Panasonic Lumix FAQ

A-1. Loading picture data from your digital camera to your computer
A-2. Setting up the LUMIX Simple Viewer to print out pictures

Printing method 1
Loading picture data from your digital camera to your computer

Set your camera and computer ready for data loading as described below.
The following instructions explain how to load picture data from the DMC-FX9 to your computer, as an example.

The menu items shown on the display differ depending on the mode selected, but this loading procedure can be started in any mode. The following is the procedure to be followed to set up loading in normal picture mode [].

1. Setting up the digital camera (turning on USB mode)

Before connecting your camera to your computer, the camera should be set to USB mode. The camera should be turned on after the memory card is inserted.
1) Press the [MENU] button. The menu screen appears.
2) Press the button to select [SETUP]. To change the screens, use the buttons. Each time either button is pressed, the screen switches to page 1/3, 2/3 or 3/3.
3) Using the buttons, select [USB MODE], and press the button.
4) On the USB MODE screen, select [PC] using the buttons, and confirm your selection by pressing button. The screen shown undermost will appear.
5) Exit from the screen by pressing the [MENU] button. Your computer is ready for data exchange with your camera via USB.

2. Connect the digital camera and PC via a USB connection cable (included in the accessory kit of your camera).

(Refer to the section: "Connecting the USB connection cable.")

3. Load pictures from your camera to your computer and store them.

(Refer to the section: "Loading JPEG pictures according to the instructions shown on the screen.")

Printing method 2
Setting up the LUMIX Simple Viewer to print out pictures

1) Start up LUMIX Simple Viewer on your computer. * If you are printing out pictures using a photograph-printing application program or printer driver, please refer to the instruction manual of the program or driver.
2) On the LUMIX Simple Viewer main menu appearing on the desktop, select [Start printing] on the main menu screen. If no main menu appears on the screen, first click [MENU], and then select [Start printing].
3) Designate where the picture to be printed out is stored. To print out a picture stored in the PC, select [On the PC] (as shown on the screen on the right). Select [On the memory card] to print out a picture stored in the memory card of your camera, connected to your computer via the USB connection cable. To print out a picture that was stored on your computer not by LUMIX Simple Viewer but by another means, register the picture to the LUMIX Simple Viewer by selecting [Add pictures] on the [Advance] menu screen.
4) Select the folder containing the picture to be printed, and select the picture from the list. When [On the memory card] has been selected, no folder will appear.
5) Select [Add pictures] and click [Next]. The selected picture will be added to [List of photos to be printed]. To remove any picture from [List of photos to be printed], click on the picture and click [Cancel].

A-3. Setting up the LUMIX Simple Viewer to print out pictures

A-3-1 [Printing procedure]
Select [One sheet] (marked on the screen on the right).

A-3-2 [Please select the printer]
Select the printer you are using (marked on the screen on the right).

A-3-3 [Please set the printing area]
Select [No] or [Yes] (marked on the screen on the right).

A-3-4 [Please select the paper size]
Set a 16:9 ratio format (marked on the screen on the right).
*1)
When the list of paper sizes available does not include any 16:9 format sheet but your printer can be set up to an irregular size, click *1 [Set] on the screen on the right.
The setup screen of the driver for the selected printer will appear. Select the item that allows you to specify paper size.

Enter the 16:9 (high-definition TV) format (102mm x 181mm) and confirm your entry. (Please refer to the printer manual because the procedure for entering an irregular paper size may differ depending on the printer.)

A-3-5 [Please select the paper type]
Set the type of paper used for printing (marked on the screen on the right).

A-3-6
Click the [Next] button (marked on the screen on the right).

A-3-7 [Date printing]
Select [Yes] or [No] (marked on the screen on the right).

A-3-8 [Trimming]
Select [Yes] or [No] (marked on the screen on the right).

A-3-9 [Position adjustment]
This button allows you to adjust the position of the picture on the page, e.g., to center the picture, or adjust the picture position vertically and/or horizontally (marked on the screen on the right).

A-3-10 [Print correction]
Select [Yes] or [No] (marked on the screen on the right).

A-3-11 [No. of copies]
This item allows you to specify how many pictures to print out (marked on the screen on the right).

A-3-12 [Start printing]
Click this button to start printing (marked on the screen on the right).

A-3-13 [Exit]
Click this button to exit from the LUMIX Simple Viewer screen (marked on the screen on the right).

12. How can I see JPEG format pictures on my computer by connecting my camera via a USB connection cable?

You can see the pictures easily on your computer by connecting your digital camera and computer via a USB connection cable and using software built into your camera. The procedure is described below.

This function may be unavailable depending on the operating system of your computer. Please refer to the Table of Compatibility between Built-in Programs and Computer Operating Systems.

