About the LCD panels

LCD panels are manufactured with extremely high- precision technology that yields effective pixel rates of 99.99% or higher. However, very rarely, one or more pixels may be permanently dark or permanently lit in white, red, blue, or green.

This phenomenon is not a malfunction. Such pixels have no effect on the recorded data, and the unit may be used with confidence even if they are present.

Phenomena Specific to CCD Image Sensors

The following phenomena that may appear in images are specific to CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensors. They do not indicate malfunctions.

White flecks

Although the CCD image sensors are produced with high- precision technologies, fine white flecks may be generated on the screen in rare cases, caused by cosmic rays, etc.

This is related to the principle of CCD image sensors and is not a malfunction.

The white flecks especially tend to be seen in the following cases:

•when operating at a high environmental temperature

•when you have raised the master gain (sensitivity)

•when operating in Slow-Shutter mode

This problem may be alleviated by automatic black balance adjustment (see page 54).

Vertical smear

When an extremely bright object, such as a strong spotlight or flashlight, is being shot, vertical tails may be produced on the screen, or the image may be distorted.

Monitor screen

Vertical tails shown on the

image.

Bright object (e.g. strong spotlight, strong reflected light, flashlight, the sun)

Aliasing

When fine patterns, stripes, or lines are shot, they may appear jagged or flicker.

Condensation

If you move the camcorder from a very cold place to a warm place, or use it in a damp location, condensation may form on the optical pickup. Then, if the camcorder is operated in this state, recording and playback may not be performed properly.

Do the following to prevent this from happening.

•When you move or operate the camcorder in an environment where condensation may form, be sure to insert a disc in advance and close the disc compartment lid.

•Whenever you turn on the POWER switch, check that the HUMID indicator does not appear on the LCD monitor. If it appears, wait until it disappears before inserting a disc.

Appendix

Important Notes on Operation 163