Sharp VL-Z400H-T manual

VL-Z400H-Cover; 04/4/15/18:00 SHARP CORPORATION SHARP ELECTRONICS (U.K.) LTD. Sharp House, Thorp Road, Newton Heath Manchester M40 5BE Printed in Malaysia TINSEA083WJN1 04P04-M-G Please read this operation manual carefully before using the camcorder. If you require any advice or assistance regarding your Sharp product, please visit our web-site www[...]

ii This equipment complies with the requirements of Directives 89/336/EEC and 73/ 23/EEC as amended by 93/68/EEC. Dieses Gerät entspricht den Anforderungen der EG-Richtlinien 89/336/EWG und 73/23/EWG mit Änderung 93/68/EWG. Ce matériel répond aux exigences contenues dans les directives 89/336/CEE et 73/23/CEE modifiées par la directive 93/68/C[...]

iii WARNING To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this apparatus to dripping or splashing. No objects filled with liquids, such as vases, should be placed on the apparatus. This equipment should be used with the recommended AC adapter or battery pack. CAUTION To prevent electric shocks and fire hazards, do NOT use any other power source. I[...]

iv SPECIAL NOTE FOR USERS IN THE U.K. The mains lead of this product is fitted with a non-rewireable (moulded) plug incorporating a 3A fuse. Should the fuse need to be replaced, a BSI or ASTA approved BS 1362 fuse marked or and of the same rating as above, which is also indicated on the pin face of the plug, must be used. Always refit the fuse cove[...]

v NOTE: The LCD panel of this camcorder is a very high technology product with mor e than 215,000 thin-film transistors*, giving you fine picture detail. Occasionally , a pixel may appear on the screen as a fixed point of blue, gr een, red, or black. Please note that this does not affect the performance of your camcorder . *Specifications are subje[...]

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

vii Useful Features Control Buttons ..................................................... 32 Using the Mode Screens ...................................... 32 Using the Menu Screens ....................................... 33 Camera Recording Setting the Digital Zoom ....................................... 34 Backlight Compensation (BLC) ............[...]

viii Adv anced Features Playbac k Using the Time Code ............................................ 64 Editing ................................................................... 65 Editing with the DV T erminal (IEEE1394) .............. 66 Selecting the Audio Playback Mode ..................... 67 Audio Dubbing Feature .............................[...]

ix Supplied Accessories Battery pack BT -L227 AC adapter Audio/video/S-video cable CR1216 type lithium battery for camcorder Lens cap CD-ROM USB cable Standar d-life battery pack BT -L227 Optional Accessories Power cord External battery with hand strap BT -LCA1 8 MB SD Memory Card VL-Z400H-*ii-viii 04.3.23, 8:37 AM 9[...]

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

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

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

Operation References 1 Operation Ref erences Par t Names For details on the use of each part, refer to the page number indicated in parentheses. Front vie w Zoom lens DISPLA Y/MODE SET button ( p. 32 )/ LCD LAMP button ( p. 25 ) Operation button ( p. 32 ) Stereo micr ophone MENU button ( p. 33 ) VL-Z400H-001-005 04.3.23, 8:38 AM 1[...]

Operation References Operation References 2 Lithium battery cover ( p. 12 ) T ripod socket* Card slot cover ( p. 11 ) Left view Dioptre adjustment dial ( p. 19 ) Battery release ( pp. 7, 12 ) * When attaching a tripod with a guide pin, do not attach the pin to the bottom of the camcorder . LCD monitor ( p. 20 ) Earphones jack ( p. 28 ) DV terminal [...]

Operation References 3 Viewfinder ( pp. 18, 19 ) Power Zoom Wide angle/ T elephoto control ( p. 24 )/ VOLume control ( p. 30 ) Media Selection switch ( V T ape mode/ u Card mode selection switch) ( p. 22 ) Record Start/Stop button ( p. 23 ) PHOTO button ( pp. 39, 52, 70 ) Power switch ( v Camera Recording mode/ w Playback mode select switch) ( p. 2[...]

