Sony DCR-PC115 manual

3-070-602- 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 Handycam. With your Handycam, you can capture life’s precious moments with superior picture and sound quality. Your 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 enjoy for years to come. WARNING To [...]

3 For customers in the U.S.A. If you have any 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 Conformity Trade Name: SONY Model No.: DCR-PC120 Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc. Address: 680 Kinderkam[...]

4 Taking moving or still images, and playing them back • Recording a moving picture on a tape (p. 20) • Recording a still image on a tape (p. 36) • Playing back a tape (p. 31) • Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s (p. 112) • Recording moving pictures on “Memory Stick”s (p. 126) • Viewing a still image recorded on “Memory[...]

Getting started 5 Checking supplied accessories Make sure that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder. 1 AC-L10A/L10B/L10C AC power adaptor (1), Power cord (1) (p. 13) 2 A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 35) 3 USB cable (1) (p. 142) 4 Battery terminal cover (1) (p. 12) 5 NP-FM50 battery pack (1) (p. 12, 13) 6 Wireless Remote Commande[...]

6 T able of contents Main Features .......................................... 4 Checking supplied accessories .............. 5 Quick Start Guide ............................. 8 Getting started Using this manual ................................. 10 Step 1 Preparing the power supply ... 12 Installing the battery pack ............ 12 Charging the batt[...]

Getting started 7 Table of contents Recording a picture from a tape as a moving picture ............................. 128 Recording edited pictures as a moving picture – Digital program editing (on “Memory Stick”s) .................. 132 Copying still images from a tape – Photo save .................................. 135 Viewing a still ima[...]

Quick Start Guide 8 Quick Start Guide Inserting a cassette (p. 19) Connecting the power cord (p. 15) Use the battery pack when using your camcorder outdoors (p. 12). 1 Slide OPEN/ Z EJECT in the direction of the arrow and open the lid. 2 Push the middle portion of the back of the cassette to insert. Insert the cassette in a straight line deeply int[...]

Quick Start Guide 9 LOCK POWER V C R M E M O R Y C A M E R A OFF (CHG) LOCK POWER V C R M E M O R Y C A M E R A OFF (CHG) Recording a picture (p. 20) 1 Remove the lens cap. 3 Press OPEN to open the LCD panel. The picture appears on the screen. 2 Set the POWER switch to CAMERA while pressing the small green button. 4 Press START/STOP. Your camcorder[...]

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. (DCR-PC120BT is marked as DCR-PC120 on the bottom of this unit.) The DCR-PC120BT is the m[...]

Getting started 11 Using this manual Note on TV color systems TV color systems differ from country to country. To view your recordings on a TV, you need an NTSC system-based TV. Copyright precautions Television programs, films, video tapes, and other materials may be copyrighted. Unauthorized recording of such materials may be contrary to the provi[...]

12 Installing the battery pack ( 1 ) While sliding BATT RELEASE in the direction of the arrow 1 , slide the battery terminal cover in the direction of the arrow 2 . ( 2 ) Insert the battery pack in the direction of the arrow until it clicks. To remove the battery pack The battery pack is removed in the same way as the battery terminal cover. When y[...]

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

14 Step 1 Preparing the power supply Charging time Battery pack Full charge NP-FM50 (supplied) 150 NP-FM70 240 NP-FM90 330 NP-FM91 360 The charging time may increase if the battery’s temperature is extremely high or low because of the ambient temperature. Approximate minutes at 25°C (77°F) to charge an empty battery pack Recording time Recordin[...]

15 Getting started If the power goes off although the battery remaining indicator indicates that the battery pack has enough power to operate Charge the battery pack fully again so that the indication on the battery remaining indicator is correct. Recommended charging temperature We recommend charging the battery pack in an ambient temperature of b[...]

16 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 or MEMORY unless you set the date and time settings. If you do not use your camcorder for about three months, the date and time settings may be released (bars may appear) because the b[...]

17 Getting started Note Instead of DST, SUMMERTIME is displayed on the screen for some models. If you do not set the date and time “ --:--:-- ” and “ --- -- ---- ” are recorded on the data code of the tape and the “ Memory Stick. ” When using your camcorder abroad Set the clock to the local time (p. 18). Note on the time indicator The i[...]

18 Step 2 Setting the date and time Simple setting of clock by time difference You can easily set the clock to the local time by setting a time difference. Select AREA SET, DST SET* in the menu settings. See page 103 for more information. * Instead of DST, SUMMERTIME is displayed on the screen for some models. World time differences AREA 1 2 3 4 5 [...]

19 Getting started ( 1 ) Install the power source. ( 2 ) Slide OPEN/ Z EJECT in the direction of the arrow and open the lid. The cassette compartment automatically lifts up and opens. ( 3 ) Push the middle portion of the back of the cassette to insert. Insert the cassette in a straight line deeply into the cassette compartment with the window facin[...]

20 Your camcorder automatically focuses for you. ( 1 ) Remove the lens cap by pressing both knobs on its sides and pull the lens cap string to fix it. ( 2 ) Install the power source and insert a cassette. See “Step 1” to “Step 3” for more information (p. 12 to 19). ( 3 ) Pull down the Holding Grip. Hold your camcorder firmly as illustrated.[...]

