Sharp VL-Z3E manual

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Table of contents for the manual

  • Page 1

    VL-Z5E/VL-Z3E-E/hyou; 03/02/26/18:00 SHARP CORPORATION VL-Z5E ENGLISH OPERA TION MANU AL LIQUID CR Y ST AL DISPLA Y CAMCORDER VL-Z5E VL-Z3E OPERATION MANUAL Printed in Japan TINSLA057WJZZ 03P04-JKG VL-Z3E[...]

  • Page 2

    VL-Z5E/VL-Z3E-hyou2/3; 03/3/17/18:00 ENGLISH OPERA TION MANU AL W ARNING To prevent fire or shoc k hazard, do not expose this apparatus to dripping or splashing. No objects filled with liquids, such as vases, should be placed on the apparatus. This equipment should be used with the recommended AC adapter or battery pack. CA UTION To prevent electri[...]

  • Page 3

    i W ARNING: This Camcorder m ust be supplied only with DC 7.4 v olts from a BT - L226 battery or the A C adapter (U ADP-A016WJZZ). CA UTION: As there are no user-serviceable parts inside the Camcorder or A C adapter , do NOT remo ve their cabinets as touching parts inside could result in electric shock. Please refer servicing to a qualified dealer [...]

  • Page 4

    ii Part Names ............................................................. 1 W ar ning Indicators .................................................. 4 Operation References Preparation Basic Operations Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack ............. 6 Charging the Battery Pack ...................................... 8 Powering the Camcorder fr[...]

  • Page 5

    iii Useful Features Control Buttons ..................................................... 31 Using the Mode Screens ...................................... 31 Using the Menu Screens ....................................... 32 Camera Recording Setting the Digital Zoom ....................................... 33 Backlight Compensation (BLC) ............[...]

  • Page 6

    iv Adv anced Features Playbac k Using the Time Code ............................................ 59 Audio Dubbing Feature ......................................... 60 Selecting the Audio Playback Mode ..................... 62 Editing ................................................................... 63 Recording fr om an Exter nal Source .........[...]

  • Page 7

    v Supplied Accessories Battery pack BT -L226 Audio/video/S-video cable CR2025 type lithium battery for remote contr ol CR1216 type lithium battery for camcorder Lens cap CD-ROM 8 MB SD Memory Card Remote control USB cable Standard-life battery pack BT -L226 * The accessories with * mark are not supplied with VL-Z3 (only supplied with VL-Z5). * Opti[...]

  • Page 8

    vi Precautions • Before recor ding an impor tant scene, please perform the recor ding test, then playbac k to check if the scene was re- corded pr operly . If noise occurs, use a commerciall y available cleaning tape to clean the video heads (see pa ge viii). • When the camcor der is not in use, re- member to remove the cassette tape, turn off [...]

  • Page 9

    vii Dew Formation • What is “dew formation”? When cold water is poured into a glass, dew drops form on the glass. This clinging of water drops is called dew formation. • When de w forms in your camcor der. Dew will gradually form on the head drum of your camcorder and make the video tape stick to the head. This causes damage both to the hea[...]

  • Page 10

    viii Dirty Video Heads When the video heads have become clogged with dirt (dust and tape coating particles), • mosaic-like noise appears on the playback picture. (see illustrations above) • playback pictur es do not move. • during playback, the whole scr een becomes blue. Using a Cleaning T ape (Commer- cially A vailable) A vailable mode: T a[...]

  • Page 11

    1 Operation References Operation References Part Names For details on the use of each part, refer to the page number indicated in parentheses. Front vie w Zoom lens DISPLA Y button ( p. 31 ) Operation button ( p. 31 ) Stereo micr ophone LCD LAMP button ( p. 24 )[...]

  • Page 12

    Operation References 2 Operation References Lithium battery cover ( p. 12 ) T ripod socket* Card slot cover ( p. 11 ) Left view Dioptre adjustment dial ( p. 18 ) Battery release ( pp. 7, 12 ) * When attaching a tripod with a guide pin, do not attach the pin to the bottom of the camcorder . LCD monitor ( p. 19 ) Earphones jack (VL-Z5 only) ( p. 29 )[...]

  • Page 13

    3 Operation References Viewfinder ( pp. 17, 18 ) Power Zoom Wide angle/ T elephoto control ( p. 23 )/ VOLume control ( p. 28 ) Media Selection switch ( V T ape mode/ u Card mode selection switch) ( p. 21 ) Start/Stop button ( p. 22 ) PHOTO button ( pp. 38, 51, 70 ) Power switch ( v Camera Recording mode/ w Playback mode select switch) ( p. 21 ) ST [...]

  • Page 14

    Operation References 4 Operation References W ar ning Indicators If a warning indicator appears on the screen, follow the specified instructions. Displayed f or the first 3 seconds Displayed after 3 seconds Description of warning There is no video cassette in the camcor der . Insert a cassette (see page 10 ). IN S E RT A CASSE TTE. BAT T ERY I S TO[...]

