JVC DV Camcorder GY-DV500 Instructions

							GY-DV500
SC96874-003 
DV CAMCORDER
INSTRUCTIONS
* The illustration shows the GY-DV500 DV Camcorder with the optional lens viewfinder attached.
This instruction manual is made from 100% recycled paper.
For Customer Use :
Enter below the Serial No. which is located on the body.
Retain this information for future reference.
Model No. GY-DV500
Serial No.
Thank you for purchasing this JVC product. Before operating 
this unit, please read the instructions carefully to ensure the 
best possible performance.
INTRODUCTION
CONTROLS,
INDICATORS AND
CONNECTORS
BASIC SYSTEM
CONNECTIONS AND
ADJUSTMENTS
POWER SUPPLY
PREPARATIONS
SETTING AND
ADJUSTMENTS
BEFORE SHOOTING
SHOOTING
OPERATION
PLAYBACK MODE
TIME CODE
OPERATION
S.S.F. (Super Scene
Finder)
USING EXTERNAL
COMPONENTS
SETUP MENU
OTHERS
FEATURES OF THE
CAMERA SECTION
 
yyy yyy 
						

							2
  1. Read all of these instructions.
  2. Save these instructions for later use.
  3. All warnings on the product and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.
  4. Unplug this appliance system from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners.
Use a damp cloth for cleaning.
  5. Do not use attachments not recommended by the appliance manufacturer as they may cause hazards.
  6. Do not use this appliance near water Ð for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub, in a wet
basement, or near a swimming pool, etc.
  7. Do not place this appliance on an unstable cart, stand, or table. The appliance may fall, caus-
ing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the appliance.
Use only with a cart or stand recommended by the manufacturer, or sold with the appliance.
Wall or shelf mounting should follow the manufacturerÕs instructions, and should use a mounting
kit approved by the manufacturer.
An appliance and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force,
and uneven surfaces may cause the appliance and cart combination to overturn.
  8. Slots and openings in the cabinet and the back or bottom are provided for ventilation, and to
insure reliable operation of the appliance and to protect it from overheating, these openings
must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be blocked by placing the appliance on a bed, sofa, rug,
or other similar surface. This appliance should never be placed near or over a radiator or heat register. This appliance
should not be placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase unless proper ventilation is provided.
  9. This appliance should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not
sure of the type of power supplied to your home, consult your dealer or local power company. For appliance designed
to operate from battery power, refer to the operating instructions.
10. This appliance system is equipped with a 3-wire grounding type plug (a plug having a third (grounding) pin). This plug
will only fit into a grounding-type power outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into the
outlet, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the grounding
plug.
11. For added protection for this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long
periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent damage
to the product due to lightning and power-line surges.
12. Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord. Do not locate this appliance where the cord will be abused by
persons walking on it.
13. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the appliance.
14. Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this can result in fire or electric shock.
15. Never push objects of any kind into this appliance through cabinet slots as they may touch dangerous voltage points
or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the appliance.
16. Do not attempt to service this appliance yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous
voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
17. Unplug this appliance from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following
conditions:
a. When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed.
b. If liquid has been spilled into the appliance.
c. If the appliance has been exposed to rain or water.
d. If the appliance does not operate normally by following the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that
are covered by the operating instructions as improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will
often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the appliance to normal operation.
e. If the appliance has been dropped or the cabinet has been damaged.
f. When the appliance exhibits a distinct change in performance Ð this indicates a need for service.
18. When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by the
manufacturer that have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire,
electric shock, or other hazards.
19. Upon completion of any service or repairs to this appliance, ask the service technician to perform routine safety
checks to determine that the appliance is in safe operating condition.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS 
						

							3
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
FOR USA AND CANADA
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
AUTION : TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in
the literature accompanying the appliance. The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an
equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated Òdangerous voltageÓ within the
products enclosure that may be of sufficient magni-
tude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
INFORMATIONThis equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits
for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmfull interfrence to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
cReorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
cIncrease the separation between the equipment and receiver.
cConnect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from
that to which the receiver is connected.
cConsult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
CAUTION
CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS NOT APPROVED BY JVC
COULD VOID USERÕS AUTHORITY TO OPERATE THE
EQUIPMENT.
