Sony Handycam HDR XR550 User Manual

4-170-534-11(1)  
Table of contents  
Getting started  
Recording/Playback  
Making good use of your 44  
camcorder  
Saving images with an  
external device  
HDR-CX550/CX550V/  
XR550/XR550V  
Customizing your  
camcorder  
Additional information  
Quick reference  
Digital HD Video Camera Recorder  
“HandycamHandbook  
2010 Sony Corporation  
Do not aim at the sun. Doing so might cause  
your camcorder to malfunction. Take images  
of the sun only in low light conditions, such as  
at dusk.  
You may not be able to play back normally  
images recorded on your camcorder with other  
devices. Also, you may not be able to play back  
images recorded on other devices with your  
camcorder.  
About language setting  
The on-screen displays in each local language  
are used for illustrating the operating  
Discs recorded with HD image quality  
(high definition)  
procedures. Change the screen language before  
using the camcorder if necessary (p. 17).  
This camcorder captures high definition footage  
in the AVCHD format. DVD media containing  
AVCHD footage should not be used with DVD  
based players or recorders, as the DVD player/  
recorder may fail to eject the media and may  
erase its contents without warning. DVD media  
containing AVCHD footage may be played on  
a compatible Blu-ray Discplayer/recorder or  
other compatible device.  
On recording  
To ensure stable operation of the memory card,  
it is recommended to initialize the memory  
card with your camcorder before the first use  
(p. 85). Initializing the memory card will erase  
all the data stored on it and the data will be  
irrecoverable. Save your important data on your  
PC etc.  
Save all your recorded image data  
Before starting to record, test the recording  
function to make sure the image and sound are  
recorded without any problems.  
Compensation for the contents of recordings  
cannot be provided, even if recording or  
playback is not possible due to a malfunction of  
the camcorder, recording media, etc.  
To prevent your image data from being lost,  
save all your recorded images on external media  
periodically. It is recommended that you save  
the image data on a disc such as DVD-R, etc.  
using your computer. Also, you can save your  
image data using a VCR, or a DVD/HDD  
recorder (p. 59).  
TV color systems differ depending on the  
country/region. To view your recordings on a  
TV, you need a NTSC system-based TV.  
Television programs, films, video tapes,  
and other materials may be copyrighted.  
Unauthorized recording of such materials may  
be contrary to the copyright laws.  
You cannot make a AVCHD disc from the  
image data recorded with  
(MENU)   
[Show others] [ REC MODE] (under  
[SHOOTING SET] category) set to [HD  
FX]. Save them on a Blu-ray Disc or using an  
external media (p. 57).  
Notes on battery pack/AC Adaptor  
Notes on playing back  
Be sure to remove the battery pack or the AC  
Adaptor after turning off the camcorder.  
Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the  
camcorder, holding both the camcorder and the  
DC plug.  
The camcorder is compatible with MPEG-4  
AVC/H.264 High Profile for high definition  
image quality (HD) recording. Therefore, you  
cannot play back images recorded with high  
definition image quality (HD) on the camcorder  
with the following devices;  
Other AVCHD format compatible devices  
which are not compatible with High Profile  
Devices which are not compatible with the  
AVCHD format  
Note on the camcorder/battery pack  
temperature  
When the temperature of the camcorder  
or battery pack becomes extremely high or  
extremely low, you may not be able to record  
or play back on the camcorder, due to the  
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protection features of the camcorder being  
activated in such situations. In this case, an  
indicator appears on the LCD screen and the  
viewfinder (p. 98).  
CX550/CX550V) and the hard disk (HDR-  
XR550/XR550V) of the camcorder and the  
memory card are called “recording media.”  
In this manual, the DVD disc recorded with  
high definition image quality (HD) is called  
AVCHD disc.  
Design and specifications of your camcorder  
and accessories are subject to change without  
notice.  
When the camcoder is connected to a  
computer or accessories  
Do not try to format the recording media of the  
camcorder using a computer. If you do so, your  
camcorder may not operate correctly.  
When connecting the camcorder to another  
device with communication cables, be sure to  
insert the connector plug in the correct way.  
Pushing the plug forcibly into the terminal  
will damage the terminal and may result in a  
malfunction of the camcorder.  
Confirm the model name of your  
camcorder  
The model name is shown in this manual when  
there is a difference in specification between  
models. Confirm the model name on the  
bottom of your camcorder.  
The main differences in specification of this  
series are as follows.  
If you cannot record/play back images,  
perform [MEDIA FORMAT]  
Recording  
media  
Capacity  
of internal  
recording  
media  
USB  
jack  
If you repeat recording/deleting images for  
a long time, fragmentation of data occurs on  
the recording media. Images cannot be saved  
or recorded. In such a case, save your images  
on some type of external media first, and then  
perform [MEDIA FORMAT] by touching  
(MENU) [Show others]   
[MEDIA FORMAT] (under [MANAGE  
MEDIA] category) the desired medium   
HDR-  
Internal  
memory +  
memory  
card  
64 GB  
Input/  
output  
CX550/  
HDR-  
CX550V*  
HDR-  
Internal  
hard disk  
+ memory  
card  
240 GB  
XR550/  
HDR-  
XR550V*  
[YES] [YES]   
.
The model with * is equipped with GPS.  
Notes on optional accessories  
We recommend using genuine Sony accessories.  
Genuine Sony accessories may not be available  
in some countries/regions.  
About this manual, illustrations and  
on-screen displays  
The example images used in this manual for  
illustration purposes are captured using a  
digital still camera, and therefore may appear  
different from images and screen indicators that  
actually appear on your camcorder. And, the  
illustrations of your camcorder and its screen  
indication are exaggerated or simplified for  
understandability.  
In this manual, the internal memory (HDR-  
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Notes on use  
Do not do any of the following. Otherwise, the  
recording media may be damaged, recorded  
images may be impossible to play back or may  
be lost, or other malfunctions could occur.  
ejecting the memory card when the access  
lamp (p. 20) is lit or flashing  
removing the battery pack or AC Adaptor  
from the camcorder, or applying mechanical  
shock or vibration to the camcorder when the  
(Movie)/ (Photo) lamps (p. 21) or the  
access lamp (p. 20) are lit or flashing  
When using a shoulder belt (sold separately), do  
not crash the camcorder against an object.  
Do not use your camcorder in very loud areas  
(HDR-XR550/XR550V).  
On the drop sensor (HDR-XR550/  
XR550V)  
To protect the internal hard disk from shock  
by dropping, the camcorder has a drop sensor  
function (p. 90). When a drop occurs, or  
under a non-gravity condition, the block noise  
made when this function is activated by the  
camcorder may also be recorded. If the drop  
sensor catches a drop repeatedly, recording/  
playback may be stopped.  
Note on using the camcorder at high  
altitudes (HDR-XR550/XR550V)  
Do not turn on the camcorder in a low-pressure  
area, where the altitude is more than 5,000  
meters (16,000 feet). Doing so may damage the  
internal hard disk drive of your camcorder.  
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Operation flow  
Getting started (p. 12)  
Prepare the power source and memory card.  
Recording movies and photos (p. 21)  
Recording movies p. 22  
Changing the recording mode (p. 28)  
Expected recording time (MEDIA INFO, p. 85)  
Shooting photos p. 24  
Playing movies and photos  
Playback on the camcorder p. 33  
Playing images on a TV p. 41  
Saving images  
Saving movies and photos with a computer  
Saving movies and photos in external media p. 57  
Saving images with a DVD writer/recorder p. 59  
Deleting movies and photos (p. 44)  
If you delete the image data that has been saved on your  
computer or a disc, you can record new images on the free  
media space again.  
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Advice for successful recording  
To get good results in recording  
Stabilizing your camcorder  
When you hold the camcorder, keep your upper body upright,  
and hold your arms close to your body.  
The SteadyShot function is effective against camera-shake,  
however, it is essential that you not move the camcorder.  
Zooming smoothly  
Zoom in and out slowly and smoothly. And, use zooming  
sparingly. Excessive zooming will make movies that may make  
the viewer feel tired when viewing them.  
Evoking a feeling of spaciousness  
Use the panning technique. Stabilize yourself, move your  
camcorder horizontally as you turn your upper body slowly. Stay  
still at the end of panning for a while to make the scene look  
stable.  
Accentuating movies with narration  
Consider the sound to be recorded with your movies. Narrate  
the subject, or talk to the subject during shooting.  
Aim for a balanced volume of voices, since the recording person  
is closer to the microphone than the recorded person.  
Using accessories  
Make good use of camcorder accessories.  
For example, using a tripod, you can make a time-lapse  
recording or record subjects in dim light, such as scenes of  
fireworks, or night views. By always carrying spare batteries, you  
can continue recording without worrying about battery power  
shortages.  
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Useful recording techniques  
Capturing images beautifully without  
troublesome setting  
Focusing on the child on the left side of  
the screen  
INTELLIGENT AUTO(26)  
Prioritizing the subject(28)  
SPOT FOCUS(73)  
Capturing photos during movie  
recording  
Recording in a dimly-lit room  
Dual Rec(30)  
Smile Shutter (29)  
NightShot(30)  
Capturing fireworks, or a sunset in all  
its splendor  
Checking your golf swing  
SUNRISE&SUNSET(71)  
GOLF SHOT(75)  
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Table of contents  
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9
 
1U0S  
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11  
Getting started  
Step 1: Charging the battery pack  
HDR-CX550/CX550V  
Battery pack  
/CHG (flash/charge)  
lamp  
DC IN jack  
DC plug  
Power cord (Mains lead)  
AC  
Adaptor  
To the wall outlet (wall socket)  
HDR-XR550/XR550V  
Battery pack  
/CHG (flash/charge)  
lamp  
DC IN jack  
DC plug  
AC  
Power cord (Mains lead)  
Adaptor  
To the wall outlet (wall socket)  
1U2S  
     
You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (V series) after attaching it to your  
camcorder.  
Notes  
You cannot attach any “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack other than the V series to your camcorder.  
Turn off your camcorder by closing the LCD screen after replacing the  
viewfinder.  
1
2
3
Attach the battery pack by sliding it in the direction of the arrow until it  
clicks.  
Connect the AC Adaptor and the power cord (mains lead) to your  
camcorder and the wall outlet (wall socket).  
Align the mark on the DC plug with that on the DC IN jack.  
The /CHG (flash/charge) lamp lights up and charging starts. The /CHG (flash/charge)  
lamp turns off when the battery pack is fully charged.  
When the battery is charged, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN  
jack of your camcorder.  
4
Tips  
See page 103 on recording and playing time.  
When your camcorder is on, you can check the approximate amount of remaining battery power with the  
remaining battery indicator at the upper left on the LCD screen.  
Charging time  
Approximate time (min.) required when you fully charge a fully discharged battery pack.  
Battery pack  
NP-FV50(supplied)  
NP-FV70  
Charging time  
155  
195  
390  
NP-FV100  
Times measured with the camcorder at 25 C (77 °F).  
10 C to 30 C (50 °F to 86 °F) is recommended.  
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1ꢀ  
To remove the battery pack  
Close the LCD screen. Slide the BATT (battery) release lever () and remove the battery  
pack ().  
To use a wall outlet (wall socket) as a power source  
Make the same connections as “Step 1: Charging the battery pack.” Even if the battery pack is  
attached, the battery pack is not discharged.  
Charging the battery pack abroad  
You can charge the battery pack in any countries/regions using the AC Adaptor supplied with  
your camcorder within the AC 100 V - 240 V, 50 Hz/60 Hz range.  
Notes  
Do not use an electronic voltage transformer.  
Notes on the battery pack  
When you remove the battery pack or disconnect the AC Adaptor, replace the viewfinder, close the LCD  
screen and make sure that the  
off.  
(Movie)/ (Photo) lamps (p. 21), the access lamp (p. 20) are turned  
The /CHG (flash/charge) lamp flashes during charging under the following conditions:  
The battery pack is not attached correctly.  
The battery pack is damaged.  
The temperature of the battery pack is low.  
Remove the battery pack from your camcorder and put it in a warm place.  
The temperature of the battery pack is high.  
Remove the battery pack from your camcorder and put it in a cool place.  
When attaching a video light (sold separately), it is recommended that you use an NP-FV70 or NP-FV100  
battery pack.  
We do not recommend using an NP-FV30, which only allows short recording and playback times, with  
your camcorder.  
In the default setting, the power turns off automatically if you leave your camcorder without any  
operation for about 5 minutes, to save battery power ([A.SHUT OFF], p. 89).  
Notes on the AC Adaptor  
Use the nearby wall outlet (wall socket) when using the AC Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from  
the wall outlet (wall socket) immediately if any malfunction occurs while using your camcorder.  
Do not use the AC Adaptor placed in a narrow space, such as between a wall and furniture.  
Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC Adaptor or battery terminal with any metallic objects. This  
may cause a malfunction.  
1U4S  
     
Step 2: Turning the power on, and setting the  
date and time  
Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.  
1
Your camcorder is turned on and the lens cover is opened.  
To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is open, press POWER.  
MODE lamp  
POWER button  
Select the desired geographical area with  
/
, then touch [NEXT].  
2
Touch the button on the  
LCD screen  
To set the date and time again, touch  
(MENU) [Show others] [CLOCK/ LANG]  
(under  
/
[GENERAL SET] category) [CLOCK SET]. When an item is not on the screen, touch  
until the item appears.  
Set [DST SET] or [SUMMERTIME], date and time, then touch  
.
3
The clock starts.  
If you set [DST SET] or [SUMMERTIME] to [ON], the clock advances 1 hour.  
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15  
       
Notes  
The date and time does not appear during recording, but they are automatically recorded on the  
recording media, and can be displayed during playback. To display the date and time, touch  
(MENU) [Show others] [PLAYBACK SET] (under  
CODE] [DATE/TIME]   
You can turn off the operation beeps by touching  
SET] (under [GENERAL SET] category) [BEEP] [OFF]   
If the button you touch does not react correctly, calibrate the touch panel (p. 115).  
[PLAYBACK] category) [DATA  
.
(MENU) [Show others] [SOUND/DISP  
.
Once the clock is set, the clock time is automatically adjusted with [AUTO CLOCK ADJ] and [AUTO  
AREA ADJ] set to [ON] (p. 56). The clock may not be adjusted to the correct time automatically,  
depending on the country/region selected for your camcorder. In this case, set [AUTO CLOCK ADJ] and  
[AUTO AREA ADJ] to [OFF] (HDR-CX550V/XR550V).  
To turn off the power  
Close the LCD screen. The (Movie) lamp flashes for a few seconds and the power is turned  
off.  
Tips  
You can turn off your camcorder also by pressing POWER.  
If the viewfinder is pulled out, retract the viewfinder as shown in the illustration below.  
On turning the camcorder on or off using the LCD screen or the viewfinder  
The power of the camcorder is turned on or off depending on the status of the LCD screen or  
the viewfinder.  
Status  
Viewfinder  
Power of the  
camcorder  
LCD screen  
Open  
Retracted  
Pulled out  
Retracted  
Pulled out  
On  
On  
Off  
On  
Closed  
Notes  
Even if the LCD screen is closed, if the viewfinder is pulled out, the camcorder is not turned off. When  
you turn off the power of the camcorder, make sure that the viewfinder is retracted to the original  
position.  
1U6S  
   
Changing the language setting  
You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language.  
Touch  
(MENU) [Show others] [CLOCK/ LANG] (under [GENERAL SET]  
category) [ LANGUAGE SET] a desired language   
.
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17  
   
Step 3: Preparing the recording media  
The recording media that can be used differs depending on your camcorder. The following  
icons are displayed on the screen of your camcorder.  
HDR-CX550/CX550V  
*
Internal  
Memory  
card  
memory  
HDR-XR550/XR550V  
*
Internal hard  
disk  
Memory  
card  
* In the default setting, both movies and photos are recorded on this recording media. You can perform  
recording, playback and editing operations on the selected medium.  
Tips  
See page 104 for the recordable time of movies.  
See page 105 for the number of recordable photos.  
Selecting the recording media for movies  
Touch  
(MENU) [Show others] [MEDIA SETTINGS] (under  
[MANAGE MEDIA] category) [MOVIE MEDIA SET].  
The [MOVIE MEDIA SET] screen appears.  
Touch the desired recording media.  
Touch [YES]   
.
The recording medium is changed.  
Selecting the recording media for photos  
Touch  
(MENU) [Show others] [MEDIA SETTINGS] (under  
[MANAGE MEDIA] category) [PHOTO MEDIA SET].  
The [PHOTO MEDIA SET] screen appears.  
Touch the desired recording media.  
1US  
       
Touch [YES]   
.
The recording medium is changed.  
To check the recording media settings  
In either movie recording mode or photo recording mode, the media icon of the selected  
recording media is displayed at the top right corner of the screen.  
Recording media icon  
The icon displayed may vary depending on your model.  
Inserting a memory card  
Notes  
Set the recording medium to [MEMORY CARD] to record movies and/or photos on a memory card.  
Types of memory card you can use with your camcorder  
Only “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media, “Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo” media, SD memory cards and  
SDHC memory cards can be used with this camcorder. A MultiMediaCard cannot be used with this  
camcorder.  
In this manual, “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media and “Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo” media are called  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media.  
Memory cards of up to 32 GB have been verified to operate with your camcorder.  
Types of “Memory Stickmedia you can use with your camcorder  
For recording movies, it is recommended that you use “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media of 1 GB or larger  
marked with:  
(“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media)*  
(“Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo” media)  
* Marked with Mark2 or not, either can be used.  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo”media/“Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo”media  
(This size can be used with your camcorder.)  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media can be used only with “Memory Stick PRO” media compatible  
equipment.  
Do not attach a label or the like on “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media or “Memory Stick Duo” media  
adaptor.  
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Open the cover, and insert the memory card with the nothched edge in the  
direction as illustrated until it clicks.  
Close the cover after inserting the memory card.  
Note direction of notched corner.  
Access lamp  
The [Create a new Image Database File.] screen may appear if you insert a new memory  
card. In that case, touch [YES]. If you record only photos on the memory card, touch  
[NO].  
Confirm the direction of the memory card. If you forcibly insert the memory card in the wrong  
direction, the memory card, memory card slot, or image data may be damaged.  
Notes  
If [Failed to create a new Image Database File. It may be possible that there is not enough free space.]  
is displayed, format the memory card by touching  
(MENU) [Show others] [MEDIA  
FORMAT] (under [MANAGE MEDIA] category) [MEMORY CARD] [YES] [YES]   
.
To eject the memory card  
Open the cover and lightly push the memory card in once.  
Do not open the cover during recording.  
When inserting or ejecting the memory card, be careful so that the memory card does not pop out and  
drop.  
2U0S  
   
Recording/Playback  
Recording  
In the default setting, movies are recorded with high definition image quality (HD) on the  
following media.  
HDR-CX550/CX550V: Internal memory  
HDR-XR550/XR550V: Internal hard disk  
Tips  
To change the recording media, see page 18.  
Fasten the grip belt.  
1
Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.  
2
Your camcorder is turned on and the lens cover is opened.  
To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is already open, press POWER (p. 15).  
You can switch recording modes by pressing MODE. Press MODE to light up the desired recording  
mode lamp.  
MODE button  
(Movie): When recording a movie  
(Photo): When recording a photo  
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21  
         
Recording movies  
Press START/STOP to start recording.  
You can start recording also by touching in the bottom left of LCD screen.  
START/STOP  
button  
[STBY] [REC]  
To stop recording, press START/STOP again.  
You can stop recording also by touching in the bottom left of LCD screen.  
The icons and indicators on the LCD panel will be displayed for about 3 seconds, then disappear after  
turning on your camcorder or switching the recording (movie/photo)/playback modes. To display the  
icons and indicators again, touch anywhere on the screen except the rec & zoom buttons on the LCD.  
Rec & zoom buttons on LCD  
about 3sec  
after  
Notes  
If you close the LCD screen while recording movies, the camcorder stops recording.  
The maximum continuous recordable time of movies is about 13 hours.  
When a movie file exceeds 2 GB, the next movie file is created automatically.  
It will take several seconds until you can start recording after you turn on the camcorder. You cannot  
operate your camcorder during this time.  
2U2S  
       
The following states will be indicated if data is still being written onto the recording media after recording  
has finished. During this time, do not apply shock or vibration to the camcorder, or remove the battery or  
AC Adaptor.  
Access lamp (p. 20) is lit or flashing  
The media icon in the upper right of the LCD screen is flashing  
Tips  
See page 104 on the recordable time of movies.  
You can record photos during movie recording by pressing PHOTO fully (Dual Rec, p. 30).  
When a face is detected, a white frame appears and the image quality around the face is optimized  
automatically ([FACE DETECTION], p. 77).  
You can specify the priority face by touching it (p. 28).  
In the default setting, a photo is recorded automatically when the camcorder detects the smile of a person  
during movie recording (Smile Shutter, p. 29).  
You can capture photos from recorded movies (p. 47).  
You can check the recordable time, estimated remaining capacity, etc., by touching  
(MENU)   
[Show others] [MEDIA INFO] (under  
[MANAGE MEDIA] category).  
The LCD screen of your camcorder can display recording images across the entire screen (full pixel  
display). However, this may cause slight trimming of the top, bottom, right and left edges of images when  
played back on a TV which is not compatible with full pixel display. In this case, set [GUIDEFRAME] to  
[ON] (p. 76), and record images using the outer frame displayed on the screen as a guide.  
To adjust the angle of the LCD panel, first open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (), and  
then adjust the angle ().  
90 degrees (max.)  
90 degrees to the  
180 degrees (max.)  
camcorder  
When you make recording with the viewfinder only, pull out the viewfinder and close the LCD panel.  
If the indicator on the viewfinder appear blurred, adjust the viewfinder lever located on the side of the  
viewfinder.  
[ STEADYSHOT] is set to [ACTIVE] in the default setting.  
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2ꢀ  
 
Data code during recording  
The recording date, time and condition , and coordinates (HDR-CX550V/XR550V) are  
recorded automatically on the recording media. They are not displayed during recording.  
However, you can check them as [DATA CODE] during playback. To display them, touch  
(MENU) [Show others] [PLAYBACK SET] (under  
[PLAYBACK] category)  
.
[DATA CODE] a desired setting   
Shooting photos  
In the default setting, photos are recorded on the following recording media.  
HDR-CX550/CX550V: Internal memory  
HDR-XR550/XR550V: Internal hard disk  
Tips  
To change the recording media, see page 18.  
Press MODE to turn on the (Photo) lamp.  
The LCD screen display switches for photo recording mode, and the screen aspect ratio  
becomes 4:3.  
Press PHOTO lightly to adjust the focus, then press it fully.  
You can record photos also by touching  
on the LCD screen.  
Flashes Lights up  
When  
disappears, the photo is recorded.  
2U4S  
     
Tips  
See page 105 on the recordable number of photos.  
To change the image size, touch  
[PHOTO SETTINGS] category) a desired setting   
(MENU) [Show others] [ IMAGE SIZE] (under  
.
You cannot record photos while  
Your camcorder flashes automatically when there is insufficient ambient light. The flash does not work  
in the movie recording mode. You can change how your camcorder flashes by (MENU) [Show  
others] [FLASH MODE] (under [PHOTO SETTINGS] category) a desired setting   
is displayed.  
.
If you record photos using a flash with a conversion lens (sold separately), the shadow may be reflected.  
If white circular spots appear on photos  
This is caused by particles (dust, pollen, etc.) floating close to the lens. When they are  
accentuated by the camcorder’s flash, they appear as white circular spots.  
To reduce the white circular spots, light the room and shoot the subject without a flash.  
Subject  
Particles (dust,  
pollen, etc.) in  
the air  
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Useful functions for  
recording movies and  
photos  
The minimum possible distance between  
camcorder and subject while maintaining sharp  
focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide  
angle and about 80 cm (about 31 1/2 in.) for  
telephoto.  
You can magnify images up to 10 times using  
optical zooming, unless [ STEADYSHOT] is  
set to [ACTIVE].  
Zooming  
You can magnify images up to 14 times the  
original size with the power zoom lever.  
You can magnify images also with the  
on the LCD screen.  
/
Tips  
You can set [ DIGITAL ZOOM] (p. 79) if you  
want to zoom to a greater level.  
Recording better images  
automatically (INTELLIGENT AUTO)  
By pressing  
, you can record images  
using the INTELLIGENT AUTO function.  
When you turn the camcorder toward  
the subject, the camcorder records using  
the optimum combination of the three  
detection modes: Face detection, Scene  
detection and Camera-shake detection.  
When the camcorder detects the subject,  
the icons that correspond to the detected  
condition are displayed.  
*
**  
Tips  
In the default setting, INTELLIGENT AUTO  
is set to ON.  
Wider range of view  
(Wide angle)  
Close view  
(Telephoto)  
*
HDR-CX550/CX550V  
** HDR-XR550/XR550V  
Move the power zoom lever slightly for a  
slower zoom. Move it further for a faster  
zoom.  
Face detection  
Notes  
(Portrait), (Baby)  
Be sure to keep your finger on the power zoom  
lever. If you move your finger off the power  
zoom lever, the operation sound of the power  
zoom lever may also be recorded.  
The camcorder detects faces, and adjusts  
the focus, color, and exposure.  
You cannot change the zoom speed with the  
/
button on the LCD screen.  
2U6S  
     
