Panasonic VDR-M53PP - Manual

Page 2 - Important Information; For Your Safety; TO REDUCE THE RISK OF; Precautions; Many television programs and films are; CAUTION; RISK OF ELECTRIC

2 Important Information For Your Safety The power switch turns the DVD Video Camera on and off, leaving the date/time feature unaffected. If the camera is to be left unattended for a long period of time, turn it off . The DVD Video Camera and AC adaptor have the following caution marks. CAUTION: TO ...

Page 4 - License Agreement

4 Be sure to read the following before opening the CD-ROM package This Agreement will take effect at the moment you open the package of the storage device (CD-ROM) provided with this product, if you agree to the terms herein.If you do not accept the terms of this Agreement, immediately return the un...

Page 5 - IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS; INSTALLATION

5 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS In addition to the careful attention devoted to quality standards in the manufacture of your video product, safety is a major factor in the design of every instrument. But, safety is your responsibility too.This page lists important information that will help to assure your en...

Page 7 - Cautions When Using; Do not place the DVD Video Camera with the open LCD screen down.; IMPORTANT NOTE; Liquid crystal display and viewfinder:; The following characteristics may appear in the viewfinder.; Hold the DVD Video Camera correctly:

7 Cautions When Using Handle the liquid crystal display (LCD) with care: • The LCD is a very delicate display device: Do not press its surface with force, hit it or prick it with a sharpobject. • If you push the LCD surface, unevenness in display may occur. If unevenness does not disappear, turnthe ...

Page 10 - Cautions When Storing; This could cause malfunctions.; Suggestions and Restrictions; Make a trial recording:

10 Cautions When Storing Do not leave the DVD Video Camera in a place where the temperature is very high for a long period of time: • The temperature inside a closed vehicle or trunk can become very high in a hot season. If you leave theDVD Video Camera in such a place, it could malfunction or the c...

Page 11 - Read This First; Quick Index; About This Manual; Displays in this manual; button” will be used in this text.; and

11 Read This First To guide you, we've included the following six chapters. • The section on “Setup” explains how to set up the DVD Video Camera, battery pack, and set the date/time. • The section on “Basic Techniques” explains the basic operation of this DVD Video Camera-recording of movies, still ...

Page 12 - Introduction; You can record even immediately following playback (page 51); Before editing

12 Introduction l You can record even immediately following playback (page 51) Unlike tape devices, you do not need to search for the recording start position or locate the beginning ofa blank portion. New recording will not overwrite any previously recorded data. l You can immediately play back des...

Page 13 - Quick Start Guide for Software; Features; Confirming the environment of connecting equipment: see page 130.; Installation Guide (see page 130 for details); The software can also be installed from the “Setup Menu”.; Suggestions for using software (see page 143 for details); Connect this DVD Video Camera to the PC as illustrated below.; You can edit motion image files on the DVD-RAM disc.; Software; DVDfunSTUDIO

13 Quick Start Guide for Software Only for VDR-M55PP/VDR-M75PP/VDR-M95PP Features The following software programs are contained on the provided CD-ROM. • Confirming the environment of connecting equipment: see page 130. Installation Guide (see page 130 for details) 1 Connect this DVD Video Camera to...

Page 14 - Cautions for use; with DVDfunSTUDIO, you cannot edit it again.; Display Settings method as follows:

14 3 Export video clips to PC using DVD-MovieAlbumSE. 4 DVDfunSTUDIO program will automatically start. (see page 144 for details) 5 Edit video clip files and introduce interactive DVD menus using DVDfunSTUDIO Software. 6 Insert a new DVD-R disc into the DVD Video Camera. • When making an original DV...

Page 15 - Table of Contents; Record and Play Back Using Disc (Video and; Setup; Advanced Techniques

15 Table of Contents Important Information ........................................ 2Be sure to read the following before opening the CD-ROM package .................................... 4 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS ........................... 5Cautions When Using ....................................... 7C...

Page 16 - Disc Navigation; Compatible PC for use with DVD Video

16 Setting Up Camera Functions ......................... 80 Selecting Shooting Mode to Match the Subject (Switching Program AE Mode) ......................... 80 Adjusting Color (White Balance) .......................... 81Using the Electronic Image Stabilizer (EIS) ......... 83Reducing Wind Noise d...

Page 17 - Supplementary Information

17 Supplementary Information Introduction to Optional Accessories ............ 145 Video Camera Accessories ............................... 145 Cleaning ........................................................ 146Terminology .................................................. 147Before Requesting Ser...

Page 18 - Check Provided Accessories

18 Check Provided Accessories Make sure that you have found all the following accessories in the package: : Not included with VDR-M53PP. Battery Pack: VDR-M53PP/VDR-M55PP/VDR-M75PP:(CGA-DU07A) VDR-M95PP:(CGA-DU14A) Portable power supply for this DVD Video Camera. Charge it before use. AC Adaptor/Cha...

Page 19 - Names of Parts; There is a sensor at the top of the flash.; Lens hood; Attach the optional flash.

19 Names of Parts 1 Built-in flash (VDR-M95PP) (P.68) There is a sensor at the top of the flash. 2 Lens cap string attachment hole (P. 35) 3 Internal stereo microphone (P. 51) 4 Infrared receiver (VDR-M55PP/VDR-M75PP/ VDR-M95PP) (P. 37) When the remote controller is used to operate the DVD Video Cam...

Page 20 - 8 Power switch toggle button

20 15 Viewfinder (P. 7, 37) 16 Diopter control (P. 37) To adjust the focus of image appearing in the viewfinder (pull out the viewfinder). 17 ACCESS/PC indicator (VDR-M55PP/VDR- M75PP/VDR-M95PP) (P. 9, 51, 52)ACCESS indicator* (VDR-M53PP) Will blink or light when the disc in DVD Video Camera is acce...