INFORMATION FOR USA
THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES.
OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING TWO
CONDITIONS : (1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL
INTERFERENCE, AND (2) THIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPT ANY
INTERFERENCE RECEIVED, INCLUDING INTERFERENCE
THAT MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION
INFORMATION (FOR CANADA)
RENSEIGNEMENT (POUR CANADA)
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian
ICES-003.
Cet appareil numŽrique de la Class B est conforme ˆ la norme
NMB-003 du Canada.
CAUTION
NOTE:
The rating plate (serial number plate) is on the top frame.
WARNING:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO
RAIN OR MOISTURE.
This unit should be used with 12V DC only.
CAUTION:
To prevent electric shocks and fire hazards, do NOT use
any other power source.
CAUTION
To prevent electric shock, do not open the cabinet. No user servicea-
ble parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
AVERTISSEMENT :
POUR EVITER LES RISQUES DÕINCENDIE OU
DÕELECTROCUTION, NE PAS EXPOSER
LÕAPPAREIL A LÕHUMIDITE OU A LA PLUIE.

direct en 12V.
ATTENTION :
Afin dÕeviter tout resque dÕincendie ou dÕŽlectrocution,
ne pas utillser dÕautres sources dÕalimentation Žlectrique.
REMARQUE :La plaque dÕidentification (numŽro de sŽrie) se trouve sur le panneau

WARNING ON LITHIUM BATTERYThe battery used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn
hazard if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat avobe 100°C
(212°F) or incinerate.
Replace battery with Matsushita Electric CR2032, use of another
battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.
¥ Dispose of used battery promptly.
¥ Keep away from children.
¥ Do not disassemble and do not dispose of in fire. 
						

							4
Thank you for purchasing the DV Camcorder GY-DV500.
These instructions are for GY-DV500U.
This unit is a MiniDV video system format camcorder.
Videocassettes which are not marked with the MiniDV
symbol cannot be used with this unit.
MAIN FEATURES
The following phenomena may occur when tapes recorded
on other units (including another GY-DV500) are recorded
or played back on this camcorder.
cThe transient section between scenes recorded on other
units and those recorded on this unit may appear
disturbed.
cDigital noise may appear during playback due to tracking
errors.
c Compact, lightweight design
Employment of magnesium die cast has resulted in an
operation-condition weight as low as approximately 5 kg
including lens, viewfinder, battery, and cassette.
c DV high-quality digital format
The 4:1:1, 8-bit, 25 Mbps component digital processing of
the format ensures recording and playback with high picture
quality.
c High sound quality thanks to PCM audio
Two types of sampling, 16-bit, 48 kHz sampling and 12-bit,
32 kHz sampling, ensure high-quality digital audio.
c Concentrated LCD display (back-lit)
The concentrated LCD panel shows the time code and CTL
counter, tape remaining time, remaining battery power, audio
levels, VCR section setup menus, hour meter data, and a
variety of warning indications. The display is back-lit to
facilitate viewing in dark locations.
c Time code reader/generator
The built-in time code reader/generator can be used to record
SMPTE time code and users bits.
c AEF (Automatic Edit Function) enables neat switching
between recorded scenes.
c Built-in monitor loudspeaker for audio checking
The input audio can be monitored in recording or EE mode.
The playback sound can be monitored in the playback mode.
The loudspeaker also outputs an alarm tone in case an
abnormal condition occurs in the unit.
c Rec check function for convenient recording review
c Camera section designed with 3-CCD system for high-quality
picture
Three 1/2 CCDs with 380,000 effective pixels employed.
