Important Usage Instructions WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL. WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS PRODUCT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
Operating Steps and Reference Guide Your camcorder is supplied with two manuals: the “Digital Video Camcorder XM2 Instruction Manual” and the “Digital Video Solution Disk Instruction Manual”. Digital Video Camcorder XM2 Instruction Manual Preparations Recording Playback Editing Using the Memory Card...
Using the Custom Preset ......81 Using the Zebra Pattern ......83 Preparations Recording PC Screens and Other Screens Finding Your Way Around the XM2 ....8 Using CLEAR SCAN........84 Preparing the Camcorder ......12 Recording the Display Information....84 Powering the Camcorder ......
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Preventing Accidental Erasure (Protect)..122 Maintenance ..........137 Marking a Still Image for Printing Troubleshooting ........141 (Print Mark)..........123 The XM2 System Diagram ......145 Erasing Still Images ........125 Optional Accessories ........ 146 Combining Images and Recording Them Screen Displays ........148 onto a Tape (Title Mix) ......
Thank You For Choosing a Canon First, we’d like to thank you for purchasing this Your camcorder is supplied with the following Canon camcorder. Its advanced technology accessories: makes it very easy to use — you will soon be Lens Hood...
IEEE 1394 DV Terminal Technology The DV terminal allows high- quality transfer with virtually no The Canon XM2 has three CCDs, delivering deterioration in quality of images. outstanding picture quality, highly accurate You can edit and process images colour reproduction and a wide dynamic range by connecting the camcorder to a with virtually no colour noise.
1. Remove the lens cap. • When you purchase the XM2, the lens cap cord is attached to the middle of the Velcro grip belt. Open the Velcro and slide the lens cap cord to the position as shown in the illustration.
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Adjusting the Grip Belt • Adjust the length of the grip belt strap so that you can operate the start/stop button and zoom control effectively. Attaching the Shoulder Strap • For extra security and portability, attach the shoulder strap before using the camcorder. •...
Powering the Camcorder Before operating your camcorder, you will need to use the power adapter to: provide power from a household power socket charge a battery pack Notes: • The power adapter converts current from a household power socket (100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz) to the DC current used by your camcorder.
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Charging and Attaching the Battery Pack Your battery pack was partially charged before it left the factory. It should have enough power for you to check that your camcorder is working properly. However, you must charge the battery pack fully if you want it to power the camcorder for more than a few minutes. 1.
Loading a Cassette Use only videocassettes marked with the DV logo.* F IR S H IS S E T C L O * D logo is a trademark. Loading and Unloading 1. Attach a power source. 2. Slide the OPEN/EJECT button and release the cassette compartment cover. •...
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Protecting Tapes from Accidental Erasure SAVE SAVE To protect your recording from accidental erasure, slide the tab on the cassette so that it exposes the hole. (This switch position is usually labelled SAVE or ERASE OFF.) If you load this cassette and put the camcorder in record pause mode ( 33), “THE TAPE IS SET FOR ERASURE PREVENTION”...
Using the Menus Many of the camcorder’s 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 CAM.
Selecting From the Menus 2, 11 MENU SCREEN 3-10 1. Slide 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 depending on the settings of the POWER switch and TAPE/CARD switch.
List of Menus Turn to the appropriate page for a detailed explanation of each function. 2 CAM. MENU CAMERA TAPE Set the POWER switch to and the TAPE/CARD switch to There are 7 submenus within the CAM. MENU. 1 Camera Set Up Submenu CAM.
7 Title Mix Submenu $5 Selecting a Title ........TITLE MIX SEL. SETSET $6 Creating a Title ........MENUCLOSE TITLE SELECT $7 Return CREATE TITLE RETURN 2 VCR MENU Set the POWER switch to PLAY and the TAPE/CARD switch to TAPE (VCR) There are 4 submenus within the VCR MENU.
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3 System Submenu !8 Wireless Controller......... SYSTEM SEL. SETSET !9 Tally Lamp..........MENUCLOSE ••• WL. REMOTE @0 Beep ............TALLY LAMP •• •••••••• BEEP @1 Time Zone/Daylight Saving Time .... •• T. ZONE/DST ––– D/TIME SET •• ––. –––. –––– @2 Setting Date and Time ......
2 Custom Preset Submenu o Colour Gain ........... CSTM PRESET SEL. SETSET !0 Colour Phase ......... MENUCLOSE •• – COLOR GAIN !1 Sharpness ..........COLOR PHASE • ••• – SHARPNESS !2 Setup Level ..........• – SETUP LEVEL RETURN !3 Return 3 Card Set Up Submenu !4 Image Quality ........
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6 Custom Key Submenu #2 Custom Key ........... CUSTOM KEY SEL. SETSET #3 Return MENUCLOSE CUSTOM KEY•ZEBRA RETURN 2 C. PLAY MENU PLAY Set the POWER switch to and the TAPE/CARD switch to CARD (VCR) There are 5 submenus within the C. PLAY MENU. 1 Card Operation Submenu C.
