Canon zr65 does not work on battery power

This is a known problem.
Broken loading gear, Example: canon zr65 replace broken gear
Canon XL2 and ZR65 uses same tape drive system.

Internal battery needs replacement

This link may help you :

Canon Camera ZR65 MC

Go to this link below to look at downloads for your camera and support. There are some PDF manuals that you can look at also and other support information for your camera. Just copy and paste into your browser.

http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&tabact=DownloadDetailTabAct&fcategoryid=326&modelid=8620#DownloadDetailAct

Hope this helps. Let me know if I can help you with anything else.
JimmyC

Make sure battery cables are tight and posts of battery are not loose

Check you power button is unserviceable.
Open the cabinet disconnect the power On cable from front panel and short with screw driver for starting if computer is working fine. then power on switch is unserviceable,
Check the power supply also

can this camcorder (canon ntsc zr65 mc ) can the video be downloaded to my mac laptop?

The CCD is not involved with playback, only the read heads. Your CCD could indeed be faulty. If the audio failed, it likely has circuit board issues which may affect the CCD even though it is working.
http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&tabact=SupportDetailTabAct&fcategoryid=227&modelid=8620
This page details FAQ's, and authorized service centers where you can get it repaired.

go to canon website there is a recall for zr65 camcorders, they will fix it for free