RCA CC174 Owner's Manual

Video camcorder

Hide thumbs

Table Of Contents

Table of Contents

Quick Links

Product Registration

.................................... i

Safety Precautions ................................. ii-vii

Optional Accessories ................................ l-7

Accessory Order Form ........................... .5-7

First-Time

Operation.. .......................... .8-15

Powering Your Camcorder ................ .16-20

Attaching

the Shoulder Strap.. ................ .21

Using the Cassette Adapter ................ .22-23

RCA Video Cassettes ......................... ..24-2 5

Electronic Viewfinder

............................... 26

Displays in Viewfinder

........................ ,27-29

Date, Time, and Age Displays ............ .30-33

Features

Tape Positioning ...................................... .34

Camera Edit

.............................................

.34

Quick Review ..........................................

.35

Flying Erase Head.. .................................. .35

Auto Head Cleaner ................................. ..3 5

Microphone.. ............................................

.35

Tally Light ...............................................

,35

Self Timer .................................................

Focusing Your Camcorder.. ................ 36-37

Power Zooming

...................................... .38

Fading In and Out of Scenes.. .................. .39

Variable Shutter Speeds.. ......................... .40

16x9 Mode.. .............................................

.41

SCENE SELECT AE Modes .................... .42

White Balance.. ........................................

.43

Time Counter With Memory Stop.. ......... .44

Tape Time-Remaining Display . . . . . . . .._....... 45

Recording and Traveling Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Playback Features

Tracking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Viewfinder Playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-49

Playback on TV (or VCR) With

AUDIONIDEO

IN Jacks ..,.............,.. 50-5 1

Playback on TV Without

AudiolVideo Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52-53

Trouble Checks . . . . . . . . . . .

Design Specifications.

Care and Maintenance

Limited Warranty

. . . . .

Index (Alphabetical)...

. .

