Sony DCR-HC90E manual

Printed in Japan Printed on 100% recycled paper using V OC (V olatile Organic Compound)-free vegetab le oil based ink. © 2005 Sony Corporation D ig i t al V id e o C a me r a R ec o r de r O p e ra t i ng G u id e DCR-HC90E 2-548-308- 11 (1) Using the Menu Dubbing/Editing Using a Computer T roub leshooting Additional Inf ormation 34 58 68 80 102 G[...]

2 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Read this first Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly , and retain it for future reference. WARNING T o prevent fire or shoc k hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. “Memory Stick” N50 FOR CUSTOMERS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM NOTICE ON THE SUPPLIED AC ADAPTOR A moulded plug complying[...]

3 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) the connector plug forcibly in the wrong direction, the terminal may be damaged, or this may cause a malfunction of your camcorder . On the menu items, LCD panel, viewfinder , and lens • A menu item that is grayed out is not av ailable under the current recording or playback conditions. • The LCD screen and the view[...]

4 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) T able of Contents Getting Started Step 1: Checking supplied items ............................................................... 7 Step 2: Charging the battery pack ............................................................. 8 Step 3: T urning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly ........... 11 Step 4: Adj[...]

5 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Searching f or the star ting point ............................................................... 29 Searching for the last scene of the most r ecent recor ding (END SEARCH) ..............................................................................................29 Searching manually (EDIT SEARCH) .................[...]

6 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Printing recorded images (PictBr idge compliant printer) ......................... 65 Jac ks to connect external devices ........................................................... 67 Using a Computer Bef ore referring to the “First Step Guide” on y our computer ...................68 Installing the software and “Fi[...]

7 Getting Started DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Step 1: Checking supplied items Make sure that you hav e following items supplied with your camcorder . The number in the parentheses indicates the number of that item supplied. “Memory Stick Duo” 16MB (1) (p . 16, 104) Memory Stick Duo adaptor (1) (p. 105) AC Adaptor (1) (p . 8) Mains lead (1) (p . 8[...]

8 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Step 2: Charging the batter y pack Y ou can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (A series) (p. 106) after attaching it to your camcorder . DC IN jack DC plug POWER s witch T o the wall soc ket AC Adaptor Mains lead 1 Slide the battery/“Memory Stick Duo” cover in the direction of the arro w to open it. 1 2 Be su[...]

9 Getting Started DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) 4 Slide the PO WER switch up to OFF (CHG). (The default setting.) /CHG (charge) lamp 5 Connect the A C Adaptor to the DC IN jack on y our camcorder . The  mark faces right 6 Connect the mains lead to the A C Adaptor and the wall socket. The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and charging starts. 7 The CHG (ch[...]

10 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Charging time Approximate time (min.) required when you fully charge a fully dischar ged battery pack. Battery pack Charging time NP-F A50 (supplied) 125 NP-F A70 155 Recording time Approximate time (min.) av ailable when you use a fully charged battery pack. Battery pack Continuous recording time* T ypical recording ti[...]

11 Getting Started DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Step 3: T urning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly T o record or play back, slide the PO WER switch repeatedly to turn on the respectiv e lamp. When using it for the first time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 14). POWER s witch 1 Slide the PO WER switch repeatedly in the direction of t[...]

12 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder The LCD panel Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (  ), then rotate it to the best angle to record or play (  ). 1 2 DISP/BA TT INFO 180 degrees (max.) 90 degrees to the camcorder 90 degrees (max.) • Do not press the b uttons on the LCD frame accidentall[...]

13 Getting Started DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Step 5: Using the touch panel Y ou can play back recorded pictures (p. 21), or change the settings (p. 34) using the touch panel. Place your hand on the rear side of the LCD panel to support it. Then, touch the buttons displa yed on the screen. T ouch the button on the LCD screen. DISP/BA TT INFO • Per[...]

14 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Step 6: Setting the date and time Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears ev ery time you turn on your camcorder or change the PO WER switch position. • If you do not use your camcorder for about 3 months , the built-in re[...]

15 Getting Started DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memor y Stick Duo” Cassette tape Y ou can use mini D V cassettes only (p. 103). • The recordable time v aries depending on [REC MODE] (p. 51). 1 Slide and hold the OPEN/ EJECT lever in the direction of the arro w and open the lid. OPEN/EJECT lev er Lid The cassette co[...]

16 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) “Memory Stick Duo” Y ou can use only a “Memory Stick Duo” marked with or (p. 104). • The number and time of recordable pictures varies depending on the image quality or the image size. For details, see page 43. 1 Slide the battery/“Memory Stick Duo” cover in the direction of the arro w to open it. 1 2 Be s[...]

