Sony HVR-A1N manual

HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) © 2005 Sony Corporation D i g i t a l H D V i d e o C a m e r a R e c o r d e r O p e r a t i n g G u i d e Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly , and retain it for future reference. HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667- 13 (1)[...]

2 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Read this first Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly , and retain it for future reference. WARNING T o pre vent fire or shock hazar d, 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 produc[...]

3 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) For customers in the U.S.A. If you have an y questions about this product, you may call: Sony Customer Information Center 1-800-686- SONY (7669). The number below is for the FCC related matters only . Regulatory Information Declaration of Conf ormity Trade Name: SONY Model No.: HVR-A1U Responsible Party: Sony Electroni[...]

4 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) On the types of “Memory Stick” you can use in your camcorder There are two sizes of “Memory Stick. ” Y ou can use “Memory Stick Duo” marked with or (p. 107). “Memory Stick Duo” (Siz e used with this unit) “Memory Stick” (Y ou cannot use it in y our camcorder .) • Y ou cannot use any type of memory[...]

5 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) On the menu items, LCD panel, viewfinder , and lens • A menu item that is grayed out is not av ailable under the current recording or playback conditions. • The LCD screen and the viewfinder are manufactured using extremely high- precision technology , so ov er 99.99% of the pixels are operational for ef fective [...]

6 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) T able of Contents Read this first ............................................................................................ 2 Getting Started Step 1: Checking supplied items ...............................................................9 Step 2: Charging the battery pack ..........................................[...]

7 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Continued  T o initialize the settings Other part names and functions Indicators displa yed during recording/playbac k ....................................... 28 Searching f or the star ting point ............................................................... 31 Searching for the last scene of the most r ecent reco[...]

8 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Jac ks to connect external devices ........................................................... 77 Using a computer Connecting to a computer ....................................................................... 78 Cop ying still images to a computer ......................................................... 78 Cop ying[...]

9 Getting Started HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Step 1: Checking supplied items Make sure that you hav e following items supplied with your camcorder . The number in the parentheses indicates the number of that item supplied. “Memory Stick Duo” (1) (p . 17, 107) Memory Stick Duo Adaptor (1) (p. 108) AC Adaptor (1) (p . 10) P ower cord (1) (p . 10[...]

10 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Step 2: Charging the batter y pack Y ou can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (M series) (p. 109) after attaching it to your camcorder . POWER switch DC IN jack DC plug AC Adaptor T o the wall outlet P ower cord 1 Attach the battery pack b y sliding it in the direction of the arro w until it clic ks. 2 Slide t[...]

11 Getting Started HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) 4 Connect the power cor d to the AC Adaptor and the wall outlet. The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and charging starts. 5 The CHG (charge) lamp turns off when the battery is fully charged. Disconnect the A C Adaptor from the DC IN jack on y our camcorder and the DC plug. Disconnect the A C Adaptor from t[...]

12 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) * T op: When the LCD backlight turns on. Middle: When the LCD backlight turns off. Bottom: Recording time when recording with the viewfinder while the LCD panel is closed. • T ypical recording time shows the time when you repeat recording start/stop, turning the power on/of f and zooming. Playing time Approximate t[...]

13 Getting Started HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(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. 16). POWER switch 1 Slide the PO WER switch repeatedly in the direction of [...]

14 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(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 (  ).  90 degrees to the camcorder  180 degrees (max.)  90 degrees (max.) DISPLA Y/BA TT INFO • Do not press the b uttons beside the LCD[...]

15 Getting Started HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Step 5: Using the touch panel Y ou can play back recorded pictures (p. 23), or change the settings (p. 38) using the touch panel. Place your hand on the rear side of the LCD panel to support it. Then, touch the buttons displa yed on the screen. T ouch the b utton on the LCD screen. DISPLA Y/BA TT INFO [...]

16 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Step 6: Setting the date and time Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears ev ery time you turn on your camcorder or change the PO WER switch position. • If you do not use your camcorder for about 3 months , the built-in [...]

17 Getting Started HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memor y Stick Duo” Cassette tape See 103 for details of usable cassettes and prev ention of accidental erasure. • The recordable time v aries depending on [ REC MODE] (p. 57). 1 Slide and hold the OPEN/EJECT lever in the direction of the arro w and open the lid. OPE[...]

18 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) T o eject a “Memor y Stick Duo” Lightly push the “Memory Stick Duo” in once. • When the access lamp is lit or flashing, your camcorder is reading/writing data. Do not shake or knock your camcorder , turn the power off, eject the “Memory Stick Duo, ” or remov e the battery pack. Otherwise, image data may[...]