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2 VCR Set Up Submenu !0 Recording Mode ........VCR SET UP SEL. SETSET !1 Return MENUCLOSE •••• REC MODE RETURN 3 Display Set Up Submenu !2 LCD Brightness ........DISP. SET UP SEL. SETSET !3 Viewfinder Brightness ......MENUCLOSE LCD BRIGHT ••...
Using the Wireless Controller/Tally Lamp The supplied wireless controller can operate the camcorder from a distance of up to 5 m (16 feet). Point it at the camcorder’s remote sensor while you press the buttons. The tally lamp lights up to let you know that the camcorder is in range and responding to your commands.
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When Operating 2 Canon DV Camcorders (Remote Sensor Mode) To prevent interference from other Canon wireless controllers ZOOM being used nearby, there are 2 remote sensor modes and an off setting. The wireless controller and the camcorder have to be set to the same mode in order to be compatible.
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Turning Off the Tally Lamp The tally lamp lets you know that the camcorder is recording. However, its flashing may be reflected into the lens during close-up recording, or when recording through glass. You may therefore decide to turn it off. PLAY PLAY TAPE...
Setting the Date and Time The date and/ time display forms part of the data code. You can choose to display or hide it during playback ( 88). Set the date and time display when you first start using your camcorder. Install the backup battery before you begin ( 136).
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14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 1 10 11 12 13 Time zone Time zone WELLGTN (Wellington) LONDON SAMOA PARIS HONOLU. (Honolulu) CAIRO ANCHOR. (Anchorage) MOSCOW L.A. (Los Angeles) DUBAI DENVER KARACHI CHICAGO DACCA N.Y. (New York) BANGKOK CARACAS H.
Setting the Clock After you set the date and time, the date/time and home time zone will be displayed for about 4 seconds each time you turn the power on (in TAPE CAMERA and CARD CAMERA mode). PLAY PLAY TAPE CAMERA TAPE CARD...
Basic Recording STANDBY LOCK CARD TAPE START STOP STANDBY LOCK Before You Start Recording • Attach a power source ( 14). • Load a cassette ( 16). • Fasten the grip belt ( 13). • Attach the lens hood ( 12).
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• To check that the camcorder is recording correctly, make a test recording first. • Before making important recordings, clean the video heads using a Canon DVM-CL Digital Video Head Cleaning Cassette or a commercially available digital video head cleaning cassette.
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Changing the Recording Mode (SP/LP) You can record and play back a tape in SP (standard play) and LP (long play) modes. LP extends the tape usage by 1.5 times. You cannot add sound (audio dubbing) or images (AV insert) to a tape that has been recorded in LP mode.
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The 16:9 guides allows you to view the 16:9 wide screen composition while in the standard 4:3 aspect ratio. The 16:9 guides will not be superimposed on your recordings. PLAY TAPE CAMERA TAPE (VCR) DISP.SET UP 16:9GUIDES•• OFF 1. Open the menu and select DISP. SET UP. 2.
Confirmation/Warning beeps ` in the illustrations. Beeps The camcorder’s short operation confirmation beeps are indicated by sound upon certain camcorder operations such as when you turn the camcorder on, during the self-timer countdown, right before the camcorder’s automatic shut-off, and also upon any unusual condition of the camcorder.
Tips for Making Better Videos Holding the Camcorder For maximum stability, grip the camcorder in your right hand and keep your right elbow pressed against your body. If necessary support the camcorder with your left hand. With practice, you will be able to operate the controls by touch, without taking your eye off the action.
Composition The most important element in the scene does not necessarily have to be centred. For a more interesting picture, try to position your subject slightly to one side. Leave some space on the side of the frame that the subject is facing or moving towards.
Zooming Zoom in ZOOM Zoom out This camcorder is equipped with 20 optical zoom and 100 digital zoom. Optical zoom and digital zoom can be operated from either the side grip, the camcorder handle or the wireless controller. Digital zoom cannot be used in CARD CAMERA mode. 20 Optical Zoom Press the zoom control towards W to zoom out to wide-angle.
Using the LCD Screen Opening the LCD Screen Push the LCD panel OPEN button and open the panel by pulling it away from the camcorder. This automatically switches the LCD screen on and the viewfinder off. When you close the LCD panel, the LCD screen automatically switches off and the viewfinder switches back on.
Adjusting the Brightness of the Display You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen and the viewfinder independently. PLAY PLAY TAPE CAMERA TAPE CARD CAMERA CARD (VCR) (VCR) – DISP. SET UP LCD BRIGHT•• EVF BRIGHT•• – 1. Open the menu and select DISP. SET UP. 2.
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To turn the mirror mode off, open the menu and select DISP.SET UP. Then select MIRROR, set it to OFF and close the menu. LCD MIRROR ON: The picture appears reversed like in a mirror. LCD MIRROR OFF: The picture appears the same as the recording. If you turn the LCD MIRROR ON, the recording itself is unaffected.
With most camcorders, even the slightest hand movements will be noticeable during telephoto recording. However, the XM2’s Optical Image Stabilizer allows you to obtain steady recordings even at high magnification. Unlike electronic image stabilizers, it causes no loss of picture quality. The Optical Image Stabilizer can compensate for a wide range of camcorder movement —...
