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Canon ZR20 User Manual

Canon ZR20
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PUB.DIM-378 © CANON INC. 2001
0000A/ABXX DY8-9120-271-000
PRINTED IN JAPAN
IMPRIME AU JAPON
IMPRESO EN JAPÓN
CANON INC.
DIGITAL VIDEO CAMCORDER
Instruction Manual
CAMESCOPE ET LECTEUR VIDEO NUMERIQUES
Mode d’emploi
VIDEOCAMARA Y GRABADORA DIGITAL
Manual de Instrucciones
ENGLISH
FRANÇAIS
ESPAÑOL
Mini
Digital
Video
Cassette
NTSC
E
F
Es
Printed on 70% reused paper.
Document réalisé avec du papier recyclé à 70%.
El papel aqui utilizado es 70% reciclado.
PUB.DIM-378
PUB.DIM-378
0_ZR20_cover Print 3/12/01 13:48 Page 1

Table of Contents

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Canon ZR20 Specifications

General IconGeneral
TypeMiniDV
Recording MediaMiniDV tape
Optical Zoom20x
Digital Zoom400x
LCD Screen Size2.5 inches
Image Sensor Size1/6 inch
Image SensorCCD
ViewfinderColor
Focus SystemAuto/Manual
Exposure ControlAutomatic
MicrophoneStereo
BatteryLithium-ion
White BalanceAutomatic
Video Recording FormatDV
InterfaceUSB, FireWire
Video Resolution720x480 (NTSC)

Summary

Important Usage Instructions

Copyright Warning

Warning about unauthorized recording of copyrighted materials.

Risk of Fire or Electric Shock Warnings

Warnings about exposing the product to rain or moisture, and using recommended accessories.

Electrical Safety Precautions

Instructions to prevent electric shock by matching plug blades to slots.

Understanding Warning Symbols

Explains the meaning of lightning flash and exclamation point symbols.

Important Safety Instructions

General Safety and Usage Guidelines

Instructions for safe operation, handling, and environmental precautions.

Power and Electrical Safety

Guidance on power sources, polarization, and cord protection.

Antenna Grounding Safety

Information on grounding antennas for surge protection.

Important Safety Instructions (Continued)

Protection Against Electrical Hazards

Warnings about lightning, power lines, overloading, and object entry.

Servicing and Maintenance Safety

Instructions regarding servicing, replacement parts, and safety checks.

Welcome and Getting Started

Camcorder Accessories Included

Lists the accessories provided with the camcorder.

Manual Navigation Guide

Explains symbols and how to use the manual for quick reference.

Introducing the Canon ZR20

Design and Portability

Describes the camcorder's compact and stylish design for easy handling.

Zoom Capabilities

Details the 10x optical and 40x/200x digital zoom features.

Connectivity and Data Transfer

Explains the IEEE 1394 DV terminal for PC connection.

Key Features Overview

Highlights digital effects, still photos, audio dubbing, LCD screen, image stabilizer.

Camcorder Controls Overview

Top and Rear Controls

Identifies buttons and dials on the top and rear of the camcorder.

Bottom and Side Controls

Locates terminals, switches, and indicator lights on the bottom and side.

Camcorder Body and Components

Viewfinder and Accessory Mount

Details the viewfinder and accessory shoe locations.

Audio Output and Power Switch

Locates speaker, power switch, and strap attachment points.

Cassette Compartment

Identifies the cassette compartment and its cover.

Wireless Controller and Terminals

Wireless Controller Functions

Identifies buttons on the WL-D74 wireless controller and their functions.

Camcorder Connection Terminals

Details AV, MIC, S-video, and DV terminals on the camcorder.

Powering the Camcorder

Connecting to AC Power

Step-by-step guide to powering the camcorder using the AC adapter.

Battery Pack Management

Attaching the Battery Pack

Instructions for attaching the battery pack to the camcorder.

Charging the Battery Pack

Details the process of charging the battery pack using the power adapter.

Battery Pack and Adapter Details

Completing Battery Charging

Steps for disconnecting the adapter and removing the battery pack.

CA-560 Power Adapter Specifications

Technical specifications for the CA-560 power adapter.

Optional Power Sources

Charging via Car Battery

Using the CR-560 kit to charge batteries from a car's cigarette lighter.

Battery Charging Times

Table showing time required for full charge from car or household outlet.

