Panasonic Aj Sdc615 Operating Instructions Manual

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Chapter 6  Maintenance and inspections
71
6-1-3 Inspecting the VTR unit
Perform all the steps outlined in section “1. Tape travel
inspection” through section “4. Earphone and speaker
inspection” one after the other.
1. Tape travel inspection
1Set the VTR SAVE/STBY switch to SAVE, and check that
the VTR SAVE lamp inside the viewfinder lights.
2Set the VTR SAVE/STBY switch to STBY, and check that
the VTR SAVE lamp goes off.
3Set the TCG switch to R-RUN.
4Set the DISPLAY switch to CTL.
5Press the unit’s VTR START button, and check that:
≥The tape reels rotate.
≥The figure shown on the counter display changes.
≥The REC lamp inside the viewfinder lights.
≥The RF and SERVO displays do not appear in the
display window.
6Press the unit’s VTR START button again.  Check that
the tape stops and the REC lamp inside the viewfinder
goes off.
7Use the lens VTR button to check the same operations as
in steps 5and 6.
8Press the RESET button, and check that “00:00:00:00”
appears on the counter display.
9Set the LIGHT switch to ON, and check that the display
window illuminates.
10Press the REW button, and after the tape has been
rewound for a few seconds, press the PLAY/PAUSE
button.
Check that the tape is recorded, played back and
rewound properly.
11Press the FF button, and check that the tape is fast
forwarded properly.
2. Automatic audio level adjustment function
inspection
1Set the AUDIO SELECT CH1 and CH2 switch to AUTO.
2Set the AUDIO IN CH1 and CH2 switches to FRONT.
3Point the microphone connected to the MIC IN jack at a
suitable sound source, and check that the changes in the
level displays for both CH1 and CH2 reflect the changes
in the strength of the sound.
3. Manual audio level adjustment function
inspection
1Set the AUDIO IN CH1 and CH2 switches to FRONT.
2Set the AUDIO SELECT CH1 and CH2 switch to MAN.
3Turn the AUDIO LEVEL CH1 and CH2 controls.
Check that when they are turned clockwise, the level
displays increase.
4. Earphone and speaker inspection
1Set the VTR SAVE/STBY switch to STBY.
2Turn the MONITOR control, and check that the speaker
volume changes.
3Connect the earphones to the PHONES jack.
Check that the sound from the speaker is muted, and that
the microphone’s sound is heard in the earphones.
4Turn the MONITOR control, and check that the earphone
volume changes. 
						

							Chapter 6  Maintenance and inspections
72
5. Inspection using external microphones
1Connect external microphones to the AUDIO IN CH1 and
CH2 jacks.
2Set the AUDIO IN CH1 and CH2 switches to REAR.
3Set the LINE/MIC/+48V selector switch on the back panel
to MIC or +48V in accordance with the external mic’s
power supply type.
MIC :Internal power supply mic.
+48V :External power supply mic.
4Point the microphones at the sound source, and check
that the changes in the audio levels displayed on the
audio level meter of the display window and in the
viewfinder reflect the changes in the strength of the
sound.
This inspection can also be performed for each channel
by connecting one of the microphones to each channel in
turn.
6. Inspections relating to the time code and user
bits
1Set the user bits as required.
For details on the setting procedure, refer to “4-5-1
Setting the user bits.”
2Set the time code.
For details on the setting procedure, refer to “4-5-3
Setting the time code.”
3Set the TCG switch to R-RUN.
4Press the VTR START button.
Check that the figure on the counter display changes as
the tape travels.
5Press the VTR START button again.
Check that the tape stops and the figure shown on the
counter display stops changing.
7Set the DISPLAY switch to UB.
Check that pressing the HOLD button advances the
display value through the sequence VTCG >DATE >
TIME >no display (time zone) >TCG.
6Set the TCG switch to F-RUN.
Check that the figure on the counter display changes
irrespective of the tape travel.
6-1-4 Self-diagnosis function
Simplified checks can be undertaken on the unit’s system at
such times when, for instance, a color video monitor is not
available.
Perform menu operations to open the 
from the MAINTENANCE page. Check the camera output
level setting under the COLOR CHECK item.
#< SYSTEM CHECK >
COLOR CHECK  :OFF
Y: 0%     R: 0%
G: 0%
B: 0% 
						

