Sharp VL-Z500E manual

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Table of contents for the manual

  • Page 1

    VL-Z500E-Cover; 04/2/23/18:00 OPERATION MANUAL SHARP CORPORATION VL-Z500E -T/S ENGLISH Printed on 100% post-consumer r ecycled paper . Printed in Malaysia TINSLA113WJN1 04P03-M-G LIQUID CR YST AL DISPLA Y CAMCORDER OPERATION MANUAL H2732778 6848310 — PixLab Install Ke y VL-Z500E -T/S[...]

  • Page 2

    ENGLISH OPERA TION MANU AL W ARNING T o prevent fire or shoc k hazar d, 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 T o prevent electric shocks and fire hazar ds, do NOT[...]

  • Page 3

    i W ARNING: This Camcorder m ust be supplied only with DC 7.4 v olts from a BT - L227 battery or the AC adapter (U ADP-A053WJZZ). CA UTION: As there are no user-serviceable parts inside the Camcor der or A C adapter , do NO T remove their cabinets as touc hing parts inside could result in electric shock. Please refer servicing to a qualified dealer[...]

  • Page 4

    ii Part Names ............................................................. 1 W arning 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 ..................................................... 32 Using the Mode Screens ...................................... 32 Using the Menu Screens ....................................... 33 Camera Recording Setting the Digital Zoom ....................................... 34 Backlight Compensation (BLC) ............[...]

  • Page 6

    iv Adv anced Features Playbac k Using the Time Code ............................................ 66 Editing ................................................................... 67 Recording fr om an External Source ...................... 68 Editing with the DV T erminal (IEEE1394) .............. 70 Using the Camcorder as a Converter ................[...]

  • Page 7

    v Supplied Accessories Battery pack BT -L227 AC adapter Audio/video/S-video cable CR2032 type lithium battery for remote contr ol CR1216 type lithium battery for camcorder Lens cap CD-ROM Remote control USB cable Standar d-life battery pack BT -L227 Optional Accessories Power cord External battery with hand strap BT -LCA1 Note: • Some of these ac[...]

  • Page 8

    vi Precautions • Before recording an important scene, please perform the recor ding test, then playback to c hec k if the scene was re- corded pr operly . If noise occurs, use a commercially a vailab le cleaning tape to clean the video heads (see page viii). • When the camcorder is not in use, re- member to remove the cassette tape, turn off th[...]

  • 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 dew f orms 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 he[...]

  • 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 vailab le mode: T[...]

  • Page 11

    Operation References 1 Operation Ref erences Par t Names For details on the use of each part, refer to the page number indicated in parentheses. Front vie w Zoom lens DISPLA Y/MODE SET button ( p. 32 )/ LCD LAMP button ( p. 25 ) Operation button ( p. 32 ) Built-in LED video light ( p. 37 ) Stereo micr ophone MENU button ( p. 33 ) VL-Z500E-E-001-005[...]

  • Page 12

    Operation References Operation References 2 Lithium battery cover ( p. 12 ) T ripod socket* Card slot cover ( p. 11 ) Left view Dioptre adjustment dial ( p. 19 ) 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. 20 ) Earphones jack ( p. 28 ) DV terminal [...]

  • Page 13

    Operation References 3 Viewfinder ( pp. 18, 19 ) Power Zoom Wide angle/ T elephoto control ( p. 24 )/ VOLume control ( p. 30 ) Media Selection switch ( V T ape mode/ u Card mode selection switch) ( p. 22 ) Record Start/Stop button ( p. 23 ) PHOTO button ( pp. 40, 54, 76 ) Power switch ( v Camera Recording mode/ w Playback mode select switch) ( p. 2[...]

  • Page 14

    Operation References Operation References 4 W arning Indicators If a warning indicator appears on the screen, follow the specified instructions. Display ed for 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 R T A CA SSE TTE. BAT TE RY I S T[...]

  • Page 15

    Operation References 5 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 84 ) or replace the card wit[...]

