Sony DCR-PC100 manual

3-867-752- 12 (1) ©1999 Sony Corporation Operating Instructions Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly, and retain it for future reference. Owner’s Record The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dea[...]

2 Welcome! Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony Digital Handycam camcorder. With your Digital Handycam, you can capture life’s precious moments with superior picture and sound quality. Your Digital Handycam is loaded with advanced features, but at the same time it is very easy to use. You will soon be producing home video that you can en[...]

3 For customers in CANADA CAUTION TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT. “Memory Stick” This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, [...]

4 T able of contents Checking supplied accessories .............. 5 Quick Start Guide ................................... 6 Getting started Using this manual ................................... 8 Step 1 Preparing the power supply ... 10 Installing the battery pack ................... 10 Charging the battery pack ................... 11 Connecting to[...]

Getting started 5 Checking supplied accessories 7 1 Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 136) 2 AC-L10A/L10B/L10C AC power adaptor (1), Power cord (1) (p. 11) 3 NP-FM50 battery pack (1) (p. 10, 11) 4 Size AA (R6) battery for Remote Commander (2) (p. 137) 5 Serial port adaptor for Memory Stick (1), PC serial cable (1), AC adaptor for Serial port adapto[...]

Quick Start Guide 6 2 Quick Start Guide This chapter introduces you to the basic features of your camcorder. See the page in parentheses “( )” for more information. Open the DC IN jack cover. Inserting a cassette (p. 14) Connecting the power cord (p. 13) Use the battery pack when using your camcorder outdoors (p. 10). 1 Slide OPEN/ Z EJECT in t[...]

Quick Start Guide 7 Quick Start Guide Recording a picture (p. 15) Viewfinder When the LCD panel is closed, use the viewfinder placing your eye against its eyecup. Monitoring the playback picture on the LCD screen (p. 25) NOTE Do not pick up your camcorder by holding the viewfinder, the LCD panel or the battery pack. 1 Set the POWER switch to VTR wh[...]

8 — Getting started — Using this manual As you read through this manual, buttons and settings on your camcorder are shown in capital letters. e.g. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA. When you carry out an operation, you can hear a beep or a melody sound to indicate that the operation is being carried out. Note on Cassette Memory Your camcorder is b[...]

Getting started 9 Using this manual Note on TV color systems TV color systems differ from country to country. To view your recordings on a TV, you need an NTSC system-based TV. Copyright precautions Television programs, films, video tapes, and other materials may be copyrighted. Unauthorized recording of such materials may be contrary to the provis[...]

10 Step 1 Pr eparing the power supply Installing the battery pack Install the battery pack to use your camcorder outdoors. ( 1 ) While sliding BATT RELEASE in the direction of the arrow 1 , slide the battery terminal cover in the direction of the arrow 2 . ( 2 ) Insert the battery pack in the direction of the arrow. To remove the battery pack The b[...]

11 Getting started Charging the battery pack Use the battery pack after charging it for your camcorder. Your camcorder operates only with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (M series). ( 1 ) Open the DC IN jack cover and connect the AC power adaptor supplied with your camcorder to the DC IN jack with the plug’s v mark facing up. ( 2 ) Connect the[...]

12 Charging time Battery pack Full charge (Normal charge) NP-FM50 (supplied) 150 (90) NP-FM70 240 (180) NP-FM90 330 (270) Approximate minutes to charge an empty battery pack Recording time Recording with Recording with Battery pack the viewfinder the LCD screen Continuous* Typical** Continuous* Typical** NP-FM50 (supplied) 125 (110) 70 (60) 110 (10[...]

13 Getting started Connecting to a wall outlet When you use your camcorder for a long time, we recommend that you power it from a wall outlet using the AC power adaptor. ( 1 ) Open the DC IN jack cover, pulling the cover out a little. Connect the AC power adaptor to the DC IN jack on your camcorder with the plug’s v mark facing up. ( 2 ) Connect [...]

14 Step 2 Inserting a cassette 2 3, 4 5 OPEN/ Z EJECT ( 1 ) Install the power source. ( 2 ) Slide OPEN/ Z EJECT in the direction of the arrow and open the lid. The cassette compartment automatically lifts up and opens. ( 3 ) Push the middle portion of the back of the cassette to insert. Insert the cassette in a straight line deeply into the cassett[...]

15 Recording – Basics 5 3 2 4 40min REC 0:00:01 1 L O C K POWER VTR MEMORY CAMERA OFF POWER L O C K VTR MEMORY CAMERA OFF — Recording – Basics — Recor ding a picture Your camcorder automatically focuses for you. ( 1 ) Remove the lens cap and pull the lens cap string to fix it. ( 2 ) Install the power source and insert a cassette. See “Ste[...]

16 Note on the LOCK switch When you slide the LOCK switch to the left, the POWER switch can no longer be set to MEMORY accidentally. The LOCK switch is set to the right as a default setting. To enable smooth transition Transition between the last scene you recorded and the next scene is smooth as long as you do not eject the cassette even if you tu[...]

17 Recording – Basics 1 2 LCD/VF SET LCD BRIGHT [ MENU ] : END When you use the LCD screen outdoors in direct sunlight The LCD screen may be difficult to see. If this happens, we recommend that you use the viewfinder. When you adjust angles of the LCD panel Make sure if the LCD panel is opened up to 90 degrees. Picture in the mirror mode The pict[...]

