RCA CC437 - Manuals

3 First-Time Operation • Save the box and packing materials in case you ever need to store or ship your camcorder. • The items shown below are packed with your camcorder. If any of them are missing or appear damaged, contact your dealer immediately. AC Adapter/Charger: Stock No. 232595 DC Cable: Sto...

5 First-Time Operation CAMERA/OFF/VCR Switch Lens Cap Handstrap 3. Remove the lens cap and attach it to the handstrap. 4. Turn on the camcorder. The position of theCAMERA / O F F / V C R switch tells thecamcorder whether you want to record(CAMERA), play back tapes (VCR), orturn off the power (OFF). ...

First-Time Operation Lens Cap onHandstrap Cassette Door Press Here to Close Tape Window Safety Tab REC (Record) /PAUSE Button 6 5 . I n s e rt a cassette. • Press STOP/EJECT to open the cassette compartment. • Insert the cassette with the safety tab facing up and the tape windowsfacing out. • Press ...

7 First-Time Operation 7. Start and stop recording. Start and stop recording by pressingand releasing REC/PAUSE. RECappears in the viewfinder. You do nothave to hold the button to record. Notes: If you do not record within fiveminutes, the camcorder will automaticallyshut off to prevent excessive ta...

8 First-Time Operation 9. Review the camcorder’s operating controls. VIDEO, AUDIO, and RF DC OUT Jacks (Located Behind Small Cover) AV (Audio/Video)OUT/IN Switch Lens LensHood Microphone Light BRIGHT Control(Located Under Microphone) EyepieceFocusControl Viewfinder FADE Button STOP/EJECT ButtonAlso ...

10 Powering the Camcorder 1. Connect one end of the adapter/ charger’s cable to the adapter/charger’s DC OUTPUT jack and theother end to the DC IN 9.6V jack onthe back of the camcorder. 2. Plug the adapter/charger into the nearest AC outlet (120V, 50/60 Hz). 3. The POWER indicator on the adapter/cha...

11 Powering the Camcorder 1. Attach the battery to the adapter/ charger as shown. Align the referencearrow on the battery with the arrow on the adapter/charger. Hold the batteryflush against the adapter/charger and slide it in the direction of the arrow. Note: You cannot charge the battery andoperat...

12 Powering the Camcorder Attach Charged Battery 1. Align reference arrow on battery with arrow on camcorder. Hold batteryflush against camcorder while slidingit down in the direction of the arrow asshown. 2. Press and hold small button on CAMERA/OFF/VCR while placing itin CAMERA. Using the Battery ...

13 Powering the Camcorder Battery Care • Your battery will provide better service and longer performance if you charge itbefore and after use, and store it atnormal room temperature. • The battery should be charged at a temperature of 32ºF-95ºF (0ºC-35ºC) toprevent damage. • Do not operate the batte...

14 Powering the Camcorder When DISPLAY is pressed, the batterylevel indicator ( ) appears in the camcorder’s viewfinder to show howmuch battery power is left in therechargeable battery. This indicator is not recorded on the tape. • When the battery is fully charged, the display shows . • After a whi...

15 Powering the Camcorder To power your camcorder from the cigarette lighter socket of a car, truck, or RV, youneed the optional car cord adapter DCC096 shown on page 55. The DCC096 car cord is especially designed to convert power from a 12-volt battery tothe 9.6-volt input jack on the camcorder. No...

16 Video Cassettes To prevent accidentalerasure, break the tab. To record again, coverthe hole with vinyl tape. Safety Tab Erase Protection — Safety Tab You can use your video cassettes over and over again. To erase a previous recording,just record over it. Recording and Playback Times The camcorder...

17 Video Cassettes Inserting and Removing Cassettes Caution: Insertcassette withsafety tab facingup and tapewindows facingout. Cassetteshould slideeasily into thecompartment.Gently push thecassette downuntil it locksinto place. Press Here to Close Tape Windows STOP/EJECT Safety Tab Cassette Care and...

18 Camcorder Traveling and Cassette Tips Traveling Tips Write down your camcorder’s serialnumber and keep it separate from thecamcorder when traveling. If yourcamcorder is lost or stolen, you will beable to identify it. Make sure you have any plug adaptersyou need before taking your camcorder toothe...

19 Camcorder Features Quick Review Press REW/REVIEW when CAMERA/OFF/VCR is in CAMERA and thecamcorder is in record pause to reviewthe last few seconds of a recording. The camcorder will play back the lastfew seconds of the recording, return thetape to its previous position, and return torecord pause...