  • Page 16

    Preparation Preparation 6 Preparation Attaching and Removing the Batter y Pack Attaching 1 Make sure that the P ower s witch 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 ” mar k f acing out. 4 Push the battery pack in the direction of the arrow[...]

  • Page 17

    Preparation 7 Removing 1 Make sure that the P ower s witch is set to OFF , then open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body . 2 Slide the batter y release in the direction of the arrow . 3 T ake the battery pack out. Notes: • BEFORE REMO VING THE B A TTER Y P ACK, AL W A YS ST OP RECORDING OR PLA Y- BA CK AND TURN THE POWER OFF . R[...]

  • Page 18

    Preparation Preparation 8 Charging the Batter y Pack 1 Attach the battery pack to the camcorder , and make sure that the P ower s witch is set to OFF . 2 Connect the supplied power cord to the A C pow er sock et on the A C adapter , and inser t the AC plug into a pow er outlet. 3 Insert the DC plug into the DC IN jac k of the camcorder . • The PO[...]

  • Page 19

    Preparation 9 Powering the Camcorder fr om an AC Outlet Y ou can also power the camcorder fr om 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 Make sure that the Power switch is set to OFF . 2 Con[...]

  • Page 20

    Preparation Preparation 10 Inserting and Removing a Cassette Inserting 1 Attach the power 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 Inser t a commercially a vailable Mini D V [...]

  • Page 21

    Preparation 11 Inserting and Removing a Card Y ou can use an SD Memory Card (commer - cially available) or a MultiMediaCard (commercially available) for storing still images. Inserting 1 Make sure that the P ower s witch is set to OFF . 2 Open the card slot cov er . 3 Inser t a card into the slot as shown below , and push it in fully . 4 Close the [...]

  • Page 22

    Preparation Preparation 12 Installing the Lithium Batteries Installing the Memor y Batter y The supplied CR1216 type lithium battery is used to store the memory of the date and time settings. 1 Make sure that the P ower s witch is set to OFF . 2 Open the LCD monitor to a 90 ° angle to the camcorder body . 3 Slide the batter y release in the direct[...]

  • Page 23

    Preparation 13 Installing the Battery to Remote Control The supplied CR2032 type lithium battery is used to power the remote control unit. 1 Insert a pointed object such as the tip of a ballpoint pen to open the batter y holder . 2 Place the larger lithium battery on the battery holder with the H side facing down. 3 Close the battery holder until i[...]

  • Page 24

    Preparation Preparation 14 3 Press the centre of the Operation button. 4 Press m or l to select “ 2 ” (day), then press the centre of the Operation button. 5 Press m or l to select “ 6 ” (month), then press the centre of the Operation button. 6 Press m or l to select “ 2005 ” (y ear), then press the centre of the Operation button. 7 Pre[...]

  • Page 25

    Preparation 15 Changing to the 12-hour Time Mode 1 After perf orming step 8 above, 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 MENU button to turn off the menu screen. Notes: • The date and time, once set, [...]

  • Page 26

    Preparation Preparation 16 When recording, r emove the lens cap and attach the lens cap cord to the fastener so that the cap will not get in the way . Note: • Always attach the lens cap over the lens when not using the camcorder . Using the Lens Cap Attach the strap of the lens cap to the hand strap as shown below . When attaching or removing the[...]

  • Page 27

    Preparation 17 Adjusting the Hand Strap 1 Open the hand strap flap ( 1 ) and grip strap ( 2 ). 2 Loosen the grip strap , pass your right hand through the hand strap , and put your thumb close to the Record Start/ Stop button and y our inde x finger on the P o wer Zoom control. Then, pull the grip strap tight until it fits snugly . 3 Seal the V elcr[...]

  • Page 28

    Preparation Preparation 18 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 viewfinder completely . 2 Hold down the Loc k button and set the P ower switch to v or w . Detaching the Lens Hood Before using a commercially available conversion lens, d[...]

