IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
VM-E455LA, VM-H655LA
HITACHI
Instruction Manual
8mm Video Camcorder
VM-E455LA
Hi
HI 8 Video Camcorder
VM-H655LA
HITACHI AMERICA, LTD.
HOME ELECTRONICS DIVISION
1855 Dornoch Court
San Diego, CA 92173
Tel. 1-800-HATACHI
(1-800-448-2244)
HITACHI (HSC) CANADA INC.
6740 Campobello Road
Missisauga, Ontario, L5N 2L8
CANADA
Tel. 1-800-HATACHI
(1-800-448-2244)
Thank you for buying a Hitachi product. Please take time to become familiar with the manual and how it is set up.
Keep it handy for feature reference.
Printed in Japan KK-S(N)
QR30893 © Hitachi, Ltd. 1999
1
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION ................................................................................................3
Important Safeguards ..............................................................................................................................4
Before You Begin....................................................................................................................................7
Read This First ........................................................................................................................................8
Features ...................................................................................................................................................8
Getting Started.............................................................................................................................................9
Components and Accessories..................................................................................................................9
Optional RF Adaptor.............................................................................................................................10
Identifying Controls ..............................................................................................................................10
Charging the Battery .............................................................................................................................15
Checking the Battery's Charge ..............................................................................................................18
Camcorder Power Sources ....................................................................................................................19
Inserting and Removing Cassettes ........................................................................................................20
LCD Monitor.........................................................................................................................................21
Active Screen ........................................................................................................................................23
Adjusting the Electronic Viewfinder.....................................................................................................23
Eyepiece Adjustment.............................................................................................................................24
Adjustment the Hand Strap ...................................................................................................................24
Remaining Tape ....................................................................................................................................25
Using the Linear Time Counter.............................................................................................................26
Display in Viewfinder or on LCD Monitor...........................................................................................26
Setting the Date and Time.....................................................................................................................27
Basic Techniques.......................................................................................................................................28
Making a Basic Recording ....................................................................................................................28
Using Instant Review ............................................................................................................................30
Using Auto Focus..................................................................................................................................30
Using Manual Focus..............................................................................................................................31
Using the Power Zoom..........................................................................................................................31
Using the Digital Zoom.........................................................................................................................32
Using the INST. ZOOM (instant Zoom) Button...................................................................................32
Using Macro..........................................................................................................................................33
Playback ................................................................................................................................................33
Playing Back Your Recording on Your TV..........................................................................................35
Video Effects in Playback Mode...........................................................................................................38
Multi Playback ......................................................................................................................................39
Advanced Techniques ..............................................................................................................................40
Advanced Techniques ...........................................................................................................................40
Date Recording......................................................................................................................................40
Creating and Recording a Title .............................................................................................................41
Digital Effects Recording......................................................................................................................46
Using Digital Fade ................................................................................................................................49
Date Search ...........................................................................................................................................51
Using Memory.......................................................................................................................................51
Using Quick Edit...................................................................................................................................52
Attaching the Optional Wide or Tele Converter Lens ..........................................................................52
2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Demonstration Mode.............................................................................................................................53
Dubbing from the Camcorder to a VCR ...............................................................................................53
Simple Programmable Edit (Edit remote control is optional accessory) ..............................................53
Using the Optional Edit Remote Control ..............................................................................................57
Using Audio/ Video Dubbing ...............................................................................................................58
General Maintenance.................................................................................................................................59
Cleaning the Camcorder Heads.............................................................................................................59
Cleaning the Lens and Picture Tube of the Electronic Viewfinder.......................................................60
Periodic Maintenance............................................................................................................................60
Troubleshooting ....................................................................................................................................61
Specifications ........................................................................................................................................63
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
For Your Safety
The CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch turns the camcorder on and off, leaving the date/time feature unaffected. If the unit
is to be left unattended for a long period of time, turn the camcorder off and close the lens door.
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE.
The camcorder and AC adapter/charger have the following caution marks.
Identifications of caution marks
This symbol warms the user that uninsulated voltage within the unit may have sufficient magnitude to
cause electrical shock. Therefore, it is dangerous to make any kind of contact with any inside part of this unit.
This symbol alerts the user that important literature concerning the operation and maintenance of this
unit has been included. Therefore, it should be read carefully to avoid any problems.
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT OPEN.
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT,
AND FULLY INSERT PLUG.
