Canon H1A Instruction Manual

35MiniDigitaligitalVideoVideoCassetteCassetteHD Video Camera RecorderInstruction ManualPUB. DIE-308APAL

10Left side viewViewfinder unit/Microphone unitHD 20x L IS III lensEye cup ( 20)Dioptric adjustment lever ( 21)Color viewfinder ( 19-22)STEREO/MONO mi

100Customized FunctionsYou can customize to your personal preferences many aspects of the operation of the camcorder, most of them governing how the c

101CustomizationResetting a Custom Function File1. Open the menu, select [CUSTOMIZE] and then select the [CUSTOM FUNCTION] submenu.2. From the column

102Availability of custom functions in each recording program/playback mode ( Video)1Only with a lens that supports this function.2Only during exposu

103CustomizationAvailability of custom functions in each recording program/playback mode ( Still Images)1Only with a lens that supports this function

104 [ZOOM SPEED] Zoom Speed Selects the set of 16 constant zoom speeds that will be available when the ZOOM SPEED switch is set to CONSTANT. • When t

105Customization [MARKER LEVEL] Markers’ Intensity Level Changes the intensity of the markers displayed on the screen to 40% (gray) or 100% (white).S

106Customized On-Screen DisplaysYou can customize which icons to display on the screen according to your personal preferences and needs. You can save

107CustomizationReading a Custom Display File from the Memory Card1. Open the menu, select [CUSTOMIZE] and then select [CUSTOM DISPLAY].2. From the co

108 [TAPE] Tape-Related Icons and Displays Setting Options: [TIME CODE] Time code display: [OFF], [ON][OPERATION MODE] Icon of the current tape opera

109CustomizationLocation of the Custom Displays/03 020206040001020614 14070719 1918 0508 081009 1112121320211214181903 0202060206 07 0719 161505040001

11Introduction* only.Right side view S-video terminal ( 84)VIDEO OUT terminal (BNC) ( 84)VIDEO IN/OUT terminal (RCA) ( 84) OUT terminals (CH1/CH2, RCA

110PlaybackPlaying Back a TapeSelect a playback standard according to the tape you wish to play back.1. Set the dial to .2. Open the menu and selec

111Playback (frame advance)Plays back frame-by-frame. Repeatedly press the button on the wireless controller during playback pause. Hold the button

112Returning to a Pre-marked PositionIf you wish to return to a particular scene later, mark the point with the zero set memory, and the tape will sto

113PlaybackDate SearchYou can locate the change of the date/time zone with the date search function.This function is operated with the wireless contro

114Remote Sensor ModeTwo remote sensor modes and an off setting are available to prevent interference from other Canon wireless controllers being used

115Using a Memory CardUsing a Memory CardSelecting the Still Image Quality/SizeChanging the Still Image QualityYou can choose from Super fine, Fine a

116– These figures are approximate. They vary according to recording conditions and the subject.– The total number of still images that can be recorde

117Using a Memory CardRecording Still Images on a Memory CardYou can record still images directly on the memory card. You can also record still images

118 If [CAMERA SETUP] [FOCUS PRI.] is set to [ON]:When you press the PHOTO button fully, before turns green, it may take up to 2 seconds (4 secon

119Using a Memory CardScreen Displays during Still Image RecordingReviewing a Still Image right after RecordingYou can select to display a still image

12, Using tripodsDo not use tripods with mounting screws longer than 5.5 mm as this may cause damage to the camcorder. To use tripods featuring 3/8&q

120Drive ModeChanging the Drive Mode1. Set the dial to a recording program other than and move the / (card/tape) switch to .2. Press the DRIVE

121Using a Memory CardMetering Mode1. Set the dial to , Tv, Av or M, and set the / (card/tape) switch to .2. Press the button.• Pressing the b

122Using an Optional FlashYou can use E-TTL II-compatible Canon Speedlite flashes designed for use with Canon SLR cameras, including the 420EX/430EX/5

123Using a Memory CardPlaying Back Still Images from a Memory Card1. Turn the dial to and set the / (card/tape) switch to .2. Press the + or –

124Image Jump FunctionYou can locate still images without displaying them one by one. The number in the upper right of the screen indicates the number

125Using a Memory CardErasing Still imagesYou can erase still images one at a time or all at once. Be careful when erasing still images. Erased still

126Protecting Still imagesYou can protect important still images from accidental erasure when displaying a single image or the index screen.If a memor

127Using a Memory CardInitializing a Memory CardInitialize new memory cards, or when you get the message “CARD ERROR”. You can also initialize a memor

