Hitachi VM-E110A Instruction Manual

Hitachi instruction manual 8mm video camcorder vm-e110a, vm-e310a
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For Your Safety
Instruction Manual
8mm Video Camcorder
VM-E110A/310A
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 camcorder
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.
QR12521 © Hitachi, Ltd. 1995
HITACHI (HSC) CANADA, INC.
3300 Trans Canada Highway, Pointe
Quebec, H9R1B1, CANADA
Tel. 514-697-9150
Printed in Japan KG-M(N)
1

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Summary of Contents for Hitachi VM-E110A

  • 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 camcorder 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.
  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    Components and Accessories... 12 Optional RF Adapter ... 14 MOISTURE... 14 Attaching the Shoulder Strap (The shoulder strap is not supplied with VM-E110A) ... 14 Viewfinder Bright, Color and Tint Control (only for VM-E310A)... 15 Getting Started... 15 Charging the Battery ... 15 Adjusting the Electronic Viewfinder ...
  • Page 3 Using Instant Review ... 45 Using Quick Edit ... 45 Using Macro ... 46 Creating and Recording A Title (The remote control is optional for VM-E110A) ... 46 Creating a Title... 47 Correcting Errors ... 47 Recording Title on a Tape in the Camcorder ... 48 Recording a Created Title while Transferring a Tape...
  • Page 4: For Your Safety

    For Your Safety The CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch turns the camcorder 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 camcorder off and attach the lens cap.
  • Page 5 For Your Safety the limits of current technology (only for VM-E310A). 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 6: 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 Cassette Recorder and accessory equipment.
  • Page 7 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS 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 8 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS 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. Section 810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA No.
  • Page 9: Important Safety Instructions For Ac Adapter/Charger

    IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER 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 10 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR AC ADAPTER/CHARGER 3. Also read all instructions on pages 4 and 5. 4. Caution -- To reduce risk of injury, charge only rechargeable battery, VM-BP82G, VM- BP82 or VM-BP84. 5. Do not expose charger to rain or snow. 6.
  • Page 11: Read This First

    "Advanced Techniques" to help you with some of the exciting, sophisticated features of the Hitachi VM-E110A/E310A. We hope you will take the time to learn about these functions since they have been designed for you. You can use the video camcorder without reading this section.
  • Page 12: Features

    24x zoom ratio Instant zoom Recorded date search Automatic title recording Difference between Models VM-E110A/E310A This instruction manual shows the illustrations for the VM-E310A. Components and Accessories Check that you have all the following components and accessories before preceding. 1. Audio/Video output cable 2.
  • Page 13 Before You Begin 4. Batteries for date/title and remote control 5. Shoulder strap 6. DC cord 7. Remote control 8. Remote control holder...
  • Page 14: Optional Rf Adapter

    CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch to OFF, then wait for about one hour. Attaching the Shoulder Strap (The shoulder strap is not supplied with VM-E110A) Thread the ends of the provided shoulder strap through the slots at the back of the camcorder and thread through the shoulder straps' buckles.
  • Page 15: Viewfinder Bright, Color And Tint Control (Only For Vm-E310A)

    Set aside some time, relax, and familiarize yourself with this quality instrument. Enjoy getting to know all about your Hitachi 8mm camcorder. The more comfortable and familiar you are with the machine and its features, the more you can make it do for you.
  • Page 16 Getting Started completes. Note: Remove the DC cord from the AC adapter/charger before attempting to charge the battery. The CHARGE light flashes if the DC cord remains connected while you attempt to charge the battery. Note: Do not operate the battery at temperature below 14°F (-10°C) or above 95°F (35°C). At extremely low temperatures operation time decreases, while at high temperature the battery may be damaged.
  • Page 17: Adjusting The Electronic Viewfinder

    The electronic viewfinder adjusts simply by pivoting it to a position where it is comfortable and easy to see through. Place the viewfinder back in its original position before storing the camcorder in its case or carrying the camera recorder around to avoid damaging the viewfinder or camcorder.
  • Page 18: Eyepiece Adjustment

    To use the electronic viewfinder, turn this control for your optimum focus adjustment. Attaching the Optional Wide or Tele Converter Lens 1. To remove the lens hood, turn it counterclockwise. 2. Remove both caps of the converter lens. 3. Screw the lens into the threads on the camcorder lens assembly.
  • Page 19: Loading Batteries

    3. Fully insert the battery holder into the camcorder. Remote Control Battery (The remote control and the battery are optional for VM-E110A) 1. Push the tab to the left of the remote control and hold it, then remove the battery holder.
  • Page 20: Camcorder Batteries

    Note: Do not hold the batteries with the metallic tweezers. Note: Do not re-charge the batteries. Note: Keep the batteries in a dark, cool, dry place. Camcorder Batteries Using Battery Pack Before you install the battery for the first time it must be fully charged. Refer to "Charging the Battery"...
  • Page 21: Removing The Battery Pack