Camcorder Features 20 Program AE (Auto Exposure) Program auto exposure automatically selects the shutter speed and adjusts the irisaccording to the shutter speed. Viewfinder Display AE:60 M a c ro Focus The macro-focus feature lets you focus on objects as close as 3/8 of an inch from thecamcorder le...

21 Camcorder Features Electronic Indexing Each time you begin recording (after the camcorder has been turned off for at leastfour hours), the camcorder will automatically record an index mark at the beginning ofthe new recording. When you play back the indexed tape in a VCR that has a compatible ind...

22 Viewfinder The camcorder’s viewfinder is a miniature monitor that displays the picture seen bythe camcorder when recording. The viewfinder also can be used for viewing the tapeduring playback. When carrying or storing the camcorder, return the viewfinder to the original positionto prevent possibl...

23 Viewfinder Caution: Do not force the eyepieceto rotate completelyaround. This willdamage theeyepiece and/or thecamcorder. BRIGHT Tilt Adjustment For convenient viewing, you can rotate the eyepiece about 225º degrees. Eyepiece BRIGHT Control BRIGHT Control Viewfinder brightness can be adjustedby t...

AE:60 0000M ZM:2 INDEX I.ZOOM NO TAPE T W A/V DUB 10:30AM REC 11/18/1996 Displays in Viewfinder A E (Auto Exposure) Shutter Speed The shutter speed selected by thecamcorder appears here. It is notrecorded on the tape.• Press DISPLAY to display the shutter speed. FadePress FADE to select white, wipe,...

25 Displays in Viewfinder T A P E , NO TAPE, and TAPE END• TAPE flashes when you try to record and the safety tab has beenremoved. • TAPE flashes when a damaged tape is inserted. Remove the tapeand replace it with a new one. • NO TAPE flashes when you try to record and there is no cassette inthe cam...

26 Date and Time Display 12:00AM 1/ 1/1996 1. Attach a power supply (battery or adapter/charger) to the camcorder. 2. Press and hold the small button on CAMERA/OFF/VCR and place inCAMERA. 3. Press DATE / T IME to display the date and time in the viewfinder. A flashingcursor lets you know which part ...

27 Date and Time Display The time and date, date only, or date and title can be recorded on your tape. Wheneverone of the displays appears in the viewfinder, it will be recorded. The camcorder alsohas auto date and auto title features. Charging the Ca m c o r d e r’s Built-in Clock Ba t t e ry The c...

28 Zooming Using Power Zoom Buttons Power Zoom Buttons T = Telephoto W = Wide Angle When DISPLAY is pressed so the displayappears in the viewfinder and the powerzoom button is pressed, the zoom level isdisplayed in 10 steps for several seconds. • Press “T” to move the lens in the “telephoto” (close-...

Zooming (continued) 29 I.ZOOM Instant ZoomIndicator Using INST. (Instant) ZOOM • Press INST.ZOOM to magnify the subject 1.5 times regardless of theposition of the power zoom buttons.When DISPLAY is pressed, I.ZOOMappears in the viewfinder during instant zoom. • Press INST.ZOOM again to turn off inst...

Zooming (continued) 30 1. Press DISPLAY and repeatedly press DIGITAL ZOOM to select 16 x 9. Thefollowing display will appear in theviewfinder. 2. To turn off the 16 x 9 mode, repeatedly press the DIGITAL ZOOMbutton to return to the normal mode.No display will appear in theviewfinder. To Record in th...

31 Fading In and Out of Scenes You can add a professional touch to your recordings when you fade in and out ofscenes. Both the picture and sound will gradually appear or disappear. The speed ofthe fade is controlled by the camcorder. Fade In 1. Place the camcorder in record pause. 2. Repeatedly pres...

32 Tape Counter with Memory Stop The tape counter acts as a handy reference to help you locate tape segments. DISPLAY F.FWD REW/REVIEW RESET Memory Stop The tape counter’s memory stop helps you locate a certain point on the tape. Whenmemory stop is turned on, the tape will stop automatically during ...

33 ProEdit Features Edit Search Flying Erase Head ProEdit ® System The camcorder incorporates a complete package of advanced editing featuresto make it easy and fun to edit your home videos like a professional. Themajor ProEdit ® System features are described here and on the following pages. • Flyin...

34 ProEdit Features Audio Dubbing Note: You will need an optional audio/video cable, such as VH83 shown on page 56. If theaudio source has separate left and right outputs, attach the audio plug to the one labeled MONO.If one is not labeled MONO, you may need a Y-adapter, as shown on page 56, to reco...