[TELE MACRO]  
Scene detection  
[ STEADYSHOT]  
[ STEADYSHOT]  
[AUTO BACK LIGHT]  
[LOW LUX]  
[FACE DETECTION]  
[SMILE PRIORITY]  
(Backlight),  
(Twilight), (Spotlight), (Low light),  
(Macro)  
The camcorder selects the most effective  
setting automatically, depending on the  
scene.  
(Landscape),  
Camera-shake detection  
(Walk), (Tripod)  
The camcorder detects whether camera-  
shake occurs or not, and makes the  
optimum compensation.  
Notes  
Above settings are reset to the default settings  
when INTELLIGENT AUTO is set to ON.  
Selecting high definition image  
quality (HD) or standard image  
quality (STD)  
Notes  
The camcorder may not detect the expected  
scene or subject, depending on the recording  
conditions.  
You cannot use the flash depending on the  
scenes detected.  
You can select the desired image quality  
from the high definition image quality  
(HD) that enables you to record fine  
images, or the standard definition image  
quality (STD) that has more compatibility  
with various playback devices. Change the  
image quality according to the recording  
situation or the playback device.  
To cancel INTELLIGENT AUTO  
Press  
.
or the detection mode icons disappear,  
and you can record with the preferred  
settings.  
Also, the INTELLIGENT AUTO setting  
is canceled if you change the following  
settings:  
Touch  
others] [  
(MENU) [Show  
SET] (under  
/
[SHOOTING SET] category).  
NightShot  
[IRIS]  
[SHUTTER SPEED]  
[AE SHIFT]  
[WB SHIFT]  
Touch [  
HD QUALITY] to  
record high definition image  
quality (HD) images, or touch  
[GOLF SHOT]  
[
STD QUALITY] to record  
[SMTH SLW REC]  
[SCENE SELECTION]  
[WHITE BAL.]  
standard definition image quality  
(STD) images.  
[SPOT MTR/FCS]  
[SPOT METER]  
[SPOT FOCUS]  
Touch [YES]   
.
Recording image quality is changed.  
[EXPOSURE]  
[FOCUS]  
US  
27  
   
Tips  
Tips  
You can record, play, or edit movies in the  
selected image quality only. To record, play, or  
edit movies in another image quality, change  
this setting.  
Movies are recorded with AVCHD 1920   
1080/60i format when the FX or FH mode  
of the high definition image quality (HD) is  
selected. And when the HQ or LP mode of the  
high definition image quality (HD) is selected,  
movies are recorded with AVCHD 1440   
1080/60i format. Movies are recorded with  
MPEG-2 format when the standard image  
quality (STD) is selected.  
You can select the following high definition  
image quality (HD) recording mode. “24M”  
of [HD FX] is the maximum bit-rate, and the  
value other than of [HD FX], such as “17M,” is  
an average bit-rate.  
Selecting the recording mode  
You can select a recording mode to record  
the high definition image quality (HD)  
movies from 4 levels. The recording time  
of the media is changed depending on  
recording mode.  
[HD FX] (AVC HD 24M (FX))  
[HD FH] (AVC HD 17M (FH))  
[HD HQ] (AVC HD 9M (HQ)) (the default  
setting)  
Long time recording  
High quality  
recording  
[HD LP] (AVC HD 5M (LP))  
The recording mode of the standard image  
quality (STD) is limited to the following value.  
“9M” is an average bit-rate.  
[STD HQ] (STD 9M (HQ))  
“M,” such as in “24M,” means “Mbps.”  
Touch  
(MENU) [Show  
others] [ REC MODE] (under  
[SHOOTING SET] category).  
Prioritizing the subject  
Touch a desired setting.  
If you want to record high quality  
images with the high definition image  
quality (HD), select the FX or FH  
mode. If you want to record longer  
movies, select the LP mode.  
When [FACE DETECTION] (p. 77) is set  
to [ON] (the default setting), and several  
faces are detected, touch the face you want  
to record as priority. Focus/color/exposure  
are adjusted automatically for the selected  
face. Since the face you touched has priority  
also with the Smile Shutter function, your  
camcorder records a photo automatically  
when it detects the smiling face.  
Touch  
.
Notes  
You cannot create an AVCHD disc from a  
movie recorded with [HD FX] mode of  
[
REC MODE]. Save a movie recorded with  
[HD FX] mode onto Blu-ray discs or external  
storage devices (p. 57).  
2US  
     
Touch the face you want to record as  
priority.  
Notes  
Smiles may not be detected depending on  
recording conditions, subject conditions, and  
the setting of your camcorder.  
When [ REC MODE] is set to [HD FX], you  
cannot use the Smile Shutter function.  
Tips  
You can select the subject that has priority  
for face detection and smile detection with  
[PRIORITY SETTING] (p. 78). When you  
specify the priority subject by touching the  
detection frame on the LCD screen, the face  
with a double-lined frame has priority.  
If a smile is not detected, set the [SMILE  
SENSITIVITY] (p. 78).  
The double-lined frame is displayed.  
Touch the face with the double-lined frame  
again to cancel.  
Notes  
The face you touched may not be detected,  
depending on the surrounding brightness or  
hairstyle of the subject. In this case, touch the  
face again when you record.  
Recording sound with more  
presence (5.1ch surround  
recording)  
Tips  
The double-lined frame around a face targeted  
for possible smile detection shot turns orange.  
If the face you touched disappears from the  
LCD screen, the subject selected in [PRIORITY  
SETTING] (p. 78) has priority. If the face you  
touched returns to the screen, the face has  
priority.  
You can record Dolby Digital 5.1ch  
surround sound with the built-in  
microphone. Realistic sound can be enjoyed  
when playing a movie on devices that  
support 5.1ch surround sound.  
Capturing smiles automatically  
(Smile Shutter)  
Built-in microphone  
In the default setting, a photo is recorded  
automatically when the camcorder detects  
the smile of a person during movie  
recording. An orange frame appears around  
a face targeted for possible smile detection  
shot.  
Notes  
If you play back 5.1ch sound on your  
camcorder, 5.1ch sound is automatically  
converted and output in 2ch.  
US  
29  
     
To enjoy the 5.1ch surround sound of the  
movies recorded with high definition image  
quality (HD) in 5.1ch sound, you need an  
AVCHD format device compatible with 5.1ch  
surround.  
When you connect your camcorder with an  
HDMI cable (sold separately), the sound of high  
definition image quality (HD) movies recorded  
in 5.1ch sound is automatically output in 5.1ch  
sound. The sound of standard definition image  
quality (STD) movies is converted to 2ch.  
Recording in dark places  
(NightShot)  
When you press NIGHTSHOT, appears,  
and you can record images even in total  
darkness.  
Tips  
You can select the recording sound from [5.1ch  
SURROUND] (  
) or [2ch STEREO]  
(
) ([AUDIO MODE], p. 79).  
You can create a disc, which contains the  
movies recorded on your camcorder, on a  
computer using the supplied software “PMB.” If  
you play the disc on a 5.1ch surround system,  
you can enjoy realistic sound.  
Infrared port  
Press NIGHTSHOT again to cancel the  
NightShot function.  
Notes  
Recording high quality photos  
The NightShot function uses infrared light.  
Therefore, do not cover the infrared port with  
your fingers or other objects.  
Remove the conversion lens (sold separately).  
Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 74)  
when it is hard to focus automatically.  
Do not use the NightShot function in bright  
places. This may cause a malfunction.  
Set [LOW LUX] (p. 77) when you record photos  
with color images in dim light.  
during movie recording (Dual Rec)  
You can record photos during movie  
recording by pressing PHOTO.  
Notes  
You cannot use the flash during Dual Rec.  
may appear when the capacity of the  
recording media is not enough or when you  
record photos continuously. You cannot record  
photos while  
is displayed.  
When [ REC MODE] is set to [HD FX], you  
cannot use Dual Rec.  
Tips  
When the MODE lamp is set to  
(Movie), the  
size of photos becomes [  
or [6.2M] (4:3).  
8.3M] (16:9 wide)  
You can record photos during recording  
standby in the same way as when the (Photo)  
lamp is turned on.  
U0S  
     
Recording in mirror mode  
Press MANUAL to activate the  
manual adjustment mode.  
Pressing MANUAL switches the  
setting mode between automatic and  
manual.  
Rotate the MANUAL dial to adjust  
the focus.  
Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the  
camcorder (), then rotate it 180 degrees  
to the lens side ().  
Items you can assign to the MANUAL  
dial  
[FOCUS] ... p. 74  
Tips  
A mirror-image of the subject appears on the  
LCD screen, but the image will be normal when  
recorded.  
[EXPOSURE] ... p. 73  
[IRIS] ... Shoots images with the IRIS priority  
mode. If you adjust the IRIS, you can sharpen  
the subject with its background blurred or  
sharpen the whole image.  
Controlling the image settings  
manually with the MANUAL dial  
[SHUTTER SPEED] ... Shoots images with  
the SHUTTER SPEED priority mode. When  
you shoot a moving subject at a higher shutter  
speed, it appears as if frozen on the image. At  
a lower shutter speed, the subject appears as if  
it flowing.  
You can assign 1 menu item you use often  
to the MANUAL dial.  
Since the focus adjustment is assigned to  
the MANUAL dial in the default settings,  
the operation below is described as  
adjusting the focus using the dial.  
[AE SHIFT] ... p. 74  
[WB SHIFT] ... p. 75  
MANUAL button  
To assign the menu item to the  
MANUAL dial  
Press and hold MANUAL down for a  
few seconds.  
MANUAL dial  
Rotate the MANUAL dial and select the  
item to be assigned.  
Press MANUAL.  
US  
ꢀ1  
           
Notes  
Manual settings will be retained even if you  
change the assigned item of the MANUAL dial.  
However, if you set [EXPOSURE] after setting  
[AE SHIFT] manually, [EXPOSURE] will  
override [AE SHIFT].  
If you set either one of [EXPOSURE], [IRIS],  
or [SHUTTER SPEED], the settings of other 2  
items are canceled.  
If you select [RESET] in step , all the items  
adjusted manually are reset to the default  
settings.  
Tips  
You can also assign menu items to the  
MANUAL dial by touching  
(MENU)   
[Show others] [OTHER REC SET] (under  
[SHOOTING SET] category) [DIAL  
SETTING].  
Even if you open the IRIS wider (a smaller  
F-stop) than F3.4 when you set the zoom lever  
to the W (Wide angle) side, the IRIS is reset  
to F3.4 as you move the zoom lever to the T  
(Telephoto) side.  
If you adjust the IRIS, the in-focus range in  
front of and behind the focused subject is  
changed. When you open the IRIS wider (a  
smaller F-stop), the in-focus range becomes  
narrower, and when you close the IRIS  
narrower (a larger F-stop), the in-focus range  
becomes wider. You can set the IRIS to a  
preferred value depending on the shooting  
scenes.  
When you record images under a fluorescent  
lamp, sodium lamp, or mercury lamp,  
horizontal stripes may appear, flicker may  
occur, or color may change. In this case, change  
the shutter speed according to the power supply  
frequency in your region.  
U2S  
Playback  
on the camcorder  
In the default setting, movies and photos that are recorded on the following recording media  
are played.  
HDR-CX550/CX550V: Internal memory  
HDR-XR550/XR550V: Internal hard disk  
Tips  
To change the recording media, see page 18.  
Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.  
1
Your camcorder is turned on and the lens cover is opened.  
To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is already open, press POWER (p.15).  
Press  
(VIEW IMAGES).  
2
The VISUAL INDEX screen appears after some seconds.  
You can display the VISUAL INDEX screen also by touching  
screen.  
(VIEW IMAGES) on the LCD  
Touch  
or  
() a desired movie () to playback a movie.  
3
Touch the (Photo) () a desired photo () to view a photo.  
Movies are displayed and sorted by recording date.  
Switches operating button display.  
To MENU screen  
Displays the screen to select the index type ([DATE INDEX]/[ MAP] (HDR-  
CX550V/XR550V)/[ FILM ROLL]/[ FACE]) (p. 36, 54, 36, 37).  
US  
ꢀꢀ  
     
/
/
: Displays movies recorded on the previous/next date.*  
: Displays the previous/next movie.  
Returns to the recording screen.  
* is displayed when is touched.  
appears when the standard definition image quality (STD) movie is selected with [  
SET] (p. 27).  
/
You can scroll the display by touching and dragging or .  
appears with the movie or photo that was most recently played or recorded. If you touch the  
movie or photo with , you can continue playback from the previous time. (appears on the  
photo recorded on the memory card.)  
Playing movies  
Your camcorder starts playing the selected movie.  
Volume adjustment  
Previous  
Next  
OPTION  
To stop  
To fast-forward  
To pause/play  
To fast-reverse  
Notes  
You may not be able to play back the images with other devices than camcorder.  
Tips  
When playback from the selected movie reaches the last movie, the screen returns to the INDEX screen.  
Touch during pause to play back movies slowly.  
As you repeat touching during playback, movies are played as fast as about 5 times   
/
/
about 10 times about 30 times about 60 times.  
You can also display the VISUAL INDEX by touching  
(MENU) [Show others] [VISUAL  
INDEX] (under  
[PLAYBACK] category).  
The recording date, time, and shooting conditions , and coordinates (HDR-CX550V/XR550V) are  
recorded automatically during recording. This information is not displayed during recording, but you can  
display it during playback by touching  
(MENU) [Show others] [PLAYBACK SET] (under  
[PLAYBACK] category) [DATA CODE] a desired setting   
.
In the default setting, a protected demonstration movie is pre-recorded.  
U4S  
       
To adjust the sound volume of movies  
While playing back movies, touch  
adjust with  
/
.
You can also adjust the sound volume by using  
/
in the OPTION MENU.  
Viewing photos  
Your camcorder displays the selected photo.  
To start/stop slide  
show  
Previous  
Next  
OPTION MENU  
To the VISUAL INDEX  
screen  
Tips  
When viewing photos recorded on the memory card,  
(playback folder) appears on the screen.  
US  
ꢀ5  
       
Useful functions for  
playing movies and  
photos  
Tips  
You can also display Date Index by touching  
(MENU) [Show others] [VIEW  
IMAGES] (under  
[DATE INDEX].  
On the Film Roll Index/Face Index screen, you  
can display the Date Index by touching the date  
in the upper right corner of the screen.  
[PLAYBACK] category)  
Searching for desired images by  
date (Date Index)  
You can search for desired images by date  
efficiently.  
Notes  
Searching for desired scene by  
pinpoint (Film Roll Index)  
You cannot use the Date Index function for  
photos on the memory card.  
Movies can be divided by a set time and the  
first scene of each division is displayed on  
the INDEX screen. You can start playing  
back a movie from the selected thumbnail.  
Press  
(VIEW IMAGES).  
The VISUAL INDEX screen appears.  
Touch  
[DATE INDEX].  
Press  
(VIEW IMAGES).  
Returns to the VISUAL INDEX screen  
The VISUAL INDEX screen appears.  
Touch  
[ FILM ROLL].  
Returns to the VISUAL INDEX screen  
Touch  
/
to select the date  
of the desired image, then touch  
.
Sets the interval at which to create  
thumbnails of scenes in a movie.  
Touch  
desired movie.  
/
to select the  
The images of the selected date are  
displayed on the VISUAL INDEX  
screen.  
Touch  
/
to search for the  
desired scene, then touch the  
scene you want to play back.  
Playback starts from the selected  
scene.  
U6S  
     
Tips  
Notes  
You can also display the Film Roll Index by  
Faces may not be detected depending on  
recording conditions.  
Example: People wearing glasses or hats, or who  
do not face towards the camera.  
touching  
[VIEW IMAGES] (under  
(MENU) [Show others]   
[PLAYBACK]  
category) [ FILM ROLL].  
Make sure that you set [FACE DETECTION]  
to [ON] (p. 77) (the default setting) prior to  
recording, to search movies on the Face Index.  
Searching for desired scene by face  
(Face Index)  
Tips  
The face images detected or touched during  
movie recording are displayed on the  
INDEX screen.  
You can play back the movie from the  
selected face image.  
You can also display the Face Index by touching  
(MENU) [Show others] [VIEW  
IMAGES] (under  
[PLAYBACK] category)  
[ FACE].  
Playing back a digest of your  
movies (Highlight Playback)  
Press  
(VIEW IMAGES).  
Your camcorder selects Highlight Playback  
scenes at random, puts them together, and  
plays them back as a digest of your high  
definition image quality (HD) movies  
with music and visual effects. Scenes  
for Highlight Playback differ each time  
Highlight Playback is selected. You can save  
the desired Highlight Playback scenario.  
The VISUAL INDEX screen appears.  
Touch  
[ FACE].  
Returns to the VISUAL INDEX screen  
Touch  
(MENU) [Show  
others] [ HIGHLIGHT] (under  
[PLAYBACK] category).  
Touch  
desired movie.  
/
to select the  
The settings for Highlight Playback appear.  
The Highlight Playback starts after several  
seconds.  
Touch  
/
to search for the  
Returns to the VISUAL INDEX screen  
desired face image, then touch  
the desired face image to view  
the scene.  
Playback starts from the beginning of  
the scene with the selected face image.  
US  
ꢀ7  
     
If you change the settings for Highlight  
Playback, Highlight Playback scenes are  
re-selected.  
If you change [MUSIC] after you select  
[THEME], the music will be selected  
automatically for the theme from next time.  
To stop Highlight Playback  
To pause, touch  
To stop, touch  
.
or  
.
To change the settings for Highlight  
Playback  
After touching [ HIGHLIGHT], touch  
[HIGHLIGHT SET] before the Highlight  
To save a scenario for Highlight  
Playback  
Playback starts. You can set following items.  
Touch  
(OPTION) [ SCENARIO  
[PLAYBACK RANGE]  
SAVE] [YES] during Highlight  
Playback.  
Set the range of movies to be played by selecting  
the from and to date, then touch  
.
If no range is set, your camcorder plays the  
movies starting from those of the date displayed  
on the VISUAL INDEX screen until the most  
recently recorded movie.  
[THEME]  
Select one of the following: [SIMPLE],  
[NOSTALGIC], [STYLISH], [ACTIVE] (the  
default setting)  
The music category is selected automatically  
according to the theme.  
You can save a maximum of 8 scenarios.  
If 8 scenarios have already been saved,  
[HIGHLIGHT SCENARIO full. HIGHLIGHT  
SCENARIOS may be erased when the  
SCENARIO ERASE button is pressed.]  
appears on the LCD screen. Touch  
[MUSIC]  
From the music category, you can add one or  
more of the following: [MUSIC1] - [MUSIC4]  
(the default setting), [MUSIC5] - [MUSIC8]  
(the desired music*).  
[
SCENARIO ERASE] to delete unwanted  
scenarios.  
To play back a saved Highlight Playback  
scenario  
* To change music files, for details, see page 39.  
[AUDIO MIX]  
The original sound is played back with the  
music.  
Touch  
(MENU) [Show others]   
[
SCENARIO] (under  
[PLAYBACK]  
Touch  
/
to adjust the balance between  
category) and select a scenario you want to  
the original sound and the music.  
[SHUFFLE]  
play back with  
/
and touch  
.
To play back movies in random order, select  
[ON].  
Notes  
If movies included in the Highlight Playback  
scenario you are going to play are deleted or  
divided, the scenario is played back with those  
movies skipped.  
Notes  
The [PLAYBACK RANGE] setting is cleared  
when the Highlight Playback stops.  
To erase the saved Highlight Playback  
scenario  
Tips  
You can change the settings for Highlight  
Playback during Highlight Playback by  
touching  
Touch  
(MENU) [Show others]   
(OPTION).  
[
SCENARIO ERASE] (under  
[EDIT]  
US  
       
category) [ERASE] and select a scenario  
Using PB zoom with photos  
you want to erase with  
/
, then touch  
You can magnify photos from about 1.1 to 5  
times the original size.  
[YES]   
To erase all scenarios, touch  
.
(MENU)  
[Show others] [ SCENARIO ERASE]  
(under [EDIT] category) [ERASE ALL]  
Magnification can be adjusted with the  
power zoom lever.  
[YES] [YES]   
.
HDR-CX550/  
HDR-XR550/  
XR550V  
You can erase also by touching  
(OPTION) during Highlight Scenario Playback  
or on the scenario selection screen.  
CX550V  
To change music files  
You can transfer music files from audio CDs  
or MP3 files to your camcorder, and play them  
with Highlight Playback. To transfer music files,  
you need to install the supplied software “PMB”  
on your computer. Turn on your camcorder and  
computer, connect them with the supplied USB  
cable, then touch [DOWNLOAD MUSIC] on  
the camcorder screen. (If the [USB SELECT]  
screen does not appear, touch  
(MENU)  
[Show others] [MUSIC TOOL] (under  
[OTHERS] category) [DOWNLOAD  
MUSIC]).  
After the music file is transferred to the  
camcorder, if you cannot play the music,  
the music file may be damaged. Delete the  
Play back the photo you want to  
magnify.  
music file by touching  
(MENU)   
Magnify the photo with T  
(Telephoto).  
[Show others] [MUSIC TOOL] (under  
[OTHERS] category) [EMPTY MUSIC],  
then transfer the music file again. If you delete  
music files using [EMPTY MUSIC], the music  
data recorded on your camcorder at the factory  
will be deleted too. In this case, you can restore  
them using Music Transfer, a software installed  
together with “PMB.To start Music Transfer,  
click [Start] [All Programs] [PMB]  
[PMB Launcher] [Export] [Music  
Transfer]. For operating instructions, see  
[Music Transfer] help.  
The screen is framed.  
Touch the screen at the point you  
want to display in the center of  
the displayed frame.  
The point where you touched on the  
screen is moved to the center of the  
display frame.  
US  
ꢀ9  
     
Adjust the magnification with W  
(Wide angle)/T (Telephoto).  
To cancel, touch  
.
Playing back a series of photos  
(Slide show)  
Touch  
on the photo playback  
screen.  
The slide show begins from the selected  
photo.  
To stop the slide show  
Touch  
.
To restart the slide show  
Touch  
again.  
Notes  
You cannot operate playback zoom during slide  
show.  
Tips  
You can set continuous slide show playback  
by selecting  
(OPTION)   
tab   
[SLIDE SHOW SET] while playing photos. The  
default setting is [ON] (continuous playback).  
4U0S  
   
Playing images on a TV  
If you touch [HINT], you can see tips for  
the connection or change the settings of  
your camcorder.  
Connection methods and the image  
quality (high definition (HD) or standard  
definition (STD)) viewed on the TV screen  
differ depending on what type of TV is  
connected, and the connectors used.  
Connecting a TV using [TV  
CONNECT Guide]  
Input connectors  
on the TV  
Connectors on your  
camcorder  
You can connect your camcorder to the TV  
easily following the instructions displayed  
on the LCD screen, [TV CONNECT  
Guide].  
Connect your camcorder to the  
TV.  
HDMI OUT jack  
Switch the input on the TV to the  
connected jack.  
Refer to the instruction manuals of the TV.  
Turn on your camcorder, and  
touch  
(MENU) [Show  
others] [TV CONNECT Guide]  
(under [OTHERS] category) on  
the LCD screen.  
Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the power  
source (p. 14).  
A/V Remote  
Connector  
Touch [High Definition TV].  
Touch  
[YES].  
When the A/V connecting cable is used  
to output movies, movies are output with  
standard definition image quality (STD).  
Touch  
/
to select the input  
Play back movies and photos on  
your camcorder (p. 33).  
jack of your TV, then touch  
.
The connection medhod is displayed.  
US  
41  
       
Types of connection cables between  
your camcorder and TV  
Connecting to a high definition TV  
When connecting to your TV via a VCR  
Connect your camcorder to the LINE IN input  
on the VCR using the A/V connecting cable. Set  
the input selector on the VCR to LINE (VIDEO  
1, VIDEO 2, etc.).  
Component A/V Cable (supplied)  
To set the aspect ratio according to the  
connected TV (16:9/4:3)  
Set [TV TYPE] to [16:9] or [4:3] according to  
(Green) Y  
(Blue)PB/CB  
(Red)PR/CR  
your TV (p. 87).  
(White)  
(Red)  
When your TV is monaural (When your  
TV has only one audio input jack)  
HDMI Cable (sold separately)  
Connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting  
cable to the video input jack and connect the  
white (left channel) or red (right channel) plug  
to the audio input jack of your TV or VCR.  
When you connect with component  
A/V cable  
If you connect only component video plugs,  
audio signals are not output. Connect the white  
and red plugs to output audio signals.  
Connecting to a non-high-definition 16:9 (wide) or 4:ꢀ  
TV  
Component A/V Cable (supplied)  
When you connect with HDMI cable  
(Green) Y  
(Blue)PB/CB  
(Red)PR/CR  
Use an HDMI cable with the HDMI logo.  
Use an HDMI mini connector on one end  
(for the camcorder), and a plug suitable for  
connecting your TV on the other end.  
Copyright-protected images are not output  
from the HDMI OUT jack of your camcorder.  
Some TVs may not function correctly (e.g., no  
sound or image) with this connection.  
Do not connect the camcorder HDMI OUT  
jack to an external device HDMI OUT jack, as  
malfunction may result.  
(White)  
(Red)  
A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (sold  
separately)  
(White)  
(Red)  
When the connected device is compatible  
with 5.1ch surround sound, high definition  
image quality (HD) movies are output in  
5.1ch surround sound automatically. Standard  
definition image quality (STD) movies are  
converted to 2ch sound.  
(Yellow)  
A/V connecting cable (supplied)  
(Yellow)  
(White)  
(Red)  
4U2S  
   
down/left/right/enter buttons of the remote  
commander of your TV.  
When you connect with A/V  
connecting cable with S VIDEO  
When the S VIDEO plug (S VIDEO channel)  
is connected, audio signals are not output. To  
output audio signals, connect the white and red  
plugs to the audio input jack of your TV.  
This connection produces higher resolution  
images compared with the A/V connecting  
cable.  
Notes  
There may be some operations you cannot do  
with the remote commander.  
To set your camcorder, touch  
[Show others] [OTHER SETTINGS]  
(under [GENERAL SET] category)   
[CTRL FOR HDMI] [ON] (the default  
setting)   
(MENU)  
.
Notes  
Also set your TV. Refer to the instruction  
manual of the TV for details.  
The operation of “BRAVIASync differs  
according to each model of BRAVIA. Refer to  
the instruction manual of your TV for details.  
When you play back standard definition image  
quality (STD) movies on a 4:3 TV that is not  
compatible with the 16:9 signal, record movies  
with 4:3 aspect ratio. Touch  
(MENU)  
[Show others] [OTHER REC SET]  
(under  
[SHOOTING SET] category)   
Tips  
[
WIDE SELECT] [4:3]   
If you turn off the TV, your camcorder is turned  
off simultaneously.  
Tips  
If you connect your camcorder to the TV using  
more than one type of cable to output images,  
the order of priority of the TV input jacks is as  
follows:  
HDMI component S VIDEO video  
HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface)  
is an interface to send both video/audio signals.  
The HDMI OUT jack outputs high quality  
images and digital audio.  
Using “BRAVIASync  
You can operate your camcorder with  
the remote commander of your TV by  
connecting your camcorder to a “BRAVIA”  
Sync compatible TV launched in 2008 or  
later with the HDMI cable.  
You can operate the menu of your  
camcorder by pressing the SYNC MENU  
button of the remote commander of your  
TV. You can display index screens such  
as VISUAL INDEX, play selected movies  
or display selected photos by pressing up/  
US  
4ꢀ  
     
