RF CONCEPTS LTD

Note: This is for information only. It is your own responsibility to ensure your equipment is compatible. PAL Cameras SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY SONY (NTSC Cameras below)
DCR-HC19E Mini-DV 1CCD S-AV out DCR-HC22E Mini-DV 1CCD S-AV out DCR-HC32E Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV in/out DCR-HC39E Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out DCR-HC42E Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV in/out DCR-HC90E Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV in/out DCR-PC1000E Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV in/out DCR-PC53E Mini-DV 1CCD DV+S-AV out DCR-PC55E Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV in/out DCR-VX2100E Mini-DV 3CCD DV+AV in/out HDR-FX1E HDV 3CCD DV+AV in/out DSR-PD170P DVCAM 3CCD DV+AV in/out HDR-HC1E HDV 3CCD DV+AV in/out DCR-DVD202E DVD 1CCD S-AV out DCR-DVD203E DVD 1CCD USB 2.0, S-AV in/out DCR-DVD403E DVD 1CCD USB 2.0, S-AV in/out DCR-DVD653E DVD 1CCD USB 2.0, S-AV in/out DCR-DVD7E DVD 1CCD USB 2.0, S-AV in/out DCR-DVD92E DVD 1CCD S-AV out DCR-TRV270E Digital-8 1CCD DV+AV out DCR-TRV285E Digital-8 1CCD DV+AV out DCR-TRV480E Digital-8 1CCD DV+AV in/out DCR-IP1E MICROMV 1CCD MV+S-AV in/out
CANON MV700 Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out MV700i Mini-DV 1CCD DV in/out, AV out* MV730i Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out MV750i Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out MV800 Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out only MV830 Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out only MV830i Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out MV850i Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out MV880X Mini-DV 1CCD DV out, AV in/out MVX200 Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out only MVX200i Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out MVX250i Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out MVX300 Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out only MVX330i Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out MVX350i Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out MVX20i Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out MVX25i Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out MVX30i Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out MVX35i Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out MVX40 Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out only

MVX40i Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out MVX45i Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out MVX3i Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out DM-XM2 Mini-DV 3CCD Full DV+AV in/out DM-XL2 Mini-DV 3CCD Full DV+AV in/out JVC GZ-MC100 MicroDrive 1CCD USB 2.0, AV out GZ-MC200 MicroDrive 1CCD USB 2.0, AV out GZ-MC500 MicroDrive 3CCD USB 2.0, AV out GZ-MG20 HDD 1CCD USB 2.0, AV out GZ-MG30 HDD 1CCD USB 2.0, AV out GZ-MG50 HDD 1CCD USB 2.0, AV out GZ-MG70 HDD 1CCD USB 2.0, AV out GR-D23 Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out only GR-D53 Mini-DV 1CCD DV in/out, AV out GR-D73 Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out GR-D93 Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out GR-D230 Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV in/out GR-DX28 Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out only GR-DX57 Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out GR-DX97 Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out only GR-D240 Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out only GR-D290 Mini-DV 1CCD DV in/out, AV out GR-DF420 Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out only GR-DF470 Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out GR-DZ7 Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out GR-PD1 Mini-DV 1CCD Full DV+AV in/out GR-X5 Mini-DV 3CCD Full DV+AV in/out PANASONIC VD-RM55B DVD 1CCD USB 2.0, AV in/out VD-RM75B DVD 1CCD USB 2.0, AV in/out NV-GS17B Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out only NV-GS21B Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out only NV-GS35B Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out only NV-GS75B Mini-DV 3CCD DV+AV out only NV-GS150B Mini-DV 3CCD DV+AV out only NV-GS200B Mini-DV 3CCD Full DV+AV in/out NV-GS250B Mini-DV 3CCD Full DV+AV in/out NV-GS400B Mini-DV 3CCD Full DV+AV in/out SDR-S100 SD Video 3CCD USB 2.0, AV out
SAMSUNG VP-D6550 Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out only VP-D351 Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out only VP-D353 Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out only VP-D323 Mini-DV 1CCD USB 2.0, AV out VP-D325i Mini-DV 1CCD DV in/out, AV out VP-M105 SolidState 1CCD USB 2.0 VP-M110 SolidState 1CCD USB 2.0, AV in/out VP-X110 SolidState 1CCD USB 2.0, AV in/out VP-D230 Mini-DV 1CCD DV+AV out only VP-D270i Mini-DV 1CCD DV in/out, AV out
HITACHI DZ-MV550E DVD 1CCD USB 2.0, AV out DZ-MV580E DVD 1CCD USB 2.0, AV out DZ-MV730E DVD 1CCD USB 2.0, AV out DZ-MV750E DVD 1CCD USB 2.0, AV out DZ-MV780E DVD 1CCD USB 2.0, AV out DZ-GX20E DVD 1CCD USB 2.0, AV out SANYO Xacti VPC-C1E SolidState 1CCD USB 2.0, AV out Xacti VPC-C4E SolidState 1CCD USB 2.0, S-AV out Xacti VPC-C5E SolidState 1CCD USB 2.0, AV out
Note: This is for information only. It is your own responsibility to ensure your equipment is compatible. NTSC Cameras Manufacturer Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Model Elura Elura 2 Elura 2 MC Elura 10 Elura 20 MC Elura 40 MC Elura 50 MC * Elura 60 Elura 65 Elura 70 Elura 80 Elura 85 Elura 90 ES75 ES8400 ES8600 GL1 GL2 Optura Optura 10 MC Optura 20 MC Optura 30 Optura 40 Optura 50 Optura 60 Optura 100 MC Optura 200 MC Optura 300 Optura 400 Optura 500 Optura PI Optura Xi Ultura Vistura XL1 XL2 AV Input Yes - docking Yes - docking Yes - docking Yes - docking Yes - docking Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No No Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No Yes Yes unit unit unit unit unit

