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Hitachi VM-E54A Instruction Manual

8mm video camcorder
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1
HITACHI
Instruction Manual
8mm Video Camcorder
VM-E54A
Hitachi Home Electronics (America),
Inc.
Claire,
3890 Steve Reynolds Blvd., Norcross, GA 30093
Tel. 404-279-5600
HITACHI SALES CORPORATION OF
HAWAII, INC
3219 Koapaka Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819
Tel. 808-836-3621
Thank you for buying a Hitachi product. You've chosen the best 8 mm video
camera/recorder for you, and we want to help you make the most of your purchase.
Please take time to become familiar with the manual and how it is set up. Keep it handy
for feature reference.
QR10351 © Hitachi, Ltd. 1994
HITACHI (HSC) CANADA, INC.
3300 Trans Canada Highway, Pointe
Quebec, H9R1B1, CANADA
Tel. 514-697-9150
Printed in Japan KS-S(N)
1

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  • Page 1 3219 Koapaka Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96819 Tel. 808-836-3621 Thank you for buying a Hitachi product. You've chosen the best 8 mm video camera/recorder for you, and we want to help you make the most of your purchase. Please take time to become familiar with the manual and how it is set up. Keep it handy for feature reference.

  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS ... 2 For Your Safety... 5 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS ... 7 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER ... 11 Read This First ... 12 Before You Begin... 13 Features ... 13 Components and Accessories... 14 Optional RF Output Adapter ...
  • Page 3 Specifications ... 53 Accessories Add Excitement... 55 To Order in the United States... 55 HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Front)... 56 HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Back) ... 58 HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (Front) CANADA ONLY... 60 HITACHI CANADA WARRANTY CARD (Back) ... 62...
  • Page 4 TABLE OF CONTENTS...

  • Page 5: For Your Safety

    For Your Safety For Your Safety The CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch turns the camera/recorder on and off, leaving the date/time feature unaffected. If the unit is to be left unattended for a long period of time, turn the camera/recorder off and attach the lens cap. WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
  • Page 6 For Your Safety "This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the interference-causing equipment standard entitled "Digital Apparatus", ICES-003 of the Department of Communications." Warning: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

  • Page 7: Important Safeguards

    IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS In addition to the careful attention devoted to quality standards in the manufacture of your video product, safety is a major factor in the design of every instrument. But, safety is your responsibility too. This page lists important information that will help to assure your enjoyment and proper use of a Video Camera/Recorder and accessory equipment.
  • Page 8 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS cord and have it replaced by your service technician if appearance indicates damage or deteriorated insulation. 7 Power Cord Protection -- Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance.
  • Page 9 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the appliance and cart combination to overturn. 12 Outdoor Antenna Grounding -- If an outside antenna or cable system is connected to the video product, be sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges.
  • Page 10 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS SERVICE 17 Servicing -- Do not attempt to service this video product yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. 18 Conditions Requiring Service -- Unplug this video product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions.

  • Page 11: Important Safety Instructions For Ac Adapter/Charger

    IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER 1. Save these Instructions -- This page contains important safety and operating instructions for AC Adapter/Charger Model VM-AC 83A. 2. Before using AC Adapter/Charger, read all instructions and cautionary markings on (1) AC Adapter/Charger, (2) battery and (3) product using battery.

  • Page 12: Read This First

    "Advanced Techniques" to help you with some of the exciting, sophisticated features of the Hitachi VM-E54A. We hope you will take the time to learn about these functions since they have been designed for you. You can use the video camera/recorder without reading this section.

  • Page 13: Before You Begin

    Before You Begin Before You Begin Any problems that occur as a result of any of the following conditions will not be covered by our warranty. Be careful that no water, dust or sand enters the camera/recorder. When you shoot at a scene which contains an extremely bright object such as the sun or a light source, a bright vertical bar may appear in the picture.

  • Page 14: Components And Accessories

    The RF output adapter can also be purchased by mail by sending either cheque, money order or your credit card information to the following address: IN U.S.A. Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc. Parts Division 401 West Atresia Blvd. Compton, California. U.S.A. 90220...

  • Page 15: Moisture

    Before You Begin Moisture Avoid operating your camera/recorder immediately after moving it from a cold place to a warm, humid place. Give the camera/recorder 2 to 3 hours to stabilize in the ambient conditions of the surroundings before inserting a cassette. When moved from a cold place to a warm, humid place, moisture may condense on the head drum inside the machine.

  • Page 16: Getting Started

    Set aside some time, relax, and familiarize yourself with this quality instrument. Enjoy getting to know all about your Hitachi 8mm camera/recorder. The more comfortable and familiar you are with the machine and its features, the more you can make it do for you.