Using the ND Filter ND FILTER ON/OFF On bright days or when recording very bright scenes, despite the iris being at its smallest aperture, blurring of the image may occur. If this happens, using the ND filter should remove this problem. Turn the ND filter on by pressing the ND FILTER ON/OFF button.
Recording Still Images onto a Tape For recording still images on a memory card, see p. 116. PHOTO You can record still images like photographs. The camcorder records the picture and sound to tape for several seconds. The exposure is automatically adjusted. Starting your shooting with a still image makes it easy to find the beginning again later with the Photo Search function ( 91).
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2. Press the PHOTO button fully down to take the still image • The camcorder takes the image immediately, and then records the “photo” to the tape for approximately 6 seconds. During this time the camcorder also records the sound, and the display shows the still image.
Selecting the Movie Mode (Normal/Frame) The frame mode can be used when you wish to look at a video, scene by scene, free from field slippage (the “flicker” that normally occurs when you pause a video). The vertical resolution of the image is improved by 1.5 .
Searching and Reviewing While Recording Record Search When the camcorder is in record pause mode, you can use record search to play the tape REC SEARCH forwards or backwards to find the point where you wish to start or restart recording. This is useful when you wish to add a new scene to a previously used cassette.
Using the Various Recording Programs The camcorder provides you with a choice of seven recording programs. They use different combinations of camcorder settings in order to adjust the exposure and other functions to match the recording situation. Availability of Functions in Each Recording Program Easy Recording Program Auto...
Setting the Program AE Mode TAPE CAMERA CARD CAMERA 1. Slide the program selector to Q (program AE) mode. 2. Press the SELECT dial in and display the program menu. 3. Pull the SELECT dial up or down and move the arrow up or down the menu. 4.
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• The image may not appear smooth when a high shutter speed is set. Notes: • When recording in extreme low-light conditions, we recommend the use of a Canon Speedlite 66) or Video Light ( 71), both available as optional accessory.
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Manual ( Select this program for total creative freedom when operating the camcorder. You MANUAL can set aperture, shutter speed and gain independently to give you exactly the exposure you require. You can select between 30 shutter speed settings (1/6 to 1/16000), 19 aperture values (f/1.6 to f/8.0) and 4 gain values (0dB to +18dB) in TAPE CAMERA mode.
Audio Recording Selecting the Audio Mode The XM2 can record sound in two audio modes: • 16-bit (48 kHz, 2 channel) for the highest sound quality • 12-bit (32 kHz, 2 from 4 channels) for recording on two channels (stereo 1), leaving two channels (stereo 2) free for you to add new sound at a later date.
Adjusting the Audio Recording Level The camcorder sets the audio recording level automatically when the REC LEVEL switch is set to A. However, you can manually adjust the recoding level of the built-in microphone or an external microphone connected via the MIC terminal or advanced accessory shoe (including microphones connected via the optional MA-300 Microphone Adapter).
Using the Custom Key You can assign frequently used functions to the custom key (independently for TAPE CAMERA mode, TAPE PLAY (VCR) mode, CARD CAMERA mode and CARD PLAY (VCR) mode). This allows you to customize the camcoder to your recording situations. Default settings: TAPE CAMERA mode: INDEX WRITE...
Operating the CSTM KEY Button • A function assigned to a custom key is referred to as a button of that effect (e.g. “INDEX WRITE” button). TAPE CAMERA Index Write You can add an index signal to your recording for easy search in VCR mode. •...
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TV Screen PLAY PLAY TAPE CAMERA TAPE CARD CAMERA CARD (VCR) (VCR) You can display the information on the LCD screen/viewfinder on a connected TV. Press the “TV SCREEN” button to display the information on the TV screen. Press the button again to cancel.
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PLAY Audio Level Indicator TAPE CAMERA TAPE (VCR) Press the “AUDIO LEVEL” button to display the audio level indicator on the LCD screen/viewfinder. Press the button again to cancel. TAPE CAMERA CARD CAMERA AE Shift • Only available when the recording program is set to AUTO, Tv or Av. Press the “AE SHIFT”...
Using Digital Effects Show your creativity by using the special effects and digital faders. These digital effects and faders can add visual appeal and greater imaging variety. Faders: Start or end scenes on a tape with a fade to or from black ( 60).
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Overlap The camcorder retains the last recorded scene as a still image before entering the record pause mode. When you start recording, the still image gradually changes to the scene you are recording. Operating the Fade Trigger Sound and image fade together. When operating faders in TAPE CAMERA mode, make sure the program selector is set to Q.
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Operating Wipe and Overlap When operating faders in TAPE CAMERA mode, make sure the program selector is set to Q. TAPE CAMERA FADER FADER••••••• OVERLAP 1. Press the D.EFFECTS/BARS SELECT button. • The digital effects menu appears. 2. Select FADER and press the SELECT dial in. •...
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Effects Black and White (BLK & WHT) The image becomes black and white. Sepia The image becomes monochrome with a brownish tint. The image becomes like a paint (solarization). Mirror Creates a symmetrical image as if there would be a mirror in the middle of the screen.