18 Adjusting the viewfinder If you record pictures with the LCD panel closed, check the picture with the viewfinder. Adjust the viewfinder lens to your eyesight so that the indicators in the viewfinder come into sharp focus. Move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever. Attaching the supplied lens hood To record fine pictures under strong light, we re[...]

19 Recording – Basics T W Using the zoom feature Move the power zoom lever a little for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom. Using the zoom function sparingly results in better-looking recordings. “T” side: for telephoto (subject appears closer) “W” side: for wide-angle (subject appears farther away) Zoom greater than 10 × i[...]

20 0:00:01 45min 40 min REC START/STOP MODE 5SEC ANTI GROUND SHOOTING START/STOP MODE setting : Recording starts when you press START/STOP, and stops when you press it again (default setting). ANTI GROUND SHOOTING : Your camcorder records only while you press START/STOP. Use this mode to avoid recording unnecessary scenes. 5SEC: When you press STAR[...]

21 Recording – Basics Time code The time code indicates the recording or playback time, “0:00:00” (hours : minutes : seconds) in CAMERA mode and “0:00:00:00” (hours : minutes : seconds : frames) in VTR mode. You cannot rewrite only the time code. Remaining tape indicator The indicator may not be displayed accurately depending on the tape.[...]

22 NIGHTSHOT OFF ON + SLOW SHTR Shooting in the dark (NightShot) The NightShot function enables you to shoot a subject in a dark place. For example, you can satisfactorily record the environment of nocturnal animals for observation when you use this function. While your camcorder is in the standby or memory mode, slide NIGHTSHOT to ON. and “NIGHT[...]

23 Recording – Basics While using the NightShot function, you cannot use the following functions: – Exposure – PROGRAM AE – White balance – Fader* – Digital effect* * You cannot use these functions only in the NightShot +Slow shutter mode. Shutter speed in the NightShot +Slow shutter mode Indicator Shutter speed (NIGHTSHOT1) 1/15 (NIGHT[...]

24 To stop the self-timer before recording Press START/STOP again. Use the Remote Commander for convenience. To record still pictures on tapes using the self-timer Press PHOTO in step 2 (p. 32). To record still pictures on “Memory Stick”s Press (self-timer), then press PHOTO in MEMORY mode (p. 94). To cancel self-timer recording Press (self-tim[...]

25 Playback – Basics 4 5 3 6 1 2 REW PLAY VOLUME + – POWER L O C K VTR MEMORY CAMERA OFF — Playback – Basics — Playing back a tape You can monitor the playback picture on the LCD screen. If you close the LCD panel, you can monitor the playback picture in the viewfinder. You can control playback using the Remote Commander supplied with you[...]

26 DISPLAY When monitoring on the LCD screen You can turn the LCD panel over and move it back to the camcorder body with the LCD screen facing out. If you leave the power on for a long time Your camcorder gets warm. This is not a malfunction. When you open/close the LCD panel Make sure that the LCD panel is set vertically. To control the display of[...]

27 Playback – Basics JUL 4 1999 12:05:56 AM 60 AWB F1.8 9dB AUTO SteadyShot OFF indicator White balance indicator Gain indicator Shutter speed indicator Aperture value Exposure mode indicator Date/time Various settings Using the data code function Your camcorder automatically records not only images on the tape but also the recording data (date/t[...]

28 Playing back a tape Various playback modes To operate video control buttons, set the POWER switch to VTR. To view a still picture (playback pause) Press X during playback. To resume normal playback, press N or X . To advance the tape Press M in the stop mode. To resume normal playback, press N . To rewind the tape Press m in the stop mode. To re[...]

29 Playback – Basics S VIDEO S VIDEO VIDEO AUDIO IN AUDIO/VIDEO : Signal flow V iewing the recor ding on TV Connect your camcorder to your TV or VCR with the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder to watch the playback picture on the TV screen. You can operate the video control buttons in the same way as when you monitor playback pictu[...]

30 Using the AV cordless IR receiver Once you connect the AV cordless IR receiver (not supplied) to your TV or VCR, you can easily view the picture on your TV. For details, refer to the operating instructions of the AV cordless IR receiver. Insert the recorded cassette into your camcorder. ( 1 ) After connecting your TV and AV cordless IR receiver,[...]

31 Advanced Recording Operations — Advanced Recording Operations — Recor ding a still image on a tape – T ape photo r ecording You can record a still picture. This mode is useful when you want to record a picture or when you print a picture using a video printer (not supplied). You can record about 510 pictures in the SP mode and about 765 pi[...]

32 Recording a still image on a tape – Tape photo recording Self-timer photo recording You can make a photo recording with the self-timer. This mode is useful when you want to record yourself. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA. ( 2 ) Press (self-timer). The (self-timer) indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. ( 3 ) Press PHOT[...]

33 Advanced Recording Operations LINE IN VIDEO S VIDEO AUDIO/VIDEO S VIDEO Printing the still picture You can print a still picture by using the video printer (not supplied). Connect the video printer using the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder. Connect it to the AUDIO/VIDEO jack and connect the yellow plug of the cable to the video[...]

34 Adjusting the white balance manually You can manually adjust and set the white balance. This adjustment makes white subjects look white and allows more natural color balance. Normally white balance is automatically adjusted. In the standby/recording/memory mode, select a desired white balance mode in the menu settings (p. 76). n (INDOOR) : • L[...]