17 Getting Started DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Step 8: Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3) of the recording picture By recording in the 16:9 (wide) mode, you can enjoy wide-angle, high-resolution pictures. • If you intend to vie w pictures on a wide TV , recording in the 16:9 (wide) mode is recommended. WIDE SELECT button POWER s witch Selecti[...]

18 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Recording/Playback with ease (Easy Handycam) W ith this Easy Handycam operation, most of the camera settings are automatically adjusted optimally , which frees you from detailed adjustment. Since only basic functions become av ailable and screen font size increases for easy viewing, e ven first time users can enjoy eas[...]

19 Recording/Playback DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Playing back with ease 1 Slide the PO WER switch  in the direction of the arro w repeatedly to turn on the PLA Y/EDIT lamp. 2 Press EASY  . EASY The EASY lights up in blue. E a s y H an dy ca m o p e r at io n O N 3 Start playing back. Movies T ouch , then touch to start playback. Slow playback [...]

20 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Recording Lens cov er Opens in accordance with the setting of the PO WER switch. PHO T O POWER s witch REC ST ART/ST OP  REC ST ART/ ST OP  1 Slide the PO WER switch in the direction of the arro w repeatedly to turn on the respective lamp to select a recording medium. If the PO WER switch is set to OFF , slide it [...]

21 Recording/Playback DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Playback 1 Slide the PO WER switch in the direction of the arro w repeatedly to turn on the PLA Y/EDIT lamp. 2 Start playing back. Movies On a T ape: T ouch , then touch to start playback. A B C  Stop  Play/P ause toggles as you touch it  Re wind/Fast forward • Playback automatically stops [...]

22 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Functions used for recording/playback, etc. 3 4 2 1 5 7 8 9 6 q; Recording T o use zoom ......................   Move the po wer zoom lever  slightly for a slower zoom. Mo ve it further for a faster zoom. Wider range of view: (Wide angle) Close view: ( T elephoto ) • Y ou cannot change the zoom speed with the[...]

23 Recording/Playback DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) the lamp. • The flash char ge lamp flickers when charging the flash, and remains lit when the battery charge is complete. (In the CAMERA-T APE mode, it takes a while to fully charge the flash lamp since it charges its battery with the flash lamp open.) • If you use the flash in bright places[...]

24 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) qa qs qf qd 7 qh qg Recording/playback T o check the remaining batter y (Battery Info) ..........................  Set the PO WER switch up to OFF (CHG), then press DISP/B A TT INFO  . The battery information appears for about 7 seconds. Keep the b utton pressed to view it for about 20 seconds. Remaining battery ([...]

25 Recording/Playback DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1)[...]

26 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Indicators displayed during recording/playback Recording movies On a tape 1 3 2 4 5 7 6  Remaining battery (approx.)  Recording mode (  or  ) (51)  Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or [REC] (recording))  T ime code (hour: minute: second: frame)/T ape counter (hour: minute: second)  Recording[...]

27 Recording/Playback DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) ( ) is a reference page. The indicators during recording will not be recorded. Viewing movies On a tape 1 2 qd 4 5 7 qf  T ape transport indicator  V ideo operation buttons (21) When there is a “Memory Stick Duo” inserted in the camcorder , (STOP) changes to (“Memory Stick Duo” playback)[...]

28 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Indicators when you made changes Y ou can check the [DISP GUIDE] (p. 13) to check the function of each indicator that appears on the LCD screen. Upper left Upper right + 3 Bottom Center Upper left Indicator Meaning EXT SUR MIC (52) 4CH MIC REC recording (52) A UDIO MODE (51) Continuous photo recording (43) Self-timer re[...]

29 Recording/Playback DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Searching for the starting point Make sure that the CAMERA-T APE lamp lights up. Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording (END SEARCH) [END SEARCH] will not work once you eject the cassette after you hav e recorded on the tape. T ouch  . EN D SE AR CH EX EC UT IN G CANCEL 0: 0 0: 0[...]

30 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Remote Commander Remove the insulation sheet before using the Remote Commander . Insulation sheet 6 1 q; 2 3 4 5 7 8 9  PHOT O (p. 20) The on-screen image when you press this button will be recorded as a still image.  SEARCH M. (p. 29)*    *  V ideo control buttons (Rewind, Playback, Fast-forward, P au[...]

31 Recording/Playback DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) T o cancel the operation Press ZER O SET MEMOR Y  again. Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) Y ou can locate the point where the recording date changes. 1 Slide the PO WER switch down to turn on the PLA Y/EDIT lamp. 2 Press SEARCH M.  . 3 Press  (previous)/  (next) [...]

