Sony DCR-TRV18 manual

3-067-425- 11 (1) ©2001 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 Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not insta[...]

4 Main Featur es Taking moving or still images, and playing them back • Recording a picture (p. 21) • Recording a still image on a tape (p. 38) • Playing back a tape (p. 31) • Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s (p. 112) (DCR-TRV18 only) • Recording moving pictures on “Memory Stick”s (p. 120) (DCR-TRV18 only) • Viewing a s[...]

5 Getting started Checking supplied accessories Make sure that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder. 1 Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 178) 2 AC-L10A/L10B/L10C AC power adaptor (1), Power cord (1) (p. 13) 3 Size AA (R6) battery for Remote Commander (2) (p. 178) 4 NP-FM30 battery pack (1) (p. 12, 13) 5 A/V connecting cable (1[...]

6[...]

7 Getting started Superimposing a still picture in a “Memory Stick” on a moving picture – MEMORY MIX ............. 124 Copying still images from a tape – Photo save .................................. 127 Viewing a still picture – Memory photo playback .......... 129 Viewing a moving picture – MPEG movie playback ............. 132 Viewin[...]

Quick Start Guide 8 Quick Start Guide This chapter introduces you to the basic features of your camcorder. See the page in parentheses “( )” for more information. Inserting a cassette (p. 20) Connecting the power cord (p. 17) Use the battery pack when using your camcorder outdoors (p. 12). Open the DC IN jack cover. Connect the plug with its v [...]

Quick Start Guide 9 VCR CAMERA MEMORY OFF(CHG) REW PLAY POWER VCR CAMERA MEMORY OFF(CHG) POW ER Recording a picture (p. 21) Monitoring the playback picture on the LCD screen (p. 31) When you purchase your camcorder, the clock setting is set to off. If you want to record the date and time for a picture, set the clock setting before recording (p. 18)[...]

10 — Getting started — Using this manual The instructions in this manual are for the two models listed in the table below. Before you start reading this manual and operating your camcorder, check the model number by looking at the bottom of your camcorder. The DCR-TRV18 is the model used for illustration purposes. Otherwise, the model name is i[...]

11 Getting started 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 provision of the copyri[...]

12 Step 1 Pr eparing the power supply Installing the battery pack Install the battery pack to use your camcorder outdoors. ( 1 ) Lift up the viewfinder. ( 2 ) Slide the battery pack down until it clicks. To remove the battery pack ( 1 ) Lift up the viewfinder. ( 2 ) Slide the battery pack out in the direction of the arrow while pressing BATT down. [...]

13 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). See page 160 for details of “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. ( 1 ) Open the DC IN jack cover and connect the AC power adaptor supplied with your camcorder to the DC I[...]

14 When the battery pack is charged fully “FULL” appears in the display window. Remaining battery time indicator The remaining battery time you record with the viewfinder is displayed. The remaining battery time indicator in the display window indicates the approximate recording time with the viewfinder. Until your camcorder calculates the actu[...]

15 Getting started Recording time DCR-TRV15 Recording with Recording with Battery pack the viewfinder the LCD screen Continuous* Typical** Continuous* Typical** NP-FM30 (supplied) 125 65 90 45 NP-FM50 200 110 150 75 NP-FM70 415 225 310 165 NP-FM90 630 345 475 255 NP-FM91 725 395 550 290 DCR-TRV18 Recording with Recording with Battery pack the viewf[...]

16 Playing time DCR-TRV15 Battery pack Playing time Playing time on LCD screen with LCD closed NP-FM30 (supplied) 100 135 NP-FM50 160 220 NP-FM70 335 450 NP-FM90 505 685 NP-FM91 585 785 DCR-TRV18 Battery pack Playing time Playing time on LCD screen with LCD closed NP-FM30 (supplied) 85 130 NP-FM50 140 210 NP-FM70 295 430 NP-FM90 450 655 NP-FM91 520[...]

17 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 and rotating it. Connect the AC power adaptor supplied with your camcorder to the DC IN jack on your camcorder with [...]

18 1995 T · · · · t 2001 T · · · · t 2079 Set the date and time settings when you use your camcorder for the first time. “CLOCK SET” will be displayed each time that you set the POWER switch to CAMERA/ MEMORY (DCR-TRV18 only) unless you set the date and time settings. If you do not use your camcorder for about four months, the date and [...]

19 Getting started Step 2 Setting the date and time If you do not set the date and time “– –:– –:– –” is recorded on the data code of the tape and the “Memory Stick” (DCR- TRV18only). 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[...]

20 Step 3 Inserting a cassette ( 1 ) Install the power source. ( 2 ) Slide OPEN/ 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 cassette compartment with the wi[...]

21 Recording – Basics — Recording – Basics — Recor ding a pictur e Your camcorder automatically focuses for you. ( 1 ) Remove the lens cap by pressing both knobs on its sides and attatch the lens cap to the grip strap. ( 2 ) Install the power source and insert a cassette. See “Step 1” to “Step 3” for more information (p. 12 to p. 20[...]

22 Note on the LOCK switch (DCR-TRV18 only) When you slide the LOCK switch to the right, the POWER switch can no longer be set to MEMORY accidentally. LOCK switch is set to the left before your camcorder leaves the factory. To enable smooth transition Transition between the last scene you recorded and the next scene is smooth as long as you do not [...]