Page 21 - Press this button to adjust the exposure.; buttons; To adjust the volume of sound from speaker, etc.; 3 Control buttons

21 29 AUTO button (P. 67) To switch the DVD Video Camera to full automatic. 30 FOCUS button (P. 64) To switch between manual focus and auto-focus. 31 EXPOSURE button (P. 66) Press this button to adjust the exposure. 32 BACK LIGHT (backlight compensation) button (P. 53) Press this button when subject...

Page 23 - Setting Up the Battery Pack; Charging Battery Pack; Battery pack charge status; Charge status

23 Setting Up the Battery Pack The CGA-DU07A/CGA-DU14A battery pack provided with this DVD Video Camera has not been charged at purchase time: Charge it before using the DVD Video Camera. Note : • Be sure to use the specified battery pack CGA-DU07A/CGA-DU14A (provided) for the DVD Video Camera: usin...

Page 24 - Record and Play Back Using Disc (Video and Photo); Before You Begin; Connect everything in this sequence

24 12 Record and Play Back Using Disc (Video and Photo) You can record both videos and photos on DVD-RAM disc; only videos on DVD-R disc. Before You Begin • It is recommended that you use a DVD-RAM disc for trial recording, sinceyou can delete the recorded contents (See page 28). 1 Connect power sup...

Page 26 - Only photos can be recorded on card.

26 3 Record and Play Back Using Card (Photo) Only photos can be recorded on card. 1 Connect power supply (P. 45). Power cable AC adaptor DC cord Connect everything in this sequence a – d . 2 Insert a card (P. 49). 1. Open the LCD monitor.2. Open the cover of card insertion block with power turned of...

Page 28 - Discs and Cards; Available Discs; Media; Recording movie; Usable discs and logos

28 Discs and Cards The following table lists the storage media (discs and cards) that can be used on this DVD Video Camera and the functions which are available with them: l : Functions available; -: Not available *1: Can be played back on DVD players with the mark. *2: Must be finalized (see “Termi...

Page 29 - Examples of Discs that Cannot be Used on this DVD Video Camera

29 Information on DVD-R Disc You cannot record a still on DVD-R disc, or delete any recorded images or data.For optimum recording on DVD-R disc, this DVD Video Camera writes control data to the disc in order to automatically make adjustments when it is inserted and ejected accompanying recording. If...

Page 30 - • If there is dust, a scratch, or dirt on disc or if; the following phenomena may; Storing discs; Take care that no condensation occurs on disc.; Direct sunlight for a long time; Disc Cleaning; Available Cards

30 Handling Discs l Using discs DVD-RAM and DVD-R discs are very delicate recording media. Carefully read the following cautions and observe them: • Always use a brand new disc when recording important material. • Be sure not to touch the disc surface, and be careful that no dirt adheres to it. • If...

Page 31 - Handling card; Do not disassemble card or modify it.; • miniSD memory cards must be inserted in a; Suitable SD Memory Card

31 l Handling card • Do not use cards other than the designated ones. • Do not touch the card terminal or allow it to touch metal. • Do not paste anything other than exclusive label on label pasting portion. • Do not subject card to impact, bend card or drop it. • Do not disassemble card or modify i...

Page 32 - Storage Capacity of Disc or Card; Recording quality

32 Storage Capacity of Disc or Card Recordable Time of Movie (Video) The recordable time will vary depending on the recording quality: See page 84 for the setting of recording quality.Movie recordable time on one disc (on single side) (when recording only movies) *1: Variable bit recording (recordin...

Page 33 - Size and Quality of Photos; FINE

33 Recordable Stills (Photos) on Disc l Number of recordable stills on one side of disc: Up to 999 (VDR-M53PP / VDR-M55PP / VDR-M75PP)Up to 750 (VDR-M95PP) If the disc still has free space after recording 999 stills (VDR-M53PP / VDR-M55PP / VDR-M75PP) or 750 stills (VDR-M95PP) on it, movies can also...

Page 34 - Setting Up the DVD Video Camera; Holding DVD Video Camera; Using Grip Belt; ) Push the Lock button and pull the grip belt

34 Setup This section explains preparations for recording - setting up the DVD Video Camera and battery pack. Setting Up the DVD Video Camera Holding DVD Video Camera Using Grip Belt Insert your right hand from the bottom ofDVD Video Camera up to the base of yourthumb.Put your hand in a position whe...

Page 36 - Removing Battery from Remote Controller

36 Inserting Battery into Remote Controller (Not included with VDR-M53PP) Insert the provided button type battery into remote controller. 1 Pull the battery holder out towards yourself while pressing a thin rod or other object into the PUSH hole. 2 Insert the button type battery with the positive R ...

Page 37 - Using Remote Controller; Viewing Subject Through Viewfinder; Pull out the viewfinder.

37 l Using Remote Controller To operate the DVD Video Camera with the remote controller, point it at the infrared receiver before pressing buttons. If it does not work properly, do not forget to point it at the receiver to repeat the action. The remote controllable distance is up to 16 feet (5 m). N...

Page 38 - Viewing Image on LCD Monitor Screen; Open the LCD monitor.; Range of LCD monitor movement

38 Viewing Image on LCD Monitor Screen 1 Open the LCD monitor. The LCD monitor has a spot where you can hook your finger. Hook the finger there to open the monitor. Note : • See “LCD/EVF Setup” (P.92) for information ondisplaying the viewfinder image regardless of whetherthe LCD monitor is open or c...

Page 39 - Closing LCD Monitor

39 Closing LCD Monitor Before closing the LCD monitor, be sure to reset it at a right angle to the DVD Video Camera. Close the LCD monitor, with the LCD screen facinginward, until a click is heard. Note : • Be sure to return the LCD monitor to a right angle to theDVD Video Camera before closing it. ...