........................ .54-56

.............................. 57

........................ .58-59

.............................. 60

........................ .61-63

Table of Contents

Summary of Contents for RCA CC174

Page 1 First-Time Powering Your Camcorder ....16-20 the Shoulder Strap....21 Attaching Using the Cassette Adapter ....22-23 RCA Video Cassettes ......24-2 5 Electronic Viewfinder ....... 26 Displays in Viewfinder ......,27-29 Date, Time, and Age Displays .... .30-33 Features Tape Positioning ........
Page 2 Here. Mail Your Registration Card Today. No other RCA camcorder has the same serial number as yours. You will find the A Product Registration Card is packed with your camcorder. Please fill out the serial number and model number on the card and return it immediately.
Page 3 AND CONSULT AUTHORIZED SERVICE PERSONNEL. MOISTURE DAMAGE INTERNAL PARTS. HAVE SERVICE PERFORMED ONLY BY AUTHORIZED RCA COMPACT CAMCORDER SERVICENTER PERSONNEL, Caution: Read “Important Safety Instructions for AC Adapter/Charger” on the nent page before using the AC adapter/charger. &.ItiOIl: Practice electrical safety. Powerline-operated...
Page 4 Do not disassemble charger. Take it to Make sure the cord is located so that it an Authorized RCA Compact Camcorder will not be stepped on, tripped over, or Servicenter when service or repair is otherwise subjected to damage or stress.
Page 5 not use this polarized plug with an In addition the careful attention extension cord, receptacle, or other devoted to quality standards in the outlet unless the blades can be fully manufacture of your video product, inserted without blade exposure. If safety is a major factor in the design you need an extension cord, use one of every instrument.
Page 6 10. Water and Moisture-Do not use 8. Ventilation-Slots and openings in this video product near water-for the video products are provided for example, near a bathtub, wash bowl, ventilation to ensure reliable kitchen sink or laundry tub, in a wet operation of the video product and to basement, or near a swimming pool protect them from overheating.
Page 7 with them might be fatal. Installing 12. Outdoor Antenna Grounding-If an outdoor antenna can be hazardous an outside antenna or cable system is and should be left to a professional connected to the video product, be antenna installer. sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges.
Page 8 19. Replacement Parts-When Service replacement parts are required, have Servicing-Do not attempt to the service technician verify that the service this video product yourself replacements he uses have the same as opening or removing covers may safety characteristics as the original expose you to dangerous voltage or parts.
Page 9 The color control center allows especially to provide protection and utility you to adjust the color intensity, tint, for your RCA compact VHS camcorder white balance, and sharpness of tapes and most accessories. Rugged fabric being dubbed. This is especially helpful...
Page 10 VDCSS Color Enhancement Light FB1260 and FB120 Rechargeable Batteries These rechargeable nickel-cadmium This ultra compact 15-watt video light is batteries specifically are designed for long cordless, light in weight, and includes a life. The FB 1260 can power your rechargeable battery. The VDC88 camcorder up to approximately 1 hour, and provides excellent soft, lush fill light.
Page 11 AC036 Monopod Coaxial RF Cable This monopod These RF cables are gives a flexible used with the CRF92 alternative to using output adapter to a traditional tripod. connect your camcorder AH065G (6-ft) Its rugged compact to a standard TV (one AH066G (lo-ft) design provides without audio/video...
Page 12 Using the Optional AC035 Super Lightweight Tripod Mounting the camcorder on a tripod, release mount makes it easy to attach or such as AC035, will keep the camcorder remove the camcorder. The grooved, steady and produce excellent video tubular 3-section leg design folds down to results.
Page 13 Order Form for Camcorder Model CC174 Coaxial RF Cable IAH065G / % 699 ) Coaxial RF Cable IAH066G 8.997 A( 3 Battery Charger ICPS91 59.95 RF Output Adaoter ICRF92 $ 52.30 DC Car Cord Adanter IDCCOI $ 74.95 Rechargeable Batterv (2 Hr.) IFB120 $ 59.95...
Page 14 Charge your order on your VISA or MasterCard filling in below USE YOUR CREDIT CARD v/sA’ Copy complete account number IMPORTANT: from your VISA card curlunmm My card expires: Copy complete account number IMPORTANT: from your MasteKard z;$rnrn Copy Number above your name on MasterCard...
Page 15 To place your order by mail, detach and mail the completed order form with credit card information, money order, or check in U.S. currency (made payable to Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.) to the following address: RCA Video Accessories PO Box 8419 Ronks. PA 17573...
Page 16 If any of the with the camcorder. items are missing or appear damaged, contact your RCA dealer Save the packing materials and box immediately. in case you ever need to ship or store your camcorder.
Page 17 2. Attach a power supply. Adapter/Charger To AC 100-24OV, SO/60 Hz Reference Marks Adapter/Charger Power Connector back of the camcorder, and slide it in the Connect the power connector’s small direction of the arrow as shown. Plug the plug into the DC OUT jack on the adapter/charger’s plug into an operating adapter/charger.
