RCA Compact VHS C Camcorder Manual 98090094

User Manual: RCA RCA Compact VHS C Camcorder Manual RCA Compact VHS C Camcorder Owner's Manual, RCA Compact VHS C Camcorder installation guides

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nCR
camcorder
user's guide
CC8251

Important Safety Information
Be sure to read

all the safety

WARNING:
camcorder

To reduce

or AC adapter/charger

information

before

you begin

the risk of fire or shockhazard,

to use this product.
do not expose

to rain or moisture.

This symbol indicates

"dangerous

voltage"

inside the product that presents a risk of electric
RISK_ELECn:UCSHOCK
DO NOT OPEN

shock or personal injury.

This symbol indicates important
accompanying
the product.

TO REDUCE

THE RISK OF ELECTRIC

(OR BACK).

NO USER-SERVICEABLE

TO QUALIFIED

SERVICE

SHOCK,

DO NOT REMOVE

PARTS ARE INSIDE.

instructions

THE COVER

REFER SERVICING

PERSONNEL.

Cautions
CAUTION:

To prevent electric shock, match wide blade of plug to
wide slot, fully insert.

ATTENTION:

Pour 6viter les chocs 61ectriques, introduire la lame
la plus large de la fiche dans la borne correspondante de la prise et
pousser jusqu au fond.
To reduce risk of injury, charge only rechargeable batteries recommended by the manufacturer for this camcorder.
Other types of
batteries may burst causing damage and personal injury.
FCC Regulations state that unauthorized changes or modifications
this equipment may void the user's authority to operate it.

Product Registration

Please fill out the product registration card and return it immediately.
Returning this card allows us to contact you if needed.
Keep your sales receipt for proof of purchase to obtain warranty parts
and service and attach it here.. Record the serial number and model
numbers located on the bottom of the camcorder.
Model No:
Serial No:
Purchase
Purchased

CC8251

Date:
From:

.....
_ _

....

Wewant to makesureyou enjoy your newcamcorder.If you haveany
questions,call:
Camcorder Exchange Warranty ...........800-283-6503 (pages 62-63)
Customer

Service ...................................

800-336-1900

(page 61)

Accessories

.............................................

800-338-0376

(pages 48-53)

Safety Information

..............................

First Time Operation
• Assistance .......................................
• Unpack the Camcorder and
Accessories .................................
• Attach the Adapter/Charger

i
3

Use the Adapter/Charger
to
Power Your Camcorder ............ 13

Use the Battery to Power
Your Camcorder

............ 4

• Insert a Tape ....................................

• Open the Lens Cover

......................

• Adjust the Hand Strap .....................

• Turn on the Camcorder

•

Adjust the Viewfinder
Eyepiece

•

...................

................

• Close the Lens Cover ......................

• Battery Safety Precautions

....... 15

• Battery Level Indicator ............. 16
• Battery Care and Storage .......... 16
.....................

............................

Controls

• Recording

Speed and Times ...................... 18
• Insert and Remove Cassettes ........ 19

• Cassette Care and Storage ............. 19

and Playback

Date and Time Display
..................

8-9

Control

Location and Function

Videocassettes

Camcorder's

Operating

•

• Erase Protection

Switch to OFF ............................

Buttons

• Attach the Battery .....................

Car Cord Adapter

• Set the CAM/OFF/VCR

•

Focus Control ............. 6

• Play Back What you Have
Recorded ....................................

Remote

• Charge the Battery ....................

Use the RCA Optional

and

Start and Stop Recording

• Review

Power Your Camcorder

• Set the Time and Date ...................

• Record Time and Date, AUTO
Date, Auto TITLE, or Date ......... 21

...............................

10-11

Install Remote Batteries ................

• Re;note Sensor ............. : ................

• Install the Clock Lithium Cell ....... 22

Recording

• Recording

•

• Camcorder

Use the Viewfinder
to See What

You Record

Displays

..........

•

Viewfinder

•

Microphone

...................................

•

Flying

Head

•

Tally

•

Quick

•

Camera

Edit Feature

•

Program

AE (Auto

•

Fociasing

Erase
Light

................

Review

26
......... 26

•

Auto

•

Manual

•

Macro

Focus

Zooming

• Playback

........................

....... 27

• Tape Positioning

........................

Exposure)

.............................

...............

.................

• Playback

Instant

............................

In and Out of Scenes

•

DISPLAYButton...
Time

Counter

............................

Feature

............

Input Jacks ..... 46-47

Accessories
...................................

• Attaching

the Optional

• Accessory
Trouble

Checks

...........................

Care

Effects

...............................

•

Clean

the Camcorder

.............................

•

Clean

the Camcorder's

•

Clean

the Camcorder's

•

Negative

•

Mode

.........................

Digital

Zooming

.......................

•

Mirror

Mode

•

Mosaic

.............................

............................

a Title .............................

Mode

Order Form ............. 51-53

16 X 9 Mode

Shoulder

Strap ..........................................

...............................

•

Tripod ............ 49

54-57

and Maintenance

Viewfinder

.....................
Lens

.........

.................................

•

Proper

Care and Storage

•

Things

to Avoid

...............

.............................

59
59

Titler
•

Create

•

Record

...................

Specifications
Information

a Title on the Tape

in the Camcorder
Record
a Tape

a Title While

Dub

to User

.....................

.... 60

Assistance

........................

Copying

....................................

,_,udio and Video

....................................

Customer
•

on TV Without

• Using the Optional

.........................

• Memory-Stop
Date

............

Input Jacks ..... 44-45

Audio/Video
Optional

on TV (or VCR) with

• Accessories

•

Pause .....................

Audio/Video

28
28

Lever

Fade

•

Features

• Visual Searching

Display

•

Use the Zoom

Digital

• Playback a Tape in the
Viewfinder ............................

.....................

•

Playback

• Stop-Action

...........................

Zoom.

................................

Focus

Holding Tips ............... 41

...................

Feature

Focus

•

• Travel Tips ....................................

• Playback

Tape-Remaining

•

24-25

.....................................

•

.................

Tips ..............................

...................