35 6. To begin dubbing, start the audio source and press REC/PAUSE. will disappear from the viewfinder while you are dubbing. 7. Press STOP/EJECT when you are finished dubbing. Remember: Place the AV OUT/IN s w i t c hto OUT to record on the camcorder. Notes: If you want to stop dubbing at acertain ...

37 ProEdit Features To Audio and Video Dub 1. Press and hold the small button on CAMERA/OFF/VCR while sliding itin VCR. 2. If you are recording from a source connected to the AUDIO/VIDEO jackson the side of the camcorder, place theAV OUT/IN switch to IN. 3. Insert the tape you want to dub and use PL...

38 ProEdit Features TITLER CAMERA/OFF/VCR Title Select - (AlsoREW/REVIEW) Title Select + (Also F.FWD) EDIT•ADV (Also STOP/EJECT) Titler The camcorder’s built-in titler can store a title inmemory. The created title can be displayed andrecorded at any time. The built-in character register contains ove...

39 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 ? ’ . / , – ; : < > ! (BLANK) ProEdit Features To Create a Title 1. Attach a power source to the camcorder, press and hold the smallbutton on CAMERA/OFF/VCR whilesliding it to CAMERA. 2. Press TITLER to display titler g...

40 1. Attach a power source to the camcorder, slide CAMERA/OFF/VCRto CAMERA. 2. Locate the place on the tape where you want to record the title. Notes: If you record a title on a pre-recorded tape, the audio and video will beerased where the title is inserted. There willalso be a three-to-four secon...

41 Recording Tips Be aware of video and audio backgrounds.Background details barely noticed whileyou 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 torecord. Avo...

42 Recording on the Camcorder from a VCR or TV Monitor To record on a tape in your camcorder from a VCR or TV monitor with AUDIO OUTand VIDEO OUT jacks, you will need an optional audio/video cable, such as VH83shown on page 56.

43 Recording on the Camcorder from a VCR or TV Attach the white plug on one end ofthe audio/video cable to the AUDIOOUT jack on the VCR (or TVmonitor). Note: If your VCR or TV monitor hasstereo left and right AUDIO OUT jacks,attach the plug to the one labeledMONO. If one of the audio jacks is notlab...

Viewfinder Playback Viewfinder Playback and Playback Features 44 REW (Rewind)/REVIEW STOP/EJECT CAMERA/OFF/VCRSwitch in VCR position TRACKING 1. Attach a power supply to the camcorder. 2. Press and hold the small button on CAMERA/OFF/VCR while sliding it to VCR. 3. Press STOP/EJECT and insert the ca...

Viewfinder Playback and Playback Features 45 Playback Features Caution: Pause is designed formomentary interruptions and should notbe used for an extended period of time.If the camcorder remains in pause formore than five minutes, it willautomatically remove the tape from thespinning heads to preven...

Playback on a TV or VCR with AUDIO and VIDEO IN J a c k s 46 To connect your camcorder to a TV monitor (or VCR) with AUDIO IN and VIDEO IN jacks, you will need an optional audio/video cable, such as VH83 shown on page 56. Ifyour TV is already connected to a VCR, you can attach the camcorder to the V...

Playback on a TV or VCR with AUDIO and VIDEO IN J a c k s 47 1. A. Camcorder connected directly to TV monitor: Turn on the TV andtune it to its 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 doe...

Playback on a TV Without Audio and Video Inputs 48 Disconnect the VHF antenna fromyour TV. If you are going to leavethe RF adapter connected to the TV,connect the antenna to the RF outputadapter. A.If antenna is round 75-ohm cable, connect it to IN FROM ANTconnector on RF output adapter. B.If antenn...

Playback on a TV Without Audio and Video Inputs 49 Playback Operation 1. Set the channel selector switch on the RF output adapter to CH3 or CH4. 2. Turn on the TV and tune it to the same channel (3 or 4) you selected with thechannel selector switch on the RFoutput adapter. 3. Press and hold the smal...

Color Enhancement Light 50 To Use the Color Enhancement Light and light automatically turn off.Press REC/PAUSE to turncamcorder back on. Notes: Turn on the light only when youneed it. The power consumption of thelight is approximately two-thirds that ofthe camcorder. When the light is on, theoperati...

Color Enhancement Light 51 To Remove and Replace Light Case 1. To remove front case, press and hold the lower hook while removing it. 2. To replace the front case, pass the bulb through the hole of the reflectionplate, and attach the lower hook to thelight. 3. Press front of case to light. Notes: Do...

2.Thread one end of the shoulder strap through one of the shoulder strap rings as shown below in diagrams A and B. 1.Unfasten one end of the shoulder strap from the buckle. Make sure you leave the buckle on the strap. 52 Attaching the Shoulder Strap The shoulder strap is designed to let you carry th...

