Canon MV500 Instruction Manual
  1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. Canon Manuals
  4. Camcorder
  5. MV500
  6. Instruction manual

Canon MV500 Instruction Manual

Digital video camcorder
Hide thumbs
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

DIGITAL VIDEO CAMCORDER

Instruction Manual

This instruction book explains the use of the MV500 and MV500i camcorders.
The main difference between these models is that the MV500i includes a DV
Recording and Analog Line-in Recording function. Please note that
illustrations and explanations in this instruction book refer mainly to the MV500
model.
PAL
PUB.DIE-168
Digital
Mini
Video
Cassette
E

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading

Related Manuals for Canon MV500

Summary of Contents for Canon MV500

  • Page 1: Instruction Manual

    DIGITAL VIDEO CAMCORDER Instruction Manual This instruction book explains the use of the MV500 and MV500i camcorders. The main difference between these models is that the MV500i includes a DV Recording and Analog Line-in Recording function. Please note that illustrations and explanations in this instruction book refer mainly to the MV500 model.

  • Page 2: Important Usage Instructions

    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.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents Introduction Important Usage Instructions ...2 Thank you for Choosing a Canon ...5 Introducing the MV500/MV500i ...6 Mastering the Basics Finding Your Way Around the MV500/MV500i...7 ~ Preparations ~ Attaching the Ferrite Core...10 Powering Your Camcorder ...11 Loading a Cassette ...16 ~ Basic Recording ~ Basic Recording ...18...
  • Page 4 For quick reference In addition to the contents and index please refer to: • Finding Your Way Around the MV500/MV500i ( • Screen displays ( • Troubleshooting — in case you run into any problems ( • Menu at a Glance (...

  • Page 5: Thank You For Choosing A Canon

    Thank you for Choosing a Canon First, we’d like to thank you for purchasing this Canon camcorder. Its advanced technology makes it very easy to use — you will soon be making high-quality videos which will give you pleasure for years to come.

  • Page 6: Introducing The Mv500/Mv500I

    Introducing the MV500/MV500i Compact and Stylish The MV500/MV500i is small and light. Many various functions are condensed into its compact body. Also, the slim and stylish design makes it easy to carry and use and shooting videos a pleasure. 18× Lens and 360× Digital Zoom From wide-angle to 18×...

  • Page 7: Finding Your Way Around The Mv500/Mv500I

    Finding Your Way Around the MV500/MV500i – REC (record) SEARCH button(p. 38)/ Record review button (p. 38)/ (rewind) button (p. 28) LCD screen (p. 25) Self-timer button (p. 63)/ DATA CODE button (p. 71) DIGITAL EFFECTS button (p. 59) DIGITAL...
  • Page 8 Viewfinder (p. 96, 102) Strap attachment bar (p. 97) Start/Stop button (p. 19) POWER switch (p. 18) C AMERA • O F F • PLAY(VCR) • Viewfinder focusing lever (p. 96) Viewfinder protect cover (p. 102) PHOTO button (p. 49) Accessory shoe (p.
  • Page 9 SLOW button (p. 29) PAUSE Terminal cover Remote sensor (p. 43) Stereo microphone (p. 88) Terminal cover MV500: S-video OUT terminal (p. 34) MV500i: S-video IN/OUT terminal (p. 34, 81) MV500: DV OUT terminal (p. 77, 95) MV500i: DV IN/OUT terminal (p.

  • Page 10: Attaching The Ferrite Core

    Attaching the Ferrite Core Attach the enclosed ferrite core before you connect the CA-560 Compact Power Adapter to the camcorder. Attach the ferrite core to the cable about 4 cm from the plug end (the plug to be connected to the camcorder) of the CA-560 Compact Power Adapter.

