Sony DCR TRV5 User Manual

3-864-186-11 (2)

Dig it a l Vid e o

Ca m e ra Re co rd e r

Operating Instructions

Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly,

and retain it for future reference.

DCR-TRV5

DCT-TRV5 (E)

Table of contents

Ta b le o f co³n t e n t s

—fo r p la yin g b a ck/e d it in g —

Be fo re yo u b e g in

Watching on a TV screen ...................... 48

Searching the boundaries of recorded

tape with date – date search .......... 50

Using this manual .................................... 4

Checking supplied accessories............... 6

Searching the boundaries of recorded

tape with title – title search ............ 53

Searching for a photo – photo search/

photo scan ........................................ 54

Ge t t in g st a rt e d 7

Charging and installing the battery

pack ..................................................... 7

Inserting a cassette ................................. 10

Returning to a pre-registered position 57

Displaying recording data – data code

function ............................................. 58

Editing onto another tape ..................... 59

Replacing recording on a tape – insert

editing ............................................... 61

Audio dubbing ....................................... 62

Ba sic o p e ra t io n s

Camera recording .................................. 11

Using the zoom feature .................. 13

Selecting the start/stop mode .......14

Shooting with the LCD screen .......15

Letting the subject monitor the

shot.............................................. 16

Hints for better shooting .......................17

Playing back a tape ................................ 19

Searching for the end of the picture .... 21

Ad d it io n a l in fo rm a t io n

Usable cassettes and playback modes

............................................................ 64

Charging the vanadium-lithium battery

in the camcorder .............................. 65

Resetting the date and time .................. 66

Tips for using the battery pack ............ 67

Ad va n ce d o p e ra t io n s

Using alternative power sources ......... 22

Using the house current ................. 22

Using a car battery .......................... 22

Changing the mode settings ................. 23

Maintenance information and

precautions ....................................... 71

Using your camcorder abroad ............. 74

Trouble check ......................................... 75

Self-diagnosis function .......................... 80

Specifications .......................................... 81

Identifying the parts .............................. 82

Warning indicators ................................ 90

Index ........................................................ 91

—fo r ca m e ra re co rd in g —

Shooting with backlighting .................. 27

Using the FADER function ...................28

Photo recording ...................................... 29

Using the wide mode function............. 31

Using the PROGRAM AE function ..... 32

Focusing manually................................. 34

Enjoying picture effect .......................... 36

Adjusting the exposure ......................... 38

Superimposing a title ............................ 39

Making a custom title ............................ 42

Labeling a cassette ................................. 44

Releasing the STEADYSHOT function

.................................................................. 47

Before you begin

Using this manual

As you read through this manual, buttons and settings on the camcorder are shown in

capital letters.

e.g., Set the POWER switch to CAMERA.

As indicated with

operation.

≥

in the illustrations, you can hear the beep sound to confirm your

Note on Cassette Memory

This camcorder is based on the DV format. You can only use mini DV cassettes with

this camcorder. We recommend you to use a tape with cassette memory

The functions which depend on whether the tape has the cassette memory or not are:

• End Search (p. 21)

• Date Search (p. 50)

• Photo Search (p. 54).

The functions you can operate only with the cassette memory are:

• Title Search (p. 53)

• Superimposing a title (p. 39)

• Making a custom title (p. 42)

• Labeling a cassette (p. 44)

For details, see page 64.

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.

Precaution on copyright

Television programs, films, video tapes, and other materials may be copyrighted.

Unauthorized recording of such materials may be contrary to the provision of the

Usin g t h is m a n u a l

Pre ca u t io n s o n ca m co rd e r ca re

• The LCD screen and/or the color view finder are manufactured using high-

precision technology. How ever, there may be some tiny black points and/or

bright points (red, blue or green in color) that constantly appear on the LCD

screen and/or in the view finder. These points are normal in the manufacturing

process and do not affect the recorded picture in any w ay. Over 99.99% are

operational for effective use.

• Do not let the camcorder get wet. Keep the camcorder away from rain and sea water.

Letting the camcorder get wet may cause the unit to malfunction, and sometimes this

malfunction cannot be repaired [a ].

• Never leave the camcorder exposed to temperatures above 60°C (140°F), such as in a

car parked in the sun or under direct sunlight [b ].

[b ]

[a ]

Ch e ckin g su p p lie d a cce sso rie s

Check that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder.

1 Wireless Remote Commander (1)

5 R6 (size AA) battery for Remote

(p. 87)

Commander (2) (p. 87)

2 NP-F330 battery pack (1) (p. 7)

6 A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 48, 60)

7 Shoulder strap (1) (p. 84)

8 Lens cap (1) (p. 11)

3 AC-V615 AC pow er adaptor (1)

(p. 7, 22)

The shape of the plug varies from region

to region.

4 DK-415 connecting cord (1) (p. 22)

Contents of the recording cannot be compensated if recording or playback is not made

due to a malfunction of the camcorder, video tape, etc.

Getting started

Charging and installing the battery pack

Before using your camcorder, you first need to charge and install the battery pack. To

charge the battery pack, use the supplied AC power adaptor.

This camcorder operates only with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack.

“InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

Charging the battery pack

Charge the battery pack on a flat surface without vibration.

(1)Connect the power cord to the AC power adaptor.

(2)Align the surface of the battery pack indicated by the z mark with the edge of the

terminal shutter of the AC power adaptor. Then fit and slide the battery pack in the

direction of the arrow.

(3)Connect the AC power cord to a wall outlet. The CHARGE lamp (orange) lights up.

Charging begins.

When the CHARGE lamp goes out, normal charge is completed. For full charge,

which allows you to use the battery longer than usual, leave the battery pack in

place for approximately one hour. Unplug the unit from the wall outlet, then remove

the battery pack and install it into the camcorder. You can also use the battery pack

before it is completely charged.

CHARGE

Charging time

Battery pack

Charging time *

NP-F330 (supplied)

NP-F550

130 (70)

180 (120)

170 (110)

NP-F530

The time required for a normal charge is indicated in parentheses.

* Approximate minutes to charge an empty battery pack using the supplied AC power

adaptor. (Lower temperatures require a longer charging time.)

Charging and installing the battery pack

Battery life

While using with viewfinder

Battery pack Continuous recording time *

Typical recording time **

NP-F330 (supplied)

NP-F550

80 (70)

165 (140)

130 (115)

45 (40)

90 (80)

70 (65)

NP-F530

While using with LCD

Battery pack

Continuous

recording time *

Typical

recording time **

Playing

time with LCD

NP-F330 (supplied) 60 (55)

35 (30)

65 (60)

NP-F550

NP-F530

130 (115)

100 (90)

75 (65)

135 (120)

55 (50)

105 (95)

Numbers in parentheses indicate the time when you use a normally charged battery.

Battery life will be shorter if you use the camcorder in a cold environment.

* Approximate continuous recording time at 25°C (77°F).

** Approximate minutes when recording while you repeat recording start/stop,

zooming and turning the power on/off. The actual battery life may be shorter.

Notes on remaining battery time indication during recording

• Remaining battery time is displayed in the viewfinder or on the LCD screen.

However, the indication may not be displayed properly, depending on using

conditions and circumstances.

• When you close the LCD panel and open it again, it takes about 1 minute for the

correct remaining time to be displayed.

To remove the battery pack

Slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow.

Notes on charging the battery pack

• The CHARGE lamp will remain lit for a while even if the battery pack is removed

and the power cord is unplugged after charging the battery pack. This is normal.

• If the CHARGE lamp does not light, disconnect the power cord. After about one

minute, reconnect the power cord again.

• You cannot charge the battery pack while the DK-415 connecting cord is connected to

the AC power adaptor.

• When a fully charged battery pack is installed, the CHARGE lamp will light once,

then go out.

Ch a rg in g a n d in st a llin g t h e b a t t e ry p a ck

In st a llin g t h e b a t t e ry p a ck

(1)Set the POWER switch to OFF to prevent misoperation of the camcorder.

(2)To open the lid of the battery compartment, slide the OPEN (BATT) release lever.

(3)Insert the battery pack in the direction of the arrow.

(4)Close the lid.

POWER

To re m o ve t h e b a t t e ry p a ck

Open the lid of the battery compartment. Then release the battery release lever, and

remove the battery pack.

Battery release lever

When removing battery pack

Always keep the lid of the battery compartment upright so that the battery pack does

not fall out when you open the lid.

In se rt in g a ca sse t t e

You can use mini DV cassette with

logo* only.

Make sure that the power source is installed.

(1)While pressing the small blue button on the EJECT switch, slide it in the direction of

the arrow. The cassette lid and compartment open.

(2)Insert a cassette with the window facing out into the cassette compartment.

(3)Close the lid by pressing the

mark button.

is a trademark.

EJECT

PUSH

Notes

• The cassette lid may not be closed when you press any part of the lid other than the

mark button.

• When you open or close the cassette lid, put down the grip strap.

• Be careful that your fingers are not caught in cassete lid.

To e je ct t h e ca sse t t e

While pressing the small blue button on the EJECT switch, slide it in the direction of the

arrow.

To p re ve n t a ccid e n t a l e ra su re

Slide and open the tab on the cassette to expose the red mark. If you try to record with

the red mark exposed, the L and 6 indicators flash on the LCD screen or in the

viewfinder, and you cannot record on the tape. To re-record on this tape, slide and close

the tab to cover the red mark.

Ba sic o p e ra t io n s

Ca m e ra re co rd in g

Make sure that the power source is installed and a cassette is inserted and that the

START/STOP MODE switch (p. 14) is set to

. Before you record one-time events, you

may want to make a trial recording to make sure that the camcorder is working

correctly.

When you use the camcorder for the first time, power on it and reset the date and time

to your time before you start recording (p. 66).

(1)Remove the lens cap and pull the lens cap string to fix it.

(2)While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to CAMERA. The

camcorder is set to Standby mode.

(3)Press START/STOP.

The camcorder starts recording. “REC” appears in the viewfinder. The camera

recording lamp on the front of the camcorder also lights up.

You can also select Recording mode, SP (standard play) mode or LP (long play) mode.

Set REC MODE in the menu system according to the length of your planned recording

before you start.

POWER

STBY

–

:– –:– –

POWER

REC

0:00:00

60min

40min

To st o p re co rd in g m o m e n t a rily [a ]

Press START/STOP. The “STBY” indicator appears in the viewfinder (Standby mode).

To fin ish re co rd in g [b ]

Press START/STOP again to stop recording. Set the POWER switch to OFF. Then, eject

the cassette and remove the battery pack.

POWER

STBY

0:35:20

[a ]

[b ]

25min

When you use mini DV cassette w ith cassette memory

Read the instruction about cassette memory to use this function properly (p. 64).

Camera recording

To focus the viewfinder lens

If you cannot see the indicators in the viewfinder clearly, or after someone else has used

the camcorder, focus the viewfinder lens. Move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever so

that the indicators in the viewfinder come into sharp focus.

Note on Standby mode

If you leave the camcorder in Standby mode for 5 minutes while the cassette is inserted,

the camcorder turns off automatically. This prevents wearing down the battery and

wearing out the tape. To resume Standby mode, while pressing the small green button

on the POWER switch, set it to OFF once, and then to CAMERA. To start recording,

press START/STOP.

Note on Recording mode

This camcorder records and plays back in SP (standard play) mode and in LP (long

play) mode. Select SP or LP in the menu system. In LP mode, you can record 1.5 times

as long as in SP mode.

Notes on LP mode

• We recommend to use this camcorder to play back a tape recorded on this camcorder.

If a tape recorded on other camcorder is played back on this camcorder, or vice versa,

mosaic-pattern noise may appear.

• When you record in SP and LP modes on one tape or you record some scenes in LP

mode, the playback picture may be distorted or the time code may not be written

properly between scenes.

• When you record in LP mode, we recommend you to use a Sony Excellence/Master

mini DV cassette so that you can get the most out of your camcorder.

• You cannot make audio dubbing on a tape recorded in LP mode. Use the SP mode for

the tape to be audio dubbed.

Notes on the time code

• The time code indicates the recording or playback time, “0:00:00” (hours : minutes :

seconds) in CAMERA mode and “0:00:00:00” (hours : minutes : seconds : frames) in

VTR mode.

• Be sure not to make a blank portion when recording, because the time code will start

from “0:00:00:00” again.

• This camcorder uses the drop frame mode.

Note on the beep sound

As indicated with

≥

in the illustrations, a beep sounds when you turn the power on or

when you start recording, and two beeps sound when you stop recording, confirming

the operation. Several beeps also sound as a warning of any unusual condition of the

camcorder.

Note that the beep sound is not recorded on the tape. If you do not want to hear the

beep sound, select OFF in the menu system.

Ca m e ra re co rd in g

Note on remaining tape indicator

The indicator may not be displayed accurately depending on the tape. Though the

indicator does not appear at the time of recording, it will appear in a few seconds.

Usin g t h e zo o m fe a t u re

Zooming is a recording technique that lets you change the size of the subject in the

scene.

For more professional-looking recordings, use the zoom function sparingly.

“T” side: for telephoto (subject appears closer)

“W” side: for wide-angle (subject appears farther away)

Zo o m in g sp e e d (Va ria b le sp e e d zo o m in g )

Press the power zoom switch a little for a relatively slow zoom; press it still more for a

high-speed zoom.

When you shoot a subject using a telephoto zoom

If you cannot get a sharp focus while in extreme telephoto zoom, press the “W” side of

the power zoom switch until the focus is sharp. You can shoot a subject that is at least

about 80 cm away from the lens surface in the telephoto position, or about 1 cm away in

the wide-angle position.

Notes on digital zoom

• More than 10x zoom is performed digitally, and the picture quality deteriorates as

you go toward the “T” side. If you do not want to use the digital zoom, set the D

ZOOM function to OFF in the menu system.