53 Information to User This Class B digital apparatus meets allrequirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations. Cet appareil numérique de la Classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Réglementsur le matérial brouilleur du Canada. This equipment has been tested and found tocom...

Optional Accessories We invite you to take a look at some great ideas for sparking creativity and adding tothe fun of using your camcorder. These pages have a selection of accessories to helpmake your memorable moments look and sound even better. To order accessories, contact your local dealer. Acce...

55 Optional Accessories DCC096 DC (Battery) Car Cord CPS014 AC A d a p t e r / C h a r g e r EP096FS and EP096FL Rechargeable Batteries C a u t i o n : Do not use any other car cordwith this camcorder. This DC car cord enables you to operateyour camcorder from your car, truck, orRV by plugging the c...

56 Optional Accessories AH011 Cable Transformer These RF cables are used with the RF output adapter toconnect your camcorder to a standard TV (one withoutaudio/video input jacks) for playback. If your antenna cable is the flat twin-lead type attached bytwo screws, you will also need a 300-75 ohm tra...

57 Optional Accessories Removing the Lens Hood Attaching Accessory Lens The lens hood can be removed so you can attach optional accessories, such as wide-angle lens, lens extender, or lens filter kit. Do not grasp the end of the lens hood.Attach the lens cap over the lens hood, then turn them counte...

58 Optional Accessories Caution: Before using a tripod, make sure it is stable enough to hold the camcorderwithout falling over. Do not transport the camcorder attached to the tripod. When attaching your camcorder to a tripod, be careful not to force the tripod screwinto the camcorder’s tripod mount...

59 Accessory Order Form Order Form for Camcorder Models CC437 Description Part No. Price Qty. Total Soft Camcorder Case AC202 $ 49.95 Deluxe Tripod AC093 $ 59.95 Audio/Video Cable VH83 $ 4.39 Cable Transformer AH011 $ 1.59 RF Coaxial Cable (6-ft.) VH82 $ 3.29 RF Coaxial Cable (12-ft.) VH85 $ 5.75 Y-...

61 Accessory Order Form To order accessories, contact your local Dealer.If a dealer is not nearby, you can also follow the directions below to order bytelephone or direct-by-mail. United States and Canada Orders To place your order by phone, have your Visa, MasterCard, or Discover Card readyand call...

62 Care and Maintenance Do not operate or leave yourcamcorder in extremely humidenvironments. Do not operate the camcorder forextended periods in temperaturesbelow 40ºF (4ºC) or above 95ºF(35ºC). Do not expose the camcorder oradapter/charger to rain or moisture.If either component becomes wet,turn o...

63 Care and Maintenance Cleaning 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. Caution: Use of strong cleaningproducts, such as those containingalcohol or benzine, may damagethe camcorder. Caution: Do n...

64 Trouble Checks Troubles sometimes are caused by simple “faults” that you can easily correct withoutthe help of a service technician by first checking a few basic remedies. Before you call or take your camcorder to an Authorized RCA Camcorder Servicenter,look below for the type of trouble you are ...

65 Trouble Checks Tape Stops DuringRewind or Fast Forward Camcorder Remains in Play Pause Poor Picture QualityDuring Recording Viewfinder Displays AreOut of Focus Poor Auto-FocusOperation Poor Picture QualityDuring Playback Recorded Audio is TooLow • The tape counter’s memory-stop feature may be tur...

66 Trouble Checks AE Shutter-Speed orINDEX Indicator DoesNot Appear inViewfinder Date and Time (or Date)were Recorded on theTape Date and Time AppearIncorrect Camcorder Does NotTurn On and/orFunction Buttons WillNot Operate • CAMERA/OFF/VCR switch must be in CAMERA, and press DISPLAY to display the ...

67 Limited Warranty What your warranty covers: • Any defect in material or workmanship. For how long after your purchase: • Ninety days for labor charges. • One year for parts. The warranty period for rental unitsbegins with the first rental. What we will do: • Pay any Authorized RCA Camcorder Servi...

68 Cassettes, Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16-17Charging the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11Chart of Title Characters . . . . . . . . . . .39Checking Battery Power . . . . . . . . . . .14Checks and Adjustments . . . . . . . .64-66Cleaning the Camcorder . . . . . . . . . . .63Clock Batter...

Index 69 Operation, First-Time . . . . . . . . . . . .3-9Optional Accessories . . . . . . . . . . .54-61Optional Car Cord . . . . . . . . . . . . .15,55Order Form, Accessories . . . . . . . .59-61PAUSE Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35,37Picture Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45PL...