  • Page 11: Powering Your Camcorder

    Powering Your Camcorder Before operating your camcorder, you will need to use the power adapter to: Provide power from a mains outlet 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.
  • Page 12 Attaching and charging the battery packs 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.
  • Page 13 6. Remove the battery pack after use. • Rotate the viewfinder upwards. • Press and hold the BATT. RELEASE button while you slide the battery up. Notes: • Never connect an unspecified product to the camcorder’s DC terminal. Likewise, do not connect the power adapter to an unspecified product. •...
  • Page 14 Using the Charge Adapter CR-560 Kit (optional) The Compact Power Adapter CA-560 included with the camcorder can be used along with the CR-560 Kit for 3 different ways to power the camcorder or charge battery packs: 1. Charge the BP-500 Series battery packs with power from your car battery. 2.
  • Page 15 2. Operate the camcorder with power from your car battery. Camcorder + DC Cable + Charge Adapter + Car Battery Cable → car’s cigarette lighter 3. Charge the BP-500 Series battery packs from a mains outlet. 1 or 2 battery pack(s) + Charge Adapter + Compact Power Adapter •...

  • Page 16: Loading A Cassette

    Loading a Cassette Only use videocassettes marked with the D logo.* Loading and unloading 1. Make sure that you have attached a power source. 2. Slide the OPEN / EJECT 5 switch (on the bottom of the camcorder) to release the cassette compartment cover. •...

  • Page 17: Cassette Memory

    Protecting tapes from accidental erasure 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 ( “THE TAPE IS SET FOR ERASURE PREVENTION”...

  • Page 18: Basic Recording

    Basic Recording Before you start recording Have you completed the following steps? • Attached a power source ( • Removed the lens cap ( • Fasten the grip belt ( • Chosen the display: viewfinder ( Notes: • When you’re using the viewfinder, fully close the LCD or rotate the LCD so that it faces the same direction as the lens ( •...
  • Page 19 Notes: • 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.

  • Page 20: Changing The Recording Mode

    Changing the recording mode You can record and play back a tape in SP (standard play) and LP (long play) modes. LP extends tape usage by 1.5 times. You can’t add sound (audio dubbing) or images (AV insert) to a tape that has been recorded in a mode other than SP mode.
  • Page 21 16:9 (Wide screen TV recording) Produces images in the 16:9 format for playback on wide screen TVs. CAMERA CAM.SET UP To switch 16:9 to ON, open the menu and select CAM.SET UP. Then select 16:9, set it to ON and close the menu. Notes: •...

  • Page 22: Demonstration Mode

    Demonstration mode You can see a demonstration of the camcorder’s main features. To see the demonstration, do either of the following: • With no cassette inserted, turn the DEMO MODE on in the CAMERA menu and close the menu. • Leave the camcorder with no cassette inserted for five minutes after turning it CAMERA DISP.SET UP To turn the demonstration mode off, open the menu and select DISP.

  • Page 23: Zooming

    Zooming 18× optical zoom The camcorder’s zoom lens allows you to choose the best picture angle for each scene: • Move the zoom control towards W to zoom out to wide-angle. • Move it towards T to zoom in to telephoto. You can also control the speed of zooming: •...
  • Page 24 Notes: • When zooming, as a rule, keep at least 1 m (3 ft 3 subject. However when the zoom is at the wide-angle position, you can focus on a subject as close as 1 cm ( • Image resolution is slightly lower when the magnification is greater than 18×. •...

  • Page 25: Using The Lcd Screen

    Using the LCD Screen Opening and closing the LCD screen Slide 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. To close the LCD panel, press the upper right corner until it clicks securely closed.

  • Page 26: Adjusting The Lcd Screen

    • Always rotate the LCD panel vertically into place, before closing it or pushing it flat against the side of the camcorder. • Always fully close the LCD panel until it clicks securely. • Be careful not to leave the LCD, viewfinder or lens exposed to direct sunlight outdoors or in a window.