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony
DCR-TRV16 DCR-TRV17 DCR-TRV18 DCR-TRV19 DCR-TRV20 DCR-TRV22 ** DCR-TRV25 * DCR-TRV27 * DCR-TRV30 * DCR-TRV33 * DCR-TRV38 DCR-TRV39 DCR-TRV40 DCR-TRV50 DCR-TRV70 DCR-TRV60 DCR-TRV80 DCR-TRV85 DCR-TRV103 DCR-TRV110 DCR-TRV115 DCR-TRV120 DCR-TRV130 DCR-TRV140 DCR-TRV145 DCR-TRV203 DCR-TRV210 DCR-TRV230 DCR-TRV240 DCR-TRV250 DCR-TRV260 DCR-TRV280 DCR-TRV310 DCR-TRV315 DCR-TRV320 DCR-TRV330 DCR-TRV340 * DCR-TRV350D8 * DCR-TRV355 DCR-TRV360 DCR-TRV460 DCR-TRV510 DCR-TRV530 DCR-TRV720 DCR-TRV730 DCR-TRV740 DCR-TRV820 DCR-TRV828 DCR-TRV830 DCR-TRV840 DCR-TRV900 DCR-TRV940 DCR-TRV950 DCR-VX700
Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No No Yes Yes Yes Yes No No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony
DCR-VX1000 DCR-VX2000 DSR-PD100A DSR-PD150 GV-A500 GR-DV900 GV-D200 GV-D1000 VX700 HDR-FX1 VX1000 VX2000 VX2100
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Note: This is for information only. It is your own responsibility to ensure your equipment is compatible.

Notes on using the camcorder
Hold your camcorder correctly.
Note on connecting other device
Before connecting your camcorder to other device such as a VCR or a computer with an USB or i.LINK cable, be sure to insert the connector plug in the proper direction. If you insert the connector plug forcibly in the wrong direction, the terminal may be damaged. This may cause a malfunction of your camcorder.
To ensure a good grip, fasten the grip belt as shown in the following illustration.
Notes on using this manual
The images of the LCD screen and the viewfinder used on this manual are captured using a digital still camera, and thus may appear different from what you see. In this instruction manual, each model is indicated as follows. CCD-TRV238E: TRV238E CCD-TRV438E: TRV438E DCR-TRV270E: TRV270E DCR-TRV285E: TRV285E Instructions with no specific model names are for all models. Instructions with specific model names are for the indicated models only. Before you start reading this manual, check the model name of your camcorder. The on-screen displays in each local language are used in illustrating the operating procedures. Change the screen language before using your camcorder if necessary (p. 19). The illustrations used on this manual are based on the model DCR-TRV285E. The screens shown in this manual are from a Windows XP computer. The screens may vary depending on the OS. Be careful not to press buttons on the LCD frame accidentally when you open or close the LCD panel, or when you adjust the angle of the LCD panel. Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts.

Viewfinder

LCD panel

Battery pack

Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select desired item, then press the dial to decide.

