Sony HC42 manual

DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Printed in Japan Printed on 100% recycled paper using V OC (V olatile Organic Compound)-free vegetab le oil based ink. © 2005 Sony Corporation D ig i t al V id e o C a me r a R ec o r de r O pe r a ti n g G u id e DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906- 11 (1) Using the Menu Dubbing/Editing Using a Comp[...]

2 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Read this first Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly , and retain it for future reference. WARNING T o prevent fire or shoc k hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the produ[...]

3 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) For customers in the U.S.A. If you have an y questions about this product, you may call: Sony Customer Information Center 1-800-222- SONY (7669). The number below is for the FCC related matters only . Regulatory Information Declaration of Conf ormity Trade Name: SONY Model No.: DCR-HC32 Responsible Party: Sony Electr[...]

4 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Notes on use Y our camcorder is supplied with two kinds of operations guides. – “Operating Guide” (This manual) – “First Step Guide” for using the supplied software (stored on the supplied CD- R OM) On the types of recording media you can use in your camcorder • A mini D V cassette marked with (mini D V[...]

5 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) On this manual • The images of the LCD screen and the viewfinder used in this manual for illustration purposes are captured using a digital still camera, and therefore may appear different. • The on-screen displays in each local language are used for illustrating the operating procedures. Change the screen langu[...]

6 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) T able of Contents Getting Started Step 1: Checking supplied items ............................................................... 9 Step 2: Charging the batter y pack ........................................................... 10 Step 3: T ur ning the power on and holding y our camcorder fir mly ........... 14 Step[...]

7 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Continued  Searching f or the star ting point ............................................................... 31 Searching for the last scene of the most r ecent recor ding (END SEARCH) ..............................................................................................31 Searching manually (EDIT SEARCH)[...]

8 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Deleting recorded pictures from the “Memor y Stick Duo” ........................ 65 Marking images on the “Memory Stick Duo” with specific information (Image protection/Print mar k) ........................................................ 66 Printing recorded images (PictBr idge compliant printer) ..........[...]

9 Getting Started DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Step 1: Checking supplied items Make sure that you hav e following items supplied with your camcorder . The number in the parentheses indicates the number of that item supplied. AC Adaptor (1) (p . 10) P ower cord (1) (p . 10) Handycam Station (1) (p . 10) Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p . 32) A butt[...]

10 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Step 2: Charging the batter y pack Y ou can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (P series) (p. 109) after attaching it to your camcorder . POWER switch DC plug Handycam Station DC IN jack AC Adaptor T o the wall outlet 1 Attach the battery pack b y sliding it in the direction of the arro w until it clic ks. 2 [...]

11 Getting Started DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) 6 The CHG (charge) lamp turns off when the battery is fully charged. Disconnect the A C Adaptor from the DC IN jack. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack holding both the Handycam Station and the DC plug. T o charge the batter y pack using only the AC Adaptor T urn off the power , then conne[...]

12 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Charging time Approximate time (min.) required when you fully charge a fully dischar ged battery pack. Battery pack Charging time NP-FP30 (supplied with DCR-HC32) 115 NP-FP50 (supplied with DCR-HC42) 125 NP-FP70 155 NP-FP90 220 Recording time Approximate time (min.) av ailable when you use a fully charged battery pa[...]

13 Getting Started DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) On the battery pack • Before changing the battery pack, slide the POWER switch up to OFF (CHG). • The CHG (char ge) lamp flashes during charging, or the battery information (p. 26) will not be correctly displayed under the following conditions. – The battery pack is not attached correctly . ?[...]

14 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Step 3: T urning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly T o record or play back, slide the PO WER switch repeatedly to turn on the respectiv e lamp. When using it for the first time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 17). LENS CO VER switch POWER s witch 1 Slide the LENS CO VER switch to OPEN. 2 Slide the[...]

15 Getting Started DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder The LCD panel Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (  ), then rotate it to the best angle to record or play (  ). DISP/BA TT INFO 2 1 180 degrees (max.) 90 degrees (max.) 90 degrees to the camcorder • Do not press the b uttons on the L[...]

16 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Step 5: Using the touch panel Y ou can play back recorded pictures (p. 23), or change the settings (p. 36) using the touch panel. Place your hand on the rear side of the LCD panel to support it. Then, touch the buttons displa yed on the screen. DISP/BA TT INFO T ouch the button on the LCD screen. • Perform the sam[...]

17 Getting Started DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Step 6: Setting the date and time Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears ev ery time you turn on your camcorder or change the PO WER switch position. • If you do not use your camcorder for about 3 mont[...]