35 Advanced Recording Operations You can record a 16:9 wide picture to watch on the 16:9 wide-screen TV (16:9WIDE). Black bands appear on the screen during recording in 16:9WIDE mode [ a ]. The picture during a playback on a normal TV [ b ] or on a wide-screen TV [ c ] is compressed in the widthwise direction. If you set the screen mode of the wide[...]

36 [a] REC STBY REC STBY [b] You can fade in or out to give your recording a professional appearance. Using the fader function FADER OVERLAP (Fade in only) MONOTONE When fading in, the picture gradually changes from black-and-white to color. When fading out the picture gradually changes from color to black-and-white. ( 1 ) When fading in [ a ] In t[...]

37 Advanced Recording Operations Note You cannot use the following functions while using the fader function. Also, you cannot use the fader function while using the following functions. – Digital effect – Low lux mode of PROGRAM AE (Overlap function only) – NightShot +Slow shutter – Photo recording When the OVERLAP indicator appears Your ca[...]

38 You can digitally process images to obtain special effects like those in films or on TV. NEG. ART [ a ] : The color and brightness of the picture is reversed. SEPIA : The picture gets sepia-toned. B&W : The picture appears in monochrome (black-and-white). SOLARIZE [ b ] : The light intensity is clearer, and the picture looks like an illustra[...]

39 Advanced Recording Operations Using special ef fects – Digital effect You can add special effects to recorded pictures using the various digital functions. The sound is recorded normally. STILL You can record a still picture so that it is superimposed on a moving picture. FLASH (FLASH MOTION) You can record still pictures successively at const[...]

40 3 4 LUMI. 1 2 LUMI. DIGITAL EFFECT Using special effects – Digital effect ( 1 ) In the standby/recording mode, press DIGITAL EFFECT. The digital effect indicator appears. ( 2 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the desired digital effect mode. The indicator changes as follows: STILL y FLASH y LUMI. y TRAIL y SLOW SHTR y OLD MOVIE ( 3 ) Pre[...]

41 Advanced Recording Operations Using special effects – Digital effect Notes • The following functions do not work during digital effect: – Fader – Low lux mode of PROGRAM AE – Photo recording – NightShot +Slow shutter • The following function does not work in the slow shutter mode: – PROGRAM AE • The following functions do not w[...]

42 Using the PROGRAM AE function You can select PROGRAM AE (Auto Exposure) mode to suit your specific shooting requirements. Spotlight mode This mode prevents people’s faces, for example, from appearing excessively white when shooting subjects lit by strong light in the theater. Soft portrait mode This mode brings out the subject while creating a[...]

43 Advanced Recording Operations Using the PROGRAM AE function ( 1 ) In the standby or memory mode, select PROGRAM AE in in the menu settings (p. 76). ( 2 ) Select the desired PROGRAM AE mode by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. The indicator changes as follows: y y y y y y To turn the PROGRAM AE function off Set PROGRAM AE to AUTO in the menu settin[...]

44 You can manually adjust and set the exposure. Adjust the exposure manually in the following cases: • The subject is backlit • Bright subject and dark background • To record dark pictures (e.g. night scenes) faithfully ( 1 ) In the standby/recording/memory mode, press EXPOSURE. The exposure indicator appears. ( 2 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC di[...]

45 Advanced Recording Operations 2 1 You can gain better results by manually adjusting the focus in the following cases: •The autofocus mode is not effective when shooting – subjects through glass coated with water droplets – horizontal stripes – subjects with little contrast with backgrounds such as walls and sky •When you want to change[...]

46 OFF NEG. ART SEP I A B&W SOLAR I ZE MANUAL SET P EFFECT RETURN [ MENU ] : END — Advanced Playback Operations — Playing back a tape with pictur e effects During playback, you can process a scene using the picture effect functions: NEG. ART, SEPIA, B&W and SOLARIZE. In the playback/playback pause mode, select the desired picture effect[...]

47 Advanced Playback Operations During playback, you can process a scene using the digital effect functions: STILL, FLASH, LUMI. and TRAIL. ( 1 ) In the playback/playback pause mode, press DIGITAL EFFECT and turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial until the desired digital effect indicator (STILL, FLASH, LUMI. or TRAIL) flashes. ( 2 ) Press the SEL/PUSH EXEC d[...]

48 Your camcorder rewinds or advances the tape to locate the desired scene, and the searching automatically stops at the scene having a tape counter value of “0:00:00.” You can do this with the Remote Commander. ( 1 ) In the playback mode, press DISPLAY if the counter is not on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. ( 2 ) Press ZERO SET MEMORY at[...]

49 Advanced Playback Operations Sear ching the boundaries of recor ded tape by title – Title sear ch If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can search for the boundaries of recorded tape by title (Title search) (p. 114). Use the Remote Commander for this operation. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to VTR. ( 2 ) Set CM SEARCH in to ON in the menu s[...]

50 You can automatically search for the point where the recording date changes and start playback from that point (Date search) . Use a tape with cassette memory for convenience. Use the Remote Commander for this operation. Use this function to check where recording dates change or to edit the tape at each recording date. Searching for the date by [...]

51 Advanced Playback Operations Note If one day’s recording is less than two minutes, your camcorder may not accurately find the point where the recording date changes. In the mark • The bar in the mark indicates the present point on the tape. • The mark in the indicates the actual point you are trying to search. If a tape has a blank portion[...]

52 You can search for a still picture you have recorded on a mini DV tape (photo search) . You can also search for still pictures one after another and display each picture for five seconds automatically regardless of cassette memory (photo scan) . Use the Remote Commander for these operations. Use this function to check or edit still pictures. Sea[...]