Table of Compatibility between Built-in Programs and Computer Operating Systems

Procedure

1. Installing a USB driver
2. Installing viewer software
3. Connecting the USB connection cable
4. Loading JPEG pictures according to the instructions shown on the screen

(The following instructions explain how to connect a Windows^®XP-based personal computer and the DMC-FX9, as an example.)

1. Installing a USB driver

A USB driver may be required depending on the operating system of your computer. A USB driver is software required for a computer to communicate with your digital camera. For more details, please refer to: Table of Compatibility between Built-in Programs and Computer Operating Systems (The USB connection cable should not be connected yet.)
1) Insert the CD-ROM included in the accessory kit of your digital camera into the CD-ROM drive of your computer. Before inserting the CD-ROM, be sure to quit all application programs running on the computer. If the setup menu does not appear, open the menu from the My Computer screen. ([My Computer] - [VFF XXX] (the letters XXX correspond to the model number of the camera) - InstMenu.exe)
2) Click [USB Driver].
3) Click [Next]. The installation is completed. You will be asked to restart your computer.
4) The installation of the USB driver starts.

2. Installing software

(The USB connection cable should not be connected yet.) 1) Insert the CD-ROM included in the accessory kit of your digital camera. Before inserting the CD-ROM, be sure to quit all the application programs running on the computer. If the setup menu does not appear, open the menu from the My Computer screen. ([My Computer] - [VFF XXX] (the letters XXX correspond to the model number of the camera) - InstMenu.exe)
2) Click the LUMIX Simple Viewer icon.
3) Proceed with the installation as instructed by the messages that will appear on the screen.
4) If you register yourself as the user of the software, select [Yes]; if not, select [No]. For user registration, the computer should have access to the Internet. User registration is available after the LUMIX Simple Viewer is set up and starts running.
Cautions LUMIX Simple Viewer is installed in the following folder. (It cannot be changed.) C:\Program Files\Panasonic\LUMIXSimpleViewer

3. Connecting the USB connection cable

Preparations to be made on the digital camera
Your computer and digital camera should be powered via an AC adapter or by a fully charged battery. If the battery becomes fully depleted during data transmission, data may be damaged.

Procedure

Connect the AC adapter when required.
Set an SD memory card into your digital camera.
Turn on the camera.
On the [SETUP] menu, set [USB MODE] to [PC].
When ready, connect your computer and camera by the USB connection cable included in the camera accessory kit.

When the computer and camera are correctly connected, the LUMIX Simple Viewer will start running, opening a screen indicating the start of data loading.

Cautions

During data transmission from your digital camera, do not operate the camera or disconnect the USB connection cable. It may cause software failure or data damage.
Do not use any other USB connection cable than the one included in the camera accessory kit.
Depending on the operating system of your computer, the LUMIX Simple Viewer may be unable to run. In that case, please refer to:

Table of Compatibility between Built-in Programs and Computer Operating Systems

4. Loading JPEG pictures according to the instructions shown on the screen

1) A screen appears indicating readiness for the start of data loading. Select [Yes] to start loading picture data.
2) When the screen indicates [Completion], click [OK]. The pictures imported from the card to the PC are listed on the screen. If many pictures are to be loaded, or the file size of pictures is large, loading may take time. The pictures imported to the computer are stored in the folder: In case of Windows 2000 or Windows XP C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Documents\My Pictures\LUMIX Simple Viewer In case of Windows 98SE or Windows ME C:\My Documents\My Pictures\LUMIX Simple Viewer To open pictures after exiting from Simple Viewer, or to open already-loaded pictures, start LUMIX Simple Viewer and click [View].
Cautions During data transmission, the flash/access lamp is continuously lit. When your camera and computer are connected, the camera should preferably be powered using an AC adapter. When the battery power reaches a low level during data transmission, the status indicator starts flickering and the beeping sound is activated. In this case, stop the data transmission immediately, turn off the camera, and recharge the battery. Depending on the operating system of your computer, the LUMIX Simple Viewer may be unable to run. In that case, please refer to: Table of Compatibility between Built-in Programs and Computer Operating Systems

<Table of Compatibility between Built-in Programs and Computer Operating Systems>

Check the type and version of the camera software and the operating system of your computer, and refer to the table below. (Representative built-in software programs are listed.)
When your computer does not satisfy system requirements, the software may not operate, even if the computer operating system is listed as compatible with the software.
(Please refer to the manual included in the accessory kit of your camera: "Operating Instructions for Digital Camera PC Connection.")

