Preparation14VQT0P79• As the ambient temperature is low (10oCor less), the performance of the batterieswill be deteriorated and the availablerecording/playback time becomesextremely short. This is normal. Alkalinebatteries significantly show suchtendencies. In such cases, remove thebatteries and warm them in your pocket.Take special care not to allow the contactsto come into contact with metal objects ora pocket warmer in your pocket.• If an oil stain or any foreign substance isfound on the battery contacts, it couldprevent the batteries from making goodelectrical contact. The available recording/playback time may become extremelyshort. Before inserting the batteries, cleanthe battery contacts with soft, dry cloth.∫ Ni-MH Batteries (Nickel Metal Hydride)Ni-MH batteries can be used when youcharge them with the exclusive charger.However, wrong handling of the batteriesmay cause leakage, generation of heat, fireor explosion. Please be aware of thefollowing issues:• If any oxidation or foreign substance isfound on the battery contacts, thebatteries may not be charged correctly.Clean battery contacts and terminals ofthe recharger with a soft, dry cloth.• Newly purchased Ni-MH batteries orthose which have not been used for a longperiod of time may not reach full capacityafter one charge. This is a feature of thebatteries, not a malfunction. The overallperformance will increase after repeatingdischarge/charge cycles several times.• Batteries should be used to the pointwhen the camera stops working beforerecharging. If you charge batteries withoutdischarging enough, it can cause“memory effect”, whereby the overalloperating time can be decreased.• If “memory effect” occur, use the batteriesuntil the camera stops working and thenrecharge them fully. Repeat the discharge/charge cycles several times. The capacityof the batteries will be recovered.• Ni-MH batteries will naturally dischargeand the capacity will become lower even ifthey are not in use.• Once Ni-MH batteries have reached fullcharge, do not charge them continuously.• Do not peel off or scratch the coveredseal.• Read the operating instructions for thebattery charger.Ni-MH batteries have a limited life. Thecapacity of the batteries decreasesgradually over time. If available time seemsmuch shorter, the battery life may beexpired. Purchase new batteries.If any leakage from the batteries is noted,remove the batteries, thoroughly wipe offthe battery electrolyte in the batteryhousing and then insert new batteries orfully charged Ni-MH batteries.If leaked battery electrolyte contacts yourhand or cloth, wash with water. Batteryelectrolyte may cause loss of sight if itcomes in contact with your eyes. In suchcases, do not rub at your eyes.Immediately wash your eyes with purewater and consult a doctor.