PRECAUTIONS
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HITACHI
Instruction Manual
Video Camcorder
VM-6400A/VM-7400A
HITACHI HOME ELECTRONICS
(AMERICA), INC.
1855 Donroch Court,
San Diego, California 92173
Tel. 770-279-5600
HITACHI SALES CORPORATION OF
HAWAII, INC.
3219 Koapaka Street, Honolulu, HI 96819
Tel. 808-836-3621
HITACHI (HSC) CANADA INC.
6740 Campobello Road
Mississauga, Ontario L5N 2L8
CANADA
Tel. 905-821-4545
Thank you for choosing the
simple instructions before operating your camcorder.
video camcorder. For maximum pleasure and convenience please read these
QR19392 'Hitachi, Ltd. 1998
Printed in Japan KY-F(N)
PRECAUTIONS
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TABLE OF CONTENT
PRECAUTIONS......................................................................................................................................................................3
FEATURES .........................................................................................................................................................................4
ACCESSORIES..................................................................................................................................................................4
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS...............................................................................................................................................4
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTOR/CHARGER .................................................................7
ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER (EVF) ...................................................................................................................................8
EYEPIECE ADJUSTMENT...............................................................................................................................................9
POWER SOURCES...............................................................................................................................................................9
CHECKING THE BATTERY...........................................................................................................................................10
CHARGING THE BATTERY ..............................................................................................................................................11
IDENTIFICATION AND OPERATION OF CONTROLS .................................................................................................12
INSERTING AND REMOVING CASSETTES..................................................................................................................15
MAKING A SAMPLE CAMERA RECORDING ............................................................................................................16
INSTANT REVIEW...........................................................................................................................................................17
PLAYBACK ...........................................................................................................................................................................17
AUTOMATIC REWIND....................................................................................................................................................18
DATE/TIME SETTING.........................................................................................................................................................19
DATE RECORDING ............................................................................................................................................................20
AUTO FOCUS ......................................................................................................................................................................22
DISPLAY BUTTON ..............................................................................................................................................................23
TAPE COUNTER .............................................................................................................................................................23
MEMORY...........................................................................................................................................................................24
REMAINING TAPE ..............................................................................................................................................................24
PROGRAM AE (Auto Exposure)....................................................................................................................................25
POWER ZOOM ................................................................................................................................................................25
DIGITAL ZOOM....................................................................................................................................................................25
MACRO..............................................................................................................................................................................26
QUICK EDIT (Edit Search) .............................................................................................................................................26
FADE IN/FADE OUT (Only for VM-7400A) ......................................................................................................................26
"STABLE PIX" (Electronic Image Stabilizer) FUNCTION (Only for VIVI-7400A) ...................................................28
INDEX SIGNAL RECORDING .......................................................................................................................................28
TITLE RECORDING ............................................................................................................................................................29
VIEWING THE PICTURE PLAYED BACK ON YOUR TV .............................................................................................31
CAMCORDER TO VCR DUBBING ...................................................................................................................................32
ATTACHING THE OPTIONAL TELE OR WIDE CONVERTER LENS ....................................................................33
USING THE BUILT-IN CAMERA LIGHT (Only for VM-7400A).....................................................................................33
VIEWFINDER BRIGHT CONTROL...................................................................................................................................35
HOW TO ATTACH THE SHOULDER STRAP.............................................................................................................35
TROUBLESHOOTING ........................................................................................................................................................35
PLAYBACK OF PRERECORDED CASSETTE...............................................................................................................36
CLEANING THE INSIDE OF THE ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER ............................................................................36
HEAD CLEANING................................................................................................................................................................37
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE ...........................................................................................................................................37
SPECIFICATIONS ...........................................................................................................................................................37
For U.S.A. only .....................................................................................................................................................................38
ACCESSORIES ADD EXCITEMENT ...............................................................................................................................38
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE
THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
CAUTION: TO REDUCE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER - SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
PRECAUTIONS
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This symbol warns 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 in order to avoid any problems.
CAUTION:
TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian ICES-003.
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
to 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 the 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 manufacturer could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Caution: Avoid operating your camcorder immediately after moving it from a cold area to a warm humid area.
Give the camcorder 2 to 3 hours to acclimate to the surroundings before inserting a video cassette. When
moved from a cold area to a warm humid area, 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.