21 Recording – Basics Note on the LOCK switch When you slide the LOCK switch to the left, the POWER switch can no longer be set to MEMORY accidentally. LOCK switch is set to the right as a default setting. To enable smooth transition Transition between the last scene you recorded and the next scene is smooth as long as you do not eject the casset[...]

22 Adjusting the LCD screen The LCD screen can be opened up to 90 degrees. The LCD panel moves about 90 degrees to the viewfinder side and about 180 degrees to the lens side. When closing the LCD panel, set it vertically, and swing it into the camcorder body. Note When using the LCD screen except in the mirror mode, the viewfinder automatically tur[...]

23 Recording – Basics 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. Pull out the viewfinder and move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever. Viewfinder backlight You can chan[...]

24 Using the zoom feature Move the power zoom lever a little for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom. Using the zoom function sparingly results in better-looking recordings. “T” side: for telephoto (subject appears closer) “W” side: for wide-angle (subject appears farther away) To use zoom greater than 10 × Zoom greater than 1[...]

25 Recording – Basics Shooting with the Mirror Mode This feature allows the camera subject to view him-or herself on the LCD screen. The subject uses this feature to check his or her own image on the LCD screen while you look at the subject in the viewfinder. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or MEMORY. Pull out the viewfinder and rotate the LCD scr[...]

26 Indicators displayed in the recording mode The indicators are not recorded on tapes. Remaining battery time indicator during recording The remaining battery time indicator roughly indicates the continuous recording time. The indicator may not be correct, depending on the conditions in which you are recording. When you close the LCD panel and ope[...]

27 Recording – Basics Shooting backlit subjects – BACK LIGHT When you shoot a subject with the light source behind the subject or a subject with a light background, use the backlight function. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or MEMORY, press BACK LIGHT. The . indicator appears on the screen. To cancel, press BACK LIGHT again. If you press EXPOSU[...]

28 Using Super NightShot The Super NightShot mode makes subjects more than 16 times brighter than those recorded in the NightShot mode. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA, slide NIGHTSHOT to ON. and “NIGHTSHOT” indicators flash on the screen. ( 2 ) Press SUPER NIGHTSHOT. and “SUPER NIGHTSHOT” indicators flash on the screen. To cancel the [...]

29 Recording – Basics Self-timer recording Recording with the self-timer starts in 10 seconds automatically. You can also use the Remote Commander for this operation. ( 1 ) Press (self-timer) in the standby mode. The (self-timer) indicator appears on the screen. ( 2 ) Press START/STOP. Self-timer starts counting down from ten with a beep sound. I[...]

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 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. ( 2 ) Set the POWER switch to VCR while pressing[...]

32 If you leave the power on for a long time Your camcorder gets warm. This is not a malfunction. When you open or close the LCD panel Open or close the LCD panel vertically. To display the screen indicators – Display function Press DISPLAY. The indicators appear on the screen. To make the indicators disappear, press DISPLAY again. About date/tim[...]

33 Playback – Basics Playing back a tape Various settings Various settings is your camcorder’s information when you have recorded. In the recording mode, the various settings 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[...]

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 You can record an still image like a photograph. You can record about 510 images in the SP mode and about 765 images in the LP mode on a 60-minute tape. Besides the operation described here, your camcorder can record still images on “Memory Stick”s (p. 112). ( 1 ) In the standby mode, keep pressing PHOTO lightly until a still image appears. [...]

37 Advanced Recording Operations Recording images with the flash The flash pops up automatically. The default setting is auto (no indicator). To change the flash mode, press the (flash) repeatedly until the flash mode indicator appears on the screen. Each press of (flash) changes the indicator as follows: t t t No indicator Auto red-eye reduction: [...]

38 When you record images with the flash The possible shooting distance using the built-in flash is shorter than when you record on “Memory Stick”s. When playing back images recorded with the flash on other equipment These images may flicker. If you leave your camcorder for five or more minutes after disconnecting the power source Your camcorde[...]

39 Advanced Recording Operations 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 ) Press (self-timer) in the standby mode. The (self-timer) indicator appears on the screen. ( 2 ) Press PHOTO deeper. Self-timer starts counting down from 10 with a beep sound.[...]

40 You can manually adjust and set the white balance. This adjustment makes white subjects look white and allows more natural color balance. Normally white balance is automatically adjusted. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or MEMORY. Press MENU, then select and decide upon WHT BAL in with the control button (p. 96). ( 2 ) Select and decide upo[...]

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

42 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. 1) You can use the bounce function when D ZOOM is set to OFF in the menu settings. 2) Fade in only. Using the [...]

43 Advanced Recording Operations ( 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 no indicator T DOT T WIPE T OVERLAP The las[...]

44 While using the bounce function, you cannot use the following functions: – Focus – Zoom – Picture effect – Exposure Note on the bounce function The BOUNCE indicator does not appear in the following mode or functions: – D ZOOM is activated in the menu settings – Wide mode – Picture effect – PROGRAM AE Using the fader function[...]