Table of Contents

Quick Start Guide
CCD-TRV238E: CCD-TRV438E:
TRV238E DCR-TRV270E: TRV438E DCR-TRV285E:

TRV270E TRV285E

Read this first... 2
Recording movies... 8 Recording/Playing back with ease... 10

Getting started

Step 1: Checking supplied items.. 11 Step 2: Charging the battery pack.. 12
Using an outside power source... 15
Step 3: Turning the power on.. 15 Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder.. 16
Adjusting the LCD panel.... 16 Adjusting the viewfinder... 16
Step 5: Setting the date and time... 17 Step 6: Inserting a cassette tape.. 18 Step 7: Setting the screen language... 19

Recording

Recording movies... 21
Recording for a longer time.... 22 Using zoom.... 23 Using the built-in light... 23 Recording in mirror mode... 24 Superimposing the date and time on pictures ( TRV238E/438E).. 24

Recording still images Tape photo recording ( TRV270E/285E).... 25 Recording with ease Easy Handycam.. 26 Adjusting the exposure.... 27
Adjusting the exposure for backlit subjects... 27 Adjusting the exposure manually... 27
Recording in dark places NightShot plus... 28 Adjusting the focus manually.. 29
Recording a picture using various effects.. 30
Fading in and out of a scene FADER... 30
Superimposing a title... 31 Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording END SEARCH... 32

Playback

Viewing pictures recorded on a tape... 33
Playing back in various modes... 34
Playing back with ease Easy Handycam... 35 Various playback functions... 36
Displaying the screen indicators... 36 Displaying the date/time and camera settings data Data code ( TRV270E/285E)... 36
Playing the picture on a TV... 38 Locating a scene on a tape for playback ( TRV285E).. 39
Searching quickly for a desired scene Zero set memory.. 39 Searching for a scene by date of recording Date search.. 40 Searching for a still image Photo search... 40 Playing back still images in sequence Photo scan.. 41

,continued

Advanced operations Customizing Your Camcorder
Changing the menu settings. 42 Using the (MANUAL SET) menu PROGRAM AE/P EFFECT, etc.. 43 Using the (CAMERA SET) menu 16:9 WIDE/STEADYSHOT, etc.. 46 Using the (PLAYER SET)/ (VCR SET) menu HiFi SOUND/EDIT, etc.. 50 Using the (LCD SET) menu LCD B.L./LCD COLOR, etc. 52 Using the (TAPE SET) menu FRAME REC/INT.REC, etc. 53 Using the (SETUP MENU) CLOCK SET/USB STREAM/ LANGUAGE, etc. 56 Using the (OTHERS) menu WORLD TIME/VIDEO EDIT, etc.. 58

Using with your computer

Features ( TRV270E/285E).72 Installing the software and First Step Guide on a computer ( TRV270E/285E)..74 Using First Step Guide ( TRV270E/285E)..78 Creating a DVD (Direct Access to Click to DVD) ( TRV270E/285E).79

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting..82 Warning indicators and messages..92

Additional Information

Using your camcorder abroad.94 Usable cassette tapes..95 About the InfoLITHIUM battery pack..96 About i.LINK..97 Maintenance and precautions.98 Specification.101

Dubbing/Editing

Connecting to a VCR.. 60 Dubbing to another tape.. 62 Dubbing a tape easily Easy Dubbing ( TRV238E/438E).. 63 Recording pictures from a VCR ( TRV285E). 67 Dubbing selected scenes from a tape Digital program editing ( TRV270E/285E).. 67

Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder, then rotate it to the desired position.
Viewfinder lens adjustment lever
To adjust the brightness of the LCD screen 1 Press MENU. 2 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select
(LCD SET), then press the dial.
Lift up the viewfinder. Adjust the viewfinder lens adjustment lever until the picture is clear.
Step 5: Setting the date and time
Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears every time you turn on your camcorder.
b Note If you do not use your camcorder for about 3 months, the built-in rechargeable battery gets discharged and the date and time settings may be cleared from the memory. In that case, charge the rechargeable battery (p. 100) and then set the date and time again.

Press MENU.

MANUAL SET PROGRAM AE P EFFECT AUTO SHTR

[MENU] : END

Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select (SETUP MENU), then press the dial.
SETUP MENU CLOCK SET USB STREAM LTR SIZE LANGUAGE DEMO MODE RETURN STBY ::
Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select [CLOCK SET], then press the dial.

CLOCK SET STBY

Y 2005

M D H M 0 :00

[MENU] : CANCEL
Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to set [Y] (year), then press the dial.
Turn on your camcorder (p. 15).