Optional Power Sources (Continued)

Operating from Car Battery

Using the CR-560 kit to power the camcorder from a car battery.

Charging via Household Outlet

Using the CR-560 kit and CA-560 adapter to charge batteries from AC.

Cassette Handling

Loading and Unloading Cassettes

Step-by-step guide for inserting and removing a cassette.

Tape Protection and Handling

Preventing Accidental Erasure

How to use the SAVE/ERASE tab to protect recordings.

Cassette Handling Guidelines

Best practices for handling, storing, and cleaning cassettes.

Cassette Memory Function

Notes that this camcorder does not support cassette memory.

Performing Basic Recording

Recording Preparation Steps

Checklist before starting recording, including power and display settings.

Starting a Recording

Steps to turn on the camcorder and begin recording.

Basic Recording Procedures

Recording Modes and Controls

How to select programs and use the start/stop button for recording.

Finishing a Recording

Steps to take after completing recording, including powering off.

Recording Mode Selection

SP vs. LP Recording Modes

Explains standard play (SP) and long play (LP) modes and their limitations.

Special Recording Modes

Enabling Widescreen Recording

How to set the camcorder for 16:9 widescreen video output.

Managing Audio Beeps

How to turn confirmation and warning beeps on or off.

Using the Zoom Function

Optical Zoom Operation

How to use the 10x optical zoom control for framing shots.

Digital Zoom Settings

How to adjust and enable the 40x/200x digital zoom feature.

LCD Screen Operation

Opening and Closing the LCD Panel

How to open, close, and switch between LCD and viewfinder.

Adjusting LCD Screen Angle

How to rotate the LCD screen for comfortable viewing.

LCD Screen Adjustments and Information

Adjusting LCD Screen Brightness

How to change the brightness level of the LCD screen.

About the LCD Screen Technology

Information on the precision of the LCD and normal pixel variations.

Subject Monitoring Features

Mirror Mode for Subject Viewing

How to use the LCD panel to let subjects monitor their own recording.

Playing Back Recorded Tapes

Basic Playback Operation

Steps to play back recordings using the LCD screen or viewfinder.

Advanced Playback Modes

Basic Playback Controls

Using pause, fast forward, and rewind during playback.

Special Playback Features

How to use frame advance, reverse, and slow playback.

Additional Playback Modes

Extended Playback Options

Details on slow reverse, reverse, and x2 playback modes.

Audio Playback Options

Using the Built-in Speaker

How to adjust speaker volume and its limitations.

Using Headphones for Monitoring

Connecting and using headphones for audio monitoring.

Connecting for TV Playback

Setting AV/Headphone Terminal

How to switch the terminal for AV or headphone output.

Connecting Headphones for Playback

Steps to use headphones for monitoring audio during playback.

Connecting with S-Video Cable

S-Video Connection for Playback

How to connect to a TV/VCR using S-video for improved picture quality.

Connecting with Standard AV Cables

AV Cable Connection for Playback

How to connect using standard AV cables for audio and video playback.

Tips for Better Video Production

Stabilizing the Camcorder

Techniques for holding the camcorder for maximum stability.

Using a Tripod for Stability

Guidelines for mounting and using a tripod with the camcorder.

Video Composition Principles

Advice on framing subjects and avoiding distracting elements.

Video Shooting Techniques

Choosing Picture Angles

Using long, medium, and close-up shots effectively.

Camcorder Movement Techniques

How to use panning and tilting for dynamic shots.

Image Stabilizer Adjustment

Disabling the Image Stabilizer

How to turn off the image stabilizer for specific situations.

Navigating Camcorder Menus

Main Menu Structure

Overview of the CAM. MENU and VCR MENU.

Camera Setup Submenu Options

Details on shutter speed, digital zoom, image stabilizer, etc.

VCR Setup Submenu Options

Details on record mode, wind screen, audio mode, etc.

Camcorder Menu Settings

Display Setup Options

Settings for brightness, mirror mode, TV screen, and date/time display.

System Settings

Options for wireless controller, beep, time zone, and date/time.

VCR Setup Submenu Details

Further options within VCR setup like output channel and audio mode.

Menu Operation Guide

Step-by-Step Menu Navigation

How to open, navigate, and select options within the camcorder menus.

