Sony PC55E User Manual

2-548-726-12 (1)  
Digital Video Camera Recorder  
7
Getting Started  
Recording/  
Playback  
18  
Operating Guide  
34  
54  
64  
76  
96  
Using the Menu  
Dubbing/Editing  
DCR-PC53E/PC55E  
Using a Computer  
Troubleshooting  
Additional Information  
Printed on 100% recycled paper using  
VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free  
vegetable oil based ink.  
© 2005 Sony Corporation  
Printed in Japan  
Read this first  
Before operating the unit, please read this  
manual thoroughly, and retain it for future  
reference.  
Notice  
If static electricity or electromagnetism causes  
data transfer to discontinue midway (fail), restart  
the application or disconnect and connect the  
communication cable (USB, etc.) again.  
WARNING  
To prevent fire or shock hazard,  
do not expose the unit to rain or  
moisture.  
Notes on use  
Your camcorder is supplied with two  
kinds of operations guides.  
“Memory Stick”  
Operating Guide” (This manual)  
First Step Guide” for using the supplied  
software (stored on the supplied CD-  
ROM)  
N50  
On the types of recording media you  
can use in your camcorder  
• A mini DV cassette marked with  
(mini DV cassettes with Cassette Memory  
are incompatible) (p. 97).  
• “Memory Stick Duo” marked with  
,
FOR CUSTOMERS IN THE  
UNITED KINGDOM  
NOTICE ON THE SUPPLIED AC  
ADAPTOR  
A moulded plug complying with BS1363 is  
fitted to this equipment for your safety and  
convenience.  
(p. 98).  
Should the fuse in the plug supplied need to be  
replaced, a fuse of the same rating as the supplied  
one and approved by ASTA or BSI to BS1362  
On using the camcorder  
• Do not hold the camcorder by the  
following parts.  
(i.e., marked with  
or mark) must be used.  
If the plug supplied with this equipment has a  
detachable fuse cover, be sure to attach the fuse  
cover after you change the fuse. Never use the  
plug without the fuse cover. If you should lose  
the fuse cover, please contact your nearest Sony  
service station.  
LCD panel  
Battery cover  
FOR CUSTOMERS IN EUROPE  
ATTENTION  
The electromagnetic fields at the specific  
frequencies may influence the picture and sound  
of this camcorder.  
This product has been tested and found compliant  
with the limits set out in the EMC Directive for  
using connection cables shorter than 3 meters  
(9.8 feet).  
Shoe cover  
2
 
• Before connecting your camcorder to  
another device with a USB or i.LINK  
cable, be sure to insert the connector  
plug in the proper direction. If you insert  
the connector plug forcibly in the wrong  
direction, the terminal may be damaged,  
or this may cause a malfunction of your  
camcorder.  
• TV color systems differ depending on  
the countries/regions. To view your  
recordings on a TV, you need a PAL  
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.  
• When disconnecting the AC Adaptor  
from the Handycam Station, hold both the  
DC plug and the Handycam Station and  
disconnect the AC Adaptor.  
• Be sure to turn the power of your  
camcorder off before inserting it into or  
removing it from the Handycam Station.  
On this manual  
• The images of the LCD screen used in  
this manual for illustration purposes are  
captured using a digital still camera, and  
therefore may appear different.  
• The on-screen displays in each local  
language are used for illustrating the  
operating procedures. Change the screen  
language before using your camcorder if  
necessary (p. 14).  
On the menu items, LCD panel, and  
lens  
• A menu item that is grayed out is not  
available under the current recording or  
playback conditions.  
• The illustrations used on this manual are  
based on the model DCR-PC55E.  
• The LCD screen is manufactured using  
extremely high-precision technology, so  
over 99.99% of the pixels are operational  
for effective use. However, there may  
be some tiny black points and/or bright  
points (white, red, blue, or green in color)  
that appear constantly on the LCD screen.  
These points are normal results of the  
manufacturing process and do not affect  
the recording in any way.  
About the Carl Zeiss lens  
Your camcorder is equipped with a Carl  
Zeiss lens, which was developed jointly  
by Carl Zeiss, in Germany, and Sony  
Corporation, and produces superior images.  
It adopts the MTF* measurement system  
for video cameras and offers a quality  
typical of a Carl Zeiss lens.  
* MTF stands for Modulation Transfer  
Function. The number value indicates the  
amount of light from a subject coming into  
the lens.  
• Exposing the LCD screen or the lens to  
direct sunlight for long periods of time  
may cause malfunctions.  
• Do not aim at the sun. Doing so might  
cause your camcorder to malfunction.  
Take pictures of the sun only in low light  
conditions, such as at dusk.  
On recording  
• Before starting to record, test the  
recording function to make sure the  
picture 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,  
storage media, etc.  
3
Table of Contents  
Getting Started  
Recording/Playback  
Recording  
Playback  
Recording/playback  
4
Using the Menu  
Dubbing/Editing  
5
Continued   
Using a Computer  
Troubleshooting  
Additional Information  
6
Step 1: Checking supplied items  
Make sure that you have following items  
supplied with your camcorder.  
A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 32, 54)  
The number in the parentheses indicates the  
number of that item supplied.  
USB cable (1) (p. 64)  
“Memory Stick Duo” 16MB (1) (p. 16, 98)  
(DCR-PC55E)  
Wrist strap (1)  
Memory Stick Duo adaptor (1) (p. 98)  
(DCR-PC55E)  
• To attach the Wrist strap  
AC Adaptor (1) (p. 8)  
Folding the tip of the string makes it easier to  
run the string through the hook for the strap.  
Rechargeable battery pack NP-FA50 (1)  
(p. 8, 100)  
CD-ROM “Picture Package Ver.1.5” (1)  
(p. 66)  
Mains lead (1) (p. 8)  
21-pin adaptor (1)  
For the models with the  
bottom surfaces only.  
mark printed on their  
Operating Guide (This manual) (1)  
Handycam Station (1) (p. 8)  
Wireless Remote Commander (1)  
(p. 30)  
A button-type lithium battery is already installed.  
7
Step 2: Charging the battery pack  
You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM”  
battery pack (A series) (p. 100) after  
attaching it to your camcorder.  
3
4
5
Close the battery cover.  
• Only the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (NP-  
FA50) can be used.  
POWER switch  
Be sure to close the cover completely.  
DC IN jack  
Slide the POWER switch up to  
OFF (CHG). (The default setting.)  
Handycam DC plug  
Station  
Mains lead  
AC Adaptor  
To the wall socket  
Connect the AC Adaptor to the  
DC IN jack on the Handycam  
Station.  
1
Slide the battery cover in the  
direction of the arrow to open it.  
With the   
mark facing up  
DC IN jack  
6
Connect the mains lead to the AC  
Adaptor and the wall socket.  
2
Insert the battery pack, aligning  
the top of the mark on the side  
with the top of the mark on  
your camcorder until it clicks.  
8
To charge the battery pack using only  
the AC Adaptor  
Turn off the power, then connect the  
AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack on your  
camcorder.  
7
Install the camcorder onto the  
Handycam Station.  
Open the interface connector cover.  
You can operate your camcorder  
connected to a power source such as a  
wall socket as shown in the illustration.  
The battery pack will not lose its charge  
in this case.  
DC IN jack  
Place the camcorder on the Handycam  
Station properly aligned as shown in  
the illustration and gently push down  
at the point indicated by the arrow to  
fully install.  
DC plug  
POWER Switch  
Mains lead  
AC Adaptor  
To the wall socket  
CHG (charge) lamp  
The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and  
charging starts.The CHG (charge)  
lamp turns off when the battery is fully  
charged.  
9
Continued   
Step 2: Charging the battery pack (continued)  
To remove your camcorder from the  
Handycam Station  
Charging time  
Approximate time (min.) required when  
you fully charge a fully discharged battery  
pack.  
Turn the power of your camcorder off  
and then press the RELEASE button  
and remove the camcorder from the  
Handycam Station.  
Battery pack  
Charging time  
NP-FA50 (supplied)  
125  
Recording time  
Approximate time (min.) available when  
you use a fully charged battery pack.  
Continuous  
recording  
time*  
Typical  
recording  
time*  
Battery pack  
RELEASE button  
NP-FA50  
(supplied)  
95  
110  
55  
65  
Close the interface connector cover.  
* Top: When the LCD backlight turns on.  
Bottom: When the LCD backlight turns off.  
• Typical recording time shows the time when  
you repeat recording start/stop, turning the  
power on/off and zooming.  
Playing time  
Approximate time (min.) available when  
you use a fully charged battery pack.  
To remove the battery pack  
Turn off the power. Open the battery cover  
and slide the battery out with your finger  
at the point indicated by the circle in the  
illustration.  
Battery pack  
LCD panel opened*  
NP-FA50  
(supplied)  
105  
* When the LCD backlight turns on.  
On the battery pack  
• Before changing the battery pack, slide the  
POWER switch up to OFF (CHG).  
• The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during  
charging, or the battery information (p. 24) will  
not be correctly displayed under the following  
conditions.  
When storing the battery pack  
Fully discharge the battery before storing it  
for an extended period (p. 100).  
– The battery pack is not attached correctly.  
– The battery pack is damaged.  
– The battery pack is fully discharged. (For  
Battery Info only.)  
10  
• The power will not be supplied from the  
battery as long as the AC Adaptor is connected  
to the DC IN jack of your camcorder or the  
Handycam Station, even when the mains lead is  
disconnected from the wall socket.  
On the charging/recording/playback time  
• Times measured with the camcorder at  
25 °C (77 °F). (10 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.  
• The recording and playback time will be shorter  
depending on the conditions under which you  
use your camcorder.  
On the AC Adaptor  
• Use the nearby wall socket when using the AC  
Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the  
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.  
PRECAUTION  
• Even if your camcorder is turned off, AC power  
(mains) is still supplied to it while connected to  
the wall socket via the AC Adaptor.  
11  
Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your  
camcorder firmly  
To record or play back, slide the POWER  
switch repeatedly to turn on the respective  
lamp.  
2
Hold the camcorder correctly.  
When using it for the first time, the  
[CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 15).  
To turn off the power  
Slide the POWER switch up to OFF (CHG)  
while pressing the green button.  
POWER switch  
1
Slide the POWER switch  
• At the time of purchase, the power will be  
set to turn off automatically if you leave your  
camcorder without any operation attempted for  
approximately 5 minutes, to save battery power.  
([A.SHUT OFF], p. 51).  
repeatedly in the direction of the  
arrow to turn on the respective  
lamp.  
The lens cover opens automatically  
when the POWER switch is set to  
CAMERA-TAPE or CAMERA-MEM.  
If the POWER switch is  
set to OFF, slide it down  
while pressing the green  
button.  
Lamps that light up  
CAMERA-TAPE: To record on a tape.  
CAMERA-MEM: To record on a “Memory  
Stick Duo.”  
PLAY/EDIT: To play or edit pictures.  
• When you slide the POWER switch from OFF  
(CHG) to CAMERA-TAPE or CAMERA-  
MEM, the current date and time will be  
displayed on the LCD screen for about 5  
seconds.  
12  
Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel  
The LCD panel  
Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the  
camcorder (), then rotate it to the best  
angle to record or play ().  
180 degrees  
90 degrees (max.)  
(max.)  
2
1
DISP/BATT INFO 90 Degrees to the  
camcorder  
• Do not press the buttons on the LCD frame  
accidentally when you open or adjust the LCD  
panel.  
• If you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees to the  
lens side, you can close the LCD panel with  
the LCD screen facing out. This is convenient  
during playback operations.  
To darken the LCD screen  
Press and hold DISP/BATT INFO for a few  
seconds until  
appears.  
This setting is practical when you use  
your camcorder in bright conditions or  
where you want to save battery power. The  
recorded picture will not be affected by  
the setting. To turn on the LCD backlight,  
press and hold DISP/BATT INFO for a few  
seconds until  
disappears.  
• See [LCD BRIGHT] (p. 48) to adjust the  
brightness of the LCD screen.  
13  
Step 5: Using the touch panel  
You can play back recorded pictures (p.  
21), or change the settings (p. 34) using the  
touch panel.  
1
2
3
Touch  
.
Touch [MENU] during Easy Handycam  
operation (p. 18).  
60min  
0:00:00  
Place your hand on the rear side of  
the LCD panel to support it.Then,  
touch the buttons displayed on the  
screen.  
DISP  
GUIDE  
MENU  
TELE  
MACRO  
EXPO-  
SURE  
1/3  
SPOT  
FOCUS  
FADER  
Touch the button on the LCD screen.  
Touch [DISP GUIDE].  
The indicators vary depending on the  
settings.  
Select area for guide.  
DISP/BATT INFO  
• Perform the same actions as explained above  
when you press the buttons on the LCD frame.  
• Be careful not to press buttons on the LCD  
frame accidentally while using the touch panel.  
END  
DISP GUIDE  
Touch the area including the  
indicator that you want to check.  
To hide the screen indicators  
Press DISP/BATT INFO to toggle the  
screen indicators (such as time code, etc.)  
on or off.  
The meanings of the indicators in the  
area are listed on the screen. If you  
cannot find the indicator you want to  
check, touch  
/
to toggle.  
When you touch  
, the screen returns  
to the area selecting display.  
Changing the language setting  
DISP GUIDE  
You can change the on-screen displays  
to show messages in a specified  
END  
FOCUS:  
MANUAL  
PROGRAM AE:  
SPOTLIGHT  
STEADY SHOT:  
OFF  
language. Select the screen language  
1/2  
in [LANGUAGE] on the  
(TIME/  
LANGU.) menu (p. 34, 51).  
Checking the screen indicators  
(Display guide)  
4
Touch [END].  
You can easily check the meaning of each  
indicator that appears on the LCD screen.  
14  
Step 6: Setting the date and time  
Set the date and time when using this  
camcorder for the first time. If you do not  
3
Select [CLOCK SET] with  
then touch  
/
,
set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET]  
screen appears every time you turn on your  
camcorder or change the POWER switch  
position.  
.
–:––:––  
CLOCK SET  
• If you do not use your camcorder for about  
2 months, the built-in rechargeable battery  
gets discharged and the date and time settings  
may be cleared from the memory. In that case,  
charge the rechargeable battery and then set the  
date and time again (p. 105).  
DATE  
2005  
Y
1M  
1
D
0: 00  
OK  
4
Set [Y] (year) with  
touch  
/
, then  
.
You can set any year up to the year  
2079.  
–:––:––  
CLOCK SET  
DATE  
2005Y  
1
M
1
D
0: 00  
OK  
POWER switch  
5
Set [M] (month), [D] (day), hour  
Skip to step 4 when you set the clock for  
the first time.  
and minute, then touch  
.
The clock starts.  
1
Touch  
[MENU].  
60min  
–:––:––  
CAMERA SET  
PROGRAM AE  
SPOT METER  
EXPOSURE  
OK  
2
Select  
with  
(TIME/LANGU.) menu  
/
, then touch  
.
60min  
–:––:––  
DISPL
MENU ROTATE  
A. SHUT OFF  
CLOCK SET  
––:––:––  
WORLD  
PROGAE  
LANGUAGE  
OK  
15  
Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick  
Duo”  
Cassette tape  
You can use mini DV  
(p. 97).  
3
Close the lid.  
cassettes only  
• The recordable time varies depending on [REC  
MODE] (p. 48).  
To eject the cassette  
Proceed with the same steps as you would  
when inserting a cassette tape.  
1
Slide and hold the  
EJECT lever in the direction of  
the arrow and open the lid.  
OPEN/  
“Memory Stick Duo”  
You can use only a “Memory Stick  
Duo” marked with  
OPEN/EJECT lever  
or  
(p. 98).  
• The number and time of recordable pictures  
varies depending on the image quality or the  
image size. For details, see page 42.  
Insert the “Memory Stick Duo” into  
the “Memory Stick Duo” slot in the  
right direction until it clicks.  
Lid  
Access lamp  
The cassette compartment automatically  
comes out and opens up.  
2
Insert a cassette with its window  
facing up, then press  
.
Window  
With the   
mark facing  
up  
Push the center of the  
back of the cassette  
lightly.  
• If you force the “Memory Stick Duo”  
into the slot in the wrong direction, the  
“Memory Stick Duo,” the “Memory Stick  
Duo” slot, or image data may be damaged.  
The cassette compartment automatically  
slides back in. Do not force the cassette  
into the compartment. This may cause a  
malfunction.  
16  
To eject a “Memory Stick Duo”  
Lightly push the “Memory Stick Duo” in  
once.  
• When the access lamp is lit or flashing, your  
camcorder is reading/writing data. Do not shake  
or knock your camcorder, turn the power off,  
eject the “Memory Stick Duo,” or remove the  
battery pack. Otherwise, image data may be  
damaged.  
17  
Recording/Playback with ease  
(Easy Handycam)  
With this Easy Handycam operation, most of the camera  
settings are automatically adjusted optimally, which frees  
you from detailed adjustment.  
Since only basic functions become available and screen font  
size increases for easy viewing, even first time users can  
enjoy easy operation.  
E
C
Go through the procedures described in steps 1 to 7 (p. 7 to  
16) before operation.  
A
D
B
Recording with ease  
1
Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn  
on the respective lamp to select a recording medium.  
If the POWER  
Recording movies  
: Light up the  
switch is set to  
OFF, slide it down  
while pressing the  
green button.  
CAMERA-TAPE lamp.  
Recording still images  
CAMERA-MEM lamp.  
: Light up the  
.
2
3
Press EASY  
Easy Handycam  
The EASY lamp lights up in blue.  
operation  
ON  
Start recording.  
Movies  
Still images  
Press REC START/STOP (or  
Press PHOTO .  
).  
A
MENU  
MENU  
The indicator () changes [STBY] to  
[REC].  
Flashing Lights up  
Press and hold Press fully to record.  
lightly to adjust the  
focus.  
To stop recording, press (or )  
again.  
18  
Playing back with ease  
1
Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn  
on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.  
2
Press EASY .  
Easy Handycam  
The EASY lamp lights up in blue.  
operation  
ON  
3
Start playing back.  
Movies  
Still images  
Touch  
, then touch  
to  
Touch  
/
to select  
start playback.  
a picture.  
Slow playback  
is available on  
C
A
B
the Remote Commander.  
A
C
MENU  
MENU  
Tape playback  
Previous/Next  
Delete (p. 60)  
B
Stop  
Play/Pause toggles as you touch it  
Rewind/Fast forward  
– Zoom (during recording) (p. 22)  
– Turn the screen indicators on/off (p. 14)  
– “Playing the picture on a TV” (p. 32)  
– “Dubbing to another device such as a VCR,  
DVD recorder, etc.” (p. 55)  
• [Invalid during Easy Handycam operation]  
appears if operations not available during Easy  
Handycam are attempted.  
To cancel Easy Handycam operation  
Press EASY again.  
The EASY lamp turns off and all the  
settings are returned to the previous  
situation.  
• The recording mode for tape and the image  
quality for “Memory Stick Duo” return to the  
default settings.  
• What you can do during Easy Handycam  
operation  
– Adjust some menu settings (p. 36)  
If you touch [MENU], adjustable items will  
be displayed. Items not displayed return to  
the default settings.  
19  
Recording  
Lens cover  
Opens in accordance with the setting  
of the POWER switch.  
PHOTO  
REC START/STOP  
POWER switch  
REC START/  
STOP  
1
2
Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on  
the respective lamp to select a recording medium.  
If the POWER  
switch is set to OFF,  
On a tape, light up the CAMERA-TAPE lamp.  
slide it down while  
pressing the green  
button.  
On a “Memory Stick Duo,” light up the  
CAMERA-MEM lamp.  
Start recording.  
