Canon Hf G20 Owners Manual

							Troubleshooting
161
Cannot play the movies in the built-in memory   Initialize only using the camcorder- The camcorder's built-in memory was initialized using a computer. Initialize the built-in memory with this camcorder ( A36).
Cannot play the movies on this memory card - Movies cannot be played back from a 64 MB or smaller memory card. Use a recommended memory card ( A33).
Cannot play the movies on this memory card   Initialize only using the camcorder - The memory card in the camcorder was initialized using a computer. Initialize the memory card with this camcorder ( A36).
Cannot record - You cannot capture video snapshot scenes from  scenes recorded or edited using another 
device.
- There is a problem with the memory. If this message appears often without apparent reason,  contact a Canon Service Center.
Cannot record   Cannot access the built-in memory - There is a problem with the built-in memory. Save your recordings ( A127) and initialize the 
built-in memory using the [Complete Initialization] option ( A36). If the problem persists, 
contact a Canon Service Center.
Cannot record   Check the memory card - There is a problem with the memory card. Save your recordings ( A127) and initialize the 
memory card using the [Complete Initialization] option ( A36). If the problem persists, use a 
different memory card.
Cannot record movies in the built-in memory   Initialize only using the camcorder - The camcorder's built-in memory was initialized using a computer. Initialize the built-in memory with this camcorder ( A36).
Cannot record movies on this memory card - Movies cannot be recorded on a 64 MB or smaller memory card. Use a recommended memory card ( A33).
Cannot record movies on this memory card   Initialize only using the camcorder - The memory card in the camcorder was initialized using a computer. Initialize the memory card with this camcorder ( A36).
Cannot save the canvas - Cannot save your [Pens and Stamps] drawings on the memory. Save your recordings ( A127) 
and initialize the memory ( A36).
Change the battery pack - Battery pack is exhausted. Replace or charge the battery pack.
Check the memory card - Cannot access the memory card. Check the memory card and make sure it is inserted correctly.
- A memory card error occurred. The camcorder cannot record or display the image. Try  removing and reinserting the memory card, or use a different memory card.
- You inserted a MultiMedia Card (MMC) into the camcorder. Use a recommended memory card  (A 33).
- If after the message disappears,  6/7  appears in red, perform the following: Turn off the 
camcorder and remove and reinsert the memory card. If  6/7  turns back to green you can 
resume recording/playback. If the problem persists, save your recordings ( A127) and 
initialize the memory card ( A36).
COPY  
						

							Troubleshooting
162
Do not disconnect the power source.    Cannot write data with this connection. To write data to 
the camcorder, connect the compact power adapter then reconnect the camcorder and 
computer.    Do not disconnect the USB cable unless you first use the computer to safely end 
the connection.- The camcorder cannot be operated while it is not being powered by the compact power adapter and is connected to a computer with the supplied USB cable. In addition, scenes 
cannot be written back and music files cannot be transferred to the camcorder. To avoid 
corrupting the data in the camcorder’s memory, use the computer’s Safely Remove Hardware 
function to end the connection and disconnect the USB cable before using the camcorder.
- To be able to write back scenes and to transfer music files to the camcorder, use the  computer’s Safely Remove Hardware function  to end the connection, disconnect the USB 
cable, power the camcorder using the compact power adapter and only then connect it to the 
computer again.
Do not disconnect the power source.    Do not disconnect the USB cable unless you first use 
the computer to safely end the connection. - When the camcorder is in   mode and is connected to the computer with the supplied USB cable, the camcorder cannot be operated. Disconnecting the USB cable or power source while 
this message appears may result in permanent loss of the recordings in the camcorder. Use the 
computer's Safely Remove Hardware function  to end the connection and disconnect the USB 
cable before using the camcorder.
- To be able to write back scenes and to transfer music files to the camcorder, power the  camcorder using the compact power adapter and only then connect it to the computer using 
the supplied USB cable.
File name error - The folder and file numbers have reached their maximum value. Set  r >  [File Numbering] 
to [Reset] and delete all the photos on the memory card ( A123) or initialize it ( A36).
Initialize only using the camcorder - There is a problem with the file system that prevents accessing the selected memory. Initialize the memory with this camcorder ( A36).
LCD Screen has been dimmed -Hold  D pressed for 2 seconds to restore the LCD screen to its previous brightness setting.
May not be possible to record movies on this memory card - You may not be able to record movies on a memory card without a Speed Class rating or rated SD Speed Class 2. Replace the memory card with one rated SD Speed Class 4, 6 or 10.
Mem. Card   Number of scenes already at maximum - The memory card already contains the maximum number of scenes (3,999 scenes); no further scenes can be copied onto the memory card. Delete some scenes ( A92) to free some space.
Mem. Card   Unable to recognize the data - The memory card contains scenes recorded using a video configuration that is not supported (PAL or SECAM). Play back the recordings in the memory card with the device originally used 
to record them.
Memory card cover is open - After inserting a memory card, close the double memory card slot cover.
Memory card is full - The memory card is full. Delete some recordings ( A92, 123) to free some space or replace 
the memory card.
Memory card is write-protected - The LOCK switch on the memory card is set to prevent accidental erasure. Change the position of the LOCK switch.
COPY  
						