Page 40 - Setting Date and Time

40 Setting Date and Time Set the current date and time so that the date and time at which you make a recording can be recorded correctly.The following procedure can also be used to correct the date and time you have already set. 1 Turn the DVD Video Camera on. 2 Press the MENU button. The menu scree...

Page 41 - Changing Display Format of Date and Time; Press the MENU button.; Display format

41 Changing Display Format of Date and Time You can select one of three date display formats: month/day/year, day/month/year, or year/month/day. Thetime display format will also change as follows: 1 Press the MENU button. The menu screen will appear. 2 Use the control buttons to choose “Date Mode” o...

Page 42 - About the Battery Pack; Attaching Battery Pack to DVD Video Camera; Removing Battery Pack; After using the DVD Video Camera, remove the battery pack from it.

42 About the Battery Pack Attaching Battery Pack to DVD Video Camera 1 Fit the battery pack to the battery attachment platform on this DVD Video Camera and slide it downward until a click is heard. Note : • Make sure that the battery pack is in the correctorientation. • Make sure that the battery pa...

Page 44 - Remaining Battery Level Indicator; Efficient Use of Battery Pack; Power save and discharge of battery pack:

44 Remaining Battery Level Indicator When the battery pack is used to power the DVD Video Camera, the battery remaining level appears inthe viewfinder or on the LCD screen as follows: Note : • If you use the provided battery pack, the remaining level indicator “ ” may be displayed for an extended pe...

Page 45 - Using DVD Video Camera with AC adaptor; Connect the power cable to AC adaptor.

45 Using DVD Video Camera with AC adaptor It is recommended that you use the AC adaptor to power the DVD Video Camera from a household AC outletwhen you perform settings on it, play back or edit images, or use it indoors. Note : Be sure to use the specified AC adaptor to power the DVD Video Camera. ...

Page 46 - Inserting and Removing Disc; Inserting Disc; Turn the DVD Video Camera on (

46 Inserting and Removing Disc Inserting Disc 1 Press the DISC EJECT lever down once and release it. A few moments after the ACCESS/PC indicator blinks, the cover of disc insertion compartment will open slightly. 2 Open the cover by hand and fit the disc onto the spindle in the center. Note : • The ...

Page 47 - button; When recording data from PC:; button, or when message “Format the

47 Note : • Disc cannot be inser ted or removed unless the battery pack or AC adaptor is connected to DVD Video Camera. • If there is some delay before recording starts, refer to “Check 4” on page 149. • The disc insertion orientation is specific. Forcibly inser ting a disc in the wrong orientation ...

Page 48 - Removing Disc

48 Removing Disc 1 2 Open the cover by hand and remove the disc. While pressing down on the spindle, grasp the edge of the disc and gently lift it out. Note : • Do not use excessive force when opening the cover. • Do not touch the pickup lens or the recording/playback side of the disc. • If the disc...

Page 49 - Inserting and Removing Card; Turn the DVD Video Camera off.; Removing Card

49 Inserting and Removing Card 1 Turn the DVD Video Camera off. 2 Open the LCD monitor. 3 Open the cover of card insertion block. 4 Insert card with its contacts inward until it locks. Removing Card Push the center of card edge: The card will come out so that it can be held by fingers. 5 Close the c...

Page 50 - Basic Techniques; Basic Operation of DVD Video Camera; Turning DVD Video Camera On or Off; ” or

50 Basic Techniques This section explains the basic techniques of recording movies and still images, and also basic settings on DVD Video Camera. Basic Operation of DVD Video Camera Turning DVD Video Camera On or Off Set the switch to the appropriate recording function while holding down the button ...

Page 51 - Recording Movie

51 12 Recording Movie 1 Turn the DVD Video Camera on. Set the power switch to “ ” to turn the DVD Video Camera on.After the ACCESS/PC indicator goes out, perform the subsequent operations: 2 Check the subject on the screen (viewfinder or LCD). If using the viewfinder, pull it out. 3 Press the REC bu...

Page 52 - Recording Stills; Turn the DVD Video Camera on.

52 13 Recording Stills Note : Recording of still images is possible on DVD-RAM disc and card. 1 Turn the DVD Video Camera on. When using DVD-RAM disc:Set the power switch to “ ”. When using card:Set the power switch to “ ”. After the ACCESS indicator goes out, perform the subsequent operations: 2 Ch...

Page 53 - Compensating for Backlight; Press the BACK LIGHT button during recording.

53 123 Compensating for Backlight 1 Press the BACK LIGHT button during recording. The backlight correction icon will appear. Note : • Pressing the BACK LIGHT button will alternate backlight setting between on and off. • The backlight setting will automatically return to “off ” when the DVD Video Cam...

Page 54 - On-Screen Information; Information Display during Recording; Program AE

54 123 On-Screen Information Various types of information will appear in the viewfinder or on the LCD screen during recording. Information Display during Recording 1. Recording mode : Movie: Still with disc: Still with card * 1 : External input (field) * 1 : External input (frame) 2. e Program AE No...

Page 56 - Switching the information display mode; • Minimum display mode:; Display when recording an image of yourself

56 l Switching the information display mode You can switch the display mode of on-screen information: Press the DISPLAY button.The full and minimum display modes will alternate. • Full display mode: All types of information will appear. • Minimum display mode: The recording mode (see 1 on page 54) a...

Page 57 - Zooming; Press the MENU button to end setting.

57 123 Zooming This DVD Video Camera allows you to record using optical 24- (on VDR-M53PP/VDR-M55PP) or 10- (on VDR-M75PP/VDR-M95PP) power zoom and digital zoom. If you continue to hold the zoom lever on the “T” control side with Dig. Zoom 60x or 800x specified (on VDR-M53PP/VDR-M55PP) or Dig. Zoom ...