18 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memor y Stick Duo” Cassette tape Y ou can use mini D V cassettes only (p. 106). • The recordable time v aries depending on [REC MODE] (p. 53). 1 Slide and hold the OPEN/EJECT lever in the direction of the arro w and open the lid. OPEN/EJECT lev er Lid The cassette compartment aut[...]

19 Getting Started DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Step 8: Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3) of the recording picture (DCR-HC42) By recording in the 16:9 (wide) mode, you can enjoy wide-angle, high-resolution pictures. • If you intend to vie w pictures on a wide TV , recording in the 16:9 (wide) mode is recommended. WIDE SELECT button POWER [...]

20 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Recording/Playback with ease (Easy Handycam) W ith this Easy Handycam operation, most of the camera settings are automatically adjusted optimally , which frees you from detailed adjustment. Since only basic functions become av ailable and screen font size increases for easy viewing, e ven first time users can enjoy[...]

21 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Recording/Playback Playing back with ease 1 Slide the PO WER switch  in the direction of the arro w repeatedly to turn on the PLA Y/EDIT lamp. 2 Press EASY  . The EASY lights up in blue. E a s y H an dy ca m o p e r at io n O N 3 Start playing back. Movies T ouch , then touch to start playback. Slow playback i[...]

22 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Recording Open the lens cov er . PHO T O DCR-HC32: POWER s witch REC ST ART/ ST OP  REC ST ART/ ST OP  1 Slide the PO WER switch in the direction of the arro w repeatedly to turn on the respective lamp to select a recording medium. On a tape : Light up the CAMERA- T APE lamp. If the PO WER switch is set to OFF[...]

23 Recording/Playback DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Playback 1 Slide the PO WER switch in the direction of the arro w repeatedly to turn on the PLA Y/EDIT lamp. 2 Start playing back. Movies On a T ape: T ouch , then touch to start playback. A B C  Stop  Play/P ause toggles as you touch it  Re wind/Fast forward • Playback automatically st[...]

24 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Functions used for recording/playback, etc. 1 3 2 For DCR-HC42: 4 5 6 7 For DCR-HC32: 7 6 4 5 8 Recording T o use zoom ......................   Move the po wer zoom lever  slightly for a slower zoom. Mo ve it further for a faster zoom. Wider range of view: (W ide angle) Close view: ( T elephoto ) • Y ou c[...]

25 Recording/Playback DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) T o adjust the exposure for backlit subjects ................................  T o adjust the exposure for backlit subjects, press B A CK LIGHT  to display  . T o cancel the back light function, press B A CK LIGHT again. T o adjust the focus for an off center subject (SPOT FOCUS) ........[...]

26 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) 9 qa 3 qs 0 6 qd Recording/playback T o check the remaining batter y (Battery Info) ..........................  Set the PO WER switch up to OFF (CHG), then press DISP/B A TT INFO  . The battery information appears for about 7 seconds. Keep the b utton pressed to view it for about 20 seconds. Remaining battery [...]

27 Recording/Playback DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1)[...]

28 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Indicators displayed during recording/playback Recording movies On a tape 1 3 2 4 5 7 6  Remaining battery (approx.)  Recording mode (  or  ) (53)  Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or [REC] (recording))  T ime code (hour: minute: second: frame)/T ape counter (hour: minute: second)  Recor[...]

29 Recording/Playback DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) ( ) is a reference page. The indicators during recording will not be recorded. Viewing movies On a tape 1 2 qd 4 5 7 qf  T ape transport indicator  V ideo operation buttons (23) When there is a “Memory Stick Duo” inserted in the camcorder , (STOP) changes to (“Memory Stick Duo” playb[...]

30 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Indicators when you made changes Y ou can use [DISP GUIDE] (p. 16) to check the function of each indicator that appears on the LCD screen. Upper left Upper right Bottom Center Upper left Indicator Meaning EXT SUR MIC (53) A UDIO MODE (53) Continuous photo recording (45) Self-timer recording (43) Interval photo recor[...]

31 Recording/Playback DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Searching for the starting point Make sure that the CAMERA-T APE lamp lights up. Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording (END SEARCH) [END SEARCH] will not work once you eject the cassette after you hav e recorded on the tape. T ouch  . EN D SE AR CH EX EC UT IN G CANCEL 0: 0 [...]

32 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Remote Commander Remove the insulation sheet before using the Remote Commander . Insulation sheet 6 1 q; 2 3 4 5 7 8 9  PHOT O (p. 22) The on-screen image when you press this button will be recorded as a still image.  SEARCH M. (p. 31)     V ideo control buttons (Rewind, Playback, Fast-forward, P a[...]