Movies  
Still images  
Press REC START/STOP  
(or  
Press and hold PHOTO lightly to  
adjust the focus (), then press it  
fully ().  
).  
A
The indicator () changes [STBY]  
(tape only) to [REC].  
A
B
The sound of a movie (MPEG MOVIE EX)  
recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” will be  
monaural.  
Flashing Lights up  
A shutter sound is heard. When  
disappears, the image has been  
recorded.  
To check the latest recording on a  
“Memory Stick Duo”  
To stop movie recording  
Press REC START/STOP again.  
You can record a still image on a “Memory  
Stick Duo” while recording movies on a tape or  
in standby mode.  
Touch  
. To delete the picture, touch  
to return to the  
[YES]. Touch  
standby mode.  
20  
Playback  
1
Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on  
the PLAY/EDIT lamp.  
2
Start playing back.  
Movies  
Still images  
On a Tape:  
Touch  
start playback.  
A
Touch  
.
The most recently recorded image is  
displayed.  
, then touch  
to  
A
B
C
C
B
Tape playback  
Previous/Next  
Index screen display  
Stop  
Play/Pause toggles as you touch it  
Rewind/Fast forward  
You can delete unnecessary pictures in a  
“Memory Stick Duo” (p. 60).  
• Playback automatically stops if pause is  
engaged for more than 3 minutes.  
On a “Memory Stick Duo”:  
Touch  
/
to select  
a picture with  
, then touch  
.
To view pictures in other folders, touch  
To adjust the volume  
folder with  
44).  
[PB FOLDER], select a  
/
, then touch  
(p.  
Touch  
/
[VOLUME], then  
to adjust the volume.  
• If you cannot find [VOLUME] in  
[MENU].  
, touch  
B
A
To search for a scene during playback  
C
Touch and hold  
(Picture Search), or  
/
during playback  
while fast  
/
forwarding or rewinding the tape (Skip  
Scan).  
You can play back in various modes ([VAR.  
SPD PB], p. 47).  
Previous/Next 6 pictures  
The picture displayed before switching to  
the index screen.  
Movie icon  
To display pictures on a “Memory  
Stick Duo” on the Index screen  
Touch  
. Touch the picture you want to  
display in the single display mode.  
21  
Functions used for recording/playback, etc.  
5
1
To adjust the focus for an off center  
subject (SPOT FOCUS) ...............  
See [SPOT FOCUS] on page 40.  
2
To fix the exposure for the selected  
subject (Flexible spot meter) .......  
See [SPOT METER] on page 39.  
3
4
To record in mirror mode ............  
Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the  
camcorder (), then rotate it 270 degrees  
to the lens side ().  
6
Recording  
To use zoom ...........................  
Move the power zoom lever slightly for  
a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster  
zoom.  
• A mirror-image of the subject appears on the  
LCD screen, but the picture will be normal  
when recorded.  
Wider range of view: (Wide angle)  
To use a tripod ........................  
Attach the tripod (optional: the length of  
the screw must be less than 5.5 mm (7/32  
in.)) to the tripod receptacle using a  
tripod screw.  
Close view: (Telephoto)  
• The minimum distance required between  
your camcorder and the subject to get a sharp  
focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide  
angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for  
telephoto.  
Playback  
Viewing pictures with motion effects  
(SLIDE SHOW PLUS) .................  
You can set [DIGITAL ZOOM] if you want to  
zoom to a level greater than 10 times (p. 41).  
Set the POWER switch to PLAY/EDIT,  
then press the SLIDE SHOW PLUS button  
. [Starting SLIDE SHOW PLUS]  
appears and the playback of pictures in the  
“Memory Stick Duo” starts automatically.  
To cancel SLIDE SHOW PLUS, press the  
SLIDE SHOW PLUS button again.  
To adjust the exposure for backlit  
subjects ................................  
To adjust the exposure for backlit subjects,  
press BACK LIGHT to display . To  
cancel the back light function, press BACK  
LIGHT again.  
• Close the LCD panel with the LCD screen  
facing out (p. 13).  
22  
You can enjoy SLIDE SHOW PLUS with the  
camcorder mounted on the Handycam Station  
or not (p. 8).  
• If  
to show it.  
• When using SLIDE SHOW PLUS for an  
extended period of time, connect your  
camcorder to a wall socket using the supplied  
AC Adaptor.  
is not displayed, touch the LCD screen  
You can adjust the following settings by  
touching  
while executing SLIDE  
SHOW PLUS. (* default setting)  
Touch [OK] [END] when you finish the  
setting.  
• To protect the LCD screen, we recommend:  
– Using multiple files for SLIDE SHOW  
PLUS.  
– Setting [REPEAT] to [ON].  
– Setting the POWER switch to OFF (CHG)  
when not viewing SLIDE SHOW PLUS.  
You can select the first picture for the SLIDE  
SHOW PLUS by touching  
PB FOLDER  
When set to [ALL FILES] ( )*, all files  
in a “Memory Stick Duo” are played back.  
When set to [CURRENT FOLDER]  
/
before  
starting SLIDE SHOW PLUS.  
(
), all files in the folder selected in [PB  
FOLDER] (p. 44) are played back.  
To use PB zoom .......................  
REPEAT  
You can magnify pictures from about 1.1 to  
5 times the original size.  
Magnification can be adjusted with the  
power zoom lever .  
When set to [ON] ( )*, SLIDE SHOW  
PLUS repeats.  
CLOCK DISP  
When set to [ON]*, the clock appears.  
Play back the picture you want to  
magnify.  
MODE SELECT  
Magnify the picture with T (Telephoto).  
SIMPLE*  
Touch the screen at the point you want  
to magnify within the displayed frame.  
For showing pictures with up-and-down/  
side-to-side motion, zoom or overlap  
effects.  
Adjust the magnification with W (Wide  
angle)/T (Telephoto).  
MONOTONE  
To cancel, touch [END].  
Pictures appear in black  
and white with side-to-side  
motion or overlap effects.  
FANCY  
Pictures appear with  
decorative flower images  
and zoom or wipe effects.  
STANDARD  
Shows pictures without effects. The file  
information disappears when the DISP/  
BATT INFO button is pressed.  
• The clock does not appear if [CLOCK SET] (p.  
15) has not been set.  
23  
Continued   
Functions used for recording/playback, etc. (continued)  
To use special effects ................  
See  
(PICT.APPLI.) menu (p. 44).  
To initialize the settings (RESET)...  
Press RESET to initialize all the  
settings, including the setting of the date  
and time.  
(Menu items customized on Personal Menu  
are not initialized.)  
2
7
9
8
Other part names and functions  
q;  
qa  
Speaker  
Sounds come out from the speaker.  
For how to adjust the volume, see page 21.  
REC lamp  
The REC lamp lights up in red during  
qs  
recording (p. 50).  
Remote sensor  
Point the Remote Commander (p. 30)  
towards the remote sensor to operate  
your camcorder.  
Recording/playback  
Internal stereo microphone  
When an external microphone is  
connected, the audio input from the  
external microphone takes precedence  
over others.  
To check the remaining battery  
(Battery Info) ..........................  
Set the POWER switch up to OFF (CHG),  
then press DISP/BATT INFO . The  
battery information appears for about  
7 seconds. With the information on the  
screen, press the button several times to  
view it for about 20 seconds (max.).  
Remaining battery (approx.)  
BATTERY INFO  
BATTERY CHARGE LEVEL  
0%  
50%  
100%  
RECTIME AVAILABLE  
LCD SCREEN: 85 min  
Recording capacity (approx.)  
To turn off the operation confirmation  
beep (BEEP) ...........................  
See [BEEP] (p. 50) to set the operation  
beep.  
24  
25  
Indicators displayed during recording/playback  
Recording movies  
On a tape  
Recording still images  
1
2
3
4
5
8
1
9
0
60min  
101  
FINE  
30  
P-MENU  
6
7
qa  
7
Remaining battery (approx.)  
Recording folder (44)  
Recording mode (or ) (48)  
Quality ([FINE] or [STD]) (42)  
Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or  
[REC] (recording))  
“Memory Stick Duo” indicator and the  
number of images that can be recorded  
(approx.)  
Time code (hour: minute: second:  
frame)/Tape counter (hour: minute:  
second)  
Review button (20)  
Recording capacity of the tape  
(approx.) (50)  
Data code during playback  
The date/time data and the camera setting  
data will be recorded automatically.  
They do not appear on the screen during  
recording, but you can check them as  
[DATA CODE] during playback (p. 49).  
END SEARCH/EDIT SEARCH/Rec  
review display switch button (29)  
Personal Menu button (34)  
On a “Memory Stick Duo”  
B
C
A
D
E
Recording folder (44)  
Recording capacity (approx.)  
Movie size (43)  
Recording start indicator  
(appears for about 5 seconds)  
Review button (20)  
26  
( ) is a reference page.  
The indicators during recording will not be recorded.  
Viewing movies  
On a tape  
Viewing still images  
1
2
qs  
4
5
1 qf  
qg qh  
MEMORY PLAY  
qj  
qk  
wd  
ws  
7
qd  
ql  
w;  
wa  
7
Tape transport indicator  
Data file name  
Video operation buttons (21)  
When there is a “Memory Stick Duo”  
inserted in the camcorder,  
Picture number/Total number of  
recorded pictures in the current  
playback folder  
(STOP)  
changes to  
(“Memory Stick Duo”  
Playback folder (44)  
playback) if a tape is not used for playback.  
Previous/Next folder icon  
On a “Memory Stick Duo”  
The following indicators appear when the  
first or last picture of the current folder is  
displayed and when there are multiple folders  
on the same “Memory Stick Duo.”  
D
E
0:00:00  
A
: Touch  
folder.  
: Touch  
to move to the previous  
B
C
to move to the next folder.  
F
: Touch  
/
to move to either  
the previous or the next folder.  
Image delete button (60)  
Tape playback select button (21)  
Previous/Next image button (21)  
Index screen display button (21)  
Image protection mark (60)  
Print mark (61)  
Data file name  
Play/Pause button (21)  
Previous/Next image button (21)  
Image size (43)  
Playing time  
Previous/Next scene button  
A movie file will be divided into a maximum  
of 60 scenes. The number of scenes divided  
depends on the length of the movie. After  
selecting a scene from which to start the  
playback, touch  
to play back.  
27  
Continued   
Indicators displayed during recording/playback (continued)  
Center  
Indicators when you made  
changes  
Indicator  
Meaning  
Color Slow Shutter (41)  
You can check the [DISP GUIDE] (p. 14)  
to check the function of each indicator that  
appears on the LCD screen.  
PictBridge connecting  
(61)  
Warning (92)  
  
Upper left  
Upper right  
Bottom  
Indicator  
Meaning  
Picture effect (46)  
Digital effect (45)  
Manual focus (40)  
PROGRAM AE (38)  
Bottom  
Center  
Upper left  
Backlight (22)  
Indicator  
Meaning  
White balance (39)  
WIDE SELECT (42)  
SteadyShot off (42)  
Tele macro (40)  
EXT SUR MIC (48)  
AUDIO MODE (48)  
Self-timer recording (41)  
Interval photo recording  
(46)  
This indicator appears  
when you use video flash  
light (optional). (41)  
Upper right  
Indicator  
Meaning  
A/VDV OUT (49)  
DV input (56)  
Zero set memory (30)  
SLIDE SHOW PLUS (22)  
LCD backlight off (13)  
28  
Searching for the starting point  
Make sure that the CAMERA-TAPE lamp  
lights up.  
60min  
STBY  
0:00:00  
Searching for the last scene of the  
most recent recording (END SEARCH)  
EDIT  
[END SEARCH] will not work once you  
eject the cassette after you have recorded  
on the tape.  
2
Touch and hold  
backward)/  
(to go  
(to go forward)  
and release it at the point where  
you want the recording to start.  
Touch  
.
60min  
1
0:00:00  
END SEARCH  
EXECUTING  
Reviewing the most recently  
recorded scenes (Rec review)  
CANCEL  
Touch here to cancel  
the operation.  
You can view about 2 seconds of the scene  
recorded just before you stopped the tape.  
The last scene of the most recent  
recording is played back for about 5  
seconds, and the camcorder enters the  
standby mode at the point where the last  
recording has finished.  
Touch  
.
60min  
STBY  
0:00:00  
• [END SEARCH] will not work correctly  
when there is a blank section between  
recorded sections on the tape.  
You can also select [END SEARCH] from  
the menu. When the PLAY/EDIT lamp  
lights up, select the [END SEARCH] short-  
cut in Personal Menu (p. 34).  
EDIT  
The last 2 seconds (approx.) of the most  
recently recorded scene are played back.  
Then, your camcorder is set to the standby.  
Searching manually (EDIT  
SEARCH)  
You can search for the start point to start  
the next recording while viewing the  
pictures on the screen. The sound is not  
played back during the search.  
1
Touch  
.
29  
Remote Commander  
Remove the insulation sheet before using  
the Remote Commander.  
• Aim the Remote Commander towards the  
remote sensor to operate your camcorder (p.  
24).  
Insulation sheet  
• To change the battery, see page 105.  
Searching quickly for a desired  
scene (Zero set memory)  
6
1
During playback, press ZERO  
SET MEMORY  
at a point you  
7
8
1
q;  
want to locate later on.  
The tape counter is reset to “0:00:00”  
2
3
and  
appears on the screen.  
60min  
0:00:00  
4
5
9
P-MENU  
If the tape counter is not displayed,  
.
press DISPLAY  
PHOTO (p. 20)  
The on-screen image when you press this  
button will be recorded as a still image.  
2
3
Press STOP  
when you want to  
stop playback.  
SEARCH M. (p. 31)*  
  *  
.
Press REW  
Video control buttons (Rewind,  
Playback, Fast-forward, Pause, Stop,  
Slow) (p. 21)  
The tape stops automatically when the  
tape counter reaches “0:00:00.”  
ZERO SET MEMORY*  
Transmitter  
.
4
Press PLAY  
REC START/STOP (p. 20)  
Power zoom (p. 22)  
DISPLAY (p. 14)  
Playback starts from the point  
designated “0:00:00” on the tape  
counter.  
Memory control buttons (Index*, –/+,  
Memory playback) (p. 21)  
• There may be a discrepancy of several seconds  
between the time code and the tape counter.  
• Zero set memory will not function correctly  
if there is a blank section between recorded  
sections on the tape.  
* These buttons do not work during Easy  
Handycam operation.  
30  
To cancel the operation  
Press ZERO SET MEMORY again.  
Searching for a scene by date of  
recording (Date search)  
You can locate the point where the  
recording date changes.  
1
Slide the POWER switch down to  
turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.  
.
2
3
Press SEARCH M.  
Press (previous)/(next)  
to select a recording date.  
60min  
0:00:00:00  
30min  
DATE -01  
SEACH  
P-MENU  
To cancel the operation  
.
Press STOP  
• The Date search will not function correctly  
when there is a blank section between recorded  
sections on the tape.  
31  
Playing the picture on a TV  
Connect your camcorder to the wall socket using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation  
(p. 8). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected.  
A/V or A/V OUT jack  
1
(Yellow) (White) (Red)  
IN  
VCRs or TVs  
2
: Signal flow  
A/V connecting cable (supplied)  
When your TV is monaural (When  
Connect the input jack of the other device  
to the A/V (DCR-PC55E) or A/V OUT  
(DCR-PC53E) jack on your camcorder or the  
Handycam Station.  
your TV has only one audio input jack)  
Connect the yellow plug of the A/V  
connecting cable to the video input jack  
and connect the white (left channel) or the  
red (right channel) plug to the audio input  
jack of your TV or VCR.  
• When connecting the A/V connecting cable to  
the A/V jack (DCR-PC55E)/A/V OUT jack  
(DCR-PC53E) on your camcorder, remove your  
camcorder from the Handycam Station.  
A/V connecting cable with S  
VIDEO (optional)  
When connecting to another device via the  
S VIDEO jack, by using the A/V connecting  
cable with an S VIDEO cable (optional),  
pictures can be reproduced more faithfully  
than with the supplied A/V cable connection.  
Connect the white and red plugs (left/right  
audio) and S VIDEO plug (S VIDEO  
channel) of an A/V connecting cable  
(optional). In this case, the yellow (standard  
video) plug connection is not necessary. S  
VIDEO connection only will not output  
audio.  
You can display the time code on the TV screen  
by setting [DISP OUTPUT] to [V-OUT/  
PANEL] (p. 50).  
When your TV is connected to a VCR  
Connect your camcorder to the LINE IN  
input on the VCR. Set the input selector on  
the VCR to LINE.  
32  
If your TV/VCR has a 21-pin adaptor  
(EUROCONNECTOR)  
Use the 21-pin adaptor supplied with your  
camcorder (For models with the  
mark  
printed on their bottom surfaces only). This  
adaptor is designed for output use only.  
TV/VCR  
33  
Using the menu items  
Follow the instructions below to use each of the menu items listed after this page.  
1
Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the respective lamp.  
[CAMERA-TAPE] lamp:  
[CAMERA-MEM] lamp:  
settings on a tape  
settings on a “Memory Stick Duo”  
[PLAY/EDIT] lamp: settings for viewing/editing  
2
Touch the LCD screen to select the menu item.  
Unavailable items will be grayed out.  
To use the short-cuts of Personal Menu  
On Personal Menu, short-cuts for frequently used menu items are added.  
You can customize Personal Menu as you like (p. 52).  
Touch  
.
60min  
0:00:00:00  
DISP  
GUIDE  
MENU  
END  
SEARCH  
1/3  
VOLUME  
VAR.  
SPD PB  
REC  
CTRL  
Touch the desired item.  
If the desired item is not displayed on the screen, touch  
Select the desired setting, then touch  
/
until the item is displayed.  
.
To use menu items  
You can customize menu items that are not added to Personal Menu.  
BURN D  
BURN VCD  
END SEARCH  
Touch  
[MENU].  
The menu index screen appears.  
Select the desired menu.  
Touch  
/
to select the item, then touch  
. (The process in step is the same as  
that in step .)  
Select the desired item.  
You can also touch the item directly to select it.  
Customize the item.  
34  
After finishing the settings, touch  
If you decide not to change the setting, touch  
(close) to hide the menu screen.  
to return to the previous screen.  
35  
Menu items  
Position of lamp:  
TAPE  
MEM  
PLAY/EDIT  
CAMERA SET menu (p. 38)  
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
PROGRAM AE  
SPOT METER  
EXPOSURE  
WHITE BAL.  
AUTO SHUTTER  
SPOT FOCUS  
FOCUS  
TELE MACRO  
FLASH SET  
COLOR SLOW S  
SELF-TIMER  
DIGITAL ZOOM  
WIDE SELECT  
STEADYSHOT  
×
×
×
*
MEMORY SET menu (p. 42)  
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
STILL SET  
MOVIE SET  
ALL ERASE*  
FORMAT  
FILE NO.  
NEW FOLDER  
REC FOLDER  
PB FOLDER  
PICT.APPLI. menu (p. 44)  
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
FADER  
D. EFFECT  
PICT. EFFECT  
INT.REC-STL  
DEMO MODE  
PRINT  
36  
Available menu items () vary depending on the position of the lamp.  
*These functions are available during Easy Handycam operation.  