  • Page 17: Additional Information

    Getting Started After charging set the mark switch to red so that you may quickly identify whether the battery is charged or uncharged. Note: The marker switch is not concerned with the battery's performance. Additional Information To use a battery in optimum condition: Use the battery until the low charge light ( and then recharging it may shorten the operation time.

  • Page 18: Adjusting The Electronic Viewfinder

    Getting Started ATTENTION: The product that you have purchased contains a rechargeable battery. The battery is recyclable. At the end of its useful life, under various state and local laws, it may be illegal to dispose of this battery into the municipal waste stream. Check with your local solid waste officials for details in your area for recycling options or proper disposal.

  • Page 19: Eyepiece Adjustment

    Getting Started Eyepiece Adjustment To use the electronic viewfinder, pull out the eye cup all the way when using it and adjust the diopter control so that the subject is seen most clearly in the viewfinder. Always push in the eye cup after use. Attaching the Optional Wide or Tele Converter Lens 1.

  • Page 20: Loading Batteries

    Getting Started Loading Batteries Install the remote control battery now to prevent misplacing it. Remote Control Battery 1. Push the tab to the right of the remote control and hold it, then remove the battery holder. 2. Press the PLAY button and hold it for about two seconds. 3.

  • Page 21: Removing The Battery

    Getting Started Removing the Battery Push the BATT EJECT switch in the direction of the arrow and hold it as you slide the battery toward the left of the camera/recorder and remove. Checking the Battery's Charge A battery charge indicator is located on the upper right corner of the viewfinder. One of three symbols displays when the battery is used.

  • Page 22: Using Alkaline Dry-Cell Batteries

    Note: The AC adapter/charger can be used around the world. An AC plug adapter is required in some foreign countries. If you need one purchase it at your Hitachi distributor. Note: The battery level indicator sometimes displays partial charge symbol when using the AC adaptor/charger.

  • Page 23: Using A Car Battery

    Using a Car Battery The camera/recorder can be powered with a car battery by using an optional car battery cord (Hitachi VM-CC80A) to plug the camera/recorder into the car's cigarette lighter socket. Please ensure that the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch is in the OFF position whenever attaching or detaching any power supply (ie.

  • Page 24: Removing A Cassette

    Getting Started Note: If TAPE flashes in the viewfinder, remove the cassette and check that the tape is not damaged, is not slack or no dust adheres to it, etc. After making sure that there is no abnormality, reinsert the cassette. If TAPE reappears, see "Troubleshooting" on page 48. Removing a Cassette Slide the EJECT switch in the direction of the arrow.

  • Page 25: Removing The Dc Camera Light

    Getting Started Notes when using the DC camera light: Keep the DC camera light away from splashing or dripping water. Never cover the DC camera light with paper, plastic or other object as the cooling vents may become blocked possibly causing the camera light to overheat. Never use the DC camera light in the vicinity of explosive or highly flammable materials.

  • Page 26: Using Memory

    Getting Started Note: Only replace the camera light bulb with VM-CP4L (optional) to reduce the risk of fire. Using Memory The linear time counter memory stops a rewinding tape at approximately 0:00:00M. This feature helps in locating a specific point in the tape to which you wish to return. An example might be that you have recorded some tape that you have already watched, you continue recording but do not care to watch the tape you recorded earlier.

  • Page 27: Correcting The Date And Time

    Getting Started 1. Load the battery ("Loading the Batteries: Camera/Recorder battery" p 14). Press the red button on the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch as you slid it to CAMERA. 2. Press the DATE button and look into the viewfinder. The date and time should appear in the lower right with the "1"...

  • Page 28: Using The Linear Time Counter

    Getting Started 10 seconds when recording is restarted after the camera/recorder has been set to the standby once. Press the DATE button until " AUTO" and the date appear at the lower right of the viewfinder before you begin to record. The date will be recorded whenever it appears in the viewfinder.
  • Page 29 Getting Started Note: When the remaining tape time becomes less than about three minutes, TAPE END flashes in the viewfinder.

  • Page 30: Using The Display Button

    Getting Started Using the Display Button Pressing the DISPLAY button on the remote control allows you to switch the displays in the viewfinder. When the camera/recorder is turned on, the linear time counter appears. Pressing the DISPLAY button once displays the linear time counter with the memory feature.
  • Page 31 Getting Started 6. CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO Power Switch Hold down the red button as you slide the switch to CAMERA or VIDEO. You do not need to hold down the red button to slide the switch to OFF. 7. EJECT Switch A power source must be connected before cassettes can be inserted or removed though the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch may be set to OFF ("Inserting and Removing Cassettes,"...
  • Page 32 Use this button to fast rewind tapes or for visual search. During visual search the camcorder rewinds at approximately 7 times normal playback speed. Also use this button to set date and time. Furthermore, use this button to review the last few seconds of the tape you are recording.
  • Page 33 Getting Started corresponding buttons on the camera/recorder. 27. S.EDIT (Synchro Edit) Button (only on the remote control) Use this button to activate the synchro edit function for dubbing ("Using Synchro Edit", p 39). 28. COUNTER RESET Button (only on the remote control) Use this button to reset the linear time counter to 0:00:00.