53 Advanced Playback Operations Searching for a photo without using cassette memory ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to VTR. ( 2 ) Set CM SEARCH in to OFF in the menu settings (p. 76). ( 3 ) Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the photo search indicator appears. The indicator changes as follows: DATE SEARCH t PHOTO SEARCH t PHOTO [...]

54 VIDEO AUDIO IN S VIDEO AUDIO/VIDEO S VIDEO Using the A/V connecting cable Connect your camcorder to the VCR using the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder. Set the input selector on the VCR to LINE, if available. ( 1 ) Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) into the VCR, and insert the recorded tape into your camcor[...]

55 Editing S VIDEO LANC DV Connect using an S video cable (not supplied) to obtain high-quality pictures With this connection, you do not need to connect the yellow (video) plug of the A/V connecting cable. Connect an S video cable (not supplied) to the S video jacks of both your camcorder and the VCR. This connection produces higher quality DV for[...]

56 By simply selecting the scenes to edit, you can duplicate the desired portion on a tape, using other equipment connected with an i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) (not supplied). The scenes can be selected by frame. You can also use the Remote Commander for this operation. Since your camcorder exchanges digital signals, you can edit with little[...]

57 Editing 7 9 9,11 8,10 6 DV ED I T I NG I N OUT [ MARK ] : EXEC [ MENU ] : END OTHERS BEEP COMMANDER DISPLAY DV EDITING RETURN [ MENU ] : END READY DV ED I T I NG ED I T I NG [ MENU ] : END DV ED I T I NG STBY [ MENU ] : END DV ED I T I NG I N OUT [ MARK ] : EXEC [ MENU ] : END BEEP COMMANDER DISPLAY DV EDITING [ MENU ] : END STOP PAUSE REC REW P[...]

58 Recor ding video or TV programs Using the A/V connecting cable You can record a tape from another VCR or a TV program from a TV that has video/ audio outputs. Use your camcorder as a recorder. ( 1 ) Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) into your camcorder. If you are recording a tape from the VCR, insert a recorded tape into t[...]

59 Editing If your VCR is a monaural type Connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable to the video output jack and the white or the red plug to the audio output jack on the VCR or the TV. When the white plug is connected, the left channel audio is output, and the red plug is connected, the right channel audio is output. Connect using an S v[...]

60 Using the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) Simply connect the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) (not supplied) to DV IN/OUT and to DV IN/OUT of the DV products. With digital-to-digital connection, video and audio signals are transmitted in digital form for high-quality editing. ( 1 ) Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) int[...]

61 Editing You can connect one VCR only using the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) When you dub a picture in digital form The color of the display may be uneven. However this does not affect the dubbed picture. If you record playback pause picture with the DV IN/OUT jack The recorded picture becomes rough. And when you play back the picture using[...]

62 [ a ] [ b ] [ c ] 5 4 ZERO SET MEMORY 0:00:00 ZERO SET MEMORY REC PAUSE Inserting a scene fr om a VCR – Insert editing You can insert a new scene from a VCR onto your originally recorded tape by specifying the insert start and end points. Use the Remote Commander for this operation. Connections are the same as on page 55 or 58. Insert a casset[...]

63 Editing To change the insert end point Press ZERO SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander again after step 5 to erase the ZERO SET MEMORY indicator and begin from step 3. Using the Remote Commander In step 5, press z REC and MARK simultaneously, then immediately press X . And in step 6, press X at the scene where you want to start recording from. Not[...]

64 You can record an audio sound to add to the original sound on a tape by connecting audio equipment or a microphone. If you connect the audio equipment, you can add sound to your recorded tape by specifying starting and ending points. The original sound will not be erased. Use the Remote Commander for this operation. Connecting the microphone wit[...]

65 Editing LINE OUT LR Audio dubbing Dubbing with the AUDIO/VIDEO jack Dubbing with the built-in microphone No connection is necessary. Notes • When dubbing with the AUDIO/VIDEO jack, you can check the recorded picture on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder, and can check the recorded sound by using a speaker or headphones. • When dubbing with [...]

66 Adding an audio sound on a recorded tape ( 1 ) Insert the recorded tape into your camcorder. ( 2 ) Set the POWER switch to VTR on your camcorder. ( 3 ) Locate the recording start point by pressing N on the Remote Commander. Then press X at the point where you want to start recording to set your camcorder to the playback pause mode. ( 4 ) Press A[...]

67 Editing Audio dubbing Notes • New sound cannot be recorded on a tape already recorded in the 16-bit mode (32 kHz, 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz) (p. 80). • New sound cannot be recorded on a tape already recorded in the LP mode. • You cannot add audio with the DV IN/OUT jack. If you make all the connections The audio input to be recorded will take pre[...]

68 Superimposing a title If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can superimpose the title while recording or after recording. When you play back the tape, the title is displayed for five seconds from the point where you superimposed it. You can select one of eight preset titles and two custom titles (p. 72). ( 1 ) Press TITLE to display the ti[...]

69 Editing 1 2 PRESET TITLE HELLO! HAPPY BIRTHDAY HAPPY HOLIDAYS CONGRATULATIONS! OUR SWEET BABY WEDDING VACATION THE END [ T I TLE ] : END PRESET TITLE HELLO! HAPPY BIRTHDAY HAPPY HOLIDAYS CONGRATULATIONS! OUR SWEET BABY WEDDING VACATION THE END RETURN [ T I TLE ] : END PRESET TITLE HELLO! HAPPY BIRTHDAY HAPPY HOLIDAYS CONGRATULATIONS! OUR SWEET B[...]