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Operating the Effects TAPE CAMERA EFFECT EFFECT•••••••BLK&WHT 1. Press the D.EFFECTS/BARS SELECT button. • The digital effects menu appears. 2. Select EFFECT and press the SELECT dial in. • The settings appear. 3. Select the effect setting and press the D.EFFECTS/BARS SELECT button. •...
Using the Colour Bars You can display and record industry standard SMPTE colour bars. Activating the Colour Bars TAPE CAMERA COLOR BARS 1. Press the D. EFFECTS/BARS SELECT button. • The digital effects menu appears. 2. Select COLOR BARS and press the SELECT dial in. •...
• Off-Camera Shoe and Connecting Cord for EOS models cannot be used with the XM2. • The bounce flash on the 420EX and 550EX Speedlites cannot be used with the XM2. • The 420EX/550EX’s multiple Speedlite control and the Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2 cannot be used with the XM2.
Recording with the Interval Timer With the interval timer, you can record images over a selected time with a selected interval. This function is useful when shooting flowers, animals, and other natural events. You can select an interval of 30 seconds, 1 minute, 5 minutes or 10 minutes, and a recording time of 0.5 seconds, 1 second, 1.5 seconds, or 2 seconds.
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Pausing the Interval Recording Press the Start/Stop button. • The camcorder returns to record pause mode and INT T. flashes in the display. • Press the Start/Stop button again to restart recording. Ending the Interval Recording Set the camcorder to record pause mode and set INTERVAL T to OFF in the interval menu.
Recording with the Self-Timer For stills START /STOP PHOTO SELF MENU TIMER For movies STANDBY LOCK MENU This is useful when you wish to include yourself in the picture when recording movies or still images to tape or memory card. TAPE CAMERA CARD...
Using the DV Control When another device such as a camcorder or a video recording device is connected to the XM2 via a DV cable, you can operate the other device (record and pause recording) by pressing the start/stop button on the XM2.
Using the VL-3 Video Light (Optional) Using the optional Video Light enables you to record even in dark rooms. This VL-3 Video Light attaches to the camcorder’s advanced accessory shoe for cable-free operation and is powered by the camcorder’s power supply. Refer to the VL-3 Video Light instructions for further details.
Using the DM-50 Microphone (Optional) The high sensitive Directional Stereo Microphone DM-50 attaches to the advanced accessory shoe for cable-free operation and is powered by the camcorder’s power supply. Use it when recording or dubbing audio. Refer to the DM-50 Microphone instructions for further details. Turn the camcorder’s power off before attaching/removing the microphone.
Using the MA-300 Microphone Adapter (Optional) The MA-300 Microphone Adapter enables you to input audio to the camcorder with XLR connector equipped microphones, and to convert video signals for the BNC connector. Refer to the MA-300 Microphone Adapter instructions for further details. Attaching the Microphone Adapter to the Camcorder Turn the camcorder off before attaching/detaching the microphone adapter.
Adjusting the Exposure Manually 1. Set the recording program to MANUAL. 2. Press the EXP dial in. • An arrow appears next to the shutter speed shutter iris speed value. 3. Pull the EXP dial up or down to increase or decrease the shutter speed.
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About the Shutter Speeds Pull the EXP dial toward + for a slower shutter speed, or toward – for a faster shutter speed. Available shutter speeds in TAPE CAMERA mode: 1/6sec 1/12 sec 1/25 sec 1/50 sec 1/60 sec 1/75 sec 1/90 sec 1/300 sec 1/250 sec...
Exposure Lock/Adjustment Exposure lock Lock the exposure at the current level in order to control the brightness of the image. To lock the exposure, press the EXP dial in. Press it again to return to the automatically set exposure level. Notes: •...
Adjusting the Focus Manually The camcorder focuses automatically. All you have to do is point, and whatever is in the centre 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 ( 142).
Setting the White Balance The camcorder’s auto white balance system compensates for a wide range of lighting conditions. Although slight variations are unavoidable, colours will appear natural in virtually every situation. In some cases, you will get better results by setting the white balance yourself, or using one of the two preset modes: W.BALANCE...
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Setting the white balance manually will probably work better than auto white balance when shooting: Subjects with one dominant colour, such as sky, sea or forest Close-ups In rapidly changing lighting conditions In places lit by certain types of fluorescent or mercury vapor lights Notes: •...
Using AE Shift By controlling the level of the automatic exposure (AE) function, you can lighten or darken the image slightly. This allows you to compensate for backlit, overexposed scenes. TAPE CAMERA CARD CAMERA CAM. SET UP AE SHIFT•••• 1. Set the recording program to Auto, Tv or Av. 2.
Using the Custom Preset You can adjust the colour gain, colour phase, sharpness and setup level for more creative recordings. Setting the Custom Preset Functions When you adjust the custom preset functions, be sure to check the picture before you start recording.
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Adjusting the Setup Level CSTM PRESET SETUP LEVEL• Adjust toward + for a brighter picture, and toward – for a darker picture. Activating the Custom Preset Functions 1. Turn the program selector to Q. 2. Press the CSTM PRESET button. •...
Using the Zebra Pattern The zebra pattern is a series of diagonal stripes that appear in the viewfinder to highlight areas of overexposure. Use it as a guide to set the aperture (iris) and shutter speed. You can also select the pattern appearance level from 80, 85, 90, 95, and 100%. Selecting the Zebra Pattern Level TAPE CAMERA...
