Hitachi VM-H57A Instruction Manual
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Hitachi VM-H57A Instruction Manual

Hitachi VM-H57A Instruction Manual

8mm video camera/recorder
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HITACHI
Instruction Manual
8mm Video Camera/Recorder
VM-H57A
Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc.
3890 Steve Reynolds Blvd., Norcross, GA 30093
Pointe Claire,
Tel. 404-279-5600
HITACHI SALES CORPORATION OF
HAWAII, INC.
3219 Koapaka Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Tel. 808-836-3621
P4708922 © Hitachi, Ltd. 1993
HITACHI (HSC) CANADA INC.
3300 Trans Canada Highway,
Quebec, H9R 1B1, CANADA
Tel. 514-697-9150
Printed in Japan KM-R(N)
E145554/E72118

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  • Page 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS HITACHI Instruction Manual 8mm Video Camera/Recorder VM-H57A Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc. 3890 Steve Reynolds Blvd., Norcross, GA 30093 Pointe Claire, Tel. 404-279-5600 HITACHI SALES CORPORATION OF HAWAII, INC. 3219 Koapaka Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819 Tel. 808-836-3621 P4708922 ©...

  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS ... 2 For Your Safety... 4 Read This First ... 6 Before You Begin... 7 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS ... 7 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER ... 12 Features ... 13 Components and Accessories... 14 Getting Started...
  • Page 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Connecting to a Television without Audio In and Video In Jacks ... 38 Simple Playback (Using the Electronic Viewfinder) ... 38 Using Still ... 38 Using Forward and Reverse Search ... 39 Advanced Techniques ... 39 Using the Power Zoom ... 40 Using the Digital Zoom ...

  • Page 4: For Your Safety

    For Your Safety For Your Safety The CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch turns the camera/recorder on and off, leaving the date/time feature unaffected. If the unit is to be left unattended for a long period of time, Tturn the camera/recorder off and attach the lens cap. Illustrated below is the label on the bottom of your unit.
  • Page 5 For Your Safety Caution to the user: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. This camera/recorder can use 8mm and determines the loaded cassette is 8mm or and WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

  • Page 6: Read This First

    • "Advanced Techniques" to help you with some of the exciting, sophisticated features of the Hitachi VM-H57A. We hope you will take the time to learn about these functions since they have been designed for you. You can use the video camera/recorder without reading this section.

  • Page 7: Before You Begin

    Before You Begin Before You Begin Any problems that occur as a result of any of the following conditions will not be covered by our warranty. Be careful that no water, dust or sand enters the camera/recorder. When you shoot at a scene which contains an extremely bright object such as the sun or a light source, a bright vertical bar may appear in the picture.
  • Page 8 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS 1 Read and Follow Instructions -- All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the video product is operated. Follow all operating and use instructions. 2 Retain Instructions -- The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.
  • Page 9 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS followed. 9 Attachments -- Do not use attachments unless recommended by the video product manufacturer as they may cause hazards.
  • Page 10 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS Caution: Maintain electrical safety. Powerline operated equipment or accessories connected to this unit should bear the UL listing mark or CSA certification mark on the accessory itself and should not have been modified so as to defeat the safety features. This will help avoid any potential hazard from electric shock or fire.
  • Page 11 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS 14 Cleaning -- Unplug this video product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning. 15 Object and Liquid Entry -- Never push objects of any kind into this video product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock.

  • Page 12: Important Safety Instructions For Ac Adapter/Charger

    IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER 1. Save these instructions -- This page contains important safety and operating instructions for AC Adapter/Charger Model VM-AC82A(R). 2. Before using AC Adapter/Charger, read all instructions and cautionary markings on (1) AC Adapter/Charger, (2) battery and (3) product using battery.

  • Page 13: Features

    IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER NOTES: • This unit uses video format cassettes. • It records and plays back in the SP mode (14.3 mm/sec.). • It cannot record and play back in the LP mode (7.2 mm/sec.). • This camera/recorder uses a Hi-Fi stereo sound system. When a tape recorded by this camera/recorder is played by a conventional 8mm camera/recorder, monaural sound is output.

  • Page 14: Components And Accessories

    IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER Components and Accessories Check that you have the following components and accessories before preceding. 1. AV stereo output cord with S-VIDEO plug 2. Battery pack 3. AC adapter/charger 4. Remote control battery 5. Shoulder Strap 6.

  • Page 15: Getting Started

    Set aside some time, relax, and familiarize yourself with this quality instrument. Enjoy getting to know all about your Hitachi 8mm camera/recorder. The more comfortable and familiar you are with the machine and its features, the more you can make it do for you.

