Hitachi VM-H71A Instruction Manual
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Hitachi VM-H71A Instruction Manual

Hitachi VM-H71A Instruction Manual

8mm video camera/recorder
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HITACHI
Instruction Manual
8mm Video Camera/recorder
VM-H71A
Hitachi Home Electronics (America),
INC.
Inc.
Highway, Pointe Claire,
3890 Steve Reynolds Blvd., Norcross, GA 30093
CANADA
Tel. 404-279-5600
HITACHI SALES CORPORATION OF
HAWAII, INC
3219 Koapaka Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Tel. 808-836-3621
Thank you for buying a Hitachi product. You've chosen the best 8 mm
video camera/recorder for you, and we want to help you make the most of
your purchase. Please take time to become familiar with the manual and
how it is set up. Keep it handy for feature reference.
QR10971 © Hitachi, Ltd. 1994
Japan KG-S(N)
HITACHI (HSC) CANADA,
3300 Trans Canada
Quebec, H9R1B1,
Tel. 514-697-9150
Printed in
1

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  • Page 1 3219 Koapaka Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819 Tel. 808-836-3621 Thank you for buying a Hitachi product. You've chosen the best 8 mm video camera/recorder for you, and we want to help you make the most of your purchase. Please take time to become familiar with the manual and how it is set up.

  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    To Prevent Condensation ... 17 Getting Started... 18 Charging the Battery ... 18 Using the AC Adapter/Charger... 18 Using an Optional Car Adapter/Charger (Hitachi VM-CA500A) ... 20 Additional Information ... 20 Adjusting the Electronic Viewfinder ... 21 Eyepiece Adjustment ... 21 Attaching the Shoulder Strap...
  • Page 3 Specifications ... 60 Accessories Add Excitement... 62 To Order in the United States... 62 HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Front)... 63 HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Back) ... 64 HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (Front) CANADA ONLY... 66 HITACHI CANADA WARRANTY CARD (Back) ... 68...

  • Page 4: For Your Safety

    For Your Safety For Your Safety The CAM/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, turn the camera/recorder off and attach the lens cap and terminal cover.

  • Page 5: Moisture

    For Your Safety technology. More than 99.99% of its picture elements (pixels) are effective, but some (less than 0.01%) may appear as colored bright dots. This does not indicate a fault as the LCD panel stretches the limits of current technology. Warning: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
  • Page 6 For Your Safety viewfinder. Remove the cassette and set the CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch to OFF, with the case open.

  • Page 7: Important Safeguards

    IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS In addition to the careful attention devoted to quality standards in the manufacture of your video product, safety is a major factor in the design of every instrument. But, safety is your responsibility too. This page lists important information that will help to assure your enjoyment and proper use of a Video Camera/Recorder and accessory equipment.
  • Page 8 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance. 8 Ventilation -- Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation to ensure reliable operation of the video product and to protect it from overheating. These openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be blocked by placing the video product on a bed, sofa, rug or other similar surface.
  • Page 9 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 10: 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-AC500A. 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 11: Read This First

    Hitachi VM-H71A. "Advanced Techniques" to help you with some of the exciting, sophisticated features of the Hitachi VM-H71A. We hope you will take the time to learn about these functions since they have been designed for you.

  • Page 12: 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 13: Components And Accessories

    The RF output adapter can also be purchased by mail by sending either cheque, money order or your credit card information to the following address: IN U.S.A. Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc. Parts Division 401 West Atresia Blvd. Compton, California. U.S.A. 90220...

  • Page 14: Water-Resistant

    Before You Begin accessories, please see the optional accessory listing found on page 65. WATER-RESISTANT Water-Resistant Structure Your camera/recorder uses three packings as shown below to provide a water-resistant structure. Case To Check the Packing 1. Open the case so the end of the bracket is positioned as shown in the figure and pull the bracket forward to release it.

  • Page 15: How To Open And Close The Case

    Before You Begin How to Open and Close the Case 1. Push the lever on the snap and hold it, then release the snap in the direction of the arrow. Note: After using the camera/recorder, wipe off the sand or water droplets carefully from the case before opening it.

  • Page 16: How To Open And Close The Jack Cover

    Before You Begin cover. Pull the cover forward to open it. 2. To close the battery compartment cover, press both sections marked "PUSH" simultaneously and make sure that a click is heard. Also check that the BATT EJECT lever is aligned with the mark as shown in the figure below.

  • Page 17: To Prevent Condensation

    Dry the camera/recorder with the case open and use it after condensation on the lens disappears. Open the case if there is condensation. Otherwise, it is hard to dry the camcorder. Otherwise, it is hard to dry the camera/recorder.