• The right side [a] of the power zoom indicator shows the digital zooming zone, and

the left side [b] shows the optical zooming zone. If you set the D ZOOM function to

OFF, the [a] zone disappears.

[a ]

[b ]

Ca m e ra re co rd in g

Se le ct in g t h e st a rt /st o p m o d e

Your camcorder has two modes besides normal start/stop mode. These modes enable

you to take a series of quick shots resulting in a lively video.

(1)Set START/STOP MODE to the desired mode.

: Recording starts when you press START/STOP, and stops when you press it

again (normal mode).

ANTI GROUND SHOOTING : The camcorder records only while you press down

START/STOP so that you can avoid recording unnecessary scenes.

5SEC : When you press START/STOP, the camcorder records for 5 seconds and then

stops automatically.

(2)Press START/STOP. Recording starts.

If you selected 5SEC, five dots appear in the viewfinder or on the LCD screen. The dots

disappear at a rate of one per second as illustrated below. When five seconds elapse and

all the dots disappear, the camcorder switches to Standby mode automatically.

START/STOP

MODE

5SEC

ANTI GROUND

SHOOTING

POWER

REC

0:00:00

REC

0:00:04

To e xt e n d t h e re co rd in g t im e in 5SEC m o d e

Press START/STOP again before all the dots disappear. Recording continues for about

5 seconds from the moment you press START/STOP.

Note on 5SEC recording

If you have turned off the indicators on the LCD screen, the dots do not appear.

Ca m e ra re co rd in g

Sh o o t in g w it h t h e LCD scre e n

You can also record the picture while looking at the LCD screen.

When using the LCD screen, the viewfinder turns off automatically except in mirror

mode. You cannot monitor the sound from the speaker during CAMERA mode.

(1)While pressing OPEN, open the LCD panel.

(2)Adjust angle of the LCD panel.

The LCD panel moves about 90 degrees to this side and about 180 degrees to the

other side.

You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen in the menu system.

The battery life is longer when the LCD panel is closed. Use the viewfinder instead of

the LCD screen to save the battery power.

90°

180°

90°

Notes on the LCD panel

• When closing the LCD panel, turn it vertically until it clicks [a].

• When turning the LCD panel, turn it always vertically; otherwise, the camcorder

body may be damaged or the LCD panel may not close properly [b].

• Close the LCD panel completely when not in use.

• Do not push nor touch the LCD panel while operating the camcorder.

• You may find it difficult to view the LCD screen due to glare when using the

camcorder outdoors.

[a ]

[b ]

Camera recording

Letting the subject monitor the shot

You can turn the LCD panel over so that it faces the other way and you can let the

subject monitor the shot while shooting with the viewfinder.

Turn the LCD panel up vertically. When you turn the LCD panel 180 degrees, the

indicator appears on the LCD screen (mirror mode) and the time code and remaining

tape indicators disappear.

You can also use the Remote Commander.

To cancel mirror mode

Turn the LCD panel down toward the camcorder body.

Notes on mirror mode

• When you turn the LCD panel about 90 degrees to 180 degrees, the camcorder enters

mirror mode.

• Using the mirror mode, you can record yourself while watching yourself on the LCD.

• The picture on the LCD looks like a mirror-image while recording in mirror mode.

The STBY indicator appears as Pr and REC as r. Other indicators appear as mirror-

image. Some indicators may not appear in mirror mode.

• While recording in mirror mode, you cannot operate the following functions: MENU,

TITLE, and ZERO SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander.

• While recording in mirror mode, the picture on the LCD screen turns from right side

to left side like a subject in the mirror. However, the recorded picture on the tape is

same as that of the actual subject.

Hin t s fo r b e t t e r sh o o t in g

For hand-held shots, you will get better results by holding the camcorder according to

the following suggestions:

• Hold the camcorder firmly and secure it with the grip strap so that you can easily

manipulate the controls with your thumb. [a ]

[a ]

• Place your elbows against your side.

• Place your left hand under the camcorder to support it.

• Place your eye against the viewfinder eyecup.

• Be sure not to touch the built-in microphone.

• Use the LCD panel frame or the viewfinder frame as a guide to determine the

horizontal plane.

• You can also record in a low position to get an interesting angle. Lift the viewfinder

up for record from a low position. [b]

• You can also record in a low position or even in a high position using the LCD panel.

[c]

• When you use the LCD screen outdoors in direct sunlight, the LCD screen may be

difficult to see. If this happens, we recommend that you use the viewfinder.

[b ]

[c]

Hin t s fo r b e t t e r sh o o t in g

Place the camcorder on a flat surface or use a tripod

Try placing the camcorder on a table top or any other flat surface of suitable height. If

you have a tripod for a still camera, you can also use it with the camcorder. When

attaching a non-Sony tripod, make sure that the length of the tripod screw is less than

6.5 mm. Otherwise, you cannot attach the tripod securely and the screw may damage

the camcorder.

Cautions on the LCD panel and on the view finder

• Do not pick up the camcorder by the viewfinder or the LCD panel. [d ]

• Do not place the camcorder so as to point the viewfinder or the LCD panel toward

the sun. The inside of the viewfinder or the LCD panel may be damaged. Be careful

when placing the camcorder under sunlight or by a window. [e ]

[d ]

[e ]

Playing back a tape

You can monitor the playback picture on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

(1)Insert the recorded tape with the window facing out.

(2)While pressing OPEN, open the LCD panel.

(3)While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to VTR.

(4)Press 0 to rewind the tape.

(5)Press ( to start playback.

(6)Adjust the volume using VOL +/–.

You can also monitor the picture on a TV screen, after connecting the camcorder to a TV

or VCR.

POWER

VOL

To stop playback, press p.

To rewind the tape, press 0.

To fast-forward the tape rapidly, press ).

Using the Remote Commander

You can control playback using the supplied Remote Commander. Before using the

Remote Commander, insert the R6 (size AA) batteries.

Using the stand

When you play back on the LCD screen, use the stand to make easy to watch.

Stand

To display the LCD screen/viewfinder screen indicators

Press DISPLAY. (p. 83)

To erase the indicators, press again.

Note on screen indicators

The screen indicator disappears when the title is displayed.

Playing back a tape

Using headphones

Connect headphones (not supplied) to the 2 jack. You can adjust the volume of the

headphones using VOL +/–.

To view the playback picture in the viewfinder

Close the LCD panel. The viewfinder turns on automatically.

When using the viewfinder, you can monitor the sound only by using headphones.

To view on the LCD screen again, open the LCD panel. The viewfinder turns off

automatically.

Various playback modes

To view a still picture (playback pause)

Press P during playback. To resume playback, press P or (.

To locate a scene (picture search)

Keep pressing 0 or ) during playback. To resume normal playback, release the

button.

To monitor the high-speed picture while advancing the tape or

rewinding (skip scan)

Keep pressing 0 while rewinding or ) while advancing the tape. To resume

normal rewinding or fast-forward, release the button.

To view the picture at 1/3 speed (slow playback)

Press & on the Remote Commander during playback. For slow playback in reverse

direction, press <, then press &. To resume normal playback, press (.

To view the picture at double speed

For double speed playback in the reverse direction, press <, then press ×2 on the

Remote Commander during playback. For double speed playback in the forward

direction, press >, then press ×2 during playback. To resume normal playback, press

To view the picture frame-by-frame

Press ' or 7 on the Remote Commander in playback pause mode. If you keep

pressing the button, you can view the picture at 1/30 speed. To resume normal

playback, press (.

To change the playback direction

Press < on the Remote Commander for reverse direction or > on the Remote

Commander for forward direction during playback. To resume normal playback, press

Notes on playback

• The sound is muted in the various playback modes.

• During playback other than normal playback, the previous recording may appear in

mosaic image. This is not malfunction.

• When playback pause mode lasts for 5 minutes, the camcorder automatically enters

stop mode. To resume playback, press (.

Note on slow playback

The slow playback can be performed smoothly on this camcorder; however, this

function does not work for an output signal from the DV IN/OUT jack.

Searching for the end of the picture

You can go to the end of the recorded portion after you record and play back the tape.

The tape starts rewinding or fast-forwarding and the last about 5 seconds of the

recorded portion plays back. Then the tape stops at the end of the recorded picture (End

Search).

(1)While pressing OPEN, open the LCD panel.

(2)Press END SEARCH.

This function works when the POWER switch is set to CAMERA or VTR.

END SEARCH

Notes on End Search

• When you use a tape without cassette memory, the End Search function does not

work once you eject the cassette after recording. (However, when you record the

scene once more, End Search function will work.)

• When you use a tape with cassette memory, the End Search function works once you

eject the cassette. When you play back a tape which has a blank portion in the

beginning or between the recorded portions, the End Search function will not work

correctly.

Advanced operations

Using alternative power sources

You can choose any of the following power sources for your camcorder: battery pack,

house current, and 12/24 V car battery. Choose the appropriate power source

depending on where you want to use your camcorder.

Place

Power source

Accessory to be used

Indoors

House current

Supplied AC power adaptor

Outdoors Battery pack

Battery pack NP-F330 (supplied), NP-F550, NP-F530

Sony DC adaptor/charger DC-V700

In the car 12 V or 24 V car battery

Note on power sources

Disconnecting the power source or removing the battery pack during recording or

playback may damage the inserted tape. If this happens, restore the power supply again

immediately.

Using the house current

To use the supplied AC power adaptor:

(1)Insert the connecting plate in the camcorder. Pull out the cover on the lid and pass

the connecting cord through the lid.

(2)Connect the connecting cord to the DC OUT jack on the AC power adaptor.

(3)Connect the power cord to the AC power adaptor.

(4)Connect the power cord to a wall outlet.

1,2

To remove the connecting plate

The connecting plate is removed in the same way as the battery pack.

WARNING

The power cord must only be changed at a qualified service shop.

PRECAUTION

The set is not disconnected from the AC power source (house current) as long as it is

connected to the power cord, even if the set itself has been turned off.

Using a car battery

Use a DC adaptor/charger such as Sony DC-V700 (not supplied). Connect the car

battery cord to the cigarette lighter socket of a car (12 V or 24 V). Connect the DC

adaptor/charger and the camcorder using the supplied DK-415 connecting cord.

This mark indicates that this product is a genuine accessory for Sony

video product.

When purchasing Sony video products, Sony recommends that you

purchase accessories with this “GENUINE VIDEO ACCESSORIES” mark.

Changing the mode settings

You can change the mode settings in the menu system to further enjoy the features and

functions of the camcorder.

(1)Press MENU to display the menu on the LCD screen.

(2)Turn the control dial to select the desired item, then press the control dial. Only the

selected item is displayed.

(3)Turn the control dial to select the desired mode, then press the control dial. If you

want to change the other modes, repeat steps 2 and 3.

(4)Press MENU to erase the menu display.

LCD BRIGHT

COMMANDER

HiFi SOUND

LCD BRIGHT

COMMANDER

HiFi SOUND

TITLEERASE

TITLE DSPL

TAPE TITLE

BEEP

COMMANDER

HiFi SOUND

TITLEERASE

STEREO

[

]

MENU :END

HiFi SOUND

STEREO

HiFi SOUND

STEREO

HiFi SOUND

STEREO

COMMANDER

HiFi SOUND

TITLEERASE

While recording in mirror mode, you cannot operate the menu system.

Note on changing the mode settings

Menu items differ depending on the setting of the POWER switch to VTR or CAMERA.

Changing the mode settings

Selecting the mode setting of each item

r is set at the factory.

Items for both CAMERA and VTR modes

LCD BRIGHT

Select this item to adjust the brightness of the LCD screen. The LCD screen becomes

brighter when you turn the control dial up, and darker when you turn it down.

COMMANDER* <rON/OFF>

• Select ON when using the supplied Remote Commander for the camcorder.

• Select OFF when not using the Remote Commander.

REC MODE <rSP/LP>

• Select SP when recording in SP (standard play) mode.

• Select LP when recording in LP (long play) mode.

BEEP <rON/OFF>

• Select ON so that beeps sound when you start/stop recording, etc.

• Select OFF when you do not want to hear the beep sound.

TITLEERASE

Erase the title you have superimposed.

LCD B.L. <rBRT NORMAL/BRIGHT>

• Normally select BRT NORMAL.

• Select BRIGHT when the LCD panel is dark.

Even if you adjust the LCD B.L., the recorded picture is not affected.

LCD COLOR

Select this item and change the level of the indicator by turning the control dial up or

down to adjust the color intensity of the picture.

VF BRIGHT

Close the LCD panel.

Select this item to adjust the brightness of the viewfinder. The viewfinder becomes

brighter when you turn the control dial up, and darker when you turn it down.

DISPLAY <LCD or V-OUT/rLCD >

• Normally select LCD.

• Select V-OUT/LCD to display indicator both on the LCD panel and TV screen.

AUTO TV ON <ON/rOFF>

You can use this feature only with Sony TVs.

• Select ON to turn on the TV automatically when using the LASER LINK function.

• Select OFF not to turn on the TV.

TV INPUT <rVIDEO1/VIDEO2/VIDEO3/OFF>

Select 1, 2 or 3 of the video input on the TV which the IR receiver (not supplied) is

connected to when using the LASER LINK function.

Changing the mode settings

Items for CAMERA mode only

PROGRAM AE*

Select this item to use the PROGRAM AE function. See page 32 for details.

P EFFECT**

Select this item to enjoy the picture effect. See page 36 for details.

AUDIO MODE <r12BIT/16BIT>

• Normally select 12BIT to record two stereo sound.

• Select 16BIT to record the one stereo sound with high quality.

D ZOOM <rON/OFF>

• Select ON to activate digital zooming.

• Select OFF not to use the digital zoom. The camcorder goes back to 10x optical zoom.

STEADYSHOT <rON/OFF>

• Normally select ON.

• Select OFF when you do not have to worry about camera-shake.