128Print Order SettingsYou can select still images for printing and set the number of copies. These print order settings are compatible with the Digit

129Additional InformationAdditional InformationMenu Options and Default SettingsIn the following tables, default settings are shown in boldface and th

13IntroductionTop viewPHOTO button ( 117) / MAGN. button ( 104)START/STOP button ( 34)Hot shoe ( 122)Microphone ( 23)Viewfinder lock screw ( 19)Handle

1301Available only when recording in standard definition (SD). CAMERA SETUPMenu item (Submenu item and) Setting optionsAGC LIMIT OFF(18dB), 15dB, 1

131Additional Information[DV REC MODE]: When recording in standard definition (SD mode) only, you can choose between SP (standard play) and LP (long p

1321In playback modes the default setting is [OFF].[MARKERS]: You can display the on-screen markers to help you accurately frame your subject. Select

133Additional Information1 only.1In mode, this will appear on the main menu and not under the [CUSTOMIZE] menu. SYSTEM SETUP/ (cont.)Menu item (Su

134* Available only when recording movies. Custom Preset Submenu (CUSTOMIZE CUSTOM PRESET)Submenu item Action (Parameter and) Setting OptionsEDIT

135Additional Information Custom Function Submenu (CUSTOMIZE CUSTOM FUNCTION)Submenu item Action (Custom Function and) Setting OptionsC.Fn1,C.Fn2

136 Custom DisplaysMenu item Action (Custom Display and) Setting OptionsCUSTOM DISPLAY TUNE 00 REC PROGRAMS 00 OFF, 01 ON01 CAMERA DATA1 03 (00 to

137Additional InformationSettings Memorized and RetainedThe following lists show the settings that are memorized and retained under different circumst

138Screen DisplaysScreen Displays during RecordingYou can find additional explanations on pages 36 and 119. Most of the on-screen displays and icons c

139Additional InformationScreen Displays during PlaybackAudio monitor ( 86)Audio output ( 86)Custom function ( 100)Custom keys ( 75)Data code ( 113)Da

14WL-D5000 Wireless ControllerPHOTO button ( 117)START/STOP button ( 34)MENU button ( 31)TV SCREEN button ( 76)SLIDESHOW button ( 123)DATA CODE button

140List of Messages (in alphabetical order)Message ExplanationCARD ERROR A memory card error occurred. The camcorder cannot record or play back the im

141Additional InformationMaintenance/OthersCamcorder Handling PrecautionsDo not carry the camcorder by the viewfinder, the microphone or its cable.D

1421. Open the protecting cover (e.g. using a flathead screwdriver).2. Clean the glass with a cotton swab.3. Reattach the protecting cover.Be careful

143Additional InformationCassette Handling PrecautionsRewind tapes after use. If the tape is lose or damaged, it may cause picture and sound distorti

144Built-in Rechargeable Lithium BatteryThe camcorder has a built-in rechargeable lithium battery to keep the date/time and other settings. The built-

145Additional InformationResuming use:It takes about 1 hour until the water droplets evaporate. After the condensation warning stops flashing, wait f

146TroubleshootingIf you have a problem with your camcorder, refer to this checklist. Consult your dealer or a Canon Service Center if the problem per

147Additional InformationRecordingPlaybackMemory Card OperationsOthersAbout the LCD screenThe LCD screen is produced with extremely high-precision man

148System Diagram (Availability differs from area to area)ZR-1000 Zoom Remote ControllerExtender XL 1.6x1RC-72 Ratio Converter5FS-72U Filter Set16x IS

149Additional Information1Can be attached to the HD 20x L IS III, HD 20x L IS II, HD 6x L, 20x L IS, 16x IS II and 16x manual zoom lenses (only for re

15PreparationsPreparationsPreparing the Power SupplyCharging the Battery PackDisconnect the DC coupler from the compact power adapter before charging.

150Optional AccessoriesBattery PacksThe BP-950G is also available as an optional accessory.The optional BP-970G provides over 35% more recording time

151Additional InformationEF Adapter XLThis allows you to attach Canon EF lenses to the camcorder. The difference in size between the camcorder’s 1/3-i

152FU-2000 Color Viewfinder UnitWhen the FU-2000 is connected to the color viewfinder socket of the camcorder, it is possible to review the on screen

153Additional InformationSpecificationsXL H1S / XL H1A* The camcorder’s operations have been tested with SD/SDHC memory cards up to 16 GB. Performance

154LensThe lens’ angle of view may change when it is mounted on the XL H1S / XL H1A. Refer to the following table.Terminals HD/SD SDI Terminal BNC jac

155Additional InformationCA-920 Compact Power AdapterBP-950G Battery PackWeight and dimensions are approximate. Errors and omissions excepted. Subject

156IndexAAbroad, using the camcorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

157Additional InformationPower save . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Print order . . . . . . . .

