Canon ZR20 manual

U.S.A. CANON U.S.A., INC. NEW JERSEY OFFICE 100 Jamesburg Road, Jamesburg, NJ 08831 USA CANON U.S.A., INC. CHICAGO OFFICE 100 Park Blvd., Itasca, IL 60143 USA CANON U.S.A., INC. LOS ANGELES OFFICE 15955 Alton Parkway , Irvine, CA 92618 USA CANON U.S.A., INC. HONOLULU OFFICE 1020 Auahi Street, Bldg. #8, Honolulu, HI 96814 USA ● If you have any que[...]

Introduction 2 E W ARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS PRODUCT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. Important Usage Instructions Digital Video Camcorder , ZR20 and Compact Power Adapter , CA-560 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not caus[...]

Introduction 3 E IMPORT ANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS In these safety instructions the word “product” refers to the Canon Digital Video Camcorder ZR20 and all its accessories. 1. Read Instructions — All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the product is operated. 2. Retain Instructions — The safety and operating instructio[...]

Introduction 4 E 14. Lightning — For added protection of this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, disconnect it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and power-line surges. 15. Power Lines — An outside antenna sys[...]

Important Usage Instructions ....................2 IMPOR T ANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ..................................3 Thank you for Choosing a Canon ..............6 Introducing the ZR20 ................................7 Finding Y our W ay Around the ZR20 ........8 ~ Preparations ... ~ Powering Y our Camcorder ......................1 1 Loading a Ca[...]

Introduction 6 E In addition to the contents and index please refer to: • Finding Y our W ay Around the ZR20 ( 8) • Screen displays ( 104) • T roubleshooting — in case you run into any problems ( 97) Symbols used in this instruction manual: : Reference page numbers : Functions that can be operated from the body of the camcorder : Functions [...]

Introduction 7 E Stabilizes your recordings even in long telephoto shots. Introducing the ZR20 Using a DV cable, connect the ZR20 to a PC equipped with a DV terminal and transfer your original images to your PC. IEEE 1394 DV T erminal Just press the photo button to capture still pictures. Still Photos Image Stabilizer 2.5” LCD Screen A 2.5” LCD[...]

8 E Mastering the Basics Finding Y our W ay Around the ZR20 Easy Recording Program AE Program selector (p. 50) DC IN 9.5V CHARGE MENU button (p. 38) LCD screen (p. 23) FOCUS button (p. 66)/ (play/pause) button (p. 26) AE SHIFT button (p. 63)/ (stop) button (p. 26) BATT. (battery) RELEASE button (p. 13) Backup battery cover (p. 92) Battery attachmen[...]

9 E Mastering the Basics POWER indicator (p. 18) Viewfinder (p. 88, 94) Viewfinder protect cover (p. 94) POWER switch (p. 18) Viewfinder focusing lever (p. 88) Grip belt (p. 88) Accessory shoe Zoom controller (p. 22) Speaker (p. 29) PHOTO button (p. 46) Strap attachment bar (p. 89) Cassette compartment (p. 16) Cassette compartment cover (p. 16) Sta[...]

10 E Mastering the Basics REW PLAY FF STAR T /STOP PHOTO SELF TIMER MENU TV SCREEN DATA CODE D.EFFECTS AUDIO MONITOR REC PAUSE SEARCH SELECT ZERO SET MEMORY AUDIO DUB. STOP MIX BALANCE ST-1 ST -2 ON/OFF SET ZOOM WT A/V INSERT PAUSE SLOW REMOTE SET +/ – / × 2 WIRELESS CONTROLLER WL - D74 IN/OUT MIC AV S DV IN/OUT IN/OUT Bottom view × 2 button (p[...]

11 E Mastering the Basics Powering Y our Camcorder Before operating your camcorder , you will need to use the power adapter to: Provide power from an AC outlet or Charge a battery pack Notes: • The power adapter converts current from a household power socket (100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz) to the DC current used by your camcorder . • If the adapter [...]

12 E Mastering the Basics Attaching and charging the battery packs Y our battery pack was partially charged before it left the factory . It should have enough power for you to check that your camcorder is working properly . However , you must charge the battery pack fully if you want it to power the camcorder for more than a few minutes. Always tur[...]

13 E Mastering the Basics 5. When charging is complete, disconnect the power adapter from the camcorder . Unplug the power cable fr om the AC outlet, then disconnect it from the adapter . 6. Remove the battery pack after use. • Rotate the viewfinder upwards. • Press and hold the BA TT . RELEASE button while you slide the battery up. Notes: • [...]

14 E Mastering the Basics CHARGE The Compact Power Adapter CA-560 included with the camcorder can be used along with the CR-560 Kit for 3 different ways to power the camcorder or char ge battery packs: 1. Charge the BP-500 Series battery packs with power from your car battery . 2. Operate the camcorder with power from your car battery . 3. Charge t[...]