  • Page 29

    Preparation 19 Closing the viewfinder Push in the viewfinder completely . Notes: • Do not use excessive for ce when moving the viewfinder . • Do not pick up the camcor der by the viewfinder . • The viewfinder automatically turns off when the LCD monitor is opened. If the vertical rotation of the monitor is 180° when in T ape Camera or Card C[...]

  • Page 30

    Preparation Preparation 20 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 viewing of the on- screen picture. • The LCD monitor rotates 270° v[...]

  • Page 31

    Preparation 21 Tips on Recording Positions T urn the LCD monitor so that the screen faces upward. Balance your weight on both legs. T urn 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 hands to preven[...]

  • Page 32

    Basic Operations 22 Basic Operations Camera Recording Basic Operations Camera Recording Selecting the Camcorder Mode This camcorder includes functions for use as both a video camera for recording 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[...]

  • Page 33

    Basic Operations 23 Easy Camera Recording on T ape in Full Auto Mode A vailable mode: T ape Camera • Before you start r ecording, perform the operations described on pages 6 through 21 to prepare your camcor der for recording. 1 Remov e the lens cap . 2 Set the Media Selection s witch to V . 3 Hold down the Lock b utton and set the P ower switch [...]

  • Page 34

    Basic Operations 24 Basic Operations Camera Recording PAUSE T o pause recording Press the Recor d Start/Stop button again. Recording pauses, and the camcor der enters Recording Standby mode. T o tur n the power off Set the Power switch to OFF without pressing the Lock button. Remaining in Recor ding Standby mode f or 5 minutes If the camcorder r em[...]

  • Page 35

    Basic Operations 25 Power Standby Mode A vailab le 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 b utton for more than 2 seconds when you pause record- ing in T ape Camera mode. • The screen turns off and the ST ANDBY indicator lights [...]

  • Page 36

    Basic Operations 26 Basic Operations Camera Recording Auto Focus A vailab le modes: T ape Camera, Car d 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 [...]

  • Page 37

    Basic Operations 27 Information Display for Batter y Usage A vailable modes: All modes When the camcorder operates with the battery pack, the battery usage indicator appears beside the remaining battery power indicator . When both indicators appear , the camcorder consumes power from both battery packs. When one indicator appears, it consumes power[...]

  • Page 38

    Basic Operations 28 Basic Operations Camera Recording SE TT I NG 2 DI S AUD I O M O DE RE TURN W IN D P H ONES VOL ON OFF –+ 12 bit – + PH ONE S V OL Using Earphones (Commercially Available) A vailable modes: T ape Camera, T ape Playback Y ou can monitor the sound via stereo earphones (commercially available) during playback or recor ding. Ster[...]

  • Page 39

    Basic Operations 29 Note: • If you press the Record Start/Stop button in T ape Playback mode, the “ g ” mark appears and the camcorder enters Recor ding Standby mode. If you do not intend to record, press l to turn the “ g ” mark off, then pr ess m to begin playback. This will ensure your previous r ecording is not erased (see pages 68–[...]

  • Page 40

    Basic Operations Playbac k Basic Operations 30 VOL U M E Video Sear ch A vailable mode: T ape Playback The video search function makes it easy to search for a desired 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 forwards (or [...]

  • Page 41

    Basic Operations 31 W atching Playback on a TV A vailab le 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 cover on the camcorder (see page 2). 2 Connect the camcorder to your TV (or VCR) with the supplied audio/video/ S-video cable, as shown. About the S-[...]

  • Page 42

    Useful Features Useful Features 32 Operation button Media Selection switch DISPLA Y/MODE SET 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 c[...]

  • Page 43

    Useful Features 33 MENU 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 switch (see page 22). • See pages 110 to 113 for the menu items yo[...]

  • Page 44

    Useful Features Useful Features 34 Power Zoom control Digital zoom indicator Useful Features Camera Recording The “D” digital zoom indicator is displayed during digital zooming. T o use optical zoom only Select “OFF” in step 4 above. Setting the Digital Zoom A vailable mode: T ape Camera Y ou can select three dif ferent zoom ranges: 1–10 [...]

