The Perfect Companion for Making Digital Home Movies

www.canondv.com

High quality digital video
Canons ZR30 MC , ZR25 MC and ZR20 combine stunning digital video, still images and full, rich stereo sound into a sleek design with artistic detailing thats comfortable to hold and small enough for virtually any pocket. Their versatility expands even further after shooting as they easily connect to a DV-ready personal computer for editing or to a TV for the pure joy of sharing experiences.

DV Format

Enter the world of DV and realize truly amazing picture and sound quality. Images reaching up to 500 line horizontal resolution reveal stunning detail and clarity. Clearly superior quality than even the best analog camcorders, by 20% at least, and free from annoying color noise. DV is the right format, right now!
10x Optical Zoom Lens plus 200x Digital Zoom
This Canon optical zoom lens perfectly transforms distant subjects into dramatic close-ups with absolutely no loss in image quality. The digital zoom extends the magnification to an amazing 200x* revealing details too distant to be seen with just the eye alone. The scope from wide panorama to super telephoto is outstanding.
*40x when using a memory card
Progressive Photo (ZR30 MC and ZR25 MC only)
The ZR30 MC and ZR25 MC employ the Progressive Photo function to record sharp, clear still images, even of moving subjects, onto a memory card. When you take a still image, the camcorders iris works as a mechanical shutter, immediately closing to shut out superfluous image data. Every 1/30 of a second, the camcorder reads two fields of image data simultaneously, resulting in full-frame images virtually free of time-lag blur.

Digital Photo Mode

200x Digital 10x

Image Stabilizer

A high quality image stabilization system corrects camera shake instantly, giving you smooth, stable pictures. It enables you to record shake-free images, even on long telephoto shots without a tripod.

Image Stabilizer ON

Image Stabilizer OFF
The camcorders function as a digital still camera; theyre like two cameras in one. Just press the photo button to capture more than 700 stunning still pictures on a single videocassette (in SP mode) or combine video and still pictures together with the added benefit of audio. The ZR30 MC and ZR25 MC can also capture approximately 60 fine resolution still pictures onto an 8MB MultiMediaCard.

Within everyones reach

Analog Line-in
Send an analog video signal from your TV, VCR or camcorder into the ZR30 MC , ZR25 MC or ZR20 and record it onto DV. Its great for making copies or preserving precious originals.
Flexible LCD View Screen and Color Viewfinder
The 2.5 view screen makes it easier to compose sensational shots from any angle. It swivels and flips for maximum handling comfort and flexibility. It also tucks neatly away when bright shooting conditions make the eyecup viewfinder the preferred way to shoot.
Advanced Accessory Shoe (ZR30 MC only)
Simply slide on an accessory, and the shoe transmits power directly from the ZR30 MC. Choose to attach Canons DM-50 Directional Stereo Microphone*, the worlds first stereo shotgun mic with high sensitivity and superdirectional pick up. Use when recording or dubbing audio. Or, attach the VL-3 Video Light*, which can either stay on continuously or turn on/off automatically in response to changes in the brightness of the shooting situation.

*Optional

Microphone Terminal
All three models contain a microphone terminal, allowing any standard microphone to be attached.
AV Insert and Audio Dubbing
Use this feature to insert new scenes of video from your VCR or other camcorder on to a tape recorded in the SP mode. Using a recording made in the 12 bit audio mode you can also add stereo sound from another audio source or through the internal microphone or an external microphone.

Lithium Ion Power

Lithium ion battery packs can be recharged at any time, so you will always be prepared for peak shooting performance, and never caught without power unexpectedly. Cut down on charging time with the highcapacity BP-522 and BP-535 battery packs* quick charging feature. When charged with the CR-560 charger kit*, the BP-522 and BP-535 give 60 minutes of recording** after only 15 minutes charging.
* Optional ** Using the viewfinder

PCM Digital Sound

The camcorders offer two digital audio modes to enhance the playback experience. The 16 bit mode produces the higher, CD equivalent, two-channel sound quality while the 12 bit mode records on two of four channels leaving two other channels free to dub extra sound at a later date.

Loaded with features

Extended Recording Function (ZR30 MC only)
In addition to the SP mode, the ZR30 MC s Extended Recording Function lets you choose from three more recording modes: Long Play (LP), giving 1.5 times the standard recording time; and two more modes giving two and three times SP*. When image data is recorded to a tape in the 2x and 3x SP modes, it is compressed twice as much as in SP and LP modes. In the 3x SP mode, record for up to 4 hours on an 80 minute cassette tape. The ZR25 MC and ZR20 can record in the SP and LP modes.
*When recording in double or triple length recording mode, image quality will not be as high as SP or LP mode.

AE Shift

Gives you control over how dark or light the camcorder sets the auto exposure level.

Manual Controls

In addition to being fully automatic, the camcorders offer manual control over focus, white balance and shutter speed.

Digital Effects

The camcorders include a selection of digital effects for a more appealing look and greater imaging variety.

Program Auto Exposure

Ensures great video results even in challenging shooting conditions. Select the program that matches your scene and the camcorder adjusts internal controls for perfect video every time. Choose from Easy Recording, Auto, Sports, Portrait, Spotlight, Sand & Snow and Low Light. Sand & Snow

1 Faders

Portrait
Use the various faders to start or end scenes with a fade to or from black. Choose between Fade Trigger, Vertical Wipe, Horizontal Wipe and Mosaic fades*.

*During playback only.

2 Effects

Sports

Give variety to your images during recording by adding Art, Black and White, Sepia or Mosaic effects.