Y 2005 M D H M 0 :00

Proceed to step 6 when you set the clock for the first time.
You can set any year up to the year 2079.
Set [M] (month), [D] (day), [H] (hour) and [M] (minute) in the same way as was done in step 6, then press the dial.
To check the preset date and time
For TRV238E/438E: Press DATE to display the date indicator. Press TIME to display the time indicator. Press DATE (or TIME) and then press TIME (or DATE) to simultaneously display the date and time indicator. To hide the date and/or time indicator, press DATE and/or TIME again.
Step 6: Inserting a cassette tape
You can use standard 8 mm and Hi8 , Digital8 video cassettes on your camcorder. For details on these cassettes (such as writeprotection), see page 95.
b Notes Do not force the cassette into the compartment. This may cause a malfunction of your camcorder. For TRV270E/285E: The recording time when you use your camcorder is 2/3 of the indicated time on Hi8 tape. If you select the [LP] mode in the menu settings, the recording time is the indicated time on Hi8 tape.

Set the NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch to ON.
and [NIGHTSHOT PLUS] appear. To cancel NightShot plus, set the NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch to OFF.
b Notes Do not use the NightShot plus function in bright places. This may cause a malfunction. You cannot use the NightShot plus function together with: [PROGRAM AE] Manual exposure Adjust the focus manually when it is hard to focus automatically. Do not cover the infrared port with your fingers or other objects. Remove the conversion lens (optional) if it is attached. Depending on the shooting conditions or circumstances, colors may not be reproduced properly.
Adjusting the focus manually
The focus is adjusted automatically in the default setting. You can adjust the focus manually according to the recording conditions. Use this function in the following cases.
To record a subject behind a window covered with raindrops. To record horizontal stripes. To record a subject with little contrast between the subject and its background. When you want to focus on a subject in the background.
Tips for focusing manually It is easier to focus on the subject when you use the zoom function. Move the power zoom lever towards T (telephoto) to adjust the focus, and then, towards W (wide angle) to adjust the zoom for recording. When you want to record a close-up image of a subject, move the power zoom lever towards W (wide angle) to fully magnify the image, then adjust the focus.
To adjust the focus automatically Recording

Press FOCUS again.

To record a stationary subject using a tripod.
Press FOCUS in CAMERA mode.

9 appears.

Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to sharpen focus.
9 changes to when the focus cannot be adjusted any further. 9 changes to when the focus cannot be adjusted any closer.
Recording a picture using various effects
[STRIPE FADER] This feature is for

TRV238E/438E only.

[MONOTONE FADER] When fading in, the picture gradually changes from black-and-white to color. When fading out, the picture gradually changes from color to black-and-white.
REC START/STOP POWER switch
Slide the POWER switch to select the CAMERA mode. Press FADER until the desired fader indicator flashes in the standby mode (to fade in) or during recording (to fade out).

END SEARCH

Slide the POWER switch to select the CAMERA mode. Press END SEARCH.
The last scene of the most recent recording is played back for about 5 seconds, and the camcorder enters the standby mode at the point where the last recording has finished.

Press END SEARCH again.

b Note The END SEARCH function will not work correctly when there is a blank section between recorded sections on the tape. z Tip When PLAY/EDIT mode is selected, you can do this operation by pressing END SEARCH.
Viewing pictures recorded on a tape
Make sure you have a recorded cassette inserted into your camcorder. When you want to play back the recorded picture on your TV, see page 38. For TRV238E/438E/ TRV285E: You can control playback using the Remote Commander.
Press (rewind) to go to the point you want to view. Press (play) to start playback.

To adjust the volume

Press either of the two buttons on VOLUME. When you close the LCD panel, sound is turned off. : To turn the volume down : To turn the volume up

To stop playback

Press (stop).

To pause

Press (pause) during playback. Press (pause) or (play) to restart the playback. Playback stops automatically when pause mode continues for a few minutes.
To fast forward or rewind
Press (fast forward) or stop mode.

OPEN POWER switch

(rewind) in
To review movies on the viewfinder

Close the LCD panel.

z Tip Performing Easy Handycam operation, even first time users can play back easily. For details, see page 35.
Indicators displayed during playing back

For TRV238E/438E:

Press OPEN and open the LCD panel. Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to select the PLAY/EDIT mode.
To view pictures at slow speed (slow playback)*

0:00:00:00

For TRV238E/438E/ TRV285E: Press SLOW y on the Remote Commander during playback. To resume normal playback, press PLAY.
* For TRV285E: Pictures output from the DV Interface cannot be played back smoothly in the slow mode. b Notes For TRV238E/438E: If slow playback lasts for about 1 minute, the camcorder automatically returns to normal speed playback. For TRV238E/438E: When you play back a tape recorded in the LP mode, noise may appear on the LCD screen in the following cases: Slow playback Playback pause Picture search

Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the [DATE/TIME] or [CAM DATA], then press the dial. Press MENU.