Page 58 - Macro Recording

58 Macro Recording Use the macro function when recording a small object from close-up position: You can shoot the subject as close as approximately 13/16” (2 cm) from the lens surface, magnifying the image to fill the screen. 1 Aim the DVD Video Camera at the subject, and press down the zoom lever t...

Page 59 - Playing Back; Press the

59 Playing Back 123 Playing Back 1 Press the A button in recording pause mode. The DVD Video Camera will enter the playback mode, and the scene you recorded last will be played back.When playback is finished, the DVD Video Camera will enter pause mode at the last image on disc.If playback pause mode...

Page 60 - Frame Advance/Frame Back/Slow Playback of Movie

60 123 Playback from Start of Disc or Card Use the Go To function (P. 62) or Disc Navigation function (P. 96) to play back from the start of disc or card. 12 Search Playback of Movie During playback, press one of the following buttons and hold it: Search playback will start.Hold the c button: Scenes...

Page 61 - Skip Playback of Movie; Playing Back Stills

61 12 Skip Playback of Movie During playback, press the following buttons to locate the start of desired scene.Press the e button: To skip to the first image of the scene following the one being played back, and start playback. Press the f button: To return to the first image of the scene being play...

Page 62 - Specifying the point to view

62 123 Jumping to Specified Point (Go To) 1 Press the MENU button during playback. 2 Choose the option (point you want to go to), and then press the A button. Top : To go to the start, and enter playback pause. End : To go to the end of last scene, and enter playback pause. Specify : To go to a spec...

Page 63 - On-Screen Information Display; Information Display during Playback

63 123 On-Screen Information Display Information Display during Playback Various types of information on recording will be superimposed on playback image you are viewing. l Switching the information display mode Press the DISPLAY button: You can switch the display mode of on-screen information. When...

Page 64 - Manually Focusing Subject; Focusing during Recording; Focusing range; You can switch the display mode of on-screen information:

64 123 Manually Focusing Subject The DVD Video Camera usually focuses on a subject automatically (autofocus). You can also manually focus a subject depending on the recording conditions. Focusing during Recording This DVD Video Camera automatically focuses a subject at the center of screen (auto-foc...

Page 66 - Adjusting Exposure Manually; Press the EXPOSURE button during recording.

66 123 Adjusting Exposure Manually The DVD Video Camera usually adjusts the exposure automatically. You can also manually adjust the exposure depending on the recording conditions. 1 Press the EXPOSURE button during recording. The exposure indicator will appear on the screen. 2 Use the ) ( buttons t...

Page 67 - Using Auto Function; Function

67 123 Using Auto Function Pressing the AUTO button will fully automate the camera functions. 1 Press the AUTO button. “FULL AUTO” will be displayed on the screen of DVD Video Camera for several seconds. The following settings will reset to defaults: Function When setting full auto Page Program AE A...

Page 68 - Setting of; AUTO

68 13 Built-in Flash (Only for VDR-M95PP) When recording photos in a dark place, or if the subject is lit from rear, the VDR-M95PP makes use of the built-in flash for automatic brightening: The flash can also be set to “On” where the light is always being emitted, or “Off ” when you wish to record w...

Page 69 - Setting Flash; (See “Introduction to Optional Accessories” on page 145)

69 13 Setting Flash (See “Introduction to Optional Accessories” on page 145) When shooting stills, you can use the optional VW-FLH3 *1 Flash (P. 145). Refer to the Flash manual for instructions. * 1 Only for VDR-M75PP/VDR-M95PP * 2 Without light emission, the “ A ” display is cleared when you press ...

Page 70 - Using External Microphone

70 Recording in Dark Locations Using the Light from the LCD Monitor When Program AE is set to “Low Light”, you can use the light from the LCD monitor to record a subject. 1 Press the MENU button, and choose “Program AE” from the “Camera Functions Setup” menu screen. 2 Choose “Low Light”, and select ...

Page 71 - Viewing on TV Screen; Connecting to a TV

71 123 Viewing on TV Screen Connecting to a TV Use the provided AV/S input/output cable to connect the DVD Video Camera to a TV as follows: * If your TV has an S-VIDEO input jack, you can connect the S-VIDEO plug into it. Note : • Using S-VIDEO will deliver clearer playback. • Before connecting, mak...

Page 73 - Playback on DVD Video Recorder/Player; Note when recording to hard disk of DVD; B. Use the Disc Navigation menu of DVD Video

73 1 Playback on DVD Video Recorder/Player You can use a DVD video recorder (see “Terminology” on page 147) or DVD player that conforms to 8 cm DVD-RAM to play back DVD-RAM discs recorded on this DVD Video Camera. Note, however, that such DVD-RAM discs are not compatible with all DVD video recorders...

Page 74 - Playback on DVD Player; See the instruction manual for DVD player.

74 2 Playback on DVD Player 1 Finalize a recorded DVD-R disc. You need to finalize a disc to play it back on DVD player: See page 127.No further data can be recorded on finalized disc. Note : Use this DVD Video Camera to finalize the DVD-R disc recorded on the DVD Video Camera. 2 Insert the disc int...

Page 75 - Recording (Dubbing) Images from Other Video Device

75 123 Recording (Dubbing) Images Recording (Dubbing) Images from Other Video Device You can record (dub) images from other video devices to disc or card in this DVD Video Camera.Use the AV/S input/output cable (provided) to connect the DVD Video Camera to the other AV device as follows: 1 Set the i...

Page 76 - Recording (Dubbing) Images from Other Video Cameras; Press the REC button.