15 E Mastering the Basics 3. Charge the BP-500 Series battery packs from a household AC outlet. 1 or 2 battery pack(s) + Charge Adapter + Compact Power Adapter CHARGE 2. Operate the camcorder with power from your car battery . Camcorder + DC Cable + Charge Adapter + Car Battery Cable → car ’ s cigarette lighter • Fast charging for the high-ca[...]

16 E Mastering the Basics Loading a Cassette 1. Make sure that you have attached a power source. 2. Slide the OPEN / EJECT 5 switch (on the bottom of the camcorder) to release the cassette compartment cover . • Pull the cover fully open (while holding the button) and wait a couple of seconds for the cassette compartment to open automatically . ?[...]

17 E Mastering the Basics Protecting tapes from accidental erasure T o protect your recording from accidental erasure, slide the tab on the cassette so that it exposes the hole. (This switch position is usually labeled SA VE or ERASE OFF .) If you load this cassette and put the camcorder in record pause mode ( 18), “THE T APE IS SET FOR ERASURE P[...]

18 E Mastering the Basics Basic Recording Have you completed the following steps? • Attached a power source ( 12). • Removed the lens cap ( 88) and fastened the shoulder strap ( 89). • Chosen the display: viewfinder ( 88) or LCD screen ( 23) Notes: • When you’re using the viewfinder , fully close the LCD or rotate the LCD so that it faces[...]

19 E Mastering the Basics 3. Slide the program selector to [ . • This selects the camcorder ’ s Easy Recording program. It allows you to simply point and shoot without making any manual adjustments ( 52). 4. Press and r elease the start/stop button once to begin recording. • For still image recording, see p. 46. 5. Press and r elease the star[...]

20 E Mastering the Basics Y ou can record and play back a tape in SP (standard play) and LP (long play) modes. LP extends tape usage by 1.5 times. Changing the recording mode (SP/LP) REC MODE••••SP VCR SET UP ( 36) Y ou can’t add sound (audio dubbing) or images (A V insert) to a tape that has been recorded in LP mode. If you plan to use e[...]

21 E Mastering the Basics Confirmation/W arning beeps The camcorder ’ s short operation confirmation beeps are indicated by ` in the illustrations. Beeps sound upon certain camcorder operations such as when you turn the camcorder on, during the self-timer countdown, right before the camcorder ’ s automatic shut-off, and also upon any unusual co[...]

22 E Mastering the Basics 40 × /200 × digital zoom Magnifies the camcorder ’ s zoom range by up to 20 × . The zoom control continues to work as usual. Y ou can freely zoom in and out between 1 × and 200 × magnification — the camcorder automatically switches between optical zooming (up to 10 × ) and digital zooming (10 × to 200 × ). Zoom[...]

23 E Mastering the Basics Using the LCD Screen Slide the LCD panel OPEN button and open the panel by pulling it away from the camcorder . This automatically switches the LCD screen on and the viewfinder off. When you close the LCD panel, press the upper corner until it clicks closed. The LCD screen automatically switches off and the viewfinder swit[...]

24 E Mastering the Basics Notes: • A void touching the LCD screen when moving the LCD panel. • Do not hold the camcorder by the LCD panel or the viewfinder . • Make sure you open the LCD panel at 90°, before attempting to rotate it. • Always rotate the LCD panel vertically into place, before closing it or pushing it flat against the side o[...]

25 E Mastering the Basics REC REC PAUSE EJECT • These and all other indicators appear normally in the viewfinder . Allowing the subject to monitor recording When you turn the LCD panel so that it faces the same direction as the lens, you can watch yourself during recording or let your subject monitor recording. The viewfinder is also activated wh[...]

26 E Mastering the Basics Playing Back a Cassette Y ou can use the LCD screen for instant, on-the-spot playback. The camcorder also plays back the sound track via the built-in speaker ( 29). • When you play back a tape, you can also close the LCD panel with its screen side facing up. • When you’re using the viewfinder to view playback, close [...]

27 E Mastering the Basics Frame Advance T o play back frame by frame, press the +/ ae button repeatedly during playback pause. Press and hold to play back continuous frame advance. Frame Reverse T o play back in reverse frame by frame, press the –/ 4a button repeatedly during playback pause. Press and hold to play back continuous frame reverse. S[...]

28 E Mastering the Basics Slow Reverse Playback T o play back in reverse at about 1/5 normal speed, press the –/ 4a button and then the SLOW M button during normal playback. Press the PLA Y e button to return to normal playback. • The camcorder automatically returns to × 1 reverse playback after about 30 seconds of slow playback. Reverse Playb[...]