340118W678 PUB. DIE-308A © 2008 CANON INC. 30-2, Shimomaruko 3-chome, Ohta-ku, Tokyo 146-8501, JapanCanon Europa N.V.Bovenkerkerweg 59-61, 1185 XB A

16Using a Household Power Outlet1. Turn the dial to OFF.2. Attach the DC coupler to the camcorder.Press lightly and slide the DC coupler up, in the

17Preparations Charging, Recording and Playback TimesThe following times are approximate and vary according to the charging, recording and playback c

181Approximate times for recording with repeated operations such as start/stop, zooming, power on/off. Actual time may be shorter.2Optional.Battery Pa

19PreparationsPreparing the CamcorderAttaching and Detaching the Color Viewfinder UnitAttaching the Color Viewfinder Unit1. Slide the viewfinder unit

2IntroductionImportant Usage InstructionsWARNING:TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE

20Attaching and Detaching the Eye CupYou can change the position of the eye cup for use with either the left or right eye. Detach the eye cup and reat

21PreparationsAdjusting the Position of the ViewfinderThe viewfinder position can be changed (right/left, forward/backward).When storing the camcorder

22Adjusting the ViewfinderYou can adjust the brightness, contrast, color and sharpness of the viewfinder. These adjustments will not affect your recor

23PreparationsAttaching the Microphone Unit1. Loosen the microphone lock screw on the viewfinder unit, open the microphone holder and insert the micro

24Attaching the Adapter HolderAttach the adapter holder to use the optional CH-910 Dual Battery Charger/Holder or a commercially available wireless mi

25PreparationsPreparing the LensRefer also to the instruction manual of the lens.Mounting the Lens1. Set the dial to OFF.2. Remove the dust caps fro

26 Proper operation cannot be guaranteed when recording in HDV standard with the optional Extender XL 1.6x. The message “HD INCOMPATIBLE LENS” will a

27PreparationsAF Adjustment1. Press the MENU button.2. Turn the SELECT dial to select [CAMERA SETUP] and press the SET button.3. Select [FB] and then

28Using the Wireless ControllerWhen you press the buttons on the wireless controller, point it at one of the camcorder’s remote sensors.The camcorder

29PreparationsLoading/Removing a CassetteUse only videocassettes marked with the logo. For recording in HDV we recommend you use videocassettes desi

3IntroductionThe XL H1S / XL H1A - A Broad Range of Capabilities Ultimate HD QualityNew and improved lens The HD 20x L IS III is the latest addition

30Inserting/Removing a Memory CardYou can use SDHC (SD High Capacity) memory cards, SD memory cards or MultiMedia Cards (MMC) with this camcorder.

31PreparationsChanging Settings with the MENU ButtonMany of the camcorder’s functions can be changed from the on-screen menu.Selecting Menus and Setti

32Date/Time and Language SettingsSet the time zone, date and time when you first start using your camcorder, or if the built-in rechargeable battery h

33PreparationsChanging the Date FormatYou can select between three date formats: [JAN. 1, 2008], [1. JAN. 2008] and [2008. 1. 1].Open the menu and sel

34RecordingRecordingThe default recording standard is HDV. About the audio recording, refer to the relevant chapter ( 53).Recording1. Remove the lens

35RecordingLow-angle RecordingThe carrying handle is equipped with a duplicate set of recording and zoom controls, ideal for low-angle recording. Slid

36Screen Displays while RecordingTime codeIndicates the recording time in hours, minutes, seconds and frames.Remaining tapeIndicates the remaining tim

37RecordingSelecting the On-Screen DisplaysYou can select the amount of information shown on the screen from full, partial or no display. Repeatedly p

38Selecting the Signal Standard and Aspect RatioYou can select the signal standard of your recording (high definition or standard definition) and, for

39RecordingLocating the End of the Last SceneYou can use this function to locate the end of the last recorded scene.Press the END SEARCH button.• app

4About this ManualThank you for purchasing the Canon XL H1S / XL H1A. Please read this manual carefully before you use the camcorder and retain it for

40ZoomingYou can operate the zoom using the zoom lever on the side grip or the one on the carrying handle. You can also use the zoom ring on the lens