Menu Navigation Procedures

Finalizing Menu Selections

How to set functions, return to submenus, and close menus.

Wireless Controller Operation

Inserting Batteries into Controller

How to properly insert batteries into the wireless controller.

Wireless Controller Usage Notes

Tips on effective range, close range issues, and environmental factors.

Wireless Remote Sensor Modes

Managing Remote Sensor Modes

How to set remote sensor modes for compatibility or turn it off.

Wireless Controller Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Controller Issues

Steps to resolve problems with the wireless controller not working.

Date, Time, and Time Zone Settings

Setting Time Zone and Daylight Saving

How to select the correct time zone and DST for accurate date/time recording.

Time Zone Reference

Global Time Zone Chart

List of time zones and corresponding numbers for camcorder settings.

Setting the Camcorder Clock

Adjusting Date, Time, and Year

Step-by-step guide to setting the camcorder's internal clock.

Controlling Date/Time Display

How to enable or disable the date and time display during recording.

Capturing Still Pictures

Taking Still Photos During Recording

How to take still pictures while actively recording video.

Taking Still Photos in Pause Mode

How to take still pictures when the camcorder is in record pause mode.

Still Picture Capture Details

Focus and Exposure for Still Photos

Notes on focus lock, manual focus, and exposure for still pictures.

Optional Still Image Recording

Using the FR-100 Recorder

How to connect and use the FR-100 to save still images to floppy disk.

Tape Navigation During Recording

Using Record Search

How to find points on tape to resume recording or add scenes.

Using Record Review

How to quickly review the last few seconds of recording before continuing.

Recording Program Modes

Overview of Recording Programs

Explains the 7 available recording programs and their uses.

Function Availability by Program

Chart showing which functions are available in each program mode.

Program AE Mode Settings

Selecting Program AE Modes

How to choose and activate specific automatic exposure (AE) programs.

Specific Recording Programs

Easy Recording Mode

Simple point-and-shoot operation mode.

Auto and Sports Recording

Using Auto mode and the Sports program for specific conditions.

Portrait Recording Mode

Using Portrait mode for softened backgrounds and close-ups.

Specialized Recording Programs

Spotlight, Sand & Snow Modes

Using Spotlight for stage scenes and Sand & Snow for bright backgrounds.

Low Light Recording Mode

Using Low Light mode for dim environments and its limitations.

Applying Digital Effects

Overview of Digital Effects

Introduces faders and other effects for enhancing productions.

Digital Effects Availability

Chart showing where faders and effects can be used.

Using Fader Effects

Fade Trigger and Wipes

How to use Fade Trigger, Vertical Wipe, and Horizontal Wipe effects.

Mosaic Fade Effect

Using the Mosaic Fade effect for blurring images.

Using Image Enhancement Effects

Art, Sepia, and Black & White Effects

Applying Art, Sepia, and Black & White image filters.

Mosaic Image Effect

Using the Mosaic effect to blur images.

Operating Faders

Selecting and Applying Faders

Steps to select and apply fader effects like Fade-T, WIPE.

Activating/Deactivating Faders

How to turn faders on or off using the ON/OFF button.

Operating Image Effects

Selecting and Applying Effects

Steps to select and apply effects like ART, SEPIA, MOSAIC.

Fading In/Out with Effects

How to fade in/out scenes when using effects in CAMERA or PLAY mode.

Audio Recording Modes

Selecting Audio Recording Mode

Choosing between 16-bit and 12-bit audio modes for recording.

Connecting an External Microphone

How to connect an external microphone for enhanced audio input.

Wind Screen Function

Using the Automatic Wind Screen

How to turn the wind screen on/off to reduce wind noise.

Using the Self-Timer

Self-Timer for Movies

How to use the self-timer for recording video with yourself in the shot.

Self-Timer for Still Photos

How to use the self-timer when taking still pictures.

Self-Timer Operation Notes

Cancelling the Self-Timer

How to cancel the self-timer before or after countdown begins.

Automatic Exposure (AE) Shift

Adjusting Exposure Levels

How to use AE Shift to lighten or darken the image.

Shutter Speed Settings

Manual Shutter Speed Adjustment

How to manually set shutter speed for clear shots of moving subjects.

Shutter Speed Guidelines

High Shutter Speed Precautions

Warnings about shooting the sun with high shutter speeds.