2005 12:17:50

To hide the date/time or the camera settings data
Follow steps 2 to 4, and select [OFF] in step 5.
Camera settings data display
In the date/time data display, the date and time is displayed in the same area. If you record the picture without setting the clock, [-- -- ----] and [--:--:--] will appear.

AUTO 100 AWB F1.6 9dB

A SteadyShot off B Exposure C White balance D Gain E Shutter speed F Aperture value
Playing the picture on a TV
Connect your camcorder to a TV using the supplied A/V connecting cable as shown in the following illustration. Connect the supplied AC Adaptor to the wall socket for the power supply (p. 12). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. To copy to another tape, see page 62.

A/V OUT jack

Yellow

Signal flow

A/V connecting cable (supplied)

VCRs or TVs

White Red
A/V connecting cable (supplied) VCRs or TVs
When your TV is connected to a VCR
Connect your camcorder to the LINE IN input on the VCR using the A/V connecting cable. Set the input selector on the VCR to LINE.
Locating a scene on a tape for playback

( TRV285E)

When your TV is stereo
For TRV238E/438E: Connect the audio plug of the A/V connecting cable to the left (white) input jack of your TV.
When your TV is monaural (When your TV has only one audio input jack)
For TRV270E/285E: Connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable to the video input jack and connect the white or the red plug to the audio input jack of your TV or VCR. When you want to play the sound in monaural mode, use a connecting cable (optional) for that purpose.
Searching quickly for a desired scene Zero set memory
PLAY STOP DISPLAY ZERO SET MEMORY
If your TV/VCR has a 21-pin connector (EUROCONNECTOR)
To play back movies, connect your camcorder to the TV/VCR, using the 21-pin adaptor (optional). For TRV238E/438E:

TV/VCR

During playback, press ZERO SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander at the point you want to locate later on.
The tape counter is reset to 0:00:00 and appears on the screen. If the tape counter is not displayed, press DISPLAY on the Remote Commander.

Each photo will be played back for about 5 seconds.
b Note If a tape has a blank section between recorded sections, the Photo scan function may not work correctly.

BAdvanced operations

Customizing Your Camcorder

OTHERS (p. 58)

TAPE SET REC MODE SP AUDIO MODE REMAIN FRAME REC I N T. REC RETURN
Changing the menu settings
You can change various settings or make detailed adjustments using the menu items displayed on the screen.
Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the desired item, then press the dial.
The available menu items vary depending on the position of the POWER switch. Unavailable items will be grayed out.
TAPE SET REC MODE AUDIO MODE REMAIN AUTO FRAME REC ON I N T. REC RETURN
Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the desired mode, then press the dial.
TAPE SET REC MODE AUDIO MODE ON REMAIN FRAME REC I N T. REC RETURN
Turn on the power (p. 15). Press MENU.

The menu screen appears.

Press MENU to hide the menu screen.
If you want to change other items, select [ RETURN] and press the dial, then repeat steps from 3 to 5.
Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the desired menu, then press the dial.
MANUAL SET (p. 43) CAMERA SET (p. 46) PLAYER SET (p. 50) ( TRV238E/438E/ TRV270E) VCR SET (p. 50) ( TRV285E) LCD SET (p. 52) TAPE SET (p. 53) SETUP MENU (p. 56)
Using the (MANUAL SET) menu
PROGRAM AE/P EFFECT, etc.
You can select items listed below in the MANUAL SET menu. To select these items, see Changing the menu settings (p. 42).
The default settings are marked with G. The settings you can adjust vary depending on the power mode of your camcorder. The screen shows the items you can operate at the moment. Unavailable items will be grayed out.

PROGRAM AE

You can record pictures easily in a situation that requires various techniques by selecting the following settings.
G AUTO SPOTLIGHT* (spotlight) ( ) Select this when not using PROGRAM AE. Select to prevent peoples faces from appearing excessively white when subjects are lit by strong light, such as in a theater or at a wedding.
PORTRAIT (soft portrait) ( )
Select to bring out the subject such as people or flowers while creating a soft background.
SPORTS* (sports Select to minimize shake when shooting fastlesson) ( ) moving subjects such as in tennis or golf.
BEACH&SKI* (beach & ski) (
Select to prevent peoples faces from appearing ) dark in strong light or reflected light, such as at a beach in midsummer or on a ski slope.

z Tip The SteadyShot does not work. If you set [16:9 WIDE] to [ON] in the menu settings when the SteadyShot is working, flashes and the SteadyShot does not function.