  • Page 45

    Useful Features 35 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 normally . Use the backlight compensation (BLC) function to brighten the entire scr een. • The example screens shown are for T ape Camera mode. 1 In T ape Camera or Card Camera mode[...]

  • Page 46

    Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 36 Gain-up A vailab le 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 record a brighter pictur e. Note: • At locations where lighting is adequate, “LIGHT” will not appear . Th[...]

  • Page 47

    Useful Features 37 Built-in LED video light Using the Built-in LED Video Light A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera Y ou can use the built-in LED video light to brighten the scene when natural lighting is too dim. • The example screens shown are for T ape Camera mode. 1 In T ape Camera or Card Camera mode, press the DISPLA Y/MODE SET butto[...]

  • Page 48

    Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 38 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/MODE SET [...]

  • Page 49

    Useful Features 39 Quick Retur n A vailable mode: T ape Camera If while playing back your tape you want to quickly return to the last recorded scene and start recording again, use the quick return function. 1 Set the camcorder to T ape Camera mode. 2 In Recording Standby mode , press the MENU button to displa y the menu screen. 3 Press l or m on th[...]

  • Page 50

    Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 40 Still Recor ding on T ape A vailab le mode: T ape Camera Y ou can record continuous still images of subjects. 1 Set the camcorder to T ape Camera mode. 2 In Recording Standby mode, press the PHO TO button fully . • A still image of the subject is displayed. 3 Press the Record Star t/ Stop button[...]

  • Page 51

    Useful Features 41 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 MENU button to displa y the menu screen. 2 [...]

  • Page 52

    Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 42 Wide Mode A vailable mode: T ape Camera The wide screen function lets you recor d 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, press the M[...]

  • Page 53

    Useful Features 43 Power Save Mode A vailable modes: All modes Power save mode will turn off the camcorder automatically to save battery power when the camcorder is not in use for 5 or 10 minutes. Note: • T o resume recording or playback, set the Power switch to OFF , then back to v or w . • The example screens shown are for T ape Camera mode. [...]

  • Page 54

    Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 44 Self Recording Nor mal self r ecording 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 r ecording with the viewfinder . If the camcorder is steadied, you can r [...]

  • Page 55

    Useful Features 45 Self recor ding with reversed grip A vailable mode: T ape Camera Rotate the grip 105° 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 56

    Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 46 Recording in LP (Long Play Recor ding) Mode A vailab le 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 [...]

  • Page 57

    Useful Features 47 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 MENU button to displa y the menu screen. 2 Press l or m on the Operation[...]

  • Page 58

    Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 48 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 MENU button to displa y the menu screen. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select Y , then press the centre of the Operat[...]

  • Page 59

    Useful Features 49 Using the Remote Control A vailable modes: All modes Use the remote control to operate the camcorder fr om a distance, such as when you want to record yourself in a scene, or when the camcorder is connected to a TV for use as a VCR. Activating • The example scr eens shown are for T ape Playback mode. 1 Press the MENU button to [...]

  • Page 60

    Useful Features Playbac k Useful Features 50 T ape Playback Functions with the Remote Control A vailable mode: T ape Playback Y ou can use the following playback functions with the supplied remote contr ol. (See page 49 for use of the remote contr ol.) The reverse playback function allows you to play back images in reverse. During T ape Playback, p[...]

  • Page 61

    Useful Features 51 Selecting the Date and Time of Recording Display A vailab le 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 Playback mode. 1 Press th[...]

  • Page 62

    Useful Features Playbac k Useful Features 52 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/MODE SET button to turn off the mode screen. T o cancel picture effect pla yback Select “OFF” in step 3 above. Notes: • Video i[...]

  • Page 63

    Useful Features 53 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 MENU button to displa y the menu screen. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select V , then press the centre of the Operation button. 3 Press l or m to select “RO T A TE PB”, t[...]