Precautions
WARNING: Many television programs and films are copyrighted. In certain circumstances, copyright law may
apply to private in-home videotaping of copyrighted materials.
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian ICES-003.
3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
The liquid crystal display (LCD) panel is made by highly precise technology. More than 99.99% of its picture
elements (pixels) are effective, but some (less than 0.01%) may appear as colored bright dots. This does not
indicate a fault as the LCD panel stretches the limits of current technology.
Information for VM-H655LA:
and Hi
This camcorder can use
video cassettes. it automatically determines the loaded cassette is
or Hi
and recorded and plays it back correctly.
Warning: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant of
Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference
in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off
and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct by one or more of the following measures:
-- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
-- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
-- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
-- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Caution to the user: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacture could void the user's
authority to operate the equipment.
"Note to CATV system installer: This reminder is provided to call the CATV system installer's attention to Article
820-40 of the NEC that provides guidelines for proper grounding and, in particular, specifies that the cable ground
shall be connected to the grounding system of the building, as close to the point of cable entry as practical".
Notes:
• This unit uses 8mm video format cassettes.
• It records and plays back in the SP mode (14.3 mm/sec).
• It cannot record and play back in the LP mode (7.2 mm/sec).
MOISTURE
Avoid operating your camcorder immediately after moving it from a cold place to a warm, humid place. Give the
camcorder 2 to 3 hours to stabilize in the ambient conditions of the surroundings before inserting a cassette.
When moved from a cold place to a warm, humid place, moisture may condense on the head drum inside the
machine. This moisture could cause the tape to stick to the headwheel and damage the headwheel or tape.
When a small amount of moisture is sensed, "TAPE" flashes in the viewfinder or LCD monitor. Remove the
cassette and set the CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch to OFF, then wait for about one hour.
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 enjoyment and proper use of a Video camcorder
and accessory equipment. Please read it carefully before operating your video product and keep it in a handy
place for future reference.
4
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
INSTALLATION
1 Read and Follow Instructions -- All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the video
product is operated. Follow-all operating and use instructions.
2 Retain Instructions -- The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.
3 Heed Warnings -- Comply with all warnings on the video product and in the operating instructions.
4 Polarized Plug -- This video product is equipped with a polarized alternating-current line plug (a plug having
one blade wider than the other). This plug will fit into the power outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you
are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug should still fail to fit, contact your
electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. To prevent electric shock do not use this polarized plug with an
extension cord, receptacle or other outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted without blade exposure. If you
need an extension, use a polarized cord.
5 Power Sources -- This video product should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the
marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your video dealer or local
power company. For video products intended to operate from battery power, or other sources, refer to the
operating instructions.
6 Overloading -- Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this can result in a risk of fire or electric
shock. Overloaded AC outlets and extension cords are dangerous, and so are frayed power cords, damaged or
cracked wire insulation and broken plugs. They may result in a shock or fire hazard. Periodically examine the cord
and have it replaced by your service technician if appearance indicates damage or deteriorated insulation.
7 Power-Cord Protection -- Power-supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or
pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance.
8 Ventilation -- Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation to ensure reliable operation of the
video product and to protect it from overheating. These openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings
should never be blocked by placing the video product on a bed, sofa, rug or other similar surface. This video
product should never be placed near or over a radiator or heat register. This video product should not be placed
in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack unless proper ventilation is provided or the video product
manufacturer's instructions have been followed.
9 Attachments -- Do not use attachments unless recommended by the video product manufacturer as they may
cause hazards.
5
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Caution: Maintain electrical safety. Powerline operated equipment or accessories connected to this unit should
bear the UL listing mark or CSA certification mark on the accessory itself and should not have been modified so
as to defeat the safety features. This will help avoid any potential hazard from electric shock or fire. If in doubt,
contact qualified service personnel.
10 Water and Moisture -- Do not use this video product near water - for example, near a bath tub, wash bowl,
kitchen sink, or laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, and the like.
11 Accessories -- Do not place this video product on an unstable card, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The
video product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the appliance. Use only
with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the manufacturer, or sold with the video product. Any
mounting of the product should follow the manufacturer's instructions, and should use a mounting accessory
recommended by the manufacturer.
11A An appliance and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven
surfaces may cause the appliance and cart combination to overturn.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION (cont.)