19 Getting Started HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Step 8: Installing the supplied microphone and hood with lens cover Installing the supplied microphone Install the supplied XLR adaptor and microphone. Y ou can receiv e the desired audio quality . 1 Attach the XLR adaptor  to the accessory shoe on the camcor der and tighten the screw of the XLR ada[...]

20 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) 8 Select the channel with the REC CH SELECT switch. Used channels according to the position of the REC CH SELECT switch are as follows: The position of the REC CH SELECT switch Audio input through The audio is recorded on CH1, CH2 INPUT1 Channel 1 Channel 2 INPUT2  CH1 INPUT1 Channel 1 INPUT2 Channel 2 • W e reco[...]

21 Getting Started HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) T o open and close the lens cover Move the lens co ver le ver up and down to open or close the lens cover . Mov e the lens cover le ver to OPEN to open the lens cov er , and move the lev er to CLOSE to close the lens cov er .[...]

22 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) T o check the latest recording on a “Memory Stick Duo” T ouch . T o delete the picture, touch  [YES]. T ouch to return to the standby mode. • See page 50 for the image size. • Y ou can record a still image on a “Memory Stick Duo, ” while recording movies on a tape or in standby mode by pressing PHO TO d[...]

23 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Recording/Playback Playback 1 Slide the PO WER switch in the direction of the arr ow repeatedly to turn on the PLA Y/EDIT lamp. T o adjust the volume Move the EXPOSURE/V OL le ver up and down to adjust the v olume (p. 27). T o search for a scene during playback T ouch and hold / during playback (Picture Search), or / [...]

24 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Functions used for recording/playback, etc. Recording T o use zoom ................  Move the po wer zoom lev er  slightly for a slower zoom. Mo ve it further for a faster zoom. Wider range of view: (Wide angle) Close view: (T elephoto) • When using the zoom ring  , set the FOCUS/ ZOOM switch  t[...]

25 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Recording/Playback • The NightShot and Super NightShot function use infrared light. Therefore, do not cover the infrared port  with your fingers or other objects and remove the supplied lens hood with lens cover or the con versions lens (optional). • Adjust the focus manually (p. 25) when it is hard to focus a[...]

26 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) T o record in mirror mode ............  Open the LCD panel  90 degrees to the camcorder (  ), then rotate it 180 degrees to the lens side (  ). • A mirror -image of the subject appears on the LCD screen, but the picture will be normal when recorded. T o use a tripod ........................  Attach th[...]

27 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Recording/Playback T o adjust the movie volume .........  Move the EXPOSURE/V OL le ver  up or down to adjust the v olume. Move the lev er up to increase the volume and mov e it down to decrease the v olume. • Y ou can also adjust the volume by touching (ST ANDARD SET)  [V OLUME] (p.58). Recording/playback [...]

28 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Indicators displayed during recording/playback Recording movies In the CAMERA-T APE mode 2 1 3 4 5 7 6  Recording format ( or ) (57)  Remaining battery (approx.)  Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or [REC] (recording))  T ime code or user bits  Recording capacity of the tape (approx.) (65)  END SEAR[...]

29 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Recording/Playback ( ) is a reference page. The indicators during recording will not be recorded. Viewing movies 2 qd 4 5 7 qf 1  T ape transport indicator  V ideo operation b uttons (23) • When playing back a tape recorded in the HD V and DVCAM (D V) formats, and the signal switches between HD V and DVCAM (D [...]

30 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Indicators when you made changes Y ou can check the [DISP GUIDE] (p. 62) to check the function of each indicator that appears on the LCD screen. Upper left Upper right Bottom Center Upper left Indicator Meaning Recording format (57) EXT SUR MIC (59) A UDIO MODE (58) * 4-channel microphone recording standard (92) Conti[...]

31 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Recording/Playback Searching for the starting point Make sure that the CAMERA-T APE lamp lights up (p. 22). 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 ouc h  . EN D SEA RCH EX ECU TIN G CANCEL 00[...]

32 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Remote Commander Remove the insulation sheet before using the Remote Commander . Insulation sheet  PHO TO (p. 22) The on-screen image when you press this button will be recorded as a still image.  SEARCH M. (p. 32)     V ideo control b uttons (Rewind, Playback, Fast-forward, P ause, Stop, Slow) (p. 2[...]

33 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Recording/Playback Connecting to a TV for viewing Connection methods and image quality will differ depending on what TV to be connected and connectors used. Use the supplied A C Adaptor as the power source (p. 10). See page 36 for “Notes on Connection” and refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the de[...]