    Note: Always remove the battery from the camcorder after use. Note: We cannot guarantee against malfunctions of the camcorder which occur when you use battery packs made by manufacturers other than Hitachi. Removing the Battery Pack 1. Lift the OPEN lever and pull it up. The power supply attachment cover will open.
  • Page 22: Using Alkaline Dry-Cell Batteries

    Using Alkaline Dry-Cell Batteries The camcorder can be powered by six alkaline dry-cell batteries inserted into the power supply attachment holder. The continuous operation time of the camcorder depends on the type of alkaline batteries used.
  • Page 23 Note: If the liquid leaks, remove the batteries immediately and ask your nearest dealer to inspect the camcorder (this will be at your own expense). Note: Do not let the batteries or the terminals of the camcorder get dirty. If they are dirty, use a dry cloth to wipe off the dirt completely.
  • Page 24: Using Alternative Power Sources

    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 25: Inserting And Removing Cassettes

    2. Place the cassette in the cassette holder so that the transparent window faces away from the body of the camcorder and the sprockets toward the body of the camcorder. 3. Push the cassette holder, which is embossed PUSH LOCK on the left hand side, until it "clicks"...
  • Page 26: Protecting Recorded Material

    1. Slide the CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch to OFF. 2. Connect a fully charged batteries or the AC adapter/charger ("Loading Batteries; Camcorder Batteries" p15, "Using Alternative Power Sources" p17). 3. Slide the DC camera light onto the DC camera light shoe with the camera light lens facing the same direction as the camcorder's lens.
  • Page 27: Removing The Dc Camera Light

    Watch the battery charge indicator especially when using a battery as the power source. When the DC camera light is used, the operation time of the camcorder when a fully- charged battery pack is attached is halved. Removing the DC Camera Light Depress the light to release the tab from the hook and then move the light in the direction of the arrow as shown in the figure.
  • Page 28 Getting Started Note: Only replace the camera light bulb with VM-CP4L (optional) to reduce the risk of fire.
  • Page 29: Using Memory (The Remote Control Is Optional For Vm-E110A)

    Getting Started Using Memory (The remote control is optional for VM-E110A) 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 30 Getting Started 1. Load the battery ("Loading the Batteries: Camcorder batteries" p.15). Press the red button on the CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch as you slid it to CAM. 2. Press the DATE/TITLE button and look into the viewfinder. The date and time should appear in the lower right with the "1"...
  • Page 31: Correcting The Date And Time

    10 seconds long. If the date changes while recording continues over 10 seconds, the date is recorded for 10 seconds when recording is restarted after the camcorder has been set to the standby once. Press the DATE/TITLE button until " AUTO" and the date appear at the lower right of the viewfinder before you begin to record.
  • Page 32: Using The Linear Time Counter

    0:00:00 when the cassette is ejected. Using the Display Button (The remote control is optional for VM-E110A) Pressing the DISPLAY button on the remote control allows you to switch the displays in the viewfinder.
  • Page 33: Date Search

    F.F button (the F.FWD button on the remote control) to recording end position. 4. When the required position is located, the camcorder enters the stop mode and "SEARCH" disappears from the viewfinder. Note: If you have ejected the cassette, this function will not operate with that cassette.
  • Page 34: Getting Started - Identifying Controls

    Getting Started - Identifying Controls how long you can record on the loaded tape. Insert a cassette into the camcorder and start recording or playback; 10 seconds later, the remaining tape will be displayed. When the cassette is ejected, the display will disappear.
  • Page 35 Right side / Viewfinder / Battery cover Illustration 12. Marking QUICK EDIT Hold down the REW, F.F or PLAY button in the record pause mode; the camcorder enters the rewind, fast forward or play mode (Using Quick Edit", p38). 13. REW BUTTON Use this button to fast rewind tapes or for visual search.
  • Page 36 20. Camera Light Show Attach the DC camera light here. 21. OPEN Lever Use this to open or close the cover of the power supply attachment holder ("Camcorder Batteries", p15). 22. Power Supply Attachment Holder (Behind the cover) Attach a battery or alkaline batteries here ("Camcorder Batteries", P15).
  • Page 37: Basic Techniques

    Pull the battery holder and install the date/title battery (provided). 29. Tripod Mounting Threaded Socket Use this threaded socket to mount the camcorder to a tripod. (The remote control is optional for VM-E110A) Remote Control Illustration 30. Recorder's Remote Control The shaded buttons on the remote control have the same functions as the corresponding buttons on the camcorder.
  • Page 38: Making A Basic Recording

    The batteries are in place and charged, the date and time are set, and you are familiar with the controls it's time to make a recording. Basic recording is easy and simple. Hooking up the camcorder to your TV is not complicated but give yourself plenty of time to ensure connections are correct.
  • Page 39: Playing Back Your Recording

    Note: TAPE END flashes in the viewfinder when about 3 minutes or less remain of the tape cassette. Note: If the camcorder is left in record/pause mode for more than 5 minutes, the camcorder turns off automatically. To restart it press the Start/Stop button and the camera returns to record/pause mode.
  • Page 40: Simple Playback (Using The Electronic Viewfinder)