29 E Mastering the Basics Built-in speaker The camcorder has a built-in speaker so you can review the sound track alongside the picture during tape playback. The built-in speaker is monaural. Adjust the speaker volume by turning the selector dial. • T urn the selector dial up to increase the volume, and down to lower the volume. • A bar appears[...]

30 E Mastering the Basics AV/PHONES•••AV VCR SET UP Connections for Playback on a TV Screen Y ou can connect the camcorder to a TV or VCR in order to play back your recordings. Y ou will need to attach a power source to the camcorder ( 1 1). Power off all devices before starting the connections. See your TV or VCR instruction manual for furth[...]

31 E Mastering the Basics When connecting for playback on a TV screen, make sure the A V/headphone terminal is switched to A V . If PHONES appears in the display , switch the terminal. • Use the S-150 S-video Cable to connect the S-video terminals. Use the STV -250N Stereo V ideo Cable to connect the AUDIO terminals. Connect the white plug to the[...]

32 E Mastering the Basics If your TV (or VCR) has audio/video input terminals VIDEO INPUT AUDIO L R IN/OUT MIC AV When connecting for playback on a TV screen, make sure the A V/headphone terminal is switched to A V . If PHONES appears in the display , switch the terminal. • Connect the camcorder using the STV -250N Stereo V ideo Cable. Connect th[...]

33 E Mastering the Basics T ips for Making Better Videos Composition The most important element in the scene does not have to be in the center . For a more interesting picture, try to position your subject so it is slightly to one side. Leave some space on the side of the frame that the subject is facing or moving towards. For maximum stability , g[...]

34 E Mastering the Basics Picture angle Camcorder moves Close-up Instead of zooming while recording, try to choose your picture angle before you begin. A good way to tell a story with video is to begin with a long shot that establishes the situation, and then move in with medium shots and close-ups to show the details. Remember to change your viewp[...]

35 E Using the Full Range of Features T urning the Image Stabilizer Off MENU W ith most camcorders, even the slightest hand movements will be noticeable during telephoto recording. However , the ZR20’ s image stabilizer allows you to obtain steady recordings even at high magnification. T o turn the image stabilizer off, open the menu and select C[...]

VCR SET UP SEL.SETSET MENUCLOSE REC MODE••••SP WIND SCREEN•OFF AUDIO MODE••12bit AV/PHONES•••AV RETURN u o !1 i !0 2 VCR set up submenu u Record mode ......................... 20 i W ind screen .......................... 60 o Audio mode .......................... 59 !0 A V or headphones ................. 30 !1 Return CAM.MENU SE[...]

37 E Using the Full Range of Features VCR MENU SEL.SETSET MENUCLOSE VCR SET UP DISP.SET UP SYSTEM RETURN 1 3 2 4 DISP.SET UP SEL.SETSET MENUCLOSE BRIGHTNESS•• MIRROR••••••ON TV SCREEN•••ON D/T DISPLAY•OFF RETURN –+ !2 !4 !6 !3 !5 SYSTEM SEL.SETSET MENUCLOSE WL.REMOTE••• 1 BEEP••••••••ON T.ZONE/DST•?[...]

38 E Using the Full Range of Features VCR MENU, cont. SYSTEM SEL.SETSET MENUCLOSE WL.REMOTE••• 1 BEEP••••••••ON RETURN !4 !6 !5 2 Display set up submenu i Brightness ............................. 24 o Displays .............................. 104 !0 6-second auto date ................ 71 !1 Data code ............................[...]

39 E Using the Full Range of Features 7. T urn the selector dial and move the arr ow to the desired setting. • If you are setting a function other than the white balance or shutter speed, the function will be set if you skip to step 1 1. 8. Press the selector dial in to select. • The function is set and you return to the submenu. 9. T urn the s[...]

40 E Using the Full Range of Features Using the Wireless Controller The supplied wireless controller can operate the camcorder from a distance of up to 16 feet (5 m). Point it at the camcorder ’ s remote sensor while you press the buttons. There are some functions that cannot be operated without the wireless controller: • Special playback ( 27)[...]

41 E Using the Full Range of Features T o prevent interference from other Canon wireless controllers being used nearby , there are 2 remote sensor modes and an off setting. The wireless controller and the camcorder have to be set to the same mode in order to be compatible. When Operating 2 Canon DV Camcorders (Remote Sensor Mode) T o turn the remot[...]

42 E Using the Full Range of Features If your wir eless controller isn’t working: Make sure the camcorder and the wireless controller are both set to the same mode. Check the mode the camcorder is set to by pushing any button other than the REMOTE SET button on the wireless controller . The camcorder’ s mode appears in purple for about 4 second[...]

43 E Using the Full Range of Features Setting the Date and Time The date and/or time display forms part of the data code. Y ou can choose to display or hide it during playback ( 69). Set the date and time display when you first start using your camcorder . Install the backup battery before you begin ( 92). • Before you start setting the date and [...]