70 Superimposing a title Title setting • The title color changes as follows: WHITE y YELLOW y VIOLET y RED y CYAN y GREEN y BLUE • The title size changes as follows: SMALL y LARGE You cannot input more than 12 characters in LARGE size. • If you select the title size “SMALL,” you have nine choices for the title position. If you select the [...]

71 Editing Erasing a title ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to VTR. ( 2 ) Press MENU to display the menu. ( 3 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select , then press the dial. ( 4 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select TITLEERASE, then press the dial. Title erase display appears. ( 5 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the title you want to erase, then[...]

72 Making your own titles You can make up to two titles and store them in cassette memory. Each title can have up to 20 characters. ( 1 ) Press TITLE in the standby/playback/playback pause mode. ( 2 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select , then press the dial. ( 3 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the first line (CUSTOM1) or second line (CUS[...]

73 Editing To change a title you have stored In step 3, select CUSTOM1 or CUSTOM2, depending on which title you want to change, then press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select [ C ], then press the dial to delete the title. The last character is erased. Enter the new title as desired. If you take five minutes or longer to e[...]

74 Labeling a cassette If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can label a cassette. The label can consist of up to 10 characters and is stored in cassette memory. When you insert the labeled cassette and set the POWER switch to ON, the label is displayed for about five seconds. ( 1 ) Insert the cassette you want to label. ( 2 ) Set the POWER s[...]

75 Editing To enter a space Select [ ], then select the blank part. To change the label you have made Insert the cassette to change the label, and operate in the same way to make a new label. If you set the write-protect tab of the tape to lock You cannot label the tape. Slide the write-protect tab to release the write protection. If you have super[...]

76 — Customizing Your Camcorder — Changing the menu settings To change the mode settings in the menu settings, select the menu items with the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial. The default settings can be partially changed. First, select the icon, then the menu item and then the mode. ( 1 ) In the standby, VTR, or MEMORY mode, press MENU. ( 2 ) Turn the SEL/[...]

77 Customizing Your Camcorder Changing the menu settings To make the menu display disappear Press MENU. Menu items are displayed as the following icons: MANUAL SET CAMERA SET VTR SET LCD/VF SET MEMORY SET CM SET TAPE SET SETUP MENU OTHERS Selecting the mode setting of each item z is the default setting. Menu items differ depending on the position o[...]

78 ST1 ST2 To get high- intensity To darken To get low- intensity To darken To lighten To lighten VTR CAMERA MEMORY VTR CAMERA MEMORY POWER switch VTR VTR VTR CAMERA MEMORY VTR CAMERA MEMORY Icon/item HiFi SOUND AUDIO MIX LCD BRIGHT LCD B. L. LCD COLOR VF BRIGHT Mode z STEREO 1 2 z BRT NORMAL BRIGHT Meaning To play back a stereo tape or dual sound [...]

79 Customizing Your Camcorder Changing the menu settings Icon/item CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMAGE SIZE PRINT MARK PROTECT SLIDE SHOW DELETE ALL FORMAT PHOTO SAVE Mode z OFF ON MULTI SCRN z SUPER FINE (SFN) FINE (FINE) STANDARD (STD) z 1152 × 864 640 × 480 z OFF ON z OFF ON z RETURN FORMAT Meaning Not to record continuously. To record pictures continuou[...]

80 Notes on the LP mode • When you record a tape in the LP mode on your camcorder, we recommend playing back the tape on your camcorder. When you play back the tape on other camcorders or VCRs, noise may occur in pictures or sound. • When you record in the LP mode, we recommend using a Sony Excellence/Master mini DV cassette so that you can get[...]

81 Customizing Your Camcorder Icon/item q REMAIN DATA CODE CLOCK SET AUTO TV ON TV INPUT LTR SIZE DEMO MODE Mode z AUTO ON z DATE/CAM DATE z OFF ON z VIDEO1 VIDEO2 VIDEO3 OFF z NORMAL 2 × z ON OFF Meaning To display the remaining tape bar: • for about eight seconds after your camcorder is turned on and calculates the remaining amount of tape •[...]

82 Icon/item WORLD TIME BEEP COMMANDER DISPLAY REC LAMP DV EDITING Meaning To set the clock to the local time. Turn the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial to set a time difference. The clock changes by the time difference you set here. If you set the time difference to 0, the clock returns to the originally set time. To output the melody when you start/stop recor[...]

83 Customizing Your Camcorder The year changes as follows: If you do not set the date and time “– –:– –:– –” is recorded on the data code of the tape and the “Memory Stick.” Note on the time indicator The internal clock of your camcorder operates on a 12-hour cycle. • 12:00 AM stands for midnight. • 12:00 PM stands for noon.[...]

84 You can record and play back still images on a “Memory Stick” supplied with your camcorder. You can easily play back, record or delete still images. You can exchange image data with other equipment such as a personal computer etc., using the Serial port adaptor for Memory Stick supplied with your camcorder or PC card adaptor for Memory Stick[...]

85 “Memory Stick” Operations Formatting the supplied “Memory Stick” Formatting with this camcorder is not required. The “Memory Stick” has been formatted in the FAT-format at factory. “Memory Stick” supplied with your camcorder • Sample images are recorded in the “Memory Stick” (p. 97). Note that these images will be deleted i[...]