  • Page 15

    5 Operation References Note: • N indicates a flashing display . Displayed f or 5 seconds Description of warning The card is not inserted or is inserted improperly . Check that it is properly inserted (see page 11 ). The capacity of the card is full and cannot stor e any more images. Delete unnecessary images (see page 78 ) or replace the card wit[...]

  • Page 16

    Preparation Preparation 6 Preparation Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack Attaching 1 Mak e sure that the P ower switch is set to OFF . 2 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body . 3 Slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow with the “ m ” mark f acing out. 4 Push the battery pack in the direction of the arrow u[...]

  • Page 17

    7 Preparation Removing 1 Make sure that the P ower switch is set to OFF , then open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body . 90 ˚ 2 Slide the battery release in the direction of the arrow . 3 T ake the battery pack out. Notes: • BEFORE REMOVING THE BA TTER Y P ACK, AL W A YS STOP RECORDING OR PLA Y- BA CK AND TURN THE PO WER OFF .[...]

  • Page 18

    Preparation Preparation 8 Charging the Batter y Pack 1 Attach the battery pack on the camcorder , and make sure that the P ower s witch is set to OFF . 2 Open the DC IN jac k cover . 3 Connect the supplied po wer cord to the AC po wer sock et on the AC adapter , and inser t the AC plug into a power outlet. 4 Insert the DC plug into the DC IN jack o[...]

  • Page 19

    9 Preparation Powering the Camcorder fr om an AC Outlet Y ou can also power the camcorder from a power outlet by using the supplied AC adapter . Note: • The supplied AC adapter is specially designed for use with this camcorder , and should not be used as a power supply for other camcorders. 1 Mak e sure that the Po wer switch is set to OFF . 2 Op[...]

  • Page 20

    Preparation Preparation 10 Inserting and Removing a Cassette Inserting 1 Attach the po wer source to the camcorder , then slide and hold the cassette compar tment door release as you open the cassette compart- ment door . • After confirmation sound, the cassette holder extends and opens automatically . 2 Insert a commercially availab le Mini D V [...]

  • Page 21

    11 Preparation Inserting and Removing a Card Y ou can use an SD Memor y Card (supplied with VL-Z5) or a MultiMediaCard (commer - cially available) for storing still images. Inserting 1 Mak e sure that the Po wer switch is set to OFF . 2 Open the card slot co ver . 3 Insert a card into the slot as shown below , and push it in fully . 4 Close the car[...]

  • Page 22

    Preparation Preparation 12 Installing the Lithium Batteries Installing the Memor y Batter y The supplied CR 1216 type lithium battery is used to store the memory of the date and time settings. 1 Mak e sure that the Po wer switch is set to OFF . 2 Open the LCD monitor to a 90 ° angle to the camcorder body . 3 Slide the battery release in the direct[...]

  • Page 23

    13 Preparation Installing the Battery to Remote Control (VL-Z5 only) The CR 2025 type lithium battery supplied with VL-Z5 is used to power the remote contr ol unit. 1 Hold the remote control f acing down, and pull out the battery holder while pressing the tab toward the centre . 2 Insert the larger lithium batter y into the battery holder with the [...]

  • Page 24

    Preparation Preparation 14 4 Press m or l to select “ EXECUTE ” , then press the centre of the Operation button. 5 Press the centre of the Oper ation button. 6 Press m or l to select “ 2 ” (day), then press the centre of the Operation button. 7 Press m or l to select “ 6 ” (month), then press the centre of the Operation button. 8 Press [...]

  • Page 25

    15 Preparation Changing to the 12-hour Time Mode 1 After perf or ming step 10 abov e, press l or m to select “ 12H/24H ” , then press the centre of the Operation button. 2 Press l or m to select “ 12H ” , then press the centre of the Operation button. 3 Press the DISPLA Y button to tur n off the menu screen. Notes: • The date and time, on[...]

  • Page 26

    Preparation Preparation 16 Adjusting the Hand Strap 1 Open the hand strap flap ( 1 ) and gr ip strap ( 2 ). 2 Loosen the g rip strap , pass your right hand through the hand strap , and put your thumb close to the Start/Stop button and y our middle finger on the P ower Zoom control. Then, pull the grip strap tight until it fits snugly . 3 Seal the V[...]

  • Page 27

    17 Preparation Using the Viewfinder Y ou can record the subject using the electronic viewfinder . Y ou can also watch playback through the viewfinder . 1 Pull out the vie wfinder completely . 2 Hold do wn the Lock button and set the P ower s witch to v or w . Detaching the Lens Hood Before using a commercially available conversion lens, detach the [...]

  • Page 28

    Preparation Preparation 18 Closing the viewfinder Push in the viewfinder completely . Notes: • Do not use excessive force when mo ving the viewfinder . • Do not pick up the camcorder b y the viewfinder . • The viewfinder automatically tur ns off when the LCD monitor is opened. If the vertical rotation of the monitor is 180 ° when in T ape Ca[...]

  • Page 29

    19 Preparation Using the LCD Monitor Y ou can use the LCD monitor to play back recordings that you have made or to watch the subject during recor ding. 1 Open the LCD monitor to a 90 ° angle to the camcorder body . 2 Adjust the LCD monitor to an angle that allow easy vie wing of the on- screen picture. • The LCD monitor rotates 270 ° vertically[...]