39
40

Limited

Warranty

............... ........ 62-63

Index ............................................

64-68

This section describes the basic steps necessary to set up your camcorder
Refer to the other sections for detailed operation and feature options.

to record.

Assistance
The toll-free numbers
Camcorder
Customer
Accessories
.

are available
Exchange

to help you with any problem you may encounter.

Warranty ............... 800-283-6503

Service ...................................

800-336-1900

.............................................

800-338-0376

Unpack the camcorder

and accessories.

• Save the packing materials and box in case you ever need to ship
or-store your camcorder.
• The items shown below are packed with your camcorder. If any
are missing or appear damaged, contact your dealer immediately.

"AA" Batteries
for Remote

Camcorder
Model CC8251

Remote Control
Stock No. 241920

AC Adapter/Charger
Stock No. 241250
DC Cable: Stock No. 233407

Rechargeable 7.2-Volt Battery
Stock No. BB65L

Audio/Video
Output Cable
Stock No. 233408

TU
78

while
Locate

VW
9?

a Title on a Tape in the

you set it to CAM.
the place

you want

Press the thumb trigger (START/STOP
on the remote) to start recording the
title.
After you have recorded the title for
the desired length of time, press
TITLE ON/OFF to remove the titler

on the tape

to record

where

the title.

graphics. The camcorder will now
record normally. If you do not want to
continue recording, press the thumb
trigger (START/STOP on the remote).

Note: If you record a title on a
prerecorded tape, the audio and video is
erased where the title is inserted. A threeto-four second pause of blank tape
appears before the existing audio and
video return.

Remember:
graphics

To eliminate the pauses of blank tape, use
the audio and video dub feature to add
titles to prerecorded
page 40.
°

Press

TITLE

tapes.

ON/OFF

to display the titler
viewfinder.

on the remote

graphics

Remove the titler

for normal recording.

Note: You can also use the automatic title
recording feature to automatically record
the title and date for ten seconds when you
begin recording. Press the DATE/DISP
button to display (S) TITLE before
starting to record.

Details are on

in the

Record a Title While Copying

a Tape from the Camcorder

1. Attach a power source to the
camcorder.
2.

X .Y / Z ,
"

! (BiankSpace)

Attach a power source to the
camcorder.
Press and hold the small
button on the CAM/OFF/VCR
switch

Place the tape you want to copy in
the camcorder and press and hold
the small button on the CAM/OFF/
VCR switch while you set it to VCR.

to Another VCR

When you see the place on the tape
you want to insert the title, press
TITLE ON/OFF on the remote:
After you have recorded the title for
the desired time, press TITLE ON/
OFF to stop recording the title.

3. Place a blank tape in the VCR, and
place the VCR in record-pause.

7. Stop the camcorder and VCR when
you are finished copying the tape.

Important Note: Remove the titler graphics
for normal recording.

Start copying the tape from the
camcorder to the VCR. Details are
on pages 44-45.

Audio and Video Dub
The audio/video dub feature lets you record new audio (sound) and video
(picture) from the camcorder's
built in microphone and camera onto a previously
recorded tape.

_F.FWD
(( ((_-J)/_'__-_'_

\\ __

eL4r
Button

__
_

I[ J

VCR Switch

STOP
Button _

Button
CAM/OFF/

- I
I_-_

_----Thumb

REW/REVIEW
Button

nutton l[
Button
A/V

I[_

START/
STOP and
(PAUSE)
Button
--F.FWD
Button
"STOP
Button

To Audio and Video Dub
Press and hold the small button on the

CAM/OFF/VCR
it to VCR.

switch while you set

2. Insert the tape you want to dub and
press PLAY. Press the thumb trigger
(PAUSE on remote) exactly at the
place where you want to stop dubbing
to place the camcorder in play-pause.
3. Press DISPLAY

on the remote twice

to display the time counter with
memory stop. Press COUNTER/
RESET on the remote to reset the
counter to O:O0:OOM.
.

Use PLAY, F.FWD, and/or REW/
REVIEW (REW on remote) to locate a
point on the tape that is a few seconds
before the place on the tape where
you want to begin dubbing.
IP

5. Press and hold A/VDUB

on the

remote and then press PLAY. Release
both buttons at the same time. A/V
DUB n will appear in the viewfinder
when the camcorder is ready to begin
dubbing.
6. To begin dubbing, press the thumb
trigger (PAUSE on remote).
u disappears while you dub.
7. The camcorder stops dubbing when
the time counter reaches O:O0:OOM.
Notes: The camcorder will enter the stop
mode after remaining in dub pause for more
than five minutes.
The date search feature does not operate
during audio/video dubbing.
Noise might appear at the end of the dubbed
portion.

Recording

Tips

• Try to make sure indoor scenes are
well-lit. This improves picture quality
and color reproduction.
• Do not move the camcorder rapidly
from side-to-side while recording.
A steady, gradual "pan" avoids
blurring and "jitter."
•

Use the viewfinder
camcorder

to make sure the

is level while recording

that y.our scenes won't appear "tilted."
• Do not bump or tap the camcorder's
microphone while recording - the
sound will be recorded.
• Include close-ups of individuals when
taping family outings or group functions.

To film at different
viewfinder.

angles, raise the

• Fading in and out of scenes makes
your videos appear more professional.
• Be aware of video and audio backgrounds. Background details barely
noticed while you are taping may show
up as visual "clutter" on your recording. Background noises (especially
TV sets, radios, household appliances,
traffic sounds, etc.) can detract from
the sound you want to record.
• Avoid long "still" shots of landmarks
and scenic attractions. Recordings are
more interesting if they include people
and details. "Local color" will give
travel videos lasting appeal. Consider
recording a familiar or landmark scene
from an unfamiliar vantage point.

• Use an optional
images.

tripod for stable

• Hold the camcorder horizontally.
Keep
your feet slightly apart and upper arms
close to your body.

• When possible, rest your elbows on a
table or other stable surface to help
keep the camcorder steady.

• Stand against a wall to give your
recordings more stability.

• Do not pick up the camcorder
viewfinder.