33 Recording/Playback DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) Y ou can locate the point where the recording date changes. 1 Slide the PO WER switch down to turn on the PLA Y/EDIT lamp. 2 Press SEARCH M.  . 3 Press  (previous)/  (next)  to select a recording date. 30 min DA TE -01 SEACH 60 m[...]

34 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Playing the picture on a TV Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet using the supplied A C Adaptor for this operation (p. 10). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. 1 2 A/V jack (Y ellow) (White) (Red) IN VCRs or TVs : Signal flow  A/V connecting cable (supplied) Conn[...]

35 Recording/Playback DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) • On some 4:3 TVs, the still image recorded in 4:3 aspect ratio may not appear in full screen. This is not a malfunction. • When you play back a picture recorded in 16:9 aspect ratio on a 4:3 TV not compatible with the 16:9 signal, set [TV TYPE] to [4:3]. When your TV is monaural (When your TV[...]

36 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Using the menu items Follo w the instructions below to use each of the menu items listed after this page. 1 Slide the PO WER switch down to turn on the respective lamp. [CAMERA-T APE] lamp: settings on a tape [CAMERA-MEMOR Y] lamp: settings on a “Memory Stick Duo” [PLA Y/EDIT] lamp: settings for viewing/editing [...]

37 Using the Menu DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) After finishing the settings, touch  (close) to hide the menu screen. If you decide not to change the setting, touch to return to the pre vious screen.[...]

38 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Menu items * 1 DCR-HC32 * 2 DCR-HC42 Position of lamp: T APE MEMOR Y PLAY/EDIT CAMERA SET menu (p. 40) PROGRAM AE   × SPOT METER   × EXPOSURE   × WHITE BAL.   × AUTO SHUTTER  × × SPOT FOCUS   × FOCUS   × TELE MACRO   × FLASH SET   × SUPER NSPLUS  × × [...]

39 Using the Menu DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) A vailable menu items (  ) v ary depending on the position of the lamp. * These functions are av ailable during Easy Handycam operation. Position of lamp: T APE MEMOR Y PLAY/EDIT EDIT/PLA Y menu (p. 52) V AR. SPD PB × ×  REC CTRL × ×  AUD DUB CTRL × ×  REC MOVIE × ×  BURN DVD ×[...]

40 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) CAMERA SET menu Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (EXPOSURE/WHITE BAL./STEADYSHOT , etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 36 for details on selecting menu items. PROGRAM AE Y ou can record pictures effec[...]

41 Using the Menu DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) EXPOSURE Y ou can fix the brightness of a picture manually . When recording indoors on a clear day , for instance, you can av oid backlight shadows on people ne xt to the window by fixing the e xposure to that of the wall side of the room. 2 1 3  T ouch [MANU AL].  Adjust the exposure by touch[...]

42 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) SPOT FOCUS Y ou can select and adjust the focal point to aim it at a subject not located in the center of the screen. 1 2  T ouch the subject on the screen.  appears.  T ouch [END]. T o adjust the focus automatically , touch [A UTO]  [END]. • If you set [SPO T FOCUS], [FOCUS] is automatically set to [M[...]

43 Using the Menu DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) AUTO (DCR-HC42) Flashes automatically to reduce the red- eye phenomenon. • If the flash is not capable of preventing the red- eye phenomenon, you can select only [ON] or [A UTO].  FLASH LEVEL HIGH( ) Makes the flash le vel higher .  NORMAL( ) LOW( ) Makes the flash le vel lo wer . • The s[...]

44 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) DIGIT AL ZOOM Y ou can select the maximum zoom lev el in case you want to zoom to a le vel greater than 20 × (DCR-HC32) or 12 × (DCR- HC42) while recording on a tape. Note that the image quality decreases when you are using the digital zoom. The right side of the bar shows the digital zooming factor . The zooming [...]

45 Using the Menu DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) MEMOR Y SET menu Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo” (QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/BURST/ALL ERASE/ NEW FOLDER, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 36 for details on selecting menu items. STILL SET  For DCR-HC42: BURS[...]

46 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) In 16:9 aspect ratio (DCR-HC42) 1152 × 648 640 × 360 8MB 20 48 60 120 16MB 40 96 115 240 32MB 81 190 240 485 64MB 160 390 490 980 128MB 320 780 980 1970 256MB 590 1400 1750 3550 512MB 1200 2850 3600 7200 1GB 2450 5900 7300 14500 • All numbers measured at the follo wing setting. T op: [FINE] is selected for image[...]