SD Viewer for DSC1.0J
DMC-F7 DMC-LC5	OS	SD Viewer for DSC1.0J	Installation of USB driver
	Windows^®95 and earlier	Not compatible	Unavailable (USB connection unavailable)
	Windows^®98(*1)	Not compatible	Required
	Windows^®98SE	Compatible	Required
	Windows^®ME	Compatible	Required
	Windows^®2000(*1)	Not compatible	Required
	Windows^®XP	Compatible (an updated version of the software is required)	Required
SD Viewer for DSC1.1J
DMC-LC20 DMC-LC40	OS	SD Viewer for DSC1.1J	Installation of USB driver
	Windows^®95 and earlier	Not compatible	Unavailable (USB connection unavailable)
	Windows^®98(*1)	Not compatible	Required
	Windows^®98SE	Compatible	Required
	Windows^®ME	Compatible	Not required
	Windows^®2000(*1)	Not compatible	Not required
	Windows^®XP	Compatible	Not required
SD Viewer for DSC2.0J/LUMIX Simple Viewer
DMC-F1, DMC-FX1 DMC-FX2, DMC-FX5 DMC-FX7, DMC-FX8 DMC-FX9, DMC-FZ1 DMC-FZ2, DMC-FZ3 DMC-FZ5, DMC-FZ10 DMC-FZ20, DMC-FZ30 DMC-LX1, DMC-LC1 DMC-LC33, DMC-LC43 DMC-LC70, DMC-LS1 DMC-LZ2	OS	SD Viewer for DSC2.0J/ LUMIX Simple Viewer	Installation of USB driver
	Windows^®95 and earlier	Not compatible	Unavailable (USB connection unavailable)
	Windows^®98(*1)	Not compatible	Required
	Windows^®98SE	Compatible	Required
	Windows^®ME	Compatible	Not required
	Windows^®2000(*1)	Compatible	Not required
	Windows^®XP	Compatible	Not required

Mac	OS	SD Viewer for DSC1.0J/ SD Viewer for DSC1.1J SD Viewer for DSC2.0J/ LUMIX Simple Viewer	Installation of USB driver
	Mac OS 8.x and earlier	Not compatible	Unavailable (USB connection unavailable)
	Mac OS 9.x and later(*2)	Not compatible	Not required

1: Pictures can be loaded without using the software built into your camera. The loading procedure is as follows: Insert a memory card into your digital camera. Connect the digital camera and PC via a USB connection cable (included in the camera accessory kit). Double-click [My Computer] on your computer screen. Double-click [Removable disk]. Double-click the [DCIM] folder. Drag-and-drop the file(s) or folder(s) containing the pictures to be loaded into the computer. (Drag-and-drop means moving the mouse while holding down the mouse button and releasing the mouse button where appropriate.) The pictures in the SD memory card are loaded into the computer. To see the loaded pictures, double-click them. A browser or viewer program will open and show them. 2: The software built into your camera is not compatible with Macintosh computers, but can load pictures from the camera to a Mac using the following procedure: Insert an SD memory card into your digital camera. Connect the digital camera and computer via a USB connection cable (included in the camera accessory kit). Double-click the [NO NAME] folder on the computer. Double-click the [DCIM] folder. Drag-and-drop the file(s) or folder(s) containing the pictures to be loaded into the computer. (Drag-and-drop means moving the mouse while holding down the mouse button and releasing the mouse button where appropriate.) The pictures in the SD memory card are loaded into the computer. To see the loaded pictures, double-click them. The pictures can be seen on the viewer software installed.

13. Exactly what does the "CONVERSION" setting in the menu do?

The "CONVERSION" setting in the menu is used when your camera is provided with a telephoto conversion lens or a wide-angle lens.

1. What are the telephoto conversion lens and the wide-angle lens?

The telephoto conversion lens and the wide-angle lens are accessories for your camera. When attached to the camera, they change the focus range. The two lenses are collectively called conversion lenses.

The telephoto conversion lens increases the zoom capability of your camera's lens. You'll be able to make more distant subjects appear closer.
The wide-angle lens increases the field of view at the lower zoom setting so you can photograph a wider area.

The following is a list of our digital camera models that are compatible with telephoto conversion and wide-angle lenses:

Model no. Telephoto conversion lens Wide-angle lens Lens adapter

DMC-FZ10 DMW-LTZ10 (1.5x) DMW-LWZ10 (0.8x) -

DMC-FZ20 DMW-LTZ10 (1.5x) DMW-LWZ10 (0.8x) -

DMC-FZ30 DMW-LT55 (1.7x) DMW-LW55 (0.7x) -

DMC-LC1 - DMW-LW69 (0.82x) -

DMC-LC5 DMW-LT52 (1.4x) DMW-LW52 (0.8x) DMW-LA1

DMC-LC40 DMW-LT52 (1.4x) DMW-LW52 (0.8x) DMW-LA1

2. Installing and setting up the conversion lenses

How to set up the conversion lenses is explained below:

Installing and setting up conversion lenses

3. Focus range of the camera with a conversion lens

The focus ranges of the DMC-FZ20 and DMC-FZ30 with a conversion lens are explained below as examples.

