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Canon VIXIA HF M301 Instruction Manual

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PUB. DIE-0398-000
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Instruction Manual

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Summary of Contents for Canon VIXIA HF M301

  • Page 1: Instruction Manual

    PUB. DIE-0398-000 HD Camcorder Instruction Manual...

  • Page 2: Important Usage Instructions

    If such changes or modifications should be made, you could be required to stop operation of the equipment. Canon U.S.A., Inc. One Canon Plaza, Lake Success, NY 11042, U.S.A. Tel No. (516)328-5600 CAUTION: TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.
  • Page 3 The Mains plug is used as the disconnect device. The Mains plug shall remain readily operable to disconnect the plug in case of an accident. CAUTION: • Danger of explosion if the wrong type of batteries are attached. Use only the same type of batteries.

  • Page 4: Important Safety Instructions

    IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS In these safety instructions the word “product” refers to the Canon HD Camcorder VIXIA HF M30 A / VIXIA HF M31 A / VIXIA HF M301 A and all its accessories. Read these instructions. Keep these instructions.
  • Page 5 Placing or Moving — Do not place on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table. The product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the product. A product and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart combination to overturn.
  • Page 6 Replacement Parts — When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts that are specified by Canon or that have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock or other hazards.
  • Page 7 Trademark Acknowledgements • SD, SDHC and SDXC logos are trademarks of SD-3C, LLC. • Microsoft and Windows are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. • Macintosh and Mac OS are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. •...

  • Page 8: Exciting Features And New Functions

    (0 37). “Full HD 1080” refers to Canon camcorders compliant with high-definition video composed of 1,080 vertical pixels (scanning lines). Video is recorded at this resolution only when the recording mode is set to MXP or FXP mode.

  • Page 9: Image Stabilization

    Smart AUTO Smart AUTO automatically selects the best scene mode for the scene you want to shoot. You get spectacular recordings every time without worrying about settings. Video Snapshot (0 69) Shoot or capture short scenes and arrange them into a video clip set to your favorite background music.
  • Page 10 Enjoying your Recordings on Other Devices Connect the camcorder to an HDTV (0 125) Use an Eye-Fi card (0 139) to wirelessly upload recordings to your computer or a video sharing Web site. High Definition AVCHD Convert your HD movies, in the camcorder itself, to standard definition files (0 132, 136).

  • Page 12: Table Of Contents

    Table of contents  Introduction Exciting Features and New Functions About this Manual Getting to Know the Camcorder Supplied Accessories and CD-ROMs Names of Parts  Preparations Getting Started Charging the Battery Pack Preparing the Accessories Adjusting the Position and Brightness of the LCD Screen Basic Operation of the Camcorder Using the Touch Screen Operating Modes...
  • Page 13  Dual Shot Mode Basic Recording Shooting Video and Taking Photos in Dual Shot Mode About the Smart AUTO mode Zooming Quick Start Function  Video Basic Playback Playing Back the Video The Index Selection Screen: Selecting the Content to Play Back 3D Flip View Narrowing Down the Scenes Shown in the Index Screen...
  • Page 14 Using the Mini Advanced Shoe Using an External Microphone Using a Zoom Remote Controller Selecting the Playback Starting Point Playing Back Scenes Set to Background Music Onscreen Displays and Data Code Playlist and Scene Operations Editing the Playlist: Adding, Deleting, Moving and Playing Back Capturing Photos and Video Snapshot Scenes from a Movie...
  • Page 15  External Connections 122 Terminals on the Camcorder Connection Diagrams 125 Playback on a TV Screen 127 Saving and Sharing Your Recordings e Copying Recordings to a Memory Card Saving Recordings on a Computer e Saving Movies onto Standard-Definition Discs (DVD) Copying Recordings to an External Video Recorder e Uploading Movies to Video Sharing Web Sites...

  • Page 16: About This Manual

    About this Manual Thank you for purchasing the Canon VIXIA HF M31 / VIXIA HF M30 / VIXIA HF M301. Please read this manual carefully before you use the camcorder and retain it for future reference. Should your camcorder fail to operate correctly, refer to Troubleshooting (0 162).
  • Page 17 indicates that a function is available in the operating mode indicated and that the function is not available. For a detailed explanation refer to Operating Modes (0 31). Self Timer Operating modes: [FUNC.] [A On n] • appears. • Repeat, selecting [B Off], to turn off the self timer. mode: In record pause mode, press g.

  • Page 18: Getting To Know The Camcorder

    Getting to Know the Camcorder Supplied Accessories and CD-ROMs The following accessories are supplied with the camcorder:  Introduction CA-570 Compact Power Adapter (incl. power cord) BP-808 Battery WL-D89 Wireless Controller (incl. CR2025 lithium button battery) STV-250N Stereo Video Yellow • Red • White plugs CTC-100/S Component Cable Red •...
  • Page 19 The following CD-ROMs and software are supplied with the camcorder: • PIXELA Application - Disc 1 CD-ROM* and ‘PIXELA Applications’ Installation Guide - ImageMixer 3 SE Transfer Utilities – Software for saving and transferring movies and music files you can use as background music. •...

  • Page 20: Names Of Parts

    Names of Parts Left side view Right side view Front view  Introduction 1 DISP. (onscreen display) button (0 94)/ BATT. INFO button (0 161) 2 2 (camera/play) button (0 31) 3 Speaker (0 52) 4 Memory card slot cover 5 Memory card slot (0 39) 6 MIC terminal (0 86) 7 AV OUT terminal (0 122, 124)/...
  • Page 21 Top view LCD panel Back view A l Mini advanced shoe (0 84) S q Mode switch (0 31) S a PHOTO button (0 43, 105) S s Zoom lever (0 47) S d VIDEO SNAP (video snapshot) button (0 69) S f POWER button S g ON/OFF (CHG) (charge) indicator: Green –...
  • Page 22 Bottom view Wireless Controller WL-D89  Introduction D s Serial number D d Tripod socket (0 179) 1 START/STOP button (0 43, 59) 2 b (index selection) button (0 53) Press and hold for more than 2 seconds to switch between shooting and playback mode.

  • Page 23: Preparations

    Preparations This chapter describes basic operations, such as using the touch panel, navigating the menus, and first time settings to help you learn more about your camcorder. Getting Started Charging the Battery Pack The camcorder can be powered with a battery pack or directly using the compact power adapter.
  • Page 24 5 Charging will start when the camcorder is turned off. • If the camcorder was on, the green ON/OFF (CHG) indicator will go out when you turn off the camcorder. After a moment, the ON/OFF (CHG) indicator will start flashing in red (battery pack charging).
  • Page 25 • To prevent equipment breakdowns and excessive heating, do not con- nect the supplied compact power adapter to voltage converters for overseas travels or special power sources such as those on aircraft and ships, DC-AC inverters, etc. NOTES • The battery pack will be charged only when the camcorder is off. •...

  • Page 26: Preparing The Accessories

    Preparing the Accessories Wireless Controller First, insert the supplied CR2025 lithium button battery into the wire- less controller. 1 Press the tab in the direction of the arrow and pull out the battery holder. 2 Place the lithium button battery with the + side facing up.
  • Page 27 Grip Belt and Straps Fasten the grip belt. Adjust the grip belt so that you can reach the zoom lever with your index finger, and the g button with your thumb. To remove the grip belt 1 Lift the padded handgrip's flap and detach the strap from the Velcro pad.