47 Using the Menu DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) ALL ERASE Deletes all the pictures on a “Memory Stick Duo” without image protection, or in the selected folder .  Select [ALL FILES] or [CURRENT FOLDER]. [ALL FILES]: Deletes all the images on the “Memory Stick Duo. ” [CURRENT FOLDER]: Deletes all the images in the selected folder .  T o[...]

48 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) PICT .APPLI. menu Special effects on pictures or additional functions on recording/playback (PICT . EFFECT/SLIDE SHOW/INT .REC-STL, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 36 for details on selecting menu items. F ADER Y ou can add t[...]

49 Using the Menu DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) SLIDE SHOW Plays back the images stored on a “Memory Stick Duo, ” or in a folder in sequence (slide show).  T ouch  [PB FOLDER].  Select [ALL FILES ( )] or [CURRENT FOLDER ( )], then touch . If you select [CURRENT FOLDER ( )], all the images in the current playback folder selected in [PB [...]

50 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) SLOW SHUTTR (slow shutter) The shutter speed is slowed do wn. Suitable for shooting a subject more clearly in a dark place. • Adjust the focus manually using a tripod since adjusting the focus automatically is hard when [SLOW SHUTTR] is selected. ([FOCUS], p. 42) OLD MOVIE Adds an old movie ef fect with a sepia hu[...]

51 Using the Menu DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) T o interrupt, touch [REC STOP] in step  . T o resume, touch [REC ST AR T]. T o cancel, touch [REC STOP], then [END]. • When your camcorder has shot se veral frames, it records them on the tape, after performing the END SEARCH function depending on the interval length. • Do not turn of f the po[...]

52 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) EDIT/PLA Y menu Settings for editing or playing back in various modes (V AR.SPD PB/END SEARCH, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 36 for details on selecting menu items. V AR.SPD PB (Various speed playback) Y ou can play back in[...]

53 Using the Menu DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) ST ANDARD SET menu Settings while recording on a tape or other basic settings (REC MODE/MUL TI-SOUND/ LCD/VF SET/DISP OUTPUT/USB, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 36 for details on selecting menu items. REC MODE[...]

54 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1)  T ouch .  LCD BL LEVEL Y ou can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen’ s backlight.  NORMAL Standard brightness. BRIGHT Brightens the LCD screen. • When you connect your camcorder to outside power sources, [BRIGHT] is automatically selected for the setting. • When you select [BRIGHT], battery life [...]

55 Using the Menu DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) USB-PL Y/EDT (USB-Play/Edit) Select this when you view pictures stored in your camcorder on your computer (p. 70), or when you connect your camcorder to a PictBridge compliant printer via a USB cable (supplied) (p. 67).  STD-USB Displays pictures sav ed on the “Memory Stick Duo. ” PictBridge Se[...]

56 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) BEEP  ON A melody sounds when you start/stop recording, or operate the touch panel. OFF Cancels the melody . DISP OUTPUT  LCD P ANEL Shows displays such as the time code on the LCD screen and in the viewfinder . V-OUT/PANEL Shows displays such as the time code on the TV screen, LCD screen, and in the viewfin[...]

57 Using the Menu DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Customizing Personal Menu Y ou can add desired menu items to Personal Menu, and customize Personal Menu settings for each PO WER switch position. This is con venient if you add frequently used menu items to Personal Menu. Adding a menu item Y ou can add up to 28 menu items for each PO WER switch posit[...]

58 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Arranging the order of menu items displayed on Personal Menu 1 T ouch  [P-MENU SET UP]  [SORT]. If the desired menu item is not displayed, touch / . 2 T ouch the menu item y ou want to move. 3 T ouch / to mo ve the menu item to the desired place. 4 T ouch . T o sort more items, repeat steps 2 to 4 . 5 T ouch [[...]

59 Dubbing/Editing DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Connecting to a VCR or TV Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet using the supplied A C Adaptor for this operation (p. 10). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. 1 2 3 A/V jack (Y ellow) (White) (Red) VCRs or TVs T o i.LINK (IEEE1394) jack i.LINK complian[...]

60 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Dubbing to other recording devices Y ou can copy the picture played back on your camcorder to other recording devices (such as VCRs). 1 Connect your VCR to your camcorder as a recor ding device . See page 59 for connection details. 2 Prepare your VCR for recor ding. When dubbing to the VCR, insert a cassette for rec[...]

61 Dubbing/Editing DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Recording pictures from a VCR or TV Y ou can record pictures or TV programs from a VCR or TV on a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo. ” Y ou can also record a scene as a still image on a “Memory Stick Duo. ” Be sure to insert a cassette or a “Memory Stick Duo” for recording in your camcorder bef[...]