86 Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Inserting a “Memory Stick” Insert a “Memory Stick” with the Sony logo pointing toward the LCD panel and the b mark pointing inward. To eject a “Memory Stick” Press MEMORY RELEASE. When the access lamp is lit or flashing Never shake or strike your camcorder. Do not turn the power off , eject[...]

87 “Memory Stick” Operations Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Selecting image quality mode You can select image quality mode in still picture recording. Default setting is SUPER FINE. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to VTR or MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press MENU to display the menu[...]

88 Image quality settings Setting Meaning SUPER FINE (SFN) This is the highest image quality in your camcorder. The number of still images you can record is less than FINE. The image is compressed to about 1/3. SFN appears on the screen. FINE (FINE) Use this mode when you want to record high quality images. The image is compressed to about 1/6. FIN[...]

89 “Memory Stick” Operations Selecting the image size You can select the image size from two settings: 1152 × 864 or 640 × 480. However, the image size in VTR mode is automatically set to “640 × 480,” even if you have selected “1152 × 864.” ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unl[...]

90 Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction The approximate number of images you can record on a “Memory Stick” The approximate number of images you can record on “Memory Stick” that is formatted using this camcorder varies depending on which image quality mode you select and the complexity of the subject. 4MB type (supplied): Image size[...]

91 “Memory Stick” Operations 3 1 / 6 SFN 2 PHOTO 1 PHOTO POWER L O C K VTR MEMORY CAMERA OFF L O C K 1152 SFN 1152 Recor ding still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory photo r ecording You can record still pictures on “Memory Stick”s. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY[...]

92 Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory photo recording While you are recording a still image You can neither turn off the power nor press PHOTO. When you press PHOTO on the Remote Commander Your camcorder immediately records the image that is on the screen when you press the button. Notes • When recording still images at step[...]

93 “Memory Stick” Operations Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory photo recording If the capacity of the “Memory Stick” becomes full ” FULL” appears on the screen, and you cannot record still pictures on this “Memory Stick.” Continuous shooting settings Setting Meaning (indicator on the screen) OFF Your camcorder[...]

94 Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory photo recording Self-timer memory photo recording You can make a memory photo recording with the self-timer. This mode is useful when you want to record yourself. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press (self-t[...]

95 “Memory Stick” Operations Superimposing a still picture in a “Memory Stick” on a moving picture – MEMOR Y MIX You can superimpose a still picture you have recorded on a “Memory Stick” on the top of the moving picture you are recording. M. CHROM (Memory chromakey) You can swap a blue area of a still picture such as an illustration o[...]

96 1 2 4 5 6 1 M. LUMI M. LUMI III•••• I•••••• 3 M. CHROM M. LUMI PLAY + – POWER L O C K VTR MEMORY CAMERA OFF Superimposing a still picture in a “Memory Stick” on a moving picture – MEMORY MIX Before operation Insert a recorded “Memory Stick” and a mini DV tape to be recorded into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER[...]

97 “Memory Stick” Operations Superimposing a still picture in a “Memory Stick” on a moving picture – MEMORY MIX Items to be adjusted M. CHROM The color (blue) scheme of the area in the still picture which is to be swapped with a moving picture M. LUMI The color (bright) scheme of the area in the still picture which is to be swapped with a[...]

98 Recor ding an image from a mini DV tape as a still image Your camcorder can read moving picture data recorded on a mini DV tape and record it as a still image on a “Memory Stick.” Your camcorder can also take in moving picture data through the input connector and record it as a still image on a “Memory Stick.” Before operation Insert a r[...]

99 “Memory Stick” Operations S VIDEO VIDEO OUT S VIDEO Titles have already recorded on mini DV tapes You cannot record the titles on “Memory Stick”s. The title does not appear while you are recording a still picture with PHOTO. When you press PHOTO on the Remote Commander Your camcorder immediately records the image that is on the screen wh[...]

100 S VIDEO LANC DV Recording an image from a mini DV tape as a still image Connect using an S video cable (not supplied) to obtain high-quality pictures With this connection, you do not need to connect the yellow (video) plug of the A/V connecting cable. Connect an S video cable (not supplied) to the S (S1) video jacks of both your camcorder and t[...]

101 “Memory Stick” Operations Copying still images fr om a mini DV tape – Photo save Using the search function, you can automatically take in only still images from mini DV tapes and record them on a “Memory Stick” in sequence. Before operation • Insert a recorded mini DV tape into your camcorder and rewind the tape. • Insert a “Mem[...]

102 To stop or end copying Press MENU. When the memory of the “Memory Stick” is full “MEMORY FULL” appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder, and the copying stops. Insert another “Memory Stick” and repeat the procedure from step 2. Image size of still pictures Image size is automatically set to 640 × 480. When the access lamp is [...]

103 “Memory Stick” Operations V iewing a still picture – Memory photo playback You can play back still images recorded on a “Memory Stick.” You can also play back six images at a time by selecting the index screen. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to VTR or MEMORY. Make sure that[...]

104 B mark INDEX 6 / 15 DSC 00006 1 2 3 4 5 6 6 / 15 MEMORY PLAY DSC 00006 1152 Screen indicators during still image playback Playing back six recorded images at a time (index screen) You can play back six recorded images at a time. This function is especially useful when searching for a particular image. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to VTR or MEMORY[...]

