JVC GR DF428AH User Manual LYT1462 001A

User Manual: JVC GR-DF428AH GR-DF428AH English,

Open the PDF directly: View PDF PDF.
Page Count: 56

DownloadJVC GR-DF428AH User Manual LYT1462-001A
Open PDF In BrowserView PDF
GR-DF428AH.book Page 1 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

Dear Customer,
Thank you for purchasing this digital
video camera. Before use, please
read the safety information and
precautions contained in the pages
3 – 4 and 10 to ensure safe use of
this product.

ENGLISH

DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA

GR-DF428

6

GETTING STARTED

VIDEO RECORDING &
PLAYBACK

19

ADVANCED FEATURES

27

REFERENCES

45

TERMS

53

Please visit our Homepage on the World Wide Web for
Digital Video Camera:

http://www.jvc.co.jp/english/cyber/
For Accessories:

http://www.jvc.co.jp/english/accessory/

To deactivate the demonstration,
set “DEMO MODE” to “OFF”.
(墌 pg. 27, 30)

INSTRUCTIONS
LYT1462-001A

EN

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 2 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

2 EN
Major Features of this Camcorder
Wipe/Fader Effects

Backlight Compensation

You can use the Wipe/Fader Effects to make
pro-style scene transitions. (墌 pg. 38)

Simply pressing the BACK LIGHT button
brightens the image darkened by backlight.
(墌 pg. 36)
● You can also select a spot metering area so
that more precise exposure compensation
is available. (墌 pg. 36, Spot Exposure
Control)

Fade in

Fade out

Program AE with Special Effects
For example, “SPORTS” mode allows fastmoving images to be captured one frame at a
time, for vivid, stable slow-motion. (墌 pg. 38)

Data Battery
You can check the battery status by simply
pressing the DATA button. (墌 pg. 14)

BATTERY CONDITION
LEVEL

100%
50
0

MAX TIME
LCD

60min

FINDER
80min

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH.book Page 3 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

EN

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT TO
RAIN OR MOISTURE.
CAUTIONS:
● If you notice smoke or a peculiar smell coming
from the camcorder or AC Adapter, shut it down
and unplug it immediately. Continue using the
camcorder or AC Adapter under these
conditions could lead to fire or electric shock.
Contact your JVC dealer. Do not attempt to
repair the malfunction yourself.
● To prevent shock, do not open the cabinet. No
user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to
qualified personnel.
● When you are not using the AC Adapter for a
long period of time, it is recommended that you
disconnect the power cord from AC outlet.
CAUTION:
To avoid electric
shock or damage to
the unit, first firmly
insert the small end
of the power cord into
the AC Adapter until it
is no longer wobbly,
and then plug the
larger end of the
power cord into an
AC outlet.
CAUTIONS:
● This camcorder is designed to be used with
PAL-type colour television signals. It cannot be
used for playback with a television of a different
standard. However, live recording and LCD
monitor/viewfinder playback are possible
anywhere.
● This product includes patented and other
proprietary technology and will operate only
with JVC Data Battery. Use the JVC
BN-VF707U/VF714U/VF733U battery packs
and, to recharge them or to supply power to the
camcorder from an AC outlet, use the provided
multi-voltage AC Adapter. (An appropriate
conversion adapter may be necessary to
accommodate different designs of AC outlets in
different countries.)

3

Caution on Replaceable lithium battery
The battery used in this device may present a fire
or chemical burn hazard if mistreated.
Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 100°C
or incinerate.
Replace battery with Panasonic (Matsushita
Electric), Sanyo, Sony or Maxell CR2025.
Danger of explosion or Risk of fire if the battery is
incorrectly replaced.
● Dispose of used battery promptly.
● Keep away from children.
● Do not disassemble and do not dispose of in
fire.
NOTES:
● The rating plate (serial number plate) and
safety caution are on the bottom and/or the
back of the main unit.
● The rating information and safety caution of the
AC Adapter are on its upper and lower sides.
When the equipment is installed in a cabinet or on
a shelf, make sure that it has sufficient space on
all sides to allow for ventilation (10 cm or more on
both sides, on top and at the rear).
Do not block the ventilation holes.
(If the ventilation holes are blocked by a
newspaper, or cloth etc. the heat may not be able
to get out.)
No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles,
should be placed on the apparatus.
When discarding batteries, environmental
problems must be considered and the local rules
or laws governing the disposal of these batteries
must be followed strictly.
The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or
splashing.
Do not use this equipment in a bathroom or
places with water.
Also do not place any containers filled with water
or liquids (such as cosmetics or medicines, flower
vases, potted plants, cups etc.) on top of this unit.
(If water or liquid is allowed to enter this
equipment, fire or electric shock may be caused.)

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 4 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

4 EN
Do not point the lens or the viewfinder directly into
the sun. This can cause eye injuries, as well as
lead to the malfunctioning of internal circuitry.
There is also a risk of fire or electric shock.
CAUTION!
The following notes concern possible physical
damage to the camcorder and to the user.
When carrying, be sure to always securely attach
and use the provided strap. Carrying or holding
the camcorder by the viewfinder and/or the LCD
monitor can result in dropping the unit, or in a
malfunction.
Take care not to get your finger caught in the
cassette holder cover. Do not let children operate
the camcorder, as they are particularly
susceptible to this type of injury.
Do not use a tripod on unsteady or unlevel
surfaces. It could tip over, causing serious
damage to the camcorder.
CAUTION!
Connecting cables (Audio/Video, S-Video, etc.) to
the camcorder and leaving it on top of the TV is
not recommended, as tripping on the cables will
cause the camcorder to fall, resulting in damage.

MasterPage: TOC_Heading0_Right
GR-DF428AH.book Page 5 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

CONTENTS

GETTING STARTED

6 ADVANCED FEATURES

Index ................................................................. 6
Provided Accessories ..................................... 11
Power.............................................................. 13
Operation Mode .............................................. 15
Language Settings.......................................... 16
Date/Time Settings ......................................... 16
Grip Adjustment .............................................. 16
Viewfinder Adjustment .................................... 16
Brightness Adjustment Of The Display ........... 17
Tripod Mounting.............................................. 17
Loading/Unloading A Cassette ....................... 17

VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK

19

VIDEO RECORDING ........................................... 19
Basic Recording.............................................. 19
Tape Remaining Time ................................ 19
LCD Monitor And Viewfinder ...................... 19
Zooming...................................................... 20
Journalistic Shooting .................................. 20
Self Recording ............................................ 20
Time Code .................................................. 21
Quick Review.............................................. 21
Recording From The Middle Of A Tape...... 21

VIDEO PLAYBACK ............................................. 22
Normal Playback............................................. 22
Still Playback .............................................. 22
Shuttle Search ............................................ 22
Blank Search .............................................. 22
Connections To A TV Or VCR ........................ 23
Playback Using The Remote Control.............. 24

EN

5

27

MENUS FOR DETAILED ADJUSTMENT.................. 27
Changing The Menu Settings ......................... 27
Recording Menus............................................ 28
Playback Menus ............................................. 31

FEATURES FOR RECORDING............................... 33
LED Light ........................................................ 33
5-Second Recording ....................................... 33
Night-Scope .................................................... 34
Snapshot (For Video Recording) .................... 34
Manual Focus ................................................. 35
Exposure Control ............................................ 35
Iris Lock .......................................................... 36
Backlight Compensation ................................. 36
Spot Exposure Control.................................... 36
White Balance Adjustment.............................. 37
Manual White Balance Adjustment................. 37
Wipe Or Fader Effects .................................... 38
Program AE With Special Effects ................... 38

EDITING............................................................ 40
Dubbing To A VCR ......................................... 40
Dubbing To A Video Unit Equipped With A DV
Connector (Digital Dubbing) ....................... 41
Connection To A Personal Computer ............. 42
Audio Dubbing ................................................ 43
Insert Editing................................................... 44

REFERENCES

45

TROUBLESHOOTING .......................................... 45
USER MAINTENANCE......................................... 49
CAUTIONS ........................................................ 49
SPECIFICATIONS................................................ 52

TERMS

53

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 6 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

6 EN

GETTING STARTED

Index

U

V

O 7

W
X
Y
8
1
2
3

6

5 4
Z 9 0

KP a

Q
R
S
b cde

LTM N f

hi

g

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH_04Start.fm Page 7 Tuesday, March 22, 2005 1:56 PM

GETTING STARTED

EN

7

Controls

Connectors

A Menu Button [MENU] (墌 pg. 27)

The connectors are located beneath the covers.
O S-Video Output Connector [S] (墌 pg. 23, 40)
P Microphone connector [MIC] (墌 pg. 43)
Q Digital Video (i.Link) Connector [DV OUT]
(墌 pg. 41, 42)
i.Link: i.Link refers to the IEEE1394-1995
industry specification and extensions
thereof. The logo is used for products
compliant with the i.Link standard.

R Audio/Video Output Connector [AV]
(墌 pg. 23, 40)

S DC Input Connector [DC] (墌 pg. 13)

Indicators
T POWER/CHARGE Lamp (墌 pg. 13, 19)

Other Parts
U LCD Monitor (墌 pg. 19, 20)
V Shoe
(Before you purchase optional shoe
accessories, make sure the items are
compatible and can attach to the shoe on
your camcorder. There may be cases where a
part of an accessory item obtrudes onto the
camcorder’s body, preventing attachment to
your unit.)
W Viewfinder (墌 pg. 16)
X Speaker (墌 pg. 22)
Y Battery Pack Mount (墌 pg. 14)
Z Cassette Holder Cover (墌 pg. 17)
a Lens
b LED Light (墌 pg. 33)
(When using an optional conversion lens, it
may cover this area and block the light.)
c Remote Sensor (墌 pg. 24)
d Camera Sensor
(Be careful not to cover this area, a sensor
necessary for shooting is built-in here.)
e Stereo Microphone (墌 pg. 43)
f Shoulder Strap Eyelet (墌 pg. 12)
g Grip Strap (墌 pg. 16)
h Tripod Mounting Socket (墌 pg. 17)
i Stud Hole (墌 pg. 17)

GETTING STARTED

Data Battery Button [BATT. DATA] (墌 pg. 14)
B Set Button [SET] (墌 pg. 27)
C Fast-Forward Button [5] (墌 pg. 22)
LED Light Button [LIGHT] (墌 pg. 33)
Right Button [>] (墌 pg. 27)
D Stop Button [8] (墌 pg. 22)
Backlight Compensation Button [BACK
LIGHT] (墌 pg. 36)
Down Button [ ] (墌 pg. 27)
E Rewind Button [3] (墌 pg. 22)
Quick Review Button [Q.REVIEW] (墌 pg. 21)
Left Button [<] (墌 pg. 27)
F Play/Pause Button [4/9] (墌 pg. 22)
Manual Focus Button [FOCUS] (墌 pg. 35)
Up Button [ ] (墌 pg. 27)
G Dioptre Adjustment Control (墌 pg. 16)
H Battery Release Button [BATT. RELEASE]
(墌 pg. 14)
I Snapshot Button [SNAPSHOT] (墌 pg. 34)
J Power Zoom Lever [T/W] (墌 pg. 20)
Speaker Volume Control [VOL. +, –]
(墌 pg. 22)
K Cassette Open/Eject Switch [OPEN/EJECT]
(墌 pg. 17)
L Recording Start/Stop Button (墌 pg. 19)
M Power Switch [A, M, PLAY, OFF] (墌 pg. 15)
N Lock Button (墌 pg. 15)

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 8 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

8 EN GETTING STARTED
LCD Monitor/Viewfinder Indications
During Video Recording
9
1
2

0 q we

r

t

Viewfinder) (墌 pg. 17)

V Manual Focus Adjustment Indicator
(墌 pg. 35)

T
REC

3
4
5
6
7

BRIGHT
SOUND 12 B I T

8

15:55

y
u
i

d

50m

o

1 0 . 11 . 05
10 : 00

s a

(墌 pg. 47)

T Date/Time (墌 pg. 16)
U Brightness Control Indicator (LCD monitor/

1h40m
15 x W

S Battery Remaining Power Indicator

p

a Operation Mode (墌 pg. 15)
B
: Gain Up Mode (墌 pg. 28)
C White Balance Indicator (墌 pg. 37)
D
: Spot Exposure Control Indicator
(墌 pg. 36)
: Backlight Compensation Indicator
(墌 pg. 36)
±: Exposure Adjustment Indicator (墌 pg. 35)
E Selected Program AE With Special Effects
Indicator (墌 pg. 38)
: Night-Scope Indicator (墌 pg. 34)
F Iris Lock Indicator (墌 pg. 36)
G SOUND 12BIT/16BIT: Sound Mode Indicator
(墌 pg. 28) (Appears for approx. 5 seconds
after turning on the camcorder.)
: Auxiliary Microphone Level
L
R
Indicator
(Appears when an optional microphone is
connected. 墌 pg. 30, “AUDIO LEV.”)
H Digital Image Stabiliser (“DIS”) (墌 pg. 29)
I Approximate Zoom Ratio (墌 pg. 20)
J Zoom Indicator (墌 pg. 20)
K Selected Wipe/Fader Effect Indicator
(墌 pg. 38)
L Tape Running Indicator (墌 pg. 19)
(Rotates while tape is running.)
M Selected Wide Mode Indicator (墌 pg. 29)
N Recording Speed Mode (SP/LP) (墌 pg. 28)
O Tape Remaining Time (墌 pg. 19)
P REC: (Appears during recording.) (墌 pg. 19)
PAUSE: (Appears during Record-Standby
mode.) (墌 pg. 19)
O: (Appears when taking Snapshot.)
(墌 pg. 34)
Q 5S/Anim.: Displays the 5-Second Recording
mode or Animation recording mode.
(墌 pg. 29)
R Wind Cut Indicator (墌 pg. 29)