							Troubleshooting
163
Memory card writing error  Attempt recovering the data?- This message will appear the next time you turn on the camcorder if power supply was accidentally interrupted while the camcorder was writing to the memory. Select [Recover] to try 
to recover the recordings. If you inserted a memory card that contains scenes recorded using 
another device, we recommend that you select [No].
Need to recover files from the memory card.   Change the position of the LOCK switch on the 
memory card. - This message will appear the next time you turn on the camcorder if power supply was accidentally interrupted while the camcorder was writing on the memory card and later the 
position of the card's LOCK switch was changed to prevent erasure. Change the position of the 
LOCK switch.
No memory card - Insert a compatible memory card into the camcorder ( A34).
No photos - There are no photos to play back.
No scenes - There are no scenes in the memory selected.
Not enough available space - Delete some recordings on the memory card ( A92, 123) or select the [3 Mbps] bit rate for the 
conversion to SD.
Number of scenes already at maximum - The maximum number of scenes (3,999 scenes) has been reached. Delete some scenes (A 92) to free some space.
Number of stories already at maximum - The gallery already contains the maximum number of stories (98 user-created stories in any one given memory). Delete some stories ( A94) or change the recording memory for movies 
( A 34).
Scene recorded using another device.   Cannot divide the scene. - Scenes that were not recorded with this camcorder cannot be divided with this camcorder.
Scene recorded using another device.   Cannot play back the scene. - Scenes that were not recorded with this camcorder cannot be played back. 
Select the desired scene number - A number of scenes have the same recording date but different file control information. This can occur, for example, when you edit movies on a computer and then transfer the files back to 
the camcorder. Select a number to display the corresponding group of scenes.
Some scenes could not be converted  - Some scenes selected for conversion to SD were recorded using another device. These scenes were not converted.
- Among the scenes selected for conversion to SD there are scenes recorded with the  camcorder or another device using 24p frame rate. When converting scenes to SD, leave out 
scenes recorded using 24p frame rate.
Some scenes could not be deleted - Movies that were protected/edited with other devices cannot be deleted with this camcorder.
Some scenes were recorded using another device and cannot be copied. - Scenes that were not recorded with this camcorder cannot be copied to memory card  3.
Task in progress.   Do not disconnect the power source. - The camcorder is updating the memory. Wait until the operation ends and do not disconnect the compact power adapter or remove the battery pack.
COPY  
						

							Troubleshooting
164
There are no scenes with the selected rating- No scenes have been rated yet. Rate the scenes as you like ( A109).
- The criteria you used to select scenes by rating resulted in no applicable scenes. Change the  criteria used to select scenes by rating.
This memory card contains scenes.   Delete all scenes to use relay recording. - Save your movies ( A127) if necessary, and delete all the movies from the memory card 
( A 92).
This photo cannot be displayed - You may not be able to display photos taken with other devices or image files created or edited on a computer.
This scene was recorded using another device and cannot be copied. - Scenes that were not recorded with this camcorder cannot be copied to memory card  3.
To record video on this memory card, it is recommended to use only the XP+/SP/LP recording 
modes - Movies may not be recorded correctly on this memory card if the recording mode is set to MXP or FXP mode ( A45).
To use the wireless function, insert the Eye-Fi card into slot B. - You may have inserted the Eye-Fi card into memory card slot  2. Insert it into memory card slot 
3 .
To use this function change the camcorder's mode from  ó to M/CINEMA
- C , the CUSTOM dial ( A84) and some of the functions that can be assigned to the 
assignable buttons ( A85) cannot be used in   mode. Set the mode switch to  n ( 
mode) or E (  mode) to use them.
Too many photos.   Disconnect the USB cable. - Disconnect the USB cable. Try using a memory card reader or decrease the number of photos on the memory card to fewer than 2,500 photos (Windows), or 1,000 photos (Mac OS). 
- If a dialog box appeared on the computer screen, close it. Disconnect the USB cable, and  restore the connection after a short while.
Total play time is too long - When converting scenes from a story, the maximum total playback time of the scenes to be converted is 12 hours (when conv erting individual scenes) or 2 hours and 30 minutes (when 
converting stories). Reduce the number of scenes to be converted to SD.
Unable to recognize the data - You transferred data to the camcorder recorded using a video configuration that is not supported (PAL or SECAM). Play back the recordings with the device originally used to record 
them.
Unable to recover data - Could not recover a corrupted file. Save your recordings ( A127) and initialize the memory 
using the [Complete Initialization] option ( A36).
Unsupported gallery data detected. Cannot record or edit.    Delete gallery data? - The gallery data of the movies in the selected memory card is not supported. The movies can be played back but you cannot edit them or record additional scenes to this gallery. Select 
[Yes] to delete the unsupported gallery data. Note that after doing so, you will not be able to 
play back the movies with the device originally used to record the unsupported gallery data.
COPY  
						