Operation References Operation References 4 W ar ning Indicators If a warning indicator appears on the screen, follow the specified instructions. Display ed for the first 3 seconds Displayed after 3 seconds Description of warning There is no video cassette in the camcor der . Insert a cassette (see page 10 ). IN S ER T A CA SSE TTE. BAT TE R Y I S [...]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Preparation 13 Installing the Battery to Remote Control (Not supplied) The remote control (RRMCGA237WJSA) is not supplied with this camcorder . Contact the nearest SHARP service centre or your dealer for pur chasing as specified part. The CR2032 type lithium battery is used to power the remote control unit. 1 Inser t a pointed object such as the ti[...]

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

Preparation 15 Changing to the 12-hour Time Mode 1 After perf orming step 8 above, press l or m to select “ 12H/24H ” , then press the centre of the Operation button. 2 Press l or m to select “ 12H ” , then press the centre of the Operation button. 3 Press the MENU button to turn off the menu screen. Notes: • The date and time, once set, [...]

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

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

Preparation Preparation 18 Using the Viewfinder Y ou can recor d the subject using the electronic viewfinder . Y ou can also watch playback through the viewfinder . 1 Pull out the viewfinder completely . 2 Hold down the Loc k button and set the P ower switch to v or w . Detaching the Lens Hood Before using a commercially available conversion lens, [...]

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

Preparation Preparation 20 Using the LCD Monitor Y ou can use the LCD monitor to play back recordings that you have made or to watch the subject during recor ding. 1 Open the LCD monitor to a 90 ° angle to the camcorder body . 2 Adjust the LCD monitor to an angle that allow easy viewing of the on- screen picture. • The LCD monitor rotates 270° [...]

Preparation 21 Tips on Recording Positions T ur n the LCD monitor so that the screen faces upward. Balance your weight on both legs. T ur n the LCD monitor so that the screen faces downward. Place your elbows against your sides. T o create images that are easy to watch during playback, try to r ecord with an upright posture and steady hands to prev[...]

Basic Operations 22 Basic Operations Camera Recording Basic Operations Camera Recording Selecting the Camcorder Mode This camcorder includes functions for use as both a video camera for recording and playing back images on tapes and as a digital still camera for recor ding and playing back still images on cards. One of the following camcorder modes[...]

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

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

Basic Operations 25 Power Standby Mode A vailable mode: T ape Camera Power Standby mode allows you to prevent accidental recor ding by locking all operations except cancelling the mode. Hold down the ST ANDBY button f or more than 2 seconds when you pause record- ing in T ape Camera mode. • The screen turns off and the ST ANDBY indicator lights u[...]

Basic Operations 26 Basic Operations Camera Recording Auto Focus A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera The camcorder is pr eset to Auto Focus mode, which is designed to focus on most types of subjects. In Auto Focus mode, the camcorder automatically focuses on the subject in the centre of the scene. Always keep the subject in the centre of th[...]

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

Basic Operations 28 Basic Operations Camera Recording SE TT I N G 2 DI S AUD I O M ODE RE TUR N W IN D P HONES VOL ON OFF –+ 12 bit – + PH ONE S VO L Using Earphones (Commercially Available) A vailable modes: T ape Camera, T ape Playback Y ou can monitor the sound via ster eo earphones (commercially available) during playback or recor ding. Ste[...]

Basic Operations 29 T o stop playback Press l . T o tur n the power of f Set the Power switch to OFF without pressing the Lock button. Notes: • The tape automatically rewinds when playback reaches the end of the tape. • When selecting “5 MIN” or “10 MIN” in power save mode and remaining in stop mode without any operation for 5 or 10 min[...]

Basic Operations Playbac k Basic Operations 30 VOL U M E Video Sear ch A vailable mode: T ape Playback The video search function makes it easy to search for a desired scene on the tape. Searching for a Scene Near the Current T ape Position 1 During T ape Playbac k, press k (or j ) on the Operation button. • The playback picture fast forwards (or [...]

