Panasonic Pv Gs9 Operating Instructions Manual

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Notes and Hints
 Concerning the Power Supply• When the Camcorder has been used for a long time, 
the Camera body becomes warm, but this is not a 
malfunction.
• If the [CHARGE] Lamp does not light up although 
the Battery is attached to the AC Adaptor, detach the 
Battery and reattach it.
 Inserting/Removing the Cassette• In the case of using a previously recorded Cassette, 
you can use the Blank Search Function (p. 24) to fi 
nd 
the position where you want to continue recording.
• If a new Cassette is inserted, rewind to the beginning 
of the tape before starting recording.
• When inserting the cassette, make sure it faces in 
the right direction and then push it in until it stops.
• When the Cassette Holder is in action, do not touch 
anything except the [PUSH] mark.
• When closing the Cassette Compartment Cover, 
do not get anything caught in the cover, such as 
a cable of an optional stereo microphone (For 
PV-GS14/PV-GS15).
 Alarm SoundsWhen [BEEP SOUND] on the [INITIAL] Sub-Menu on 
the [TAPE RECORDING MENU] is set to [ON], 
confi 
rmation/alarm beeps are issued as follows.
1 Beep
• When you start recording
• When you switch the [OFF/ON] Switch from [OFF] to 
[ON]
2 Beeps
• When you pause recording
2 Beeps 4 times
• If you perform a wrong operation before or during 
recording.
 Recording Check• For Recording Check, the recording speed mode 
(SP/LP) must be the same as the mode used for 
the recording. If different, playback images will be 
distorted.
 Recording on a Card• Even if the [SHTR EFFECT] is set to [ON], the 
Shutter Effect cannot be recorded on the picture.
• When the color of the screen changes or blurs, 
adjust the shutter speed manually to 1/60 or 1/100.
Photoshot• Photoshot Recording results in slightly inferior image 
quality.
RapidFire Consecutive Photoshot• One more still picture may be recorded after you 
release the [PHOTO SHOT] Button.
• The RapidFire Consecutive Photoshot and Title 
Function cannot be used simultaneously. NO CARD:
Card is not inserted.
NO DATA:
There are no recorded fi 
les in the card.
UNPLAYABLE CARD:
You are attempting to play back data which is not 
compatible with this Camcorder.
CARD ERROR:
The Card is not compatible with this Camcorder.
COPY INHIBITED:
Because the medium is protected by a copy 
guard, images cannot be recorded correctly.
INCORRECT OPERATION:
The Recording Start/Stop Button was pressed 
without connecting the USB cable to the PC in 
Picture Playback Mode.
CANNOT USE USB
CHANGE MODE:
The USB cable is connected to the Camcorder in 
Card Recording Mode or Picture Playback Mode.
CANNOT OPERATE:
You are attempting to record pictures on a Card 
while connecting the USB cable to the Camcorder 
in Tape Recording/Playback Mode.
UNABLE TO WRITE
(MULTI RECORDING):
The [PHOTO SHOT] Button is pressed when you 
are recording pictures on a Tape while setting the 
Digital Effect [MULTI] of [EFFECT1].
UNABLE TO WRITE:
The Recording Start/Stop Button is pressed when 
you are recording still pictures on the Card.
CASSETTE DOOR OPENED:
Close the Cassette Compartment Cover before 
recording.
NO TITLE:
Titles are not recorded.
UNABLE TO WRITE
(WIDE MODE):
You are attempting to record pictures of S1 signal 
(with aspect ratio 16:9) by pressing the [PHOTO 
SHOT] Button.
FILE LOCKED:
You are attempting to erase protected fi 
les.
CARD LOCKED:
The write protection switch on the SD Memory 
Card is set to [LOCK].
DISCONNECT USB CABLE:
You are attempting to turn the Mode Dial or turn 
the Camcorder off in PC Mode while connecting 
the USB cable to the Camcorder. 
						

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• When the [SELF TIMER] is set to [ON], the 
Camcorder records the maximum number of 
recordable pictures depending on the [BURST 
MODE] setting.
• When using a card formatted by other equipment, 
intervals between recorded pictures may become 
large.
• If you repeatedly record or erase pictures, intervals 
between recorded pictures may become large. In 
this case, back up your important data on a PC, and 
format your card using this Camcorder.
 Recording with the Built-in LED Video  
 Light
• The subject should be within 4.9 feet (1.5 metres) of 
the Camcorder.
• Using the LED Video Light reduces battery time.
• Set the LED Video Light to off when not in use.
• Do not look directly into the light.
• If the LED Video light is used with a Conversion 
lens attached, a slight vignetting (darkening around 
edges) effect occurs on the screen.
• Using the MagicPix Function at the same time will 
make conditions even brighter.
• The Video Light brightens images recorded in a 
dimly-lit place, however we recommend using it in a 
bright place in order to obtain high quality images.
 Quick Start• During the Quick Start Standby Mode, a minute 
amount of electricity is consumed.
• When the Camcorder is left in the Recording Pause 
Mode for 5 minutes, it will be turned into the Quick 
Start Standby Mode. To turn the Camcorder on 
again, set the [OFF/ON] Switch to [OFF] and then 
set it to [ON] again. (The Quick Start Mode will be 
restored.)