  • Page 27: Allowing The Subject To Monitor Recording

    Allowing the subject to monitor recording When you turn the LCD panel so that it faces the same direction as the lens, you can watch yourself during recording or let your subject monitor recording. The viewfinder is also activated when the panel is in this position.

  • Page 28: Playing Back A Cassette

    • To wind the tape backwards, stop playback and press the 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 cleaning cassette. AE SHIFT (stop) button.
  • Page 29 Other playback modes Playback pause Press the (pause) button. To resume normal playback, press it again, or press (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 (fast forward) button during normal playback or press and hold the forward) button during normal fast forward.
  • Page 30 Reverse Playback To play back in reverse at normal speed, press the –/4a button during normal forward playback. Press the PLAY e button to return to normal forward playback. • The camcorder automatically goes into stop mode after about 2 minutes of paused reverse playback.
  • Page 31 Built-in speaker The camcorder has a built-in speaker so you can review the sound track alongside the picture when you’re using the LCD screen to play back a tape. The built-in speaker is monaural. Adjust the speaker volume by turning the selector dial. •...

  • Page 32: Connections For Playback On A Tv Screen

    Connections for Playback on a TV Screen You can connect the camcorder to a TV or VCR in order to play back your recordings. You will need to attach a power source to the camcorder ( Power off all devices before starting the connections. See your TV or VCR instruction manual for further details.
  • Page 33 If your TV (or VCR) has a SCART terminal (without S (S1)-video) STV-250N Stereo Video Cable • Connect the PC-A10 SCART adapter to the TV or VCR’s SCART terminal. • Connect the camcorder to the adapter. Connect the camcorder using the STV-250N Stereo Video Cable.
  • Page 34 If your TV (or VCR) has an S (S1) -video input terminal For higher picture quality, we recommend playing back recordings on a TV with an S (S1) terminal. • Use the optional S-150 S-video Cable to connect the S-video terminals. Use the STV-250N Stereo Video Cable to connect the AUDIO terminals.
  • Page 35 If your TV (or VCR) has audio/video input terminals STV-250N Stereo Video Cable • 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).

  • Page 36: Tips For Making Better Videos

    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.
  • Page 37 Picture angle Instead of zooming while recording, try to choose your picture angle before you begin. A good way to tell a story with video is to begin with a long shot that establishes the situation, and then move in with medium shots and close-ups to show the details.

  • Page 38: Searching And Reviewing While Recording

    Searching and Reviewing While Recording Record search When the camcorder is in record pause mode, you can use record search to play the tape forwards or backwards to find the point where you want to start or resume recording. This is useful when you want to add a new scene to a previously used cassette.

  • Page 39: Using The Menus

    Using the Menus Many of the camcorder’s advanced functions are selected from menus which appear in the display. There are 2 main menus: CAM. MENU Camera menu PLAY MENU (MV500i :VCR MENU) CAM. MENU CAMERA CAM.MENU SEL.SETSET MENUCLOSE CAM.SET UP VCR SET UP DISP.SET UP SYSTEM...
  • Page 40 6. Press the selector dial in to select. • The function and its settings only appear. 7. Turn the selector dial and move the arrow to the desired setting. • If you are setting a function other than the white balance or shutter speed, the function will be set if you skip to step 11.

  • Page 41: White Balance

    q Camera set up submenu q Shutter speed... w Digital zoom ... e Image stabilizer... r 16:9 effect ... t White balance ... y Return w VCR set up submenu u Record mode... i Wind screen ... o Audio mode ... !0 AV or headphones...
  • Page 42 2 PLAY MENU (MV500i :VCR MENU) Set the POWER switch to q To VCR set up submenu w To display set up submenu e To system submenu r Close main menu q VCR set up submenu q Record mode*... w Output channel... e Audio dubbing* ...