Write down your camcorder's
serial
number and keep it separate from the
camcorder when traveling. If your
camcorder is lost or stolen, you will be
able to identify it.
Use extra care when you use your
camcorder or accessories at a beach or
pool. Spray, sand, and dust should be
avoided. If your lens has been exposed
to the elements, clean it only with
proper lens cleaning supplies.

by the

Make sure you have any adapters that
you might need before taking your
camcorder to other countries. Consult
your dealer for advice.
Carry your camcorder in a carrying
case when traveling. See page 48for a
carrying case designed for your
camcorder. An ordinary suitcase or
carry bag does not offer the protection
your camcorder needs. Treat your
camcorder as carry-on luggage to
protect it from rough handling.
41

Viewfinder

Playback

and Playback

Features

The simplest way to watch tapes using the camcorder is in the viewfinder. You can
use the playback features during viewfinder playback. There is no sound during
viewfinder playback.

PUSH LOCK

_:............ :.:....-.:.:....
............. _..............................................
Play Back a Tape in the View
" fin de r ................
.............................................................................................................
Attach a power supply.

Attach either the adapter/charger,
charged battery, or an optional
car cord.
.

Press and hold the small button on

the CAM/OFF/VCR
set it to VCR.

a
4.

Adjust the viewfinder.
• Adjust the viewfinder into a
comfortable viewing position.

Insert a tape.
• Slide EJECT

to open the cassette

• Turn the eyepiece focus control to
adjust the focus of the viewfinder
for your vision.

compartment.
• Insert the cassette with the safety
tab and window facing out.
• Press on the area labeled PUSH
LOCK to close the cassette compartment

Press PLAY to begin playback.

• During playback, use the playback
features on the next page.

door.

• The camcorder
,tapes recorded

onlyplays back
in the SP speed.

switch while you

Press STOP when you are
finished.

Viewfinder

Playback

and Playback

Features

(continued)

PA USE
REW
Button -Button

Button

Playback

Features

Stop-Action

Pause

• During playback, press the thumb
trigger (PAUSE on remote) to "stop
the action" and view one frame of
the tape.
• Press the thumb trigger (PAUSE on
remote) again to return to normal
playback.

Visual Searching
During playback, press and hold F.FWD
or REW/REVIEW
(REW on remote) if
you want to search the tape visually in
forward or reverse.

• Release the button to return to normal
playback.
Tape Positioning
Press and hold the small button on the
CAM/OFF/VCR
to VCR.

switch while you set it

• Press and quickly release REW/REVIEW
(REW on remote) or F.FWD to rewind or
fast-forward the tape.
• Press STOP to stop the tape.

Playback

on TV (or VCR)-with

To connect

your camcorder

the audio/video
connected

cable

attach

or playing

_DIO'"
AUIN
VIDEO

Back
VCR

]

the camcorder

White

Audio

inputs, use

If your TV is already

and watch

what

the camcorder

Yello

jack

Yellow

to the VCR

Plug

Yellow
Video Plug

. _L-'" _ideo

of
or

with audio and video

with your camcorder.

/®

(or VCR)

Inputs

on the TV.

l .....
1/

to a TV monitor

that was packed

to a VCR,

recording

Audio/Video

Cable

Video

Plug

.......

..-""
.......

-OR-

White

'"
....• .......

White

TV Monitor

....
..°Jack
..... ,:_

Audio

,'°
Z

,,
Plug

,°

Yellow

Video Plug
Audio
Plug
White
'-_

L._

Audio

Plug

Y-Adapter

Audio/Video Cable

v,,_o@.
Back of
Stereo
VCR or
TV Monitor
Yellow

Video

Plug

Installation
.

Attach

the white

the audio/video
IN jack

plug on one end of
cable

to the AUDIO

on the TV (or VCR).

Notes: If your cable does not have white
and yellow plugs, attach the same color to
the audio jacks.
If your TV (or VCR) has stereo AUDIO IN
jacks, attach the plug to the0ne labeled
MONO. If one is not labeled MONO, you:
need a Y-adapter, such 'as AH25, shown on
page 48 to hear both channels.
44

Attach the yellow plug to the VIDEO

IN jack on the TV (or VCR).
.

Attach the white plug on the other
end of the audio/video cable to the
audio jack and the yellow plug to the
yellow video jack.
The jacks are located under the small
cover on the back of the camcorder.

Playback

Operation

and How to Copy Tapes on the VCR

1. A. Camcorder connected directly to
TV: Turn on the TV and tune it to

3. Press PLAY.
• During playback, use the playback
features on page 43.

the video input channel.
B. Camcorder connected to VCR that
is already connected to TV: Turn
on VCR and place it in the "line"
or "camera mode". (If your VCR
does not have a "line" or "camera

4. To copy what the camcorder is
playing, place a blank cassette in
the VCR, and press the VCR's
RECORD button.
Note:

mode", consult the VCR owner's
manual.) Operate the TV as you
normally do to see the signal
coming from the VCR.

Make sure the memory-stop

feature

is turned off (press DISPLAY on the
remote) or the camcorder will enter playpause when the counter reaches O:O0:OOM.
5. Press STOP when you are finished.

2. Press and hold the small button on the
CAM/OFF/VCR
it to VCR.

switch while you set

Note: The camcorder only plays back
tapes recorded ifi the SP speed.

Viewing
1.

B°

What

the Camcorder

is Seeing

Camcorder connected directly to
TV: Turn on the TV, and tune it to
the video input channel.
Camcorder

connected

(or Recording)

2. Press and hold the small button on the
CAM/OFF/VCR
it to CAM.

to VCR that

manual.) Operate the TV as you
normally do to see the signal
coming from the VCR.

switch while you set

Note: Turn the TV's volume down to
prevent a high-pitched squeal caused
by feedback.

is already connected to TV: Turn
on VCR and place it in the "line"
or "camera mode". (If your VCR
does not have a "line" or "camera
mode", consult the VCR owner's

.. •

Press the thumb trigger (START/STOP
button on remote) to begin recording.
You can watch what the camcorder is
seeing (or recording) on the TV
screen.