  • Page 64

    Useful Features Playbac k Useful Features 54 Copying an Image from T ape to Car d A vailable mode: T ape Playback Y ou can capture your favourite image frame from a video tape recor ding and save it on card. 1 Inser t the recorded Mini D V cassette and a card in the camcorder . 2 Set the camcorder to T ape Playbac k mode, then begin tape pla yback.[...]

  • Page 65

    Useful Features 55 Stretch Playback A vailable mode: T ape Playback Stretch playback allows you to playback a squeezed image with the wide screen feel of a movie shown in a theater . Useful when you want to play back images recor ded by a camera other than this camcorder in wide mode on a 4:3 TV . 1 In T ape Playback mode, press the DISPLA Y/MODE S[...]

  • Page 66

    Adv anced Features Camera Recording Advanced Features 56 Power Zoom control Operation button DISPLA Y/MODE SET 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 [...]

  • Page 67

    Advanced Features 57 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 pages 58, 59) • Manual Iris (see page 60) • Manual Gain (see page 61) • Shutter speed (see pages 62, 63) • The example screens show[...]

  • Page 68

    Adv anced Features Camera Recording Advanced Features 58 Adjusting White Balance A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera The colour of the subject on the screen looks different depending on lighting conditions. Selecting a White Balance setting that matches the lighting conditions. Selecting 1 In T ape Camera or Card Camera mode, press the DISP[...]

  • Page 69

    Advanced Features 59 Locking 1 Select “LOCK MODE” in step 4 in “Selecting” on the pre vious page. 2 Aim the lens at a white object. • Adjust the distance of the object so that the entire screen is white. 3 Press the centre of the Operation button to set the white balance loc k. • “LOCK MODE” will change to “LOCK” after pressing [...]

  • Page 70

    Adv anced Features Camera Recording Advanced Features 60 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 thi[...]

  • Page 71

    Advanced Features 61 Manual Gain A vailab le modes: T ape Camera, Car d 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 recorded image may be brighter than the subject actually is. If you want to faithfully record a dark scene in[...]

  • Page 72

    Adv anced Features Camera Recording Advanced Features 62 Setting the Shutter Speed A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera The shutter speed is preset to auto mode, which automatically selects the optimal shutter speed for the ambient light. However , depending on the subject or situation, you may want to set the shutter speed manually to creat[...]

  • Page 73

    Advanced Features 63 Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera Y ou can set all the settings shown in the screen to Full Auto mode in one operation. 1 In T ape Camera or Card Camera mode, press the DISPLA Y/MODE SET button until the mode screen appears. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select “MA[...]

  • Page 74

    Adv anced Features Camera Recording Advanced Features 64 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 t[...]

  • Page 75

    Advanced Features 65 Digital Picture Effects A vailable mode: T ape Camera These digital picture ef fects let you recor d the subject with a more dramatic effect. 1 In T ape Camera mode, press the DISPLA Y/MODE SET b utton until the mode screen appears. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select “ PIC .EFFECT ” , then press the centre of [...]

  • Page 76

    Adv anced Features Playbac k Advanced Features 66 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 recor ding on the tape. Y ou can display the time[...]

  • Page 77

    Advanced Features 67 Editing A vailable mode: T ape Playback Video editing lets you refine 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 . Preparatio[...]

  • Page 78

    Adv anced Features Playbac k Advanced Features 68 Recording fr om an External Source A vailable mode: T ape Playback Y ou can use this camcorder to r ecord 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 2[...]

  • Page 79

    Advanced Features 69 T o Record fr om an External Source 1 In T ape Playback mode, press the MENU button to displa y the menu screen. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select Z , then press the centre of the Operation button. 3 Press l or m to select “ S-VIDEO IN ” , then press the centre of the Operation button. 4 Press l or m to selec[...]

  • Page 80

    Adv anced Features Playbac k Advanced Features 70 Editing with the DV T er minal (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 camcorder . Preparation Connect the camcorder to video equipment with a D V ter minal us[...]

