Canon MVX4i User Manual

CANON INC.Canon Europa N.V.P.O. Box 2262, 1180 EG Amstelveen, the NetherlandsCanon UK Ltd.CCI Service Centre, Unit 130Centennial Park, Borehamwood, He

10Remote sensor ( 21) POWER indicator ( 26, 28)Terminal cover Lock button (for NETWORK mode) (125)Flash ( 83)Mini video light ( 48) POWER switch ( 3,

100Recording the Input Video on a Memory CardThe size of the still image recorded on the memory card will be 640 x 480. The still image quality and th

101EEditingConcerning CopyrightCopyright PrecautionCertain pre-recorded video tapes, films and other materials, as well as some television programmes

102Converting Analog Signals into Digital Signals (Analog-Digital Converter)By connecting the camcorder to a VCR or 8mm video camcorder, you can conve

103EEditing For normal use, set [AV DV/ ] to [OFF]. If it is set to [ON], digital signals cannot be input via the camcorder’s DV terminal. We recomm

104Audio DubbingYou can add sound from audio devices (AUDIO IN) or with the built-in or an external microphone (MIC. IN).This function is operated wit

105EEditing Audio dubbing will stop if the tape has a blank section or a section recorded in LP mode or 16-bit mode. When using the built-in microph

106Recording from the Tape on a Memory CardYou can record movies or still images from a tape in the camcorder. Recording a Movie from the TapeThe movi

107EEditing An image recorded from an image in widescreen mode will be vertically compressed. The data code of the still image will reflect the date

108PrintingPrinting Still ImagesYou can print still images by connecting the camcorder to a printer with direct print function. You can also use the p

109EPrintingPrinting with the (Print/Share) ButtonYou can print an image without changing the settings by simply pressing the (print/share) button

11IntroductionEStereo microphone Cassette compartment ( 18) (print/share) button ( 109, 121) OPEN/EJECT switch ( 18)Tripod socket ( 32) Cassette com

110 Images not recorded with this camcorder, uploaded from a computer, edited on a computer and images whose file names have been changed may not be

111EPrintingSelecting the Print SettingsThe procedure for selecting the number of copies is common to all printers. Other print setting procedures var

112Paper Settings1. In the print setting menu, turn the SET dial to select [PAPER] and press the SET dial.2. Turn the SET dial to select the paper siz

113EPrintingSetting the Print Effect (Image Optimize)This function uses the camcorder's recording information to optimize the image data, yieldin

1143. Turn the SET dial to select the paper size and press the SET dial.• Select the paper size of the paper set in your printer.• Pressing the MENU b

115EPrintingSelecting the Image Style2. Make sure that (IMAGE) is selected and press the SET dial.3. Turn the SET dial to select the image style and

116Trimming SettingsSet the print style before you start with the trimming settings.1. In the print setting menu, turn the SET dial to select [TRIMMIN

117EPrintingPrinting with Print Order SettingsYou can select still images for printing and set the number of copies. These print order settings are co

118Erasing All Print Orders1. Set the camcorder to PLAY(VCR)• mode.2. Press the MENU button and select [CARD OPERATIONS].3. Select [PRINT ORD. ALL ERA

119EConnecting to a PCConnecting to a PCTransferring Video Recordings to a ComputerYou can transfer video recordings to the computer using a USB cable

12Wireless Controller WL-D85Transmitter ZERO SET MEMORY button ( 78)START/STOP button ( 26, 28) PHOTO button ( 28)CARD –/+ buttons ( 35) Zoom buttons

120Connection DiagramCheck the type and orientation of the DV or USB terminal and make sure you connect the DV cable or USB cable properly.Using a USB

121EConnecting to a PCTransferring Memory Card Images to a Computer (Direct Transfer)With the supplied USB cable and Digital Video Software, you can t

122Transferring Images To transfer images with transfer order, you need to set the transfer orders ( 124).1. Turn the SET dial to select a setting opt

123EConnecting to a PC When the camcorder is connected to the computer and screen to select images displays, press the MENU button. The transfer menu

124Selecting Images for Transfer (Transfer Order)You can select images for transfer to the computer. These transfer settings are compatible with the D

125EConnecting to a PCUsing the NETWORK Mode (DV Messenger Version 2)With the Windows XP dedicated DV Network Software (DV Messenger), you can operate