• This Function is not activated in the following case:
•  Neither a card nor a tape has been inserted while 
the Tape/Card Recording Mode is set.
• In the following cases, Quick Start is canceled during 
the Quick Start Standby Mode.
•  Operate the Mode Dial
•  The Battery is replaced
• If the [QUICK START] Button is pressed and held 
for approximately 2 seconds during the Quick 
Start Standby Mode, the Lamp will go off and the 
Camcorder will be turned off.
• If the Camcorder is not operated for approximately 
30 minutes when the Quick Start Recording Lamp 
lights, the Lamp will go off and the Camcorder will be 
completely turned off.
• In the Automatic White Balance Mode, the color 
may be recorded unnaturally at the beginning of the 
recording.
• The zoom magnifi 
cation differs from when it is in the 
Quick Start Standby Mode and when the recording 
starts.
 Self-timer Recording• When [BEEP SOUND] on the [INITIAL] Sub-Menu 
is set to [ON], the beep sound will be emitted along 
with the Recording Lamp fl 
ashing in the Self-timer 
Standby Mode.
• By operating the [OFF/ON] Switch, Recording 
Start/Stop Button or Mode Dial, the Self-timer 
Standby Mode is canceled.
 Zoom In/Out Functions• When you are zooming in on a faraway subject, a 
sharper focus is achieved if the recording subject is 
4 feet (1.2 meters) or further from the Camcorder.
 Zoom Microphone Function• The Zoom Microphone Function may not work 
effectively if the surrounding noise is too loud.
• It does not work with the external microphone (For 
PV-GS14/PV-GS15).
 Digital Zoom Functions• As the magnifi 
cation of digital zoom increases, the 
quality of image may deteriorate.
• White balance cannot be set in the digital zoom 
range.
 Image Stabilizer Function• The Image Stabilizer Function does not operate in 
a dimly lit place. In this case, the [EIS] Indication 
fl 
ashes.
• Under fl 
uorescent lighting, image brightness may 
change or colors may not look natural.
• After-images may appear.
• When a tripod is used, it is recommended that you 
turn the Image Stabilizer off.
• Within the digital zoom range, or when recording 
with a conversion lens attached, the Image Stabilizer 
Function may not work effectively.
 Backlight Compensation Function• When setting the Iris manually, the Backlight 
Compensation Function does not work.
• By operating the [OFF/ON] Switch, the Backlight 
Compensation Function is canceled.
 MagicPix Function• In a bright place, such as outdoors, the recorded 
picture may become whitish.
• In a dark place, the recorded picture is presented in 
a time-lapse-like manner.
• Adjust the Focus manually.
• The Progressive Photoshot Function is automatically 
turned off.
• The RapidFire Consecutive Photoshot Function 
cannot be used.
• White Balance cannot be set.
• The shutter speed cannot be adjusted.
• The Image Stabilizer, Program AE, Multi Title Screen, 
or Digital Effect Modes in [EFFECT1] cannot be set.
• When recording with the MagicPix Function, it is 
recommended that you use a tripod. 
						

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Low Light Mode•  Extremely dark scenes may not be able to be 
made brighter to a satisfactory degree.
Spotlight Mode•  With this mode, recorded images may become 
extremely dark.
•  If the subject is extremely bright, its recorded 
image may becomes whitish.
Surf & Snow Mode•  If the subject is extremely bright, its recorded 
image may turn out to be whitish.
 White BalanceIn the following cases, you cannot change 
White Balance:
• When you set [EFFECT2] to [SEPIA] or to [B/W].
• When you set the Zoom higher than 20X 
(PV-GS9/PV-GS12)/ 22X (PV-GS14)/24X (PV-GS15)
• During Digital Still Picture Mode
• When you display a Menu
• When you use the MagicPix Mode
In the following cases, the [  ] Indication 
fl 
ashes:
• The fl 
ashing indicates that the previously adjusted 
White Balance setting is still set. This setting will be 
kept until White Balance is adjusted again.
• You may not be able to achieve correct White 
Balance Adjustment manually under weak 
illumination.
 Manual Shutter Speed Adjustment• You may see vertical lines of light in the playback 
image of a brightly shining subject or highly refl 
ective 
subject.
• During normal playback, movement in the images 
may not look smooth.
• Because the color and brightness of the playback 
image may become unstable, avoid recording under 
fl 
uorescent light, mercury light or sodium light.
• If you are using MagicPix Mode (p. 29) or Program 
AE Mode (p. 30), you cannot adjust the shutter 
speed.
 Manual Iris Adjustment• Depending on zoom magnifi 
cation, there are iris 
values that will not be displayed.
• If you are using MagicPix Mode (p. 29) or Program 
AE Mode (p. 30), you cannot adjust the iris.
• If you attempt to adjust the Shutter Speed after 
setting the Iris, the value set for the Iris will be 
canceled.
 Digital Effect Functions• If you have set [EFFECT2] to [B/W] or [SEPIA], 
changing the selected White Balance Mode is not 
possible. (pp. 30-31)
• Setting the Cinema Mode cancels the 
Picture-in-Picture Mode and the Multi-Picture Mode.
• During the Digital Still Picture Mode, the Digital Effect 
Functions cannot be set. • The MagicPix Function makes the signal charging 
time of CCD longer up to 30 times longer than usual, 
so that dark scenes that are invisible to the naked 
eyes can be recorded brightly. For this reason, a 
bright dots may be seen, but this is not a malfunction.