32 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Playing the picture on a TV Connect your camcorder to the wall socket using the supplied A C Adaptor for this operation (p. 8). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. A/V 2 1 A/V jack (Y ellow) (White) (Red) VCRs or TVs : Signal flow  A/V connecting cable (supplied) Connect [...]

33 Recording/Playback DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) • When you play back a picture recorded in 16:9 aspect ratio on a 4:3 TV not compatible with the 16:9 signal, set [TV TYPE] to [4:3]. When your TV is monaural (When your TV has only one audio input jack) Connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable to the video input jack and connect the whit[...]

34 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Using the menu items Follo w the instructions below to use each of the menu items listed after this page. 1 Slide the PO WER switch down to turn on the respective lamp. [CAMERA-T APE] lamp: settings on a tape [CAMERA-MEMOR Y] lamp: settings on a “Memory Stick Duo” [PLA Y/EDIT] lamp: settings for viewing/editing 2 T [...]

35 Using the Menu DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) After finishing the settings, touch  (close) to hide the menu screen. If you decide not to change the setting, touch to return to the pre vious screen.[...]

36 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Menu items Position of lamp: T APE MEMOR Y PLAY/EDIT CAMERA SET menu (p. 38) PROGRAM AE   × SPOT METER   × EXPOSURE   × WHITE BAL.   × SHARPNESS   × AUTO SHUTTER  × × AE SHIFT   × SPOT FOCUS   × FOCUS   × TELE MACRO   × FLASH SET   × SUPER NS [...]

37 Using the Menu DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) A vailable menu items (  ) v ary depending on the position of the lamp. * These functions are av ailable during Easy Handycam operation. Position of lamp: T APE MEMOR Y PLAY/EDIT PRINT × ×  EDIT/PLA Y menu (p. 50) V AR. SPD PB × ×  REC CTRL × ×  AUD DUB CTRL × ×  REC MOVIE × × [...]

38 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) CAMERA SET menu Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (EXPOSURE/WHITE BAL./STEADYSHOT , etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 34 for details on selecting menu items. PROGRAM AE Y ou can record pictures effecti v[...]

39 Using the Menu DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) EXPOSURE Y ou can fix the brightness of a picture manually . When recording indoors on a clear day , for instance, you can av oid backlight shadows on people ne xt to the window by fixing the e xposure to that of the wall side of the room. 2 1 3  T ouch [MANU AL].  Adjust the exposure by touching [...]

40 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) AE SHIFT Y ou can adjust the exposure using / . and the setting value appear when the exposure is anything other than the default setting. • T ouch if the subject is white or the backlight is bright, or touch if the subject is black or the light is dim. • Y ou can adjust the automatic exposure le vel to brighter or [...]

41 Using the Menu DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) FLASH SET Note that these settings will not function with external flashes (optional) that do not support the following settings.  FLASH LEVEL HIGH( ) Makes the flash le vel higher .  NORMAL( ) LOW( ) Makes the flash le vel lo wer . • The setting returns to [NORMAL] when you disconnect the powe[...]

42 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1)  OFF The zebra pattern is not displayed. 70 The zebra pattern appears at a screen brightness lev el of about 70 IRE. 100 The zebra pattern appears at a screen brightness lev el of about 100 IRE or higher . • Portions of the screen where brightness is about 100 IRE or above may appear o verexposed. • The zebra pat[...]

43 Using the Menu DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) MEMOR Y SET menu Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo” (QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/BURST/ALL ERASE/ NEW FOLDER, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 34 for details on selecting menu items. STILL SET  BURST Y ou can record [...]

44 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) 2016 × 1512 * 1600 × 1200 * 640 × 480* 512MB 300 720 480 1100 2850 7200 1GB 610 1450 980 2250 5900 14500 In 16:9 aspect ratio 2016 × 1134 * 640 × 360* 8MB 6 16 60 120 16MB (supplied) 13 32 115 240 32MB 27 65 240 485 64MB 54 130 490 980 128MB 105 260 980 1970 256MB 195 470 1750 3550 512MB 400 960 3600 7200 1GB 820 1[...]

45 Using the Menu DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) ALL ERASE Deletes all the pictures on a “Memory Stick Duo” without image protection, or in the selected folder .  Select [ALL FILES] or [CURRENT FOLDER]. [ALL FILES]: Deletes all the images on the “Memory Stick Duo. ” [CURRENT FOLDER]: Deletes all the images in the selected folder .  T ouch [...]