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 effects – 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 image so that it is superimposed on a moving picture. FLASH (FLASH MOTION) You can record still images successively at constant intervals. LUMI. (LUMINANCEKEY[...]

47 Advanced Recording Operations ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA. Press MENU, then select and decide upon D EFFECT in with the control button (p. 96). ( 2 ) Select and decide upon the desired digital effect mode with the control button. The bars appear. In the STILL or LUMI. mode, the still image that you selected and decided upon is stored in[...]

48 Using special effects – Digital effect Notes • The following functions do not work during digital effect: – Fader – Low lux of PROGRAM AE (The 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 movie mode: [...]

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 peoples’ 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 ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or MEMORY. Press MENU, then select and decide upon PROGRAM AE in with the control button (p. 96). ( 2 ) Select and decide upon the desired PROGRAM AE mode with the control button. To cancel the PROGRAM AE function Select PROGRAM AE to AUTO in the menu settings. Notes • Because your camcorder is set to focus[...]

51 Advanced Recording Operations Using the PROGRAM AE function While WHT BAL is set to AUTO in the menu settings The white balance is adjusted even if the PROGRAM AE function is selected. Even if the PROGRAM AE function is selected You can adjust the exposure. If you are recording under a discharge tube such as a fluorescent lamp, sodium lamp or me[...]

52 You can manually adjust and set the exposure. Normally exposure is automatically adjusted. 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 ) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or MEMORY, press EXPOSURE. The exposure i[...]

53 Advanced Recording Operations You can gain better results by manually adjusting the focus in the following cases. Normally, focus is automatically adjusted: • 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[...]

54 To focus precisely It is easier to focus on the subject if you adjust the zoom to shoot at the “W” (wide- angle) after focusing at the “T” (telephoto) position. When you shoot close to the subject Focus at the end of the “W” (wide-angle) position. 9 changes as follows: when recording a distant subject when the subject is too close to[...]

55 Advanced Recording Operations 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. ( 1 ) In the standby mode, press MENU, then select and decide upon INT. REC in with the control button (p. 96). ( 2[...]

56 Interval recording 4 6 CAMERA SET D ZOOM 16 : 9W I DE STEADYSHOT N. S. L I GHT FRAME REC I NT. REC FLASH LVL RETURN ON [ MENU ] : END LOCK POWER V C R M E M O R Y C A M E R A OFF (CHG) 5 I NTERVAL STBY CAMERA SET D ZOOM 16 : 9W I DE STEADYSHOT N. S. L I GHT FRAME REC I NT. REC OFF FLASH LVL RETURN [ MENU ] : END CAMERA SET D ZOOM 16 : 9W I DE ST[...]

57 Advanced Recording Operations You can make a recording with a stop-motion animated effect using cut recording. To create this effect, alternately move the subject a little and make a cut recording. We recommend that you use a tripod, and operate the camcorder using the Remote Commander after step 4. ( 1 ) In the standby mode, press MENU, then se[...]

58 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, press MENU, then select and decide upon P EFFECT in with the control button (p. 96). ( 2 ) Select and decide upon the desired mode with the control button. For details of each picture e[...]

59 Advanced Playback Operations 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, press MENU, then select and decide upon D EFFECT in with the control button (p. 96). ( 2 ) Select and decide upon the desired mode with the control button. The bars[...]

60 You can enlarge playback images recorded on tapes. Besides the operation described here, your camcorder can enlarge still images recorded on “Memory Stick”s (p. 148). ( 1 ) In the playback or playback pause mode, press PB ZOOM on your camcorder. The center of the image is enlarged to twice its size. ( 2 ) Press the control button to move the[...]

61 Advanced Playback Operations Your camcorder goes forward or backward to automatically stop at a desired scene having a tape counter value of “0:00:00”. Use the Remote Commander for this operation. ( 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”[...]

62 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. (The default setting is ON.) ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to VCR. ( 2 ) Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the TITLE[...]

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

64 Note If one day’s recording is less than two minutes, your camcorder may not accurately find the point where the recording date changes. If a tape has a blank portion between recorded portions The date search function may not work correctly. Cassette memory The tape cassette memory can hold six recording date data. If you search the date among[...]

65 Advanced Playback Operations You can search for a still image you have recorded on a tape (photo search) . You can also search for still images one after another and display each image for five seconds automatically regardless of cassette memory (photo scan) . Use the Remote Commander for these operations. Use this function to check or edit stil[...]

66 Searching for a photo without using cassette memory ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to VCR. ( 2 ) Press MENU, then select and decide upon CM SEARCH in to OFF with the control button (p. 96). ( 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[...]

67 Editing 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 default setting is LCD.) • Press the following butt[...]

68 If your VCR has an S video jack Pictures can be reproduced more faithfully by using an S video cable (optional). 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 quality[...]

69 Editing 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. Your camcorder can dub on “Memory Stick”s. See p. 132 for more information. Before operating the Digital program editing on tapes recorded on other equipment Step 1 Connecting[...]

70 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, ( 1 ) to ( 4 ) , to send the control signal correctly. ( 1 ) Set the IR SETUP code 1 Set the POWER switch to [...]