23 Recording – Basics 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. Picture in the mirror mode The picture on the LCD screen is a mirror-image. However, the picture will be normal when recorded. During recording in the mirror mode ZERO SET[...]

24 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. Lift up the viewfinder and move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever. Viewfinder backlight You can change the brightness of t[...]

25 Recording – Basics To use zoom greater than 10 × Zoom greater than 10 × is performed digitally. To activate digital zoom, select the digital power in D ZOOM in the menu settings (p. 97). The digital zoom function is set to OFF as a default settings. (p. 97) When you shoot close to a subject If you cannot get a sharp focus, move the power zoo[...]

26 Remaining battery time indicator The remaining battery time indicator roughly indicates the recording time. The indicator may not be correct, depending on the conditions in which you are recording. When you close the LCD panel and open it again, it takes about one minute for the correct remaining battery time in minutes to be displayed. Time cod[...]

27 Recording – Basics Shooting in the dark – NightShot/Super 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. In CAMERA or MEMORY (DCR-TRV18 only) mode, slide NIGHTSHOT to ON. and “NIGHTSH[...]

28 While using the Super NightShot function The shutter speed is automatically adjusted depending on the brightness. At that time, the moving picture may be slow down. While using the Super NightShot function, you cannot use the following functions: – Exposure – PROGRAM AE – Fader – Digital effect – White balance While in MEMORY mode (DCR[...]

29 Recording – Basics Recording a picture To stop the countdown Press START/STOP. To restart the countdown, press START/STOP again. To record still images using the self-timer Press PHOTO in step 6. (p. 39) To cancel self-timer recording Set SELFTIMER to OFF in the menu settings in the standby mode. Note The self-timer recording mode is automatic[...]

30 You can use these buttons to check the recorded picture or shoot so that the transition between the last recorded scene and the next scene you record is smooth. END SEARCH You can go to the end of the recorded section after you record. Press END SEARCH in the standby mode. The last five seconds of the recorded section are played back and your ca[...]

31 Playback – Basics — Playback – Basics — Playing back a tape You can monitor the playback picture on the 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 your camcorder. ( 1 ) Install the power source and insert the recorded tape. [...]

32 To display the screen indicators – Display function Press DISPLAY on your camcorder or the Remote Commander supplied with your camcorder. The indicators appear on the LCD screen. To make the indicators disappear, press DISPLAY again. Using the data code function Your camcorder automatically records not only images on the tape but also the reco[...]

33 Playback – Basics Playing back a tape Recording data Recording data is your camcorder’s information when you have recorded. In the recording mode, the recording data will not be displayed. When you use the data code function, bars (-- -- --) appear if: • A blank portion of the tape is being played back. • The tape is unreadable due to ta[...]

34 Playing back a tape To view the picture frame-by-frame Press C on the Remote Commander in the playback pause mode. For frame-by-frame playback in the reverse direction, press c . To resume normal playback, press N . To search the last scene recorded (END SEARCH) Press END SEARCH in the stop mode. The last five seconds of the recorded portion pla[...]

35 Playback – Basics Connect your camcorder to your TV 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 pictures on the screen. When monitoring the playback picture on the TV screen, we recommend that yo[...]

36 Using the AV cordless IR receiver Once you connect the AV cordless IR receiver (optional) 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. Before operation Attach the power supply such as the AC power adaptor to your camcorder, and insert the recorded [...]

37 Playback – Basics Viewing the recording on TV If you turn the power off The super laser link function turns off automatically. If you use a Sony TV • You can turn on the TV automatically when you press SUPER LASER LINK. To do so, make sure you: – Turn the TV’s main switch on. – Set AUTO TV ON to ON in the menu settings. – Point the s[...]

38 — Advanced Recording Operations — Recor ding a still image on a tape – T ape Photo r ecor ding You can record a still picture like a photograph. This mode is useful when you want to print a picture using a video printer (optional). You can record about 510 pictures in the SP mode and about 765 pictures in the LP mode on a 60-minute tape. B[...]

39 Advanced Recording Operations Recording a still image on a tape – Tape Photo recording Self-timer recording You can record still images on tapes with the self-timer. You can also use the Remote Commander for this operation. ( 1 ) In the standby mode, press MENU to display the menu settings. ( 2 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select , then pr[...]

40 Printing the still picture You can print a still picture by using the video printer (optional). 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 input of the video printer. Refer to the operating instructions of the vide[...]

41 Advanced Recording Operations[...]

42 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-screen TV to the full mode, y[...]

43 Advanced Recording Operations You can fade in or out to give your recording a professional appearance. 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. * Fade in only Using the fader function FADER OVERLAP* WIPE* DOT* [a] REC STBY R[...]

44 Using the fader function ( 1 ) When fading in [ a ] In the standby mode, press FADER until the desired fader indicator flashes. When fading out [ b ] In the recording mode, press FADER until the desired fader indicator flashes. The indicator changes as follows: FADER t M.FADER t BOUNCE t MONOTONE t OVERLAP t WIPE t DOT t no indicator The last se[...]

45 Advanced Recording Operations 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 are reversed. SEPIA : The picture gets sepia. B&W : The picture appears in monochrome (black-and-white). SOLARIZE [ b ] : The light intensity is clearer, and the pictu[...]