  • Page 81

    Advanced Features 71 T o Record fr om Video Equip- ment 1 Set the camcorder to T ape Playbac k mode, and insert a Mini D V cassette. 2 Begin playbac k on the video equip- ment connected to the camcorder . • Check the camcorder screen to see if the picture is pr operly received. 3 Press the Record Star t/Stop button on the camcorder . • The camc[...]

  • Page 82

    Adv anced Features Playbac k Advanced Features 72 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 recor ded on 8 mm or Hi8 tapes) to digital signal. Preparation Connect the audio/video/S-video cable and D V cable as shown[...]

  • Page 83

    Advanced Features 73 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 recor ding in stereo (Audio 1 and Audio 2 channels) • 16-bit recor ding in stereo (left and right channels) Audio 1 • 12-bit recor ding in stereo (Audio 1 channel only) • 16-b[...]

  • Page 84

    Adv anced Features Playbac k Advanced Features 74 Audio Dubbing Feature A vailable mode: T ape Playback Y ou can add narration to recor dings made with this camcorder , while preserving the original audio and video recor dings. Microphone f or A udio Dubbing Y ou can use the built-in stereo micr ophone to recor d narration. Notes: • Audio dubbing[...]

  • Page 85

    Advanced Features 75 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 Operation button to pause playbac k. 3 Press the DISPLA Y/MODE SET button until the mode screen appears . 4 Press l or m to select “ A UDIO DUB ” , then press the centre o[...]

  • Page 86

    Digital Still Camera Features Camera Recording Digital Still Camera Features 76 Media Selection switch PHOTO button Power Zoom control Number of shots taken/remaining Lock button Power switch 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 87

    Digital Still Camera Features 77 Appro ximate number of record- able images with 8 MB SD memory card Selecting the Picture Quality A vailab le 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 objectives. Appro x. number of ima[...]

  • Page 88

    Digital Still Camera Features Camera Recording Digital Still Camera Features 78 Recording with the Self-timer A vailable mode: Card Camera The self-timer function allows you to recor d images after a time lag. This is convenient when you want to recor d an image of you and your friends together . SE TT I N G REC FIL E SEL F T IM E R NO. MO D E RE T[...]

  • Page 89

    Digital Still Camera Features 79 Self-timer operating indicator Self timer mode indicator T o cancel the countdown Press the PHOTO button in step 4. T o cancel the self-timer Press the centr e of the Operation button again in step 3. Notes: • When recording with the self-timer , stabilize the camcorder in the horizontal plane by attaching it to a[...]

  • Page 90

    Digital Still Camera Features Camera Recording Digital Still Camera Features 80 Formatting a Card A vailable modes: Card Camera, Card Playback Before using a commercially available car d 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 [...]

  • Page 91

    Digital Still Camera Features 81 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 Camera mode, press the MENU button to displa y the menu screen. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select Y[...]

  • Page 92

    Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Digital Still Camera Features 82 Playback image number/ number of recordings Lock button Page number/total thumbnail pages Media Selection switch Power switch Image file name Picture quality indicator Operation button Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Card Playback A vailable mode: Card Playback Y ou ca[...]

  • Page 93

    Digital Still Camera Features 83 Delete protection indicator PROTECT indicator Delete Protection A vailable mode: Card Playback Y ou can prevent your important images recorded on the car d fr om accidental erasure. 1 In Card Pla yback mode , press the DISPLA Y/MODE SET b utton until the mode screen appears. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to[...]

  • Page 94

    Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Digital Still Camera Features 84 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 perfor ming[...]

  • Page 95

    Digital Still Camera Features 85 DELETE ALL? indicator Deleting All Stored Images Y ou can delete all stored images on a car d in one operation. Notes: • Deleted images cannot be restored. Check whether or not you want the images before perfor ming the procedur e below . • If you want to keep some images on the card, first delete-protect them ([...]

  • Page 96

    Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Digital Still Camera Features 86 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 97

    Digital Still Camera Features 87 M indicator T o cancel the print order f or an image 1 Select the image for cancelling out of print order in step 5 above , then press the centre of the Operation button. 2 Press l to select “0”, then press the centre of the Operation button. • The M indicator disappears. 3 Press the MENU button to finish the [...]