3-1 DMC-FZ20
3-2 DMC-FZ30

2. Installing and setting up conversion lenses

1) After checking that the power of your camera is off and that the original lens is retracted, remove the lens cap and lens ring.
2) Install the lens (telephoto conversion lens or wide-angle lens). Turn the lens slowly and carefully.
3) Turn on the camera and press the [MENU] button. The [REC] menu screen appears. To change the [REC] menu screens, use the buttons. Each time either button is pressed, the screen switches to page 1/3, 2/3 or 3/3.
4) On the [REC] menu screen, select [CONVERSION] on page 3/3 using the buttons, and confirm the selection by pressing the button.
5) Select the installed lens on the screen using the buttons, and press the button to confirm the selection. How to select a wide-angle lens - How to select a telephoto conversion lens -
6) When the selection is complete, press the [MENU] button to exit from the menu screen. The illustration on the right shows a typical screen that appears on the display when a wide-angle lens is selected.

3-1. Focus range of the camera provided with a conversion lens (DMC-FZ20)

Cautions

When the camera is provided with a telephoto conversion lens, the zoom range is limited to a minimum of 6x. The digital zoom function is available.
When the camera is provided with a wide-angle lens, the zoom range is limited to between 1x and 2x. The digital zoom function is not available.
* If you try to adjust the zoom to outside the above-specified limits, the conversion icon blinks in red.
With a conversion lens installed:

The built-in flash is not available.
When using a tripod, provide a tripod adapter for the conversion lens, and set the adapter on the tripod.
When [CONVERSION] on the [REC] menu screen is set to [OFF], the conversion lens does not show its built-in functions.

With a telephoto conversion lens installed:

Using a tripod is recommended.
The jitter correction function may be less effective.
The focus indication may come on because of jitter, even if the subject is not in focus.
A longer period of time may be necessary until the subject is in focus.
To use an external flash with a camera provided with a wide-angle lens, it is recommended that the external flash be set to manual mode.
For details, please refer to the instructions for the external flash.
When [CONVERSION] is set to [] or [], the auto focus assist lamp is not available.
For details, please refer to the instructions for conversion lenses.

3-2. Focus ranges of cameras provided with a conversion lens (DMC-FZ30)

Cautions

When using a wide-angle lens, the digital zoom function is not available.
If not using a conversion lens, be sure to set [CONVERSION] to [OFF].
With a conversion lens installed:

The built-in flash is not available.
When [CONVERSION] on the [REC] menu screen is set to [OFF], the conversion lens does not show its built-in functions.

With a telephoto conversion lens installed:

Using a tripod is recommended.
The jitter correction function may be less effective.
The focus indication may come on because of jitter, even if the subject is not in focus.
A longer period of time may be necessary until the subject is in focus.

To use an external flash with a camera provided with a wide-angle lens, it is recommended that the external flash be set to manual mode. For details, please refer to the instructions for the external flash.
When [CONVERSION] is set to [] or [], the auto focus assist lamp is not available.
For details, please refer to the instructions for conversion lenses.

Setting the zoom ring to Tele or Wide

When a telephoto conversion lens is installed, be sure to set the zoom ring to Tele; and for a wide-angle lens, to Wide.
The conversion icon [] or [] indication shifts from blinking (red) to steady illumination (white).
* The area boxed by red lines on the display changes from blinking red to steady illumination in white.
When using a conversion lens, be sure to take a picture with the conversion icon illuminating steadily in white. The conversion does not operate correctly when the icon is blinking.

Before taking a picture with your digital camera, you can set the number of pixels, aspect ratio, and image quality.

These image characteristics are detailed below, along with instructions on how to set them up:

The number of pictures recordable by each camera model
The number of pixels available
Aspect ratio
Compression level (image quality)

1. The number of pictures recordable by each camera model

For the answer, please visit the LUMIX Line-up Comparison web site and click the button placed in the bottom of the opened page.

The list of applicable models and the number of pictures recordable will appear.

The number of pictures that can be stored is approximate. (The capacity of a storage card may vary, especially when fine-mode picture files, standard-mode files, and motion-picture files are recorded on the same card.)

The number of pictures that can be stored on one Secure Digital (SD) memory card differs depending on the storage capacity of the card and the image-recording settings on the camera.
The smaller the number of pixels set on the camera, the more pictures can be recorded on one SD memory card.
When image quality is more important than storing many pictures on one card, set [QUALITY] on the REC menu to [FINE] (low compression).

= [FINE]

= [STANDARD]

The number of pixels and image quality level can be set each time the camera is used (each time a picture is taken). The number of pixels available isdifferent depending on camera models.

2. The number of pixels available

The expression number of pixels refers to the number of pixels that compose a picture. It is expressed in the form of the number of pixels in the horizontal direction, multiplied by the number of pixels in the vertical direction, for example 1280 x 960 pixels.
Pixels are the small individual units (dots) that make up a picture, arranged in a very fine-scale vertical and horizontal grid. Pixels function similarly to the white and black dots seen when a newspaper photograph is magnified. Generally, when pictures are printed on the same quality paper, those having a greater number of pixels print more clearly.