71 Editing Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) * TV/VCR component Note on IR SETUP code Digital program editing is not possible if the VCR does not support IR SETUP codes. About the IR SETUP code The IR SETUP code is stored in the memory of your camcorder. Be sure to set the correct code, depending on your VCR. The de[...]

72 ( 2 ) Setting the modes to cancel the recording pause on the VCR Select and decide upon PAUSEMODE with the control button, then select and decide upon the mode to cancel recording pause on the VCR with the control button. Refer to the operating instructions of your VCR. The buttons to cancel recording pause on the VCR The buttons vary depending [...]

73 Editing ( 4 ) Confirming the VCR operation 1 Insert a recordable tape into the VCR, then set to recording pause. 2 Select and decide upon IR TEST with the control button. 3 Select and decide upon EXECUTE with the control button. If the VCR starts recording, the setting is correct. When recording is finished, the indicator changes to COMPLETE. Wh[...]

74 Step 2: Setting the VCR to operate with the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) When you connect using 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 digital vid[...]

75 Editing Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) Step 3: Adjusting the synchronization of the VCR You can adjust the synchronization of your camcorder and the VCR. Have a pen and paper ready for notes. Before operation, eject a cassette from your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to VCR on your camcorder. ( 2 ) Inse[...]

76 Notes • When you complete step 3, the image to adjust the synchronization 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’ lead before starting recording. • When the recording unit cannot be operate[...]

77 Editing Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) 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, then select and decide upon VIDEO EDIT in with the control button (p. 96). ( 3 ) Select and decide upon TAPE with the co[...]

78 Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) Erasing the program you have set Erase OUT first and then IN from of the last program. ( 1 ) Select and decide upon UNDO with the control button. ( 2 ) Select and decide upon EXECUTE with the control button. The last set program mark flashes, then the setting is canceled. To canc[...]

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

80 Using with analog video unit and your 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. ( 2 ) Press M[...]

81 Editing Recor ding video or TV programs Using the A/V connecting cable You can record a tape from another VCR or a TV program from a TV that has video/ audio outputs. Use your camcorder as a recorder. 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 ov[...]

82 If your TV or VCR has an S video jack Pictures can be reproduced more faithfully by using an S video cable (optional). 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. This connection produces hi[...]

83 Editing When you have finished dubbing a tape Press x on both your camcorder and the VCR. Using the Remote Commander In step 3, press z REC and MARK simultaneously, then immediately press X . And in step 5, press X at the scene where you want to start recording from. You can connect one VCR only using the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) Durin[...]

84 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 81 or 82. Insert a cassette containing the desired scene to insert into the VCR. [ A ] : A tape t[...]

85 Editing 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. Using the Remote Commander In step 5, press z REC and MARK simultaneously, then immediately press X . And in step 6, press X at the scene where you want to start recording from. Note The picture and sound [...]

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

87 Editing Connecting the A/V connecting cable to 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 sou[...]

88 Adding an audio sound on a recorded tape Choose a connection mentioned before, and connect audio equipment or microphone to your camcorder. Then follow the procedure below. ( 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 . Then press X a[...]

89 Editing Audio dubbing Notes • New sound cannot be recorded on a tape already recorded in the 16-bit mode (32 kHz, 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz). • New sound cannot be recorded on a tape already recorded in the LP mode. • You cannot add audio with the DV jack. • You cannot add audio on the blank portion of the tape. If an i.LINK cable (DV connectin[...]

90 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. 93). You can also select the color, size and position of titles. ( 1 ) Set [...]

91 Editing Superimposing a title If you set the write-protect tab of the tape 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 2. If the tape has a blank portion You cannot superimpose a title on the portion. If[...]

92 Erasing a title ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or VCR. ( 2 ) Press MENU, then select and decide upon TITLEERASE in with the control button (p. 96). ( 3 ) Select and decide upon the title you want to erase with the control button. ERASE OK ? indicator appears. ( 4 ) Make sure the title is the one you want to erase, and select and decide upo[...]

93 Editing Making your own titles You can make up to two titles and store them in the memory of your camcorder. Each title can have up to 20 characters. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or VCR. ( 2 ) Press MENU, then select and decide upon TITLE in with the control button (p. 96). ( 3 ) Select and decide upon with the control button. ( 4 ) Sele[...]

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. ( 1 ) Insert the cassette you want to label. ( 2 ) Set the POWER switch to[...]

95 Editing To erase the label you have made Select and decide upon [ C ] with the control button in step 4. 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 a cassette. Slide [...]

96 To change the mode settings in the menu settings, select the menu items with the control button. The default settings can be partially changed. First, select the icon, then the menu item and then the mode. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA, VCR or MEMORY, press MENU. ( 2 ) Press v / V on the control button to select the desired icon, then pre[...]

97 Customizing Your Camcorder Icon/item PROGRAM AE P EFFECT D EFFECT WHT BAL AUTO SHTR D ZOOM 16:9WIDE STEADYSHOT N.S. LIGHT Changing the menu settings Menu items are displayed as the following icons: MANUAL SET CAMERA SET VCR SET LCD/VF SET MEMORY SET PRINT SET CM SET TAPE SET SETUP MENU OTHERS Selecting the mode setting of each item z is the defa[...]