34 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Camcorder TV Menu Setting : Signal flow Cable T ype i.LINK cable (optional) (ST AND ARD SET) [VCR HD V/DV]  [A UTO] (p. 57) [i.LINK CONV]  [OFF] (p.61) Component video cable (supplied) A/V connecting cable (supplied) Do not connect the S video plug and the video plug (yellow). (Red) (White) (Y ellow) (ST AND AR[...]

35 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Recording/Playback Continued  Camcorder TV Menu Setting : Signal flow Cable T ype Component video cable (supplied) A/V connecting cable (supplied) Do not connect the S video plug and the video plug (yellow). (Red) (White) (Y ellow) (ST AND ARD SET) [VCR HD V/DV]  [A UTO] (p. 57) [COMPONENT] * (p. 60) [DO WN CON[...]

36 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Notes on Connection T ype Notes • Requires HDV1080i specification connectors. Consult your TV manufacturer for details. See page 104 for a list of supported devices. • The TV needs to be set so that it recognizes that the camcorder is connected. Refer to the instruction manuals supplied with your TV . • When co[...]

37 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Recording/Playback[...]

38 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(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 do wn to turn on the respective lamp. CAMERA-T APE lamp: settings on a tape CAMERA- MEMOR Y lamp: settings on a “Memory Stick Duo” PLA Y/EDIT lamp: settings for viewing/editing 2 T ou[...]

39 Using the Menu HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1)  Select the desired item. • Y ou can also touch the item directly to select it.  Customize the item. After finishing the settings, touch  (close) to hide the menu screen. If you decide not to change the setting, touch to return to the previous screen.[...]

40 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Menu items Position of lamp: T APE MEMORY PLA Y/EDIT CAMERA SET menu (p. 43) PROGRAM AE   – SPOT METER   – EXPOSURE   – WHITE BAL.   – SHARPNESS   – SHUTTR SPEED  – – AUTO SHUTTER  – – AE SHIFT   – CAMERA COLOR   – CINEMA TONE ϒ  – – CINEFRA[...]

41 Using the Menu HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) PICT .APPLI. men u (p. 52) F ADER  – – SLIDE SHOW – –  D. EFFECT  –  PICT . EFFECT  –  INT .REC-STL –  – SHOT TRANS  – – PictBridge PRINT – –  EDIT/PLA Y menu (p. 56) V AR. SPD PB – –  REC CTRL – –  END SEARCH  –  ST AND ARD SET me[...]

42 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) DISP OUTPUT    MENU ROT A TE    CALIBRA TION – –  DA TE REC  – – QUICK REC  – – ASSIGN BTN    TIME/LANGU . menu (p. 66) CLOCK SET    WORLD TIME    LANGUAGE    Position of lamp: T APE MEMORY PLA Y/EDIT Menu items (Continued)[...]

43 Using the Menu HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) CAMERA SET menu Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (SPOT METER/WHITE BAL./STEADYSHOT , etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 38 for details on selecting menu items. PROGRAM AE Y ou can record[...]

44 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) EXPOSURE Y ou can fix the brightness of a picture manually . When recording indoors on a clear day , for instance, you can a void backlight shadows on people ne xt to the window by fixing the e xposure to that of the wall side of the room. Set the A UT O LOCK switch to OFF beforehand (p.25). 2 1 3  T ouch [MANU A[...]

45 Using the Menu HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Continued  SHUTTR SPEED Y ou can manually adjust and fix the shutter speed for your con venience. Depending on the shutter speed, you can make the subject look still, or on the contrary , emphasize the fluidity of movement. Set the A UTO LOCK switch to OFF beforehand (p. 25).  AUTO Select to adj[...]

46 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) • If you select [CINEFRAME30] or [CINEFRAME24] and set the shutter speed to 1/30 or slower , the shutter speed is automatically reset to 1/60. WB SHIFT (White Balance Shift) Y ou can adjust the white balance to the desired setting using / . and the setting value are displayed when [WB SHIFT] is anything other than t[...]

47 Using the Menu HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Continued  AUTO T rigger the flash (optional) automatically . AUTO T rigger the flash (optional) automatically . The flash goes off prematurely to reduce the red-eye phenomenon.  FLASH LEVEL HIGH( ) Makes the flash le vel higher .  NORMAL( ) LOW( ) Makes the flash le vel lower . SUPER NS ([...]