Playback

on a TV Without

Audio/Video

Inputs

To connect your camcorder to a TV without audio/video inputs, you need an
optional CRF81A RF output adapter shown on page 48. If your TV has audio and
video inputs (or is connected to a VCR), refer to pages 44-45.

Audio/Video Out
Connector
Located Behind
mall Cover)

Back of TV(

VHF Antenna

®
CH3/CH4
Switch

VHF Antenna

Optional

300/75 ohm

Transformer

Installation
°

Disconnect

the VHF antenna from

your TV. Connect
ANT IN connector
adapter if you are
adapter connected

the antenna to the
on the RF output
going to leave the
to the TV.

Note: If your VHF antenna is the flat
twin-lead type attached by two screws,
you need an optional 300/75 ohm
transformer.
.

Attach the RF output adapter's cable
to the VHF input on your TV as
shown.

Note: If your TV has 300 ohm screw
terminals, you need a 75/300 ohm
transformer, such as VH54, shown on
page 48.
°

Attach

the RF output

adapter's

plug to

the RF output connector
located under
the small cover on the side of the
camcorder.

Playback

Operation

1. Set the CH3/CH4

4. Press PLAY on the camcorder.

switch on the

RF output adapter to CH3 or CH4.
2. Tum on the TV, and tune it to the
same channel you selected with the
RF output adapter's CH3/CH4 switch.

•

During playback, use the playback
features described on page 43.

5. Press STOP on the camcorder

when

you are finished.

3. Press and hold the small button on the
CAM/OFF/VCR
it to VCR.

switch while you set

Viewing What the Camcorder

Is Recording

1. Turn on the TV and tune it to channel
3 or 4. Turn the TV's volume down to
prevent

a high-pitched

by feedback.
2. Set the CH3/CH4

squeal caused

switch on the RF

output adapter to the same channel
you selected on the TV.

........................._

.......

3. Press and hold the small button on the
CAM/OFF/VCR
it to CAM.

switch while you set

4. Press the thumb trigger (START/STOP
button on remote) to begin recording.
You can watch what the camcorder is
seeing (or recording)
screen.

on the TV

Normal TV Viewing
For normal TV viewing, leave the RF
output adapter hooked up to the TV.
Disconnect the adapter's plug from

the camcorder or turn the camcorder's
power off.
:

Note to Cable TV Installer
This reminder is provided to call your attention to Article 820-40 of the
National Electrical Code (Section 54 of Canadian Electrical Code, Part I), that
provides guidelines for proper grounding and, in particular, specifies that the
cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system of the building as
close to the' point of cable entry as practical.
,_-....
_ _ __ i '

We invite you to take a look at some great ideas for sparking creativity and adding to
the fun of using your VHS camcorder. The following pages have a selection of
accessories to help make your memorable moments look and sound even better.
These accessories are designed
videos more enjoyable.
To order accessories,

to make the process of recording

Soft Carrying

your

contact your local Dealer.

If a dealer is not nearby, all accessories
using the order form on page 51.
AC201A

and watching

are available through toll-free ordering

Case

Custom compact soft case designed
especially to provide protection and utility
for your 8mm camcorder and most
accessories.
Rugged Aczoia lined with
soft non-abrasive material and generous
padding. The carrying case has three
outside pockets with storage for lens
filters, adapters, batteries, and tapes.

CRF81A RF Output

or by

Adapter

This RF output adapter is used to connect
your camcorder to a standard TV (one
without audio/video inputs) for playback.
If your antenna cable is the flat twin-lead
type attached by two screws, you need a
300-to-75 ohm transformer.
If your TV
has 300 ohm antenna screw terminals,
you need an optional 75-to-300 ohm
transformer such as VH54.
VH54 Cable Transformer

DCC06

DC Car Cord Adapter

This 75-to-300

ohm transformer

is used to

connect the RF output adapter's cable to
the 300 ohm screw terminals on a TV.
AH25 Y-Adapter

This car cord adapter enables you to
operate your camcorder from your car,
truck, or RV by plugging the car cord
directly into the vehicle's cigarette lighter
socket. The DCC06 is designed
specificallytoconverrpower
from a "
24- 8r 12-volt battery to a 6-volt output.
48

This Y-adapter allows you to connect
.your camcorder's mono audio cable to
a stereo TV or VCR.

Using the Optional

AC088 Tripod

Mounting the camcorder on a tripod, such as AC088, keeps the camcorder
produces excellent video results.

steady and

This tripod's fluid-effect head provides smooth camera pan and tilt. The quick-release
mount makes it easy to attach or remove the camcorder. The grooved, tubular 3-section
leg design folds down to 26" when not in use. Rubber feet allow for sure footing.

Attaching

the Optional

215770

Shoulder

Strap

An optional shoulder strap lets you carry the camcorder from your shoulder and - when
you are ready to shoot - bring the camcorder to shooting position in one quick
movement.
To Attach

the Shoulder

Strap

Thread each end of the strap through
one of the attachment rings.
Thread each end of the strap back into
its buckle. Pull on the strap to make
sure it is securely fastened before
using the shoulder strap to support the
camcorder.

Order

Form

for Camcorder

CC8251

Description

Part

Super Lightweight Tripod

AC088

$ 39.95

Soft Camcorder Case

AC201A

$ 39.95

Y-Adapter! .....

AH25

BB65L

$ 99.95

RF Output Adapter

CRF81A

$ 89.95

Car Cord Adapter

DCC06

$ 89.95

75-300 Cable Transformer

VH54

Shoulder

215770

$ 11.15

233407

$ 12.65

Cable

233408

$ 38.20

AC Adapter/Charger

241250

$ 89.95

Remote

241920

$ 39.95

Rechargeable

Battery

Strap

DC Cable
Audio/Video

Control

Total Merchandise

........ .........................

No.

Model
Price

Qty.

Total

2.95

. ...........................................

.....: ........ $

Sales Tax ..........................................................................................................

We are required by law to collect the appropriate
sales tax for each individual state, county, and
locality to which the merchandise
Shipping

and Handling

Total Amount Enclosed

is beiiig sent.

.....................................................................................