  • Page 18: Getting Started

    None of these processes are complex. 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 19 Getting Started recording is finished, etc. (Load a battery in the camera/recorder. Refer to "POWER SOURCES" on page 19.) 1. Set the CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch of the camera/recorder to "OFF". 2. Connect the external power cord plug to the DC OUTPUT jack on the AC adapter/charger.

  • Page 20: Using An Optional Car Adapter/Charger (Hitachi Vm-Ca500A)

    Getting Started Charging time 8.5 hours (maximum) Using an Optional Car Adapter/Charger (Hitachi VM-CA500A) 1. Connect the car adapter/charger to the car's cigarette lighter socket. The power light turns on. 2. Attach the battery to the car adapter/charger. The charge light turns on and charging starts.

  • Page 21: Adjusting The Electronic Viewfinder

    Getting Started unable to take a charge and must be replaced. Do not attach a hot battery to the AC adapter/charger. Allow it to cool. Do not use a battery with a crack or any abnormalities in its appearance. THERE ARE NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE THE BATTERY THROWING THE BATTERY INTO FIRE OR EXPOSING IT TO EXCESSIVE HEAT (ABOVE 149°F (65°C)) MAY CAUSE INJURY.

  • Page 22: 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. Note: The wide and tele converter lenses (optional) are not water-resistant. Loading Batteries Install the remote control battery now to prevent misplacing it.

  • Page 23: Edit Remote Control Batteries

    Getting Started Note: Replace the remote control battery with 3V micro lithium cells such as Maxell CR2025 or its equivalent. Note: Dispose of battery safely in accordance with local laws. Do not dispose of in fire. Edit Remote Control Batteries Be sure to install two "AA"...

  • Page 24: Removing The Battery

    Getting Started Removing the Battery 1. Push the BATT EJECT lever to open the battery compartment cover. 2. Push the battery release lever in the direction of the arrow; the battery will come out. Pull the battery forward to remove it. Note: The battery is ejected by the force of a spring.

  • Page 25: Using A Car Battery

    Using a Car Battery The camera/recorder can be powered with a car battery by using an optional car Adapter/Charger (Hitachi VM-CA500A) to plug the camera/recorder into the car's cigarette lighter socket. Please ensure that the CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch is in the OFF position whenever attaching or detaching any power supply (ie battery, AC adapter/charger, etc.)

  • Page 26: When The Cassette Holder Marked "Push" Is Pressed

    Getting Started 4. Push the cassette holder, which is embossed PUSH on the left hand side, until it "clicks" into place. The cassette holder will go down automatically closes. Caution: Do not push the holder down, or you may damage your camera/recorder.

  • Page 27: Using The Linear Time Counter

    Getting Started record on the cassette again. Using the Linear Time Counter The linear time counter displays the tape run in hours, minutes, and seconds helping you to keep track of how long you've been filming or time you have left to film before running out of tape. Turn the camera/recorder on to display the linear time counter.

  • Page 28: Using Memory

    Charge the backup battery every two months. Set the CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch on the camera/recorder to OFF and connect a charged battery or the AC adapter/charger to the camcorder for 24 hours. If you record the date and time at the beginning of each recording session they will serve as a handy reminder when viewing tapes at a later date.

  • Page 29: Correcting The Date And Time

    If the date changes while recording continues over 10 seconds, the date is recorded for 10 seconds when recording is restarted after the camcorder has been set to the standby once. Press the DATE button until " AUTO" and the date appear at the lower right of the viewfinder before you begin to record.

  • Page 30: Lens Cap

    Getting Started Insert a cassette into the camera/recorder and start recording or playback; 10 seconds later, the remaining tape will be displayed. When the cassette is ejected, the display will disappear. " seconds after the tape starts to run. Note: The tape remaining display appears 10 seconds after the tape starts to run.

  • Page 31: Using The Remote Control Bag

    Getting Started NOTE: Before attaching the terminal cover, check that there is no sand, water or dirt adhering to the terminal. If anything adheres to the terminal, use the brush (provided) or a soft cloth to wipe it off completely. Using the Remote Control Bag The remote control is not water-resistant.