48 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) HISTOGRAM When you set [HISTOGRAM] to [ON], the [HISTOGRAM] (a graph to display a distribution of tones in your picture) window appears on the screen. This item is useful when you adjust exposure. Y ou can adjust [EXPOSURE] or [AE SHIFT] checking the [HISTOGRAM] window . The histogram will not be recorded on a tape or[...]

49 Using the Menu HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) WIDE CONV .( ) Select this to use the wide con version lens (optional). TELE CONV .( ) Select this to use the tele con version lens (optional). SETUP  0% Record in the system at the 0% setup lev el. 7.5% Record in the system at the 7.5% setup lev el. • When [REC FORMA T] is [HD V1080i], it becomes [...]

50 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) ST ANDARD ( ) Records still images at the standard image quality lev el.  IMAGE SIZE  1920 × 1440 ( ) Records still images clearly . 1920 × 1080 ( ) Records still images clearly in the wide (16:9) ratio. 1440 × 1080 ( ) Allows you to record more still images in relativ ely clear quality . 640 × 480 ( ) Allow[...]

51 Using the Menu HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Continued  Approximate image size of a picture (kB) 4:3 picture 1920 × 1440 1440 × 1080 1080 × 810 640 × 480 1380 580 800 350 450 190 150 60 16:9 picture 1920 × 1080 1440 × 810 640 × 360 1060 450 600 260 130 60 • The table sho ws the approximate number of still images that can be taken for e[...]

52 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) REC FOLDER (Recording folder) Select the folder to be used for recording with / , then touch . • As the default setting, pictures are sa ved in the 101MSDCF folder . • Once you record a picture in a folder , the same folder will be set as the default folder for playback. PB FOLDER (Playback folder) Select the play[...]

53 Using the Menu HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1)  T ouch  [PB FOLDER].  Select [ALL FILES ( )] or [CURRNT FOLDER ( )], then touch . If you select [CURRNT FOLDER ( )], all the images in the current playback folder selected in [PB FOLDER] (p. 52) are played back in sequence.  T ouch [REPEA T].  Select [ON] or [OFF], then . T o repeat the [...]

54 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) SEPIA Pictures appear in sepia. B&W Pictures appear in black and white. SOLARIZE Pictures appear as an illustration with strong contrast. P ASTEL Pictures appear as a pale pastel drawing. * MOSAIC Pictures appear mosaic-patterned. * * A vailable during recording only . • While using the back light function, you [...]

55 Using the Menu HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) EXEC T ouch [NEXT]  [EXEC-A] or [EXEC- B] and the recording setting changes to the registered one. T ouch [BA CK] to register again or touch [END] to finish the operation. By touching [SET] on the [EXEC] screen, you can select [TRANS TIME], [TRANS CUR VE] or [REC LINK], and you can use the start tim[...]

56 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(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 38 for details on selecting menu items. V AR.SPD PB (Various speed playback) Y ou can play back in v[...]

57 Using the Menu HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) • When [A UT O] is selected and the signal switches between HD V and DVCAM (D V) formats, the picture and sound disappear temporarily . • When [i.LINK CONV] is set to [ON (HD V  DV)], pictures are output as follo ws: – at [A UTO], an HD V signal is conv erted to the D VCAM (DV) format and outpu[...]

58 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) • When you mix recordings in the D VCAM mode and in the D V SP mode on one tape, the playback picture may be distorted or the time code may not be continued properly between the scenes.  WIDE SELECT Y ou can select the picture size for the TV to be connected. Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with yo[...]

59 Using the Menu HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Continued  • Sound is recorded in the [STEREO] setting if the microphone is not connected, ev en if another setting is selected. XLR SET Y ou can select this setting when using an extension microphone.  AU.CH1 LEVEL  AUTO Adjust the recording CH1 lev el automatically . MANUAL Adjust the recor[...]

60 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) • If either the CH1 or CH2 setting is changed to [A UTO] or [MANU AL], the other setting is automatically changed to the same setting. LCD/VF SET The recorded picture will not be affected by this operation.  LCD BRIGHT Y ou can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen.  Adjust the brightness with / .  T ouch[...]

61 Using the Menu HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Continued   SQUEZE Output signals to a 16:9 wide TV or a TV compatible with 16:9 wide mode. On a 4:3 TV compatible with 16:9 wide mode On a 16:9 wide TV LETTER BOX Output signals to a TV that is not compatible with 16:9 wide mode. On a 4:3 standard TV EDGE CROP Display the center of the picture in[...]