W Time Code (墌 pg. 30, 32)

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH.book Page 9 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

GETTING STARTED

EN

9

During Video Playback
12
L

/MI X

BLANK SEARCH
PUSH "STOP" BUTTON
TO CANCEL

20 : 21 : 2

1 0 11 . 05
10: 0 0

a Sound Mode Indicator (墌 pg. 31)
B Blank Search Indicator (墌 pg. 22)
C Tape Speed (墌 pg. 28)
D 4: Playback
5: Fast-Forward/Shuttle Search
3: Rewind/Shuttle Search
9: Pause
9 U: Forward Frame-By-Frame Playback/
Slow-Motion
Y 9: Reverse Frame-By-Frame Playback/
Slow-Motion
D: Audio Dubbing
9D: Audio Dubbing Pause
(Appear while a tape is running.)
E Battery Remaining Power Indicator
(墌 pg. 47)
F Date/Time (墌 pg. 30, 32)
G VOLUME: Volume Level Indicator (墌 pg. 22)
BRIGHT: Brightness Control Indicator (LCD
monitor/Viewfinder) (墌 pg. 17)
H Time Code (墌 pg. 30, 32)

GETTING STARTED

VO L

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 10 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

10 EN

GETTING STARTED

Before Using This Camcorder
Make sure you only use cassettes with the Mini
DV mark
.
This camcorder is designed exclusively for the
digital video cassette. Only cassettes marked
“
” can be used with this unit.
Remember that this camcorder is not
compatible with other digital video formats.
Remember that this camcorder is intended for
private consumer use only.
Any commercial use without proper permission is
prohibited. (Even if you record an event such as a
show, performance or exhibition for personal
enjoyment, it is strongly recommended that you
obtain permission beforehand.)
Before recording important video, be sure to
make a trial recording.
Play back your trial recording to make sure the
video and audio have been recorded properly.
We recommend cleaning your video heads
before use.
If you haven’t used your camcorder for a while, the
heads may be dirty. We recommend periodically
cleaning the video heads with a cleaning cassette
(optional).
Be sure to store your cassette tapes and
camcorder in the proper environment.
Video heads can become dirty more easily if your
cassette tapes and camcorder are stored in a dusty
area. Cassette tapes should be removed from the
camcorder and stored in cassette cases. Store the
camcorder in a bag or other container.
Use SP (Standard) mode for important video
recordings.
LP (Long Play) mode lets you record 50% more
video than SP (Standard) mode, but you may
experience mosaic-like noise during playback
depending on the tape characteristics and the
usage environment.
So, for important recordings, we recommend using
SP mode.
It is recommended that you use JVC brand
cassette tapes.
Your camcorder is compatible with all brands of
commercially available cassette tapes complying
with the MiniDV standard, but JVC brand cassette
tapes are designed and optimized to maximize the
performance of your camcorder.
Also read “Battery Packs” on pages 49 – 51.

● Microsoft® and Windows® are either registered
trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation in the United States and/or other
countries.
● Macintosh is a registered trademark of Apple
Computer, Inc.
● QuickTime is a registered trademark of Apple
Computer, Inc.

MasterPage: Start_Right

GR-DF428AH_04Start.fm Page 11 Tuesday, March 22, 2005 1:57 PM

GETTING STARTED

Provided Accessories

EN

11

NOTES:

● In order to maintain optimum performance of the
camcorder, provided cables may be equipped with
one or more core filter. If a cable has only one core
filter, the end that is closest to the filter should be
connected to the camcorder.
● Make sure to use the provided cables for
connections. Do not use any other cables.

To protect the lens, attach
the provided lens cap to the
camcorder as shown in the
illustration.

NOTE:
To confirm the lens cap is on
correctly make sure the cap is
flush to the camcorder.

a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
k

AC Adapter AP-V14E
Power Cord
Battery Pack BN-VF707U
AV Cable
Audio Extension Cable
(for optional microphone, 墌 pg. 12 for
connection)
Core Filter [small] x 2
(for Audio extention cable 墌 pg. 13 for
attachment)
Core Filter
(for AV cable 墌 pg. 13 for attachment)
Remote Control Unit RM-V720U
Lithium Battery CR2025*
(for remote control unit)
Shoulder Strap (墌 pg. 12 for attachment)
Lens Cap (see the right column for
attachment)

Place here during
shooting.

* A lithium battery is pre-installed in the Remote
Control Unit at time of shipment (with insulation
sheet). To use the Remote Control Unit, remove
the insulation sheet.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

GETTING STARTED

How To Attach The Lens Cap

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 12 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

12 EN

GETTING STARTED

How To Attach The Shoulder Strap

How To Use The Audio Extension Cable

Follow the illustration.

When using an optional external microphone,
connect to the provided Audio extension cable
(with a core filter attached), then connect the
Audio extension cable to the camcorder. The
core filter reduces interference. (墌 pg. 13)

1 Thread the strap through the eyelet.
2 Fold it back and thread it through the strap
guide and the buckle.
● To adjust the length of the strap, loosen and then
tighten the strap in the buckle.

3 Slide the strap guide fully towards the eyelet.
Open the
cover.

Buckle
Strap guide

2

Eyelet

1

To MIC

3

Core filter

Stereo
microphone

Audio extension
cable (provided)

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH.book Page 13 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

GETTING STARTED

How To Attach The Core Filter

EN

13

Power

Attach the core filters to the cables. The core
filter reduces interference.

1 Release the stoppers on both ends of the
core filter.

This camcorder’s 2-way power supply system
lets you choose the most appropriate source of
power. Do not use provided power supply units
with other equipment.

Charging The Battery Pack
BATT. RELEASE

2 Run the cable through the core filter, leaving

Battery pack

approx. 3 cm of cable between the cable plug
and the core filter.
Wind the cable once around the outside of the
core filter as shown in the illustration.

To
DC connector

Core filter
3 cm

Arrow Battery pack
mount

mark

Power switch
Wind once.

3 Close the core filter until it clicks shut.

POWER/CHARGE lamp
AC Adapter
Power cord
To AC outlet

NOTES:

● Take care not to damage the cable.
● When connecting a cable, attach the end with the
core filter to the camcorder.

1 Set the Power Switch to “OFF”.
2 With the arrow on the battery pack pointing
right, push the battery pack slightly against the
battery pack mount a.

3 Slide the battery pack to the right until it locks
in place b.

4 Connect the AC Adapter to the camcorder.
5 Connect the Power Cord to the AC Adapter.
6 Plug the AC Adapter into an AC outlet. The
POWER/CHARGE lamp on the camcorder
blinks to indicate charging has started.

7 When the POWER/CHARGE lamp goes out,
charging is finished. Unplug the AC Adapter
from the AC outlet. Disconnect the AC Adapter
from the camcorder.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

GETTING STARTED

Open the
cover.

Stopper

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 14 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

14 EN

GETTING STARTED

To detach the battery pack
Slide the battery pack to the left while pressing
BATT. RELEASE to detach it.
Battery pack

Charging time

BN-VF707U*

Approx. 1 hr. 30 min.

BN-VF714U

Approx. 2 hr. 40 min.

BN-VF733U

Approx. 5 hr. 40 min.

* Provided

NOTES:

● This product includes patented and other
proprietary technology and will operate only
with JVC Data Battery. Use the JVC BNVF707U/VF714U/VF733U battery packs. Using
generic non-JVC batteries can cause damage
to the internal charging circuitry.
● If the protective cap is attached to the battery
pack, remove it first.
● During charging, the camcorder cannot be
operated.
● Charging is not possible if the wrong type of
battery is used.
● When charging the battery pack for the first time
or after a long storage period, the POWER/
CHARGE lamp may not light. In this case, remove
the battery pack from the camcorder, then try
charging again.
● If the battery operation time remains extremely
short even after having been fully charged, the
battery is worn out and needs to be replaced.
Please purchase a new one.
● Since the AC Adapter processes electricity
internally, it becomes warm during use. Be sure to
use it only in well-ventilated areas.
● Using the optional AA-VF7 Battery Charger, you
can charge the BN-VF707U/VF714U/VF733U
battery pack without the camcorder.
● After 5 minutes has elapsed in Record-Standby
mode with the cassette inserted, the camcorder
will automatically turn off its power supplied from
the AC adapter. In this case, the battery charge
starts if the battery is attached to the camcorder.

Using The Battery Pack
Perform steps 2 – 3 in “Charging The Battery
Pack”.
Maximum continuous recording time
Battery pack

LCD monitor on

BN-VF707U*

1 hr. 5 min.

1 hr. 25 min.

Viewfinder on

BN-VF714U

2 hr. 20 min.

3 hr.

BN-VF733U

5 hr. 25 min.

7 hr. 5 min.

* Provided

NOTES:

● Recording time is reduced significantly under the
following conditions:
• Zoom or Record-Standby mode is engaged
repeatedly.
• The LCD monitor is used repeatedly.
• The playback mode is engaged repeatedly.
• The LED Light is used.
● Before extended use, it is recommended that you
prepare enough battery packs to cover 3 times the
planned shooting time.

ATTENTION:
Before detaching the power source, make sure that
the camcorder’s power is turned off. Failure to do so
can result in a camcorder malfunction.

Data Battery System
You can check the remaining battery power and
the recordable time.
1) Make sure the battery is attached and the
Power Switch is set to “OFF”.
2) Open the LCD monitor fully.
3) Press BATT. DATA, and the battery status
screen appears.
● It can be displayed on the viewfinder when the
LCD monitor is closed.
● It is displayed for 5 seconds if the button is
pressed and released quickly, and for 15
seconds if the button is pressed and hold for
several seconds.
● If “COMMUNICATION ERROR” appears
instead of the battery status even though you
tried to press BATT. DATA several times, there
may be a problem on the battery. In such a
case, consult your nearest JVC dealer.

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH.book Page 15 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

Using AC Power

EN

15

NOTE:

M (Manual Recording):
Allows you to set various recording functions
using the Menus. (墌 pg. 27)
If you want more creative capabilities than Full
Auto Recording, try this mode.

The provided AC Adapter features automatic
voltage selection in the AC range from 110 V to
240 V.

OFF:
Allows you to switch off the camcorder.

Perform steps 4 – 5 in “Charging The Battery
Pack”.

About Batteries
DANGER! Do not attempt to take the batteries
apart, or expose them to flame or excessive
heat, as it may cause a fire or explosion.
WARNING! Do not allow the battery or its
terminals to come in contact with metals, as this
can result in a short circuit and possibly start a
fire.
To resume the original function of the
accurate battery power indication
If the battery power indication differs from the
actual operating time, fully charge the battery, and
then run it down. However this function may not
turn back if the battery was used for a long period
of time under extremely high/low temperature
condition or charged too many times.

Operation Mode
To turn on the camcorder, set the Power Switch
to any operation mode except “OFF” while
pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch.
Power Switch
Lock Button

POWER/
CHARGE lamp

Choose the appropriate operation mode
according to your preference using the Power
Switch.
Power Switch Position
A (Full Auto Recording):
Allows you to record using NO special effects
or manual adjustments. Suitable for standard
recording.
The “A” indicator appears on the display.

PLAY:
● Allows you to play back a recording on the
tape.
● Allows you to set various playback functions
using the Menus. (墌 pg. 27)

Power-Linked Operation
When the Power Switch is set to “A” or “M”, you
can also turn on/off the camcorder by opening/
closing the LCD monitor or pulling out/pushing in
the viewfinder.
INFORMATION:
The following explanations in this manual
supposes the use of LCD monitor in your
operation. If you want to use the viewfinder,
close the LCD monitor and pull out the
viewfinder fully.

GETTING STARTED

GETTING STARTED

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 16 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

16 EN

GETTING STARTED

Language Settings

Grip Adjustment

The language on the display can be changed.
(墌 pg. 27, 30, 32)

1 Set the Power Switch to “M” while pressing
down the Lock Button located on the switch.

2 Open the LCD monitor fully. (墌 pg. 19)
3 Press MENU. The Menu Screen appears.
CAMERA D I S PLAY
4 Press or to select
BRIGHT
“n”, and press SET. The
CAMERA DISPLAY Menu
appears.

5 Press

or to select
“LANGUAGE”, and press
SET.

6 Press

or to select
the desired language, and
press SET.

7 Press

or to select
“BRETURN”, and press
SET twice. The Menu
Screen closes.

ON S CRE E N
DA T E / T I ME
T I ME CODE
LANGUAGE
AUD I O LEV .
CL OCK
AD J .

–
–
–
–
–

LCD / T V
AU T O
OF F
ENGLISH
ON
2 0. 1 2 . 0 5
17 : 30

through the loop and grasp
the grip.

3 Adjust your thumb and
fingers through the grip to
easily operate the
Recording Start/Stop
Button, Power Switch and
Power Zoom Lever. Be
sure to fasten the velcro strip to your preference.

Viewfinder Adjustment

RETURN

CAMERA D I S PLAY

LANGUAGE

1 Adjust the velcro strip.
2 Pass your right hand

–
ENGLISH

1 Set the Power Switch to “A” or “M” while
pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch.

2 Make sure the LCD monitor is closed and
locked. Pull out the viewfinder fully and adjust it
manually for best viewability.

3 Turn the Dioptre Adjustment Control until the
indications in the viewfinder are clearly focused.

Date/Time Settings
The date/time is recorded onto the tape at all
times, but its display can be turned on or off
during playback. (墌 pg. 27, 32)

Example:

Dioptre Adjustment Control

1 Perform steps 1 – 4 in “Language Settings”
above.

2 Press

or to select “CLOCK ADJ.”, and
press SET. The parameter for “Day” is
highlighted.