62 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Dubbing pictures from a tape to a “Memor y Stick Duo” Y ou can record movies or still images on a “Memory Stick Duo. ” Make sure you hav e a recorded tape and a “Memory Stick Duo” inserted into your camcorder . 1 Slide the PO WER switch down to turn on the PLA Y/EDIT lamp. 2 Search and recor d the scene [...]

63 Dubbing/Editing DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Dubbing sound to a recorded tape Y ou can add sound to a tape already recorded in the 12-bit mode (p. 53) without erasing the original sound. Connecting  Active Interf ace Shoe  Internal microphone A/V connecting cable (supplied) Do not connect the V ideo plug (yellow). (white)  A/V jack (re[...]

64 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) viewfinder . • F or DCR-HC42: When you attach an external microphone (optional) to the Active Interface Shoe, you can check the picture and the sound by connecting your camcorder to a TV using the A/V connecting cable. Howe ver, sound you are recording afterwards is not output from your camcorder . Check the soun[...]

65 Dubbing/Editing DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) • T o set the end point for audio dubbing, beforehand, press ZER O SET MEMOR Y on the Remote Commander at the scene at which you want to stop audio dubbing during playback. After step 2 to 4, the recording stops automatically at the selected scene. • Y ou can only record additional audio over a t[...]

66 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Marking images on the “Memor y Stick Duo” with specific information (Image protection/Print mark) When you are using a “Memory Stick Duo” with the write-protect tab, make sure the write-protect tab on the “Memory Stick Duo” is not set to the write-protect position (p. 107). Preventing accidental erasure[...]

67 Dubbing/Editing DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer) Y ou can print out pictures using a PictBridge compliant printer without connecting the camcorder to a computer . Connect the supplied AC Adaptor to a wall outlet for power . Insert the “Memory Stick Duo” on which still images are stored int[...]

68 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) – Removing the “Memory Stick Duo” from your camcorder . • If the printer stops working, disconnect the USB cable and restart the operation from the beginning. • F or DCR-HC42: If you print a still image recorded with a 16:9 ratio, left and right ends of the image may be cut off. • Some printer models may[...]

69 Dubbing/Editing DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Jacks to connect external devices Camcorder 2 3 1 Bottom 4 5 Handycam Station 5 6 7 8 2 4  For DCR-HC42: Activ e Interface Shoe (p. 63) The Active Interf ace Shoe supplies power to optional accessories such as a video light, a flash, or a microphone. The accessory can be turned on or off as you o[...]

70 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on your computer When you install the Picture Package software on a Windo ws computer from the supplied CD-R OM, you can enjoy the following operations by connecting your camcorder to your computer . • Software and features a vailable for Macintosh computers differ fr[...]

71 Using a Computer DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) About “First Step Guide” “First Step Guide” is an instruction manual you can refer to on your computer . This “First Step Guide” describes basic operations, from initial hookup of your camcorder and computer and making settings, to general operation the first time you use the software s[...]

72 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Others: USB port (This must be provided as standard), disc driv e  For Macintosh users When using ImageMixer VCD2 OS: Mac OS X (v10.1.5 or later) CPU: iMac, eMac, iBook, PowerBook, PowerMac G3/G4/G5 series Memory: 128 MB or more Hard disk: A v ailable memory required for installation: 250 MB or more A vailable fr[...]

73 Using a Computer DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) (Disc driv e).* * Dri ve names (such as (E:)) may vary depending on the computer . 4 Click [Install]. Depending on the OS on the computer , a message appears notifying you that “First Step Guide” cannot be installed automatically with the InstallShield W izard. In such a case, manually copy “F[...]

74 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) 10 Select the language for “First Step Guide” to be installed, then clic k [Next]. Depending on the computer , this screen may not be displayed. In such a case, skip to step 12. 11 Click [Next] to install the “First Step Guide”. 12 Click [Next], then follow the on-screen instructions to install ImageMixer VC[...]

75 Using a Computer DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) The computer turns off once, then starts up again automatically (Restart). The short-cut icons for [Picture Package Menu] and [Picture Package Menu destination Folder] (and “First Step Guide”, if installed by steps 11-12) appear on the desktop. 15 Remove the CD-ROM fr om the disc drive of your c[...]

76 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Viewing “First Step Guide” Displaying “First Step Guide” Starting up on a Windows computer V iewing with Microsoft Internet Explorer V er .6.0 or later is recommended. Double-click the icon on the desktop. Y ou can also start by selecting [Start], [Programs] ([All Programs] for W indows XP), [Picture Package[...]