44 E Using the Full Range of Features Time zone LONDON PARIS CAIRO MOSCOW DUBAI KARACHI DACCA BANGKOK H. KONG (Hong Kong) TOKYO SYDNEY SOLOMON WELLGTN (Wellington) SAMOA HONOLU (Honolulu) ANCHOR (Anchorage) L.A. (Los Angeles) DENVER CHICAGO N.Y. (New York) CARACAS RIO (Rio de Janeiro) FERNAN. (Fernando de Noronha) AZORES No. Time zone No. Notes: ?[...]

45 E Using the Full Range of Features 1. Open the menu and select SYSTEM. 2. Select D/TIME SET . • The year display starts to flash. 3. T urn the selector dial up and down to change the year . Press the dial in to move to another part of the display . • Once you move from the year , the next part of the display starts flashing. 4. Set the month[...]

46 E Using the Full Range of Features T aking Still Pictures Y ou can record still pictures like a photograph. The camcorder records the picture and sound to tape for several seconds. The exposure is automatically adjusted. T ake still photos that you can record onto a floppy disk with the optional Floppy Disk Still Image Recorder FR-100 ( 48) and [...]

47 E Using the Full Range of Features • If the subject is unsuitable for autofocus ( 98), the camcorder may not be able to focus, and F may continue to flash white in the display . Continue to hold the PHOTO button halfway down, then press the FOCUS button and adjust the focus manually with the selector dial. • If you are using manual focus ( 6[...]

48 E Using the Full Range of Features The FR-100 captures images taken with the camera, compressing them in JPEG format and recording them as still images onto a floppy disk. 1. Connect the power sour ces for the camera and the FR-100. 2. T urn the camera’ s POWER switch to PLA Y (VCR), and connect the camera and the FR-100 with the DV cable (sup[...]

49 E Using the Full Range of Features Searching and Reviewing While Recording When the camcorder is in record pause mode, you can use record review to play back the last few seconds of your recording and then return automatically to record pause mode. Y ou can quickly make sure that a scene has recorded properly and then go on to shoot the next sce[...]

50 E Using the Full Range of Features Using the V arious Recording Programs P The camcorder provides you with a choice of 7 recording programs. They use different combinations of camcorder settings in order to adjust the exposure and other functions to match the recording situation. • For simple point-and-shoot operation, select the Easy Recordin[...]

51 E Using the Full Range of Features Setting the program AE mode 1. Slide the program selector to Q (program AE) mode. 2. Press the selector dial in to display the program menu. 3. T urn the selector dial to move the arr ow up or down the display . 4. Press the selector dial in to select the desired program. • The program will appear in the disp[...]

52 E Using the Full Range of Features Portrait Use this program outdoors to make subjects stand out from a softened foreground and background. It works well for still-lifes and close-ups. The ef fect is most noticeable when the zoom position is between the middle range and the telephoto end. Focus manually for maximum accuracy , and be careful when[...]

53 E Using the Full Range of Features Use this program in places where the background is so bright that the subject appears underexposed in the display — a sunny beach or ski resort, for example. Y ou may notice some shudder when recording moving subjects. Sand & Snow Spotlight This program is designed for recording spotlit scenes, such as on[...]

54 E Using the Full Range of Features Using Digital Effects Use the camcorder ’ s digital effects for more interesting productions. • Faders: Start or end scenes on a tape with a fade to or from black ( 55). Fade Trigger , V ertical W ipe, Horizontal W ipe, Mosaic Fade* • Effects: Add flavor to your recordings ( 56). Art, Black and White, Sep[...]

55 E Using the Full Range of Features Fade T rigger (F ADE-T) V ertical Wipe (WIPE ) Horizontal Wipe (WIPE ) When you start recording, the picture begins as a thin vertical line in the center of the screen which gradually expands sideways until it fills the whole of the screen. When you end a scene, the image is wiped from both sides of the screen.[...]

56 E Using the Full Range of Features Effects Art (ART) Adds a paint- like effect, called solarization, to the image. Sepia (SEPIA) Makes a monochrome image with a brownish tint. Black and White (BLK & WHT) Makes the image black and white. Mosaic (MOSAIC) Blurs the image by enlarging the size of some pixels. 3_ZR20_E(35-73) 3/12/01 13:51 Page 5[...]

57 E Using the Full Range of Features Digital effects can be set with the controls on the body of the camcorder or the wireless controller . Pressing the ▲ / ▼ buttons on the wireless controller correspond to turning the selector dial up and down, and pressing the SET button corresponds to pressing the selector dial in. SET D.EFFECTS ON/OFF MEN[...]