3 Press

or to input
the day, and press SET.
Repeat to input the month,
year, hour and minute.

4 Press

or to select
“BRETURN”, and press
SET twice. The Menu
Screen closes.

PAUSE

CAMERA D ISPLAY

CAUTION:
CL OCK
AD J .

2 0. 1 2 . 0 5
17 : 30

When retracting the viewfinder, take care not to
pinch your fingers.

MasterPage: Start_Right

GR-DF428AH_04Start.fm Page 17 Tuesday, March 22, 2005 1:57 PM

GETTING STARTED

The camcorder needs to be powered up to load
or eject a cassette.

MENU

to “M” or “PLAY” while
pressing down the Lock
Button located on the
switch.

17

Loading/Unloading A Cassette

Brightness Adjustment Of The
Display
1 Set the Power Switch

EN

Cassette holder cover
PUSH HERE
OPEN/EJECT
Erase
protection tab

2 Open the LCD monitor
● To adjust the brightness of
the viewfinder, pull out the
viewfinder fully and set
“PRIORITY” to “FINDER”
(墌 pg. 27, 30).

3 Press MENU. The
Menu Screen appears.

<
SET
>
BRIGHT

4 Press

or to select “n”, and press SET.
The CAMERA DISPLAY or VIDEO DISPLAY
Menu appears.

5 Press

or to select “BRIGHT”, and press
SET. The Menu Screen closes and the
brightness control indicator appears.

6 Press < or > until the appropriate brightness
is reached.

7 Press MENU to clear the brightness control
indicator from the display.

Tripod Mounting
To attach the camcorder
to a tripod, align the
direction stud and screw
to the mounting socket
and stud hole on the
camcorder. Then tighten
the screw clockwise.
● Some tripods are not
equipped with studs.

Make sure the window
side is facing out.

Cassette holder

1 Slide and hold OPEN/EJECT in the direction
of the arrow, then pull the cassette holder cover
open until it locks. The cassette holder opens
automatically.

● Do not touch internal components.

2 Insert or remove a tape and press “PUSH
HERE” to close the cassette holder.

● Be sure to press only the section labelled “PUSH
HERE” to close the cassette holder; touching
other parts may cause your finger to get caught in
the cassette holder, resulting in injury or product
damage.
● Once the cassette holder is closed, it recedes
automatically. Wait until it recedes completely
before closing the cassette holder cover.
● When the battery pack’s charge is low, you may
not be able to close the cassette holder cover. Do
not apply force. Replace the battery pack with a
fully charged one or use AC power before
continuing.

3 Close the cassette holder cover firmly until it
locks into place.
To protect valuable recordings
Slide the erase protection tab on the back of the
tape in the direction of “SAVE”. This prevents the
tape from being recorded over. To record on this
tape, slide the tab back to “REC” before loading
it.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

GETTING STARTED

fully. (墌 pg. 19)

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 18 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

18 EN
NOTES:

GETTING STARTED

● If you wait a few seconds and the cassette holder
does not open, close the cassette holder cover
and try again. If the cassette holder still does not
open, turn the camcorder off then on again.
● If the tape does not load properly, open the
cassette holder cover fully and remove the
cassette. A few minutes later, insert it again.
● When the camcorder is suddenly moved from a
cold place to a warm environment, wait a short
time before opening the cassette holder cover.

VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK

MasterPage: Video_Heading0_Right

GR-DF428AH.book Page 19 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

VIDEO RECORDING

EN

19

NOTES:

NOTE:
Before continuing, perform the procedures listed
below:
● Power (墌 pg. 13)
● Loading A Cassette (墌 pg. 17)
Power Zoom Lever
Power Switch
Recording Start/Stop Button

● If the Record-Standby mode continues for
5 minutes, the camcorder’s power shuts off
automatically. To turn the camcorder on again,
push back and pull out the viewfinder again or
close and re-open the LCD monitor.
● When a blank portion is left between recorded
scenes on the tape, the time code is interrupted
and errors may occur when editing the tape. To
avoid this, refer to “Recording From The Middle Of
A Tape” (墌 pg. 21).
● To turn the beep sounds off, 墌 pg. 27, 29.

Tape Remaining Time
Approximate tape remaining
time appears on the display.
“– h – – m” means the
camcorder is calculating the
remaining time. When the
remaining time reaches 2 minutes, the indication
starts blinking.

Lock Button
POWER/CHARGE Lamp

1 Remove the lens cap. (墌 pg. 11)
2 Open the LCD monitor fully.
3 Set the Power Switch to “A” or “M” while

● The time required to calculate and display the
remaining tape length, and the accuracy of the
calculation, may vary according to the type of tape
used.

LCD Monitor And Viewfinder

pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch.

While using the LCD monitor:
Make sure the viewfinder is pushed back in. Pull
on the end
of the LCD monitor and open the
LCD monitor fully. It can rotate 270° (90°
downward, 180° upward).

4 To start recording, press the Recording Start/

While using the viewfinder:
Make sure the LCD monitor is closed and
locked. Pull out the viewfinder fully.

● The POWER/CHARGE lamp lights and the
camcorder enters the Record-Standby mode.
“PAUSE” is displayed.
● To record in LP (Long Play) mode, 墌 pg. 28.

Stop Button. “T REC” appears on the display
while recording is in progress.

5 To stop recording, press the Recording Start/
Stop Button again. The camcorder re-enters the
Record-Standby mode.

180˚

Approximate recording time
Tape

Recording mode
SP

LP

30 min.

30 min.

45 min.

60 min.

60 min.

90 min.

80 min.

80 min.

120 min.

90˚

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK

Basic Recording

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 20 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

20 EN

VIDEO RECORDING

NOTES:

● The image will not appear simultaneously on the
LCD monitor and the viewfinder. When the
viewfinder is pulled out while the LCD monitor is
opened, you can select which one to use. Set
“PRIORITY” to the desired mode in SYSTEM
Menu. (墌 pg. 27, 30)
● Coloured bright spots may appear all over the
LCD monitor or the viewfinder. However, this is not
a malfunction. (墌 pg. 46)

Journalistic Shooting

Zooming
Produces the zoom in/out effect, or an
instantaneous change in image magnification.
Zoom In
Slide the Power Zoom Lever towards “T”.
Zoom Out
Slide the Power Zoom Lever towards “W”.

● The further you slide the Power Zoom Lever, the
quicker the zoom action.
Zoom in (T: Telephoto)
1 xW

● Macro shooting (as close as approx. 5 cm to the
subject) is possible when the Power Zoom Lever is
set all the way to “W”. Also see “TELE MACRO” in
MANUAL Menu on page 29.
● When shooting a subject close to the lens, zoom
out first. If zoomed-in in the auto focus mode, the
camcorder may automatically zoom out
depending on the distance between the
camcorder and the subject. This will not occur
when “TELE MACRO” is set to “ON”. (墌 pg. 29)

In some situations,
different shooting
angles may provide
more dramatic results.
Hold the camcorder in
the desired position
and tilt the LCD
monitor in the most
convenient direction. It
can rotate 270° (90°
downward, 180°
upward).

T
1 0 xW

T
20xW

T
40xW

T

Zoom out (W: Wide angle)
10 x W

T

Digital zoom zone
15X (optical) zoom zone
Approximate zoom ratio

NOTES:

● Focusing may become unstable during Zooming.
In this case, set the zoom while in RecordStandby, lock the focus by using the manual focus
(墌 pg. 35), then zoom in or out in Record mode.
● Zooming is possible to a maximum of 700X, or it
can be switched to 15X magnification using the
optical zoom. (墌 pg. 28)
● Zoom magnification of over 15X is done through
Digital image processing, and is therefore called
Digital Zoom.
● During Digital zoom, the quality of image may
suffer.

Self Recording
Open the LCD
monitor and tilt it
upward to 180° so
that it faces forward,
point the lens toward
yourself and start
recording.

Self
Recording

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH.book Page 21 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

EN

21

Time Code

Quick Review

During recording, a time code is recorded on the
tape. This code is to confirm the location of the
recorded scene on the tape during playback.

Enables to check the end of the last recording.
1) Press Q.REVIEW during the RecordingStandby mode.
2) Tape is rewound for about several seconds
and played back automatically, then pauses in
the Recording-Standby mode for the next shot.

Display
Minutes
Seconds

● Distortion may occur at start of playback. This is
normal.

Frames*
(25 frames = 1 second)

Recording From The Middle Of A Tape

12 : 34 : 24

* Frames are not displayed during recording.

If recording starts from a blank portion, the time
code begins counting from “00:00:00”
(minute:second:frame). If recording starts from
the end of a previously recorded scene, the time
code continues from the last time code number.
If during recording a blank portion is left partway
through the tape, the time code is interrupted.
When recording is resumed, the time code starts
counting up again from “00:00:00”. This means
the camcorder may record the same time codes
as those existing in a previously recorded scene.
To prevent this, perform Recording From The
Middle Of A Tape (See the right column.) in the
following cases;

● When shooting again after playing back a
recorded tape.
● When power shuts off during shooting.
● When a tape is removed and re-inserted during
shooting.
● When shooting using a partially recorded tape.
● When shooting on a blank portion located partway
through the tape.
● When shooting again after shooting a scene then
opening/closing the cassette holder cover.

NOTES:

● The time code cannot be reset.
● During fast-forwarding and rewinding, the time
code indication does not move smoothly.
● The time code is displayed only when “TIME
CODE” is set to “ON”. (墌 pg. 30)

1) Play back a tape or use Blank Search
(墌 pg. 22) to find the spot at which you want to
start recording, then engage the Still Playback
mode. (墌 pg. 22)
2) Set the Power Switch to “A” or “M” while
pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch, then start recording.

VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK

VIDEO RECORDING

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 22 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

22 EN

VIDEO PLAYBACK

Shuttle Search

Normal Playback
MENU

Power Switch

4/9/
VOL. +/–

Lock Button

Allows high-speed search in either direction
during video playback.
1) During playback, press 5 for forward
search, or 3 for reverse search.
2) To resume normal playback, press 4/9.

● During playback, press and hold 5 or 3. The
search continues as long as you hold the button.
Once you release the button, normal playback
resumes.
● A slight mosaic effect appears on the display
during Shuttle Search. This is not a malfunction.

ATTENTION:
3 8/

5 SET

Speaker

1 Load a cassette. (墌 pg. 17)
2 Set the Power Switch to “PLAY” while

During Shuttle Search, parts
of the picture may not be
clearly visible, particularly on
the left side of the screen.

pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch.

3 To start playback, press 4/9.
4 To stop playback, press 8.

Blank Search

To control the speaker volume
Slide the Power Zoom Lever (VOL. +/–) towards
“+” to turn up the volume, or towards “–” to turn
down the volume.

1 Load a cassette. (墌 pg. 17)
2 Set the Power Switch to “PLAY” while

● During Stop mode, press 3 to rewind, or 5
to fast-forward the tape.

NOTES:

● The playback picture can be viewed in the LCD
monitor, viewfinder or on a connected TV.
(墌 pg. 23)
● If Stop mode continues for 5 minutes when power
is supplied from a battery, the camcorder shuts off
automatically. To turn on again, set the Power
Switch to “OFF”, then to “PLAY”.
● When a cable is connected to the AV connector,
the sound is not heard from the speaker.

Still Playback
Pauses during video playback.
1) Press 4/9 during playback.
2) To resume normal playback, press 4/9
again.

● If still playback continues for more than about
3 minutes, the camcorder’s Stop mode is
automatically engaged.

Helps you find where you should start recording
in the middle of a tape to avoid time code
interruption. (墌 pg. 21)

pressing down the Lock Button located on the
switch.

3 Press MENU. The Menu Screen appears.
4 Press SET to select “t”. The VIDEO Menu
appears.

5 Press

or to select “BLANK SRCH”, and
press SET. The Sub Menu appears.

6 Press
SET.

or

to select “EXECUTE”, and press

● The “BLANK SEARCH” indication appears and
the camcorder automatically starts reverse or
forward search, then stops at the spot which is
about 3 seconds of tape before the beginning of
the detected blank portion.
● To cancel Blank Search midway, press 8.

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH_05Video.fm Page 23 Tuesday, March 22, 2005 1:58 PM

VIDEO PLAYBACK

EN

23

A Black to S-VIDEO IN (Connect when your TV/

● Before starting Blank Search, if the current
position is at a blank portion, the camcorder
searches in the reverse direction. If the current
position is at a recorded portion, the camcorder
searches in the forward direction.
● If the beginning or end of the tape is reached
during Blank Search, the camcorder stops
automatically.
● A blank portion which is shorter than 5 seconds of
tape may not be detected.
● The detected blank portion may be located
between recorded scenes. Before you start
recording, make sure there is no recorded scene
after the blank portion.

Connections To A TV Or VCR
Open the cover.

VCR has S-VIDEO IN and A/V input
connectors. In this case, it is not necessary to
connect the yellow video cable.)
B Yellow to VIDEO IN (Connect when your TV/
VCR has only A/V input connectors.)
C Red to AUDIO R IN*
D White to AUDIO L IN*
* Not required for watching still images only.

NOTE:
The S-Video cable is optional. Be sure to use the
YTU94146A S-Video cable. Consult the JVC
Service Center for details on its availability.
Make sure to connect the end with a core filter
to the camcorder. The core filter reduces
interference.

1 Make sure all units are turned off.
2 Connect the camcorder to a TV or VCR as
shown in the illustration.
If using a VCR, go to step 3.
If not, go to step 4.