STEADYSHOT

For TRV438E/ TRV270E/285E: You can select this function to compensate for camera-shake.
GON OFF ( ) Standard setting (enable the SteadyShot function). If you select a function that STEADYSHOT cannot work with, appears. Select to deactivate the SteadyShot function. Select to shoot a stationary subject with a tripod, or when using a conversion lens (optional). Natural pictures are produced.
b Note For TRV270E/285E: Camera-shake cannot be completely compensated for in the following cases: When recording in a dark place When recording a subject with little contrast to the background When recording horizontal stripes When using the zoom When recording a fast moving subject When the zoom position is set to the W-end side

N.S. LIGHT

When using the NightShot plus function to record, you can record clearer pictures by using the NightShot Light to emit infrared rays (invisible).
GON OFF Select to use the NightShot Light. (p. 28) Select to disable the NightShot Light. (p. 28)
Using the (PLAYER (VCR SET) SET)/ menu HiFi SOUND/EDIT, etc.
You can select the items listed below in the menu (the PLAYER SET menu for TRV238E/438E/ TRV270E, the VCR SET menu for TRV285E). To select these
items, see Changing the menu settings (p. 42). The default settings are marked with G. The settings you can adjust vary depending on the power mode of your camcorder. The screen
shows the items you can operate at the moment. Unavailable items will be grayed out.
VCR SET H i F i SOUND AUDIO MIX

HiFi SOUND

For TRV270E/285E: You can select how to play back audio recorded on a tape in stereo mode.
GSTEREO Select to play back a stereo tape or dual sound track tape with main and sub sound. Select to play back a stereo tape with the left channel sound or a dual sound track tape with main sound. Select to play back a stereo tape with the right channel sound or a dual sound track tape with sub sound.
b Notes You can play back a dual sound track cassette on this camcorder. However, you cannot record a dual sound track on this camcorder. The setting returns to [STEREO] when you disconnect the power source from your camcorder for more than 5 minutes.
For TRV238E/438E: Picture degradation is minimized when you dub or edit a tape using the camcorder as the playback device.
GOFF ON Select this for no compensation. Select to minimize picture degradation.
b Note The setting returns to [OFF] when you disconnect the power source from your camcorder for more than 5 minutes.

GON OFF

TRV238E/438E:
Select to correct jitter (horizontal picture shake during playback). Select to not compensate picture distortion when playing back a tape on which you have dubbed repeatedly or recorded TV game signals.

LTR SIZE

GNORMAL 2 Select to display selected menu items in normal size. Select to display selected menu items at twice the normal height.

LANGUAGE

You can select or change the language used for the on-screen display (p. 19). You can select from English, Simplified English, Traditional-Chinese, SimplifiedChinese, French, Spanish, Portuguese, German, Dutch, Italian, Greek, Russian, Arabic, or Persian.

DEMO MODE

When you remove a cassette from your camcorder, and select the CAMERA mode, you can view the demonstration in about 10 minutes.
GON OFF Select to see an overview of the functions available such as when you are using this camcorder for the first time. Select when you do not intend to use the [DEMO MODE].
b Note You can view the demonstration only when the NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch is set to OFF.
Customizing Your Camcorder 57
z Tips The demonstration will be suspended in situations such as those described below. When a cassette is inserted. When a mode other than CAMERA is selected. If [A.SHUT OFF] is set to [5 min] when the camcorder is used on the battery pack, the power will be turned off after approximately 5 minutes (p. 58).
Using the (OTHERS) menu WORLD

TIME/VIDEO EDIT, etc.

You can select items listed below in the OTHERS menu. To select items, see Changing the menu settings (p. 42). The default settings are marked with G. The settings you can adjust vary depending on the
OTHERS WORLD TIME BEEP A. SHUT OFF COMMANDER DISPLAY REC LAMP

DATA CODE

GOFF DATE/TIME CAM DATA
Select not to display date, time and the camera settings data during playback. Select to display the date and time during playback. (p. 36) Select to display the camera setting data during playback. (p. 36)

WORLD TIME

You can adjust the time difference when using your camcorder abroad. Set the time difference by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, the clock will be adjusted in accordance with the time difference. If you set the time difference to 0, the clock returns to the originally set time.
GMELODY Select to play a melody when you start/stop recording, operate your camcorder with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, or when an unusual condition occurs on your camcorder. Select to sound a beep instead of the melody. Select to cancel the melody, beep sound, shutter sound and operation confirmation beep.

