This document is a service manual for a range of Panasonic DVD Video Camcorders, specifically models VDR-D300GC, VDR-D300GCS, VDR-D300SG, VDR-D300GN, VDR-D300EE, VDR-D308GK, VDR-D250GC, VDR-D250GCS, VDR-D250SG, VDR-D250GN, VDR-D250EE, and VDR-D258GK. The manual, identified by Order No. VM0606501SE, was published in 2006 by Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. and emphasizes that unauthorized copying and distribution are prohibited.
Function Description:
The primary function of these devices is to record video onto DVDs, hence the "DVD Video Camcorder" designation. The manual focuses on a specific service procedure: writing "Menu data" to the EEPROM, which is a crucial step when the Sub P.C.B. (Printed Circuit Board) is replaced. This process ensures that the camcorder's menu settings and other essential configuration data are correctly installed after a hardware repair or replacement. The overall purpose of the service manual is to guide technicians through this specific maintenance task, enabling the camcorder to function correctly post-repair.
Usage Features (for service/maintenance):
The manual outlines a detailed, step-by-step procedure for writing data to the EEPROM, which involves several key usage features for service personnel:
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Preparation:
- USB-SERIAL Driver Installation: The first step requires installing a USB-SERIAL driver by executing "Setup.exe" from the "ComMass" folder. This driver facilitates communication between the service PC and the camcorder.
- Media Removal: Before starting, any inserted Disc or SD Card must be removed from the camcorder to prevent interference or data corruption during the service procedure.
- Power Source: The camcorder must be powered by an AC Adaptor, ensuring stable power throughout the process.
- Mode Selection: The camcorder needs to be set to "[CARD RECORDING]" mode initially.
- USB Connection Precaution: It is explicitly stated not to connect the DVD-CAM to the PC using a USB cable at this initial stage.
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Entering Service Adjustment Mode ("COM" Mode):
- This is a critical step that involves a specific button combination: simultaneously pushing the "[DELETE]" and "[RECORDING START/STOP]" buttons while also pushing the "[JOYSTICK CONTROL]" upward for more than 3 seconds.
- Successful entry into this mode is indicated by "COM" being displayed on the camcorder's LCD.
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PC Connection and Software Operation:
- Once in "COM" mode, the PC and DVD-Camcorder are connected as shown in a diagram (Fig.2, not fully visible but implied).
- PC Power: The PC must be turned "ON."
- Software Download and Installation: Technicians need to download the "TATSUJIN software" for the DVD-Camcorder from the TSN-web and install it on their PC. The manual notes the executable file name format as "****.exe," with "D300.exe" being specified for VDR-D250/258/300/308 series models.
- Software Execution: The downloaded software is then launched by double-clicking the latest "****.exe" file.
- Model Selection: From the software's main menu (Fig.3), the desired camcorder model must be selected.
- Initiating Process: After model selection, the "Start" button (Fig.3) is clicked.
- Warning Acknowledgment: The manual notes that a warning may be displayed (Fig.4), but it's acceptable to proceed by clicking "OK."
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Writing Menu Data to EEPROM:
- Once the PC and camcorder are in service adjust mode, a dialog appears. For the D300.exe case (VDR-D250/258/300/308 series), "Next" (Fig.5) is clicked.
- File Selection: The "File" menu option (Fig.6) is selected.
- Write Menu Data Option: The "Write Menu data" option (Fig.7) is chosen.
- Data File Selection: A specific file, identified by including "[0000]" characters (Fig.8), must be selected. This file likely contains the default or model-specific menu configuration data.
- Writing Process: The data writing process to the EEPROM begins, and a dialog appears (Fig.9). The technician confirms by clicking "OK."
Maintenance Features:
The core of this manual is a maintenance feature: the procedure for writing "Menu data" to the EEPROM. This is essential for:
- Sub P.C.B. Replacement: The primary trigger for this procedure is the replacement of the Sub P.C.B. Without writing the correct menu data, the camcorder would likely not function correctly or display the appropriate menu options for its specific model and region.
- TATSUJIN Adjustments: The manual explicitly states that "Please write the 'Write Menu data' to EEPROM before performing the TATSUJIN adjustments." This indicates that the EEPROM data writing is a prerequisite for other, potentially more complex, calibration and adjustment procedures (TATSUJIN adjustments) that ensure the camcorder's optimal performance.
- Post-Procedure Restart: After the data is written, the "DVD-Camcorder" must be restarted to ensure the "Write Menu data" is completely installed and activated.
- Exiting Service Mode: To release the PC connection (COM) mode and return the camcorder to normal operation, a specific button combination is required: pushing the "[DELETE]," "[RECORDING START/STOP]," and "[JOYSTICK CONTROL UP]" buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds, without the USB cable connected. This ensures a clean exit from the service mode.
Important Technical Specifications (implied):
While explicit technical specifications like resolution or storage capacity are not provided in this service manual excerpt, several technical aspects are implied:
- EEPROM: The presence and importance of an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) are central. This non-volatile memory stores critical configuration data, including menu settings, which persist even when the device is powered off.
- Sub P.C.B.: The reference to "Sub P.C.B. Replacement" highlights the modular design of the camcorder's internal electronics. The Sub P.C.B. likely contains components related to control, processing, or specific functionalities that necessitate a data rewrite upon replacement.
- USB-SERIAL Interface: The requirement for a USB-SERIAL driver indicates that the camcorder uses a serial communication protocol over a USB physical layer for service and diagnostic purposes. This allows a PC to interface with the camcorder's internal systems.
- TATSUJIN Software: This proprietary software is a key technical tool for servicing these camcorders. It provides the interface and logic for performing adjustments and data writes, suggesting a sophisticated diagnostic and calibration system.
- Model Specificity: The manual clearly distinguishes between different camcorder models (VDR-D300 series and VDR-D250 series) and their corresponding software versions (e.g., D300.exe). This implies that while the procedure is similar, the data files and possibly some software behaviors are tailored to specific hardware configurations.
- Firmware/Configuration Data: The "Menu data" itself is a form of configuration data or firmware segment that dictates how the camcorder's user interface and possibly some underlying functions operate.
In summary, this service manual provides a critical maintenance procedure for Panasonic DVD Video Camcorders, focusing on the correct installation of menu data into the EEPROM after a Sub P.C.B. replacement. It details the necessary steps, software tools, and camcorder interactions required for technicians to ensure the device's proper functionality post-repair.
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