46 Using special ef fects – Digital ef fect 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 constant intervals. LUMI. (LUMINAN[...]

47 Advanced Recording Operations Using special effects – Digital effect ( 1 ) In CAMERA mode, select D EFFECT in in the menu settings (p. 97). ( 2 ) Select the desired digital effect mode in the menu settings, then press the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial. The bars appear, in the STILL and LUMI. modes. The still image is stored in memory. ( 3 ) Turn the SEL[...]

48 Using special effects – Digital effect Notes • The following functions do not work during digital effect: – Fader – Low lux mode of PROGRAM AE (The low lux indicator flashes.) – Tape photo recording – Super NightShot • The PROGRAM AE function does not work in the slow shutter mode. • The following functions do not work in the old[...]

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

50 Using the PROGRAM AE function ( 1 ) Press MENU to display menu settings in CAMERA or MEMORY (DCR-TRV18 only) mode. ( 2 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select , then press the dial (p. 97). ( 3 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select PROGRAM AE, then press the dial. ( 4 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the desired mode. To turn the PROGRA[...]

51 Advanced Recording Operations If you are recording under a discharge tube such as a fluorescent lamp, sodium lamp or mercury lamp Flickering or changes in color may occur in the following modes. If this happens, turn the PROGRAM AE function off. – Soft portrait – Sports lesson Using the PROGRAM AE function[...]

52 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 CAMERA or MEMORY (DCR-TRV18 only) mode, press EXPOSURE. The exposure indicator appears. ( 2 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EX[...]

53 Advanced Recording Operations 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 the[...]

54 Interval r ecor ding You can make a time-lapse recording by setting the camcorder to automatically record and standby sequentially. You can achieve an excellent recording for flowering, emergence, etc., with this function. [ a ] Recording time [ b ] Waiting time ( 1 ) Press MENU to display the menu in standby mode. ( 2 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC d[...]

55 Advanced Recording Operations Interval recording ( 6 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select ON, then press the dial. ( 7 ) Press MENU to erase the menu display. The interval recording indicator flashes. ( 8 ) Press START/STOP to start interval recording. The interval recording indicator lights up. To cancel the interval recording • Set INT. R[...]

56 Frame by frame r ecor ding – Cut recor ding You can make a recording with a stop-motion animated effect using cut recording. To[...]

57 Advanced Playback Operations — 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. ( 1 ) In the playback or playback pause mode, select P EFFECT in in the menu settings (p. 97). ( 2 ) Select the desired mod[...]

58 During playback, you can process a scene using the digital effect functions: STILL, FLASH, LUMI. and TRAIL. ( 1 ) In the playback or playback pause mode, select D EFFECT in in the menu settings (p. 97). ( 2 ) Select the desired digital effect mode in the menu settings, then press the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial. The digital effect indicator lights up an[...]

59 Advanced Playback Operations You can enlarge still and moving playback pictures. You can also dub the enlarged pictures to tapes or copy to “Memory Stick”s (DCR-TRV18 only) (p. 121). You can also enlarge still play back images recorded on “Memory Stick” (DCR-TRV18 only) (p. 140). ( 1 ) In the playback or playback pause mode, press PB ZOO[...]

60 Your camcorder goes forward or backward to automatically stop at a desired 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. ( 2 ) Press ZERO SET MEMORY at the point you want to locate later. The tape counter shows “0:00:00” and the ZERO SET MEMORY indica[...]

61 Advanced Playback Operations Sear ching the boundaries of r ecor 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. Use the Remote Commander for this operation. Before operation Set CM SEARCH in to ON in the menu settings (p. 100). (The default setting is ON.) [...]

62 You can automatically search for the point where the recording date changes and start playback from that point. 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 using cassette [...]

63 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[...]

64 You can search for a still picture you have recorded on a 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. Searching f[...]

65 Advanced Playback Operations Searching for a photo without using cassette memory ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to VCR. ( 2 ) Set CM SEARCH in to OFF in the menu settings (p. 100). ( 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[...]

66 Using the A/V connecting cable You can dub or edit on the VCR connected to your camcorder using your camcorder as a player. Connect your camcorder to the VCR using the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder. Before operation • Set DISPLAY to LCD in the menu settings. (The defalt setting is LCD.) • Press the following buttons to ma[...]

67 Editing If your VCR has an S video jack Connect using an S video cable (optional) 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 (optional) to the S video jacks of both your camcorder and the VCR. This connection produces higher quali[...]

68 You can duplicate selected scenes (programs) for editing onto a tape without operating the VCR. Scenes can be selected by frame. You can set up to 20 programs. Before operating the Digital program editing function Step 1 Connecting the VCR (p. 68). Step 2 Setting the VCR for operation (p. 69, 73). Step 3 Adjusting the synchronicity of the VCR (p[...]

69 Editing Step 2: Setting the VCR to operate with the A/V connecting cable To edit using the VCR, send the control signal by infrared rays to the remote sensor on the VCR. When you connect using an A/V connecting cable, follow the procedure below, steps ( 1 ) to ( 4 ) , to send the control signal correctly. (1) Set the IR SETUP code 1 Set the POWE[...]