							Handling Precautions
165
Handling Precautions
Camcorder
Be sure to observe the following precautions to ensure maximum performance. 
•Save your recordings periodically.  Make sure to transfer your recordings to an external device 
such as a computer or digital video recorder ( A124) and save them on a regular basis. This will 
protect your important 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. When using  a wrist strap, do not allow the camcorder to swing and hit an object.
• Handle the touch screen with care.  Do not apply excessive force and, with the exception of the 
supplied stylus pen, do not use ballpoint pens or other hard-tipped tools to operate the touch 
screen. This may damage the touch screen’s surface or the pressure-sensitive layer beneath it. 
• Do not attach protective film on the touch screen. The touch screen’s operation is based on  detecting applied pressure, so you may not be able to correctly operate the touch screen with an 
additional protective layer.
• Do not leave the camcorder in places subject to high temperatures (like the inside of a car parked  under direct sunlight), or high humidity.
• Do not use the camcorder near strong electromagnetic fields such as above TVs, near plasma TVs  or mobile phones.
• Do not point the lens or viewfinder at strong light sources. Do not leave the camcorder pointed at a  bright subject.
• Do not use or store the camcorder in dusty or sandy places. The camcorder is not waterproof –  avoid also water, mud or salt. If any of the above should get into the camcorder it may damage the 
camcorder and/or the lens.
• Be careful of heat generated by lighting equipment.
• Do not disassemble the camcorder. If the camcorder does not function properly, consult qualified  service personnel.
• Handle the camcorder with care. Do not subject the camcorder to shocks or vibration as this may  cause damage.
• When mounting the camcorder on a tripod, make sure that the  tripod’s fastening screw is shorter than 6.5 mm (0.26 in.). Using 
other tripods may damage the camcorder.
• When recording movies, try to get a calm, stable picture.  
Excessive camcorder movement while shooting and extensive use 
of fast zooms and panning can result in jittery scenes. In extreme 
cases, the playback of such scenes may result in visually induced 
motion sickness. If you experience such a reaction, stop the playback immediately and take a rest 
break as necessary.
• Do not insert the supplied stylus pen into the mouth. If swallowed, seek medical assistance  immediately.
• Handle the supplied stylus pen with extreme care and keep it out of the reach of children. If  mishandled, the stylus pen can present a risk of severe eye injury and even blindness.
6.5 mm
COPY  
						

							Handling Precautions
166
Long-term storage 
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 temperatures not higher than 30 °C (86 °F).
Battery Pack
• Dirty terminals may cause a poor contact between the battery pack and the camcorder. Wipe the terminals with a soft cloth.
Long-term storage 
• Store battery packs in a dry place at temperatures no higher than 30°C (86°F). 
• To extend the battery life of the battery pack, discharge it completely before storing it.
• Charge and discharge all your battery packs fully at least once a year.
Remaining battery time
When you are using a battery pack that is compatible with Intelligent System, if the remaining battery 
time displayed is not correct, charge the battery pack fully. Still, the correct time may not be displayed 
after a large number of repeated uses, if a fully charged battery pack is left unused, or if a battery pack 
is used for long periods of time in high temperatures. Use the time shown on the screen as an 
approximation.
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.
• We recommend using genuine Canon battery packs bearing the  Intelligent System mark.
• If you attach to the camcorder battery packs that are not genuine Canon battery packs,   will  appear and the remaining battery time will not be displayed.
Memory Card
• We recommend backing up the recordings on the memory card onto your computer. Data may be corrupted or lost due to memory card defects or exposure to static electricity. Canon shall not be 
liable for lost or corrupted data.
• Do not touch or expose the terminals to dust or dirt.
• Do not use memory cards in places subject to strong magnetic fields.
DANGER!
Treat the battery pack with care.
• Keep it away from fire (or it might explode).
• Do not expose the battery pack to temperature higher than 60 °C (140 °F). Do not leave it near a  heater or inside a car in hot weather.
• Do not try to disassemble or modify it.
• Do not drop it or subject it to shocks.
• Do not get it wet.
COPY  
						