Making good use of your camcorder  
Deleting movies and  
photos  
You can free media space by deleting  
3
4
Touch and display the mark  
on the movies or photos to be  
deleted.  
movies and photos from recording media.  
Notes  
You cannot restore images once they are  
deleted. Save important movies and photos in  
advance.  
Do not remove the battery pack or the AC  
Adaptor from your camcorder while deleting  
the images. It may damage the recording media.  
Do not eject memory card while deleting  
images from the memory card.  
You cannot delete protected movies and photos.  
Undo the protection of the movies and photos  
to delete them, before you try to delete them  
The demonstration movie on your camcorder  
is protected.  
Press and hold the image down on the  
LCD screen to confirm the image. Touch  
to return to the previous screen.  
Touch  
[YES]   
.
If the deleted movie is included in the Playlist  
(p. 50), the movie added to the Playlist is  
deleted also from the Playlist.  
If the deleted movie is included in the saved  
Highlight Playback scenario (p. 38), the movie  
is also deleted from the scenario.  
To delete all movies/photos at one time  
In step 2, touch [ DELETE]   
[
DELETE ALL]/[  
DELETE ALL]  
[YES] [YES]   
.
To delete all photos at one time, touch  
DELETE] [ DELETE ALL] [YES]  
[YES]   
Tips  
[
You can delete an image on the playback screen  
.
from  
OPTION MENU.  
To delete all images recorded in the recording  
media, and recover all the recordable space of  
the media, format the media (p. 85).  
Reduced-size images which enable you to view  
many images at the same time on an index  
screen are called “thumbnails.”  
To delete all the movies/photos  
recorded on the same day at one time  
Notes  
You cannot delete photos on memory card by  
recording date.  
In step 2, touch [ DELETE]   
[
DELETE by date]/[  
DELETE  
1
2
Touch  
(MENU) [Show  
by date].  
others] [DELETE] (under  
[EDIT] category).  
To delete all photos on the same day at one  
time, touch [ DELETE] [ DELETE  
by date].  
To delete movies, touch  
[
[
DELETE] [  
DELETE].  
DELETE] or  
To delete photos, touch [ DELETE]   
DELETE].  
[
4U4S  
     
Protecting recorded  
movies and photos  
(Protect)  
Touch  
date of the desired movies/photos, then  
touch  
/
to select the recording  
Protect movies and photos to avoid deleting  
them by mistake.  
.
Touch the image on the LCD screen to  
Tips  
confirm the image. Touch  
to the previous screen.  
to return  
You can protect movies and photos on the  
playback screen from  
OPTION MENU.  
Touch [YES]   
.
1
Touch  
(MENU) [Show  
others] [PROTECT] (under  
[EDIT] category).  
2
3
To protect movies, touch  
[
[
PROTECT]   
PROTECT]/[  
PROTECT].  
To protect photos, touch [ PROTECT]  
[ PROTECT].  
Touch the movies and photos to  
be protected.  
is displayed on the selected images.  
Press and hold the image down on the  
LCD screen to confirm the image. Touch  
to return to the previous screen.  
4
Touch  
[YES]   
.
To undo the protection of movies and  
photos  
Touch the movie or photo marked with   
in step 3.  
disappears.  
US  
45  
   
Dividing a movie  
To protect all the movies and photos  
recorded on the same day at one time  
1
Touch  
(MENU) [Show  
others] [ DIVIDE] (under  
[EDIT] category).  
Notes  
You cannot select [ PRT. by date] for still  
images recorded on the memory card.  
In step 2, touch [ PROTECT]   
2
3
Touch the movie to be divided.  
[
PRT. by date]/[  
PRT. by date].  
The selected movie starts playback.  
To protect all photos on the same day at  
one time, touch [ PROTECT]   
[
PRT. by date].  
Touch  
at the point where  
you want to divide the movie into  
scenes.  
The movie pauses. Play and pause  
toggles as you press  
.
Touch  
date of the desired movies/photos, then  
touch  
/
to select the recording  
Adjusts the dividing point with more  
precision after you selected the dividing  
.
point with  
.
Touch the image on the LCD screen to  
confirm the image. Touch  
to the previous screen.  
to return  
Touch [PROTECT]   
.
To undo the protection of movies and  
photos recorded on the same day at  
one time  
Returns to the beginning of the selected  
movie  
In step above, select the recording date  
of the desired movies/photos, then touch  
[UNPROTECT]   
4
Touch  
[YES]   
.
.
Notes  
You cannot restore movies once they are  
divided.  
You cannot divide protected movie. Undo the  
protection of the movie to divide it, before you  
try to divide it (p. 45).  
4U6S  
   
Capturing a photo  
from a movie  
Do not remove the battery pack or the AC  
Adaptor from your camcorder while dividing  
the movie. It may damage the recording media.  
Also, do not eject the memory card while  
dividing movies on the memory card.  
1
Touch  
others] [PHOTO CAPTURE]  
(under [EDIT] category).  
(MENU) [Show  
A slight difference may occur from the point  
The [PHOTO CAPTURE] screen  
appears.  
where you touch  
and the actual dividing  
point, as your camcorder selects the dividing  
point based on about half-second increments.  
If you divide the original movie, the movie  
added to the Playlist will also be divided.  
If the divided movie is included in the saved  
Highlight Playback scenario (p. 38), the movie  
is deleted from the scenario.  
Only simple editing is available on the  
camcorder. Use the supplied software “PMB”  
for more advanced editing.  
2
3
Touch the movie to be captured.  
The selected movie starts playback.  
Touch  
at the point where  
you want to capture.  
The movie pauses. Play and pause  
toggles as you press  
.
Tips  
You can divide a movie on the playback screen  
from  
OPTION MENU.  
Adjust the capturing point with more  
precision after you selected the point with  
.
Returns to the beginning of the selected  
movie  
4
Touch  
.
When capturing is finished, the screen  
returns to pause.  
The captured photo is saved on the  
recording media selected in [PHOTO  
MEDIA SET] (p. 18).  
To continue capturing, touch  
repeat steps from step 3.  
, then  
To capture a photo from another movie,  
touch , then repeat steps from step 2.  
US  
47  
   
Dubbing/copying  
movies and photos  
from the internal  
recording media to  
memory card  
5
Touch  
.
Notes  
Dubbing movies  
The image size is fixed depending on the image  
quality of the movie:  
You can dub movies recorded on the  
internal recording media of your camcorder  
to memory card.  
[  
(HD)  
[  
2.1M] with high definition image quality  
0.2M] in 16:9 (wide) with standard  
Insert memory card into your camcorder  
before the operation.  
definition image quality (STD)  
[VGA(0.3M)] in 4:3 with standard definition  
image quality (STD)  
The recording medium where you want to save  
photos should have enough free space.  
The recording date and time of captured photos  
is the same as the recording date and time of  
the movies.  
If the movie you are capturing from has no data  
code, the recording date and time of the photo  
will be the date and time you captured from  
the movie.  
Notes  
When you record a movie on the memory card  
for the first time, create the image database file  
by touching  
[REPAIR IMG.DB F.] (under  
(MENU) [Show others]  
[MANAGE  
MEDIA] category) [MEMORY CARD].  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet  
(wall socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor to  
prevent your camcorder from running out of  
power during dubbing.  
Tips  
The original movie will not be deleted after  
dubbing.  
All included images in a Playlist will be dubbed.  
The images recorded by this camcorder and  
stored onto the recording media are called  
“original.”  
Touch  
(MENU) [Show  
others] [MOVIE DUB] (under  
[EDIT] category).  
The [MOVIE DUB] screen appears.  
4US  
   
Touch the type of dubbing.  
Touch  
[YES]   
.
[DUB by select]: To select movies and  
dub  
[DUB by date]: To dub all movies of a  
specified date  
Tips  
[
DUB ALL]: To dub the high  
definition image quality (HD) Playlist  
DUB ALL]: To dub the standard  
To check the dubbed movies after dubbing is  
finished, select [MEMORY CARD] on [MOVIE  
MEDIA SET] and play them back (p. 18).  
[
definition image quality (STD) Playlist  
When you select the Playlist as the  
source of dubbing, follow the on-screen  
instructions to dub the Playlist.  
Copying photos  
You can copy photos from the internal  
recording media of the camcorder to  
memory card.  
Select the movie to be dubbed.  
Insert a memory card into your camcorder  
before the operation.  
[DUB by select]: Touch the movie to be  
dubbed, and mark it with . You can  
select multiple movies.  
Notes  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet  
(wall socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor to  
prevent your camcorder from running out of  
power during copying.  
Touch  
(MENU) [Show  
others] [PHOTO COPY] (under  
Remaining capacity of the  
memory card  
[EDIT] category).  
The [PHOTO COPY] screen appears.  
Press and hold the image down on the  
LCD screen to confirm the image. Touch  
to return to the previous screen.  
[DUB by date]: Select the recording  
date of the movie to be dubbed, then  
touch  
dates.  
. You cannot select multiple  
Touch the type of copying.  
[COPY by select]: To copy selected  
photos  
[COPY by date]: To copy all photos of  
a specified date  
US  
49  
             
Using the Playlist of  
movies  
The Playlist is a list showing thumbnails of  
the movies that you have selected.  
The original movies are not changed even  
if you edit or erase the movies added to the  
Playlist.  
Select the photo to be copied.  
[COPY by select]: Touch the photo to  
be copied, and mark with . You can  
select multiple photos.  
Creating the Playlist  
Notes  
High definition image quality (HD) movies and  
standard definition image quality (STD) movies  
are added to an individual Playlist.  
Press and hold the image down on the  
screen to confirm the image. Touch  
to return to the previous screen.  
Touch  
(MENU) [Show  
[COPY by date]: Select the recording  
date of the photo to be copied, then  
others] [PLAYLIST EDIT]  
(under  
Touch [  
[EDIT] category).  
ADD] or [ ADD].  
touch  
dates.  
. You cannot select multiple  
Touch the movie to be added to  
the Playlist.  
Touch  
[YES]   
.
The selected movie is marked with  
Press and hold the image down on the  
LCD screen to confirm the image. Touch  
to return to the previous screen.  
.
Tips  
To check the copied photos after copying  
is finished, select [MEMORY CARD] on  
[PHOTO MEDIA SET] and play them back  
Touch  
[YES]   
.
5U0S  
     
To add all the movies recorded on the  
same day at one time  
Playing the Playlist  
Touch (MENU) [Show  
In step 2, touch [  
ADD by date].  
ADD by date]/  
[
others] [PLAYLIST] (under  
[PLAYBACK] category).  
The recording dates of movies are  
displayed on the screen.  
Movies added to the Playlist appear.  
Touch  
/
to select the recording  
date of the desired movie, then touch  
.
Touch the movie you want to  
play back.  
Touch the image on the LCD screen to  
confirm the image. Touch  
to the previous screen.  
Touch [YES]   
to return  
The Playlist is played back from the  
selected movie to the end, then the  
screen returns to the Playlist screen.  
.
Notes  
Do not remove the battery pack or the AC  
Adaptor from your camcorder while adding  
movies to the Playlist. It may damage the  
recording media. Also, do not eject the memory  
card while editing movies on the memory card.  
You cannot add photos to the Playlist.  
You cannot create a Playlist which contains  
both high definition image quality (HD) movies  
and standard definition image quality (STD)  
movies.  
To erase unnecessary movies from the  
Playlist  
Touch  
[PLAYLIST EDIT] (under  
[EDIT] category).  
Touch [ ERASE]/[  
To erase all the movies from the Playlist,  
touch [ ERASE ALL]/[ ERASE  
(MENU) [Show others]  
ERASE].  
ALL] [YES] [YES]   
Tips  
.
You can add a maximum of 999 high definition  
image quality (HD) movies, or 99 standard  
definition image quality (STD) movies to the  
Playlist.  
Select the movie to be erased from the  
list.  
You can add a movie on the playback screen  
or the Playlist screen by touching  
(OPTION).  
The selected movie is marked with  
Press and hold the image down on the  
.
LCD screen to confirm the image. Touch  
to return to the previous screen.  
US  
51  
       
Using the GPS function  
(HDR-CX550V/XR550V)  
What is GPS?  
Touch  
[YES]   
.
The GPS (Global Positioning System) is a  
system that calculates geographical location  
from highly accurate US space satellites.  
This system allows you to pinpoint your  
exact location on the earth.  
The following function is available if you  
use the GPS function.  
Your location  
You can display the current location on  
a map.  
Tips  
Even if you erase a movie from a Playlist, the  
original movie is not deleted.  
To change the order within the Playlist  
Touch  
[PLAYLIST EDIT] (under  
[EDIT] category).  
Touch [ MOVE]/[  
(MENU) [Show others]  
MOVE].  
Select the movie to be moved.  
Map Index  
You can find a movie or photo on a map  
by its recording location.  
COORDINATES  
You can display the coordinate  
information during playback.  
AUTO CLOCK ADJ/AUTO AREA ADJ  
Your camcorder adjusts the clock  
and the time difference on each area  
automatically.  
The selected movie is marked with  
Touch the image on the LCD screen to  
.
confirm the image. Touch  
to the previous screen.  
to return  
Touch  
.
Select the destination with  
/
.
When you conduct the following operations  
for the first time, a message appears to  
confirm whether you assent with the license  
agreement of the map data.  
Touch  
(
YOUR LOCATION) on  
the recording screen.  
Touch [ MAP] on the playback  
screen.  
Destination bar  
Touch  
[YES]   
You can use the map data by touching  
[YES] on the screen after assenting to the  
supplied license agreement.  
You cannot use the map data when you  
touch [NO]. However, when you conduct  
the above operations for the second time,  
the same message will appear on the screen,  
and you can use the map data by touching  
[YES].  
.
Tips  
When you select multiple movies, the movies  
are moved following the order appearing in the  
Playlist.  
5U2S  
     
The GPS switch is set to ON in the default  
setting. Movies and photos will be recorded  
with location information. When your  
camcorder cannot acquire the location  
information, the last acquired location  
information is recorded. If you do not want to  
record location information, set the GPS switch  
to OFF.  
If the camcorder cannot track a satellite even  
after waiting for several minutes, you are in  
a difficult place to receive a GPS signal. Start  
recording in the current state or move to a place  
that is easier receive radio signals.  
Setting the GPS function  
Set the GPS switch to ON (  
appears on  
the LCD screen). Your camcorder starts  
trying to triangulate. When your camcorder  
triangulates successfully, it will record the  
location information at the time movies  
and photos were recorded.  
Notes  
Use the GPS function in outdoors. The  
camcorder may not be able to receive radio  
signals in places where radio signals are  
blocked or reflected, such as indoors or a place  
surrounded by buildings or trees.  
The indicator changes according to the strength  
of GPS signal reception.  
Even if the camcorder is turned off, the GPS  
function is working as long as the GPS switch  
is set to ON. Make sure that the GPS switch  
is set to OFF during takeoff and landing of an  
airplane.  
The dots in the lower right of  
show GPS  
GPS  
indicators  
Triangulating status  
GPS reception status  
signal quantity. When fewer than 3 dots are  
displayed, the GPS signal is not stable enough  
to triangulate in the current environment. Move  
to an open area first, and turn the GPS switch to  
OFF and ON again, or turn the power of your  
camcorder off and on.  
The GPS switch is  
set to OFF, or the  
GPS receiver is not  
functioning normally.  
No  
indicator  
Function off  
Your camcorder  
When search of satellite signal is unsuccessful  
after a few minutes of searching, your  
cannot find a GPS  
signal, therefore, it  
cannot triangulate.  
Move to an open area  
and turn on the GPS  
switch again.  
Your camcorder is  
searching for a GPS  
satellite signal. It may  
take several minutes  
to complete the  
triangulation.  
Your camcorder  
is receiving a GPS  
signal, and can acquire  
location information.  
Unable to  
triangulate  
camcorder quits searching for a satellite signal.  
If your camcorder continues to display  
(triangulation process not started) even after  
moved to an open area, turn the GPS switch to  
OFF and ON again, or turn the power of your  
camcorder off and on.  
Processing time can be shortened by entering  
GPS assist data in the “GPS Support Tool” that  
is installed together with the supplied software  
“PMB.  
To start “GPS Support Tool” Click [Start]   
[All Programs] [PMB] [PMB Launcher]  
[GPS] [GPS Support Tool]. See the “GPS  
Support Tool” help on the operation.  
Processing  
Triangulating  
Triangulating  
Your camcorder is  
receiving a strong GPS  
signal, and can acquire  
location information.  
US  
5ꢀ  
   
shows the default setting location or a location  
acquired previously.  
If you hold a certain point, the map keeps  
scrolling.  
Acquiring the current location  
information  
You can display the current location on a  
map. Set the GPS switch to ON so that your  
camcorder can acquire the current location  
information.  
You can also display the current location by  
touching  
(MENU) [Show others]   
[
YOUR LOCATION] (under [OTHERS]  
category).  
Searching for a desired scene by  
recording location (Map Index)  
Touch  
the recording screen.  
(
YOUR LOCATION) on  
Where movies and photos were recorded is  
marked on a map. You can select a movie or  
photo by recording location.  
You can use the Map Index only with movies  
and photos having location information that  
was recorded with the GPS switch set to ON.  
You cannot use the Map Index with photos  
recorded on memory card.  
The current location is displayed and  
marked at the center of the LCD screen. If  
you touch a certain point on the screen, the  
map shows the area with that point at the  
center.  
Press  
(VIEW IMAGES).  
The VISUAL INDEX screen appears.  
Touch  
(your location) at the bottom  
left of the LCD screen to move the current  
location back to the center.  
Touch [ MAP].  
Returns to the VISUAL INDEX screen  
Scale  
To close the map screen  
Touch  
.
Previous  
Next  
Notes  
The map always displays the north at the top.  
Tips  
You can change the scale using the zoom lever  
(W: larger, T: smaller).  
Image marker  
Your camcorder acquires the current location  
information every 10 seconds. The displays  
of the center marker, etc., appear differently  
according to the status of the current inquiry.  
To display the current location on a map, touch  
Displays photos  
You can change the scale using the zoom lever  
(W: larger, T: smaller).  
The point you touch on the map scrolls to the  
center automatically. If you hold a certain point,  
the map keeps scrolling.  
the  
on the screen during triangulation.  
When triangulation is unsuccessful, the map  
will appear at the upper right corner of  
5U4S  
     
the thumbnail of the movie or photo without  
location information.  
Tips  
You can also display the Map Index by touching  
(MENU) [Show others] [VIEW  
IMAGES] (under  
[ MAP].  
You can also search for the thumbnail of  
the movie or photo you want to play by  
[PLAYBACK] category)  
Touch the image marker where  
you recorded the movies and  
photos to be played back.  
touching  
/
in step 3. The recording  
location of the movie or photo will be  
displayed at the center of the map.  
Displaying the coordinate  
information (COORDINATES)  
During playback, your camcorder can  
display the coordinates information  
recorded on movies and photos.  
The image marker turns red. The  
movies or photos recorded at that  
location are displayed on the left of the  
screen.  
Touch  
(MENU) [Show  
others] [DATA CODE] (under  
[PLAYBACK] category)   
[COORDINATES]   
.
Touch the desired movie or  
photo.  
Latitude  
Longitude  
Playback starts from the selected scene.  
Notes  
The map always displays the north at the top.  
When you record several movies and photos at  
the same location, the movie or photo recorded  
most recently will be displayed on the LCD  
screen.  
US  
55  
   
Adjusting the clock and the area  
automatically (AUTO CLOCK ADJ/  
AUTO AREA ADJ)  
Your camcorder can maintain accurate  
time and compensate for time difference  
automatically, by acquiring time and  
location information from GPS.  
Touch  
(MENU) [Show  
others] [CLOCK/ LANG]  
(under [GENERAL SET]  
category) [AUTO CLOCK  
ADJ]/[AUTO AREA ADJ].  
Touch a desired setting   
.
Notes  
You must set the date and time on your  
camcorder before using your camcorder (p. 15).  
There may be discrepancies of a few seconds  
even if [AUTO CLOCK ADJ] is activated.  
The clock is adjusted automatically by  
[AUTO CLOCK ADJ] when you turn off your  
camcorder if the camcorder is receiving a GPS  
signal while it is being used. The clock is not  
adjusted until the camcorder is turned off. Also,  
the clock is not adjusted unless the camcorder  
is receiving a GPS signal, even if the GPS switch  
is set to ON.  
The [AUTO AREA ADJ] function automatically  
compensates for a time difference when it  
detects a time differences with the current area.  
The clock may not be adjusted to the correct  
time automatically, depending on the country/  
region selected for your camcorder. In this case,  
set [AUTO CLOCK ADJ] and [AUTO AREA  
ADJ] to [OFF].  
5U6S  
   
Saving images with an external device  
Saving images in  
external media  
(DIRECT COPY)  
2
If the external media has the AC  
power cable, connect it to the  
wall outlet (wall socket).  
You can save movies and photos on external  
media (USB storage device), such as an  
external hard disk drive. You can also play  
back images on the camcorder or another  
playback device.  
3
4
Connect the USB Adaptor Cable  
to the external media.  
Notes  
For this operation, you need the USB Adaptor  
Cable VMC-UAM1 (sold separately).  
The USB Adaptor Cable VMC-UAM1 may not  
be available in some countries/regions.  
You cannot use the following devices as an  
external media.  
media with a capacity exceeding 2 TB  
ordinary disc drive such as CD or DVD drive  
media connected via USB hub  
Connect the USB Adaptor Cable  
to the (USB) jack of your  
camcorder.  
When the [Create a new Image  
Database File.] screen appears, touch  
[YES].  
media with built-in USB hub  
card reader  
You may not be able to use external media with  
a code function.  
FAT file system is available for your camcorder.  
If the external media was formatted to NTFS  
file system, etc., format the external media on  
your camcorder before use. The format screen  
appears when the external media is connected  
to your camcorder.  
USB Adaptor  
Cable(sold  
separately)  
Operation is not assured with every device  
satisfying requirements for operating.  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  
socket) using the supplied AC adaptor (p. 14).  
Refer to the instruction manual supplied with  
the external media.  
5
Touch [Copy.] on the camcorder  
screen.  
For details on available external media, go to the  
Sony support website in your country/region.  
Movies and photos in the internal  
recording media of the camcorder that  
have not yet been saved on to external  
1
Connect the AC Adaptor and the  
power cord (mains lead) to the  
DC IN jack of your camcorder and  
the wall outlet (wall socket).  
media can be saved.  
This screen will appear only when there  
are newly recorded images.  
US  
57  
     
To save desired movies and photos  
6
After the operation is completed,  
Notes  
touch  
on the camcorder  
You cannot copy or search photos by date which  
are recorded on the memory card.  
screen.  
Touch [Play without copying.] in step 5  
above.  
Notes  
The VISUAL INDEX screen of the  
external media is displayed.  
The number of scenes you can save on the  
external media are as follows. However, even if  
the external media has free space, you cannot  
save scenes exceeding the following number.  
High definition image quality (HD) movies:  
Max. 3,999  
Standard definition image quality (STD)  
movies: 9,999  
Photos: 9,999 frames × 899 folders  
The number of scenes may be smaller  
depending on the type of images recorded.  
Touch  
(MENU) [Show others]  
[MOVIE DUB] (when selecting  
movies)/[PHOTO COPY] (when  
selecting photos).  
Follow the on-screen instructions to  
select the recording media and image  
selection methods.  
When you selected [DUB by select],  
touch the image to be saved.  
When connecting an external media  
appears.  
The images saved in the external media  
are displayed on the LCD screen. The  
movie display and photo display buttons  
on the VISUAL INDEX screen change as  
illustrated below.  
When you selected [DUB by date], select  
the date of the images to be dubbed with  
/
, then touch  
and go  
to step .  
Remaining external media capacity  
Press and hold the image down on the  
LCD screen to confirm the image. Touch  
to return to the previous screen.  
By touching date, you can search for  
images by date.  
You can make menu settings of the external  
media such as deleting images. Touch  
(MENU) [Show others] on the VISUAL  
INDEX screen.  
Touch  
[YES]   
on the  
camcorder screen.  
5US  
Creating a disc with a  
DVD writer, recorder  
To play back images in the external  
media on the camcorder  
Touch [Play without copying.] in step 5  
above.  
Selecting the method for creating  
a disc  
Several methods for creating an AVCHD  
disc or a standard definition image quality  
(STD) disc from high definition image  
quality (HD) movies or photos recorded on  
your camcorder are described here. Select  
the method that suits your disc player.  
The VISUAL INDEX screen of the  
external media is displayed.  
Play back the image (p. 33).  
You can also view images on a TV  
connected to your camcorder (p. 41).  
You can play back the high definition  
image quality (HD) movies on your  
computer using [Player for AVCHD]. Start  
[Player for AVCHD], and select the drive  
where the external media is connected  
with [Settings].  
Notes  
Prepare a DVD disc such as a DVD-R, for  
creating a disc.  
See page 57 to save images in the external  
media.  
AVCHD format compatible device  
Notes  
The Date Index and Map Index (HDR-  
CX550V/XR550V) of photos cannot be  
displayed.  
If your camcorder does not recognize the  
external media, try the following operations.  
Reconnect the USB Adaptor Cable to your  
camcorder  
Player  
Sony Blu-ray disc player  
PlayStation3, etc.  
If the external media has the AC power cable,  
connect it to the wall outlet (wall socket)  
Creating device  
To finish the external media connection  
DVD writer, DVDirect Express (p. 60)  
DVD writer, etc., other than DVDirect  
Express (p. 63)  
Touch  
screen of the external media.  
Disconnect the USB Adaptor Cable.  
on the VISUAL INDEX  
Disc type  
AVCHD disc (high definition image quality  
(HD))  
US  
59  
   