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Chapter 6  Maintenance and inspections
73
6-2 Maintenance
6-2-1 Condensation
The water vapor in the air may form as tiny droplets on the
head drum when the unit is moved from a cold location to a
warm location or used in a very humid place.  This
phenomenon is known as condensation, and running the tape
under these conditions is liable to cause the tape to stick to
the drum.
Note the following points:
≥Remove the tape when the unit’s operation is to be started
in conditions where condensation may form.
≥Before loading the tape, set the power switch to ON, and
check that the HUMID display is not lighted in the display
window.

For safety reasons, the HUMID display will flash and the drum
will rotate for 80 minutes after condensation detection is
released.
During this time, the operation buttons cannot be operated.
6-2-2 Head cleaning
Use the AJ-CL12MP cleaning cassette if the heads need to
be cleaned.  Take care to read the instructions accompanying
the cleaning tape since the video heads may be damaged if
the tape is not used in the correct way.
6-2-3 Cleaning inside the viewfinder
≥Do not use thinners or any other solvent to remove dirt.
≥Use a lens cleaner available on the market to wipe the lens.
≥NEVER wipe the mirror.
If dirt or dust has found its way onto the mirror, remove it
using an air blower at retail outlets.
6-2-4 Phenomena inherent to CCD cameras
Smear
This phenomenon may occur when very bright subjects are
shot.
The faster the electronic shutter speed, the more likely it is
that it will occur.
6-2-5 Replacing the backup battery
The backup battery is already installed when the unit is
shipped.
When it has discharged, the “BACK UP BATT EMPTY”
display appears for 3 seconds on the viewfinder screen when
the POWER switch is set to ON.
Moreover, the time code value of the TCG will be set to
“00:00:00:00” and the backup of the time code value will no
longer be possible: this means that the backup battery should
be replaced.
Consult with your nearest service center, and replace the
spent battery with a new battery (CR2032).
Backup battery
CAUTION:
These servicing instructions are for use by qualified service
personnel only.  To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not
perform any servicing other than that contained in the
operating instructions unless you are qualified to do so. 
						

							Chapter 6  Maintenance and inspections
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6-2-6 Connectors and signals
AUDIO IN
1 GND
2 AUDIO IN(H)
3 AUDIO IN(C)
Matsushita part number K1AB103A0007
Maker part number HA16PRM-3SG
(Hirose Denki)
PUSH
1
3 2
FRONT MIC IN
1 GND
2 AUDIO IN(H)
3 AUDIO IN(C)
Matsushita part number K1AB103B0013
Maker part number NC3FBH2
(NEUTRIK)
PUSH
1
3 2
DC IN
1 GND
2NC
3NC
4 +12V
Matsushita part number K1AA104H0024
Maker part number HA16RX-4P(SW1)
(Hirose Denki)
12
3
4
DC OUT
1 GND
2NC
3NC
4 +12V OUT
Matsushita part number VJS3824A004
Maker part number HR10A-7R-4SC
(Hirose Denki)
1
23
4
GPS
1 GPS TXA
2 GPS RXA
3 GPS VBAT
4START
5 GPS VCC
6 GPS GND
Matsushita part number K1AB106J0010
Maker part number HR10A-7R-6SC
(Hirose Denki)
1
2
4 56
3
ECU
1 CAM CONT
2 CAM DATA
3NC
4 ECU ON
5 UNREG 12V
6 GND
Matsushita part number K1AB106J0010
Maker part number HR10A-7R-6SC
(Hirose Denki)
1
2
4 56
3
5
4
3 2 1
AUDIO OUT
1 GND
2 L CH OUT (H)
3 L CH OUT (C)
4 R CH OUT (H)
5 R CH OUT (C)
Matsushita part number K1AA105H0007
Maker part number HA16RD-5P
(Hirose Denki)

Ensure that the polarities are used
correctly for a power supply from an
external source.