58 E Using the Full Range of Features Sound records/plays back normally . When operating effects in CAMERA mode, make sure the program selector is set to Q . 1. Press the DIGIT AL EFFECTS button to open the digital effects menu. • D.EFFECT | , F ADER and EFFECT appear . 2. Select EFFECT . • AR T , BLK&WHT , SEPIA, MOSAIC settings appear . 3[...]

59 E Using the Full Range of Features Audio Recording T o switch to the 16 - bit mode, open the menu and select VCR SET UP . Then select AUDIO MODE, set it to “16 bit” and close the menu. •“ 16 bit ” is shown in the display for approximately 4 seconds. Notes: • For details on adding new sound, see p. 82. • For details of playing back [...]

60 E Using the Full Range of Features T o turn it on, open the menu and select VCR SET UP . Then select WIND SCREEN, set it to ON and close the menu. • WS O is shown in the display when you turn the wind screen on. Notes: • The wind screen can be used for audio dubbing with the built-in microphone as well as recording. • The wind screen does [...]

61 E Using the Full Range of Features This is useful when you want to include yourself in the picture when recording movies or still photographs. 1. Press the self-timer button on the body of the camcorder or the SELF TIMER button on the wireless contr oller . • SELF-T appears in the display . • T o have the subject monitor recording, rotate th[...]

62 E Using the Full Range of Features Notes: • T o cancel the self-timer before the countdown has begun, press the SELF TIMER button. • T o cancel the self-timer once the countdown has begun, press the SELF TIMER button, start/stop if you ’ re shooting movies, or PHOT O if you ’ re taking a still image. 3_ZR20_E(35-73) 3/12/01 13:51 Page 62[...]

63 E Using the Full Range of Features Using AE Shift By controlling the level of the automatic exposure (AE) function, you can lighten or darken the image slightly . This allows you to compensate for backlit, overexposed scenes. P AE SHIFT Make sure the program selector is set to Q . 1. Press the selector dial in and select any recording program ot[...]

64 E Using the Full Range of Features 1. Make sure the camcorder is set to the Q (program AE) mode. 2. Press the selector dial in and choose AUTO fr om the program menu. 3. Open the menu and select CAM.SET UP . 4. Select SHUTTER. 5. Press the selector dial in to select the desired shutter speed. 6. Close the menu. Concerning shooting in fluorescent[...]

65 E Using the Full Range of Features Guidelines for shooting using high shutter speeds • When shooting with a shutter speed of 1/1000 or higher , do not shoot the sun directly . Recommended shutter speeds when shooting: • People doing outdoor sports such as golf or tennis • Moving cars or trains or other rapidly moving vehicles such as rolle[...]

66 E Using the Full Range of Features Adjusting Focus Manually REC SEARCH FOCUS AE SHIFT REC SEARCH Manual focus Use the selector dial to set the focus. • T urn the selector dial downward to move the focus farther away . • T urn the selector dial upwards to bring the focus nearer . Notes: • Y ou cannot adjust the focus without the e mark befo[...]

67 E Using the Full Range of Features Setting the White Balance 1. Make sure the camcorder is set to the Q (program AE) mode. 2. Open the menu and select CAM.SET UP . 3. Select WHITE BAL. 4. a) For the indoor , outdoor or auto settings, pr ess the selector dial in to choose the setting. • T / U appears in the display when you set the white balanc[...]

68 E Using the Full Range of Features Setting the white balance manually will probably work better than auto white balance when shooting: Subjects with one dominant color , such as sky , sea or forest Close-ups In rapidly changing lighting conditions In places lit by certain types of fluorescent or mercury vapor lights Notes: • T urn the digital [...]

69 E Using the Full Range of Features D ATA CODE CAMERA OFF PLAY(VCR) MENU During PLA Y (VCR) mode, the data code can be displayed or hidden while the camcorder is in play , slow or still mode. Camcorder data may be displayed as “– – –” during fast forward, rewind, reverse playback, forward and reverse × 2 playback. Press the DA T A CODE[...]

70 E Using the Full Range of Features Y ou can also choose which type of data code to display — either the date/time, camera data or both. T o change, open the menu and select DISP .SET UP . Then select DA T A CODE, set it to DA TE/TIME, CAMERA DA T A or CAM. & D/T and close the menu. DATA CODE•••DATE/TIME DISP.SET UP ( 36) Setting the [...]

71 E Using the Full Range of Features Six-second auto date The 6-second auto date appears for 6 seconds to mark the changeover of a day if the tape was being recorded at 12:00 midnight. It also appears for 6 seconds when you start playback and have the data code turned off. The 6-second auto date will adjust for any time zone changes you have indic[...]

72 E Using the Full Range of Features Searching the T ape (Photo Search/Date Search) This allows you to move quickly through still pictures recorded anywhere on a tape (photo search) or between different days or areas of recording (date search) on a tape. 1. Press the SEARCH SELECT button to choose between photo/date search. • PHOTO SEARCH or DA [...]