Digital signal processing for reproduction of DV high-quality
picture.
c Super sensitivity F/11, 2000 lux
2000 lux standard sensitivity increased to F/11 while high S/
N is retained. Enables shooting at normal indoor illumination
eliminating the need for extra illumination.
c LOLUX for 0.75 lux (F1.4) illumination
Employment of LOLUX mode ensures +33 dB gain. This is
ideal for difficult shooting conditions with almost no
illumination.
c Multi-Zone Auto Iris Detection Circuit
Multi-zone auto iris detection circuit ensures optimum iris
position even in backlit conditions or when a bright subject
moves in a frame. Switch provided for selecting over or under
level.
c Safety Zone indication in viewfinder
Three types of safety zone indicator functions provided.
c Zebra pattern video level indication in viewfinder
c Full Auto Shooting (FAS) function
Eliminating the need for troublesome switch or filter
operations, the FAS function automatically provides a wide
range of compatibility with shooting conditions which varies
as you move between indoors and outdoors or between bright
and dark locations.
c Color temperature conversion filters for 3200K, 5600K,
5600 K + ND provided.
c Variable scan shutter
Eliminates flicker when shooting other screen pictures than
NTSC, such as computer monitor screens.
Copes with the range from 60.1 Hz to 2084.6 Hz.
c DV (i. LINK) connector
DV connector (4-pin) provided. Enables transfer of digital data
to other equipment provided with DV connector, such as a
non-linear editing controller.
c S.S.F. (Super Scene Finder) function
Enables memorization of the start point and ending point of
each scene or memorization of CUE points.
c 1/2 bayonet type lens
c Camera output, VCR playback output (composite/YC) possible
c External sync input connector
c Built-in color bar (SMPTE type)
c Superior operability with shutter speed and menus selected
by dial.
c This unit records and plays back in the SP mode.
Recording or playback in the LP mode is not possible.
cDue to manufacturing dispersion of tapes, we
recommend not to record pictures within the first 2 to 3
minutes from the beginning of the tape.
c Before recording important scenes, be sure to perform a
test recording and confirm that both video and audio are
recorded correctly.
c Recorded video and audio contents are for private use.
Other use may infringe on the rights of copyright holders.
c JVC cannot assume liabilities that may derive from the
impossibility of normal recording or playback of video or
audio due to malfunction of the camcorder or the
videocassette. 
						

							5
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
MAIN FEATURES ...............................................................4
1. INTRODUCTION
1-1 Main Unit Configuration .............................................. 6
1-2 Precautions for Proper Use ........................................ 7
1-3 Routine and Periodical Maintenance ......................... 8
1-4 Videocassette to be Used .......................................... 8
1-5 Battery Pack to be Used ............................................ 9
1-6 Condensation ............................................................. 9
1-7 Characteristic CCD Phenomena ................................ 9
2. CONTROLS, INDICATORS AND CONNECTORS
2-1 Front Section ............................................................ 10
2-2 Right Side Section .................................................... 12
2-3 Left Side Section ...................................................... 18
2-4 Top Section .............................................................. 19
2-5 Rear Section ............................................................ 20
2-6 Counter Display Contents ........................................ 22
2-7 Lens (optional) ......................................................... 23
2-8 1.5-Inch Viewfinder  (optional) ................................... 24
2-9 Indications in Viewfinder ........................................... 25
¥ Warning LED Indicators Inside the Viewfinder ....... 25
¥ Viewfinder Screen Display ..................................... 25
5. PREPARATIONS
5-1 Turning the Power ON .............................................. 39
5-2 Cassette Loading and Unloading ............................. 40
5-3 Setting the Date and Time ........................................ 41
6. SETTING AND ADJUSTMENTS BEFORE
SHOOTING
6-1 Camera Settings ...................................................... 42
6-2 Viewfinder Adjustment ............................................. 43
6-3 External Monitor Adjustment .................................... 43
6-4 Back Focus Adjustment ............................................ 44
6-5 White Balance Adjustment ....................................... 45
¥ White Balance Adjustment ..................................... 45
¥ Full-Time Auto White Balance (FAW) ..................... 45
6-6 Switch Settings of the VCR Section ......................... 46
6-7 Audio Input Signal Selection .................................... 47
6-8 Recording Level Adjustment .................................... 48
6-9 Monitoring Audio during Recording .......................... 49
7. SHOOTING OPERATION
7-1 Basic Recording Operation ...................................... 50
7-2 VCR Save Mode ....................................................... 52
7-3 If Unit is Left in Record-Pause (Standby) Mode ....... 52