62 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1)  MEMORY STICK Select to view pictures in the “Memory Stick Duo. ” PictBridge PRINT See page 75. DISP GUIDE Y ou can easily check the meaning of each indicator that appears on the LCD screen. Se le c t ar ea f or g ui d e. DISP GUIDE END If you touch the area including the indicator that you want to check, the m[...]

63 Using the Menu HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) • The time code and user bits cannot be displayed properly if the tape does not have time code and/or user bits recordings or if the time code was recorded using a non-compatible method. • When you input HD V format signal via i.LINK connection, the user-bits of the input video are written on this c[...]

64 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1)  CENTER MARKER Select to display the marker at the center of the screen. (It is set to [ON] in the default setting.)  4:3 MARKER Select to display the frame indicating the 4:3 aspect ratio. • Marker [4:3] is not displayed when recording on the 4:3 mode in the D VCAM (D V) format.  SAFETY ZONE Select to disp[...]

65 Using the Menu HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1)  Aperture value * Appears only during tape playback. • The e xposure adjustment value (0EV), a shutter speed, and the aperture value appear when still images on a “Memory Stick Duo” are played back. • appears for a picture recorded using a flash. • In the D A TE/TIME data display , the dat[...]

66 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) ON The time shortens slightly until recording restarts from the state that the drum has stopped rotating, but the transition from the last recorded scene may not be smooth. Select this when you do not want to miss a recording chance. • When the camcorder is left in recording standby for more than about 3 minutes, yo[...]

67 Using the Menu HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(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 positio[...]

68 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Arranging the order of menu items displayed on Personal Menu 1 T ouc h  [P-MENU SET UP]  [SORT]. If the desired menu item is not displayed, touch / . 2 T ouc h the menu item you want to move. 3 T ouc h / to move the men u item to the desired place. 4 T ouc h . T o sort more items, repeat steps 2 to 4 . 5 T ouc h[...]

69 Dubbing/Editing HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Dubbing to another device such as a VCR, DVD recorder , etc. Use the supplied A C Adaptor as the power source (p. 10). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. Connecting to external devices The connection method and the image quality will differ depending on the[...]

70 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Dubbing to another device such as a VCR, DVD recorder , etc. (Continued) Using an i.LINK cable (optional) The dubbed format (HD V or DVCAM (D V)) dif fers depending on the video recording format or recording equipment format. Select the required settings from the table below and mak e the menu settings. • Disconnect[...]

71 Dubbing/Editing HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) • The follo wing cannot be output via the HD V/DV interface (i.LINK) jack: – Indicators – Pictures edited with [PICT . EFFECT] (p. 53) or [D. EFFECT] (p. 53). – Titles that are recorded on other camcorder . • T o record the date/time and camera settings data when connected by the A/V connecti[...]

72 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Recording pictures from a VCR Y ou can record pictures from a VCR on a tape. Y ou can record a scene as a still image on a “Memory Stick Duo. ” Be sure to insert a cassette or a “Memory Stick Duo” for recording in your camcorder beforehand. • Y ou need an i.LINK cable (optional) for this operation. Y ou cann[...]

73 Dubbing/Editing HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) 7 T ouc h [REC ST AR T] at the point you want to start recording. 8 Stop recording. When recording on a tape, touch (stop) or [REC P A USE]. 9 T ouc h  . • Y ou cannot record TV programs from the HD V/DV Interface (i.LINK) jack. • Y ou can record pictures from D VCAM (DV) devices only in the D V[...]

74 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(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 ([...]

75 Dubbing/Editing HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Continued  Selecting still images for printing (Print mark) The DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) standard is used to select images for printing on your camcorder . By marking images that you want to print out, you do not need to reselect them when you print them out. (Y ou cannot specify the number[...]

76 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) beginning. • 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 not support the date printing function. Refer to your printer’ s operating instructions for details. • W e cannot guarantee the printing of images recorded with a devic[...]

77 Dubbing/Editing HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Jacks to connect external devices  ...Open the shoe cover .  -  ...Open the jack co ver .  Activ e Interface Shoe The Activ e Interface Shoe supplies power to optional accessories such as a video light, a flash, or a microphone. The accessory can be turned on or off as you operate the PO W[...]

78 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Connecting to a computer When connecting your camcorder to the computer , you can operate the followings: Copy the still images on a “Memory Stick Duo” to the computer  p . 78 Copy the mo vie in the HD V f or mat on a tape to the computer  p . 81 Copy the mo vie in the D VCAM (D V) format on a tape to the co[...]