46 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) PICT .APPLI. menu Special effects on pictures or additional functions on recording/playback (PICT . EFFECT/SLIDE SHOW/SMTH INT .REC/INT . REC-STL, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 34 for details on selecting menu items. F ADER Y o[...]

47 Using the Menu DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1)  Select [ALL FILES ( )] or [CURRENT FOLDER ( )], then touch . If you select [CURRENT FOLDER ( )], all the images in the current playback folder selected in [PB FOLDER] (p. 45) are played back in sequence.  T ouch [REPEA T].  Select [ON] or [OFF], then . T o repeat the slide show , select [ON ]. T[...]

48 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) SLOW SHUTTR (slow shutter) The shutter speed is slowed do wn. Suitable for shooting a subject more clearly in a dark place. • Adjust the focus manually using a tripod since adjusting the focus automatically is hard when [SLOW SHUTTR] is selected. ([FOCUS], p. 40) OLD MOVIE Adds an old movie ef fect with a sepia hue to[...]

49 Using the Menu DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) SMTH INT .REC (Smooth interval tape recording) Y our camcorder will shoot 1 frame of the picture at a selected interval and keep them in memory until it has stored sev eral frames. This function is useful to observe the mov ement of clouds or the changes of daylight. These pictures appear smooth when play[...]

50 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) EDIT/PLA Y menu Settings for editing or playing back in various modes (V AR.SPD PB/END SEARCH, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 34 for details on selecting menu items. V AR.SPD PB (Various speed playback) Y ou can play back in var[...]

51 Using the Menu DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) ST ANDARD SET menu Settings while recording on a tape or other basic settings (REC MODE/MUL TI-SOUND/ LCD/VF SET/DISP OUTPUT/USB, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 34 for details on selecting menu items. REC MODE (Re[...]

52 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) EXT SUR MIC (External surround microphone) Y ou can enjoy 5.1ch surround sound by following the procedure belo w , using an optional microphone and a Sony V AIO series personal computer . Recording Attach the ECM-HQP1 microphone (optional) to your camcorder and make a recording. Record four audio channels (front-left, f[...]

53 Using the Menu DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) • When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is reduced by about 10 percent during recording.  LCD COLOR Y ou can adjust the color on the LCD screen with / . Low intensity High intensity  VF B.LIGHT Y ou can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder .  NORMAL Standard brightness. BRIGHT Brightens th[...]

54 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) GUIDEFRAME Y ou can display the frame and check that the subject is horizontal or vertical by setting [GUIDEFRAME] to [ON]. The frame is not recorded. Press DISP/B A TT INFO to make the frame disappear . DA T A CODE Displays information recorded automatically (data code) during recording.  OFF Data code is not displa[...]

55 Using the Menu DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) DISP OUTPUT  LCD P ANEL Shows displays such as the time code on the LCD screen and in the viewfinder . V-OUT/P ANEL Shows displays such as the time code on the TV screen, LCD screen, and in the viewfinder . MENU ROT A TE  NORMAL Scrolls the menu items downw ards by touching . OPPOSITE Scrolls the [...]

56 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Customizing Personal Menu Y ou can add desired menu items to Personal Menu, and customize Personal Menu settings for each PO WER switch position. This is con venient if you add frequently used menu items to Personal Menu. Adding a menu item Y ou can add up to 28 menu items for each PO WER switch position. Delete a less [...]

57 Using the Menu DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Arranging the order of menu items displayed on Personal Menu 1 T ouch  [P-MENU SET UP]  [SORT]. If the desired menu item is not displayed, touch / . 2 T ouch the menu item y ou want to move. 3 T ouch / to mo ve the menu item to the desired place. 4 T ouch . T o sort more items, repeat steps 2 to 4 .[...]

58 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Connecting to a VCR or TV Connect your camcorder to the wall socket using the supplied A C Adaptor for this operation (p. 8). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. DV A/V 2 3 1 A/V jack A UDIO/ VIDEO jacks (Y ellow) (White) (Red) VCRs or TVs T o S VIDEO jack T o i.LINK (IEEE139[...]

59 Dubbing/Editing DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Dubbing to another device such as a VCR, DVD recorder , etc. Y ou can copy the picture played back on your camcorder to other recording devices (such as VCRs or DVD recorders). 1 Connect your VCR/D VD recorder to your camcor der as a recording device. See page 58 for connection details. 2 Prepare your VC[...]

60 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Recording pictures from a VCR or TV Y ou can record pictures or TV programs from a VCR or TV on a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo. ” Y ou can also record a scene as a still image on a “Memory Stick Duo. ” Be sure to insert a cassette or a “Memory Stick Duo” for recording in your camcorder beforehand. • Y our c[...]