NORMAL OFF

A.SHUT OFF
G5 min Select to activate the Auto shut off. When approximately 5 minutes have elapsed while you do not operate your camcorder, the camcorder is automatically turned off to prevent the battery from becoming consumed. Select to deactivate the Auto shut off.

[EXECUTING] flashes and a picture (about 50 seconds long) with 5 [IN] and [OUT] indicators each for adjusting synchronization is recorded. [COMPLETE] appears when the recording is finished.
VIDEO EDIT 0:08:55:06 EDIT SET CONTROL ADJ TEST COMPLETE CUTIN CUTOUT IR SETUP PAUSEMODE IR TEST RETURN [MENU] : END
Step 2: Adjusting the synchronization of the VCR
Follow the steps below when you are performing digital program editing for the first time to a tape in a VCR. You can skip this setting if you have set up your VCR before using the following procedure. You can adjust the synchronization of your camcorder and the VCR to avoid not recording the starting scene.
Rewind the tape on your VCR, then play back in slow mode.
5 opening numbers for each [IN] and closing numbers for each [OUT] appear.
Remove the cassette from your camcorder. Prepare a pen and paper to take notes. Set the VCR to recording pause mode.
Skip this step if you have selected [i.LINK] in step 9 on p. 68.

b Note

Take a note of the opening numerical value of each [IN] and the closing number value of each [OUT], then calculate the average numerical value for each [IN] and [OUT]. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select [CUT-IN], then press the dial.
VIDEO EDIT EDIT SET CONTROL ADJ TEST CUTIN CUTOUT IR SETUP PAUSEMODE IR TEST RETURN [MENU] : END 0:08:55:06
Run the tape for about 10 seconds before pausing. The starting scenes may not get recorded when you start recording from the beginning of the tape.
Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the average numerical value of [IN], then press the dial.
The calculated start position for recording is set.
Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select (OTHERS), then press the dial. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select [VIDEO EDIT], then press the dial.
Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select [CUT-OUT], then press the dial.
TOTAL 0:00:00:00 SCENE [MENU] : END
5 10Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to
select the average numerical value of [OUT], then press the dial.
The calculated stop position for recording is set.
Search for the beginning of the first scene that you want to record on your camcorder, then pause playback. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select [MARK], then press the dial.
The starting point of the first program is set, and the upper part of the program mark changes to light blue.
VIDEO EDIT MARK UNDO ERASE ALL START EDIT SET 0:08:55:OUT

11Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to

TOTAL 0:00:00:00 SCENE 0

Recording the selected scenes as programs
When you are performing digital program editing for the first time to a tape in a VCR, go through the procedures described in Steps 1 and 2 (p. 67 to p. 69) beforehand.
Search for the end of the first scene that you want to record on your camcorder, then pause playback.

Prepare a cassette.

Insert a tape to be played back into the camcorder. Insert a cassette for recording into your VCR.
Press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial.
The ending point of the first program is set, and the lower part of the program mark changes to light blue.
VIDEO EDIT MARK UNDO ERASE ALL START EDIT SET 0:09:07:IN
To end Digital program editing
To save a program without using it to record
Press MENU in step 11. The program is stored in memory until the cassette is ejected.
TOTAL 0:00:12:00 SCENE 1 [MENU] : END
To erase programs 1 Follow steps 1 to 4 in Recording the
selected scenes as programs (p. 70).
Repeat steps 5 to 8 and create programs.
[UNDO] or [ERASE ALL], then press the dial. When you select [UNDO] You can erase the last set program. When you select [ERASE ALL] You can erase all the programs.
10Set your VCR to the recording pause.
Skip this step if your camcorder is connected via an i.LINK cable.
select [START], then press the dial.
VIDEO EDIT MARK UNDO ERASE ALL START EDIT SET 0:09:07:06 ENGAGE REC PAUSE RETURN EXECUTE
[EXECUTE], then press the dial. The programs are deleted. To cancel this operation, select [RETURN], and then press the dial.
b Notes You cannot set starting point or ending point on a blank section of the tape. If there is a blank section, the total time may not appear correctly. When you cannot operate the device correctly using an i.LINK cable connection, select [IR] in step 9 on p. 68, and set the [IR SETUP] code.
12Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to