To S connector

3 Connect the VCR output to the TV input,
referring to your VCR’s instruction manual.
To AV connector

4 Turn on the camcorder, the VCR and the TV.
5 Set the VCR to its AUX input mode, and set
the TV to its VIDEO mode.

S cable
(optional)

1

AV cable
(provided)

2

3

4

TV

VCR

6 Start playback on the camcorder. (墌 pg. 22)
To choose whether or not the following
displays appear on the connected TV
● Date/time
Set “DATE/TIME” to “AUTO”, “ON” or “OFF”.
(墌 pg. 27, 32)
Or, press DISPLAY on the remote control to turn
on/off the date indication.
● Time code
Set “TIME CODE” to “ON” or “OFF”.
(墌 pg. 27, 32)
● Indications other than date/time and time code
Set “ON SCREEN” to “OFF”, “LCD” or “LCD/TV”.
(墌 pg. 27, 32)

NOTES:

● It is recommended to use the AC Adapter as
the power supply instead of the battery pack.
(墌 pg. 15)
● To monitor the picture and sound from the
camcorder without inserting a tape, set the
camcorder’s Power Switch to “A” or “M”, then set
your TV to the appropriate input mode.
● Make sure you adjust the TV sound volume to its
minimum level to avoid a sudden burst of sound
when the camcorder is turned on.

VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK

NOTES:

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 24 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

24 EN

VIDEO PLAYBACK

Playback Using The Remote
Control

Buttons And Functions

The Full-Function Remote Control Unit can
operate this camcorder from a distance as well
as the basic operations (Playback, Stop, Pause,
Fast-Forward and Rewind) of your VCR. It also
makes additional playback functions possible.
(墌 pg. 25)

Installing The Battery
The remote control uses
one lithium battery
(CR2025).

1 Pull out the battery

2

● Transmits the beam signal.

1

holder by pushing the lock
tab.

2 Insert the battery in the

A Infrared beam transmitting window
1

3

Lock tab

holder, and be sure to
have the “+” mark visible.

● Pauses the tape (墌 pg. 25)

Up Button (墌 pg. 26)

3 Slide the holder back in until you hear a click.
Beam Effective Area (indoor use)
When using the remote
control, be sure to point it
at the remote sensor.
The transmitted beam’s
approximate effective
distance for indoor use is
5 m.

The following buttons are available only when
the camcorder’s Power Switch is set to “PLAY”.
B PAUSE Button

C SLOW Rewind Button (墌 pg. 25)
D REW Button

● Rewind/Reverse Shuttle Search on a tape
(墌 pg. 22)

Left Button (墌 pg. 26)

E INSERT Button (墌 pg. 44)
F SHIFT Button (墌 pg. 26)
G DISPLAY Button (墌 pg. 23, 40)
H SLOW Forward Button (墌 pg. 25)
I PLAY Button
Remote sensor

NOTE:
The transmitted beam may not be effective or may
cause incorrect operation when the remote sensor
is directly exposed to sunlight or powerful lighting.

● Starts Playback of a tape (墌 pg. 22)

J FF Button

● Forward/Forward Shuttle Search on a tape
(墌 pg. 22)

Right Button (墌 pg. 26)

K A. DUB Button (墌 pg. 43)
L STOP Button
● Stops the tape (墌 pg. 22)

Down Button (墌 pg. 26)

M EFFECT Button (墌 pg. 26)
N EFFECT ON/OFF Button (墌 pg. 26)

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH.book Page 25 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

VIDEO PLAYBACK

EN

25

Zoom (T/W)

PAUSE or
(Up)

SLOW (YI)

SLOW (IU)

PLAY
(Right)
(Left)

STOP or
(Down)

SHIFT

Slow-Motion Playback
During normal video playback, press SLOW (YI
or IU) more than approx. 2 seconds.
● After approx. 10 minutes, normal playback
resumes.
● To pause Slow-Motion playback, press PAUSE
(9).
● To stop Slow-Motion playback, press PLAY (U).

NOTES:

● You can also engage Slow-Motion Playback from
Still Playback by pressing SLOW (YI or IU) more
than approx. 2 seconds.
● During Slow-Motion Playback, due to digital image
processing, the picture may take on a mosaic
effect.
● After SLOW (YI or IU) is pressed and held, the
still image may be displayed for a few seconds,
followed by a blue screen for a few seconds. This
is not a malfunction.
● During Slow-Motion Playback, there will be
disturbances in video and the picture may seem
unstable, especially with steady images. This is
not a malfunction.

Frame-By-Frame Playback
During normal or still playback, press SLOW
(IU) repeatedly for forward or SLOW (YI)
repeatedly for reverse. Each time SLOW (YI or
IU) is pressed, the frame is played back.

VIDEO RECORDING & PLAYBACK

The following buttons are available when the
camcorder’s Power Switch is set to “A” or “M”.
o Zoom (T/W) Buttons
Zoom in/out (墌 pg. 20, 26)
(Also available with the Power Switch set to
“PLAY”)
p START/STOP Button
Functions the same as the Recording Start/
Stop Button on the camcorder.
q S.SHOT Button
Functions the same as SNAPSHOT on the
camcorder.
(Also available with the Power Switch set to
“PLAY”)

.

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 26 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

26 EN

VIDEO PLAYBACK

Playback Zoom

Playback Special Effects

Magnifies the recorded image up to 47X at any
time during video playback.
1) Press PLAY (U) to start video
playback. Or perform normal
playback of images.

Allows you to add creative effects to the video
playback image.

2) At the point you want to zoom
in, press the Zoom Button (T).
● To zoom out, press the Zoom
Button (W).

3) You can move the image on
the screen around to find a
particular portion of the picture.
While holding down SHIFT,
press
(Left), (Right),
(Up) and
(Down).

● To end zoom, press and hold W until magnification
returns to normal. Or, press STOP (8) and then
press PLAY (U) during video playback.

NOTES:

● Zoom can also be used during slow-motion and still
playback.
● Due to digital image processing, the quality of the
image may suffer.

CLASSIC FILM: Gives recorded scenes a
strobe effect.
MONOTONE: Like classic black and white
films, your footage is shot in B/W. Used together
with the Cinema mode, it enhances the “classic
film” effect.
SEPIA: Recorded scenes have a brownish
tint like old photos. Combine this with the
Cinema mode for a classic look.
STROBE: Your recording looks like a
series of consecutive snapshots.
1) To start
EFFECT ON/OFF
playback,
EFFECT
press PLAY
(U).
2) Press
EFFECT. The
PLAYBACK EFFECT Select Menu appears.
3) Press EFFECT repeatedly to move the
highlight bar to the desired effect.
● The selected function is activated and after
2 seconds the menu disappears.
● To deactivate the selected effect, press EFFECT
ON/OFF. To reactivate the selected effect press
EFFECT ON/OFF again.
● To change the selected effect, repeat from step 2
above.

ADVANCED FEATURES

MasterPage: Start_Right

GR-DF428AH.book Page 27 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

MENUS FOR DETAILED ADJUSTMENT

Changing The Menu Settings
This camcorder is equipped with an easy-to-use,
on-screen menu system that simplifies many of
the more detailed camcorder settings.
(墌 pg. 28 – 32)
MENU
Power Switch

EN

27

Menus without Sub Menus

.

v WIPE/FADER
(墌 pg. 38)
r PROGRAM AE
(墌 pg. 38)
p EXPOSURE
(墌 pg. 35)
u W. BALANCE
(墌 pg. 37)

Selected menu icon
blinks.
Selected
parameter
P ROGRAM AE
SPOR T S
SNOW
SPOT L I GHT
TWILIGHT
SEPIA
MONOTONE
CLASSIC FILM
STROBE

1) Press or to select
the desired parameter.
● Example: r PROGRAM
AE Menu

1 For Video Recording Menus:
Set the Power Switch to “M” while pressing
down the Lock Button located on the switch.
For Video Playback Menus:
Set the Power Switch to “PLAY” while pressing
down the Lock Button located on the switch.

2 Open the LCD monitor fully. (墌 pg. 19)
3 Press MENU. The Menu Screen appears.
4 Press or to select the desired function,
and press SET. The selected function menu
appears.
Screen for Video
Recording Menu
W I PE / F AD E R
OF F
FADE R –WH I T E
FADE R – B LAC K
FADE R – B .W
W I PE – CO RNE R
W I P E –W I NDOW
W I P E– S L I DE
W I PE – DOOR
W I PE – S C ROL L
W I PE – S H UT T E R

Screen for Video
Playback Menu
V I D EO
SOUND MOD E – ST E REO
NARRAT I ON – OF F
RE C MOD E –
BL ANK S RCH

RETURN

5 Setting procedure hereafter depends on the
selected function.

● Repeat the procedure if you wish to set other
function menus.

3) Press SET. The Menu Screen closes.

Menus with Sub Menus
m CAMERA (墌 pg. 28) Selected menu icon
q MANUAL
blinks.
(墌 pg. 29)
Selected function
s SYSTEM (墌 pg. 29)
n CAMERA DISPLAY
CAME RA
RE C MOD E –
(墌 pg. 30)
SOUND MOD E – 1 2 B I T
ZOOM
– 60x
t VIDEO (墌 pg. 31)
SNAP SHOT – FU L L
GA I N UP
– AGC
n VIDEO DISPLAY
(墌 pg. 32)
1) Press or to select
RETURN
the desired function,
and press SET. The
Sub Menu
Sub Menu appears.
● Example: m CAMERA
Menu

CAME RA
RE C MOD E –

2) Press or to select
the desired parameter.
3) Press SET. Selection
is complete.
● Repeat the procedure if
you wish to set other
function menus.

4) Press SET. The
Menu Screen returns.

● Repeat the procedure if
you wish to set other
function menus.

CAME RA
RE C MOD E –
SOUND MOD E –
ZOOM
–
SNAP/SLOW –
GA I N UP
–

RETURN

5) Press SET. The Menu Screen closes.

1 2B I T
60x
FU L L
AGC

ADVANCED FEATURES

Lock Button
SET

2) Press SET. Selection is complete. The Menu
Screen returns.

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 28 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

28 EN

MENUS FOR DETAILED ADJUSTMENT

Recording Menus
CAMERA
The “m CAMERA” settings are effective when
the Power Switch is set to both “A” and “M”.
However, the menu settings can be changed
only when the Power Switch is set to “M”.
[ ] = Factory-preset

SNAPSHOT
[FULL]: Snapshot mode with no frame
NEGA: Nega mode
PIN-UP: Pin-Up mode
FRAME: Snapshot mode with frame

[FULL]

REC MODE
[SP]: To record in the SP (Standard Play) mode
LP: Long Play—more economical, providing 1.5
times the recording time.

NOTES:

● Audio Dubbing (墌 pg. 43) and Insert Editing
(墌 pg. 44) are possible on tapes recorded in the
SP mode.
● If the recording mode is switched, the playback
picture will be blurred at the switching point.
● It is recommended that tapes recorded in the LP
mode on this camcorder be played back on this
camcorder.
● During playback of a tape recorded on another
camcorder, blocks of noise may appear or there
may be momentary pauses in the sound.

SOUND MODE
[12BIT]: Enables video recording of stereo
sound on four separate channels, and is
recommended for use when performing Audio
Dubbing. (Equivalent to the 32 kHz mode of
previous models)
16BIT: Enables video recording of stereo sound
on two separate channels. (Equivalent to the
48 kHz mode of previous models)
ZOOM
15X: When set to “15X” while using digital zoom,
the zoom magnification will reset to 15X since
digital zoom will be disengaged.
[60X]: Allows you to use the Digital Zoom. By
digitally processing and magnifying images,
zooming is possible from 15X (the optical zoom
limit), to a maximum of 60X digital magnification.
700X: Allows you to use the Digital Zoom. By
digitally processing and magnifying images,
zooming is possible from 15X (the optical zoom
limit), to a maximum of 700X digital
magnification.

NEGA

PIN-UP

FRAME

For details on the procedure, refer to “Snapshot
(For Video Recording)” (墌 pg. 34).
GAIN UP
OFF: Allows you to shoot dark scenes with no
picture brightness adjustment.
[AGC]: The overall appearance may be grainy,
but the image is bright.
AUTO
: The shutter speed is automatically
adjusted. Shooting a subject in low or poor
lighting at slow shutter speed provides a brighter
image than in the AGC mode, but the subject’s
movements are not smooth or natural. The
overall appearance may be grainy. While the
shutter speed is being automatically adjusted,
“
” is displayed.

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH_06Advanced.fm Page 29 Tuesday, March 22, 2005 4:55 PM

MENUS FOR DETAILED ADJUSTMENT

DIS
OFF: Disables the function.
[ON
]: To compensate for unstable images
caused by camera-shake, particularly at high
magnification.

NOTES:

● Accurate stabilisation may not be possible if hand
shake is excessive, or depending on the shooting
condition.
● The “
” indicator blinks or goes out if the
Stabiliser cannot be used.
● Switch off this mode when recording with the
camcorder on a tripod.

5S
[OFF]: Disables 5-Second Recording.
5S: Enables 5-Second Recording. (墌 pg. 33)
Anim.: Allows you to record a few frames only.
By using an inanimate object and changing its
position between shots, you can record the
subject as though it is moving.
TELE MACRO
[OFF]: Disables the function.
ON: When the distance to the subject is less
than 1 m, set “TELE MACRO” to “ON”. You can
shoot a subject as large as possible at a
distance of approx. 60 cm.

NOTE:
Depending on the zoom position, the lens may go out
of focus.