  • Page 28: Adjusting The Position And Brightness Of The Lcd Screen

    To attach an optional wrist strap Pass the attaching end of the wrist strap through the rear bracket on the camcorder, thread the wrist strap through the loop and fasten. You can also attach the wrist strap to the strap mount on the grip belt to use both for extra convenience and protection.
  • Page 29 180° 90° NOTES • About the LCD screen: The screen is produced using extremely high-pre- cision manufacturing techniques, with more than 99.99% of the pixels operating to specification. Less than 0.01% of the pixels may occasion- ally misfire or appear as black, red, blue or green dots. This has no effect on the recorded image and does not constitute a malfunction.

  • Page 30: Basic Operation Of The Camcorder

    Basic Operation of the Camcorder Using the Touch Screen The control buttons and menu items that appear on the touch screen change dynamically depending on the operating mode and the task you are performing. With the intuitive touch screen interface you have all the controls at your fingertips.

  • Page 31: Operating Modes

    • For details about how to take care of the touch screen, refer to Handling Precautions (0 178), Cleaning (0 183). Operating Modes Recording When recording video or photos, the camcorder’s operating mode is determined by the position of the mode switch and the onscreen con- trol buttons.

  • Page 32: Using The Menus

    Initial mode Press S in mode. Press S in mode. NOTES • e When switching to a playback mode, the memory selected for playback will be the same currently used for recording. • You can also press and hold B on the wireless controller for more than 2 seconds to switch between recording and playback mode.
  • Page 33 mode, touch [Edit] to display a similar panel contain- ing the various operations that are available after selecting one or more scenes or photos (for example, deleting, adding scenes to the playlist, protecting photos, etc.). Touch the control button of the desired opera- tion.
  • Page 34 NOTES • A small font size is used in menu screens so you can see the options currently selected. You can enlarge the font size by setting 6 [Font Size] to [A Large] but only the icons of the currently selected options will appear on the screen.

  • Page 35: First Time Settings

    First Time Settings Setting the Date and Time You will need to set the date and time of the camcorder before you can start using it. The [Date/Time] screen will appear automatically when the cam- corder’s clock is not set. When the [Date/Time] screen appears, the year will be selected.

  • Page 36: Changing The Language

    Changing the Language The default language of the camcorder is English. You can set it to one of 22 other languages. Operating modes: [FUNC.]* [MENU] Desired language * Only when performing the procedure in a recording mode. NOTES • Some control buttons, such as [ZOOM], [FUNC.] or [MENU], will appear in English regardless of the language selected.

  • Page 37: Using A Memory Card

    Using a Memory Card Memory Cards Compatible for Use with the Camcorder You can use commercially available Secure Digital (SD) cards with this camcorder. However, depending on the memory card, you may not be able to record movies. Refer to the table below. As of May 2010, the movie recording function has been tested using SD/SDHC memory cards made by Panasonic, Toshiba and SanDisk, and SDXC memory cards made by Panasonic and Toshiba.
  • Page 38 SDXC Memory Cards As of May 2010, SDXC memory cards have been tested to work under Windows 7. For details on whether your computer's operating system is SDXC-compatible, check with your computer's manufacturer. IMPORTANT • If you use an SDXC memory card with a computer OS that is not SDXC- compatible, you may be prompted to format the memory card.

  • Page 39: Inserting And Removing A Memory Card

    Inserting and Removing a Memory Card Make sure to initialize (0 41) all memory cards before using them with this camcorder. 1 Turn off the camcorder. Make sure the ON/OFF (CHG) is off. 2 Open the memory card slot cover. 3 Insert the memory card straight, with the label facing up, all the way into the memory card slot until it...

  • Page 40: 40 E Relay Recording Of Movies

    POINTS TO CHECK • Be sure you understand the information provided in Eye-Fi Cards (0 38) before using an Eye-Fi card. [FUNC.] [MENU] [Rec Media for Movies] or [Rec Media for Photos] [f] (built-in memory)or [g] (memory card)* * When selecting the memory, you can check the approximate available recording time/number of photos, based on currently used settings.

  • Page 41: Initializing The Built-In Memory (E Only) Or Memory Card

    NOTES • Any of the following actions will deactivate the relay recording function: - Turning off the camcorder. - Opening the memory card slot cover. - Changing the position of the mode switch. - Changing the camcorder's operating mode. - Selecting the memory card as the memory for recording movies. Initializing the Built-in Memory (e only) or Memory Card Initialize memory cards when you use them with this camcorder for the first time.
  • Page 42 * Touch this option if you want to physically erase all the data rather than just clear the file allocation table of the memory. ** If you selected the [Complete Initialization] option, you can touch [Cancel] to cancel the initialization while it is in progress. All recordings will be erased and the memory can be used without any problem.

  • Page 43: Dual Shot Mode

    Dual Shot Mode This chapter covers how to easily record video and photos in the all-automatic Dual Shot mode, and how to use basic shoot- ing functions like zoom and Quick Start. To enjoy full access to menus and more advanced functions, refer to the relevant chapters for video (0 59) and photos (0 105).

  • Page 44: About The Smart Auto Mode

    When you have finished recording 1 Make sure that the ACCESS indicator is off. 2 Turn off the camcorder. 3 Close the LCD panel. About Dual Shot • Only the following functions are available in - Zoom (0 47). - Quick Start (0 48). - Video snapshot (0 69).
  • Page 45 Smart AUTO icons Background  (color of the icon) Subject  People (stationary) People (moving) Subjects other than people, such as landscapes Close objects The icon in parentheses appears under backlight conditions. Background  (color of the icon) Subject  People (stationary) People (moving) Subjects other than people,...
  • Page 46 • Be sure to save your recordings regularly (0 127), especially after making important recordings. Canon shall not be liable for any loss or corruption of data. • When recording photos on an Eye-Fi card, photos will be uploaded automatically if you are within the range of a configured network. Always verify that Eye-Fi cards have been approved in the country/region of use.

  • Page 47: Zooming

    Zooming Operating modes: There are three ways you can zoom in and out: using the zoom lever on the camcorder, using the zoom buttons on the wireless controller or using the zoom controls on the touch screen. In addition to the 15x optical zoom*, in 300x digital zoom with the 7 * When [Image Stabilizer] (FUNC.

  • Page 48: Quick Start Function

    2 Touch the zoom controls to operate the zoom. Touch anywhere within the Q area to zoom out or anywhere within the P area to zoom in. Touch closer to the center for a slow zoom ([Speed 1]); touch closer to the e/d icons for faster zooms ([Speed 3]).
  • Page 49 2 When you wish to resume recording, open the LCD panel. The ON/OFF (CHG) indicator turns back green and the camcorder is ready to record. IMPORTANT • Do not disconnect the power source during standby mode (while the ON/OFF (CHG) indicator is lit in orange). NOTES •...

  • Page 50: Video

    Video This chapter covers functions related to movies, including play- back, advanced shooting, advanced functions and playlist and scene operations. For details about basic video shooting, refer to Dual Shot Mode (0 43). Basic Playback Playing Back the Video Operating modes: 1 Press S.
  • Page 51 A Memory being read B Index screen currently displayed C Drag your finger left for the next index page* D Drag your finger right for the previous index page* E Select a different index screen to read different content or from a different memory (e only) (0 53) F Scene's timeline (0 88) and recording information G Narrow down the scenes shown in the index screen...
  • Page 52 A Stop the playback. B Jump to the beginning of the scene. Double-tap to jump to the previous scene. C Pause the playback. D Drag your finger left and right along the volume bar to adjust the volume. E Touch anywhere else to hide the playback controls. F Fast playback backward*.