41RecordingZoom buttons on the carrying handle: The zoom speed is constant and can be set to one of 16 zoom speed levels. Set the ZOOM SPEED switch to

42Adjusting the FocusFunctions in this chapter are explained using the HD 20x L IS III lens. If you are using a different lens, refer also to the inst

43Recording Autofocus may not work well on the following subjects. In that case, focus manually.- Reflective surfaces- Subjects with low contrast or

44Using the Focus Assist Functions (Peaking and Magnifying) In order to make manual focusing easier, you can use two assist functions: Peaking emphasi

45RecordingFocus Preset (lenses with focus preset function)This function enables a focus position to be memorized. Later, you can return to the preset

46Macro Shooting (Focus Limit)Usually the camcorder’s focus range allows macro shooting. You can activate the focus limit to restrict the focus range.

47RecordingUsing the ND Filter (lenses with built-in ND filter)When recording in bright surroundings, the camcorder will set a small aperture value an

48Selecting the Frame RateYou can set the frame rate to 50i or 25F, regardless of the recording mode.50i ModeRecords 50 interlaced fields per second,

49RecordingSetting the Time CodeYou can select the running mode of the camcorder’s time code. You can enter the initial value for the [FREE-RUN] and t

5IntroductionAbout the HD/HDV and SD/DV SpecificationsIn the manual, a distinction is made between video signal standards (camera section) and recordi

50 Synchronizing the Camcorder’s Time CodeYou can synchronize this camcorder’s time code to an external time code generator. You can also include in t

51Recording When an external time code signal is received, the camcorder's own time code will be synchronized to it and the synchronization will

52Setting the User BitThe user bit display can be selected from the date or the time of recording, or an identification code consisting of 8 character

53RecordingAudio RecordingWhen recording on the tape in either HDV or DV standard, audio is recorded on two channels.The audio transfer rate is 384 kb

54Recording AudioSelect the audio input from FRONT (supplied microphone), XLR MIC (XLR terminals) or XLR LINE (XLR terminals). You can select the audi

55RecordingAdjusting the Audio Recording LevelIf the audio level is too high and the sound sounds distorted, activate the microphone attenuator (20 dB

56 You can select to synchronize the audio signal with the video signal by adding an equal amount of delay to the audio. Open the menu and select [AU

57RecordingImage Stabilizer (lenses with image stabilization function)You can select to activate the image stabilizer or turn it off depending on the

58Using the Programmed AE ModesProgrammed auto exposure modes provide advanced automated recording techniques ensuring professional results in various

59RecordingEasy RecordingThe camcorder automatically controls the focus, shutter speed, aperture, gain, white balance, and AE Shift allowing you to si

6ContentsIntroductionThe XL H1S / XL H1A - A Broad Range of Capabilities ...

60Available lens functions by programmed AE mode1 1 HD 20x L IS III, HD 20x L IS II, HD 6x L, 20x L IS and 16x IS II lenses.2 Not available with the H

61RecordingRecording in Manual ModeYou can set the exposure at any combination of shutter speed and aperture. The aperture value can be adjusted in 1/

62Push AEIn M Manual mode you can use the Push AE function when you want the camcorder to re-establish optimal exposure settings by automatically adju

63RecordingRecording in Shutter-Priority (Tv) ModeAvailable shutter speeds when recording movies:1/3*, 1/6, 1/12, 1/25, 1/50, 1/120, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1

64Recording in Aperture-Priority (Av) ModeThe aperture value can be adjusted in 1/16 EV stops; however, the aperture value displayed on the screen wil

65RecordingAdjusting the ExposureExposure Lock1. Set the dial to , Tv or Av.2. Press the EXP. LOCK button.• The exposure indicator appears. Use the

66GainThe gain control adjusts the level of the video signal generated depending on the lighting and shooting conditions. Select automatic gain contro

67RecordingWhite BalanceThe camcorder uses an electronic white balance process to calibrate the picture for accurate color display under different lig

68Setting a Custom White Balance1. Set the POWER dial to a recording program other than .2. Press the WHITE BALANCE dial so that it pops out.3. Set t

69RecordingZebra PatternThis camcorder has a zebra pattern feature that shows black and white diagonal stripes over the areas that are overexposed. Th

7IntroductionExternal ConnectionsVideo Signal Output Standards...