WIDE MODE
[OFF]: Records with no change in the screen
ratio. For playback on a TV with a normal screen
ratio.
CINEMA : Inserts black bands at the top and
bottom of the screen. The
indicator appears.
During playback on wide-screen TVs, the black
bands at the top and bottom of the screen are
cut and the screen ratio becomes 16:9. When
using this mode, refer to your wide-screen TV’s
instruction manual. During playback/recording
on 4:3 TVs/LCD monitor/viewfinder, black bands
are inserted at the top and bottom of the screen
and the image appears like a letter boxed 16:9
movie.

29

WIND CUT
[OFF]: Disengages the function.
ON
: Helps cut down on noise created by
wind. The “
” indicator appears. The quality of
the sound will change. This is normal.

SYSTEM
The “s SYSTEM” functions which are set when
the Power Switch is set to “M” are also applied
when the Power Switch is set to “PLAY”.
[ ] = Factory-preset
BEEP
OFF: Even though not heard while shooting,
shutter sound is recorded on the tape.
BEEP: The beep sounds when the power is
turned on or off, and at the beginning and end of
recording. It also activates the shutter sound
effect. (墌 pg. 34)
[MELODY]: Instead of a beep, a melody sounds
when any operation is performed. It also
activates the shutter sound effect. (墌 pg. 34)

ADVANCED FEATURES

MANUAL
The “q MANUAL” settings are effective only
when the Power Switch is set to “M”.
[ ] = Factory-preset

EN

SQUEEZE : For playback on TVs with an
aspect ratio of 16:9. Naturally expands the
image to fit the screen without distortion. The
indicator appears. When using this mode,
refer to your wide-screen TV’s instruction
manual. During playback/recording on 4:3 TVs/
LCD monitor/viewfinder, the image is elongated
vertically.

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 30 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

30 EN

MENUS FOR DETAILED ADJUSTMENT

REMOTE
OFF: Disables the remote control operations.
[ON]: Enables the remote control operations.

BRIGHT
墌 pg. 17, “Brightness Adjustment Of The
Display”

DEMO MODE

ON SCREEN

OFF: Automatic demonstration will not take
place.
[ON]: Demonstrates certain functions such as
Program AE with special effects, etc., and can
be used to confirm how these functions operate.
Demonstration starts in the following cases:

LCD: Keeps the camcorder’s display (except the
date, time and time code) from appearing on the
connected TV screen.
[LCD/TV]: Makes the camcorder’s display
appear on screen when the camcorder is
connected to a TV.

● When the Menu Screen is closed after “DEMO
MODE” is turned “ON”.
● With “DEMO MODE” set to “ON”, if there is no
operation for about 3 minutes after the Power
Switch is set to “A” or “M”.
● Performing any operation during the
demonstration stops the demonstration
temporarily. If no operation is performed for more
than 3 minutes after that, the demonstration will
resume.

NOTES:

● If a cassette is in the camcorder, the
demonstration cannot be turned on.
● “DEMO MODE” remains “ON” even if the
camcorder power is turned off.
● If “DEMO MODE” remains “ON”, some functions
will not be available. After viewing demo, set to
“OFF”.

PRIORITY
[LCD]: The image is displayed on the LCD
monitor when the viewfinder is pulled out while
the LCD monitor is opened.
FINDER: The image is displayed in the
viewfinder when the viewfinder is pulled out
while the LCD monitor is opened.
CAM RESET
EXECUTE: Resets all settings to the factorypreset.
[RETURN]: Does not reset all settings to the
factory-preset.

CAMERA DISPLAY
● The “n” (CAMERA DISPLAY) settings are
effective even when the Power Switch is set to
“A”. However, the menu settings can be changed
only when the Power Switch is set to “M”.
● The “n” (CAMERA DISPLAY) settings except
“BRIGHT”, “LANGUAGE” and “AUDIO LEV.” are
effective only for shooting.

[ ] = Factory-preset

DATE/TIME
OFF: The date/time does not appear.
[AUTO]: Displays the date/time for approx. 5
seconds when the Power Switch is set from
“OFF” to “A” or “M”.
ON: The date/time is always displayed.

● The date indication can also be turned on/off by
pressing the DISPLAY Button on the remote
control. (墌 pg. 23, 40)

TIME CODE
[OFF]: Time code is not displayed.
ON: Time code is displayed on the camcorder
and on the connected TV. Frame numbers are
not displayed during recording. (墌 pg. 21)
LANGUAGE
ENGLISH / [
]
The language setting can be changed.
(墌 pg. 16)

NOTE:
Models for China, the factory-preset language is
simplified Chinese.

AUDIO LEV.
OFF: Auxiliary microphone level indicator does
not appear.
[ON]: Displays auxiliary microphone level
indicator when optional microphone is
connected. (墌 pg. 8)
CLOCK ADJ.
墌 pg. 16, “Date/Time Settings”

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH.book Page 31 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

MENUS FOR DETAILED ADJUSTMENT

EN

31

Playback Menus
VIDEO
[ ] = Factory-preset
SOUND MODE and NARRATION
During tape playback, the camcorder detects the
sound mode in which the recording was made,
and plays the sound back. Select the type of
sound to accompany your playback picture.
According to the menu access explanation on
page 27, select “SOUND MODE” or
“NARRATION” from the Menu Screen and set it
to the desired parameter.
SOUND MODE

NARRATION
[OFF]: Original sound is output on both “L” and
“R” channels in stereo.
ON: Dubbed sound is output on both “L” and “R”
channels in stereo. (墌 pg. 43)
MIX: Original and dubbed sounds are combined
and output in stereo on both “L” and “R”
channels.
REC MODE

[SP] / LP

Allows you to set the video recording mode (SP
or LP) depending on your preference. It is
recommended you use “REC MODE” in VIDEO
Menu when using this camcorder as a recorder
during dubbing. (墌 pg. 40, 41)
BLANK SRCH
墌 pg. 22, “Blank Search”

ADVANCED FEATURES

[STEREO
]: Sound is output on both “L” and
“R” channels in stereo.
SOUND L : Sound from the “L” channel is
output.
SOUND R : Sound from the “R” channel is
output.

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 32 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

32 EN

MENUS FOR DETAILED ADJUSTMENT
SYSTEM

Each setting is linked with “s SYSTEM”, which
appears when the Power Switch is set to “M”.
(墌 pg. 27)
● The parameters are the same as in the
description on page 29.

VIDEO DISPLAY
The “n” (VIDEO DISPLAY) settings are
effective only for video playback except
“BRIGHT”, “LANGUAGE” and “AUDIO LEV.”.

● The parameters (except “OFF” in ON SCREEN
settings) are the same as in the description
(CAMERA DISPLAY) on page 30.

[ ] = Factory-preset
BRIGHT
墌 pg. 17, “Brightness Adjustment Of The
Display”
ON SCREEN

OFF / [LCD] / LCD/TV

When set to “OFF”, the camcorder’s display
disappears.
DATE/TIME

[OFF] / AUTO / ON

When set to “AUTO”, the date/time are displayed
in the following cases:
● When playback starts. The camcorder displays
the date/time when scenes are recorded.
● When the date is changed during playback.

TIME CODE

[OFF] / ON

墌 pg. 21, “Time Code”
LANGUAGE
ENGLISH / [
]
The language setting can be changed.
(墌 pg. 16)

NOTE:
Models for China, the factory-preset language is
simplified Chinese.

AUDIO LEV.

OFF / [ON]

墌 pg. 30, “AUDIO LEV.”

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH.book Page 33 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

FEATURES FOR RECORDING

5-Second Recording

LED Light can be used to
brighten the subject in the dark
place during video recording or
D.S.C. shooting.

Record a vacation or an important event in 5second clips to keep the action moving. This
function is available only for video recording.

1 Press LIGHT repeatedly to

● The “5S” indicator appears.

change the setting.
LED Light
OFF: Turns off the light.
ON: The light is on always. (
appears.)
AUTO: The light turns on automatically when
dark. (
appears.)

2 Press the Recording Start/Stop Button to
start video recording or SNAPSHOT to shoot a
still image.

NOTES:

● Be careful not to point the LED Light directly to
eyes.
● If the light does not reach the subject when the
LED Light setting is “ON”, the Night-Scope
function will be activated, and makes it possible to
shoot the subject brighter.
● There is a difference in the brightness of the
images shot between the centre area which is
illuminated by the LED Light and the surrounding
areas (which will be darker).
● Since subjects are shot at a reduced shutter
speed when the LED Light setting is “ON”, they
will appear slightly blurred.

33

1 Set “5S” to “5S”. (墌 pg. 29)
2 Press the Recording Start/Stop Button to
start recording, and after 5 seconds the
camcorder enters Record-Standby mode
automatically.

● Even if you press the Recording Start/Stop Button
again within 5 seconds after recording starts,
Record-Standby mode is not engaged.

3 To exit the 5S mode, select “OFF” in step 1.
To take a snapshot in the 5-second recording
mode
Instead of pressing the Recording Start/Stop
Button in step 2, select the desired Snapshot
mode in CAMERA Menu (墌 pg. 28), then press
SNAPSHOT. The camcorder records a 5second still. When “5S” is set to “Anim.”, this
function is not available.

NOTE:
When “5S” is set to “Anim.”, the 5-Second
Recording mode is not available. Animation
recording of a few frames only is taken instead.

ADVANCED FEATURES

LED Light

EN

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 34 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

34 EN

FEATURES FOR RECORDING

Night-Scope

Snapshot (For Video Recording)

Makes dark subjects or areas even brighter than
they would be under good natural lighting.
Although the recorded image is not grainy, it may
look as if it is strobing due to the slow shutter
speed.

This feature lets you record still images that look
like photographs onto a tape.

1 Set the Power Switch to “M”.
2 Set “r” to “NIGHTSCOPE”. (墌 pg. 38) The

(墌 pg. 27, 28)

Night-Scope indicator “

” appears.

● The shutter speed is automatically adjusted to
provide up to 25 times sensitivity.
● “ ” appears beside “
” while the shutter speed
is being automatically adjusted.

To deactivate Night-Scope
Set “r” to “OFF” so that the Night-Scope
indicator disappears.

NOTES:

● During Night-Scope, the following functions or
settings cannot be activated and its indicator
blinks or goes out:
• Some modes of “Program AE With Special
Effects” (墌 pg. 38).
• “GAIN UP” in CAMERA Menu (墌 pg. 28).
• “DIS” in MANUAL Menu (墌 pg. 29).
● During Night-Scope, it may be difficult to bring the
camcorder into focus. To prevent this, use of a
tripod is recommended.

1 Set the Power Switch to “M”.
2 Set “SNAPSHOT” to the desired mode.
3 Press SNAPSHOT.

● There is the sound effect of a shutter closing.
● The “O” indication appears and a still image
will be recorded for approx. 6 seconds, then the
camcorder re-enters the Record-Standby mode.
● You can perform Snapshot also during recording.
A still image will be recorded for approx.
6 seconds, then the normal recording resumes.
● Regardless of the Power Switch position (“A” or
“M”), Snapshot recording takes place using the
selected Snapshot mode.

Motor Drive Mode
Keeping SNAPSHOT pressed in step 3 provides
an effect similar to serial photography. (Interval
between still images: approx. 1 second)

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH.book Page 35 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

FEATURES FOR RECORDING

Manual Focus

1 Set the Power Switch to
“M”.

Manual exposure control is recommended in the
following situations:

● When shooting using reverse lighting or when the
background is too bright.
● When shooting on a reflective natural background
such as at the beach or when skiing.
● When the background is overly dark or the subject
is bright.

1 Set the Power Switch to “M”.
2 Set “p” to “MANUAL”. (墌 pg. 27)

2 Press FOCUS. The
manual focus indicator
appears.

● The exposure control indicator appears.

3 To brighten the image, press >. To darken the
Manual focus
indicator
” will blink.

4 Press SET. Focus adjustment is complete.
To reset to Auto Focus
Press FOCUS twice or set the Power Switch to
“A”.
Manual focus is recommended in situations
listed below.

● When two subjects overlap in the same scene.
● When illumination is low.*
● When the subject has no contrast (difference in
brightness and darkness), such as a flat, onecolour wall, or a clear, blue sky.*
● When a dark object is barely visible in the LCD
monitor or the viewfinder.*
● When the scene contains minute patterns or
identical patterns that are regularly repeated.
● When the scene is affected by sunbeams or light
reflecting off the surface of a body of water.
● When shooting a scene with a high-contrast
background.
* The following low-contrast warnings appear
blinking: , , and .

image, press <. (maximum ±6)

● +3 exposure has the same effect as the backlight
compensation. (墌 pg. 36)
● –3 exposure has the same effect as when “r” is
set to “SPOTLIGHT”. (墌 pg. 39)

4 Press SET. Exposure adjustment is
complete.
To return to automatic exposure control
Select “AUTO” in step 2. Or, set the Power
Switch to “A”.

NOTES:

● You cannot use the manual exposure control at
the same time when “r” is set to “SPOTLIGHT”
or “SNOW” (墌 pg. 38), or with the backlight
compensation.
● If the adjustment does not cause any visible
change in brightness, set “GAIN UP” to “AUTO”.
(墌 pg. 27, 28)

ADVANCED FEATURES

3 Press < or > to focus on
● When the focus level
cannot be adjusted any
further or closer, “ ” or “

35

Exposure Control

The camcorder’s Full Range AF system offers
continuous shooting ability from close-up (as
close as approx. 5 cm to the subject) to infinity.
However, correct focus may not be obtained
depending on the shooting condition. In this
case, use the manual focus mode.

a subject.

EN

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 36 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

36 EN

FEATURES FOR RECORDING

Iris Lock
Like the pupil of the human eye, the iris
contracts in well-lit environments to keep too
much light from entering, and dilates in dim
environments to allow in more light.
Use this function in the following situations:

● When shooting a moving subject.
● When the distance to the subject changes (so its
size in the LCD monitor or the viewfinder
changes), such as when the subject is backing
away.
● When shooting on a reflective natural background
such as at the beach or when skiing.
● When shooting objects under a spotlight.
● When zooming.