  • Page 43: Using The Wireless Controller

    Using the Wireless Controller 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. There are some functions that cannot be operated without the wireless controller: •...
  • Page 44 When Operating 2 Canon DV Camcorders (Remote Sensor Mode) To prevent interference from other Canon wireless controllers 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.
  • Page 45 If your wireless controller isn’t working: Make sure the camcorder and the wireless controller are both set to the same mode. Check the mode the camcorder is set to by pushing any button other than the REMOTE SET button on the wireless controller. The camcorder’s mode appears in purple for about 4 seconds.

  • Page 46: Setting The Date And Time

    Setting the Date and Time The date and/or time display forms part of the data code. You can choose to display or hide it during playback ( Set the date and time display when you first start using your camcorder. Install the backup battery before you begin ( •...
  • Page 47 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Time zone LONDON PARIS CAIRO MOSCOW DUBAI KARACHI DACCA BANGKOK H. KONG (Hong Kong) TOKYO SYDNEY SOLOMON Notes: • After you have selected your time zone and set the date and time, when you travel to another time zone, there is no need to reset the date and time.

  • Page 48: Setting The Clock

    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. CAMERA SYSTEM 1. Open the menu and select SYSTEM. 2. Select D/TIME SET. •...

  • Page 49: Taking Still Pictures

    Taking Still Pictures You can record still pictures like a photograph. The camcorder records the picture and sound to tape for several seconds. The exposure is automatically adjusted. Also, starting your shooting with a still photo makes it easy to find the beginning again later with the Photo Search function ( You can take a still picture at any time during regular video recording, or you can put the camcorder into record pause mode first, then take a still picture.
  • Page 50 2. Press the PHOTO button fully down to take the still picture. • 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 picture. •...

  • Page 51: Turning The Image Stabilizer Off

    Turning the Image Stabilizer Off MENU MENU With most camcorders, even the slightest hand movements will be noticeable during telephoto recording. However, the MV500/MV500i’s image stabilizer allows you to obtain steady recordings even at high magnification. CAMERA CAM.SET UP To turn the image stabilizer off, open the menu and select CAM.SET UP.

  • Page 52: Using The Various Recording Programs

    Using the Various Recording Programs The camcorder provides you with a choice of 8 recording programs. They use different combinations of camcorder settings in order to adjust the exposure and other functions to match the recording situation. • For simple point-and-shoot operation, select the Easy Recording program. Slide the program selector to the [ position.
  • Page 53 • If you switch the camcorder from the [ program to the camcorder returns to the Auto mode. • When recording in dark places a bright light in the scene may cause a vertical light bar (“smear”) to appear. This is a normal feature of camcorders. program, the...

  • Page 54: Easy Recording

    Easy Recording The simplest way to use the camcorder is with the program selector set to the [ position. The camcorder will take care of focus, exposure and other adjustments, leaving you free to point and shoot. Auto This is the same as the Easy Recording program, except that you now have the option of using any of the camcorder’s manual functions.
  • Page 55 Sand & Snow Use this program in places where the background is so bright that the subject appears underexposed in the display — a sunny beach or ski resort, for example. You may notice some shudder when recording moving subjects. Low Light This program allows you to record in dimly lit places.

  • Page 56: Using Digital Effects

    Using Digital Effects Use the camcorder’s digital effects for more interesting productions. • Faders: • Effects: * Available in PLAY (VCR) mode only. Availability of digital effects in CAMERA mode Recording Program Faders Effects h : Available i : Not available Availability of digital effects in PLAY (VCR) playback modes Playback Faders...
  • Page 57 Faders Fade Trigger (FADE-T) When you start recording, the scene gradually fades in from a black screen. Wipe (WIPE When you start recording, the picture begins as a thin vertical line in the center of the screen which gradually expands sideways until it fills the whole of the screen.
  • Page 58 Effects Sepia (SEPIA) Makes a monochrome image with a brownish tint. Black and White Art (ART) Adds a paint- (BLK & WHT) like effect, Makes the called image black and solarization, to white. the image. Mosaic (MOSAIC) Blurs the image by enlarging the size of some pixels.