  • Page 53: The Index Selection Screen: Selecting The Content To Play Back

    IMPORTANT • Observe the following precautions while the ACCESS indicator is on or flashing. Failing to do so may result in permanent data loss. - Do not open the memory card slot cover. - Do not disconnect the power source or turn off the camcorder. - Do not change the camcorder’s operating mode.
  • Page 54 A e Touch the tab of the desired memory: built-in memory or memory card. B Touch a control button to select the content you want to play back. Options [Original] Original movies as you recorded them. [Playlist] Scenes that were added to the playlist (0 95) and may have been rearranged to your liking.

  • Page 55: Flip View

    3D Flip View 3D Flip View is a fun way to display your video recordings (original scenes) in a 3D layout, organized by recording date. In any index screen, touch [b] During single photo view, touch the screen once to display the controls then touch [Q] to open the [Photos] index screen.

  • Page 56: Narrowing Down The Scenes Shown In The Index Screen

    Narrowing Down the Scenes Shown in the Index Screen From the [Original] index screen, you can narrow down the scenes shown, leaving only scenes that were recorded on a specific date or only those scenes in which people's faces were detected. Operating modes: Showing Only Scenes that Contain People’s Faces This will narrow down the scenes shown in the [Original] index screen,...

  • Page 57: Deleting Scenes

    2 Open the calendar screen. [y All Scenes] • Dates that contain scenes (that is, movies were recorded on that date) appear in black against a silver background. Dates without recordings appear grayed out. • Touch [y] or [A] to jump to the previous/next calendar month that contains recordings.
  • Page 58 3 Touch on the individual scenes you want to delete. • A checkmark O will appear on scenes selected. Touch a selected scene again to remove the checkmark. • To select all the scenes at once: Touch [Select All] instead of touching individual scenes.

  • Page 59: Advanced Functions

    - Do not change the camcorder’s operating mode. • Be sure to save your recordings regularly (0 127), especially after making important recordings. Canon shall not be liable for any loss or corruption of data. mode, though, the camcorder can help you with...

  • Page 60: Selecting The Video Quality (Recording Mode)

    NOTES • The zoom, Quick Start function, power saving modes, etc. operate the same way in Shot Mode (0 43). Selecting the Video Quality (Recording Mode) The camcorder offers 5 recording modes. Changing the recording mode will change the recording time available on the memory. Select MXP or FXP mode for better movie quality;...

  • Page 61: Special Scene Recording Programs

    Approximate recording times Recording mode  Memory  4 GB Memory card 8 GB Memory card/ 6 Built-in memory 16 GB Memory card 32 GB Memory card/ a Built-in memory Recorded in 1,920 x 1,080 resolution. Movies recorded using other recording modes are recorded in 1,440 x 1,080 resolution.
  • Page 62 Sports] To record sports scenes such as tennis or golf. Night Scene] lower noise. Snow] To record in bright ski resorts without the subject being underexposed. Beach] To record on a sunny beach without the subject being underexposed. Sunset] To record sunsets in vibrant colors. Low Light] To record in low-light situations.
  • Page 63 Underwater] natural colors. Surface] To record after getting out of the water, such as on a boat after diving. NOTES • [F Portrait]/[G Sports]/[I Snow]/[J Beach]: The picture may not appear smooth during playback. • [F Portrait]: The blur effect of the background increases the more you zoom in (P).

  • Page 64: Cinema Mode: Giving A Cinematic Look To Your Recordings

    - p will appear on the screen when the camcorder's temperature becomes too high. If this happens, turn off the camcorder, take it out of the waterproof case and keep it in a cool place until the temperature goes down. If the camcorder becomes too hot, it will turn off automatically.

  • Page 65: Advanced Image Stabilization

    Operating modes: To change the frame rate [FUNC.] [MENU] [E PF24] Advanced Image Stabilization The image stabilizer reduces camcorder blur (blur due to the cam- corder moving) so you can get nice, stable shots. Select the image sta- bilization mode according to the shooting conditions. Operating modes: mode: [FUNC.]...

  • Page 66: Pre-Recording

    Powered IS When shooting video, you can use Powered IS to make the image stabilization even more powerful. Powered IS is most effective when you are stationary and zooming in on far subjects using high zoom ratios (the more you approach the telephoto end). Holding the LCD panel with your left hand will add to the stability of the shot.

  • Page 67: Face Detection

    1 Activate the pre-recording function. [FUNC.] • d appears. • Repeat, selecting [B Off], to turn off pre-recording. 2 Press g. The scene recorded in the memory will start 3 seconds before g was pressed. NOTES • While pre-recording is activated, the camcorder will not emit any notifi- cation sounds.
  • Page 68 POINTS TO CHECK • Select a recording program other than [q Night Scene], [p Low Light], [M Fireworks] or [r Underwater]. By default, face detection is activated. If the function was turned off, per- form the following procedure to turn it on. [FUNC.] [MENU] [Face Detection &...

  • Page 69: Touch & Track

    Touch & Track When recording people, face detection (0 67) will track the main sub- ject and keep it always in focus. But also when recording other moving subjects such as your pet, a moving vehicle or people not facing the camera directly, you can use Touch &...

  • Page 70: Digital Effects

    1 Press z. • A blue border appears on the screen. • Press z again to return to normal video recording mode. 2 Press • By default, the camcorder records for about 4 seconds (the blue frame serves as a visual progress bar) and then automatically returns to record pause mode.

  • Page 71: Manually Setting The Shutter Speed Or Aperture

    To fade in/out Press g in record pause mode (M) to start recording with a fade in. Press g while recording ( the recording.  Options Default value)  Off] Select this setting when you do not intend to use the dig- ital effects.
  • Page 72 [FUNC.] [Rec. Programs] [C Aperture-Pri. AE] along the dial to set the desired shutter speed (B) or aperture value (C)  Options Default value) [A Programmed AE] aperture and shutter speed to obtain the optimal exposure for the subject. [B Shutter-Pri. AE] automatically sets the appropriate aperture value.
  • Page 73 Shutter Speed and Aperture Value Guidelines With slower shutter speed you can add a nice motion blur and sense of movement. With faster shutter speeds you can “freeze the action” for powerful images of moving mode A Low-light situations Most ordinary conditions With small aperture values only the subject is in focus and the background is softly blurred.

  • Page 74: Manual Exposure Adjustment

    Manual Exposure Adjustment At times, backlit subjects may appear too dark (underexposed) or sub- jects under very strong lights may appear too bright or glaring (overex- posed). To correct this, you can adjust the exposure manually or use the Touch AE function to automatically set the optimal exposure for the subject you select.

  • Page 75: Automatic Gain Control (Agc) Limit

    NOTES • If the recording program is changed during exposure lock, the cam- corder will return to automatic exposure. • When shooting subjects with a strong light source behind them, the camcorder automatically corrects for the backlight. You can turn off the automatic backlight correction with the 7/8 Correction] setting.
  • Page 76 POINTS TO CHECK • Adjust the zoom before you start the procedure. 1 Open the manual focus screen. [FUNC.] 2 Touch a subject that appears inside the X frame. • The Touch AF mark (P) will flash and the focusing distance will be adjusted automatically.