16:9WIDE <rOFF/ON>

Select this item to record a 16:9 wide picture. See page 31 for details.

REC LAMP <rON/OFF>

• Normally select ON.

• Select OFF when you do not want the camera recording lamp at the front of the unit

to light up.

CLOCK SET

Select this item to reset the date or time.

DEMO MODE <rSTBY/ON or OFF>

• Select STBY/ON to glance over the function of camcorder.

• Select OFF not to display demonstration.

Notes on DEMO MODE

• DEMO MODE is set to STBY (Standby)/ON at the factory and the demonstration

starts about 10 minutes after you set the POWER switch to CAMERA without

inserting a cassette.

Note that you cannot select STBY/ON of DEMO MODE in the menu system.

• You cannot select DEMO MODE when a cassette is inserted in the camcorder.

• If you insert a cassette during the demonstration, the demonstration stops. You can

start recording as usual. DEMO MODE automatically returns to STBY/ON.

To look at the demonstration at once

Eject the cassette, if inserted. Select STBY/ON of DEMO MODE and erase the menu

display. The demonstration will begin.

When you turn off the camcorder once, DEMO MODE automatically returns to STBY/

ON.

Changing the mode settings

Items for VTR mode only

HiFi SOUND* <rSTEREO/1/2>

• Select STEREO to play back stereo sound or main and sub sound (for dual sound).

• Select 1 to play back the left sound (for stereo sound) or main sound (for dual sound).

• Select 2 to play back the right sound (for stereo sound) or sub sound (for dual sound).

TITLE DSPL <rON/OFF>

• Select ON to display the title you have superimposed.

• Select OFF not to display the title.

TAPE TITLE

Select this item to label the cassette tape.

AUDIO MIX*

Select this item and adjust the balance between the stereo 1 and stereo 2 by turning the

control dial.

CM SEARCH <rON/OFF>

• Select ON to search using cassette memory.

• Select OFF to search without using cassette memory.

DATA CODE <DATE/CAM or rDATE>

• Select DATE/CAM to display date and recording data during playback.

• Select DATE to display date during playback.

* These settings return to the default 5 minutes or more after the power source is

disconnected or battery is removed. As far as the items without an asterisk are concerned,

their settings are retained even when the power source is disconnected or battery is

removed, as long as the vanadium-lithium battery is charged.

** P EFFECT setting returns to OFF when the power is turned off.

When recording a close subject

When REC LAMP is set to ON, the red camera recording lamp on the front of the camcorder

may reflect on the subject if it is close. In this case, we recommend you set REC LAMP to

OFF.

Notes

• When playing back a tape recorded in the 16-bit mode, you cannot adjust the balance in

AUDIO MIX.

• If you select 16BIT in AUDIO MODE menu, you cannot add an audio sound.

• If you select BRIGHT in LCD B.L. menu, the battery life while recording becomes 10 to

20% shorter. When you use the power sources except for a battery, the menu item LCD

B.L. is set to BRIGHT automatically and the item does not appear in the screen.

Shooting with backlighting

When you shoot a subject with the light source behind the subject or a subject with a

light background, use the BACK LIGHT function.

Press BACK LIGHT. The c indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

[a]

BACK

LIGHT

[b]

[a]Subject is too dark because of backlight.

[b]Subject becomes bright with backlight compensation.

After shooting

Be sure to release this adjustment condition by pressing BACK LIGHT again. The c

indicator disappears. Otherwise, the picture will be too bright under normal lighting

condition.

This function is also effective under the following conditions:

• A subject with a light source nearby or a mirror reflecting light.

• A white subject against a white background. Especially when you shoot a person

wearing shiny clothes made of silk or synthetic fiber, his or her face tends to become

dark if you do not use this function.

Note on the BACK LIGHT function

When you press EXPOSURE, the BACK LIGHT function is cancelled.

Using the FADER function

You can fade in or out to give your recording a professional appearance.

When fading in, the picture gradually fades in from black while the sound increases. When fading

out, the picture gradually fades to black while the sound decreases.

When fading in [a]

(1)While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press FADER until the desired indicator

flashes.

(2)Press START/STOP to start recording. The fade indicator stops flashing.

When fading out [b]

(1)During recording, press FADER until the desired indicator flashes.

(2)Press START/STOP to stop recording. The fade indicator stops flashing, and then

recording stops.

[a]

FADER

STBY

REC

M.FADER

STBY

REC

[b]

FADER

POWER

FADER

M.FADER

To cancel the fader function

Before pressing START/STOP, press FADER until the fade indicator disappears.

You cannot use the fader function in the following situations

– The START/STOP MODE switch is set to ANTI GROUND SHOOTING or 5SEC.

– The camcorder is in the photo recording.

– A title is displayed in the viewfinder or on the LCD screen.

– The menu is displayed in the viewfinder or on the LCD screen.

Photo recording

You can record a still picture like a photograph for about seven seconds. This photo

recording is useful when you want to enjoy a picture such as a photograph or when you

print a picture using a video printer (not supplied). You can record about 510 pictures

on a 60-minute tape in SP mode.

(1)While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to CAMERA.

(2)Keep pressing PHOTO lightly until a still picture and “PHOTO CAPTURE” appear

on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

Recording does not start yet. To change the still picture, release PHOTO, select still

picture again, and keep pressing PHOTO lightly again.

If you press PHOTO on the Remote Commander when a still picture appears on the

LCD screen or in the viewfinder, the camcorder will record that still picture.

However, you cannot select other still pictures by using this button.

(3)Press PHOTO deeper.

“PHOTO REC” flashes and the still picture on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder is

recorded for about seven seconds. The sound during those seven seconds is also

recorded and the picture on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder returns to moving

picture. You cannot change the POWER switch or press PHOTO during recording.

2,3

POWER

PHOTO

When you press PHOTO during normal recording

The picture on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder whenever you press PHOTO will be

recorded. You cannot check the recorded picture by pressing PHOTO lightly.

After the moving picture is recorded as a still picture for about seven seconds, the

camcorder will go back to Standby mode.

Photo recording

Printing the still picture

You can print a still picture by using the video printer (not supplied). Connect the video

printer using the S video connecting cable (not supplied). Refer to the operating

instruction of the video printer as well.

Video printer

LINE IN

VIDEO S VIDEO

S VIDEO

OUT

Ç : Signal flow

AUDIO/VIDEO

OUT

(not supplied)

If the video printer is not equipped with S VIDEO input

Use the supplied A/V connecting cable. Connect it to the AUDIO/VIDEO OUT jack

and connect the yellow plug of the cable to the VIDEO input of the video printer.

Using the wide mode function

You can record a 16:9 wide picture to watch on the 16:9 wide-screen TV (16:9WIDE).

The picture with black bands at the top and the bottom on the LCD screen or in the

viewfinder [a] is normal. The picture on a normal TV [b] is horizontally compressed.

You can watch the picture of normal images on a wide-screen TV [c].

[b]

[a]

16:9 WIDE

[c]

Selecting wide picture mode

(1)Press MENU to display the menu on the LCD screen.

(2)Turn the control dial to select 16:9WIDE, then press the control dial.

(3)Turn the control dial to select ON, then press the control dial.

(4)Press MENU to erase the menu display.

1,4

D ZOOM

STEADYSHOT

BEEP

TITLEERASE

16:9WIDE

OFF

16:9WIDE

OFF

LCD B.L.

LCD COLOR

D ZOOM

OFF

STEADYSHOT

BEEP

TITLEERASE

16:9WIDE

OFF

16:9WIDE

LCD B.L.

LCD COLOR

To cancel wide mode

Select OFF in step 3, then press the control dial.

To watch the tape recorded in wide mode

To watch the tape recorded in 16:9WIDE mode, set it to full mode. For details, refer to

the operating instructions of your TV.

Note that the picture recorded in 16:9WIDE mode looks compressed on a normal TV.

Note on wide mode

You cannot select or cancel the wide mode during recording.

Using the PROGRAM AE function

You can select from six PROGRAM AE (Auto Exposure) modes to suit your shooting

situation. When you use PROGRAM AE, you can get a portrait effect (the subject is in

focus and the background is out of focus), capture high-speed action, record night

views, etc.

Selecting the best mode

Select a proper PROGRAM AE mode referring to the following description.

: Spotlight mode

Recording a subject spotlighted on a stage or at a wedding ceremony, etc.

: Soft portrait mode

To record

• A still subject such as a person or flower

• A softened picture

• A person in clearer flesh tones

: Sports lesson mode

Capturing high-speed action in sports such as golf or tennis

: Beach & Ski mode

Recording a person in a place such as on the beach or in the ski slopes where there is a

lot of reflection

: Sunset & Moon mode

Recording sunset, night views, fireworks or neon signs

: Landscape mode

Recording a landscape through a window or wire net

Notes on focus setting

• In the Spotlight, Sports lesson and Beach & Ski modes, you cannot take close-ups

because the camcorder is set to focus only on subjects in the middle to far distance.

• In the Sunset & Moon and Landscape modes, the camcorder is set to focus only on

distant subjects.

Using the PROGRAM AE function

(1)Press MENU to display the menu on the LCD screen.

(2)Turn the control dial to select PROGRAM AE, then press the control dial.

(3)Turn the control dial to select the desired PROGRAM AE mode, then press the

control dial.

(4)Press MENU to erase the menu display.

1,4

LCD BRIGHT

PROGRAM AE SPOTLIGHT

PORTRAIT

LCD BRIGHT

PROGRAM AE

EFFECT

OFF

AUTO

COMMANDER

REC MODE

AUDIO MODE

D ZOOM

COMMANDER SPORTS

REC MODE

D ZOOM

BEACH&SKI

SUNSET

LANDSCAPE

STEADYSHOT

[

]

MENU :END

LCD BRIGHT

PROGRAM AE SPOTLIGHT

PORTRAIT

AUTO

LCD BRIGHT

PROGRAM AE

EFFECT

OFF

SPORTS

COMMANDER SPORTS

COMMANDER

REC MODE

AUDIO MODE

D ZOOM

REC MODE

D ZOOM

BEACH&SKI

SUNSET

LANDSCAPE

STEADYSHOT

[

]

MENU :END

To return to automatic adjustment mode

Select AUTO in step 3, then press the control dial.

Focusing manually

When to use manual focus

In the following cases you should obtain better results by adjusting the focus manually.

[a]

[b]

[c]

[d]

• Insufficient light [a]

• Subjects with little contrast — walls, sky, etc. [b]

• Too much brightness behind the subject [c]

• Horizontal stripes [d]

• Subjects through frosted glass

• Subjects beyond nets, etc.

• Bright subject or subject reflecting light

• Shooting a stationary subject when using a tripod

Focusing manually

When focusing manually, first focus in telephoto before recording, and then reset the

shot length.

(1)Press FOCUS. The f indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

(2)Turn the control dial to focus on the subject.

FOCUS

To return to the autofocus mode

Press FOCUS to turn off f indicator.

To shoot in relatively dark places or to shoot the subject moving quickly outside

Shoot at wide-angle after focusing in the telephoto position.

Note on manual focusing

The following indicators may appear:

when the lens focuses on the most distant subject.

when the lens focuses on the nearest subject.

Enjoying picture effect

Selecting picture effect

You can make pictures like those of television with the Picture Effect function.

[a]

[b]

[c]

[d]

PASTEL [a]

The picture is in pastel tones.

NEG. ART [b]

The color of the picture is reversed.

SEPIA

The picture is sepia.

B&W

The picture is monochrome (black and white).

SOLARIZE [c]

The light intensity is clearer, and the picture looks like an illustration.

MOSAIC [d]

The picture is mosaic.

Enjoying picture effect

Using picture effect function

(1)Press MENU to display the menu on the LCD screen.

(2)Turn the control dial to select P EFFECT, then press the control dial.

(3)Turn the control dial to select the desired picture effect mode, then press the control

dial.

(4)Press MENU to erase the menu display.

1,4

LCD BRIGHT

PROGRAM AE

EFFECT

COMMANDER

REC MODE

AUDIO MODE

D ZOOM

OFF

LCD BRIGHT

PROGRAM AE

P EFFECT

COMMANDER SEPIA

REC MODE

D ZOOM

OFF

PASTEL

NEG. ART

B&W

SOLARIZE

MOSAIC

STEADYSHOT

[

]

MENU :END

LCD BRIGHT

OFF

LCD BRIGHT

PROGRAM AE

P EFFECT

COMMANDER

REC MODE

AUDIO MODE

D ZOOM

OFF

PROGRAM AE PASTEL

EFFECT NEG. ART

COMMANDER SEPIA

SEPIA

REC MODE

D ZOOM

STEADYSHOT

B&W

SOLARIZE

MOSAIC

[

]

MENU :END

To return to normal mode

Select OFF in step 3, then press the control dial.

Note on the picture effect

When you turn the power off, the camcorder returns automatically to normal mode.

Adjusting the exposure

When to adjust the exposure

Adjust the exposure manually under the following cases.

[a]

[b]

[a]

• The background is too bright (back lighting)

• Insufficient light: most of the picture is dark

[b]

• Bright subject and dark background

• To record the darkness faithfully

Adjusting the exposure

(1)Press EXPOSURE. The exposure indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the

viewfinder.

(2)Turn the control dial to adjust the exposure. The exposure is locked at the adjusted

brightness.

EXPOSURE

To return to automatic exposure mode

Press EXPOSURE to turn off the exposure indicator.

Notes

• The control dial does not have a stop position.

• If you select PROGRAM AE in the menu, the exposure comes back to automatic

adjustment again.

• When you adjust the exposure manually, you cannot use the BACK LIGHT function.

Superimposing a title

If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can superimpose the titles while recording

or after recording. When you play back the tape, the title is displayed for 5 seconds

from the point where you superimposed it.

You can select from eight preset titles and one original (CUSTOM TITLE) to

superimpose over the picture.

Superimposing titles

(1)Press TITLE to display the titles on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

(2)Turn the control dial to select the title, then press the control dial.