126Trouble?TroubleshootingIf you have a problem with your camcorder, refer to this checklist. Consult your dealer or a Canon Service Center if the pro

127ETrouble?Tape Operation-RecordingTape Operation-Playback“ ” flashes red on the screen. The camcorder malfunctions. Consult a Canon Service Center.–

128Memory Card OperationPrintingEditingProblem SolutionMemory card cannot be inserted.Memory card was not facing the correct direction. Turn the memor

129ETrouble?CondensationMoving the camcorder rapidly between hot and cold temperature may cause condensation (water droplets) to form on its internal

13IntroductionEScreen DisplaysWhen recording movies on a tape (CAMERA•)Zoom ( 31), Exposure ( 46)Manual focus ( 47)Image stabilizer ( 64)Recording mod

130List of MessagesMemory Card Related MessagesMessage ExplanationSET THE TIME ZONE, DATE AND TIMEYou have not set the time zone, date and time. This

131ETrouble?Direct Print Related MessagesFollowing messages may appear on the camcorder screen. Refer also to the printer manual for remedies correspo

132INK ERROR There is a problem with the ink.NO INK The ink cartridge is not inserted or is out of ink.LOW INK LEVEL The ink cartridge needs to be rep

133EDo’s & Don’tsDo’s & Don’tsHandling PrecautionsCamcorder Do not carry the camcorder by the LCD panel or viewfinder. Do not leave the camc

134 Although the battery pack’s operating temperature range is from 0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104 °F), the optimal range is from 10 °C to 30 °C (56 °F

135EDo’s & Don’tsMemory Card Format new memory cards with the camcorder. Memory cards formatted with other devices such as a computer may not ope

136Recycling the Built-in Rechargeable Lithium Battery If you should dispose of your camcorder, first remove the built-in rechargeable lithium battery

137EDo’s & Don’tsCleaning the Video HeadsWhen the message “HEADS DIRTY, USE CLEANING CASSETTE” appears, or when the playback picture becomes disto

138Maintenance/OthersStorage If you do not intend to use the camcorder for a long time, store it in a place free of dust, in low humidity, and at tem

139EAdditional InformationAdditional InformationSystem Diagram (Availability differs from area to area)Stereo Microphone(commercially available)BP-308

14When playing back a tape (PLAY(VCR)•)12 bit audio ( 105)End search ( 77), Date search ( 79), Audio dubbing ( 104)Digital effects ( 56)Movie size (

140Optional AccessoriesBattery PacksWhen you need extra battery packs, select from the following: BP-308, BP-315.CG-300E Battery ChargerUse the batter

141EAdditional InformationFS-34U Filter SetNeutral density and MC protector filters help you to control difficult lighting conditions.SA-1 Adapter Bra

142SC-2000 Soft Carrying CaseA handy camcorder bag with padded compartments and plenty of space for accessories.This mark identifies genuine Canon vid

143EAdditional InformationSpecificationsMVX4iSystemVideo Recording System 2 rotary heads, helical scanning DV system (consumer digital VCR SD system),

144CA-570 Compact Power AdapterBP-308 Battery PackSDC-16M SD Memory CardWeight and dimensions are approximate. Errors and omissions excepted. Subject

145EAdditional InformationIndex12bit audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1059 Point AiAF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86AAb

146Microphone level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70Mini video light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48Movies (memory card) . . . . . . .

CANON INC.Canon Europa N.V.P.O. Box 2262, 1180 EG Amstelveen, the NetherlandsCanon UK Ltd.CCI Service Centre, Unit 130Centennial Park, Borehamwood, He

15PreparationEPreparationStep 1: Preparing the Power SupplyThe camcorder can be powered by a battery pack or connected to a household power source. Ch

16Using a Household Power SourceConnect to a household power source to use the camcorder without worrying about the battery power. You can keep the ba

17PreparationE Charging, Recording and Playback TimesBelow times are approximate and vary according to the charging, recording or playback conditions

18Step 2: Loading a CassetteUse only videocassettes marked with the logo.1. Slide the OPEN/EJECT switch and open the cassette compartment cover.The

19PreparationEStep 3: Inserting a Memory CardThis camcorder is for use with SD Memory Cards only.Inserting the Card1. Set the POWER switch to OFF.2. O