• The Image Stabilizer Function does not work. In this 
case, the [EIS] Indication fl 
ashes.
• The Soft Skin Function and the Backlight 
Compensation Function cannot be changed.
 Wind Noise Reduction Function• It does not work with the microphone on an external 
microphone.
• When it is set to [ON], directivity of microphone 
is regulated depending on the strength of wind to 
reduce wind noise.
 Cinema Function• Using the Cinema Mode does not widen the 
recording angle.
• When images are displayed on a TV screen, the 
Date/Time Indication may be erased in some cases.
• Depending on the TV, the picture quality may be 
deteriorated.
• The Cinema Mode is canceled when a Title is 
displayed.
• The Cinema Mode and the Title Creation cannot be 
used simultaneously.
• Using the Cinema Mode deactivates [MULTI] and 
[P-IN-P] of [EFFECT1].
• Depending on the software in use, the imported 
Cinema picture may not be displayed correctly.
 Program AE• If any of the Program AE Modes are selected, you 
cannot adjust the shutter speed (p. 32) or iris
   (p. 32).
• Using the MagicPix Function cancels any of the 
Program AE  modes.
• Using the Light Function cancels any of the Program 
AE modes.
Sports Mode•  During normal playback, the image movement 
may not look smooth.
•  Because the color and brightness of the playback 
image may change, avoid recording under 
fl 
uorescent light, mercury light or sodium light.
•  If you record a subject illuminated with strong light 
or a highly refl 
ective subject, vertical lines of light 
may appear.
•  If the light is insuffi 
cient, the [ 
 ] Indication 
fl 
ashes.
Sports Mode/Portrait Mode•  If you record a still picture in Progressive 
Photoshot Mode, the brightness and hue of the 
recorded still picture may become unstable.
•  If this mode is used for indoor recording, playback 
images may fl 
icker. 
						

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In the following cases, using the [EFFECT1] on 
the [DIGITAL] Sub-Menu is not possible.
• When the MagicPix Mode and Light are set
   (pp. 26, 29)
In the following cases, using the Digital Effect 
Function is not possible.
• Title inMulti-Picture Mode• If the [MULTI] Button is pressed while self-recording 
Mirror Mode (p. 26) is used, the still picture is 
displayed from the upper right corner of the screen, 
but, in reality, the picture is recorded from the upper 
left corner as usual.
• The quality of Multi images deteriorates slightly.
• The top and bottom of the Multi pictures will be cut 
off slightly.
Picture-in-Picture Mode• If Mode Dial is operated, the smaller picture 
disappears.
• Titles cannot be inserted into the smaller picture.
Wipe Mode and Mix ModeIf one of the following operations are carried out, 
stored images will be erased, and Wipe and Mix 
Functions cannot be used.
• Set another Digital Effect item
• Operate the [OFF/ON] switch or Mode Dial
• Insert or eject a cassette
 Playing Back  Repeat PlaybackIf you continue to press the [►] Button for 5 seconds 
or longer, the Camcorder switches to Repeat Playback 
Mode, and the [R 
] Indication appears. (To cancel 
Repeat Playback Mode, set the [OFF/ON] Switch to 
[OFF].)
Listening to Playback Sound through 
  Headphones
If you want to use the headphones to listen to the 
playback sound, set [AV JACK] on the [INITIAL] 
Sub-Menu to [OUT/PHONES] and connect the 
headphones to the [PHONES] Jack (p. 13) on the 
Camcorder. In this case, no sound (including warning 
and shutter sounds) will be reproduced through the 
built-in speaker of the Camcorder.
Choosing Sound during PlaybackYou can select the sound by using the [AUDIO OUT] 
setting on the [PLAYBACK] Sub-Menu.
STEREO:  Stereo Sound (main sound and sub  
 sound)
L:  Left channel sound (main sound)
R:  Right channel sound (sub sound)
• If you dub a tape recorded at the [12bit] selected as 
the [AUDIO REC] on the [RECORDING] Sub-Menu, 
playback sound becomes stereo sound regardless of 
the [AUDIO OUT] setting if [12bit AUDIO] is set to [MIX].
 Index Search Functions• Index Search may not be possible at the beginning 
of the tape.
• Scene Index Search may not function properly if the 
interval between 2 scene index signals is less than 1 
minute.
 Playback Zoom Function• You cannot adjust the sound volume with the Remote 
Control in Playback Zoom Mode.
• If you turn off the Camcorder power or if you operate 
the Mode Dial, Playback Zoom Mode is automatically 
canceled.
• Even if Playback Zoom Functions are being used, 
images that are output from the DV Terminal (p. 13) 
are not enlarged.
• As you enlarge an image, the quality of the image 
deteriorates.
• During a Playback Zoom, the Variable Speed Search 
Function cannot be changed with the Remote 
Control.
 Playback Digital Effect Functions• Signals of images to which digital effects are added 
during playback cannot be output from the DV 
Terminal (p. 13).
• You cannot use the Wipe or Mix Function while 
playing back the non-recorded portion of tape.
 Playing Back a Card• If a blank (nothing recorded) Card is played, the 
screen becomes white.