  • Page 77: White Balance

    White Balance The white balance function helps you to accurately reproduce colors under different lighting conditions so that white objects will always look truly white in your recordings. Operating modes: POINTS TO CHECK • Select a recording program other than the Special Scene recording pro- grams.

  • Page 78: Image Effects

    NOTES • When you select the custom white balance: - Set 7 [Digital Zoom] to [B Off]. - Reset the white balance when you change locations or the lighting or other conditions change. - Depending on the light source, g may keep flashing. The result will still be better than with [Y Automatic].

  • Page 79: Mini Video Light

     Options Default value)  [U Off] Records with no image enhancing effects. [V Vivid] Emphasizes the contrast and color saturation. [W Neutral] Tones down the contrast and color saturation. [X Low Sharpening] [Y Soft Skin Detail] more complimentary appearance. To obtain the best effect, use this setting when recording a person in close-up.

  • Page 80: Self Timer

    NOTES • We recommend not using the mini video light while the optional Wide- converter or Tele-converter is attached; its shadow can appear on the screen. Using an External Video Light You can use the optional VL-5 Video Light or VFL-2 Video Flash Light when you need a video light that is stronger than the built-in mini video light.

  • Page 81: Audio Recording Level

    mode: Press j, first halfway to activate the autofocus and then fully. The camcorder will record the photo after a 10-second countdown*. The countdown appears on the screen. * 2 seconds when using the wireless controller. NOTES • Once the countdown has begun, any of the following actions will cancel the self timer.
  • Page 82 Manual audio level adjustment 2 Touch and hold [y] or [A] to adjust the audio recording level as necessary. As a guideline, adjust the audio recording level so that the audio level meter will go to the right of the -12 dB mark (yellow area) only occasionally.

  • Page 83: Using Headphones

    Using Headphones Use headphones for playback or to check the audio level while record- ing. The headphones are connected to the AV OUT/X terminal, which is used for both the headphones and the audio/video output. Before connecting the headphones, follow the procedure below to change the function of the terminal from AV output to X (headphones) output.

  • Page 84: Using The Mini Advanced Shoe

    IMPORTANT • When using headphones, make sure to lower the volume to an appro- priate level. • Do not connect the headphones to the AV OUT/X terminal if the J icon does not appear on the screen. The noise output in such case may be harmful to your hearing.

  • Page 85: Using An External Microphone

    NOTES • Accessories designed for the Advanced Accessory Shoe cannot be used with this camcorder. Look for video accessories bearing this logo to ensure compatibility with the mini advanced shoe. Using an External Microphone When recording in very quiet surroundings, the built-in microphone may pick up the sound of the camcorder's internal machinery.

  • Page 86: Using A Zoom Remote Controller

    Using other microphones You can also use commercially avail- able microphones. Connect the exter- nal microphone to the MIC terminal. Use commercially available condenser microphones with their own power supply. You can connect almost any stereo microphone with a  3.5 mm plug but audio recording levels may vary.
  • Page 87 Attach the optional RA-V1 Remote Control Adapter to the mini advanced shoe. Refer to Using the Mini Advanced Shoe (0 84). appears. For details about using the adapter, refer to the instruction manual of the RA-V1. For details about using the zoom remote controller, refer to the instruction manual of the ZR-2000 or ZR-1000.

  • Page 88: Selecting The Playback Starting Point

    Selecting the Playback Starting Point If you have a very long scene, you may want to start playing back the scene from a certain point. You can use the movie timeline to break the scene to segments at fixed time intervals ranging from 6 seconds to 6 minutes.
  • Page 89 A Touch twice to return to the index screen. B Previous/next scene. C Drag your finger left along the ruler to display the next 5 frames. D Current scene / Total number of scenes. E Scene's recording mode and length. F Recording date and time.

  • Page 90: Playing Back Scenes Set To Background Music

    Playing Back Scenes Set to Background Music You can play back video snapshot scenes, scenes in the playlist and photo slideshows set to background music (instead of the original sound). You can use one of the supplied music tracks or connect an external audio player to use your favorite songs as background music.
  • Page 91 A Select the desired music track. B Play back the original sound (no background music). C Delete the music track selected. D Listen to the music track selected. Touch again (B) to stop the playback. 3 Back in the index screen, touch a scene to start the playback set to the selected music track.
  • Page 92 2 Activate the external audio input. [MENU] [A On 3 Connect the external player to the camcorder's MIC terminal. 4 Adjust the audio input as necessary. • Start the music playback on the external player and adjust its volume according to the onscreen indications. When the audio input is in the correct range, stop the music playback and touch [a] on the camcorder.
  • Page 93 NOTES • You can also add to the playlist just the video snapshot scenes you want to watch and arrange their playback order. • Initializing a memory card will permanently erase any music files you may have transferred to the card. (e The music files that come pre-installed in the built-in memory will be restored after it is initialized.) - Windows useres: Use the supplied software ImageMixer 3 SE to transfer music files from the supplied Camcorder Supplemental Disc...

  • Page 94: Onscreen Displays And Data Code

    Onscreen Displays and Data Code You can turn most onscreen displays on or off. Operating modes: Repeatedly press h to turn the onscreen displays on/off in the following sequence: mode: • All displays on • Most displays off mode • All displays on •...

  • Page 95: Playlist And Scene Operations

    Playlist and Scene Operations Editing the Playlist: Adding, Deleting, Moving and Playing Back Create a playlist to play back only the scenes you prefer and in the order of your choice. You can play back the scenes in the playlist using your favorite song as background music (0 90).
  • Page 96 • e You can copy scenes from the built-in memory to the mem- ory card (0 127) to include in the memory card’s playlist also scenes that were originally recorded in the built-in memory. Deleting Scenes from the Playlist Deleting scenes from the playlist will not affect your original recordings. 1 Open the [Playlist] index screen.
  • Page 97 A Destination icon. B Move the scene to the position indicated by the destina- tion icon. C Touch an empty box to select it as the destination. D Scene selected to be moved. E Original position of the scene and currently selected des- tination.
  • Page 98 NOTES • A video snapshot scene can be captured only during playback; it can- not be captured during playback pause mode. • e The captured video snapshot scene is saved to the same memory that contains the source scene. • Video snapshot scenes cannot be captured from any of the following types of scenes.

  • Page 99: Dividing Scenes

    To capture the photos 1 Play back the scene from which you want to capture the photo. 2 Pause the playback at the point you want to capture. 3 Press j fully. To capture a photo sequence, hold j pressed down. The scene will be played back by frames and each frame captured as a separate photo.
  • Page 100 2 Select the scene you want to divide and touch it to start playing it back. 3 Pause the playback at the point where you want to divide the scene. 4 Open the scene division screen. [Edit] [Divide] 5 Bring the scene to a precise point, if necessary. •...

  • Page 101: Viewing Photos

    Photos Refer to this chapter for details on taking photos (advanced shooting functions), viewing photos and printing them. For details about basic photo shooting, refer to Dual Shot Mode (0 43). Basic Playback Viewing Photos Operating modes: 1 Press S. 2 Open the [Photos] index screen, if it is not displayed.
  • Page 102 A Memory being read. B Index screen currently displayed. C Drag your finger left for the next index page. D Drag your finger right for the previous index page. E Select a different index screen to read different content or from a different memory (e only) (0 53).