Spotlight

Low Light
3 Multi-image Screen (ZR30 MC only)
Divides your display screen into four, nine or sixteen pictures with the Image Capture feature. You can choose the speed at which the images are captured: Manual, Slow, Moderate, or Fast.

Selectable Color Light-up Buttons (ZR30 MC only)
The clear buttons above the LCD panel light up, adding a touch of fun while also making it possible to play back cassettes when in dark surroundings. Choose the color in which they light up: blue, turquoise, or green. Press one of the buttons and they simultaneously flash in the three-color sequence. You can also select to turn them off, or set them to power save mode, where they only light up when one of them is pressed.

Sepia Art

MULTI I MAGE SCREEN
Built-in Speaker Photo Search/Date Search Time Code/Data Code Superb Playback Function Composite and S-Video Input/Output Self-Timer Confirming/Warning Beeps Zero Set Memory World Clock 16:9 Wide Screen TV Effect Remote Control Record Search & Review LANC Terminal***

Pictures simulated

Seamless Multimedia Connectivity

IEEE 1394 DV Terminal

The ZR30 MC , ZR25 MC and ZR20 are equipped with a DV IN/OUT terminal that conforms to IEEE 1394. It takes just a single digital cable to transfer or copy your videos in pure digital form to your DV compatible computer or another Canon DV camcorder. Once youve transferred video images to your computer, you can edit your movies or send your movies over the Internet, or post them on your Web site. Also, print them out on a Canon color printer, transfer them back to your Canon camcorder and archive them on a Mini DV cassette, or create a dubbing master.
learn more at www.icanstream.com
MultiMediaCard and SD Memory Card (ZR30 MC and ZR25 MC only)*
The ZR30 MC and ZR25 MC expand video possibilities by using a MultiMediaCard or an SD (Secure Digital) Memory Card in addition to a Mini DV cassette. These ultra-small and ultra-light media record, store and manage still images, as well as allow easy transfer of still images to a PC**. Use an SD Memory Card for high-capacity recording. Copy still images from a videocassette to a memory card, and vice versa. Produce effects not possible with just a cassette using one of the three types of Card Mix Effects. Choose one of the sample images provided on the supplied MultiMediaCard such as a picture frame or crashing waves and combine it with the currently recording image.

* An 8MB MultiMediaCard is supplied with the camcorders. ** With a commercially available PC card adapter or reader.
This mark identifies genuine Canon video accessories. When you use Canon video equipment, we recommend Canon-brand accessories or products bearing the same mark.

Power Sources

Lithium Ion Battery Packs
Extra batteries for use with the camcorders.
Battery pack BP-512 (supplied, single-capacity) BP-511 (optional, single-capacity) BP-522 (optional, double-capacity) BP-535 (optional, triple-capacity) Maximum recording time using viewfinder using LCD screen 2 hr. 30 min. 2 hr. 2 hr. 30 min. 2 hr 5 hr. 10 min. 4 hr. 15 min. 8 hr. 15 min. 6 hr. 45 min.
CR-560 Charge Adapter/ Car Battery Cable Kit
Connects to your car's cigarette lighter to power the camcorder or recharge BP-500 Series battery packs on the move. Can also draw power from an AC outlet when connected to the camcorder's CA-560 Compact Power Adapter.
Creative Shooting Accessories

WD-30.5 Wide-converter

Gives wide-angle converge at 0.7x.

TL-30.5 Tele-converter

Increase focal length by 1.9x.
ZR-1000 Zoom Remote Controller
Plugs into the camcorders LANC terminal and allows you to control functions such as record start/stop, zoom and focus while the camcorder is mounted on a tripod, without touching the camcorder body itself.
Advanced Accessory Shoe (ZR30
DM-50 Directional Stereo Microphone
Attaches to the shoe for cable-free operation. Picks up shotgun or shotgun + surrounding sound. Powered by the camcorders power source. Wind shields included.
FS-30.5U Filter Set Includes neutral density (ND 8) filter and MC protector. WS-20 Wrist Strap

VL-3 Video Light

This 3W light attaches to the shoe for cable-free operation. Continuous on and auto on/off settings. Powered by the camcorders power source.
VL-10Li Battery Video Light
Powerful 10 W illumination. A BP-900 series battery attaches directly, so operation is cable-free.

Floppy Disk Adapter

FR-100 Floppy Disk Still Image Recorder
Connects to the ZR20 or any Canon digital camcorder with a DV terminal and records still images onto a floppy disk in one of three resolution choices. Images from the disk can then be transferred to a computer.

Carrying Accessories

Canon Digital Videocassettes

Genuine Leather

SC-1000 Soft Carrying Case
SC-A50 Soft Carrying Case
DVM-E60/DVM-E80 Digital Video Cassette
DVM-CL Digital Video Head Cleaning Cassette