The unit’s VTR START/STOP signal is
assigned to pin 4.
DVCPRO (IEEE 1394)
1NC
2VG
3 PB –
4 PB +
5PA –
6PA +
Matsushita part number K1FA106E0001
Maker part number AXJ2111502T
(Matsushita Electric Works)
12
34
56 
						

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Chapter 6  Maintenance and inspections
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6-3 Warning system
6-3-1 Warning description tables
When an error or a problem is detected immediately after the power is turned on or while an operation is underway, the
WARNING lamp and lamps inside the viewfinder serve to alert the user.

Items are displayed in the following sequence of priority: WARNING lamp > tally lamp > warnings inside the viewfinder.  The
display accords with this sequence when more than one error has occurred at the same time.  However, WIRELESS RF may not
be displayed depending on the menu setting selected.
1. SLACK
WARNING lampFlashes four times a second.
Indications on LCD screen“SLACK” appears and an error code flashes.
Tally lampFlashes four times a second.
Viewfinder“SLACK” appears and an error code lights up.
AlarmSounds continuously.
Warning descriptionMotor, solenoid or other mechanism-related
trouble, etc.
VTR unit operationOperation is stopped.  Power is turned off if
solenoid trouble has been detected.
Corrective actionCheck “6-3-2 Error codes,” and consult your
nearest service center.
WARNING lampFlashes four times a second (for at least 3
seconds during recording).
Indications on LCD screenThe code 11 display lights.
Tally lampFlashes four times a second (for at least 3
seconds during recording).
ViewfinderREC WARNING display lights (for at least 3
seconds during recording).
AlarmSounds four times a second (for at least 3
seconds during recording).
Warning descriptionProblem with the recording control signal.
VTR unit operationRecording continues but the signals may not be
recorded correctly while the warning remains
displayed.
Corrective actionRewind the tape or replace the cassette tape.
WARNING lampLights (during stop and standby OFF).
Indications on LCD screenThe bar display that shows the remaining tape
amount starts flashing.
Tally lampFlashes four times a second (during stop and
standby OFF).
Viewfinder
“=
END” flashes (during stop and standby OFF).
AlarmSounds continuously (during stop and standby
OFF).
Warning descriptionThe tape has come to its end.
VTR unit operationOperation is stopped during recording, playback
and fast forwarding.
Corrective actionRewind the tape or replace the cassette tape.
WARNING lampLights.
Indications on LCD screenThe bar display that shows the remaining battery
charge starts flashing.
Tally lampFlashes once a second.
ViewfinderBATT LED lights.
AlarmSounds continuously.
Warning descriptionThe battery charge is now depleted.
VTR unit operationAll operations are stopped, and the tape is
unloaded.  Only cassette tape eject is accepted.
Corrective actionReplace the battery.
4. REC WARNING 2. BATTERY END3. TAPE END 
						