Recommended Shutter Speeds

Suggestions for shutter speeds based on shooting scenarios.

Manual Focus Adjustment

Using Focus Lock

How to turn off autofocus and lock focus at a specific point.

Manual Focus Operation

How to manually adjust focus using the selector dial.

White Balance Settings

Auto and Preset White Balance

How to use auto, indoor, and outdoor presets for white balance.

Manual White Balance Setting

How to manually set white balance using a white reference object.

Manual White Balance Scenarios

When Manual White Balance is Recommended

Situations where manual white balance yields better results.

White Balance Notes and Settings

Tips on setting white balance and its behavior.

Data Code Display Options

Displaying Date, Time, and Camera Data

How to display or hide data codes containing recording information.

Selecting Date/Time Display Format

Choosing whether to show date, time, or both in the data code.

Configuring Data Code Settings

Setting Data Code Content

Choosing data code types: date/time, camera data, or both.

Data Code Display Notes

Explains situations where data codes may not display correctly.

Six-Second Auto Date Feature

Enabling Six-Second Auto Date

How to activate the automatic date marker for day changes.

Tape Searching Functions

Photo and Date Search Operation

How to quickly search for still pictures or specific recording dates.

Tape Search Notes and Limitations

Important notes and limitations regarding photo/date search.

Tape Positioning Features

Using Zero Set Memory

How to mark a point and return to it later during playback or recording.

Editing Recordings to a VCR

VCR Editing Preparations

Steps to connect and prepare the camcorder and VCR for editing.

Performing VCR Editing

How to copy scenes from the camcorder to a VCR.

LANC Terminal Information

Details about the LANC terminal for connecting editing equipment.

Digital Dubbing Procedures

Digital Dubbing Preparations

Steps for connecting camcorder and digital device for dubbing.

Digital Dubbing Operations

Performing Digital Dubbing

How to copy recordings digitally between devices.

Understanding Copyright Signals

Information on copyright protection and its effects on playback/dubbing.

Analog Line-in Recording

Analog Line-in Preparations

Steps to connect camcorder to VCR/TV for analog recording.

Analog Dubbing Operations

Performing Analog Dubbing

How to copy recordings via analog line-in.

AV Insert Editing

Performing AV Insert Editing

How to insert new scenes into pre-recorded tapes.

AV Insert Editing Preparations

Tape Requirements for AV Insert

Guidelines for tape compatibility (SP mode, no gaps) for AV insert.

Recording from a VCR Example

Specific steps for recording from a VCR for AV insert.

AV Insert Editing Steps

Executing AV Insert Editing

Detailed steps for inserting scenes using the AV INSERT button.

Audio Dubbing Operations

Connecting Audio Equipment

How to connect external audio devices for dubbing.

Audio Dubbing Notes

Important notes regarding video terminals and sound monitoring.

Audio Dubbing Procedures

Audio Dubbing Preparations

Steps to prepare the camcorder for audio dubbing.

Performing Audio Dubbing

How to select audio input and start the dubbing process.

Audio Dubbing Steps and Notes

Completing Audio Dubbing

How to stop audio dubbing and manage zero set memory.

Audio Dubbing Considerations

Notes on DV terminal usage, audio mix, and sound quality.

Adjusting Audio Mix

Choosing Audio Output Mix

How to set audio output to STEREO1, STEREO2, MIX/FIXED, or MIX/VARI.

Selecting Audio Output Channels

Configuring Multi-Channel Audio Output

How to select output channels for tapes with multiple audio tracks.

Connecting to a Personal Computer

PC Connection via DV Cable

How to connect the camcorder to a PC using a DV cable for image transfer.

Camcorder Preparation Steps

Adjusting the Viewfinder

How to adjust the viewfinder for comfortable viewing.

Preparing the Lens Cap

How to attach the lens cap cord and grip belt.

Fastening the Grip Belt

How to adjust the grip belt for comfortable handling.

Camcorder Attachment Accessories

Attaching the Shoulder Strap

How to attach and adjust the shoulder strap for portability.

Battery Usage Information

Battery Charging and Recording Times

Times for recharge and max recording for battery packs.

Playback Time with LCD

Estimates for playback time using the LCD with charged batteries.

Battery Power Management

Checking Battery Power Level

How to interpret the battery indicator and low battery warnings.