  • Page 34: Basic Techniques

    Let's get started! Making a Basic Recording The Hitachi VM-E54A uses PROGRAM AE auto exposure that automatically selects the optimum shutter speed (either 1/60, 1/120, 1/180, 1/250, 1/350, 1/500, 1/750, 1/1000, 1/1500, 1/2000, or 1/4000 of a second). The iris adjusts automatically in response to shutter speed.

  • Page 35: Playing Back Your Recording

    Basic Techniques Note: TAPE flashes in the viewfinder when the tab on the side of the cassette is completely visible. 6. To stop recording press the Start/Stop button and REC disappears from the viewfinder replaced by Note: TAPE END flashes in the viewfinder when about 3 minutes or less remain of the tape cassette.

  • Page 36: Connecting To A Television With Audio In And Video In Jacks

    Basic Techniques 6. Press the PLAY button to begin playback. 7. Press the STOP button when finished. Connecting to a Television with Audio In and Video In Jacks 1. Connect the provided AV output cord to the AUDIO IN and VIDEO IN jacks of your television.

  • Page 37: Using Forward And Reverse Search

    Basic Techniques damage to the tape. Note: When you engage play/pause mode the still picture will have some interference or noise. This is normal. Using Forward and Reverse Search When looking for a particular point in your videotape use the F.FWD button and REW/REVIEW button to find the spot quickly.

  • Page 38: Advanced Techniques

    Advanced Techniques Advanced Techniques The Hitachi VM-E54A offers a diverse group of features that add interest and excitement to your videos. Adding fades to smooth transitions creates videos with a professional look. As you learn and practice with these features think of situations that they might fit in and add a special touch.

  • Page 39: Using The Inst. Zoom (Instant Zoom) Button

    Advanced Techniques Press and hold the power zoom T control until you find the picture you want. You control the zoom with the power zoom T and W controls. When ZOOM is not displayed in the viewfinder, normal zoom functions resume. Using the INST.

  • Page 40: Using Instant Review

    Advanced Techniques The auto focus will not work under the following conditions and you must focus manually: Objects outside the center of the viewfinder Objects at different distances in the center of the viewfinder Brightly lit objects such as a neon light, objects lit by spotlight, etc. Objects behind water dappled or dusty glass Objects with little difference in light reflection such as a white wall Rapidly moving objects...

  • Page 41: Using Quick Edit

    Advanced Techniques Using Quick Edit Use quick edit to search for the end of previously recorded material, find a particular spot on your tape, begin editing, or record new material. While the camera is in record/pause mode hold down the F.FWD, REW/REVIEW, or PLAY button and visually search the tape.

  • Page 42: Creating A Title

    Advanced Techniques contains two lines of up to 16 characters per line. The camera/recorder contains 47 different characters for creating a title. Titler Buttons Creating a Title 1. Connect the camera/recorder to a power source. 2. Hold down the red button on the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch and slide it to either CAMERA or VIDEO.

  • Page 43: Recording Title On A Tape In The Camera/Recorder

    Advanced Techniques 5. Press the TITLE ON/OFF button on the remote control to store the corrected title in memory. Recording Title on a Tape in the Camera/Recorder 1. Hold down the red button on the CAMERA/OFF/VIDEO switch while sliding the switch to CAMERA.

  • Page 44: Dubbing From The Camera/Recorder To A Vcr

    Note: The remote control code of this camera/recorder is Hitachi code VCR2. If you have a VCR with the same code you Hitachi VCR may malfunction when you use the camera/recorder's wireless remote control.

  • Page 45: Controlling Your Tv With The Camera/Recorder's Remote Control

    Advanced Techniques 1. Connect the synchro edit cord to the AV IN/OUT jack of your camera/recorder. 2. Connect the synchro edit cord to the AUDIO IN, VIDEO IN, and EDIT IN jacks of your VCR. Connect either the right or left audio plug into your VCR if it has only one AUDIO IN jack.

  • Page 46: Programming The Remote Control

    If the TV channel still doesn't change after going through all the button combinations listed, it is likely that you will not be able to program this remote control for your TV. TV Brands Press CH ( ) and This Button Hitachi Zenith VOL ( ) Sony ZOOM.(W)

  • Page 47: Using Audio/Video Dubbing

    Advanced Techniques Be aware that not all of your TV's functions may work even though the remote control is correctly programmed. Note: It may not be possible to control all TVs listed in this Table. Note: The AVX Button can't be used with Gold Star 2 and Sharp TVs. Using Audio/Video Dubbing Use audio/video dubbing to record audio and video from the camera/recorder's built-in microphone and camera onto a previously recorded tape in the camera/recorder.

