RCA CC645 VHS Camcorder
(160-0869)                 Hints and Tips             Faxback Doc. # 45385

Recording Tips

In case of fire or theft, make a video recording of your home and contents to store in a safe place.

Try to make sure indoor scenes are well-lit.  Use the built-in light.  This improves picture quality and color reproduction.

Do not move the camcorder rapidly from side-to-side while recording.  A 
steady, gradual "pan" avoids blurring and "jitter".

Use the viewfinder to make sure the camcorder is level while recording or your scenes will appear "tilted".

Do not bump or tap the camcorder's microphone while recording because this sound will be recorded.

Include close-ups of individuals when taping family outings or group funct-
ions.

Fading in and out of scenes will make your videos appear more professional.

Learn to use the special production effects available with your camcorder 
to add variety to your recordings.

Be aware of video and audio backgrounds.  Background details barely noticed while you are taping may show up as visual "clutter" on your recording.  Background noises (especially TV sets, radios, household appliances, traf-fic sounds, etc) can detract from the sound you want to record.

Avoid long "still" shots of landmarks and scenic attractions.  Recordings are more interesting if they include people and details.  "Local color" 
will give travel videos lasting appeal.  Consider recording a familiar or landmark scene from an unfamiliar vantage point.

Traveling Tips

Write down your camcorder's serial number and keep it separate from the camcorder when traveling.  If your camcorder is lost or stolen, you will be able to identify it.

Use extra care to avoid damage to your camcorder and accessories when oper- ating them at a beach or pool.  Spray, sand, and dust should be avoided.  
If your lens has been exposed to the elements, clean it only with proper lens cleaning supplies.

Make sure you have any plug adapters that you may need before taking your camcorder to other countries.  Consult your dealer for advice.

Carry your camcorder in a carrying case when traveling.  See Faxback Docu- ment #45387 for a case designed especially for this camcorder.  An ordinary suitcase or carry bag does not offer the protection your camcorder needs.  Treat your camcorder as carry-on luggage to protect it from rough handling.

Attaching the Shoulder Strap

The camcorder's shoulder strap is designed to let you carry the camcorder
from your shoulder and - when you are ready to shoot - bring the camcorder
to shooting position in one quick movement.

To attach the Shoulder Strap

1.  If the strap keeper is over a double section of the strap, slide the
    strap keeper off the end of the strap.  Replace the keeper on the strap
    between the buckle and end of the strap as shown.

2.  Loop the end of the strap over the top of the shoulder strap attachment
    ring.

3.  Thread the end of the strap back through the keeper and buckle making
    sure it is threaded under the outer strap.  Make sure the strap is not 
    twisted.

4.  Attach the other end of the strap to the other shoulder strap attach-  
    ment ring.

5.  Adjust the shoulder strap to the desired length.

6.  Slide both keepers up snugly against the shoulder strap attachment 
    rings to prevent the strap from slipping.

CAUTIONS:  When carrying the camcorder with the shoulder strap, you may 
           find it convenient to rotate the viewfinder down and slide it 
           into the front.  This helps prevent possible damage to the view-  
           finder from bumping against your body as you move.

   Make sure the shoulder strap is firmly attached before using it to 
   carry the camcorder.

Built-In Color Enhancement Light

The built-in color enhancement light will automatically add more light when needed.  The POWER switch must be in CAMERA to operate the video light.

To Use The Light

Set the LIGHT OFF AUTO ON switch.

Set to ON to turn the light on.

   Note:  We recommend you set white balance to the indoor mode (SYMBOL)
          when using the light.

Set to AUTO to have the light come on automatically when the camcorder 
senses there is insufficient light for the best recording.

   Notes:  If the lighting condition is unstable the light may turn on and
          off. Set the light to ON or OFF.

   The light may stay on during high speed shutter recording.

Set to OFF to turn the light off.  Turn the light off when you are not
recording to save battery power.

   Note:  When the light is turned on, the camcorder may turn off if the
          battery's power is low even though the battery level indicator is
          not flashing.

CAUTIONS:
   
   Do not operate the video light closer than one foot to people or other
   objects.

   The video light becomes very hot.  Do not touch it during operation or
   right after using it.  Serious injury may result.

   Do not place the camcorder in a carrying case right after using the
   light.

   Never operate the video light close to a flammable or explosive mater- 
   ial.

Replacing the bulb

We recommend you consult your dealer or Servicenter to replace the bulb.
If you replace the bulb, use only part #238150 to replace the entire bulb
assembly.  Carefully follow the instructions below.

CAUTIONS:

   The video light and bulb need to cool for approximately 30 minutes 
   after the camcorder has been used before the bulb assembly is replaced.

   Do not touch the light bulb with your fingers.  If the bulb is accident-    
   ally touched, wipe it with a soft cloth.  A dirty bulb may cause smoke 
   and have a reduced service life.

To Replace the Bulb Assembly

1.  Pull on the sides of the bulb assembly and remove it from the camcorder
    as shown.

2.  Place the new bulb assembly into the camcorder by insetting the bottom
    first and then pressing the top into place.

(br/SM 11/14/97)