7-4 Checking Recorded Contents in Record-Pause Mode
(Recording Check Function) .................................... 53
8. PLAYBACK MODE
8-1 Playback Procedure ................................................. 54
8-2 Fast-Forward, Rewind .............................................. 55
8-3 Search ...................................................................... 55
BASIC OPERATIONS
APPLICATION
9. TIME CODE OPERATION
9-1 Displaying Time  Code .............................................. 56
9-2 Presetting and Recording of Time Code .................. 56
¥ Time Code Presetting Procedure ........................... 57
¥ Presetting Users Bit Data ...................................... 57
9-3 Recording Time Codes in Continuation of
Time Codes Recorded on Tape ............................... 58
9-4 Reproducing Time  Codes ......................................... 59
10. S.S.F. (Super Scene Finder) FUNCTION
10-1 Explanation of the S.S.F. Function ........................... 60
10-2 How to Use the S.S.F. Function ................................ 61
10-3 Deleting S.S.F. Data ................................................. 62
10-4 Resetting S.S.F. Data ............................................... 62
10-5 Writing S.S.F. Data to Tape ....................................... 63
10-6 Outputting S.S.F. Data .............................................. 63
PREPARATIONS
3. BASIC SYSTEM CONNECTIONS AND
ADJUSTMENTS
3-1 Basic System ........................................................... 30
3-2 Attaching the Zoom Lens (optional) ......................... 31
3-3 Attaching the Viewfinder ........................................... 31
3-4 Attaching the Microphone (provided) ....................... 32
3-5 Attaching the Microphone (optional) ........................ 32
3-6 Attaching the Tripod Base (provided) ....................... 33
3-7 Inserting and Replacing Backup Lithium Batteries .. 34
4. POWER SUPPLY
4-1 AC Operation ........................................................... 35
4-2 Battery Pack Operation ............................................ 35
¥ Attaching a Flat Shape Type Battery Pack ............. 36
¥ Using an Anton-Bauer Battery Pack ...................... 37
¥ Remaining Battery Power Display/Precautions for
the Battery Pack ..................................................... 38 
						

							6
1. INTRODUCTION
14. OTHERS
14-1 Troubleshooting ........................................................ 86
¥ Alarm Indications ................................................... 86
¥ Warnings in Viewfinder ........................................... 88
¥ Troubles with Error Code Outputs .......................... 90
¥ Troubles without Error Code Outputs ..................... 91
14-2 Hour Meter Display .................................................. 92
14-3 Specifications ........................................................... 93
¥ Optional Accessories ............................................. 94
¥ External Dimensions .............................................. 94
11. USING EXTERNAL COMPONENTS
11-1 Connecting a Video Component with DV Connector 64
11-2 Connecting a PC ...................................................... 65
12. SETUP MENU
12-1 VCR Setup Menu ..................................................... 66
¥ VCR Setup Menu Configuration ............................. 66
¥ Displaying and Setting VCR Setup Menus ............. 67
¥ VCR Setup Menu Contents .................................... 68
12-2 Camera Menu Screen Flow ..................................... 70
12-3 How to Select from the Camera Menu ..................... 71
12-4 VF Display Screen ................................................... 72
12-5 OPERATION Screen ................................................ 73
12-6 PROCESS Screen ................................................... 74
12-7 ADVANCED PROCESS Screen ............................... 75
12-8 SKIN COLOR ADJUST Screen ................................ 75
12-9 FILE MANAGE Screen ............................................. 76
12-10SETUP Screen ......................................................... 77
12-11 Resetting of Camera Menu Setting Values .............. 78
13. FEATURES OF THE CAMERA SECTION
13-1 Full-Time Auto White Balance (FAW) ....................... 79
13-2 IRIS (Brightness) Adjustment ................................... 80
¥ Adjustment of Lens Iris .......................................... 80
¥ 
Zebra Pattern Display during Manual Adjustment ......80
13-3 Shooting the Screen Image on a Computer Monitor 81
13-4 Gain (Sensitivity) Adjustment ................................... 82
¥ Gain Switching ....................................................... 82
¥ Gain Boost under LOLUX Condition ...................... 82
13-5 Switch Setup According to Illumination and Subject 83
¥ Switch Functions .................................................... 83
¥ Full Auto Shooting (FAS) Function ......................... 83
13-6 How to Use Skin Detail ............................................ 84
OTHERS
LIGHTON
OFF
COUNTERCTL
TC
UB
RESETOPERATE/WARNING
MONITOR 
SELECT
STATUS SHUTTER
MENU
FILTER1  3200k
2  5600k
3  5600k+ND
POWERNGGAINOUTPUT
WHT.BAL VTR
ON OFF
ALARM
MONITOR
SAVE STBYH M LBARS CAMAUTO KNEE PRST A B
ON OFF
CH-1CH-2AUDIO
LEVELAUTO IRIS LOLUX
BACK LNORMALSPOT LSTRETCHNORMALCOMPRESSFULL AUTO BLACK
Camcorder (GY-DV500) The GY-DV500 configuration is as shown below.