Position of lamp:  
TAPE  
MEM  
PLAY/EDIT  
EDIT/PLAY menu (p. 47)  
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
VAR. SPD PB  
REC CTRL  
AUD DUB CTRL  
REC MOVIE  
BURN DVD  
BURN VCD  
END SEARCH  
STANDARD SET menu (p. 48)  
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
×
REC MODE  
AUDIO MODE  
VOLUME*  
MULTI-SOUND  
AUDIO MIX  
EXT SUR MIC  
LCD SET  
A/V DV OUT (DCR-PC55E)  
VIDEO INPUT (DCR-PC55E)  
USB-CAMERA  
USB-PLY/EDT  
DISP GUIDE*  
DATA CODE*  
REMAINING  
REMOTE CTRL  
REC LAMP  
BEEP*  
DISP OUTPUT  
MENU ROTATE  
A.SHUT OFF  
CALIBRATION  
TIME/LANGU. menu (p. 51)  
CLOCK SET*  
WORLD TIME  
LANGUAGE  
37  
CAMERA SET menu  
Settings to adjust your camcorder to the  
recording conditions (EXPOSURE/WHITE  
BAL./STEADYSHOT, etc.)  
BEACH&SKI*(  
)
The default settings are marked with  
The indicators in parentheses appear when  
the items are selected.  
.
See page 34 for details on selecting  
Select to prevent people's faces from  
appearing dark in strong light or reflected  
light, such as at a beach in midsummer or  
on a ski slope.  
menu items.  
PROGRAM AE  
You can record pictures effectively in  
various situations with the PROGRAM AE  
function.  
SUNSET&MOON**(  
)
AUTO  
Select to automatically record pictures  
effectively without the [PROGRAM AE]  
function.  
Select to maintain the atmosphere of  
situations such as sunsets, general night  
views or fireworks.  
SPOTLIGHT*(  
)
LANDSCAPE**(  
)
Select to prevent people's faces from  
appearing excessively white when subjects  
are lit by strong light.  
Select to shoot distant subjects clearly.  
This setting also prevents your camcorder  
from focusing on glass or metal mesh  
in windows that comes in between the  
camcorder and the subject.  
PORTRAIT (Soft portrait) (  
)
• Items with one asterisk (*) can be adjusted  
to focus on subjects only a short distance  
away. Items with two asterisks (**) can be  
adjusted to focus on subjects farther away.  
Select to bring out the subject such as  
people or flowers while creating a soft  
background.  
SPORTS* (Sports lesson) (  
)
Select to minimize shake when shooting  
fast moving subjects.  
38  
SPOT METER (Flexible spot  
meter)  
WHITE BAL. (White balance)  
You can adjust the color balance to the  
brightness of the recording environment.  
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.  
AUTO  
The white balance is adjusted  
automatically.  
OUTDOOR (  
)
The white balance is set to be appropriate  
for shooting outdoors or under daylight  
fluorescent light.  
1
INDOOR ()  
The white balance is set to the brightness  
of warm white fluorescent lamps.  
2
Touch the point where you want to fix and  
adjust the exposure on the screen.  
ONE PUSH (  
)
The white balance will be adjusted  
according to the ambient light.  
appears.  
Touch [END].  
Touch [ONE PUSH].  
To return the setting to automatic exposure,  
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.  
touch [AUTO] [END].  
• If you set [SPOT METER], [EXPOSURE] is  
automatically set to [MANUAL].  
Touch [  
].  
flashes quickly. When the white  
balance has been adjusted and stored  
in the memory, the indicator stops  
flashing.  
• Do not shake your camcorder while  
is flashing quickly.  
EXPOSURE  
You can fix the brightness of a picture  
manually. When recording indoors on  
a clear day, for instance, you can avoid  
backlight shadows on people next to the  
window by fixing the exposure to that of  
the wall side of the room.  
flashes slowly if white balance  
could not be set.  
• If  
keeps flashing even after you  
have touched  
to [AUTO].  
, set [WHITE BAL.]  
2
• When you have changed the battery pack  
while [AUTO] is selected, or you bring your  
camcorder outdoors from inside the house  
while using fixed exposure, select [AUTO] and  
aim your camcorder at a nearby white object  
for about 10 seconds for better color balance  
adjustment.  
3
1
Touch [MANUAL].  
Adjust the exposure by touching  
/
.
• Redo the [ONE PUSH] procedure if you change  
the [PROGRAM AE] settings, or bring your  
camcorder outdoors from inside the house, or  
vice versa.  
• Set [WHITE BAL.] to [AUTO] or [ONE  
PUSH] under white or cool white fluorescent  
lamps.  
Touch  
.
appears.  
To return the setting to automatic exposure,  
touch [AUTO]   
.
39  
Continued   
CAMERA SET menu (continued)  
• The setting returns to [AUTO] when you have  
the power source disconnected from your  
camcorder for more than 5 minutes.  
Touch  
.
To adjust the focus automatically, touch  
.
[AUTO]   
in step  
• 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.  
AUTO SHUTTER  
Automatically activates the electronic  
shutter to adjust the shutter speed when  
recording in bright conditions if you set it  
to [ON] (the default setting).  
• The minimum distance required between  
your camcorder and the subject to get a sharp  
focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide  
angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for  
telephoto.  
SPOT FOCUS  
You can select and adjust the focal point to  
aim it at a subject not located in the center  
of the screen.  
TELE MACRO  
1
This is useful to shoot small subjects, such  
as flowers or insects. As you can take close-  
ups from a distance, your shadow does not  
disturb the picture and the subject stands  
out clearer.  
2
Touch the subject on the screen.  
appears.  
When you set [TELE MACRO] to [ON]  
(
), the zoom (p. 22) moves to the top of  
Touch [END].  
the T (Telephoto) side automatically and  
allows for recording subjects at a close  
distance, down to about 27 cm (10 3/4 in.).  
To adjust the focus automatically, touch  
[AUTO] [END].  
• If you set [SPOT FOCUS], [FOCUS] is  
automatically set to [MANUAL].  
FOCUS  
You can adjust the focus manually. Select  
this when you want to focus on a certain  
subject intentionally.  
To cancel, touch [OFF], or zoom to wide-  
angle (W side).  
• When recording a distant subject, it may be  
difficult to focus on and take time for focusing.  
• Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 40)  
when it is hard to focus automatically.  
Touch [MANUAL].  
appears.  
Touch  
(focusing on close subjects)/  
(focusing on distant subjects) to  
sharpen the focus. appears when the  
focus cannot be adjusted any closer, and  
appears when the focus cannot be adjusted  
farther away.  
40  
• The shutter speed of your camcorder changes  
depending on the brightness. The motion of the  
picture may slow down at this time.  
FLASH SET  
Note that these settings will not function  
with external flashes (optional) that do not  
support the following settings.  
SELF-TIMER  
FLASH MODE  
The self-timer starts recording after about  
10 seconds.  
ON  
Flashes every time.  
Touch  
[SELF-TIMER] [ON]  
.
ON  
appears.  
Flashes to reduce the red-eye  
phenomenon.  
Press REC START/STOP to record  
movies, or PHOTO to record still images.  
To cancel the count down, touch [RESET].  
AUTO  
Flashes automatically.  
To cancel the self-timer, select [OFF] in  
step  
.
AUTO  
Flashes automatically to reduce the red-  
eye phenomenon.  
You can also use the self-timer with the Remote  
Commander (p. 30).  
• If the flash is not capable of preventing the red-  
eye phenomenon, you can select only [ON] or  
[AUTO].  
DIGITAL ZOOM  
You can select the maximum zoom level  
in case you want to zoom to a level greater  
than 10 × (the default setting) while  
recording on a tape. Note that the image  
quality decreases when you are using the  
digital zoom.  
FLASH LEVEL  
HIGH(  
)
Makes the flash level higher.  
NORMAL( )  
LOW(  
)
Makes the flash level lower.  
• The setting returns to [NORMAL] when  
you disconnect the power source from your  
camcorder for more than 5 minutes.  
The right side of the bar shows the digital  
zooming factor. The zooming zone  
appears when you select the zooming  
level.  
COLOR SLOW S  
(Color Slow Shutter)  
When you set [COLOR SLOW S] to [ON],  
you can record an image brighter in color  
even in dark places.  
and [COLOR SLOW SHUTTER]  
appear on the screen.  
OFF  
Up to 10 × zoom is performed optically.  
20 ×  
Up to 10 × zoom is performed optically,  
and after that, up to 20 × zoom is  
performed digitally.  
To cancel [COLOR SLOW S], touch  
[OFF].  
• Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 40)  
when it is hard to focus automatically.  
41  
Continued   
CAMERA SET menu (continued)  
MEMORY SET menu  
Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo”  
(QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/ALL ERASE/NEW  
FOLDER, etc.)  
120 ×  
Up to 10 × zoom is performed optically,  
and after that, up to 120 × zoom is  
performed digitally.  
The default settings are marked with  
The indicators in parentheses appear when  
the items are selected.  
.
See page 34 for details on selecting  
WIDE SELECT  
You can record a picture in a ratio suitable  
for the screen on which it will be displayed.  
menu items.  
STILL SET  
4:3  
Standard setting (to record pictures to be  
played back on a 4:3 TV).  
QUALITY  
FINE (  
)
16:9 WIDE (  
Records pictures to be played back on a  
16:9 wide TV in full screen mode.  
)
Records still images at the fine image  
quality level.  
STANDARD (  
Records still images at the standard image  
quality level.  
)
When viewed on the LCD screen with [16:9  
WIDE (  
)] selected.  
When viewed on a 16:9 wide screen  
TV*  
Capacity of the “Memory Stick Duo”  
(MB) and the number of recordable  
pictures  
640 × 480*  
When viewed on a standard TV**  
8MB  
50  
120  
16MB (supplied  
96  
with DCR-PC55E)  
240  
* Picture appears in full screen mode when the  
wide-screen TV switches to full mode.  
**Played in 4:3 mode. When you play a picture  
in the wide mode, it appears as you have seen  
on the LCD screen.  
32MB  
64MB  
128MB  
256MB  
512MB  
1GB  
190  
485  
390  
980  
780  
1970  
STEADYSHOT  
You can compensate for camera shake  
(the default setting is [ON]). Set  
[STEADYSHOT] to  
1400  
3550  
2850  
7200  
[OFF] ( ) when using a tripod (optional).  
5900  
14500  
* Top: [FINE] is selected for image quality.  
Bottom: [STANDARD] is selected for image  
quality.  
42  
• When using the “Memory Stick Duo” made by  
Sony Corporation. The number of recordable  
pictures varies depending on the recording  
environment.  
• The image size of a picture is as follows.  
– When [FINE] is selected, the image size is  
approx. 150kB.  
Select [ALL FILES] or [CURRENT  
FOLDER].  
[ALL FILES]: Deletes all the images on the  
“Memory Stick Duo.”  
[CURRENT FOLDER]: Deletes all the  
images in the selected folder.  
Touch [YES] twice   
.
– When [STANDARD] is selected, the image  
size is approx. 60kB.  
• Cancel image protection on the “Memory Stick  
Duo” beforehand when using the “Memory  
Stick Duo” with the write-protect tab (p. 98).  
• The folder will not be deleted even when you  
delete all the pictures in the folder.  
MOVIE SET  
• Do not do any of the following while [  
Erasing all data...] is displayed:  
– Operate the POWER switch/operation  
buttons.  
IMAGE SIZE  
320 × 240 (  
)
Records movies in high resolution.  
– Eject the “Memory Stick Duo.”  
160 × 112 (  
)
Allows for more movie recording time.  
FORMAT  
A new “Memory Stick Duo” is formatted at  
the factory and does not require formatting.  
Capacity of the “Memory Stick Duo”  
(MB) and the recordable time (hour:  
minute: second)  
Touch [YES] twice   
.
Formatting is completed, and all the images  
will be deleted.  
320 × 240  
00:01:20  
00:02:40  
160 × 112  
00:05:20  
00:10:40  
• Do not do any of the following while [  
Formatting…] is displayed:  
– Operate the POWER switch/operation  
buttons.  
8MB  
16MB (supplied  
with DCR-  
PC55E)  
– Eject the “Memory Stick Duo.”  
32MB  
64MB  
128MB  
256MB  
512MB  
1GB  
00:05:20  
00:10:40  
00:21:20  
00:42:40  
01:25:20  
02:50:40  
00:21:20  
00:42:40  
01:25:20  
02:50:40  
05:41:20  
11:22:40  
• Formatting erases everything on the “Memory  
Stick Duo” including protected image data and  
newly created folders.  
FILE NO.  
SERIES  
Assigns file numbers in sequence even if  
the “Memory Stick Duo” is replaced with  
another one. The file number is reset when  
a new folder is created or the recording  
folder is replaced with another.  
• When using the “Memory Stick Duo” made by  
Sony Corporation. The recordable time varies  
depending on the recording environment.  
ALL ERASE  
RESET  
Resets the file number to 0001 each time  
the “Memory Stick Duo” is changed.  
Deletes all the pictures on a “Memory Stick  
Duo” without image protection, or in the  
selected folder.  
43  
Continued   
MEMORY SET menu  
(continued)  
PICT.APPLI. menu  
Special effects on pictures or additional  
functions on recording/playback (FADER/  
PICT. EFFECT, etc.)  
NEW FOLDER  
You can create a new folder (102MSDCF  
to 999MSDCF) on a “Memory Stick  
Duo.” When a folder is full (a maximum  
of 9999 images are stored) a new folder is  
automatically created.  
The default settings are marked with  
The indicators in parentheses appear when  
the items are selected.  
See page 34 for details on selecting  
menu items.  
.
Touch [YES]   
.
You cannot delete the created folders using  
your camcorder. You will have to format the  
“Memory Stick Duo” (p. 43), or delete them  
using your computer.  
• The number of recordable pictures on a  
“Memory Stick Duo” may decrease as the  
number of folders increases.  
FADER  
You can add the following effects to  
currently recording pictures.  
Select the desired effect, then touch  
.
When you select [OVERLAP], [WIPE]  
or [DOT FADER], the image on a tape is  
stored as a still image. (While storing the  
image, the screen turns to blue.)  
Press REC START/STOP.  
The fader indicator stops flashing and  
disappears when the fade is complete.  
REC FOLDER (Recording folder)  
Select the folder to be used for recording  
with  
/
, then touch  
.
• As the default setting, pictures are saved in the  
101MSDCF folder.  
• Once you record a picture in a folder, the  
same folder will be set as the default folder for  
playback.  
To cancel the operation, touch [OFF] in  
.
step  
STBY  
REC  
Fading out  
Fading in  
PB FOLDER (Playback folder)  
WHITE FADER  
Select the playback folder with  
then touch  
/
,
.
BLACK FADER  
MOSAIC FADER  
MONOTONE  
When fading in, the picture gradually  
changes from black-and-white to color.  
When fading out, it gradually changes from  
color to black-and-white.  
44  
* Available during recording only.  
OVERLAP (fade in only)  
WIPE (fade in only)  
Touch  
appears.  
To cancel [D. EFFECT], touch [OFF] in  
.
.
step  
STILL  
Records a movie while superimposing it on  
a previously recorded still image.  
DOT FADER (fade in only)  
FLASH (flash motion)  
Records a movie with a serial-still-image  
effect (strobe effect).  
D. EFFECT (Digital effect)  
You can add digital effects to your  
recordings.  
LUMI. KEY (luminance key)  
Replaces a brighter area in a previously  
recorded still image (e.g. background of a  
person) with a movie.  
Touch the desired effect.  
Adjust the effect with  
/
, then  
touch  
.
When you select [STILL] or [LUMI.  
KEY], the image when you touch  
saved as a still image.  
is  
TRAIL  
Records a picture so that an incidental  
image like a trail is left.  
Effect  
Items to adjust  
SLOW SHUTTR (slow shutter)  
The shutter speed is slowed down. Suitable  
for shooting a subject more clearly in a  
dark place.  
• Adjust the focus manually using a tripod since  
adjusting the focus automatically is hard when  
[SLOW SHUTTR] is selected. ([FOCUS], p.  
40)  
STILL  
The degree of  
transparency of the  
still image you want  
to superimpose on a  
movie.  
FLASH  
The interval of frame-  
by-frame playback.  
OLD MOVIE  
Adds an old movie effect with a sepia hue  
to pictures.  
LUMI. KEY  
The color scheme of  
the area in the still  
image which is to be  
swapped with a movie.  
You cannot record pictures edited using special  
effects on the tape in your camcorder.  
You cannot add effects to externally input  
pictures. Also, you cannot output playback  
pictures edited with digital effects via the DV  
Interface.  
You can save pictures edited using special  
effects on a “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 57) or  
record them on another tape/DVD (p. 55).  
TRAIL  
The fade time of the  
incidental image.  
Shutter speed (1 is  
1/25, 2 is 1/12, 3 is  
1/6, 4 is 1/3).  
SLOW  
SHUTTR*  
OLD MOVIE*  
No adjustment  
necessary.  
45  
Continued   
PICT.APPLI. menu (continued)  
record them on another tape/DVD (p. 55).  
PICT. EFFECT (Picture effect)  
You can add special effects to a picture  
INT.REC-STL  
during recording or playback.  
appears.  
(Interval photo recording)  
OFF  
You can record still images on the  
“Memory Stick Duo” at a selected interval.  
This function is useful to observe the  
movement of clouds or the changes in  
daylight, etc.  
Does not use [PICT. EFFECT] setting.  
NEG.ART  
The color and brightness are reversed.  
SEPIA  
Pictures appear in sepia.  
[a]: Recording  
[b]: Interval  
B&W  
Touch  
or 10 minutes)   
a desired interval time (1, 5  
Pictures appear in black and white.  
[ON]   
.
SOLARIZE  
Press PHOTO fully.  
stops flashing and the interval still  
image recording starts.  
To cancel [INT.REC-STL], select [OFF]  
.
in step  
Pictures appear as an illustration with  
strong contrast.  
DEMO MODE  
PASTEL*  
The default setting is [ON], allowing you  
to view the demonstration in about 10  
minutes, after you have removed both a  
cassette and a “Memory Stick Duo” from  
your camcorder, and slide the POWER  
switch down to turn on the CAMERA-  
TAPE lamp.  
Pictures appear as a pale pastel drawing.  
MOSAIC*  
• The demonstration will be suspended in  
situations such as those described below.  
– When you touch the screen during the  
demonstration. (The demonstration starts  
again in about 10 minutes.)  
– When a cassette or a “Memory Stick Duo” is  
inserted.  
Pictures appear mosaic-patterned.  
* Not available during playback.  
– When the POWER switch is set to other than  
CAMERA-TAPE.  
You cannot add effects to externally input  
pictures. Also, you cannot output playback  
pictures edited with picture effects via the DV  
Interface.  
You can save pictures edited using special  
effects on a “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 57) or  
PRINT  
See page 61.  
46  
EDIT/PLAY menu  
Settings for editing or playing back  
in various modes (VAR.SPD PB/END  
SEARCH, etc.)  
REC CTRL (Movie recording  
control)  
See page 56.  
The default settings are marked with  
The indicators in parentheses appear when  
the items are selected.  
.
See page 34 for details on selecting  
menu items.  
AUD DUB CTRL (Audio dubbing)  
See page 59.  
VAR.SPD PB  
REC MOVIE (Recording control)  
See page 57.  
(Various speed playback)  
You can play back in various modes while  
viewing movies.  
BURN DVD  
Touch the following buttons during  
playback.  
When your camcorder is connected to a  
Sony VAIO series personal computer, you  
can easily burn the picture recorded on the  
tape on a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to  
DVD”) using this command. See “Creating  
a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”)”  
(p. 71) for details.  
To  
Touch  
change the  
playback  
direction*  
(frame)  
play back  
slowly**  
To reverse direction :  
BURN VCD  
(frame)   
When your camcorder is connected to a  
personal computer, you can easily burn the  
picture recorded on the tape on a CD-R  
(Direct Access to Video CD Burn) using  
this command. See “First Step Guide” in  
the supplied CD-ROM for details.  
play back 2 times  
faster (double  
speed)  
(double speed)  
To reverse direction:  
(frame)   
(double speed)  
play back frame  
by frame  
(frame) during  
playback pause.  