73 E Using the Full Range of Features Returning to a Pre-Marked Position Use the wireless controller to mark a point on a tape that you want to return to following playback. 1. Press the ZERO SET MEMORY button on the wireless contr oller during playback at a point you want to return to later . • The time code is replaced by a tape counter that is[...]

74 E Editing Editing to a VCR 1. Find a point on your r ecorded cassette slightly before the section you want to copy . 2. Start to play it back while you monitor the pictur e on the TV . 3. Start recording on the VCR as soon as the section you want to copy appears on the screen. 4. Pause the VCR at the end of the section you want to copy , then st[...]

75 E Editing REW PLA Y FF REC P AUSE SEARCH SELECT ZERO SET MEMORY AUDIO DUB. STOP A/V INSERT P AUSE SLOW + / – / × 2 REC P AUSE (LINE-IN) REC SEARCH FOCUS AE SHIFT REC SEARCH Digital video equipment fitted with the DV terminal lets you edit, copy and transfer data digitally , with virtually no generation loss in image and sound quality . The DV[...]

76 E Editing Copyright signal Certain pre-recorded software tapes are copyright protected. If you try to play back such a cassette, “COPYRIGHT PROTECTED PLA YBACK IS RESTRICTED” appears in the display for a few seconds and then the camcorder displays a blank blue screen; you cannot view the contents of the cassette. If you try to record from su[...]

77 E Editing OUTPUT VIDEO S(S1)-VIDEO AUDIO L R REC P AUSE (LINE-IN) REC SEARCH FOCUS AE SHIFT REC SEARCH S DV IN/OUT IN/OUT IN/OUT MIC AV Recording from a VCR, TV or Analog Camcorder (Analog Line-in) Y ou can record a video played on your VCR or analog camcorder (for digital camcorders, see p. 75) or a TV program onto a tape in the ZR20, if the TV[...]

78 E Editing 1. Find a point on your r ecorded cassette slightly before the section you want to copy and set it to playback pause mode. 2. Press the REC P AUSE button. • S-video and A V IN/OUT terminals work as input terminals. • The camcorder enters record pause mode. 3. Start playback on the other device or turn on the TV to see the desired p[...]

79 E Editing Recording Over Existing Scenes (A V Insert Editing) OUTPUT VIDEO S(S1)-VIDEO AUDIO L R S DV IN/OUT IN/OUT IN/OUT MIC AV Y ou can insert new scenes from your VCR or other camcorder onto your pre- recorded tape using the ZR20’ s analog line-in or DV in terminals. Original video and audio will be replaced with the new video and audio. R[...]

80 E Editing TV : Y ou cannot insert A V from a TV program with anomalous synchronized signals, such as when the program itself received poor signals. The tape in the camcorder: When using the ZR20 ’ s A V insert function, only record to tapes recorded in SP mode with continuously recorded time codes. If there are non-recorded portions or portion[...]

81 E Editing 1. On the VCR, locate a point 3 seconds befor e the scene to be inserted. Set the VCR to playback pause mode. 2. On the camcorder , press PLA Y and locate the r ecording start point. Set the camcorder to playback pause mode. • Y ou can use the playback buttons on the body of the camcorder or the special playback functions on the wire[...]

82 E Editing Audio Dubbing OUTPUT AUDIO L R IN/OUT MIC AV Y ou can add sound to the original sound on a pre-recorded tape from audio products (AUDIO IN) or with the internal or external microphone (MIC. IN). The original sound will not be erased. For best results, add sound to tapes that have been recorded with this camcorder in SP mode with 12-bit[...]

83 E Editing 1. Open the menu and select VCR SET UP . 2. Select AUDIO DUB. 3. Select AUDIO IN or MIC. IN and close the menu. AUDIO DUB.••AUDIO IN VCR SET UP ( 36) CAMERA OFF PLAY(VCR) REW PLA Y FF SEARCH SELECT REC P AUSE STOP P AUSE SLOW × 2 + / – / ZERO SET MEMORY AUDIO DUB. A/V INSERT Do not connect/disconnect any cables to/from the camco[...]

84 E Editing 4. Locate the point where you want to start audio dubbing, then pr ess the P AUSE button. • Y ou can use the playback buttons on the body of the camcorder or the special playback functions on the wireless controller in the same way as in playback mode. • The camcorder becomes set to playback pause mode. 5. Press AUDIO DUB. • AUDI[...]

85 E Editing Setting the Audio Mix AUDIO MONITOR MIX BALANCE ST-1 ST -2 CAMERA OFF PLAY(VCR) When you play back a tape that was recorded in 12-bit mode, you can set the audio output to play: stereo 1 (the original sound), stereo 2 (any new sound, dubbed to the tape after recording), or mix the balance between the two. • Audio from the 16-bit mode[...]