70 Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing * TV/VCR component Note on IR SETUP code Digital program editing is not possible if the VCR does not support IR SETUP codes. Brand IR SETUP code Sony 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Admiral (M. Wards) 89 Aiwa 80 Audio Dynamic 21, 35 Bell&Howell (M. Wards) 36 Brocsonic 70, 82 Canon 77, 78, 97 Citizen 4[...]

71 Editing Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (2) Setting the modes to cancel recording pause on the VCR 1 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select PAUSEMODE, then press the dial. 2 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the mode to cancel recording pause on the VCR, then press the dial. Buttons for canceling recording pause on the[...]

72 Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (4) Confirming VCR operation 1 Insert a recordable tape into the VCR, then set to recording pause. 2 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select IR TEST, then press the dial. 3 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select EXECUTE, then press the dial. If the VCR starts recording, the setting is correct.[...]

73 Editing Step 2: Setting the VCR to operate with the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) When you connect using an i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) (optional), follow the procedure below. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to VCR on your camcorder . ( 2 ) Turn the power of the connected VCR on, then set the input selector to DV input. When you connect a[...]

74 Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing ( 3 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select ADJ TEST, then press the dial. ( 4 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select EXECUTE, then press the dial. IN and OUT are recorded on an image for 5 times each to calculate the numerical values for adjusting the synchronicity. The EXECUTING indicato[...]

75 Editing Notes • When you complete step 3, the image to adjust the syncronicity is recorded for about 50 seconds. • If you start recording from the very beginning of the tape, the first few seconds of the tape may not record properly. Be sure to allow about 10 seconds of lead before starting the recording. Dubbing only desired scenes – Digi[...]

76 Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing Operation 1: Making the program ( 1 ) Insert the tape for playback into your camcorder, and insert a tape for recording into the VCR. ( 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 VIDEO ED[...]

77 Editing Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing Erasing the program you have set Erase OUT first and then IN from the last set program. ( 1 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select UNDO, then press the dial. ( 2 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select EXECUTE, then press the dial. The last set program mark flashes, then the settin[...]

78 Operation 2: Performing Digital program editing (Dubbing a tape) Make sure that your camcorder and VCR are connected, and that the VCR is set to recording pause. This procedure is not necessary when you use an i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable). When you use a digital video camera recorder, set its power switch to VCR/VTR. ( 1 ) Select VIDEO EDI[...]

79 Editing Using with analog video unit and personal computer – Signal convert function You can capture images and sound from an analog video unit connected to your computer which has the i.LINK (DV) jack to your camcorder. Before operation Set DISPLAY to LCD in the menu settings. (The default setting is LCD.) ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to VCR. ([...]

80 Recor ding video or TV pr ograms 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. Before operation Set DISPLAY to LCD in the menu settings. (The default setting is LCD.) ( 1 ) Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) int[...]

81 Editing If your TV or VCR has an S video jack Connect using an S video cable (optional) 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 (optional) to the S (S1) video jacks of both your camcorder and the VCR. This connection produces h[...]

82 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 your c[...]

83 Editing 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 80 or 81. Insert a cassette containing the desired scene to insert into the VCR. [ A ] : [...]

84 To change the insert end point Press ZERO SET MEMORY again after step 5 to erase the ZERO SET MEMORY indicator and begin from step 3. Note The picture and sound recorded on the portion between the insert start and end points will be erased when you insert the new scene. If you insert scenes on the tape recorded with other camcorder (including ot[...]

85 Editing 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. Select one of the following connections to add an audio sound. Con[...]

86 Audio dubbing Dubbing with the AUDIO/VIDEO jack Dubbing with the built-in microphone No connection is necessary. Note When dubbing with the AUDIO/VIDEO jack or the built-in microphone, pictures are not output through S VIDEO jack or the AUDIO/VIDEO jack. Check the recorded picture on the screen. You can check the recorded sound by using headphon[...]

87 Editing Adding an audio sound on a recorded tape ( 1 ) Insert the recorded tape into your camcorder. ( 2 ) Set the POWER switch to VCR 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 )[...]

88 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. 101). • New sound cannot be recorded on a tape already recorded in the LP mode (p. 101). • You cannot add audio with the DV IN/OUT jack. • You cannot add audio on the blank portion of the tape. If an i.LINK ca[...]

89 Editing Superimposing a title If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can superimpose the title. 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. 92). You can also select the color, size and position of titles. ( [...]

90 Superimposing a title If you set the write-protect tab to lock You cannot superimpose or erase the title. Slide the write-protect tab to release the write protection. To use the custom title If you want to use the custom title, select in step 4. If the tape has a blank portion You cannot superimpose a title on the portion. If the tape has a blan[...]

91 Editing Erasing a title ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or VCR, and then press MENU to display the menu. ( 2 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select in the menu setting, then press the dial. ( 3 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select TITLEERASE, then press the dial. Title erase display appears. ( 4 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select t[...]

92 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 MENU to display the menu in CAMERA or VCR mode. ( 2 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select , then press the dial. ( 3 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select TITLE, then press the dial. ( 4 ) Turn the SEL/[...]

93 Editing To change a title you have stored In step 5, select CUSTOM1 SET or CUSTOM2 SET, 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 lon[...]

94 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 labelled cassette and turn the power on, the label is displayed for about five seconds.[...]

95 Editing To erase a character In step 6 turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select [ C ], then press the dial. The last character is erased. 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 th[...]