(3)Turn the control dial to select the color, size, or position, then press the control dial.

(4)Turn the control dial to select the desired item, then press the control dial.

(5)Repeat steps 3 and 4 until the title is arranged as desired.

(6)Press the control dial again to complete the setting.

TITLE MODE

TITLE

HELLO

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

TITLE MODE

HELLO

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

TITLE MODE

HELLO

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

CONGRATULATIONS!

OUR SWEET BABY

WEDDING

TITLE MODE

HELLO

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

VACATION

[

]

TITLE :END

TITLE MODE

HELLO

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

TITLE

SIZE SM

3,4,5

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

TITLE

SIZE LG

HAPPY

TITLE

SAVE

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Superimposing a title

While you are playing back, pausing, or recording

After step 6, “SAVE” appears on the screen for 5 seconds and the title is set.

While in Standby mode

After step 6, the “TITLE” indicator appears. And when you press START/STOP to start

recording, “SAVE” appears on the screen for 5 seconds and the title is set.

Titles placed from the top of the screen as follows:

HELLO ˜ HAPPY BIRTHDAY ˜ HAPPY HOLIDAYS ˜CONGRATULATIONS!

˜ OUR SWEET BABY ˜ WEDDING ˜ VACATION ˜ THE END˜ CUSTOM

TITLE.

When you have stored an original title

The title appears above “CUSTOM TITLE”.

Title colors (“COL”) changes as follows:

WHT (White) ˜ YEL (Yellow) ˜CYAN (Cyan) ˜ GRN (Green)˜ VIO (Violet)˜

RED (Red)˜ BLUE (Blue).

Title size (“SIZE”) changes as follows:

LG (Large)˜SM (Small).

If you select the title size “LG”, you can enter only 12 characters on the screen. To enter

over 13 characters title, select “SM”.

Title position (“POS”) changes as follows:

If you select the title size “LG”, you can choose 8 positions. When you select the title

size “SM”, you can choose 9 positions at all.

To display no title

Select OFF in the TITLE DSPL menu.

Notes on titles

• While the title is displayed, the picture does not fade in or out.

• You cannot superimpose a title to a blank portion of the tape.

• The titles you superimposed are displayed by only using the DV format video

equipment with index titler function.

• When you are searching the tape using the other video equipment, the portion of the

tape you superimpose the title may be detected as an index signal.

Notes on the cassettes

• If you use a cassette tape set to prevent accidental erasure, you cannot superimpose

the title. Slide the protect tab so that the red portion is not visible.

• You can superimpose about 11 to 20 titles in one cassette, if one title consists of about

5 characters.

• If the tape has too many index signals and photo data, you may not be able to

superimpose a title because the memory is full.

Superimposing a title

Erasing a title

(1)Press MENU to display the menu.

(2)Turn the control dial to select TITLEERASE, then press the control dial.

(3)Turn the control dial to select the title you want to erase, then press the control dial.

(4)Make sure the title is the one you want to erase, then press the control dial again.

(5)Press MENU to erase the menu display.

1,5

TITLEERASE

REC MODE

AUDIO MODE

ZOOM

STEADYSHOT

BEEP

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

WEDDING

HELLO

TITLEERASE

16:9WIDE

[

]

[

]

MENU :END

ERASE?

TITLEERASE

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

WEDDING

HELLO

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

WEDDING

HELLO

[

]

[

]

[

]

MENU :END

EXEC :ERASE

MENU :END

Note

If you use a cassette tape set to prevent accidental erasure, you cannot erase the title.

Slide the protect tab on the cassette so that the red portion is not visible.

Making a custom title

If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can make one title of up to 20 characters

and store it in memory.

(1)Press TITLE to display the titles on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

(2)Turn the control dial to select CUSTOM TITLE, then press the control dial.

(3)Turn the control dial to select the column of the desired character, then press the

control dial.

(4)Turn the control dial to select the desired character, then press the control dial.

(5)Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you finish the title.

(6)Turn the control dial to select [ ↵ ], then press the control dial.

TITLE

HELLO

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

CONGRATULATIONS!

OUR SWEET BABY

WEDDING

CUSTOM TITLE

TITLE

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

CONGRATULATIONS!

OUR SWEET BABY

WEDDING

VACATION

THE END

CUSTOM TITLE

––––––––––––––––––––

ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5

FGH I

6 7 8 9 0

K LMNO

PQRST

UVWXY

Z& ? !

’

]

[

]

VACATION

[

]

TITLE :END

[

]

[

]

TITLE :END

3,4,5

CUSTOM TITLE

––––––––––––––––––––

CUSTOM TITLE

––––––––––––––––––––

ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5

FGH I 6 7 8 9 0

ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5

FGH I

6 7 8 9 0

K LMNO

PQRST

UVWXY

Z& ? !

’

K LMNO

PQRST

UVWXY

Z& ? !

’

[

]

[

]

[

]

[

]

[

]

[

]

TITLE :END

CUSTOM TITLE

––––––––––––––––––––

CUSTOM TITLE

M–––––––––––––––––––

ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5

FGH I

6 7 8 9 0

FGH I

6 7 8 9 0

K LMNO

PQRST

UVWXY

Z& ? !

’

K LMNO

PQRST

UVWXY

Z& ? !

’

[

]

[

]

[

]

[

]

CUSTOM TITLE

MUSIC–––––––––––––––

[

]

[

]

TITLE :END

ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5

FGH I

6 7 8 9 0

K LMNO

PQRST

UVWXY

Z& ? !

’

[

]

[

]

[

]

TITLE :END

Making a custom title

To erase a character

In step 3, turn the control dial to select [ M ] then press the control dial. The last

character is erased.

To change the title you have made

In step 2, turn the control dial to select CUSTOM TITLE, then press the control dial.

Erase characters one after another, then make the new title again.

If it takes more than 5 minutes to make a title

If the Standby mode lasts for more than 5 minutes with a cassette inserted, the power

will be turned off automatically. If the power is turned off while you are making a title,

set the POWER switch to OFF once, then to CAMERA. The title you have made remains

stored in memory.

Labeling a cassette

If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can label a cassette. The label can consist of

up to 10 characters and is stored in cassette memory. When you insert the labeled

cassette and turn the power on, the label is displayed on the LCD screen, in the

viewfinder, or on the TV screen.

(1)Insert the cassette you want to label.

(2)Set the POWER switch to VTR.

(3)Press MENU to display the menu.

(4)Turn the control dial to select TAPE TITLE, then press the control dial.

(5)Turn the control dial to select the column of the desired character, then press the

control dial.

(6)Turn the control dial to select the desired character, then press the control dial.

(7)Repeat steps 5 and 6 until you finish the label.

(8)Turn the control dial to select [ ↵ ], then press the control dial.

Labeling a cassette

POWER

MENU TAPE TITLE

COMMANDER

HiFi SOUND

TITLEERASE

TITLE DSPL

TAPE TITLE

BEEP

––––––––––––––––––––

ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5

FGH I

6 7 8 9 0

K LMNO

PQRST

UVWXY

Z& ? !

’

]

[

––––––––––

[

AUDIO MIX

[

]

[

]

MENU :END

5,6,7

MENU TAPE TITLE

––––––––––––––––––––

MENU TAPE TITLE

––––––––––––––––––––

ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5

FGH I

6 7 8 9 0

FGH I

6 7 8 9 0

K LMNO

PQRST

UVWXY

Z& ? !

’

K LMNO

PQRST

UVWXY

Z& ? !

’

[

]

[

]

[

]

[

]

[

]

[

]

MENU :END

MENU TAPE TITLE

––––––––––––––––––––

MENU TAPE TITLE

M–––––––––––––––––––

ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5

FGH I

6 7 8 9 0

FGH I

6 7 8 9 0

K LMNO

PQRST

UVWXY

Z& ? !

’

K LMNO

PQRST

UVWXY

Z& ? !

’

[

]

[

]

[

]

[

]

MENU TAPE TITLE

MUSIC–––––––––––––––

ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5

[

]

[

]

MENU :END

FGH I

6 7 8 9 0

K LMNO

PQRST

UVWXY

Z& ? !

’

[

]

[

]

[

]

MENU :END

Labeling a cassette

To erase a character

In step 5 turn the control dial to select [ M ], then press the control dial. The last

character is erased.

To change the label you have made

Insert the cassette to change the label, and operate in the same way to make a new label.

If the

mark appears in step 4

The cassette memory is full. If you erase the title in the cassette, you can label it.

If you have superimposed titles in the cassette

When the label is displayed, up to 4 titles also appear.

Note on “-----” indicator displayed on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder

The “-----” indicates the number of characters you can select for the label. When the

“-----” indicator has fewer than 10 spaces, the cassette memory is full.

Note on the cassettes

If you use a cassette tape set to prevent accidental erasure, you cannot label it. Slide the

protect tab so that the red portion is not visible.

Releasing the STEADYSHOT function

When you shoot, the

indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. This

indicates that the SteadyShot function is working and the camcorder compensates for

camera-shake.

You can release the SteadyShot function when you do not need to use the SteadyShot

function. Do not use the SteadyShot function when shooting a stationary object with a

tripod.

(1) Press MENU to display the menu on the LCD screen.

(2)Turn the control dial to select STEADYSHOT, then press the control dial.

(3)Turn the control dial to select OFF, then press the control dial.

(4) Press MENU to erase the menu display.

1,4

COMMANDER

REC MODE

AUDIO MODE

ZOOM

STEADYSHOT

BEEP

STEADYSHOT

OFF

TITLEERASE

[

]

MENU :END

COMMANDER

REC MODE

AUDIO MODE

ZOOM

STEADYSHOT

BEEP

OFF

STEADYSHOT

OFF

TITLEERASE

[

]

[

]

MENU :END

To activate the SteadyShot function again

Select ON in step 3, then press the control dial.

Notes on the SteadyShot function

• The SteadyShot function will not correct excessive camera-shake.

• When you switch the SteadyShot function on or off, the exposure may fluctuate.

• When the SteadyShot function is released, the indicator does not appear.

• If you use a tele conversion lens (not supplied) or a wide conversion lens (not

supplied), the SteadyShot function may not work.

Wa t ch in g o n a TV scre e n

Connect the camcorder to your VCR or TV to watch the playback picture on the TV

screen. When monitoring the playback picture by connecting the camcorder to your TV,

we recommend you to use house current for the power source.

Co n n e ct in g d ire ct ly t o a VCR/TV w it h Au d io /Vid e o in p u t ja cks

Open the jack cover and connect the camcorder to the inputs on the TV by using the

supplied A/V connecting cable. Set the TV/VCR selector on the TV to VCR.

Turn down the volume of the camcorder.

To get higher quality pictures in DV format, connect the camcorder to your TV using

the S video connecting cable (not supplied).

If you are going to connect the camcorder using the S video connecting cable (not

supplied) [a ], you do not need to connect the yellow (video) plug of the A/V

connecting cable [b ].

AUDIO/VIDEO

OUT

VIDEO

AUDIO

[b ]

S VIDEO

OUT

[a ]

(not supplied)

Ç: Signal flow

If your VCR or TV is a monaural type

Connect only the white plug for audio on both the camcorder and the VCR or the TV. If

you connect the white plug, the sound is L (left) signal. If you connect the red plug, the

sound is R (right) signal.

Wa t ch in g o n a TV scre e n

Usin g t h e AV co rd le ss IR re ce ive r

LASER LINK

Once you connect the AV cordless IR receiver (not supplied) having the LASER

LINK mark to your TV or VCR, you can easily view the picture on your TV. For details,

refer to the operating instruction of the AV cordless IR receiver.

LASER LINK is a system which transmits and receives a picture and sound between

video equipment having the

mark by using infrared rays. LASER LINK is a

trademark of Sony Corporation.

To play back on a TV

(1)Set the POWER switch on the camcorder to VTR.

(2)After connecting your TV and AV cordless IR receiver, set the POWER switch on the

AV cordless IR receiver to ON.

(3)Turn the TV on and set the TV/VCR selector on the TV to VCR.

(4)Press LASER LINK. The lamp of the LASER LINK button is flashing.

(5)Press ( on the camcorder to start playback.

(6)Adjust the angle and direction of both the camcorder and AV cordless IR receiver.

To cancel the LASER LINK function

Press LASER LINK.

If you use a Sony TV

• You can turn on the TV automatically when you press LASER LINK or (. To do so,

set AUTO TV ON to ON in the menu system and turn the TV’s main switch on , then

do either of the following;

– Point the LASER LINK emitter towards the TV’s remote sensor and press LASER

LINK.

– Turn on the LASER LINK button and press (.

• You can switch the video input of the TV automatically to the one which the AV

cordless IR receiver is connected. To do so, set AUTO TV ON to ON and TV INPUT

to the same video input (1, 2, 3) in the menu system. With some models, however, the

picture and sound may be disconnected momentarily when the video input is

switched.

• The above features may not work with some TV models.

Notes on LASER LINK

• When LASER LINK is activated (the LASER LINK button is lit), the camcorder

consumes power. Press and turn off the LASER LINK button when it is not needed.

• When the conversion lens (not supplied) is installed, the transmission of infrared rays

may be blocked.

Se a rch in g t h e b o u n d a rie s o f re co rd e d t a p e

w it h d a t e – d a t e se a rch

You can search for the boundaries of recorded tape with date – Date Search function.

To search the beginning of the specific date and play back from the point, there are two

ways:

• Using cassette memory, you can select the date displayed on the LCD screen or in

the viewfinder.

• Without using cassette memory.

You can only operate with the Remote Commander.

Se a rch in g fo r t h e d a t e b y u sin g ca sse t t e m e m o ry

You can use this function only when playing back a tape with cassette memory (p. 64).

(1)Set the POWER switch to VTR.

(2)Press MENU to display the menu on the LCD screen.

(3)Turn the control dial to select CM SEARCH, then press the control dial.