  • Page 103: Deleting Photos

    IMPORTANT • Observe the following precautions while the ACCESS indicator is on or flashing. Failing to do so may result in permanent data loss. - Do not open the memory card slot cover. - Do not disconnect the power source or turn off the camcorder. - Do not change the camcorder’s operating mode.
  • Page 104 3 Touch on the individual photos you want to delete. • A checkmark O will appear on photos selected. Touch a selected photo again to remove the checkmark. • To select all the photos at once: Touch [Select All] instead of touching individual photos.

  • Page 105: Taking Photos In Y Manual Mode

    Additional Functions Taking Photos in y Manual Mode Operating modes: 1 Set the mode switch to y. 2 Turn on the camcorder. • e By default, photos are recorded in the built-in memory. You can select the memory that will be used to record photos (0 39).

  • Page 106: Selecting Photo Size And Quality

    NOTES • If the subject is not suitable for autofocus, h turns yellow. Adjust the focus manually (0 75). • When the subject is too bright, [Overexp.] will flash on the screen. In such case, use the optional FS-H37U ND filter. Deleting a Photo Right After Recording It You can delete a photo you have just recorded while reviewing it within the time set for the 8...
  • Page 107 Options Large capacity memory cards, like those usually used for video record- ing, can contain a very large number of photos. As a reference, the number of photos that can be recorded on a 1 GB memory card is given in the following table. NOTES •...

  • Page 108: Flash

    Approximate number of photos available on a 1 GB memory card Memory card Photo size   L 2100x1575 K 2304x1296 M 1600x1200 H 1920x1080 N 640x480 S 848x480 This size is only available for capturing photos from a movie ( This size is only available for simultaneous recording in mode.
  • Page 109 2 Press , first halfway to activate the autofocus and then fully to record the photo. Depending on the setting selected and shooting conditions, the flash will fire.  Options Default value)  [U Automatic] brightness of the subject. [V Red-Eye Auto] brightness of the subject.

  • Page 110: Drive Mode: Continuous Shooting And Exposure

    • About the AF-Assist Lamp: While you press j halfway, if the sur- roundings of the subject are too dark, the mini video light may light up briefly in order to enable the camcorder to focus more accurately (AF- assist lamp). - You can also set 8 lamp is not activated.
  • Page 111  Options Default value)  [A Single] Records a single photo. [D AE Bracketing] ferent exposures (dark, normal, light in 1/2 EV steps), allowing you to choose the photo you like the best. [B Continuous], [C Hi-Speed Cont.] Captures a series of up to 60 photos as long as you hold j pressed down.
  • Page 112 [FUNC.] [MENU] Recording] Desired photo size* (bottom row) * The number displayed on the right corner indicates the approximate number of photos that can be recorded with the current quality/size setting. ** Touch [X] if you do not intend to use simultaneous recording. Operating modes: While recording, or in record pause mode, press j to capture the photo.

  • Page 113: Slideshow

    Light Metering Mode The camcorder measures the light reflected from the subject in order to calculate the optimal exposure settings. Depending on the subject, you may want to change the way the light is measured and evaluated. Operating modes: POINTS TO CHECK •...

  • Page 114: Magnifying Photos During Playback

    Slideshow set to a music track 3 Touch the screen to display the playback controls, then touch [A] to play back the slideshow set to the selected music track. Slideshow not linked to the external audio 3 Touch the screen to display the playback controls, then touch [A] to start the slideshow.

  • Page 115: Rotating Photos

    2 Drag your finger across the photo to display the area you want to see enlarged. To cancel the magnification, move the zoom lever toward Q until the frame disappears. Rotating Photos You can rotate photos 90 degrees to change their orientation. Operating modes: 1 In single photo view, select the photo you want to rotate.

  • Page 116: Protecting Photos

    The histogram and Exif information panel are displayed as well. Press h to hide the histogram and Exif information panel. The area to the right of the histogram represents highlights and the left side represents shadows. A photo whose histogram skews to the right is relatively bright;...
  • Page 117 [Edit] [Protect] * Touch [Remove Protection] to remove the protection from the selected photos. IMPORTANT • Initializing the memory will permanently erase all recordings, including protected photos. r Functions You Can Use when Taking Photos You can also use the following functions... The following functions and features of the camcorder can be used either for shooting video or for taking photos.

  • Page 118: Printing Photos

    You can mark in advance the photos you want to print and set the desired number of copies as a print order (0 120). Canon printers: SELPHY printers of the CP, DS and ES series and PIXMA printers carry- ing the PictBridge logo.
  • Page 119 (0 176) and to the printer's instruction manual. • Canon's PictBridge-compatible printers: If printing does not resume auto- matically after you solved the problem, touch [Continue] to resume printing. If that option is not available, touch [Stop] and then restart printing from the beginning.

  • Page 120: Print Orders

    • Other printers or if the error still persists with a Canon printer: If printing does not resume automatically, disconnect the USB cable and turn off the camcorder. After a short while, turn on the camcorder and restore the USB connection.
  • Page 121 2 Touch [a] to open the photo selection screen. 3 Touch on the individual photos you want to mark with a print order. • A checkmark O will appear on photos selected. Touch a selected photo again to remove the checkmark. •...

  • Page 122: External Connections

    External Connections This chapter explains how to connect your camcorder to an external device such as a TV, VCR, or computer. Terminals on the Camcorder * When connecting a cable to the camcorder, make sure to align the triangle marks on the cable's connector and on the camcorder's terminal.

  • Page 123: Connection Diagrams

    Connection Diagrams In the following connection diagrams, the left side shows the terminals on the camcorder and the right side shows (for reference only) an example of terminals on a connected device. Connection A Type: Digital Quality: High definition Output only Connect to a high-definition TV (HDTV) with an HDMI input terminal.
  • Page 124 Connection B Type: Analog Quality: High Definition Output only Connect to a high-definition TV (HDTV) with component video input terminals. Change the following settings on the camcorder: [AV/Headphones] to [H AV] STV-250N Stereo Video Cable Connection C Type: Analog Quality: Standard definition Output only Connect to a standard TV or a VCR with audio/video input terminals.

  • Page 125: Playback On A Tv Screen

    Connection D Type: Digital data connection Connect to a computer to save your recordings, or to a printer to print out photos. NOTES • To be able to write back scenes and to transfer music files from the computer to the camcorder, power the camcorder using the compact power adapter and only then connect it to the computer using the sup- plied USB cable.
  • Page 126 NOTES • To correctly play back movies recorded with x.v.Color (0 151) on an HDTV compatible with this standard, additional settings may be required on the connected HDTV. Refer to the TV’s instruction manual. • We recommend powering the camcorder using the compact power adapter.

  • Page 127: Saving And Sharing Your Recordings

    Saving and Sharing Your Recordings e Copying Recordings to a Memory Card You can copy your recordings only one-way: from the built-in memory to the memory card. Scenes and photos will be copied from the index screen you selected to the corresponding index screen on the memory card.
  • Page 128 Copying a Single Photo Operating modes: 1 In single photo view, select the photo you want to copy. Check that you are viewing photos recorded in the built-in memory. (f appears next to the photo number.) 2 Touch the screen to display the playback controls. 3 Copy the photo.

