are you sure you are using the right tape? i am not aware that Panasonic ever made either video 8 or Hi8 camcorders, a google search comes up empty. Panasonic did make VHS-C and SVHS-C camcorders and of course the current line of miniDV. all of these...
Many Panasonic manuals can be downloaded from Not this apparently, so you may have to call them (800-833-9626) and order one from their parts center.
The 3ccd represents the number of chips and how it intakes image information. There are single chip and 3 chip HD camcorders available. Panasonic, Sony and JVC all have 3ccd HD camcorders. The Panasonic HSC1U is good for the price.