To reverse direction:  
(frame) during  
END SEARCH  
EXEC  
The most recently recorded picture is  
played back for about 5 seconds and then  
stops automatically.  
frame playback.  
* Horizontal lines may appear at the top,  
bottom, or in the center of the screen. This  
is not a malfunction.  
CANCEL  
Stops [END SEARCH].  
**Pictures output from the DV Interface  
cannot be played back smoothly in slow  
mode.  
Touch  
To return to the normal playback mode,  
touch (Play/Pause) twice (once from  
.
frame playback).  
You will not hear the recorded sound. You may  
see mosaic-like images of the previously played  
picture.  
47  
STANDARD SET menu  
Settings while recording on a tape or other  
basic settings (REC MODE/MULTI-SOUND/  
LCD SET/DISP OUTPUT/USB, etc.)  
1
Plays back with main sound or the left  
channel sound.  
The default settings are marked with  
The indicators in parentheses appear when  
the items are selected.  
See page 34 for details on selecting  
menu items.  
.
2
Plays back with sub sound or the right  
channel sound.  
You can play back, but cannot record a dual  
sound track cassette on your camcorder.  
• The setting returns to [STEREO] when you  
have the power source disconnected from your  
camcorder for more than 5 minutes.  
REC MODE (Recording mode)  
SP ()  
Records in the SP (Standard Play) mode  
on a cassette.  
AUDIO MIX  
See page 59.  
LP ()  
Increases the recording time to 1.5 times  
the SP mode (Long Play).  
EXT SUR MIC (External surround  
microphone)  
• If you record in the LP mode, a mosaic-like  
noise may appear or sound may be interrupted  
when you play back the tape on other  
camcorders or VCRs.  
WIDE STEREO (  
)
Records 2 channel sound with more  
presence by connecting a microphone  
(optional).  
• When you mix recordings in the SP mode  
and in the LP mode on one tape, the playback  
picture may be distorted or the time code may  
not be written properly between the scenes.  
STEREO  
Records the stereo sound normally.  
AUDIO MODE  
12BIT  
Records in the 12-bit mode (2 stereo  
sounds).  
You need a compatible accessory such as the  
ECM-HQP1 microphone (optional) to record  
the sound in the [WIDE STEREO] setting.  
• Sound is recorded in the [STEREO] setting  
if the microphone is not connected, even if  
another setting is selected.  
16BIT (  
)
Records in the 16-bit mode (1 stereo  
sound with high quality).  
LCD SET  
The recorded picture will not be affected  
by this operation.  
VOLUME  
See page 21.  
LCD BRIGHT  
You can adjust the brightness of the LCD  
screen.  
MULTI-SOUND  
You can select whether to play back audio  
recorded using other devices with dual  
sound or stereo sound.  
Adjust the brightness with  
Touch  
/
.
.
STEREO  
Plays back with main and sub sound (or  
stereo sound).  
48  
LCD BL LEVEL  
VIDEO INPUT  
(DCR-PC55E)  
You can adjust the brightness of the LCD  
screen’s backlight.  
Selects the video plug to connect when you  
input the picture from the other device via  
A/V connecting cable.  
NORMAL  
Standard brightness.  
BRIGHT  
Brightens the LCD screen.  
VIDEO  
Connects via video plug of the A/V  
connecting cable (supplied).  
• When you connect your camcorder to outside  
power sources, [BRIGHT] is automatically  
selected for the setting.  
• When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is  
reduced by about 10 percent during recording.  
S VIDEO  
Connects via S VIDEO plug of the A/V  
connecting cable with S VIDEO cable  
(optional).  
LCD COLOR  
You can adjust the color on the LCD screen  
USB-CAMERA  
with  
/
.
You can view the pictures displayed on the  
screen of your camcorder on your computer  
(USB Streaming) via the USB cable. See  
“First Step Guide” stored on the supplied  
CD-ROM (p. 64).  
Low intensity  
High intensity  
WIDE DISPLAY  
You can select how a 16:9 aspect ratio  
picture appears in the LCD screen.  
USB-PLY/EDT (USB-Play/Edit)  
LETTER BOX  
Normal setting (standard type of display)  
Select this when you view pictures stored  
in your camcorder on your computer (p.  
64), or when you connect your camcorder  
to a PictBridge compliant printer via a USB  
cable (supplied) (p. 61).  
SQUEZE (Squeeze)  
Expands the picture vertically when black  
bands appear at the top and bottom of the  
screen in 16:9 aspect ratio.  
STD-USB  
Displays pictures saved on the “Memory  
Stick Duo.”  
A/VDV OUT  
(DCR-PC55E)  
PictBridge  
See page 61.  
When you set [A/VDV OUT] (  
)
to [ON], you can convert the signal to the  
appropriate one by connecting a digital  
device and an analog device to your  
camcorder. See page 74 for details.  
USB STREAM  
Displays pictures saved on the tape.  
DISP GUIDE  
See page 14.  
DATA CODE  
Displays information recorded  
automatically (data code) during recording.  
49  
Continued   
STANDARD SET menu  
(continued)  
OFF  
Data code is not displayed.  
ON  
Always displays the remaining tape  
indicator.  
DATE/TIME  
Displays the date and time.  
REMOTE CTRL (Remote control)  
The default setting is [ON], allowing you to  
use the Remote Commander (p. 30).  
CAMERA DATA (below)  
Displays camera setting data.  
This cannot be selected during Easy  
Handycam operation.  
• Set to [OFF] to prevent your camcorder from  
responding to a command sent by another VCR  
remote control unit.  
• The setting returns to [ON] when you have  
the power source disconnected from your  
camcorder for more than 5 minutes.  
60min  
0:00:00:00  
1
2
AUTO  
100 AWB  
9dB  
6
5
3
4
F1.  
8
REC LAMP (Recording lamp)  
The camera recording lamp will not light  
up during recording when you set this to  
[OFF]. (The default setting is [ON].)  
SteadyShot off*  
Exposure*  
White balance*  
Gain*  
Shutter speed  
Aperture value  
* Appears only during tape playback.  
BEEP  
ON  
• Camera setting data does not appear when  
movies on a “Memory Stick Duo” are played  
back.  
A melody sounds when you start/stop  
recording, or operate the touch panel.  
• The exposure adjustment value (0EV), a shutter  
speed, and the aperture value appear when still  
images on a “Memory Stick Duo” are played  
back.  
OFF  
Cancels the melody.  
DISP OUTPUT  
appears for a picture recorded using a flash  
(optional).  
LCD PANEL  
Shows displays such as the time code on  
the LCD screen.  
• In the DATE/TIME data display, the date and  
time are displayed in the same area. If you  
record a picture without setting the clock, [-- --  
----] and [--:--:--] will appear.  
V-OUT/PANEL  
Shows displays such as the time code on  
the TV screen and LCD screen.  
REMAINING  
AUTO  
Displays the remaining tape indicator for  
about 8 seconds in situations such as those  
described below.  
• When you set the POWER switch to PLAY/  
EDIT or CAMERA-TAPE with a cassette  
inserted.  
• When you touch  
(Play/Pause).  
50  
TIME/LANGU. menu  
(CLOCK SET/WORLD TIME/LANGUAGE)  
See page 34 for details on selecting  
menu items.  
MENU ROTATE  
NORMAL  
Scrolls the menu items downwards by  
CLOCK SET  
See page 15.  
touching  
.
OPPOSITE  
Scrolls the menu items upwards by  
WORLD TIME  
touching  
.
When using your camcorder abroad, you  
can set the time difference by touching  
A.SHUT OFF (Auto shut off)  
/
, the clock will be adjusted in  
accordance with the time difference.  
If you set the time difference to 0, the clock  
returns to the originally set time.  
5 min  
The camcorder is automatically turned off  
when you do not operate your camcorder  
for more than approximately 5 minutes.  
LANGUAGE  
NEVER  
You can select the language to be used on  
the LCD screen.  
The camcorder is not automatically turned  
off.  
You can select from English, Simplified  
English, Traditional-Chinese, Simplified-  
Chinese, French, Spanish, Portuguese,  
German, Dutch, Italian, Greek, Russian,  
Arabic, Persian, or Thai.  
Your camcorder offers [ENG[SIMP]]  
(simplified English) for when you cannot find  
your native tongue among the options.  
• When you connect your camcorder to a wall  
socket, [A.SHUT OFF] is automatically set to  
[NEVER].  
CALIBRATION  
See page 104.  
51  
Customizing Personal  
Menu  
You can add desired menu items to  
Personal Menu, and customize Personal  
Menu settings for each POWER switch  
position. This is convenient if you add  
frequently used menu items to Personal  
Menu.  
Deleting a menu item  
1
Touch  
[P-MENU SET UP]  
[DELETE].  
If the desired menu item is not  
Adding a menu item  
displayed, touch  
/
.
You can add up to 28 menu items for each  
POWER switch position. Delete a less  
important menu item, if you want to add  
more.  
60min  
Select button to delete.  
STBY  
0:00:00  
END  
DISP  
GUIDE  
MENU  
TELE  
MACRO  
EXPO-  
SURE  
1/3  
SPOT  
FOCUS  
FADER  
1
Touch  
[P-MENU SET UP]  
[ADD].  
2
3
Touch the menu item that you  
want to delete.  
If the desired menu item is not  
displayed, touch  
/
.
60min  
STBY  
0:00:00  
60min  
STBY  
0:00:00  
DELETE  
Select the category.  
Delete this from  
CAMERA-TAPE mode's  
P-MENU?  
END  
CAMERA SET  
PICT. APPLI.  
EDIT/PLAY  
STANDARD SET  
TIME/LANGU.  
YES  
NO  
OK  
Touch [YES]  
.
2
3
Touch  
/
to select a menu  
category, then touch  
.
You cannot delete [MENU] and [P-MENU  
SET UP].  
60min  
Select the item.  
STBY  
0:00:00  
END  
PROGRAM AE  
SPOT METER  
EXPOSURE  
WHITE BAL.  
AUTO SHUTTER  
Arranging the order of menu items  
displayed on Personal Menu  
OK  
Touch  
item, then touch  
.
/
to select a menu  
1
2
Touch  
[P-MENU SET UP]  
[YES]  
[SORT].  
If the desired menu item is not  
displayed, touch  
The menu item is added to the end of  
list.  
/
.
Touch the menu item you want to  
move.  
52  
3
4
Touch  
/
to move the menu  
item to the desired place.  
Touch  
.
To sort more items, repeat steps 2 to 4.  
5
Touch [END]  
.
You cannot move [P-MENU SET UP].  
Initializing the Personal Menu  
settings (Reset)  
Touch  
[P-MENU SET UP]   
[RESET] [YES] [YES]   
.
If the desired menu item is not displayed,  
touch  
/
.
53  
Connecting to a VCR or TV  
Connect your camcorder to the wall socket using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation  
(p. 8). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected.  
A/V or A/V OUT* jack  
1
AUDIO/VIDEO  
jacks  
(Yellow)  
(White)  
(Red)  
VCRs or TVs  
To S VIDEO jack  
To i.LINK  
(IEEE1394)  
jack  
2
i.LINK compliant  
device  
3
DV or DV OUT* Interface  
: Signal flow  
i.LINK cable (optional)  
*For DCR-PC53E  
The jack works as an output only.  
Use an i.LINK cable (optional) to connect  
your camcorder to another device. The video  
and audio signals are transmitted digitally,  
producing high quality pictures. Note that  
you cannot output the picture and sound  
separately.  
A/V connecting cable (supplied)  
Connect the A/V connecting cable to your  
camcorder or the Handycam Station.  
For DCR-PC55E:  
The A/V jack works as an input as well as an  
output, switching automatically depending on  
the operational status.  
• Connect the A/V connecting cable to the output  
jack of a device you are dubbing a picture  
from (for DCR-PC55E), or to the input jack of  
another device for dubbing a picture from your  
camcorder.  
• When you are connecting your camcorder to a  
monaural device, connect the yellow plug of the  
A/V connecting cable to the video jack, and the  
red (right channel) or the white (left channel)  
plug to the audio jack on the VCR or the TV.  
• When you connect a device via an A/V  
connecting cable (supplied), set [DISP  
OUTPUT] to [LCD PANEL] (the default  
setting) (p. 50) to prevent the screen display  
dubbed with pictures.  
A/V connecting cable with S  
VIDEO (optional)  
When connecting to another device via the  
S VIDEO jack, by using the A/V connecting  
cable with an S VIDEO cable (optional),  
pictures can be reproduced more faithfully  
than with the supplied A/V cable connection.  
Connect the white and red plugs (left/right  
audio) and S VIDEO plug (S VIDEO  
channel) of an A/V connecting cable  
(optional). In this case, the yellow (standard  
video) plug connection is not necessary. S  
VIDEO connection only will not output  
audio.  
54  
Dubbing to another device  
such as a VCR, DVD  
recorder, etc.  
• When connecting the A/V connecting cable to  
the A/V jack (DCR-PC55E)/A/V OUT jack  
(DCR-PC53E) on your camcorder, remove your  
camcorder from the Handycam Station.  
You can copy the picture played back on  
your camcorder to other recording devices  
(such as VCRs or DVD recorders).  
1
2
Connect your VCR/DVD recorder  
to your camcorder as a recording  
device.  
See page 54 for connection details.  
Prepare your VCR/DVD recorder  
for recording.  
When dubbing to the VCR, insert a  
cassette for recording.  
When dubbing to the DVD recorder,  
insert a DVD for recording.  
If your recording device has an input  
selector, set it to the appropriate input  
(such as video 1, video 2, etc.).  
3
4
Prepare your camcorder for  
playback.  
Insert the recorded cassette.  
Start the playback on your  
camcorder, and record it on the  
VCR/DVD recorder.  
Refer to the operating instructions  
supplied with your recording device for  
details.  
5
When the dubbing is finished,  
stop your camcorder and the  
VCR/DVD recorder.  
55  
Continued   
Dubbing to another device such  
as a VCR, DVD recorder, etc.  
(continued)  
Recording pictures from a  
VCR or TV  
• The following cannot be output via the DV  
interface:  
(DCR-PC55E)  
You can record pictures or TV programs  
from a VCR or TV on a tape or a “Memory  
Stick Duo.” You can also record a scene as  
a still image on a “Memory Stick Duo.”  
Be sure to insert a cassette or a “Memory  
Stick Duo” for recording in your camcorder  
beforehand.  
– Indicators  
– [PICT. EFFECT] (p. 46), [D. EFFECT] (p.  
45) or PB zoom (p. 23).  
– Titles that are recorded on other camcorder.  
• To record the date/time and camera settings data  
when connected by the A/V connecting cable  
(supplied), display them on the screen (p. 49).  
• When connected using an i.LINK cable  
(optional), data code (date/time/camera  
settings data) may not be displayed or recorded  
depending on the device or application.  
• When connected using an i.LINK cable  
(optional), the recorded picture becomes rough  
when a picture is paused on your camcorder  
while recording to a VCR.  
Your camcorder can only record from a  
PAL source. For example, French video or  
TV programs (SECAM) cannot be recorded  
correctly. See page 96 for detail on TV color  
systems.  
• If you use a 21-pin adaptor to input PAL source,  
you need a dual direction 21-pin adaptor  
(optional).  
• A TV without an output jack does not allow  
recording.  
Recording movies  
1
Connect your TV or VCR to your  
camcorder.  
See page 54 for details of connecting.  
• When using the A/V connecting cable  
(supplied), connect it to the output jack of  
the other device.  
• The  
indicator appears when you  
connect your camcorder and other devices  
via an i.LINK cable. (This indicator may  
also appear on your TV.)  
2
3
4
If you are recording from a VCR,  
insert a cassette.  
Slide the POWER switch down to  
turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.  
Operate your camcorder to  
record movies.  
When recording on a tape, touch  
[ REC CTRL] [REC PAUSE].  
56  
Dubbing pictures from a  
tape to a “Memory Stick  
Duo”  
You can record movies or still images on a  
“Memory Stick Duo.” Make sure you have  
a recorded tape and a “Memory Stick Duo”  
inserted into your camcorder.  
When recording on a “Memory Stick  
Duo,” touch [MENU]   
(EDIT/PLAY) [ REC MOVIE].  
5
Start playing the cassette on your  
VCR, or select a TV program.  
The picture played on the connected  
device appears on the LCD screen of  
your camcorder.  
1
2
Slide the POWER switch down to  
turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.  
Search and record the scene you  
want to record.  
6
7
Touch [REC START] at the point  
you want to start recording.  
When you dub pictures as a still image  
Touch  
(PLAY) to play back the  
Stop recording.  
tape, then press PHOTO lightly at the  
scene you want to record. Check the  
image and press it fully.  
When recording on a tape, touch  
(STOP) or [REC PAUSE].  
When you dub pictures as a movie  
When recording on a “Memory Stick  
Duo,” touch [REC STOP].  
Touch  
[MENU]   
(EDIT/PLAY) [ REC MOVIE]   
(PLAY) to play back the tape, then  
touch [REC START] at the point you  
want to start recording.  
8
Touch  
.
At the point you want to stop recording,  
touch [REC STOP]   
(STOP)   
.
Recording still images  
• The data code recorded on the tape cannot be  
recorded on the “Memory Stick Duo.” The  
time and date the picture is recorded on the  
“Memory Stick Duo” will be recorded.  
1
Perform steps 1 to 3 in  
“Recording movies.”  
• The sound is recorded in 32kHz monaural.  
• For the recording time of movies, see page 43.  
2
Play the video, or receive the TV  
program you want to record.  
The pictures on the VCR or TV appear  
on the screen of your camcorder.  
3
Press PHOTO lightly at the scene  
you want to record. Check the  
image and press it fully.  
57  
Dubbing sound to a recorded tape  
You can add sound to a tape already recorded in the 12-bit mode (p. 48) without erasing the  
original sound.  
Connecting  
Active Interface  
Shoe  
A/V connecting cable  
(supplied)  
(White)  
Do not  
A/V jack  
connect the  
Video plug  
(Yellow).  
Internal  
microphone  
(Red)  
L
R
AUDIO OUT  
LINE OUT  
: Signal flow  
Audio device (such as CD/MD)  
players  
You can record audio by connecting in one  
of the following ways.  
– When the tape has been recorded in the LP  
mode.  
– When your camcorder is connected via an  
i.LINK cable.  
– On blank sections of the tape.  
– When the tape has been recorded in 4CH MIC  
REC mode on another device.  
– When the tape has been recorded in a TV color  
system other than that of your camcorder.  
– When the write-protect tab of the cassette is set  
to SAVE.  
• For DCR-PC55E:  
When you are using the A/V jack or the internal  
microphone, the picture will not be output from  
the A/V jack. Check the picture on the LCD  
screen.  
An external microphone (optional) to the  
Active Interface Shoe.  
For DCR-PC55E:  
An audio device to the Handycam  
Station or your camcorder using the A/V  
connecting cable.  
Using the internal microphone (no  
connection required).  
The audio input to be recorded takes  
precedence over others in the order of  
.  
You cannot record additional audio:  
– When the tape has been recorded in the 16-bit  
mode (p. 48).  
58  
• When you attach an external microphone  
(optional) to the Active Interface Shoe,  
5
6
Touch  
to stop recording.  
(stop) when you want  
you can check the picture and the sound by  
connecting your camcorder to a TV using the  
A/V connecting cable. However, sound you are  
recording is not output from your camcorder.  
Check the sound using a TV or other device.  
• When connecting the A/V connecting cable to  
the A/V jack (DCR-PC55E)/A/V OUT jack  
(DCR-PC53E) on your camcorder, remove your  
camcorder from the Handycam Station.  