77 Using a Computer DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Creating a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”) Y ou can create D VDs when you connect your camcorder to a Sony V AIO series computer* that supports “Click to D VD” via an i.LINK cable (optional). The picture is automatically copied and written to a D VD. The following procedures describe h[...]

78 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) 1 T urn on the computer . Quit all applications running with an i.LINK. 2 Prepare the power sour ce for your camcor der , then slide the PO WER switch down to turn on the PLA Y/ EDIT lamp. Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the power source since it tak es a few hours to create a D VD. 3 Insert a recorded cassette into [...]

79 Using a Computer DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) T o cancel the operation T ouch [CANCEL] on the LCD screen on your camcorder . • Y ou cannot cancel the operation after [Finalizing D VD.] is displayed on the LCD screen of your camcorder . • Do not disconnect the i.LINK cable or set the POWER switch to another mode on your camcorder until the p[...]

80 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Connecting an analog VCR to the computer via your camcorder (Signal convert function) Using the A/V connecting cable and an i.LINK cable (optional), you can conv ert an analog signal output from an analog device such as a VCR to a digital signal and transfer it to a digital device, such as a computer , via your camc[...]

81 Using a Computer DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) 4 Start playback on the analog video unit. 5 Start capturing procedures on your computer . Regarding operation, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the software or the on-line help. After capturing images and sound, stop capturing procedures on your computer , and stop playback on the [...]

82 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) T roubleshooting If you run into any problems using your camcorder , use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. If the problem persists, remove the po wer source and contact your Sony dealer . Overall operations/Easy Handycam The power does not turn on. • The battery pack is discharged, running lo w , or[...]

83 T roubleshooting DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Batteries/Power sources The power abruptly turns off . • When approximately 5 minutes hav e elapsed while you do not operate your camcorder , the camcorder is automatically turned off (A.SHUT OFF). Change the setting of [A.SHUT OFF] (p. 56), or turn on the power again (p. 14), or use the A C Adapt[...]

84 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) LCD screen/viewfinder A rippling effect appears on the LCD screen when y ou touch it. • This is not a malfunction. Do not press hard on the LCD screen. An unknown picture appears on the LCD screen or vie wfinder . • The camcorder is in [DEMO MODE] (p. 51). T ouch the LCD screen or insert a cassette or a “Mem[...]

85 T roubleshooting DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Cassette tapes The cassette cannot be ejected from the compartment. • Make sure the po wer source (battery pack or AC Adaptor) is connected correctly (p. 10). • Remove the battery pack from the camcorder , then attach it again (p. 11). • Attach a charged battery pack to the camcorder (p. 10). [...]

86 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Image protection cannot be applied. • Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 107). • Perform the operation again on the index screen (p. 66). Y ou cannot mark pictures for print. • Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 107). • Perform[...]

87 T roubleshooting DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Y ou cannot record on the “Memor y Stick Duo. ” • Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 107). • The capacity is full. Delete unnecessary pictures recorded on the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 65). • Format the “Memory Stick Duo” on your camcorder or i[...]

88 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Smooth interval recording stops/[Smooth interv al rec discontinued due to error .] appears and recor ding stops. (DCR-HC42) • The video head may be dirty . Use a cleaning cassette (optional). • T ry again from the beginning. • Use a Sony mini D V cassette. Adjusting the image during recording Refer also to “[...]

89 T roubleshooting DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) The picture appears too bright on the screen, and the subject does not appear on the screen. • Deactiv ate the NightShot plus function (p. 24). • Cancel the BA CK LIGHT function (p. 25). The picture appears too dark on the screen, and the subject does not appear on the screen. (DCR-HC42) • The[...]

90 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Horizontal lines appear on the picture. The displayed pictures are not clear or do not appear . • Clean the head using the cleaning cassette (optional) (p. 112). No sound or only a low sound is hear d. • Set [MUL TI-SOUND] to [STEREO] (p. 53). • T urn up the volume (p. 23). • Adjust [A UDIO MIX] from the [ST[...]

91 T roubleshooting DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Remote Commander The supplied Remote Commander does not function. • Set [REMO TE CTRL] to [ON] (p. 55). • Remove an y obstructions between the Remote Commander and the remote sensor. • Point the remote sensor away from strong light sources such as direct sunlight or o verhead lighting. Otherwi[...]

92 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Y ou cannot use [SPOT FOCUS]. • Y ou cannot use [SPOT FOCUS] together with [PR OGRAM AE]. Y ou cannot use [TELE MACR O] • Y ou cannot use [TELE MACR O] together with: – [PR OGRAM AE] – Recording a movie on a tape or “Memory Stick Duo. ” Y ou cannot use [SUPER NSPLUS]. • Y ou cannot use [SUPER NS PLUS] [...]