The following instructions explain how to set the number of pixels on the DMC-FX9 as an example.

Changing the number of pixels setting (PICT.SIZE)
1) Press the MENU button.
2) Select [PICT.SIZE] using the buttons, and then press the button. If the aspect ratio shown on the screen is different from the desired one, please change the [ASPECT RATIO] setting first and then set [PICT.SIZE]. Changing the aspect ratio
3) Select the desired number of pixels (PICT.SIZE) using the buttons, and confirm your selection by pressing the button.
4) Exit from the screen by pressing the MENU button. Your camera is now ready to take a picture using the selected number of pixels.

3. Aspect ratio

The aspect ratio is the ratio of width to height of a picture. While the ratio of 4:3 is the most common, an additional aspect ratio or ratios of 16:9 and/or 3:2 are available on some models.
16:9 is especially nice when you plan to view your photos on a 16:9 plasma TV. It allows the image to be seen using the full native resolution of the plasma TV.
When more than one aspect ratio is available on your camera, select the aspect ratio first and then set the number of pixels (PICT.SIZE). (The PICT.SIZE alternatives differ depending on the aspect-ratio setting.)

Note: Photos taken in 16:9, when printed, may not include the full width using standard size picture sizes.
Ratio Effect

Common ratio

The picture is slightly wider. Pictures can be taken at the aspect ratio of 3:2, the same as that used by
35mm film.

The picture is wider. This setting is suitable for showing the expanse of a subject such as a landscape, and to play back pictures on a wide television screen or Hi-Vision television screen.

Changing the aspect ratio
(The following instructions explain how to set the aspect ratio on the DMC-FX9 as an example.)

1) Press the MENU button.
2) Select [ASPECT RATIO] using the
3) Using the buttons, select the desired aspect ratio from among alternatives [4:3], [3:2] and [16:9], and confirm your selection by pressing the button.
4) Exit from the screen by pressing the MENU button.

4. Compression level (image quality)

The compression level mode should be set to store pictures.
Generally, the compression level ([QUALITY]) is switchable between [FINE] and [STANDARD].
For a picture that is to be printed out, [FINE] should be selected because it places priority on image quality.
To record many pictures at moderate quality, select [STANDARD].
Please set the compression level ([QUALITY]) according to your need.
[FINE] To prioritize image quality, record the picture at high quality (low compression).

[STANDARD] To prioritize storing many pictures, record the picture at standard quality (high compression).

Changing the compression level ([QUALITY])
(The following instructions explain how to set the compression level on the DMC-FX9 as an example.)

1) Press the MENU button.
2) Select [QUALITY] using the buttons, and confirm your selection by pressing the button.
3) Select FINE or STANDARD, and confirm your selection by pressing the button.
4) Exit from the screen by pressing the MENU button. Your camera is now ready to record a picture at the selected compression level (image quality).

All Panasonic digital cameras incorporate a motion-picture recording function.

Motion-picture recording method
Record mode settings
Each model's recording hours and jitter prevention function
Cautions concerning recording motion pictures
Playing back motion pictures on the camera
Playing back motion pictures on the personal computer
Cautions concerning playing back motion pictures

1. Motion-picture recording method

Using the mode dial or the [MENU] screen, turn on the motion picture mode []. Press the shutter button halfway to focus.
Then hold down the button completely to take motion pictures.

To stop recording, press the shutter again.

2. Record mode settings

The following image quality characteristics can be set for motion pictures.
(Some of these settings may be unavailable, depending on the camera model.)

fps: The number of frames recorded per second
(Examples)

30 fps: 30 frames per second

10 fps: 10 frames per second
Therefore, motion pictures recorded at 30 fps are smoother while the rate of 10 fps allows the camera to record pictures for a longer period of time.
VGA and QVGA: The number of pixels (VGA, 640 x 480; and QVGA 320 x 240)
(Examples)

30 fps VGA: Smooth picture quality at 640 x 480 pixels

10 fps QVGA: At 320 x 240 pixels, pictures are not as smooth, but the camera can record a motion picture for a longer period of time.
Because the size of a 10 fps picture file is small, it is more suitable to send as an attachment to e-mail.

Motion-picture quality setup
(The following instructions explain how to set the quality of motion pictures recorded on the DMC-FX9 as an example.)

1) Set the mode dial to the motion picture mode []. Press the [MENU] button.
2) Select [QUALITY] using the buttons, and confirm your selection by pressing the button. Select [PICT.SIZE] using the buttons, and confirm your selection by pressing the button.
3) Exit from the screen by pressing the [MENU] button. The settings for the motion-picture quality are now complete.