  • Page 48: Recording Television Programs

    Advanced Techniques recording only the portion of the tape that you selected. Remote Control Buttons Note: If the camera/recorder is in AV DUB pause or STILL mode for more than 5 minutes, the camera/recorder stops automatically to protect the tape. Note: Automatic date recording is disabled during audio/video dubbing.

  • Page 49: General Maintenance

    5. Turn the eye cup clockwise until it stops, the push it in all the way. Periodic Maintenance A precision electromechanical device, the Hitachi VM-E54A requires maintenance after a period of normal use. We expect that no other maintenance other than head cleaning will be required during the period of warranty unless the camera/recorder is used either heavily or seldom.

  • Page 50: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting Quality is very important at Hitachi. We inspect and check every camera/recorder carefully at the factory under the most rigid quality control and inspection systems. If problems develop please check the following possible solutions before inquiring about professional service.
  • Page 51 General Maintenance PLAYBACK OF PRE-RECORDED CASSETTE SYMPTOM “PLAY” button cannot be engaged. No picture appears on television screen when “PLAY” is pressed. (TV is connected to the camera/recorder by using RF output adapter. Picture bends at the top of the TV screen.
  • Page 52 General Maintenance...

  • Page 53: Specifications

    800 HITACHI 1-800-448-2244 Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc. Hitachi has made every effort to assure you hours of trouble free operation from your unit. However, should you require service, a network of Hitachi Authorized Service 6V DC VM-E54A: 4.9W (when recording) 3-9/16"...
  • Page 54 Facilities has been established in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Each facility will provide you with convenient and expedient assistance. Our service "Hotline" operator will direct you to the Hitachi Authorized Service Facility nearest you. Just present proof of purchase and/or delivery receipts to the Hitachi Authorized Service Facility and service will be rendered in accordance with the terms of the limited warranty as stated on your warranty card or operating guide.

  • Page 55: Accessories Add Excitement

    Accessories Add Excitement Accessories Add Excitement We know that once you discover how much your Hitachi VM-E54A can add to your life you will want to use these accessories for even more excitement. Converter lenses, adapters for synchro editing, and car cords are just a few of the exciting accessories available to you from Hitachi.

  • Page 56: Hitachi Warranty Card (Usa Front)

    Limited Warranty period. For 90 days from the date of original purchase, Hitachi will provide labor for the repair or replacement of defective parts without charge, subject to the following conditions: 1.
  • Page 57 HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Front) Norcross, GA 30093 Tel: 404-279-5600 HITACHI SALES CORPORATION OF HAWAII 3219 Koapaka St. Honolulu, HI 96819 Tel: 808-836-3621...

  • Page 58: Hitachi Warranty Card (Usa Back)

    ARE LIMITED TO 90 DAYS FOR LABOR AND TWO YEARS FOR PARTS, THE DURATION OF THE APPLICABLE EXPRESS WARRANTY CONTAINED ABOVE HITACHI SHALL NOT BE LIABLE TO THE PURCHASER OR TO ANY OTHER PERSON FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR LOSS OF PROFIT OR PRODUCT RESULTING FROM ANY DEFECT IN OR MALFUNCTION OR FAILURE OF THIS HITACHI PRODUCT.
  • Page 59 HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Back) (for your record) Model No. Serial No. Date of Purchase Dealer Name Dealer Address City State HITACHI...

  • Page 60: Hitachi Warranty Card (Front) Canada Only

    Hitachi. The program is available only for products covered by an original validated Hitachi warranty given at the time of the purchase. B - Hitachi will make repairs to the product mentioned in this plan, parts and labour charges included, until the expiry date of this plan.
  • Page 61 Plan. Hitachi, however, reserves the right to refuse any renewal. I - Hitachi reserves the right to cancel the Protection Plan in case of abuse by the owner, in such case, Hitachi will reimburse the owner the portion of the plan cost, based on the period used.

  • Page 62: Hitachi Canada Warranty Card (Back)

    Canada. However, to receive your exclusive Hitachi GOLD CARD, you must include a copy of your bill of sale with the return portion of this warranty registration card.
  • Page 63 13. The replacement of the video camera pickup element if the pickup element has been OVER EXPOSED to an intense source of light. 14. Products sold in Canada by any organization other than HITACHI (HSC) CANADA INC. IMPORTANT: This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, guarantees, or agreements whether express or implied, and no person, dealer or company is authorized to change, modify, or extend its terms in any manner whatsoever.

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