Ordinary DVD device  
Creating a disc with the dedicated  
DVD writer, DVDirect Express  
Player  
DVD player  
Computer that can play DVDs, etc.  
You can create a disc or play back the  
images on a created disc by using the  
dedicated DVD writer, DVDirect Express  
(sold separately).  
Refer also to the instruction manual  
supplied with the DVD writer.  
Notes  
Creating device  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  
socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this  
operation (p. 14).  
Only unused discs of the following types can  
be used:  
12cm DVD-R  
12cm DVD+R  
DVD writer, DVDirect Express (p. 60)  
DVD writer, other than DVDirect Express  
(p. 63)  
Disc recorder, etc. (p. 64)  
Disc type  
Standard definition image quality (STD) disc  
The device does not support two-layered discs.  
DVDirect Express is referred to as “DVD  
writer” in this section.  
Notes  
Connect the AC Adaptor and the  
power cord (mains lead) to the  
DC IN jack of your camcorder  
and the wall outlet (wall socket)  
Always maintain your PlayStation3 to use  
the latest version of the PlayStation3 system  
software.  
The PlayStation3 may not be available in some  
countries/regions.  
Delete the demonstration movie when dubbing  
or creating discs. If it is not deleted, the  
camcorder may not operate correctly. However,  
you cannot recover the demonstration movie  
once you delete it.  
The AVCHD disc can be played back only on  
AVCHD format compatible devices.  
The AVCHD disc should not be used in DVD  
players/recorders. Because DVD players/  
recorders are not compatible with the AVCHD  
format, DVD players/recorders may fail to eject  
the disc.  
Turn on your camcorder, and  
connect the DVD writer to the  
(USB) jack of your camcorder  
with the USB cable of the DVD  
writer.  
You cannot create an AVCHD disc from a  
movie recorded with [HD FX] mode of  
[
REC MODE]. Save a movie recorded with  
[HD FX] mode onto Blu-ray discs or external  
storage devices (p. 57).  
6U0S  
     
To customize a disc with DISC BURN  
OPTION  
Perform this operation in the following  
Insert an unused disc into the  
DVD writer, and close the disc  
tray.  
cases:  
When dubbing a desired image  
When creating multiple copies of the same  
disc  
The [DISC BURN] screen appears on  
the camcorder screen.  
When converting high definition (HD)  
movies to standard definition (STD) movies,  
and creating a disc  
Press  
(DISC BURN) on the DVD  
writer.  
When dubbing images in the memory card  
Touch [DISC BURN OPTION] in step 4.  
Select the recording media containing  
the movie(s) you want to save.  
Movies recorded on the internal  
recording media that have not been  
saved on any discs will be recorded  
When you select movies with high  
definition image quality (HD), the  
screen to select the image quality of the  
disc to be created appears on the LCD  
screen. Select the desired image quality,  
onto the disc.  
When there are unsaved high definition  
(HD) and standard definition (STD)  
image quality movies, they will be saved  
on individual discs according to the image  
quality.  
and touch  
.
The image quality of the disc depends on  
the recording time of the selected movies  
when you create a disc converting them  
from high definition image quality (HD)  
to standard definition image quality  
(STD).  
Repeat steps 3 and 4 when the  
total memory size of movies to  
be burnt exceeds that of the disc.  
Touch the movie you want to burn on  
the disc.  
appears.  
Touch  
[END] [EJECT  
DISC] on the camcorder screen.  
Remove the disc after the operation is  
completed.  
Touch  
USB cable.  
, then disconnect the  
Remaining Disc capacity  
Press and hold the image down on the  
LCD screen to confirm the image. Touch  
to return to the previous screen.  
By touching date, you can search for  
images by date.  
US  
61  
To play back a disc on the DVD writer  
Touch  
[YES] on the camcorder  
screen.  
To create another disc of the same  
contents, insert a new disc and touch  
[CREATE SAME DISC].  
After the operation is completed, touch  
[EXIT] [END] on the camcorder  
screen.  
Disconnect the USB cable from your  
camcorder.  
Connect the AC Adaptor and the power  
cord (mains lead) to the DC IN jack of  
your camcorder and the wall outlet (wall  
socket) (p. 14).  
Turn on your camcorder, and connect  
the DVD writer to the (USB) jack of  
your camcorder with the USB cable of  
Notes  
Do not do any of the following when creating  
a disc.  
Turn off the camcorder  
Disconnect the USB cable or the AC adaptor  
Subject the camcorder to mechanical shock  
or vibration  
Eject the memory card from the camcorder  
Play the created disc to make sure dubbing was  
performed correctly before deleting the movies  
on your camcorder.  
If [Failed.] or [DISC BURN failed.] appears on  
the screen, insert another disc into the DVD  
writer and perform the DISC BURN operation  
again.  
the DVD writer.  
You can play back movies on the TV  
screen by connecting the camcorder to a  
TV (p. 41).  
Insert a created disc into the DVD  
writer.  
The movies on the disc appear as  
VISUAL INDEX on the camcorder  
screen.  
Tips  
Press the play button on the DVD writer.  
You can also operate by the camcorder  
screen.  
Touch [END] [EJECT DISC] on the  
camcorder screen and remove the disc  
after the operation is completed.  
If the total memory size of movies to be burnt  
by the DISC BURN operation exceeds that of  
the disc, disc creation stops when the limit is  
reached. The last movie on the disc may be  
cut off.  
Disc creation time to dub movies to the limit  
of the disc is about 20 to 60 minutes. It may  
take more time depending on the recording  
mode or the number of scenes. Also, if high  
definition image quality (HD) is converted to  
standard definition image quality (STD), image  
quality conversion takes longer than the actual  
recording.  
Touch  
and disconnect the USB  
cable.  
6U2S  
To play back a disc on the ordinary DVD  
player  
Select the standard image quality (STD) on  
the screen to select the image quality of the  
disc to be created in step 2 of “To customize  
a disc with DISC BURN OPTION.”  
Turn on your camcorder, and  
connect a DVD writer, etc. to the  
(USB) jack of your camcorder  
with the USB cable (supplied).  
Tips  
If you cannot play back created standard  
definition (STD) image quality discs on any  
DVD player, connect the camcorder to the  
DVD writer, and then play back.  
Creating a high definition image  
quality (HD) disc with a DVD writer,  
etc., other than DVDirect Express  
Use USB cable to connect your camcorder  
to a disc creation device, which is  
compatible with high definition image  
quality (HD) movies, such as a Sony DVD  
writer. Refer also to the instruction manuals  
supplied with the device to be connected.  
The [USB SELECT] screen appears on  
the camcorder screen.  
If the [USB SELECT] screen does not  
appear, touch  
(MENU) [Show  
others] [USB CONNECT] (under  
[OTHERS] category).  
Notes  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  
socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this  
operation (p. 14).  
Sony DVD writer may not be available in some  
countries/regions.  
Always maintain the firmware of the Sony  
DVDirect (DVD writer) to its latest version.  
For details, see the following website.  
http://sony.storagesupport.com/  
Touch the recording media that  
contains the images on the  
camcorder screen.  
[
USB CONNECT]: Internal  
memory  
[
USB CONNECT]: Internal hard  
disk  
[
USB CONNECT]: Memory card  
The displayed recording media differ  
depending on the model.  
Connect the AC Adaptor and the  
power cord (mains lead) to the  
DC IN jack of your camcorder  
and the wall outlet (wall socket)  
Record movies on the connected  
device.  
For details, refer to the instruction  
manuals supplied with the device to be  
connected.  
US  
6ꢀ  
     
be produced than with an A/V connecting  
cable. Connect the white and red plug  
(left/right audio) and the S VIDEO plug  
(S VIDEO channel) of the A/V connecting  
cable with an S VIDEO cable. If you  
connect the S VIDEO plug only, you will  
hear no sound. The yellow plug (video)  
connection is not necessary.  
After the operation is completed,  
touch [END] [YES] on the  
camcorder screen.  
Disconnect the USB cable.  
A/V Remote Connector  
Creating a standard definition  
image quality (STD) disc with a  
recorder, etc.  
You can dub images played back on your  
camcorder on a disc or video cassette,  
by connecting your camcorder to a disc  
recorder, a Sony DVD writer, etc., other  
than DVDirect Express, with the A/V  
connecting cable. Connect the device in  
either way of or . Refer also to the  
instruction manuals supplied with the  
devices to be connected.  
Input  
S VIDEO  
VIDEO  
(Yellow)  
(White)  
AUDIO  
Notes  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  
socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this  
operation (p. 14).  
(Red)  
(Yellow)  
Sony DVD writer may not be available in some  
countries/regions.  
High definition image quality (HD) movies  
will be dubbed with standard definition image  
quality (STD).  
Signal flow  
Insert the recording media in the  
recording device.  
If your recording device has an input  
A/V connecting cable (supplied)  
Connect the A/V connecting cable to the  
input jack of another device.  
A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO  
selector, set it to the input mode.  
(sold separately)  
When connecting to another device  
via the S VIDEO jack, by using an A/V  
connecting cable with an S VIDEO cable  
(sold separately), higher quality images can  
Connect your camcorder to the  
recording device (a disc recorder,  
etc.) with the A/V connecting  
6U4S  
   
When the screen size of display devices (TV,  
etc.) is 4:3, touch (MENU) [Show  
others] [OUTPUT SETTINGS] (under  
cable (supplied) or an A/V  
connecting cable with S VIDEO  
(sold separately).  
Connect your camcorder to the input jacks  
of the recording device.  
[GENERAL SET] category) [TV TYPE]   
[4:3]   
.
When you connect a monaural device, connect  
the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable  
to the video input jack, and the white (left  
channel) or the red (right channel) plug to the  
audio input jack on the device.  
Start playback on your  
camcorder, and record it on the  
recording device.  
Refer to the instruction manuals supplied  
with your recording device for details.  
When dubbing is finished, stop  
the recording device, and then  
your camcorder.  
Notes  
Since dubbing is performed via analog data  
transfer, the image quality may deteriorate.  
You cannot dub images to recorders connected  
with an HDMI cable.  
To hide the screen indicators (such as a counter,  
etc.) on the screen of the monitor device  
connected, touch  
(MENU) [Show  
others] [OUTPUT SETTINGS] (under  
[GENERAL SET] category) [DISP  
OUTPUT] [LCD PANEL] (the default  
setting)   
.
To record the date/time, coordinates (HDR-  
CX550V/XR550V), or camera settings data,  
touch  
[PLAYBACK SET] (under  
category) [DATA CODE] a desired  
(MENU) [Show others]   
[PLAYBACK]  
setting   
addition, touch  
. In  
(MENU) [Show  
others] [OUTPUT SETTINGS] (under  
[GENERAL SET] category) [DISP  
OUTPUT] [V-OUT/PANEL]   
.
US  
65  
Customizing your camcorder  
Using menus  
Using the menus, you can perform useful functions and change various settings. If you make  
good use of menu operations, you can enjoy using your camcorder.  
The camcorder has various menu items under each of eight menu categories.  
MANUAL SETTINGS (Items to adjust for scene condition) p. 71  
SHOOTING SET (Items for customized shooting) p. 76  
PHOTO SETTINGS (Items for recording photos) p. 80  
PLAYBACK (Items for playback) p. 82  
EDIT (Items for editing) p. 84  
OTHERS (Items for other settings) p. 84  
MANAGE MEDIA (Items for recording media) p. 85  
GENERAL SET (Other setup items) p. 86  
Operating menus  
/
/
: The menu list moves from category to category.  
: The menu list moves through 4 items at once.  
You can touch buttons and drag the screen to scroll the list of the menu.  
The selected category icon is displayed in orange.  
When you touch  
, the screen returns to the MY MENU screen.  
Touch  
(MENU).  
Touch [Show others] on the MY MENU screen.  
See the next page for details on MY MENU.  
Touch the central part of the left side of screen to change the display.  
Touch the menu item to be changed.  
After changing the setting, touch  
.
To finish setting the menu, touch  
.
To return to the previous menu screen, touch  
.
may not be displayed depending on the menu item.  
6U6S  
         
Notes  
You may not be able to set some menu items, depending on the recording or playback conditions.  
Grayed out menu items or settings are not available.  
Tips  
Depending on the menu items being changed, your camcorder switches between playback mode and  
recording mode (movie/photo).  
Using MY MENU  
You can use the menu items more easily by registering the menu items you use most often on  
MY MENU. You can register 6 menu items on each MY MENU of the MOVIE, PHOTO, and  
PLAYBACK.  
Example: deleting [SPOT MTR/FCS] and registering [ FADER]  
Touch  
(MENU).  
Touch [MY MENU SETTING].  
Touch [MOVIE].  
Touch [SPOT MTR/FCS].  
Touch  
Touch [ FADER] (under  
When MY MENU is displayed, touch  
.
[MANUAL SETTINGS] category).  
.
Repeat the same steps above to register menu items on MY MENU, and enjoy using your  
“Handycam.”  
Tips  
When an external storage device is connected, the exclusive MY MENU appears.  
US  
67  
 
Using the OPTION MENU  
The OPTION MENU appears just like the pop-up window that appears when you right-click  
the mouse on a computer. When  
the OPTION MENU. You touch  
appear.  
is displayed at bottom-right of the screen, you can use  
, and the menu items you can change in the context  
Menu item  
Tab  
Touch  
(OPTION).  
Touch the desired tab the item to change the setting.  
After completing the setting, touch  
.
Notes  
Grayed out menu items or settings are not available.  
When the item you want is not on the screen, touch another tab. (There may be no tab.)  
The tabs and items that appear on the screen depend on the recording/playback status of your camcorder  
at the time.  
6US  
   
Menu lists  
(MANUAL SETTINGS) category  
SCENE SELECTION  
FADER  
(PHOTO SETTINGS) category  
SELF-TIMER  
IMAGE SIZE  
STEADYSHOT  
FLASH MODE  
FLASH LEVEL  
REDEYE REDUC  
FILE NO.  
WHITE BAL.  
SPOT MTR/FCS  
SPOT METER  
SPOT FOCUS  
EXPOSURE  
FOCUS  
TELE MACRO  
AE SHIFT  
WB SHIFT  
(PLAYBACK) category  
VISUAL INDEX  
VIEW IMAGES  
DATE INDEX  
MAP*1  
GOLF SHOT  
SMTH SLW REC  
FILM ROLL  
(SHOOTING SET) category  
FACE  
/
SET  
PLAYLIST  
HIGHLIGHT  
SCENARIO  
REC MODE  
GUIDEFRAME  
STEADYSHOT  
CONVERSION LENS  
LOW LUX  
FACE DETECTION  
PRIORITY SETTING  
SMILE DETECTION  
SMILE SENSITIVITY  
AUDIO REC SET  
BLT-IN ZOOM MIC  
MICREF LEVEL  
AUDIO MODE  
PLAYBACK SET  
/
SET  
DATA CODE  
(EDIT) category  
DELETE  
DELETE  
DELETE  
SCENARIO ERASE  
ERASE  
ERASE ALL  
PROTECT  
OTHER REC SET  
DIGITAL ZOOM  
AUTO BACK LIGHT  
DIAL SETTING  
PROTECT  
PROTECT  
DIVIDE  
NIGHTSHOT LIGHT  
X.V.COLOR  
PHOTO CAPTURE  
MOVIE DUB  
DUB by select  
DUB by date  
DUB ALL/  
WIDE SELECT  
DUB ALL  
US  
69  
 
PHOTO COPY  
COPY by select  
COPY by date  
PLAYLIST EDIT  
ADD/  
ADD by date/  
REPAIR IMG.DB F.  
INT. MEMORY*2  
HDD*3  
MEMORY CARD  
ADD  
ADD by date 51  
ERASE 51  
(GENERAL SET) category  
SOUND/DISP SET  
VOLUME  
ERASE/  
ERASE ALL/  
ERASE ALL  
BEEP  
MOVE/  
MOVE  
LCD BRIGHT  
LCD BL LEVEL  
LCD COLOR  
(OTHERS) category  
YOUR LOCATION*1  
USB CONNECT  
DISPLAY SET  
USB CONNECT*2  
USB CONNECT*3  
USB CONNECT  
OUTPUT SETTINGS  
TV TYPE  
Operating Guide  
COMPONENT  
HDMI RESOLUTION  
DISP OUTPUT  
CLOCK/ LANG  
CLOCK SET  
DISC BURN  
TV CONNECT Guide  
MUSIC TOOL  
EMPTY MUSIC  
DOWNLOAD MUSIC  
BATTERY INFO  
AREA SET  
AUTO CLOCK ADJ*1  
AUTO AREA ADJ*1  
DST SET/SUMMERTIME  
LANGUAGE SET  
POWER SETTINGS  
A.SHUT OFF  
(MANAGE MEDIA) category  
MEDIA SETTINGS  
MOVIE MEDIA SET  
PHOTO MEDIA SET  
MEDIA INFO  
OTHER SETTINGS  
DEMO MODE  
CALIBRATION  
CTRL FOR HDMI  
DROP SENSOR*3  
REC LAMP  
MEDIA FORMAT  
INT. MEMORY*2  
HDD*3  
MEMORY CARD  
REMOTE CTRL  
*1 HDR-CX550V/XR550V  
*2 HDR-CX550/CX550V  
*3 HDR-XR550/XR550V  
7U0S  
MANUAL  
SETTINGS  
(Items to adjust for scene  
condition)  
PORTRAIT (Soft portrait)  
(
)
Brings out the subject such  
as people or flowers while  
creating a soft background.  
See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation.  
The default settings are marked with .  
SPOTLIGHT**(  
)
Prevents people’s faces from  
appearing excessively white  
when subjects are lit by  
strong light.  
SCENE SELECTION  
You can record images effectively in various  
situations.  
AUTO  
BEACH** (  
Takes the vivid blue of the  
ocean or a lake.  
)
Records images in average image quality  
without the [SCENE SELECTION] function.  
TWILIGHT* (  
)
SNOW** (  
Takes bright pictures of a  
white landscape.  
)
Maintains the darkening  
atmosphere of the distant  
surroundings in twilight  
scenes.  
*
Adjusted to focus on subjects farther away  
only.  
** Adjusted not to focus on subjects a short  
TWILIGHT PORT. (  
)
Enables to take photos of  
people and background  
using a flash.  
distance away.  
Notes  
Even if you set [TWILIGHT PORT.], the setting  
changes to [AUTO] in movie recording mode.  
If you set [SCENE SELECTION], [WHITE  
BAL.] setting is canceled.  
SUNRISE&SUNSET* (  
Reproduces the atmosphere  
of scenes such as sunsets or  
sunrises.  
)
FIREWORKS* (  
Takes spectacular shots of  
fireworks.  
)
FADER  
You can record a transition with the  
following effects adding to the interval  
between scenes.  
Select the desired effect in [STBY] (to  
fading in) or [REC] (to fading out) mode.  
LANDSCAPE*(  
)
Shoots distant subjects  
clearly. This setting also  
prevents your camcorder  
from focusing on glass or  
metal mesh in windows  
between the camcorder and  
the subject.  
OFF  
Does not use an effect.  
US  
71  
       
WHITE FADER  
Fades in/out with the white effect.  
Out  
INDOOR ()  
The white balance is appropriately adjusted  
for the following recording conditions:  
In  
In  
Indoors  
At party scenes or studios where the  
lighting conditions change quickly  
Under video lamps in a studio, or under  
sodium lamps or incandescent-like color  
lamps  
BLACK FADER  
Fades in/out with the black effect.  
Out  
ONE PUSH (  
)
The white balance will be adjusted  
according to the ambient light.  
Touch [ONE PUSH].  
Frame a white object such as a piece of  
paper, to fill the screen under the same  
lighting conditions as you will shoot the  
subject.  
To cancel the fader before starting the  
operation, touch [OFF].  
Tips  
Touch [  
].  
When you press START/STOP, the setting is  
cleared.  
A movie recorded using [BLACK FADER] may  
be difficult to see in the VISUAL INDEX screen.  
flashes quickly. When the white  
balance has been adjusted and stored in the  
memory, the indicator stops flashing.  
Notes  
WHITE BAL. (White balance)  
Set [WHITE BAL.] to [AUTO] or adjust the  
color in [ONE PUSH] under white or cool  
white fluorescent lamps.  
You can adjust the color balance to the  
brightness of the recording environment.  
When you select [ONE PUSH], keep framing  
white objects while  
flashes slowly if [ONE PUSH] could not  
be set.  
When [ONE PUSH] was selected, if  
is flashing quickly.  
keeps  
, set [WHITE  
flashing after touching  
BAL.] to [AUTO].  
If you set [WHITE BAL.], [SCENE  
SELECTION] is set to [AUTO].  
AUTO  
The white balance is adjusted automatically.  
Tips  
OUTDOOR (  
The white balance is appropriately adjusted  
for the following recording conditions:  
)
If you have changed the battery pack while  
[AUTO] was selected, or taken your camcorder  
outdoors after inside use (or vice versa), aim  
your camcorder at a nearby white object for  
about 10 seconds for better color balance  
adjustment.  
When the white balance has been set with  
[ONE PUSH], if the lighting conditions  
changed by bringing your camcorder outdoors  
Outdoors  
Night views, neon signs and fireworks  
Sunrise or sunset  
Under daylight fluorescent lamps  
7U2S  
   
from inside the house, or vice versa, you need  
to redo the [ONE PUSH] procedure to readjust  
the white balance.  
touch [AUTO].  
Notes  
[EXPOSURE] is automatically set to  
[MANUAL].  
SPOT MTR/FCS (Spot meter/  
focus)  
SPOT FOCUS  
You can adjust the brightness and focus  
for the selected subject simultaneously.  
This function enables you to use [SPOT  
METER] (p. 73) and [SPOT FOCUS]  
(p. 73) at the same time.  
You can select and adjust the focal point to  
aim it at a subject not located at the center  
of the screen.  
Touch the subject in the frame of which you  
want to adjust the focus.  
To adjust the focus automatically, touch  
[AUTO].  
Touch the subject in the frame of which you  
want to adjust the brightness and focus.  
To adjust the brightness and focus  
automatically, touch [AUTO].  
Notes  
[FOCUS] is automatically set to [MANUAL].  
Notes  
[EXPOSURE] and [FOCUS] are automatically  
set to [MANUAL].  
EXPOSURE  
You can fix the brightness of a picture  
manually. Adjust the brightness when the  
subject is too bright or too dark.  
SPOT METER (Flexible spot  
meter)  
You can adjust and fix the exposure  
to the subject, so that it is recorded in  
suitable brightness even when there is  
strong contrast between the subject and  
the background, such as subjects in the  
spotlight on stage.  
Touch  
/
to adjust the brightness.  
To adjust the exposure automatically, touch  
[AUTO].  
Tips  
You can also adjust manually by using the  
MANUAL dial (p. 31).  
Touch the subject in the frame of which you  
want to adjust the exposure.  
To return the setting to automatic exposure,  
US  
7ꢀ  
         
FOCUS  
TELE MACRO  
You can adjust the focus manually. You can  
select this function also when you want to  
focus on a certain subject intentionally.  
This is useful to shoot small subjects, such  
as flowers or insects. You can blur out  
backgrounds and the subject stands out  
clearer.  
OFF  
Cancels TELE MACRO. (TELE MACRO is  
also canceled when you move the zoom lever  
to the W side.)  
Touch  
(nearby subject)/  
(distant  
ON (  
)
subject) to adjust the focus.  
The zoom (p. 26) moves to the top of the T  
(telephoto) side automatically and allows  
recording subjects at a close distance down to  
about 32 cm (12 5/8 in.).  
To adjust the focus automatically, touch  
[AUTO].  
Notes  
When you set [FOCUS] to [MANUAL],   
appears.  
The minimum possible distance between  
camcorder and subject while maintaining sharp  
focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide  
angle and about 80 cm (about 31 1/2 in.) for  
telephoto.  
Notes  
Tips  
When recording a distant subject, focusing may  
be difficult and can take some time.  
Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 74)  
when it is hard to focus automatically.  
appears when the focus cannot be adjusted  
any closer, and appears when the focus  
cannot be adjusted farther away.  
It is easier to focus on the subject by moving  
the power zoom lever towards T (telephoto) to  
adjust the focus, then towards W (wide angle)  
to adjust the zoom for recording. When you  
want to record a subject at close range, move  
the power zoom lever to W (wide angle), then  
adjust the focus.  
AE SHIFT  
You can adjust the exposure manually.  
OFF  
Adjusts the exposure automatically.  
The focal distance information (distance at  
which the subject is focused on; used as a guide  
if it is dark and focus adjustment is difficult)  
appears for a few seconds in the following cases.  
(This information will not display correctly if a  
conversion lens (sold separately) is being used.)  
When the focus mode is switched from  
automatic to manual  
ON ( and the adjustment value)  
Adjusts the exposure manually.  
Tips  
You can adjust the automatic exposure level to  
brighter or darker when [EXPOSURE] is set to  
[AUTO].  
Touch  
backlight is bright, or touch  
is black or the light is dim.  
if the subject is white or the  
When you set focus manually  
You can also adjust manually by using the  
MANUAL dial (p. 31).  
if the subject  
7U4S  
       