86 E Editing When you play back a tape whose audio has been recorded on multiple channels, you can change the output channels of that sound. 1. Load a tape recorded with multiple-channel audio. 2. Open the menu and select VCR SET UP . Then select OUTPUT CH, set it to the desired setting and close the menu. • Refer to the following list. PLA Y (VC[...]

87 E Editing By using a DV cable and connecting the camcorder to a PC equipped with a DV terminal conforming to IEEE 1394/DV compatible capture board, you can transfer images taken with the camcorder to your PC. • While connected, it is recommended that you power your camcorder from a household power socket using the power adapter . • T urn off[...]

88 E Additional Information Preparing the Camcorder • Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode. Extend the viewfinder straight out, then adjust the viewfinder focusing lever to suit your eyesight. • Rotate the viewfinder to an angle that allows you to view comfortably . Store the camcorder with the viewfinder flush with the body of the camcorder . • [...]

89 E Additional Information Be careful not to leave the viewfinder exposed to bright sunlight, or it will melt. (The light is concentrated by the viewfinder lens.) Adjust the angle of the viewfinder to prevent sunlight from entering. • For extra security and portability , attach the shoulder strap before using the camcorder . • Pass the ends th[...]

90 E Additional Information Notes on Using the Batteries Charging and recording times • These times vary — the safest policy is always to have 2 or 3 times as many battery packs as you think you will need. • Y ou will get more recording time if you turn the camcorder off between shots, instead of leaving it in record pause mode. • Recording[...]

91 E Additional Information T aking care of the battery pack BD Always attach the terminal cover . • Do not allow any metal objects to touch the terminals, as this can cause a short circuit and damage the battery pack. Attach the terminal cover whenever the battery pack is not being used. Keep the terminals clean. • The camcorder adapter or bat[...]

92 E Additional Information DANGER! T reat the battery pack with car e. • Keep it away from fire (or it might explode). • Do not expose the battery pack to temperatures greater than 140°F (60°C). Do not leave it near a heater , or inside a car in hot weather , for example. • Do not try to disassemble or modify it. • Do not drop or knock i[...]

93 E Additional Information Maintenance A void high temperatures and high humidity . • Do not leave the camcorder inside a car in hot weather , for example. • Be careful of heat radiating from video lighting equipment. • Do not take the camcorder into a humid room. A void sudden changes in temperature. • If you take the camcorder from a col[...]

94 E Additional Information V iewfinder • Clean the viewfinder screen. Rotate the viewfinder upwards. Remove the viewfinder protect cover and clean by inserting a cotton swab. When finished, return it flush with the camcorder . • The viewfinder screen scratches easily . T ake care when cleaning. LCD • Clean the LCD screen using a commercially[...]

95 E Additional Information Power sources • Y ou can use the compact power adapter to operate your camcorder and charge battery packs in any country where the electricity supply is between 100 and 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz. Contact your Canon dealer for information about plug adapters for overseas use. TV playback • Although you can always play back y[...]

96 E Additional Information Condensation Condensation may form on the camcorder when it is moved from a cold place to a warm place. Using the camcorder while condensation is present can damage both the tape and the camcorder . Condensation may become a problem: When the camcorder is taken from an air- conditioned room to a warm, humid place Protect[...]

97 E Additional Information T roubleshooting Cause and/or what to do about it • The camcorder is not set to the appropriate mode ( 18, 26). • The cassette is not loaded or is set for erasure prevention ( 16-17). • The cassette has reached the end. • The power source is not properly connected, or the battery pack is exhausted or not properly[...]

98 E Additional Information Note: • Some subjects are not suitable for autofocus. In these situations, you will often get better results using manual focus ( 66). Focus on something which is about the same distance away , lock the focus, and then point the camcorder at your original, hard-to-focus subject. Horizontal stripes Many subjects at diff[...]

99 E Additional Information Miscellaneous Cause and/or what to do about it • The remote sensor mode is set to OFF B in the menu ( 41). • The remote sensor modes of the wireless controller and the camcorder itself are different ( 41). • The batteries are dead or not inserted. • Check the screen displays ( 104). • External interference may [...]

100 E Additional Information The ZR20 System Diagram (A vailability differs from area to area) BP-900 Series Battery Pack VL-10Li Battery Video Light Stereo Microphone (commercially available) WL-D74 Wireless Controller MiniDV Video Cassette CR-560 Charge Adapter/ Car Battery Cable Kit CA-560 Compact Power Adapter TV VCR TL-30.5 T ele- converter WD[...]

101 E Additional Information Optional Accessories Call or visit your local retailer/dealer for genuine Canon video accessories. Y ou can also obtain genuine accessories for your Canon camcorder by calling: 1-800-828-4040, Canon U.S.A. Information Center . CR-560 Charge Adapter/Car Battery Cable Kit Connect the car battery cable to power your camcor[...]