To dub on other scenes, repeat step 2  
to select scenes, then touch [AUDIO  
DUB].  
Touch  
.
Recording sound  
• To set the end point for audio dubbing,  
beforehand, press ZERO SET MEMORY  
on the Remote Commander at the scene at  
which you want to stop audio dubbing during  
playback. After step 2 to 4, the recording stops  
automatically at the selected scene.  
Insert a recorded cassette into your  
camcorder beforehand.  
1
2
Slide the POWER switch down to  
turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.  
You can only record additional audio over a  
tape recorded on your camcorder. The sound  
may deteriorate when you dub audio on a tape  
recorded on other camcorders (including other  
DCR-PC53E/PC55E camcorders).  
Touch  
(Play/Pause) to play  
back the tape, then touch it again  
at the point where you want to  
start recording the sound.  
To check the recorded sound  
Play back the tape on which you have  
recorded audio (p. 21).  
Touch  
(STANDARD SET)   
MIX]   
[MENU]   
[AUDIO  
3
Touch  
[MENU]   
.
(EDIT/PLAY) [AUD DUB CTRL]  
60min  
AUDIO MIX  
0:00:00:00  
[AUDIO DUB].  
appears  
ST1  
ST2  
60min  
0:00:00:00  
AUD DUB CTRL  
Touch  
/
to adjust the balance of  
the original sound (ST1) and the sound  
recorded afterwards (ST2), then touch  
.
AUDIO  
DUB  
• The original sound (ST1) is output at the default  
setting.  
• The adjusted audio balance returns to the  
default setting in about 5 minutes after the  
battery pack or other power sources have been  
disconnected.  
4
Touch  
(play) and start  
playing back the audio you want  
to record at the same time.  
appears while recording the new  
sound in stereo 2 (ST2) during the  
playback of the tape.  
59  
Deleting recorded pictures  
from the “Memory Stick  
Duo”  
Marking images on the  
“Memory Stick Duo” with  
specific information  
(Image protection/Print mark)  
1
2
Slide the POWER switch down to  
turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.  
When you are using a “Memory Stick  
Duo” with the write-protect tab, make sure  
the write-protect tab on the “Memory Stick  
Duo” is not set to the write-protect position  
(p. 98).  
Touch  
.
101  
60min  
101–0001  
2 / 10  
MEMORY PLAY  
Preventing accidental erasure  
(Image protection)  
You can select and mark images to prevent  
accidental erasure.  
P-MENU  
3
4
Select a picture you want to  
delete with  
1
2
3
Slide the POWER switch down to  
turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.  
/
.
• To delete all pictures at once, select [ALL  
ERASE] (p. 43).  
Touch  
[PROTECT].  
Touch  
[YES].  
Touch the image that you want to  
protect.  
• The pictures cannot be restored once they  
are deleted.  
PROTECT  
appears  
You can delete pictures on the index screen (p.  
21). You can easily search for the picture to be  
deleted by displaying 6 pictures at once.  
101–0002  
101  
Touch  
[ DELETE] the picture you  
[YES].  
2/ 10  
OK  
want to delete   
• Pictures cannot be deleted when a “Memory  
Stick Duo” with the write-protect tab is set to  
the write-protect position (p. 98), or when the  
selected picture is protected (p. 60).  
4
Touch  
[END].  
• To cancel image protection, touch the image  
again to cancel image protection in step 3.  
60  
Printing recorded images  
(PictBridge compliant printer)  
You can print out pictures using a  
PictBridge compliant printer without  
connecting the camcorder to a computer.  
Selecting still images for  
printing (Print mark)  
The DPOF (Digital Print Order Format)  
standard is used to select images for  
printing on your camcorder.  
By marking images that you want to print  
out, you do not need to reselect them when  
you print them out. (You cannot specify the  
number of printouts.)  
Connect the supplied AC Adaptor to a wall  
socket for power.  
Insert the “Memory Stick Duo” on which  
still images are stored into your camcorder  
beforehand.  
Connect your camcorder to the  
printer  
1
2
3
Slide the POWER switch down to  
turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.  
1
2
Slide the POWER switch down to  
turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.  
Touch  
[PRINT  
MARK].  
Touch  
[MENU]  
Touch the image that you want to  
print out later.  
(STANDARD SET) [USB-PLY/  
EDT] [PictBridge]  
.
PRINT MARK  
appears  
3
4
5
Connect the USB jack (p. 63)  
of your Handycam Station to a  
printer using the USB cable.  
101–0002  
101  
2/ 10  
OK  
Set the (USB) ON/OFF switch on  
the Handycam Station to ON (p.  
63).  
4
Touch  
[END].  
• To cancel Print mark, touch the image again to  
cancel Print mark in step 3.  
• Do not mark images on your camcorder if the  
“Memory Stick Duo” already has some images  
with the Print mark put on using other devices.  
This may change the information of the images  
with the Print mark put on using the other  
device.  
Touch  
(PICT. APPLI.)  
[PRINT].  
When connection is complete,  
(PictBridge connecting) appears  
on the screen.  
101  
1 / 10  
PRINT  
101-0001  
END  
+
-
SET EXEC  
61  
Continued   
Printing recorded images  
(PictBridge compliant printer)  
(continued)  
– Removing the “Memory Stick Duo” from  
your camcorder.  
• If the printer stops working, disconnect the  
USB cable and restart the operation from the  
beginning.  
• Some printer models may not support the  
date printing function. Refer to your printer’s  
operating instructions for details.  
One of the images stored on the  
“Memory Stick Duo” will be displayed.  
• We cannot guarantee the operation of models  
that are not PictBridge compatible.  
• We cannot guarantee the printing of images  
recorded with a device other than your  
camcorder.  
Printing  
• PictBridge is an industry standard established  
by the Camera & Imaging Products Association  
(CIPA). You can print still images without using  
a computer by connecting a printer directly to  
a digital video camera or digital still camera,  
regardless of model or manufacturer.  
1
Select the image to be printed  
with  
/
.
2
3
Touch  
[COPIES].  
Select the number of copies to be  
printed with  
/
.
You can set a maximum of 20 copies of  
one image to be printed.  
4
5
Touch  
[END].  
To print the date on the image, touch  
[DATE/TIME] [DATE] or  
[DAY & TIME]   
.
Touch [EXEC] [YES].  
When printing is finished, [Printing...]  
disappears and the image selection  
screen appears again.  
Touch [END] when printing is  
completed.  
• Refer also to the operating instructions for the  
printer to be used.  
• Do not attempt the following operations when  
is on the screen. The operations may not be  
performed properly.  
– Operating the POWER switch.  
– Disconnecting the USB cable from your  
Handycam Station or the printer.  
62  
Jacks to connect external devices  
• When you are recording on a “Memory  
Camcorder  
Stick Duo” with an external flash (optional)  
connected to the accessory shoe, turn off  
the power of the external flash to prevent  
charging noise being recorded.  
• When an external microphone (optional)  
is connected, it takes precedence over the  
internal microphone (p. 24).  
1
For DCR-PC55E:  
2
3
A/V (audio/video) jack (p. 32, 54, 74)  
For DCR-PC53E:  
A/V (audio/video) OUT jack (p. 32,  
54, 74)  
4
DC IN jack (p. 8)  
Interface connector (p. 8)  
For DCR-PC55E:  
Handycam Station  
DV Interface jack (p. 54, 71)  
For DCR-PC53E:  
DV OUT Interface jack (p. 54, 71)  
2
4
3
(USB) jack (p. 64)  
5
6
(USB) ON/OFF switch  
7
• Set this to ON to use the USB connection.  
Active Interface Shoe  
(p. 58)  
The Active Interface Shoe supplies  
power to optional accessories such as  
a video light, a flash, or a microphone.  
The accessory can be turned on or off  
as you operate the POWER switch on  
your camcorder. Refer to the operating  
instructions supplied with your  
accessory for details.  
• When you connect an accessory, open the  
shoe cover. Slide the cover towards you to  
open it.  
• Remove your camcorder from the  
Handycam Station when opening the shoe  
cover.  
• 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.  
63  
Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on  
your computer  
When you install the Picture Package  
software on a Windows computer from  
the supplied CD-ROM, you can enjoy the  
following operations by connecting your  
camcorder to your computer.  
still images from pictures saved on your  
computer and easily create a short original  
video or slide show with added music and  
visual styles.  
Automatic Music Video Producer  
You can easily create a short original video  
with added music and visual styles using  
pictures recorded on a tape.  
• Software and features available for Macintosh  
computers differ from those available for  
Windows computers. For details, refer to  
chapter 6 of “First Step Guide” on CD-ROM.  
For “First Step Guide”, see the next section.  
Copying tape to Video CD  
You can import the contents of a tape to  
create a video CD.  
• There are 2 ways to connect your camcorder to  
a computer.  
– USB cable  
This method is good for copying video and  
sound recorded on a tape to the computer,  
copying files from a “Memory Stick Duo” to  
a computer, and copying files to a “Memory  
Stick Duo.”  
Save the images on CD-R  
You can save pictures copied onto a  
computer to a CD-R as a backup.  
– i.LINK cable  
Burning Video CD  
This method is good for copying video and  
sound recorded on a tape. Image data is  
transferred in more clarity than with a USB  
cable.  
You can compose a video CD with a menu  
of videos and slide shows. ImageMixer  
VCD2 is compatible with high resolution  
still pictures.  
For details on connection, see “First Step  
Guide”.  
USB Streaming Tool  
You can view the picture your camcorder is  
playing back on tape or is currently seeing  
on a computer.  
Video Capturing Tool  
You can import the entire contents of a tape  
to a computer.  
• The CD-ROM (supplied) includes the following  
software.  
– USB Driver  
– Picture Package Ver.1.5  
– ImageMixer VCD2  
– “First Step Guide”  
Viewing video and pictures on a  
computer  
You can view the pictures copied from your  
camcorder by selecting from thumbnails.  
Still images and movies are saved in  
folders by date.  
Music Video/Slideshow Producer  
You can select your favorite movies and  
64  
Application: DirectX 9.0c or later (This  
product is based on DirectX technology.  
It is necessary to have DirectX  
installed.)  
About “First Step Guide”  
“First Step Guide” is an instruction manual  
you can refer to on your computer.  
This “First Step Guide” describes basic  
operations, from initial hookup of your  
camcorder and computer and making  
settings, to general operation the first time  
you use the software stored on the CD-  
ROM (supplied). After installing the CD-  
ROM, reading “Installing the software and  
“First Step Guide” on a computer” (p. 66),  
start the “First Step Guide”, then follow the  
instructions.  
Windows Media Player 7.0 or later  
Macromedia Flash Player 6.0 or later  
Sound system: 16 bit stereo sound card  
and stereo speakers  
Memory: 64 MB or more  
Hard disk: Available memory required for  
installation: 500 MB or more  
Available free hard disk space  
recommended: 6 GB or more  
(depending on the size of the image  
files edited)  
About the help function of the  
software  
Display: 4 MB VRAM video card,  
Minimum 800 × 600 dots, High  
color (16 bit color, 65 000 colors),  
DirectDraw display driver capability  
(This product will not operate correctly  
at less than 800 × 600 dots, or less than  
256 colors.)  
The Help guide explains all the functions  
of all the software applications. Refer to the  
Help guide for further detailed operations  
after reading the “First Step Guide”  
thoroughly. To display the Help guide, click  
the [?] mark on the screen.  
Others: USB port (This must be provided  
as standard), DV Interface (IEEE1394,  
i.LINK) (to connect via an i.LINK  
cable), disc drive (You need a CD-R  
drive to create a video CD.  
System requirements  
For the compatible drive, visit the  
following  
URL: http://www.ppackage.com/)  
For Windows users  
When using Picture Package  
OS: Microsoft Windows 98, Windows  
98SE, Windows 2000 Professional,  
Windows Millennium Edition,  
Windows XP Home Edition or  
Windows XP Professional  
When playing pictures recorded on a  
“Memory Stick Duo” on a computer  
OS: Microsoft Windows 98, Windows  
98SE, Windows 2000 Professional,  
Windows Millennium Edition,  
Windows XP Home Edition or  
Windows XP Professional  
Standard installation is required.  
Operation is not assured if the above  
OS has been upgraded.  
In Windows 98, USB Streaming is not  
supported.  
Standard installation is required.  
Operation is not assured if the above  
OS has been upgraded.  
In Windows 98 and Windows 98SE, DV  
capturing is not supported.  
CPU: MMX Pentium 200MHz or faster  
CPU: Intel Pentium III 500 MHz or faster  
(800 MHz or faster recommended) (For  
using ImageMixer VCD2, Intel Pentium  
III 800 MHz or faster recommended)  
Application: Windows Media Player  
(This must be installed to play back  
movies.)  
65  
Continued   
Before referring to the “First  
Step Guide” on your computer  
(continued)  
Installing the software and  
“First Step Guide” on a  
computer  
Others: USB port (This must be provided  
as standard), disc drive  
You need to install the software etc., with  
the supplied CD-ROM on your computer  
before connecting your camcorder  
and your computer. Once you install it, the  
installation is not required thereafter.  
The software to be used varies depending  
on the OS system you are using.  
Windows computer: Picture Package  
(including ImageMixer VCD2)  
Macintosh computer: ImageMixer VCD2  
For the details on the software, refer to  
“First Step Guide”.  
For Macintosh users  
When using ImageMixer VCD2  
OS: Mac OS X (v10.1.5 or later)  
CPU: iMac, eMac, iBook, PowerBook,  
PowerMac G3/G4/G5 series  
Memory: 128 MB or more  
Hard disk: Available memory required for  
installation: 250 MB or more  
Available free hard disk space  
recommended: 4 GB or more  
(depending on the size of the image  
files edited)  
Installing on a Windows  
computer  
Display: Minimum 1 024 × 768 dots,  
32 000 colors (This product will not  
operate correctly at less than 1 024 ×  
768 dots or 256 colors.)  
Log on as Administrators for installation  
for Windows 2000/Windows XP.  
Application: QuickTime 4 or later  
(QuickTime 5 recommended)  
Other: Disc drive  
1
2
Confirm that your camcorder is  
not connected to the computer.  
When only copying pictures recorded on a  
“Memory Stick Duo” on a computer  
Turn on the computer.  
OS: Mac OS 9.1/9.2 or Mac OS X (v  
10.0/v 10.1/v 10.2/v 10.3)  
Close all applications running on the  
computer before installing the software.  
Application: QuickTime 3.0 or later (This  
must be installed to play back movies.)  
Others: USB port (This must be provided  
3
Place the CD-ROM in the disc  
drive of your computer.  
as standard)  
• When you connect your camcorder to a  
Macintosh computer using a USB cable, you  
cannot copy pictures recorded on a tape to the  
computer. To copy recordings from a tape,  
connect your camcorder to the computer with  
an i.LINK cable and use the standard software  
in the OS.  
The installation screen appears.  
If the screen does not appear  
Double-click [My Computer].  
66  
Double-click [PICTUREPACKAGE]  
(Disc drive).*  
7
Read [License Agreement], check  
[I accept the terms of the license  
agreement] when you agree, then  
click [Next].  
* Drive names (such as (E:)) may vary  
depending on the computer.  
4
Click [Install].  
8
9
Select where to save the  
software, then click [Next].  
Depending on the OS on the computer,  
a message appears notifying you that  
“First Step Guide” cannot be installed  
automatically with the InstallShield  
Wizard. In such a case, manually copy  
“First Step Guide” to your computer  
according to the message instructions.  
5
6
Select the language for the  
application to be installed, then  
click [Next].  
Click [Install] on the [Ready to  
Install the Program] screen.  
The installation of Picture Package  
starts.  
Click [Next].  
67  
Continued   
Installing the software and  
“First Step Guide” on a computer  
(continued)  
10  
Select the language for “First  
Step Guide” to be installed, then  
click [Next].  
13  
If the [Installing Microsoft (R)  
DirectX(R)] screen is displayed,  
follow the steps below to install  
DirectX 9.0c. If not, skip to step  
14.  
Depending on the computer, this screen  
may not be displayed. In such a case,  
skip to step 12.  
Read [License Agreement], then click  
[Next].  
Click [Next].  
11  
Click [Next] to install the “First  
Step Guide”.  
Click [Finish].  
12  
Click [Next], then follow the  
on-screen instructions to install  
ImageMixer VCD2.  
14  
Make sure [Yes, I want to restart  
my computer now.] is checked,  
then click [Finish].  
68  
The computer turns off once, then starts  
up again automatically (Restart). The  
short-cut icons for [Picture Package  
Menu] and [Picture Package Menu  
destination Folder] (and “First Step  
Guide”, if installed by steps 11-12)  
appear on the desktop.  
5
6
Copy [FirstStepGuide.pdf], stored  
in the desired language in the  
[FirstStepGuide] folder, to your  
computer.  
Copy [IMXINST.SIT] in the [MAC]  
folder of the CD-ROM to a folder  
of your choice.  
7
8
9
Double-click [IMXINST.SIT] in the  
folder it was copied to.  
15  
Remove the CD-ROM from the  
disc drive of your computer.  
Double-click the unzipped  
[ImageMixerVCD2_Install].  
• If you have any questions about Picture  
Package, contact information is listed on page  
70.  
When the user acceptance screen  
is displayed, enter your name and  
password.  
Installing on a Macintosh  
computer  
The installation of ImageMixer VCD2  
starts.  
• For details on how to use ImageMixer VCD2,  
refer to software’s on-line help.  
1
2
Confirm that your camcorder is  
not connected to the computer.  
Turn on the computer.  
Close all applications running on the  
computer before installing the software.  
3
4
Place the CD-ROM in the disc  
drive of your computer.  
Double-click CD-ROM icon.  
69  
Viewing “First Step Guide”  
For inquires about this software  
Pixela User Support Center  
Displaying “First Step Guide”  
Starting up on a Windows computer  
Viewing with Microsoft Internet Explorer  
Ver.6.0 or later is recommended.  
Pixela Home Page  
Windows: http://www.ppackage.com/  
Macintosh: http://www.ImageMixer.com/  
North America (Los Angeles) Telephone:  
+1-213-341-0163  
Double-click the  
icon on the desktop.  
Europe (U.K.) Telephone:  
+44-1489-564-764  
Asia (Philippines) Telephone:  
+63-2-438-0090  
On Copyrights  
You can also start by selecting [Start],  
[Programs] ([All Programs] for  
Windows XP), [Picture Package], and  
[First Step Guide], then start up [First  
Step Guide].  
Music works, sound recording or other  
third party musical contents you may  
acquire from CDs, the Internet or other  
sources (the “Music Contents”) are the  
copyrighted work of the respective owners  
thereof and are protected by copyright laws  
and other applicable laws of each country/  
region. Except to the extent expressly  
permitted by applicable laws, you are  
not permitted to use (including,  
without limitation, copying, modifying,  
reproducing, uploading, transmitting or  
placing to the external network accessible  
to the public, transferring, distributing,  
lending, licensing, selling and publishing)  
any of the Music Contents without  
obtaining authorization or approval of  
the respective owners thereof. License  
of Picture Package by Sony Corporation  
would not be construed as conferring to  
you by implication, estoppel or otherwise,  
any license or right to use the Music  
Contents.  
• To view “First Step Guide” in HTML  
without using automatic installation,  
copy the desired language folder from the  
[FirstStepGuide] folder on the CD-ROM,  
and then double-click “index.html”.  
• Refer to “FirstStepGuide.pdf” in the  
following cases:  
– When printing “First Step Guide”  
– When “First Step Guide” is not displayed  
correctly due to the browser setting even  
in recommended environment.  
– When the HTML version of “First Step  
Guide” is not installed automatically.  
Starting up on a Macintosh computer  
Double-click “FirstStepGuide.pdf”.  