You can also adjust manually by using the  
MANUAL dial (p. 31).  
Notes  
The size of photos becomes 1,920 1,080.  
You cannot record sound.  
Image quality is not as good as that of normal  
recording.  
WB SHIFT (White Balance Shift)  
You cannot use [GOLF SHOT] when you set  
the image quality to standard definition image  
quality (STD).  
You can adjust the white balance manually.  
OFF  
Adjusts the white balance automatically.  
Tips  
ON ( and the adjustment value)  
You can set the self-timer by touching  
(OPTION). With [SELF-TIMER] set to [ON],  
press START/STOP to start countdown of the  
timer. The point when countdown reaches 0 is  
assumed as the moment of impact and motion  
before and after 0 is recorded.  
If camera shake is excessive, or there are moving  
objects in the background during recording,  
image analysis will not be performed effectively,  
and images may contain noise as a result. It is  
recommended that you record images under  
stable conditions (for example, using a tripod).  
Impact sound may be detected by the internal  
microphone even when an external microphone  
is attached.  
Adjusts the white balance manually.  
Tips  
When the white balance is set to a lower value,  
images appear bluish, and when set to a higher  
value, images appear reddish.  
You can also adjust manually by using the  
MANUAL dial (p. 31).  
GOLF SHOT  
Divides 2 seconds of fast movement into  
frames which are then recorded as a  
movie and photos. You can view a series  
of movement when playing back, which is  
convenient in cases such as checking golf  
swing or tennis form.  
SMTH SLW REC (Smooth slow  
rec)  
Fast moving subjects and actions, which  
cannot be captured under the ordinary  
shooting conditions, can be shot in smooth  
moving slow-motion for about 3 seconds.  
Press START/STOP on the [SMTH SLW  
REC] screen.  
An about-3-second movie is recorded  
as a 12-second-slow-motion movie.  
[Recording…] disappears, when recording  
is finished.  
On the [GOLF SHOT] screen, frame the  
subject in the white guide frame in the  
center of the screen, then press START/  
STOP. The 0.5 second point before START/  
STOP is pressed is assumed as the moment  
of impact, and the period of 1.5 seconds  
before and 0.5 second after it (2 seconds  
total) is recorded. When impact sound  
is detected, the recording time period is  
automatically adjusted according to that  
moment.  
Touch  
to cancel the smooth slow  
recording.  
US  
75  
       
SHOOTING SET  
(Items for customized  
To change the setting  
shooting)  
Touch  
(OPTION), then select the  
See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation.  
The default settings are marked with .  
setting you want to change.  
[TIMING]  
Select the recording start point after  
START/STOP is pressed. The default  
setting is [3sec AFTER].  
/
SET  
See page 27.  
The point when START/STOP is pressed.  
REC MODE (Recording  
mode)  
See page 28.  
[3sec AFTER]  
GUIDEFRAME  
You can display the frame and check that  
the subject is horizontal or vertical.  
The frame is not recorded.  
[3sec BEFORE]  
Notes  
You cannot record sound.  
Image quality is not as good as that of normal  
recording.  
OFF  
Does not display the guide frame.  
ON  
Displays the guide frame.  
Tips  
Positioning the subject at the cross point of the  
guide frame makes a balanced composition.  
The outer frame of [GUIDEFRAME] shows the  
display area of a TV which is not compatible  
with full pixel display.  
When recording with the viewfinder, the outer  
frame of [GUIDEFRAME] is not displayed.  
7U6S  
     
[OFF], you cannot also set [FLASH MODE]  
STEADYSHOT  
You can compensate for camera shake.  
Set [ STEADYSHOT] to [OFF] (  
LOW LUX  
)
when using a tripod (sold separately), then  
the image becomes natural.  
You can record bright color images, even in  
dim light.  
ACTIVE  
OFF  
Provides a more powerful SteadyShot effect.  
The LOW LUX function is not used.  
STANDARD  
Provides the SteadyShot effect under relatively  
stable recording conditions.  
ON ( )  
The LOW LUX function is used.  
OFF (  
)
FACE DETECTION  
The SteadyShot function is not used.  
Detects the faces of your subjects  
and adjusts the focus/color/exposure  
automatically. Also, it adjusts the image  
quality of face parts more finely, in the case  
of the high definition image quality (HD)  
movies.  
Notes  
If you change the setting of  
[
STEADYSHOT], the imaging field will also  
change accordingly.  
You can magnify images up to 10 times using  
optical zooming, unless [ STEADYSHOT] is  
set to [ACTIVE].  
ON  
Detects faces.  
CONVERSION LENS  
OFF (  
)
When using a conversion lens (sold  
separately), use this function to record  
using the optimum compensation for  
camera shake and focus for the lens.  
Does not detect faces.  
Notes  
Faces may not be detected depending on  
recording conditions, subject conditions, and  
the setting of your camcorder.  
[FACE DETECTION] may not function  
properly depending on recording conditions.  
Set [FACE DETECTION] to [OFF] in this case.  
OFF  
Select this when you do not use a conversion  
lens.  
WIDE CONVERSION (  
)
Select this when you use a wide-conversion  
lens.  
Tips  
For better face detection performance, shoot the  
subject(s) under the following conditions:  
Shoot in a sufficiently bright place  
The subject(s) does not wear glasses, a hat  
or mask  
TELE CONVERSION (  
)
Select this when you use a tele-conversion  
lens.  
The subject(s) faces directly towards the  
camera  
The detected faces are recorded in Face Index,  
however, some faces may not be. Also, there  
Note  
The built-in flash is not flashed when  
[CONVERSION LENS] is set to other than  
US  
77  
         
is a limit to the number of faces that can be  
recorded in Face Index. To play back from the  
Face Index, see page 37.  
the setting of your camcorder.  
When [DUAL CAPTURE] is selected,  
appears on the screen in movie recording  
standby, and changes into  
recording starts.  
when movie  
PRIORITY SETTING  
Selects the priority subject for the face  
detection or the smile shutter.  
Adjusts focus/color/exposure automatically  
for the selected faces.  
SMILE SENSITIVITY  
Sets the smile detection sensitivity using the  
Smile Shutter function.  
HIGH  
AUTO  
Detects even a slight smile.  
Detects faces automatically.  
MEDIUM  
Detects a normal smile.  
CHILD PRIORITY  
Detects with priority on a childs face.  
LOW  
Detects a big smile.  
ADULT PRIORITY  
Detects with priority on an adults face.  
Tips  
AUDIO REC SET  
When you specify the priority subject by  
touching the detection frame on the LCD  
screen, the face with a double-lined frame has  
priority (p. 28).  
BLT-IN ZOOM MIC (Built-in zoom  
microphone)  
You can record a movie with vivid sound  
appropriate to the zoom position.  
SMILE DETECTION  
OFF  
The shutter is released when the camcorder  
detects a smile (Smile Shutter).  
The microphone does not record sound  
following zooming in or out.  
DUAL CAPTURE (  
)
ON (  
)
Only during movie recording, the shutter is  
released automatically, when the camcorder  
detects a smile.  
The microphone records sound following  
zooming in or out.  
ALWAYS ON (  
)
MICREF LEVEL (Microphone  
The shutter is released when the camcorder  
detects a smile whenever the camcorder is in  
recording mode.  
reference level)  
You can select the microphone level for  
recording sound.  
OFF  
NORMAL  
Smiles are not detected, so photos are not  
recorded automatically.  
Records various ambient sounds, converting  
them into the appropriate level.  
Notes  
Smiles may not be detected depending on  
recording conditions, subject conditions, and  
7US  
           
AUTO BACK LIGHT  
Your camcorder adjusts the exposure for  
backlit subjects automatically.  
LOW (  
)
Records ambient sound faithfully. Select  
[LOW] when you want to record an exciting  
and powerful sound in a concert hall, etc.  
(This setting is not suitable for recording  
conversations.)  
ON  
Adjusts the exposure for backlit subjects  
automatically.  
AUDIO MODE  
You can change the recording sound  
format.  
OFF  
Does not adjust the exposure for backlit  
subjects.  
5.1ch SURROUND (  
Records sound in 5.1ch surround.  
)
DIAL SETTING  
You can select an item you want to set to  
the MANUAL dial. For details, see page 31.  
2ch STEREO (  
Records sound in 2ch stereo.  
)
NIGHTSHOT LIGHT  
When using the NightShot (p. 30) function,  
you can record clearer images by activating  
[NIGHTSHOT LIGHT], which emits  
infrared light (invisible).  
OTHER REC SET  
DIGITAL ZOOM  
You can select the maximum zoom level.  
Note that the image quality decreases when  
you use the digital zoom.  
ON  
Emits infrared light.  
OFF  
Does not emit infrared light.  
Notes  
Do not cover the infrared port (p. 121) with  
your fingers or other objects.  
Remove the conversion lens (sold separately).  
The maximum shooting distance using  
[NIGHTSHOT LIGHT] is about 3 m (10 feet).  
The zooming zone appears when you select  
[120×].  
OFF  
X.V.COLOR  
Up to 14× zoom is performed.  
You can capture wider range of colors.  
Various colors such as the brilliant color of  
flowers and turquoise blue of the sea can  
be more faithfully reproduced. Refer to the  
instruction manuals of the TV.  
120×  
Up to 120× zoom is performed digitally.  
Note  
When [ STEADYSHOT] is set to other  
than [ACTIVE], up to 10× zoom is performed  
optically.  
OFF  
Records in ordinary color range.  
US  
79  
           
PHOTO SETTINGS  
(Items for recording photos)  
ON (  
Records in x.v.Color.  
)
See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation.  
The default settings are marked with .  
Notes  
SELF-TIMER  
Set [ X.V.COLOR] to [ON] when the  
recorded movie will be played back on an  
x.v.Color-compliant TV.  
If the movie recorded with this function [ON] is  
played back on a non-x.v.Color-compliant TV,  
the color may not be reproduced correctly.  
[ X.V.COLOR] cannot be set to [ON]:  
When recording standard definition image  
quality (STD) movies  
Press PHOTO to start the count down. A  
photo is recorded after about 10 seconds.  
OFF  
Cancels the self-timer.  
ON (  
)
Starts the self-timer recording. To cancel the  
recording, touch [RESET].  
While recording a movie  
WIDE SELECT  
Tips  
You can also operate by pressing PHOTO on  
the Wireless Remote Commander (p. 123).  
When recording standard definition image  
quality (STD) movies, you can select the  
horizontal to vertical ratio according to the  
TV connected. Refer also to the instruction  
manuals supplied with your TV.  
IMAGE SIZE  
You can select a photo size to be shot.  
16:9 WIDE  
Records movies to the full screen on a 16:9  
(wide) TV screen.  
12.0M (  
)
Records photos in the highest quality (4,000  
× 3,000).  
4:3 (  
)
9.0M (  
)
Records movies to the full screen on a 4:3  
TV screen.  
Records photos in the high quality in the 16:9  
(wide) ratio (4,000 × 2,250).  
6.2M (  
)
Notes  
Records photos clearly (2,880 × 2,160).  
Set [TV TYPE] correctly according to the TV  
connected for playback (p. 87).  
1.9M (  
)
Allows you to record more photos in  
relatively clear quality (1,600 × 1,200).  
VGA(0.3M) (  
)
Allows the maximum number of photos to be  
recorded (640 × 480).  
Notes  
The selected image size is effective when the  
(Photo) lamp is lit.  
See page 105 for the number of recordable  
photos.  
U0S  
         
than [OFF], you cannot also set [FLASH  
MODE].  
STEADYSHOT  
The built-in flash is not flashed in movie  
recording mode.  
You can compensate for camera shake.  
Set [ STEADYSHOT] to [OFF] (  
)
when using a tripod (sold separately), then  
the image becomes natural.  
FLASH LEVEL  
You can set this function when you  
record photos using the built-in flash, or  
an external flash (sold separately) that is  
compatible with your camcorder.  
ON  
The SteadyShot function is used.  
OFF (  
)
The SteadyShot function is not used.  
HIGH (  
)
Makes the flash level higher.  
FLASH MODE  
NORMAL ( )  
You can select the flash setting when you  
record photos using the built-in flash, or  
an external flash (sold separately) that is  
compatible with your camcorder.  
LOW (  
Makes the flash level lower.  
)
REDEYE REDUC (Redeye  
reduction)  
AUTO  
Automatically flashes when there is  
insufficient ambient light.  
You can set this function when you  
ON ( )  
record photos using the built-in flash, or  
an external flash (sold separately) that is  
compatible with your camcorder.  
Always uses the flash regardless of the  
surrounding brightness.  
When you set [REDEYE REDUC] to [ON],  
then set [FLASH MODE] to [AUTO] or  
OFF (  
Records without flash.  
)
[ON],  
appears. You can prevent redeye  
Notes  
by activating the pre-flash before the flash  
flashes.  
The recommended distance to the subject when  
using the built-in flash is approximately 0.3 to  
1.5 m (11 7/8 to 59 1/8 in.).  
Remove any dust from the surface of the flash  
before using it. Flash effect may be impaired if  
heat discoloration or dust obscures the lamp.  
The /CHG (flash/charge) lamp (p. 12) flickers  
while charging the flash, and remains lit when  
the battery charge is complete.  
If you use the flash in bright places such as  
when shooting a backlit subject, the flash may  
not be effective.  
The built-in flash is not flashed when  
[CONVERSION LENS] (p. 77) is set to other  
OFF  
Does not prevent redeye.  
ON (  
Prevents redeye.  
)
Notes  
The redeye reduction may not produce the  
desired effect due to individual differences and  
other conditions.  
The redeye function does not work with  
automatic recording by [SMILE DETECTION].  
US  
ꢁ1  
         
PLAYBACK  
(Items for playback)  
FILE NO. (File number)  
See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation.  
You can select the way to assign file number  
of photos.  
VISUAL INDEX  
See page 33.  
SERIES  
Assigns file numbers of photos in sequence.  
The file number becomes larger each time  
you record a photo.  
VIEW IMAGES  
Even if the memory card is replaced with  
another one, the file number is assigned in  
sequence.  
DATE INDEX  
See page 36.  
RESET  
MAP (HDR-CX550V/XR550V)  
Assigns file numbers in sequence, following  
the largest file number existing on the  
recording medium.  
When the memory card is replaced with  
another one, the file number is assigned for  
each memory card.  
See page 52.  
FILM ROLL  
See page 36.  
FACE  
See page 37.  
PLAYLIST  
See page 50.  
HIGHLIGHT  
See page 37.  
SCENARIO  
See page 38.  
PLAYBACK SET  
/
SET  
See page 27.  
DATA CODE  
During playback, your camcorder displays  
the information (Date/time, Camera data,  
Coordinates) recorded automatically at the  
time of recording.  
U2S  
       
Aperture value  
Exposure  
Flash  
OFF  
Data code is not displayed.  
DATE/TIME  
Displays the date and time.  
COORDINATES (HDR-CX550V/XR550V)  
See page 55.  
CAMERA DATA  
Displays camera setting data.  
Tips  
The data code is displayed on the TV screen if  
you connect your camcorder to a TV.  
The indicator toggles through the following  
sequences as you press DATA CODE  
on the Wireless Remote Commander:  
[DATE/TIME] [CAMERA DATA]   
[COORDINATES](HDR-CX550V/XR550V)  
[OFF] (no indication).  
COORDINATES*  
Displays coordinates.  
* HDR-CX550V/XR550V  
DATE/TIME  
Depending on the recording media condition,  
bars [--:--:--] appear.  
Date  
Time  
CAMERA DATA  
Movie  
Photo  
SteadyShot off  
Brightness  
White balance  
Gain  
Shutter speed  
US  
ꢁꢀ  
 
OTHERS  
(Items for other settings)  
EDIT  
(Items for editing)  
See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation.  
See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation.  
The default settings are marked with .  
DELETE  
YOUR LOCATION (HDR-  
CX550V/XR550V)  
See page 44.  
SCENARIO ERASE  
See page 52.  
See page 38.  
USB CONNECT  
PROTECT  
See page 63.  
See page 45.  
TV CONNECT Guide  
See page 41.  
DIVIDE  
See page 46.  
MUSIC TOOL  
See page 39.  
PHOTO CAPTURE  
See page 47.  
BATTERY INFO  
You can check the estimated remaining  
capacity of the battery.  
MOVIE DUB  
See page 48.  
PHOTO COPY  
See page 49.  
PLAYLIST EDIT  
To close the battery information screen  
See page 50.  
Touch  
.
U4S  
       
MANAGE MEDIA  
(Items for recording media)  
the memory card from your camcorder (The  
access lamp is lit or flashing while formatting  
memory card.).  
See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation.  
MEDIA SETTINGS  
To prevent data on the internal  
recording media from being recovered  
See page 18.  
[EMPTY] allows you to write unintelligible  
data onto the internal recording media of  
the camcorder. In this way it may become  
more difficult to recover any original  
data. When you dispose of or transfer the  
camcorder, it is recommended that you  
perform [EMPTY].  
MEDIA INFO  
You can check the remaining recordable  
time for each recording mode of the  
recording media for movies and the  
approximate free and used media space of  
the recording media.  
When the internal recording media is  
selected on the [MEDIA FORMAT] screen,  
touch [EMPTY].  
To turn off the display  
Touch  
.
Notes  
Since there is a management file area, the  
used space is not displayed as 0 % even if you  
perform [MEDIA FORMAT] (p. 85).  
Tips  
Only the information of the medium selected  
on [MOVIE MEDIA SET] (p. 18) is displayed.  
Change the medium setting if necessary.  
Notes  
Connect the AC Adaptor to the wall outlet (wall  
socket). You cannot perform [EMPTY] unless  
you connect the AC Adaptor to the wall outlet  
(wall socket).  
MEDIA FORMAT  
To avoid the loss of important images, they  
should be saved on a computer or other devices  
before performing [EMPTY].  
Disconnect all cables except the AC Adaptor.  
Do not disconnect the AC Adaptor during the  
operation.  
While deleting data, do not apply any vibrations  
or shocks to your camcorder.  
The actual performing time for deleting data is  
as follows;  
HDR-CX550/CX550V: about 6 minutes  
HDR-XR550/XR550V: about 120 minutes  
If you stop performing [EMPTY] while  
[Executing…] appears, be sure to complete the  
operation by performing [MEDIA FORMAT]  
or [EMPTY] when you use the camcorder next  
time.  
Formatting deletes all the movies and  
photos to recover recordable free space.  
Select the recording media to be formatted,  
touch [YES] [YES]   
.
Notes  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  
socket) using AC Adaptor supplied for this  
operation (p. 14).  
To avoid the loss of important images, you  
should save them before formatting the  
recording media.  
Protected movies and photos will also be  
deleted.  
While [Executing…] is displayed, do not close  
the LCD screen, operate the buttons on the  
camcorder, disconnect the AC Adaptor, or eject  
US  
ꢁ5  
         
GENERAL SET  
(Other setup items)  
REPAIR IMG.DB F.  
See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation.  
The default settings are marked with .  
SOUND/DISP SET  
VOLUME  
You can adjust the volume of playback  
sound by touching  
/
.
BEEP  
ON  
A melody sounds when you start/stop  
recording, or operate the touch panel.  
OFF  
Cancels the melody.  
LCD BRIGHT  
You can adjust the brightness of the LCD  
screen by touching  
/
.
Tips  
This adjustment does not affect the recorded  
images in any way.  
LCD BL LEVEL (LCD backlight level)  
You can select the brightness of the LCD  
screen’s backlight.  
NORMAL  
Standard brightness.  
BRIGHT  
Brightens the LCD screen.  
Notes  
When you connect your camcorder to the wall  
outlet (wall socket) using the supplied AC  
Adaptor, [BRIGHT] is automatically selected  
for the setting.  
When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is  
slightly reduced during recording.  
If you open the LCD panel 180 degrees to face  
the screen outside and close the LCD panel  
U6S  
           
to the camcorder body, the setting becomes  
[NORMAL] automatically.  
OUTPUT SETTINGS  
Tips  
TV TYPE  
This adjustment does not affect the recorded  
images in any way.  
You need to convert the signal depending  
on the TV connected when playing back  
movies and photos. The recorded movies  
and photos are played back as following  
illustrations.  
LCD COLOR  
You can adjust the color of the LCD screen  
by touching  
/
.
16:9  
Tips  
Select this to view your movies on a 16:9  
(wide) TV. The recorded movies and photos  
are played back as shown below.  
This adjustment does not affect the recorded  
images in any way.  
DISPLAY SET  
You can set the duration of displaying the  
icons or indicators on the LCD screen.  
Movies and photos Movies and photos  
recorded in 16:9 recorded in 4:3 mode  
(wide) mode  
AUTO1  
Displays for about 3 seconds. The rec & zoom  
buttons on the LCD is displayed.  
AUTO2  
4:3  
Displays for about 3 seconds. The rec & zoom  
buttons on the LCD is not displayed.  
Select this to view your movies and photos on  
a 4:3 standard TV. The recorded movies and  
photos are played back as shown below.  
ON  
Always displays. The rec & zoom buttons on  
the LCD is not displayed.  
Movies and photos Movies and photos  
recorded in 16:9 recorded in 4:3 mode  
(wide) mode  
Tips  
The icons or indicators are displayed in the  
following cases.  
When you turn on your camcorder.  
The LCD screen is touched (Except rec &  
zoom buttons on LCD).  
When you switch your camcorder to the  
movie recording, photo recording, or  
playback modes.  
Notes  
Horizontal to vertical ratio of high definition  
image quality (HD) movies is 16:9.  
When you connect your camcorder to a TV  
compatible with the ID-1/ID-2 system, set [TV  
TYPE] to [16:9]. The TV switches to full mode  
automatically. Refer also to the instruction  
manuals supplied with your TV.  
US  
ꢁ7  
       
STD CONTENTS  
Set the output image resolution recorded with  
standard definition image quality (STD).  
COMPONENT  
Select [COMPONENT] when connecting  
your camcorder to a TV with the  
component input jack.  
AUTO  
Normal setting (outputs the signal according  
to the TV automatically).  
480i  
Select this when connecting your  
camcorder to a TV with the component  
input jack.  
480p  
Outputs the 480p signal.  
480i  
1080i/480i  
Outputs the 480i signal.  
Select this when connecting your  
camcorder to a TV that has the component  
input jack and is capable of displaying the  
1080i signal.  
DISP OUTPUT (Display output)  
You can set where the screen displays are to  
be output.  
HDMI RESOLUTION  
LCD PANEL  
Shows displays such as the time code on the  
LCD screen or viewfinder.  
Select the output image resolution when  
connecting your camcorder to a TV with an  
HDMI cable (sold separately).  
V-OUT/PANEL  
Shows displays such as the time code on  
the LCD screen or viewfinder, and on the  
TV screen.  
HD CONTENTS  
Set the output image resolution recorded with  
high definition image quality (HD).  
AUTO  
Normal setting (outputs the signal according  
to the TV automatically).  
CLOCK/ LANG  
1080p  
Outputs the 1080p signal.  
CLOCK SET  
See page 15.  
1080i  
Outputs the 1080i signal.  
AREA SET  
You can adjust a time difference without  
stopping the clock. Set your local area when  
using your camcorder in other time zones.  
Refer to the world time difference on page  
720p  
Outputs the 720p signal.  
480p  
Outputs the 480p signal.  
AUTO CLOCK ADJ (Auto clock  
adjustment) (HDR-CX550V/XR550V)  
See page 56.  
US  
           
AUTO AREA ADJ (Auto area  
adjustment) (HDR-CX550V/XR550V)  
OTHER SETTINGS  
See page 56.  
DEMO MODE  
When your camcorder is connected to a  
wall outlet (wall socket), a demonstration  
movie appear about 10 minutes after you  
turn on the (Movie) lamp by pressing  
MODE.  
DST SET/SUMMERTIME  
You can change this setting without  
stopping the clock. Set to [ON] to move the  
time forward 1 hour.  
OFF  
ON  
Does not set the DST SET.  
The demonstration appears.  
ON  
OFF  
Sets the DST SET.  
The demonstration does not appear.  
LANGUAGE SET  
Notes  
You can select the language to be used on  
the LCD screen.  
In the default setting, the demonstration movie  
is in the VISUAL INDEX. If you delete the  
demonstration movie, you cannot recover it.  
A movie you have recorded will be registered as  
the demonstration movie if it satisfies all of the  
following conditions.  
Tips  
Your camcorder offers [ENG[SIMP]]  
(simplified English) for when you cannot find  
your native tongue among the options.  
The movie is protected  
The movie is the first one displayed on the  
VISUAL INDEX screen  
POWER SETTINGS  
The movie is saved on the internal recording  
media  
The movie is recorded with high definition  
image quality (HD)  
A.SHUT OFF (Auto shut off)  
You can set your camcorder to turn off  
automatically when you do not operate  
your camcorder for more than about 5  
minutes.  
Tips  
When you set this item to [ON] and touch  
, the demonstration starts playing.  
The demonstration will be suspended:  
When you press START/STOP or PHOTO  
When you touch the screen during the  
demonstration (The demonstration starts  
again after about 10 minutes)  
5min  
The camcorder turns off automatically.  
NEVER  
The camcorder does not turn off  
automatically.  
When you turn on the  
(Photo) lamp  
When you press  
(VIEW IMAGES)  
Notes  
CALIBRATION  
See page 115.  
When you connect your camcorder to a  
wall outlet (wall socket), [A.SHUT OFF] is  
automatically set to [NEVER].  
US  
ꢁ9  
         
DROP SENSOR (HDR-XR550/XR550V)  
REC LAMP (Recording lamp)  
Your camcorder detects that it is dropping,  
and protects the internal hard disk.  
You can make the camera recording lamp  
on the front of your camcorder not to turn  
on.  
ON  
Activates the drop sensor. When it is detected  
that the camcorder is dropping, you may  
not be able to record or play back images  
correctly, to protect the internal hard disk.  
ON  
The camera recording lamp lights up.  
OFF  
The camera recording lamp does not light up.  
When dropping is detected,  
appears.  
OFF (  
)
REMOTE CTRL (Remote control)  
Deactivates the drop sensor.  
ON  
Notes  
Select this when you use the supplied Wireless  
Remote Commander (p. 123).  
Set the drop sensor to [ON] when you use  
the camcorder. Otherwise, if you drop the  
camcorder, you may damage the internal hard  
disk.  
In a non-gravity situation, the drop sensor  
activates. When you record images during an  
activity such as roller-coasting or skydiving, you  
can set [DROP SENSOR] to [OFF] so as not to  
activate the drop sensor.  
OFF  
Select this when you do not use supplied  
Wireless Remote Commander.  
Tips  
Select [OFF] when you want to prevent your  
camcorder from responding to a command sent  
by another remote control unit.  
CTRL FOR HDMI (Control for HDMI)  
When connecting your camcorder to a  
“BRAVIASync compatible TV with the  
HDMI cable (sold separately), you can play  
back movies on your camcorder by aiming  
the TVs Remote Commander at the TV  
ON  
Operates your camcorder using the TVs  
Remote Commander.  
OFF  
Does not operate your camcorder using the  
TVs Remote Commander.  
9U0S  
         