Recording PC Screens and Other Screens Using CLEAR SCAN You can use the Clear Scan function to record PC screens or other screens without black bands caused by differences in the field frequencies of screens. TAPE CAMERA CAM. SET UP CLEAR SCAN••...
• To wind the tape backwards, stop playback and press the ` (rewind) button. • If the playback picture is rough (mosaic-like noise), clean the video heads using a Canon DVM- CL Digital Video Head Cleaning Cassette or a commercially available digital video head...
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Other Playback Modes Playback pause Press the a (pause) button. To resume normal playback, press it again, or press the e (play) button. The camcorder automatically goes into stop mode after about 5 minutes’ playback pause. Fast forward playback To play back the recording at about 11.5 times normal speed, press and hold the 1 (fast forward) button during normal playback or press and hold the 1 (fast forward) button during normal fast forward.
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Built-in Speaker and Headphone Terminal The camcorder has a built-in speaker and a headphone terminal. You can listen to the sound during playback. Use the speaker or headphones when using the LCD screen for playback, and use headphones when using the viewfinder. The built-in speaker is monaural; use headphones for stereo sound.
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. •...
– 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 the XM2 is played back on a different DV camcorder, the data code may not be displayed correctly.
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Six-second Auto Date The date can be displayed for 6 seconds when you start playback, or to indicate that the date or time zone of the recording has changed. The 6-second auto date automatically adjusts to the time zone you have selected. PLAY TAPE (VCR)
Searching the Tape (Photo Search/Date Search/Index Search) ZERO SET SEARCH SELECT MEMORY AUDIO PLAY DUB. – / STOP INSERT PAUSE SLOW REMOTE SET This allows you to move quickly through still images (photo search), between different days or areas of recording (date search), or index signals ( 57) recorded anywhere on a tape (index search).
Returning to a Pre-Marked Position (Zero Set Memory) ZERO SET SEARCH MEMORY SELECT AUDIO PLAY DUB. – / STOP INSERT PAUSE SLOW REMOTE SET Use the wireless controller to mark a point on a tape to which you wish to return following the playback.
Connections for Playback on a TV Screen For higher picture quality, we recommend playing back recordings on a TV with an S (S1) terminal. If you connect the camcorder to a TV with an S1 terminal or the Video ID-1 system, recordings made in the 16:9 mode for wide screen TVs will be automatically played back in wide screen mode on the TV screen.
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If Your TV (or VCR) Has Audio/Video Input Terminals STV-250N Stereo Video Cable AUDIO VIDEO • Connect the camcorder using the STV-250N Stereo Video Cable. Connect the white plug to the white audio terminal L (left). Connect the red plug to the red audio terminal R (right). Connect the yellow plug to the yellow video terminal VIDEO.
Editing to a VCR Playback the tape on the camcorder. STV-250N Stereo Video Cable AUDIO VIDEO S-VIDEO S-150 S-video Cable Record the scenes on the VCR. By connecting the camcorder to a VCR, you can edit your recordings in order to remove unwanted scenes, or to combine different shots to create your own video productions.
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m (LANC) terminal m terminal allows you to connect compatible devices such as remote controllers that are m LANC compatible. Some buttons on editing equipment may operate differently from those on the camcorder. Notes: • m (LANC) is a trademark. It stands for Local Application Control Bus System. •...
Preparations Example dubbing to the camcorder 1. Connect the camcorder and the other digital device. • Connect the Canon CV-150F DV cable (optional). 2. Prepare the other device. • Turn on the power and load a recorded cassette. 3. Slide the camcorder’s POWER switch to PLAY (VCR) and the TAPE/CARD switch to TAPE.
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Dubbing 1. Find a point on your recorded cassette slightly before the section you wish to copy and set it to playback pause mode. 2. Press the camcorder’s REC PAUSE button. • The camcorder enters record pause mode. 3. Start playback on the other digital device while you monitor the picture. 4.
You can record a video played on your VCR or analog camcorder (for digital camcorder, see p. 97) or a TV program onto a tape in the XM2, if the TV or other device has audio/video outputs. • If an anomalous signal is sent from the TV or VCR, the images recorded on the tape may also be anomalous (although it may not appear so on the TV image), not recorded at all, or COPYRIGHT PROTECTED DUBBING RESTRICTED may appear in the viewfinder.
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Dubbing 1. Find a point on your recorded cassette slightly before the section you wish to copy and set it to playback pause mode. 2. Press the REC PAUSE button. • S-video and audio IN/OUT terminals work as input terminals. •...
Digitally Outputting Analog Video and Audio Signals (Analog-Digital Converter) Connecting the camcorder to your VCR or 8 mm video camera allows conversion of recorded analog video and audio signals to digital signals in an instant. The digital signals can be output to the other equipment with a DV terminal.
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Turning the Analog-Digital Converter On PLAY TAPE (VCR) VCR SET UP AV DV OUT••• OFF To turn the analog-digital converter on, open the menu and select VCR SET UP. \ DV OUT, set it to ON and close the menu. Then select AV Caution: •...
