it will automatically remove the tape from the spinning heads to prevent excessive...

  • Page 46: Playback On Tv (Or Vcr) With Audio/Video In Jacks

    White Audio Plug AUDIO Audio/Video Cable VIDEO (such as AH005) Back of Yellow Video Plug VCR or TV Monitor AUDIO Y-Adapter (such as AH25) VIDEO Back of Stereo VCR or TV Monitor AV OUT/IN Switch OUT / IN Yellow VIDEO Jack Yellow Video Plug...
  • Page 47 left and right AUDIO IN jacks, attach the plug to the one labeled MONO. If one of the jacks is not labeled MONO, you may need a Y-adapter, such as AH25 shown on page 54, to hear both channels. Playback Operation and How to Copy Tapes on a VCR 1.

  • Page 48: Playback On Tv Without Audio And Video Inputs

    Antenna Antenna Optional 300/75 ohm Transformer Back of TV (such as 193983) FROM Optional 75-300 Ohm Transformer Optional Coaxial RF Cable (such as AH065G or AH066G) Disconnect the VHF antenna from your TV. If you are going to leave the RF adapter connected to the TV, connect the antenna to the RF output adapter.
  • Page 49 channel (3 or 4) you selected with the channel selector switch on the RF output adapter. 3. Press and hold the small button on the camcorder‘s POWER switch while sliding it to VCR. 4. Insert the cassette you want to play back into the camcorder.

  • Page 50: Color Enhancement Light

    Light To Use the Color Enhancement Light 1. Attach the rechargeable battery or AC adapter/charger to power the camcorder. 2. Press and hold the small button on POWER and place it in CAMERA. 3. Select a position for the LIGHT AUTO/OFF/ON switch.
  • Page 51 Light Bulb Reflection Plate To Remove and Replace Light Case 1. To remove front case, press and hold the lower hook while removing it. 2. To replace the front case, pass the bulb through the hole of the reflection plate, and attach the lower hook to the light.

  • Page 52: Attaching The Shoulder Strap

    viewfinder in its original position. This helps prevent possible damage to the viewfinder from bumping against your body as you move. Make sure the shoulder strap is firmly attached before using it to carry your camcorder. To Attach the Shoulder Strap 1.

  • Page 53: Specifications

    Specifications General Power requirement: 9.6VDC Power consumption: 7 watts (normal) Weight: 4.4 lbs. (2 kg) Dimensions: 4-1/2"(W) x 8-1/8"(H) x 12-1/4"(D) (111 x 205 x 311mm) Video Recorder Section Format: VHS Record/Playback System: Two video record/playback heads One flying erase head Headwheel Cylinder Diameter: 62 mm Video Signal: EIA Standard NTSC Color...

  • Page 54: Optional Accessories

    All specifications and descriptions of accessories are subject to change without notice. This case provides exceptional protection and utility for full size camcorders and most accessories. It is constructed of rugged, 1000 denier weight, Cordura nylon fabric for years of reliable service and good looks.
  • Page 55 Optional Accessories DCC096 DC (Battery) Car Cord CPS014 AC Adapter/Charger EP096FS and EP096FL Rechargeable Batteries This DC car cord enables you to operate your camcorder from your car, truck, or RV by plugging the car cord directly into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter. Caution: Do not use any other car cord with this camcorder.

  • Page 56: Audio/Video Dubbing

    Optional Accessories AH005 Audio/Video Cable CRF95 RF Output Adapter Coaxial RF Cables AH065G (6-ft) AH066G (10-ft) 193983 Cable Transformer AH011 Cable Transformer AH25 Y-Adapter This six foot audio/video dubbing cable is used to connect your camcorder to a VCR or TV monitor to copy tapes.

  • Page 57: Removing The Lens Hood

    Optional Accessories Removing the Lens Hood The lens hood can be removed so you can attach optional accessories, such as wide- angle lens, lens extender, or lens filter kit. To remove the lens hood, place your hand flat against the lens hood and turn it counterclockwise.