							Chapter 6  Maintenance and inspections
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6. SERVO 5. HUMID
9. WIRELESS RF 7. RF
WARNING lampLights for 90 minutes following the release of the
condensation detection after the condensation
formation was detected.
Indications on LCD screen“HUMID” display lights if condensation is
detected.
“HUMID” display flashes for an additional 10 to 90
minutes after condensation detection is canceled.
Tally lampFlashes 4 times per second for 90 minutes after
condensation detection is canceled.
Viewfinder“HUMID” display flashes from the time
condensation is detected until 90 minutes after
the condensation detection is released.
AlarmSounds continuously (4 times a second during
recording).
Warning descriptionCondensation has formed.
VTR unit operationThe recording operation continues but if the tape
sticks, recording will stop.
For 80 minutes after the condensation detection is
released, the drum is rotated and no operations
are accepted.
Corrective actionStop the tape travel and turn off the power.  If the
“HUMID” display fails to be cleared even when the
power is turned back on, wait until it clears.
WARNING lampFlashes four times a second (during recording
and playback).
Indications on LCD screen“SERVO” display lights (during recording and
playback).
Tally lampFlashes four times a second (during recording
and playback).
Viewfinder“SERVO” display lights (during recording and
playback).
AlarmSounds four times a second (during recording and
playback).
Warning descriptionThe servo is disturbed.
VTR unit operationOperation continues but the unit may not operate
correctly.
Corrective actionTurn off the power and consult your dealer.  The
warning display may flash for a moment and then
disappear when tape transport commences: this
is normal and not indicative of a failure or
malfunctioning.
WARNING lampFlashes four times a second (during recording).
Indications on LCD screen“RF” display flashes (during standby and recording).
Tally lampFlashes four times a second (during recording).
Viewfinder“RF” display lights (during recording).
AlarmSounds four times a second (during recording).
Warning descriptionThe video heads have become clogged.  There is
a problem in the video system.
VTR unit operationThe cleaning rollers are activated to clean the
heads (for a maximum of 10 seconds).
Recording continues but the signals may not be
recorded correctly.
The indications on LCD screen are retained until
the REC/PAUSE status is established.  They go
off as soon as the unit transfers from the
REC/PAUSE mode to another mode.
Corrective actionClean the heads.  If the signals cannot be
recorded correctly even after cleaning, consult
your nearest service center.
WARNING lampFlashes four times a second (during standby and
recording).
Indications on LCD screenNo indication
Tally lampFlashes four times a second (during recording).
Viewfinder“WIRELESS RF” display lights for at least 3
seconds during recording.
AlarmSounds four times a second (for at least 3
seconds during standby and recording).
Warning descriptionPoor wireless signal reception.
VTR unit operationOperation continues but the signals from the
wireless microphone cannot be received.
Corrective actionCheck the microphone’s power supply and the
reception condition of the receiver.
8. 1394
WARNING lampFlashes four times a second (during recording).
Indications on LCD screen“1394 E-22” display flashes.
Tally lampFlashes four times a second (during recording).
Viewfinder
OWhen error code 92 appears, “1394 INITIAL
ERROR” display lights (during standby and
recording).
OWith all other error codes or when 1394 is
selected as the REC SIGNAL menu item
setting, the error is not displayed in the
viewfinder.
AlarmSounds four times a second (during recording).
Warning descriptionThere is something wrong with the signals
supplied to the DVCPRO connector.
VTR unit operationOperation continues, but something is wrong with
the signals supplied to the DVCPRO connector.
Corrective actionCheck the IEEE 1394 cable and DVCPRO
connector connections and the settings of the
external units or menu settings, and then turn the
power off and back on.
If the warning display is not cleared, check “6-3-2
Error codes,” and consult your nearest service
center. 
						

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Chapter 6  Maintenance and inspections
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6-3-2 Error codes
One of the following error codes appears in the display
window when an error has occurred in the unit for some
reason.
10. BATTERY NEAR END 11. TAPE NEAR END
WARNING lampFlashes once a second (during recording).
Indications on LCD screenThe bar display that shows the remaining tape
amount starts flashing.
Tally lampFlashes once a second (during recording).
Viewfinder
≥The remaining tape display starts flashing (in
the EE mode).
≥“=
” flashes for 3 seconds one minute before
the tape reaches the end.
AlarmSounds once a second.
Warning descriptionThe tape is close to its end (about 2 minutes
remain).
VTR unit operationOperation continues.
Corrective actionReplace the cassette tape when it becomes
necessary.
WARNING lampFlashes once a second.
Indications on LCD screenThe bar display that shows the remaining battery
charge starts flashing.
Tally lampFlashes once a second.
ViewfinderBATT LED starts flashing.
AlarmSounds four times a second.
Warning descriptionThe battery charge is nearly depleted.
VTR unit operationOperation continues.
Corrective actionReplace the battery when it becomes necessary.
Error codes (81 to 92) relating to the DVCPRO
connector
When an error has occurred while recording the signals which
are input to the DVCPRO connector, the error status is
indicated by a code which flashes once every two seconds in
the time code display area.
Even after the cause of the error is eliminated, the code
continues to flash for another six seconds.
Error codes 81 to 90
When recording is paused, the applicable error code
lights up on the display for as long as the MODE
CHECK button is held down.
Error code 92
Whenever recording is paused, error code 92 lights up
and remains lighted.
Code No. Description of error
04 Pinch solenoid problem
08 Cleaning solenoid problem
0B Supply reel problem
0C Take-up reel problem
0D Capstan problem
0E Cylinder problem
0F Loading problem
38 Servo transmission problem
3F Camera transmission problem
6F Reference signal problem
11 Video initialization problem
81The signals supplied to the DVCPRO connector are not
k1 speed transfer signals in the DVCPRO (25 Mbps) or
DV format.
82The signals supplied to the DVCPRO connector are not
k1 speed transfer signals in the DVCPRO50 (50 Mbps)
format.
83The video signals supplied to the DVCPRO connector are
not the correct signals.
84The signals supplied to the DVCPRO connector are not
in the DVCPRO or DV format.
87The audio signals supplied to the DVCPRO connector
are not the correct signals.
90No signals are supplied to the DVCPRO connector.
92Something is wrong with the DVCPRO connector
connection.
(“1394 INITIAL ERROR” is displayed in the viewfinder.) 
						