  • Page 59: Operating Faders

    Digital effects can be set with the controls on the body of the camcorder or the wireless controller. Pressing the L/M buttons on the wireless controller correspond to turning the selector dial up and down, and pressing the SET button corresponds to pressing the selector dial in.
  • Page 60 6. If you’re in CAMERA mode: If you’re in PLAY (VCR) mode: Operating effects Sound records/plays back normally. When operating effects in CAMERA mode, make sure the program selector is set to Q. PLAY CAMERA (VCR) Select effect 1. Press the DIGITAL EFFECTS button to open the digital effects menu.

  • Page 61: Audio Recording

    Audio Recording Selecting the audio mode The comcorder can record sound in two audio modes — 16-bit and 12-bit. The 16-bit mode produces the higher sound quality (slightly superior to CD) while the 12-bit mode records on 2 channels (stereo 1), leaving 2 channels free (stereo 2) for you to add new sound at a later date.

  • Page 62: Wind Screen

    Notes: • When using an external microphone, use a microphone cable not longer than 3 meters to avoid electromagnetic inerference. • Be careful when using long microphones as they may extend into the frame. Wind screen The camcorder has an automatic wind screen to prevent wind noise from interfering with the sound track.

  • Page 63: Setting The Self-Timer

    Setting the Self-Timer DATA DATA CODE CODE This is useful when you want to include yourself in the picture when recording movies or still photographs. CAMERA 1. Press the self-timer button on the body of the camcorder the SELF TIMER button on the wireless controller. •...
  • Page 64 • The camcorder takes the picture for approximately 6 seconds. • If you’re in CAMERA mode, the camcorder returns to record pause mode after recording. Notes: • To cancel the self-timer before the countdown has begun, press the TIMER button. •...

  • Page 65: Ajusting Ae Shift

    Ajusting 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. AE SHIFT CAMERA Make sure the program selector is set to 1.

  • Page 66: Setting The Shutter Speed

    Setting the Shutter Speed Set the shutter speed manually to take stable shots of quickly moving subjects. CAMERA CAM.SET UP 1. Make sure the camcorder is set to the Q (program AE) mode. 2. Press the selector dial in and choose AUTO from the program menu.
  • Page 67 Guidelines for shooting using high shutter speeds • When shooting with a shutter speed of 1/1000 or higher, do not shoot the sun directly. Recommended shutter speeds when shooting: • People doing outdoor sports such as golf or tennis • Moving cars or trains or other rapidly moving vehicles such as roller coasters •...

  • Page 68: Adjusting Focus Manually

    Adjusting Focus Manually The camcorder can focus automatically. All you have to do is point it, 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.

  • Page 69: Setting The White Balance

    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: T Indoor Mode...
  • Page 70 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 vapour lights Notes: •...

  • Page 71: Displaying Date, Time And Camcorder Data (Data Code)

    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. MENU MENU During PLAY (VCR) mode, the data code can be displayed or hidden while the...

  • Page 72: Setting The Data Code

    – 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 MV500/MV500i is played back on a different DV camcorder, the data code may not be displayed correctly.
  • Page 73 Six-second auto date The 6-second auto date appears for 6 seconds to mark the changeover of a day if the tape was being recorded at 12:00 midnight. It also appears for 6 seconds when you start playback and have the data code turned off. The 6-second auto date will adjust for any time zone changes you have indicated.

  • Page 74: Searching The Tape (Photo Search/Date Search)

    Searching the Tape (Photo Search/Date Search) This allows you to move quickly through still pictures recorded anywhere on a tape (photo search) or between different days or areas of recording (date search) on a tape. PLAY (VCR) 1. Press the SEARCH SELECT button to choose between photo/date search.

  • Page 75: Returning To A Pre-Marked Position

    Returning to a Pre-Marked Position Use the wireless controller to mark a point on a tape that you want to return to following playback. PLAY CAMERA (VCR) 1. Press the ZERO SET MEMORY button on the wireless controller during playback at a point you want to return to later. •...