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/  
70  
Creating a DVD (Direct  
Access to “Click to DVD”)  
You can create DVDs when you connect  
your camcorder to a Sony VAIO series  
computer* that supports “Click to DVD”  
via an i.LINK cable (optional). The picture  
is automatically copied and written to a  
DVD.  
You can only use an i.LINK cable for this  
operation. You cannot use a USB cable.  
*Note that you need a Sony VAIO  
computer equipped with a DVD drive  
that can be used to write DVDs. You also  
need the computer with “Click to DVD  
Ver.1.2” (Sony original software) or later  
installed.  
The following procedures describe how  
to create a DVD from a picture recorded  
on a tape. For system and operation  
requirements, visit the following URL:  
Using the Direct Access to “Click to  
DVD” function for the first time  
Europe  
http://www.vaio-link.com/  
USA  
http://www.ita.sel.sony.com/support/  
dvimag/  
Asia Pacific Regional  
http://www.css.ap.sony.com/  
Korea  
http://scs.sony.co.kr/  
Taiwan  
http://vaio-online.sony.com/tw/vaio/  
China  
http://www.sonystyle.com.cn/vaio/  
Thailand  
http://www.sony.co.th/vaio/index.html  
Latin America  
The Direct Access to “Click to DVD”  
function enables you to copy pictures  
recorded on a tape to a DVD easily if your  
camcorder is connected to a computer.  
Before operating the Direct Access to  
“Click to DVD” function, follow the steps  
below to start “Click to DVD Automatic  
Mode Launcher.”  
Turn on the computer.  
Click the start menu, then select [All  
Programs].  
Select [Click to DVD] from the programs  
displayed, then click [Click to DVD  
Automatic Mode Launcher].  
[Click to DVD Automatic Mode  
Launcher] starts up.  
http://vaio-online.sony.com/  
• After you start up [Click to DVD  
Automatic Mode Launcher] once, from  
then on it starts up automatically when  
you turn on your computer.  
• [Click to DVD Automatic Mode  
Launcher] is set up for each Windows XP  
user.  
to i.LINK (IEEE1394)  
connector  
i.LINK cable  
(optional)  
to DV Interface  
71  
Continued   
Creating a DVD (Direct Access to  
“Click to DVD”) (continued)  
1
2
Turn on the computer.  
7
Touch [EXEC] on the screen of  
your camcorder.  
Quit all applications running with an  
i.LINK.  
60min  
BURN DVD  
START  
0:00:00:00  
CREATE DVD?  
Prepare the power source for  
your camcorder, then slide the  
POWER switch down to turn on  
the PLAY/ EDIT lamp.  
EXEC  
CANCEL  
The status of the operation on your  
computer is displayed on the LCD  
screen of your camcorder.  
Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the  
power source since it takes a few hours  
to create a DVD.  
CAPTURING: The picture recorded  
on the tape is being copied to the  
computer.  
CONVERTING: The picture is being  
converted to the MPEG2 format.  
3
4
Insert a recorded cassette into  
your camcorder.  
WRITING: The picture is being written  
onto the DVD.  
• If you use a DVD-RW/+RW which has  
other data stored on it, the message [This  
is a recorded disc. Delete and overwrite?]  
appears on the LCD screen of your  
camcorder. When you touch [EXEC], the  
existing data is erased and new data is  
written.  
Connect your camcorder to a  
computer via an i.LINK cable  
(optional) (p. 71).  
• When you connect your camcorder to  
a computer, make sure you insert the  
connector in the correct direction. If you  
insert the connector forcibly, it may be  
damaged, and causes a malfunction of your  
camcorder.  
8
Touch [NO] to finish creating a  
DVD.  
• For details, see “First Step Guide”.  
60min  
0:00:00:00  
BURN DVD  
COMPLETED  
C r e a t e a n o t h e r  
5
6
Touch  
[MENU]   
c o p y ?  
D i s c t r a y o p e n s .  
(EDIT/PLAY) [BURN DVD]   
.
YES  
NO  
“Click to DVD” starts up and the  
on-screen instructions appear on your  
computer.  
The disc tray comes out automatically.  
To create another DVD with the same  
content, touch [YES].  
The disc tray comes out. Place a new  
writable DVD in the disc drive. Then,  
repeat step 7 and 8.  
Place a writable DVD in the disc  
drive of the computer.  
72  
To cancel the operation  
Touch [CANCEL] on the LCD screen on  
your camcorder.  
You cannot cancel the operation after  
[Finalizing DVD.] is displayed on the LCD  
screen of your camcorder.  
• Do not disconnect the i.LINK cable or set  
the POWER switch to another mode on your  
camcorder until the picture is completely copied  
to the computer.  
• When [CONVERTING] or [WRITING] is  
displayed on the screen, capturing of pictures  
has already finished. Even if you disconnect  
the i.LINK cable or turn off the camcorder at  
this stage, DVD creation will continue on your  
computer.  
• When any of the following occurs, copying of  
the picture is canceled. A DVD containing the  
data up to the point the operation was canceled  
is created. Refer to the help files of “Click to  
DVD Automatic Mode Launcher” for details.  
– When there is a blank portion of 10 seconds  
or longer on the tape.  
– When the data of the tape contains a date  
before the recording date of the later images.  
You cannot operate your camcorder in the  
following situations:  
– While playing back a tape  
– While recording images onto a “Memory  
Stick Duo”  
– When “Click to DVD” is started up from the  
computer  
– For DCR-PC55E:  
When [A/VDV OUT] in the menu setting  
of your camcorder is set to [ON].  
73  
Connecting an analog VCR to the computer via your  
camcorder (Signal convert function)  
(DCR-PC55E)  
Using the A/V connecting cable and an i.LINK cable (optional), you can convert an analog  
signal output from an analog device such as a VCR to a digital signal and transfer it to a  
digital device, such as a computer, via your camcorder.  
Software that can record the video signal must be installed on your computer beforehand.  
A/V jack  
1
(Yellow) (White)  
(Red)  
VCRs  
Computer  
To S VIDEO jack  
To i.LINK  
(IEEE 1394)  
jack  
2
i.LINK cable  
(optional)  
i.LINK jack  
DV Interface  
:Signal flow  
Set [DISP OUTPUT] to [LCD PANEL] on  
the menu (p. 50) beforehand. (The default  
setting is [LCD PANEL].)  
A/V connecting cable (supplied)  
Connect the A/V connecting cable to the  
Handycam Station. The A/V jack accepts  
analog signals.  
A/V connecting cable with S  
VIDEO (optional)  
When connecting to another device via the  
S VIDEO jack, by using the A/V connecting  
cable with an S VIDEO cable (optional),  
pictures can be reproduced more faithfully  
than with the supplied A/V cable connection.  
1
2
Turn on the analog video unit.  
Slide the POWER switch of your  
camcorder down to turn on the  
PLAY/EDIT lamp.  
Connect the white and red plugs (left/right  
audio) and S VIDEO plug (S VIDEO  
channel) of an A/V connecting cable  
(optional). In this case, the yellow (standard  
video) plug connection is not necessary. S  
VIDEO connection only will not output  
audio.  
Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the  
power source.  
74  
3
On the LCD screen, touch  
[MENU]  
(STANDARD  
SET) [A/V DV OUT] [ON]  
.
4
5
Start playback on the analog  
video unit.  
Start capturing procedures on  
your computer.  
Regarding operation, refer to the  
operating instructions supplied with the  
software or the on-line help.  
After capturing images and sound, stop  
capturing procedures on your computer,  
and stop playback on the analog video  
unit.  
• The bundled software Picture Package or  
ImageMixer VCD2 does not support the signal  
convert function.  
You may not be able to output the pictures  
correctly depending on the condition of the  
analog video signal input to your camcorder.  
You cannot transfer pictures with copyright  
protection signals to a computer.  
You can use a USB cable instead of an  
i.LINK cable (optional) to transfer pictures  
to a computer. Note, however, that the picture  
displayed may lack the same smoothness.  
• When you are using a USB cable or an i.LINK  
cable to connect your camcorder to a computer,  
make sure you insert the connectors in the  
correct direction. If you insert the connectors  
forcibly, they may be damaged, and cause a  
malfunction of your camcorder.  
75  
Troubleshooting  
If you run into any problems using your camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot  
the problem. If the problem persists, remove the power source and contact your Sony dealer.  
Overall operations/Easy Handycam  
The power does not turn on.  
• The battery pack is discharged, running low, or not attached to the camcorder.  
• Attach a charged battery pack to the camcorder (p. 8).  
• Use the AC Adaptor to connect to a wall socket (p. 8).  
• Insert your camcorder into the Handycam Station correctly (p. 8).  
The camcorder does not operate even when the power is set to on.  
• Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall socket or remove the battery pack, then reconnect  
it after about 1 minute. If the functions still do not work, press the RESET button (p. 24)  
using a sharp-pointed object. (If you press the RESET button, all settings, including the  
clock setting, are reset, except the Personal Menu items.)  
Buttons do not work.  
• During Easy Handycam operation, the available buttons are limited (p. 18).  
You cannot turn Easy Handycam operation on or off.  
• During recording or communicating with another device via USB cable, you cannot turn  
Easy Handycam operation on or off.  
Settings change during Easy Handycam operation.  
• During Easy Handycam operation, the settings of the functions that are not displayed on the  
screen return to their defaults. Previously made settings are restored when you cancel the  
Easy Handycam operation.  
[DEMO MODE] does not start.  
• Eject the cassette and “Memory Stick Duo” from your camcorder (p. 16).  
The camcorder gets warm.  
• This is because the power has been turned on for a long time. This is not a malfunction.  
You cannot attach the camcorder to the Handycam Station.  
• The Wrist strap is caught between the camcorder and the Handycam Station (p. 10).  
• Make sure that the shoe cover is properly closed or open (p. 63).  
76  
Batteries/Power sources  
The power abruptly turns off.  
• When approximately 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. 51), or turn on the power again (p. 12), or use the AC Adaptor.  
• Charge the battery pack (p. 8).  
The CHG (charge) lamp does not light while the battery pack is being charged.  
• Slide the POWER switch up to OFF (CHG) (p. 8).  
• Attach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly (p. 8).  
• No power is supplied from the wall socket (p. 8).  
• Insert your camcorder into the Handycam Station correctly (p. 8).  
• The battery charge is completed (p. 8).  
The CHG (charge) lamp flashes while the battery pack is being charged.  
• Attach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly. If the problem persists, disconnect the  
AC Adaptor from the wall socket and contact your Sony dealer. The battery pack may be  
damaged.  
The power turns off frequently although the remaining battery time indicator  
indicates that the battery pack has enough power to operate.  
• A problem has occurred in the remaining battery time indicator, or the battery pack has not  
been charged enough. Fully charge the battery again to correct the indication (p. 8).  
The remaining battery time indicator does not indicate the correct time.  
• The temperature of the environment is too high or too low, or the battery pack has not been  
charged enough. This is not a malfunction.  
• Fully charge the battery again. If the problem persists, replace the battery pack with a new  
one. It may be damaged (p. 8, 100).  
• The indicated time may not be correct depending on the environment of use. When you open  
or close the LCD panel, it takes about 1 minute to display the correct remaining battery time.  
The battery pack is quickly discharged.  
• The temperature of the environment is too high or low, or the battery pack has not been  
charged enough. This is not a malfunction.  
• Fully charge the battery again. If the problem persists, replace the battery pack with a new  
one. It may be damaged (p. 8, 100).  
A problem occurs when the camcorder is connected to the AC Adaptor.  
• Turn off the power, and disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall socket. Then, connect it  
again.  
77  
Continued   
Troubleshooting (continued)  
LCD screen  
An unknown picture appears on the LCD screen.  
• The camcorder is in [DEMO MODE] (p. 46). Touch the LCD screen or insert a cassette or a  
“Memory Stick Duo” to cancel [DEMO MODE].  
An unknown indicator appears on the screen.  
• Refer to the indicator list (p. 92).  
The picture remains on the LCD screen.  
• This occurs if you disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall socket or remove the battery  
pack without turning off the power first. This is not a malfunction.  
You cannot turn the LCD backlight off.  
• During Easy Handycam operation (p. 18), you cannot turn the LCD backlight on/off using  
the DISP/BATT INFO.  
The buttons do not appear on the touch panel.  
• Touch the LCD screen lightly.  
• Press DISP/BATT INFO on your camcorder (or DISPLAY on the Remote Commander) (p.  
14).  
The buttons on the touch panel do not work correctly or do not work at all.  
• Adjust the screen ([CALIBRATION]) (p. 104).  
Cassette tapes  
The cassette cannot be ejected from the compartment.  
• Make sure the power source (battery pack or AC Adaptor) is connected correctly (p. 8).  
• Remove the battery pack from the camcorder, then attach it again (p. 10).  
• Attach a charged battery pack to the camcorder (p. 8).  
The cassette is not ejected even when the cassette lid is open.  
• Moisture condensation is starting in your camcorder (p. 103).  
The Cassette Memory indicator or title display does not appear while using a  
cassette with Cassette Memory.  
• This camcorder does not support Cassette Memory, so the indicator does not appear.  
78  
The remaining tape indicator is not displayed.  
• Set [  
REMAINING] to [ON] to always display the remaining tape indicator (p. 50).  
The cassette is noisier during rewinding or fast-forwarding.  
• When using the AC adaptor, rewind/fast forward speed increases (compared with battery  
operation) and therefore increases noise.  
“Memory Stick Duo”  
You cannot operate functions using the “Memory Stick Duo.”  
• Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the CAMERA-MEM or PLAY/EDIT lamp (p. 12).  
• Insert a “Memory Stick Duo” into your camcorder (p. 16).  
• If you use a “Memory Stick Duo” formatted on a computer, format it on your camcorder (p.  
98).  
Pictures cannot be deleted.  
• Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 98).  
• Cancel image protection on the picture (p. 60).  
• The maximum number of pictures that you can delete at one time is 100.  
You cannot delete all pictures at once.  
• Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 98).  
• Cancel image protection on the pictures (p. 60).  
You cannot format the “Memory Stick Duo.”  
• Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 98).  
Image protection cannot be applied.  
• Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 98).  
• Perform the operation again on the index screen (p. 60).  
You cannot mark pictures for print.  
• Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 98).  
• Perform the operation again on the index screen (p. 61).  
• The maximum number of pictures you can mark for print is 999.  
• Movies cannot be marked for print.  
79  
Continued   
Troubleshooting (continued)  
The data file name is not indicated correctly.  
• Only the file name is displayed if the directory structure does not conform to the universal  
standard.  
• The file is damaged.  
• The file format is not supported on your camcorder (p. 98).  
The data file name flashes.  
• The file is damaged.  
• The file format is not supported on your camcorder (p. 98).  
Recording  
Refer also to “Adjusting the image during recording” (p. 81) and “Memory Stick Duo”  
section (p. 79).  
The tape does not start when you press REC START/STOP.  
• Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the CAMERA-TAPE lamp (p. 20).  
• The tape has reached the end. Rewind it, or insert a new cassette.  
• Set the write-protect tab to REC or insert a new cassette (p. 97).  
• The tape is stuck to the drum due to moisture condensation. Remove the cassette and leave  
your camcorder for at least 1 hour, then re-insert the cassette (p. 103).  
You cannot record on the “Memory Stick Duo.”  
• Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 98).  
• The capacity is full. Delete unnecessary pictures recorded on the “Memory Stick Duo” (p.  
60).  
• Format the “Memory Stick Duo” on your camcorder or insert another “Memory Stick Duo”  
(p. 43).  
• When [WIDE SELECT] is set to [16:9 WIDE], still images cannot be recorded on a  
“Memory Stick Duo” during tape recording.  
You cannot record a smooth transition on a tape from the last recorded scene  
to the next.  
• Note the following.  
– Perform END SEARCH (p. 29).  
– Do not remove the cassette. (The picture will be recorded continuously without a break  
even when you turn the power off.)  
– Do not record pictures in SP mode and LP mode on the same tape.  
– Avoid stopping then recording a movie in the LP mode.  
The shutter sound is not heard when you record a still image.  
• Set [BEEP] to [ON] (p. 50).  
80  
The external flash (optional) does not work.  
• The power of the flash is not turned on, or the flash is not attached correctly.  
[END SEARCH] does not work.  
• The cassette was ejected after recording (p. 29).  
• The cassette is new and has nothing recorded.  
[END SEARCH] does not work correctly.  
• There is a blank section in the beginning or middle of the tape. This is not a malfunction.  
Adjusting the image during recording  
Refer also to “Menu” (p. 84).  
The auto focus does not function.  
• Set [FOCUS] to [AUTO] (p. 40).  
• The recording conditions are not suitable for auto focus. Adjust the focus manually (p. 40).  
[STEADYSHOT] does not function.  
• Set [STEADYSHOT] to [ON] (p. 42).  
The BACK LIGHT function does not function.  
• The BACK LIGHT function is canceled when you set [EXPOSURE] to [MANUAL] (p. 39)  
or select [SPOT METER] (p. 39).  
• The BACK LIGHT function does not work during Easy Handycam operation.  
The [FLASH LEVEL] cannot be changed.  
• [FLASH LEVEL] cannot be changed during Easy Handycam operation (p. 41).  
[DIGITAL ZOOM] does not function.  
• [DIGITAL ZOOM] does not function when you set [TELE MACRO] to [ON].  
A vertical band appears when recording candlelight or electric light in the dark.  
• This occurs when the contrast between the subject and the background is too high. This is  
not a malfunction.  
A vertical band appears when recording a bright subject.  
• This phenomenon is called the smear effect. This is not a malfunction.  
81  
Continued   
Troubleshooting (continued)  
Tiny spots in white, red, blue, or green appear on the screen.  
• The spots appear when you are recording in [SLOW SHUTTR] or [COLOR SLOW S]. This  
is not a malfunction.  
The picture appears too bright on the screen, and the subject does not appear  
on the screen.  
• Cancel the BACK LIGHT function (p. 22).  
The picture appears too dark on the screen, and the subject does not appear  
on the screen.  
• The LCD backlight is turned off. Press and hold DISP/BATT INFO for a few seconds to turn  
on the backlight (p. 13).  
Flickering or changes in color occurs.  
• This occurs when recording pictures under a fluorescent lamp, sodium lamp, or mercury  
lamp with [PORTRAIT] or [SPORTS]. Cancel [PROGRAM AE] in this case (p. 38).  
Black bands appear when you record a TV screen or computer screen.  
• Set [STEADYSHOT] to [OFF] (p. 42).  
Playback  
If you are playing back the pictures stored on a “Memory Stick Duo,” refer also to the  
“Memory Stick Duo” section (p. 79).  
You cannot play back the tape.  
• Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.  
• Rewind the tape (p. 21).  
The pictures stored on a “Memory Stick Duo” are not played back in the actual  
size or aspect ratio.  
• Pictures recorded on other devices may not appear in the actual size. This is not a  
malfunction.  
Image data stored on a “Memory Stick Duo” cannot be played back.  
• Deactivate the USB streaming function on your camcorder and set the (USB) ON/OFF  
switch (p. 63) on the Handycam Station to OFF.  
• Image data 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 (p. 99).  
• Pictures recorded on other devices may not be played back. This is not a malfunction (p.  
99).  
• Pictures edited on a computer or recorded on other devices may not be played back.  
82  
Horizontal lines appear on the picture.The displayed pictures are not clear or  
do not appear.  
• Clean the head using the cleaning cassette (optional) (p. 103).  
No sound or only a low sound is heard.  
• Set [MULTI-SOUND] to [STEREO] (p. 48).  
• Turn up the volume (p. 21).  
• Adjust [AUDIO MIX] from the [ST2] (additional sound) side until the sound is heard  
appropriately (p. 59).  
