Canon XA60 Professional UHD 4K Camcorder

1. Introduction

The Canon XA60 Professional UHD 4K Camcorder is a compact and powerful device designed for capturing high-quality video. It features a 1/2.3" CMOS sensor, DIGIC DV6 processor, and a 20x optical zoom lens, making it suitable for a wide range of professional applications, from documentary filmmaking to live streaming.

This manual provides detailed instructions on how to set up, operate, and maintain your XA60 camcorder to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Figure 1.1: The Canon XA60 Professional UHD 4K Camcorder, a compact and powerful device for high-quality video capture.

2. What's in the Box

Your Canon XA60 Professional UHD 4K Camcorder package should contain the following items:

• XA60 Body
• Handle Unit
• PD-E1 USB Power Adapter
• BP-820 Battery Pack
• Lens Hood with Lens Barrier
• Microphone Holder Unit (Mic Holder)
• Lens Cap

Figure 2.1: All components included with the Canon XA60 camcorder. (A) XA60 Body, (B) Handle Unit, (C) PD-E1 USB Power Adapter, (D) BP-820 Battery Pack, (E) Lens Hood with Lens Barrier, (F) Mic Holder.

3. Setup

3.1. Charging the Battery

Before first use, fully charge the BP-820 Battery Pack using the provided PD-E1 USB Power Adapter. Connect the adapter to the camcorder and a power outlet. The charging indicator will show the charging status.

3.2. Attaching the Handle Unit

Align the handle unit with the accessory shoe on top of the camcorder body. Slide it forward until it clicks into place. Secure it with the locking screw. The handle unit provides additional controls and XLR audio inputs.

3.3. Inserting an SD Card

The XA60 features dual SD card slots for flexible recording options. Open the SD card slot cover on the side of the camcorder. Insert an SDXC memory card into either slot A or B until it clicks. Ensure the card is inserted in the correct orientation. Close the cover securely.

Figure 3.1: A hand inserting an SD card into one of the dual SD card slots on the Canon XA60 camcorder, illustrating the simultaneous recording capability.

3.4. Attaching the Lens Hood

Attach the lens hood to the front of the lens by aligning the marks and twisting until it locks. The lens hood helps to reduce flare and protect the lens. The integrated lens barrier can be opened and closed as needed.

4. Operating the Camcorder

4.1. Powering On/Off

To power on the camcorder, slide the POWER switch to the ON position. To power off, slide it to the OFF position. Ensure the lens barrier is open before recording.

4.2. Basic Recording

Press the REC START/STOP button to begin and end recording. The recording indicator will illuminate during recording. The 3.5" touchscreen LCD and tiltable OLED EVF allow for flexible framing and monitoring.

Figure 4.1: The Canon XA60 camcorder with its LCD touchscreen open, displaying a live view, ready for recording.

4.3. Zoom and Focus

Use the zoom rocker on the handle or camcorder body to control the 20x optical zoom lens. For precise focusing, switch between auto-focus (AF) and manual focus (MF) modes. Face detection focusing is also available.

Figure 4.2: An image illustrating the 20x optical zoom capability of the Canon XA60, showing a subject zoomed in from a distance.

4.4. Advanced Recording Features

• 4K UHD and Full HD Recording: The XA60 supports recording in stunning 4K UHD (160Mbps at 30P/24P) and Full HD (45Mbps at 60P/60i/30P/24P) using XF-AVC and MP4 formats.
• Dynamic IS 5-axis Image Stabilization: This feature ensures steady and shake-free footage, even in challenging shooting conditions.


Figure 4.3: A diagram illustrating the multi-directional compensation provided by the 5-axis image stabilization system of the Canon XA60.

• OSD Time Stamp Recording: Embed date, time, and timecode directly into your videos, ideal for legal and law enforcement applications.

Figure 4.4: The Canon XA60 camcorder's display showing the On-Screen Display (OSD) Time Stamp recording feature activated.
• Slow and Fast Motion Recording: Capture unique effects with fast (up to 1200x) or slow (down to 0.4x) motion recording capabilities.


Figure 4.5: An illustration highlighting the key internal components of the Canon XA60: the optical zoom lens, 4K UHD sensor, and DIGIC DV6 processor.

4.5. Audio Control

The detachable handle unit includes two XLR terminals and supports 4-channel linear PCM audio, providing professional-level audio input options for high-quality sound recording.

4.6. Live Streaming and Connectivity

The XA60 supports HD live streaming to a PC or Mac via USB Type-C output with UVC* support. It also features Mini-HDMI video output for connecting to external monitors or recording devices.

*Note: A USB-C cable (e.g., IFC-400U, or IFC-150AB III) is required and not included. Audio output through USB is not supported.

Figure 4.6: A close-up of the Canon XA60 camcorder showing a USB-C cable being connected, highlighting its versatile connectivity options for live streaming and data transfer.

5. Maintenance

5.1. Cleaning the Camcorder

• Body: Wipe the camcorder body with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, use a cloth lightly dampened with water and then wipe dry.
• Lens: Use a lens brush to remove dust, then gently wipe with a lens cleaning cloth and lens cleaning solution. Avoid touching the lens surface with your fingers.
• LCD Screen: Use a soft, dry cloth specifically designed for LCD screens. Do not use alcohol-based cleaners.

5.2. Storage

When not in use for extended periods, store the camcorder in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Remove the battery before storage to prevent leakage.

6. Troubleshooting

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

8.1. Warranty Information

Canon products typically come with a limited manufacturer's warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Canon website for specific warranty terms and conditions applicable to your region.

8.2. Customer Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or service inquiries, please contact Canon customer support. You can find contact information and additional resources on the official Canon Store on Amazon or the main Canon website.

When contacting support, please have your camcorder's model number (XA60 / 5733C002) and serial number ready.