96 — 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 factory settings can partially changed. First, select the icon, then the menu item and then the mode. ( 1 ) In CAMERA, MEMORY (DCR-TRV18 only) or VCR mode, press MENU. ( 2 ) Turn [...]

97 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 VCR SET LCD/VF SET MEMORY SET (DCR-TRV18 only) PRINT SET (DCR-TRV18 only) CM SET TAPE SET SETUP MENU OTHERS Selecting the mode setting of each item z is the default setting. M[...]

98 Meaning To deactivate Cut recording function. To activate Cut recording function (p. 56). To activate Interval recording function (p. 54). To deactivate Interval recording function. To set waiting time and recording time for Interval recording function (p. 54). To play back a stereo tape or dual sound track tape with main and sub sound (p. 159).[...]

99 Customizing Your Camcorder Changing the menu settings Icon/item * STILL SET PIC MODE QUALITY MOVIE SET IMAGE SIZE REMAIN PRINT MARK PROTECT SLIDE SHOW DELETE ALL * DCR-TRV18 only Mode z SINGLE MULTI SCRN z FINE STANDARD z 320 × 240 160 × 112 z AUTO ON ON z OFF ON z OFF — — Meaning Not to record continuously. To record nine still picutures [...]

100 Icon/item * FORMAT PHOTO SAVE * 9PIC PRINT DATE/TIME TITLE TITLEERASE TITLE DSPL CM SEARCH TAPE TITLE ERASE ALL Mode z RETURN OK — z RETURN SAME MULTI MARKED z OFF DATE DAY&TIME — — z ON OFF z ON OFF — — Meaning To cancel formatting. To format an inserted “Memory Stick.” 1. Select FORMAT with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press[...]

101 Customizing Your Camcorder Icon/item REC MODE AUDIO MODE q REMAIN CLOCK SET AUTO TV ON TV INPUT LTR SIZE DEMO MODE Mode z SP LP z 12BIT 16BIT z AUTO ON — z OFF ON z VIDEO1 VIDEO2 VIDEO3 OFF z NORMAL 2 × z ON OFF Meaning To record in the SP (Standard Play) mode. To increase the recording time to 1.5 times the SP mode. To record in the 12-bit [...]

102 Icon/item DATA CODE WORLD TIME BEEP COMMANDER DISPLAY REC LAMP VIDEO EDIT EDIT SET Note If you press DISPLAY with DISPLAY set to V-OUT/LCD in the menu settings, the picture from a TV or VCR will not appear on the LCD screen even when your camcorder is connected to outputs on the TV or VCR. When recording a close subject When REC LAMP is set to [...]

103 “Memory Stick” Operations – DCR-TRV18 only You can record and play back images on a “Memory Stick” supplied with your camcorder. You can easily play back, record or delete images. You can exchange image data with other equipment such as your computer etc. using the USB cable for “Memory Stick” supplied with your camcorder. On file[...]

104 “Memory Stick”s formatted by a computer “Memory Stick”s formatted by Windows OS or Macintosh computers do not have a guaranteed compatibility with this camcorder. Notes on image data compatibility • Image data files recorded on “Memory Stick”s by your camcorder conform with the Design rule for Camera File system universal standard[...]

105 “Memory Stick” Operations Inserting a “Memory Stick” Lift up the viewfinder, and insert a “Memory Stick” in the “Memory Stick” slot as far as it can go with the v mark facing up as illustrated. Ejecting a “Memory Stick” Slide > MEMORY EJECT in the direction of the arrow. If you extend the viewfinder to the end You cannot [...]

106 Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Selecting still image quality mode You can select image quality mode in still image recording. The default setting is FINE. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press MENU to display the menu. ( 3 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EX[...]

107 “Memory Stick” Operations Image quality settings Setting Meaning FINE (FINE) Use this mode when you want to record high quality images. The image is compressed to about 1/6. STANDARD (STD) This is the standard image quality. The image is compressed to about 1/10. Note In some cases, changing the image quality mode may not affect the image q[...]

108 Selecting the image size You can select 320 × 240 or 160 × 112 of the moving picture size. The default setting is 320 × 240. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press MENU to display the menu. ( 3 ) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select , then press the dial. ( 4 ) [...]

109 “Memory Stick” Operations Image size of still pictures Image size is automatically set to 640 × 480. Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction 4 3 5 6 1 2 MENU LOCK PLAYER CAMERA MEMORY OFF(CHG) P O W E R MEM OR Y S E T MO V I E S E T PR I N T MARK PR OT ECT SL I D E S H O W D ELETE ALL FO R MAT RE TURN [ ME NU ] : END MEM OR Y S E T MO [...]

110 Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Moving picture size settings Setting Meaning Indicator Recording Playback 320 × 240 Records 320 × 240 moving pictures. 320 320 160 × 112 Records 160 × 112 moving pictures. 160 160 Maximum recording time of moving pictures Image size Maximum recording time 320 × 240 15 seconds 160 × 112 60 second[...]

111 “Memory Stick” Operations Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Approximate time of moving pictures you can record on a “Memory Stick” The time o f moving pictures you can record varies depending on which image si z e you select and the complexity of the subject. 4MB type (supplied): Picture size 160 × 112 320 × 240 Recording ti[...]

