Introduction
This instruction manual provides comprehensive guidance for the safe and effective use of your Vivitar Vivicam V3815 4-megapixel digital camera. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the camera to ensure proper setup, function, and maintenance. Retain this manual for future reference.
Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the main components and controls of your Vivitar Vivicam V3815 digital camera.

Figure 1: Rear View of Vivitar Vivicam V3815 Digital Camera
The image displays the rear view of the Vivitar Vivicam V3815 digital camera. The 1.4-inch LCD screen is visible, displaying a sample image of a person. To the right of the screen are the 'MODE' and 'MENU' buttons, along with a four-way controller with an 'OK/Q' button in the center, and icons for flash and trash.
Key Components:
- Lens: Fixed focus lens.
- Flash: Built-in autoflash system.
- LCD Display: 1.4-inch color TFT screen for viewing images, videos, and menu options.
- Control Buttons: MODE, MENU, and a directional pad with an OK/Q button for navigation and selection.
- Battery Compartment: Located on the camera body for AA batteries.
- Memory Card Slot: For optional SD memory cards.
- USB Port: For connecting to a computer.
- Video Out Port: For connecting to a television.
Setup
1. Battery Installation
- Locate the battery compartment cover on the camera.
- Open the cover and insert two AA-size batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
- Close the battery compartment cover securely.
Note: Alkaline batteries are included. For extended use, rechargeable Ni-MH batteries are recommended (not included).
2. Memory Card Installation (Optional)
The camera has 16 MB of built-in memory. For additional storage, an SD (Secure Digital) memory card (up to 512 MB) can be used.
- Locate the SD card slot on the camera.
- Insert the SD card with the metal contacts facing down until it clicks into place.
- To remove, gently push the card in until it springs out.
3. Initial Power On
Press the power button to turn on the camera. The LCD display will activate. You may need to set the date and time upon first use or after battery replacement.
Operating Instructions
1. Taking Still Photos
- Turn on the camera.
- Ensure the camera is in still photo mode (indicated on the LCD). Use the MODE button to switch if necessary.
- Frame your shot using the LCD display. The camera features fixed focus.
- Press the shutter button fully to capture the image.
Digital Zoom: The camera supports 2x digital zoom. Use the zoom controls (often integrated with directional pad) to adjust magnification before taking a photo.
2. Recording Video Clips
- Turn on the camera.
- Press the MODE button to select movie-clip mode.
- Press the shutter button to start recording. Press it again to stop.
Note: Video clips are recorded without audio. Maximum duration is approximately one minute at 320 x 240 resolution.
3. Playback Mode
- Press the MODE button to enter playback mode.
- Use the directional buttons to navigate through your captured photos and videos.
- Press the OK/Q button to view a selected item or play a video.
- To delete an image or video, select it and press the trash icon button (often integrated with directional pad). Confirm deletion when prompted.
4. Menu Settings
Press the MENU button to access camera settings. Use the directional pad to navigate and the OK/Q button to select options.
- Scene Modes: Select from Auto, Sports, Night, Portrait, Landscape, or Back-light for optimized shooting conditions.
- Color Modes: Choose between Color, Black & White, or Sepia-tone.
- Sharpness and Saturation: Adjust these settings to fine-tune image appearance.
- Self-Timer: Set a delay of 5 or 10 seconds before the shutter fires.
- Flash Modes: The 4-mode autoflash system automatically adjusts based on lighting conditions.
- Resolution: Select image resolution (e.g., 2304 x 1728, 1600 x 1200, 1280 x 960, 640 x 480). Higher resolution results in larger file sizes and fewer images stored.
Connecting to a Computer
To transfer photos and videos to your computer:
- Ensure the camera is turned off.
- Connect the camera to your computer using the supplied USB cable.
- Turn on the camera. Your computer should recognize the camera as a removable storage device.
- Access the camera's internal memory or SD card (if inserted) to copy files to your computer.
- Safely eject the camera from your computer before disconnecting the USB cable.
Note: A CD-ROM with necessary software may be included for older operating systems or specific functionalities. For Windows XP and newer, drivers are often not required as the camera functions as a mass storage device.
Maintenance and Care
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the camera body. For the lens and LCD screen, use a lens cleaning cloth specifically designed for optical surfaces. Avoid abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.
- Storage: Store the camera in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity. If storing for an extended period, remove the batteries.
- Battery Handling: Always use the correct type of batteries. Remove depleted batteries promptly to prevent leakage. Do not mix old and new batteries or different types of batteries.
- Water Resistance: This camera is not water-resistant. Avoid exposure to water or moisture.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause / Solution |
|---|---|
| Camera does not power on. |
|
| Images are blurry. |
|
| Flash does not fire. |
|
| Date and time settings reset. |
|
| Cannot transfer files to computer. |
|
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Sensor Type | 4 Megapixel CMOS |
| Effective Still Resolution | 4 MP |
| Maximum Still Resolution | 2304 x 1728 pixels |
| Digital Zoom | 2x (4x during playback) |
| Focus Type | Fixed Focus Autofocus |
| Display | 1.4-inch Color TFT LCD |
| Internal Memory | 16 MB built-in non-volatile flash memory |
| External Memory | SD Card (up to 512 MB, not included) |
| Video Mode | Yes (320 x 240, approx. 1 minute, no audio) |
| Connectivity | USB 1.1/2.0 compatible |
| Power Source | 2 x AA Alkaline batteries (included) or Ni-MH (not included) |
| Flash | Built-in, 4-mode autoflash system |
| Shooting Modes | Fully automatic, Scene modes (Auto, Sports, Night, Portrait, Landscape, Back-light) |
| Color Modes | Color, Black & White, Sepia-tone |
| Self-Timer | 5 or 10 seconds |
| Weight | 0.14 Kilograms (without batteries) |
What's in the Box
The Vivitar Vivicam V3815 package includes the following items:
- Vivitar Vivicam V3815 Digital Camera
- USB Cable
- Video Cable
- Hand Strap
- Carrying Pouch
- 2 x AA Alkaline Batteries
- Instruction Manual (this document)
- CD-ROM with software
Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Vivitar website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.