							Chapter 6  Maintenance and inspections
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6-3-3 Emergency eject
If the cassette cannot be ejected by pressing the EJECT button, use a screwdriver or similar tool to press and turn the
emergency eject screw.  This enables the cassette to be removed.
1Set the power to OFF.
4Remove the cassette.
5Return the rubber cap to its original position.
2Remove the rubber cap where shown in the figure.  Insert
a Phillips head screwdriver into the cross-shaped part of
the emergency eject screw (red).
3While pushing in with the screwdriver, turn the emergency
eject screw counterclockwise until the tape is ejected.
≥This screw needs to be rotated through about 20 turns
after the first turn until the unloading can be started.
≥It also needs to be rotated through about 90 turns after
the first turn until the tape is ejected.
2, 5
3
Cassette holder
Emergency
eject screw
Push in and turn at
the same time.

≥Do not turn the emergency eject screw except in an
emergency.
≥Do not turn the screw clockwise.  Stop turning the
screw as soon as the tape is ejected.  Otherwise, the
mechanism may be damaged.
≥After the tape is ejected, the cassette holder will not lock
into place even when an attempt is made to close it.  Be
sure to turn the power off and turn it back on to reset the
mechanism’s operation, and then close the cassette holder.
≥A clicking sound will be heard when the emergency eject
screw is turned: this sound is made by the reel drive
operation and is therefore not indicative of a malfunction. 
						

							7
Chapter 7  Menu description tables
79
USER MENU
USER MENU SELECT SYSTEM SETTING
PAINT
OPERATION
  SYSTEM MODE
  OPTION MODE
  REC FUNCTION  OUTPUT SEL  GENLOCK
  ROP
  LOW SETTING
  MID SETTING
  CAMERA ID
  SHUTTER SPEED
  SHUTTER SELECT  USER SW  SW MODE  WHITE BALANCE MODE
  IRIS
  FLARE
  USER SW GAIN  MATRIX
  COLOR CORRECTION
  SYSTEM(USER)
  PAINT(USER)
  VF(USER)
  OPERATION(USER)
  FILE(USER)
  MAINTENANCE(USER)
  VTR(USER)   SKIN TONE DTL
  KNEE/LEVEL
  HIGH SETTING  ADDITIONAL DTL
  GAMMA
  CAMERA SETTING
VF  VF DISPLAY
  VF MARKER
  VF INDICATOR1  VF INDICATOR2  MODE CHECK IND
FILE
  CARD READ/WRITE
  CARD R/W SELECT
  LENS FILE  SCENE  INITIALIZE
MAINTENANCE  SYSTEM CHECK  DIAGNOSTIC  LENS ADJ  BLACK SHADING  WHITE SHADING
VTR MENU  VTR FUNCTION
  BATTERY SETTING2
  MIC/AUDIO 1
  BATTERY/TAPE  BATTERY SETTING1
  UMID SET/INFO
  MIC/AUDIO 2  TC/UB
  VTR DIAG MENU
MAIN MENU
OPTION MENU
 OPTION
  ! LED
  USER BOX
How to open the menus
USER MENU:
Press MENU button to display.
MAIN MENU:
Hold down MENU button for 3
seconds or more to display.
OPTION MENU:
Press MENU button while
holding down LIGHT button to
display.
7-1 Menu configuration
How to interpret the menu listsItem/
Data storageVariable
rangeRemarks