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

20Step 4: Preparing the CamcorderAdjusting the Viewfinder (Dioptric Adjustment)1. Turn on the camcorder and keep the LCD panel closed.2. Adjust the di

21PreparationEStep 5: Using the Wireless ControllerInserting the BatteryThe wireless controller operates with a lithium button battery CR2025.1. Press

22Step 6: Adjusting the LCD ScreenRotating the LCD PanelOpen the LCD panel 90 degrees.• You can rotate the panel downward by 90 degrees.• You can rota

23PreparationEStep 7: Changing the Display LanguageThe language used in the camcorder displays and menu items can be changed to German, Spanish, Frenc

24Step 8: Setting the Time Zone, Date and TimeSetting the Time Zone/Daylight Saving Time1. Turn the POWER switch to CAMERA or PLAY (VCR).2. Press the

25PreparationETime ZonesOnce you have set your time zone, date and time, you do not need to reset the clock each time you travel to another time zone.

26Basic FunctionsRecordingRecording Movies on a Tape1. Press the small button and set the POWER switch to CAMERA. The POWER indicator lights up.2. Set

27EBasic FunctionsRecordingScreen Displays during RecordingReviewing and Searching when RecordingYou can review the last few seconds of your recording

28Recording on a Memory CardRecording Still Images on a Memory Card1. Press the small button and set the POWER switch to CAMERA.The POWER indicator li

29EBasic FunctionsRecording When you are using a SD Memory Card, make sure that the protect switch is set to allow recording. Do not turn off the ca

3IntroductionEUsing this ManualThank you for purchasing the Canon MVX4i. Please read this manual carefully before you use the camcorder and retain it

30Screen Displays during Still Image RecordingScreen Displays during Movie RecordingStill Image Quality/SizeIndicates the image quality and the image

31EBasic FunctionsRecordingZoomingCAMERA• mode: In addition to the 10x optical zoom you can also use the 200x digital zoom ( 64).10x Optical ZoomMove

32Tips for Better RecordingHolding the CamcorderFor maximum stability, grip the camcorder in your right hand and keep your right elbow pressed against

33EBasic FunctionsPlaybackPlaybackPlaying Back a Tape1. Press the small button and set the POWER switch to PLAY (VCR).2. Set the TAPE/CARD switch to

34Special Playback Modes/ (Playback Pause)To pause playback, press the / button during normal playback. (Fast Forward Playback) / (Rewind Playbac

35EBasic FunctionsPlaybackPlaying Back a Memory Card1. Press the small button and set the POWER switch to PLAY (VCR).2. Set the TAPE/CARD switch to .

36Adjusting the VolumeWhen you use the LCD screen for playback, the camcorder plays back the sound via built-in speaker. The speaker does not sound wh

37EBasic FunctionsPlaybackPlaying Back on a TV ScreenRefer also to the TV or VCR instruction manual.1. Turn off all devices before starting the connec

38Connecting to a TV with SCART TerminalRefer also to the TV or VCR instruction manual.1. Turn off all devices before starting the connections.2. Conn

39EAdvanced FunctionsRecording ProgramsAdvanced FunctionsRecording ProgramsUsing the Recording ProgramsAutoThe camcorder adjusts focus, exposure and o

4Trademark Acknowledgements• is a trademark.• is a trademark.• Windows® is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/

40Selecting the Recording Program1. Set the camcorder to CAMERA• or CAMERA• mode.2. Turn the mode dial to switch between the recording programs.The sy

41EAdvanced FunctionsRecording Programs Using the Super Night ModeAllows you to record in dimly lit places without sacrificing color. The assist lamp

42 Using the Special Scene Modes1. Set the camcorder to CAMERA• or CAMERA• mode.2. Set the mode dial to .3. Press the SET dial.A list of Special Scen

43EAdvanced FunctionsRecording Programs Using the Program AE ModeThe camcorder automatically adjusts shutter speed and exposure according to the brigh

44 Using the Shutter-Priority AE ModeYou can select a shutter speed, and the camcorder automatically sets a matching aperture setting.Select a high sh

45EAdvanced FunctionsRecording Programs Using the Aperture-Priority AE ModeYou can select an aperture value, and the camcorder automatically chooses t