76 Recording (Dubbing) Images from Other Video Cameras You can record (dub) images from other video cameras on a disc or card in DVD Video Camera. Use the AV/S input/output cable (provided) to connect the DVD Video Camera to the other video camera. *1: The AV/S input/output cable provided with this ...

Page 77 - Recording (Dubbing) Images on Other Video Devices; Press the DISC NAVIGATION button.

77 Recording (Dubbing) Images on Other Video Devices You can record (dub) images played back on this DVD Video Camera, onto other video devices.Use Disc Navigation to create a play list by selecting desired scenes from those recorded on this DVD Video Camera (P.116).Use the AV/S input/output cable (...

Page 78 - Understanding Flow of Menus; Press

78 Advanced Techniques This section explains various settings to further extend the usefulness of this DVD Video Camera. Understanding Flow of Menus Press the MENU button during recording pause. The “Camera Functions Setup” menu screen will appear. Press f / e / d / c buttons to select a menu item, ...

Page 79 - Flow of Menus; Camera Functions Setup; Recording Functions Setup; Movie quality; Date Setup

79 l Flow of Menus Refer to page indicated for details about each function. Movie functions are described below. Camera Functions Setup Program AE (P. 80)White balance (P. 81)EIS *1 (P. 83) Digital zoom (P. 57)Wind Cut *1 (P. 83) Flash *2 *3 (P. 68) Recording Functions Setup Movie quality *4 (P. 84)...

Page 80 - Setting Up Camera Functions

80 123 Setting Up Camera Functions Selecting Shooting Mode to Match the Subject (Switching Program AE Mode) This DVD Video Camera automatically sets the shutter speed and aperture according to the subject brightness for optimum recording: You can also specify one of six modes depending on subject co...

Page 81 - Setting white balance manually; Mode

81 Adjusting Color (White Balance) This DVD Video Camera automatically adjusts the color of subject. Change the white balance setting depending on the recording conditions. 1 Press the MENU button, choose “White Bal.” on the “Camera Functions Setup” menu screen, and then press the A button. 2 Choose...

Page 83 - Using the Electronic Image Stabilizer (EIS); Choose “On” or “Off ”, and then press the; Checking whether EIS is On or Off; Reducing Wind Noise during Recording (Wind Cut); Choose the desired option, and then press the

83 Using the Electronic Image Stabilizer (EIS) When you use zoom to record a magnified subject image, it will correct fuzziness in the recorded image. 1 Press the MENU button, choose “EIS” on the “Camera Functions Setup” menu screen, and then press the A button. 2 Choose “On” or “Off ”, and then pre...

Page 84 - Setting Up Record Functions; Choose the movie quality from “XTRA”, “FINE” and “STD”.; If the DVD Video Camera is moved excessively or quickly

84 Setting Up Record Functions 12 Switching Movie Quality (VIDEO Mode) Choose the movie quality from “XTRA”, “FINE” and “STD”. 1 Press the MENU button, choose “VIDEO Mode” on the “Record Functions Setup” menu screen, and then press the A button. 2 Choose the desired quality mode, and then press the ...

Page 85 - Switching Quality of Still Image (Quality); You can switch the still recording quality only when using card.; It is recommended that you use “FINE” when recording vital images.

85 3 Switching Quality of Still Image (Quality) You can switch the still recording quality only when using card. 1 Press the MENU button, choose “Quality” on the “Record Functions Setup” menu screen, and then press the A button. 2 Choose the option you want, and then press the A button. 3 Press the ...

Page 88 - Receiving Image from Another Device (Input Source); Switching External Input Recording Method (PHOTO Input)

88 123 Receiving Image from Another Device (Input Source) If you wish to input an image from another device to this DVD Video Camera, you must first switch the setting on the DVD Video Camera. Refer to the explanation starting from page 75 on how to connect the DVD Video Camera to other devices or r...

Page 89 - Select “On”, and then press the

89 Note : • The PHOTO Input setting can be confirmed using the on-screen information. • The PHOTO Input setting will be stored in memory even when the DVD Video Camera is turned off. • Refer to “Recording (Dubbing) Images” on page 75 to see how to connect the DVD Video Camera to another device. • “P...

Page 91 - Setting Brightness of LCD Screen (Brightness); Setting Brightness of Viewfinder (EVF Brightness)

91 123 LCD/EVF Setup Setting Brightness of LCD Screen (Brightness) 1 Press the MENU button, choose “Adjust” on the “LCD/EVF Setup” menu screen, and then choose “LCD Brightness”. 2 Use the control buttons for adjustment. Press the d button: the screen becomes dimmer Press the c button: the screen bec...

Page 92 - Always Display Image in Viewfinder

92 Setting Color Density (Color Level) 1 Press the MENU button, choose “Adjust” on the “LCD/EVF Setup” menu screen, and then choose “Color Level”. 2 Use the control buttons for adjustment. Press the d button: for lighter color Press the c button: for denser color 3 Press the MENU button to end setti...

Page 93 - Initial Settings; Switching Operating Sound On or Off (Beep); Select “On” or “Off ”, and then press the; Turning DVD Video Camera Off Automatically (Power Save); To cancel power save.

93 123 Initial Settings Switching Operating Sound On or Off (Beep) 1 Press the MENU button, choose “Beep” on the “Initial Setup” menu screen, and then press the A button. 2 Select “On” or “Off ”, and then press the A button. 3 Press the MENU button to end setting. Note : The “Beep” setting will be s...

Page 94 - Turning Record LED On or Off (Record LED); Setting; The recording indicator will not light even during recording.

94 Turning Record LED On or Off (Record LED) You can switch off the recording indicator on the front of DVD Video Camera even during recording. 1 Press the MENU button, choose “Record LED” on the “Initial Setup” menu screen, and then press the A button. 2 Select “On” or “Off ”, and then press the A ...