112 Recor ding still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory photo r ecor ding – DCR-TRV18 only 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. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Keep pressing PHOT[...]

113 “Memory Stick” Operations Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory photo recording When the POWER switch is set to MEMORY The following functions do not work: – Wide TV mode – Digital zoom – SteadyShot function – Super NightShot – Fader – Picture effect – Digital effect – Title – Low lux mode (The indicator[...]

114 Recording images continuously You can record still pictures continuously. Select one of the two modes described below before recording. Multi screen mode (Recording image size is 640 × 480) You can record nine still pictures continuously on a single page. While pressing down PHOTO, your camcorder continuously record maximum number of still pic[...]

115 “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) SINGLE Your camco[...]

116 Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory photo recording Self-timer memory photo recording You can record still images on “Memory Stick”s with the self-timer. You can use the Remote Commander for this operation. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK is set to the left (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press ME[...]

117 “Memory Stick” Operations Recor ding an image fr om a tape as a still image – DCR-TRV18 only Your camcorder can read moving picture data recorded on a tape and record it as a still image on a “Memory Stick”. Before operation • Insert a recorded tape into your camcorder. • Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set [...]

118 Sound recorded on a tape You cannot record the audio from a tape. Titles have already recorded on 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[...]

119 “Memory Stick” Operations If your TV or VCR has an S video jack Connect using an S video cable (optional) 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 (optional) to the S video jacks of both your camcorder and the TV or VCR. Th[...]

120 – DCR-TRV18 only You can record moving pictures with sound on “Memory Stick”s. 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 left (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press START/STOP. Your camcorder starts recording. The camera recording lamp locat[...]

121 “Memory Stick” Operations Recor ding a pictur e from a tape as a moving pictur e – DCR-TRV18 only Your camcorder can read moving picture data recorded on a tape and record it as a moving picture on a “Memory Stick.” Your camcorder can also take in moving picture data through the input connector and record it as a moving picture on a ?[...]

122 Notes • Sound recorded in 48 kHz is converted to one in 32 kHz when recording images from a tape to “Memory Stick”s. • Sound recorded in stereo is converted to monaural sound when recording from tapes. When the access lamp is lit or flashing Do not shake or strike the unit. As well do not turn the power off , eject a “Memory Stick” [...]

123 “Memory Stick” Operations If your TV or VCR has an S video jack Connect using an S video cable (optional) 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 (optional) to the S video jacks of both your camcorder and the TV or VCR. Th[...]

124 Superimposing a still picture in a “Memory Stick” on a moving picture – MEMOR Y MIX – DCR-TRV18 only 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 or a frame [...]

125 “Memory Stick” Operations Superimposing a still picture in a “Memory Stick” on a moving picture – MEMORY MIX Before operation • Insert a tape for recording into your camcorder. • Insert a recorded “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the le[...]

126 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 moving picture C. CHROM The [...]

127 “Memory Stick” Operations Copying still images fr om a tape – Photo save – DCR-TRV18 only Using the search function, you can automatically take in only still images from tapes and record them on a “Memory Stick” in sequence. Before operation • Insert a recorded tape into your camcorder and rewind the tape. • Insert a “Memory S[...]

128 To stop or end copying Press MENU. When the memory of the “Memory Stick” is full “MEMORY FULL” appears on the screen, and the copying stops. Insert another “Memory Stick” and repeat the procedure from step 2. When the access lamp is lit or flashing Do not shake or strike your camcorder. As well do not turn the power off, eject a “[...]

129 “Memory Stick” Operations V iewing a still picture – Memory photo playback – DCR-TRV18 only 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 MEMORY or [...]

130 To play back recorded images on a TV screen • Connect your camcorder to the TV with the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder before operation. • When operating memory photo playback on a TV or on the LCD screen, the image quality may appear to have deteriorated. This is not a malfunction. The image data is as good as ever. • [...]

131 “Memory Stick” Operations 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 MEMORY or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press MEMORY IN[...]

132 V iewing a moving pictur e – MPEG movie playback – DCR-TRV18 only You can play back moving pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick.” You can also play back 6 images including still images in order at a time by selecting the index screen. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY [...]

133 “Memory Stick” Operations Screen indicators during moving picture playback Viewing a moving picture – MPEG movie playback 320 40 MO V 00001 MEM OR Y P L A Y 2/2 0 0 : 12 min Picture number/Total number of recorded pictures Image size Data directory number/File number Protect indicator Remaining battery time indicator Memory playback indic[...]

134 – DCR-TRV18 only You can view data recorded on the “Memory Stick” using your computer. On file format Data recorded on the “Memory Stick” is stored in the following formats. Make sure that applications that support these file formats are installed on your computer. • Still images: JPEG format • Moving images/audio: MPEG format Act[...]

135 “Memory Stick” Operations Installing the USB driver Before connecting your camcorder to your computer, install the USB driver to the computer. The USB driver is contained together with application software for viewing images on a CD-ROM which is supplied with your camcorder. For Windows 98/98SE, Windows 2000, Windows Me users ( 1 ) Turn on [...]

136 Viewing images For Windows 98 users ( 1 ) Turn on the power of your computer and allow Windows 98 to load. ( 2 ) Connect one end of the USB cable to the USB jack on the camcorder and the other end to the USB connector on your computer. ( 3 ) Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder, and connect the AC power adaptor to your camcorder and [...]