93 T roubleshooting DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Dubbing/Editing/Connecting to other devices Pictures output from the camcor der do not appear on the screen of the connected device. • When attaching the camcorder to the Handycam Station, close the DC IN jack cover , and then fully insert the camcorder into the Handycam Station in the correct dir[...]

94 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Y ou cannot input pictures. • Y ou cannot input pictures while [DISP OUTPUT] is set to [V -OUT/P ANEL] (p. 56). • Y ou cannot input pictures if you press the DISP/BA TT INFO button. The picture appears distorted or dark. • A/V connecting cables are connected to both your camcorder and the Handycam Station. Dis[...]

95 T roubleshooting DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Y ou cannot view the pictures recorded on a tape on a Macintosh computer . • When you connect your camcorder to a Macintosh computer using a USB cable, you cannot copy pictures recorded on a tape to the computer . T o copy recordings from a tape, connect your camcorder to the computer with an i.LI[...]

96 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) For copying and viewing pictures recor ded on a tape – [USB Audio Device] in the [Sound, video and game controllers] folder – [USB Device] in the [Other de vices] folder – [USB Composite Device] in the [Uni versal Serial Bus Controller] folder For copying and viewing pictures recor ded on a “Memory Stick Duo[...]

97 T roubleshooting DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) 3 Click [Open]. 4 Double-click [Driver]. 5 Double-click [Setup.exe]. • Deleting anything other than [USB Composite De vice], [USB Audio Device], [Composite USB Device], [? Son y Handycam] and [? Sony DSC] may cause a malfunction of your computer .  For Windows XP Log on as Administrator . 1 Che[...]

98 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) 2 Double-click the icon for the newly recognized dri ve [Removable Disk (F:)] (F or W indows XP , [Sony Memory Stick]). It may take some time until the driv e is recognized. If the computer does not recognize it, the USB driv er may be installed incorrectly . 3 Double-click the desired image file. [Cannot start Eas[...]

99 T roubleshooting DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) [USB streaming... This function is not av ailable.] appears on the screen of your camcorder . • Start recording or playing back pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” after USB Streaming is finished. “First Step Guide” is not displayed correctly . • Follo w the procedure below and re[...]

100 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) W arning indicators and messages Self-diagnosis display/Warning indicators If indicators appear on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder , check the following. Some symptoms you can fix by yourself. If the problem persists ev en after you have tried a couple of times, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized So[...]

101 T roubleshooting DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1)  (W arning indicators per taining to the tape) Slow flashing: • There is less than 5 minutes remaining on the tape. • No cassette is inserted. * • The write-protect tab on the cassette is set to lock (p. 106). * Fast flashing: • The tape has run out. *  (Eject cassette warning)* Slo[...]

102 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1)  Cassette/T ape  Insert a cassette (p. 18) .  Reinsert the cassette . • Check if the cassette is damaged.  The tape is locked - chec k the tab (p. 106) .  The tape has reached the end. • Rewind or change the tape.  “Memory Stick Duo” Insert a Memory Stick (p. 18) . Reinsert the Memory S[...]

103 T roubleshooting DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1)  PictBridge compliant printer Check the connected de vice. • Switch off the printer and switch it on again, then disconnect the USB cable and reconnect it. Connect the camcorder to a PictBridge compatible printer . • Switch off the printer and switch it on again, then disconnect the USB cabl[...]

104 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Disconnect one A V cable. • A/V connecting cables are connected to both the camcorder and the Handycam Station. Disconnect one of them. • When the A/V connecting cable is connected only to your camcorder , your camcorder is not attached to the Handycam Station correctly . Attach the Handycam Station correctly .[...]

105 Additional Information DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Using your camcorder abroad Power supply Y ou can use your camcorder in any countries/regions using the A C Adaptor supplied with your camcorder within the A C 100 V to 240 V , 50/60 Hz range. Use a commercially av ailable A C plug adaptor [a], if necessary , depending on the design of the wa[...]

106 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Usable cassette tapes Y ou can use mini D V format cassettes only . Use a cassette with the mark. is a trademark. Y our camcorder is not compatible with cassettes with Cassette Memory . T o prevent a blank section from being made on the tape Go to the end of the recorded section using [END SEARCH] (p. 31) before yo[...]

107 Additional Information DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) About the “Memor y Stick” A “Memory Stick” is a compact, portable IC recording medium with a data capacity that exceeds the capacity of a floppy disk. Y ou can use only a “Memory Stick Duo, ” which is about the half size of a standard “Memory Stick” in your camcorder . Howe v[...]