Specifications

Power supply (rated): 7.4 V DC (Battery) 9.5 V DC (DC IN) Power consumption: Using viewfinder: ZR30 MC 3.7 W, ZR25 MC 3.6 W, ZR20 3.3 W Using LCD screen: ZR30 MC 4.5 W, ZR25 MC 4.4 W, ZR20 4.2 W Television system: EIA standard (525 lines, 60 fields) NTSC color signal Video recording system: 2 rotary heads, helical scanning system DV system (Consumer digital VCR SD system) Digital component recording. ZR30 MC only: 3 rotary heads, SD/SDL system. Audio recording system: PCM digital sound: 16 bit (48kHz/2ch), 12 bit (32kHz/4ch). ZR30 MC only: 2x SP and 3x SP 12 bit only (32kHz/2ch) Image sensor: 1/4" CCD (charge coupled device) approx. 460,000 pixels (approx. 290,000 effective pixels) Tape format: Videocassettes bearing the (Mini DV) mark. Tape speed: SP: 3/4 ips (18.81 mm/s); LP: 1 /2 ips (12.56 mm/s). ZR30 MC only: 2x SP 3/8 ips (9.41 mm/s); 3x SP 1/4 ips (6.28 mm/s) Maximum recording time (with an 80 min. cassette): SP: 80 min.; LP: 120 min. ZR30 MC only: 2x SP: 160 min.; 3x SP: 240 min. Fast forward/rewind time: 2 mins 20 sec. (with a 60 min. cassette) Lens: F/1.8-2.9, 10x power zoom, 4.242.0 mm Focusing system: TTL autofocus, manual focusing possible Minimum focusing distance: 3 ft 33/8 in. (1 m), 3/8 in (1 cm) on maximum wide angle Maximum shutter speed: 1/8,000 (ZR30 MC and ZR25 MC only: 1/250 when using a memory card) Minimum illumination: 2 lx (ZR20: 2.5 lx) using the Low Light program during tape recording Recommended illumination: More than 100 lx Filter diameter: 30.5 mm Viewfinder: 0.44 inch, color LCD (approx. 113,000 pixels) LCD screen: 2.5 in measured diagonally (approx. 112,000 pixels) Microphone: Stereo electret condenser microphone DV terminal: Special 4 pin connector (based on IEEE1394) Video terminal: 1 Vp-p/75 ohms unbalanced S-video terminal: 1 Vp-p (Y signal), 0.286 Vp-p (C signal) Audio terminal: Input level: -10 dBV/40 kohms, unbalanced; Output level: -10 dBV, less than 3 kohms, unbalanced Operating temperature range: 32 - 104 F (0 - 40 C) Dimensions: 21/4 x 4 x 51/4 in (57 x 102 x 134 mm) Weight: 1 lb 3 oz (540 g)
Availability differs from area to area.
THE CANON ZR30 MC /ZR25 MC /ZR20 KIT

ZR30 MC and ZR25 MC only

Recording media: MultiMediaCard, SD Memory Card Image format: Design rule for Camera File system (DCF) Print order format: Digital Print Order Format (DPOF)
ZR30 MC , ZR25 MC or ZR20 BP-512 Battery Pack CA-560 Compact Power Adapter SS-700 Shoulder Strap WL-D77 (ZR30 MC /ZR25 MC ), WL-D74 (ZR20) Wireless Controller S-150 S-video Cable STV-250N Stereo Video Cable MMC-8M MultiMediaCard (ZR30 MC and ZR25 MC only)

Printed on 40% reused paper.
Errors and omissions excepted. Weight and dimensions are approximate. Subject to change without notice. ***Connect only equipment bearing the LANC Canon is a trademark of Canon Inc. SD Logo is a trademark.

symbol.

Warning: Unauthorized recording of copyrighted materials may infringe on the rights of copyright owners and be contrary to copyright laws.
U.S.A. CANADA MEXICO CENTROY SURAMRICA ASIA
CANON U.S.A., INC. Consumer Information Center toll-free at 1-800-828-4040 (in U.S.A.) One Canon Plaza, Lake Success, NY 11042 USA CANON CANADA INC. Consumer Information Center toll-free at 1-800-828-4040 (in Canada) 6390 Dixie Road, Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1P7 CANON MEXICANA, S. DE R. L. DE C. V. Periferico Sur No.4124 Col. Ex-Rancho de Anzaldo C.P. 01900 Mexico, D.F. CANON LATIN AMERICA, INC. 6505 Blue Lagoon Drive Suite 325 Miami FL 33126 USA CANON HONGKONG COMPANY LTD. 9/F, The Hong Kong Club Building, 3A Chater Road, Central, Hong Kong
0019W669 PUB. DCE-125 0201S100

CANON INC. 2001

PRINTED IN USA IMPRIME AU USA

Contents

Important Usage Instructions..2 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS..3 Thank you for Choosing a Canon.7 Introducing the ZR25 MC.8 Taking Still Pictures to a Cassette.51 Searching and Reviewing While Recording..53 Using the Various Recording Programs...54 Using Digital Effects..58 Audio Recording..63 Setting the Self-Timer..65

Mastering the Basics

Finding Your Way Around the ZR25 MC.9
~ When Making Manual Adjustments.~
Using AE Shift..67 Setting the Shutter Speed.68 Adjusting Focus Manually..70 Setting the White Balance.71 Introduction

~ Preparations. ~

Powering Your Camcorder..12 Loading a Cassette..17

~ Basic Recording. ~

Basic Recording..19 Zooming..23 Using the LCD Screen..24

~ For Playback.~

Displaying Date, Time and Camcorder Data (Data Code)..73 Searching the Tape (Photo Search/ Date Search)..76 Returning to a Pre-Marked Position.77

~ Basic Playback. ~

Playing Back a Cassette.27 Connections for Playback on a TV Screen..31 Tips for Making Better Videos.34

Editing

Editing to a VCR..78 Dubbing to/from a Cassette with Digital Video Equipment..79 Recording from a VCR, TV or Analog Camcorder (Analog Line-in).81 Recording Over Existing Scenes (AV Insert Editing)..83 Audio Dubbing..86 Setting the Audio Mix..89 Connecting to a PC..91
Using the Full Range of Features

~ General. ~

Turning the Image Stabilizer Off.36 Using the Menus..37 Using the Wireless Controller.45

~ For Recording.~

Setting the Date and Time.48

Contents, cont.