(4)Turn the control dial to select ON, then press the control dial.

(5)Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the date search

indicator appears.

(6)Press = or + to select the date for playback.

Playback starts from the beginning of the selected date automatically.

POWER

DATE SEARCH

APR/ 1/98 8:52 AM

JUL 2/98 5:00 PM

OCT/ 4/98 11:00 AM

2,3,4

DATE SEARCH

APR/ 1/98 8:52 AM

JUL 2/98 5:00 PM

OCT/ 4/98 11:00 AM

CM SEARCH ON

OFF

Se a rch in g t h e b o u n d a rie s o f re co rd e d t a p e w it h d a t e

– d a t e se a rch

To stop searching

Press p.

Notes

• The interval of the boundaries between the dates needs more than two minutes. The

camcorder may not search if the beginning of the recorded date is too close to the

next one.

• The short cursor on the screen suggests the date selected in the previous time.

• If a tape has a blank portion in the beginning or between recorded portions, the Date

Search function will not work correctly.

Se a rch in g t h e b o u n d a rie s o f re co rd e d t a p e w it h d a t e

– d a t e se a rch

Se a rch in g fo r t h e d a t e w it h o u t u sin g ca sse t t e m e m o ry

You can use this function whether the tape has cassette memory or not.

(1)Set the POWER switch to VTR.

(2)Press MENU to display the menu on the LCD screen.

(3)Turn the control dial to select CM SEARCH, then press the control dial.

(4)Turn the control dial to select OFF, then press the control dial.

(5)Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the date search

indicator appears.

(6)When the current position is [b ], press = to search towards [a ] or press + to

search towards [c]. Each time you press = or +, the camcorder searches for

the previous or next date.

Playback starts automatically when date changed.

JUL.4.1998

JUL.5.1998

DEC.31.1998

[b ]

[c]

[a ]

POWER

DATE SEARCH

2,3,4

CM SEARCH ON

OFF

To stop searching

Press p.

Se a rch in g t h e b o u n d a rie s o f re co rd e d t a p e

w it h t it le – t it le se a rch

You can search for the boundaries of recorded tape with title – Title Search function. If

you use a tape with cassette memory, you can select the title displayed on the LCD

screen or in the viewfinder.

You can only operate with the Remote Commander.

Se a rch in g fo r t h e t it le b y u sin g ca sse t t e m e m o ry

You can use this function only when playing back a tape with cassette memory (p. 64).

(1)Set the POWER switch to VTR.

(2)Press MENU to display the menu on the LCD screen.

(3)Turn the control dial to select CM SEARCH, then press the control dial.

(4)Turn the control dial to select ON, then press the control dial.

(5)Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the title search

indicator appears.

(6)Press = or + to select the title for playback.

Playback starts from the scene of the selected title automatically.

POWER

TITLE SEARCH

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

WEDDING

HELLO!

2,3,4

TITLE SEARCH

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

WEDDING

HELLO!

CM SEARCH ON

OFF

To stop searching

Press p.

Notes

• You cannot superimpose or search a title, if you use a cassette tape without cassette

memory.

• The camcorder may not search, if a tape has a blank portion in the beginning or

between the recorded portions.

Se a rch in g fo r a p h o t o – p h o t o se a rch /p h o t o

sca n

You can search for the recorded still picture – Photo Search function. There are two

modes in Photo Search:

• Using cassette memory, you can select the recorded date which is displayed on the

LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

• Without using cassette memory.

You can also search for still pictures one after another and display each picture for five

seconds automatically – Photo Scan function. Even if your tape has no cassette

memory, you can use the Photo Scan function.

You can only operate with the Remote Commander.

Se a rch in g fo r a p h o t o b y u sin g ca sse t t e m e m o ry – p h o t o se a rch

You can use this function only when playing back a tape with cassette memory (p. 64).

(1)Set the POWER switch to VTR.

(2)Press MENU to display the menu.

(3)Turn the control dial to select CM SEARCH, then press the control dial.

(4)Turn the control dial to select ON, then press the control dial.

(5)Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the photo

search indicator appears.

(6)Press = or + to select the date for playback.

The still picture of the selected date appears.

POWER

PHOTO SEARCH

APR/ 1/98 8:52 AM

JUL 2/98 5:00 PM

OCT/ 4/98 11:00 AM

2,3,4

PHOTO SEARCH

APR/ 1/98 8:52 AM

JUL 2/98 5:00 PM

OCT/ 4/98 11:00 AM

CM SEARCH ON

OFF

Se a rch in g fo r a p h o t o – p h o t o se a rch /p h o t o sca n

To stop searching

Press p.

Note

When you play back a tape which has a blank portion in the beginning or between the

recorded portions, the Photo Search function will not work correctly.

Se a rch in g fo r a p h o t o w it h o u t u sin g ca sse t t e m e m o ry – p h o t o

se a rch

You can use this function whether the tape has cassette memory or not.

(1)Set the POWER switch to VTR.

(2)Press MENU to display the menu on the LCD screen.

(3)Turn the control dial to select CM SEARCH, then press the control dial.

(4)Turn the control dial to select OFF, then press the control dial.

(5)Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the photo

search indicator appears.

(6)Press = or + to select the photo for playback. Each time you press = or

+, the camcorder searches for the previous or next scene.

Playback starts from the photo automatically.

POWER

PHOTO SEARCH

2,3,4

CM SEARCH ON

OFF

To stop searching

Press p.

Se a rch in g fo r a p h o t o – p h o t o se a rch /p h o t o sca n

Sca n n in g p h o t o – p h o t o sca n

You can use this function whether the tape has cassette memory or not.

(1)Set the POWER switch to VTR.

(2)Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly until the photo scan

indicator displayed on the LCD screen.

(3)Press = or +.

Each photos are displayed for about 5 seconds automatically.

POWER

PHOTO 00

SCAN

To stop searching

Press p.

Returning to a pre-registered position

Using the Remote Commander, you can easily go back to the desired point on a tape

after playback.

(1)During playback, press ZERO SET MEMORY at the point you later want to locate.

The counter shows “0:00:00” and “ZERO SET MEMORY” appears on the LCD

screen or in the viewfinder.

(2)Press p when you want to stop playback.

(3)Press 0 to rewind or press ) to fast-forward the tape to the counter’s zero point.

The tape stops automatically when the counter reaches approximately zero. “ZERO

SET MEMORY” disappears and the time code appears.

(4)Press (.

0:00:00

ZERO SET

MEMORY

0:00:00

Note on the tape counter

There may be a discrepancy of several seconds from the time code.

Notes on ZERO SET MEMORY

• When you press ZERO SET MEMORY, the counter’s zero point is memorized. Press

ZERO SET MEMORY again before step 3 to cancel the memory .

• ZERO SET MEMORY may not function when there is a blank portion between

pictures on a tape.

• ZERO SET MEMORY functions in recording standby mode.

Displaying recording data – data code

function

You can display recording data (date/time or various settings when recorded) on the

LCD screen or in the viewfinder during playback (Data Code). The Data Code is also

displayed on the TV.

You can only operate with the Remote Commander.

Press DATA CODE on the Remote Commander during playback.

DATA CODE

MANUAL

JUL 4 1998

10:13:02 AM

1 000 0 AWB

F 1.

To select the items to be displayed

Set DATA CODE in the menu system, and select the following items:

When DATE/CAM is selected: date n various settings (SteadyShot, PROGRAM AE,

shutter speed, white balance, aperture value, gain) n no indicator.

When DATE is selected: date n no indicator.

When bars (-- -- --) appear

• A blank portion of the tape is being played back.

• The tape was recorded by a camcorder without having date and time set.

• The tape is unreadable due to tape damage or noise.

Editing onto another tape

You can create your own video program by editing with any other DV,

mini DV,

h 8 mm, H Hi8, j VHS, k S-VHS,  VHSC, K S-VHSC or l Betamax

VCR that has audio/video inputs. You can edit with little deterioration of picture and

sound quality when using the DV connecting cable.

Before editing

Connect the camcorder to the VCR using the VMC-2DV/4DV DV connecting cable (not

supplied) or the supplied A/V connecting cable.

Using the DV connecting cable

Simply connect the VMC-2DV/4DV DV connecting cable (not supplied) to DV IN/OUT

and to DV IN/OUT of the DV products. With digital-to-digital connection, video and

audio signals are transmitted in digital form for high-quality editing.

Arrow

(not supplied)

DV IN/

OUT

DV IN/OUT

: Signal flow

Notes on editing when using the DV connecting cable

• You can connect one VCR only.

• You can record picture, sound and system data at the same time on the DV products

by using the DV connecting cable only.

• You cannot edit the titles, display indicator or the contents of cassette memory.

• If you record playback pause picture with the DV IN/OUT jack, the recorded picture

becomes rough. And when you playback the picture using the other video

equipment, the picture may jitter.

• You can also use the camcorder as a recorder with this connection. In this case “DV

IN” indicator appears on the screen.

• When you use the camcorder as a recorder, the color balance may be incorrect on the

monitor screen. But this is not recorded on the tape.

Ed it in g o n t o a n o t h e r t a p e

Usin g t h e A/V co n n e ct in g ca b le [a ] o r S vid e o co n n e ct in g ca b le

(n o t su p p lie d ) [b ]

Set the input selector on the VCR to LINE.

AUDIO/VIDEO

OUT

VIDEO

[b ]

AUDIO

S VIDEO

OUT

[a ]

(not supplied)

: Signal flow

Notes on editing w hen using the A/V connecting cable

• Press DATA CODE , SEARCH MODE, or DISPLAY to turn off the display indicators.

Otherwise, the indicators will be recorded on the tape.

• If your TV or VCR is a monaural type, connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting

cable for video to the TV or VCR. Connect only the white or red plug for audio to the

TV or VCR. If you connect the white plug, the sound is L (left) signal. If you connect

the red plug, the sound is R (right) signal.

• You can edit precisely by connecting a LANC cable to this camcorder and other video

equipment having fine synchro-editing function, using this camcorder as a player.

St a rt in g e d it in g

(1)Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) into the VCR, and insert your

recorded tape into the camcorder.

(2)Play back the recorded tape on the camcorder until you locate the point where you

want to start editing, then press P to set the camcorder in playback pause mode.

(3)On the VCR, locate the recording start point and set the VCR in recording pause

mode.

(4) Press Pon the camcorder and VCR simultaneously to start editing.

To e d it m o re sce n e s

Repeat steps 2 to 4.

To st o p e d it in g

Press p on both the camcorder and the VCR.

Re p la cin g re co rd in g o n a t a p e – in se rt

e d it in g

You can insert a new scene from a VCR onto your originally recorded tape by

specifying starting and ending points. After inserting editing, the previous picture and

sound will be erased.

Connection is the same as on page 59. In recording and recording pause mode, DV

IN/OUT jack automatically works as input jack.

You can only operate with the Remote Commander.

(1) While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to VTR.

(2) On the VCR, locate the start point to be inserted and set it to playback pause

mode.

(3) On the camcorder, press ( to set it to playback mode, and then locate the

point where the insert should end by pressing 0 or ). Then press P to set

it to playback pause mode.

(4) Press ZERO SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander. The ZERO SET

MEMORY indicator flashes and the end point of the insert is stored in

memory.

(5) On the camcorder, locate the point where the insert should begin by pressing

0, then press r REC on the Remote Commander to set it to recording pause

mode.

(6) Press P on the camcorder and the VCR simultaneously to start insert editing.

The insert editing stops automatically near the counter’s zero point. Press p to set the

camcorder to stop mode.

To ch a n g e t h e e n d p o in t

Press ZERO SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander so that the ZERO SET

MEMORY indicator disappears and begin from step 3.

Note on the inserted picture

The picture may be distorted at the end of the inserted portion when it is played back.

Au d io d u b b in g

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 a

sound on your recorded tape by specifying starting and ending points. The original

sound will not be erased.

Audio equipment

AUDIO L

LINE OUT

AUDIO R

MIC

(PLUG IN

POWER)

RK-G128 connecting cable

(not supplied)

microphone (not supplied)

: Signal flow

Note

You can check the recorded picture and sound connecting the AUDIO/VIDEO OUT

jack to a TV.

The recorded sound is not output from a speaker. Check the sound by using TV or

headphones.

Audio dubbing

Notes on audio dubbing

• A new sound cannot be recorded on a tape already recorded in the 16-bit mode

(32 kHz, 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz).

• When an external microphone is not connected, the recording will be made through

the built-in microphone of the camcorder.

• A new sound cannot be recorded on a tape already recorded in the LP mode.

• If you add a new sound on a tape recorded with another camcorder (including

DCR-TRV5), the sound quality may become worse.

• When you record a playback pause picture with the DV jack, you cannot add audio

to that portion of the tape.

• You cannot add audio with the AUDIO/VIDEO OUT or DV jack.

Adding an audio sound on a recorded tape

(1)Insert your recorded tape into the camcorder.

(2)While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to VTR.

(3)On the camcorder, locate the point where the recording should begin by pressing

0 or ). Then press P to set it to playback pause mode.

(4)Press AUDIO DUB on the Remote Commander.

(green) mark appears in the

viewfinder or on the LCD screen.

(5)Press P on the Remote Commander and at the same time start playing back the

audio you want to record. The new sound will be recorded in stereo 2. The recorded

sound in stereo 1 is not heard. While adding an audio sound,

in the viewfinder or on the LCD screen.

(red) mark appears

(6)Press p on the Remote Commander at the point where you want to stop recording.

To play back the new recorded sound

Adjust the balance between the original sound (ST1) and the new sound (ST2) by

selecting AUDIO MIX in menu system.

AUDIO MIX

ST1

ST2

[

]

MENU :END

Five minutes after when you disconnect the power source or remove the battery pack,

the settings of AUDIO MIX return to the original sound (ST1) only. The factory setting

is original sound only.