cThe front base mount may be locked while the pin of the
tripod base is not inserted into the hole on the rear base
mount of the unit. Therefore, after mounting, make sure
that these parts are engaged properly.
cWhen moving the GY-DV500 mounted on a tripod, any
impact or vibration should be avoided as this may cause
the unit to become detached and to drop from the tripod.
Be sure to remove the unit from the tripod before
transporting it.
1-1  Main Unit Configuration
CAUTION :
CR20323V
Lithium battery
Microphone
Head cleaning tape
Tripod base 
						

							7
1. INTRODUCTION
1-2  Precautions for Proper Use
c Do not point the lens or viewfinder directly at the sun or other strong light source.
¥ Eye damage could result.
¥ If the lens or viewfinder is left pointed at the sun, rays may collect inside the unit and cause damage or a fire.
cWhen carrying the camera, be sure to hold the carrying handle. Holding the lens or viewfinder may result in damage.
CAUTION :
cSupply voltage
Make sure that the power is between 11 V and 15 V DC. If
the power voltage is too low, abnormal color and increased
noise may occur. Do not exceed 15 V DC in any case, or the
unit could be damaged.
cAllowable ambient temperature and humidity
Be sure to use the unit within the allowable temperature range
of 0¡C to 40¡C and a relative humidity of 30% to 80%. Using
the unit at a temperature or humidity outside the allowable
ranges could result not only in malfunction but the impact on
the CCD elements could be serious as small white spots
may be generated. When storing the GY-DV500 for a long
time, the storage temperatures should be -20¡C to 60¡C.
cStrong electromagnetic waves or magnetism
Where there are strong electromagnetic waves or magnetism,
for example near a radio or TV transmitter, transformer, motor,
etc., the picture may contain noise and the colors may be
incorrect.
cUse of wireless microphone near the camera
When a wireless microphone or wireless microphone tuner
is used near the camera during recording, the tuner could
pick up noise.
cAvoid using or placing the unit in places;
¥ subject to extreme heat or cold;
¥ with excessive dirt or dust;
¥ with high humidity or moisture;
¥ subject to smoke or vapour such as near a cooking stove;
¥ subject to strong vibrations or on an unstable surface.
¥ also do not leave the unit for long hours in a parked car
  under direct sunlight or near room heating equipment.
cProtect the unit from being splashed with water (especially
when shooting in the rain).
cProtect the unit from being wet when shooting on a beach.
In addition, salt and sand may adhere to the camera body.
Be sure to clean the camera after use.
cProtect the unit against penetration of dust when using it in a
place subject to sandy dust.
cOptical performance of lens
Due to the optical performance of the lens, color divergence
phenomena (magnification chromatic aberration) may occur
at the periphery of the image. This is not a camera
malfunction.
cNoise may appear in the viewfinder when switching between
the playback picture and the EE picture.
cSetup level
The video signal of the units video output is provided with a
setup level when shipped from the factory. If you want to turn
OFF the setup level, please consult the person in charge of
professional video equipment at your nearest JVC-authorized
service agent. The setup level is never attached to the video
signal recorded on the tape.
c Use the unit in an upright position.