Using a Memory Card
Memory Card Introduction..92 Recording Still Images to a Memory Card..96 Recording an Image from a Cassette as a Still Image..98 Recording from Another DV Device as a Still Image..99 Viewing Still Images..100 Preventing Accidental Erasure (Protect)..102 Erasing Still Images..103 Combining Images and Recording Them to a Cassette (Card Mix).105 Copying Still Images from a Cassette.108 Copying Memory Card Still Images to a Cassette..109 Marking a Still Image for Printing (Print Mark)..110 Formatting a Memory Card..111 Other Information and Precautions.112

Additional Information

Preparing the Camcorder.115 Notes on Using the Batteries.117 Maintenance..120 Troubleshooting..124 The ZR25 MC System Diagram.128 Optional Accessories..129 Screen Displays..132 Specifications..139 Index..140 Menu at a Glance..143

Image Stabilizer

Stabilizes your recordings even in long telephoto shots.

Memory Card

Record, manage and store still images on a MultiMediaCard or a highcapacity SD Memory Card. (Both cards are inserted into the same slot in the camcorder.) Combine still images recorded on the card with your original movies or still images. Also great for easy transfer of still images to a PC.
10 Lens and 40 (Card)/ 200 (Tape) Digital Zoom
From wide-angle to 10 telephotowith unparalleled optical quality. The digital zoom magnifies this up to 200 for even more dramatic results.
Digital Effects Progressive Photo
Lets you record vivid, virtually blurfree still images of moving subjects onto a memory card. Advanced digital technology allows you to add special effects during recording or playback.

Still Photos

Just press the photo button to capture still pictures.
Audio Dubbing/AV Insert Editing
Add new sound to original sound, or replace original sound and images on a pre-recorded tape.

2.5 LCD Screen

A 2.5 LCD screen makes it easy for you to shoot colorful, well composed video. It is also great for playback.

Analog Line-in Recording

Connect to a VCR or analog camcorder and record onto a DV tape in the ZR25 MC.
Finding Your Way Around the ZR25 MC
Record review button (p. 53)/ REC (record) SEARCH button(p. 53)/ (rewind) button (p. 27)
REC SEARCH + button (p. 53)/ (fast forward) button (p. 27) FOCUS button (p. 70)/ (play/pause) button (p. 27) AE SHIFT button (p. 67)/ (stop) button (p. 27)
BATT. (battery) RELEASE button (p. 14) Memory card compartment cover (p. 93) LCD screen (p. 24) Backup battery cover (p. 119) Battery attachment unit (p. 13) LCD panel OPEN button (p. 24) Strap attachment bar (p. 116) Selector dial (p. 30, 38)

DC IN 9.5V CHARGE

CHARGE indicator (p. 13)
DC IN terminal (p. 12) Program selector (p. 54) Self-timer button (p. 65)/ REC PAUSE (LINE-IN) button (p. 80, 82) CARD button (p. 100)

REC PAUSE (LINE-IN)

Easy Recording

Program AE

DIGITAL EFFECTS button (p. 61) Digital effects ON/OFF button (p. 61)/ INDEX SCREEN button (p. 101)

INDEX SCREEN

SLIDE SHOW /MIX
SLIDE SHOW button (p. 101)/ Card MIX button (p. 107) MENU button (p. 38) CARD + button (p. 100)

DIGITAL EFFECTS

ON/OFF
Viewfinder focusing lever (p. 115)

Long shot

Medium shot

Close-up

Camcorder moves
Use pans to record a landscape or follow a moving subject. Decide the area you want to cover and stand facing the end of your panning angle. Without moving your feet, turn your waist to the starting position. Start recording, and after a few seconds begin to turn slowly from the waist. Hold the final image for a few seconds before you stop recording. Tilt the camcorder up to exaggerate the height of the subject. Tilt down from the top of a building, for example, as an introduction to subjects at the bottom.
Turning the Image Stabilizer Off
With most camcorders, even the slightest hand movements will be noticeable during telephoto recording. However, the ZR25 MCs image stabilizer allows you to obtain steady recordings even at high magnification.

IMAGE S.

To turn the image stabilizer off, open the menu and select CAM.SET UP. Then select IMAGE S. i, set it to OFF and close the menu. The i mark disappears from the display when the stabilizer is off. The image stabilizer cannot be turned off when the program selector is set to the [ (Easy Recording) position. Notes: The image stabilizer is designed to deal with a normal degree of camcorder shake. Keep the image stabilizer turned off when the camcorder is mounted on a tripod. The image stabilizer is not as effective as usual during the Low Light mode.

Using the Menus

Many of the camcorders advanced functions are selected from menus which appear in the display. There are 4 main menus: CAM. MENU Camera menu VCR MENU VCR menu C.CAM. MENU Card camera menu C.PLAY MENU Card play menu

( ( ( (

39) 40) 42) 43)

CAM. MENU

CAM.MENU CARD MIX CAM.SET UP VCR SET UP DISP.SET UP SYSTEM RETURN

SEL.SETSET MENUCLOSE

VCR MENU
VCR MENU VCR SET UP CARD SET UP CARD OPER. DISP.SET UP SYSTEM RETURN
C.CAM.MENU CAM.SET UP CARD SET UP VCR SET UP DISP.SET UP SYSTEM RETURN

PLAY MENU

C.PLAY MENU CARD OPER. VCR SET UP DISP.SET UP SYSTEM RETURN

Selecting from the Menus

MENU TV SCREEN SET
1. Turn the POWER switch and the TAPE/CARD switch to the desired settings. 2. Press the MENU button to open the menu.
One of the main menus appears, according to the settings of the TAPE/CARD switch and the POWER switch.
3. Turn the selector dial and move the arrow to the desired submenu. 4. Press the selector dial in to select.