The auto focus, zoom, and aperture value are fixed to the same status as they were at the start of motion-picture recording. Note that, when recording a subject that moves toward the camera from far away, the subject gradually goes out of focus, except for the DMC-FZ30 and DMC-FZ20, which operate as follows during motion-picture recording.

DMC-FZ30: Exposure (in case of ISO/AUTO) and white balance change according to the movement of the subject to be recorded. The zoom and manual focus can be manually adjusted. However, they are adjusted by turning a ring, which makes a sound that may be recorded.
DMC-FZ20: Exposure (in case of ISO/AUTO) and white balance change according to the movement of the subject to be recorded.

For the models with a jitter prevention function, the function is effective when it is turned on before the start of recording static or motion pictures. For camera models with two modes, this function is available in MODE 1 only.

3. Each model's recording hours and jitter prevention function

The period of time a camera can record pictures varies depending on the image quality settings and SD memory card capacity.

For further information, please visit the LUMIX Line-up Comparison web site and click the SD Memory Card Data Capacity button. The list of applicable models will appear. The MEGA O.I.S. is provided with a jitter correction function.

Jitter prevention is available in MODE 1 and MODE 2.

[MODE 1]: Jitter is always prevented as long as REC mode is on.
[MODE 2]: Jitter is prevented only when the shutter is released.

4. Cautions concerning recording motion pictures

It is impossible to record motion pictures with audio recording functions turned off.
(However, the DMC-LS1, DMC-F7, and DMC-FX2 do not have audio-recording functions.)
Depending on the card type, recording may stop halfway.
If [QUALITY] is set to [30 fps VGA], it is recommended to use a high-speed SD memory card of 10 MBs or higher.
In case of a multimedia card, card access indication may remain on for a while after the end of motion-picture recording, but this is not a failure.
The recorded pictures cannot be changed in orientation; they cannot be turned from horizontal to vertical or vice versa. Please record motion pictures in consideration of the direction of the camera.
During motion-picture recording, no flash is available.

5. Playing back motion pictures on the camera

1)
Set the mode to [].
2)
Select the files marked with a motion-picture icon, using the buttons.
3)
Press the button to play back the picture.

6. Playing back motion pictures on the personal computer

If QuickTime is not installed on your computer, install a copy from the CD-ROM included in the camera accessory kit.
The recorded pictures are stored in QuickTime Motion JPEG format (file name extension: [mov]).
The files are stored in the same folder as static pictures (DCIM folder).

7. Cautions concerning playing back motion pictures

The zoom function is not available during motion-picture playback; if you try to use the function, motion-picture playback will temporarily stop.
It may be impossible to play back motion pictures recorded by other digital cameras; even if it is possible, picture quality may be lower or playback may not be possible.
When an SD memory card with a large capacity is used, fast rewinding may be lower in speed.
It is impossible to play back motion pictures by inserting an SD memory card into a Viera television set.
It is impossible to play back or copy motion pictures by inserting an SD memory card into a Diga system.

1. What is the Extra Optical Zoom (EZ) feature?

The Extra Optical Zoom enables you to extend the zoom ratio with less image-quality deterioration, compared with digital zoom. Unless the number of pixels is set to the maximum, this function changes the focal distance, and telephotographs the subject by changing (trimming) the operational area of the charge-coupled device (CCD), thus increasing the maximum magnifying power. To take a picture of the same range, the Extra Optical Zoom extends the zoom ratio with less image-quality deterioration,ß compared with the digital zoom. On the camera, the Extra Optical Zoom is abbreviated as EZ. Detailed explanation of the Extra Optical Zoom (EZ) For full details of the Extra Optical Zoom, open the above link and click the EZ Zoom Mechanism icon.
Digital Zoom	The picture itself is magnified, and as a result the image is rather rough, deteriorating the image quality.
Extra Optical Zoom (EZ)	This magnification results from changing the operational range of the CCD, so that pictures can be taken at high quality.

2. Setting up the Extra Optical Zoom
(The following instructions explain how to set the Extra Optical Zoom on the DMC-FX9 as an example.)

1) Press the [MENU] button.
2) Using the buttons, select [PICT.SIZE], and press the button.
3) Select an EZ-marked alternative, such as [], using the buttons, and confirm your selection by pressing the button.
4) Exit the screen by pressing the [MENU] button. Your camera is now ready to take a picture using the EZ function.

17. How can I use my camera in other countries?

Because local AC power and the AC power receptical varies from country to country, please note the following:

1. Using the AC adapter and battery charger in a foreign country

Both the AC adapter and battery charger can be used internationally. Use an appropriate conversion plug (not included), connecting your AC adapter and battery charger as you normally do.