• If you attempt to play back a fi 
le recorded in a 
different format or if fi 
le data is defective, the whole 
display becomes bluish and the [UNPLAYABLE 
CARD] Indication may appear as warning.
• When playing back a picture recorded on other 
equipment, its size and that of this Camcorder may 
appear differently.
• When playing back a picture recorded on other 
equipment, the picture may not be played back or 
the quality of pictures may be deteriorated.
• When playing back a non standardized fi 
le, the 
Folder File Number may not be displayed.
• In the following cases, black bars may appear, 
depending on the playback device.
•  When playing back a mega-pixel still-picture with 
this Camcorder and recording it onto a tape
•  Changing the picture size to 640 x 480 pixels with 
DV STUDIO
 Slide Show• Playback time may take longer than usual depending 
on the picture. 
						

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 Creating a Title• Even if the contrast of the Title is adjusted, the 
portions where there is little difference between light 
and dark and where the boundary between light and 
dark is unclear may not appear.
• The Title may not be clear if something small is used 
for it.
• If titles are created, the number of images that can 
be recorded on a Card decreases.
• If the number of images that can be recorded on a 
Card is small, you may not be able to create a title.
 Adding a Title• The Title In Function and Digital Effects cannot be 
used simultaneously.
• The Title In Function and RapidFire Consecutive 
Photoshot cannot be used simultaneously.
• When a title is displayed in Tape Playback Mode, the 
title is not output from the DV Terminal.
• The Multi-Picture Mode cannot be used once the title 
is inserted.
• A full-colored title made on other equipment cannot 
be played back or added to the picture with this 
Camcorder.
• A title with a size than 640 x 480 pixels cannot be 
displayed.
• When the title is displayed on the Multi screen, the 
recording and the playback cannot be performed.
• During DV input, you cannot use Title In Function 
or display titles on the Multi screen. Select the 
desired titles to display them on the screen before 
connecting the DV cable to the Camcorder.
 DPOF• Perform the DPOF Settings with your Camcorder.
• Verifying the DPOF Settings may take a little time. 
Wait until the Card Access Lamp goes out.
 Lock Setting• The Lock Setting carried out by this Camcorder is 
only effective for this Camcorder.
• The SD Memory Card has a write protection switch 
on it. If the switch is moved to the [LOCK] side, you 
cannot write to or format the Card. If it is moved 
back, you can.
 Playing Back on Your TV• Depending on your TV, nothing may be shown even 
if you correctly connect the Camcorder with your 
TV. In this case, set [AV JACK] on the [INITIAL] 
Sub-Menu to [OUT].
• Picture size may be displayed differently when 
playing back a Cinema picture on a wide-screen TV 
with Playback Digital Effect.
 Recording Pictures from a Card onto a  
 Ta p e
• When recording the Card Image on a Tape, its size 
is transformed into 720 x 480 pixels according to the 
DV format.
• If you attempt to record a still picture with a large 
image size on a Tape, there may be a reduction in 
the quality of the image.
 Audio Dubbing• The blank section of a tape cannot be dubbed.
• Sounds sent through the DV terminal cannot be 
dubbed.
• If a tape has a non-recorded portion when the tape is 
dubbed, images and sounds may be disturbed when 
this portion of the tape is played back.
• If you set the tape counter back to 0 at the position 
where you want to stop Audio Dubbing so as to 
make it possible to use the Memory Stop Function
   (p. 71), Audio Dubbing is terminated automatically 
when the tape reaches this position.
• In the case of importing data recorded with Audio 
Dubbing to a PC using the PC’s software, only the 
original sound (ST1) may be imported, depending on 
the software.
 Using the DV Cable for Recording  
 (Digital Dubbing)
• Regardless of the setting, digital dubbing is carried 
out automatically in the same audio recording mode 
as that of the playback Cassette.
• The images on the recorded monitor may be 
disturbed, but it does not affect the recorded images.
• Even if Playback Digital Effects, Playback Zoom, or 
Playback Title In have been used, these effects are 
not output from the DV terminal.
• Even if you use a device equipped with DV 
Terminals, you may not be able to perform Digital 
Dubbing in some cases.
• Date or other information to be displayed cannot be 
displayed if the software of the connected equipment 
does not support the display function.
Cautions for Use
 After Use
1  Take out the Cassette. (p. 17)
2  Set the [OFF/ON] Switch to [OFF].
3  Take out the Card. (p. 18)
4  Detach the power supply and retract the 
Viewfi 
nder or the LCD Monitor. (pp. 15-16, 19)
5  To protect the Lens, attach the supplied Lens 
Cap. 
						

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Do not use benzine, thinner or alcohol for 
cleaning the Camcorder.
• The Camcorder body may be deformed and the 
surface fi 
nish may peel off.
• Before cleaning, detach the Battery or pull out the 
AC Cable from the AC Jack.
• Wipe the Camcorder with a soft dry cloth. To remove 
stubborn stains, wipe with a cloth that is soaked in 
a detergent diluted with water and afterwards fi 
nish 
wiping with a dry cloth.
• For storing or transporting the Camcorder, place it in 
a bag or case lined with soft pads so as to prevent 
the coating on the camera body from being worn.
After use, be sure to take the Cassette out and 
detach the Battery from the Camcorder or pull 
out the AC Cable from AC Jack.