If placed on its side, heat release efficiency will deteriorate,
adversely affecting the tape transport. Depending on
circumstances the tape may also be damaged.
c Vibrations
Colors may fail to appear during VCR playback in locations
subjected to vibrations.
c Precautions for transportation
Do not drop or hit the unit against a hard object.
c Remove the videocassette before transporting the unit.
c Do not insert an object other than a videocassette in the
cassette insertion slot. Be sure to close the cassette cover
when the unit is not to be used for a long period
cDo not set the POWER switch to OFF or remove the power
cable during recording or playback. Otherwise the tape may
be damaged.
cWhen the unit is not in use, be sure to set the POWER switch
to OFF in order to reduce power consumption.
c Cleaning the body: Wipe body with a dry, soft cloth. When it is
extremely dirty, soak the cloth in a solution of neutral
detergent, wring it out and then wipe. To prevent deformation
of the body, etc. and to avoid operation hazards, do not allow
volatile liquids such as benzine and thinner to touch the body,
and do not wipe it with a cloth soaked in such a liquid.
c The camera may be unstable in the period immediately after
the power is turned on, but this is not a malfunction.
c If a tape containing recorded PAL signals is played back, the
GY-DV500 automatically enters the STOP mode. If this
happens, remove the videocassette so that the unit returns
to its normal state. 
						

							8
1. INTRODUCTION
Head Cleaning
cTo maintain beautiful pictures and sound, be sure to use a
head cleaning tape to clean the head periodically. (Read the
separate sheet ÒPrecautions for Use of Head Cleaning TapeÓ.)
If head cleaning is not performed periodically, a type of mosaic
noise called block noise may appear in the picture or sound
may be interrupted.
c Use the provided head cleaning tape. Do not use head
cleaning tapes other than specified. For instructions on how
to use the head cleaning tape and precautions for its use,
read the separate sheet ÒPrecautions for Use of Head
Cleaning TapeÓ.
cWhen dirt adheres to the heads of the GY-DV500, the
following indications appear during playback and recording
check using the RET button on the lens section.
¥ ÒRFÓ appears on the display panel.
¥ ÒHEAD CLOGÓ appears on the counter display.
¥ ÒVTR WARNING (HEAD)Ó appears in the viewfinder.
cIf this kind of indication appears, please stop the recording.
Head cleaning is required. This indicator disappears when
the POWER is turned OFF, or when the cleaning tape is
played back. The GY-DV500 incorporates precision mechanical parts, which will collect dirt, wear out and deteriorate as the unit is used. On the
other hand, when the unit has been used for a long period in a normal environment, the heads, drums and tape transport mechanisms
also collect dirt deposited on them. Furthermore, dust which penetrates the inside of the VCR section especially during outdoor use
will promote the wear and deterioration of mechanical parts by causing poor contact between tape and heads or failing to maintain
the video and audio quality at high levels. To prevent wear and deterioration, clean the mechanical parts using a head cleaning tape
as routine maintenance. However, cleaning with a head cleaning tape alone is not enough for cleaning the entire tape transport
mechanism, it is also recommended to apply periodical maintenance (inspection) to prevent troubles that may be caused by the
sudden occurrence of failure. As the replacement, adjustment and servicing of parts require advanced skill and equipment, please
consult the person in charge of professional video equipment at your nearest JVC-authorized service agent.
1-3  Routine and Periodical Maintenance
Periodical Maintenance
Contents : Check or replace the following mechanical parts
according to the running time.
¥ The maintenance contents vary depending on the operating
environment and method. Therefore, the above data should be
considered as a reference.
Time management
The accumulated running time of the unit can be confirmed
with the hour meter display (which shows the accumulated drum
running time). For details, see HOUR METER DISPLAY on
page 92.
For consultations related to the maintenance programming
or cost, please contact the person in charge of professional
video equipment at your nearest JVC-authorized service
agent.
V: Clean, check and adjust.
>: Clean and check. Replace as required.
v: Replace.