46RecordingAdjusting Exposure ManuallyAdjust the exposure when a backlit subject becomes underexposed, or overexposed due to bright light.Exposure Loc

47EAdvanced FunctionsRecordingAdjusting the Focus ManuallyAutofocus may not work well on the following subjects. In such case, focus manually.1. Set t

48Using the Mini Video LightYou can turn on the mini video light (assist lamp) at any time regardless of the recording program.1. Set the camcorder to

49EAdvanced FunctionsRecordingUsing the Self-TimerThe self-timer can be used for recording movies and still images.1. Set the camcorder to CAMERA• or

5IntroductionETable of ContentsIntroductionUsing this Manual...

50Recording with an External MicrophoneYou can use the optional SA-1 Adapter Bracket to attach a microphone to the camcorder. Refer also to the instru

51EAdvanced FunctionsChanging the Settings (1)Changing the Settings (1)Changing the Settings with the FUNC. ButtonMany of the camcorder’s functions ar

52List of Menu Items (FUNC.)Available menu items vary depending on the operation mode. Default settings are in boldface text.For details on each funct

53EAdvanced FunctionsChanging the Settings (1)Setting the White BalanceYou can use the preset modes to reproduce colors more accurately, or set a cust

54 Use the auto setting for normal outdoor scenes.  Depending on the type of fluorescent light, optimal color balance cannot be accomplished with [F

55EAdvanced FunctionsChanging the Settings (1)Selecting an Image EffectYou can record with different saturation and contrast color effects.1. Set the

56Using Digital EffectsThe Digital Effects functions include a fader and effects, multi-image screen and Card Mix.Faders ( 58)Begin or end scenes with

57EAdvanced FunctionsChanging the Settings (1)Effects ( 59)Add flavor to your recordings.Multi-Image Screen ( 60)Captures moving subjects in 4, 9 or 1

58Availability of Digital Effects by Operating Modes:: Available : Not available *: Black and White only.Selecting a Fader1. Set the camcorder to

59EAdvanced FunctionsChanging the Settings (1)PLAY(VCR)• mode:7. Fade in: Press the / button in playback pause mode.Fade out: Press the / button i

6Adjusting the Audio Recording Level...70Using the Wind Screen...

60Using the Multi-Image ScreenYou can operate the multi-image screen only in the following playback modes:• When [S.SPEED] is set to [MANUAL]: Playbac

61EAdvanced FunctionsChanging the Settings (1)Combining Images (Card Mix)You can produce effects not possible with just a tape with the Card Mix funct

621. Set the camcorder to CAMERA• mode.2. Upload a sample image from the DIGITAL VIDEO SOLUTION DISK to the memory card.Refer to Adding Still Images f

63EAdvanced FunctionsChanging the Settings (2)Changing the Settings (2)Changing the Settings with the MENU ButtonMany of the camcorder’s functions are

64List of Menu Items (MENU)Available menu items vary depending on the operation mode. Default settings are in boldface text.For details on each functi

65EAdvanced FunctionsChanging the Settings (2)FOCUS PRI.: The camcorder records the still image once focus is adjusted. Set it to [OFF] when you wish

66REC MODE: Switches the recording mode. The long play mode extends the tape usage by 1.5 times. Tapes recorded in LP mode cannot be used for audio d

67EAdvanced FunctionsChanging the Settings (2)DISPLAY SETUPBRIGHTNESS: Adjusts the brightness of the LCD screen. Turn the SET dial up or down to adju

68SYSTEMWL. REMOTE: Sets the camcorder to be operated with the wireless controller. BEEP: A beep sounds upon operations such as turning on the camcor

69EAdvanced FunctionsChanging the Settings (2)MY CAMERASEL. S-UP IMG, S-UP SOUND, SHTR SOUND, OPER. SOUND, SELF-T SOUND: Changes the My Camera setting

7IntroductionESpecifications...143Index...