61 Dubbing/Editing DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Dubbing pictures from a tape to a “Memor y Stick Duo” Y ou can record movies or still images on a “Memory Stick Duo. ” Make sure you hav e a recorded tape and a “Memory Stick Duo” inserted into your camcorder . 1 Slide the PO WER switch down to turn on the PLA Y/EDIT lamp. 2 Search and recor [...]

62 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Dubbing sound to a recorded tape Y ou can add sound to a tape already recorded in the 12-bit mode (p. 51) without erasing the original sound. Connecting A/V R L LINE OUT  Active Interface Shoe  Internal microphone A/V connecting cable (supplied) (white) Do not connect the V ideo plug (yellow).  A/V jack (red) A[...]

63 Dubbing/Editing DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) the A/V jack. Check the picture on the LCD screen or the viewfinder . • When you attach an e xternal microphone (optional) to the Active Interface Shoe, you can check the picture and the sound by connecting your camcorder to a TV or other de vice using the A/V connecting cable. Howev er , sound you ar[...]

64 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Deleting recorded pictures from the “Memor y Stick Duo” 1 Slide the PO WER switch down to turn on the PLA Y/EDIT lamp. 2 T ouch . 101 2 / 10 101–0001 60 min P- ME NU ME MO R Y PLA Y ME MO R Y PLA Y 2016 60 min 101–0001 3 Select a picture you want to delete with / . • T o delete all pictures at once, select [AL[...]

65 Dubbing/Editing DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Selecting still images for printing (Print mark) The DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) standard is used to select images for printing on your camcorder . By marking images that you want to print out, you do not need to reselect them when you print them out. (Y ou cannot specify the number of printouts.) [...]

66 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) • W e cannot guarantee the operation of models that are not PictBridge compatible. Printing 1 Select the image to be printed with / . 2 T ouch  [COPIES]. 3 Select the number of copies to be printed with / . Y ou can set a maximum of 20 copies of one image to be printed. 4 T ouch  [END]. T o print the date on the[...]

67 Dubbing/Editing DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Jacks to connect external devices DV 1 3 4 2 6 5  Active Interf ace Shoe (p. 62) The Active Interf ace Shoe supplies power to optional accessories such as a video light, a flash, or a microphone. The accessory can be turned on or off as you operate the PO WER switch on your camcorder . Refer to the o[...]

68 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on your computer When you install the Picture Package software on a Windo ws computer from the supplied CD-R OM, you can enjoy the following operations by connecting your camcorder to your computer . • Software and features a vailable for Macintosh computers differ from t[...]

69 Using a Computer DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) About “First Step Guide” “First Step Guide” is an instruction manual you can refer to on your computer . This “First Step Guide” describes basic operations, from initial hookup of your camcorder and computer and making settings, to general operation the first time you use the software store[...]

70 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Others: USB port (This must be provided as standard), disc driv e  For Macintosh users When using ImageMixer VCD2 OS: Mac OS X (v10.1.5 or later) CPU: iMac, eMac, iBook, PowerBook, PowerMac G3/G4/G5 series Memory: 128 MB or more Hard disk: A v ailable memory required for installation: 250 MB or more A vailable free h[...]

71 Using a Computer DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1)  Double-click [My Computer].  Double-click [PICTUREP ACKA GE] (Disc driv e).* * Dri ve names (such as (E:)) may vary depending on the computer . 4 Click [Install]. Depending on the OS on the computer , a message appears notifying you that “First Step Guide” cannot be installed automatically wi[...]

72 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) 10 Select the language for “First Step Guide” to be installed, then clic k [Next]. Depending on the computer , this screen may not be displayed. In such a case, skip to step 12. 11 Click [Next] to install the “First Step Guide”. 12 Click [Next], then follow the on-screen instructions to install ImageMixer VCD2. [...]

73 Using a Computer DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) 14 Make sure [Y es, I want to restart my computer no w.] is chec ked, then clic k [Finish]. The computer turns off once, then starts up again automatically (Restart). The short-cut icons for [Picture Package Menu] and [Picture Package Menu destination Folder] (and “First Step Guide”, if installed by[...]

74 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Viewing “First Step Guide” Displaying “First Step Guide” Starting up on a Windows computer V iewing with Microsoft Internet Explorer V er .6.0 or later is recommended. Double-click the icon on the desktop. Y ou can also start by selecting [Start], [Programs] ([All Programs] for W indows XP), [Picture Package], a[...]

75 Using a Computer DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Creating a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”) Y ou can create D VDs when you connect your camcorder to a Sony V AIO series computer* that supports “Click to D VD” via an i.LINK cable (optional). The picture is automatically copied and written to a D VD. The following procedures describe ho w [...]