Recording Over Existing Scenes (AV Insert Editing) You can insert and replace images/audio recorded on the camcorder’s tape with images/audio recorded with other video equipment using analog line-in or DV terminals. Original video and audio will be replaced with the new video and audio. Scene to be inserted The playback tape Insert end point...
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Preparations The tape in the camcorder: When using the XM2’s AV insert function, only use to tapes recorded in SP mode with continuously recorded time codes. If there are non-recorded portions or portions recorded in LP mode on the tape, recording will stop.
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Editing 1. On the VCR, locate a point 3 seconds before the scene to be inserted. Set the VCR to playback pause mode. 2. On the camcorder, press PLAY and locate the recording start point. Set the camcorder to playback pause mode. •...
SP mode with 12-bit sound, we recommend dubbing your original tape onto a blank tape using the XM2’s analog line-in function, then dubbing audio onto the new tape. Make absolutely sure to set the audio mode of the new tape to 12-bit and the recording mode to SP.
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Preparations Turn the camcorder’s POWER switch to PLAY (VCR) and move the camcorder’s TAPE/CARD switch to TAPE. Load a recorded cassette. • Make sure the REC/SAVE tab on the cassette has been slid to REC (closed position). Dubbing ZERO SET SEARCH MEMORY SELECT...
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• There may be a loss of sound quality if you add sound to a tape recorded on a camcorder other than the XM2. • After adding sound 3 or more times to the same place on a tape, there may be some loss in...
Setting the Audio 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 stereo 1 (the original sound), stereo 2 (any new sound, dubbed to the tape after recording), or mix the balance between the two.
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. PLAY TAPE (VCR) VCR SET UP OUTPUT CH••• L/R 1. Load a tape recorded with multiple-channel audio. 2.
Connecting to a PC Using a DV Cable 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. •...
Memory Card Introduction The camcorder can record, store and manage still images on 2 types of memory cards: the SD Memory Card (supplied with the camcorder) or the MultiMediaCard (commercially available). The SD Memory Card has the protect switch to protect your recordings from accidental erasure. The SD Memory Card and the MultiMediaCard fit into the same slot.
Inserting and Removing the Memory Card 1. Turn the POWER switch to OFF. • When removing the memory card, make sure the card access indicator is off. 2. Open the memory card compartment cover in the direction of the arrow. 3.
Selecting the Image Size Image Size: 1488 1128 pixels/640 480 pixels CARD CAMERA Still Images CARD SET UP IMAGES RES.• 1488 1128 To change the image size of a still image, open the menu and select CARD SET UP. Then select IMAGES RES., set it to “640 480”...
File Numbers The still images are automatically assigned file numbers from 0001 to 9999 and stored in folders of 9999 images each. Each folder is numbered from 100 to 999 and recorded on the memory card. Set the image file numbers so that they reset each time a new memory card is inserted, or so that they count up continuously.
Recording Still Images onto a Memory Card CARD TAPE Card Access Indicator You can record still images onto the memory card. • Moving pictures cannot be recorded onto a memory card. • Memory cards cannot record audio. • When you are using an SD Memory Card, make sure the protect switch is set to allow recording. Make sure a memory card with enough memory available is inserted into the camcorder.
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The indicators that appear in the display when recording to a memory card: Image quality ( 113) FINE Number of images that can >>>> 1488 still be recorded on the memory card Image size ( 114) Backup battery Remaining battery power 136) 135) See also “The indicator that appear on the LCD screen when LCD mirror is turned on”...
Play back and view still images recorded on a memory card. (For details on connecting to a TV, see “Connections for Playback on a TV Screen” ( • The camcorder may not be able to copy or play, etc., images recorded with a non-Canon camcorder.
Card Jump Function You can jump from the current image to the desired image of unadjacent image number without displaying the images one by one. The numbers shown in the upper right corner in CARD PLAY (VCR) mode indicate the image number of the current still image and the total number of still images on the memory card.
An image on a memory card must be marked before it can be printed. The camcorder supports the DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) print format. Images can be automatically printed on a DPOF- supporting Canon printer. There are 3 ways to mark a still image for printing.
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File Operation (FILE OPER.) PLAY CARD (VCR) 1. With an image in the display, press the SELECT dial in to open the FILE OPER. menu. • PROTECT , PRINT MARK , and IMAGE ERASE settings appear. |RETURN, the menu disappears from the display. •...
Preventing Accidental Erasure (Protect) REC SEARCH SLIDE CARD SHOW This section describes how to protect the still image from the Card Operation submenu when displaying an index screen in CARD PLAY (VCR) mode (including the way to cancel the setting). You can also protect a still image through the File Operation menu ( 121).
Marking a Still Image for Printing (Print Mark) This section describes how to mark a still image for printing from Card Operation submenu in CARD PLAY (VCR) mode (including the way to cancel the setting). – When displaying an index screen, you can mark the still image for printing. –...
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Erasing all Print Marks PLAY CARD (VCR) CARD OPER. PRINT MARKS ALL ERASE Make sure a memory card that has images recorded on it has been inserted into the camcorder. 1. With a still image in the display, open the menu and select CARD OPER. 2.