102 E Additional Information FS-30.5U Filter Set Neutral density and MC protector filters to help you take control of difficult lighting conditions. VL-10Li Battery V ideo Light This compact yet powerful video light can be used for both indoor and outdoor shooting. • Use the BP-900 Series battery packs to power the light. Approximate usage times [...]

103 E Additional Information SC-A50 Soft Carrying Case This lightweight bag keeps the camcorder within easy reach without weighing you down or getting in the way . Genuine leather . This mark identifies genuine Canon video accessories. When you use Canon video equipment, we recommend Canon-brand accessories or products bearing the same mark. C A N [...]

104 E Additional Information Screen Displays T o display the date and time, press the DA T A CODE button. See also p. 69. Press the wireless controller ’ s TV SCREEN button or turn TV SCREEN on through the menu to see the other displays on the TV screen. (The displays appear white on-screen.) They will not be added to any recordings you make with[...]

105 E Additional Information Fast forward ( 26) Rewind ( 26) Fast forward playback ( 27) Rewind playback ( 27) Frame advance playback ( 27) Frame reverse playback ( 27) Playback pause (forward and reverse) ( 27) Slow playback (forward and reverse) ( 27) × 2 playback (forward and reverse) ( 28) × 1 playback (forward and reverse) ( 28) Photo Search[...]

106 E Additional Information Photo mode ( 46) • Setting the AF/AE. F mark flashes white • AF/AE locked. F mark lights up green • T imer Recording programs ( 50). AE Shift ( 63) Manual focus is selected ( 66). Shutter speed ( 64) White balance is ( 67) Set W Indoor T Outdoor U The 16:9 mode: the display flashes when the effect is being selecte[...]

107 E Additional Information Recording reminder When you start recording, the camcorder counts from 0SEC to 10SEC. Shots which are shorter than ten seconds may be difficult to edit later . On the other hand, if you are not planning to edit the recording, remember that a shot which does not contain action should generally last no longer than 10 seco[...]

108 E Additional Information Appears as a warning to protect the cassette and also when condensation is detected. Remove the cassette as soon as possible after the camcorder has displayed the caution. Refer to p. 76 Refer to p. 76 or p. 77 Appears when you try to do audio dubbing or A V insert on a tape recorded in any mode other than SP mode ( 79,[...]

109 E Additional Information Appears immediately after you start recording, and the video heads are badly contaminated. Make sure to clean the video heads when this caution appears. ( 95) HEADS DIRTY, USE CLEANING CASSETTE 5_ZR20_E(88-114) 3/12/01 13:53 Page 109[...]

110 E Additional Information Specifications ZR20 Power Supply (rated): 7.4 V DC Power Consumption (while r ecording with the AF turned on): 3.3 W (Using viewfinder), 4.2 W (Using LCD screen) T elevision system: EIA standard (525 lines, 60 fields) NTSC color signal V ideo recording system: 2 rotary heads, helical scanning DV system (Consumer digital[...]

111 E Additional Information Index 16:9, 21 Å Abroad, Using the Camcorder , 95 Accessories, 7, 101 Adapter , AC, 11-13, 15 AE Programs, 50 AE Shift, 63 Analog line-in, 77 Art, 56 Audio Dubbing, 82 Audio Mix, 85 Audio Mode, 59 Audio Output, 86 Audio Recording and Playback, 29, 56, 85 Audio/V ideo T erminal, 30 Auto, 52 Autofocus, 66, 98 A V Insert,[...]

112 E Additional Information Microphone, 59, 82 Monitor Recording, 25 Mosaic, 56 Mosaic Fade, 55 Ø Optional Accessories, 101 ∏ Pause, Record, 18 PC Connection, 87 Photo Search, 72 Playback, 26 Playback Connection, 30 Playback Pause, 27 Portrait, 52 Power Adapter, 1 1-13, 15 Powering Y our Camcorder , 1 1 Pre-Marked Position, 73 Preparing the Cam[...]

113 E Additional Information U.S.A. CANON ® ZR20 DIGIT AL VIDEO CAMCORDER LIMITED W ARRANTY The limited warranty set forth below is given by Canon U.S.A., Inc. (“CUSA”) with respect to each Canon ZR20 Digital V ideo Camcorder (“DV Camcorder”) purchased and used in the United States. Each Canon DV Camcorder , when delivered to you in new co[...]

114 E Additional Information CANADA CANON CONSUMER DIGIT AL VIDEO EQUIPMENT LIMITED W ARRANTY The limited warranty set forth below is given by Canon Canada Inc. (“Canon Canada”) with respect to Canon digital video equipment purchased in Canada. This limited warranty is only effective upon presentation of a bill of sale or other proof of purchas[...]