108 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) • Do not let the “Memory Stick Duo” get wet. • Be careful to keep “Memory Stick Duo” media out of the reach of small children. There is danger that a child might swallow it. • Do not insert an ything other than a “Memory Stick Duo” into the “Memory Stick Duo” slot. Doing so may cause a malfunc[...]

109 Additional Information DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack This unit is compatible with an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (P series). Y our camcorder operates only with an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. “InfoLITHIUM” P series battery packs hav e the mark. What is an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack? An “I[...]

110 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) About storage of the battery pack • If the battery pack is not used for a long time, fully charge the battery pack and use it up on your camcorder once a year to maintain proper function. T o store the battery pack, remove it from your camcorder and put it in a dry , cool place. • T o discharge the battery pack[...]

111 Additional Information DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) The baud rate is listed under “Specifications” in the operating instructions of each piece of equipment. It is also indicated near the i.LINK interface on some devices. The maximum baud rate for a device that does not hav e any indication (such as this unit) is “S100. ” The baud rate[...]

112 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) • K eep the Remote Commander and button-type battery out of children’ s reach. If the battery is accidentally swallowed, consult a doctor immediately . • If the battery electrolytic liquid has leaked, – consult your local authorized Sony service facility . – wash off an y liquid that may have contacted yo[...]

113 Additional Information DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) • The video head suf fers from wear after long use. If you cannot obtain a clear image ev en after using a cleaning cassette, it might be because the video head is worn. Please contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility to hav e the video head replaced. LCD screen ?[...]

114 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) T o charge the pre-installed rechargeable battery Y our camcorder has a pre-installed rechargeable battery to retain the date, time, and other settings ev en when the PO WER switch is set to OFF (CHG). The pre-installed rechargeable battery is always char ged while you are using your camcorder but it will get disch[...]

115 Additional Information DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Using the Strap Belt as a wrist strap This is useful for carrying your camcorder . 1 Open the hook and loop fastener of the hand pad  and remove it from the ring  . Hand pad 2 Move the hand pad fully to the right  , then close the hook and loop fastener again  . 3 Use the Strap Be[...]

116 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Focal length DCR-HC32: f=2.3 - 46 mm (3/32 - 1 13/16 in.) When con verted to a 35 mm still camera In CAMERA-T APE: 44 ~ 880 mm (1 3/4 - 34 1/32 in.) In CAMERA-MEMOR Y : 44 ~ 880 mm (1 3/4 - 34 1/32 in.) DCR-HC42: f=3.0 - 36 mm (1/8 - 1 7/16 in.) When con verted to a 35 mm still camera: In CAMERA-T APE: 16:9 mode* 2[...]

117 Additional Information DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Input/Output connectors Audio/V ideo input/output 10-pin connector Input/output auto switch V ideo signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced Audio signal: 327 mV (at output impedance [...]

118 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) AC Adaptor AC-L25A/L25B Power requirements A C 100 - 240 V , 50/60 Hz Current consumption 0.35 - 0.18 A Power consumption 18 W Output voltage DC 8.4 V* 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.) 56 × 31 × 100 mm (2 1[...]

119 Additional Information DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Continued  Index A A/V connecting cable ............................ 34, 59, 63, 80 A/V D V OUT ....................... 54 A/V jack ............. 34, 59, 63, 80 Access lamp ......................... 18 Activ e Interface Shoe ........... 69 A C Adaptor ............................ 9 Adjusti[...]

120 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Index (continued) FORMA T ..................... 47, 107 Frame-by-frame playback .... 52 Full charge ........................... 11 G Getting started ............ 9, 72, 76 H Handycam Station .................. 9 Hand pad ............................ 115 Help ...................................... 71 Holding the cam[...]

121 Additional Information DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Continued  O OLD MO VIE ................. 50, 92 ONE PUSH .......................... 41 OPEN/EJECT lev er .............. 18 Operation confirmation beep .................................. See BEEP OUTDOOR .......................... 41 O VERLAP ........................... 48 P P AL ........[...]

122 DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) Index (continued) T T ape ...................... See Cassette T ape counter ......................... 28 T ape playback select button .............................................. 29 T elephoto .............................. 24 TELE MA CR O .................... 42 TIME/LANGU. menu .......... 56 Time code .........[...]

DCR-HC32/HC42 2-584-906-11(1) On trademarks • “Memory Stick, ” “ , ” “Memory Stick Duo, ” “ , ” “Memory Stick PR O Duo, ” “ , ” “MagicGate, ” “ , ” “MagicGate Memory Stick” and “MagicGate Memory Stick Duo” are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sony Corporation. • “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of S[...]