76 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) 1 T urn on the computer . Quit all applications running with an i.LINK. 2 Prepare the power sour ce for your camcor der , then slide the PO WER switch down to turn on the PLA Y/ EDIT lamp. Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the power source since it tak es a few hours to create a D VD. 3 Insert a recorded cassette into your[...]

77 Using a Computer DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) T o cancel the operation T ouch [CANCEL] on the LCD screen on your camcorder . • Y ou cannot cancel the operation after [Finalizing D VD.] is displayed on the LCD screen of your camcorder . • Do not disconnect the i.LINK cable or set the POWER switch to another mode on your camcorder until the pictu[...]

78 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Connecting an analog VCR to the computer via your camcorder (Signal convert function) Using the A/V connecting cable and an i.LINK cable (optional), you can conv ert an analog signal output from an analog device such as a VCR to a digital signal and transfer it to a digital device, such as a computer , via your camcorde[...]

79 Using a Computer DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) 3 On the LCD screen, touch  [MENU]  (ST ANDARD SET)  [A/V  D V OUT]  [ON]  . 4 Start playback on the analog video unit. 5 Start capturing procedures on your computer . Regarding operation, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the software or the on-line help. After capturi[...]

80 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) T roubleshooting If you run into any problems using your camcorder , use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. If the problem persists, remove the po wer source and contact your Sony dealer . Overall operations/Easy Handycam The power does not turn on. • The battery pack is discharged, running lo w , or not[...]

81 T roubleshooting DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) The CHG (charge) lamp does not light while the battery pack is being c harged. • Slide the PO WER switch up to OFF (CHG) (p. 8). • Attach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly (p. 8). • No power is supplied from the w all socket. (p. 8). • The battery charge is completed (p. 8). The CHG (c[...]

82 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) LCD screen/viewfinder An unknown picture appears on the LCD screen or vie wfinder . • The camcorder is in [DEMO MODE] (p. 49). T ouch the LCD screen or insert a cassette or a “Memory Stick Duo” to cancel [DEMO MODE]. An unknown indicator appears on the screen. • Refer to the indicator list (p. 98). The picture[...]

83 T roubleshooting DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) The cassette is not ejected even when the cassette lid is open. • Moisture condensation is starting in your camcorder (p. 109). The Cassette Memory indicator or title display does not appear while using a cassette with Cassette Memory . • This camcorder does not support Cassette Memory , so the indi[...]

84 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Y ou cannot mark pictures for print. • Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo. ” (p. 104) • Perform the operation again on the index screen (p. 65). • The maximum number of pictures you can mark for print is 999. • Movies cannot be marked for print. The data file name is not indi[...]

85 T roubleshooting DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Y ou cannot record a smooth transition on a tape from the last recor ded scene to the next. • Note the following. – Perform END SEARCH. (p. 29) – Do not remove the cassette. (The picture will be recorded continuously without a break ev en when you turn the power of f.) – Do not record pictures i[...]

86 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Adjusting the image during recording Refer also to “Menu” (p. 89). The auto focus does not function. • Set [FOCUS] to [A UTO] (p. 40). • The recording conditions are not suitable for auto focus. Adjust the focus manually (p. 40). [STEAD YSHO T] does not function. • Set [STEAD YSHOT] to [ON] (p. 42). The BA CK [...]

87 T roubleshooting DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) The picture appears too dark on the screen, and the subject does not appear on the screen. • The LCD backlight is turned off. Press and hold DISP/B A TT INFO for a few seconds to turn on the backlight (p. 12). Flickering or changes in color occur s. • This occurs when recording pictures under a flu[...]

88 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Fine patterns flicker , diagonal lines look jagged. • Adjust [SHARPNESS] to the (soften) side (p. 39). No sound or only a low sound is hear d. • Set [MUL TI-SOUND] to [STEREO] (p. 51). • T urn up the volume (p. 21). • Adjust [A UDIO MIX] from the [ST2/REAR] (additional sound) side until the sound is heard appro[...]

89 T roubleshooting DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Remote Commander The supplied Remote Commander does not function. • Set [REMO TE CTRL] to [ON] (p. 54). • Remove an y obstructions between the Remote Commander and the remote sensor. • Point the remote sensor away from strong light sources such as direct sunlight or o verhead lighting. Otherwise, [...]

90 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Y ou cannot use [WHITE BAL.]. • Y ou cannot use [WHITE BAL.] when you use NightShot or [SUPER NS]. Y ou cannot adjust [SHARPNESS]. • Y ou cannot adjust [SHARPNESS] with [CINEMA EFECT] of [D. EFFECT]. Y ou cannot use [SPOT FOCUS]. • Y ou cannot use [SPOT FOCUS] together with [PR OGRAM AE]. Y ou cannot use [TELE MAC[...]