  • Page 98

    Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Digital Still Camera Features 88 Direct Print A vailable modes: Card Playback When you connect the camcorder to a Seiko Epson’ s Direct Print compatible printer , you can print out the recor ded still image directly fr om the printer without computer . Preparation T ur n on the printer . 1 Make sure that th[...]

  • Page 99

    Digital Still Camera Features 89 T ransferring Data on Card to Computer T o transfer data from the card, first install the softwar e from the supplied CD-ROM. The CD-ROM includes “USB Driver”, “PixLab Media Browser” and other r elated files. • “USB Driver” is the software that transfers images from the camcorder when connecting to the[...]

  • Page 100

    Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Digital Still Camera Features 90 Installing the USB Driver For installing the USB driver in Windows XP or Windows 2000, you need to log in as the system administrator . 1 T ur n on the computer . • Do not connect the camcorder to the computer with the USB cable at this point. 2 Inser t the supplied CD-ROM c[...]

  • Page 101

    Digital Still Camera Features 91 T o USB terminal USB cable (supplied) 8 Inser t a card that contains recorded still images into camcorder . 9 Connect the camcorder to the computer with the supplied USB cable as sho wn below . • It is recommended to use the AC adapter as a power sour ce for extended periods of use. • Connect the USB cable direc[...]

  • Page 102

    Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Digital Still Camera Features 92 Opening the PDF Manual Click on the Windows “start” b utton and click after mo ving the pointer to “All Programs”, “PixLab Media Browser V er4” and “PixLab Media Browser LE Oper ation Manual”. • Adobe Reader 6.0 (or Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0 or later) starts u[...]

  • Page 103

    Digital Still Camera Features 93 T ransfer indicator T ransferring the data on Card to Computer Connecting the camcorder to the computer Connect the camcorder to the computer with the supplied USB cable (see page 91). T ransferring data 1 T ur n on the computer , then connect the camcorder with the supplied USB cable . 2 Set the Media Selection swi[...]

  • Page 104

    Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Digital Still Camera Features 94 Serial number (100 to 999) Sub-folder of still images Folder of still image files Still image 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 on your PC configurat[...]

  • Page 105

    Digital Still Camera Features 95 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 card. 1 Set the camcorder to Card Pla yback mode. 2 Press j , k , l or m on the Operation b utton to sele[...]

  • Page 106

    Appendix Appendix 96 Darker Brighter Decrease Darker Increase Brighter – + – + – + LCD BR I G HT LCD COLO U R V F BR I G HT 5 Press the MENU button to turn off the menu screen. Note: • When adjusting the colour , the pictur e on the LCD monitor may differ from the pictur e actually recorded. Do not change the colour setting unless necessary[...]

  • Page 107

    Appendix 97 T urning 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 Record Start/Stop button, or perfor m 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 Press[...]

  • Page 108

    Appendix Appendix 98 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 109

    Appendix 99 Position the subject in the centre. Focus manually when you need to position the subject off centr e (see page 56). 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 110

    Appendix Appendix 100 Erasure pr otect tab • When a pr eviously recor ded Mini DV cassette is used again for recor ding, the previously recor ded material will be automatically erased. • The Mini DV cassette will not operate if inserted in the wrong direction. • Do not repeatedly insert and eject the Mini DV cassette without running the tape [...]

  • Page 111

    Appendix 101 SD Memory Card and MultiMediaCard SD (Secure Digital) Memory Car ds 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 Smar[...]

  • Page 112

    Appendix Appendix 102 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 insuffic[...]

  • Page 113

    Appendix 103 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 114

    Appendix Appendix 104 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 w[...]

  • Page 115

    Appendix 105 T roubleshooting Before calling for service, please check the following tr oubleshooting table. Symptom No power . The Record 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 Camera mode. Po wer Camera mode Suggested sol[...]

  • Page 116

    Appendix Appendix 106 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. P ossible cause Vi[...]