79 Using a computer HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) to USB jack USB cable (supplied) to USB jack • Do not connect your camcorder to the computer at this point. • The computer may not recognize the camcorder if you connect them with the USB cable (supplied) before turning on your camcorder . • Refer to 81 page for the recommended connection. 1 T u[...]

80 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1)     F older containing image files recorded using other camcorders without the folder creation function (for playback only).  F older containing image files recorded with your camcorder When no new folders ha ve been created, only [101MSDCF] is displayed.  F older containing movie data recorded usi[...]

81 Using a computer HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) For Macintosh users  Close do wn all applications running on the computer .  Drag and drop the dri ve icon on the desktop onto the [T rash] icon.  Disconnect the USB cable (supplied) from the camcorder and computer . • If you are using Mac OS X, turn of f the computer before disconnecting t[...]

82 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Notes on connecting to the computer • Connect the i.LINK cable (optional) to the computer first, then to your camcorder . Connecting in the opposite order may cause static electricity to build up, resulting in a malfunction of your camcorder . • The computer may hang up or may not recognize the signal from your c[...]

83 T roubleshooting HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(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 The power does not turn on. • The battery pack is discharged, running lo w , o[...]

84 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) T roubleshooting (Continued) The remaining battery time indicator does not indicate the correct time. • The temperature of the en vironment is too high or too low , or the battery pack has not been charged enough. This is not a malfunction. • Fully charge the battery again. If the problem persists, replace the bat[...]

85 T roubleshooting HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) • Set [VF POWER] of [LCD/VF SET] to [ON] to display the picture in the vie wfinder regardless of whether the LCD panel is open or closed (p. 60). Cassette tapes The cassette cannot be ejected from the compartment. • Make sure the power source (battery pack or A C Adaptor) is connected correctly ([...]

86 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) T roubleshooting (Continued) Y ou cannot format the “Memor y Stick Duo. ” • Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo. ” (p. 107) Image protection cannot be applied. • Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo. ” (p. 107) • Perform the operation again[...]

87 T roubleshooting HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) • Format the “Memory Stick Duo” on your camcorder or insert another “Memory Stick Duo. ” (p. 51) • Y ou cannot record movies with this unit on the “Memory Stick Duo. ” • When the POWER switch is set to CAMERA-T APE, you cannot record still images on the “Memory Stick Duo” with: ?[...]

88 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) T roubleshooting (Continued) END SEARCH does not work correctl y . • There is a blank section in the beginning or middle of the tape. This is not a malfunction. Adjusting the image during recording Refer also to “Menu” (p. 92). The TELE MACR O button does not function. • Y ou cannot use the TELE MACR O functio[...]

89 T roubleshooting HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) The subjects passing by the frame might appear cr ooked. • This is called the focal plane phenomenon. This is not a malfunction. Because of the way the image device (CMOS sensor) reads out image signals, the subjects passing by the frame rapidly might crooked depending on the recording conditions. T[...]

90 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) T roubleshooting (Continued) The pictures stored on a “Memory Stic k Duo” are not pla yed back in the actual size or aspect ratio. • Pictures recorded on other devices may not appear in the actual size. This is not a malfunction. Image data stored on a “Memory Stic k Duo” cannot be pla yed back. • Y ou can[...]

91 T roubleshooting HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) The picture or sound breaks off. • The tape was recorded in both HD V and DVCAM (D V) formats. This is not a malfunction. The sound breaks off. • Clean the head using the cleaning cassette (optional) (p. 112). “---” is displa yed on the screen. • The tape you are playing was recorded without[...]

92 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) T roubleshooting (Continued) appears on the LCD screen. • This appears when you play back a tape recorded on other recording devices using a 4ch microphone (4CH MIC REC). This camcorder does not comply with the 4ch microphone recording standard. Remote Commander The supplied Remote Commander does not function. • S[...]

93 T roubleshooting HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Y ou cannot adjust [EXPOSURE] manually . • Y ou cannot adjust the exposure manually with: – NightShot – [COLOR SLO W S] – [COLOR B AR] – When the A UT O LOCK switch is set to ON (p. 25) • If you set [PR OGRAM AE], [EXPOSURE] is canceled. [WHITE BAL.] does not function. • Y ou cannot use [...]

94 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) T roubleshooting (Continued) Y ou cannot use [COLOR SLO W S]. • Y ou cannot use [COLOR SLOW S] together with: – [F ADER] – [D. EFFECT] – [PR OGRAM AE] – [SHUTTR SPEED] – [COLOR B AR] – NightShot – [SPO T METER] – When [EXPOSURE] is anything other than [A UT O] – [CINEFRAME] [HIST OGRAM] is not disp[...]