  • Page 76: Editing

    Editing to a VCR By connecting the camcorder to a VCR, you can edit your recordings in order to remove unwanted scenes — or combine different shots to create your own video productions. Preparations 1. Connect the camcorder to the VCR. •...

  • Page 77: Dubbing With Digital Video Equipment

    Side with arrow Preparations 1. Connect the camcorder and the other digital device. • Connect the Canon CV-150F DV cable (optional) with the side of the plug marked with the arrow facing as shown above. 2. Prepare the other device.
  • Page 78 Example dubbing to the camcorder 1. Connect the camcorder and the other digital device. • Connect the Canon CV-150F DV cable (optional) with the sides of the plugs marked with the arrows facing as shown above. 2. Prepare the other device.
  • Page 79 Dubbing 1. Find a point on your recorded cassette slightly before the section you want to copy and set it to playback pause mode. 2. Press the REC PAUSE button on the wireless controller. • The camcorder enters record pause mode. 3.
  • Page 80 Concerning copyrighting Copyright precaution Certain pre-recorded video tapes, films and other materials, as well as some television programmes are copyrighted. Unauthorized recording of these materials may violate copyright protection laws. Copyright signals When playing back: If you try to play back a tape that contains copyright control signals for the protection of software, “COPYRIGHT PROTECTED PLAYBACK IS RESTRICTED”...

  • Page 81: Recording From A Vcr, Tv Or Analog Camcorder-Analog Line-In (Mv500I Only)

    Analog Line-in (MV500i only) You can record a video played on your VCR or analog camcorder (for digital camcorders, see p. 78) or a TV program onto a tape in the MV500i, if the TV or other device has audio/video outputs.
  • Page 82 Dubbing 1. Find a point on your recorded cassette slightly before the section you want to copy and set it to playback pause mode. 2. Press the REC PAUSE button on the wireless controller. • S-video and AV IN/OUT terminals work as input terminals. •...

  • Page 83: Digitally Outputting Analog Video And Audio Signals - Analog-Digital Converter (Mv500I Only)

    Digitally Outputting Analog Video and Audio Signals — Analog-Digital Converter (MV500i only) Connecting the camcorder to your VCR or 8 mm video camcorder 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.
  • Page 84 Turning the analog-digital converter on PLAY (VCR) VCR SET UP To turn the analog-digital converter on, open the menu and select VCR SET UP. Then select AV \ DV OUT, set it to ON and close the menu. Caution: • For normal use, set AV \ \ DV OUT to OFF through the menu. If it is set to ON, you cannot input digital signals through the camcorder’s DV terminal.

  • Page 85: Recording Over Existing Scenes - Av Insert Editing (Mv500I Only)

    Recording Over Existing Scenes — AV Insert Editing (MV500i only) You can insert new scenes from your VCR or other camcorder onto your pre- recorded tape using the MV500i’s analog line-in or DV in terminals. Original video and audio will be replaced with the new video and audio. The playback tape Before inserting The tape in the...
  • Page 86 Preparations The tape in the MV500i: When using the MV500i’s AV insert function, only record to tapes recorded in SP mode. If there are non-recorded portions or portions recorded in LP mode on the tape, recording will stop. The playback tape: Use only tapes without non-recorded portions.
  • Page 87 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. •...