.................................................................................

5.00

Use VISA, MasterCard, or Discover.
Money order orcheck must be in U.S.
currency only. No COD or cash.
Prices are subject to change without notice.

Charge your order on your VISA,MasterCard,
or Discover Card by filling in below

USE YOUR

IMPORTANT:

CREDIT

CARD

Copy complete account number from your VISA card

f_"

'I-I-1 I-V'I-G
I-I-'N T-1 Exp,ra,
io.ate:
I--I--1
IMPORTANT:

Copy complete account number from your MasterCard

I---I--I-N I I I I I I---I---I--NI---I---I---_
Copy Number above your name on MasterCard

IMPORTANT:

Expiration date: I

It I I

Copy complete account number from your Discover Card

I---I---I-_I--l---l-T-I
I---I-l_ I--V-I-_
Expiration date:

[--[--1

AUTHORIZED

SIGNATURE

Prices are subject to change without notice.

A complete and correct order will
save you days of waiting.

Print or type your name and
address clearly.

Name:
Daytime Phone:
Street:
t_.

Apt:

City:
State:

€.1

Zip:

..I

Please make sure that both sides of this form have been filled out completely.
• Allow 4 weeks for delivery.
• All accessories are subject to availability.

....

To order accessories,

contact your local Dealer.

If a dealer is not nearby, you can also follow the directions below to order by
telephone or direct-by-mail.

United States and Canada Orders
To place your order by phone, have your Visa, MasterCard, or Discover card ready
and call the toll-free number listed below between 8 AM and 10 PM (EST)
Monday through Friday or between

9AM and 5PM (EST) Saturday.

Use this number only to place an order for accessory
this order form.

items listed on

1-800-338-0376

To place your order by mail, detach and mail the completed order form with credit
card information, money order, or check in U.S. currency (made payable to
Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.) to the following address:

Video Accessories
PO Box 8419
Ronks, PA 17573

If you're having trouble with your camcorder, you probably can correct the problem
yourself. Before you take your camcorder to an Authorized RCA Camcorder Service
Center or call a service person, use the chart below. Find the problem and try the
adjustment(s) that is listed to the right.
If service should be necessary,
to get service.

•

No power

read your warranty

Set the CAM/OFF/VCR

to find out what is covered and how

switch to CAM or VCR to turn

on the camcorder.

Won't

record

•
•

If using battery, it may need to be recharged.
If using AC adapter/charger,
make sure it is plugged
into a working outlet.

•

If using AC adapter/charger,
into a working outlet:
Make sure CAM/OFF/VCR

play back

•
•
•
•
•

TAPE appears in
the viewfinder

make sure it is plugged
switch is set to correct

position for desired operation.
There might not be a cassette in the camcorder.
Try ejecting and reinserting the cassette.
The cassette tape might be broken, try another cassette.
You might have reached the end of the cassette, try
rewinding it.
Moisture condensation might cause the tape to stick to
the headwheel and damage the headwheel or tape.
Remove tape and give the camcorder an hour to reach a
stable temperature before reinserting a cassette.

Won't play back

CAMERA/OFF/VCR

Won't record

*
•

Safety tab closed. Seepage 18.
CAM/OFF/VCR
switch must be set to CAM.

No picture

•

Set lens cover OPEN/CLOSE

Camcorder
off

turns

switch must be set to VCR.

Set the CAM/OFF/VCR
switch to OFF and then to
CAM or VCR to turn back on. If camcorder is left in
record-pause or play-pause
off to prevent tape wear.

switch to OPEN.

for several minutes, it turns

Sound is too low or
distorted

•

Subject was too far from camcorder.

Tape stops during
rewind or fast forward

•

Whenever memory stop is turned on, the camcorder
will stop rewinding (or fast forwarding) when the time
counter reads O:O0:OOM. Press REW/REVIEW
(REW
on remote) or F.FWD again to continue rewinding or
fast forwarding, or press DISPLAY on the remote to
remove the time counter.

•

Make sure titler graphics do not appear in viewfinder.
Press TITLE ON/OFF button on remote to remove.

•

Make sure flashing cursor does not appear in date or
time display. Press DATE/DISP button to remove.

•

Press the thumb trigger (START/STOP PAUSE on
remote) to return to normal playback.

•
•
•

Lens is smudged and image appears unfocused.
Eyepiece focus control is maladjusted.
If FOCUS appears in viewfinder, press FOCUS
FOCUS • together to turn on auto focus.

Viewfinder displays
are out of focus

•

Eyepiece

Picture quality is poor
during playback

•

Camcorder only has one speed (SP). If the tape was
recorded at a different speed, it cannot be played back
on this camcorder.

or will not operate
during rewind or fast
forward

Camcorder

remains

play-pause

mode

Poor auto-focus
operation

Picture recorded

with

and

See page 23.

A fade or fade wipe mode has been selected. Turn off
the fade effect by pressing FADE. See page 31.
A digital recording effect has been selected. Turn off
the digital effects by pressing D. EFFECTS.
See pages 34-37

a special fade or
digital effect (such as
negative, 16X9,
mosaic, or mirror)
Black bars on top and
bottom of picture

focus control is maladjusted.

•

16X9 feature selected.

See page 35.

Dateand/ortime or
title wererecorded
on tape

•

Displays are recorded on tape whenever they appear
in the viewfinder. Remove them from the viewfinder
when recording.

•

See pages 21 and 39.

When (S) DATE or TITLE is selected, the display is
automatically recorded when you begin recording or
change the cassette. See page 21.
The title is recorded whenever it appears in the
viewfinder. Press the TITLE ON/OFF button on the
remote to remove the title from the viewfinder. See
page 39.

Dateand/ortime are
incorrect

Remotecontrol will
not operate
camcorder

Date or time may need to be set. See page 20.
Clock lithium cell battery may need replacing.
See page 22.
•
•

Aim remote at remote sensor on camcorder.
Remote must be within 16 feet of the camcorder.

•
•

Remote batteries need replacing. See page 12.
CAM/OFF/VCR
switch must be set to CAM or VCR.