Page 95 - Resetting Menu Settings to Defaults (Reset)

95 Resetting Menu Settings to Defaults (Reset) You can restore menu settings to defaults [initial settings at the factory (P. 163)]. 1 Press the MENU button, choose “Reset” on the “Initial Setup” menu screen, and then press the A button. The screen for verifying reset will appear. 2 If you are sure ...

Page 96 - Using Disc Navigation; Starting or Terminating Disc Navigation

96 Disc Navigation 123 Using Disc Navigation Starting or Terminating Disc Navigation Disc Navigation is a tool for editing scenes recorded on this DVD Video Camera.Following is an explanation of “scene” and “program” so that you will be able to make the most use of the Disc Navigation function.The s...

Page 98 - Playing Back from Disc Navigation Screen; When playback ends; or DISC; Playing back stills

98 Playing Back from Disc Navigation Screen 1 Press the DISC NAVIGATION button. 2 Use the control buttons to select the desired scene. The selected scene will be framed: This is called a “cursor”. 3 Press the A button. Playback will start from the selected scene. Note : Pressing the d / c button wil...

Page 99 - Selecting Multiple Scenes; Selecting Consecutive Scenes Together; Current cursor position

99 Selecting Multiple Scenes 1 Press the DISC NAVIGATION button. 2 Use the control buttons to select the desired scene. 3 Press the SELECT button once: The selected scene will be framed in red and yellow. Repeat steps 2 and 3 to randomly select multiple scenes.To cancel a selected scene, select the ...

Page 100 - Disc Navigation Menu; Functions Available with Disc Navigation

100 Disc Navigation Menu Functions Available with Disc Navigation Disc Navigation allows you to do the following: Note : Effect functions (thumbnail, skip, fade) are unique to this DVD Video Camera. When a disc edited on this DVD Video Camera is directly played back on a DVD-RAM recorder or read int...

Page 101 - Understanding Flow of Disc Navigation Menu; 8-79 and 96 for how to interpret the screen.; When using DVD-RAM disc

101 Understanding Flow of Disc Navigation Menu Press the MENU button on the Disc Navigation screen: The menu screens for Disc Navigation and menu screens for disc and card will appear.See pages 78-79 and 96 for how to interpret the screen. Refer to pages indicated for details. l When using DVD-RAM d...

Page 102 - Scene

102 Scene 13 Deleting Scenes (Edit-Delete) You may want to delete unwanted scenes.Scenes on DVD-R disc cannot be deleted. 1 Press the DISC NAVIGATION button. 2 Select the scene to be deleted. 3 Press the MENU button. 4 Choose “Edit”, “Delete” on the “Scene” menu screen, and then press the A button. ...

Page 103 - Editing using submenu

103 l Editing using submenu Press the MENU button before pressing the A button in step 5 (see page 102): The submenu will appear. Pressing the g button will restore the screen in step 5. Note : Although the submenu screen will appear for each setting, some menu items may not appear, depending on the...

Page 105 - Releasing Skip

105 1 Playing Back by Skipping Scenes (Effect - Skip) You can specify “Skip” for scenes you do not want to play back: The selected scenes will be skipped. 1 Press the DISC NAVIGATION button. 2 Select the scene to be skipped. 3 Press the MENU button. 4 Choose “Scene”, “Effect”, “Skip”, and then press...

Page 111 - Deselecting scenes one by one:; Deselecting all the selected scenes at once:

111 123 Selecting Scenes Using Menu Screen (Select) You can use this “Select” function to select consecutive scenes at one time.This function is useful when there are numerous scenes. 1 Press the DISC NAVIGATION button. 2 Press the MENU button. 3 Choose “Select” on the “Scene” menu screen. 4 Choose ...

Page 112 - Displaying Information Using Menu Screen (Detail)

112 123 Displaying Information Using Menu Screen (Detail) You can display various information for a scene: the recording mode, recording date/time and length, special effects and movie quality mode. 1 Press the DISC NAVIGATION button. 2 Select the scene whose information you wish to know. 3 Press th...

Page 113 - Program; Switching to Thumbnail Display of Specific Date (Switch); Recorded on September 10

113 Program What is “program”? Program refers to an assembly of scenes recorded on the same date regardless of whether they are movie or still. 12 Switching to Thumbnail Display of Specific Date (Switch) Since the scenes recorded on this DVD Video Camera are collected as “programs” for each recordin...

Page 116 - Play List

116 1 Play List What is “Play List”? You can create a play list on this DVD Video Camera by gathering your favorites from the recorded scenes.Since the play list is not created by copying data, you will consume little of the disc capacity by making a play list. On the other hand, deleting scenes on ...

Page 117 - Switching to Display of Each Play List (Switch); Editing on play list

117 Switching to Display of Each Play List (Switch) Select the desired play list: The Disc Navigation screen of the selected play list will appear. 1 Press the DISC NAVIGATION button. 2 Press the MENU button. 3 Choose “Switch” on the “PlayList” menu screen, and then press the A button. 4 Use the “Sw...

Page 118 - Adding Scenes to Play List (Editing Play List)

118 Adding Scenes to Play List (Editing Play List) 1 Press the DISC NAVIGATION button. 2 Press the MENU button. 3 Choose “Edit” on the “PlayList” menu screen, and then press the A button. 4 Use the play list select screen to select the play list to which you wish to add scenes, and then press the A ...

Page 119 - Deleting Scenes from Play List (Editing Play List); Adding Scenes Using Submenu for Editing (Editing Play List)

119 Deleting Scenes from Play List (Editing Play List) 1 Press the DISC NAVIGATION button. 2 Display the editing screen of the play list to be edited. Perform steps 2 − 4 on page 118. 3 Move the cursor to the play list in lower row, and place the cursor on the scene to be deleted. 4 Press the A butt...