• If the Cassette is left in the Camcorder, the tape sags 
and deteriorates.
• If the Battery is left on the Camcorder for a long time, 
the voltage drops excessively, and the Battery will 
not function even after it is recharged.
 About  AC Adaptor• If the temperature of the Battery is extremely high or 
extremely low, the [CHARGE] Lamp may continue 
fl 
ashing, and the Battery may not be charged. After 
the temperature of the Battery has decreased or 
increased suffi 
ciently, charging starts automatically. 
If the [CHARGE] Lamp continues to fl 
ash even after 
the Battery temperature has decreased or increased 
suffi 
ciently, the Battery or AC Adaptor may be faulty. 
In this case, please contact a dealer.
• If the Battery is warm, charging takes a longer time 
than normal.
• If you use the AC Adaptor near a radio, radio 
reception may be disturbed. Keep the AC Adaptor 3 
feet (1 meter) or more away from radio.
• When using the AC Adaptor, it may generate whirring 
sounds. However, this is normal.
• After use, be sure to pull out the AC Cable from the 
AC Jack. (If they are left connected, a minute amount 
of current is consumed.)
• Keep the electrodes of the AC Adaptor and Battery 
always clean.
  CondensationIf you turn the Camcorder on when condensation 
occurs on the head or the tape, Condensation 
Indication [ 
 DEW ] (yellow or red) blinks on the 
Viewfi 
nder or the LCD Monitor and the messages [DEW 
DETECTED] or [EJECT TAPE] (only when the tape is 
inserted) appear. In this case, follow the procedure 
below.
Blinking in yellow:Dew is slightly adhering to the head or the tape.Blinking in red:Dew has adhered to the head or the tape.
 Cautions for UseWhen you use your Camcorder on a rainy or 
snowy day or on a beach, make sure that no 
water enters the Camcorder.
• Water may cause the Camcorder or Cassette to 
malfunction. (Irreparable failure may occur.)
• If sea water splashes onto the Camcorder, wet a 
soft cloth with tap water, wring it well, and use it to 
wipe the camera body carefully. Then, wipe it again 
thoroughly with a soft dry cloth.
Keep the Camcorder away from magnetized 
equipment (such as a microwave oven, TV, 
video game equipment, etc.).
• If you use the Camcorder on or near a TV, images 
or sounds may be disturbed due to electromagnetic 
wave radiation.
• Do not use near a cell phone because doing so 
may cause noise to adversely affect the picture and 
sound.
• Recordings on the tape may be damaged, or images 
may be distorted, by strong magnetic fi 
elds created 
by speakers or large motors.
• Electromagnetic wave radiation generated by a 
microprocessor may adversely affect the Camcorder, 
causing the disturbance of images and sounds.
• If the Camcorder is affected by magnetically charged 
equipment and does not function properly, turn off 
the Camcorder power and detach the Battery or AC 
Adaptor and then connect the Battery or AC Adaptor 
again. Thereafter, turn on the Camcorder power.
Do not use your Camcorder near radio 
transmitters or high-voltage cables.
• If you record pictures near radio transmitters or 
high-voltage cables, recorded images or sounds may 
be adversely affected.
Do not use this Camcorder for surveillance 
purposes or other business use.
• If you use the Camcorder for a long period of 
time, the internal temperature increases and, 
consequently, this may cause malfunction.
• This Camcorder is not intended for business use.
When you use your Camcorder on a beach or 
similar place, do not let sand or fi 
ne dust get 
into the Camcorder.
• Sand or dust may damage the Camcorder or 
Cassette. (Care should be taken when inserting and 
removing the Cassette.)
Do not spray insecticides or volatile chemicals 
onto the Camcorder.
• If the Camcorder is sprayed with such chemicals, 
the camera body may be deformed and the surface 
fi 
nish may peel off.
• Do not keep rubber or plastic products in contact with 
the Camcorder for a long period of time. 
						

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4  If the image is not still clear, repeat Steps 1 
to 3. (Do not use the Head Cleaner 3 times or 
more consecutively.)
Notes:
• Do not rewind every time you use the Head Cleaner. 
Rewind only when the tape reaches the end, and 
then use it again from the beginning in the same 
manner as before.
• If the heads become dirty soon after cleaning, the 
tape may be damaged. In this case, immediately 
stop using that Cassette.
• Do not clean the heads excessively. (Excessive 
cleaning may cause excessive wear of the heads. If 
the heads are worn, images cannot be played back 
even after the heads are cleaned.)
• If the dirty heads cannot be cleaned with the Head 
Cleaner, the Camcorder needs to be cleaned at a 
Servicenter. Please consult a dealer.
• Head cleaning due to dirty heads is not considered 
a malfunction of the product. It is not covered by the 
warranty.
Periodical Check-upTo maintain the highest image quality, we recommend 
replacement of worn parts, such as heads, etc., after 
approximately 1000 hours of use. (This, however, 
depends on operating conditions, such as temperature, 
humidity, dust, etc.)
 Optimal Use of the BatteryBattery CharacteristicsThis Battery is a rechargeable lithium ion battery. Its 
ability to generate power is based upon the chemical 
reaction that takes place inside it. This reaction is 
susceptible to the surrounding temperature and humidity, 
and, if the temperature is too high or too low, the 
operating time of the Battery becomes shorter. If the 
Battery is used in an extremely cold environment, the 
Battery may operate only for about 5 minutes. If the 
Battery becomes extremely hot, a protective function 
may operate, and the Battery may become unusable 
for a while.