•

Remote sensor on the _amcorder is exposed to direct
sunlight or strong artificial light. This might interfere
with operation of camcorder by remote.

Power is turned on
but function buttons

Remove the power source and clock cell. After one
minute the viewfinder displays will be reset. You will
have to reset your features.

will not operate
Bright, crystalshaped spots appear
in viewfinder
Colored bright spots
appear in viewfinder

•

Sunlight

is directly entering

the lens.

Black spots or bright spots of light (red, green, or
blue) may appear in the viewfinder. These spots are
not recorded on the tape and are not due to a defect in
the unit.

Rechargeable
batteryrunsdown
soonerthan
expected

Batteryrun times aremeasuredwhenthe
camcorderis recordingcontinuously.To check
your battery;chargeit completely,aim the
camcorderat a clock, andrecordthe clock.
When thecamcorderstopsrecording,play the
lastpart of the tapeandcheckthetime on the
clock. A one-hourbatteryshouldgive youabout
60 minutesof recordingtime. In practicaluse,a
fully chargedbatterymight not recordfor 60
minutesbecausethe batteryusespower when
you pausethe•recordingandusesextra power
whenyou zoom.

Clean the Camcorder
To clean the camcorder's exterior, remove
any power source connected to the
camcorder and gently wipe it with a clean
soft cloth.

Clean the Camcorder's
To clean the camcorder's

Lens

.......

lens, blow it with a blower brush, and then gently wipe the

lens with cleaning tissue and commercially prepared cleaning solution designed for
use on camera lens. Improper cleaning might scratch the lens.

Lens

Clean the Camcorder's

Viewfinder

You can remove the viewfinder eyepiece for cleaning.
1. Turn the eyepiece counterclockwise
until it stops and pull it out.

Gently use a soft non-abrasive cloth,
cotton swab, blower brush, or lens
cleaning paper to clean the miniature
monitor.

Reattach the eyepiece by aligning
the raised mark (D) to the center of
the viewfinder.
Turn the eyepiece
clockwise until it stops.

Proper Care and Storage
Keep dust and grit from entering the
camcorder's
cassette door. Dust and
grit are abrasive and cause excessive
wear to both the camcorder's
recording/playback
cassettes.

heads and

Do not store the camcorder

Before handling your camcorder, make
sure ygur hands and face are free from
any chemical products such as suntan
lotion, as it might damage the finish.

serviceable

parts inside.

Avoid operating your camcorder
immediately after moving it from a
cold location to a warm location. Give
the camcorder 2 to 3 hours to reach a
stable:temperature
before inserting
cassette. When the camcorder is
moved from cold to warm,

condensation might cause the tape to
stick to the headwheel and damage the
headwheel or tape.
Do not aim your camcorder
or other bright objects.

at the sun

• Do not leave your camcorder in direct
sunlight for extended periods of time.
The resulting heat buildup might
permanently damage the camcorder's
internal parts.
_.:

When the camcorder is not in use,
always remove the cassette and AC
adapter/charger or battery.
Retain the original carton for future
storage or shipping purposes.

to Avoid

Do not attempt to disassemble your
camcorder.
There are no user-

temperatures below -22"F (-30°C) or
above 149°F (65*C).

Always close the lens cover on the
camcorder when it is not in use.

Things

The camcorder might be damaged by
improper storage or handling. Do not
subject the camcorder to swinging,
shaking, or dropping.

.....

•

Do not operate the camcorder near the
ocean as salt water or salt water spray
might damage the internal parts of the
camcorder.
_
Do not operate the camcorder for
extended periods in temperatures
below 40*F (4°C) or above 95°F
(35 *C).
Do not expose the camcorder or
adapter/charger
to rain or moisture.
If any component becomes wet, turn
off the power and take the unit to an
Authorized RCA Camcorder
Service Center.
Do not use an adapter/charger
or
batteries other than the ones specified
for the camcorder.
Use of the wrong
accessories might cause damage to the
camcorder.

• Do not operate the camcorder in
extl'emely humid environments.
59

Camera

General
Power requirement:

7.2VDC

Scanning: 525 lines/60 fields/30 frames
Image Sensor: 1/4" CCD Imager
Lens: F1.4 - 2.8 (4 - 64mm)
Diameter: 46 mm

Power consumption: 4 watts
Weight: 1.67 lbs, without battery
or cassette

AC Adapter/Charger

Dimensions - Including
Viewfinder:
3-7/8" (W) x 4-1/2" (H) x 9-7/16" (D)

Power requirement:
50/60 Hz.

98 (W) x 115 (H) x 239 (D) mm
Video Recorder
Format: 8mm

2-13/16"(W) x 1.3/4"(H) x 5-15/16"(D)
74 (W) x 44 (H) x 151 (D) mm

system:

Two xiide0 record/playback
One flying erase head
Video signal: EIA standard
NTSC color

100-240 V,

Power consumption:
20 watts max
Weight: 12 ounces (330g)
Dimensions:

Section

Record/playback

Section

heads
,_.,..:

Tripod

Mount

One 1/4" x 20 threaded

Tape speed: 14.3 mm/sec.
Video output: 1.0Vp-p, 75 ohm

hole

Audio output: -7.8 dBs (316Vms)
Fast forward/rewind
time: less than 8
minutes with P6-120 cassette

This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful
interference ina residential installation.
equipment

generates,

•

Increase the separation between
equipment and receiver.

the

•

Connect the equipment into an outlet on a
circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.

This

uses, and can radiate

•

Consult the dealer or an experienced
TV technician

radio/

for help.

radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions,

Alterations

may cause harmful interference to radio
communications.
However, there is no

without appropriate authorization may
invalidate the user's FCC right to operate the

guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation.
If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to radio or

equipment.

television reception, which can be determined
by turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference
by one or more of the following measures:
•

R_orient or relocate the receiving

antenna.

or modifications

carried out

_i k-

Thomson
You can reach Thomson
following

at the

provides

may encounter

800-283-6503
Our toll-free Camcorder number
operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., CST
Monday - Friday
for U.S. customers only

you

with your camcorder.

can be diagnosed

(Toll free inside U.S.A.)