Erasing Still Images REC SEARCH SLIDE CARD SHOW This section describes how to erase still images from the Card Operation submenu when playing back a single image in CARD PLAY (VCR) mode. You can also erase a still image through the File Operation menu ( 121).
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To erase all still images in a folder 1. Open the menu and select CARD OPER. 2. Select IMAGE ERASE. • CANCEL, SINGLE and ALL settings appear. • To cancel erasing, select CANCEL and close the menu. 3. Select ALL. •...
Combining Images and Recording Them onto a Tape (Title Mix) Combine a title image recorded on a memory card with camcorder recordings. You can change the colour of a title and adjust the mix level. Creating a Title Image • Speedlite and video light cannot be used when creating a title. TAPE CAMERA TITLE MIX...
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Selecting a Title Image TAPE CAMERA 1. Slide the POWER switch to CAMERA and the TAPE/CARD switch to TAPE. 2. Open the menu and select \ TITLE MIX. • The title mix menu appears. 3. Select \ TITLE SELECT. • Up to 6 titles images are displayed. 4.
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Erasing a Title Image 1. Open the menu and select CARD OPER. 2. Select \ TITLE ERASE and press the SELECT dial in. • The title erase index screen appears. 3. Select the title image you wish to erase and press the SELECT dial in. •...
Copying Still Images from Memory Card to Tape You can copy multiple still images from the memory card to a tape. • The still images’ data codes will reflect the date and time the copies are made. CARD OPER. COPY Make sure a memory card that has images recorded on it and a cassette that has enough recordable space have been inserted into the camcorder.
Formatting a Memory Card Format new memory cards if you get the message CARD ERROR, or to permanently and quickly erase all still images on a memory card, including protected images. The SD Memory Card supplied with this camcorder has already been formatted for you. •...
USB interface. By using the supplied software, you can organize, store and print out still images. When printing still images, you can add titles and frames to them. Use the USB cable and the Canon Digital Video Solution Disk software supplied with the camcorder.
Other Information and Precautions The camcorder formats memory cards in DCF (Design rule for Camera File system). Images recorded on a memory card with this camcorder can also be transferred to a PC with the use of the following products made for SD Memory Cards or MultiMediaCards: PC Card Adapter: Holds a memory card and fits into a PC card slot found on most types of laptop PCs.
Notes on Using the Batteries Charging and Recording Times • These times vary — the safest policy is always to have 2 or 3 times as many battery packs as you think you will need. • You will get more recording time if you turn the camcorder off between shots, instead of leaving it in record pause mode.
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How Much Power Is Left? The indicator in the display shows you approximately how much charge the battery pack has left: 100% Notes: • When the power is completely exhausted, “CHANGE THE BATTERY PACK” appears in the display for 4 seconds and the empty battery mark starts to flash.
Installing the Backup Battery Open the backup battery cover and insert the CR2025 lithium battery with the + side facing outwards. Click the cover back into place. This backup battery allows the camcorder to retain the date and time and other settings when the main power source is removed.
Maintenance Cautions Avoid high temperatures and high humidity. • Do not leave the camcorder inside a car in hot weather, for example. • Be careful of heat radiating from video lighting equipment. • Do not take the camcorder into a humid room. Avoid sudden changes in temperature.
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Storage If you do not intend to use the camcorder for a longer time, store it in a dry area free of dust, and at temperatures no higher than 30°C (86°F). After storage, check each part and function of your camcorder to make sure everything is still working properly.
• For the best picture possible, after using the camcorder for approximately 20 hours, clean the video heads using Canon’s DVM-CL Digital Video Head Cleaning Cassette. If the “noise” remains, repeat the cleaning (up to maximum of 5 times).
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Condensation Condensation may form on the camcorder when it is moved from a cold place to a warm place. Using the camcorder while condensation is present can damage both the tape and the camcorder. Condensation may form: When you take the camcorder from a cold place to When a cold room is heated rapidly a warm room When the camcorder is left in a humid room...
Troubleshooting Refer to this checklist first if you have any problems with your camcorder. Possible explanations are given for each problem on the list — turn to the page numbers in parentheses for more information. Make sure that the camcorder is properly connected if you are using it with a TV or VCR. Consult your dealer or service outlet if problems persist.
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Note: • Some subjects are not suitable for autofocus. In these situations, you will often get better results using manual focus ( 77). Focus on something which is about the same distance away, lock the focus, and then point the camcorder at your original, hard-to-focus subject. Horizontal stripes Many subjects at Behind glass...
Memory Card Operations Problem Cause and/or what to do about it ? The memory card will not insert. • It is not turned the right way ( 113). Turn it the right way and try inserting again. • Turn the camcorder’s power off and back on ? The mark flashes red in the display again and remove and reinsert the card.
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Miscellaneous Problem Cause and/or what to do about it ? The wireless controller does not work. • The remote sensor mode is set to OFFB in the menu ( 28). • The remote sensor modes of the wireless controller and the camcorder itself are different 28).
The XM2 System Diagram (Availability differs from area to area) VL-3 Video Light SS-650 Shoulder Strap MiniDV WL-D77 DC-920 CB-920 Car Battery Video Wireless DM-50 Directional DC Coupler Adapter Cassette Controller Stereo Microphone (Available soon) BP-900 Series CA-920 Compact Battery Pack...
