TABLE OF CONTENTS
HITACHI
Instruction Manual
8mm Video Camera/Recorder
VM-H38A
Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc.
3890 Steve Reynolds Blvd., Norcross, GA 30093 3300 Trans Canada Highway, Pointe Claire,
Tel. 404-279-5600
Quebec, H9R 1B1, CANADA
Tel. 514-697-9150
HITACHI (HSC) CANADA INC.
HITACHI SALES CORPORATION OF
HAWAII, INC.
3219 Koapaka Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Tel. 808-836-3621
P4707229 © Hitachi, Ltd. 1992
E145554/E72118
Printed in Japan KF-TF(N)
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS............................................................................................................................2
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS.....................................................................................................................3
FEATURES .................................................................................................................................................5
ACCESSORIES ..........................................................................................................................................5
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS.....................................................................................................................6
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER...............................................9
Hi8 .............................................................................................................................................................10
ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER (EVF) POSITION ADJUSTMENT ............................................................10
HOW TO ATTACH THE SHOULDER STRAP .........................................................................................11
LOADING BATTERIES FOR DATE/TIME AND REMOTE CONTROL ...................................................11
POWER SOURCES..................................................................................................................................12
CHECKING THE BATTERY .....................................................................................................................13
CHARGING THE BATTERY.....................................................................................................................15
INSERTION AND REMOVAL OF CASSETES ........................................................................................16
MAKING A SAMPLE CAMERA RECORDING.........................................................................................17
IDENTIFICATION AND OPERATION OF CONTROLS...........................................................................19
DATE/TIME SETTING ..............................................................................................................................22
AUTO FOCUS...........................................................................................................................................24
EXPOSURE CORRECTION.....................................................................................................................25
POWER ZOOM.........................................................................................................................................26
DIGITAL ZOOM.........................................................................................................................................27
FADE-IN/FADE-OUT ................................................................................................................................28
DIGITAL FILTER.......................................................................................................................................29
ELECTRONIC IMAGE STABILIZER (EIS)...............................................................................................30
MACRO .....................................................................................................................................................31
SECOND CLOCK SETTING.....................................................................................................................32
DISPLAY BUTTON ...................................................................................................................................33
LINEAR TIME COUNTER.........................................................................................................................33
MEMORY ..................................................................................................................................................34
INSTANT REVIEW....................................................................................................................................35
QUICK EDIT..............................................................................................................................................35
EYEPIECE ADJUSTMENT.......................................................................................................................36
TITLE RECORDING .................................................................................................................................36
WIRELESS REMOTE CONTROLLER .....................................................................................................39
AUDIO/VIDEO DUBBING .........................................................................................................................40
RECORDING TV PROGRAMS ................................................................................................................41
VIEWING THE PICTURE PLAYED BACK ON YOUR TV .......................................................................42
STILL.........................................................................................................................................................44
FORWARD AND REVERSE SEARCH ....................................................................................................44
ATTACHING THE TELE OR WIDE CONVERTER..................................................................................45
CAMERA/RECORDER TO VCR DUBBING.............................................................................................45
FLYING ERASE HEAD.............................................................................................................................46
PROGRAMME AE (Auto Exposure).........................................................................................................46
SYNCHRO EDIT .......................................................................................................................................46
ATTACHING THE OPTIONAL DC CAMERA LIGHT (VM-CP4)..............................................................48
TROUBLESHOOTING..............................................................................................................................50
HEAD CLEANING.....................................................................................................................................51
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE .....................................................................................................................51
SPECIFICATIONS ....................................................................................................................................52
ACCESSORY TO ADD MORE EXCITEMENT ........................................................................................53
HOW TO ORDER......................................................................................................................................53
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IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT TO
RAIN OR MOISTURE.
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR
BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
This symbol warms the user that uninsulated voltage within the unit may have sufficient
magnitude to cause electric 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 PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT,
FULLY INSERT
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital
apparatus set out in the Radio Interference regulations of the Canadian Department of
Communications.
Caution to the user: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
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IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
MOISTURE
Moisture may occur if the video camera/recorder is moved from a cold area to a warm humid
area. A flashing "DEW" indication in the viewfinder indicates that moisture has condensed on
the recorder mechanism, which could result in tape damage. Since condensation builds up
gradually, the indication does not appear immediately when condensation starts. When the
temperature or humidity of the room changes abruptly, turn the power on and check that the
"DEW" indication does not appear, then wait for about an hour for safety before using the
camera/recorder. When the "DEW" indication in the viewfinder is flashing the unit will not
operate. When this happens, slide the "EJECT" switch, remove the tape, and wait for the
moisture to dry... the "DEW" indication in the viewfinder will stop flashing.
PRECAUTIONS
Any problems that occur as a result of any of the following conditions will not be covered by our
warranty.
Be careful that no water, dust or sand enters the camera/recorder.
When you are not using the camera/recorder, switch off the power and attach the lens cap.
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 camera/recorder is functioning
properly, but the solid-state pickup device (C.C.D.) usually causes this as an inherent
characteristic. Try to avoid shooting an excessively bright object directly.
Be sure not to leave it in a place where the temperature exceeds 120ºF, or the pickup 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 facing sunlight for a prolonged period, or the phosphorescent
surface of the cathode ray tube may be damaged.
Thank you for buying the
please read these simple instructions before operating your camera/recorder.
video camera/recorder. For maximun pleasure and convenience
WARNING: Many television programs and films are copyrighted. In certain circumstances,
copyright law may apply to private in-home video taping of copyrighted materials.
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FEATURES
FEATURES
Hi8
•
• Electronic Image Stabilizer (EIS)
• Digital Filter
• Digital Zoom up to X16
• Solid-state camera pickup
• Program AE (Auto Exposure)
• Fade-in/Fade-out
• Auto Focus Power Zoom Lens with macro feature
• Flying Erase Head
• Time and date
• Titler
• Wireless Remote Control
ACCESSORIES
Check that you have the following components and accessories (besides the camera/recorder
unit itself) before disposing of the packing material.
1. AV Stereo Output Cord with S plug
2. Battery Pack
3. AC Adapter/Charger
4. Wireless Remote Controller
5. Shoulder Strap
6. External Power Adapter
7. Batteries for Date/Time and Wireless Remote Controller
8. RF Output Adapter
9. 75-ohm Coaxial Cable
10. Video Owner's Manual
• This is a VHS cassette tape which includes instruction on how to operate your VM-H38A
camera/recorder.
This tape covers the basic operations of this model and some ideas on how to make better
recordings.
video format cassettes.
NOTES:
• This unit uses
• 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.).
• This camera/recorder uses a Hi-Fi stereo sound system. When a tape recorded by this
camera/recorder is played by a conventional 8mm camera/recorder, monaural sound is output.
When a tape recorded by a conventional 8mm camera/recorder is played by this machine,
monaural sound is output.
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IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
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 Camera/Recorder and accessory equipment. Please read it carefully before operating
your video product and keep it in a handy place for future reference.
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.
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IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
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.
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.
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.
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IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
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.
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