							Handling Precautions
167
• Do not leave memory cards in places subject to high humidity and high temperature.
• Do not disassemble, bend, drop, or subject memory cards to shocks and do not expose them to water.
• Check the direction before inserting the memory card. Forcing a memory card into a slot if it is not  correctly oriented may damage the memory card or the camcorder.
• Do not attach any labels or stickers on the memory card.
• Secure Digital (SD) memory cards have a physical switch to  prevent writing on the card so as to avoid the accidental erasure of 
the card’s content. 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. 
The built-in lithium battery is recharged while you use the camcorder; however, it will discharge 
completely if you do not use the camcorder for about 3 months.
To recharge the built-in lithium battery:  Connect the compact power adapter to the camcorder and 
leave it connected for 24 hours with the camcorder off.
Lithium Button Battery
• Do not pick up the battery using tweezers or other metal tools, as this will cause a short circuit.
• 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. When you dispose of the camcorder or memory card or give either to another 
person, initialize it using the [Complete Initialization] option ( A36). Fill it up with unimportant 
recordings, and then initialize it again using the same option. This makes recovering the original 
recordings very difficult.
WARNING!
• The battery used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if mishandled.
• Do not disassemble, modify, immerse in water, heat above 100 °C (212 °F) or incinerate the  battery.
• Replace with a CR2025 battery made by Panasonic, Hitachi Maxell, Sony, FDK, or with  Duracell2025. Use of other batteries may present a risk of fire or explosion.
• Do not insert the battery into the mouth. If swallowed, seek medical assistance immediately. The  battery case may break and the battery fluids may cause internal injuries.
• Keep the battery out of the reach of children.
• Do not recharge, short-circuit or insert the battery in the wrong direction.
• Dispose of the used battery according to applicable recycling regulations.
LOCK switch
COPY  
						

							Maintenance/Others
168
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, Viewfinder and Instant AF Sensor
• If the lens surface or Instant AF sensor is dirty, autofocus may not work properly.
• Remove any dust or dirt particles using a non-aerosol type blower brush.
• Use a clean, soft lens-cleaning cloth to gently wi pe the lens or viewfinder. Never use tissue paper.
LCD Touch Screen
• Clean the LCD touch screen using a clean, soft lens-cleaning cloth.
• Condensation may form on the surface of the screen when the temperature changes suddenly. 
Wipe it with a soft dry cloth.
Condensation
Moving the camcorder rapidly between hot and cold temperatures may cause condensation (water 
droplets) to form on its internal surfaces. Stop using the camcorder if condensation is detected. 
Continued use may damage the camcorder.
Condensation may form in the following cases:
• When the camcorder is moved quickly from cold to warm places
• When the camcorder is left in a humid room
• When a cold room is heated rapidly
To  a v o i d  c o n d e n s a t i o n  
• Do not expose the camcorder to sudden or extreme changes in temperature.
• Remove the memory card and battery pack. Then, place the camcorder in an airtight plastic bag and let it adjust gradually to temperature changes before removing it from the bag.
When condensation is detected 
The precise time required for water droplets to evaporate will vary depending on the location and 
weather conditions. As a general rule, wait for 2 hours before resuming use of the camcorder.
COPY  
						

							Maintenance/Others
169
Using the Camcorder Abroad
Power Sources
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.
Playback on a TV Screen
You can only play back your recordings on TVs compatible with the NTSC system. NTSC is used in 
the following regions/countries:
Americas: All of North America and Central America; most Caribbean islands (except in French 
territories like Guadeloupe and Martinique); most of South America (except in Argentina, Brazil and 
Uruguay).   Asia: Only in Japan, the Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan and Myanmar.   Oceania: US 
territories (Guam, American Samoa, etc.) and some Pacific islands like Micronesia, Samoa and Tonga.
COPY  
						

							Optional Accessories
170
Optional Accessories
The following optional accessories are compatible with this camcorder. Select accessories are 
described in more detail in the following pages.
NOTES
• Accessories that are compatible with the Advanced Accessory Shoe cannot be attached to this  camcorder. Look for the  Mini ADVANCED SHOE  logo to ensure compatibility with the mini 
advanced shoe.
 (Availability differs from area to area)
VL-5 Video Light VFL-2 Video Flash  LightWM-V1 Wireless 
Microphone
BP-808, BP-809(B), 
BP-809(S), BP-819, 
BP-827 Battery Pack CG-800 
Battery Charger TL-H58 
Te l e - c o n v e r t e r WD-H58W 
Wide-converter
Protect Filter 58 mm,  ND4L Filter 58 mm, 
ND8L Filter 58 mm
SM-V1 
Surround Microphone DM-100 Directional 
Stereo Microphone SS-600/SS-650 
Shoulder Strap WS-20 
Wrist Strap
CTC-100 
Component Cable SC-2000 
Soft Carrying Case
COPY