  • Page 88: Audio Dubbing

    Audio Dubbing - For MV500 (For MV500i, You can add sound to the original sound on a pre-recorded tape recorded in the SP mode with 12-bit sound. Use the internal or an external microphone. The original sound will not be erased.
  • Page 89 • There may be a loss of sound quality if you add sound to a tape recorded on a camcorder other than the MV500. • After adding sound 3 or more times to the same place on a tape, there may be some loss in sound quality.
  • Page 90 - For MV500i (For MV500, You can add sound to the original sound on a pre-recorded tape from audio products (AUDIO IN) or with the internal or external microphone (MIC. IN). The original sound will not be erased. For best results, add sound to tapes that have been recorded with this camcorder in SP mode with 12-bit sound.
  • Page 91 Notes: • When you add sound using the built-in microphone make sure not to connect any cables to the MIC terminal. • To use your TV to monitor video, connect the S-video terminal ( AV terminal (use only the video plug) to your TV. You can monitor the sound with headphones only when using the S-video terminal ( Preparations Turn the camcorder’s POWER switch to PLAY (VCR) and load a recorded...
  • Page 92 4. Locate the point where you want to start audio dubbing, then press the PAUSE button. • You can use the playback buttons on the body of the camcorder or the special playback functions on the wireless controller in the same way as in playback mode.

  • Page 93: Setting The Audio Mix

    Setting the Audio Mix When you play back a tape that was recorded in 12-bit mode, you can set the audio output to play: stereo 1 (the original sound), stereo 2 (any new sound, dubbed to the tape after recording), or mix the balance between the two. •...

  • Page 94: Selecting Audio Output Channels

    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 (VCR) VCR SET UP 1. Load a tape recorded with multiple-channel audio. 2.

  • Page 95: Connecting To A Pc Using A Dv Cable

    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. •...

  • Page 96: Preparing The Camcorder

    Preparing the Camcorder Adjust the viewfinder • Set the camcorder to CAMERA mode. Extend the viewfinder straight out, then adjust the viewfinder focusing lever to suit your eyesight. • Rotate the viewfinder to an angle that allows you to view comfortably. Store the camcorder with the viewfinder flush with the body of the camcorder.
  • Page 97 Attach the shoulder strap • For extra security and portability, attach the shoulder strap before using the camcorder. • Pass the ends through the attachment bars and adjust the length as shown.

  • Page 98: Notes On Using The Batteries

    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.
  • Page 99 How much power is left? The indicator in the display shows you approximately how much charge the battery pack has left: 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.

  • Page 100: Installing The Backup Battery

    Installing the backup battery Open the backup battery cover on the battery attachment unit, and insert the CR2025 lithium battery with the + side facing outwards. Click the cover back into place. This backup battery allows the camcorder to remember the date and time and other settings when main power source is removed.

  • Page 101: Maintenance

    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.
  • Page 102 Storage If you do not intend to use the camcorder for some time, store it in an area which is free of dust and moisture, and where the temperature is 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.

  • Page 103: Using The Camcorder Abroad

    • You can use the compact power adapter to operate your camcorder and charge battery packs in any country where the electricity supply is between 100 and 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz. Contact your Canon dealer for information about plug adapters for overseas use.
  • Page 104 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 become a problem: When you take the camcorder from a cold place to a warm room When the camcorder is left in a humid room...

  • Page 105: Troubleshooting

    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.
  • Page 106 • The cassette has reached the end. • When recording in dark places a bright light in the scene may cause a vertical light bar (“smear”) to appear. This is a normal feature of camcorders. • The video heads need cleaning 68). 96). 102).
  • Page 107 ? There’s no picture on the TV screen. ? There’s no picture on the TV screen, even though the tape is moving. ? There’s no sound coming from the speaker during playback. Miscellaneous Problem ? The wireless controller doesn’t work. ? The power indicator is flashing.

  • Page 108: The Mv500/Mv500I System Diagram

    The MV500/MV500i System Diagram WD-30.5 Wide- converter TL-30.5 Tele- converter FS-30.5U Filter Set ZR-1000 Zoom Remote Controller VL-10Li BP-900 Series Battery Video Light Battery Pack Stereo Microphone (commercially available) SC-1000 Soft Carrying Case (Availability differs from area to area) WL-D74...