98 Icon/item FRAME REC INT. REC FLASH LVL HOLOGRAM F HiFi SOUND AUDIO MIX A/V t DV OUT Mode z OFF ON ON z OFF SET HIGH z NORMAL LOW z AUTO OFF z STEREO 1 2 —— z OFF ON Meaning To deactivate Cut recording function. To activate Cut recording function (p. 57). To activate Interval recording function (p. 55). To deactivate Interval recording functi[...]

99 Customizing Your Camcorder Changing the menu settings Icon/item LCD BRIGHT LCD B. L. LCD COLOR VF B.L. STILL SET PIC MODE QUALITY IMAGESIZE Mode —— z BRT NORMAL BRIGHT —— z BRT NORMAL BRIGHT z SINGLE NORMAL HIGH SPEED MULTI SCRN z SUPER FINE FINE STANDARD z 1360 × 1020 640 × 480 Meaning To adjust the brightness on the LCD screen with b[...]

100 Icon/item MOVIE SET IMAGESIZE REMAIN PRINT MARK PROTECT SLIDE SHOW DELETE ALL FORMAT PHOTO SAVE Mode z 320 × 240 160 × 112 z AUTO ON ON z OFF ON z OFF —— —— z RETURN OK —— Meaning To record moving pictures in 320 × 240 size (p. 109). To record moving pictures in 160 × 112 size. To display the remaining capacity of the “Memory [...]

101 Customizing Your Camcorder Icon/item 9PIC PRINT DATE/TIME TITLE TITLEERASE TITLE DSPL CM SEARCH TAPE TITLE ERASE ALL Mode z RETURN SAME MULTI MARKED z OFF DATE DAY&TIME —— —— z ON OFF z ON OFF —— —— Meaning To cancel prints of split screen. To make prints of same split screen (p. 154). To make prints of different split scree[...]

102 Icon/item REC MODE AUDIO MODE q REMAIN CLOCK SET LTR SIZE DEMO MODE Mode z SP LP z 12BIT 16BIT z AUTO ON —— 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 mode (two stereo sounds). To record in the 16-bit mode (one stereo sound with hi[...]

103 Customizing Your Camcorder Icon/item DATA CODE AREA SET DST SET* BEEP COMMANDER DISPLAY REC LAMP VIDEO EDIT Meaning To display date, time and various settings during playback (p. 32). To display date and time during playback. Temporarily change the area where you are using your camcorder. Not during daylight saving time. During daylight saving [...]

104 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 format Still image (JPEG) Your camcorder compre[...]

105 “Memory Stick” Operations “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 Rules for Camera[...]

106 Inserting a “Memory Stick” Insert a “Memory Stick” in the “Memory Stick” slot as far as it can go with the b mark facing as illustrated. Ejecting a “Memory Stick” Press the “Memory Stick” once lightly. While the access lamp is lit or flashing Do not shake or strike your camcorder because your camcorder is reading the data fr[...]

107 “Memory Stick” Operations Selecting still image quality mode You can select image quality mode in still image recording. The default setting is SUPER FINE. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press MENU, then select and decide upon STILL SET in with the con[...]

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

109 “Memory Stick” Operations Selecting the image size You can select either of two image sizes Still images: 1360 × 1020 or 640 × 480. (When the POWER switch is set to VCR, the image size is automatically set to 640 × 480.) The default setting is 1360 × 1020. Moving pictures: 320 × 240 or 160 × 112 The default setting is 320 × 240. ( 1 [...]

110 Using a “ Memory Stick ” – introduction Image size settings Setting Meaning Indicator Recording Playback 1360 × 1020 Records 1360 × 1020 still images. 1360 SFN 1360 640 × 480 Records 640 × 480 still images. 640 SFN 640 320 × 240 Records 320 × 240 moving pictures. 320 320 160 × 112 Records 160 × 112 moving pictures. 160 160 Maximum[...]

111 “Memory Stick” Operations Using a “ Memory Stick ” – introduction Approximate number of still images you can record on a “ Memory Stick ” The number of images you can record varies depending on which image quality and image size you select and the complexity of the subject. Type Image quality 640 × 480 1360 × 1020 4MB SUPER FINE[...]

112 You can record still images 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 right (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Keep pressing PHOTO lightly until the desired still image appears. The green z mark stops flashing, then lights up[...]

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

114 ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press MENU, then select and decide upon STILL SET in with the control button (p. 96). ( 3 ) Select and decide upon PIC MODE with the control button. ( 4 ) Select and decide upon the desired setting with the control button. ( 5 ) Pre[...]

115 “Memory Stick” Operations Recording images with the flash The flash automatically pops up to strobe. The default setting is auto (no indicator). To change the flash mode, press the (flash) repeatedly until the flash mode indicator appears on the screen. Each press of (flash) changes the indicator as follows: t t t No indicator Auto red-eye [...]