12 Outdoor Antenna Grounding -- If an outside antenna or cable system is connected to the video product, be
sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-
up static charges. Section 810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA No. 70, provides information with
respect to proper grounding of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna
discharge unit, size of grounding conductors, location of antenna-discharge unit, connection to grounding
electrodes, and requirements for the grounding electrode. See example below:
EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA GROUNDING
13 Power Lines -- An outside antenna system should not be located in the vicinity of overhead power lines or
other electric light or power circuits, or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When installing an
outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from touching or approaching such power lines or
circuits as contact with them might be fatal. Installing an outdoor antenna can be hazardous and should be left to
a professional antenna installer.
USE
14 Cleaning -- Unplug this video product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or
aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.
15 Object and Liquid Entry -- Never push objects of any kind into this video product through openings as they
may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill
liquid of any kind on the video product.
6
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
16 Lightning -- For added protection for this video product during a lightning storm, or when it its left unattended
and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable-system.
This will prevent damage to the video product due to lightning and power-line surges.
SERVICE
17 Servicing -- Do not attempt to service this video product yourself as opening or removing covers may expose
you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
18 Conditions Requiring Service -- Unplug this video product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to
qualified service personnel under the following conditions.
a. When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged
b. If liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into the video product.
c. If the video product has been exposed to rain or water.
d. If the video product does not operate normally by following the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls
that are covered by the operating instructions. Improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and
will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the video product to its normal operation.
e. If the video product has been dropped or the cabinet has been damaged.
f. When the video product exhibits a distinct change in performance - this indicates a need for service.
19 Replacement Parts -- When replacement parts are required, have the service technician verify that the
replacements he uses have the same safety characteristics as the original parts. Use of replacements specified
by the video product manufacturer can prevent fire, electric shock or other hazards.
20 Safety Check -- Upon completion of any service or repairs to this video product, ask the service technician to
perform safety checks recommended by the manufacturer to determine that the video product is in safe operating
condition.
21 Heat -- The product should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or
other products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
Before You Begin
Any problems that occur as a result of any of the following conditions will not be covered by our warranty.
Do not shoot the sun directly. Otherwise, the lens will be faulty.
Be careful that no water, dust or sand enters the camcorder and all accessories.
When you shoot at a scene which contains an extremely bright object such as the sun or a light source, a bright
vertical bar may appear in the picture.
Your camcorder is functioning properly, but the solid-state pickup device (C.C.D) usually causes this as an
inherent characteristic. Try to avoid shooting an excessive bright object directly.
Be sure not to leave the camcorder in a place where the temperature exceeds 140°F (60°C), or the pickup
7
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
device may be damaged.
Dangerous includes:
• Inside a car with the windows closed and in direct sunshine.
• Near heating appliances.
Do not leave the viewfinder lens and the liquid crystal display (LCD) screen facing sunlight for a prolonged
period, or the phosphorescent surface of the cathode ray tube and the LCD panel may be damaged.
Read This First
To guide you, we've included:
• An "Important Safety Information" section containing important cautions for your family's safety as well as
instruction for getting your video camcorder ready for use. Please read and understand this section thoroughly
before moving on.
• A "Getting Started" section to familiarize yourself with the controls and prepare you for recording.
• A "Basic Techniques" section to allow you to use your video camcorder quickly and confidently before advancing
to the more sophisticated features of the Hitachi VM-E455LA/VM-H655LA.
• "Advanced Techniques" to help you with some of the exciting, sophisticated features of the Hitachi VM-
E455LA/VM-H655LA. We hope you will take the time to learn about these functions since they have been
designed for you. You can use the video camcorder without reading this section.
• A "General Maintenance" section to help keep your purchase in good repair.
We want this manual to be as helpful as possible, so it includes two easy ways to find the information you need:
• A quick index for the information you use most often (this page).
• A detailed table of contents directing you to specific information quickly (page 8).
Get to know your video camcorder by using this manual, and get to know Hitachi. We appreciate your business.
Quick Index
Charging the Battery ----------------------------------------------------------------------------14
Setting the Date and Time---------------------------------------------------------------------24
Making a Basic Recording---------------------------------------------------------------------26
Zooming--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------28
PlayBack -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------30
Dubbing from Camcorder to VCR------------------------------------------------------------48
Features
• Easy to use
• 2.5-inch color liquid display (LCD) monitor with speaker
• Active screen
• Perfect power (Lithium-ion battery)
• 100X zoom ratio
• 200X digital zoom (with instant zoom)
• Digital effect
• Fade in / Fade out
• Instant zoom
• Recorded date search
8