To end audio more precisely

First, press ZERO SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander at the point where you

want to stop recording. Then start recording from step 2, and the recording stops

automatically near the counter’s zero point.

Additional information

Usable cassettes and playback modes

Selecting cassette types

You can use the

mini DV cassette only. You cannot use any other

DV, h 8

mm, H Hi8, j VHS, k S-VHS,  VHSC, K S-VHSC or l Betamax

cassette.

We recommend mini DV cassette with cassette memory.

There are two types of mini DV cassettes: with cassette memory and without cassette

memory. We recommend you to use the tape with cassette memory. The IC memory is

mounted on this type of mini DV cassette. This camcorder can read and write data such

as dates of recording or titles, etc. to this memory. The functions using the cassette

memory require successive signals recorded on the tape. If the tape has a blank portion

in the beginning or between the recorded portions, a title may not be displayed

properly or the search functions may not work properly. Not to make any blank portion

on the tape, operate the followings.

Press END SEARCH to go to the end of the recorded portion before you begin the next

recording if you operate the followings:

– you have ejected the cassette while recording.

– you have played back the tape in the VTR mode.

If there is a blank portion or discontinuous signal on your tape, re-record from the

beginning to the end of the tape concerning above.

* The same result may occur when you record using a digital video camera recorder

without a cassette memory function on a tape recorded by one with the cassette

memory function.

Tapes with cassette memory have

(Cassette Memory) mark. Sony recommends that

you use a tape having

mark to enjoy this camcorder fully.

When you play back

When playing back

Using any other video camera recorder, you cannot record on a tape that has recorded a

this camcorder.

When recording

Using this camcorder, you cannot record software that has recorded a copyright control

signals for copyright protection of software. “COPY INHIBIT” appears on the LCD

screen, in the viewfinder or on the TV screen if you try to record such software.

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 system during playback. Both sounds can be played

back.

16-bit mode: A new sound cannot be recorded but the original sound can be recorded in

high quality. Moreover, it can also play back sound recorded in 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz or 48

kHz. When playing back a tape recorded in the 16-bit mode, 16BIT indicator appears on

Usable cassettes and playback modes

Notes on the mini DV cassette

To prevent accidental erasure

Slide out the protect tab on the cassette so that the red portion is visible. [a]

When affixing a label on the mini DV cassette

Be sure to affix a label on only the location as illustrated below so as not to cause

malfunction of the camcorder. [b]

After using the mini DV cassette

Rewind the tape to the beginning, put the cassette in its case, and store it in an upright

position.

[c]

[a]

[b]

To record

Slide out to prevent accidental erasure.

Note on gold-plated connector

If the gold-plated connector of mini DV cassettes is dirty or dusty, you may not operate

the function using cassette memory. Clean up the gold-plated connector with cotton-

wool swab, about every 10 times ejection of a cassettes. [c]

Charging the vanadium-lithium battery in

the camcorder

Your camcorder is supplied with a vanadium-lithium battery installed so as to retain

the date and time, etc., regardless of the setting of the POWER switch. The vanadium-

lithium battery is always charged as long as you are using the camcorder. The battery,

however, will get discharged gradually if you do not use the camcorder. It will be

completely discharged in about half year if you do not use the camcorder at all. Even if

the vanadium-lithium battery is not charged, it will not affect the camcorder operation.

To retain the date and time, etc., charge the battery if the battery is discharged. The

following are charging methods:

• Connect the camcorder to house current using the supplied AC power adaptor, and

leave the camcorder with the POWER switch turned off for more than 24 hours.

• Or install the fully charged battery pack in the camcorder, and leave the camcorder

with the POWER switch turned off for more than 24 hours.

Re se t t in g t h e d a t e a n d t im e

The date and time are set at the factory. Set the time according to the local time in your

country. If you do not use the camcorder for about half year, the date and time settings

may be released (bars may appear) because the vanadium-lithium battery installed in

the camcorder will have been discharged. In this case, first charge the vanadium-

lithium battery, then reset the date and time.

(1)While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to CAMERA.

(2)Press MENU to display the menu on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

(3)Select CLOCK SET, then press the control dial.

(4)Turn the control dial to adjust the year, and then press the control dial.

(5)Set the month, day, hour and minutes by turning and pressing the control dial.

(6)Press MENU to erase the menu display.

POWER

VF BRIGHT

LCD COLOR

VF BRIGHT

REC LAMP

DISPLAY

CLOCK SET

DEMO MODE

1998 JAN

2,6

JAN

12:00 : 00

1998

CLOCK SET

[MENU]:END

12 00 AM

[MENU]:END

1998 JAN

1998 JUL

12 00 AM

00 AM

30 AM

To co rre ct t h e d a t e a n d t im e se t t in g

Repeat steps 2 to 5.

The year indicators changes as follow s:

1998

1999

2029

..... 2001 .....

Note on the time indicator

The internal clock of this camcorder operates on a 12-hour cycle.

• 12:00 AM stands for midnight.

• 12:00 PM stands for noon.

Tip s fo r u sin g t h e b a t t e ry p a ck

This section shows you how you can get the most out of your battery pack.

Pre p a rin g t h e b a t t e ry p a ck

Alw a ys ca rry a d d it io n a l b a t t e rie s

Have sufficient battery pack power to do 2 to 3 times as much recording as you have

planned.

Ba t t e ry life is sh o rt e r in a co ld e n viro n m e n t

Battery efficiency is decreased, and the battery will be used up more quickly, if you are

recording in a cold environment.

To sa ve b a t t e ry p o w e r

Do not leave the camcorder in Standby mode when not recording to save the battery

power.

A smooth transition between scenes can be made even if recording is stopped and

started again. While you are positioning the subject, selecting an angle, or looking at the

LCD screen or through the viewfinder, the lens moves automatically and the battery is

used. The battery is also used when a tape is inserted or removed.

Wh e n t o re p la ce t h e b a t t e ry p a ck

While you are using your camcorder, the remaining battery indicator on the LCD screen

or in the viewfinder decreases gradually as battery power is used up.

The remaining time in minutes also appears.

When the remaining battery indicator reaches the lowest point, the iindicator appears

and starts flashing on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

When the iindicator on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder changes from slow

flashing to rapid flashing while you are recording, set the POWER switch to OFF on the

camcorder and replace the battery pack. Leave the tape in the camcorder to obtain a

smooth transition between scenes after the battery pack has been replaced.

Tip s fo r u sin g t h e b a t t e ry p a ck

No t e s o n t h e re ch a rg e a b le b a t t e ry p a ck

Ca u t io n

Never leave the battery pack in temperatures above 60°C (140°F), such as in a car

parked in the sun or under direct sunlight.

Th e b a t t e ry p a ck h e a t s u p

During charging or recording, the battery pack heats up. This is caused by energy that

has been generated and a chemical change that has occurred inside the battery pack.

This is not cause for concern, and is normal.

Ba t t e ry p a ck ca re

• Remove the battery pack from the camcorder after using it, and keep it in a cool

place. When the battery pack is installed to the camcorder, a small amount of current

flows to the camcorder even if the POWER switch is set to OFF. This shortens battery

life.

• The battery pack is always discharging even when it is not in use after charging.

Therefore, you should charge the battery pack right before using the camcorder.

Th e life o f t h e b a t t e ry p a ck

If the battery indicator flashes rapidly just after turning on the camcorder with a fully

charged battery pack, the battery pack should be replaced with a new fully charged

one.

Ch a rg in g t e m p e ra t u re

You should charge batteries at temperatures from 10°C to 30°C (from 50°F to 86°F).

Lower temperatures require a longer charging time.

Tips for using the battery pack

Notes on the “InfoLITHIUM” Battery Pack

What is the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack

The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is a lithium battery pack which can exchange data

with compatible video equipment about its battery consumption.

When you use this battery pack with video equipment having the

video equipment will indicate the remaining battery time in minutes.*

mark, the

* The indication may not be accurate depending on the condition and environment

which the equipment is used under.

How the battery consumption is displayed

The power consumption of the camcorder changes depending on its use, such as

whether the LCD is used or not, how the autofocusing is working on or not.

While checking the condition of the camcorder, the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack

measures the battery consumption and calculates the remaining battery power. If the

condition changes drastically, the remaining battery indication may suddenly decrease

or increase by more than 2 minutes.

Even if 10 to 20 minutes is indicated as the battery remaining time on the LCD or

viewfinder, the i indicator may also flash under some conditions.

To obtain more accurate remaining battery indication

Set the camcorder to recording standby mode and point towards a stationary object. Do

not move the camcorder for 30 seconds or more.

• If the indication seems incorrect, use up the battery and then recharge it fully (Full

charge¹⁾). Note that if you have used the battery in a hot or cold environment for long

time, or you have repeated charging many times, the battery may not be able to show

the correct time even after being fully charged.

• After you have used the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack with an equipment not having

the

having the

mark, make sure that you use up the battery on the equipment

mark and then recharge fully.

Why the remaining battery indication does not match the

continuous recording time in the operating instruction

The recording time is affected by the environmental temperature and conditions. The

recording time becomes very short in a cold environment. The continuous recording

time in the operating instruction is measured under the condition of using a fully

charged (or normal charged²⁾) battery pack in 25 °C (77 °F). As the environmental

temperature and condition are different when you actually use the camcorder, the

remaining battery time is not same as the continuous recording time in the operating

instruction.

Full charge: Charging for about 1 hour after the charge lamp of the AC power

adaptor goes off.

Normal charge: Charging just until the charge lamp of the AC power adaptor goes

off.

Tip s fo r u sin g t h e b a t t e ry p a ck

No t e s o n ch a rg in g

A b ra n d -n e w b a t t e ry p a ck

A brand-new battery pack is not charged. Before using the battery pack, charge it

completely.

Re ch a rg e t h e b a t t e ry p a ck w h e n e ve r yo u like

You do not have to discharge it before recharging. If you charged the battery pack fully

but you did not use it for a long time, it becomes discharged. Then recharge the battery

pack before use.

No t e s o n t h e t e rm in a ls

If t h e t e rm in a ls (m e t a l p a rt s o n t h e b a ck) a re n o t cle a n , t h e b a t t e ry ch a rg e

d u ra t io n w ill b e sh o rt e n e d .

When the terminals are not clean or when the battery pack has not been used for a long

time, repeatedly install and remove the battery pack a few times. This improves the

contact condition. Also, wipe the +, – and C terminals with a soft cloth or paper.

Be su re t o o b se rve t h e fo llo w in g

• Keep the battery pack away from fire.

• Keep the battery pack dry.

• Do not open nor try to disassemble the battery pack.

• Do not expose the battery pack to any mechanical shock.

Maintenance information and precautions

Moisture condensation

If the camcorder is brought directly from a cold place to a warm place, moisture may

condense inside the 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 the camcorder may

not operate correctly. To prevent possible damage under these circumstances, the

camcorder is furnished with moisture sensors. Take the following precautions.

Inside the camcorder

If there is moisture inside the camcorder, the beep sounds and the { indicator flashes. If

this happens, none of the function except cassette ejection will work. Open the cassette

compartment, turn off the camcorder, and leave it about 1 hour. When 6 indicator

flashes at the same time, the cassette is inserted in the camcorder. Eject the cassette, turn

off the camcorder, and leave also the cassette about 1 hour.

On the lens

If moisture condenses on the lens, no indicator appears, but the picture becomes dim.

Turn off the power and do not use the camcorder for about 1 hour.

How to prevent moisture condensation

When bringing the camcorder from a cold place to a warm place, put the camcorder in a

plastic bag and allow it to adapt to room conditions over a period of time.

(1)Be sure to tightly seal the plastic bag containing the camcorder.

(2)Remove the bag when the air temperature inside it has reached the temperature

surrounding it (after about 1 hour).

Video head cleaning

To ensure normal recording and clear pictures, clean the video heads.

The video heads may be dirty when:

• mosaic-pattern noise appears on the playback picture

• playback pictures do not move

• playback pictures are hardly visible

• playback pictures do not appear

• the v indicator and “ Ò CLEANING CASSETTE” message appear one after another

or the v indicator flashes on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder

[a]

[b]

If [a] or [b] happens, clean the video heads with the Sony DVM12CL cleaning cassette

(not supplied). Check the picture and if the above problem persists, repeat the cleaning.

(Do not repeat cleaning more than 5 times in one session.)

Ma in t e n a n ce in fo rm a t io n a n d p re ca u t io n s

Note

If the DVM12CL cleaning cassette (not supplied) is not available in your area, consult

your nearest Sony dealer.

Pre ca u t io n s

Ca m co rd e r o p e ra t io n

• Operate the camcorder on 7.2 V (battery pack) or 8.4 V (AC power adaptor).

• Should any solid object or liquid get inside the casing, unplug the camcorder and

have it checked by Sony dealer before operating it any further.

• Avoid rough handling or mechanical shock. Be particularly careful of the lens.

• Keep the POWER switch set to OFF when not using the camcorder.

• Do not wrap up the camcorder and operate it since heat may build up internally.

• Keep the camcorder away from strong magnetic fields or mechanical vibration.

On h a n d lin g t a p e s

• Do not insert anything in the small holes on the cassette.

• Do not open the tape protect cover or touch the tape.

• Avoid touching or damaging the terminals. To remove dust, clean the terminals with

a soft cloth.

Ca m co rd e r ca re

• When the camcorder is not to be used for a long time, disconnect the power source

and remove the tape. Periodically turn on the power, operate the camera and player

sections and play back a tape for about 3 minutes.

• Clean the lens with a soft brush to remove dust. If there are fingerprints on the lens,

remove them with a soft cloth.

• Clean the camcorder body with a dry soft cloth, or a soft cloth lightly moistened with

a mild detergent solution. Do not use any type of solvent which may damage the

finish.

• Do not let sand get into the camcorder. When you use the camcorder on a sandy

beach or in a dusty place, protect it from the sand or dust. Sand or dust may cause the

unit to malfunction, and sometimes this malfunction cannot be repaired.