This holds two battery packs and can charge them both consecutively. It can then be connected directly to the XM2 to give twice the recording/playback time. It can also make use of the high performance battery pack BP-945, to give up to 14 hrs. recording time.
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A solid, lockable case that provides safe and stylish protection for the camcorder during transportation and storage. This mark identifies genuine Canon video accessories. When you use Canon video equipment, we recommend Canon-brand accessories or products bearing the same mark.
Screen Displays You can select to display or hide the operating state of the camcorder on the LCD screen/viewfinder. The display also appears on a TV connected to the camcorder. SCREEN DATA CODE TV Screen Displays Press the wireless controller’s TV SCREEN button or set TV SCREEN to OFF in the menu to hide the displays on the TV screen.
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Screen Displays in TAPE CAMERA Mode rt y MANUAL 0:12:34 S1/500 10sec 60min F1.8 SELF–T j h A CP NDMF VOICE CHAR.REC 16bit FADE–T [ DV IF ] 16:9 N.Y. PHOTO 12:00 AM 15.JAN.2002 #2 @0 q White Balance ( !1 Remote Sensor Mode ( @0 Character Recording ( w Recording Reminder (...
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Screen Displays in CARD CAMERA Mode FINE MANUAL 9999 S1/720 10SEC 1488 F2.0 SELF–T j h A CP NDMF 12:00 AM 15.JAN.2002 q White Balance ( i Remote Sensor Mode ( !6 Manual Focus ( w Self-Timer Countdown ( o Condensation Warning !7 Custom Preset ( e Image Stabilizer ( !8 Gain (...
Caution Phrases The camcorder displays various caution phrases for approx. 4 seconds. Time zone, date and time are not set. This message appears SET THE TIME ZONE, each time you turn the power on until you set the time zone, DATE AND TIME date and time ( 30).
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You attempted to copy a copyright protected tape. May also COPYRIGHT PROTECTED be displayed when an anomalous signal is sent during Analog DUBBING RESTRICTED Line-in recording ( 98, 99). Memory Card Caution Phrases Memory card not inserted into the camcorder ( 113).
Specifications Power supply (rated): 7.2 V DC Power consumption 4.8 W (Using viewfinder), 5.7 W (Using LCD screen) (AF turned on): Television system: CCIR standard (625 lines, 50 fields) PAL colour signal Video recording system: 2 rotary heads, helical scanning DV system (Consumer digital VCR SD system);...
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A/V terminal input/output: ø3.5 mm minijack Audio input: 0 dBV (47 kohm load)/ 47 kohms (AUDIO ATT ON) -10 dBV (47 kohm load)/ 47 kohms (AUDIO ATT OFF) Audio output: 4 dBm (47 kohm load)/3 kohms or less Video: 1 Vp-p/75 ohms unbalanced S-video terminal input/output: 1 Vp-p (Y signal), 0.3 Vp-p (C signal) MIC terminal input:...
Index ‰ 16:9 Guides ···············································36 16:9 Wide Screen ······································35 Easy Recording ···········································51 6-Second Auto Date.··································90 Editing to a VCR ········································95 Å Effects························································60 Abroad, Using the Camcorder··················139 Erasing a Title ··········································129 Accessories ··········································6, 146 Erasing All Print Marks ·····························124 AE Shift······················································80 Erasing Still Images···································125 Analog Line-in············································99 Ï...
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ˆ Ê ND Filter·····················································45 Tally Lamp ··················································29 Ø Tape Protection ··········································17 Output Channel ·······································109 Telephoto ···················································40 ∏ Time Code ···········································36, 92 Photo Search··············································91 Time Zone··················································30 Playback Title Mix···················································127 Tape·····················································85 Tripod ························································38 Memory Card·····································118 Troubleshooting ·······································141 Playback Pause···········································86 TV Screen···················································93 Power Adapter···········································14 ◊...
Menu at a Glance Camcorder Setting Function Submenu 16:9 Effect CAM. SET UP 16:9 Guides DISP. SET UP 6-Second Auto Date DISP. SET UP AE Shift CAM. SET UP Analog-Digital Converter VCR SET UP Audio Attenuator VCR SET UP Audio Dubbing VCR SET UP Audio Level Indicator DISP.
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Camcorder Setting Function Submenu Setup Level CUSTOM PRESET Sharpness CUSTOM PRESET Shutter Sound CARD SET UP Tally Lamp SYSTEM Time Zone/DST SYSTEM Title Mix TITLE MIX TV Screen DISP. SET UP Viewfinder Brightness DISP. SET UP Wireless Controller SYSTEM Zebra Pattern CAM.
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Canon UK Ltd. Ribcon Way Luton Bedfordshire LU4 9UR Telephone 0870-241-2161 Canon Australia Pty. Ltd 1 Thomas Holt Drive, North Ryde, N.S.W. 2113, Australia Telephone 805-2000, Fax 887-4484 Canon New Zealand Ltd Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna, P.O. Box 33-336, Auckland, New Zealand Telephone 486-1570, Fax 486-6420 Canon Singapore Pte.