Additional information  
Troubleshooting  
If you run into any problems using your  
camcorder, follow the steps below.  
other devices....................................................p. 96  
Playback on the TV ........................................p. 97  
Dubbing/Connecting to other devices.........p. 97  
GPS (HDR-CX550V/XR550V)....................p. 97  
Connecting to a Computer............................p. 98  
Examples of functions that cannot be used  
Check the list (p. 91 to 102), and  
inspect your camcorder.  
simultaneously.................................................p. 98  
Disconnect the power source, attach  
the power source again after about 1  
minute, and turn the camcorder on.  
Overall operations/Wireless  
Remote Commander  
Press RESET (p. 122) using a pointed  
object, and turn the camcorder on.  
If you press RESET, all settings,  
The power does not turn on.  
Attach a charged battery pack to the  
camcorder (p. 12).  
The plug of the AC Adaptor has been  
disconnected from the wall outlet (wall  
socket). Connect it to the wall outlet (wall  
socket) (p. 12).  
including the clock setting, are reset.  
Contact your Sony dealer or local  
authorized Sony service facility.  
The camcorder does not operate even  
when the power is set to on.  
Your camcorder may be required to initialize or  
change the current internal recording media of  
your camcorder, depending on the problem. In  
the event of this, the data stored on the internal  
recording media will be deleted. Be sure to  
save the data on the internal recording media  
on other media (backup) before sending your  
camcorder for repair. We will not compensate  
you for any loss of internal recording media  
data.  
During repair, we may check a minimum  
amount of data stored on the internal recording  
media in order to investigate the problem.  
However, your Sony dealer will neither copy  
nor retain your data.  
It takes a few seconds for your camcorder to  
be ready to shoot after the power is turned on.  
This is not a malfunction.  
Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall  
outlet (wall socket) or remove the battery  
pack, then reconnect it after about 1 minute.  
If the functions still do not work, press RESET  
(p. 122) using a pointed object. (If you press  
RESET, all settings, including the clock setting,  
are reset.)  
The temperature of your camcorder is  
extremely high. Turn off your camcorder and  
leave it for a while in a cool place.  
The temperature of your camcorder is  
extremely low. Leave your camcorder with the  
power of your camcorder on. Turn off your  
camcorder and take it to a warm place. Leave  
the camcorder there for a while, then turn on  
your camcorder.  
Overall operations/Wireless Remote  
Commander.....................................................p. 91  
Batteries/power sources ................................p. 92  
LCD screen/viewfinder..................................p. 93  
Memory card ...................................................p. 93  
Recording.........................................................p. 93  
Playback ...........................................................p. 95  
Playing back images stored on memory card on  
US  
91  
       
The menu settings have changed  
automatically.  
Another DVD device malfunctions when  
you use the supplied Wireless Remote  
Commander.  
The following menu items return to the  
default settings in more than 12 hours after  
you close the LCD screen.  
[SCENE SELECTION]  
[WHITE BAL.]  
Select a commander mode other than DVD 2  
for your DVD device, or cover the sensor of  
your DVD device with black paper.  
[SPOT MTR/FCS]  
[SPOT METER]  
[SPOT FOCUS]  
[EXPOSURE]  
[FOCUS]  
[LOW LUX]  
[BLT-IN ZOOM MIC]  
[MICREF LEVEL]  
[AUTO BACK LIGHT]  
[IRIS]  
Batteries/power sources  
The power abruptly turns off.  
Use the AC Adaptor.  
In the default setting, when about 5 minutes  
have elapsed while you do not operate your  
camcorder, the camcorder is automatically  
turned off (A.SHUT OFF). Change the setting  
of [A.SHUT OFF] (p. 89), or turn on the  
power again.  
[SHUTTER SPEED]  
[DROP SENSOR] (HDR-XR550/XR550V)  
The following menu items return to the  
default settings when you switch between  
movie recording and photo recording and  
playback modes.  
Charge the battery pack (p. 12).  
The /CHG (flash/charge) lamp does  
not light while the battery pack is being  
charged.  
[ FADER]  
[TELE MACRO]  
[ SELF-TIMER]  
Close the LCD screen (p. 12).  
Attach the battery pack to the camcorder  
correctly (p. 12).  
Connect the power cord (mains lead) to the  
wall outlet (wall socket) properly.  
The battery charge is completed (p. 12).  
Your camcorder gets warm.  
Your camcorder may become warm during  
operation. This is not a malfunction.  
The /CHG (flash/charge) lamp flashes  
while the battery pack is being charged.  
The supplied Wireless Remote  
Commander does not function.  
If the temperature of the battery pack is too  
high or too low, you may not be able to charge  
it (p. 112).  
Attach the battery pack to the camcorder  
correctly (p. 12). If the problem persists,  
disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall  
outlet (wall socket) and contact your Sony  
dealer. The battery pack may be damaged.  
Set [REMOTE CTRL] to [ON] (p. 90).  
Insert a battery into the battery holder with  
the +/– polarities correctly matching the  
+/– marks (p. 124).  
Remove any obstructions between the  
Wireless Remote Commander and the remote  
sensor.  
Point the remote sensor away from strong light  
sources such as direct sunlight or overhead  
lighting. Otherwise, the Wireless Remote  
Commander may not function properly.  
9U2S  
 
The remaining battery time indicator does  
not indicate the correct time.  
The image in the viewfinder is not clear.  
Move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever  
The ambient temperature is too high or too  
low. This is not a malfunction.  
until the image appears clearly (p. 23).  
The battery pack has not been charged  
enough. Fully charge the battery again. If the  
problem persists, replace the battery pack with  
a new one (p. 113).  
The indicated time may not be correct  
depending on the environment of use.  
The image in the viewfinder has  
disappeared.  
Close the LCD panel. Even if the viewfinder  
is pulled out, no image is displayed in the  
viewfinder when the LCD panel is open  
The battery pack is quickly discharged.  
Memory card  
The ambient temperature is too high or low.  
This is not a malfunction.  
The battery pack has not been charged  
enough. Fully charge the battery again. If the  
problem persists, replace the battery pack with  
a new one (p. 113).  
Operations using the memory card  
cannot be performed.  
If you use the memory card formatted on a  
computer, format it again on your camcorder  
LCD screen/viewfinder  
Images stored on the memory card  
cannot be deleted.  
Menu items are grayed out.  
The maximum number of images that you can  
delete on the index screen at one time is 100.  
You cannot delete the protected images.  
You cannot select grayed items in the current  
recording/playback situation.  
There are some functions you cannot activate  
simultaneously (p. 98).  
The data file name is not indicated  
correctly or flashes.  
The buttons do not appear on the touch  
panel.  
The file is damaged.  
The file format is not supported by your  
camcorder (p. 112).  
Touch the LCD screen lightly.  
Press DISPLAY on the Wireless Remote  
Commander (p. 123).  
Recording  
The buttons on the touch panel do not  
work correctly or do not work at all.  
Refer also to “Memory card” (p. 93).  
Adjust the touch panel ([CALIBRATION])  
Pressing START/STOP or PHOTO does not  
record images.  
The playback screen is displayed. Press MODE  
The buttons on the touch panel quickly  
disappear.  
to turn on the  
(Movie) or (Photo) lamp  
Set [DISPLAY SET] to [ON] (p. 87).  
Your camcorder is recording the image you  
have just shot on the recording media. You  
US  
9ꢀ  
     
cannot make new recording during this  
period.  
The recording media is full. Delete  
unnecessary images (p. 44).  
Even if auto flash or  
(Auto redeye  
reduction) is selected, you cannot use the  
flash with:  
NightShot  
Total number of movie scenes or photos  
exceeds the recordable capacity of your  
camcorder (p. 104, 105). Delete unnecessary  
images (p. 44).  
While [DROP SENSOR] is activated (p. 90),  
you may not record images. (HDR-XR550/  
XR550V)  
The temperature of your camcorder is  
extremely high. Turn off your camcorder and  
leave it for a while in a cool place.  
The temperature of your camcorder is  
extremely low. Turn off your camcorder and  
take it to a warm place. Leave the camcorder  
there for a while, then turn on the camcorder.  
[IRIS] or [SHUTTER SPEED] that is assigned  
to the MANUAL dial  
[SPOT MTR/FCS]  
[SPOT METER]  
[MANUAL] in [EXPOSURE]  
[TWILIGHT], [SUNRISE&SUNSET],  
[FIREWORKS], [LANDSCAPE],  
[SPOTLIGHT], [BEACH] or [SNOW] in  
[SCENE SELECTION]  
The actual recording time for movies is  
less than the expected recording time of  
the recording media.  
Depending on the recording conditions, the  
time available for recording may be shorter, for  
example when recording a fast moving object,  
etc. (p. 104).  
Photos cannot be recorded.  
You cannot record photos together with:  
[ FADER]  
[GOLF SHOT]  
The camcorder stops operating.  
[SMTH SLW REC]  
When [ REC MODE] is set to [HD FX], you  
cannot record photos while recording movies.  
The temperature of your camcorder is  
extremely high. Turn off your camcorder and  
leave it for a while in a cool place.  
The temperature of your camcorder is  
extremely low. Turn off your camcorder and  
take it to a warm place. Leave the camcorder  
there for a while, then turn on the camcorder.  
If you keep applying vibration on the  
camcorder, recording may stop.  
The access lamp remains lit or flashing  
even if recording was stopped.  
Your camcorder is recording the scene you  
have just shot on the memory card.  
The imaging field looks different.  
There is a time difference between the  
point when START/STOP is pressed and  
the point that the recording movie is  
started or stopped actually.  
The imaging field may look different  
depending on the condition of your  
camcorder. This is not a malfunction.  
On your camcorder, there may be a slight  
time difference between the point where you  
press START/STOP and the actual point that  
recording movie starts/stops. This is not a  
malfunction.  
The flash does not work.  
You cannot record with the built-in flash  
while:  
the  
(movie) lamp is on  
[CONVERSION LENS] is set to other than  
[OFF]  
9U4S  
The horizontal to vertical ratio of the  
movie (16:9 (wide)/4:3) cannot be  
changed.  
Horizontal stripes appear on the images.  
This occurs when recording images under a  
fluorescent lamp, sodium lamp, or mercury  
lamp. This is not a malfunction.  
The horizontal to vertical ratio of high  
definition image quality (HD) movies is 16:9  
(wide).  
Black bands appear when you record a TV  
screen or computer screen.  
The auto focus does not function.  
Set [ STEADYSHOT] to an option except  
for [ACTIVE] (p. 77).  
Set [FOCUS] to [AUTO] (p. 74).  
The recording conditions are not suitable for  
auto focus. Adjust the focus manually (p. 74).  
[LCD BL LEVEL] cannot be adjusted.  
You cannot adjust [LCD BL LEVEL] when:  
The LCD panel is closed on your camcorder  
with the LCD screen facing out.  
SteadyShot does not function.  
Set [ STEADYSHOT] to [ACTIVE] or  
[STANDARD], [ STEADYSHOT] to [ON]  
The power is supplied from the AC Adaptor.  
Even if [ STEADYSHOT] is set to  
[ACTIVE] or [STANDARD],  
Magnification changes when the  
recording mode is switched.  
[
STEADYSHOT] to [ON], your camcorder  
You cannot use digital zoom when your  
camcorder is in the photo recording mode.  
may not be able to compensate for excessive  
vibrations.  
Sound is not recorded correctly.  
The subjects passing by the screen very  
fast appear crooked.  
If you disconnect an external microphone, etc.  
during recording movies, sound may not be  
recorded correctly.  
Connect the microphone again in the same  
way as when you start recording movies.  
This is called the focal plane phenomenon.  
This is not a malfunction. Because of the way  
the image device (CMOS sensor) reads out  
image signals, the subjects passing by the lens  
rapidly might appear crooked depending on  
the recording conditions.  
Playback  
The color of the image is not correctly  
displayed.  
Images cannot be played back.  
Select the type of recording media you want to  
play back (p. 18).  
Select the image quality of the movie you want  
to play back (p. 27).  
Images recorded on other devices may not be  
played back. This is not a malfunction.  
Press NIGHTSHOT to cancel the NightShot  
function (p. 30).  
The screen image is bright, and the  
subject does not appear on the screen.  
Press NIGHTSHOT to cancel the NightShot  
function (p. 30).  
US  
95  
 
Change the sound to 2ch when creating a disc  
using the supplied software “PMB.”  
Photos cannot be played back.  
Photos cannot be played back if you have  
modified files or folders, or have edited the  
data on a computer. (The file name flashes in  
that case.) This is not a malfunction.  
This happens when sound recorded in 5.1ch  
surround is converted to 2ch (normal stereo  
sound) by a computer or other device. This is  
not a malfunction.  
Record sound with [AUDIO MODE] set to  
[2ch STEREO] (p. 79).  
is indicated on an image on the  
VISUAL INDEX screen.  
The demonstration movies cannot be  
played.  
This may appear on an image recorded on  
other devices, edited on a computer, etc.  
You removed the AC Adaptor or the battery  
pack while the recording media icon at the top  
right corner of the screen flashes, or before  
the access lamp is turned off after recording.  
Select the internal recording media for the  
recording media, and the high definition  
image quality (HD).  
The demonstration movie is deleted.  
This may damage your image data and  
displayed.  
is  
A movie is played back automatically.  
Movies play automatically as a demonstration  
movie when the filmed movie fulfills a certain  
condition on your camcorder (p. 89). This is  
not a malfunction.  
is indicated on an image on the  
VISUAL INDEX screen.  
The image data base file may be damaged.  
Check the data base file by touching  
(MENU) [Show others] [REPAIR  
Playing back images stored on  
memory card on other devices  
IMG.DB F.] (under  
category) the recording medium. If it still  
appears, delete the image with (p. 44).  
[MANAGE MEDIA]  
Images cannot be played back or the  
memory card is not recognized.  
No sound or only a quiet sound is heard  
during playback.  
The playback device does not support playing  
back memory cards (p. 3).  
Turn up the volume (p. 35).  
Sound is quiet when the LCD screen is closed  
facing out. Open the LCD screen.  
When you record sound with [MICREF  
LEVEL] (p. 78) set to [LOW], the recorded  
sound may be difficult to hear.  
Editing movies/photos on your  
camcorder  
Sounds cannot be recorded while shooting  
with [SMTH SLW REC] or [GOLF SHOT].  
Unable to edit.  
Unable to edit because of the condition of the  
image.  
Left and right sound will be heard  
unbalanced when playing back movies on  
computers or other devices.  
Movies cannot be added in the Playlist.  
There is no free space in the recording media.  
You can add no more than 999 high definition  
image quality (HD) movies, or 99 standard  
definition image quality (STD) movies, to a  
Change the sound conversion type (downmix  
type) when playing back on 2ch stereo devices.  
Refer to the instruction manual supplied with  
your playback device for details.  
9U6S  
         
Playlist. Erase unnecessary movies from the  
Playlist (p. 51).  
You cannot add photos in the Playlist.  
The image appears distorted on the 4:3  
TV.  
This happens when viewing an image  
recorded in the 16:9 (wide) mode on a 4:3 TV.  
Set [TV TYPE] correctly (p. 87) and play back  
the image.  
A movie cannot be divided.  
A movie that is too short cannot be divided.  
A protected movie cannot be divided.  
Black bands appear at the top and bottom  
of the screen of the 4:3 TV.  
A photo cannot be captured from a  
movie.  
This happens when viewing an image recorded  
in the 16:9 (wide) mode on a 4:3 TV. This is  
not a malfunction.  
The recording media where you want to save  
photos is full.  
Playback on the TV  
Dubbing/Connecting to other  
devices  
Neither image nor sound is played on the  
connected TV.  
Images are not dubbed correctly.  
When you are using the component A/V  
cable, set [COMPONENT] according to the  
requirements of the connected device (p. 88).  
When you are using the component video  
plug, make sure the red and white plugs of the  
A/V connecting cable are connected (p. 42).  
Images are not output from the HDMI OUT  
jack, if copyright protection signals are  
recorded in the images.  
You cannot dub images using the HDMI cable  
(sold separately).  
The A/V connecting cable is not connected  
properly. Make sure to connect the cable to the  
input jack of another device (p. 64).  
GPS (HDR-CX550V/XR550V)  
When you are using the S VIDEO plug,  
make sure the red and white plugs of the A/V  
connecting cable are connected (p. 43).  
The camcorder is not receiving a GPS  
signal.  
Your camcorder may not be able to receive  
radio signals from GPS satellites because of  
obstructions. Bring your camcorder to an  
open area, and set the GPS switch to ON  
again. See page 109 for details on locations or  
situations where radio signals may not reach.  
The top, bottom, right, and left edges  
of images are trimmed slightly on a  
connected TV.  
The LCD screen of your camcorder can  
display recording images across the entire  
screen (full pixel display). However, this may  
cause slight trimming of the top, bottom, right,  
and left edges of images when played back on  
a TV which is not compatible with full pixel  
display.  
It is recommended you record images using  
the outer frame of [GUIDEFRAME] (p. 76)  
as a guide.  
The current location on the map of the  
camcorder is different from the actual  
current location.  
The margin of error of the radio signal from  
GPS satellites is large. The margin of error can  
be as wide as several-hundred meters at the  
maximum.  
US  
97  
     
Cannot use  
Because of following settings  
Connecting to a Computer  
“PMBcannot be installed.  
[FACE  
DETECTION]  
NightShot, [GOLF SHOT],  
[SMTH SLW REC],  
[
DIGITAL ZOOM],  
[SPOT MTR/FCS],  
Check the computer environment or  
installation procedure required to install  
“PMB.  
[SPOT METER], [SPOT  
FOCUS], [EXPOSURE],  
[FOCUS], [TWILIGHT],  
[SUNRISE&SUNSET],  
[FIREWORKS],  
“PMBdoes not work correctly.  
[LANDSCAPE],  
Quit “PMB” and restart your computer.  
[SPOTLIGHT], [BEACH],  
[SNOW], [WHITE BAL.],  
The camcorder is not recognized by the  
computer.  
[
FADER], [ SELF-  
TIMER]  
Disconnect devices from the USB jack of the  
computer other than the keyboard, mouse,  
and your camcorder.  
Disconnect the USB cable from the computer  
and your camcorder, and restart the computer,  
then connect the computer and your  
camcorder again in the correct order.  
[PRIORITY  
SETTING]/  
[SMILE  
NightShot, [GOLF SHOT],  
[SMTH SLW REC],  
[
DIGITAL ZOOM],  
DETECTION]/  
[SMILE  
[SPOT MTR/FCS],  
[SPOT METER], [SPOT  
FOCUS], [EXPOSURE],  
[FOCUS], [TWILIGHT],  
[SUNRISE&SUNSET],  
[FIREWORKS],  
SENSITIVITY]  
[LANDSCAPE],  
Examples of functions that cannot  
be used simultaneously  
[SPOTLIGHT], [BEACH],  
[SNOW], [WHITE BAL.],  
[
FADER], [ SELF-  
The following list shows examples of  
unworkable combinations of functions and  
menu items.  
TIMER]  
[SCENE  
SELECTION]  
NightShot, [GOLF SHOT],  
[SMTH SLW REC], [LOW  
LUX], [ FADER], [TELE  
MACRO]  
Cannot use  
Because of following settings  
[IRIS] and  
[SHUTTER  
SPEED] in the  
MANUAL dial  
items  
NightShot  
Self-diagnosis display/Warning  
indicators  
INTELLIGENT  
AUTO  
[GOLF SHOT], [SMTH SLW  
REC]  
If indicators appear on the LCD screen or  
viewfinder, check the following.  
If the problem persists even after you  
have tried to fix a couple of times, contact  
your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony  
service facility. In this case, when you  
contact them, give them all the numbers of  
the error code beginning with C or E.  
9US  
       
(High temperature warning)  
Slow flashing  
The temperature of your camcorder is getting  
higher. Turn off your camcorder and leave it  
for a while in a cool place.  
C:(or E:) :(Self-diagnosis display)  
C:04:  
The battery pack is not an “InfoLITHIUM”  
battery pack (V series). Use an  
Fast flashing  
The temperature of your camcorder is  
extremely high. Turn off your camcorder and  
leave it for a while in a cool place.  
  
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (V series)  
(Low temperature warning)  
Connect the DC plug of the AC Adaptor to the  
DC IN jack of your camcorder securely (p. 12).  
Fast flashing  
The temperature of your camcorder is  
extremely low. Make the camcorder warm.  
C:06:  
  
The battery pack temperature is high. Change  
the battery pack or place it in a cool place.  
(Warning indicator pertaining to  
memory card)  
C:13:  
/ C:32:  
  
  
Remove the power source. Reconnect it and  
operate your camcorder again.  
Slow flashing  
Free spaces for recording images are running  
out. For the type of memory card you can use  
with your camcorder, see page 19.  
No memory card is inserted (p. 19).  
E:  
:
  
Follow the steps from to on page 91.  
(Warning on the internal hard disk of  
the camcorder)  
Fast flashing  
There are not enough free spaces for recording  
images. After storing the images on other  
media (p. 57), delete unnecessary images, or  
format the memory card (p. 85).  
The image data base file may be damaged.  
Check the data base file by touching  
(MENU) [Show others] [REPAIR  
Fast flashing  
The internal hard disk of the camcorder is full.  
An error may have occurred with the internal  
hard disk of the camcorder.  
(Battery level warning)  
IMG.DB F.] (under  
[MANAGE MEDIA]  
Slow flashing  
category) the recording medium.  
The battery pack is nearly used up.  
Depending on the operating environment or  
The memory card is damaged.  
battery conditions,  
are about 20 minutes remaining.  
may flash, even if there  
(Warning indicators pertaining to  
memory card formatting)  
The memory card is damaged.  
The memory card is not formatted correctly  
(Warning indicator pertaining to  
battery pack temperature)  
The battery pack temperature is high. Change  
the battery pack or place it in a cool place.  
US  
99  
When [ REC MODE] is set to [HD FX], you  
cannot record photos while recording movies.  
(Warning indicator pertaining to  
incompatible memory card)  
Incompatible memory card is inserted (p. 19).  
(Warning indicator pertaining to smile  
shutter)  
(Warning indicator pertaining to  
the write-protect of the memory card)  
The smile shutter cannot be used with the  
current setting of the camcorder.  
Access to the memory card was restricted on  
another device.  
Tips  
(Warning indicator pertaining to the  
flash)  
You may hear a melody when some warning  
indicators appear on the screen.  
Fast flashing  
There is something wrong with the flash.  
Description of warning messages  
If messages appear on the screen, follow the  
instructions.  
(Warning indicator pertaining to  
camera-shake warning)  
The amount of lights is not sufficient, so  
camera-shake easily occurs. Use the flash.  
The camcorder is unsteady, so camera-shake  
easily occurs. Hold the camcorder steady with  
both hands and record the image. However,  
note that the camera-shake warning indicator  
does not disappear.  
Recording media  
Internal memory format error.  
HDD format error.  
The internal recording media of the  
camcorder is set differently from the default  
format. Performing [MEDIA FORMAT]  
(p. 85) may enable you to use your camcorder.  
This will delete all data in the internal  
recording media.  
(Warning indicator pertaining to drop  
sensor)  
The drop sensor function (p. 90) is activated,  
and has detected that the camcorder has  
been dropped. Therefore, the camcorder is  
taking steps to protect the internal hard disk.  
Recording/playback may be disabled as a  
result.  
The drop sensor function does not guarantee  
the protection of the internal hard disk under  
all possible situations. Use the camcorder  
under stable conditions.  
Data error.  
An error occurred during reading or writing  
the internal recording media of the camcorder.  
If the message is preceded by a GPS indicator,  
there may be some trouble with the GPS  
receiver. Turn on your camcorder again.  
(HDR-CX550V/XR550V)  
This may occur when you keep applying shock  
on the camcorder.  
Movies recorded on other devices may not be  
played back.  
(Warning indicator pertaining to  
photo recording)  
The recording media is full.  
Photos cannot be recorded during processing.  
Wait for a while, then record.  
10U0S  
 
The Image Database File is damaged. Do  
you want to create a new file?  
HD movie management information is  
damaged. Create new information?  
Buffer overflow  
You cannot record because the drop sensor  
senses a drop of the camcorder repeatedly.  
If you are at risk of dropping the camcorder  
constantly, set [DROP SENSOR] to [OFF],  
and you may be able to record the image again  
The management file is damaged. When  
you touch [YES], a new management file  
is created. The old recorded images on the  
media cannot be played back (Image files are  
not damaged). If you execute [REPAIR IMG.  
DB F.] after creating new information, playing  
back the old recorded images may become  
possible. If it does not work, copy the image  
using the supplied software.  
Recovering data.  
Your camcorder tries to recover data  
automatically if the data writing was not  
performed properly.  
Cannot recover data.  
There is no HD movie management  
information. Create new information?  
Writing data onto the media of the camcorder  
has failed. Attempts were made to recover the  
data, but they were unsuccessful.  
You cannot record or play back movies  
because no high definition image quality (HD)  
movie management information exists. If you  
touch [YES], new management information  
is created and you can record or play back  
movies with high definition image quality  
(HD).  
Reinsert the memory card.  
Reinsert the memory card a few times. If even  
then the indicator flashes, the memory card  
could be damaged. Try with another memory  
card.  
You can record standard definition image  
quality (STD) movies or photos.  
This memory card is not formatted  
correctly.  
Inconsistencies found in Image Database  
File. Do you want to repair the Image  
Database File?  
The Image Database File is damaged. Do  
you want to repair the Image Database  
File?  
Inconsistencies found in Image Database  
File. Cannot record or play HD movies. Do  
you want to repair the Image Database  
File?  
Format the memory card (p. 85). Note that if  
you format the memory card, all the recorded  
movies and photos are deleted.  
Still picture folder is full. Cannot record  
still pictures.  
You cannot create folders exceeding  
999MSDCF. You cannot create or delete  
created folders using your camcorder.  
Format the memory card (p. 85), or delete  
folders using your computer.  
The management file is damaged, and you  
cannot record movies or photos. Touch [YES]  
to repair.  
You can record photos on a memory card.  
This memory card may not be able to  
record or play movies.  
Use a memory card recommended for your  
camcorder (p. 19).  
US  
101  
   