Basic Operations 31 W atching Playback on a TV A vailable modes: T ape Playback, Card Playback Y ou can connect the camcorder to a TV to allow a larger audience to enjoy playback. 1 Open the terminal cover on the camcorder (see page 2). 2 Connect the camcorder to your TV (or VCR) with the supplied audio/video/ S-video cable, as shown. About the S-v[...]

Useful Features Useful Features 32 Operation button Media Selection switch DISPLA Y/MODE SET button Power switch Information display on Mode screen Information display off Example Example Useful Features Control Buttons Operation button Use the Operation button to select and set the desired setting. Using the Mode Screens In the mode screens, you c[...]

Useful Features 33 MENU button Operation button Media Selection switch Power switch Example Example Example Using the Menu Screens Use the menu screens to adjust the various camcorder settings. 1 Set to the desired camcorder mode by using the Media Selection s witch and the P ower switch (see page 22). • See pages 104 to 107 for the menu items yo[...]

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

Useful Features 35 Backlight Compensation (BLC) A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera When the subject is backlit, the image will appear dark if it is recor ded normally . Use the backlight compensation (BLC) function to brighten the entire scr een. • The example screens shown are for T ape Camera mode. 1 In T ape Camera or Card Camera mode[...]

Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 36 Gain-up A vailab le modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera When you are r ecording in a dark or poorly illuminated location, “LIGHT” is displayed on the screen. Use the gain-up function to record a brighter pictur e. Note: • At locations where lighting is adequate, “LIGHT” will not appear . Th[...]

Useful Features 37 Fade In and Fade Out A vailable mode: T ape Camera The fade function allows you to gradually bring the image and sound in or out at the beginning or end of a scene for creating scene transitions. This is especially effective in creating a dramatic change in scenery . 4 Press the DISPLA Y/MODE SET button until on-screen indicators[...]

Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 38 Quick Retur n A vailable mode: T ape Camera If while playing back your tape you want to quickly return to the last recorded scene and start recording again, use the quick return function. 1 Set the camcorder to T ape Camera mode. 2 In Recording Standby mode , press the MENU button to displa y the [...]

Useful Features 39 Still Recor ding on T ape A vailab le mode: T ape Camera Y ou can record continuous still images of subjects. 1 Set the camcorder to T ape Camera mode. 2 In Recording Standby mode, press the PHO TO button fully . • A still image of the subject is displayed. 3 Press the Record Star t/ Stop button. • The still image of the subj[...]

Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 40 Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) A vailable mode: T ape Camera The digital image stabilization (DIS) function allows you to stabilize the image by electronically compensating for r elatively minor image shaking that is often annoying in close-up shots. 1 In T ape Camera mode, press the MENU butto[...]

Useful Features 41 Wide Mode A vailable mode: T ape Camera The wide screen function lets you recor d scenes with the wide-screen feel of a movie shown in a theatre. The top and bottom of the picture ar e masked with black bands to produce an effective scr een aspect ratio of 16:9. 1 In T ape Camera mode, press the MENU button to display the menu sc[...]

Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 42 Power Save Mode A vailable modes: All modes Power save mode will turn off the camcorder automatically to save battery power when the camcorder is not in use for 5 or 10 minutes. Note: • T o resume recor ding or playback, set the Power switch to OFF , then back to v or w . • The example screens[...]

Useful Features 43 Self Recording Nor mal self r ecording A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera Open the LCD monitor and rotate it 180° vertically so that the screen faces the other way and the subject can monitor the shot while you are r ecording with the viewfinder . If the camcorder is steadied, you can r ecord yourself in the scene by wa[...]

Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 44 Self recor ding with reversed grip A vailable mode: T ape Camera Rotate the grip 105° and the LCD monitor 180° vertically so that you can record yourself while holding the grip. 3 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angle to the camcorder body ( 1 ), and then rotate it 180° vertically ( 2 ). 4 Set t[...]