Your camera is designed to be usable worldwide, compatible with a power voltage range of 100 V to 240 V and power supply frequency of either 50 Hz or 60 Hz. To prevent damage, use only the transformer supplied with your camera.
Power supply outlets are configured differently according to country, region, or facility. Ensure that you use a plug that fits the local outlet.
To acquire a suitable conversion plug, please consult with your local Panasonic dealer where you purchased your camera. The camera battery can be charged in the same way as in Japan. Major power outlet configurations in individual countries and regions are listed below:

Typical power outlet configurations in major countries and regions

The battery charger was designed assuming that it will be used in Japan. There is no problem if the charger is used temporarily while traveling internationally; however, avoid using it continuously outside Japan.
If the camera is not used for a long period of time, be sure to remove the conversion plug from the AC outlet.

2. X-ray security checks before international departure

Recently the strength of X-ray machines used at airport security check points has been increased to enhance security. Unlike photographic film, the increase in X-ray power and the new security equipment will not damage your camera.

3. Playing back camera-recorded pictures in other countries

You can play back camera-recorded pictures in other countries if you are in a region or country where color television sets employ the same NTSC system as Japan, or the PAL system, by connecting your camera to a television set. Please refer to the following country lists to find which system is used locally, and set your camera appropriately to the NTSC or PAL system.

Setup procedure

Countries and regions that use the NTSC system

United States of America Japan

Antigua and Barbuda Trinidad and Tobago

Yemen (part of the country) Nicaragua

British Bermuda Islands Haiti

Ecuador Panama

El Salvador Bahamas

Guyana Barbados

Canada Fiji

Cuba Philippines

Guatemala Puerto Rico

Guam American Samoa

Grenada Vietnam (part of the country)

Costa Rica Venezuela

Colombia Belize

Jamaica Peru

Surinam Bolivia

St. Christopher and Nevis Honduras

St. Vincent and the Grenadines Marshall Islands

St. Lucia Mariana Islands

South Korea Federated States of Micronesia

Taiwan Myanmar

Chile Mexico

Dominican Republic Commonwealth of Dominica

Countries and regions that use the PAL system

Argentina Thailand

United Kingdom China

Israel Denmark

Italy Germany

India Turkey

Indonesia New Zealand

Egypt Norway

Australia Pakistan

Austria Finland

Netherlands Brazil

North Korea Belgium

Kenya Portugal

Singapore Vietnam

Switzerland Hong Kong

Sweden Malaysia

Spain South Africa

Sri Lanka

Set your camera to NTSC or PAL by following this procedure:

The following instructions explain how to set to NTSC or PAL on the DMC-FX9 as an example.
The menu items shown on the display differ depending on the mode selected, but this NTSC/PAL setting is possible from any mode. The following is the procedure to be followed in normal picture mode [].

Insert a memory card and turn on the camera.
Press the [MENU] button and REC menu screen.
Press the button to select [SETUP].
Select [VIDEO OUT] using the buttons, and confirm your selection by pressing the button.
Select NTSC or PAL using the buttons, and confirm your selection by pressing the button.
Exit from the screen by pressing the [MENU] button.

Your camera is now ready to show pictures on an NTSC or PAL television set.

Connecting your digital camera to a television set

Turn off both your digital camera and the television set.
Connect the AV cable (supplied in the accessory kit) securely to the camera's [AV OUT] port.

Check that the [] mark on the AV cable points to the [] mark on the port.
When inserting the AV cable into the port, or when disconnecting it, be sure to push or pull it the correct direction, holding area A firmly as illustrated on the right.

Connect the AV cable to the video and audio input ports of the television set.
Turn on the television and set it to external input.
Turn on the digital camera and set the mode dial to playback [].

Pictures will appear on the television screen only while the mode dial is set to [].

Cautions

Use only the AV cable supplied in the accessory kit of your camera.
If pictures appearing on the television screen are unclear or monochrome, check that the cable is properly connected to the [VIDEO OUT] port.
Please refer to your television set's instruction manual as well as your camera manual.
Vertical-format pictures may appear slightly blurred on a television set (even when using the AV cable supplied with your camera).

Playing back the pictures on a television set provided with an SD memory card slot

If your television set is provided with an SD memory card slot, still images can be played back on the television set by inserting the SD memory card containing the picture data into the slot. (Depending on the model of the television set, pictures may not be shown at full screen size. Also please note that a multimedia card may not be compatible with the card slot of your television set.)
Using an SD memory card directly, motion pictures cannot be played back on television sets. To play them back on a television set, connect the AV cable supplied in the camera accessory kit to the television set, instead of using a memory card.

18. How do I set up the clock?

The following instructions explain how to set the clock on your camera. As a typical model, the DMC-FX9 is used for this explanation.