70Color CorrectionWith the color correction function you can set the camcorder to detect the characteristics of a certain color or pattern (color phas

71RecordingActivating the Color Correction1. Open the menu and select [CAMERA SETUP] and select the [COLOR CORR.] submenu. 2. Select [CORRECT], select

72Skin Detail FunctionWith the skin detail function you can set the camcorder to detect the characteristics of a certain color or tone. Detail in the

73RecordingSelective Noise ReductionWith the selective noise reduction function you can set the camcorder to detect the characteristics of a certain c

74Clear ScanThis feature allows you to record a computer’s CRT screen or other equipment without displaying black band or flicker on the screen. You c

75RecordingCustom KeysYou can assign frequently used functions to the custom keys. The custom keys can have different functions assigned to them in ea

76Changing the Custom Keys Setting* Default value in mode.Open the menu and select [SYSTEM SETUP/ ]. Select [CUSTOM KEY 1] or [CUSTOM KEY 2], select

77Recording[TC HOLD] Time Code Hold You can press the custom key button to freeze the display of the time code. The time code will continue running

78[CP BKWD KEY] Custom Preset Backward Key Press the CUSTOM KEY 2 button.Usually, pressing the CUSTOM PRESET SELECT button will cycle forwards to th

79RecordingColor Bars/Audio Reference SignalYou can generate and record color bars signals and a 1 kHz audio reference signal. With the customized fun

8Checking the Supplied AccessoriesCA-920 Compact Power Adapter DC-920 DC Coupler BP-950G Battery Pack WL-D5000 Wireless Controller SDC-32M SD Memor

80Ext ernal Connec tionsVideo Signal Output StandardsThe standard of the video signal output from the HD/SD SDI ( only), COMPONENT OUT and HDV/DV te

81External ConnectionsConnecting to a Monitor/TVThe different recording modes and the corresponding output terminals are given in the table below:* on

82Connection to a High Definition Monitor or HDTV Using the HD/SD SDI Terminal Activate the HD/SD SDI output and select the appropriate video output

83External Connections Using the COMPONENT OUT TerminalSelect the appropriate component video signal depending on the TV or monitor you connect.Open t

84 Using the VIDEO IN/OUT or (S-Video) IN/OUT Terminal  We recommend powering the camcorder from a household power outlet. TV sets equipped with t

85External Connections Using the SCART Adapter • If connecting to a TV set with a 4:3 aspect ratio, change the [LETTERBOX] setting appropriately.Open

86Audio OutputSelecting the Audio ChannelYou can select the channel for audio signal output from the CH1/CH2 and the (headphone) terminals.Repeate

87External ConnectionsAudio Output Selected Audio Recordings on 2 ChannelsAudio Monitor [AUD.M.SET]Audio Recordings on 4 ChannelsCH1/CH2CH3/CH4CH1·3/C

88Digital Video ControlThis feature enables the camcorder to control the record and stop functions of an external digital device connected to the camc

89External ConnectionsRecording an External Video Signal (HDV/DV In, Analog Line-In)You can record on the tape an external video signal, either from t

9IntroductionComponents GuideExternal control mode*VCR/PLAY modePower offManualAutoShutter-PriorityAperture-PrioritySpotlightNightEasy RecordingLeft s

90Concerning CopyrightCopyright PrecautionCertain pre-recorded video tapes, films and other materials, as well as some television programs are copyrig

91External ConnectionsConnecting to a ComputerTo connect the camcorder to a computer you will need a computer equipped with an IEEE1394 (DV) terminal

92Custom izationCustom Preset SettingsYou can select preset level for a number of picture-related parameters (23 parameters when recording movies, 17

93CustomizationChanging Custom Preset Parameters1. Open the menu, select [CUSTOMIZE] and then select the [CUSTOM PRESET] submenu.The custom preset sub

94Renaming a Custom Preset FileFollow steps 1-3 in Changing Custom Preset Parameters ( 93) to select the custom preset file you want to rename.1. From

95CustomizationActivating the Custom Preset Settings1. Press the CUSTOM PRESET SELECT button.• Repeatedly pressing the button will cycle through the a

96Reading a Custom Preset File from a Still ImageWith the custom function [PHOTO BUTTON] ( 100) you can select to save the custom preset settings curr

97Customization[GAM] Gamma Curve The gamma curve changes the overall look of the image.You can select from [NORMAL], [CINE1] or [CINE2].[NORMAL]: sta

98[SHP] Sharpness Adjust the sharpness level in the range -9 to +9. Noise artifacts caused by too-high sharpness settings can be reduced using the co

99Customization[RGN] R Gain Adjust the intensity of red tones in the range -50 to +50.[GGN] G Gain Adjust the intensity of green tones in the range