Useful Features 45 Recording in LP (Long Play Recor ding) Mode A vailable mode: T ape Camera This camcorder allows you to r ecord in LP (Long Play Recording) mode for appr oxi- mately 50% more r ecording time with the same picture quality as that in SP (Standar d Play Recording) mode. 1 In T ape Camera mode, press the MENU button to displa y the me[...]

Useful Features Camera Recording Useful Features 46 Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode A vailable mode: T ape Camera The camcorder normally recor ds audio in the 12-bit audio recording mode. For higher - quality audio recording, select the 16-bit audio recor ding mode. 1 In T ape Camera mode, press the MENU button to displa y the menu screen[...]

Useful Features 47 Windbreak A vailable mode: T ape Camera The windbreak function allows you to reduce annoying noise from str ong winds when recor ding. 1 In T ape Camera mode, press the MENU button to displa y the menu screen. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select Y , then press the centre of the Operation button. 3 Press l or m to sel[...]

Useful Features Playbac k Useful Features 48 Using the Remote Control (Not Supplied) A vailable modes: All modes The remote control (RRMCGA237WJSA) is not supplied with this camcorder . Contact the nearest SHARP service centr e or your dealer for purchasing as specified part. Activating • The example scr eens shown are for T ape Playback mode. 1 [...]

Useful Features 49 Selecting the Date and Time of Recording Display A vailab le modes: All modes Follow the procedur e below to select the date, or both the date and time, of recor ding display on the screen. Y ou can display the date and time during both recor ding and playback. • The example screens shown are for T ape Playback mode. 1 Press th[...]

Useful Features Playbac k Useful Features 50 Picture Ef fect Playback A vailable modes: T ape Playback, Card Playback These picture ef fects let you play back images with a more dramatic ef fect. 4 Press the DISPLA Y/MODE SET button to turn off the mode screen. T o cancel picture effect playbac k Select “OFF” in step 3 above. Notes: • Video i[...]

Useful Features 51 Rotate Playback A vailable mode: T ape Playback This function allows you to play back images rotated 180°. 1 In T ape Playbac k mode, press the MENU button to displa y the menu screen. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select V , then press the centre of the Operation button. 3 Press l or m to select “RO T A TE PB”, [...]

Useful Features Playbac k Useful Features 52 Copying an Image from T ape to Card A vailable mode: T ape Playback Y ou can capture your favourite image frame from a video tape recor ding and save it on card. 1 Inser t the recorded Mini D V cassette and a card in the camcorder . 2 Set the camcorder to T ape Playbac k mode, then begin tape pla yback. [...]

Useful Features 53 Stretch Playback A vailable mode: T ape Playback Stretch playback allows you to playback a squeezed image with the wide screen feel of a movie shown in a theatre. Useful when you want to play back images recor ded by a camera other than this camcorder in wide mode on a 4:3 TV . 1 In T ape Playbac k mode, press the DISPLA Y/MODE S[...]

Adv anced Features Camera Recording Advanced Features 54 Power Zoom control Operation button DISPLA Y/MODE SET button Manual focus indicator Manual Focus A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera Auto Focus may not be able to focus on the subject in the situations shown below . In such situations, set the camcorder to Manual Focus mode and focus [...]

Advanced Features 55 Displaying the Manual Setting Scr een A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera Y ou can manually adjust these settings as shown below in the manual setting screen. • White Balance (see pages 56, 57) • Manual Iris (see page 58) • Manual Gain (see page 59) • Shutter speed (see pages 60, 61) • The example screens show[...]

Adv anced Features Camera Recording Advanced Features 56 Adjusting White Balance A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera The colour of the subject on the screen looks different depending on lighting conditions. Selecting a White Balance setting that matches the lighting conditions. Selecting 1 In T ape Camera or Card Camera mode, press the DISP[...]

Advanced Features 57 Locking 1 Select “LOCK MODE” in step 4 in “Selecting” on the pre vious page. 2 Aim the lens at a white object. • Adjust the distance of the object so that the entire screen is white. 3 Press the centre of the Operation button to set the white balance loc k. • “LOCK MODE” will change to “LOCK” after pressing [...]