Page 18 TC-ZOiTC-30 Switch PUSH Here to Close Cassette Compartment Door 5. Set the tape length 3. Insert a tape. TC-2O/TC-30 switch. Slide the EJECT switch. This switch must be set for the Turn the tape wheel on the cassette camcorder to correctly calculate the to remove any slack from the tape.
Page 19 ndstrap Velcro Strip 6. Adjust the handstrap to fit 7. Remove the lens cap and your hand. attach it to the handstrap. Lift the flap on the hand strap and Press the tabs on either side of the separate the velcro strip. lens cap to remove it from the lens.
Page 20 Eyepiece Focus Control CAMERA/PLAY Switch POWER Switch and ‘klly Light 10. Set the controls to 8. Place the CAMERA/PLAY automatic. switch in CAMERA. Press the AUTO button to set white The position of this switch tells the balance, shutter speed, and focus to camcorder whether you want to automatic.
Page 21 PLAY Button TOP Button REW Button, POWER Switch and Indica CAMERA/PLAY Thumb Trigger 13. Play back what you have 12. Start and stop recording. recorded. Press and release the thumb trigger Place the CAMERA/PLAY switch to start recording. The tally light in the PLAY position.
Page 22 15. Review camcorder’s operating controls. C. MEMORY Button C. RESET TC2O/TC30 DATE/TIME AZIJ. SET + and - Buttons Also TZUCKZNG + and - Buttons DATE/TIME ADJ. MODE Butto DATE/TIME ADJ. SELECT Butto DZSPLAY Button FOCUS FAR and NEAR Buttons CAMERA/PZAY OWER Switch and Indicator...
Page 23 STOP Button irap Attach Battery Power Connector ’ for AC Adapter/ BATTERY Thumb &andstrao Charger Here RELEASE Tri=er Switch AV OUT Connector Shoulder Strap Attachment Ring...
Page 24 You may need a plug adapter in some o*y@’ countries. Consult your RCA dealer. If AC IOO-240V Plug Adapter an adapter is required, be sure to purchase it before traveling. The adapter can be 1.
Page 25 Using the Battery to Power Your Camcorder recording breaks to conserve the as described The battery must be charged battery’s power. Slide the switch again the next page before it can be used the and press the thumb trigger when you are first time.
Page 26 Using the Battery to Power Your Camcorder (continued) Hold Battery Indicator Flush and Reference Marks To AC Wall Outlet 100.24( D Volts, 50/60 Hz. arger Caution: When a battery is attached to the adapter/charger, do not turn the& Upside down. The battery may fall off and be damaged or cause injury. REFRESH Using the Switch...
Page 27 Using the Battery to Power Your Camcorder (continued) Battery Level Indicator When this indicator appears, slide the The battery level indicator will appear in POWER switch to turn off the camcorder the camcorder’s viewfinder when the before replacing the battery. After battery needs to be recharged.
Page 28 &ty da+@@ fh$; cord instructions enclosed with the DCC08 for camcord&&l ‘ccdid your w&&x@. complete operating instructions. Using the RCA DCCOS DC Car Cord Adapter Power Switch Ciearette Optional DCCOS Car Cord Adapter 5. Insert the car cord’s cigarette lighter 1.
Page 29 4. Adjust the shoulder strap to the desired length. Then slide both keepers up snugly against the shoulder strap 1. If the strap keeper is over a double attachment rings to prevent the strap section of the strap, slide the strap from slipping.
Page 30 The camcorder uses a smaller size cassette, but records in standard VHS format. The cassette adapter allows you to play your VHS-C cassettes in a VCR just like other standard VHS cassettes. Insert the VHS-C cassette into the cassette adapter. Insert the cassette adapter into the VHS VCR like a normal VHS cassette.
Page 31 Insert the cassette into the cassette Remove the cassette from the adapter. cassette adapter. (continued) Slide the adapter’s EJECT switch to the right. The load detector will extend from the side and the whirring 4. Gently close the cassette compartment sound indicates the tape is being lid until it locks into place.
Page 32 We recommend that RCA cassettes be during playback. Because there is no used with your camcorder. The tape in these cassettes is of high-quality control over the type of tape purchased or rented by consumers, head cleaning is not formulation.
Page 33 Caution: insert the cassette oniy ,one w&y with the tape wheel facing up and the tap win- clovif facing O#L’Tl$ c&et& should slide easily into the com- partment. Do not force the Door c&sette. Before inserting a cassette, turn the tape 1.
Page 34 The camcorder’s electronic viewfinder is camcorder when recording. The a miniature black-and-white monitor that viewfinder can also be used for viewing displays the picture seen by the the tape during playback. Eyepiece Focus Control The eyepiece focus control lets you set on-screen displays (such as the time the focus of the viewfinder for your counter display).
Page 35 1 Focus Indicators 0 0 0 ‘Ah l d 2 Shutter -- Speed Indicator Battery Indicator Lithium Cell Indicator ” Displays in Viewfinder 1 Focus Indicators Dew Warning Indicator Auto Focus: Center the object you The dew indicator appears when want the camcorder to focus on excessive moisture (condensation) inside the framed detection area.
Page 36 6 FADER Memory Stop =PAUSE= 9OMIN Indicator. 7 Scene 'FADER 015s ‘0 12 Tape Time Remaining TWILIGHT Select Display 199&3 Indicator 13 Self-Timer Indicator 8 White 5700K Balance 25.93 Indicator 10:35' Indicators 6YllM Displays in Viewfinder 6 FADER Indicator 8 White Balance Indicators FADER appears when you press The indicator for the manual white the FADER button.