  • Page 129: Saving Recordings On A Computer

    IMPORTANT • Observe the following precautions while the ACCESS indicator is on or flashing. Failing to do so may result in permanent data loss. - Do not open the memory card slot cover. - Do not disconnect the power source or turn off the camcorder. - Do not change the camcorder’s operating mode.
  • Page 130 Installation See ‘PIXELA Applications’ Installation Guide. Using the software See ‘ImageMixer 3 SE Software Guide’ (PDF file on the Transfer Utili- ties CD-ROM). Saving Photos With the supplied software Photo Application you can save photos to your computer, and easily organize and edit them. Installation Install the software before you connect the camcorder to the computer for the first time.
  • Page 131 IMPORTANT • When the camcorder is connected to a computer: - Do not open the memory card slot cover and do not remove the memory card. - Do not access, change or delete any of the camcorder’s folders or files directly from the computer as this may result in permanent data loss.
  • Page 132 e Saving Movies onto Standard-Definition Discs (DVD) You can convert your high-definition video recordings into standard definition in the camcorder and then use the supplied software Image- Mixer 3 SE to save the converted scenes and burn them onto standard DVDs in your computer.
  • Page 133 • To select all the scenes at once: Touch [Select All] instead of touching individual scenes. (Remove in advance any checkmarks from scenes you may have selected individually.) 6 Touch [Edit] [Convert HDUSD (x DVD)] to open the HDUSD conversion screen. •...
  • Page 134 • The time required to convert scenes is approximately equal to the total playback time of the converted scenes. In most cases this is still faster than converting the scenes in the computer so we recommend you convert scenes in the camcorder. Connecting to the Computer and Creating DVD Discs 1 Power the camcorder using the compact power adapter.

  • Page 135: Copying Recordings To An External Video Recorder

    Copying Recordings to an External Video Recorder In High Definition Connect the camcorder to AVCHD-compatible digital video recorders to make perfect copies of your movies in high definition. If the external digital video recorder has an SD memory card slot, you can use the memory card to copy your movies without connecting the camcorder.

  • Page 136: E Uploading Movies To Video Sharing Web Sites

    NOTES • We recommend powering the camcorder using the compact power adapter. e Uploading Movies to Video Sharing Web Sites You can convert your high-definition video recordings into standard definition in order to upload them to your favorite video sharing Web site.
  • Page 137 4 Touch [a] to open the scene selection screen. When you convert scenes from the [Playlist] index screen (including the playlist of video snapshot scenes), you cannot select individual scenes; instead, the entire playlist will be converted. Skip directly to step 6. 5 Touch on the individual scenes you want to convert.
  • Page 138 [Bit Rate (Quality)] To convert only part of a scene Instead of steps 4 and 5 above, touch on the scene you want to con- vert to start playing it back. Pause the playback at the point where you want the conversion to begin and continue with step 6. NOTES •...
  • Page 139 3 Connect the camcorder to the computer using the supplied USB cable. • Connection D. Refer to Connection Diagrams ( • On the computer, ImageMixer 3 SE will start up automatically and the startup screen (ImageMixer 3 Launcher) will appear. 4 Click [Web upload] and continue the operation on the computer following the software's indications.
  • Page 140 • The status of the wireless communication is shown by the Eye-Fi icon as follows: - g (grayed out) Communication not established - g (white, flashing) Connecting; g (white, continuously on) Wireless upload on standby - g (animated) Wireless upload in progress - i [Eye-Fi Communication] is set to [B Off] - h Wireless upload stopped by the camcorder ( - o Error reading from the Eye-Fi card (...
  • Page 141 [MENU] [B Off] * This menu option will appear only when using an Eye-Fi card. • If the LOCK switch on the Eye-Fi card is set to prevent writing, you will not be able to turn the wireless communication on/off and the status icon will change to o.

  • Page 142: Additional Information

    Additional Information This chapter contains troubleshooting advice, screen mes- sages, handling and maintenance tips, and other information. Appendix: Menu Options Lists Menu items not available appear grayed out. For details about how to select an item, refer to Using the Menus (0 32). For details about each function, see the reference page.
  • Page 143 Control Button [S Flash] [U Automatic], [V Red-Eye Auto], [S Flash On], [W Flash Off] [X Focus] [2] (manual focus): Toggle on (x) or off (w), Touch AF frame [e Exposure] [y] (manual exposure): Toggle on (x) or off (w), Touch AE frame Zoom controls, g control [ZOOM] [P AGC Limit]...
  • Page 144 Setup Menus [Edit] Panel - Mode 1: Original scenes s: Playlist scenes (including the playlist only of video snapshot scenes) Z: Original video snapshot scenes u: SD scenes on the memory card (e only) Control Button [Selected Scenes] [Copy [All Scenes] [This Scene] (from the Timeline screen) [Selected Scenes] [Convert...
  • Page 145 [Edit] Panel - Mode Control Button [Copy ( [Delete] [Protect] [Print Orders] [Rotate] Index Screen [Selected Photos], [All Photos] – Additional Information Single Photo View      ...

  • Page 146: Setup Menus

    Setup Menus 7 / 8 Camera Setup Menu item [Digital Zoom] [B Off], [G 60x], [H 300x] [Zoom Speed] [I Variable], [J Speed 3], [K Speed 2], [L Speed 1] [AF Mode] [R Instant AF], [S Normal AF] [AF-Assist Lamp] [O Automatic], [B Off] [Focus Priority] [U AiAF Frames], [W Center Frame],...
  • Page 147 [Digital Zoom]: Determines the operation of the digital zoom. The color of the indicator indi- cates the zoom. • When activated, the cam- corder will switch automatically to digital zoom when you zoom in beyond the optical zoom range. • With the digital zoom the image is digitally processed, so the image resolution will deteri- orate the more you zoom in.
  • Page 148 • Using focus assistance will not affect the recordings. It will be cancelled automatically after 4 seconds or when you start recording. [Auto Slow Shutter]: speeds to obtain brighter recordings in places with insufficient lighting. • Minimum shutter speed used: 1/30; 1/12 when the frame rate is set to [E PF24];...
  • Page 149 [Onscreen Markers]: ter of the screen. Use the markers as a reference to make sure your sub- ject is framed correctly (vertically and/or horizontally). • Using the onscreen markers will not affect the recordings. [POWERED IS Button]: IS button. [x Press and Hold]: Powered IS will be activated while you hold the but- ton pressed down.
  • Page 150 Menu item [Photo Quality/Size] [K 2304x1296], [L 2100x1575], [M 1600x1200], [N 640x480] [E Super Fine], [F Fine], [G Normal] [Photo Capture from [A Single Photo], Video] [B Photo Sequence] [Photo Capture [P Super Fine / 1920x1080], Quality] [Q Fine / 1920x1080], [R Normal / 1920x1080] [Memory Info] [P] (built-in memory), [g]...
  • Page 151 [Memory Info]: Displays a screen where you can verify how much of the built-in memory ( (l total recording time and k total number of photos) and how much space remains available for recording. • Estimated figures about available movie recording time and available number of photos are approximate and based on the recording mode and photo quality/size settings currently in use.
  • Page 152 • The photo number indicates the name and location of the file on the memory card. For example, the file name of a photo numbered 101- 0107 is “IMG_0107.JPG”, stored under the folder “DCIM\101CANON”. y / z Playback Setup Menu item [Select Music] [B Off], [A On] When [A On] - list of music tracks...
  • Page 153 6 System Setup Menu item [Font Size] [A Large], [B Small] [Output Onscreen [A On], [B Off] Displays] [Language a] [English], [Español], [Français], [Italiano], [Magyar], [Melayu], [Nederlands], [Polski], [Português], [LCD Brightness] [LCD Screen [A On], [B Off] Dimmer] [AV/Headphones] [H AV], [J Headphones] [Volume] Speaker: Headphone:...
  • Page 154 Menu item [Complete Initialization]: [Initialize g] Toggle on (x) or off (w) [Time Zone/DST] [S] (home time zone) or [V] (travel time zone): [New York], list of world time zones [U] (DST adjustment) [Date/Time] [Date/Time]: – [Date Format]: [Y.M.D], [M.D,Y], [D.M.Y] (Y- year, M- month, D- day) [24H]: Toggle On (x, 24-hour clock) or Off (w, 12-hour clock)
  • Page 155 [LCD Brightness]: Adjusts the brightness of the LCD screen. • Changing the brightness of the LCD screen does not affect the bright- ness of your recordings or the brightness of the playback image on a [LCD Screen Dimmer]: Doing so is ideal when using the camcorder in locations where the LCD’s illumination could become a nuisance to others.
  • Page 156 [Control for HDMI]: Activates the HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Con- trol) function. When you connect the camcorder to an HDTV compatible with HDMI-CEC using an HDMI cable, you can control the camcorder’s playback using the remote control of the TV. • If set to [A On], when the camcorder is connected to a compatible HDTV using an HDMI cable, the video input on the TV will automatically be set to the camcorder’s video input.