  • Page 30

    Preparation Preparation 20 Tips on Recording Positions T ur n the LCD monitor so that the screen faces upward. Balance your weight on both legs. T ur n the LCD monitor so that the screen faces downward. Place your elbows against your sides. T o create images that are easy to watch during playback, try to recor d with an upright posture and steady h[...]

  • Page 31

    Basic Operations 21 Basic Operations Camera Recording Selecting the Camcor der Mode This camcorder includes functions for use as both a video camera for recor ding and playing back images on tapes and as a digital still camera for recor ding and playing back still images on cards. One of the following camcorder modes needs to be set befor e star ti[...]

  • Page 32

    Basic Operations 22 Basic Operations Camera Recording Easy Camera Recording on T ape in Full Auto Mode A vailable mode: T ape Camera • Befor e you star t recording, perform the operations described on pages 6 through 20 to prepar e your camcorder for recor ding. 1 Remo ve the lens cap. 2 Set the Media Selection switch to V . 3 Hold do wn the Lock[...]

  • Page 33

    Basic Operations 23 PAUSE T o pause recording Press the Start/Stop button again. Record- ing pauses, and the camcorder enters Recording Standby mode. T o tur n the power off Set the Power switch to OFF without pressing the Lock button. Note: • If the camcorder remains in Recording Standby mode for more than 5 minutes in T ape Camera mode, the pow[...]

  • Page 34

    Basic Operations 24 Basic Operations Camera Recording Power Standby Mode A vailable mode: T ape Camera Power Standby mode allows you to prevent accidental recor ding by locking all operations except cancelling the mode. Hold down the ST ANDBY button for more than 2 seconds when you pause record- ing in T ape Camera mode. • The screen turns off an[...]

  • Page 35

    Basic Operations 25 Auto Focus A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera The camcorder is pr eset to Auto Focus mode, which is designed to focus on most types of subjects. In Auto Focus mode, the camcorder automatically focuses on the subject in the centre of the scene. Always keep the subject in the centre of the scene. Notes: • If no subject [...]

  • Page 36

    Basic Operations 26 Basic Operations Camera Recording 30 min Remaining Battery Power Display A vailable modes: All modes When using the camcorder with the battery pack as the power source, the r emaining battery power indicator is displayed. If the battery power becomes very low, a warning indicator appears. Replace the battery pack. Notes: • The[...]

  • Page 37

    Basic Operations 27 Note: • If you press the Start/Stop button in T ape Playback mode, the “ g ” mark appears and the camcorder enters Recording Standby mode. If you do not intend to recor d, press l to turn the “ g ” mark off, then press m to begin playback. This will ensure your previous recor ding is not erased (see pages 64–67). T o[...]

  • Page 38

    Basic Operations Playbac k Basic Operations 28 VOLUM E Video Sear ch A vailable mode: T ape Playback The video search function makes it easy to search for a desir ed scene on the tape. Searching for a Scene Near the Current T ape Position 1 During T ape Playbac k, press k (or j ) on the Operation button. • The playback picture fast forwar ds (or [...]

  • Page 39

    Basic Operations 29 OTHER S 1 EXECU T E ON ON OFF –+ BEEP RE M O T E DE FAUL T P HONES VOL D EMO MO D E RE TURN – + PH ONE S VO L Using Earphones (Commercially Available, VL-Z5 only) A vailable modes: T ape Playback, T ape Camera Y ou can monitor the sound via stereo earphones (commercially available) during playback or recor ding. Stereo earph[...]

  • Page 40

    Basic Operations Playbac k Basic Operations 30 W atching Playback on a TV A vailable modes: T ape Playback, Card Playback Y ou can connect the camcorder to a TV to allow a larger audience to enjoy playback. 1 Open the terminal cov er on the camcorder (see page 2). 2 Connect the camcorder to y our TV (or VCR) with the supplied audio/video/S- video c[...]

  • Page 41

    Useful Features 31 Operation button Media Selection switch DISPLA Y button Power switch Information display on Mode screen Information display off Example Example Useful Features Control Buttons Operation button Use the Operation button to select and set the desired setting. Using the Mode Screens In the mode screens, you can adjust the camcorder s[...]

  • Page 42

    Useful Features Useful Features 32 DISPLA Y button Operation button Media Selection switch Power switch Example Example Example Using the Menu Screens Use the menu screens to adjust the various camcorder settings. 1 Set to the desired camcorder mode by using the Media Selection s witch and the P ower s witch (see page 21). • See pages 102 to 105 [...]

  • Page 43

    Useful Features 33 Power Zoom control Digital zoom indicator Useful Features Camera Recording 5 Press l or m to select “DGTL ZOOM”, then press the centre of the Operation button. 6 Press l or m to select “40” or “500”, then press the centre of the Operation button. 7 Press the DISPLA Y button to tur n off the menu screen. The “D” di[...]