About First Step Guide

First Step Guide is an instruction manual you can refer to on your computer. This First Step Guide describes basic operations, from initial hookup of your camcorder and computer and making settings, to general operation the first time you use the software stored on the CD-ROM (supplied). After installing the CD-ROM, reading Installing the software and First Step Guide on a computer ( TRV270E/285E) (p. 74), start the First Step Guide, then follow the instructions.
About the help function of the software
The Help guide explains all the functions of all the software applications. Refer to the Help guide for further detailed operations after reading the First Step Guide thoroughly. To display the Help guide, click the [?] mark on the screen.
CPU: Intel Pentium III 500 MHz or faster (800 MHz or faster recommended) (For using ImageMixer VCD2, Intel Pentium III 800 MHz or faster recommended) Application: DirectX 9.0c or later (this product is based on DirectX technology. It is necessary to have DirectX installed.) Windows Media Player 7.0 or later Macromedia Flash Player 6.0 or later Sound system: 16 bit stereo sound card and stereo speakers Memory: 64 MB or more Hard disk: Available memory required for installation: 500 MB or more Available free hard disk space recommended: 6 GB or more (depending on the size of the image files edited) Display: 4 MB VRAM video card, Minimum dots, High color (16 bit color, colors), DirectDraw display driver capability (this product will not operate correctly at dots or less, and 256 colors or less.) Others: USB port (this must be provided as standard), DV Interface (IEEE1394, i.LINK) (to connect via an i.LINK cable), disc drive (You need a CD-R drive to create a video CD. For the compatible drive, visit the following URL: http://www.ppackage.com/)

System requirements

For Macintosh users
b Note When you connect your camcorder to a Macintosh computer using a USB cable, you cannot copy pictures recorded on a tape to the computer. To copy recordings from a tape, connect your camcorder to the computer with an i.LINK cable and use the standard software in the OS.

Indicators for the LCD screen and viewfinder
Following indicators will appear on the LCD screen and viewfinder to indicate the state of your camcorder. Indicators and their on-screen/viewfinder positions vary depending on your camcorder model.
Example: Indicators in the CAMERA mode

Indicators

Meanings
Warning (p. 92) Manual exposure (p. 27)
Manual focus (p. 29) Back light (p. 27) PROGRAM AE (p. 43) Picture effect (p. 44) 16:9 WIDE/CINEMA/16:9 FULL (p. 47) ( ) SteadyShot off (p. 49)
Time code (p. 21)/Tape counter (p. 21)/Selfdiagnosis (p. 92)/Tape photo recording (p. 25)

60min STBY 0:00:00

y60min SP LP STBY REC
Remaining battery time (p. 21) Recording mode (p. 21) Recording standby/ recording mode Mirror mode (p. 24) Tape photo recording (p. 25) Format indicator Audio mode (p. 53) Remaining tape (p. 21) Interval recording (p. 55) Frame recording (p. 54) DV input (p. 67) Zero set memory (p. 39) Built-in light (p. 23) NightShot plus (p. 28)

Numerics

16:9 WIDE mode..48 21-pin adaptor..39
Data code (DATA CODE).. 36, 58 Date search. 40 Date/time.. 36 DEMO MODE. 57 Digital program editing (VIDEO EDIT). 67 Digital zoom (D ZOOM). 46 Digital8 system. 95 Direct Access to Click to DVD.. 79 DirectX 9.0c.. 76 Display DISPLAY. 59 Display indicator. 110 DNR.. 51 Dual sound track tape. 50 Dubbing.. 60 DV Interface.. 79
i.LINK. 97 i.LINK cable. 61, 67, 72, 79 ImageMixer VCD2. 74 InfoLITHIUM battery pack. 96 Infrared ray emitter.. 63, 68 Install.. 74 Interval recording (INT. REC).. 55
A/V connecting cable..38, 60, 61 AC Adaptor.15 Adjusting the viewfinder.16 AUDIO MIX..51 AUDIO MODE.53 AUTO DATE.56 AUTO SHTR.45 Auto shut off function (A.SHUT OFF).58
Language (LANGUAGE).. 19, 57 LCD back light (LCD B.L.).. 52 LCD brightness (LCD BRIGHT). 16 LCD COLOR.. 52 LCD screen.. 2 LP (Long Play) See Recording mode (REC MODE) LTR SIZE. 56
BACK LIGHT.27 Battery Battery Info..13 Battery pack.12 Remaining battery time.21, 96 BEEP..58 BLACK FADER.30 Built-in light..23 BURN DVD/VCD..79, 106 Button-type battery Remote Commander..108