≥There is a total of 42 camera-related items on three pages (14 items per page) and 14 VTR-related items on one page
which can be set.
≥The items with the shading cannot be selected using .
≥The items with the underlining can be selected only using  on condition that all the items
(equivalent to the number of items on one page) are selected together.  Individual items cannot be selected.
The following abbreviations indicate whether the menu changes are stored
(written) in the corresponding data or loaded (read) from the data.
The changes cannot be stored or loaded when “/” is indicated.
S:The changes can be stored or loaded as scene file data.
C:The changes can be stored or loaded using CARD READ/WRITE.
U:The changes can be stored or loaded as user data.
Refer to sections “7-6-4 SCENE” and “7-6-5 INITIALIZE.”
F:The changes can be stored or loaded as READ FACTORY DATA.
Refer to section “7-6-5 INITIALIZE.”
E:The changes can be stored or loaded using ECU DATA SAVE.
Refer to section “5-9 Connecting the extension control unit (AJ-EC3P).”
This column indicates the
variable range in which the
item can be  set and the
choice of the settings which
can be selected for the item.Described in this column are the
operations which can be expected to
result when the item’s settings are
selected.
REC SIGNALCAM
VIDEO
1394For selecting the video input signals.
CAM:The signals from the camera are
recorded.
VIDEO:The signals -----
CU F E 
						

							Chapter 7  Menu description tables
80
REC TALLYRED
GREEN
CHARFor selecting the method used to inform the
user that the unit is recording when a system
using an extender or other device is
configured and BOTH is selected as the 26-
PIN CONTROL menu item setting while the
system is used in the remote control mode.
RED:The red tally lamp lights.
GREEN:The green tally lamp lights.
CHAR:The letters “REC” appear on the
viewfinder. Item/
Data storageVariable
rangeRemarks
Item/
Data storageVariable
rangeRemarks
PB MODE
SDC905
MANUALAUTOFor selecting the playback mode.MANUAL:The playback mode accords with the
25M or 50M setting of the REC
MODE item.
Operation proceeds with 16:9 or 4:3
read from the tape.
AUTO:In this mode, the recording mode is
automatically detected and playback
is performed in the same mode.
7-2 SYSTEM SETTING
7-2-1 SYSTEM MODE
The underlining in the variable range column indicates the setting in the preset mode.
REC SIGNALCAM
VIDEO
1394For selecting the video input signals.
CAM:The signals from the camera are
recorded.
VIDEO:The signals from the GENLOCK IN
connector are recorded.
1394:The signals from the DVCPRO
connector are recorded.

CAM is always set when the power is next
turned on after it being turned off.
CU F E
CU F E
CU F E
REC MODE
SDC905
16:9/50M
4:3/50M
16:9/25M
4:3/25MFor selecting the mode in which to record the
signals on the VTR.
16:9/50M: signals are recorded at 50
Mbps.
4:3/50M: signals are recorded at 50
Mbps.
16:9/25M: signals are recorded at 25
Mbps.
4:3/25M: signals are recorded at 25
Mbps.
SET UP 50
SDC905
O%
7.5%AFor selecting the setup.  (For 50M recording).
0%:The setup is set to 0% for both the
camera output signals and the signals
on the tape.
7.5%A:The setup is set to 7.5% for the
camera output signals and 0% for the
signals on the tape.
SET UP
SET UP 25
SDC905
SDC615
O%
7.5%
7.5%AFor selecting the setup.  (For 25M recording).
0%:The setup is set to 0% for both the
camera output signals and the signals
on the tape.
7.5%:The setup is set to 7.5% for both the
camera output signals and the signals
on the tape.
7.5%A:The setup is set to 7.5% for the
camera output signals and 0% for the
signals on the tape.
CU F E
ASPECT
SDC615
16:94:3For selecting the mode in which to record the
signals on the VTR.
16:9: signals are recorded.
4:3: signals are recorded.
CU F E
CU F E
CU F E