  • Page 44

    Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 34 Backlight Compensation (BLC) A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera When the subject is backlit, the image will appear dark if it is recor ded nor mally . Use the backlight compensation (BLC) function to improve the pictur e. • The example screens shown are for T ape Camera mode. 1 In T ape[...]

  • Page 45

    Useful Features 35 Gain-up A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera When you are r ecording in a dark or poorly illuminated location, “LIGHT” is displayed on the screen. Use the gain-up function to recor d a brighter picture. Note: • At locations wher e lighting is adequate, “LIGHT” will not appear . The gain-up function cannot be used[...]

  • Page 46

    Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 36 Fade In and Fade Out A vailable mode: T ape Camera The fade function allows you to gradually bring the image and sound in or out at the beginning or end of a scene for creating scene transitions. This is especially effective in creating a dramatic change in scenery . 4 Press the DISPLA Y button un[...]

  • Page 47

    Useful Features 37 Quick Return A vailable mode: T ape Camera If while playing back your tape you want to quickly return to the last recor ded scene and start recording again, use the quick return function. 1 Set the camcorder to T ape Camera mode. 2 In Recording Standb y mode, press the DISPLA Y button until the mode screen appears. 3 Press l or m[...]

  • Page 48

    Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 38 Still Recor ding on T ape A vailable mode: T ape Camera Y ou can r ecord continuous still images of subjects. 1 Set the camcorder to T ape Camera mode. 2 In Recording Standb y mode, press the PHO TO b utton fully . • A still image of the subject is displayed. 3 Press the Start/Stop button. • T[...]

  • Page 49

    Useful Features 39 Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) A vailable mode: T ape Camera The digital image stabilization (DIS) function allows you to stabilize the image by electronically compensating for r elatively minor image shaking that is often annoying in close-up shots. 1 In T ape Camera mode, press the DISPLA Y button until the mode screen appea[...]

  • Page 50

    Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 40 Self Recor ding Normal self recording A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera Open the LCD monitor and rotate it 180° vertically so that the screen faces the other way and the subject can monitor the shot while you are recor ding with the viewfinder . If the camcorder is steadied, you can r e[...]

  • Page 51

    Useful Features 41 Self recor ding with reversed grip A vailable mode: T ape Camera Rotate the grip 90 ° and the LCD monitor 180 ° vertically so that you can record yourself while holding the grip. 3 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body ( 1 ), and then rotate it 180° vertically ( 2 ). 4 Set the Media Selection s witch to V [...]

  • Page 52

    Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 42 Wide Screen (16:9) A vailable mode: T ape Camera The wide screen function lets you r ecord scenes with the wide-screen feel of a movie shown in a theatre The top and bottom of the picture ar e masked with black bands to produce an effective scr een aspect ratio of 16:9. 1 In T ape Camera mode, pre[...]

  • Page 53

    Useful Features 43 Recor ding in LP (Long Play Recor ding) Mode A vailable mode: T ape Camera This camcorder allows you to r ecord in LP (Long Play Recording) mode for appr oxi- mately 50% more r ecording time with the same picture quality as that in SP (Standar d Play Recording) mode. 1 In T ape Camera mode, press the DISPLA Y button until the mod[...]

  • Page 54

    Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 44 Windbreak A vailable mode: T ape Camera The windbreak function allows you to reduce annoying noise from str ong winds when recor ding. 1 In T ape Camera mode, press the DISPLA Y button until the mode screen appears (see page 31). 2 Press l or m on the Oper ation button to select “MENU”, then p[...]

  • Page 55

    Useful Features 45 Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode A vailable mode: T ape Camera The camcorder normally recor ds audio in the 12-bit audio recording mode. For higher - quality audio recording, select the 16-bit audio recor ding mode. 1 In T ape Camera mode, press the DISPLA Y button until the mode screen appears (see page 31). 2 Press l o[...]

  • Page 56

    Useful Features Playbac k Useful Features 46 Using the Remote Control (Only supplied with VL-Z5) A vailable modes: All modes Use the remote contr ol to operate the camcorder fr om a distance, such as when you want to recor d yourself in a scene, or when the camcorder is connected to a TV for use as a VCR. Activating • The example scr eens shown a[...]

  • Page 57

    Useful Features 47 T ape Playback Functions with the Remote Control (Only supplied with VL-Z5) A vailable mode: T ape Playback Y ou can use the following playback functions with the remote contr ol (only supplied with VL-Z5). (See page 46 for use of the remote contr ol.) The reverse playback function allows you to play back images in reverse. Durin[...]

  • Page 58

    Useful Features Playbac k Useful Features 48 Selecting the Date and Time of Recording Display A vailable modes: All modes Follow the procedur e below to select the date, or both the date and time, of recor ding display on the screen. Y ou can display the date and time during both recor ding and playback. • The example screens shown are for T ape [...]

  • Page 59

    Useful Features 49 Picture Ef fect Playback A vailable modes: T ape Playback, Card Playback These picture ef fects let you play back images with a more dramatic ef fect. 4 Press the DISPLA Y button to tur n off the mode screen. T o cancel Picture Effect Playbac k Select “OFF” in step 3 above. Notes: • Video images in Picture Effect Playback m[...]