Running Time500H1000 H 1500H2000H
Drum assÕy (including heads)VVVv
Head cleaner>v>v
Tape guides & rollersV>>v
Rotary encoder Ð>Ðv
Belts & gears>v>v
Drive partsVV>v
Block Noise
AUD LOCK
32k
CH 1
CH 2
48k
RF
SP
MENU
OVER
OVER40 30 20 10 0dB
HEAD CLOG indicatorRF indicator
REC
SAVE
Switch
cUse JVCÕs videocassette tapes marked with MiniDV for
this unit.
Please use DVM60 or DVM30 type videocassettes.
cVideocassettes cannot be used upside down.
cAvoid storing a videocassette with unevenly wound tape,
as this may damage the tape. Rewind it to the beginning
before placing a cassette into storage.
cStore videocassettes in a place with little humidity and good
ventilation where mould does not form.
cAfter a videocassette tape has been used repeatedly,
it becomes unable to maintain full performance due to
an increase in noise caused by dropouts, etc. Do not
continue to use a dirty or damaged tape, as this will
reduce the rotary head life.
c Note that if an ME80 videocassette is used at low
temperatures, block noise tends to occur due to head
contamination.
1-4  Videocassette to be Used
c Videocassette tapes marked MiniDV are provided with
a switch on the back for use in preventing accidental
erasure.
c Slide the switch to SAVE to protect the required recording
in the tape from being overwritten.
c To record on the tape, slide the switch to REC. 
						

							9
1. INTRODUCTION
Head drum
Video tape
Monitor screenSmear
(Vertical pale streaking 
appearing at high
luminous object)
High luminous object
(Electric light, sunlight, etc.)
Blooming
(Blurring in highlight)
The GY-DV500 can use any of the following battery packs.
cFlat shape type
cAnton-Bauer battery pack: Trimpack 13/14 Series
Magnum 13/14 Series
Compack 13/14 Series
Propack 13/14 Series * An Anton-Bauer battery pack cannot be connected directly
to the camera. It is necessary to mount the optional battery
holder.
cBattery holder: Anton-Bauer QRQ27
For details on how to mount the battery holder, see page
37.
cIf the unit has been cooled down in a cold place and is then
carried to a warm place, the moisture contained in the warm
air may adhere to the head drum or tape guides and be cooled
into water droplets. This phenomenon is referred to as
condensation (dewing). When this occurs, the head drum and
tape guides are covered with droplets allowing the tape to be
stuck to them, leading to tape damage.
c Condensation occurs in the following cases:
cWhen condensation occurs in this unit, the DEW indicator
on the display lights up, and the WARNING LED blinks red.
(See page 86)
To remedy, leave the unit with the power ON and wait until
the WARNING LED stops blinking red and the DEW indicator
disappears from the counter display.
¥ When the unit is suddenly
moved from a cold place to a
warm place.
¥ When a room heater has just
started or when the unit is
exposed directly to cold air from
an air conditioner.
¥ When the unit is placed in a very
humid place.
1-5  Battery Pack to be Used
To display the remaining battery power accurately, set the
VCR Setup Menu item No. 396 BATTERY TYPE according
to the type of the battery pack in use. (See page 69)
1-6  
Condensation
Smear and Blooming
Due to the physical structure of a CCD it is possible to induce
vertical streaking (called smear) when shooting an extremely
bright light source. Another effect is the expansion of light around
a bright light or object (called blooming).
The CCD employed in this unit is characterized by inducing
very little smear or blooming. Nevertheless, please be careful
when shooting a bright light source.
Moire or Aliasing
Shooting stripes or fine patterns may cause a jagged effect or
a banding in fine mesh patterns.
White dots
High temperatures can cause CCD sensor pixels to malfunction
with the effect of white dots in the image. This condition is
conspicuous especially when gain is applied.
This is a characteristic of the charged-coupled device (CCD).
As far as possible, use the unit under conditions where the
temperature of the unit does not increase.