  • Page 16: Additional Information

    Getting Started whether the battery is charged or uncharged. Note: The marker switch is not concerned with the battery's performance. Additional Information To use a battery in optimum condition: • Use the battery until the low charge light ( and then recharging it may shorten the operation time. •...
  • Page 17 Getting Started ATTENTION: The product that you have purchased contains a rechargeable battery. The battery is recyclable. At the end of its useful life, under various state and local laws, it may be illegal to dispose of this battery into the municipal waste stream. Check with your local solid waste officials for details in your area for recycling options or proper disposal.

  • Page 18: Adjusting The Electronic Viewfinder

    Getting Started Adjusting the Electronic Viewfinder The electronic viewfinder adjusts simply by pivoting it to a position where it is comfortable and easy to see through. Place the viewfinder back in its original position before storing the camera/recorder in its case or carrying the camera recorder around to avoid damaging the viewfinder or camera/recorder.
  • Page 19 Getting Started...

  • Page 20: Attaching The Optional Wide Or Tele Converter Lens

    Getting Started Attaching the Optional Wide or Tele Converter Lens 1. To remove the lens hood, turn it counterclockwise. 2. Remove both caps of the converter lens. 3. Screw the lens into the threads on the camera/recorder lens assembly. Loading Batteries Install the remote control battery now to prevent misplacing it.

  • Page 21: Camera/Recorder Battery

    Getting Started Camera/Recorder Battery Before you install the battery for the first time it must be fully charged. Refer to "Charging the Battery" for details. 1. Align the arrow on the battery with the guide arrow on the camera/recorder. 2. Hold the battery firmly against the camera/recorder while sliding it towards the right of the machine.
  • Page 22 Getting Started This flashing symbol indicates a battery nearly out of power. Use an alternate power source or charge the battery before continuing to use the camera/recorder.

  • Page 23: Using Alternative Power Sources

    Note: The AC adapter/charger can be used around the world. An AC plug adapter is required in some foreign countries. If you need one purchase it at your Hitachi distributor. Note: The battery level indicator sometimes displays partial charge symbol when using the AC adaptor/charger.

  • Page 24: Using A Car Battery

    Using a Car Battery The camera/recorder can be powered with a car battery by using an optional car battery cord (Hitachi VM-CC80A) to plug the camera/recorder into the car's cigarette lighter socket. Please ensure that the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch is in the OFF position whenever attaching or detaching any power supply (ie.

  • Page 25: Inserting And Removing Cassettes

    Getting Started Inserting and Removing Cassettes A power source must be connected before inserting or removing cassettes. Once connected cassettes can be inserted or removed whether the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch is on or off. Inserting a Cassette 1. Slide the EJECT switch in the direction of the arrow. The cassette door opens automatically.

  • Page 26: Protecting Recorded Material

    Getting Started Protecting Recorded Material Protect 8mm cassettes from accidental erasure by sliding the tab on the side of the cassette towards the opposite side until the tab is completely visible. Slide the tab in the opposite direction, until the tab disappears, to record on the cassette again. Attaching the Optional DC Camera Light You can use the DC camera light to light subjects in darkened areas or correct unflattering shadows.

  • Page 27: Removing The Dc Camera Light

    Getting Started • If the DC camera light is turned on and off during recording, there could be noise in the picture. Watch the battery charge indicator especially when using a battery as the power source. • When the DC camera light is used, the operation time of the camera/recorder when a fully-charged battery pack is attached is halved.

  • Page 28: Using Memory

    Getting Started Using Memory The linear time counter memory stops a rewinding tape at approximately 0:00:00M. This feature helps in locating a specific point in the tape to which you wish to return. An example might be that you have recorded some tape that you have already watched, you continue recording but do not care to watch the tape you recorded earlier.

  • Page 29: Setting The Date And Time

    Getting Started Setting the Date and Time Take the time to set the date and time now: The time backup battery is rechargeable. Charge the backup battery every two months. Set the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch to OFF and connect a charged battery or the AC adapter/charger to the camera/recorder for 24 hours.

  • Page 30: Correcting The Date And Time

    Getting Started Correcting the Date and Time 1. Press the DATE button while pressing the stop button. The flashing cursor appears at the month. 2. Move to where you need to make the correction with the STOP button and use the F.FWD and REW/REVIEW to correct.

  • Page 31: Remaining Tape

    Getting Started Remaining Tape The tape remaining display shows the remaining tape that can be used for recording and playback, using seven dashes. This feature is handy when recording since it lets you know how long you can record on the loaded tape. Insert a cassette into the camera/recorder and start recording or playback;...