Recharging and Battery Care

Notes on recharging convenience and battery terminal care.

Backup Battery Installation and Safety

Installing the Backup Battery

How to insert the CR2025 backup battery for memory settings.

Battery Safety Precautions

Critical safety warnings regarding battery handling, heat, and disposal.

Camcorder Maintenance and Cautions

Environmental Cautions

Warnings about temperature, humidity, and light sources.

Handling and Usage Cautions

Precautions regarding magnetic fields, water, lens care, and disassembly.

Camcorder Storage and Maintenance

Proper Camcorder Storage

Guidelines for storing the camcorder in a dust-free, dry environment.

Cleaning Camcorder Components

Instructions for cleaning the viewfinder, LCD screen, and body/lens.

Camcorder Maintenance and Usage Abroad

Cleaning Video Heads

How to clean video heads to resolve playback issues like noise.

Using the Camcorder Overseas

Info on power sources and NTSC TV system compatibility for international use.

Condensation Management

Understanding Condensation Issues

Explains how condensation forms and its potential problems.

Protecting Against Condensation

Steps to take before moving the camcorder to warm/humid environments.

Responding to Condensation Warnings

What to do when the camcorder detects condensation.

Troubleshooting Recording and Playback

Addressing Recording/Playback Issues

Checklist for common problems like no power, auto shut-off, or button issues.

Troubleshooting Display and Focus Problems

Solutions for display issues (no picture, blue screen) and focus problems.

Troubleshooting Recording/Playback (Cont.)

Resolving Digital Effects and Playback Issues

Tips for when digital effects don't work or the play button is unresponsive.

Addressing Picture and TV Display Issues

Solutions for screen stripes, rough playback, and no TV picture.

Troubleshooting Miscellaneous Issues

Addressing Controller and Power Issues

Troubleshooting for wireless controller and power indicator problems.

Resolving Camcorder Malfunctions

Solutions for general malfunctions, DV cable issues, and heat.

Audio Playback Troubleshooting

Solutions for no sound from the speaker during playback.

ZR20 System Overview

Camcorder and Core Accessories

Diagram showing camcorder, battery packs, power adapter, controller, and cassette.

Connectivity and Peripherals

Diagram showing connections to TV, VCR, PC, and external devices.

Optional Accessories Available

Additional Battery Packs

Information on BP-500 series battery packs for extended use.

Power and Charging Accessories

Details on the CR-560 kit for car power and charging.

Lens Converters

Information on TL-30.5 Tele-converter and WD-30.5 Wide-converter lenses.

Additional Optional Accessories

Filter Sets and Video Lights

Details on FS-30.5U filter set and VL-10Li video light.

Remote Control and Straps

Information on the Zoom Remote Controller and Wrist Strap.

Camcorder Cases and Accessories List

Soft Carrying Cases

Descriptions of SC-1000 and SC-A50 soft carrying cases.

FR-100 Still Image Recorder

Details on the FR-100 for saving still images to floppy disk.

Canon Accessory Identification

Info on the Canon Genuine Video Accessories mark and accessory part numbers.

Screen Display Management

Displaying Information on TV

How to use the TV SCREEN button or menu to display info on TV.

Turning Off LCD Screen Displays

How to disable on-screen displays for a clear playback screen.

Time Code and Recording Reminders

Understanding Time Code

Explains how time code records counter information on tape.

Recording Reminder Feature

Explains the camcorder's countdown and shot length recommendations.

Camcorder Caution Phrases

Understanding Caution Messages

Explains common caution phrases like "REMOVE THE CASSETTE" or "COPYRIGHT PROTECTED".

Video Head Caution

Addressing "Heads Dirty" Warning

Explains the "HEADS DIRTY" warning and the need for cleaning.

Technical Specifications

ZR20 Camcorder Specifications

Detailed technical specs for the ZR20 camcorder.

BP-512 Battery Pack Specifications

Technical specifications for the BP-512 battery pack.

Canon USA Limited Warranty

Warranty Coverage and Limitations

Details the warranty period, what's covered, and exclusions.

Obtaining Warranty Service

Instructions on how to contact Canon and submit for service.

Canon Canada Limited Warranty

Canadian Warranty Terms

Warranty coverage and limitations for Canon equipment purchased in Canada.

Obtaining Canadian Warranty Service

Instructions for obtaining warranty service in Canada.

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