  • Page 60

    Useful Features Playbac k Useful Features 50 Rotate Playback A vailable mode: T ape Playback This function allows you to play back images rotated 180°. 1 In T ape Playback mode , press the DISPLA Y button until the mode screen appears. 2 Press l or m on the Oper ation button to select “MENU”, then press the centre of the Operation b utton. 3 P[...]

  • Page 61

    Useful Features 51 Copying an Image fr om T ape to Card A vailable mode: T ape Playback Y ou can capture your favourite image frame from a video tape r ecording and save it on card. 1 Insert the recorded Mini D V cassette and a card in the camcorder . 2 Set the camcorder to T ape Playback mode, then begin tape pla yback. 3 Press m on the Oper ation[...]

  • Page 62

    Adv anced Features Camera Recording Useful Features 52 Power Zoom control Operation button DISPLA Y button Manual focus indicator Manual Focus A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera Auto Focus may not be able to focus on the subject in the situations shown below . In such situations, set the camcorder to Manual Focus mode and focus manually . [...]

  • Page 63

    Useful Features 53 Displaying the Manual Setting Scr een A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera Y ou can manually adjust these settings as shown below in the manual setting screen. • White Balance (see page 54) • Manual Iris (see page 55) • Manual Gain (see page 56) • The example screens shown are for T ape Camera mode. 1 In T ape Came[...]

  • Page 64

    Adv anced Features Camera Recording Useful Features 54 White paper or white cloth White Balance Lock A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera The colour of the subject on the screen looks differ ent depending on lighting conditions. Lock the White Balance if the Auto White Balance does not work properly . 1 In T ape Camera or Card Camera mode, p[...]

  • Page 65

    Useful Features 55 Manual Iris A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera The camcorder is pr eset to Auto Iris mode, which automatically selects the optimal aperture. However , when there is too much contrast in brightness between the subject and background, you may not be able to record a clear image. In this case, use the manual iris function t[...]

  • Page 66

    Adv anced Features Camera Recording Useful Features 56 Manual Gain A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera When recording in a dark or poorly illuminated location with Auto Gain mode, the light sensitivity of the camcorder (gain) will be automatically adjusted and the recor ded image may be brighter than the subject actually is. If you want to [...]

  • Page 67

    Useful Features 57 Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera Y ou can set all manual settings, including white balance, iris, gain, but not focus, to Full Auto mode in one operation. 1 In T ape Camera or Card Camera mode, press the DISPLA Y button until the mode screen appears. 2 Press l or m on the Oper at[...]

  • Page 68

    Adv anced Features Camera Recording Useful Features 58 Scene setting indicator Scene Menu (Program AE) A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera Y ou can set the camcorder to a shooting mode that will create the best r esults for a specific situation. Just select one of the six scene settings shown below . The camcorder will automatically set the[...]

  • Page 69

    Advanced Features 59 Using the Time Code A vailable modes: T ape Camera, T ape Playback The time code shows the hour , minute and second of recor ding, and the frame number (1 frame = approx. 1/25 sec.). This is automatically recor ded along with the subject when you are r ecording on the tape. Y ou can display the time code on the screen as an acc[...]

  • Page 70

    Adv anced Features Playbac k Advanced Features 60 Audio Dubbing Feature A vailable mode: T ape Playback Y ou can add narration to recordings made with this camcorder , while preserving the original audio and video recor dings. Microphone f or Audio Dubbing Y ou can use the built-in stereo microphone to recor d narration. Notes: • Audio dubbing do[...]

  • Page 71

    Advanced Features 61 Audio Dubbing 1 Pla y back the Mini D V cassette recorded in SP mode and locate the tape position where you wish to start audio dubbing. 2 Press m on the Oper ation button to pause playbac k. 3 Press the DISPLA Y button until the mode screen appears. 4 Press l or m to select “A UDIO DUB”, then press the centre of the Operat[...]

  • Page 72

    Adv anced Features Playbac k Advanced Features 62 Selecting the Audio Playback Mode A vailable mode: T ape Playback Y ou can select any of the following audio playback modes. Audio 1 H 2 • 12-bit recording in ster eo (Audio 1 and Audio 2 channels) • 16-bit recording in ster eo (left and right channels) Audio 1 • 12-bit recording in ster eo (A[...]

  • Page 73

    Advanced Features 63 Editing A vailable mode: T ape Playback Video editing lets you r efine your videos by removing unwanted sequences fr om your tape, or transposing one sequence with another . This camcorder lets you monitor the sour ce program on the built-in LCD monitor without having to connect it to an external TV or video monitor . Preparati[...]

  • Page 74

    Adv anced Features Playbac k Advanced Features 64 Recording fr om an External Source A vailable mode: T ape Playback Y ou can use this camcorder to recor d or edit videos from another sour ce, such as a VCR or TV . Preparation Connect the camcorder to the source equipment with the supplied audio/video/S- video cable , as shown. Notes: • See page [...]