• When you are using an S VIDEO plug, make sure the red and white plugs of the A/V  
connecting cable are connected as well (p. 32).  
The sound breaks off.  
• Clean the head using the cleaning cassette (optional) (p. 103).  
“---” is displayed on the screen.  
• The tape you are playing was recorded without setting the date and time.  
• A blank section on the tape is being played.  
• The data code on a tape with a scratch or noise cannot be read.  
Noises appear and  
is displayed on the screen.  
• The tape was recorded in a TV color system other than that of your camcorder (PAL). This is  
not a malfunction (p. 96).  
is displayed on the screen.  
• The tape you are playing was recorded on another device with a 4ch microphone (4CH MIC  
REC). Your camcorder is not compatible with 4ch microphone recording.  
Date Search does not work correctly.  
• If one day’s recording is less than 2 minutes, your camcorder may not accurately find the  
point where the recording date changes.  
• There is a blank section in the beginning or middle of the tape. This is not a malfunction.  
83  
Continued   
Troubleshooting (continued)  
Remote Commander  
The supplied Remote Commander does not function.  
• Set [REMOTE CTRL] to [ON] (p. 50).  
• Remove any obstructions between the Remote Commander and the remote sensor.  
• Point the remote sensor away from strong light sources such as direct sunlight or overhead  
lighting. Otherwise, the Remote Commander may not function properly.  
• Insert a new battery. Insert a battery into the battery holder with the +/– polarities correctly  
matching the +/– marks (p. 105).  
• Point the Remote Commander towards the remote sensor (p. 24) and operate it.  
Another VCR malfunctions when you use the supplied Remote Commander.  
• Select a commander mode other than VTR 2 for your VCR, or cover the sensor of your VCR  
with black paper.  
Menu  
Menu items are grayed out.  
You cannot select grayed items in the current recording/playback situation.  
You cannot use [PROGRAM AE].  
You cannot use [PROGRAM AE] together with:  
– [COLOR SLOW S]  
– [TELE MACRO]  
• [SPORTS] will not work when the POWER switch is set to CAMERA-MEM.  
You cannot use [SPOT METER].  
You cannot use [SPOT METER] when [COLOR SLOW S] is set to [ON].  
• If you set [PROGRAM AE], [SPOT METER] is automatically set to [AUTO].  
You cannot use [EXPOSURE].  
You cannot use [EXPOSURE] when [COLOR SLOW S] is set to [ON].  
• If you set [PROGRAM AE], [EXPOSURE] is automatically set to [AUTO].  
You cannot use [SPOT FOCUS].  
You cannot use [SPOT FOCUS] together with [PROGRAM AE].  
You cannot use [TELE MACRO].  
You cannot use [TELE MACRO] together with:  
– [PROGRAM AE]  
– Recording a movie on a tape or “Memory Stick Duo.”  
84  
[COLOR SLOW S] does not operate correctly.  
• [COLOR SLOW S] may not operate correctly in total darkness.  
You cannot use [COLOR SLOW S] together with:  
– [FADER]  
– [D. EFFECT]  
– [PROGRAM AE]  
– [EXPOSURE]  
– [SPOT METER]  
You cannot use [FADER].  
You cannot use [FADER] together with:  
– [SELF-TIMER]  
– [COLOR SLOW S]  
– [D. EFFECT]  
You cannot use [D. EFFECT].  
You cannot use [D. EFFECT] together with:  
– [COLOR SLOW S]  
– [FADER]  
You cannot use [SLOW SHUTTR] and [OLD MOVIE] together with [PROGRAM AE]  
(except [AUTO]).  
You cannot use [OLD MOVIE] together with:  
– [WIDE SELECT]  
– [PICT. EFFECT]  
Dubbing/Editing/Connecting to other devices  
Pictures from connected devices are not displayed on the LCD screen.  
• Set [DISP OUTPUT] to [LCD PANEL] (p. 50).  
You cannot input a signal to your camcorder if you press DISP/BATT INFO while [DISP  
OUTPUT] is set to [V-OUT/PANEL] (p. 50).  
• For DCR-PC55E:  
Make sure that the proper video plug is connected to the other device, and then set [VIDEO  
INPUT] properly (p. 49).  
Pictures from connected devices cannot be zoomed. (DCR-PC55E)  
You cannot zoom the pictures from connected devices on your camcorder (p. 23).  
Time code and other information appears in the display of the connected  
device.  
• Set [DISP OUTPUT] to [LCD PANEL] while connected with an A/V connecting cable (p.  
50).  
85  
Continued   
Troubleshooting (continued)  
You cannot dub correctly using the A/V connecting cable.  
• Set [DISP OUTPUT] to [LCD PANEL] (p. 50).  
• The A/V connecting cable is not connected properly. Make sure that the A/V connecting  
cable is connected to the proper jack, i.e. to the output jack of a device you are dubbing a  
picture from (for DCR-PC55E), or to the input jack of another device for dubbing a picture  
from your camcorder.  
New sound added to a recorded tape is not heard.  
• Adjust [AUDIO MIX] from the [ST1] (original sound) side until the sound is heard  
appropriately (p. 59).  
Still pictures cannot be dubbed from a tape to a “Memory Stick Duo.”  
You cannot record or a distorted picture may be recorded if the tape has been used repeatedly  
for recording.  
Movies cannot be dubbed from a tape to a “Memory Stick Duo.”  
You cannot record or a distorted picture may be recorded in the following situations:  
– The tape has a blank section.  
– The tape has been used repeatedly for recording.  
– The input signal has been interrupted or cut.  
You cannot input pictures. (DCR-PC55E)  
You cannot input pictures while [DISP OUTPUT] is set to [V-OUT/PANEL] (p. 50).  
You cannot input pictures if you press the DISP/BATT INFO button.  
Connecting to a computer  
The computer does not recognize your camcorder.  
• Disconnect the cable from the computer and camcorder, then connect it again securely.  
• Set the (USB) ON/OFF switch on the Handycam Station to ON.  
• Connect the Handycam Station to the camcorder securely.  
• Disconnect USB devices other than the keyboard, the mouse, and the camcorder from the  
computer.  
• Disconnect the cable from the computer and camcorder, restart the computer, then connect  
them again correctly.  
An error message appears when you place the supplied CD-ROM in your  
computer.  
• Set the computer display as follows:  
– Windows: 800 × 600 dots or more, High Color (16 bits, 65 000 colors or more)  
– Macintosh: 1 024 × 768 dots or more, 32 000 colors or more  
86  
You cannot view the pictures the camcorder is seeing on the computer.  
• Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the CAMERA-TAPE lamp on your camcorder,  
and set [USB-CAMERA] to [USB STREAM] (p. 49). (Only when connecting to the  
Windows computer with a USB cable)  
• Disconnect the cable from the computer, turn on the camcorder, then connect it again.  
You cannot view the pictures recorded on a tape on the computer.  
• Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp on your camcorder and  
set [USB-PLY/EDT] to [USB STREAM] (p. 49). (Only when connecting to the Windows  
computer with a USB cable)  
• Disconnect the cable from the computer, then connect it again.  
You cannot view the pictures recorded on a tape on a Macintosh computer.  
• When you connect your camcorder to a Macintosh computer using a USB cable, you cannot  
copy pictures recorded on a tape to the computer. To copy recordings from a tape, connect  
your camcorder to the computer with an i.LINK cable and use the standard software in the  
OS.  
You cannot view the pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” on the  
computer.  
• Insert a “Memory Stick Duo” in the correct direction, then push it all the way in.  
You cannot use an i.LINK cable. Connect the camcorder and the computer using the USB  
cable.  
• Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp on your camcorder, set  
[USB-PLY/EDT] to [STD-USB] (p. 49).  
• The computer does not recognize the “Memory Stick Duo” during camcorder operations  
such as tape playback or editing. Finish any camcorder operations before connecting the  
camcorder to the computer.  
The “Memory Stick” icon ([Removable Disk] or [Sony Memory Stick]) does not  
appear on the computer screen.  
• Insert a “Memory Stick Duo” into your camcorder.  
• Disconnect the USB device other than the keyboard, the mouse, and the camcorder from the  
computer.  
• Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp on your camcorder, set  
[USB-PLY/EDT] to [STD-USB] (p. 49).  
• The computer does not recognize the “Memory Stick Duo” during camcorder operations  
such as tape playback or editing. Finish camcorder operations before connecting the  
camcorder to the computer.  
87  
Continued   
Troubleshooting (continued)  
The image does not appear on the screen of the Windows computer when  
using the USB cable.  
• The USB driver has been registered incorrectly as the computer was connected to your  
camcorder before the installation of the USB driver was completed. Follow the procedure  
below to install the USB driver correctly.  
For Windows 98/Windows 98SE/Windows Me  
When copying or playing the pictures on a tape using a computer, the operation is not  
guaranteed on Windows 98.  
1 Check that your camcorder is connected to a computer.  
2 Right-click [My Computer], then click [Properties].  
The [System Properties] screen appears.  
3 Click the [Device Manager] tab.  
4 If the devices below are already installed, right-click them, then click [Remove] to delete  
them.  
For copying and viewing pictures recorded on a tape  
– [USB Audio Device] in the [Sound, video and game controllers] folder  
– [USB Device] in the [Other devices] folder  
– [USB Composite Device] in the [Universal Serial Bus Controller] folder  
For copying and viewing pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo”  
– [? Sony Handycam] or [? Sony DSC] with a “?” mark in the [Other devices] folder  
5 When the [Confirm Device Removal] screen appears, click [OK].  
6 Turn off the power of your camcorder, disconnect the USB cable, then restart the  
computer.  
7 Place the supplied CD-ROM in the disc drive of your computer.  
8 Follow the steps below and try to install the USB driver again.  
1 Double-click [My Computer].  
2 Right-click [PICTUREPACKAGE] (Disc drive)*.  
* Drive names (such as (E:)) may vary depending on the computer.  
3 Click [Open].  
4 Double-click [Driver].  
5 Double-click [Setup.exe].  
• Deleting anything other than [USB Audio Device], [USB Device], [USB Composite  
Device], [? Sony Handycam] and [? Sony DSC] may cause a malfunction of your  
computer.  
For Windows 2000  
Log on as Administrator.  
1 Check that your camcorder is connected to a computer.  
2 Right-click [My Computer], then click [Properties].  
The [System Properties] screen appears.  
3 Click the [Hardware] tab [Device Manager] [View] [Devices by type].  
88  
4 If the devices below are already installed, right-click them, then click [Uninstall] to delete  
them.  
For copying and viewing pictures recorded on a tape  
– [USB Composite Device] in the [Universal Serial Bus Controller] folder  
– [USB Audio Device] in the [Sound, video and game controller] folder  
– [Composite USB Device] in the [Other devices] folder  
For copying and viewing pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo”  
– [? Sony Handycam] or [? Sony DSC] with a “?” mark in the [Other devices] folder  
5 When the [Confirm Device Removal] screen appears, click [OK].  
6 Turn off the power of your camcorder, disconnect the USB cable, then restart the  
computer.  
7 Place the supplied CD-ROM in the disc drive.  
8 Follow the steps below and try to install the USB driver again.  
1 Double-click [My Computer].  
2 Right-click [PICTUREPACKAGE] (Disc drive)*.  
* Drive names (such as (E:)) may vary depending on the computer.  
3 Click [Open].  
4 Double-click [Driver].  
5 Double-click [Setup.exe].  
• Deleting anything other than [USB Composite Device], [USB Audio Device],  
[Composite USB Device], [? Sony Handycam] and [? Sony DSC] may cause a  
malfunction of your computer.  
For Windows XP  
Log on as Administrator.  
1 Check that your camcorder is connected to a computer.  
2 Click [Start].  
3 Right-click [My Computer], then click [Properties].  
The [System Properties] screen appears.  
4 Click and choose the [Hardware] tab [Device Manager] [View] [Devices by  
type].  
5 If the devices below are already installed, right-click them, then click [Uninstall] to delete  
them.  
For copying and viewing pictures recorded on a tape  
– [USB Composite Device] in the [Universal Serial Bus Controller] folder  
– [USB Audio Device] in the [Sound, video and game controller] folder  
– [USB Device] in the [Other devices] folder  
For copying and viewing pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo”  
– [? Sony Handycam] or [? Sony DSC] with a “?” mark in the [Other devices] folder  
6 When the [Confirm Device Removal] screen appears, click [OK].  
7 Turn off the power of your camcorder, disconnect the USB cable, then restart the  
computer.  
8 Place the supplied CD-ROM in the disc drive of your computer.  
89  
Continued   
Troubleshooting (continued)  
9 Follow the steps below and try to install the USB driver again.  
1 Double-click [My Computer].  
2 Right-click [PICTUREPACKAGE] (Disc drive)*.  
* Drive names (such as (E:)) may vary depending on the computer.  
3 Click [Open].  
4 Double-click [Driver].  
5 Double-click [Setup.exe].  
• Deleting anything other than [USB Composite Device], [USB Audio Device], [USB  
Device], [? Sony Handycam] and [? Sony DSC] may cause a malfunction of your  
computer.  
You cannot copy pictures to the Windows computer.  
• Display pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” with the following procedures.  
1 Double-click [My Computer].  
2 Double-click the icon for the newly recognized drive [Removable Disk (F:)] (For  
Windows XP, [Sony Memory Stick]). It may take some time until the drive is recognized.  
If the computer does not recognize it, the USB driver may be installed incorrectly.  
3 Double-click the desired image file.  
[Cannot start Easy Handycam with USB connected] or [Cannot cancel Easy  
Handycam with USB connected] appears on the screen of your camcorder.  
You cannot start or cancel the Easy Handycam settings while the USB cable is connected.  
Disconnect the USB cable from your camcorder first.  
There is no sound when the camcorder is connected to the Windows computer  
via a USB cable.  
• Change the settings for your computer environment as described in the following  
procedures:  
1 Select [Start] [Programs] ([All Programs] for Windows XP) [Picture Package]   
[Handycam Tools] [USB Streaming Tool].  
2 Select another device on the [Select audio device] screen.  
3 Follow the on-screen instructions, click [Next], then click [Done].  
• Sound is not supported on Windows 98.  
The movie is not smooth during USB streaming.  
• Change the settings as described in the following procedures:  
1 Select [Start] [Programs] ( [All Programs] for Windows XP) [Picture Package]   
[Handycam Tools] [USB Streaming Tool].  
2 Adjust the slider in the (-) direction on [Select video quality].  
3 Follow the on-screen instructions, click [Next], then click [Done].  
90  
Picture Package does not function correctly.  
• Close Picture Package, then restart the computer.  
An error message appears while operating Picture Package.  
• Close Picture Package first, then slide the POWER switch on your camcorder to turn on  
another lamp.  
The CD-R drive is not recognized or data cannot be written on the CD-R in  
Picture Package Auto Video, Producer, CD Backup, or VCD Maker.  
• For compatible drives, visit the following URL:  
http://www.ppackage.com/  
[USB streaming...This function is not available.] appears on the screen of your  
camcorder.  
• Start recording or playing back pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” after USB  
Streaming is finished.  
“First Step Guide” is not displayed correctly.  
• Follow the procedure below and refer to “First Step Guide” (FirstStepGuide.pdf).  
1 Place the supplied CD-ROM in the disc drive of your computer.  
2 Double-click [My Computer].  
3 Right-click [PICTUREPACKAGE] (Disc drive)*.  
* Drive names (such as (E:)) may vary depending on the computer.  
4 Click [Explorer].  
5 Double-click [FirstStepGuide].  
6 Double-click the desired language folder.  
7 Double-click “FirstStepGuide.pdf.”  
91  
Warning indicators and messages  
• The file is unreadable (p. 99).  
Self-diagnosis display/Warning  
indicators  
(Battery level warning)  
If indicators appear on the LCD screen,  
check the following.  
• The battery pack is nearly used up.  
• Depending on the operating,  
environment, or battery conditions,  
may flash, even if there are  
approximately 5 to 10 minutes  
remaining.  
Some symptoms you can fix by yourself.  
If the problem persists even after you have  
tried a couple of times, contact your Sony  
dealer or local authorized Sony service  
facility.  
(Moisture condensation warning)*  
C: (or E:) :(Self-diagnosis  
• Eject the cassette, remove the power  
source, and then leave it for about 1  
hour with the cassette lid open (p. 103).  
display)  
C:04:  
• The battery pack is not an  
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. Use an  
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (p. 100).  
(Warning indicator pertaining to  
“Memory Stick Duo”)  
C:21:  
• “Memory Stick Duo” is not inserted (p.  
16).  
• Moisture condensation has occurred.  
Remove the cassette and leave your  
camcorder for at least 1 hour, then re-  
insert the cassette (p. 103).  
(Warning indicators pertaining to  
“Memory Stick Duo” formatting)*  
C:22:  
• Clean the head using a cleaning  
cassette (optional) (p. 103).  
• The “Memory Stick Duo” is damaged.  
• The “Memory Stick Duo” is not  
formatted correctly (p. 43).  
C:31:/ C:32:  
• Symptoms that are not described above  
have occurred. Remove and insert the  
cassette, then operate your camcorder  
again. Do not perform this procedure if  
moisture starts to condense (p. 103).  
(Warning indicator pertaining to  
incompatible “Memory Stick Duo”)*  
• An incompatible “Memory Stick Duo”  
is inserted (p. 98).  
• Remove the power source. Reconnect  
it again and operate your camcorder  
again.  
• Change the cassette. Press RESET (p.  
24), and operate your camcorder again.  
(Warning indicators pertaining to  
the tape)  
Slow flashing:  
• There is less than 5 minutes remaining  
on the tape.  
• No cassette is inserted.*  
• The write-protect tab on the cassette is  
set to lock (p. 97).*  
E:61:/ E:62:  
• Contact your Sony dealer or local  
authorized Sony service facility. Inform  
them of the 5-digit code, which starts  
from “E.”  
Fast flashing:  
• The tape has run out.*  
101-1001 (Warning indicator  
pertaining to files)  
• The file is damaged.  
92  
(Eject cassette warning)*  
Slow flashing:  
Battery level is low.  
• Change the battery (p. 8, 100)  
• The write-protect tab on the cassette is  
set to lock (p. 97).  
Old battery. Use a new one (p. 100).  
Fast flashing:  
• Moisture condensation has occurred (p.  
103).  
Re-attach the power source (p. 8).  
• The self-diagnosis display code is  
displayed (p. 92).  
Moisture condensation  
(Warning indicator pertaining to  
image deletion)*  
• The image is protected (p. 60).  
  
Moisture condensation. Eject the  
cassette (p. 103)  
Moisture condensation.Turn off  
(Warning indicator pertaining  
for 1H (p. 103).  
to the write-protect of the “Memory  
Stick Duo”)*  
• The write-protect tab on the “Memory  
Stick Duo” is set to lock (p. 98).  
Cassette/Tape  
Insert a cassette (p. 16).  
(Warning indicator pertaining to  
the external flash)  
Reinsert the cassette.  
Slow flashing:  
• Still charging  
• Check if the cassette is damaged.  
Fast flashing:  
• There is something wrong with the  
flash.  
  
The tape is locked - check the  
tab (p. 97).  
The tape has reached the end.  
• Rewind or change the tape.  
* You hear a melody when the warning indicators  
appear on the screen (p. 50).  
“Memory Stick Duo”  
Description of warning  
messages  
Insert a Memory Stick (p. 16).  
If messages appear on the screen, follow  
the instructions.  
Battery  
Use the “ InfoLITHIUM” battery pack  
(p. 100).  
93  
Continued   
Warning indicators and messages (continued)  
USB streaming...This function is not  
available.  
You tried to play back or record on  
Reinsert the Memory Stick.  