See the bottom of the AC adaptor/charger. The rating and caution label is located on the bottom of the AC
adaptor/charger.
WARNING: Many television programs and films are copyrighted. In certain circumstances, copyright law may
apply to private in-home videotaping of copyrighted materials.
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 camcorder.
When you are not using the camcorder, switch off the power and attach the lens cap.
When you shoot at a scene which contains an extremely bright object such as the 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 (CCD) 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
device may be damaged.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
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Dangerous includes:
Inside a car with the windows closed and in direct sunshine.
Near heating appliances.
Do not point the electronic viewfinder to direct sunlight; it could damage the viewfinder.
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 not appear as coloured bright dots. This does
not indicate a fault as the LCD panel stretches the limits of current technology.
High Quality picture technology
FEATURES
Digital zoom up to X32
Fade in/fade out (only for VM-7400A)
Stable pix (Electronic Image Stabilizer) function (only for VM-7400A)
Solid-state camera pickup
Auto Focus power zoom lens with macro feature
Full record and playback capability with standard
Program AE (Auto Exposure)
Color electronic viewfinder (EVF)
Time and date
Titler
Index symbol recording
Built-in automatic camera light (only for VM-7400A)
cassette
VM-6400A
VM-7400A
Stable Pix Function
Fade Mode
Built-in Camera Light
No
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
* This instruction manual shows the illustrations for the VM-7400A.
This video camcorder with this marking incorporates
is compatible with any video cassette recorder bearing the
high-quality picture technology and
mark.
ACCESSORIES
Check to make sure you have the following components and accessories (besides the camcorder unit itself)
before disposing of the packing material.
1. Lead-acid rechargeable battery
2. AC adaptor/charger
3. Shoulder strap
4. DC cord
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 Instruction -- 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 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.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
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9 Attachments -- Do not use attachments unless recommended by the video product manufacturer as they
may cause hazards.
Caution: Maintain electrical safety. Power-line 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.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR
AC ADAPTOR/CHARGER
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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.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR
AC ADAPTOR/CHARGER
1. Save these instructions--This page contains important safety and operating instructions for AC
Adaptor/Charger Model VM-ACV21A.
2. Before using AC Adaptor/Charger, read all instructions and cautionary markings on (1) AC Adaptor/Charger,
(2) battery and (3) product using battery.
3. Also read all instructions on pages 4 and 5.
4. Caution--To reduce the risk of injury, charge only rechargeable battery, VM-BP64/BP65/BP66/BP67. Other
types of batteries may burst causing personal injury and damage.
5. Do not expose charger to rain or snow.
6. Use of an attachment not recommended or sold by the battery charger manufacturer may result in a risk of
fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.
7. To reduce the risk of damage to electric plug and cord, pull by plug rather than cord when disconnecting
charger.
8. Make sure cord is located so that it will not be stepped on, tripped over, or otherwise subjected to damage or
stress.
9. Do not operate charger with damaged cord or plug replace them immediately.
10. An extension cord should not be used unless absolutely necessary.
Use of improper extension cord could result in a risk of fire and electric shock. If extension cord must be used,
make sure:
ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER (EVF)
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18
16
A. That the pins on plug of extension cord are the same number, size, and shape as those of plug on charger.
B. That extension cord is properly wired and in good electrical condition; and
C. That wire size should be met below:
Minimum AWG size
11. Do not operate charger if it has received a sharp blow, been dropped, or otherwise damaged in any way;
take it to a qualified serviceman.
12. Do not disassemble charger; take it to a qualified serviceman when service or repair is required. Incorrect
reassembly may result in a risk of electric shock or fire.
13. To reduce the risk of electric shock, unplug charger from outlet before attempting any maintenance or
cleaning.
Length of extension cord (feet)
Equal to or less than 100
Equal to or less than 150
"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".
ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER (EVF)
Set the viewfinder to the position shown in the figure when carrying the camcorder or storing it in the carrying
case.
Turn the viewfinder to the position shown below when shooting pictures.
1. Turn the viewfinder.
2. Turn the eyepiece.
You can adjust the position and angle of the viewfinder so you can see through it easily.
CAUTIONS:
Do not force the viewfinder to rotate completely around. This will damage the viewfinder and/or camcorder.
When pulling the viewfinder out or returning it to its original position, hold the viewfinder by the swivel section.
Do not hold the diopter control side.