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Instruction Manual
8mm Video Camcorder
VM-H620A / VM-H720A
Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc.
3890 Steve Reynolds Blvd., Norcross, GA 30093
Tel. 770-279-5600
HITACHI SALES CORPORATION OF HAWAII, INC
3219 Koapaka Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Tel. 808-836-3621
HITACHI (HSC) CANADA INC
3300 Trans Canada Highway, Pointe Claire,
Quebec, H9R 1B1, CANADA
Tel. 514-697-9150
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.
QR14543 © Hitachi, Ltd. 1995
Printed in Japan KG-TF(N)
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
For Your Safety...................................................................................................................4
Important Safeguards ..........................................................................................................6
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER ................9
Read This First ..................................................................................................................10
Before You Begin..............................................................................................................11
Features.......................................................................................................................11
Components and Accessories..................................................................................11
Optional RF Adapter ..................................................................................................12
Attaching the Shoulder Strap....................................................................................12
Lens Cap......................................................................................................................13
Getting Started...................................................................................................................14
Charging the Battery ..................................................................................................14
Adjusting the Electronic Viewfinder .........................................................................15
Eyepiece Adjustment .................................................................................................16
Adjustment the Hand Strap.......................................................................................16
Loading Batteries........................................................................................................16
Using Alternative Power Sources ............................................................................21
Inserting and Removing Cassettes..........................................................................22
Using the Linear Time Counter ................................................................................24
Remaining Tape .........................................................................................................24
Setting the Date and Time ........................................................................................24
Getting Started, Identifying Controls................................................................................26
Basic Techniques...............................................................................................................29
Making a Basic Recording ........................................................................................29
Playing Back Your Recording...................................................................................30
Advanced Techniques .......................................................................................................34
Date Recording...........................................................................................................34
Using the Power Zoom ..............................................................................................35
Using the Digital Zoom ..............................................................................................35
Using the INST. ZOOM (Instant Zoom) Button......................................................36
Using Auto Focus .......................................................................................................36
Using Manual Focus ..................................................................................................37
Using the Electronic Image Stabilizer .....................................................................38
Using Fade ..................................................................................................................39
Using 16x9...................................................................................................................40
Using Instant Review .................................................................................................40
Using Quick Edit .........................................................................................................40
Using Macro ................................................................................................................41
Date Search.................................................................................................................41
Using Memory .............................................................................................................42
Using the Display Button...........................................................................................42
Using the Wireless Remote Control ........................................................................43
Creating and Recording A Title ................................................................................43
Dubbing from the camcorder to a VCR...................................................................45
Using Synchro Edit.....................................................................................................45
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Simple Programmable Edit (Edit remote control is optional accessory)............46
Controlling Your TV with the Camcorder's Remote Control ................................49
Using Audio/Video Dubbing......................................................................................50
Recording Television Programs...............................................................................51
Attaching the Optional Wide or Tele Converter Lens ...........................................51
Attaching the Optional DC Camera Light ...............................................................52
Viewfinder Bright, Color and Tint Control (Only for VM-H720A).........................54
General Maintenance.........................................................................................................55
Cleaning the camcorder Heads................................................................................55
Cleaning the Lens and Picture Tube of the Electronic Viewfinder .....................55
Periodic Maintenance ................................................................................................56
Troubleshooting ..........................................................................................................56
Specifications ..............................................................................................................59
Accessories Add Excitement.............................................................................................61
Available Accessories................................................................................................61
More Available Accessories......................................................................................61
To Order in the United States...................................................................................61
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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
attach the lens cap.
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.
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 Interference-Causing
Equipment Regulations.
This camcorder can use
cassette is
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. (only for VM-H720A)
video cassettes. It automatically determines the loaded
and
or
and records 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
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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).
• This camcorder uses a Hi-Fi stereo sound system. When a tape recorded by this camcorder
is played by a conventional 8mm camcorder, monaural sound is output. When a tape
recorded by a conventional 8mm camcorder is played by this machine, monaural sound is
output.
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. Remove the cassette and set the CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch to
OFF, then wait for about one hour.
Important Safeguards
Important Safeguards
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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.
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.
INSTALLATION
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
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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.
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.
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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.