Page 120 - Deleting Scenes Using Submenu for Editing (Editing Play List); Selecting Scenes Using Submenu for Editing (Editing Play List)

120 Deleting Scenes Using Submenu for Editing (Editing Play List) You can delete scenes from play list on the editing screen. 1 Press the DISC NAVIGATION button. 2 Display the editing screen of the play list to be edited. Perform steps 2 − 4 on page 118. 3 Move the cursor to the play list in lower r...

Page 123 - Go To

123 123 Go To From the Disc Navigation screen, you can jump to the first scene or last scene. Top (End) 1 Press the DISC NAVIGATION button. 2 Press the MENU button. 3 Choose “Top” or “End” on the “Go To” menu screen, and then press the A button. Go To RAM ENTER RETURN End ETC Top 014/014 All Program...

Page 124 - Disc or Card Management; Verifying Remaining Free Space on Disc or Card (Capacity); Protecting Disc from Writing (Protect Disc)

124 Disc or Card Management 123 Verifying Remaining Free Space on Disc or Card (Capacity) You can find out how long you will be able to record on one side of disc or on card. 1 Press the DISC NAVIGATION button. 2 Press the MENU button. 3 Choose “Capacity” on the “Disc” or “Card” menu screen, and the...

Page 129 - Slide Show (Continuous Playback of Stills)

129 3 Slide Show (Continuous Playback of Stills) If you play back stills recorded on a card, the DVD Video Camera will enter playback pause mode after each still is played back.Setting Slide Show allows you to continuously play back stills. 1 Press the DISC NAVIGATION button. 2 Press the MENU button...

Page 130 - Installing Software; Compatible PC for use with DVD Video Camera

130 Installing Software (Only for VDR-M55PP/VDR-M75PP/VDR-M95PP) Before installing the DVD-RAM Driver on the CD-ROM provided with this DVD Video Camera; If the packet writing software which supports the DVD-RAM disc is installed, it is necessary to un-install it, and then install the provided DVD-RA...

Page 133 - Contents on Provided CD-ROM; Acrobat Reader

133 Contents on Provided CD-ROM Upon inserting the provided CD-ROM into the PC, the “Setup Menu” screen will appear. You can install the included software.If the “Setup Menu” screen does not appear, double-click the CD-ROM drive icon. l DVD-RAM Driver (see page 136 for installation)Install this driv...

Page 134 - or

134 l DVD-MovieAlbumSE You can read the instruction manual using either of the following procedures: • After installing DVD-MovieAlbumSE, open “Programs”or “All Programs” from the Windows “Start” menu, choose “Panasonic” and “DVD-MovieAlbumSE”, and then open “Operation Manual”. To read the above man...

Page 135 - Operation with DVD Video Camera connected

135 l Operation with DVD Video Camera connected • The following operations are not possible when connected to PC: - Camera recording and playback using operation buttons on DVD Video Camera - Power off using the power switch on DVD Video Camera • No image will appear on the LCD screen or viewfinder ...

Page 139 - Installing DVD-MovieAlbumSE; Check the contents, and then click “Install”.

139 Installing DVD-MovieAlbumSE “DVD-MovieAlbumSE” software is used to edit movies that conform to DVD Video Recording format. 1 Insert the provided CD-ROM into the PC, and click “DVD-MovieAlbumSE 4.1” on the “Setup Menu” screen. If the “Setup Menu” screen does not appear, double-click the CD-ROM dr...

Page 140 - Installation will start.

140 6 A message for verifying whether a shortcut icon is to be created on desktop will appear. If you want to create one, click “Yes”. If not, choose “No”. Installation will start. 7 Click “Finish”. 8 The following window is displayed during the first run of DVD-MovieAlbumSE after installation. Care...

Page 141 - Installing DVDfunSTUDIO

141 Installing DVDfunSTUDIO Does not support recording to DVD-RW or DVD+RW discs with the DVD Video Camera. 1 Insert the provided CD-ROM into the PC, and click “DVDfunSTUDIO 2.2” on the “Setup Menu” screen. If the “Setup Menu” screen does not appear, double-click the CD-ROM drive icon. 2 The screen ...

Page 142 - Stopping the Drive; Close the application. In Windows, click the; Toggling the Power Switch; You may now toggle the power switch.

142 If you insert an unformatted DVD-R disc in the DVD Video Camera. . . . The following message is displayed on the camera monitor: “This disc must be formatted before it can be used by this camera”. Follow these steps when authoring DVD-R discs with DVDfunSTUDIO. 1 Press the g button to cancel for...

Page 143 - Align the DVD Video Camera power switch with; Click the Start button to start export.

143 Creating DVD Video on PC from DVD-RAM Disc Recorded on DVD Video Camera Using DVD-MovieAlbumSE and DVDfunSTUDIO, you can create a DVD Video disc (DVD-R disc) from the images recorded on this DVD Video Camera, following the procedure below: 1 Insert a recorded DVD-RAM disc into the DVD Video Came...

Page 144 - Uninstalling Software; Video Camera; STD

144 8 DVDfunSTUDIO starts automatically. When the folder selection screen (CollectTool) appears, click OK. After a few moments, the exported scene will be automatically registered on the DVDfunSTUDIO editing screen. Now you can change the DVD menu to the desired style, change the title, etc. on this...

Page 145 - Introduction to Optional Accessories; Video Camera Accessories; Description; AC adaptor with AC Cable and DC Cable

145 Supplementary Information Introduction to Optional Accessories Video Camera Accessories * Please refer to page 43 concerning the battery charging time and available recording time. NOTE: Accessories and/or model numbers may vary by country. Please consult your local dealer. Accessory No. Descrip...