This memory card may not be able to  
record or play images correctly.  
Use a memory card recommended for your  
camcorder (p. 19).  
Do not eject the memory card during  
writing. Data may be damaged.  
Reinsert the memory card, and follow the  
instructions on the LCD screen.  
Other  
No further selection is possible.  
You can select only 100 images at one time for:  
Deleting movies/photos  
Protecting movies/photos, or releasing the  
protection  
Dubbing movies  
Copying photos  
Editing the Playlist of high definition image  
quality (HD) movies  
Data protected.  
You tried to delete protected data. Release the  
protection of the data.  
10U2S  
 
Recording time of  
movies/number of  
recordable photos  
“HD” stands for high definition image  
quality, and “STD” stands for standard  
image quality.  
Typical recording time shows the time when  
you repeat recording start/stop, switching the  
MODE lamp, and zooming.  
Times measured when using the camcorder at  
25 C (77 °F). 10 C to 30 C (50 °F to 86 °F) is  
recommended.  
The recording and playback time will be  
shorter when you use your camcorder in low  
temperatures.  
Expected time of recording and  
playback with each battery pack  
The recording and playback time will be shorter  
depending on the conditions under which you  
use your camcorder.  
Recording time  
Approximate time available when you use a  
fully charged battery pack.  
Playing time  
Approximate time available when you use a  
fully charged battery pack.  
HDR-CX550/CX550V  
(unit: minute)  
Battery pack  
Continuous  
recording time  
Typical recording  
time  
HDR-CX550/CX550V  
(unit: minute)  
Image quality  
HD STD  
HD STD  
NP-FV50  
(supplied)  
NP-FV70  
100  
110  
215  
230  
430  
455  
140  
150  
290  
315  
580  
625  
50  
55  
105  
115  
215  
225  
70  
75  
145  
155  
290  
310  
Battery pack  
Image quality  
NP-FV50  
(supplied)  
HD  
190  
215  
395  
440  
STD  
240  
280  
490  
565  
NP-FV100  
NP-FV70  
NP-FV100  
785  
870  
980  
1120  
HDR-XR550/XR550V  
(unit: minute)  
Battery pack  
Continuous  
recording time  
Typical recording  
time  
HDR-XR550/XR550V  
(unit: minute)  
STD  
Image quality  
NP-FV50  
(supplied)  
HD STD  
HD STD  
Battery pack  
90  
95  
125  
135  
45  
45  
60  
65  
Image quality  
NP-FV50  
(supplied)  
HD  
155  
170  
325  
355  
650  
710  
200  
225  
415  
465  
830  
925  
NP-FV70  
190  
205  
260  
280  
95  
100  
130  
140  
NP-FV70  
NP-FV100  
385  
405  
515  
555  
190  
200  
255  
275  
NP-FV100  
Top: When the LCD screen is opened  
Bottom: When recording with the viewfinder  
without opening the LCD screen  
Each recording time is measured when the  
Top: When the LCD screen is opened  
Bottom: When playing with the viewfinder  
without opening the LCD screen  
[
REC MODE] is set to HQ.  
US  
10ꢀ  
   
Standard definition image quality (STD) in h (hour) and  
m (minute)  
Expected recording time of movies  
Recording mode  
Recording time  
Internal memory  
HDR-CX550/CX550V  
HDR-XR550 HDR-XR550V  
59 h 40 m 59 h 20 m  
[STD HQ]  
(5.1ch)*  
[STD HQ]  
(2ch)*  
High definition image quality (HD) in h (hour) and m  
(minute)  
61 h 20 m 61 h 10 m  
Recording mode  
Recording time  
HDR-CX550 HDR-CX550V  
* You can change the recording sound format with  
[AUDIO MODE] (p. 79).  
[HD FX]  
[HD FH]  
[HD HQ]  
[HD LP]  
(5.1ch)*  
6 h 5 m  
6 h  
7 h 45 m 7 h 40 m  
15 h 50 m 15 h 35 m  
25 h 35 m 25 h 15 m  
Tips  
You can record movies of a maximum of 3,999  
scenes with high definition image quality (HD),  
and 9,999 scenes with standard definition image  
quality (STD).  
The maximum continuous recording time of  
movies is approximately 13 hours.  
[HD LP]  
(2ch)*  
26 h 55 m 26 h 35 m  
If you want to record up to the maximum  
recording time indicated in the table, you need  
to delete the demonstration movie on your  
camcorder.  
Your camcorder uses the VBR (Variable Bit  
Rate) format to automatically adjust image  
quality to suit the recording scene. This  
technology causes fluctuations in the recording  
time of the media. Movies containing quickly  
moving and complex images are recorded at  
a higher bit-rate, and this reduces the overall  
recording time.  
Standard definition image quality (STD) in h (hour) and  
m (minute)  
Recording mode  
Recording time  
HDR-CX550 HDR-CX550V  
15 h 50 m 15 h 35 m  
[STD HQ]  
(5.1ch)*  
[STD HQ]  
(2ch)*  
16 h 15 m 16 h 5 m  
Internal hard disk  
HDR-XR550/XR550V  
High definition image quality (HD) in h (hour) and m  
(minute)  
Recording mode  
Recording time  
HDR-XR550 HDR-XR550V  
23 h 22 h 50 m  
29 h 20 m 29 h 10 m  
59 h 30 m 59 h 20 m  
96 h 30 m 96 h 10 m  
[HD FX]  
[HD FH]  
[HD HQ]  
[HD LP]  
(5.1ch)*  
[HD LP]  
(2ch)*  
101 h 20 m  
101 h  
10U4S  
   
Memory card  
Expected number of recordable  
photos  
High definition image quality (HD)  
(unit: minute)  
AVC HD AVC HD AVC HD AVC HD AVC HD  
Internal recording media  
You can record the maximum 9,999 photos.  
24M  
(FX)  
17M 9M (HQ) 5M (LP) 5M (LP)  
(FH)  
5.1ch* 2ch*  
20 20  
(15) (15)  
45 45  
Memory card  
1GB  
2GB  
4GB  
8GB  
16GB  
5
(5)  
10  
6
(6)  
10  
(9)  
12.0M  
10  
25  
(10) (10) (15) (35) (35)  
1GB  
2GB  
4GB  
8GB  
16GB  
32GB  
165  
335  
670  
20  
(20) (25) (40) (70) (75)  
40 55 115 185 195  
(40) (55) (80) (150) (155)  
85 110 230 375 395  
(85) (110) (160) (300) (315)  
25  
55  
90  
95  
1350  
2750  
5500  
32GB 175 225 465 750 790  
(175) (225) (325) (605) (630)  
The selected image size is effective when the  
(Photo) lamp is lit.  
The number of recordable photos of memory  
card shown is for the maximum image size  
of your camcorder. The actual number of  
recordable photos is displayed on the LCD  
screen during recording (p. 119).  
The number of recordable photos of memory  
card may vary depending on the recording  
conditions.  
Standard definition image quality (STD)  
(unit: minute)  
STD 9M (HQ) 5.1ch*  
STD 9M (HQ) 2ch*  
1GB  
2GB  
4GB  
8GB  
16GB  
32GB  
10  
10  
(10)  
(10)  
25  
(25)  
55  
(50)  
115  
(100)  
230  
(205)  
25  
(25)  
55  
(50)  
115  
(105)  
235  
(210)  
Notes  
The unique pixel array of Sony’s ClearVid and  
the image processing system (BIONZ) allow  
still image resolution equivalent to the sizes  
described.  
Tips  
You can also use memory card with a capacity  
of under 1 GB for recording photos.  
The following list shows the bit-rate, pixels and  
aspect ratio of each recording mode (movie +  
audio, etc.).  
465  
(415)  
475  
(425)  
* You can change the recording sound format with  
[AUDIO MODE] (p. 79).  
High definition image quality (HD):  
FX: Max. 24Mbps 1,920 1,080 pixels/16:9  
FH: Approx. 17Mbps (average) 1,920 1,080  
pixels/16:9  
HQ: Approx. 9Mbps (average) 1,440 1,080  
pixels/16:9  
Notes  
The recordable time may vary depending on the  
recording and subject conditions and [ REC  
MODE] (p. 28).  
The number in ( ) is the minimum recordable  
time.  
US  
105  
   
LP: Approx. 5Mbps (average) 1,440 1,080  
pixels/16:9  
Standard definition image quality (STD):  
HQ: Approx. 9Mbps (average) 720 480  
pixels/16:9, 4:3  
The photo recording pixels and the aspect ratio.  
Photo recording mode:  
4,000 3,000 dots/4:3  
4,000 2,250 dots/16:9  
2,880 2,160 dots/4:3  
1,600 1,200 dots/4:3  
640 480 dots/4:3  
Dual recording:  
3,840 2,160 dots/16:9  
2,880 2,160 dots/4:3  
Capturing a photo from a movie:  
1,920 1,080 dots/16:9  
640 360 dots/16:9  
640 480 dots/4:3  
10U6S  
Using your camcorder  
abroad  
Power supply  
On TV color systems  
You can use your camcorder in any  
Your camcorder is a NTSC-system-based  
camcorder. If you want to view the playback  
image on a TV, it must be a NTSC-system-  
based TV with an AUDIO/VIDEO input  
jack.  
countries/regions using the AC Adaptor  
supplied with your camcorder within the  
AC 100 V to 240 V, 50 Hz/60 Hz range.  
Viewing high definition image quality  
(HD) movies  
System  
Used in  
NTSC  
Bahama Islands, Bolivia,  
Canada, Central America,  
Chile, Colombia, Ecuador,  
Guyana, Jamaica, Japan,  
Korea, Mexico, Peru, Surinam,  
Taiwan, the Philippines, the  
USA, Venezuela, etc.  
In countries/regions where 1080/60i is  
supported, you can view the movies with  
the same high definition image quality  
(HD) as that of the recorded movies.  
You need an NTSC-system-based and  
1080/60i compatible TV (or monitor) with  
component and AUDIO/VIDEO input  
jacks. A component A/V cable or an HDMI  
cable (sold separately) must be connected.  
PAL  
Australia, Austria, Belgium,  
China, Czech Republic,  
Denmark, Finland, Germany,  
Holland, Hong Kong, Hungary,  
Italy, Kuwait, Malaysia, New  
Zealand, Norway, Poland,  
Portugal, Singapore, Slovak  
Republic, Spain, Sweden,  
Switzerland, Thailand, United  
Kingdom, etc.  
Viewing standard definition image  
quality (STD) movies  
To view standard definition image quality  
(STD) movies, you need a NTSC-system-  
based TV with AUDIO/VIDEO input  
jacks. An A/V connecting cable must be  
connected.  
PAL-M  
PAL-N  
SECAM  
Brazil  
Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay  
Bulgaria, France, Guiana, Iran,  
Iraq, Monaco, Russia, Ukraine,  
etc.  
US  
107  
 
Setting to the local time  
You can easily set the clock to the local time by setting a time difference when using your  
camcorder abroad. Touch  
(MENU) [Show others] [CLOCK/ LANG] (under  
[GENERAL SET] category) [AREA SET] and [DST SET]/[SUMMERTIME] (p. 88).  
HDR-CX550V/XR550V  
When [AUTO CLOCK ADJ] and [AUTO AREA ADJ] are set to [ON], the clock is set to the  
local time automatically by the GPS function (p. 88).  
World time difference  
Time-zone  
differences  
Area setting  
Time-zone  
differences  
Area setting  
+10:00  
+11:00  
+12:00  
Melbourne, Sydney  
Solomon Is  
Fiji, Wellington, Eniwetok,  
Kwajalein  
Samoa  
Hawaii  
GMT  
Lisbon, London  
Berlin, Paris  
Helsinki, Cairo, Istanbul  
Moscow, Nairobi  
Tehran  
Abu Dhabi, Baku  
Kabul  
Karachi, Islamabad  
Calcutta, New Delhi  
Almaty, Dhaka  
Yangon  
Bangkok, Jakarta  
Hong Kong, Singapore,  
Beijing  
Seoul, Tokyo  
Adelaide, Darwin  
+01:00  
+02:00  
+03:00  
+03:30  
+04:00  
+04:30  
+05:00  
+05:30  
+06:00  
+06:30  
+07:00  
+08:00  
–11:00  
–10:00  
–09:00  
–08:00  
–07:00  
–06:00  
–05:00  
–04:00  
–03:30  
–03:00  
–02:00  
–01:00  
Alaska  
Los Angeles, Tijuana  
Denver, Arizona  
Chicago, Mexico City  
New York, Bogota  
Santiago  
St.John’s  
Brasilia, Montevideo  
Fernando de Noronha  
Azores, Cape Verde Is.  
+09:00  
+09:30  
10US  
 
Maintenance and  
precautions  
1
2
3
*
*
*
1080i specification  
A high definition specification which utilizes  
1,080 effective scanning lines and the interlace  
system.  
About the AVCHD format  
What is the AVCHD format?  
720p specification  
The AVCHD format is a high definition  
digital video camera format used to  
record a high definition (HD) signal of  
either the 1080i specification*1 or the  
720p specification*2 using efficient data  
compression coding technology. The  
MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 format is adopted to  
compress video data, and the Dolby Digital  
or Linear PCM system is used to compress  
audio data.  
A high definition specification which utilizes  
720 effective scanning lines and the progressive  
system.  
Data recorded in AVCHD format other than  
the above mentioned cannot be played on your  
camcorder.  
About GPS (HDR-CX550V/XR550V)  
The GPS (Global Positioning System) is a  
system that calculates geographical location  
from highly accurate US space satellites.  
This system allows you to pinpoint your  
exact location on the earth. The GPS  
satellites are located in 6 orbits, 20,000 km  
above the earth. The GPS system consists of  
24 or more GPS satellites. A GPS receiver  
receives radio signals from the satellites,  
and calculates the current location of the  
receiver based on the orbital information  
(almanac data) and travel time of the  
signals, etc.  
The MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 format is capable  
of compressing images at higher efficiency  
than that of the conventional image  
compressing format. The MPEG-4 AVC/  
H.264 format enables a high definition  
video signal shot on a digital video camera  
recorder to be recorded on 8 cm DVD  
discs, hard disk drive, flash memory,  
memory card, etc.  
Recording and playback on your  
camcorder  
Determining a location is called  
Based on the AVCHD format, your  
“triangulating.” A GPS receiver can  
determine the location’s latitude and  
longitude by receiving signals from 3 or  
camcorder records with the high definition  
image quality (HD) mentioned below.  
In addition to high definition image  
quality (HD), your camcorder is capable  
of recording a standard definition (STD)  
signal in the conventional MPEG-2 format.  
more satellites.  
As the positions of GPS satellites vary  
constantly, it may take longer to determine  
the location or the receiver may not be able to  
determine the location at all, depending on the  
location and time you use the camcorder.  
“GPS” is a system for determining geographic  
location by triangulating radio signals from  
GPS satellites. Avoid using the camcorder  
in places where radio signals are blocked or  
reflected, such as a shadowy place surrounded  
by buildings or trees, etc. Use the camcorder in  
open sky environments.  
Video signal*3: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 1920  
1080/60i, 1440 1080/60i  
Audio signal: Dolby Digital 2ch/5.1ch  
Recording media:  
HDR-CX550/CX550V: Internal memory,  
memory card  
HDR-XR550/XR550V: Internal hard disk,  
memory card  
US  
109  
   
You may not be able to record location  
information at locations or in situations where  
radio signals from the GPS satellites do not  
reach the camcorder as follows.  
In tunnels, indoors or under the shade of  
buildings.  
Between tall buildings or at narrow streets  
surrounded by buildings.  
In underground locations, locations  
surrounded by dense trees, under an elevated  
bridge, or in locations where magnetic fields  
are generated, such as near high voltage  
cables.  
On the restriction of use of GPS on an  
airplane  
During take off and landing of an airplane,  
set the GPS switch to OFF and turn off the  
camcorder, as you will be instructed to do by  
the on-board announcement. In other cases, use  
GPS in accordance with the regulations of the  
place or situation.  
On the map data  
The camcorder contains map data for the  
following countries/regions. Europe, Japan,  
North America, Oceania, etc.  
Built-in map is powered by companies as  
follows; Map of Japan by Zenrin Co., Ltd., other  
areas by NAVTEQ.  
Near devices that generate radio signals of the  
same frequency band as the camcorder: near  
1.5 GHz band mobile telephones, etc.  
The map data included is as of the date of  
production of this manual.  
GPS maps will appear in 2-dimensional  
graphics except for certain landmarks in Japan,  
which will appear in 3D.  
The map always displays the north at the top.  
You cannot change the language on the map.  
You cannot update the map data  
On triangulating errors  
If you move to another location right after  
setting the GPS switch to ON, it may take  
a longer time for the camcorder to start  
trianguating, compared to when you stay in the  
same place.  
Error caused by the position of GPS satellites  
The camcorder automatically triangulates your  
current location when the camcorder receives  
radio signals from 3 or more GPS satellites. The  
triangulating error allowed by the GPS satellites  
is about 30 m (98 feet). Depending on the  
environment of the location, the triangulating  
error can be greater. In this case, your actual  
location may not match the location on the map  
based on the GPS information. Meanwhile,  
the GPS satellites are controlled by the United  
States Department of Defense, and the degree of  
accuracy may be changed intentionally.  
Error during the triangulating process  
The camcorder acquires location information  
every 10 seconds during triangulating. There  
is a slight time difference between when the  
location information is acquired and when the  
location information is recorded on an image,  
therefore, the actual recording location may not  
match exactly the location on the map based on  
the GPS information.  
The scale of the map is 100 feet to 6,000 miles.  
On the geographic coordinate system  
The “WGS-84” geographic coordinate system  
is used.  
On copyright  
The map data of the camcorder is copyrighted.  
Unauthorized copying or other usage of the  
map data may be contrary to the copyright laws.  
On the navigation function  
The camcorder does not have a navigation  
function that uses GPS.  
Australia  
Copyright. Based on data provided under  
license from PSMA Australia Limited (www.  
psma.com.au).  
Austria  
© Bundesamt für Eich- und Vermessungswesen  
11U0S  
Croatia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and  
Slovenia  
About the “Memory Stickmedia  
© EuroGeographics  
France  
source: Géoroute® IGN France & BD Carto®  
IGN France  
“Memory Stick” media are a compact,  
portable IC recording medium with a large  
data capacity.  
You can use only “Memory Stick Duo”  
media, which are about the half size of  
standard “Memory Stick” media, with your  
camcorder.  
However, we do not guarantee the  
operation of all types of “Memory Stick  
Duo” media on your camcorder.  
Germany  
Die Grundlagendaten wurden mit  
Genehmigung der zustaendigen Behoerden  
entnommen.  
Great Britain  
Based upon Crown Copyright material.  
Greece  
© EuroGeographics; Copyright Geomatics Ltd.  
Hungary  
Copyright © 2003; Top-Map Ltd.  
Italy  
La Banca Dati Italiana è stata prodotta usando  
quale riferimento anche cartografia numerica  
ed al tratto prodotta e fornita dalla Regione  
Toscana.  
Types of“Memory Stick”media  
Recording/Playback  
“Memory Stick Duo”  
media (with MagicGate)  
“Memory Stick PRO  
Duo” media  
“Memory Stick PRO-HG  
Duo” media  
*  
Japan  
* This product does not support 8-bit parallel  
data transfer but it supports 4-bit parallel data  
transfer the same as with “Memory Stick PRO  
Duo” media.  
This product cannot record or play data that  
uses “MagicGate” technology. “MagicGate” is  
a copyright protection technology that records  
and transfers the contents in an encrypted  
format.  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media formatted by a  
computer (Windows OS/Mac OS) does not have  
guaranteed compatibility with your camcorder.  
Data read/write speed may vary depending on  
the combination of the “Memory Stick PRO  
Duo” media and “Memory Stick PRO Duo”  
media compliant product you use.  
Damaged or lost data may occur in the  
following cases (the data will not be  
compensated for):  
If you eject the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”  
media, or turn off your camcorder while your  
camcorder is reading or writing image files on  
the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media (while  
the access lamp is lit or flashing)  
Norway  
Copyright © 2000; Norwegian Mapping  
Authority  
Portugal  
Source: IgeoE – Portugal  
Spain  
Información geográfica propiedad del CNIG  
Sweden  
Based upon electronic data © National Land  
Survey Sweden.  
Switzerland  
Topografische Grundlage: © Bundesamt für  
Landestopographie.  
If you use the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”  
US  
111  
 
media near magnets or magnetic fields  
It is recommended that you make a back-up of  
important data on the hard disk of a computer.  
Do not attach a label or the like on “Memory  
Stick PRO Duo” media or “Memory Stick Duo”  
media adaptor.  
Do not touch, or allow metallic objects to come  
into contact with the terminals.  
Do not bend, drop or apply strong force to the  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media.  
Do not disassemble or modify the “Memory  
Stick PRO Duo” media.  
Do not let the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media  
get wet.  
Keep the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media out  
of the reach of small children. There is danger  
that a child might swallow it.  
Do not insert anything other than “Memory  
Stick PRO Duo” media into the “Memory  
Stick Duo” media slot. Doing so may cause a  
malfunction.  
in the correct direction. If inserted in the wrong  
direction, the device may be damaged.  
Do not insert “Memory Stick Duo” media  
adaptor without “Memory Stick PRO Duo”  
media attached into “Memory Stick” media  
compliant device. Doing so may result in  
malfunctions of the device.  
On image data compatibility  
Image data files recorded on “Memory Stick  
PRO Duo” media by your camcorder conform  
to the “Design rule for Camera File system”  
universal standard established by the JEITA  
(Japan Electronics and Information Technology  
Industries Association).  
On your camcorder, you cannot play back  
photos recorded on other devices (DCR-  
TRV900 or DSC-D700/D770) that do not  
conform to the universal standard. (These  
models are not sold in some regions.)  
If you cannot use “Memory Stick PRO Duo”  
media that have been used with another device,  
format it with your camcorder (p. 85). Note  
that formatting erases all information on the  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media.  
Do not use or keep the “Memory Stick PRO  
Duo” media in the following locations:  
Places subject to extremely high temperature,  
such as a car parked outside in the summer  
Places under direct sunlight  
Places with extremely high humidity or  
subject to corrosive gases  
You may not be able to play back images with  
your camcorder:  
When playing back image data modified on  
your computer  
When playing back image data recorded with  
other devices  
On the “Memory Stick Duomedia  
adaptor  
When using “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media  
with “Memory Stick” media compliant device,  
be sure to insert the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”  
media into “Memory Stick Duo” media adaptor.  
When using “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media  
with “Memory Stick” media compliant device  
inserting “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media  
into “Memory Stick Duo” media adaptor, make  
sure the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media are  
inserted facing in the correct direction. Note  
that improper use may cause a malfunction.  
When using “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media  
inserted into “Memory Stick Duo” media  
About the “InfoLITHIUMbattery  
pack  
Your camcorder operates only with an  
“InfoLITHIUM” V series battery packs.  
“InfoLITHIUM” V series battery packs  
have the  
mark.  
What is an “InfoLITHIUMbattery pack?  
An “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is a  
lithium-ion battery pack that has functions  
for communicating information related to  
operating conditions between your camcorder  
and an AC Adaptor/charger (sold separately).  
adaptor on “Memory Stick” media compliant  
device, make sure the “Memory Stick PRO  
Duo” media adaptor is inserted into the device  
11U2S  
     
The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack calculates the  
power consumption according to the operating  
conditions of your camcorder, and displays the  
remaining battery time in minutes.  
The battery pack NP-FV50 is compatible with  
ActiFORCE.”  
recordings before making the actual recording.  
Do not expose the battery pack to water. The  
battery pack is not water resistant.  
About the remaining battery time  
indicator  
ActiFORCE” is a new generation power  
system. Battery capacity, boost charge, and  
the speed and accuracy of battery time  
remaining calculations have been improved  
when compared with current “InfoLITHIUM”  
P-series battery.  
When the power goes off even though the  
remaining battery time indicator indicates that  
the battery pack has enough power to operate,  
charge the battery pack fully again. Remaining  
battery time will be indicated correctly. Note,  
however, that the battery indication will not be  
restored if it is used in high temperatures for  
a long time, or if left in a fully charged state,  
or when the battery pack is frequently used.  
Use the remaining battery time indication as a  
rough guide only.  
To charge the battery pack  
Be sure to charge the battery pack before you  
start using your camcorder.  
We recommend charging the battery pack in an  
ambient temperature of between 10 C to 30 C  
(50 °F to 86 °F) until the /CHG (flash/charge)  
lamp turns off. If you charge the battery pack  
outside of this temperature range, you may not  
be able to charge it efficiently.  
The mark that indicates low battery flashes  
even if there are still 20 minutes of battery  
time remaining, depending on the operating  
conditions or ambient temperature.  
About storage of the battery pack  
To use the battery pack effectively  
If the battery pack is not used for a long time,  
fully charge the battery pack and use it up on  
your camcorder once a year to maintain proper  
function. To store the battery pack, remove it  
from your camcorder and put it in a dry, cool  
place.  
Battery pack performance decreases when the  
ambient temperature is 10 C (50 °F) or below,  
and the length of time you can use the battery  
pack becomes shorter. In that case, do one  
of the following to use the battery pack for a  
longer time.  
To discharge the battery pack on your  
Put the battery pack in a pocket to warm it  
up, and install it on your camcorder right  
before you start taking shots.  
Use a large capacity battery pack: NP-FV70/  
NP-FV100 (sold separately).  
Frequent use of the LCD screen or a frequent  
playback, fast forward or reverse operation  
wears out the battery pack faster. We  
recommend using a large capacity battery pack:  
NP-FV70/NP-FV100 (sold separately).  
Be sure to close the LCD screen when not  
recording or playing back on your camcorder.  
The battery pack is also consumed when your  
camcorder is in recording standby or playback  
pause.  
camcorder completely, touch  
[Show others] [POWER SETTINGS]  
(under [GENERAL SET] category)   
[A.SHUT OFF] [NEVER], and leave your  
camcorder in recording standby until the power  
goes off (p. 89).  
(MENU)  
About battery life  
Battery capacity decreases over time and  
through repeated use. If decreased usage time  
between charges becomes significant, it is  
probably time to replace it with a new one.  
Each batterys life is governed by storage,  
operating and environmental conditions.  
Have spare battery packs ready for 2 or 3 times  
the expected recording time, and make trial  
US  
11ꢀ  
 