Adv anced Features Camera Recording Advanced Features 58 Manual Iris A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera The camcorder is pr eset to Auto Iris mode, which automatically selects the optimal aperture. However , when there is too much contrast in brightness between the subject and background, you may not be able to record a clear image. In thi[...]

Advanced Features 59 Manual Gain A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera When recording in a dark or poorly illuminated location with Auto Gain mode, the light sensitivity of the camcorder (gain) will be automatically adjusted and the recorded image may be brighter than the subject actually is. If you want to faithfully record a dark scene in t[...]

Adv anced Features Camera Recording Advanced Features 60 Setting the Shutter Speed A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera The shutter speed is preset to auto mode, which automatically selects the optimal shutter speed for the ambient light. However , depending on the subject or situation, you may want to set the shutter speed manually to creat[...]

Advanced Features 61 Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera Y ou can set all the settings shown in the screen to Full Auto mode in one operation. 1 In T ape Camera or Card Camera mode, press the DISPLA Y/MODE SET button until the mode screen appears. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select “MA[...]

Adv anced Features Camera Recording Advanced Features 62 Scene setting indicator Scene Menu (Program AE) A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera Y ou can set the camcorder to a shooting mode that will create the best r esults for a specific situation. Just select one of the six scene settings shown below . The camcorder will automatically set t[...]

Advanced Features 63 Digital Picture Effects A vailable mode: T ape Camera These digital picture ef fects let you recor d the subject with a more dramatic effect. 1 In T ape Camera mode, press the DISPLA Y/MODE SET button until the mode screen appears. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select “ PIC .EFFECT ” , then press the centre of t[...]

Adv anced Features Playbac k Advanced Features 64 Using the Time Code A vailable modes: T ape Camera, T ape Playback The time code shows the hour , minute and second of recor ding, and the frame number (1 frame = approx. 1/25 sec.). This is automatically recor ded along with the subject when you are recor ding on the tape. Y ou can display the time[...]

Advanced Features 65 Editing A vailable mode: T ape Playback Video editing lets you refine your videos by removing unwanted sequences fr om your tape, or transposing one sequence with another . This camcorder lets you monitor the sour ce program on the built-in LCD monitor without having to connect it to an external TV or video monitor . Preparatio[...]

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

Advanced Features 67 Selecting the Audio Playback Mode A vailable mode: T ape Playback Y ou can select any of the following audio playback modes. Audio 1 H 2 • 12-bit recor ding in stereo (Audio 1 and Audio 2 channels) • 16-bit recor ding in stereo (left and right channels) Audio 1 • 12-bit recor ding in stereo (Audio 1 channel only) • 16-b[...]

Adv anced Features Playbac k Advanced Features 68 Audio Dubbing Feature A vailable mode: T ape Playback Y ou can add narration to recor dings made with this camcorder , while preserving the original audio and video recor dings. Microphone f or A udio Dubbing Y ou can use the built-in stereo micr ophone to recor d narration. Notes: • Audio dubbing[...]

Advanced Features 69 Audio Dubbing 1 Pla y back the Mini D V cassette recorded in SP mode and locate the tape position where you wish to start audio dubbing. 2 Press m on the Operation button to pause playbac k. 3 Press the DISPLA Y/MODE SET button until the mode screen appears . 4 Press l or m to select “ A UDIO DUB ” , then press the centre o[...]

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

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

Digital Still Camera Features Camera Recording Digital Still Camera Features 72 Recording with the Self-timer A vailable mode: Card Camera The self-timer function allows you to recor d images after a time lag. This is convenient when you want to recor d an image of you and your friends together . SE TT I N G REC FIL E SEL F T IM E R NO. MO D E RE T[...]

Digital Still Camera Features 73 Self-timer operating indicator Self timer mode indicator T o cancel the countdown Press the PHOTO button in step 4. T o cancel the self-timer Press the centr e of the Operation button again in step 3. Notes: • When recording with the self-timer , stabilize the camcorder in the horizontal plane by attaching it to a[...]