  • Page 32: Getting Started - Identifying Controls

    Getting Started - Identifying Controls Getting Started - Identifying Controls Left side / Front Controls Illustration 1. Lens F1.4 (6~46mm) 8:1 power zoom lens with auto focus and auto iris functions. 2. Record Indicator This indicator lights when the camera/recorder is recording. 3.
  • Page 33 Getting Started - Identifying Controls 11. EIS (Electronic Image Stabilizer) Button EIS corrects slight shaking of an image ("Using the Electronic Image Stabilizer," p. 32). 12. FOCUS Control (AUTO/MAN) Buttons Press these buttons simultaneously to select manual or automatic focus. For manual focusing ("Using Manual Focus,"...
  • Page 34 Used for controlling the TV. • POWER: Turns the TV on and off. • AVX: Used for recording picture and sound from an auxiliary input (only wity Hitachi TVs) • VOLUME: Increase ( ) or decrease ( ) the volume.
  • Page 35 Getting Started - Identifying Controls 33. DISPLAY Button (only on the remote control) Use this button to select the viewfinder and TV display ("Using the Display Button," p 19). 34. A/V DUB Button (only on the remote control) Use this button to record new audio and video over existing audio and video.

  • Page 36: Basic Techniques

    Let's get started! Making a Basic Recording The Hitachi VM-H57A uses PROGRAM AE auto exposure that automatically selects the optimum shutter speed (either 1/60, 1/100, 1/120, 1/180, 1/250, 1/350, 1/500, 1/750, 1/1000, 1/1500, 1/2000, or 1/4000 of a second). The iris adjusts automatically in response to shutter speed.

  • Page 37: Playing Back Your Recording

    Basic Techniques 6. To stop recording press the Start/Stop button and REC disappears from the viewfinder replaced by Note: TAPE END flashes in the viewfinder when about 3 minutes or less remain of the tape cassette. Note: If the camera/recorder is left in record/pause mode for more than 5 minutes, the camera/recorder turns off automatically.

  • Page 38: Connecting To A Television Without Audio In And Video In Jacks

    Basic Techniques Connecting to a Television without Audio In and Video In Jacks 1. Disconnect the VHF antenna leads from the back of the television. Leave the UHF antenna leads connected. 2. Connect the VHF antenna lead to ANT IN of the RF output adapter. If the cable on the VHF antenna lead is flat you need to purchase an antenna adapter (300-ohm to 75- ohm transformer).

  • Page 39: Using Forward And Reverse Search

    Note: When you engage F.FWD button or REW/REVIEW button the picture will have some interference or noise. This is normal during search mode. Advanced Techniques The Hitachi VM-H57A offers a diverse group of features that add interest and excitement to your videos. Adding fades to smooth transitions creates videos with a professional look.

  • Page 40: Using The Power Zoom

    Advanced Techniques Using the Power Zoom The power zoom W control widens the picture, moving the subject farther away, while the power zoom T control brings the subject closer, narrowing the picture. If appears at the left of the viewfinder, the digital zoom function shown below has been engaged. Using the Digital Zoom The digital zoom increases the magnification of the power zoom by 2 times.

  • Page 41: Using The Inst. Zoom (Instant Zoom) Button

    Advanced Techniques Using the INST. ZOOM (Instant Zoom) Button The instant zoom feature activates the digital zoom to magnify the subject 1.5 times regardless of zooming engaged by the power zoom T and W controls. Press the INST. ZOOM button. appears at the left of the viewfinder and the picture is magnified 1.5 times momentarily.

  • Page 42: Using Auto Focus

    Advanced Techniques Using Auto Focus The camera/recorder focuses the subject in the center of the viewfinder automatically unless the manual focus is engaged. If appears in the viewfinder, manual focus is engaged. Press the FOCUS control (AUTO/MAN) buttons simultaneously to return to auto focus.

  • Page 43: Using Manual Focus

    Advanced Techniques Note: With the T zoom control you can use the auto focus with subjects that are 3.6 feet away from the lens and further away to infinity. With the W zoom control you can use the auto focus with subjects 1.2 inches away from the lens and further away to infinity. Using Manual Focus 1.

  • Page 44: Using The Electronic Image Stabilizer

    Advanced Techniques Using the Electronic Image Stabilizer The electronic image stabilizer (EIS) corrects slight shaking of the image being recorded and is effective in the following situations. • While you zoom to a distant subject. • While you approach a small subject. •...

  • Page 45: Using Fade

    Advanced Techniques Using Fade Use the fade feature to add a professional touch to your recordings. Use the FADE button to select one of the three fade options. • White fade: Fades in from a white screen or fades out to a white screen. in the upper left corner of the viewfinder.

  • Page 46: Using Instant Review

    Advanced Techniques Using Instant Review Use this feature to view the last few seconds of the tape you shot. 1. Set the camera/recorder to record/pause mode and tap the REW/REVIEW button. The last few seconds of tape play back in reverse and then in normal playback mode. 2.

  • Page 47: Creating And Recording Titles

    Advanced Techniques This function allows you to shoot subjects as close as 3/8 of an inch. Press and hold the power zoom control W. The camera focuses on the subject automatically. Check your lighting as it tends to be insufficient when filming close up. Creating and Recording Titles Create titles easily and personalize your recordings while keeping a permanent visual record of what is contained on a tape.