  • Page 75

    Advanced Features 65 T o Record from an External Source 1 In T ape Playback mode , press the DISPLA Y button until the mode screen appears. 2 Select “ MENU ” , then “ EXECUTE ” by using the Operation button (see page 32). 3 Press l or m to select ~ , then press the centre of the Operation button. 4 Press l or m to select “ S-VIDEO IN ” [...]

  • Page 76

    Adv anced Features Playbac k Advanced Features 66 Editing with the DV T erminal (IEEE1394) A vailable mode: T ape Playback This camcorder can be used as a digital video editor . A DV cable transfers all dubbing signals including video and audio directly to the camcor der . Preparation Connect the camcorder to video equipment with a D V terminal usi[...]

  • Page 77

    Advanced Features 67 T o Record from V ideo Equip- ment 1 Set the camcorder to T ape Playback mode, and insert a Mini D V cassette. 2 Begin pla yback on the video equip- ment connected to the camcorder . • Check the camcorder scr een to see if the picture is pr operly received. 3 Press the Start/Stop button on the camcorder . • The camcorder en[...]

  • Page 78

    Adv anced Features Playbac k Advanced Features 68 AV-OUT VIDEO S-VIDEO L-AUDIO-R (MONO) : Using the Camcorder as a Converter A vailable mode: T ape Playback Y ou can use this camcorder to convert from analog signal (e.g. video recorded on 8 mm or Hi8 tapes) to digital signal. Preparation Connect the audio/video/S-video cable and D V cable as sho wn[...]

  • Page 79

    Advanced Features 69 7 Press the DISPLA Y button to tur n off the menu screen. 8 Press the Pla y button on the analog equipment • Check the monitor on the digital equipment to see if the picture is being properly r eceived. 9 Press the Record b utton on the digital equipment. Notes: • The camcorder is not guaranteed to work with all digital/ana[...]

  • Page 80

    Digital Still Camera Features Camera Recording Digital Still Camera Features 70 Number of shots taken/remaining Power switch Media Selection switch PHOTO button Lock button Power Zoom control Digital Still Camera Features Camera Recording Card Recor ding A vailable mode: Card Camera Y ou can take a still picture in the same way as you do with a sta[...]

  • Page 81

    Digital Still Camera Features 71 Picture quality indicator Appro ximate number of record- able images with 8 MB SD memory card Selecting the Picture Quality A vailable mode: Card Camera The picture quality of still images r ecorded on the card depends on the pictur e quality setting. Select the appropriate setting to match your recor ding objective[...]

  • Page 82

    Digital Still Camera Features Camera Recording Digital Still Camera Features 72 Self-timer operating indicator Recording with the Self-timer A vailable mode: Card Camera The self-timer function allows you to recor d images after a time-lag of 10 seconds. This is convenient when you want to recor d an image of you and your friends together . 1 In Ca[...]

  • Page 83

    Digital Still Camera Features 73 SEL E CT F ORMA T ALL D ATA BE NO YES ER ASE D. WI L L SET Formatting a Card A vailable mode: Card Camera Before using a commer cially available card with this camcorder , you must first have it formatted. Also, if any of the following warning indicators displays, you will need to format your card. • “FORMA T ME[...]

  • Page 84

    Digital Still Camera Features Camera Recording Digital Still Camera Features 74 Setting the File Numbering Method A vailable mode: Card Camera The camcorder automatically assigns file numbers to captured images. Y ou can select two differ ent methods of file number - ing. 1 In Card Camer a mode, press the DISPLA Y button until the mode screen appea[...]

  • Page 85

    Digital Still Camera Features 75 Playback image number/ number of recor dings Lock button Page number/total thumbnail pages Media Selection switch Operation button Power switch Image file name Picture quality indicator Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Card Playback A vailable mode: Card Playback Y ou can play back and view still images recor[...]

  • Page 86

    Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Digital Still Camera Features 76 ZOOM button Playback zoom indicator Playback Zoom with the Remote Contr ol (Only supplied with VL-Z5) A vailable mode: Card Playback The playback zoom function allows you to magnify the playback picture up to 10 times its original size and shift the magnified picture by using [...]

  • Page 87

    Digital Still Camera Features 77 Delete protection indicator PROTECT indicator Delete Pr otection A vailable mode: Card Playback Y ou can prevent your important images recorded on the car d from accidental erasure. 1 In Card Pla yback mode, press the DISPLA Y button until the mode screen appears. 2 Press l or m on the Oper ation button to select ?[...]

  • Page 88

    Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Digital Still Camera Features 78 DELETE indicator Deleting Stored Images A vailable mode: Card Playback Deleting One Stored Image Y ou can delete unwanted images to free up memory of a card for new images. Note: • Deleted images cannot be restored. Check whether or not you want the images before performing [...]

  • Page 89

    Digital Still Camera Features 79 DELETE ALL? indicator Deleting All Stored Images Y ou can delete all stored images on a card in one operation. Notes: • Deleted images cannot be restored. Check whether or not you want the images before performing the procedure below . • If you want to keep some images on the card, first delete-protect them (see[...]