Be Sure to Detach the Battery after UseBe sure to detach the Battery from the Camcorder. (If 
it is left attached to the Camcorder, a minute amount 
of current is consumed even when the Camcorder 
power is off.) If the Battery is left attached to the 
Camcorder for a long time, over-discharge takes 
place. The Battery may become unusable after it is 
charged.
Disposing of an Unusable Battery• The Battery has a limited life.
• Do not throw the Battery into fi 
re because it may 
cause an explosion.
Always Keep the Terminals of the Battery CleanPrevent the terminals from getting clogged with dirt, 
dust, or other substances. If you drop the Battery 
accidentally, check to see if the Battery body and 
terminals are deformed. Attaching a deformed Battery 
to the Camcorder or AC Adaptor may damage the 
Camcorder  or AC Adaptor.
1  Remove the tape if it is inserted.•  It takes about 20 seconds to open the Cassette 
Holder. This is not a malfunction.
2  Leave the Camcorder with the Cassette 
Compartment Cover closed to cool or warm 
it to the ambient temperature.
When [ 
 DEW ] blinks in yellow•  You cannot use the Tape Recording/Playback 
Mode. Leave the Camcorder for about 30 minutes.
•  However, you can use the Card Recording Mode 
or Picture Playback Mode when the cassette is 
not inserted.
When [  DEW ] blinks in red•  The Power Indicator Lamp blinks for about 1 
minute and then the Camcorder automatically 
turns off. Leave it for about 2 to 3 hours.
3  Turn the Camcorder on again, set it to the 
Tape Recording/Playback Mode and then 
check if the condensation indication 
disappears.
Especially in cold conditions, dew may be frozen. In 
this case, it may take more time before the 
condensation indication disappears.
Watch for Condensation even before the 
Condensation Indication is displayed.
• The condensation indication may not appear 
depending on circumstances. When condensation 
occurs on the lens or the Camcorder, it also may 
occur on the head and the tape. Do not open the 
Cassette Compartment Cover.
When the Lens Is Fogged:Set the [OFF/ON] Switch to [OFF] and leave the 
Camcorder in this condition for about 1 hour. When the 
lens temperature becomes close to the ambient 
temperature, the fog disappears naturally.
  Video Head Clogging and CareIf the heads (the parts that make contact with the tape) 
are dirty, mosaic-pattern noise may appear on the 
playback image, or the screen as a whole becomes 
black. If the heads are extremely dirty, recording 
performance deteriorates, and, in the worst case, the 
Camcorder cannot record at all.
Causes of Dirty Heads• Large quantity of dust in the air
• High-temperature and high-humidity environment
• Damaged tape
• Long operating hours
Using Panasonic cleanig cassette (AY-DVMCLA)
1  Insert the Head Cleaner into the Camcorder 
in the same manner as a Video Cassette.
2  Press the [►] Button, and approximately 20 
seconds later, press the [
] Button. (Do not 
rewind the tape.)
3  Take out the Head Cleaner. Insert a Video 
Cassette and start recording. Then, play the 
tape back to check the recorded image. 
						

							68
Others
For assistance, please call : 1- 800-211- PANA(7262) or, contact us via the web at: http://w w w.panasonic.com /contactinfo
Extremely high precision technology is employed to 
produce the LCD Monitor screen featuring a total of 
approximately 105,000 pixels. The result is more 
than 99.99 % effective pixels with a mere 0.01 % of 
the pixels inactive or always lit. However, this is not 
a malfunction and does not affect the recorded 
picture.
  Viewfi 
nder• Do not direct the Viewfi 
nder or Lens to the sun. 
Internal components may be seriously damaged.
•
When the Camcorder is used with a large capacity 
Battery (CGR-D16A/1B, CGP-D28A/1B: Optional) 
attached to it, it is not practical to look in the Viewfi  nder 
from behind the Battery.
Extremely high precision technology is employed to 
produce the Viewfi 
nder screen featuring a total of 
approximately 67,000 pixels (PV-GS9/PV-GS12)/ 
113,000 pixels (PV-GS14/PV-GS15). The result is 
more than 99.99 % effective pixels with a mere 0.01 
% of the pixels inactive or always lit. However, this 
is not a malfunction and does not affect the 
recorded picture.
Card• When the Card is being read, do not remove the 
Card, turn off the power, or subject it to vibration or 
impact.
• Do not leave the Card in places where there is 
high temperature or direct sunlight, or where 
electromagnetic waves or static electricity are easily 
generated.
• Do not bend or drop the Card. The Card or the 
recorded content may be damaged.
• After use, be sure to remove the Card from the 
Camcorder.
• After usage, store the supplied SD Memory Card in 
the enclosed bag.
• Do not touch the terminals on the back of the Card 
with your fi 
ngers. Do not allow dirt, dust or water to 
enter it.
• Keep the Memory Card out of reach of children to 
prevent swallowing.
 LCD Monitor/Viewfi 
nder/Lens Hood 
LCD Monitor• In a place with drastic temperature changes, 
condensation may form on the LCD Monitor. Wipe it 
with a soft dry cloth.