The submenu appears.

5. Turn the selector dial and move the arrow to the desired function. 6. Press the selector dial in to select.
The function and its settings only appear.
7. Turn the selector dial and move the arrow to the desired setting.
If you are setting a function other than the white balance or shutter speed, the function will be set if you skip to step 11.

8. Press the selector dial in to select.
The function is set and you return to the submenu.
9. Turn the selector dial and move the arrow to b RETURN. 10.Press the selector dial in to select.
You return to the main menu.
11.Press the MENU button.
The main menu disappears. Notes: Pressing the MENU button at any time closes the menu. Selecting b RETURN takes you back one menu, or closes the main menu. Items that are unavailable, due to the tape or card situation or the settings of other menu items, appear in purple. You may often find it convenient to use the wireless controller to move around the menus. Press its MENU button to open/close the menu and use the arrow keys in place of turning the selector dial. Push the SET button to select.
Pressing the start/stop button or the PHOTO button will close the menu and start recording. You can display the menus on a connected TV screen by turning TV SCREEN ( 132) on through the menu or using the wireless controllers TV SCREEN button. See p. 31 for TV hookup instructions.

List of Menus

Turn to the appropriate page for a detailed explanation of each function.

2 CAM. MENU

Set the POWER switch to CAMERA and the TAPE/CARD switch to There are 5 submenus within the CAM. MENU. To card mix submenu To camera set up submenu To VCR set up submenu To display set up submenu To system submenu Close main menu

CAM.MENU

CARD MIX CAM.SET UP VCR SET UP DISP.SET UP SYSTEM RETURN
1 Card mix submenu q Mix type.. w Mix level.. 106 107

CARD MIX

100-0001 43/50 MIX TYPECARD CHROMA + MIX LEVEL
2 Camera set up submenu e r t y u i Shutter speed.. Digital zoom.. Image stabilizer. 16:9 effect.. White balance.. Return 71
SEL.SETSET MENUCLOSE SHUTTERAUTO D.ZOOM40 IMAGE S. ON 16:9OFF WHITE BAL.AUTO RETURN

CAM. MENU, cont.

3 VCR set up submenu o !0 !1 !2 !3 Record mode.. Wind screen. Audio mode. AV or headphones.. Return 63 31

o !1 !3

SEL.SETSET MENUCLOSE REC MODESP WIND SCREENOFF AUDIO MODE12bit AV/PHONESAV RETURN
4 Display set up submenu !4 !5 !6 !7 !8 Brightness.. 25 Mirror mode. 26 TV screen.. 132 Date/time display. 50 Return

!4 !6 !8

SEL.SETSET MENUCLOSE + BRIGHTNESS MIRRORON TV SCREENON D/T DISPLAYOFF RETURN

5 System submenu

!9 Wireless controller. @0 Beep.. @1 Time zone/Daylight saving time.. @2 Date/time set.. @3 Return

SPOTLIGHT

Sand & Snow
Use this program in places where the background is so bright that the subject appears underexposed in the display a sunny beach or ski resort, for example. You may notice some shudder when recording moving subjects.

SAND&SNOW

This program allows you to record in dimly lit places. It is generally best used for close-ups of slow or stationary subjects, as moving subjects may leave a trailing after-image. However, you can take advantage of this to create special effects, by rapid zooming or by panning along with a moving subject. Picture quality will not be as good as in normal lighting conditions, and autofocus may not work as well as usual.

LOW LIGHT

Using Digital Effects
Use the camcorders digital effects for more interesting productions.

Faders:

Start or end scenes on a tape with a fade to or from black ( 59). Fade Trigger, Vertical Wipe, Horizontal Wipe, Mosaic Fade* Effects: Add flavor to your recordings ( 60). Art, Black and White, Sepia, Mosaic * Available during TAPE PLAY (VCR) mode only Availability of digital effects by mode
TAPE CAMERA Faders Effects
h : Available h h i : Not available

TAPE PLAY (VCR)

CARD CAMERA

CARD PLAY (VCR)

The types of digital effects you are able to use depends on the setting of the TAPE/CARD switch, the POWER switch and the recording program.
Notes: When you do not want to use digital effects, press the DIGITAL EFFECTS button and select D.EFFECT | from the digital effects menu. Press the DIGITAL EFFECTS button to close the menu. The camcorder remembers your chosen digital effect setting until you change it. Digital effects can be selected but not operated on a blank blue screen (appears in TAPE PLAY (VCR) mode). The display continues to flash. Digital effects operated during TAPE PLAY (VCR) mode are not recorded onto the original tape. Digital effects can be added to another tape when dubbing using the AV out terminal (TAPE PLAY (VCR) mode), but not the DV out terminal. You cannot operate digital effects while photo/date searching. If you slide the program selector to [ (Easy Recording) while the digital effect display is flashing, it will disappear from the display and reappear when you return to Q (program AE) mode. The digital effect display will flash for 2 seconds after setting, even if DISPLAYS is set to OFF in the menu.

Faders

Fade Trigger (FADE-T) When you start recording, the scene gradually fades in from a black screen. When you stop recording, it gradually fades out. Vertical Wipe (WIPE ) When you start recording, the picture begins as a thin vertical line in the center of the screen which gradually expands sideways until it fills the whole of the screen.