Ma in t e n a n ce in fo rm a t io n a n d p re ca u t io n s

AC p o w e r a d a p t o r

Charging

• Use only an “InfoLITHIUM” type battery pack.

• Place the battery pack on a flat surface without vibration during charging.

• The battery pack will get hot during charging. This is normal.

Others

• Unplug the unit from the wall outlet when not in use for a long time. To disconnect

the power cord, pull it out by the plug. Never pull the cord itself.

• Do not operate the unit with a damaged cord or if the unit has been dropped or

damaged.

• Do not bend the AC power cord forcibly, or put a heavy object on it. This will

damage the cord and may cause a fire or an electrical shock.

• Be sure that nothing metallic comes into contact with the metal parts of the

connecting plate. If this happens, a short may occur and the unit may be damaged.

• Always keep the metal contacts clean.

• Do not disassemble the unit.

• Do not apply mechanical shock or drop the unit.

• While the unit is in use, particularly during charging, keep it away from AM

receivers and video equipment because it will disturb AM reception and video

operation.

• The unit becomes warm while in use. This is normal.

• Do not place the unit in locations that are:

Extremely hot or cold, Dusty or dirty, Very humid, Vibrating

No t e o n d ry b a t t e rie s

To avoid possible damage from battery leakage or corrosion, observe the following.

• Be sure to insert the batteries in the correct direction.

• Dry batteries are not rechargeable.

• Do not use a combination of new and old batteries.

• Do not use different types of batteries.

• The batteries slowly discharge while not in use.

• Do not use a battery that is leaking.

If battery leakage occurred

• Wipe off the liquid in the battery case carefully before replacing the batteries.

• If you touch the liquid, wash it off with water.

• If the liquid get into your eyes, wash your eyes with a lot of water and then consult a

doctor.

If any difficulty should arise, unplug the unit and contact your nearest Sony dealer.

Usin g yo u r ca m co rd e r a b ro a d

Each country or area has its own electric and TV color systems. Before using your

camcorder abroad, check the following points.

Po w e r so u rce s

You can use your camcorder in any country or area with the supplied AC power

adaptor within 110 V to 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz.

Diffe re n ce in co lo r syst e m s

This camcorder is a NTSC system-based camcorder. If you want to view the playback

picture on a TV, it must be a NTSC system-based TV.

Check the following list.

NTSC system

Bahama Islands, Bolivia, Canada, Central America, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Jamaica,

Japan, Korea, Mexico, Peru, Surinam, Taiwan, the Philippines, the U.S.A., Venezuela,

etc.

PAL system

Australia, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, China, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Great

Britain, Holland, Hong Kong, Italy, Kuwait, Malaysia, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal,

Singapore, Slovak Republic, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, etc.

PAL-M system

Brazil

PAL-N system

Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay

SECAM system

Bulgaria, France, Guiana, Hungary, Iran, Iraq, Monaco, Poland, Russia, Ukraine, etc.

Trouble check

If you run into any problem using the camcorder, use the following table to

troubleshoot the problem. Should the difficulty persist, disconnect the power source

and contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.

Camcorder

Power

Symptom

Cause and/or corrective actions

The power is not on.

• The battery pack is not installed.

m Install the battery pack. (p. 10)

• The battery is dead.

m Use a charged battery pack. (p. 7)

• The AC power adaptor is not connected to a wall outlet.

m Connect the AC power adaptor to a wall outlet. (p. 22)

The power goes off.

• While being operated in CAMERA mode, the camcorder

has been in Standby mode for more than 5 minutes.

m Set the POWER switch to OFF, then to CAMERA. (p. 11)

• The battery is dead.

m Use a charged battery pack. (p. 7)

The battery pack is quickly

discharged.

• The ambient temperature is too low. (p. 68)

• The battery pack has not been charged fully.

m Charge the battery pack again. (p. 7)

• The battery pack is completely dead, and cannot be

recharged.

m Use another battery pack. (p. 22)

Operation

Symptom

Cause and/or corrective actions

START/STOP does not operate.

• The tape is stuck to the drum.

m Eject the cassette. (p. 10)

• The tape has run out.

m Rewind the tape or use a new one. (p. 19)

• The POWER switch is set to VTR.

m Set it to CAMERA. (p. 11)

• The tab on the cassette is out (red).

m Use a new tape or slide the tab. (p. 10)

The cassette cannot be removed from

the holder.

• The battery is dead.

m Use a charged battery pack or the AC power adaptor.

(p. 7, 22)

{ and 6 indicators flash and no

function except for cassette ejection

works.

• Moisture condensation has occurred.

m Remove the cassette and leave the camcorder for at least

1 hour. (p. 71)

“CLOCK SET” appears when the

camcorder is turned on.

• Reset the date and time. (p. 66)

The End Search function does not

activate.

• You did not make a new recording after reinserting the

cassette.

• The tape without cassette memory ejected after recording.

Continued to the next page

Trouble check

Operation

Symptom

Cause and/or corrective actions

The tape does not move when a tape

transport button is pressed.

• The POWER switch is set to CAMERA or OFF.

Set it to VTR. (p. 19)

• The tape has run out.

Rewind the tape or use a new one. (p. 19)

No sound or only a low sound is

heard when playing back a tape.

• The volume is turned to the minimum.

Open the LCD panel and press VOL +. (p. 19)

• AUDIO MIX is set to ST2 side in the menu system.

Adjust AUDIO MIX in the menu system (p. 63).

The new sound added to the

recorded tape is not heard.

• AUDIO MIX is set to ST1 side in the menu system.

Adjust AUDIO MIX in the menu system (p. 63).

The SteadyShot function does not

activate.

• STEADYSHOT is set to OFF in the menu system.

Set it to ON. (p. 47)

Recording stops in a few seconds.

• The START/STOP MODE switch is set to 5SEC or

ANTI

GROUND SHOOTING.

Set it to

. (p. 14)

The autofocus function does not

activate.

• Focus is set to the manual mode.

Set it to autofocus. (p. 35)

• Shooting conditions are not suitable for autofocus.

Set focus to manual mode to focus manually. (p. 35)

The fader function does not work.

• The START/STOP MODE switch is set to 5SEC or

ANTI

GROUND SHOOTING.

Set it to

. (p. 14)

• A title is displayed on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

Clear the title. (p. 28)

The title is not displayed.

The title is not recorded.

• TITLE DSPL is set to OFF in the menu system.

Set it to ON in the menu system. (p. 23)

• The tape has no cassette memory.

Use a tape with cassette memory. (p. 39)

• The cassette memory is full.

Erase another title. (p. 41)

• The tape is set to prevent accidental erasure.

Slide the protect tab so that red portion is not visible.

(p. 40)

• Nothing is recorded in that position on the tape.

Superimpose the title to the recorded position. (p. 40)

The cassette label is not recorded.

• The tape has no cassette memory.

Use a tape with cassette memory. (p. 44)

• The cassette memory is full.

Erase some titles. (p. 41)

• The tape is set to prevent accidental erasure.

Slide the protect tab so that red portion is not visible.

(p. 46)

Displaying the recorded date, date

search function does not work.

• The tape has no cassette memory.

Use a tape with cassette memory. (p. 50)

• CM SEARCH is set to OFF in the menu system.

Set it to ON. (p. 50)

Trouble check

Operation

Symptom

Cause and/or corrective actions

The title search function does not

work.

• The tape has no cassette memory.

m Use a tape with cassette memory. (p. 53)

• CM SEARCH is set to OFF in the menu system.

m Set it to ON. (p. 53)

• There is no title in the tape.

m Superimpose the titles. (p. 39)

• The gold-plated connector of the tape is dirty or dusty.

m Clean the gold-plated connector. (p. 65)

indicator does not appear when

using a tape with cassette memory.

The Date Search, Title Search, or End

Search does not work correctly.

• The tape has a blank portion in the beginning or between

the recorded portion. (p. 64)

Picture

Symptom

Cause and/or corrective actions

The image on the viewfinder screen

is not clear.

• The viewfinder lens is not adjusted.

m Adjust the viewfinder lens. (p. 12)

A vertical band appears when a

subject such as lights or a candle

flame is shot against a dark

background.

• The contrast between the subject and background is too

high. The camcorder is not malfunctioning.

m Change locations.

The picture is “noisy” or does not

appear.

• The video heads may be dirty.

m Clean the heads using the Sony DVM12CL (not supplied)

cleaning cassette. (p. 71)

v indicator flashes on the LCD

screen or in the viewfinder.

• The video heads may be dirty.

m Clean the heads using the Sony DVM12CL (not supplied)

cleaning cassette. (p. 71)

The picture is too bright or too dark.

• LCD BRIGHT is not adjusted properly.

m Adjust the brightness in the menu system. (p. 15, 24)

A vertical band appears when

shooting a very bright subject.

• The camcorder is not malfunctioning.

The picture does not appear on the

LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

• Incorporated fluorescent tube is worn out.

m Please contact your nearest Sony dealer.

The picture does not appear in

the viewfinder.

• The LCD panel is open.

m Close the LCD panel.

An unknown picture is displayed in

the viewfinder or on the LCD screen.

• If 10 minutes elapse after you set the POWER switch to

CAMERA without inserting a cassette, the camcorder

automatically starts the demonstration or DEMO MODE is

set to STBY/ON in the menu system.

m Insert the cassette and the demonstration stops. You can

deactivate the demonstration. (p. 86)

A display such as “C:ππ:ππ”

appears on the LCD screen or in the

viewfinder.

• The self-diagnosis display function has activated.

m Check the code and diagnosis the problem by referring to

the code chart. (p. 80)

Continued to the next page

Trouble check

Others

Symptom

Cause and/or corrective actions

While editing using the DV

connecting cable, recording picture

cannot be monitored.

• Remove the DV connecting cable, and connect it again.

The camcorder becomes warm.

• If the power of the camcorder is on for a long time, it

becomes warm, which is not malfunction.

The supplied Remote Commander

does not work.

• Something is blocking the infrared rays.

m Remove the obstacle.

• The battery is not inserted with the correct polarity.

m Insert the battery with the correct polarity. (p. 87)

• The batteries are dead.

m Insert new ones. (p. 87)

No function works though the power

is on.

• Disconnect the connection plate on the battery pack or on

the AC power adaptor, then reconnect it in about 1 minute.

Turn the power on. If the functions still do not work, press

the RESET button using a sharp-pointed object. (If you

press the RESET button, all the settings including the date

and time return to the default.) (p. 82)

AC power adaptor

Symptom

Corrective actions

The VTR/CAMERA or CHARGE

lamp does not light.

• Disconnect the power cord. After about 1 minute, reconnect

the power cord. (p. 7)

The CHARGE lamp flashes.

• See the chart on the next page.

Tro u b le ch e ck

Wh e n t h e CHARGE la m p fla sh e s

Check through the following chart.

Remove the battery pack from the AC

power adaptor. Then install the same

battery pack again.

When the CHARGE lamp flashes

again

When the CHARGE lamp does not

flash again

Install another battery pack.

If the CHARGE lamp lights up and

goes out after a while, there is no

problem. *

When the CHARGE lamp flashes

again

When the CHARGE lamp does not

flash again

The problem is with the AC power

adaptor.

If the CHARGE lamp lights up and

goes out after a while, the problem is

with the battery pack installed first.

Please contact your nearest Sony dealer

in connection with the product with the

problem.

* If you use a battery pack which you have just bought or which has been left unused for a long time, the

CHARGE lamp may flash at the first charging. This does not indicate a problem. Repeat again to charge with

same battery pack.

Self-diagnosis function

The camcorder has a self-diagnosis display.

LCD screen/viewfinder

This function displays the camcorder’s

STBY

C : 21: 00

40min

condition with five digits (a combination of a

letter and figures) on the LCD screen or in the

viewfinder. If this occurs, check the following

code chart. The five-digit display informs you

of the camcorder’s current condition. The last

two digits (indicated by ππ) will differ

depending on the state of the camcorder.

40min

Self-diagnosis display

•C:ππ:ππ

You can service the camcorder

yourself.

•E:ππ:ππ

Contact your Sony dealer or local

authorized Sony facility.

Five-digit display

Cause and/or corrective actions

• Moisture condensation has occurred.

C:21:ππ

m Remove the cassette and leave the camcorder for at least 1 hour.

(p. 71)

• The video heads are dirty.

C:22:ππ

m Clean the heads using the Sony DVM12CL cleaning cassette (not

supplied). (p. 71)

• A serviceable situation not malfunctioned above has occurred.

C:31:ππ

m Remove the cassette and insert it again, then operate the

camcorder. (p. 10)

C:32:ππ

m Disconnect the power cord of the AC power adaptor or remove

the battery pack. After reconnecting the power source, operate

the camcorder.

• A camcorder malfunction which you cannot service has occurred.

E:61:ππ

m Contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service

facility and inform them of the five digits. (example: E:61:10)

E:62:ππ

If you are unable to resolve the problem, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service

facility.

Sp e cifica t io n s

Mass

In p u t a n d o u t p u t

co n n e ct o rs

S video output

Vid e o ca m e ra

re co rd e r

Approx. 620g excluding the

battery pack and the cassette

Approx. 700g including the

battery pack NP-F330 and cassette

DVM60

Approx. 730g including the

battery pack NP-F550 and cassette

DVM60

Approx. 730g including the

battery pack NP-F530 and cassette

DVM60

Microphone

Electret condenser microphone,

Stereo type

4-pin mini DIN

Syst e m

Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75

ohms, unbalanced, sync negative

Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vp-p,

75 ohms, unbalanced

Audio/Video output

AV MINI JACK, 1 Vp-p, 75 ohms,

unbalanced, sync negative

327 mV, (at output impedance

more than 47 kilohms)

Output impedance with less than

2.2 kilohms/Stereo minijack

(ø 3.5mm)

Video recording system

Two rotary heads, Helical

scanning system

Audio recording system

Rotary heads, PCM system

Quantization: 12bits (Fs 32kHz,

stereo 1, stereo 2), 16bits (Fs

48kHz, stereo)

Video signal

NTSC color, EIA standards

Usable cassette

Speaker

Dynamic-speaker

Supplied accessories

See page 6.