91 T roubleshooting DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Y ou cannot use [D. EFFECT]. • Y ou cannot use [D. EFFECT] together with: – [SUPER NS] – [COLOR SLOW S] – [F ADER] • Y ou cannot use [CINEMA EFECT], [SLOW SHUTTR], and [OLD MO VIE] together with [PR OGRAM AE] (except [A UTO]). • Y ou cannot use [OLD MO VIE] together with: – [PICT . EFFECT][...]

92 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) New sound added to a recor ded tape is not heard. • Adjust [A UDIO MIX] from the [ST1/FRONT] (original sound) side until the sound is heard appropriately (p. 63). Still pictures cannot be dubbed from a tape to a “Memory Stick Duo. ” • Y ou cannot record or a distorted picture may be recorded if the tape has been[...]

93 T roubleshooting DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Y ou cannot view the pictures recorded on a tape on the computer . • Slide the PO WER switch down to turn on the PLA Y/EDIT lamp on your camcorder and set [USB-PL Y/EDT] to [USB STREAM] (p. 53). (Only when connecting to the W indows computer with a USB cable) • Disconnect the cable from the computer[...]

94 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1)  For Windows 98/Windows 98SE/Windows Me When copying or playing the pictures on a tape using a computer , the operation is not guaranteed on W indows 98. 1 Check that your camcorder is connected to a computer . 2 Right-click [My Computer], then click [Properties]. The [System Properties] screen appears. 3 Click the [[...]

95 T roubleshooting DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) For copying and viewing pictures recor ded on a “Memory Stick Duo” – [? Sony Handycam] or [? Son y DSC] with a “?” mark in the [Other devices] folder 5 When the [Confirm Device Remo val] screen appears, click [OK]. 6 T urn off the power of your camcorder , disconnect the USB cable, then resta[...]

96 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) 5 Double-click [Setup.e xe]. • Deleting anything other than [USB Composite De vice], [USB Audio Device], [USB Device], [? Son y Handycam] and [? Sony DSC] may cause a malfunction of your computer . Y ou cannot copy pictures to the Windows computer . • Display pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” with the fo[...]

97 T roubleshooting DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) The CD-R drive is not recognized or data cannot be written on the CD-R in Picture Pac kage Auto Video, Pr oducer , CD Backup, or VCD Maker . • For compatible dri ves, visit the follo wing URL: http://www .ppackage.com/ [USB streaming... This function is not av ailable.] appears on the screen of your c[...]

98 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) W arning indicators and messages Self-diagnosis display/Warning indicators If indicators appear on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder , check the following. Some symptoms you can fix by yourself. If the problem persists ev en after you have tried a couple of times, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony se[...]

99 T roubleshooting DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1)  (Eject cassette warning)* Slow flashing: • The write-protect tab on the cassette is set to lock (p. 103). Fast flashing: • Moisture condensation has occurred (p. 109). • The self-diagnosis display code is displayed (p. 98).  (W arning indicator per taining to image deletion)* • The imag[...]

100 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1)  The tape has reached the end. • Rewind or change the tape.  “Memory Stick Duo” Insert a Memory Stick (p. 16) . Reinsert the Memory Stick. • Reinsert the “Memory Stick Duo” a few times. If e ven then the indicator flashes, the “Memory Stick Duo” might be damaged. T ry with another “Memory Stick[...]

101 T roubleshooting DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Cannot print. Check the printer . • Switch off the printer and switch it on again, then disconnect the USB cable and reconnect it.  Flash Charging… Cannot recor d still images. • Y ou are trying to record a still image while charging the flash (optional).  Lens cover Lens cover not full y [...]

102 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Using your camcorder abroad Power supply Y ou can use your camcorder in any countries/regions using the A C Adaptor supplied with your camcorder within the A C 100 V to 240 V , 50/60 Hz range. On TV color systems Y our camcorder is a P AL system-based camcorder . If you want to view the playback picture on a TV , it mu[...]

103 Additional Information DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Usable cassette tapes Y ou can use mini D V format cassettes only . Use a cassette with the mark. is a trademark. Y our camcorder is not compatible with cassettes with Cassette Memory . T o prevent a blank section from being made on the tape Go to the end of the recorded section using [END SEARCH[...]

104 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) About the “Memor y Stick” A “Memory Stick” is a compact, portable IC recording medium with a data capacity that exceeds the capacity of a floppy disk. Y ou can use only a “Memory Stick Duo, ” which is about the half size of a standard “Memory Stick” in your camcorder . Howe ver , appearance on the list[...]