Many

over the phone, and if

necessary,

repair or replacement

arranged.

Please have your camcorder

will be

serial number and date of purchase

model/

ready

when you call. If your unit is out of warranty,
we will quote the cost of a repair or
replacement

to Thomson

If we are unable to resolve your problem

telephone

number to help you with any problems

number:

Returnlngequipment

a toll-free

unit to you.

for repair or exchange

over

Always consult Thomson

the phone, we will gladly service your unit or

Authorization

exchange it for a new or, at our option,
refurbished camcorder. Refer to the limited

anything!

warranty

representative

on the next page to learn about your

and get a Return

before returning

Obtain a Retum Authorization

(RA) number from the telephone
equipment

specific rights and responsibilities.

number

before returning

your

to avoid delays, accounting

errors,

or even loss of your unit.

Important information to customers
Thomson Consumer Electronics
The Thomson

representative

who ship defective

equipment

who authorized

are located on the bottom of your unit.

the return of your equipment

will give you an

If your camcorder

RA number

They will also

period, please provide

over the phone.

provide you with instructions

on where and

how to return your camcorder.

Write the

is within the warranty

to verify purchase

a copy of the bill of sale

date. Use the original

and packing material

to protect the equipment

number in large, clear characters on the
outside of the box. To avoid confusion and

from damage in shipment.

misunderstandings,

full replacement

shipments

without an RA

For your protection,

number clearly visible on the outside of the

shipper.

box will be returned

for warranty

Include

to you at your expense.

a brief note describing

and any conversations
have had with Thomson

the problem

about the problem

you

insure all shipments

for

value and use a reliable

Thomson

assumes

shipments

the factory if not shipped
prescribed

box

no responsibility

from the customer

in the manner

by Thomson.-

personnel.

Include your name, address

and model/serial

number of your camcorder.

These numbers

What your warranty

.......

with a Return Authorization (RA)
number, and the location to which your
unit should be returned. No returns

covers:

• Any defect in materials or
workmanship.

will be accepted
number.
For how long after your purchase:

Write the RA number on the outside
of the carton used to return the unit.

• 90 days for labor charges.
• One year for parts.
The warranty period for rental units
begins with the first rental or 45 days
from date of shipment to the rental firm,
whichever comes first.

Make sure you insure your shipment
case of damage or loss.
.

What we will do:
During the initial 90 days
• Repair your camcorder or exchange
your camcorder with a new or
refurbished unit. The option will be
ours. There will be no cost to you.
After the 90 days and within one year
• Repair your camcorder or exchange
your camcorder with a new or
refurbished unit. The option will be
ours. Parts will be provided at no
charge, but you will be responsible for
the cost of labor required for the
repair.

How you get service:
1. Call 1-800-283-6503
and have your
unit's date of purchase and model/
serial number ready. The model/
serial number information is on the
bottom of your camcorder.
2. A representative will troubleshoot
your problem over the phone. If the
representative determines that your
unit is defective, you will be provided

without the RA

Carefully pack the unit excluding all
accessories, using the original box and
packing material if possible.
Include with the shipment:
• Evidence of purchase date, such as a
bill of sale, to verify your unit's
warranty eligibility.
• A brief note describing
camcorder problem.

your

• Your name, address and phone
number.
Return transportation, handling and
insurance costs are your responsibility.
We accept no liability in case of
damage or loss.
6. The representative will advise the
address to mail a cashier's check or
money order for payment if there are
any out of warranty labor or parts
charge s .
7. Your camcorder will be returned to you
when it is repaired.

To have your camcorder repaired by an
Authorized RCA Camcorder Service
Center:
Check with your dealer or Call 1=800336-1900 for the Authorized RCA ....
Camcorder Service Center nearest you.

Take your unit to the Authorized RCA
Camcorder Service Center of your
choice.
• Show the Authorized

RCA Camcorder

Service Center representative evidence
of purchase date, such as a bill of sale.
• Pick up your camcorder
are complete.
What your warranty
• Adjustment
• Damage

when repairs

How State Law relates to warranty:
This warranty gives you specific legal
rights and you also may have other
rights that vary from state to state.
If you purchased your Camcorder
outside the United States:
• This warranty does not apply. Contact
your dealer for warranty information.

does not cover:

of customer

controls.

from misuse or neglect.

• A unit that has been modified

incorporated into other products
used for institutional or other
commercial

or is

purposes.

• Batteries

for remote control and clock.

• Cleaning

of video/audio

• Camcorders purchased
outside the U.S.A.

heads.
or serviced

• Return transportation
and handling
costs of your unit, including insurance
for loss or damage.
• Acts of God, such as but not limited to
lightning damage.
Product

Registration:

Please complete and mail the Product
Registration Card packed with your
camcorder.
It will make it easier to
contact you should it ever be necessary.
The return of the card is not required
for warranty coverage.

16X9 feature

16X9 indicator

24, 35

Cable TV installer note 47
CAM/OFF/VCR

switch

6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 20, 22,
AN DUB button
AN

10, 40

DUB indicator

26, 27, 28, 32, 33, 38, 39, 40, 42,

25, 40

43, 45, 47

Accessories

Camcorder

included

optional

cleaning

order form

holding tips 41

operating

Adapter/charger
accessory
charging
using

Camera
14

AE focus indicators

optional

shoulder

Audio and video jacks

strap 50

9, 44

output cable
3

Auto focus

cleaning the lens

proper care and storage

camcorder

3
and removing

Cassette

compartment

Cassette

door 4

Cassette

EJECT indicator

Cassette

holder

4, 19

care and storage

video
15

19
19

Cautions

Cell compartment

Cell holder
EJECT button

Battecy level indicator
64

safety precautions

BATTERY

insert and remove

charging

using

Cassettes

storage

Care and storage

Battery

care

viewfinder

cleaning the viewfinder

things to avoid

B
attaching

cleaning the camcorder

cassette

accessory

Care and maintenance

1, 3, 61

Audio and video dub 40

accessory

edit feature

using optional
24, 27

customer

Audio/video

Car cord

4, 13

Attaching

controls

turn on 6

battery

Assistance,

8, 15

16, 24, 25

Chart of characters
Checks, trouble

in titler

Cleaningthecamcorder's
lens58
Cleaningtheviewf'mder58
Clockcell
accessory
3
install 22
Clockcellcompartment
9
Clocklithiumcell 22
CLOSE/OPEN
switch5, 7, 8
Contents1
Copytapes45
COUNTER/RESET
button 10, 32
Customer
assistance
andservice61