Mini DV cassette with logo

printed

Tape speed

DV input/output

4-pin special connector

Headphones

SP: Approx. 18.81 mm/s

LP: Approx. 12.56 mm/s

Recording/playback time

SP mode: 1 hour (DVM60)

LP mode: 1.5 hours (DVM60)

Fastforw ard/rew ind time

Approx. 2 min. 30 s (DVM60)

Image device

CCD (Charge Coupled Device

1/3”)

View finder

Electric viewfinder (color)

Lens

Combined power zoom lens, 120x

(Digital), 10x (Optical)

Focal distance

Stereo minijack (ø 3.5 mm)

MIC input

Stereo minijack

(ø 3.5mm):0.388mV, DC2.5V

Input impedance 6.8 kilohms

lLANC jack

AC p o w e r a d a p t o r

Pow er requirements

100 to 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz

Pow er consumption

25 W

Output voltage

DC OUT: 8.4 V, 1.8 A in operating

mode

Battery charge terminal: 8.4 V,

1.4 A in charge mode

Application

Sony battery pack NP-F330,

NP-F550, NP-F530 lithium ion

type

Operating temperature

0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)

Storage temperature

–20°C to 60°C (–4°F to 140°F)

Dimensions (Approx.)

56 x 44 x 107 mm (w/h/d)

Mass (Approx.)

Stereo miniminijack (ø 2.5 mm)

LASER LINK

Video/audio

IR space transmission system

according to EIAJ (Electric

Industries Association of Japan)

standards

Audio carrier w ave

Lch : 4.3MHz

Rch : 4.8MHz

f =4.0 to 40 mm

(38 to 380 mm when converted

into a 35 mm still camera)

F 1.8 – 2.6

TTL autofocus system inner focus

wide macro system

Color temperature

Auto

Minimum illumination

3 lux at F 1.8

Illumination range

3 to 100,000 lux

Recommended illumination

Ge n e ra l

Pow er requirements

7.2 V (battery insertion input)

Average pow er consumption

3.9 W during camera recording

using viewfinder

4.9 W during camera recording

using LCD screen

4.9 W during playback using

LASER LINK (when viewfinder is

on and LCD is off)

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

190 g

Design and specifications are

subject to change without notice.

More than 100 lux

LCD scre e n

Picture

3.5 inches measured diagonally

72.4 x 50.4 mm

On-screen display

TN LCD/TFT active matrix

method

Approx. 76 x 82 x 136 mm

(w/h/d) excluding the largest

projection

Total dot number

184,580 (839 x 220)

Id e n t ifyin g t h e p a rt s

[a]

[b]

FADER

BACK

LIGHT

EXPOSURE

FOCUS

1 View finder lens adjustment lever

7 Operation buttons

(p. 12)

[a] When the POWER sw itch is set to

VTR

2 RESET button (p. 78)

3 Control dial (p. 23)

0 (rew ind) button (p. 19)

) (fastforw ard) button (p. 19)

( (playback) button (p. 19)

p (stop) button (p. 19)

4 PHOTO button (p. 29)

5 START/STOP button (p. 11)

6 POWER sw itch (p. 11, 19)

P (pause) button (p. 20)

[b] When the POWER sw itch is set to

CAMERA

FADER button (p. 28)

BACK LIGHT button (p. 27)

EXPOSURE button (p. 38)

FOCUS button (p. 34)

Identifying the parts

!£

!¢

!∞

!§

!¶

!¡

!™

8 LCD Screen (p. 15, 19)

!£ Viewfinder (p. 12)

9 VOL (volume) button (p. 19)

0 OPEN button (p. 19)

!¢ TITLE button (p. 39, 42)

!∞ START/STOP MODE switch (p. 14)

!§ MENU button (p. 23)

!¡ DISPLAY button (p. 19)

!™ END SEARCH button (p. 21)

!¶ OPEN (BATT) release lever (p. 9)

Identifying the parts

!•

!ª

@º

@¡

@™

@£

@∞

@¢

!• Cassette compartment (p. 10)

!ª Hook for shoulder strap

@º Power zoom switch (p. 13)

@¡ 2 headphones jack (p. 20)

@™ EJECT switch (p. 10)

@£ Cassette lid (p. 10)

@¢ Grip strap (p. 17)

@∞ Recording/battery lamp

Attaching the shoulder strap

Attach the supplied shoulder strap to the hooks for the shoulder strap.

Id e n t ifyin g t h e p a rt s

@§

#º

#¡

@¶

#™

#£

@•

@ª

@§ Hook for shoulder strap (p. 84)

#º AUDIO/VIDEO OUT jack (p. 48)

@¶ LANC l control jack

#¡ DV IN/OUT jack (p. 59)

l stands for Local Application Control

Bus System. The l control jack is used

for controlling the tape transport of

video equipment and peripherals

connected to it. This jack has the same

function as the jack indicated as

CONTROL L or REMOTE.

This “i.LINK” mark is a trademark of

Sony Corporation and indicates that this

product is in agreement with IEEE 1394-

1995 specifications and their revisions.

The DV IN/OUT jack is i.LINK

compatible.

@• Stand

@ª Tripod receptacle (p. 18)

Make sure that the length of the tripod

screw is less than 6.5 mm. Otherwise,

you cannot attach the tripod securely

and the screw may damage the

camcorder.

#™ S VIDEO OUT jack (p. 30, 48, 60)

#£ MIC jack (PLUG IN POWER) (p. 62)

Connect an external microphone (not

supplied). This jack also accepts a “plug-

in-power” microphone.

Identifying the parts

#¢

#¶

#•

#∞

#§

#¢ LASER LINK button (p. 49)

#∞ Laser Link emitter (p. 49)

#§ Microphone

#¶ Speaker

#• Remote sensor (p. 87)

To watch the demonstration

You can watch a brief demonstration of pictures with special effects. If the

demonstration appears when you turn on the camcorder for the first time, exit the demo

mode to use your camcorder.

To enter demo mode

(1)Eject the cassette and set the POWER switch to VTR.

(2)While holding down (, set the POWER switch to CAMERA. The demonstration

starts. The demonstration stops when you insert the cassette.

Note that once you enter demo mode, this mode is retained as long as the vanadium

rechargeable battery is in place. Therefore, demonstration starts automatically 10

minutes later every time you set the POWER switch to CAMERA, and after you eject

the cassette.

To exit demo mode

(1)Set the POWER switch to VTR.

(2)While holding down p, set the POWER switch to CAMERA.

Id e n t ifyin g t h e p a rt s

Re m o t e Co m m a n d e r

The buttons that have the same name on the Remote Commander as on the camcorder

function identically.

!™

!¡

!º

1 PHOTO button (p. 29)

8 DATA CODE button (p. 58)

9 Pow er zoom button (p. 13)

!º START/STOP button (p. 11)

!¡ Transmitter

2 DISPLAY button (p. 19)

3 SEARCH MODE button (p. 50, 53, 54)

4 =/+ buttons (p. 50, 53, 54)

5 Tape transport buttons (p. 19)

6 REC button (p. 61)

Point toward the remote sensor to

control the camcorder after turning on

the camcorder.

!™ ZERO SET MEMORY button (p. 57)

7 AUDIO DUB button (p. 63)

To p re p a re t h e Re m o t e Co m m a n d e r

To use the Remote Commander, you must insert two R6 (size AA) batteries. Use the

supplied R6 (size AA) batteries.

(1)Remove the battery cover from the Remote Commander.

(2)Insert both of the R6 (size AA) batteries with correct polarity.

(3)Put the battery cover back onto the Remote Commander.

Id e n t ifyin g t h e Pa rt s

Note on battery life

The batteries for the Remote Commander last about 6 months under normal operation.

When the batteries become weak or dead, the Remote Commander does not work.

To avoid damage from possible battery leakage

Remove the batteries when you will not use the Remote Commander for a long time.

Re m o t e co n t ro l d ire ct io n

Aim the Remote Commander to the remote sensor.

The operative range of the Remote Commander is about 5 m indoors. Depending on the

angle, Remote Commander may not activate the camcorder.

Notes on the Remote Commander

• Keep the remote sensor away from strong light sources such as direct sunlight or

illumination. Otherwise, the remote control may not be effective.

• Be sure that there is no obstacle between the remote sensor on the camcorder and the

Remote Commander.

• This camcorder works in commander mode VTR 2. The commander modes (1,2 and

3) are used to distinguish this camcorder from other Sony VCRs to avoid remote

control misoperation. If you use another Sony VCR in commander mode VTR 2, we

recommend you change the commander mode or cover the remote sensor of the VCR

with black paper.

Identifying the Parts

Operation indicators

!™

!£

!¢

!∞

!§

!¶

!•

!ª

@º

@¡

@™

STBY

0 : 1 2 : 3 4

40min

ZERO SET

MEMORY

!º

!¡

M FADER

16:9WIDE

SOLARIZE

PHOTO REC END SEARCH

DV IN

16BIT

50min

VOL

1 Mirror mode indicator (p. 16)

!§ Remaining tape indicator (p. 13)

2 Zoom indicator (p. 13)/Exposure

!¶ ZERO SET MEMORY indicator (p. 57)/

indicator (p. 38)

Photo capture indicator (p. 29)

3 Manual focus/Infinity indicator (p. 35)

4 PROGRAM AE indicator (p. 32)

5 SteadyShot indicator (p. 47)

6 BACK LIGHT indicator (p. 27)

7 FADER indicator (p. 28)

!• END SEARCH indicator (p. 21)

!ª PHOTO REC indicator (p. 29)

@º DV IN indicator (p. 59)

@¡ Audio mode indicator (p. 64)

@™ Remaining battery indicator (p. 67)/

Remaining time in minutes indicator

8 16:9WIDE indicator (p. 31)

9 PICTURE EFFECT indicator (p. 36)

0 Warning indicators (p. 90)

!¡ VOL (volume) indicator (p. 19)

!™ Cassette Memory indicator (p. 4)

!£ Recording mode indicator (p. 11)

!¢ Recording standby mode indicator

(p. 11)/ Tape transport mode indicator

!∞ Time code indicator (p. 12)/Self

diagnosis indicator (p. 80)

Warning indicators

If indicators flash on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder or warning messages appear

on the display window, check the following:

≥: You can hear the beep sound when BEEP is set to ON in the menu system.

!¡

!™

5min

0min

!º

C : 31: 10

8 The clock is not set.

1 The battery is weak or dead.

Slow flashing: The battery is weak.

Fast flashing: The battery is dead.

Depending on conditions, the i

indicator may flash, even if there are 5

to 10 minutes remaining.

When this message appears though you

set the date and time, the vanadium-

lithium battery is discharged. Charge

the vanadium-lithium battery. (p. 66)

9 The self-diagnosis function is

working.

2 The tape is near the end.

Use the self-diagnosis function (p. 80).

If the display does not disappear contact

your Sony dealer or local authorized

Sony service facility.

The flashing is slow.

3 The tape has run out.

The flashing becomes rapid.

0 The battery is not the “InfoLITHIUM”

type.

4 No tape has been inserted.

!¡ The tape has no cassette memory.

5 The tab on the tape is out (red).

(p. 4)

6 Moisture condensation has occurred.

!™ Some other trouble has occurred.

Eject the cassette.

(p. 71)

If the display does not disappear, turn

off the camcorder and remove the

battery pack. Then install the battery

pack and turn on the camcorder again. If

the display still remains, contact your

Sony dealer or local authorized Sony

service.

7 The video heads may be

contaminated. (p. 71)

In d e x

A, B

I, J, K, L

T, U, V

Audio mode............................. 64

Battery release ........................... 9

BEEP ......................................... 12

InfoLITHIUM .......................... 69

LASER LINK ........................... 49

LCD BRIGHT .................... 15, 24

LP mode ................................... 12

i .LINK ...................................... 85

Time code................................. 12

Title (making) .......................... 42

Title (superimposition) .......... 39

Title search............................... 53

Tripod mounting ....................18

VOL (volume) ......................... 19

Car battery ...............................22

Cassette memory ...................... 4

Charging battery pack ............. 7

Charging vanadium-lithium

battery ...................................65

Cleaning video heads ............. 71

Clock set ...................................66

Color TV system ................. 4, 74

Connection ......................... 48, 59

COPY INHIBIT .......................64

M, N

W, X, Y, Z

Manual focus ........................... 34

Menu system ........................... 23

Mirror mode ............................16

Moisture condensation .......... 71

Normal charge .......................... 7

Wide TV mode ........................31

ZERO SET MEMORY............. 57

Zoom ........................................13

O, P, Q

PHOTO ....................................29

Photo scan ................................54

Photo search ............................54

Playback on a TV ....................48

Playback pause........................20

Power sources ......................... 22

Power zoom ............................. 13

PROGRAM AE........................32

D, E

Data Code ................................58

Date search .............................. 50

Demo ........................................86

DISPLAY .................................. 19

Digital zoom ............................13

DV connecting cable ...............59

DV format ................................48

DV IN/OUT ............................59

Editing ...................................... 59

EJECT .......................................10

END SEARCH......................... 21

Exposure .................................. 38

Remaining battery indicator

................................................67

Remaining tape indicator ...... 13

Remote Commander .............. 87

F, G, H

Fade-in/fade-out ....................28

FADER ..................................... 28

FOCUS...................................... 34

Full charge ................................. 7

Self-diagnosis function .......... 80

SP mode ................................... 12

Standby mode ......................... 11

START/STOP MODE switch 14

SteadyShot ............................... 47

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