137 “Memory Stick” Operations Notes on using your computer “Memory Stick” • “Memory Stick” operations on your camcorder cannot be assured if the “Memory Stick” has been formatted on your computer. • Do not optimize the “Memory Stick” on a Windows machine. This will shorten the “Memory Stick” life. • Do not compress the[...]

138 Copying the image r ecor ded on “Memory Stick”s to tapes – DCR-TRV18 only You can copy still images or titles recorded on “Memory Stick” and record them to a tape. Before operation • Insert a tape for recording into your camcorder. • Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to VCR. ( 2 ) Using th[...]

139 “Memory Stick” Operations Copying the image recorded on “Memory Stick”s to tapes Note on the index screen You cannot record the index screen. If you press EDITSEARCH during pause mode Memory playback stops. Image data modified with computers or shot with other equipment You may not be able to copy them with your camcorder. If you press [...]

140 Enlarging still images r ecor ded on “Memory Stick”s – Memory PB ZOOM – DCR-TRV18 only You can enlarge still images recorded on a “Memory Stick.” You can select and view the desired part from the enlarged still image. Also, you can copy the desired part of the enlarged still image to tapes or video tapes. Before operation Insert a ?[...]

141 “Memory Stick” Operations The PB ZOOM function is cancelled when the following buttons are pressed: – MENU – MEMORY PLAY – MEMORY INDEX – MEMORY +/– Pictures in the PB ZOOM mode Pictures in the PB ZOOM mode are not output through the DV IN/OUT jack when the POWER switch is set to MEMORY. Moving pictures recorded on “Memory Stick[...]

142 – DCR-TRV18 only 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 left (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press[...]

143 “Memory Stick” Operations Pr eventing accidental erasur e – Image pr otection – DCR-TRV18 only 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 VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the lef[...]

144 – DCR-TRV18 only You can delete images stored in a “Memory Stick.” You can delete all images or selected images. Deleting selected images Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Play back the im[...]

145 “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 left (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press MENU to display the menu. ( 3 ) Turn the[...]

146 W riting a print mark – PRINT MARK – DCR-TRV18 only 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” into yo[...]

147 “Memory Stick” Operations To cancel writing print marks Select OFF in step 6, then press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. If the write-protect tab on the “Memory Stick” is set to LOCK You cannot write print marks on still images. Moving pictures You cannot write print marks on moving pictures. While the file name is flashing You cannot write pri[...]

148 Using the printer (optional) – DCR-TRV18 only You can use the printer (optional) on your camcorder to print images on the print paper. For details, refer to the operating instructions of the printer. There are various ways of printing still images. The following, however, describes how to print by selecting in the menu on your camcorder. Befo[...]

149 Troubleshooting — Troubleshooting — T ypes of tr ouble and their solutions 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 or local authorized Sony service facility. If “C: ss : ss ” appears on the scr[...]

150 In the playback mode Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions • The POWER switch is not set to VCR. c Set it to VCR. (p. 31) • The tape has run out. c Rewind the tape. (p. 33) • The video head may be dirty. c Clean the heads using the cleaning cassette (optional). (p. 166) • The volume is turned to minimum. c Turn up the volume. (p. 31) [...]

151 Troubleshooting Types of trouble and their solutions In the recording and playback modes Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions • The battery pack is not installed, or is dead or nearly dead. c Install a charged battery pack. (p. 12, 13) • The AC power adaptor is not connected to a wall outlet. c Connect the AC power adaptor to a wall outl[...]

152 Types of trouble and their solutions When operating using the “Memory Stick” – DCR-TRV18 only Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions • The POWER switch is not set to MEMORY. c Set it to MEMORY. (p. 112) • The “Memory Stick” is not inserted. c Insert a “Memory Stick”. (p. 105) • The “Memory Stick” has already been record[...]

153 Troubleshooting Types of trouble and their solutions Others Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions • The tape has no cassette memory. c Use a tape with cassette memory. (p. 89, 158) • The cassette memory is full. c Erase unnecessary title. (p. 91) • The tape is set to prevent accidental erasure. c Slide the write-protect tab so that red [...]

154 Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions • Moisture condensation has occurred. c Remove the cassette and leave your camcorder for at least one hour to acclimatize. (p. 165) • Some troubles have occurred in your camcorder. c Remove the cassette and insert it again, then operate your camcorder. • Disconnect the power cord of the AC power ada[...]

155 Troubleshooting 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. 160) • Moisture condensation has occurred. c Remove the cassette and leave your camcorder for at least one hour to acclim[...]

156 W ar ning indicators and messages 100-0001 Warning indicator as to file Slow flashing: • The file is corrupted. • The file is unreadable. • You are trying to carry out MEMORY MIX function on moving picture. C:21:00 Self-diagnosis display (p. 155) E The battery is dead or nearly dead Slow flashing: • The battery is nearly dead. Depending[...]

157 Troubleshooting Warning indicators and messages Warning messages • CLOCK SET Set the date and time (p. 18). • FOR “InfoLITHIUM” Use an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (p. 160). BATTERY ONLY • CLEANING CASSETTE* 3) The video heads are dirty (p. 166). • FULL The tape cassette memory is full.* 2) • 16BIT AUDIO MODE is set to 16BIT (p.[...]