EJECT button 4, 9, 16, 19, 42
Erase protection
Eyepiece

button

8, 24, 34, 35, 36, 37

focus control

F.FWD button
9, 10, 20, 27, 33, 38, 40, 43
FADE button

8, 31
31

Fade indicators

24, 31

Fast-forwarding

indicator

First time operation

Date search

Flying erase head

DATE/DISP

button

Focus

8, 20, 21, 25, 32, 38, 39
DC cable

using

macro

manual

DC IN 6V jack
DC OUT jack
Design

8, 13, 17

specifications

Digital effects

Digital zooming

viewfinder

Dubbing

28, 29

Hand strap flap
Head cleaning

9
18

Displays,

24, 28, 29

Hand strap 5, 9

10, 25, 32, 33, 45

stop 32

time counter

8, 28

24, 34

button

date search
memory

Digital effects indicators

DISPLAY

FOCUS indicator
Focusing

3
26

FOCUS buttons

auto 28

14, 17

accessory

6, 8, 23, 42

Fade feature

D
D. EFFECTS

24, 25
I.ZOOM
Important

indicator

25, 30

safety information

Indicators
16X9

24, 35

AN DUB
AE focus

16, 24

EJECT

Macro focus

fast-forwarding

25, 30

in viewfinder
memory

stop 32

Memory

stop indicator

Microphone

stop 25, 32

MIRROR

25, 32

8, 26, 41
indicator

24, 37

Mirror mode

MOSAIC

24, 37

MOSAIC

NEGPOS

24, 36

Mosaic mode

NO TAPE

REC

28, 29

Memory

MIRROR

pause

Manual focus

24, 28, 29

I.ZOOM

24, 34

fade 24, 31

FOCUS

recording

4, 19

digital effects

5, 7, 8

Letterbox

24, 27

batterylevel
cassette

Lens cover

25, 40

24, 37

indicator

24, 37

6, 25
6, 25

record-pause
rewind

Negative

NEGPOS

25, 33

status

TAPE

TAPE END

25, 29
Operating

25, 29

time counter

Information

to user

8
48

cassettes

8, 30

Leng 7, 8, 27

19
PAUSE button
PLAY button

11, 40, 43
7, 9, 11, 27, 40, 42, 45, 47

Playback

INST. ZOOM button
Instant zooming

controls

Order form, accessories

25, 30

Insert and remove

Optional plug adapter

24, 25, 30, 36

zoom level

24, 36

Optional accessories

25, 32

24, 36

ZOOM

indicator

tape-remaining

NO TAPE indicator

tape counter

ZM:2

mode

first 7
viewfmder
Playback

features

memory-stop

stop-action

accessory

pause

tape counter

accessory

batteries

buttons

tape positioning

install batteries

visual searching

sensor

Playback

on a TV without audio/video

inputs

46
on TV (or VCR) with audio/video

Jacks
Playback

8, 12

REWbutton

11, 33, 38, 40, 43

speed

Powering

18
13

using adapter/charger

using optional

car cord adapter
54

9, 46

Program AE

RF output connector

using battery

Product registration

indicator

RF output adapter, optional

your camcorder

solving

button

7, 9, 20, 26, 27, 33, 38, 40, 43
Rewinding

Plug adapter, optional

Problem

REW/REVIEW

Playback

Safety information

Safety precautions
i

battery

PUSH LOCK button

Safety tab 4, 18, 19, 42
4, 8, 19, 42

indicator

Searching

during playback

Sensor, remote

25, 33
43

Shoulder strap
Quick review feature

attaching
attachment

R
REC indicator

indicator

Registration

Speed
and playback

Status indicators

31, 32, 39, 45, 47
24

STOP button

7, 9, 10, 11, 20, 32, 33, 38, 43,

tips 41
Remote

START/STOPbutton

speed

8, 50

18, 42

recording

letterbox

rings

Specifications

6, 25

Recording
16X9

Solving problems
SPspeed

Record-pause

optional

45, 47
Stop-action

pause

Travel Tips 41
Tripod mounting
Tripod, using

Table of contents
Tally light

Trouble checks

8, 26

Tape
inserting

Tape copying

Tape counter

Unpack

TAPE END indicator
6, 25

Tape positioning

43
25

Tape-remaining

display

Viewfinder

25, 29

eyepiece focus control

21
20

Time counter

Warnings

25, 32, 40

Warnings, tape

Tips
camcorder

holding

recording

travel

TITLE ON/OFF button

11, 38, 39

38, 39

an error

24, 36

ZOOM buttons

11, 30

ZOOM indicator

Zoom lever

Zooming

create a title 38
record while copying
recording

ZM:2 indicator

24, 25, 30, 36

Zoom level indicator

chart of characters
correct

Title
record

20, 25

recording

a tape

25, 30

9, 30, 36

digital

instant

using zoom buttons
using zoom lever

use to record

24, 25

playback

Time and date

setting

6, 8, 41

displays

6, 7, 9, 11, 31, 35, 39, 40, 43

display

adjust for viewing

Thumb trigger

correct

and accessories

V
Videocassettes

Tape warnings

Things to avoid

camcorder

25, 29

TAPE indicator

Titler

hole 9

30
30

THOMSON CONSUMER ELECTRONICS

10330

N Meridian

Indianapolis,

QR19293

46290

Consumer Electronics,

Trademark(s) ® Registered
Marca(s) Registrada(s)
Printed in Japan

15357370

Street

Inc.

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Create Date                     : Sat Sep 29 13:36:50 2007
Author                          : 
Title                           : 
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RCA Compact VHS C Camcorder Manual 98090094

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