Avoid rough handling, disassembling,  
modifying, physical shock, or impact such  
as hammering, dropping or stepping on the  
product. Be particularly careful of the lens.  
Keep the LCD screen closed when you are not  
using your camcorder.  
Do not wrap your camcorder with a towel, for  
example, and operate it. Doing so might cause  
heat to build up inside.  
About x.v.Color  
x.v.Color is a more familiar term for the xvYCC  
standard proposed by Sony, and is a trademark  
of Sony.  
xvYCC is an international standard for color  
space in video. This standard can express a  
wider color range than the currently used  
broadcast standard.  
When disconnecting the power cord (mains  
lead), pull it by the plug and not the cord.  
Do not damage the power cord (mains lead)  
such as by placing anything heavy on it.  
Do not use a deformed or damaged battery  
pack.  
About handling of your camcorder  
On use and care  
Do not use or store the camcorder and  
accessories in the following locations:  
Anywhere extremely hot, cold or humid.  
Never leave them exposed to temperatures  
above 60 C (140 °F), such as under direct  
sunlight, near heaters or in a car parked in  
the sun. They may malfunction or become  
deformed.  
Near strong magnetic fields or mechanical  
vibration. The camcorder may malfunction.  
Near strong radio waves or radiation. The  
camcorder may not be able to record properly.  
Near AM receivers and video equipment.  
Noise may occur.  
Keep metal contacts clean.  
If the battery electrolytic liquid has leaked:  
Consult your local authorized Sony service  
facility.  
Wash off any liquid that may have contacted  
your skin.  
If any liquid gets in your eyes, wash with  
plenty of water and consult a doctor.  
When not using your camcorder for a  
long time  
To keep your camcorder in optimum state for a  
long time, turn it on and let it run by recording  
and playing back images about once a month.  
Use up the battery pack completely before  
storing it.  
On a sandy beach or anywhere dusty. If  
sand or dust gets in your camcorder, it may  
malfunction. Sometimes this malfunction  
cannot be repaired.  
Near windows or outdoors, where the LCD  
screen, the viewfinder or the lens may be  
exposed to direct sunlight. This damages the  
inside of the viewfinder or the LCD screen.  
Operate your camcorder on DC 6.8 V/7.2 V  
(battery pack) or DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor).  
For DC or AC operation, use the accessories  
recommended in these operating instructions.  
Do not let your camcorder get wet, for example,  
from rain or sea water. If your camcorder  
gets wet, it may malfunction. Sometimes this  
malfunction cannot be repaired.  
Moisture condensation  
If your camcorder is brought directly from a cold  
place to a warm place, moisture may condense  
inside your camcorder. This may cause a  
malfunction to your camcorder.  
If moisture condensation has occurred  
Leave your camcorder for about 1 hour without  
turning it on.  
Note on moisture condensation  
Moisture may condense when you bring your  
camcorder from a cold place into a warm place  
(or vice versa) or when you use your camcorder  
in a humid place as follows:  
You bring your camcorder from a ski slope  
into a place warmed up by a heating device.  
If any solid object or liquid gets inside the  
casing, unplug your camcorder and have it  
checked by a Sony dealer before operating it  
any further.  
11U4S  
   
You bring your camcorder from an air  
conditioned car or room into a hot place  
outside.  
You use your camcorder after a squall or a  
shower.  
You use your camcorder in a hot and humid  
place.  
Touch “” displayed on the screen with the  
corner of memory card or the like 3 times.  
Touch [CANCEL] to cancel calibration.  
How to prevent moisture condensation  
When you bring your camcorder from a cold  
place into a warm place, put your camcorder in  
a plastic bag and seal it tightly. Remove the bag  
when the air temperature inside the plastic bag  
has reached the surrounding temperature (after  
about 1 hour).  
Notes  
If you did not press the right spot, try the  
calibration again.  
Do not use a sharp-pointed object for  
calibration. Doing so may damage the LCD  
screen.  
You cannot calibrate the LCD screen if it is  
rotated, or closed with the screen facing out.  
LCD screen  
Do not exert excessive pressure on the LCD  
screen, as it may cause uneven color and other  
damage.  
If your camcorder is used in a cold place, a  
residual image may appear on the LCD screen.  
This is not a malfunction.  
While using your camcorder, the back of  
the LCD screen may heat up. This is not a  
malfunction.  
On handling the casing  
If the casing is soiled, clean the camcorder body  
with a soft cloth lightly moistened with water,  
and then wipe the casing with a dry soft cloth.  
Avoid the following to avoid damage to the  
finish:  
Using chemicals such as thinner, benzine,  
alcohol, chemical cloths, repellent, insecticide  
and sunscreen  
Handling the camcorder with above  
substances on your hands  
To clean the LCD screen  
If fingerprints or dust make the LCD screen  
dirty, it is recommended that you use a soft  
cloth to clean it.  
When you use the LCD Cleaning Kit (sold  
separately), do not apply the cleaning liquid  
directly to the LCD screen. Use cleaning paper  
moistened with the liquid.  
Leaving the casing in contact with rubber or  
vinyl objects for a long period of time  
About care and storage of the lens  
Wipe the surface of the lens clean with a soft  
cloth in the following instances:  
When there are fingerprints on the lens  
surface  
In hot or humid locations  
When the lens is exposed to salty air such as  
at the seaside  
Store in a well-ventilated location subject to  
little dirt or dust.  
To prevent mold, periodically clean the lens as  
described above.  
On adjustment of the touch panel  
(CALIBRATION)  
The buttons on the touch panel may not work  
correctly. If this happens, follow the procedure  
below. It is recommended that you connect your  
camcorder to the wall outlet (wall socket) using  
the supplied AC Adaptor during the operation.  
(MENU) [Show others]   
[OTHER SETTINGS] (under  
[GENERAL  
SET] category) [CALIBRATION].  
US  
115  
   
On charging the pre-installed  
rechargeable battery  
On trademarks  
“Handycam” and  
are  
registered trademarks of Sony Corporation.  
AVCHD” and AVCHD” logotype are  
trademarks of Panasonic Corporation and Sony  
Corporation.  
Your camcorder has a pre-installed rechargeable  
battery to retain the date, time, and other settings  
even when the LCD screen is closed. The pre-  
installed rechargeable battery is always charged  
while your camcorder is connected to the wall  
outlet (wall socket) via the AC Adaptor or while  
the battery pack is attached. The rechargeable  
battery will be fully discharged in about 3 months  
if you do not use your camcorder at all. Use  
your camcorder after charging the pre-installed  
rechargeable battery.  
“Memory Stick,” “  
,” “Memory Stick Duo,”  
,” “Memory Stick PRO  
,” “Memory  
Duo,” “  
Stick PRO-HG Duo,”  
,” “MagicGate,”  
,” “MagicGate Memory  
Stick” and “MagicGate Memory Stick Duo” are  
trademarks or registered trademarks of Sony  
Corporation.  
However, even if the pre-installed rechargeable  
battery is not charged, the camcorder operation  
will not be affected as long as you are not  
recording the date.  
“InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony  
Corporation.  
“x.v.Color” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.  
“BIONZ” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.  
“BRAVIAis a trademark of Sony Corporation.  
“DVDirect” is a trademark of Sony  
Corporation.  
“Blu-ray Disc” and the logo are trademarks.  
Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks  
of Dolby Laboratories.  
HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition  
Multimedia Interface are trademarks or  
registered trademarks of HDMI Licencing LLC.  
Microsoft, Windows, Windows Vista, and  
DirectX are either registered trademarks or  
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the  
United States and/or other countries.  
Macintosh and Mac OS are registered  
trademarks of Apple Inc. in the U.S. and other  
countries.  
Intel, Intel Core, and Pentium are trademarks  
or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation  
or its subsidiaries in the United States and other  
countries.  
“PlayStation” is a registered trademark of Sony  
Computer Entertainment Inc..  
How to charge the pre-installed  
rechargeable battery  
Connect your camcorder to a wall outlet (wall  
socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor, and leave  
it with the LCD screen closed for more than 24  
hours.  
Note on disposal/transfer  
Even if you delete all movies and still images, or  
perform [MEDIA FORMAT] (p. 85), data on the  
internal recording media may not be completely  
erased. When you transfer the camcorder, it is  
recommended that you perform [EMPTY] (p. 85)  
to prevent the recovery of your data. Also, when  
you dispose of the camcorder, it is recommended  
that you destroy the actual body of the camcorder.  
Note on disposal/transfer of the  
memory card  
Even if you delete data in the memory card or  
format the memory card on your camcorder or  
a computer, you may not delete data from the  
memory card completely. When you give the  
memory card to somebody, it is recommended  
that you delete date completely using data  
deletion software on a computer. Also, when you  
dispose of the memory card, it is recommended  
that you destroy the actual body of the memory  
card.  
Adobe, the Adobe logo, and Adobe Acrobat  
are either registered trademarks or trademarks  
of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United  
States and/or other countries.  
NAVTEQ and the NAVTEQ Maps logo are  
trademarks of NAVTEQ in the US and other  
countries.  
11U6S  
SDHC logo is a trademark.  
Notes on the License  
ANY USE OF THIS PRODUCT OTHER  
THAN CONSUMER PERSONAL USE IN ANY  
MANNER THAT COMPLIES WITH THE  
MPEG-2 STANDARD FOR ENCODING VIDEO  
INFORMATION FOR PACKAGED MEDIA  
IS EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED WITHOUT A  
LICENSE UNDER APPLICABLE PATENTS IN  
THE MPEG-2 PATENT PORTFOLIO, WHICH  
LICENSE IS AVAILABLE FROM MPEG LA,  
L.L.C., 250 STEELE STREET, SUITE 300,  
DENVER, COLORADO 80206.  
MultiMediaCard is a trademark of  
MultiMediaCard Association.  
All other product names mentioned herein may  
be the trademarks or registered trademarks of  
their respective companies. Furthermore,   
and are not mentioned in each case in this  
Handbook.  
THIS PRODUCT IS LICENSED UNDER THE  
AVC PATENT PORTFOLIO LICENSE FOR THE  
PERSONAL AND NON-COMMERCIAL USE  
OF A CONSUMER TO  
(i) ENCODE VIDEO IN COMPLIANCE  
WITH THE AVC STANDARD (AVC VIDEO”)  
AND/OR  
(ii) DECODE AVC VIDEO THAT WAS  
ENCODED BY A CONSUMER ENGAGED IN A  
PERSONAL AND  
NON-COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY AND/OR  
WAS OBTAINED FROM A VIDEO PROVIDER  
LICENSED TO PROVIDE AVC VIDEO.  
NO LICENSE IS GRANTED OR SHALL BE  
IMPLIED FOR ANY OTHER USE.  
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MAY BE  
OBTAINED FROM MPEG LA, L.L.C.  
SEE <HTTP://MPEGLA.COM>  
“C Library,” “Expat,” “zlib,” “libjpeg,” “dtoa,” and  
“pcre” software are provided in your camcorder.  
We provide this software based on license  
agreements with their owners of copyright. Based  
on requests by the owners of copyright of these  
software applications, we have an obligation  
to inform you of the following. Please read the  
following sections.  
Read “license1.pdfin the “License” folder on the  
CD-ROM. You will find licenses (in English) of  
“C Library,” “Expat,” “zlib,” “libjpeg,” “dtoa,” and  
“pcre” software.  
US  
117  
On GNU GPL/LGPL applied software  
The software that is eligible for the following  
GNU General Public License (hereinafter referred  
to as “GPL) or GNU Lesser General Public  
License (hereinafter referred to as “LGPL) are  
included in the camcorder.  
This informs you that you have a right to have  
access to, modify, and redistribute source code for  
these software programs under the conditions of  
the supplied GPL/LGPL.  
Source code is provided on the web. Use  
the following URL to download it. When  
downloading the source code, select DCR-SX43  
as the model for your camcorder.  
http://www.sony.net/Products/Linux/  
We would prefer you do not contact us about the  
contents of source code.  
Read “license2.pdfin the “License” folder on the  
CD-ROM. You will find licenses (in English) of  
“GPL,” and “LGPLsoftware.  
To view the PDF, Adobe Reader is needed. If  
it is not installed on your computer, you can  
download it from the Adobe Systems web page:  
http://www.adobe.com/  
11US  
Quick reference  
Screen indicators  
Upper right  
Upper left  
Center  
Upper right  
Indicator  
Meaning  
Recording image quality  
(HD/STD) and recording  
mode (FX/FH/HQ/LP)  
Recording/playback/  
editing media (18)  
Counter (hour:minute:  
Estimated recording  
remaining time (22)  
0:00:00  
Bottom  
[00min]  
Upper left  
Indicator  
Meaning  
MENU button (66)  
Approximate number of  
recordable photos and  
recording media (24)  
9999  
9999  
9999  
AUDIO MODE (79)  
Self-timer recording (80)  
GPS tracking status (53)  
REDEYE REDUC (81)  
MICREF LEVEL low (78)  
BLT-IN ZOOM MIC (78)  
Remaining battery  
Recording folder  
Return button (66)  
Playback folder (35)  
Current playing movie or  
photo/Number of total  
recorded movies or photos  
100/112  
Bottom  
Indicator  
Meaning  
60 min  
[FACE DETECTION] set  
SMILE DETECTION (78)  
Center  
Indicator  
Manual focus (74)  
Meaning  
[STBY]/[REC]  
Recording status (22)  
SCENE SELECTION (71)  
White balance (72)  
SteadyShot off (77)  
TELE MACRO (74)  
X.V.COLOR (79)  
SHUTTER SPEED (31)  
Slide show set (40)  
NightShot (30)  
Warning (98)  
Playback mode (34)  
Drop sensor off (90)  
Drop sensor activated (90)  
US  
119  
     
Parts and controls  
Figures in ( ) are reference pages.  
Indicator  
Meaning  
HDR-CX550/CX550V  
INTELLIGENT AUTO  
OPTION button (68)  
VIEW IMAGES button  
Slide show button (40)  
YOUR  
LOCATION button (54)  
Data file name (35)  
Protected image (45)  
Index button (35)  
101-0005  
Indicators and their positions are approximate  
and may differ from what you actually see.  
Some indicators may not appear, depending on  
your camcorder model.  
HDR-XR550/XR550V  
Active Interface Shoe  
The Active Interface Shoe supplies power to  
accessories such as a video light, a flash, or a  
microphone (sold separately). The accessory  
can be turned on or off as you open or close  
the LCD screen of your camcorder. Refer to  
12U0S  
 
the operating instructions supplied with your  
accessory for details.  
The Active Interface Shoe has a safety device  
for fixing the installed accessory securely. To  
connect an accessory, press down and push  
it to the end, and then tighten the screw. To  
remove an accessory, loosen the screw, and  
then press down and pull out the accessory.  
When you open or close the shoe cover,  
slide it as indicated by the arrow.  
When you are recording movies with an  
external flash (sold separately) connected  
to the accessory shoe, turn off the power of  
the external flash to prevent charging noise  
being recorded.  
You cannot use an external flash (sold  
separately) and the built-in flash at the same  
time.  
If you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees, you  
can close the LCD panel with the LCD screen  
facing out. This is convenient during playback  
operations.  
When an external microphone (sold  
separately) is connected, it takes precedence  
over the built-in microphone (p. 29).  
HDR-CX550/CX550V  
Built-in microphone (29)  
Flash  
Lens (G lens)  
MIC (PLUG IN POWER) jack  
(headphones) jack  
Remote sensor/Infrared port  
Point the Wireless Remote Commander  
(p. 123) towards the remote sensor to operate  
your camcorder.  
HDR-XR550/XR550V  
Camera recording lamp (90)  
The camera recording lamp lights up in red  
during recording. The lamp flashes when the  
remaining recording media capacity or battery  
power is low.  
MANUAL button (31)  
(VIEW IMAGES) button (33)  
(DISC BURN) button (see Operating  
Guide)  
NIGHTSHOT button (30)  
US  
121  
   
HDR-XR550/XR550V  
(INTELLIGENT AUTO) button (26)  
POWER button (15)  
RESET button  
Press RESET using a pointed object.  
Press RESET to initialize all the settings  
including the clock setting.  
GPS switch (HDR-CX550V/XR550V) (53)  
Speaker  
MODE button (21)  
(Movie)/ (Photo) lamps (21)  
HDR-CX550/CX550V  
Eyecup  
Viewfinder lens adjustment lever (23)  
A/V Remote Connector (41)  
PHOTO button (24)  
Power zoom lever (26, 39)  
/CHG (flash/charge) lamp (12)  
START/STOP button (22)  
Hook for a shoulder belt  
Tripod receptacle  
Attach a tripod (sold separately) to the  
tripod receptacle using a tripod screw (sold  
separately: the length of the screw must be less  
than 5.5 mm (7/32 in.)).  
Memory card slot (20)  
Memory card Access lamp (20)  
While the lamp is lit or flashing, the  
camcorder is reading or writing data.  
BATT (battery) release lever (14)  
12U2S  
   
////ENTER buttons  
When you press any of these buttons, the  
orange frame appears on the LCD screen.  
Select a desired button or an item with  
///, then press ENTER to enter.  
Wireless Remote Commander  
Notes  
Remove the insulation sheet before using the  
Wireless Remote Commander.  
Insulation sheet  
Point the Wireless Remote Commander  
towards the remote sensor to operate your  
camcorder (p. 121).  
When no commands have been sent from the  
Wireless Remote Commander within a certain  
period, the orange frame disappears. When  
you press any of ///, or ENTER again,  
the frame appears at the position where it was  
displayed last.  
DATA CODE button (82)  
Displays the date and time, camera setting  
data, or coordinates (HDR-CX550V/XR550V)  
of the recorded images when you press this  
button during playback.  
You cannot select some buttons on the LCD  
screen using ///.  
PHOTO button (24)  
The on-screen image when you press this  
button will be recorded as a still image.  
SCAN/SLOW buttons (34)  
/(Previous/Next) buttons (34)  
PLAY button  
STOP button  
DISPLAY button (22)  
Transmitter  
START/STOP button (22)  
Power zoom buttons  
PAUSE button  
VISUAL INDEX button (34)  
Displays a VISUAL INDEX screen during  
playback.  
US  
12ꢀ  
 
To change the battery of the Wireless  
Remote Commander  
While pressing on the tab, inset your fingernail  
into the slit to pull out the battery case.  
Place a new battery with the + side facing up.  
Insert the battery case back into the Wireless  
Remote Commander until it clicks.  
Tab  
WARNING  
Battery may explode if mistreated. Do not  
recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire.  
When the lithium battery becomes weak, the  
operating distance of the Wireless Remote  
Commander may shorten, or the Wireless  
Remote Commander may not function  
properly. In this case, replace the battery with  
a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Use of another  
battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.  
12U4S  
   
Index  
Creating a disc ............................59  
CTRL FOR HDMI......................90  
Symbols  
G
1080i/480i....................................88  
16:9 ...............................................87  
4:3 .................................................87  
480i...............................................88  
5.1ch surround recording..........29  
GENERAL SET...........................86  
GOLF SHOT ...............................75  
GPS...............................................52  
GUIDEFRAME...........................76  
D
DATA CODE ..............................16  
DATE/TIME................................16  
Date Index ...................................36  
DELETE.......................................44  
DEMO MODE............................89  
DIAL SETTING..........................31  
DIGITAL ZOOM .......................79  
Disc recorder...............................64  
DISPLAY SET .............................87  
DISP OUTPUT...........................88  
DIVIDE........................................46  
DOWNLOAD MUSIC ..............39  
DROP SENSOR ..........................90  
Dual Rec ......................................30  
Dubbing.......................................48  
DVDirect Express.......................60  
DVD writer............................60, 63  
H
A
HD/STD SET ..............................27  
HDMI RESOLUTION...............88  
HIGHLIGHT ..............................37  
Highlight Playback.....................37  
HQ................................................28  
A.SHUT OFF ..............................89  
A/V connecting cable...........42, 64  
Abroad .......................................107  
AE SHIFT....................................74  
AREA SET...................................88  
AUDIO MODE...........................79  
AUDIO REC SET .......................78  
AUTO AREA ADJ......................56  
AUTO BACK LIGHT ................79  
AUTO CLOCK ADJ...................56  
AVCHD format.........................109  
I
Image quality...............................27  
IMAGE SIZE...............................80  
INDOOR .....................................72  
“InfoLITHIUM” battery  
pack ............................................112  
INTELLIGENT AUTO........26, 98  
B
L
BATTERY INFO.........................84  
Battery of the Wireless Remote  
Commander..............................124  
Battery pack.................................12  
BEACH ........................................71  
BEEP.............................................86  
BLACK FADER ..........................72  
BLT-IN ZOOM MIC..................78  
“BRAVIASync...........................43  
LANDSCAPE..............................71  
LANGUAGE SET.................17, 89  
LCD BL LEVEL ..........................86  
LCD BRIGHT .............................86  
LCD COLOR...............................87  
LOW LUX....................................77  
LP..................................................28  
E
EMPTY........................................85  
EMPTY MUSIC..........................39  
EXPOSURE.................................73  
External media............................57  
F
FACE DETECTION.............77, 98  
Face Index....................................37  
FADER.........................................71  
FH.................................................28  
FILE NO.......................................82  
Film Roll Index ...........................36  
FIREWORKS ..............................71  
FLASH LEVEL............................81  
FLASH MODE............................81  
FOCUS.........................................74  
Format..........................................85  
Fully charged...............................12  
FX .................................................28  
M
Maintenance..............................109  
MANAGE MEDIA...............18, 85  
MANUAL dial.............................31  
MANUAL SETTINGS...............71  
Map Index....................................54  
MY MENU..................................67  
MEDIA FORMAT......................85  
MEDIA INFO .............................85  
MEDIA SETTINGS....................18  
Memory card...............................19  
“Memory Stick” media...... 19, 111  
C
CALIBRATION........................115  
CAMERA DATA ........................83  
Capturing a photo from  
a movie.........................................47  
Charging the battery pack.........12  
Charging the battery pack  
abroad ................................. 14, 107  
CLOCK/LANG...........................88  
CLOCK SET................................15  
COMPONENT...........................88  
CONVERSION LENS................77  
COORDINATES.........................55  
Copy.............................................49  
“Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo”  
media................................... 19, 111  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo”  
media................................... 19, 111  
US  
125  
 
Menus.....................................66, 69  
MICREF LEVEL.........................78  
Mirror mode ...............................31  
Moisture condensation ............114  
MOVIE DUB ..............................48  
MOVIE MEDIA SET .................18  
Movies....................................22, 34  
MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 ...............109  
MUSIC TOOL ......................39, 84  
MY MENU SETTING...............67  
R
T
REC LAMP..................................90  
REC MODE.................................28  
Recording ....................................21  
Recording and playback  
time.............................................103  
Recording media.........................18  
Recording time of movies/  
number of recordable photos..103  
REDEYE REDUC.......................81  
REMOTE CTRL .........................90  
Repair...........................................91  
REPAIR IMG.DB F............ 96, 101  
RESET........................................122  
TELE MACRO............................74  
Telephoto.....................................26  
Thumbnail...................................44  
Tripod.........................................122  
Troubleshooting..........................91  
Turning the power on ................15  
TV.................................................41  
TV color systems......................107  
TV CONNECT Guide...............41  
TV TYPE.....................................87  
TWILIGHT.................................71  
TWILIGHT PORT. ....................71  
N
NightShot.....................................30  
NIGHTSHOT LIGHT ...............79  
NTSC..........................................107  
U
S
USB cable...............................60, 63  
USB CONNECT.........................63  
O
Saving images in external  
media............................................57  
ONE PUSH .................................72  
Operation flow..............................6  
OPTION MENU ........................68  
Original........................................48  
OTHER REC SET.......................79  
OTHERS......................................84  
OTHER SETTINGS...................89  
OUTDOOR.................................72  
OUTPUT SETTINGS................87  
SCENARIO..................................38  
SCENARIO ERASE....................38  
SCENE SELECTION ...........71, 98  
Screen indicators ......................119  
Self-diagnosis display/Warning  
indicators.....................................98  
V
VBR ............................................104  
VIEW IMAGES ..........................36  
VISUAL INDEX .........................33  
Volume...................................35, 86  
SELF-TIMER...............................80  
Setting the date and time...........15  
SHOOTING SET........................76  
Slide show....................................40  
SLIDE SHOW SET.....................40  
SMILE DETECTION...........78, 98  
SMILE SENSITIVITY..........78, 98  
Smile Shutter...............................29  
SMTH SLW REC........................75  
SNOW..........................................71  
SOUND/DISP SET.....................86  
SPOT FOCUS .............................73  
SPOTLIGHT...............................71  
SPOT METER.............................73  
SPOT MTR/FCS.........................73  
STEADYSHOT .....................77, 81  
SUMMERTIME..........................89  
SUNRISE&SUNSET...................71  
Supplied items...............................2  
W
Wall outlet (wall socket)............12  
Warning messages....................100  
WB SHIFT...................................75  
WHITE BAL. ..............................72  
WHITE FADER..........................72  
Wide angle...................................26  
WIDE SELECT...........................80  
P
PB zoom.......................................39  
PHOTO CAPTURE...................47  
PHOTO COPY ...........................49  
PHOTO MEDIA SET ................18  
Photos ....................................24, 35  
PHOTO SETTINGS...................80  
PLAYBACK.................................82  
PLAYBACK SET.........................82  
Playing..........................................33  
Playlist..........................................50  
PLAYLIST EDIT.........................50  
PORTRAIT..................................71  
Power on......................................15  
POWER SETTINGS ..................89  
Precautions................................109  
PRIORITY SETTING..........78, 98  
PROTECT ...................................45  
X
x.v.Color.............................. 79, 114  
Y
YOUR LOCATION....................54  
Z
Zoom......................................26, 39  
12U6S  
Additional information on this product and  
answers to frequently asked questions can  
be found at our Customer Support Website.  
http://www.sony.net/  

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