1. Setting up the clock on a new camera
2. Adjusting clock time

1. Setting up the clock on a new camera

1) Turn the camera on. The clock setup screen appears as shown on the right. In five seconds, the clock setup screen disappears. Turn off the camera and then turn it on again to start setting up the clock. (The clock setup can be started from the setup menu as well.) If the camera is left without a battery for a period that is longer than the period during which the time setting is memorized, the clock setup will be lost. The clock setup screen appears in this case as well.
2) Press the [MENU] button. The screen shown on the right appears.
3) Set the year, month, day, and time. Select the item to be set (year, month, day, hour, and minute) by using the buttons. Adjust the selected item, namely, year, month, day, hour or time, by using the buttons. When the setting of one item is complete, press the button to set another item.
4) Select in what order the date and time should appear. To change the order of the items shown on the display, press the buttons. The indication changes as follows each time the button is pressed. E.g., 10:00, APR 1, 2006 (as shown above) [Y/M/D]: 2006. 4. 1 10:00 (as shown on the right) [D/M/Y]: 10:00 1. APR. 2006
5) When you have finished setting up the clock, press the [MENU] button. The screen shown on the right appears. Exit from the screen by pressing the [MENU] button again. Your camera now shows the correct time.
Cautions The clock settings are retained in memory when the above setup is performed with a fully charged battery inserted. The settings are also retained for a given period of time, even if the camera is left standing without a battery. The period for which they are retained differs depending on the model. To learn how long your camera will retain its clock settings with battery removed, please refer to the list of clock memory periods for individual camera models. The year can be set to between 2000 and 2099. The time is shown in the 24-hour system. If you use a photograph printing service without setting up the clock on your camera, correct dates may not appear on the photograph prints. Please do not forget to set up the clock.

2. Adjusting clock time

Open the setup menu by the following procedure: The menu items shown on the display differ depending on the mode selected, but this setting is possible from any mode. The following is the procedure to be followed in normal picture mode [].
1) Turn on your camera. 2) Press the [MENU] button and open the menu screen.
3) Press the button to select [SETUP]. (To change the screens, use the buttons. Each time either button is pressed, the screen switches to page 1/3, 2/3, or 3/3.)
4) Using the buttons, select CLOCK SET. Then press the button to open the screen shown in step 2 in section 1, "Setting up the clock on a new camera." Set up the clock referring to the instructions in that section.

19. How do I take pictures in burst mode?

What is burst mode?
Setting up burst mode
Turning off burst mode
Cautions

1. What is burst mode?

Using burst mode, you can take multiple pictures continuously by holding down the shutter button.

Note: Burst mode cannot be used with the photo flash as it cannot recycle at the rapid rate at which the burst mode operate.

2. Setting up burst mode

1) Select a recording mode using the mode dial. (The normal picture mode is selected in the following explanation.)
2) Press the [] button an adequate number of times to set how fast the shutter should be released in burst mode. 3) Press the shutter button halfway to focus, and hold down the button completely to take pictures in burst mode.
* For DMC-F7 and DMC-LC1, please set burst mode from the MENU button.

3. Turning off burst mode

Press the [] button the necessary number of times until the burst mode symbol disappears on the display.
* For the DMC-F7 and DMC-LC1, please turn off burst mode from the MENU button.

4. Cautions

If burst mode does not activate:

When the Auto Bracket (*1) function is on, it has priority over burst mode and the mode does not activate. Please turn off the Auto Bracket function.
* When the Auto Bracket function is on, three pictures are recorded automatically. They are the same images at different exposures and not the pictures taken in burst mode.
If the file format setting is [TIFF] or [RAW], burst mode is not available. Set the file format to other than [TIFF] or [RAW].
Under certain conditions, such as when the flash activates, only one picture can be recorded. (In case of the DMC-FZ30, one or three pictures are recorded.) Inactivate the flash.
If the storage capacity of the memory card is not sufficient, or if it is used up during recording in burst mode, the camera will be unable to take pictures in burst mode. Check the remaining storage capacity of the card.

*1: Auto Bracket function

The Auto Bracket function takes three pictures automatically according to the compensation range of exposure. It enables you to select the best picture from among three differently exposed images.

Turning off the Auto Bracket function

1)
Set the mode dial to
[], [], or [].

2)
Press the button the necessary number of times until the [AUTO BRACKET] setup screen appears as shown on the right.

3)
Press the button several times to select [OFF], and confirm your selection by pressing the button. The Auto Bracket function is now turned off on your camera.

Other tips

During high-speed burst recording, the indicated number of frames can be photographed continuously only when the shutter speed is higher than 1/60 of a second and when the flash is off.
In simple mode, burst recording speed is fixed to low speed.
In unlimited burst mode, pictures can be taken until the capacity of the memory card is used up. As pictures are taken continuously in burst mode, data transfer may slow down as it becomes unable to keep up with the shutter speed.
Pictures are recorded according to the burst mode setting, such as high speed or low speed, regardless of the transfer speed of the SD memory card.