CARD slower

1/60 1/100 1/250 1/500 1/1000 1/2000 1/4000 1/8000

1/60 1/100 1/250

faster
Only shutter speeds up to 1/250 are available when using a memory card.

6. Close the menu.

Concerning shooting in fluorescent lighting When the camcorder is set to [ (Easy Recording) or the Auto recording program, it automatically detects the flicker of fluorescent lighting and adjusts the shutter speed to compensate. However, if the brightness of the LCD or viewfinder display starts to flicker, make sure the camcorder is set to the Auto recording program and select the 1/100 shutter speed.
Guidelines for shooting using high shutter speeds When shooting with a shutter speed of 1/1000 or higher, do not shoot the sun directly. Recommended shutter speeds when shooting: People doing outdoor sports such as golf or tennis
1/2000 or 1/4000 (or 1/8000 to freeze the action even more clearly) 1/1000, 1/500 or 1/250
Moving cars or trains or other rapidly moving vehicles such as roller coasters People doing indoor sports such as basketball
Notes: You are unable to set the shutter speed in any recording program other than AUTO. The SHUTTER display becomes set to . The image may not appear smooth when a high shutter speed is set. The camcorder returns to the auto shutter setting when you slide the program selector to [ (Easy Recording), or change the recording program. If you set the shutter speed to 1/500 or above in TAPE CAMERA mode and then switch the camcorder to CARD CAMERA mode, the shutter speed will automatically change to 1/250.

Adjusting Focus Manually

The camcorder can focus automatically. All you have to do is point it, and whatever is in the center of the display will usually be in sharp focus. If it does not seem to be focusing well, it may be because the subject is not suitable for autofocus. You can use the manual focusing function for more control over focusing.

Focus lock

Press the FOCUS button to turn off autofocus. The focus remains locked at the point set by autofocus. (eM.FOCUS appears in the display.) You can now adjust the focus manually with the selector dial. Press the FOCUS button again when you want to return to autofocus. If you zoom in on your subject after turning off autofocus, it may not stay in focus. It is generally best to adjust the zoom first, and then the focus.

Close-ups

In rapidly changing lighting conditions
In places lit by certain types of fluorescent or mercury vapor lights
Notes: Turn the digital zoom off (if neccessary) to set a more accurate white balance. If you have set the white balance and lighting conditions change, reset the white balance. Try to record with light from a single source. Correct white balance cannot be obtained for two types of lighting at once. You cannot set the white balance or choose the indoor/outdoor mode when the program selector is set to the [ (Easy Recording) program. The white balance returns to the AUTO setting when you slide the program selector to [ (Easy Recording). When you turn the camcorder on, the white balance returns to AUTO. If you then switch the white balance to SET, the camcorder will remember your last setting. During normal outdoor shooting, setting to AUTO may provide better results.
Displaying Date, Time and Camcorder Data (Data Code)
A data code, containing the date and time the recording was made and other camcorder data (shutter speed and exposure settings) is automatically recorded on a special data section of the tape. Only the date and time appear in the data code when using a memory card.

DATA CODE

During TAPE PLAY (VCR) mode, the data code can be displayed or hidden while the camcorder is in play, slow or still mode. Camcorder data may be displayed as during fast forward, rewind, reverse playback, forward and reverse 2 playback.
Press the DATA CODE button on the wireless controller. When using a cassette, press it while the camcorder is in play, slow or still mode.
Press it once to display, once more to hide it.

Selecting date/time

Select whether you want the date, the time, or both to show up on your data code display ( 74).
D/TIME SEL.DATE & TIME
To change the date and time combination, open the menu and select DISP.SET UP. Then select D/TIME SEL., set it to DATE, TIME or DATE & TIME and close the menu.

Setting the data code

You can also choose to display camcorder data (shutter speed and exposure settings) in cassette data codes.
DISP.SET UP DATA CODEDATE/TIME
To change, open the menu and select DISP.SET UP. Then select DATA CODE, set it to DATE/TIME, CAMERA DATA or CAM. & D/T and close the menu.
Possible data code combinations for cassettes:
DATA CODE (cassette only) D/TIME SEL.

Date/Time

Camera data

F1/250

Date/Time & Camera data

F32 1/250 JAN. 1,2001

Date Time Using the Full Range of Features Date & Time

JAN. 1,2001

12:00:00 AM

F32 1/250

F32 1/250 12:00:00 AM F32 1/250 12:00 AM JAN. 1,2001

12:00 AM JAN. 1,2001

Notes: The data code will read in the following situations: During playback of a blank section of tape. If the tape was recorded before entering the date and time in the camcorders memory. If the tape was recorded on a camcorder without a data code function. If noise or tape damage prevents the data code from being read. If a recording made on ZR25 MC is played back on a different DV camcorder, the data code may not be displayed correctly. The data code will appear in the display even if DISPLAYS ( 132) has been set to OFF through the menu.

Six-second auto date

The 6-second auto date appears for 6 seconds to mark the changeover of a day if the tape was being recorded at 12:00 midnight. It also appears for 6 seconds when you start playback and have the data code turned off. The 6-second auto date will adjust for any time zone changes you have indicated.