1 Set the Power Switch to “M”.
2 Set “p” to “MANUAL”. (墌 pg. 27)

● The exposure control indicator appears.

3 Adjust zoom so that the subject fills the LCD
monitor or the viewfinder, then press and hold
SET for over 2 seconds. The exposure control
indicator and the “ ” indication appear.

4 Press SET. The “
“

” indication changes to
” and the iris is locked.

To return to automatic iris control
Select “AUTO” in step 2. Or, set the Power
Switch to “A”.
● The exposure control indicator and “
disappear.

”

To lock the exposure control and the iris
After step 2, adjust the exposure by pressing <
or >. Then lock the iris in steps 3 and 4. For
automatic locking, select “AUTO” in step 2. The
exposure control and the iris become automatic.

Backlight Compensation
Backlight compensation brightens the subject
quickly.
With simple operation, backlight compensation
feature brightens the dark subject portion by
increasing the exposure.

1 Set the Power Switch to “M”.
2 Press BACK LIGHT so that the Backlight
Compensation indicator “

” appears.

To cancel Backlight Compensation
Press BACK LIGHT twice so that the “
indicator disappears.

”

NOTE:
Using Backlight Compensation may cause the light
around the subject to become too bright and the
subject to become white.

Spot Exposure Control
Selection of a spot metering area enables more
precise exposure compensation. You can select
one of the three metering areas on the LCD
monitor/viewfinder.

1 Set the Power Switch to “M”.
2 Press BACK LIGHT twice so that the Spot
Exposure Control indicator “ ” appears.
● A spot metering area frame appears at the
centre of the LCD monitor/viewfinder.

3 Press > or < to select the desired spot
metering area frame.

4 Press SET.

● Spot Exposure Control is engaged.
● Exposure is adjusted to make the brightness of
the selected area most appropriate.
To lock the iris
After step 3, press and hold SET over 2
seconds. The “ ” indication appears and the
iris is locked.
To cancel Spot Exposure Control
Press BACK LIGHT once so that the “ ”
indicator disappears.

NOTES:

● You cannot use the Spot Exposure Control at the
same time with following functions.
• “SQUEEZE” in “WIDE MODE” (墌 pg. 29)
• “STROBE” in “PROGRAM AE” (墌 pg. 38)
• Digital Zoom (墌 pg. 20)
• Manual Exposure Control
● Depending on the shooting location and condition,
optimum result may not be attained.

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH.book Page 37 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

FEATURES FOR RECORDING

The white balance refers to the correctness of
colour reproduction under various lighting. If the
white balance is correct, all other colours will be
accurately reproduced.
The white balance is usually adjusted
automatically. However, more advanced
camcorder operators control this function
manually to achieve a more professional colour/
tint reproduction.
To change the setting
Set “u” to the desired mode. (墌 pg. 27)

● The selected mode indicator except “AUTO”
appears.

[AUTO]: White balance is adjusted
automatically.
MWB: Adjust the white balance manually
when shooting under various types of lighting.
(墌 “Manual White Balance Adjustment”)
FINE: Outdoors on a sunny day.
CLOUD: Outdoors on a cloudy day.
HALOGEN: A video light or similar type of
lighting is used.
[ ] = Factory-preset
To return to automatic white balance
Set “u” to “AUTO”. (墌 pg. 27)
Or, set the Power Switch to “A”.

37

Manual White Balance Adjustment
Adjust the white
balance manually when
shooting under various
types of lighting.

1 Set the Power
Switch to “M”.

2 Hold a sheet of plain

White paper

white paper in front of the subject. Adjust zoom
or position yourself so that the white paper fills
the screen.

3 Select “MWB” in “u W.BALANCE” menu
(墌 pg. 27), then press and hold SET until
begins blinking.

● When the setting is completed,

stops blinking.

4 Press SET twice. The Menu Screen closes
and the Manual White Balance indicator
displayed.

is

NOTES:

● In step 2, it may be difficult to focus on the white
paper. In such a case, adjust focus manually.
(墌 pg. 35)
● A subject can be shot under various types of
lighting conditions indoors (natural, fluorescent,
candlelight, etc.). Because the colour temperature
is different depending on the light source, the
subject tint will differ depending on the white
balance settings. Use this function for a more
natural result.
● Once you adjust white balance manually, the
setting is retained even if the power is turned off or
the battery removed.

ADVANCED FEATURES

White Balance Adjustment

EN

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 38 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

38 EN

FEATURES FOR RECORDING

Wipe Or Fader Effects

WIPE–SLIDE: Wipe in from right to left, or
wipe out from left to right.

These effects let you make pro-style scene
transitions. Use them to spice up the transition
from one scene to the next.
Wipe or Fader works when video recording is
started or stopped.

WIPE–DOOR: Wipe in as the two halves of
a black screen open to the left and right,
revealing the scene, or wipe out and the black
screen reappears from left and right to cover the
scene.

1 Set the Power Switch to “M”.
2 Set “v” to the desired mode. (墌 pg. 27)

WIPE–SCROLL: The scene wipes in from
the bottom to the top of a black screen, or wipes
out from top to bottom, leaving a black screen.

3 Press the Recording Start/Stop Button to

WIPE–SHUTTER: Wipe in from the centre
of a black screen toward the top and bottom, or
wipe out from the top and bottom toward the
centre leaving a black screen.

● The WIPE/FADER menu disappears and the
effect is reserved.
● The selected effect indicator appears.

activate the Fade-in/out or Wipe-in/out.
To deactivate the selected effect
Select “OFF” in step 2. The effect indicator
disappears.

NOTES:

● You can extend the length of a Wipe or Fader by
pressing and holding the Recording Start/Stop
Button.
● Some Wipe/Fader Effects cannot be used with
certain modes of Program AE with special effects.
(See the right column.) In this case, the selected
indicator blinks or goes out.

WIPE/FADER
OFF: Disables the function. (Factory-preset)
FADER–WHITE: Fade in or out with a white
screen.
FADER–BLACK: Fade in or out with a black
screen.
FADER–B.W: Fade in to a colour screen
from a black and white screen, or fade out from
colour to black and white.
WIPE–CORNER: Wipe in on a black screen
from the upper right to the lower left corner, or
wipe out from lower left to upper right, leaving a
black screen.
WIPE–WINDOW: The scene starts in the
centre of a black screen and wipes in toward the
corners, or comes in from the corners, gradually
wiping out to the centre.

Program AE With Special Effects
1 Set the Power Switch to “M”.
2 Set “r” to the desired mode. (墌 pg. 27)

● The PROGRAM AE menu disappears and the
selected effect is activated.
● The selected effect indicator appears.

To deactivate the selected effect
Select “OFF” in step 2. The effect indicator
disappears.

NOTES:

● Some modes of Program AE with special effects
cannot be used during Night-Scope.
● When a subject is too bright or reflective, a vertical
streak may appear (smear phenomenon). Smear
phenomenon tends to occur when “SPORTS” or
any mode of “SHUTTER 1/250 – 1/4000” is
selected.
● Some modes of Program AE with special effects
cannot be used with certain Wipe/Fader effects.
(See the left column.) In this case, the selected
indicator blinks or goes out.

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH.book Page 39 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

FEATURES FOR RECORDING

OFF: Disables the function. (Factory-preset)
NIGHTSCOPE: (墌 pg. 34)
SHUTTER 1/50: The shutter speed is fixed
at 1/50th of a second. Black bands that usually
appear when shooting a TV screen become
narrower.
SHUTTER 1/120: The shutter speed is
fixed at 1/120th of a second. The flickering that
occurs when shooting under a fluorescent light
or mercury-vapour lamp is reduced.
SHUTTER 1/250/ SHUTTER 1/500/
SHUTTER 1/1000/ SHUTTER 1/2000/
SHUTTER 1/4000: These settings allow fastmoving images to be captured one frame at a
time, for vivid, stable slow-motion playback by
fixing shutter speed variables. Use these
settings when an automatic adjustment does not
work well, using SPORTS mode. The faster the
shutter speed, the darker the picture becomes.
Use the shutter function under good lighting
conditions.
SPORTS
(Variable Shutter Speed: 1/250 – 1/4000):
This setting allows fast-moving images to be
captured one frame at a time, for vivid, stable
slow-motion playback. The faster the shutter
speed, the darker the picture becomes. Use the
shutter function under good lighting conditions.
SNOW: Compensates for subjects that may
otherwise appear too dark when shooting in
extremely bright surroundings such as in the
snow.
SPOTLIGHT: Compensates for subjects
that may otherwise appear too bright when
shooting under extremely strong direct lighting
such as spotlights.
TWILIGHT: Makes evening scenes look
more natural. White Balance (墌 pg. 37) is
automatically set to “ ”, but can be changed to
your desired setting. When Twilight is chosen,
the camcorder automatically adjusts the focus
from approx. 10 m to infinity. From less than 10
m, adjust the focus manually.

39

ADVANCED FEATURES

PROGRAM AE

EN

SEPIA: Recorded scenes have a brownish
tint like old photos. Combine this with the
Cinema mode for a classic look.
MONOTONE: Like classic black and white
films, your footage is shot in B/W. Used together
with the Cinema mode, it enhances the “classic
film” effect.
CLASSIC FILM: Gives recorded scenes a
strobe effect.
STROBE: Your recording looks like a series
of consecutive snapshots.
MIRROR: Creates a mirror image on the
right half of the screen, juxtaposed to the normal
image on the other half.

MasterPage: Heading0_Left
GR-DF428AH_06Advanced.fm Page 40 Tuesday, March 22, 2005 2:00 PM

40 EN

EDITING
NOTES:

Dubbing To A VCR
Open the cover.
To S connector

To AV connector

AV cable
(provided)

S cable
(optional)

1

2

3

4

TV

VCR

A To S-VIDEO IN*
B Yellow to VIDEO IN
C Red to AUDIO R IN
D White to AUDIO L IN
* Connect when your TV/VCR has an S-VIDEO IN
connector. In this case, it is not necessary to
connect the yellow video cable.

NOTE:
The S-Video cable is optional. Be sure to use the
YTU94146A S-Video cable. Consult the JVC
Service Center for details on its availability.
Make sure to connect the end with a core filter
to the camcorder. The core filter reduces
interference.

1 Following the illustrations, connect the
camcorder and the VCR’s input connectors.

2 Start playback on the camcorder. (墌 pg. 22)
3 At the point you want to start dubbing, start
recording on the VCR. (Refer to the VCR’s
instruction manual.)

4 To stop dubbing, stop recording on the VCR,
then stop playback on the camcorder.

● It is recommended to use the AC Adapter as
the power supply instead of the battery pack.
(墌 pg. 15)
● To choose whether or not the following displays
appear on the connected TV
• Date/time
Set “DATE/TIME” to “AUTO”, “ON” or “OFF”.
(墌 pg. 27, 32) Or, press DISPLAY on the
remote control to turn on/off the date indication.
• Time code
Set “TIME CODE” to “OFF” or “ON”.
(墌 pg. 27, 32)
• Indications other than date/time and time code
Set “ON SCREEN” to “OFF”, “LCD” or “LCD/
TV”. (墌 pg. 27, 32)

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH_06Advanced.fm Page 41 Tuesday, March 22, 2005 2:01 PM

EDITING

Dubbing To A Video Unit Equipped
With A DV Connector (Digital
Dubbing)
It is also possible to copy recorded scenes from
the camcorder onto another video unit equipped
with a DV connector. Since a digital signal is
sent, there is little if any image or sound
deterioration.

EN

41

1 Make sure all units are turned off.
2 Connect this camcorder to a video unit
equipped with a DV input connector using a DV
cable as shown in the illustration.

3 Start playback on the camcorder. (墌 pg. 22)
4 At the point you want to start dubbing, start
recording on the video unit. (Refer to the video
unit’s instruction manual.)

5 To stop dubbing, stop recording on the video
unit, then stop playback on this camcorder.

To DV OUT

Core filter

DV cable (optional)

To DV IN

Video unit equipped with DV connector

● It is recommended to use the AC Adapter as
the power supply instead of the battery pack.
(墌 pg. 15)
● If a blank portion or disturbed image is played
back on the player during dubbing, the dubbing
may stop so that an unusual image is not dubbed.
● Even though the DV cable is connected correctly,
sometimes the image may not appear in step 4. If
this occurs, turn off the power and make
connections again.
● If “Playback Zoom” (墌 pg. 26) or “Playback
Special Effects” (墌 pg. 26) is attempted or
SNAPSHOT is pressed during playback, only the
original playback image recorded on the tape is
output from the DV OUT connector.
● When using a DV cable, be sure to use the
optional JVC VC-VDV204U DV cable.

ADVANCED FEATURES

NOTES:

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH_06Advanced.fm Page 42 Tuesday, March 22, 2005 2:02 PM

42 EN

EDITING

Connection To A Personal Computer

When connecting the camcorder to a PC
using a DV cable, make sure to follow the
procedure below. Connecting the cable
incorrectly may cause malfunctions to the
camcorder and/or the PC.

● Connect the DV cable first to the PC, and then
to the camcorder.
● Connect the DV cable (plugs) correctly
according to the shape of the DV connector.

To DV OUT

Core filter
DV cable
(optional)
Core filter

To DV connector

PC with DV connector

It is possible to transfer still/moving images on a
tape to a PC with a DV connector by using the
software equipped with the PC or commercially
available software.
If you are using a Windows® XP, you can use
Windows® Messenger to conduct video
conferences over the Internet, using a
camcorder. For details, refer to the help for the
Windows® Messenger.