105 “Memory Stick” Operations Viewing a still picture – Memory photo playback To return to the normal playback screen (single screen) Press MEMORY +/– to move the B mark to the image you want to display on full screen, then press MEMORY PLAY. Files modified with personal computers These files may not be displayed on the index screen. Image [...]

106 Copying the image r ecor ded on “Memory Stick”s to mini DV tapes You can copy still images or titles recorded on a “Memory Stick” and record them to a mini DV tape. Before operation Insert a mini DV tape for recording and a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to VTR. ( 2 ) Using the video control buttons, [...]

107 “Memory Stick” Operations Copying the image recorded on “Memory Stick”s to mini DV tapes Note on the index screen You cannot record the index screen. Image data modified with personal computers or shot with other equipment You may not be able to copy them with your camcorder. If you press DISPLAY in the standby or recording mode You can[...]

108 You can automatically play back images in sequence. This function is useful especially when checking recorded images or during a presentation. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press MENU to display t[...]

109 “Memory Stick” Operations Preventing accidental erasur e – Image pr otection To prevent accidental erasure of important images, you can protect selected images. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VTR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position[...]

110 You can delete images stored in a “Memory Stick.” Deleting selected images Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VTR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Play back the image you want to delete (p. 103). ( 3 ) Press MEMORY DELETE. “D[...]

111 “Memory Stick” Operations Deleting all the images You can delete all the unprotected images in a “Memory Stick.” Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press MENU to display the menu. ( 3 ) Turn th[...]

112 To cancel deleting all the images in the “Memory Stick” Select RETURN in step 4, then press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. While “DELETING” appears Do not turn the POWER switch or press any buttons. Deleting images[...]

113 “Memory Stick” Operations W riting a print mark – PRINT MARK You can specify the recorded still image to print out. This function is useful for printing out still images later. Your camcorder conforms with the DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) standard for specifying the still images to print out. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick[...]

114 — Additional Information — Usable cassettes Selecting cassette types You can use the mini DV cassette only*. You cannot use any other 8 mm, Hi8, Digital8, VHS, VHSC, S-VHS, S-VHSC, Betamax, ED Betamax or DV cassette. * There are two types of mini DV cassettes: with cassette memory and without cassette memory. Tapes with cassette memory have[...]

115 Additional Information Usable cassettes Audio mode 12-bit mode: The original sound can be recorded in stereo 1, and the new sound in stereo 2 in 32 kHz. The balance between stereo 1 and stereo 2 can be adjusted by selecting AUDIO MIX in the menu settings during playback. Both sounds can be played back. 16-bit mode: A new sound cannot be recorde[...]

116 T r oubleshooting If you run into any problem using your camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. If the problem persists, disconnect the power source and contact your Sony dealer. If “C: ss : ss ” appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder, the self-diagnosis display function has worked. See page 122. In the reco[...]

117 Additional Information Troubleshooting Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions • Slow shutter, low lux or NightShot +Slow shutter mode is activated. This is not a malfunction. • If 10 minutes elapse after you set the POWER switch to CAMERA or DEMO MODE is set to ON in the menu settings without a cassette inserted, your camcorder automatical[...]

118 Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions • The tape has no cassette memory. c Use a tape with cassette memory. (p. 50, 114) • CM SEARCH is set to OFF in the menu settings. c Set it to ON. (p. 76) • The tape has a blank portion in the recorded portion. (p. 51) • AUDIO MIX is set to ST1 side in the menu settings. c Adjust AUDIO MIX. (p. 76[...]

119 Additional Information Troubleshooting Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions • The power source is disconnected. c Connect it firmly. (p. 10, 13) • The battery is dead. c Use a charged battery pack. (p. 10, 11) • Moisture condensation has occurred. c Remove the cassette and leave your camcorder for at least one hour to acclimatize. (p. [...]

120 Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions • The write-protect tab on the “Memory Stick” is set to LOCK. c Set the tab to write. (p. 84) • The battery pack is dead. c Install a charged battery pack or use the AC power adaptor instead of the battery pack. (p. 10, 13) Others Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions • The tape has no cassett[...]

121 Additional Information Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions • COMMANDER is set to OFF in the menu settings. c Set it to ON. (p. 76) • Something is blocking the infrared rays. c Remove the obstacle. • The batteries are inserted in the battery holder with the + – polarities incorrectly matching the + – marks. c Insert the batteries w[...]

122 C:21:00 Self-diagnosis display Five-digit display Cause and/or Corrective Actions • You are using a battery pack that is not an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. c Use an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. (p. 11) • Moisture condensation has occurred. c Remove the cassette and leave your camcorder for at least one hour to acclimatize. (p. 126) ?[...]

123 Additional Information C:21:00 W arning indicators and messages If indicators and messages appear on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder, check the following: See the page in parentheses “( )” for more information. Warning indicators The battery is dead or nearly dead Slow flashing: • The battery is nearly dead. Fast flashing: • The bat[...]

124 Warning messages • CLOCK SET Reset the date and time (p. 83). • FOR “InfoLITHIUM” Use an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (p. 11). BATTERY ONLY • MEMORY FULL The “Memory Stick” is full in photo save function (p. 102). • CLEANING CASSETTE The video heads are dirty (p. 127). • FULL The tape cassette memory is full (p. 70).* • 16[...]

125 Additional Information Using your camcorder abroad You can use your camcorder in any country or area with the AC power adaptor supplied with your camcorder within 100 V to 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz. When charging the battery pack, use a commercially available AC plug adaptor [ a ] , if necessary, depending on the design of the wall outlet [ b ] . Your[...]