70Adjusting the Audio Recording LevelYou can manually adjust the audio recording level of the built-in microphone or an external microphone. 1. Set th

71EAdvanced FunctionsChanging the Settings (2) About the audio level indicator:When [MIC LEVEL] is set to [AUTO] or in the PLAY(VCR)• mode, pressing

72Using the Wind ScreenThe camcorder reduces wind noise automatically. However, you can turn off the wind screen when recording indoors, or when you w

73EAdvanced FunctionsChanging the Settings (2)Widescreen TV Recording (16:9)The camcorder uses the full width of the CCD providing high-resolution 16:

74Creating a Start-up ImageYou can create a start-up image using a still image on the memory card.1. Set the camcorder to PLAY(VCR)• mode.2. Select a

75EAdvanced FunctionsPlaybackPlaybackMagnifying the ImageThe playback image can be magnified up to 5 times.1. Set the camcorder to PLAY(VCR)• or PLAY(

76Displaying the Data CodeThe camcorder maintains a data code containing recording date and time and other camera data such as shutter speed and expos

77EAdvanced FunctionsPlaybackEnd SearchWhen you have played back a tape, you can use this function to locate the end of the last recorded scene.1. Set

78Returning 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 stop

79EAdvanced FunctionsPlaybackDate SearchYou can locate the change of the date/time zone with the date search function.This function is operated with t

8Checking Supplied Accessories* Not included in China and Oceania.CA-570 Compact Power Adapter(incl. power cord)BP-308 Battery Pack WL-D85 Wireless Co

80Digital Camera FunctionsSelecting the Image Quality/SizeYou can select the image quality of still images, and the image size of still images and mov

81EAdvanced FunctionsDigital Camera FunctionsSelecting the Still Image Size and Quality1. Set the camcorder to CAMERA• mode.2. Press the FUNC. button.

82Simultaneous Recording on Tape and Memory CardWhen you are recording a movie on a tape, you can record the same picture as a still image on the memo

83EAdvanced FunctionsDigital Camera FunctionsUsing the FlashYou can use the built-in flash for recording still images in dark places. The flash is equ

84 The flash will not fire in the following cases:- When you press the EXP button in (auto) or (red-eye reduction, auto) mode.- When (auto) or

85EAdvanced FunctionsDigital Camera FunctionsSelecting the Light Metering ModeYou can select the method the camera uses to evaluate the brightness of

86Changing the Focusing ModeYou can change the AF (autofocus) frame selection mode.1. Set the camcorder to CAMERA• mode.2. Set the mode dial to a mode

87EAdvanced FunctionsDigital Camera FunctionsSelecting the Drive Mode1. Set the camcorder to CAMERA• mode.2. Set the mode dial to a mode other than .

88 The drive mode can also be selected from the FUNC. menu ( 51). When the FUNC. menu is being displayed, the DRIVE MODE button cannot be used. Max

89EAdvanced FunctionsDigital Camera FunctionsRecording Panoramic Images (Stitch Assist Mode)You can shoot a series of overlapping images and merge the

9IntroductionEComponents GuideSpeaker ( 36) REC SEARCH + button ( 27) / (fast forward) button ( 34) /CARD + button ( 35)MIC terminal ( 50)Terminal cov

909. Press the FUNC. button after the last image.• The Stitch Assist screen will disappear. The DRIVE MODE button can also be used to close the Stitch

91EAdvanced FunctionsDigital Camera FunctionsPlaying Back/Searching ImagesYou can display images one after another (slide show) or 6 at one time (inde

92Card Jump FunctionYou can locate images without displaying them one by one. The number in the upper right of the screen indicates the image number o

93EAdvanced FunctionsDigital Camera FunctionsProtecting ImagesYou can protect important images from accidental erasure when displaying a single image

94Erasing ImagesYou can erase images singly or all at once.Be careful when erasing images. Erased images cannot be recovered. Protected images cannot

95EAdvanced FunctionsDigital Camera FunctionsFormatting a Memory CardFormat new memory cards, or when you get the message “CARD ERROR”. You can also f

96EditingRecording to a VCR or Digital Video DeviceYou can copy your recordings by connecting the camcorder to a VCR or a digital video device. If you

97EEditingAnalog Line-in RecordingYou can input video from other analog devices (VCR, TV or camcorder) via the S-video terminal or AV terminal, and re

98Recording the Input Video on a Memory CardThe size of the still image recorded on the memory card will be 640 x 480. The still image quality and the

99EEditingDV DubbingYou can input video from other digital video devices via the DV terminal, and record the input video on the tape in the camcorder.