Digital Still Camera Features Camera Recording Digital Still Camera Features 74 Formatting a Card A vailable modes: Card Camera, Card Playback Before using a commercially available car d with this camcorder , you must first have it formatted. Also, if any of the following warning indicators displays, you will need to format your card. • “FORMA [...]

Digital Still Camera Features 75 Setting the File Numbering Method A vailable mode: Card Camera The camcorder automatically assigns file numbers to captured images. Y ou can select two differ ent methods of file number - ing. 1 In Card Camera mode, press the MENU button to displa y the menu screen. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to select Y[...]

Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Digital Still Camera Features 76 Playback image number/ number of recordings Lock button Page number/total thumbnail pages Media Selection switch Power switch Image file name Picture quality indicator Operation button Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Card Playback A vailable mode: Card Playback Y ou ca[...]

Digital Still Camera Features 77 Delete protection indicator PROTECT indicator Delete Protection A vailable mode: Card Playback Y ou can prevent your important images recorded on the car d fr om accidental erasure. 1 In Card Pla yback mode , press the DISPLA Y/MODE SET button until the mode screen appears. 2 Press l or m on the Operation button to [...]

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

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

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

Digital Still Camera Features 81 M indicator T o cancel the print or der f or an image 1 Select the image for cancelling out of print order in step 5 above , then press the centre of the Operation button. 2 Press l to select “0”, then press the centre of the Operation button. • The M indicator disappears. 3 Press the MENU button to finish the[...]

Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Digital Still Camera Features 82 Direct Print A vailable modes: Card Playback When you connect the camcorder to a Seiko Epson’ s Direct Print compatible printer , you can print out the recorded still image directly fr om the printer without computer . Preparation T urn on the pr inter . 1 Make sure that the[...]

Digital Still Camera Features 83 T ransferring Data on Card to Computer T o transfer data from the card, first install the softwar e from the supplied CD-ROM. The CD-ROM includes “USB Driver”, “PixLab Media Browser” and other r elated files. • “USB Driver” is the software that transfers images from the camcorder when connecting to the[...]

Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Digital Still Camera Features 84 Installing the USB Driver For installing the USB driver in Windows XP or Windows 2000, you need to log in as the system administrator . 1 T urn on the computer. • Do not connect the camcorder to the computer with the USB cable at this point. 2 Inser t the supplied CD-R OM co[...]

Digital Still Camera Features 85 T o USB ter minal USB cable (supplied) 8 Inser t a card that contains recorded still images into camcorder . 9 Connect the camcorder to the computer with the supplied USB cable as sho wn below . • It is recommended to use the AC adapter as a power sour ce for extended periods of use. • Connect the USB cable dire[...]

Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Digital Still Camera Features 86 Opening the PDF Manual Click on the Windows “start” b utton and click after moving the pointer to “All Programs”, “PixLab Media Browser V er4” and “PixLab Media Browser LE Operation Manual”. • Adobe Reader 6.0 (or Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0 or later) starts up [...]

Digital Still Camera Features 87 T ransfer indicator T ransferring the data on Card to Computer Connecting the camcorder to the computer Connect the camcorder to the computer with the supplied USB cable (see page 85). T ransferring data 1 T urn on the computer , then connect the camcorder with the supplied USB cable . 2 Set the Media Selection swit[...]

Digital Still Camera Features Playbac k Digital Still Camera Features 88 Serial number (100 to 999) Sub-folder of still images Folder of still image files Still image Image Folders and File Names Double-click the My Computer icon on the PC and find a new drive called “Removable Disk (F:)” (or other drive letter , depending on your PC configurat[...]

Digital Still Camera Features 89 Slide Show Playback A vailable mode: Card Playback Y ou can automatically play back consecu- tive still images recor ded on a card at intervals of 5 seconds. This is useful when confirming the data recorded on a card. 1 Set the camcorder to Card Pla yback mode. 2 Press j , k , l or m on the Operation b utton to sele[...]