• If your Camcorder is extremely cold when you turn its 
power on, the image on the LCD Monitor is slightly 
darker than usual at fi 
rst. However, as the internal 
temperature increases, it goes back to the normal 
brightness.
 Cautions for StorageBefore storing the Camcorder, take the 
Cassette out and detach the Battery.
Store all the components in a dry place with a 
relatively stable temperature.
(Recommended Temperature: 59 °F to 77 °F (15 °C to 
25 °C), Recommended Humidity: 40 % to 60 %)
Camcorder• Wrap it with a soft cloth to prevent dust from getting 
into the Camera.
• Do not leave the Camcorder in places that expose it 
to high temperature.
Battery• Extremely high temperatures or low temperatures 
will shorten the life of the Battery.
• If the Battery is kept in smoky or dusty places, the 
terminals may rust and cause malfunctions.
•Do not allow the Battery terminals to come in 
contact with metal objects (such as necklaces, 
hairpins, etc.). This can result in a short circuit or 
heat generation and, if you touch the Battery in 
this condition, you may be badly burned.
• Store the Battery in a completely discharged state. 
To store the Battery for a long period of time, we 
recommend you charge it once every year and store 
it again after you completely use up the charged 
capacity.
Cassette• Before storing it, rewind the tape to the beginning. 
If the Cassette is left for more than 6 months with 
the tape stopped midway, the tape sags (although it 
depends on the storage condition). Be sure to rewind 
to the beginning.
• Store the Cassette in its case. Dust, direct sunlight 
(ultraviolet rays), or humidity may damage the tape. 
Dust contains hard mineral particles, and dusty 
Cassettes damage the heads of the Camcorder and 
other components. Develop a habit of returning the 
Cassette back to its case.
• Once every half year, wind the tape to the end and 
then rewind it to the beginning. If the Cassette is left 
for 1 year or longer without winding or rewinding, 
temperature and humidity changes may cause the 
Cassette to deform due to swelling, shrinking, and so 
forth. The wound tape may stick to itself.
• Do not place a Cassette near highly magnetic 
substances or equipment.
• The surface of tape is covered with extremely minute 
magnetic particles, upon which signals are recorded. 
Magnetic necklaces, toys, etc., have magnetic force 
that is stronger than you may normally expect, and 
they may erase the contents of a recording or may 
cause noise in images and sounds. 
						

							69
Others
Before Requesting Service (Problems 
and Solutions)
Power
The Camcorder power cannot be turned on.•   Is the power source connected correctly?
   (pp. 15-16)
The Camcorder power is turned off 
automatically.
•   When the Recording Pause Mode continues 
for more than 5 minutes, the power is turned 
off automatically for tape protection and power 
conservation. (If the AC Adaptor is used, the 
power is turned off only when the tape is 
inserted in Tape Recording Mode.) When the 
tape is inserted in Tape Recording Mode and 
if the Recording Pause Mode continues for 
more than 5 minutes the power is turned off 
automatically. To resume recording from this 
condition, turn off, then turn on the power again.
   (pp. 24-25)
The Camcorder power does not stay on 
long enough.
•   Is the Battery low? Charge the Battery or attach 
a fully charged Battery. (p. 15)
•   Has condensation occurred? Wait until the 
Condensation Indication disappears. (pp. 66-67)
Battery
Battery runs down quickly.•   Is the Battery fully charged? Charge it with the 
AC Adaptor. (p. 15)
•   Are you using the Battery in an extremely cold 
place? In cold places, the operating time of the 
Battery becomes shorter. (p. 68)
•   Has the Battery worn out? If the operating time 
is still too short even after the Battery is fully 
charged, the Battery has worn out.
The Battery cannot be charged.•   If the DC Cable is connected to the AC Adaptor, 
charging cannot be performed. Disconnect the 
DC Cable.
Normal RecordingRecording does not start although power is 
supplied to the Camcorder and the 
Cassette is correctly inserted.
•   Is the accidental erasure prevention slider on 
the Cassette open? If it is open (set to [SAVE]), 
recording cannot be performed. (p. 17)
•   Is the tape wound to the end? Insert a new 
Cassette. (p. 17)
•   Is the Camcorder power turned on? (p. 24)
•   Has condensation occurred? Wait until the 
Condensation Indication disappears. (pp. 66-67)
Other RecordingAuto Focus Function does not work.•   Is Manual Focus Mode selected? If Auto 
Focus Mode is selected, focus is automatically 
adjusted. (pp. 32, 71)
•   There are some recording subjects and 
recording surroundings for which the Auto Focus 
Function does not operate correctly. In this case, 
use the Manual Focus Mode to adjust the focus. 
(p. 32)
Editing
Audio dubbing cannot be performed.•   Is the accidental erasure prevention slider on 
the Cassette open? If it is open (set to [SAVE]), 
recording cannot be performed. (p. 17)
•   Are you attempting to edit a tape portion that 
was recorded in LP Mode? LP Mode does not 
allow audio dubbing to operate. (p. 23)
Indications
The Time Code becomes inaccurate.•   The Time Code Indication counter may not be 
constant in the reverse direction in Slow Motion 
Playback Mode, but this is not a malfunction.
The Remaining Tape Time Indication does 
not match the actual remaining tape time.