Page 146 - Cleaning

146 Cleaning Be sure to set the power switch to “OFF” before cleaning this DVD Video Camera. l Cleaning LCD screen and camera lens Use a dry, soft cloth to wipe dirt off. When cleaning the LCD screen, be careful not to use force, scratch it, or subject it to impact. Doing so could cause a defect in ...

Page 147 - Terminology; DVD Video Recording format:; This sensor is used to adjust the white balance.

147 Terminology DVD-RAM disc: Rewritable DVD disc. DVD-R disc: One-time recordable DVD disc. DVD Video format: This application format establishes the file name, directory structure, data format, etc. to record videos (movies). A generally available DVD video conforms to this format. DVD Video recor...

Page 149 - Before Requesting Service

149 Before Requesting Service Check 1 No movie can be recorded Movie can be recorded only on DVD-RAM or DVD-R disc.Check the following: • Is the correct type of disc inserted? • Is power switch set to “ ”? • Is the DVD-RAM disc in DVD Video Camera write-protected? Release the write-protect. • If you...

Page 151 - Error Messages; Message; DVD-R disc that was not initialized for camera use was inserted.

151 Error Messages A message may appear while you are operating the DVD Video Camera. If a message appears, refer to the following table and take appropriate corrective action.Messages are arranged in alphabetical order. Message Cause & Troubleshooting Reference page (1) Data error in a part of ...

Page 156 - Initialization will delete all data on disc.

156 *1 • This message may also appear when dirt adheres to disc. If this message appears when a recorded disc is recognized immediately after it is inserted, do not repair the disc; remove it and then use Disc Cleaning Cloth to clean off the dirt before using it. • This message may appear when conde...

Page 157 - Troubleshooting; Power supplies; Symptom; Is the DC cord connected to AC adaptor? Unplug it.

157 Troubleshooting Check to see the following before asking for a repair. If the suggested solution still cannot restore the DVD Video Camera to normal, do not attempt to repair it yourself, but consult your dealer. Power supplies Symptom Cause and Correction Reference page Battery pack cannot be c...

Page 158 - During recording; Focus is not correct.

158 During recording Symptom Cause and Correction Reference page Pressing the REC button will not start recording. Is input image copy-guarded?Copy-guarded image cannot be recorded on this DVD Video Camera. 75 Recording starts but stops immediately. Is disc scratched or do dirt or fingerprints adher...

Page 159 - During playback; Disc Cleaning Cloth to clean it.

159 During playback Symptom Cause and Correction Reference page Recognition of disc is not complete Is disc dirty?Use Disc Cleaning Cloth to clean it. 30 Pressing the playback button will not start playback. Has the image been recorded by devices other than this DVD Video Camera?Playback of images r...

Page 160 - When the DVD Video Camera is connected to PC:; Turn the PC and DVD Video Camera off, and try again.

160 When the DVD Video Camera is connected to PC: Symptom Cause and Correction Reference page No drive icon appears on PC. The DVD Video Camera is not turned on.Check the power supply. 50 Turn PC off and then disconnect the USB cable. Turn PC on again, and then use the USB cable to connect the DVD V...

Page 162 - Miscellaneous

162 Miscellaneous Symptom Cause and Correction Reference page Power does not come on, or no operation occurs by pressing button. Execute system reset (press the RESET button). 163 Has the DVD Video Camera been subjected to impact?The DVD Video Camera could be damaged. Please contact us. 168 The date...

Page 163 - System Reset; List of setting items; Item

163 System Reset If the DVD Video Camera does not operate normally, perform “System Reset”: The DVD Video Camera may recover to normal. “System Reset” will reset all settings to factory defaults. The date and time will also be reset: Set the date and time again before using the DVD Video Camera. 1 S...

Page 164 - Major Specifications

164 Major Specifications DVD Video Camera Information for your safety Power Source: DC 7.9/7.2 V Power Consumption: When recording with LCD monitor offVDR-M53PP/M55PP approx. 3.7 W (in FINE mode)VDR-M75PP approx. 4.3 W (in FINE mode)VDR-M95PP approx. 4.9 W (in FINE mode) CCD VDR-M53PP/M55PP: 1/6-inc...

Page 166 - Information for your safety; Request for Service Notice; Panasonic Services Company; Request for Service Notice:; In the unlikely event this product needs service.

166 AC adaptor/Charger Information for your safety Note : Weight and dimensions shown are approximate. Designs and specifications are subject to change without prior notice. Request for Service Notice (USA Only) Power Source: AC 110-240 V, 50/60 Hz Power Consumption: 19 W0.5 W (When not in use) DC O...

Page 167 - Panasonic/Quasar Video Products; Limited Warranty

167 Limited Warranty (For USA Customers) Panasonic/Quasar Video Products Limited Warranty Product Camcorder DVD/VCR Deck,A/V Mixer TV/VCR, TV/DVD,TV/DVD/VCRCombination TV/HDRCombination RechargeableBatteries(in exchange fordefective item) Tape(in exchange fordefective item) Memory Cards(in exchange ...

Page 168 - consumer; or, contact us via the web at; You may also contact us directly at:; Accessory Purchases; Service in Puerto Rico; Customer Services Directory

168 Customer Services Directory Obtain Product Information and Operating Assistance; locate your nearest Dealer or Servicenter; purchase Parts and Accessories; or make Customer Service and Literature requests by visiting our Web Site at: http://www.panasonic.com/ consumer support or, contact us via ...

Page 169 - Warranty

169 Warranty (For Canadian Customers) Panasonic Canada Inc. 5770 Ambler Drive, Mississauga, Ontario L4W 2T3 PANASONIC PRODUCT – LIMITED WARRANTY Panasonic Canada Inc. warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship and agrees to remedy any such defect for a period as stated...

Panasonic VDR-M53PP - Manual

Table of Contents:

Summary

Other Panasonic Models