95 T roubleshooting HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) – [PR OGRAM AE] – When [ WIDE SELECT] of [DV SET] is set to [4:3] Y ou cannot use [PICT . EFFECT]. • Y ou cannot use [PICT . EFFECT] together with: – [COLOR B AR] – [OLD MO VIE] of [D. EFFECT] • [PICT . EFFECT] cannot be set to [SKNT ON DET AIL] while using the B A CK LIGHT function. Y ou [...]

96 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Y ou cannot add sound to the recorded tape. • Y ou cannot add sound to the recorded tape on this unit. New sound added to a recor ded tape on another camcorder is not hear d. • Adjust [ A UDIO MIX] from the [CH1, CH2] (original sound) side until the sound is heard appropriately (p. 58). Still pictures cannot be du[...]

97 T roubleshooting HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) [Remov able Disk] does not appear on the computer screen. • Slide the POWER switch do wn to turn on the PLA Y/EDIT lamp, then set [USB SELECT] to [MEMOR Y STICK]. • Insert a “Memory Stick Duo” into your camcorder . • Disconnect the USB device other than the ke yboard, the mouse, and the camc[...]

98 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) W arning indicators and messages Self-diagnosis display/Warning indicators If indicators appear on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder , check the follo wing. Some symptoms you can fix by yourself. If the problem persists ev en after you have tried a couple of times, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony[...]

99 T roubleshooting HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Fast flashing: • The tape has run out. *  (Eject cassette warning)* Slow flashing: • The write-protect tab on the cassette is set to lock (p.104). Fast flashing: • Moisture condensation has occurred (p. 112). • The self-diagnosis display code is displayed (p. 98).  (W arning indicator[...]

100 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Warning indicators and messages (Continued)  “Memory Stick Duo” Insert a Memory Stick (p. 17) . Reinsert the Memory Stick. • Reinsert the “Memory Stick Duo” a few times. If e ven then the indicator flashes, the “Memory Stick Duo” might be damaged. T ry with another “Memory Stick Duo. ” This is a[...]

101 T roubleshooting HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1)  Flash Charging… Cannot recor d still images. • Y ou are trying to record a still image while charging the flash (optional)  Others Cannot record due to cop yright protection (p. 103) . Change to correct tape format. • The pictures cannot be played back because of an incompatible format.[...]

102 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(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 wall outlet [b]. AC-L15A [a[...]

103 Additional Information HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) HDV format and recording/playback Y our camcorder is capable of recording in HD V/DVCAM/D V formats. It is recommended to use a cassette with the mark to record in the HD V/ D VCAM/DV format. It is recommended to use a cassette with the mark to record in the D VCAM format. Y our camcorder is no[...]

104 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Notes on use  When not using your camcorder for a long time Remove the cassette and store it.  T o prevent accidental erasure Slide the write-protect tab on the cassette to set it to SA VE. REC SA VE REC: The cassette can be recorded. SA VE: The cassette cannot be recorded (write-protected).  When labeling t[...]

105 Additional Information HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Compatibility of the DVCAM/DV formats The D VCAM format was dev eloped as a more reliable and higher-end format than the consumer D V format. Explained here are the differences, compatibility , and limitations on editing for the D VCAM and D V formats. Differences between the DVCAM and DV forma[...]

106 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Compatibility on editing using DV jacks When this camcorder is connected to other digital video equipment using an i.LINK cable, the recording format of edited tapes is defined according to the source tape and the recorder’ s format as described below . Playback or editing using the edited tape may be limited depe[...]

107 Additional Information HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) About the “Memor y Stick” A “Memory Stick” is a compact, portable IC recording medium with a data capacity that exceeds the capacity of a floppy disk. Y ou can use only a “Memory Stick Duo, ” which is about the half size of a standard “Memory Stick” in your camcorder . Howe ver[...]

108 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1)  On a location for use Do not use or keep the “Memory Stick Duo” in the following locations. • Places subject to extremely high temperature, such as a car parked outside in the summer . • Places under direct sunlight. • Places with e xtremely high humidity or subject to corrosiv e gases.  On the Memor[...]

109 Additional Information HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack This unit is compatible with an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (M series). Y our camcorder operates only with an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. “InfoLITHIUM” M series battery packs hav e the mark. What is an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack? An “Inf[...]

110 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) About battery life • The battery life is limited. Battery capacity drops little by little as you use it more and more, and as time passes. When the av ailable battery time is shortened considerably , a probable cause is that the battery pack has reached the end of its life. Please buy a ne w battery pack. • The b[...]