158 — 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[...]

159 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[...]

160 About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack What is the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack? The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is a lithium-ion battery pack that has functions for communicating information related to operating conditions between the battery pack and your camcorder or an AC power adaptor. The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack calculates t[...]

161 Additional Information 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 available battery time is shortened considerably, a probable cause is that the battery pack has reached the end of its life. Please buy a new battery pack. • The battery life va[...]

162 The DV jack on this unit is an i.LINK-compliant DV input/output jack. This section describes the i.LINK standard and its features. What is i.LINK? i.LINK is a digital serial interface for handling digital video, digital audio and other data in two directions between equipment having the i.LINK jack, and for controlling other equipment. i.LINK-c[...]

163 Additional Information i.LINK functions on this unit For details on how to dub when this unit is connected to other video equipment having DV jacks, see page 67, 81. This unit can also be connected to other i.LINK (DV) compatible equipment made by SONY (e.g. VAIO series personal computer) other than video equipment. Before connecting this unit [...]

164 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 camcorder is an NTSC s[...]

165 Additional Information 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 op[...]

166 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 “ CLEANING CASSETTE” message appear [...]

167 Additional Information 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 [...]

168 Maintenance information and precautions • While the unit is in use, particularly during charging, keep it away from AM receivers and video equipment. AM receivers and video equipment disturb AM reception and video operation. • The unit becomes warm during use. This is not a malfunction. • Do not place the unit in locations that are: – E[...]

169 Additional Information 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 [...]

170 Specifications AC power adaptor Power requirements 100 - 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz Power consumption 23 W Output voltage DC OUT: 8.4 V, 1.5 A in the operating mode 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 (approx.) 125 × 39 × 62 mm (5 × 1 9/16 × 2 1/2 in.) [...]

171 Quick Reference — Quick Reference — Identifying the parts and contr ols 1 Remote sensor 2 Focus ring (p. 53) 3 Lens 4 Microphone 5 Infrared rays emitter (p. 27, 36, 71) This mark indicates that this product is a genuine accessory for Sony video products. When purchasing Sony video products, Sony recommends that you purchase accessories with[...]

172 Identifying the parts and controls qa > MEMORY EJECT Lever (DCR-TRV18 only) (p. 105) qs Power zoom lever (p. 24) qd POWER switch (p. 13) qf qg qh qj qs qa qd Notes on the intelligent accessory shoe • The intelligent accessory shoe supplies power to optional accessories such as a video light, microphone or printer (DCR-TRV18 only) . • The[...]

173 Quick Reference Identifying the parts and controls qk wa ws wd wf wg ql w; qk PHOTO button (p. 38, 112) ql BATT release button (p. 12) w; Hooks for sholder strap wa (USB) jack (DCR-TRV18 only) (p. 135) ws NIGHTSHOT switch (p. 27) wd SUPER NIGHTSHOT button (p. 27) Attaching the shoulder strap Attach the shoulder strap supplied with your camcorde[...]

174[...]

175 Quick Reference ej ek el r; ef ed eg eh PAUSE REC STOP PLAY REW FF ed Speaker ef VOLUME buttons (p. 31) eg OPEN button (p. 21) eh LCD screen (p. 22) ej Viewfinder lens adjustment lever (p. 24) ek END SEARCH button (p. 30) el PB ZOOM button (p. 59, 140) r; Video control buttons (p. 33) x STOP (stop) m REW (rewind) N PLAY (playback) M FF (fastfor[...]

176 Identifying the parts and controls ra DISPLAY button (p. 32) rs RESET button (p. 154) rd FADER button (p. 44) rf AUDIO DUB button (p. 87) rg MEMORY operation buttons (DCR-TRV18 only) MPEG u button (p. 132) MEMORY PLAY button (p. 129) MEMORY INDEX button (p. 131) MEMORY DELETE button (p. 144) MEMORY +/– buttons (p. 129) MEMORY MIX button (p. 1[...]

177 Quick Reference Identifying the parts and controls Fastening the grip strap Fasten the grip strap firmly. 4 3 2 1 rk rl t; ts ta rk Battery pack (p. 13) rl OPEN/ EJECT lever (p. 20) t; Tripod receptacle Make sure that the length of the tripod screw is less than 6.5 mm (9/32 inch). Otherwise, you cannot attach the tripod securely and the screw m[...]

178 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. To prepare the Remote Commander Insert 2 size AA (R6) batteries by matching the + and – polarities on the batteries to the + – marks inside the battery co[...]

179 Quick Reference Identifying the parts and controls Operation indicators 1 Cassette memory indicator (p. 25, 158) 2 Remaining battery time indicator (p. 25) 3 Zoom indicator (p. 25) /Exposure indicator (p. 52) /Data file name indicator (DCR-TRV18 only) (p. 125) 4 Digital effect indicator (p. 47) /MEMORY MIX indicator (DCR-TRV18 only) (p. 125 ) /[...]

Index A, B AC power adaptor .................. 13 Adjusting viewfinder ............. 24 Audio dubbing ........................ 85 AUDIO MIX ............................ 98 Audio mode ........................... 101 AUTO SHUTTER .................... 97 A/V connecting cable .................... 35, 40, 66, 118, 122 BACK LIGHT ........................[...]