1-7  Characteristic CCD Phenomena
DEW
indicator
AUD LOCK
32k
CH 1
CH 2
48kPB NDFAUTO OFF DEW
HOLD
SP
MENU
OVER
OVER40 30 20 10 0dB
OPERATE/WARNING
Do not leave the videocassette inserted when moving the
camera under conditions where the temperature
environment changes. 
						

							10
2. CONTROLS, INDICATORS AND CONNECTORS
1Viewfinder mount base, sliding securing ring
Mount the viewfinder on the base and secure it using the
sliding securing ring.
+ See Attaching the Viewfinder on page 31.
2[VF] Viewfinder connector (6-pin)
Connect the cable from the viewfinder here.
3[MIC IN] Microphone input connector (XLR 3-pin)
Balanced 3-pin connector for camera microphone.
¥  When the camera microphone to be connected is a
phantom microphone or other type of microphone, set
the CAM MIC 48V item on the Camera Setup menu. See
page 77.
¥  When using a microphone with this connector, set the
AUDIO INPUT switches 
7 8 on page 14 to FRONT in
accordance with the audio channel (CH1 or CH2) to be
recorded.
+ See page 14.
1
2
3
Pin No. Function
1 GND
2 HOT
3 COLD
 
4[LENS] Lens control connector
Connect 12-pin lens control cable from lens.
5[ZEBRA] Switch
When this switch is ON, a zebra pattern is superimposed
on the viewfinder areas having video levels with a luminance
level of 70% to 80%. This pattern can be used as a reference
for manual adjustment of the lens iris.
* The zebra patterns are only displayed on the viewfinder
screen. The zebra patterns are not generated for the
MONITOR OUT or Y/C OUT output.
+ See Zebra Pattern during Manual Adjustment on page
80.
¥ The default value is 70% - 80%. The luminance level can
be changed with the ZEBRA setting in the VF DISPLAY
Menu screen.
+ See ZEBRA item on page 72.
While this switch is pressed to the SKIN AREA side, the
color tone areas specified with the SKIN DTL ADJUST item
on the ADVANCED PROCESS MENU are indicated in the
viewfinder. The switch returns to the OFF position when
released.
+ See ÒHow to Use Skin DetailÓ on page 84.
¥ The Skin Detail color tone areas are not indicated while
the VTR playback picture is shown in the viewfinder.
6[VTR] VTR trigger button (record start/stop button)
Record start/stop can be effected with this button.
(It is interlocked with the VTR trigger button on the lens
section.)
7[AUDIO LEVEL CH-1] CH-1 recording level control
Adjusts the recording level of the CH1 audio signal input.
Normally, the camera is used with the control set to the
maximum (10) position.
¥ To use this control, set the VCR Setup Menu item No.
246 FRONT VOLUME ENABLE to ENABLE.
8[AUTOWHITE./ACCU FOCUS] switch
AUTO WHITE:
¥ First, position a white object to occupy 80% of the centre
of the image.
¥ Setting this switch to the upper position (AUTO WHT)
will provide automatic adjustment for white balance.
 * It is not activated in preset, full auto shooting, full-time
auto white balance and color bar modes.
+ See White Balance Adjustment on page 45.
2-1  Front Section
Pin No. Function Pin No. Function
1 RET switch 7 IRIS position
2 VCR trigger 8 IRIS A/R INPUT
3 GND 9 EXTENDER position
4
Lens AUTO/MANU control10 ZOOM position
5  IRIS control 11 Ñ
6  +12V DC 12 Ñ
q
w
e
ori
u
!0
!1
t
y
AUTO
WHITESKIN
AREA
ACCU
FOCUS
TAKE VTR
ZEBRA
AUDIO
LEVEL CH-1
ONOFF
VF
CAUTION:
cThe provided microphone is a phantom microphone.
Please confirm that the CAM MIC 48 V item on the
Camera SETUP Menu is set to ÒONÓ.
cWhen using a microphone other than a phantom
microphone, first set the CAM MIC 48 V item to ÒOFFÓ
before connecting the microphone. Otherwise the
microphone may be damaged.
Note:
Even when the VCR Setup Menu item No. 246 is set to
DISABLE, the recording level changes slightly when this
control is turned.