105 Additional Information DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1)  On handling a “Memory Stick” Keep the follo wing in mind when handling a “Memory Stick Duo. ” • Be careful not to apply e xcessiv e force when writing on a memo area on a “Memory Stick Duo. ” • Do not attach a label or the like on a “Memory Stick Duo” or a Memory Stick Duo[...]

106 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack This unit is compatible with an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (A series). Y our camcorder operates only with an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. “InfoLITHIUM” A series battery packs hav e the mark. What is an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack? An “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack [...]

107 Additional Information DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) About battery life • The battery life is limited. Battery capacity drops little by little as you use it more and more, and as time passes. When the a vailable battery time is shortened considerably , a probable cause is that the battery pack has reached the end of its life. Please buy a ne w ba[...]

108 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) The baud rate is listed under “Specifications” in the operating instructions of each piece of equipment. It is also indicated near the i.LINK interface on some devices. The baud rate may differ from the indicated value when the unit is connected to a device with a dif ferent maximum baud rate. * What is Mbps? Mbps[...]

109 Additional Information DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) • K eep the Remote Commander and button-type battery out of children’ s reach. If the battery is accidentally swallowed, consult a doctor immediately . • If the battery electrolytic liquid has leaked, – consult your local authorized Sony service facility . – wash off an y liquid that ma[...]

110 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) • The video head suf fers from wear after long use. If you cannot obtain a clear image ev en after using a cleaning cassette, it might be because the video head is worn. Please contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility to hav e the video head replaced. LCD screen • Do not e xert excessi ve [...]

111 Additional Information DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) • T o prevent mold, periodically clean the lens as described above. It is recommended that you operate your camcorder about once a month to keep it in optimum state for a long time. T o charge the pre-installed rechargeable battery Y our camcorder has a pre-installed rechargeable battery to ret[...]

112 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Attaching the Shoulder Strap Y ou can attach the Shoulder Strap to the hook for the Shoulder Strap. Using the Strap Belt as a wrist strap This is useful for carrying your camcorder . 1 Open the hook and loop fastener of the hand pad  and remove it from the ring  . Hand pad 2 Move the hand pad full y to the right [...]

113 Additional Information DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Color temperature [A UTO], [ONE PUSH], [INDOOR] (3 200 K), [OUTDOOR] (5 800 K) Minimum illumination 5 1x (lux) (F 1.8) 0 lx (lux) (during NightShot function)* 3 * 1 “Exif” is a file format for still images, established by the JEIT A (Japan Electronics and Information T echnology Industries A[...]

114 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) A verage power consumption During camera recording using the viewfinder 2.8 W (when using the battery pack) During camera recording using the LCD 3.1 W (when using the battery pack) Operating temperature 0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104 °F) Storage temperature -20 °C to + 60 °C (-4 °F to + 140 °F) Dimensions (appro[...]

115 Additional Information DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Index Numeric 4CH audio check ...................... See A UDIO MIX 4CH MIC REC recording ........................................ 22, 52 A A/V connecting cable ............................ 32, 58, 62, 78 A/V  D V OUT ................... 53 A/V jack ............. 32, 58, 62, 78 Access lamp ...[...]

116 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Folder NEW FOLDER ............. 45 PB FOLDER (Playback folder) .......... 45 REC FOLDER (Recording folder) ........ 45 FORMA T ..................... 45, 104 Frame-by-frame playback .... 50 FRAME REC (Frame recording) ................ 48 Full charge ............................. 9 G Getting started ............ 7, 70, 7[...]

117 Additional Information DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) NIGHTSHO T switch ........... 22 NORMAL ............................ 43 NS LIGHT (NightShot Light) ................. 41 NTSC ................................. 102 Number of recordable pictures .............................................. 43 O OLD MO VIE ....................... 48 ONE PUSH .....[...]

118 DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) Strap Belt ........................... 112 Sub sound ............................. 51 SUNSET&MOON ............... 38 SUPER NS (Super NightShot) ................ 41 System requirement ............. 69 S VIDEO cable ............... 32, 58 S VIDEO jack ................ 32, 58 T T ape ...................... See Cassett[...]

DCR-HC90E 2-548-308-11(1) On trademarks • “Memory Stick, ” “ , ” “Memory Stick Duo, ” “ , ” “Memory Stick PR O Duo, ” “ , ” “MagicGate, ” “ , ” “MagicGate Memory Stick” and “MagicGate Memory Stick Duo” are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sony Corporation. • “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Son y[...]