Appendix Appendix 90 Darker Brighter Decrease Darker Increase Brighter – + – + – + LCD BR I G HT LCD COLO U R V F BR I GHT 5 Press the MENU button to turn off the menu screen. Note: • When adjusting the colour , the picture on the LCD monitor may differ from the pictur e actually recorded. Do not change the colour setting unless necessary .[...]

Appendix 91 T ur ning of f the Confirmation Sound A vailable modes: All modes A confirmation sound is made when you turn on or off the Power switch, press the Record Start/Stop button, or perfor m other designated operations. Use the procedur e below to turn off the confirmation sounds. • The example screens shown are for T ape Camera mode. 1 Pre[...]

Appendix Appendix 92 Demonstration Mode A vailable modes: T ape Camera, Card Camera Y ou can watch a brief demonstration of the special camcorder featur es in Demo mode. If the demonstration appears on the screen when you turn on the camcorder for the first time, cancel the Demo mode to use your camcorder . W atching • The example screens shown a[...]

Appendix 93 Position the subject in the centre. Focus manually when you need to position the subject off centr e (see page 54). Useful Information Hints for Better Shooting • Position the subject in the centr e of the scene. When using auto focus, whatever is in the centre of the scene is kept in focus. • A void backlit subjects. For the best p[...]

Appendix Appendix 94 Erasure pr otect tab • When a pr eviously recorded Mini DV cassette is used again for recor ding, the previously recor ded material will be automatically erased. • The Mini DV cassette will not operate if inserted in the wrong direction. • Do not repeatedly insert and eject the Mini DV cassette without running the tape as[...]

Appendix 95 SD Memory Card and MultiMediaCard SD (Secure Digital) Memory Car ds and MultiMediaCards ar e small, handy and flexible storage media used in a variety of mobile applications. They are one of the smallest memory solutions available on the market. This camcorder uses either an SD Memory Card or a MultiMediaCar d. It cannot use a Smart[...]

Appendix Appendix 96 Battery Pack This camcorder uses a lithium-ion type battery pack. Charging • Charge the battery pack immediately (or a day) before use. The battery pack gradually self-discharges even if stored in a fully charged state. • Charge the battery pack between 10°C and 30°C. • Fully charge the battery pack. Use of an insuffici[...]

Appendix 97 Window cleaning cover AC Adapter • The AC adapter may interfere with reception if used near a radio. • Pr event flammables, liquids, and metal objects from entering the adapter . • The adapter is a sealed unit. Do not attempt to open or modify it. • Do not damage, dr op, or subject the adapter to vibration. • Do not leave the [...]

Appendix Appendix 98 Using Y our Camcorder Abroad T elevision signal standards and electrical voltages and frequencies vary substantially from country to country . When you are abroad, check the sections below befor e using the AC adapter or connecting the camcorder to a TV . A C Adapter (Supplied Accessory) The supplied AC adapter is compatible wi[...]

Appendix 99 T roubleshooting The following conditions do not always denote trouble. Therefor e, per form the checks described below before calling for service. If the pr oblem cannot be corrected by the use of this guide, remove the main plugs fr om the wall socket, and contact the dealer or supplier from whom the unit was purchased in order to obt[...]

Appendix Appendix 100 Symptom No image appears on connected TV screen. Cannot rewind or fast forward tape. Video noise in image. No sound. T ape does not work. Still images in Card mode are rotated 180° upside down. Motion images are rotated 180° upside down. P ossible cause Video input channel on TV or TV channel is not selected properly . Audio[...]

Appendix 101 Symptom Cannot delete image on card. Cannot format card. Battery pack is easily depleted. Clock has been re- set. Cassette will not eject. No image on monitor . Viewfinder pictur e is hard to see. Monitor picture is hard to see. POWER/CHARGE (RED) indicator flashes in red when charging battery pack. Cannot edit to con- nected VCR. P os[...]

