Tips for using the battery pack

This section shows you how you can get the most out of your battery pack.

Preparing the battery pack

Always carry additional batteries

Have sufficient battery pack power to do 2 to 3 times as much recording as you have planned.

Battery life is shorter in a cold environment

Battery efficiency is decreased, and the battery will be used up more quickly, if you are recording in a cold environment.

To save battery power

Do not leave the camcorder in Standby mode when not recording to save the battery power. A smooth transition between scenes can be made even if recording is stopped and started again. While you are positioning the subject, selecting an angle, or looking at the LCD screen or through the viewfinder, the lens moves automatically and the battery is used. The battery is also used when a tape is inserted or removed.

When to replace the battery pack

While you are using your camcorder, the remaining battery indicator on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder decreases gradually as battery power is used up.

The remaining time in minutes also appears.

When the remaining battery indicator reaches the lowest point, the iindicator appears and starts flashing on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

When the iindicator on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder changes from slow flashing to rapid flashing while you are recording, set the POWER switch to OFF on the camcorder and replace the battery pack. Leave the tape in the camcorder to obtain a smooth transition between scenes after the battery pack has been replaced.

Notes on the rechargeable battery pack

Caution

Never leave the battery pack in temperatures above 60°C (140°F), such as in a car parked in the sun or under direct sunlight.

The battery pack heats up

During charging or recording, the battery pack heats up. This is caused by energy that has been generated and a chemical change that has occurred inside the battery pack. This is not cause for concern, and is normal.

Battery pack care

Remove the battery pack from the camcorder after using it, and keep it in a cool place.

When the battery pack is installed to the camcorder, a small amount of current flows to the camcorder even if the POWER switch is set to OFF. This shortens battery life.

•The battery pack is always discharging even when it is not in use after charging. Therefore, you should charge the battery pack right before using the camcorder.

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