116 Shooting using the HOLOGRAM AF The HOLOGRAM AF is an auxiliary light source used for focusing on subjects in dark places. Set HOLOGRAM F to AUTO in the menu settings. (The default setting is AUTO.) When appears on the screen in a dark place, press PHOTO lightly. Then the flash will pop up and the auxiliary light will automatically emit until th[...]

117 “Memory Stick” Operations Self-timer memory photo recording You can record images on “Memory Stick”s with the self-timer. You can also use the Remote Commander for this operation. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press (self-timer). The (self-timer) indicat[...]

118 Your camcorder can read moving picture data recorded on a tape and record it as a still image on a “Memory Stick.” Your camcorder can also take in moving picture data through the input connector and record it as a still image on a “Memory Stick.” Before operation • Insert a recorded tape into your camcorder. • Insert a “Memory Sti[...]

119 “Memory Stick” Operations 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 image with PHOTO. Recording date/time The recording data (date/time) when it is recorded on “Memory[...]

120 Using the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) Note The “ ” may flash in the following instances. If this happens, eject and insert “Memory Stick“ again, and record distortion-free images. – When recording on a tape in a poor recording state, for example, on a tape that has been repeatedly used for dubbing – When attempting to input i[...]

121 “Memory Stick” Operations You can superimpose a still image you have recorded on the “Memory Stick” on top of the moving image you are recording. You can record the superimposed images on a tape or a “Memory Stick.” (However, you can record only superimposed still images on the “Memory Stick.”) M. CHROM (Memory chromakey) You ca[...]

122 Superimposing a still image in the “Memory Stick” on an image – MEMORY MIX Recording superimposed images on a tape Before operation • Insert a tape for recording into your camcorder. • Insert a “Memory Stick” recorded still images into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA. ( 2 ) Press MEMORY MIX in the standby mode[...]

123 “Memory Stick” Operations Superimposing a still image in the “Memory Stick” on an image – MEMORY MIX To change the still image to superimpose Do either of the following: – Press MEMORY+/– before step 7. – Press z on the control button before step 7, and repeat the procedure from step 4. To change the mode setting Press z on the [...]

124 Recording superimposed images on a “ Memory Stick ” as a still image Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” recorded still images into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press MEMORY MIX. The last recorded or last composed image appears on t[...]

125 “Memory Stick” Operations Superimposing a still image in the “ Memory Stick ” on an image – MEMORY MIX To change the still image to superimpose Do either of the following: – Press MEMORY+/– before step 7. – Press z on the control button before step 7, and repeat the procedure from step 4. To change the mode setting Press z on th[...]

126 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 right (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press START/STOP. Your camcorder starts recording. The camera recording lamp located on the front of[...]

127 “Memory Stick” Operations When using an external flash (optional) Turn the power of the external flash off when recording moving pictures on “Memory Stick”s. Otherwise, the charging sound for the flash may be recorded. Recording date/time The date/time are not displayed while recording. However, they are automatically recorded onto the [...]

128 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 “Memory Stick.” Before operation • Insert a recorded tape into your camcorder. • Insert a “Memo[...]

129 “Memory Stick” Operations 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[...]

130 Recording a moving picture from other equipment Before operation Set DISPLAY to LCD in the menu settings. (The default setting is LCD.) ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to VCR. ( 2 ) Play back the recorded tape, or turn the TV on to see the desired program. The image of the other equipment is displayed on the LCD screen or viewfinder. ( 3 ) Follow th[...]

131 “Memory Stick” Operations Using the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) Note The “ ” may flash in the following instances. If this happens, eject and insert “Memory Stick” again, and record distortion-free images. – When recording on a tape in a poor recording state, for example, on a tape that has been repeatedly used for dubbing [...]

132 You can duplicate selected scenes (programs) for editing onto “Memory Stick”s. Making the program ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to VCR on your camcorder. ( 2 ) Insert the tape for playback, and a “Memory Stick” for recording into your camcorder. ( 3 ) Press MENU, then select and decide upon VIDEO EDIT in with the control button (p. 96). ( [...]

133 “Memory Stick” Operations Erasing the program you have set Erase OUT first and then IN from of the last program. ( 1 ) Select and decide upon UNDO with the control button. ( 2 ) Select and decide upon EXECUTE with the control button. The last set program mark flashes, then the setting is canceled. To cancel erasing Select and decide upon RE[...]

134 Recording edited pictures as a moving picture – Digital program editing (on “ Memory Stick ” s) To end the Digital program editing function Your camcorder stops when the dubbing ends. Then the display returns to VIDEO EDIT in the menu settings. Press MENU to end the program editing function. NOT READY appears on the LCD screen when: – T[...]

135 “Memory Stick” Operations 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 Stick” into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to VCR. ( 2 [...]

136 You can play back still images recorded on a “Memory Stick.” You can also play back six images including moving pictures 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 or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) [...]

137 “Memory Stick” Operations Screen indicators during still image playback Recording data When you press DATA CODE on the Remote Commander, you can see the recording data (date/time or various settings when recorded). Viewing a still image – Memory photo playback Image number/Total number of recorded images Image size Data Directory Number, [...]

138 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 right (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press MEMORY INDEX to display the index scre[...]