  • Page 90

    Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Digital Still Camera Features 80 Number of printouts PRINT indicator M indicator Print Order A vailable mode: Card Playback The print order function allows you to add print information called DPOF to still images recorded on a car d. About DPOF DPOF (Digital Printing Order Format) defines the print informatio[...]

  • Page 91

    Digital Still Camera Features 81 M indicator T o cancel the print order for an ima ge 1 Select the image f or cancelling out of print order in step 6 above , then press the centre of the Operation b utton. 2 Press l to select “0”, then press the centre of the Operation b utton. • The M indicator disappears. 3 Press the DISPLA Y button to fini[...]

  • Page 92

    Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Digital Still Camera Features 82 T ransferring Data on Card to Computer Using the supplied USB cable, you can transfer still images to a computer . System Requirements • Operating systems — Microsoft Windows b XP Home Edition/Professional — Microsoft Windows b 2000 Professional — Microsoft Windows b M[...]

  • Page 93

    Digital Still Camera Features 83 3 Clic k the “USB driver” button. • Welcome scr een appears. 4 Clic k the “Ne xt” b utton. • Information screen appears 5 Clic k the “Ne xt” b utton. • Installation begins. 6 Confirm the message on the screen, and then click the “Finish” b utton to complete the installation. Note: • If your c[...]

  • Page 94

    Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Digital Still Camera Features 84 Serial number (100 to 999) Sub-folder of still images Folder of still image files Still image T ransfer indicator Image Folders and File Names Double-click the My Computer icon on the PC and find a new drive called “Removable Disk (F:)” (or other drive letter , depending o[...]

  • Page 95

    Digital Still Camera Features 85 Slide Show Playback A vailable mode: Card Playback Y ou can automatically play back consecu- tive still images recor ded on a card at intervals of 5 seconds. This is useful when confirming the data recorded on a car d. 1 Set the camcorder to Card Pla yback mode. 2 Press j , k , l or m on the Operation button to sele[...]

  • Page 96

    Appendix Appendix 86 Darker Brighter Decrease Darker Increase Brighter – + – + – + LCD BR I G HT LCD COLO U R V F BR I GHT 6 Press j or k to adjust the item to the desired setting, then press the centre of the Operation b utton. Appendix Picture/Backlight Adjustments A vailable modes: All modes If the picture is dif ficult to see due to ambie[...]

  • Page 97

    Appendix 87 Adjusting the Backlight 1 Press the DISPLA Y button until the mode screen appears. 2 Press l or m on the Oper ation button to select “MENU”, then press the centre of the Operation b utton. 3 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”, then press the centre of the Operation button. 4 Press l or m to select O , then press the centre of the [...]

  • Page 98

    Appendix Appendix 88 T ur ning off the Confirmation Sound A vailable modes: All modes A confirmation sound is made when you turn on or off the Power switch, press the Start/Stop button, or per form other designated operations. Use the procedur e below to turn off the confirmation sounds. • The example screens shown are for T ape Camera mode. 1 Pr[...]

  • Page 99

    Appendix 89 Setting the Camcorder to Factory Presettings A vailable modes: All modes Y ou can set the camcorder to the factory presettings in one operation. • The example screens shown are for T ape Camera mode. 1 Press the DISPLA Y button until the mode screen appears. 2 Press l or m on the Oper ation button to select “MENU”, then press the [...]

  • Page 100

    Appendix Appendix 90 Demonstration Mode A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera Y ou can watch a brief demonstration of the special camcorder featur es in Demo mode. If the demonstration appears on the screen when you turn on the camcorder for the first time, cancel the Demo mode to use your camcorder . W atching • The example screens shown a[...]

  • Page 101

    Appendix 91 Position the subject in the centre. Focus manually when you need to position the subject off centr e (see page 52). Useful Information Hints for Better Shooting • Position the subject in the centr e of the scene. When using auto focus, whatever is in the centre of the scene is kept in focus. • A void backlit subjects. For the best p[...]

  • Page 102

    Appendix Appendix 92 Mini DV Cassette Precautions when using a Mini D V cassette • Be sur e to use only Mini DV cassettes with the i mark. • This camcor der can record and play back using Mini DV cassettes with cassette memory , but it cannot recor d or play back this memory . • T o record in LP mode, use a Mini DV cassette labelled for use w[...]

  • Page 103

    Appendix 93 SD Memory Card and MultiMediaCard SD (Secure Digital) Memory Cards and MultiMediaCards ar e small, handy and flexible storage media used in a variety of mobile applications. They are one of the smallest memory solutions available on the market. This camcorder uses either an SD Memory Card or a MultiMediaCar d. It cannot use a SmartM[...]

  • Page 104

    Appendix Appendix 94 Battery Pack This camcorder uses a lithium-ion type battery pack. Charging • Charge the battery pack immediately (or a day) before use. The battery pack gradually self-discharges even if stored in a fully charged state. • Charge the battery pack between 10°C and 30°C. • Fully charge the battery pack. Use of an insuffici[...]

  • Page 105

    Appendix 95 Window cleaning cover AC Adapter • The AC adapter may interfere with reception if used near a radio. • Pr event flammables, liquids, and metal objects from entering the adapter . • The adapter is a sealed unit. Do not attempt to open or modify it. • Do not damage, dr op, or subject the adapter to vibration. • Do not leave the [...]