    VHF antenna terminals at the back of your television. 4. Connect the RF output adapter cable to the AV IN/OUT jack of your camcorder. 5. Turn your television on and select channel 3 (channel 4 if channel 3 is a channel used in your area).
  • Page 41 Basic Techniques Press REG button during playback to play the tape backwards at approximately 7 times normal speed. Press PLAY button to return to normal playback. Note: When you engage FF. button or REG button the picture will have some interference or noise.
  • Page 42: Advanced Techniques

    Advanced Techniques Advanced Techniques The Hitachi VM-E110A/E310A 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 43: Using The Inst. Zoom (Instant Zoom) Button

    Using Auto Focus The camcorder focuses the subject in the center of the viewfinder automatically unless the manual focus is engaged. If FOCUS appears in the viewfinder, manual focus is engaged. Press the FOCUS control (AUTO/MAN) buttons simultaneously to return to auto focus.
  • Page 44: Using Manual Focus

    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 45: Using Instant Review

    Use this feature to view the last few seconds of the tape you shot. 1. Set the camcorder to record/pause mode and tap the REW button. The last few seconds of tape play back in reverse and then in normal playback mode.
  • Page 46: Using Macro

    W. The camera focuses on the subject automatically. Check your lighting as it tends to be insufficient when filming close up. Creating and Recording A Title (The remote control is optional for VM-E110A) Create titles easily and personalize your recordings while keeping a permanent visual record of what is contained on a tape.
  • Page 47: Creating A Title

    Advanced Techniques Creating a Title 1. Connect the camcorder to a power source. 2. Hold down the red button on the CAM/OFF/VIDEO switch and slide it to either CAM or VIDEO. 3. Press the TITLE ON/OFF button on the remote control and a flashing cursor appears in the viewfinder.
  • Page 48: Recording Title On A Tape In The Camcorder

    Note: Recording the title during tape transfer will erase a portion of your recorded material. Using the Wireless Remote Control (The remote control is optional for VM-E110A) Use the wireless remote control to operate the camcorder from a distance. The PLAY, F.FWD, REW, STOP, PAUSE (START/STOP) and ZOOM buttons on the wireless...
  • Page 49: How To Attach Remote Control To The Shoulder Strap (The Remote Control Is Optional For Vm-E110A)

    Note: The remote control code of this camcorder is Hitachi code VCR2. If you have a VCR with the same code you Hitachi VCR may malfunction when you use the camcorder's wireless remote control.
  • Page 50: Using Synchro Edit (The Remote Control Is Optional For Vm-E110A)

    Use synchro edit to record only segments of a previously recorded tape when dubbing from the camcorder to a VCR. This requires an optional synchro edit cable. The Hitachi VM- E110A/E310A uses a flying erase head to eliminate glitches or rainbow noise that sometimes occurs between edits.
  • Page 51: Using Audio/Video Dubbing (The Remote Control Is Optional For Vm-E110A)

    0:00:00M the camcorder stops automatically, recording only the portion of the tape that you selected. Note: If the camcorder is in AV DUB pause or STILL mode for more than 5 minutes, the camcorder stops automatically to protect the tape.
  • Page 52 8. Press the Start/Stop button again to stop recording. Note: If the tape is played back while the AV input cable is left connected to the camcorder, noise may appear in the picture. In this event, press the STOP button to stop the camcorder, unplug the AV input cable and play back the tape again.
  • Page 53: General Maintenance

    3. Align the reference mark and rotate the eye cup in the direction of arrow. Periodic Maintenance A precision electromechanical device, the Hitachi VM-E110A/E310A 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 camcorder is used either heavily or seldom.
  • Page 54: Troubleshooting

    General Maintenance Troubleshooting Quality is very important at Hitachi. We inspect and check every camcorder 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 55: Specifications

    VM-E110A: 4.7W (when recording) VM-E310A: 5.3W (when recording) 3-11/16" W x 4-12/16" H x 8-5/16" D (94mm x 120mm x VM-E110A: 1.90 lbs (860g) without battery pack, lens hood, lens cap or cassette VM-E310A: 1.87 lbs (849g) without battery pack, lens hood, lens cap or cassette 32°F ~ 104°F (0°C ~ 40°C)
  • Page 56: Accessories Add Excitement

    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 Facilities has been established in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Each facility will provide you with convenient and expedient assistance.
  • Page 57: To Order In The United States

    Accessories Add Excitement We know that once you discover how much your Hitachi VM-E110A/E310A 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 58: 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 59 HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Front) HITACHI SALES CORPORATION OF HAWAII 3219 Koapaka St. Honolulu, HI 96819 Tel: 808-836-3621...
  • Page 60: 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 61: 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 62: Hitachi Canada Warranty Card (Back)

    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 63 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 64 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.
  • Page 65 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 camcorder 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.
  • Page 66 HITACHI CANADA WARRANTY CARD (Back)

This manual is also suitable for:

Vm-e310a

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