  • Page 117

    Appendix 107 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 pictur e 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. P os[...]

  • Page 118

    Appendix Appendix 108 Notes: • This unit is equipped with a microprocessor . Its performance 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 battery , etc. Then reconnect the power sources to resume operation.[...]

  • Page 119

    Appendix 109 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 ⁄ 6 " (4.2 mm, effective size: 4.5 mm)[...]

  • Page 120

    Appendix Appendix 110 On-screen Display Index A U T O AUT O 3 0 min AUT O PAU S E PAU S E PAU S E A U T O AUT O 3 0 min AUT O SELEC T SE T FADE SC EN E M EN U M ANU A L SE T FOCUS AUTO FOC US SE TT I N G 1 QK. DGT L W I DE M O DE RE T URN ZOO M TAPE S PEED RETUR N SE TT I N G 2 DIS AUD I O M ODE RE TURN W IN D PHO NE S VOL OTHE RS 1 OTHER S 2 LCD S[...]

  • Page 121

    Appendix 111 SELEC T SE T OF F OTHE RS 1 BEEP RE M O T E DE F AUL T RE TURN RE TURN LCD SE T BACK L I G HT L C D BR I GHT LCD COLO U R RE T UR N V F B RIG H T PLAYB AC K AUD I O ANLG DGTL RE T UR N SE T OTHE RS 2 T I ME CODE TC PO W ER SAVE OU T ROTA T E P B AU DIO 2 1 + AU DIO 2 1 + FF RE W STOP PL AY AUD I O D UB S TRETCH P B P I C . E FFECT AUD [...]

  • Page 122

    Appendix Appendix 112 A U T O AUT O AUT O A U T O AUT O AUT O SELEC T SE T SC EN E M EN U M ANU A L SE T FOCUS AUTO FOC US LCD SE T BACK L I G HT L C D BR I GHT LCD COLO U R RE T UR N V F B RIG H T / 0 18 0 NORM A L / 0 18 0 SE TT I N G OTHER S 2 OTHE RS 1 BEEP RE M O T E DE F AUL T RE TURN RE TURN FO R M A T PO W ER SAVE SE TT I N G 12H 24H / BLC [...]

  • Page 123

    Appendix 113 SELEC T SE T E XEC UTE LCD SE T BACK L I G HT L C D BR I GHT LCD COLO U R RE T UR N V F B RIG H T / 0 11 0 0 1 0 0 - 0 0 2 / 2 PAGE NORM A L 1 FU LL SEL ECT IM G M U L T I 7 0 1 89 / 0 11 0 NOR M A L F UL UL L S E L E C T I MG MU LT I FU LL SEL ECT IM G M U L T I FULL M U L T I DE L E T E ONE PI C . EFFE CT D EL ETE ALL PR OTECT PLAYB [...]

  • Page 124

    Appendix Appendix 114 Index A AC adapter ....................................... 8, 9 Audio dubbing .............................. 74, 75 Audio playback mode ......................... 73 Audio recor ding mode ........................ 47 Auto focus ........................................... 26 A V terminal ........................ 31, 67, 68, 72 B [...]

  • Page 125

    Appendix 115 M Manual focus ...................................... 56 Manual setting .................................... 57 Media Selection switch ....................... 22 MENU button ...................................... 33 Menu screen ....................................... 33 Mini DV cassette ..................... 10, 99, 100 Mode screen ...[...]

  • Page 126

    Note VL-Z500E-E-116 04.2.17, 9:25 AM 116[...]

  • Page 127

    VL-Z500E-Cover; 04/2/23/18:00 OPERATION MANUAL SHARP CORPORATION VL-Z500E -T/S ENGLISH Printed on 100% post-consumer r ecycled paper . Printed in Malaysia TINSLA113WJN1 04P03-M-G LIQUID CR YST AL DISPLA Y CAMCORDER OPERATION MANUAL H2732778 6848310 — PixLab Install Ke y VL-Z500E -T/S[...]