  • Page 48: Correcting Errors

    Advanced Techniques 6. Once you've selected a character press the STOP button to set it. 7. Complete the title by repeating steps 5 and 6. 8. When you complete your title, press PLAY to create a second title as required, or press the TITLE ON/OFF button on the remote control to store the title in memory and remove the title graphics from the viewfinder.

  • Page 49: Recording A Title While Transferring A Tape

    Advanced Techniques Recording a Title while Transferring a Tape 1. Connect the camera/recorder to the VCR (p 24). 2. Press the TITLE ON/OFF button on the remote control to turn title on. 3. Use the PLAY button to select a title from memory. 4.

  • Page 50: Using The Wireless Remote Control

    Note: The remote control code of this camera/recorder is Hitachi code VCR2. If you have a VCR with the same code you Hitachi VCR may malfunction when you use the camera/recorder's wireless remote control.

  • Page 51: Using Synchro Edit

    VCR. This requires an optional synchro edit cord. The Hitachi VM-H57A uses a flying erase head to eliminate glitches or rainbow noise that sometimes occurs between edits. Your VCR must have the EDIT IN jack to use the synchro edit.

  • Page 52: Controlling Your Tv With The Camera/Recorder's Remote

    If the TV channel still doesn't change after going through all the button combinations listed, it is likely that you will not be able to program this remote control for your TV. TV Brands Press CH ( ) and This Button Hitachi Zenith VOL ( )

  • Page 53: Controlling The Tv

    Be aware that not all of your TV's functions may work even though the remote control is correctly programmed. Note: The AVX Button can only be used with Hitachi TVs. Note: It may not be possible to control all TVs listed in this Table.

  • Page 54: Using Audio/Video Dubbing

    Advanced Techniques Using Audio/Video Dubbing Use audio/video dubbing to record audio and video from the camera/recorder's built-in microphone and camera onto a previously recorded tape in the camera/recorder. Audio/Video Dubbing Diagram 1. Hold down the red button on the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch while sliding the switch to VIDEO.

  • Page 55: Recording Television Programs

    General Maintenance Recording Television Programs If your television or VCR has AUDIO OUT and VIDEO OUT jacks you can record television programs with your camera/recorder. Recording TV Diagram 1. Connect the camera/recorder to a power source. 2. Insert a cassette in the camera/recorder. 3.
  • Page 56 General Maintenance VCR service center for professional head cleaning.

  • Page 57: Cleaning The Lens And Picture Tube Of The Electronic Viewfinder

    5. Turn the eye cup clockwise until it stops, the push it in all the way. Periodic Maintenance A precision electromechanical device, the Hitachi VM-H57A requires maintenance after a period of normal use. We expect that no other maintenance other than head cleaning will be required during the period of warranty unless the camera/recorder is used either heavily or seldom.

  • Page 58: Troubleshooting

    General Maintenance Troubleshooting Quality is very important at Hitachi. We inspect and check every camera/recorder carefully at the factory under the most rigid quality control and inspection systems. If problems develop please check the following possible solutions before inquiring INSERTING OR REMOVING THE CASSETTE...
  • Page 59 General Maintenance General Maintenance (cont.) PLAYBACK OF PRE-RECORDED CASSETTE Symptom “PLAY” button cannot be engaged. No picture appears on television screen when “PLAY” button is pressed. Interference on playback picture. Picture bends at the top of the TV screen. Color of your TV screen is too bright, too faint or change.
  • Page 60 General Maintenance EJECT OR TROUBLE DISPLAY Symptom EJECT or TROUBLE appears in the viewfinder. Check Point & Correction Remove the cassette and then try to reinsert, remove it several times. If the indication is still shown in the viewfinder, use a cleaning tape to clean the heads and replace the cassette.

  • Page 61: Specifications

    1-800-448-2244 Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc. Hitachi has made every effort to assure you hours of trouble free operation from your unit. However, should you require service, a network of Hitachi Authorized Service Facilities has been established in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Each facility will provide you with convenient and expedient assistance.
  • Page 62 Specifications warranty card or operating guide. Should you have any questions regarding in-warranty service, operation or technical assistance, please contact: Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc. 3890 Steve Reynolds Blvd Norcross, GA 30093 Tel 404-279-5600 Hitachi Sales Corporation of Hawaii 3219 Koapaka St./Honolulu, HI 96819...

  • Page 63: Accessories Add Excitement

    Accessories Add Excitement Accessories Add Excitement We know that once you discover how much your Hitachi VM-H57A can add to your life you will want to use these accessories for even more excitement. Converter lenses, adapters for synchro editing, and car cords are just a few of the exciting accessories available to you from Hitachi.

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