  • Page 109: Optional Accessories

    Optional Accessories BP-500 Series Battery Packs The battery pack BP-508 is not available as an option. When you need extra battery packs, select from the following: BP-511, BP-512, BP-522 and BP-535. CR-560 Charge Adapter/Car Battery Cable Kit Connect the car battery cable to power your camcorder or recharge battery packs on the move.
  • Page 110 SC-1000 Soft Carrying Case A handy camcorder bag with padded compartments and plenty of space for accessories. This mark identifies genuine Canon video accessories. When you use Canon video equipment, we recommend Canon-brand accessories or products bearing the same mark.

  • Page 111: Screen Displays

    Screen Displays To display the date and time, press the DATA CODE button. See also p. 71. Press the wireless controller’s TV SCREEN button or turn TV SCREEN on through the menu to see the other displays on the TV screen. (The displays appear white on-screen.) They will not be added to any recordings you make with the camcorder.
  • Page 112 Shows how much battery power remains 99). The battery pack is exhausted ( 99). No cassette is loaded, or it is set for erasure prevention 16, 17). Remaining tape (Green: more than five minutes. Yellow: less than five minutes. Red: final few seconds.) ...finally, it tells you when you have...
  • Page 113 Zoom display ( 23): Optical zoom Optical plus 72× digital zoom Optical plus 360× digital zoom Zoom in Zoom out The image stabilizer is turned on ( 51). CAM. MENU PLAY MENU (MV500i: VCR MENU) ( The remote sensor is turned off ( 44).
  • Page 114 The wind screen is turned on ( 62). Volume level ( 31): Speaker Headphones The AV/headphones terminal is switched to headphones 32). Audio output Mix balance ( Audio input and Microphone input (MV500i only) Audio input Microphone input DV input ( (MV500i only) Analog-digital converter (...

  • Page 115: Caution Phrases

    Caution phrases The camcorder displays various caution phrases — they appear for 4 seconds before disappearing. Appears each time you turn the power on, until you set the time zone, date and time ( 46). Appears when the battery pack is exhausted 99).
  • Page 116 Appears immediately after you start recording, and the video heads are badly contaminated. Make sure to clean the video heads when this caution appears. 103)

  • Page 117: Specifications

    Battery capacity: 800 mAh Dimensions: 38 × 21 × 55 mm × × 2 Weight: 65 g (2 * MV500: Output only. MV500i: Input/output. ** MV500i only. Weight and dimensions are approximate. Errors and omissions excepted. Subject to change without notice.

  • Page 118: Index

    Editing to a VCR, 76 Effects, 58 External Microphone, 61, 88 Ï Faders, 57 Fast Forward, 28 Feedback, 35 Finding Your Way Around the MV500/MV500i, 7 Focusing, 68 Ó Head Cleaning, 103 Headphones, 32 È Image Stabilizer, 51 Introducing the MV500/MV500i, 6 Ò...
  • Page 119 ˆ Night, 55 Ø Optional Accessories, 109 ∏ Pause, Record, 18 PC Connection, 95 Photo Search, 74 Playback, 28 Playback Connection, 32 Playback Pause, 29 Portrait, 54 Power Adapter, 11-13, 15 Powering Your Camcorder, 11 Pre-Marked Position, 75 Preparing the Camcorder, 96 Problems, 105 Â...

  • Page 120: Menu At A Glance

    Menu at a Glance Use the list below to quickly navigate the camcorder’s menu. Functions are listed alphabetically. Function 16:9 effect 6-sec. Date Audio dub* Audio mode AV/headphones AV → DV out* Beep Brightness Data code Date/time display Date/time select Date/time set Demo mode Digital zoom...
  • Page 121 Function Shutter speed Time zone/DST TV screen White balance Wind screen First make sure the camera is set to... Then select it from this PLAY CAMERA (VCR) * MV500i only submenu and set. CAM.SET UP SYSTEM DISP.SET UP CAM.SET UP VCR SET UP...
  • Page 122 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.

This manual is also suitable for:

Mv mv500iMv500i

Table of Contents