6SEC. DATEOFF

To turn the 6-second auto date on, open the menu and select DISP.SET UP. Then select 6SEC. DATE, set it to ON and close the menu. Note: When 6SEC.DATE is turned on but DISPLAYS ( second auto date will still appear for 6 seconds.
132) is turned off, the 6-
Searching the Tape (Photo Search/Date Search)
ZERO SET SEARCH MEMORY SELECT

AUDIO DUB. AV INSERT

REMOTE SET PAUSE
This allows you to move quickly through still pictures recorded anywhere on a tape (photo search) or between different days or areas of recording (date search) on a tape.
1. Press the SEARCH SELECT button to choose between photo/date search.
PHOTO SEARCH or DATE SEARCH is shown in the display for 4 seconds.
2. Press the - and + buttons to move backwards or forwards through the still pictures or between different days of recording.
Press once to move to the start of the previous/next still picture or day on the tape. You can press more than once to move to the corresponding still picture or day (up to a maximum of 10 times), e.g. press the + button 5 times to move forward 5 still pictures or days. PHOTO SEARCH/DATE SEARCH appears in the middle of the display alongside the - or + mark and number to search through. You can change direction easily by pressing the button for the opposite direction. Notes: Press 3 (stop) to stop mid-search. If you begin a search very close to the start of a recorded still picture during photo search, the camcorder may skip straight past it. When you have set the area for the World Clock, date search also looks for the change in date based on the adjusted time. A date/area cannot be identified if the total recording time on that day/area was less than 1 minute. Date search playback may start just before or after the beginning of the located section. If the data code is not displayed correctly you will not be able to operate the date search correctly.

Audio dubbing stops and AUDIO DUB. disappears from the display. The camcorder returns to stop mode. You can also set zero set memory ( 77) at the place you want to stop audio dubbing, then every time you return to that position, audio dubbing will cancel. If instead of pressing STOP you press PAUSE, the camcorder will return to the playback pause mode. Notes: You cannot use the DV terminal while adding sound. You might want to adjust the audio mix ( 89) when playing back a tape with added sound. There may be a loss of sound quality if you add sound to a tape recorded on a camcorder other than the ZR25 MC. After adding sound 3 or more times to the same place on a tape, there may be some loss in sound quality.

Setting the Audio Mix

MIX AUDIO BALANCE MONITOR ST-1 ST-2
When you play back a tape that was recorded in 12-bit mode, you can set the audio output to play: stereo 1 (the original sound), stereo 2 (any new sound, dubbed to the tape after recording), or mix the balance between the two. Audio from the 16-bit mode only contains stereo 1 sound and so you cannot/do not need to select the audio mix. The same is true for the 12-bit stereo 1 mode, unless new sound has been added post-recording.

Choose the output.

Press AUDIO MONITOR on the wireless controller. Starting with the last selected setting, 4 settings appear as you push the button: STEREO1 for just stereo 1. STEREO2 for just stereo 2. MIX/FIXED for an equal mix of stereo 1 and 2. MIX/VARI. (mix variable) for when you want to mix the balance between stereo 1 and 2. To simply choose STEREO1, STEREO2 or MIX/FIXED, make sure your choice appears on the display. If you choose MIX/VARI., you can go on to mix the balance. Use the ST-1/ST-2 keys to mix the balance. A bar showing the mix appears on the screen for 4 seconds. Note: When you have chosen the output, STEREO1, STEREO2, MIX/FIXED or MIX/VARI. is shown in the top left of the display for a few seconds. If you turn the power off the output is set to STEREO1.
Selecting audio output channels
When you play back a tape whose audio has been recorded on multiple channels, you can change the output channels of that sound.

OUTPUT CHL/R

1. Load a tape recorded with multiple-channel audio. 2. Open the menu and select VCR SET UP. Then select OUTPUT CH, set it to the desired setting and close the menu.
Refer to the following list. OUTPUT CH setting Played back sound Tape recorded with stereo sound L/R L/L R/R
Tape recorded on multiple channels main + sub main only sub only
L+R channels L channel only R channel only

Connecting to a PC

By using a DV cable and connecting the camcorder to a PC equipped with a DV terminal conforming to IEEE 1394/DV compatible capture board, you can transfer images taken with the camcorder to your PC. While connected, it is recommended that you power your camcorder from a household power socket using the power adapter. Turn off the power of both the camcorder and the PC before connecting. Optional software necessary.

All images except the protected ones are erased. If you select NO, you return to step 4.
Combining Images and Recording Them to a Cassette (Card Mix)
Liven up your productions by superimposing one image on top of the other. Combine 2 still images or a still image and a moving image. Choose a still image from the memory card, either one of the pre-recorded sample images ( 113) or one you have recorded yourself, then combine it with the currently recording image, moving or still. Select from 3 types of Card Mix effects: CARD CHROMA (Card chroma key) The currently recording image appears in place of the blue area of a pre-recorded still image such as a picture frame. When recording your own still image for overlapping, make sure to record the area in which you want the new image to appear blue, with a blue curtain as a background, for example. Adjust the mix level in the blue area of the pre-recorded image.
Image being recorded by the camcorder Still image
CARD LUMI. (Card luminance key) The currently recording image appears in place of the light area of a still picture such as a handwritten illustration or title. Make your own by drawing or writing on a white piece of paper. Adjust the mix level in the light area of the still image.
CAM. CHROMA (Camera chroma key) Superimpose the currently recording image on top of a still image, which becomes its background. Shoot the subject of the currently recording image against a blue background, such as a blue curtain. The original still image will appear in place of the blue area. Adjust the mix level in the blue area.
Mix level The mix level bar appears. Adjust the mix level using the and + at the ends of the bar as guides.