126 Maintenance information and pr ecautions Moisture condensation If your camcorder is brought directly from a cold place to a warm place, moisture may condense inside your camcorder, on the surface of the tape, or on the lens. In this condition, the tape may stick to the head drum and be damaged or your camcorder may not operate correctly. If the[...]

127 Additional Information [a] [b] Maintenance information Cleaning the video head To ensure normal recording and clear pictures, clean the video heads. The video head may be dirty when: • mosaic-pattern noise appears on the playback picture. • playback pictures do not move. • playback pictures do not appear. • the x indicator and “ CLEAN[...]

128 Maintenance information and precautions Precautions Camcorder operation • Operate your camcorder on 7.2 V (battery pack) or 8.4 V (AC power adaptor). • For DC or AC operation, use the accessories recommended in this operating instructions. • If any solid object or liquid get inside the casing, unplug your camcorder and have it checked by [...]

129 Additional Information Maintenance information and precautions • The unit becomes warm during use. This is not a malfunction. • Do not place the unit in locations that are: – Extremely hot or cold – Dusty or dirty – Very humid – Vibrating Battery pack • Use only the specified charger or video equipment with the charging function. [...]

130 Specifications Video camera recorder System Video recording system 2 rotary heads Helical scanning system Audio recording system Rotary heads, PCM system Quantization: 12 bits (Fs 32 kHz, stereo 1, stereo 2), 16 bits (Fs 48 kHz, stereo) Video signal NTSC color, EIA standards Usable cassette Mini DV cassette with the mark printed Tape speed SP: [...]

131 Quick Reference — Quick Reference — Identifying the parts and contr ols 1 Lens cap (p. 15) 2 OPEN button (p. 16, 25) 3 LCD screen (p. 16) 4 Microphone (p. 65) 5 Intelligent accessory shoe (p. 64) This mark indicates that this product is a genuine accessory for Sony video products. When purchasing Sony video products, Sony recommends that yo[...]

132 wa LOCK switch (p. 16) ws (self-timer) button (p. 23, 32, 94) wd Viewfinder lens adjustment lever (p. 18) wf START/STOP button (p. 15) wg POWER switch (p. 15) wh SEL/PUSH EXEC dial (p. 76) wj Cassette lid (p. 14) wk BACK LIGHT button (p. 21) wl EXPOSURE button (p. 44) wa ws wd wf wg wh wj wk wl qa MEMORY PLAY button (p. 96) qs END SEARCH button[...]

133 Quick Reference e; Battery pack/Battery terminal cover (p. 10) ea Tripod receptacle Make sure that the length of the tripod screw is less than 9/32 inch (6.5 mm). Otherwise, you cannot attach the tripod securely and the screw may damage your camcorder. es DC IN jack cover (p. 11) ed CHARGE lamp (p. 11) ef Access lamp (p. 86) eg “Memory Stick?[...]

134 ek NIGHTSHOT switch (p. 22) el MIC jack (PLUG IN POWER) (p. 64) Connect an external microphone (not supplied). This jack also accepts a “plug-in-power” microphone. r; LASER LINK button (p. 30) ra Cassette compartment (p. 14) rs START/STOP MODE switch (p. 20) rd RESET button (p. 121) rf FOCUS button (p. 45) rg Grip strap rh PHOTO button (p. [...]

135 Quick Reference Identifying the parts and controls tf DV IN/OUT jack (p. 55, 60, 100) This “i.LINK” mark is a trademark of Sony Corporation and indicates that this product is in agreement with IEEE 1394- 1995 specifications and their revisions. The DV IN/OUT jack is i.LINK compatible. tg i (headphones) jack th AUDIO/VIDEO jack (p. 29, 33, 5[...]

136 Identifying the parts and controls Remote Commander The buttons that have the same name on the Remote Commander as on your camcorder function identically to the buttons on your camcorder. 1 Transmitter Point toward the remote sensor to control your camcorder after turning on your camcorder. 2 ZERO SET MEMORY button (p. 48) 3 PHOTO button (p. 31[...]

137 Quick Reference To prepare the Remote Commander Insert two size AA (R6) batteries by matching the + and – polarities on the batteries to the + – marks inside the battery compartment. Notes on the Remote Commander • Point the remote sensor away from strong light sources such as direct sunlight or overhead lighting. Otherwise, the Remote Co[...]

138 Identifying the parts and controls Operation indicators 1 Cassette memory indicator (p. 114) 2 Remaining battery time indicator (p. 20) 3 Zoom indicator (p. 19) /Exposure indicator (p. 44) /Data file name indicator (p. 84) 4 Digital effect indicator (p. 39) /FADER indicator (p. 36) /MEMORY MIX indicator (p. 95) 5 16:9WIDE indicator (p. 35) 6 Pi[...]

139 Quick Reference Functions to adjust exposure (in the recording mode) • In a dark place • In insufficient light • In dark environments such as sunset, fireworks, or general night views • Shooting backlit subjects • In spotlight, such as at the theater or a formal event • In strong light or reflected light, such as at a beach in midsu[...]

Index A, B AC power adaptor .................. 11 Adjusting viewfinder ............. 18 ANTI GROUND SHOOTING ................................................ 20 Audio dubbing ........................ 64 AUDIO MIX ............................ 78 Audio mode ............................. 80 AUTO SHTR ............................ 77 A/V connecting cabl[...]