139 “Memory Stick” Operations You can play back moving pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick.” You can also play back six 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 or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch[...]

140 Screen indicators during moving picture playback Recording date/time To display the recording date/time, press DATA CODE on the Remote Commander during playback. Viewing a moving picture – MPEG movie playback Picture number/Total number of recorded pictures Image size Data directory number/File number Protect JUL 4 2001 12:05:56 AM 320 MO V 0[...]

141 “Memory Stick” Operations You can view data recorded on the “Memory Stick” using your computer. Note 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 Re[...]

142 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. Do not connect the USB cable to your computer before installation of the USB driver is completed[...]

143 “Memory Stick” Operations Viewing images using computer Image data cannot be transferred by the USB connection The USB driver has been registered incorrectly as your computer was connected to your camcorder before installation of the USB driver was completed. Perform the following procedure to correctly install the USB driver. Step 1 Uninst[...]

144 Viewing images For Windows users ( 1 ) Turn on the power of your computer and allow Windows to load. ( 2 ) Connect one end of 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 then to [...]

145 “Memory Stick” Operations Viewing images using computer For Windows 2000 Professional/Me users To unplug the USB cable or eject the “Memory Stick”, follow the procedure below. ( 1 ) Move the cursor to the “Unplug or Eject Hardware” icon on the Task Tray and click to cancel the applicable drive. ( 2 ) A message to remove the device f[...]

146 Image file storage destinations and image files Image files recorded with your camcorder are grouped in folders by recording mode. The meanings of the file names are as follows. ssss stands for any number within the range from 0001 to 9999. For Windows Me users (The drive recognizing the camera is [E:].) Folder File Meaning 100msdcf DSC0 ssss .[...]

147 “Memory Stick” Operations You can copy images 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 the video control buttons, search a point where you want to record t[...]

148 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 “Memory Stick”s. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VCR. Make[...]

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

150 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 right (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Play back the image you want to protect. ( 3 ) Press MENU, then select and [...]

151 “Memory Stick” Operations 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 right (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Play[...]

152 Deleting all the images You can delete all the unprotected images in a “Memory Stick.” Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position. ( 2 ) Press MENU, then select and decide upon DELETE ALL in with the control butt[...]

153 “Memory Stick” Operations You can specify the recorded still image to print out by putting marks. 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 your camcor[...]

154 You can use the optional printer 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. Before operation • Insert a recorded “Memory Stick[...]

155 Using the Network function – DCR-PC120BT only You can access the Internet using a Bluetooth equipped device that is complied to the camcorder. Once the access is made, you can view a Web page, send/receive your e- mail, etc. This section described only how to open the Network Menu. ( 1 ) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. ( 2 ) Press NETWORK. (B[...]

156 — Troubleshooting — T ypes of trouble 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 screen, the self-dia[...]

157 Troubleshooting Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions • NIGHTSHOT is set to ON. c Set it to OFF (p. 27). • NIGHTSHOT is set to ON in a bright place. c Set it to OFF (p. 27). • The backlight function is active. c Set it off (p. 27). • BEEP is set to OFF in the menu settings. c Set it to MELODY or NORMAL (p. 96). • Set the STEADYSHOT [...]

158 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 outlet (p. 15). • [...]

159 Troubleshooting Types of trouble and their solutions When operating using the “Memory Stick” 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. 106). • The “Memory Stick” has already been recorded [...]

160 Others Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions • The tape has no cassette memory. c Use a tape with cassette memory (p. 90). • The cassette memory is full. c Erase unnecessary titles (p. 92). • The tape is set to prevent accidental erasure. c Slide the write-protect tab so that red portion is not visible (p. 19). • The tape has a blank [...]

161 Troubleshooting 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. 172). • Some troubles have occurred in your camcorder. c Remove the cassette and insert it again, then operate your camcorder. • Disconnect the power cord of [...]

162 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. 15, 167). • Moisture condensation has occurred. c Remove the cassette and leave your camcorder for at least one hour to acclimatize (p. 172). • [...]

163 Troubleshooting W arning 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 (p. 121). C:21:00 Self-diagnosis display (p. 162). E The battery is dead or nearly dead Slow flashing: • The battery [...]

164 Warning messages • CLOCK SET Set the date and time (p. 16). • FOR “InfoLITHIUM” Use an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (p. 15). BATTERY ONLY • CLEANING CASSETTE** The video heads are dirty (p. 173). • FULL The tape cassette memory is full.* • 16BIT AUDIO MODE is set to 16BIT (p. 102).* You cannot dub new sound. • REC MODE REC MOD[...]

165 Additional Information — 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 wi[...]

166 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 recorded but the original sound can be recorded[...]

167 Additional Information 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 an optional AC adaptor/charger. The “InfoLITHIUM” batte[...]

168 How to store the battery pack • If the battery pack is not used for a long time, do the following procedure once per year to maintain proper function. 1. Fully charge the battery. 2. Discharge on your electronic equipment. 3. Remove the battery from the equipment and store it in a dry, cool place. • To use the battery pack up on your camcor[...]

169 Additional Information 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 ot[...]

170 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 68 and 82. 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 to a personal comput[...]