  • Page 58: Using An Optional Tripod

    Optional Accessories Using an Optional Tripod Mounting the camcorder on a tripod, such as AC031 or AC040, will keep the camcorder steady and produce excellent video results. Caution: Before using a tripod, make sure it is stable enough to hold the camcorder without falling over.

  • Page 59: Accessory Order Form

    U.S. currency only. No COD or cash. • Allow 8 weeks for delivery. • All accessories are subject to availability. • Where applicable, we will ship a superseding model. Please complete other side also Order Form for Camcorder Models CC421 Part No. AC028A AC031 AC040...
  • Page 60 Accessory Order Form USE YOUR CREDIT CARD IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number Copy Number above your MasterCard Prices are subject to change without notice. Print or type your name and address clearly. This will be your mailing label.
  • Page 61 Accessory Order Form To order accessories, contact your local Dealer. If a dealer is not nearby, you can also follow the directions below to order by telephone or direct-by-mail. United States and Canada Orders To place your order by phone, have your Visa or MasterCard ready and call the toll- free number listed below between 8AM and 8PM Eastern Standard Time.

  • Page 62: Care And Maintenance

    40ºF (4ºC) or above 95ºF (35ºC). Do not expose the camcorder or adapter/charger to rain or moisture. If either component becomes wet, turn off the power and take the unit to an Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter.

  • Page 63: Care And Maintenance

    Care and Maintenance Cleaning the Camcorder To clean the camcorder’s exterior, remove any power source connected to the camcorder and gently wipe it with a clean soft cloth. Cleaning the Camcorder’s Lens To clean the camcorder’s lens, blow it with a blower brush, and then gently wipe the lens with cleaning tissue and commercially prepared cleaning solution designed for use on camera lens.

  • Page 64: Trouble Checks

    Before you call or take your camcorder to an Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter, look below for the type of trouble you are experiencing. Then perform the simple checks and adjustments listed for that trouble.
  • Page 65 Trouble Checks Trouble Tape Stops During Rewind or Fast Forward Camcorder Remains in Play Pause Poor Picture Quality During Recording Viewfinder Displays Are Out of Focus Poor Auto-Focus Operation Poor Picture Quality During Playback Recorded Audio is Too Checks and Adjustments •...

  • Page 66: Trouble Checks

    Trouble Checks Trouble AE Shutter-Speed or INDEX Indicator Does Not Appear in Viewfinder Date and Time (or Date) were Recorded on the Tape Date and Time Appear Incorrect Camcorder Does Not Turn On and/or Function Buttons Will Not Operate Checks and Adjustments •...

  • Page 67: Customer Assistance And Service

    Customer Assistance and Service You can reach Thomson at the following number: 800-283-6503 (Toll free inside U.S.A.) Our toll-free Camcorder number operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., CST Monday – Friday for U.S. customers only Returning equipment to Thomson for repair or exchange If we are unable to resolve your problem over the phone, we will gladly service your unit or exchange it for a new or...

  • Page 68: Limited Warranty

    Limited Warranty What your warranty covers: • Any defect in materials or workmanship. For how long after your purchase: • 90 days for labor charges. • One year for parts. What we will do: During the initial 90 days • Exchange your camcorder with a new or, at our option, a refurbished unit or at your option, repair your camcorder at no cost to you.
  • Page 69 • Check with your dealer or call 1-800- 336-1900 for the Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter nearest you. • Take your unit to the Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter of your choice. • Show the Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter representative your sales receipt or other, evidence of purchase.

  • Page 70: Index (Alphabetical)

    Index A.(Audio) DUB Indicator ..24,33,35 A/V DUB Indicator ... . .24,35 Accessories, Included ....3 Accessories, Optional .

  • Page 71: Audio/Video In Jacks

    Index Operation, First-Time ... .3-9 Optional Accessories ...52-59 Optional Car Cord ... . .15,53 Order Form, Accessories .
  • Page 72 This will only add delays in service for your product. 10330 N Meridian Street Indianapolis, IN 46290 © 1995 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. Trademark(s) ® Registered Marca(s) Registrada(s) Printed in Japan Part Number 95-CC421-1 QR12655...

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