NOTES:

● It is recommended to use the AC Adapter as
the power supply instead of the battery pack.
(墌 pg. 15)
● When using a DV cable, be sure to use the
optional JVC VC-VDV206U or VC-VDV204U DV
cable depending on the type of DV connector
(4 or 6 pins) on the PC.
● The date/time information cannot be captured into
the PC.
● Refer to the instruction manuals of the PC and
Software.
● The still images can also be transferred to a PC
with a DV connector-equipped capture board.
● The system may not work properly depending on
the PC or capture board you are using.

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH.book Page 43 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

EDITING

The audio track can be customised only when
recorded in the 12-BIT and SP modes.
(墌 pg. 28)

● Use the provided remote control.
Microphone Connector

Speaker

REW
INSERT

START/
STOP
PAUSE
PLAY
STOP
A.DUB

Stereo Microphone

1 Play back the tape to locate the point where
editing will start, then press PAUSE (9).

2 While holding A. DUB (D) on the remote
control, press PAUSE (9). The “9D” and “MIC”
indicators appear.

3 Press PLAY (U), then begin “narrating”.
Speak into the microphone.

● To pause dubbing, press PAUSE (9).

4 To end Audio Dubbing, press PAUSE (9),
then STOP (8).

43

NOTES:

● Sound is not heard from the speaker during Audio
Dubbing.
● When editing onto a tape that was recorded at
12-BIT, the old and new soundtracks are recorded
separately.
● If you dub onto a blank space on the tape, the
sound may be disrupted. Make sure you only edit
recorded areas.
● If feedback or howling occurs during TV playback,
move the camcorder’s microphone away from the
TV, or turn down the TV’s volume.
● If you change from 12-BIT to 16-BIT in midrecording and then use the tape for Audio
Dubbing, it is not effective from the point where
16-BIT recording began.
● During Audio Dubbing, when the tape moves to
scenes recorded in the LP mode, scenes
recorded in 16-BIT audio or a blank portion, Audio
Dubbing stops.
● Audio dubbing is also possible using an optional
microphone connected to the MIC connector.
● While an optional microphone is connected, the
built-in microphone is disabled.

ADVANCED FEATURES

Audio Dubbing

EN

To hear the dubbed sound during playback
Set “NARRATION” to “ON” or “MIX”.
(墌 pg. 27, 31)

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 44 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

44 EN

EDITING

Insert Editing
You can record a new scene into a previously
recorded tape, replacing a section of the original
recording with minimal picture distortion at the in
and out points. The original audio remains
unchanged.
● Use the provided remote control.

NOTES:

● Before performing the following steps, make sure
that “TIME CODE” for CAMERA DISPLAY and
VIDEO DISPLAY is set to “ON”.
(墌 pg. 27, 30, 32)
● Insert Editing is not possible on a tape recorded in
the LP mode or on a blank portion of a tape.

1 Play back the tape, locate the Edit-Out point
and press PAUSE (9). Confirm the time code at
this point. (墌 pg. 21)

2 Press REW (3) until the Edit-In point is
located, then press PAUSE (9).

3 Press and hold INSERT (I) on the remote
control, then press PAUSE (9). The “9I”
indicator and the Time Code (min.:sec.) appear
and the camcorder enters Insert-Pause mode.

4 Press START/STOP to begin editing.

● Confirm the insert at the time code you checked in
step 1.
● To pause editing, press START/STOP. Press it
again to resume editing.

5 To end Insert Editing, press START/STOP,
then STOP (8).

NOTES:

● Program AE with special effects (墌 pg. 38) can
be used to spice up the scenes being edited
during Insert Editing.
● During Insert Editing, the date and time
information changes.
● If you perform Insert Editing onto a blank space on
the tape, the audio and video may be disrupted.
Make sure you only edit recorded areas.
● During Insert Editing, when the tape moves to
scenes recorded in the LP mode or a blank
portion, Insert Editing stops. (墌 pg. 48)

REFERENCES

MasterPage: Start_Right

GR-DF428AH.book Page 45 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

TROUBLESHOOTING

The camcorder is a microcomputer-controlled
device. External noise and interference (from a
TV, a radio, etc.) might prevent it from
functioning properly. In such cases, first
disconnect its power supply unit (battery pack,
AC Adapter, etc.) and wait a few minutes; and
then re-connect it and proceed as usual from
the beginning.

Power
No power is supplied.
● The power is not connected properly.
HConnect the AC Adapter securely. (墌 pg. 15)
● The battery pack is not attached firmly.
HDetach the battery pack once again and re-attach
it firmly. (墌 pg. 13)
● The battery is dead.
HReplace the dead battery with a fully charged
one. (墌 pg. 13)

Video Recording
Recording cannot be performed.
● The tape’s erase protection tab is set to “SAVE”.
HSet the tape’s erase protection tab to “REC”.
(墌 pg. 17)
● “TAPE END” appears.
HReplace with new cassette. (墌 pg. 17)
● The cassette holder cover is open.
HClose the cassette holder cover.

When shooting a subject illuminated by
bright light, vertical lines appear.
● This is not a malfunction.

When the screen is under direct sunlight
during shooting, the screen becomes red or
black for an instant.
● This is not a malfunction.

During recording, the date/ time does not
appear.
● “DATE/TIME” is set to “OFF”.
HSet “DATE/TIME” to “ON”. (墌 pg. 27, 30)

EN

45

The LCD monitor or viewfinder indications
blink.
● Certain Wipe/Fader effects, certain modes of
Program AE with special effects, “DIS” and other
functions that cannot be used together are
selected at the same time.
HRe-read the sections covering Wipe/Fader
effects, Program AE with special effects and
“DIS”. (墌 pg. 27, 29, 38)

Digital Zoom does not work.
● 15X optical zoom is selected.
HSet “ZOOM” to “60X” or “700X”. (墌 pg. 28)

Video Playback
The tape is moving, but there is no picture.
● Your TV has AV input terminals, but is not set to
its VIDEO mode.
HSet the TV to the mode or channel appropriate for
video playback. (墌 pg. 23)
● The cassette holder cover is open.
HClose the cassette holder cover. (墌 pg. 17)

Blocks of noise appear during playback, or
there is no playback picture and the screen
becomes blue.
HClean the video heads with an optional cleaning
cassette. (墌 pg. 51)

Advanced features
The focus does not adjust automatically.
● Focus is set to the Manual mode.
HSet Focus to the Auto mode. (墌 pg. 35)
● The lens is dirty or covered with condensation.
HClean the lens and check the focus again.
(墌 pg. 49)

In the 5-Second mode, recording ends
before 5 seconds have elapsed.
● The 5-Second mode is set to “Anim.” in MANUAL
Menu.
HSet “5S” to “5S” in MANUAL Menu.
(墌 pg. 27, 33)

Snapshot mode cannot be used.
● The Squeeze mode (SQUEEZE) is selected.
HDisengage the Squeeze (SQUEEZE) mode.
(墌 pg. 27)

REFERENCES

If, after following the steps in the chart below, the
problem still exists, please consult your nearest
JVC dealer.

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 46 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

46 EN

TROUBLESHOOTING

The colour of Snapshot looks strange.

“SET DATE/TIME!” appears.

● The light source or the subject does not include
white. Or there are various different light sources
behind the subject.
HFind a white subject and compose your shot so
that it also appears in the frame. (墌 pg. 34)

● The date/time is not set.
HSet the date/time. (墌 pg. 16)
● The built-in clock battery has run out and the
previously set date/time has been erased.
HConsult your nearest JVC dealer for replacement.

The image taken using Snapshot is too
dark.

When the image is printed from the printer,
a black bar appears at the bottom of the
screen.

● Shooting was performed under backlit conditions.
HPress BACK LIGHT. (墌 pg. 36)

The image taken using Snapshot is too
bright.

● This is not a malfunction.
HBy recording with “DIS” activated (墌 pg. 27, 29)
this can be avoided.

● The subject is too bright.
HSet “r” to “SPOTLIGHT”. (墌 pg. 39)

When the camcorder is connected via the
DV connector, the camcorder does not
operate.

White Balance cannot be activated.

● The DV cable was plugged/unplugged with power
turned on.
HTurn the camcorder’s power off and on again,
then operate it.

● The Sepia (SEPIA) or Monotone (MONOTONE)
mode is activated.
HDisengage the Sepia (SEPIA) or Monotone
(MONOTONE) mode before setting White
Balance. (墌 pg. 39)

The Black & White Fader does not work.
● The Sepia (SEPIA) or Monotone (MONOTONE)
mode is activated.
HDisengage the Sepia (SEPIA) and Monotone
(MONOTONE). (墌 pg. 39)

The image looks like the shutter speed is
too slow.
● When shooting in the dark, the unit becomes
highly sensitive to light when “GAIN UP” is set to
“AUTO”.
HIf you want the lighting to look more natural, set
“GAIN UP” to “AGC” or “OFF”. (墌 pg. 27, 28)

Other problems
The POWER/CHARGE lamp on the
camcorder does not light during charging.
● Charging is difficult in places subject to extremely
high/low temperatures.
HTo protect the battery, it is recommended to
charge it in places with a temperature of 10°C to
35°C. (墌 pg. 49)
● The battery pack is not attached firmly.
HDetach the battery pack once again and re-attach
it firmly. (墌 pg. 13)

Images on the LCD monitor appear dark or
whitish.
● In places subject to low temperature, images
become dark due to the characteristics of the
LCD monitor. This is not a malfunction.
HAdjust the brightness and angle of the LCD
monitor. (墌 pg. 17, 19)
● When the LCD monitor’s fluorescent light reaches
the end of its service life, images on the LCD
monitor become dark.
HConsult your nearest JVC dealer.

Coloured bright spots appear all over the
LCD monitor or the viewfinder.
● The LCD monitor and the viewfinder are made
with high-precision technology. However, black
spots or bright spots of light (red, green or blue)
may appear constantly on the LCD monitor or the
viewfinder. These spots are not recorded on the
tape. This is not due to any defect of the unit.
(Effective dots: more than 99.99%)

The cassette will not load properly.
● The battery’s charge is low.
HInstall a fully charged battery. (墌 pg. 13)

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH.book Page 47 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

TROUBLESHOOTING
Picture does not appear on the LCD
monitor.
● The viewfinder is pulled out and “PRIORITY” is
set to “FINDER”.
HPush the viewfinder back in or set “PRIORITY” to
“LCD”. (墌 pg. 19, 27, 30)
● The LCD monitor’s brightness setting is too dark.
HAdjust the brightness of the LCD monitor.
(墌 pg. 17)
HIf the monitor is tilted upward 180 degrees, open
the monitor fully. (墌 pg. 19)

EN

47

Warning Indications
Displays the battery remaining power.
Remaining power level
High

Exhausted

As the battery power comes close to nil, the
battery remaining power indicator blinks.
When the battery power is exhausted, power
turns off automatically.

An error indication (01 – 04 or 06) appears.

The remote control does not work.
● “REMOTE” is set to “OFF”.
HSet “REMOTE” to “ON”. (墌 pg. 27, 30)
● The remote control does not point at the remote
sensor.
HPoint at the remote sensor. (墌 pg. 24)
● The remote control batteries are exhausted.
HReplace the batteries with fresh ones. (墌 pg. 24)

Appears when no tape is loaded. (墌 pg. 17)
CHECK TAPE’S ERASE PROTECTION TAB
Appears when the erase protection tab is set to
“SAVE” while the Power Switch is set to “A” or
“M”. (墌 pg. 15)
USE CLEANING CASSETTE
Appears if dirt is detected on the heads during
recording. Use an optional cleaning cassette.
(墌 pg. 50)
CONDENSATION, OPERATION
PAUSED PLEASE WAIT
Appears if condensation occurs. When this
indication is displayed, wait more than 1 hour
until condensation disappears.
TAPE!
Appears if a tape is not loaded when the
Recording Start/Stop Button or SNAPSHOT
Button is pressed while the Power Switch is set
to “A” or “M”.
TAPE END
Appears when the tape ends during recording or
playback.
SET DATE/TIME!
● Appears when the date/time is not set.
(墌 pg. 16)
● The built-in clock battery has run out and the
previously set date/time has been erased.
Consult your nearest JVC dealer for
replacement.

REFERENCES

● A malfunction of some kind has occurred. In this
case the camcorder’s functions become
unusable.
H墌 pg. 48.

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 48 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

48 EN

TROUBLESHOOTING

LENS CAP
Appears for 5 seconds after power is turned on if
the lens cap is attached or when it is dark.
A. DUB ERROR!

?
Appears when playing back a file that is not
compatible with DCF or a file with a size that is
not compatible with this camcorder.

Appears if Audio Dubbing is attempted on a
blank portion of a tape. (墌 pg. 43)

UNIT IN SAFEGUARD MODE
REMOVE AND REATTACH BATTERY

A. DUB ERROR!




The error indications (01, 02 or 06) show what
type of malfunction has occurred. When an error
indication appears, the camcorder turns off
automatically. Remove the power supply
(battery, etc.) and wait a few minutes for the
indication to clear. When it does, you can
resume using the camcorder. If the indication
remains, consult your nearest JVC dealer.

● Appears if Audio Dubbing is attempted on a
tape recorded in the LP mode. (墌 pg. 43)
● Appears if Audio Dubbing is attempted on a
tape recorded in 16-BIT audio. (墌 pg. 43)
● Appears if A. DUB (D) on the remote control is
pressed when the erase protection tab is set to
“SAVE”. (墌 pg. 43)
INSERT ERROR!
Appears if Insert Editing is attempted on a blank
portion of a tape. (墌 pg. 44)
INSERT ERROR!