Page 37 @ Tape Time-Remaining Display 9 Status, Cassette Warning (-I&$), Indicators TAPE END The approximate time remaining on the tape in the camcorder is The REC indicator appears here automatically displayed in the when the camcorder is recording. viewfinder. and - indicators The EPAUSEE The time-remaining indicator will appear when the camcorder is in...
Page 38 After the date, time, and ages have been set, they can be displayed and recorded on your tapes. The clock cell must be installed. Switch in CAMERA/Pm CAMERA DATE/TIME ADJ. SET + and - Buttons DATE/TIME ADJ. SELECT Button DISPLAY Button.
Page 39 Set the Date, Time, and Age(s). memory. After you enter the birth 1. Install the clock cell dates, the current ages can be 2. Place the CAMERA/PLAY switch in displayed and recorded. CAMERA. Press the DATE/TME ADJ. SELECT 3. Attach a power supply, and slide the button to access the age display POWER switch to turn on the feature.
Page 40 Switch in CAMERA/PLAY CAMERA Select the date, time, and/or age display you want to record on your tape. Auto Date Titler Display: The date The clock cell must be installed and the is automatically recorded across the date, time, and ages set before they can center approximately four times be selected and recorded.
Page 41 To record the date, time, and/or age display on your tape. The display mode has been changed. 1. During recording, press the DISPLAY button to display the mode you have The tape has been changed or the selected in the viewfinder. If the mode tape compartment opened.
Page 42 CAMERA/PM Y Swiicj~ Switch cator FF/EDIT SEARCH + REW/EDIT SEARCH - Q. (Quick) REVIEW Button SELF TIMER Button Tape Positioning Camera Edit Place the CAMERA/PLAY switch in The camera edit feature allows you to PLAY and press the STOP button. position the tape when the camcorder is in the record-pause mode.
Page 43 Self Timer Quick Review Press the Q. (quick) REVIEW button The self-timer feature delays recording when the camcorder is in the record- for 15 seconds after the thumb trigger is pause mode to review the last few pressed. This lets the operator join the picture.
Page 44 Power Zoom “~>9 and “T” CAMERA/PLAY Switch in CAMERA FOCUS FAR Buttons NEAR Button AUTO Macro Focus Auto Focus The auto-focus system may be used for During auto focus the camcorder will recording subjects very close to the focus automatically and the auto-focus camcorder.
Page 45 Manual Focus Detection Frame 1 : Display in Viewfinder Manual Focus Under certain conditions, such as those Some conditions that may require the use listed, you may need to focus manually. of manual focusing during recording are: 1. Press the FOCUS button to turn on When recording a subject through a manual focus.
Page 46 The motorized zoom lens allows you to zoom in and out for close-ups or wide-angle shots just by pressing one of the power zoom buttons on the camcorder. Power Zoom Buttons T = Telephoto = Wide Angle If you have zoomed in on low-contrast Note: The zoom buttons on the camcorder are subjects while recording...
Page 47 You can add a professionaltouch to your recordings when you fade in and out of scenes. The picture will gradually appear or disappear. The speed of the fade automatically controlled by the camcorder. CAMERA/PLAY Switch FADER Indicator: Fade feature turned on. FADER Indicator Flashing:...
Page 48 CAMERA/PLAY Switch in CAMERA AUTO Button SHUTTER Button Using Higher Shutter Speeds The higher shutter speeds are recom- mended when you are taping fast-moving SHU7TER During recording, press the action outdoors that you plan to view button to select a higher shutter speed.
Page 49 A new 16x9 TV format will be introduced The camcorder has a 16x9 recording that provides a 30% wider picture. mode that lets you make recordings compatible with the 16x9 format. When the 16x9 mode is activated, the camcorder New 16x9 TV Screen records black bars at the top and bottom of the picture to produce the wide-screen effect.
Page 50 The SCENE SELECT CAMERA/PLAY AE dial lets you Switch in CAME@ select one of several different effects for creative recording. Turn the dial to select the effect you want. The indicator for the effect you select will appear in the viewfinder.
Page 51 Making colors look natural is what white balance is all about. This is achieved by adjusting the way the camcorder “sees” and records the light source in the scene you wish to record. Your camcorder is equipped with automatic white balance. However, under certain conditions, you may want to make manual adjustments.
Page 52 Time Counter The time-counter display shows the recording or playing back a tape. For actual time elapsed when recording a example, you recorded for 10 minutes. program or playing back a segment of a Later, you want to locate the end of your prerecorded tape.
Page 53 The approximate time remaining on the tape in the camcorder is automatically TC-2O/TC-30 displayed in the viewfinder. switch must be set to the correct position before the camcorder can correctly calculate time remaining. CAMERA/PLAY Time-Remair g Display Switch in CAMERA TAPE 90MIN -9OMIN...