  • Page 32: Getting Started - Identifying Controls

    Getting Started - Identifying Controls Getting Started - Identifying Controls Left front / Rear view of Controls 1. Lens F1.8 (5~60mm) 12:1 power zoom lens with auto focus and auto iris functions. 2. Snap Look the snap to close the case tightly before recording so that no water droplets or sand can get inside.
  • Page 33 Getting Started - Identifying Controls When the subject is lit from behind, press and hold this button to compensate for the backlighting. Right side / Battery compartment / Jack cover Illustration 14. 16x9 Button Press to fade the top and bottom of the picture to black. 15.
  • Page 34 Getting Started - Identifying Controls When the CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch is in CAM and the record mode select switch is in the START/STOP position, press this button to start recording. When pressed a second time the camera pauses. When the record mode select switch is in the HOLD TO REC, records while the Start/Stop button is held depressed and it enters the record pause mode when the button is released.
  • Page 35 Getting Started - Identifying Controls T: Picture becomes telescopic gradually. Note: The zoom switch on the remote control cannot change the zoom speed, but provides only low-speed zooming. 36. S.EDIT (Syncrho Edit) Button (only on the remote control) Use this button to activate the synchro edit function for dubbing ("Using Synchro Edit,"...

  • Page 36: Basic Techniques

    Let's get started! Making a Basic Recording The Hitachi VM-H71A uses PROGRAM AE auto exposure that automatically selects the optimum shutter speed (either 1/60, 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: Holding Button To Record

    Basic Techniques Note: TAPE flashes in the viewfinder when the tab on the side of the cassette is completely visible. 9. To stop recording press the Start/Stop button and REC disappears from the viewfinder replaced by standby. Note: TAPE END flashes in the viewfinder when about 3 minutes or less remain of the tape cassette.

  • Page 38: Playing Back Your Recording

    Basic Techniques Playing Back Your Recording Depending on the setup of your video equipment, you connect the camera/recorder in one of the 3 methods explained below. Connecting to a Television with a VCR Attached 1. Connect the provided AV stereo output cord to the AUDIO IN and VIDEO IN jacks of your VCR.

  • Page 39: Simple Playback (Using The Electronic Viewfinder)

    Basic Techniques terminal. 3. Connect the 75-ohm coaxial cable of the RF output adapter to the VHF antenna terminals on the back of the television. If the television is set up to connect to a flat antenna lead you need to purchase antenna adapter (75- ohm to 300-ohm transformer).
  • Page 40 Basic Techniques some interference or noise. This is normal during search mode.

  • Page 41: Advanced Techniques

    Advanced Techniques Advanced Techniques The Hitachi VM-H71A offers a diverse group of features that add interest and excitement to your video. Adding fades to smooth transitions creates videos with a professional look. As you learn and practice with these features think of situations that they might fit in and add a special touch.

  • Page 42: Using The Digital Zoom

    Advanced Techniques Using the Digital Zoom The digital zoom increases the magnification of the optical zoom. You must place the subject you wish to magnify at the center of the viewfinder. Note: This digital zoom has certain limitations and may degradate at extreme magnification and amplify camera/recorder's movement.

  • Page 43: Using Manual Focus

    Advanced Techniques The auto focus will not work under the following conditions and you must focus manually: Objects outside the center of the viewfinder Objects at different distances in the center of the viewfinder Brightly lit objects such as a neon light, objects lit by spotlight, etc.

  • Page 44: Using The Electronic Image Stabilizer

    Advanced Techniques Note: To return to auto focus press the FOCUS select button and the FOCUS disappears from the viewfinder. 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.

  • Page 45: Fading In

    Advanced Techniques Wipe fade: The picture opens gradually from the center of a black screen or closes into the center to a black screen. upper left corner of the viewfinder. Zoom fade: Fades in while zooming from a white screen or fades out while zooming to a white screen.

  • Page 46: Using Quick Edit

    Advanced Techniques Using Quick Edit Use quick edit to search for the end of previously recorded material, find a particular spot on your tape, begin editing, or record new material. While the camera is in record/pause mode hold down the F.FWD, REW, or PLAY button and visually search the tape.

  • Page 47: 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 your Hitachi VCR may malfunction when you use the camera/recorder's wireless remote control. Note: The remote control cannot be used to operate the camcorder when the microphone cap is left attached.

  • Page 48: Correcting Errors

    Advanced Techniques either CAM or VIDEO. 3. Press the TITLE ON/OFF button on the remote control and a flashing cursor appears in the viewfinder. 4. Use the STOP button to place the cursor where you wish to begin your title. 5.

  • Page 49: Recording A Title While Transferring A Tape

    Use synchro edit to record only segments of a previously recorded tape when dubbing from the camera/recorder to a VCR. This requires an optional synchro edit cable. The Hitachi VM-H71A uses a flying erase head to eliminate glitches or rainbow noise that sometimes occurs...