•   If scenes of less than 15 seconds are 
continuously recorded, the remaining tape time 
cannot be displayed correctly.
•   In some cases, the Remaining Tape Time 
Indication may show remaining tape time that is 
2 to 3 minutes shorter than the actual remaining 
tape time.
Playback (Pictures)Pictures cannot be played back even when 
the [►] Button is pressed.
•   Is the Mode Dial set to Tape Playback Mode? If 
not, the playback function cannot be used.
   (p. 35)
Mosaic-pattern noise appears on images 
during Cue, Review or Slow Motion 
Playback.
•   This phenomenon is characteristic of digital 
video systems. It is not a malfunction.
Lens Hood• Do not attach other conversion lenses in front of 
the Lens Hood; there is no mount to be used for the 
attachment.
• When you wish to attach the Tele Conversion Lens (not 
supplied), Wide Conversion Lens (not supplied), MC 
Protector (not supplied), or ND Filter (not supplied), 
fi 
rst of all, turn the Lens Hood counter-clockwise. If 
the MC Protector or ND Filter is used, the Lens Hood 
can be mounted on the fi 
lter.
• If you push the [W/T] Lever toward [W] during 
recording with the fi 
lter and conversion lens 
attached together to the Camcorder, 4 corners of the 
image may become dark (vignetting). For details, 
please refer to the operating instructions of your 
accessories.
• Be sure to keep the Lens Hood attached to the 
Camcorder so as to shut out unnecessary light. 
						

							70
Others
For assistance, please call : 1- 800-211- PANA(7262) or, contact us via the web at: http://w w w.panasonic.com /contactinfo
Playback (Pictures)
Although the Camcorder is correctly 
connected to a TV, playback images cannot 
be seen.
•   Have you selected “Video Input” on the TV? 
Please read the operating instructions of your 
TV and select the channel that matches the 
input jacks used for the connection.
•   Depending on your TV, nothing may be shown 
even if you correctly connect the Camcorder 
with your TV. In this case, set [AV JACK] on the 
[INITIAL] Sub-Menu to [OUT].
Playback picture is not clear.•   Are the heads of the Camcorder dirty? If the 
heads are dirty, playback image cannot be clear. 
(p. 67)
Playing back or recording do not function, 
the screen has frozen or the indication has 
disappeared.
•   Turn the Camcorder off. If the Camcorder is 
not turned off after operating the [OFF/ON] 
switch, press the [RESET] Button (p. 12) fi 
rst. 
And detach the Battery or AC Adaptor and then 
reattach it.
Playback (Sound)
Sound is not played back from the built-in 
speaker of the Camcorder or the 
headphones.
•   Is the volume too low? During playback, push 
the [W/T] Lever to display the [VOLUME] 
Indication and adjust the volume. (p. 35)
Different sounds are reproduced at the 
same time.
•   [12bit AUDIO] on the [PLAYBACK] Sub-Menu of 
the [TAPE PLAYBACK MENU] has been set to 
[MIX]. As a result, the original sound and sound 
that was recorded by audio dubbing are played 
back together. It is possible to reproduce the 
sounds separately. (p. 44)
The original sound was erased when audio 
dubbing was performed.
•   If you perform audio dubbing on a recording 
made in [16bit] Mode, the original sound will 
be erased. If you wish to preserve the original 
sound, be sure to select [12bit] Mode at the time 
of recording.
Sounds cannot be played back.•   Although a Cassette with no audio dubbing is 
being played, is [12bit AUDIO] on the [PLAYBACK] 
Sub-Menu of the [TAPE PLAYBACK MENU] set 
to [ST2]? To play back a Cassette with no audio 
dubbing, [12bit AUDIO] must be set to [ST1].
   (p. 44)
•   Is the Variable Speed Search Function working? 
Press the [►] Button to cancel the Variable 
Speed Search Function. (p. 36)
Card
Recorded pictures are not clear.•   Is [PICT QUALITY] on the [CARD] Sub-Menu 
set to [NORMAL] or [ECONOMY]? If recording 
is done with it set to [NORMAL] or [ECONOMY], 
images with fi 
ne details may include a 
mosaic-like pattern. Set [PICT QUALITY] to 
[FINE]. (p. 25)
Photoshot Playback images do not look 
normal.
•
 The picture may be damaged. In order to 
prevent the loss of image data, backing up 
on a Cassette or a personal computer is 
recommended. (pp. 44, 48)
During Playback the [UNPLAYABLE CARD] 
Indication is displayed.
•   The image was either recorded in a different 
format, or data is damaged.
Even if a Card is formatted, it cannot be 
used.
•   Either the Camcorder or the Card may be 
damaged. Please consult a dealer.
Others
The Camcorder clatters when shaking it.•   It is a sound of the lens moving, not a 
malfunction.
When the USB Cable is disconnected, an 
error message will appear on PC.
•   To disconnect the USB cable safely, double-click 
the [  ] icon in the task tray and follow the 
instructions on the screen. (p. 49)
12
Using the RESET button
1  Open the LCD Monitor. (p. 19)
2  Undo Grip Belt end 
1 and pull Lens Cap 
Cord 2 downward to loosen Grip Belt.
3 Use projection 
3 on the Lens Cap to press 
the [RESET] Button 4.
4
3