Page 54 Traveling Tips Try to make sure indoor scenes are Avoid long “still” shots of landmarks well-lit. This improves picture quality and scenic attractions. Recordings are and color reproduction. more interesting if they include people and details. “Local color” will give Do not move the camcorder rapidly travel videos lasting appeal.
Page 55 TRACKING - and + Buttons R‘UPLAY in PLAY During playback, streaks may appear in Simultaneously press both TRACKING the playback picture. Press either of the buttons to return tracking to its preset TRACKING buttons to move the streaks center. up or down and out of the picture. During stop-action playback, pressing one of the TRACKING buttons may TRACKING...
Page 56 TRACKING Buttons ki&y \ PLAY Button /PAUSE Button CAMERA/PLAY STOP -h PAUSE POWER Switch and Indicator (continued on next page)
Page 57 Viewfinder playback is the simplest way to watch tapes using the camcorder. This to review scenes immediately after recording method is generally used only because the display is in black and white. To play back a tape through the viewfinder Place the CAMERA/PLAY switch in one frame of the tape.
Page 58 To connect your camcorder to a TV monitor (or VCR) with AUDIO/VIDEO IN jacks, you will need the audio/video output cable that came packed with your camcorder. If your TV is already connected to a VCR, you can attach the camcorder to the VCR and watch what the camcorder is recording or playing on the TV.
Page 59 EDIT Note: Press the button to start mode”, consult the VCR owner’s camcorder playback when copying tapes manual.) Operate the TV as you to improve picture reproduction. Make normally do to see the signal memory-stop sure the feature is turned coming from the VCR.
Page 60 To connect your camcorder to a TV without audio/video inputs, you will need an optional CRF92 RF output adapter and an optional coaxial RF cable, such as AH065G or AH066G shown on page 3. If your TV has AUDIO and VIDEO IN jacks (or is connected to a VCR), refer to pages 50-51.
Page 61 If noise bars appear on the screen, Playback Operation adjust tracking as described on Set the CH3/CH4 switch on the RF page 47. output adapter to channel 3 or 4. 5. Press the STOP button on the Turn on the TV, and tune it to the camcorder when you are finished.
Page 62 Before you call or take your camcorder to an Authorized RCA Compact Camcorder Servicenter, look below for the type of trouble you are experiencing. Then perform the simple checks and adjustments listed for that trouble.
Page 63 Time-counter memory may be on. Whenever an “M” Tape stops during rewind or fast appears with the time-counter display, the camcorder will forward stop rewinding (or fast forwarding) when counter reads M 0:OO:OO. Press REWIEDIT SEARCH - or FF/EDIT SEARCH + button again to continue rewinding or fast forwarding, or press the C.
Page 64 Error number @I, Try disconnecting power source. Wait ten seconds and then E02, etc.) appears in connect power source again. If error number does not viewfinder disappear from viewfinder, consult your Authorized RCA ct Camco&er Servicenter.
Page 65 General Camera Section Power requirement: 6VDC Image Sensor: l/3” CCD Imager Power consumption: 6 watts (normal) Tripod Mount: One l/4” x 20 threaded Weight: 1.6 lbs. (690g) hole Dimensions: 184 x 120 x 11 lmm Lens: fU1.8 10: 1 (6-60mm) Video Recorder Section Diameter: 43 mm Format: VHS-C...
Page 66 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. Caution: Use of strong cleaning products, such as those containing alcohol or benzine, may damage the camcorder.
Page 67 Avoid operating your camcorder recording/playback heads and cassettes. immediately after moving it from a cold We recommend RCA video cassettes location to a warm location. Give the be used with this camcorder. These camcorder l-1/2 to 2 hours to reach a...
Page 68 Any additional information should be obtained from your Dealer.) How you get service: Installation and related adjustments. Check with your RCA Dealer or call l-800-336- 1900 for the Authorized Cleaning of video/audio heads. RCA Compact Camcorder Servicenter Damage from misuse or neglect.
Page 69 Age, Date, and Time Correcting ..30-3 1 Cassette, Removing ......25 Age, Date, and Time Recording..32-3 3 Cassettes, RCA Video ....24-25 Age, Date, and Time Setting ..30-3 1 Charging the Battery......18 Age, Time, and Date Checks and Adjustments ....
Page 70 First-Time ..... . . 8- 15 F-LIT Indicator ........42 Optional Accessories......l-7 FADER Button........39 Optional RCA DC Car Cord....20 FADER Indicator......28,39 Order Form, Accessories ....5-7 Fading In and Out....... .39 FAR and NEAR Buttons ....
Page 71 Refreshing the Battery ......18 TC-20/X-30 (Tape Length) Registration Card........i Switch ........10,24,45 Removing the Battery Telephoto Zoom Button...... .38 from the Camcorder ......17 Things to Avoid ........59 Thumb Trigger ........REW/EDIT SEARCH - Button.....13,34,44,49,51,53 Tilt Adjustment, Viewfinder..
Page 72 This will only add delays in service for your product. Thomson Consumer Electronics 600 N Sherman Dr, PO Box 1976 Indianapolis, IN 46206 @I993 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. Trademark(s)@ Registered Mama(s) Registrada(s) Printed in Japan Part Number 93-CC174-1 YU30103-273 (VP’...

RCA CC174 Owner's Manual

Quick Links

Related Manuals for RCA CC174

Summary of Contents for RCA CC174

Table of Contents