MIX TYPECARD CHROMA

MIX LEVEL
Make sure a memory card that has images recorded on it and a cassette have been inserted into the camcorder. Make sure the program selector is set to Q. Select
1. Open the menu and select \CARD MIX. 2. Press the CARD +/ buttons to select the still image to be combined. 3. Select MIX TYPE.
CARD CHROMA, CARD LUMI., CAM. CHROMA settings appear.
4. Select the desired setting.
Your currently recording image is combined with the pre-recorded still image.
5. Select MIX LEVEL. 6. Adjust the mix level.

Turning the selector dial upwards adjusts to the right and turning downwards adjusts to the left.

7. Close the menu.

CARD MIX flashes in the display. On/Off
8. Press the card MIX button.
CARD MIX stops flashing. Your currently recording image is combined with the pre-recorded still image. Each time you press the card MIX button, your selection is activated (display lights continuously) or deactivated (display flashes). For a moving image
1. Press the start/stop button to start and stop recording.
The combined images are recorded onto the cassette. For a still image
1. Press the PHOTO button halfway down and hold it.
F flashes white in the display as the camcorder adjusts the focus and it is displayed continuously as a green mark when the camcorder is ready to take the image.
2. Press the PHOTO button fully down to record the image to the cassette.
F disappears from the display. The combined images are recorded onto the cassette for approximately 6 seconds.
Notes: If you change the position of the POWER switch or move the program selector from Q to [ Easy Recording mode, select your still image for Card Mix again. When setting Card Mix, you must carry out steps 1 to 4.
Copying Still Images from a Cassette

FOCUS AE SHIFT

Copies multiple still images from a tape to the memory card, using the Photo Search function. The still images data codes will reflect the date and time the copies are made.
Make sure a memory card that has enough memory available and a recorded cassette have been inserted into the camcorder.
1. Locate the first still image on the cassette that you want to copy and stop the cassette at a point before that image.
All the still images on the cassette after that point will be copied onto the memory card. If you want to copy all the images on a cassette, rewind the cassette to the beginning.
2. Open the menu and select CARD OPER. ]. 3. Select COPY[
CANCEL and EXECUTE settings appear.

4. Select EXECUTE.

Select CANCEL to stop copying. Cassette and card information appear in the display and copying starts. ] appears in the display. NOW COPYING [ The camcorder automatically performs the Photo Search function to locate still images and copying starts. The currently copying image appears in the display. Copying stops when the cassette is finished or the memory card is full. When the memory card is full, CARD FULL will appear in the display.
5. Press the stop button when your desired images have finished copying.
Copying Memory Card Still Images to a Cassette
Copies multiple still images from the memory card to a cassette. The still images' data codes will reflect the date and time the copies are made.

? The mark flashes red in the display even though a memory card has been inserted. ? Nothing happens when I press the buttons.
? The PHOTO button doesnt work.
? The image cannot be erased.
The image is protected ( 102). You are using an SD Memory Card and it is set for erasure prevention. Change the position of the protect switch.

Miscellaneous

Problem ? The wireless controller doesnt work. Cause and/or what to do about it The remote sensor mode is set to OFFB in the menu ( 46). The remote sensor modes of the wireless controller and the camcorder itself are different ( 46). The batteries are dead or not inserted. Check the screen displays ( 132).
? The power indicator is flashing. ? The camcorder malfunctions.
External interference may cause the camcorders microprocessor to malfunction temporarily. If random letters appear in the display or if normal operation is interrupted, remove and then replace the power source. Remove the cable and then reconnect it or turn the power off and back on again. This is not a malfunction.
? The DV cable is connected correctly, but theres nothing in the display. ? The camcorder becomes warm during use.
The ZR25 MC System Diagram (Availability differs from area to area)

WS-20 Wrist Strap

SS-700 Shoulder Strap

WD-30.5 Wideconverter

WL-D77 Wireless Controller

MiniDV Video Cassette

CR-560 Charge Adapter/ Car Battery Cable Kit
BP-500 Series Battery Pack

TL-30.5 Teleconverter

FS-30.5U Filter Set
CA-560 Compact Power Adapter BP-500 Series Battery Pack
ZR-1000 Zoom Remote Controller S-150 S-video Cable TV STV-250N Stereo Video Cable BP-900 Series Battery Pack VL-10Li Battery Video Light VCR
Stereo Microphone (commercially available)

CV-150F DV Cable

Digital Device
PC Card Adapter PC Card Reader MMC-8M MultiMediaCard or SD Memory Card FD Adapter
Personal Computer SC-1000 Soft Carrying Case SC-A50 Soft Carrying Case

Optional Accessories

Call or visit your local retailer/dealer for genuine Canon video accessories. You can also obtain genuine accessories for your Canon camcorder by calling: 1-800-828-4040, Canon U.S.A. Information Center. BP-500 Series Battery Packs Extra batteries for use with the ZR25 MC.

BP-511 BP-522 BP-535

CR-560 Charge Adapter/Car Battery Cable Kit Connect the car battery cable to power your camcorder or recharge battery packs on the move. The car battery cable plugs into your cars cigarette lighter socket and runs off a 12-24 V DC negative ground battery. Also, when used with the CA-560 Compact Power Adapter, this charge adapter can charge the BP-500 series lithium ion battery packs from an AC outlet. TL-30.5 Tele-converter This tele-converter lens increases the focal length of the camcorder lens by a factor of 1.9. The image stabilizer is not as effective as usual when the tele-converter is attached. WD-30.5 Wide-converter This lens decreases focal length by a factor of 0.7, giving you a wide perspective for indoor shots or panoramic views.