  • Page 50: Simple Programmable Edit

    Advanced Techniques between edits. Your VCR must have the EDIT IN jack to use the synchro edit. Synchro Edit hookup Illustration 1. Connect the synchro edit cable to the AV IN/OUT jack of your camera/recorder. 2. Connect the synchro edit cable to the AUDIO IN, VIDEO IN, and EDIT IN jacks of your VCR.
  • Page 51 If the channel still does not change after you have changed the VCR's remote control code, the edit remote control cannot operate your VCR. VCR Brands Press VCR SET and This Button Hitachi Sony PROGRAM Panasonic FORWARD Toshiba...

  • Page 52: Operation

    Advanced Techniques Note: Point the remote control straight at the VCR's infrared receiver for operation. Note: Use the remote control indoors. When the infrared receivers of the VCR and camera/recorder are exposed to direct sunlight or strong artificial light, the remote control may not operate correctly. Note: The remote control cannot be operated if there is an obstacle between the remote control and infrared receiver.

  • Page 53: To End Programmable Simple Edit

    Advanced Techniques 9. Continue programming as described above until you have entered up to four different segments. 10. Load a blank tape, then set the VCR to the record pause mode. 11. Point the remote control at the receiver on the VCR and press the COPY START button to start simple programmable edit.

  • Page 54: Programming The Remote Control

    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 ( ) Sony ZOOM.(W)

  • Page 55: Using Audio/Video Dubbing

    This places the camera/recorder in A/V DUB pause mode. 9. Press the PAUSE (START/STOP) button. The audio/video dubbing starts. When the linear time counter reaches 0:00:00M the camera/recorder stops automatically, recording only the portion of the tape that you selected. Remote Control of Camcorder Illustration...

  • Page 56: Recording Television Programs

    Advanced Techniques Note: If the camera/recorder is in A/V DUB pause or STILL mode for more than 5 minutes, the camera/recorder stops automatically to protect the tape. Note: Automatic date recording is disabled during audio/video dubbing. Note: When the audio/video dubbed portion is played back, noise may appear at the end of the dubbed portion.

  • Page 57: General Maintenance

    General Maintenance General Maintenance Cleaning the Camera/Recorder Heads Dirt can accumulate on the video heads on the camera causing the playback picture to become blurred or appear as if video information is lost. This often means that the video heads are dirty. Use a video head cleaner such as Maxell 8M-CLT to clean the heads.

  • Page 58: Periodic 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 about professional service.
  • Page 59 General Maintenance tab on the recording mode, even when 22 for details. the Start/Stop button on the CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch camera/recorder is pressed. CAM. 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.

  • Page 60: 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.
  • Page 61 Specifications 3890 Steve Reynolds Blvd Norcross, GA 30093 Tel 404-279-5600 Hitachi Sales Corporation of Hawaii 3219 Koapaka St./Honolulu, HI 96819 Tel 808-836-3621...

  • Page 62: Accessories Add Excitement

    Accessories Add Excitement Accessories Add Excitement We know that once you discover how much your Hitachi VM-H71A 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.

  • Page 63: Hitachi Warranty Card (Usa Front)

    Hitachi Video Products are warranted to be free of defects in parts and workmanship at the time of purchase by the original owner. If this product is found to be defective, Hitachi will repair or replace defective parts at no charge to the original owner. Parts used for replacement are warranted for the remainder of the original Limited Warranty period.

  • Page 64: Hitachi Warranty Card (Usa Back)

    B. Any defect, malfunction, or failure caused by or resulting from improper service, maintenance, repair, use of Video Cleaning Cassettes, or from abuse, neglect, accident, or any other cause beyond the control of Hitachi. C. Unpacking, set-up or installation, adjustment of customer operated controls, user instruction.
  • Page 65 HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Back) HITACHI...

  • Page 66: Hitachi Warranty Card (Front) Canada Only

    Hitachi warranty given at the time of the purchase. B - Hitachi will make repairs to the product mentioned in this plan, parts and labour charges included, until the expiry date of this plan.
  • Page 67 (10) Cleaning the video heads. F - All repair costs must be claimed from Hitachi, at all times, through an authorized Hitachi Service Center. The Plan Owner should never directly pay the authorized Service center unless given special authorization from Hitachi.

  • Page 68: Hitachi Canada Warranty Card (Back)

    Video Tape Recorder, Tuner, Timer, 1 year parts and labour. Camera, camcorder, AC Adaptor, Charger, 1 year parts and labour. All goods returned to either Hitachi or a Hitachi Authorized Service Center must be shipped on a "PREPAID BASIS". To avoid any damage to the returned goods, please ensure that proper packaging procedures are followed.
  • Page 69 13. The replacement of the video camera pickup element if the pickup element has been OVER EXPOSED to an intense source of light. 14. Products sold in Canada by any organization other than HITACHI (HSC) CANADA INC. IMPORTANT: This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, guarantees,...

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