  • Page 157: Appendix: Onscreen Icons And Displays

    Appendix: Onscreen Icons and Displays Recording Movies (in Dual Shot mode) 1 Smart AUTO mode (0 44) 2 Onscreen zoom controls (0 47) 3 Operating mode (0 31) 4 In record pause mode: Total number of scenes 5 Memory operation (0 161) 6 Remaining battery time (0 161) 7 Zoom (0 47) 8 Recording mode (0 60)
  • Page 158 Recording Movies (in y Manual mode) A s Control button: Open the FUNC. panel (0 32) A d Recording program (0 61, 64, 71) A f R Instant AF (0 147), MF Manual focus (0 75) A g Manual exposure (0 74) A h AGC (automatic gain) limit (0 75) A j White balance (0 77) A k Image effect (0 78)
  • Page 159 Recording Photos (in y Manual mode) D k Drive mode (0 110) D l Light metering mode (0 113) F q Control button: Last function used ([MENU] in this case) F a Self timer (0 80) F s Flash (0 108) F d Eye-Fi wireless communication (0 139) F f Number of available photos...
  • Page 160 Viewing Photos G g Control button: Open the setup menus (0 146) G h Protected photo mark (0 116) G j Current photo / Total number of photos G k Photo number (0 151) G l Histogram (0 115) H q Control button: Photo jump (0 102) H a Date and time of recording ...

  • Page 161: Memory Operation

    5 Memory operation N Record, M Record pause, A Playback, C Playback pause, I Fast playback, J Fast reverse playback, G Slow playback, H Slow reverse playback, E Frame advance, F Frame reverse. 6 Remaining battery time • The icon shows a rough estimate of the remaining charge as a percentage of the full charge of the battery pack.

  • Page 162: Troubleshooting

    - please read the “CHECK THIS FIRST” box before going on to the more detailed problems and solutions. Consult your dealer or a Canon Service Center if the problem persists. CHECK THIS FIRST Power supply •...
  • Page 163 - The camcorder cannot communicate with the battery pack attached. Such battery packs can- not be charged using this camcorder. A noise can be heard from the compact power adapter. - A faint sound can be heard while the compact power adapter is connected to a power outlet. This is not a malfunction.
  • Page 164 - The camcorder may become hot after using it continuously for long periods of time; this is not a malfunction. If the camcorder becomes unusually hot or it becomes hot after using it only for a short while, it may indicate a problem with the camcorder. Consult a Canon Service Cen- ter.
  • Page 165 - The camcorder has malfunctioned. Consult a Canon Service Center. Even after stopping recording, the ACCESS indicator does not go off. - The scene is being recorded in the memory. This is not a malfunction.
  • Page 166 The red ON/OFF (CHG) indicator flashes very slowly ( second intervals). - The temperature of the battery pack is outside the charging range. If the battery pack’s tem- perature is below 0 °C (32 °F), warm it before charging it; if it is above 40 °C (104 °F), let the battery pack cool down before charging it.
  • Page 167 Sound is distorted or is recorded at lower levels. - When recording near loud sounds (such as fireworks, shows or concerts), sound may become distorted or it may not be recorded at the actual levels. Activate the microphone attenuator (0 148) or adjust the audio recording level manually (0 81). The picture is displayed correctly but there is no sound from the built-in speaker.
  • Page 168 Connections with External Devices Video noise appears on the TV screen. - When using the camcorder in a room where a TV is located, keep a distance between the compact power adapter and the power or antenna cables of the TV. Playback looks fine on the camcorder but there is no image on the TV screen.

  • Page 169: List Of Messages

    Cannot communicate with the battery pack. Continue using this battery pack? - You attached a battery pack that is not recommended by Canon for use with this camcorder. - If you are using a battery pack recommended by Canon for use with this camcorder, there may be a problem with the camcorder or battery pack.
  • Page 170 Cannot play back - There is a problem with the memory. If this message appears often without apparent reason, contact a Canon Service Center. e Cannot play back Cannot access the built-in memory - There is a problem with the built-in memory. Save your recordings (0 129) and initialize the built-in memory using the [Complete Initialization] option (0 41).
  • Page 171 - There is a problem with the memory. If this message appears often without apparent reason, contact a Canon Service Center. e Cannot record Cannot access the built-in memory - There is a problem with the built-in memory. Save your recordings (0 129) and initialize the built-in memory using the [Complete Initialization] option (0 41).
  • Page 172 - If after the message disappears, corder and remove and reinsert the memory card. If recording/playback. If the problem persists, save your recordings (0 129) and initialize the memory card (0 41). Could not add the scene(s) to the playlist - One or more scenes could not be added to the playlist.
  • Page 173 Initialize only using the camcorder - There is a problem with the file system that prevents accessing the selected memory. Initial- ize the memory with this camcorder (0 41). LCD Screen has been dimmed - Hold h pressed for 2 seconds to restore the LCD screen to its previous brightness set- ting.
  • Page 174 No scenes - There are no scenes in the memory selected. Have fun shooting some video (0 43). - After selecting [Scenes with Faces] when narrowing down the scenes shown in the index screen: No scenes contain people’s faces or no scenes were recorded using the face detec- tion function.
  • Page 175 The lens cover is not fully open. Turn the camcorder off, then on again. - The lens cover did not open fully. Turn the camcorder off, then on again. If this does not solve the problem, consult a Canon Service Center. This memory card contains scenes. Delete all scenes to use relay recording.

  • Page 176: Direct Print Related Messages

    - Check the printer status. - Ink tank errors have occurred. Replace the ink tank. Ink absorber full - Touch [Continue] to resume printing. Consult a Canon Service Center (refer to the list included with the printer) to replace the ink absorber. Ink error - The ink level cannot be detected correctly or the ink cartridge is out of ink.
  • Page 177 - Close the printer cover securely. Printer error - A malfunction has occurred that may require repairs. (Canon PIXMA printers: the printer's green power lamp and orange error lamp flash alternately.) - Disconnect the USB cable and turn off the printer. Unplug the printer's power cord from the power outlet and contact the appropriate customer support center or service center.