● Appears if Insert Editing is attempted on a
blank portion of a tape.
● Appears if Insert Editing is attempted on a tape
recorded in the LP mode. (墌 pg. 44)
● Appears if INSERT (I) on the remote control
is pressed when the erase protection tab is set
to “SAVE”. (墌 pg. 44)
HDV
Appears when pictures recorded in the HDV
format are detected. The pictures in the HDV
format cannot be played back with this
camcorder.

UNIT IN SAFEGUARD MODE
EJECT AND REINSERT TAPE
The error indications (03 or 04) show what type
of malfunction has occurred. When an error
indication appears, the camcorder turns off
automatically. Eject the cassette once and reinsert it, then check if the indication clears.
When it does, you can resume using the
camcorder. If the indication remains, consult
your nearest JVC dealer.

MasterPage: Advan_Heading0_Right
GR-DF428AH.book Page 49 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

USER MAINTENANCE

Before cleaning, turn off the camcorder and
remove the battery pack and AC Adapter.
To clean the exterior
Wipe gently with a soft cloth. Put the cloth in
diluted mild soap and wring it well to wipe off
heavy dirt. Then wipe again with a dry cloth.
To clean the LCD monitor
Wipe gently with a soft cloth. Be careful not to
damage the monitor. Close the LCD monitor.
To clean the lens
Blow it with a blower brush, then wipe gently
with lens cleaning paper.

NOTES:

● Avoid using strong cleaning agents such as
benzine or alcohol.
● Cleaning should be done only after the battery
pack has been removed or other power units have
been disconnected.
● Mould may form if the lens is left dirty.
● When using a cleaner or chemically treated cloth
refer to the cautions of each product.
● To clean the viewfinder, please consult your
nearest JVC dealer.

EN

49

Battery Packs
The supplied battery
pack is a lithium-ion
battery. Before using the
supplied battery pack or
an optional battery pack,
be sure to read the
following cautions:
● To avoid hazards

Terminals

... do not burn.
... do not short-circuit the terminals. When
transporting, make sure the provided battery cap
is attached to the battery. If the battery cap is
misplaced, carry the battery in a plastic bag.
... do not modify or disassemble.
... do not expose the battery to temperatures
exceeding 60°C, as this may cause the battery to
overheat, explode or catch fire.
... use only specified chargers.

● To prevent damage and prolong service
life

... do not subject to unnecessary shock.
... charge in an environment where temperatures
are within the tolerances shown in the chart
below. This is a chemical reaction type battery —
cooler temperatures impede chemical reaction,
while warmer temperatures can prevent
complete charging.
... store in a cool, dry place. Extended exposure to
high temperatures will increase natural discharge
and shorten service life.
... fully charge and then fully discharge the battery
every 6 months when storing the battery pack
over a long period time.
... remove from charger or powered unit when not in
use, as some machines use current even when
switched off.

The Benefits Of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion battery packs are small but have a
large power capacity. However, when one is
exposed to cold temperatures (below 10°C),
its usage time becomes shorter and it may
cease to function. If this happens, place the
battery pack in your pocket or other warm,
protected place for a short time, then reattach it to the camcorder.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

REFERENCES

Cleaning The Camcorder

CAUTIONS

MasterPage: Left
GR-DF428AH.book Page 50 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

50 EN

CAUTIONS

NOTES:

● It is normal for the battery pack to be warm after
charging, or after use.
Temperature Range Specifications
Charging: 10°C to 35°C
Operation: 0°C to 40°C
Storage: –20°C to 50°C
● The lower the temperature, the longer recharging
takes.
● Charging times are for a fully discharged battery
pack.

Cassettes
To properly use and store your cassettes, be
sure to read the following cautions:
● During use
... make sure the cassette bears the Mini DV mark.
... be aware that recording onto prerecorded tapes
automatically erases the previously recorded
video and audio signals.
... make sure the cassette is positioned properly
when inserting.
... do not load and unload the cassette repeatedly
without allowing the tape to run at all. This
slackens the tape and can result in damage.
... do not open the front tape cover. This exposes
the tape to fingerprints and dust.

● Store cassettes

... away from heaters or other heat sources.
... out of direct sunlight.
... where they won’t be subject to unnecessary
shock or vibration.
... where they won’t be exposed to strong magnetic
fields (such as those generated by motors,
transformers or magnets).
... vertically, in their original cases.

LCD Monitor
● To prevent damage to the LCD monitor, DO
NOT
... push it strongly or apply any shocks.
... place the camcorder with the LCD monitor on the
bottom.

● To prolong service life

... avoid rubbing it with coarse cloth.

● Be aware of the following phenomena for
LCD monitor use. These are not
malfunctions
... While using the camcorder, the surface around
the LCD monitor and/or the back of the LCD
monitor may heat up.
... If you leave power on for a long time, the surface
around the LCD monitor becomes hot.

Main Unit
● For safety, DO NOT
... open the camcorder’s chassis.
... disassemble or modify the unit.
... short-circuit the terminals of the battery pack.
Keep it away from metallic objects when not in
use.
... allow inflammables, water or metallic objects to
enter the unit.
... remove the battery pack or disconnect the power
supply while the power is on.
... leave the battery pack attached when the
camcorder is not in use.

● Avoid using the unit

... in places subject to excessive humidity or dust.
... in places subject to soot or steam such as near a
cooking stove.
... in places subject to excessive shock or vibration.
... near a television set.
... near appliances generating strong magnetic or
electric fields (speakers, broadcasting antennas,
etc.).
... in places subject to extremely high (over 40°C) or
extremely low (under 0°C) temperatures.

● DO NOT leave the unit

... in places of over 50°C.
... in places where humidity is extremely low (below
35%) or extremely high (above 80%).
... in direct sunlight.
... in a closed car in summer.
... near a heater.

● To protect the unit, DO NOT

... allow it to become wet.
... drop the unit or strike it against hard objects.
... subject it to shock or excessive vibration during
transportation.
... keep the lens directed at extremely bright objects
for long periods.
... expose the lens and viewfinder’s lens to direct
sunlight.
... carry it by holding the LCD monitor or the
viewfinder.
... swing it excessively when using the hand strap or
the grip.
... swing the soft camera case excessively when the
camcorder is inside it.

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH.book Page 51 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

CAUTIONS

... No picture during playback.
... Blocks of noise appear during playback.
... During recording or playback, the Head Clog
Warning indicator “ ” appears.
... Recording cannot be performed properly.

In such cases, use an optional cleaning
cassette. Insert it and play back. If the cassette
is used more than once consecutively, damage
to the video heads may result. After the
camcorder plays back for about 20 seconds, it
stops automatically. Also refer to the cleaning
cassette’s instructions.
If, after using the cleaning cassette, the
problems still exist, consult your nearest JVC
dealer.
Mechanical moving parts used to move the
video heads and video tape tend to become
dirty and worn out over time. In order to maintain
a clear picture at all times, periodic check-ups
are recommended after using the unit for about
1,000 hours. For periodic check-ups please
consult your nearest JVC dealer.

EN

51

About moisture condensation

● You have observed that pouring a cold liquid
into a glass will cause drops of water to form on
the glass’ outer surface. This same
phenomenon occurs on the head drum of a
camcorder when it is moved from a cool place
to a warm place, after heating a cold room,
under extremely humid conditions or in a place
directly subjected to the cool air from an air
conditioner.
● Moisture on the head drum can cause severe
damage to the video tape, and can lead to
internal damage to the camcorder itself.

Serious malfunctioning
If malfunctioning occurs, stop using the unit
immediately and consult your local JVC
dealer.
The camcorder is a microcomputer-controlled
device. External noise and interference (from
a TV, a radio, etc.) might prevent it from
functioning properly. In such cases, first
disconnect its power supply unit (battery pack,
AC Adapter, etc.) and wait a few minutes and
then re-connect it and proceed as usual from
the beginning.

REFERENCES

● Dirty heads can cause the following
problems:

MasterPage: Heading0_Left
GR-DF428AH_08Spec.fm Page 52 Tuesday, March 22, 2005 2:04 PM

52 EN

SPECIFICATIONS
Camcorder

For General
Power supply
DC 11 V (Using AC Adapter)
DC 7.2 V (Using battery pack)
Power consumption
Approx. 3.2 W (3.5 W*) (LCD monitor off, viewfinder on)
Approx. 4.2 W (4.5 W*) (LCD monitor on, viewfinder off)
* Using LED Light
Dimensions (W x H x D)
75 mm x 74 mm x 111 mm (with the LCD monitor
closed and the viewfinder pushed back in)
Weight
Approx. 400 g (without battery, cassette and lens
cap)
Approx. 480 g (incl. battery, cassette and lens cap)
Operating temperature
0°C to 40°C
Operating humidity
35% to 80%
Storage temperature
–20°C to 50°C
Pickup
1/6" CCD
Lens
F 1.2, f = 2.6 mm to 39 mm, 15:1 power zoom lens
Filter diameter
ø30.5 mm
LCD monitor
2.5" diagonally measured, LCD panel/TFT active
matrix system
Viewfinder
Electronic viewfinder with 0.16" colour LCD
Speaker
Monaural
LED Light
Effective distance: 1.5 m

For Digital Video Camera
Format
DV format (SD mode)
Signal format
PAL standard
Recording/Playback format
Video: Digital component recording
Audio: PCM digital recording, 32 kHz 4-channel
(12-BIT), 48 kHz 2-channel (16-BIT)
Cassette
Mini DV cassette
Tape speed
SP: 18.8 mm/s, LP: 12.5 mm/s
Maximum recording time (using 80 min.
cassette)
SP: 80 min., LP: 120 min.

For Connectors
S
S-Video output:
Y: 1.0 V (p-p), 75 Ω, analogue
C: 0.29 V (p-p), 75 Ω, analogue
AV
Video output: 1.0 V (p-p), 75 Ω, analogue
Audio output: 300 mV (rms), 1 kΩ, analogue, stereo
Microphone input

ø3.5 mm, stereo
DV
Output: 4-pin, IEEE1394 compliant

AC Adapter
Power requirement
AC 110 V to 240 Vd, 50 Hz/60 Hz
Output
DC 11 V G, 1 A
Specifications shown are for SP mode unless
otherwise indicated. E & O.E. Design and
specifications subject to change without notice.

MasterPage: Start_Right
GR-DF428AH.book Page 53 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

TERMS

EN

53

A

P

AC Adapter .................................................... 15
Animation ....................................................... 29
Audio Dubbing ............................................... 43

Playback Sound ............................................. 31
Playback Special Effects ............................... 26
Power-Linked Operation ................................ 15
Program AE With Special Effects .................. 38

Backlight Compensation ................................ 36
Battery Pack ...................................... 13, 15, 49
Beep .............................................................. 29
Blank Search ................................................. 22

C
Changing The Menu Settings ................ 27 – 32
Charging The Battery Pack ............................ 13
Connection To A Personal Computer ............ 42
Connections To A TV Or VCR ....................... 23

D
Data Battery ................................................... 14
Date/Time Settings ........................................ 16
Demonstration Mode ..................................... 30
Digital Image Stabilisation (DIS) .................... 29
Dubbing ................................................... 40, 41

E
Exposure Control ........................................... 35

I
Insert Editing .................................................. 44
Iris Lock ......................................................... 36

L

Q
Quick Review ................................................. 21

R
Recording Capacity
Tape ........................................................ 19
Remote Control .............................................. 24

S
Self Recording ............................................... 20
Slow-Motion Playback ................................... 25
Snapshot Mode .............................................. 28
Sound Mode ............................................ 28, 31
Speaker Volume ............................................ 22
Specifications ................................................. 52
Spot Exposure Control ................................... 36

T
Tape Speed (REC MODE) ...................... 28, 31
Telephoto Setting ........................................... 29
Time Code ............................................... 21, 30
Tripod Mounting ............................................. 17
Troubleshooting ............................................. 45

W

LCD Monitor and Viewfinder .................... 16, 19
LED Light ....................................................... 33
Loading A Cassette ....................................... 17

Warning Indications ....................................... 47
White Balance ................................................ 37
Wide Mode ..................................................... 29
Wipe Or Fader Effects ................................... 38

M

Z

Manual Focus ................................................ 35
Motor Drive Mode .......................................... 34

Zooming ............................................. 20, 26, 28

N
Night-Scope ................................................... 34

5-Second Recording ...................................... 33

TERMS

B

GR-DF428AH.book Page 54 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

GR-DF428AH.book Page 55 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

MasterPage: BackCover

Back cover

GR-DF428AH.book Page 56 Friday, March 18, 2005 5:07 PM

EN
GR-DF428

© 2005 Victor Company of Japan, Limited

AH

Printed in Malaysia
0305FOH-ID-VM



Source Exif Data:
File Type                       : PDF
File Type Extension             : pdf
MIME Type                       : application/pdf
PDF Version                     : 1.4
Linearized                      : Yes
Encryption                      : Standard V1.2 (40-bit)
User Access                     : Print, Fill forms, Extract, Assemble, Print high-res
Modify Date                     : 2005:03:23 10:09:35+09:00
Create Date                     : 2005:03:18 15:50:38Z
Subject                         : LYT1462-001A
Page Count                      : 56
Creation Date                   : 2005:03:18 15:50:38Z
Mod Date                        : 2005:03:23 10:09:35+09:00
Producer                        : Acrobat Distiller 5.0.5 (Windows)
Author                          : JVC
Metadata Date                   : 2005:03:23 10:09:35+09:00
Creator                         : JVC
Title                           : GR-DF428AH
Description                     : LYT1462-001A
Page Mode                       : UseOutlines
Page Layout                     : SinglePage
EXIF Metadata provided by EXIF.tools

Navigation menu