111 Additional Information HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Continued  The baud rate is listed under “Specifications” in the operating instructions of each piece of equipment. It is also indicated near the i.LINK interface on some devices. The baud rate may differ from the indicated value when the unit is connected to a device with a dif ferent [...]

112 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(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 your[...]

113 Additional Information HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Continued  your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility to hav e the video head replaced. LCD screen • Do not e xert excessiv e pressure on the LCD screen, as it may cause damage. • If your camcorder is used in a cold place, a residual image may appear on the LCD screen. Th[...]

114 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) not use your camcorder at all without the A C Adaptor connected or the battery pack attached. Howe ver , ev en if the pre-installed rechargeable battery is not char ged, the camcorder operation will not be affected as long as you are not recording the date.  Procedures Connect your camcorder to a wall outlet using[...]

115 Additional Information HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Image device 5.9 mm (1/3 type) CMOS sensor Gross: Approx. 2 969 000 pixels Effecti ve (movie, 4:3): 1 486 000 pixels Effecti ve (movie, 16:9): 1 983 000 pixels Effecti ve (still, 4:3): 2 764 800 pixels Effecti ve (still, 16:9): 2 073 600 pixels Lens Carl Zeiss V ario-Sonnar T * 10 × (Optical),[...]

116 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) General Power requirements DC 7.2 V (battery pack) DC 8.4 V (A C Adaptor) A verage po wer consumption (when using the battery pack) During camera recording using the viewfinder with normal brightness with the XLR adaptor attached: HD V recording 6.4 W D VCAM (DV) recording 5.7 W During camera recording using the LCD[...]

117 Quick Reference HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Identifying parts and controls  Po wer zoom lev er (24)  PHO TO b utton (22)  CAMERA-T APE, CAMERA-MEMOR Y , PLA Y/EDIT mode lamps (13)  PO WER switch (13)  “Memory Stick Duo” slot (17)  Access lamp (17, 107)  Activ e Interface Shoe (77)  Accessory shoe (19)  ASSIGN butt[...]

118 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1)  Microphone (19)  XLR adaptor (19)  Lens cov er lever (21)  Lens hood with lens cov er (9, 20)  Zoom buttons (24)  REC ST AR T/STOP b utton (22)  LCD screen/touch panel (5, 15)  HD V/DV Interf ace (i.LINK) jack (77)  (USB) jack (77)  DISPLA Y/BA TT INFO button (27)  COMPONENT OUT jack[...]

119 Quick Reference HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1)  Internal stereo microphone (27)  Zoom ring/focus ring (24, 25)  Holes for the lens hood  Lens (Carl Zeiss Lens) (5)  FOCUS/ZOOM switch (24, 25)  B A CK LIGHT button (25)  EXP ANDED FOCUS button (25)  TELE MA CR O button (25)  Camera recording lamp (27)  Remote sensor (27[...]

120 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Index Numeric 1080i/480i ............................ 60 12-bit .................................. 103 16-bit .................................. 103 480i ...................................... 60 480p/480i ............................. 60 A A/V connecting cable ..... 34, 69 A/V OUT jack ................ 33, 69 Access[...]

121 Quick Reference HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Focus .............................. 25, 88 FOCUS/ZOOM switch ........................................ 24, 25 Focus ring ............................. 25 Folder NEW FOLDER ............. 51 PB FOLDER (Playback folder) ........................... 52 REC FOLDER (Recording folder) ........................[...]

122 HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) N NEG.AR T ............................. 53 NEW FOLDER .................... 51 NightShot ............................. 24 NORMAL ............................ 49 NS LIGHT ........................... 47 NTSC ................................. 102 Number of recordable pictures ............................................[...]

123 Quick Reference HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) T T ape playback select b utton .............................................. 29 TC/UB SET .......................... 62 T elephoto .............................. 24 TELE MA CRO b utton ... 25, 88 TIME/LANGU. menu .......... 66 Time code ............................. 28 T ouch panel .................[...]

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HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) On trademarks • “Memory Stick, ” , “Memory Stick Duo, ” , “Memory Stick PR O Duo, ” , “MagicGate, ” , “MagicGate Memory Stick” and “MagicGate Memory Stick Duo” are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sony Corporation. • “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Son y Corporation. • i.LINK and a[...]

HVR-A1U/A1N 2-639-667-13(1) Printed in Japan Printed on 100% recycled paper using V OC (V olatile Organic Compound)-free vegetab le oil based ink. http://www .sony .net/ US[...]