  • Page 178: Do's And Don'ts

    (0 127) and save them on a regular basis. This will protect your impor- tant recordings in case of damage and create more free space on the memory. Canon shall not be liable for any data loss. • Do not carry the camcorder by the LCD panel. Be careful when closing the LCD panel.
  • Page 179 • When mounting the camcorder on a tripod, make sure that the tripod's fas- tening screw is shorter than 5.5 mm (0.2 in.). Using other tripods may dam- age the camcorder. • When recording movies, try to get a calm, stable picture. Excessive cam- corder movement while shooting and extensive use of fast zooms and panning can result in jittery scenes.
  • Page 180 Regarding the use of non-Canon battery packs • For your safety, battery packs that are not genuine Canon battery packs will not be charged even if you attach them to this camcorder or to the optional CG-800 Battery Charger.
  • Page 181 • Secure Digital (SD) memory cards have a physical switch to prevent writ- ing on the card so as to avoid the accidental erasure of the card's con- tent. To write-protect the memory card set the switch to the LOCK position. Built-in Rechargeable Lithium Battery The camcorder has a built-in rechargeable lithium battery to keep the date/time and other settings.
  • Page 182 • Wipe the battery with a clean dry cloth to ensure proper contact. • For California, USA only: The lithium battery included contains Perchlorate Material – special handling may apply. See www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate for details. Disposal When you delete movies or initialize the memory, only the file allocation table is altered and stored data is not physically erased.

  • Page 183: Maintenance/Others

    Maintenance/Others Cleaning Camcorder Body • Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the camcorder body. Never use chemically treated cloths or volatile solvents such as paint thinner. Lens and Instant AF Sensor • If the lens surface or Instant AF sensor is dirty, autofocus may not work properly.

  • Page 184: Using The Camcorder Abroad

    You can use the compact power adapter to operate the camcorder and to charge battery packs in any country with power supply between 100 and 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz. Consult a Canon Service Center for information on plug adapters for overseas use.

  • Page 185: Accessories

    Accessories (Availability differs from area to area) Optional accessories not listed below are described in more detail in the following pages. SS-600/SS-650 Shoulder Strap WS-20 Wrist Strap WL-D89 Wireless Controller CA-570 Compact Power Adapter ZR-1000 Zoom Remote Controller ZR-2000 Zoom Remote Controller * Supplied with the camcorder;...

  • Page 186: Optional Accessories

    Use of genuine Canon accessories is recommended. This product is designed to achieve excellent performance when used with genuine Canon accessories. Canon shall not be liable for any dam- age to this product and/or accidents such as fire, etc., caused by the malfunction of non-genuine Canon accessories (e.g., a leakage and/or...
  • Page 187 5 CG-800 Battery Charger Use the battery charger to charge the battery packs. It plugs directly into a power outlet without a cable. Charging Times The charging times given in the following table are approximate and vary according to charging conditions and initial charge of the battery pack. Battery pack...
  • Page 188 Using a memory card Battery pack Usage time Recording (maximum) 95 min. BP-808 Recording (typical)* BP-809 Playback Recording (maximum) 200 min. 200 min. 205 min. 205 min. 205 min. BP-819 Recording (typical)* Playback Recording (maximum) 300 min. 300 min. 310 min. 310 min. 310 min. BP-827 Recording (typical)* Playback...
  • Page 189 9 FS-H37U Filter Set Neutral density and MC protector filters help you to control difficult lighting condi- tions. A q SC-2000 Soft Carrying Case A handy camcorder bag with padded compartments and plenty of space for accessories. A a SM-V1 Surround Microphone Use 5.1ch surround sound to add a sense of presence to your movies.
  • Page 190 This case allows you to record movies and take photos underwater without get- ting the camcorder wet. 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 191: Product Codes

    Product Codes Provided Accessories CA-570 Compact Power Adapter BP-808 Battery Pack WL-D89 Wireless Controller STV-250N Stereo Video Cable IFC-300PCU USB Cable Optional Accessories BP-809 Battery Pack BP-819 Battery Pack BP-827 Battery Pack CG-800 Battery Charger TL-H37 Tele-converter WD-H37ll Wide-converter FS-H37U Filter Set VL-5 Video Light VFL-2 Video Flash Light SM-V1 Surround Microphone...

  • Page 192: Specifications

    Specifications VIXIA HF M31 / VIXIA HF M30 / VIXIA HF M301 / System • Recording System Movies: AVCHD Video compression: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264; Audio compression: Dolby Digital 2ch; Dolby Digital 5.1ch* * Only when using the optional SM-V1 Surround Microphone. Photos: DCF (Design rule for Camera File system), compatible with Exif* Ver.
  • Page 193 • Lens f=4.1-61.5 mm, F/1.8-3.2, 15x optical zoom 35 mm equivalent: Movies: [Dynamic] IS mode: 39.5 – 711 mm Other IS modes: Photos: • Lens Configuration: 11 elements in 9 groups (1 double-sided aspheric element) • AF System Autofocus (TTL + external distance sensor when set to [Instant AF]) or Manual focus •...
  • Page 194 Power/Others • Power supply (rated) 7.4 V DC (battery pack), 8.4 V DC (compact power adapter) • Power consumption: 3.5 W (SP mode, AF on, LCD normal brightness) • Operating temperature: 0 – 40 °C (32 – 104 °F) • Dimensions [W x H x D] (excluding the grip belt): •...
  • Page 195 Audio sampling: 48 kHz, 16 bits, 2 channels Minimum length: 1 second File extension: WAV The music data is saved in the memory under the following folder structure. e In the built-in memory: CANON MY_MUSIC MUSIC_01.WAV to MUSIC_99.WAV On the memory card: CANON PRIVATE MY_MUSIC MUSIC_01.WAV to MUSIC_99.WAV...

  • Page 196: Index

    Index ... . .64 24p Cinema Mode ....55 3D Flip View Abroad, using the camcorder .
  • Page 197 ....115 Histogram ....78 Image effects ....65 Image stabilizer .
  • Page 198 ....22 Serial number ... . .33, 146 Setup menus ....71 Shutter speed Simultaneous recording .
  • Page 199 B) If the Equipment is defective as a result of leaking batteries, sand, dirt or water damage; C) If defects or damages are caused by the use of unauthorized parts or by service other than by Canon USA's factory service centers or authorized service facilities;...
  • Page 200 THE USE, MISUSE OR INABILITY TO USE THE EQUIPMENT, REGARDLESS OF THE LEGAL THEORY ON WHICH THE CLAIM IS BASED, AND EVEN IF CANON USA HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. NOR SHALL RECOVERY OF ANY KIND AGAINST CANON USA BE GREATER THAN THE PURCHASE PRICE OF THE EQUIPMENT SOLD BY CANON USA AND CAUSING THE ALLEGED DAMAGE.
  • Page 201 Ship your Equipment in its original carton, box or equivalent, properly packed, fully insured with shipping charges prepaid, together with a copy of your bill of sale or other proof of purchase and a description of the problem to any of the Canon Service Facilities in Canada.
  • Page 202 15955 Alton Parkway, Irvine, CA 92618 USA CANON U.S.A., INC. HONOLULU OFFICE 210 Ward Avenue, Suite 200, Honolulu, Hl 96814 USA ❖ If you have any questions, call the Canon U.S.A. Information Center toll-free at 1-800-828-4040 (USA only). MÉXICO CANON MEXICANA, S DE RL DE CV Blvd.

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