  • Page 106

    Appendix Appendix 96 Using Y our Camcorder Abroad T elevision signal standards and electrical voltages and frequencies vary substantially from country to country . When you are abroad, check the sections below befor e using the AC adapter or connecting the camcorder to a TV . A C Adapter (Supplied Accessory) The supplied AC adapter is compatible wi[...]

  • Page 107

    Appendix 97 T roubleshooting Before calling for service, please check the following tr oubleshooting table. Symptom No power . Start/Stop button does not work. Power suddenly turns off. Auto focus does not work. Bright subject pro- duces wide vertical lines. Display automatically changes in T ape Camera mode. P ower Camera mode Suggested solution C[...]

  • Page 108

    Appendix Appendix 98 Symptom No image appears on connected TV screen. No image from an ex- ternal source ap- pears on the camcorder screen. Cannot rewind or fast forward tape. Video noise in image. No sound. T ape does not work. Still images in Card mode are rotated 180° upside down. Motion images are rotated 180° upside down. Possib le cause Vid[...]

  • Page 109

    Appendix 99 Symptom Cannot delete image on card. Cannot format card. Battery pack is easily depleted. Clock has been re- set. Cassette will not eject. No image on monitor . Viewfinder picture is hard to see. Monitor picture is hard to see. POWER/CHARGE (RED) indicator flashes in red when charging battery pack. Cannot edit to con- nected VCR. Possib[...]

  • Page 110

    Appendix Appendix 100 Notes: • This unit is equipped with a microprocessor . Its per formance could be adversely affected by external electrical noise or interference. If this should happen, turn off the power and disconnect the unit from any power sour ces, including the lithium batter y , etc. Then reconnect the power sources to resume operatio[...]

  • Page 111

    Appendix 101 Specifications Camcorder Signal System: P AL standard Recording System: 2 rotary heads, helical scanning system Cassette: Digital VCR Mini DV video cassette Recording/Playback Time: 90 minutes (DVM60, LP mode) T ape Speed: SP mode: 18.831 mm/second LP mode: 12.568 mm/second Pickup Device: 1 ⁄ 4 " (6.4 mm, effective size: 4.5 mm)[...]

  • Page 112

    Appendix Appendix 102 On-screen Display Index A U T O AUT O 3 0 min AUT O A U T O AUT O 3 0 min AUT O SELEC T SET BLC GA I N / OF F FADE M EN U SC EN E M EN U FADE M EN U SC EN E M EN U M ANU AL SE T FOCUS AUTO FOCUS DATE D I SP . SE T T I NG 1 QK. DGT L RE T URN ZOO M TAPE SPEED RETUR N SE T T I NG 2 DIS 16 9 : AUD I O M O DE RE TURN W IN D OTHE R[...]

  • Page 113

    Appendix 103 DIS P . DUB EFFE CT SELEC T SE T OF F OTHE RS 1 BEEP RE M O T E DE FAUL T RE TURN LCD SE T BACK L I GHT L C D BR I GHT LCD CO LO U R RE T URN V F B RIG H T DA T E D I S P. AUD I O DUB PI C . E FFE CT M EN U DA T E A U DIO PIC . M EN U PLAYB A CK AUD I O ANLG DGTL RE T URN SE T OTHE RS 2 T I ME CODE TC O U T RE TURN S - VID E O IN ROTA [...]

  • Page 114

    Appendix Appendix 104 A U T O AUT O AUT O A U T O AUT O AUT O SELEC T SET OF F M EN U SC EN E M EN U SE L F T I MER M EN U SC EN E M EN U M ANU AL SE L F T I M ER SE T FOCUS AUTO FOCUS DATE D I SP . LCD SE T BACK L I GHT L C D BR I GHT LCD CO LO U R RE T URN V F B RIG H T OTHER S 2 OTHE RS 1 BEEP RE M O T E DE FAUL T RE TURN DE M O RE TURN FO R M A[...]

  • Page 115

    Appendix 105 SELEC T SE T E XEC UTE LCD SE T BACK L I GHT L C D BR I GHT LCD CO LO U R RE T URN V F B RIG H T / 0 11 0 OTHE RS BEEP RE M O T E DE FAUL T RE TURN 0 1 0 0 - 0 0 2 / 2 PAGE NO RMA L 1 FU LL SEL E CT IM G M U L T I 7 0 1 89 / 0 11 0 NOR MA L F UL L S E L E C T I M G MU LT I FU LL SEL E CT IM G M U L T I FULL M U L TI M EN U DE L E T E O[...]

  • Page 116

    Note[...]

  • Page 117

    VL-Z5E/VL-Z3E-E/hyou; 03/02/26/18:00 SHARP CORPORATION VL-Z5E ENGLISH OPERA TION MANU AL LIQUID CR Y ST AL DISPLA Y CAMCORDER VL-Z5E VL-Z3E OPERATION MANUAL Printed in Japan TINSLA057WJZZ 03P04-JKG VL-Z3E[...]