171 Additional Information Using your camcorder abroad Countries and areas where you can use network functions are restricted. For details, refer to the separate Network Operating Instructions. (DCR-PC120BT only) 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 [...]

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

173 Additional Information 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 CASS[...]

174 Maintenance information and precautions Charging the built-in rechargeable battery Your camcorder is supplied with a built-in rechargeable battery installed so as to retain the date and time, etc., regardless of the setting of the POWER switch. The built-in rechargeable battery is always charged as long as you are using your camcorder. The batt[...]

175 Additional Information Maintenance information and precautions Camcorder care • Remove the tape, and periodically turn on the power, operate the CAMERA and VCR sections and play back a tape for about three minutes when your camcorder is not to be used for a long time. • Clean the lens with a soft brush to remove dust. If there are fingerpri[...]

176 Maintenance information and precautions Battery pack • Use only the specified charger or video equipment with the charging function. • To prevent accident from a short circuit, do not allow metal objects to come into contact with the battery terminals. • Keep the battery pack away from fire. • Never expose the battery pack to temperatur[...]

177 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 [...]

178 Specifications General Power requirements 7.2 V (battery pack) 8.4 V (AC power adaptor) Average power consumption (when using the battery pack) During camera recording using LCD 4.4 W Viewfinder 3.8 W 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.) 57 × 118 [...]

179 Quick Reference — Quick Reference — Identifying the parts and contr ols 1 Lens Cap (p. 20) 2 OPEN button (p. 20) 3 LCD screen (p. 22) 4 (Bluetooth) lamp (DCR-PC120BT only) (p. 155) 5 Battery pack/Battery terminal cover (p. 12) Camcorder 6 Microphone 7 Intelligent accessory shoe (p. 86) 8 Eyecup 9 Viewfinder (p. 23) q; “Memory Stick” slo[...]

180 Identifying the parts and controls qf MEMORY operation buttons MEMORY PLAY button (p. 136) MEMORY INDEX button (p. 138) MEMORY DELETE button (p. 151) MEMORY +/– buttons (p. 136) MEMORY MIX button (p. 121) qg MPEG BX /PB ZOOM button (p. 139/60, 148) qh VOLUME buttons (p. 31) qj EDITSEARCH button (p. 30) qk DISPLAY button (p. 32) ql END SEARCH [...]

181 Quick Reference Identifying the parts and controls wa Speaker ws LOCK switch (p. 20) wd POWER switch (p. 20) wf Viewfinder lens adjustment lever (p. 23) wg START/STOP button (p. 20) wh Cassette lid (p. 19) wj OPEN/ Z EJECT lever (p. 19) wk Tripod receptacle Make sure that the length of the tripod screw is less than 5.5 mm (7/32 inch). Otherwise[...]

182 Fastening the grip strap Fasten the grip strap firmly. wl S VIDEO ID-2 jack (p. 35, 67, 80, 119) e; MIC (PLUG IN POWER) jack Connect an external microphone (optional). This jack also accepts a “plug-in-power” microphone. ea AUDIO/VIDEO ID-2 jack (p. 35, 67, 80, 119) es RESET button (p. 161) ed Grip strap Identifying the parts and controls e[...]

183 Quick Reference el SUPER NIGHTSHOT button (p. 27) r; FOCUS button (p. 53) ra NETWORK button (p. 155) (DCR-PC120BT only) rs BROWSER MENU/MENU button (p. 155/96) (DCR-PC120BT) / MENU button (p. 96) (DCR-PC115) rd EXPOSURE button (p. 52) rf BACK LIGHT button (p. 27) rg FADER button (p. 42) Identifying the parts and controls rh NIGHTSHOT switch (p.[...]

184 ts Flash (p. 37, 115) td HOLOGRAM AF emitter (p. 116) tf Lens tg Photocell window for flash Do not block this window when recording. th (USB) jack (p. 142) Identifying the parts and controls ts td tg tf th tl tk tj y; tj DV jack (p. 68, 80, 120) tk CHG (charge) lamp (p. 13) tl LANC jack y; DC IN jack (p. 15) Note on the Carl Zeiss lens Your cam[...]

185 Quick Reference 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 two size AA (R6) batteries by matching the + and – polarities on the batteries to the + – marks ins[...]

186 Identifying the parts and controls Operation indicators 1 Cassette memory (p. 26, 165) 2 Remaining battery time (p. 26) 3 Zoom (p. 24) /Exposure (p. 52) / Data file name (p. 104) 4 Digital effect (p. 46, 59) /MEMORY MIX (p. 121) /FADER (p. 42) 5 16:9WIDE (p. 41) 6 Picture effect (p. 45, 58) 7 Data code (p. 32) 8 Volume (p. 31) /Date (p. 26) 9 P[...]

187 Quick Reference Index A, B AC power adaptor .................. 13 Adjusting viewfinder ............. 23 Audio dubbing ........................ 86 AUDIO MIX ............................ 98 Audio mode ........................... 102 Auto red-eye reduction .. 37, 115 AUTO SHTR ............................ 97 A/V connecting cable .............. 35,[...]

Sony Corporation Printed in Japan[...]