Appendix Appendix 102 Notes: • This unit is equipped with a microprocessor . Its per formance could be adversely affected by external electrical noise or interference. If this should happen, turn off the power and disconnect the unit from any power sour ces, including the lithium battery , etc. Then reconnect the power sources to resume operation[...]

Appendix 103 Specifications Camcorder Signal System: P AL standard Recording System: 2 rotary heads, helical scanning system Cassette: Digital VCR Mini DV video cassette Recording/Playback Time: 90 minutes (DVM60, LP mode) T ape Speed: SP mode: 18.831 mm/second LP mode: 12.568 mm/second Pickup Device: 1 ⁄ 6 " (4.2 mm, effective size: 3.0 mm)[...]

Appendix Appendix 104 On-screen Display Index A U T O AUT O 30 m i n AUT O PAU S E PAU S E PAU S E A U T O AUT O 30 m i n AUT O SELEC T SE T FADE SC EN E M EN U M ANU AL SE T FOCUS AUTO FOC U S SE TT I N G 1 QK. DGT L W I DE M O DE RE T URN ZOO M TAPE S PEE D RETUR N SE TT I N G 2 DIS AUD I O M ODE RE TUR N W IN D PHO NE S VOL OTHE RS 1 OTHER S 2 L[...]

Appendix 105 SELEC T SE T OF F OTHE RS 1 BEEP RE M OT E DE F AUL T RE TUR N RE TUR N LCD SE T BACK L I GHT L C D BR I GHT LCD COLO UR RE T UR N V F B RIG H T PLAYB A CK AUD I O RE T UR N SE T OTHE RS 2 T I M E CODE TC PO W ER SAVE OU T ROTA T E PB AU DIO 2 1 + AU DIO 2 1 + FF RE W STOP PLAY AUD I O DUB S TR E TCH P B P I C. EFFECT AUD I O DUB STRET[...]

Appendix Appendix 106 A U T O AUT O AUT O A U T O AUT O AUT O SELEC T SE T SC EN E M EN U M ANU AL SE T FOCUS AUTO FOC U S LCD SE T BACK L I GHT L C D BR I GHT LCD COLO U R RE T UR N V F B RIG H T / 0 18 0 NORM A L / 0 18 0 SE TT I N G OTHER S 2 OTHE RS 1 BEEP RE M OT E DE F AUL T RE TUR N RE TUR N FO R M A T PO W ER SAVE SE TT I N G 12H 24H / BLC [...]

Appendix 107 SELEC T SE T E X ECUTE LCD SE T BACK L I GHT L C D BR I GHT LCD COLO U R RE T UR N V F B RIG H T / 0 11 0 0 1 0 0 - 0 0 2 / 2 PAGE NORM A L 1 FU LL SEL ECT IM G M U L TI 7 0 1 89 / 0 11 0 NOR MA L F UL UL L S E L E C T I MG MU LT I FU LL SEL ECT IM G M U L TI FULL M U L T I DE L E T E O N E PI C . E FFE CT D EL ETE ALL PR O TECT PLAYB [...]

Appendix Appendix 108 Index A AC adapter ....................................... 8, 9 Audio dubbing .............................. 68, 69 Audio playback mode ......................... 67 Audio recor ding mode ........................ 46 Auto focus ........................................... 26 A V terminal .................................... 31, 6[...]

Appendix 109 M Manual focus ...................................... 54 Manual setting .................................... 55 Media Selection switch ....................... 22 MENU button ...................................... 33 Menu screen ....................................... 33 Mini DV cassette ....................... 10, 93, 94 Mode screen ..[...]

Note VL-Z400H-110 04.3.23, 8:47 AM 110[...]

VL-Z400H-Cover; 04/4/15/18:00 SHARP CORPORATION SHARP ELECTRONICS (U.K.) LTD. Sharp House, Thorp Road, Newton Heath Manchester M40 5BE Printed in Malaysia TINSEA083WJN1 04P04-M-G Please read this operation manual carefully before using the camcorder. If you require any advice or assistance regarding your Sharp product, please visit our web-site www[...]