• Reinsert the “Memory Stick Duo” a  
few times. If even then the indicator  
flashes, the “Memory Stick Duo”  
might be damaged. Try with another  
“Memory Stick Duo.”  
a “Memory Stick Duo” during USB  
Streaming.  
Memory Stick folders are full.  
This is a read-only Memory Stick.  
You cannot create folders exceeding  
999MSDCF. You cannot delete created  
folders using your camcorder.  
• Insert a writable “Memory Stick Duo.”  
You will have to format the “Memory  
Stick Duo” (p. 43), or delete them  
using your computer.  
Incompatible type of Memory  
Stick.  
• A type of “Memory Stick Duo”  
incompatible with your camcorder is  
inserted (p. 98).  
Cannot record still images on  
Memory Stick (p. 98).  
This Memory Stick is not  
formatted correctly.  
Cannot record movies on Memory  
Stick (p. 98).  
• Check the format, then format the  
“Memory Stick Duo” as necessary (p.  
43, 98).  
PictBridge compliant printer  
Cannot record.The Memory Stick is  
full.  
Check the connected device.  
• Switch off the printer and switch it on  
again, then disconnect the USB cable  
and reconnect it.  
• Delete unnecessary images (p. 60).  
The Memory Stick is locked.  
Check the tab (p. 98).  
Connect the camcorder to a  
PictBridge compatible printer.  
Cannot playback. Reinsert the  
Memory Stick (p. 16).  
• Switch off the printer and switch it on  
again, then disconnect the USB cable  
and reconnect it.  
Cannot record. Reinsert the Memory  
Stick (p. 16).  
Error-Cancel the task.  
• Check the printer.  
No file.  
Cannot print. Check the printer.  
• No file is recorded or there is no  
readable file on the “Memory Stick  
Duo.”  
• Switch off the printer and switch it on  
again, then disconnect the USB cable  
and reconnect it.  
94  
Flash  
Cannot start Easy Handycam  
Cannot cancel Easy Handycam (p.  
18).  
Charging… Cannot record still  
images.  
USB is invalid in this mode during  
Easy Handycam  
You are trying to record a still image  
while charging the flash (optional).  
You can select [STD-USB] when you  
set the POWER switch to PLAY/EDIT  
during Easy Handycam operation, but  
you cannot select [PictBridge] or [USB  
STREAM]. (The message disappears  
Lens cover  
Lens cover not fully open.Turn  
power off then on (p. 12).  
when you touch  
.)  
HDV recorded tape. Cannot  
playback.  
Lens cover is not closed.Turn the  
power off once (p. 12).  
Your camcorder cannot play back this  
format. Play back the tape with the  
equipment that recorded it.  
Others  
HDV recorded tape. Cannot add  
audio.  
Cannot record due to copyright  
protection (p. 97).  
Your camcorder does not allow you  
to add audio on a section of a tape  
recorded in HDV format.  
Cannot add audio. Disconnect the  
i.LINK cable (p. 58).  
Not recorded in SP mode. Cannot  
add audio (p. 58).  
Not recorded in 12-bit audio. Cannot  
add audio (p. 58).  
Cannot add audio on the blank  
portion of a tape (p. 58).  
Cannot add audio (p. 58).  
Dirty video head. Use a cleaning  
cassette (p. 103).  
95  
Using your camcorder  
abroad  
Power supply  
Simple setting of the clock by time  
difference  
You can easily set the clock to the local  
time by setting a time difference when  
using your camcorder abroad. Select  
You can use your camcorder in any  
countries/regions using the AC Adaptor  
supplied with your camcorder within the  
AC 100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz range.  
[WORLD TIME] in the  
LANGU.) menu, then set the time  
difference (p. 51).  
(TIME/  
On TV color systems  
Your camcorder is a PAL system-based  
camcorder. If you want to view the  
playback picture on a TV, it must be a PAL  
system based TV (see the following list)  
with an AUDIO/VIDEO input jack.  
System  
Used in  
NTSC  
Bahama Islands, Bolivia,  
Canada, Central America,  
Chile, Colombia, Ecuador,  
Guyana, Jamaica, Japan, Korea,  
Mexico, Peru, Surinam, Taiwan,  
the Philippines, the U.S.A.,  
Venezuela, etc.  
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.  
PAL - M  
PAL - N  
SECAM  
Brazil  
Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay.  
Bulgaria, France, Guiana, Iran,  
Iraq, Monaco, Russia, Ukraine,  
etc.  
96  
Usable cassette tapes  
You can use mini DV format cassettes only.  
Use a cassette with the  
mark.  
is a trademark.  
Your camcorder is not compatible with  
cassettes with Cassette Memory.  
REC: The cassette can be  
recorded.  
REC  
SAVE  
SAVE: The cassette cannot  
be recorded (write-protected).  
To prevent a blank section from being  
made on the tape  
Go to the end of the recorded section using  
[END SEARCH] (p. 29) before you begin  
the next recording in the following cases:  
You have played back the tape.  
When labeling the cassette  
Be sure to place the label only on  
the locations shown in the following  
illustration so as not to cause a malfunction  
of your camcorder.  
You have used [EDIT SEARCH].  
Copyright signal  
Do not put a label  
along this border.  
When you play back  
If the cassette you play back on your  
camcorder contains copyright signals, you  
cannot copy it to a tape in another video  
camera connected to your camcorder.  
Labeling position  
For DCR-PC55E: When you record  
You cannot record software on your  
camcorder that contains copyright control  
signals for copyright protection of  
software. [Cannot record due to copyright  
protection.] appears on the LCD screen,  
if you try to record such software. Your  
camcorder does not record copyright  
control signals on the tape when it records.  
After using the cassette  
Rewind the tape to the beginning to avoid  
distortion of the picture or the sound. The  
cassette should then be put in its case, and  
stored in an upright position.  
When cleaning the gold-plated  
connector  
Generally, clean the gold-plated connector  
on a cassette with a cotton-wool swab after  
every 10 times it has been ejected.  
If the gold-plated connector on the cassette  
is dirty or dusty, the remaining tape  
indicator may not be indicated correctly.  
Notes on use  
When not using your camcorder for a  
long time  
Remove the cassette and store it.  
To prevent accidental erasure  
Slide the write-protect tab on the cassette to  
set it to SAVE.  
Gold-plated connector  
97  
About the “Memory Stick”  
A “Memory Stick” is a compact, portable  
IC recording medium with a data capacity  
that exceeds the capacity of a floppy disk.  
You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo,”  
which is about the half size of a standard  
“Memory Stick” in your camcorder.  
However, appearance on the list below does  
not guarantee the operation of all types of  
“Memory Stick Duo” in your camcorder.  
– MOV00001: This file name appears on the  
screen on your camcorder.  
– MOV00001.MPG: This file name appears on  
the display of a computer.  
• A “Memory Stick Duo” 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” and  
“Memory Stick” compliant product you use.  
Recording/  
Types of “Memory Stick”  
Playback  
On a “Memory Stick Duo” with a  
write-protect tab  
“Memory Stick”  
You can prevent accidental erasure of  
images when you slide the write-protect tab  
on the “Memory Stick Duo” with a small  
tapered object, to the write-protect position.  
The “Memory Stick Duo” supplied with  
DCR-PC55E is not equipped with a write-  
protect tab.  
“Memory Stick Duo”*1  
“MagicGate Memory Stick”  
“Memory Stick Duo”  
*2*3  
(MagicGate/Parallel Transfer)*1  
“MagicGate Memory Stick  
Duo” *1  
*3  
Notes on use  
Image data may be damaged in the  
following cases. Compensation for  
damaged image data will not be made.  
• If you eject the “Memory Stick Duo,” turn  
the power off on your camcorder, or remove  
the battery pack for replacement while your  
camcorder is reading or writing image files  
on the “Memory Stick Duo” (while the access  
lamp is lit or flashing).  
“Memory Stick PRO”  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” *1  
*2*3  
*1 A “Memory Stick Duo” is about half the size of  
a standard “Memory Stick.”  
*2 The types of “Memory Stick” that support high  
speed data transfer. The speed of data transfer  
varies depending on the device to be used.  
*3  
“MagicGate” is a copyright protection  
• If you use the “Memory Stick Duo” near  
magnets or magnetic fields.  
technology that records and transfers the  
contents in an encrypted format. Note that data  
that uses “MagicGate” technology cannot be  
recorded or played on your camcorder.  
It is recommended you make a back-up  
of important data on the hard disk of a  
computer.  
• Still image format: Your camcorder compresses  
and records image data in the JPEG (Joint  
Photographic Experts Group) format. The file  
extension is “.JPG.”  
• Movie format: Your camcorder compresses  
and records picture data in the MPEG (Moving  
Picture Experts Group) format. The file  
extension is “.MPG.”  
• File names of still images:  
– 101- 0001: This file name appears on the  
screen of your camcorder.  
– DSC00001.JPG: This file name appears on  
the display of a computer.  
• File names of movies:  
On handling a “Memory Stick”  
Keep the following in mind when handling  
a “Memory Stick Duo.”  
• Be careful not to apply excessive force when  
writing on a memo area on a “Memory Stick  
Duo.”  
• Do not attach a label or the like on a “Memory  
Stick Duo” or a Memory Stick Duo adaptor.  
• When you carry or store a “Memory Stick  
Duo,” put it in its case.  
• Do not touch, or allow metallic objects to come  
into contact with the terminals.  
98  
• Do not bend, drop or apply strong force to the  
“Memory Stick Duo.”  
• Do not disassemble or modify the “Memory  
Stick Duo.”  
On image data compatibility  
• Image data files recorded on a “Memory  
Stick Duo” by your camcorder conform to  
the Design Rule for Camera File Systems  
universal standard established by the JEITA  
(Japan Electronics and Information Technology  
Industries Association).  
• On your camcorder, you cannot play back still  
images recorded on other devices (DCR-  
TRV900E or DSC-D700/D770) that do not  
conform to the universal standard. (These  
models are not sold in some regions.)  
• If you cannot use a “Memory Stick Duo”  
that has been used with another device,  
format it with your camcorder (p. 43). Note  
that formatting erases all information on the  
“Memory Stick Duo.”  
• Do not let the “Memory Stick Duo” get wet.  
• Be careful to keep “Memory Stick Duo” media  
out of the reach of small children. There is  
danger that a child might swallow it.  
• Do not insert anything other than a “Memory  
Stick Duo” into the “Memory Stick Duo” slot.  
Doing so may cause a malfunction.  
On a location for use  
Do not use or keep the “Memory Stick  
Duo” in the following locations.  
• Places subject to extremely high temperature,  
such as a car parked outside in the summer.  
• Places under direct sunlight.  
• Places with 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 Duo adaptor  
(supplied with DCR-PC55E)  
After inserting a “Memory Stick Duo”  
into the Memory Stick Duo adaptor, you  
can use it with a standard “Memory Stick”  
compliant device.  
• When using a “Memory Stick Duo” with a  
“Memory Stick” compliant device, be sure to  
insert the “Memory Stick Duo” into a Memory  
Stick Duo adaptor.  
• When inserting a “Memory Stick Duo” into  
a Memory Stick Duo adaptor, make sure the  
“Memory Stick Duo” is inserted facing in the  
correct direction, then insert it all the way in.  
Note that improper use may damage the device.  
Also, if you force the “Memory Stick Duo”  
into the “Memory Stick Duo” slot in the wrong  
direction, the “Memory Stick Duo” slot may be  
damaged.  
• Do not insert a Memory Stick Duo adaptor  
without a “Memory Stick Duo” attached. Doing  
so may result in malfunctions of the unit.  
On a “Memory Stick PRO Duo”  
• The maximum memory capacity of a “Memory  
Stick PRO Duo” that can be used on your  
camcorder is 1 GB.  
• This unit does not support high speed data  
transfer.  
99  
About the  
“InfoLITHIUM” battery  
pack  
• Be sure to set the POWER switch to OFF  
(CHG) 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.  
• Have spare battery packs ready for two or  
three times the expected recording time, and  
make trial recordings before making the actual  
recording.  
This unit is compatible with an  
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (A series).  
Your camcorder operates only with an  
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack.  
“InfoLITHIUM” A series battery packs  
have the  
mark.  
• Do not expose the battery pack to water. The  
battery pack is not water resistant.  
What is an “InfoLITHIUM” battery  
pack?  
About the remaining battery time  
indicator  
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 optional AC Adaptor/  
charger.  
The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack  
calculates the power consumption  
according to the operating conditions of  
your camcorder, and displays the remaining  
battery time in minutes.  
• 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.  
The indication on the 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 guide to  
the approximate shooting time.  
• The mark that indicates low battery flashes  
even if there are still 5 to 10 minutes of battery  
time remaining, depending on the operating  
conditions or ambient temperature and  
environment.  
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 (charge) lamp  
turns off. If you charge the battery pack outside  
of this temperature range, you may not be able  
to charge it efficiently.  
About storage of the battery pack  
• If the battery pack is not used for a long time,  
fully charge the battery pack and use it up on  
your camcorder once a year to maintain proper  
function. To store the battery pack, remove it  
from your camcorder and put it in a dry, cool  
place.  
To use the battery pack effectively  
• Battery pack performance decreases when the  
surrounding 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.  
– Put the battery pack in a pocket to warm it up,  
and insert it in your camcorder right before  
you start taking shots.  
• To discharge the battery pack on your  
camcorder completely, set [A.SHUT OFF]  
to [NEVER] on the  
(STANDARD  
SET) menu and leave your camcorder in tape  
recording standby until the power goes off (p.  
51).  
• Frequent use of the LCD screen or a frequent  
playback, fast forward or rewind operation  
wears out the battery pack faster.  
100  
About i.LINK  
The DV Interface on this unit is an i.LINK-  
compliant DV Interface. This section  
describes the i.LINK standard and its  
features.  
About battery life  
• The battery life is limited. Battery capacity  
drops little by little as you use it more and  
more, and as time passes. When the available  
battery time is shortened considerably, a  
probable cause is that the battery pack has  
reached the end of its life. Please buy a new  
battery pack.  
• The battery life varies depending on how it  
is stored and the operating conditions and  
environment for each battery pack.  
What is i.LINK?  
i.LINK is a digital serial interface for  
transferring digital video, digital audio,  
and other data to other i.LINK-compatible  
devices. You can also control other devices  
using the i.LINK.  
i.LINK-compatible devices can be  
connected using an i.LINK cable.  
Possible applications are operations and  
data transactions with various digital AV  
devices.  
When two or more i.LINK-compatible  
devices are connected to this unit in a daisy  
chain, operations and data transactions are  
possible with not only the device that this  
unit is connected to but also with other  
devices via the directly connected device.  
Note, however, that the method of  
operation sometimes varies according to  
the characteristics and specifications of the  
device to be connected. Also, operations  
and data transactions may not be possible  
on some connected devices.  
• Normally, only one device can be connected  
to this unit with the i.LINK cable. When  
connecting this unit to an i.LINK-compatible  
device having two or more DV Interfaces, refer  
to the operating instructions of the device to be  
connected.  
• i.LINK is a more familiar term for the IEEE  
1394 data transport bus proposed by Sony, and  
is a trademark approved by many corporations.  
• IEEE 1394 is an international standard  
standardized by the Institute of Electrical and  
Electronics Engineers.  
About the i.LINK Baud rate  
i.LINK's maximum baud rate varies  
according to the device. There are three  
types.  
S100 (approx. 100Mbps*)  
S200 (approx. 200Mbps)  
S400 (approx. 400Mbps)  
101  
Continued   
About i.LINK (continued)  
Maintenance and  
precautions  
On use and care  
The baud rate is listed under  
“Specifications” in the operating  
instructions of each piece of equipment. It  
is also indicated near the i.LINK interface  
on some devices.  
The baud rate may differ from the indicated  
value when the unit is connected to a  
device with a different maximum baud rate.  
• Do not use or store the camcorder and  
accessories in the following locations.  
– Anywhere extremely hot or cold. 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.  
* What is Mbps?  
Mbps stands for “megabits per second,”  
or the amount of data that can be sent or  
received in one second. For example, a  
baud rate of 100 Mbps means that 100  
megabits of data can be sent in one second.  
– Near strong radio waves or radiation.  
The camcorder may not be able to record  
properly.  
– Near AM receivers and video equipment.  
Noise may occur.  
– 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 or the lens may be exposed to direct  
sunlight. This damages the LCD screen.  
– Anywhere very humid.  
• Operate your camcorder on DC 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.  
To use i.LINK functions on this unit  
For details on how to dub when this unit is  
connected to other video devices having a  
DV Interface, see page 54.  
This unit can also be connected to other  
i.LINK (DV Interface) compatible devices  
made by Sony (e.g. a VAIO series personal  
computer) as well as to video devices.  
Before connecting this unit to your  
computer, make sure that application  
software supported by this unit is already  
installed on your computer.  
Some i.LINK compatible video devices,  
such as Digital Televisions, DVD,  
MICROMV or HDV recorders/players are  
not compatible with DV devices. Before  
connecting to other devices, be sure to  
confirm whether the device is compatible  
with a DV device or not. For details on  
precautions and compatible application  
software, refer also to the operating  
instructions for the device to be connected.  
• 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.  
• 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 POWER switch setting to OFF (CHG)  
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 the required i.LINK cable  
Use the Sony i.LINK 4-pin-to-4-pin cable  
(during DV dubbing).  
• When disconnecting the mains lead, pull it by  
the plug and not the lead.  
• Do not damage the mains lead such as by  
placing anything heavy on it.  
• Keep metal contacts clean.  
102  
• Keep the Remote Commander and button-type  
battery out of children’s reach. If the battery  
is accidentally swallowed, consult a doctor  
immediately.  
• If the battery electrolytic liquid has leaked,  
– consult your local authorized Sony service  
facility.  
– wash off any liquid that may have contacted  
your skin  
– if any liquid gets in your eyes, wash with  
plenty of water and consult a doctor.  
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 shown  
below.  
• When you bring your camcorder from a ski  
slope into a place warmed up by a heating  
device.  
• When you bring your camcorder from an  
air conditioned car or room into a hot place  
outside.  
• When you use your camcorder after a squall or  
a shower.  
When not using your camcorder for a  
long time  
• Occasionally turn it on and let it run such as by  
playing back tapes for about 3 minutes.  
• When you use your camcorder in a hot and  
humid place.  
• Use up the battery pack completely before  
storing it.  
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 one hour).  
Moisture condensation  
If your camcorder is brought directly from  
a cold place to a warm place, moisture may  
condense inside your camcorder, on the  
surface of the tape, or on the lens. In this  
state, the tape may stick to the head drum  
and be damaged or your camcorder may  
not operate correctly. If there is moisture  
inside your camcorder, [Moisture  
condensation. Eject the cassette.] or [  
Moisture condensation. Turn off for 1H.]  
appears. The indicator will not appear when  
the moisture condenses on the lens.  
Video head  
• When the video head becomes dirty, you cannot  
record pictures normally, or distorted picture or  
sound is played back.  
• If the following problem occurs, clean the video  
heads for 10 seconds with the Sony DVM-  
12CLD cleaning cassette (optional).  
If moisture condensation has occurred  
None of the functions except cassette  
ejection will work. Eject the cassette, turn  
off your camcorder, and leave it for about  
one hour with the cassette lid open. Your  
camcorder can be used again if or   
does not appear when the power is turned  
on again.  
If moisture starts to condense, your  
camcorder sometimes cannot detect  
condensation. If this happens, the cassette  
is sometimes not ejected for 10 seconds  
after the cassette lid is opened. This is not  
a malfunction. Do not close the cassette lid  
until the cassette is ejected.  
– Mosaic-pattern noise appears on the playback  
picture or the screen is displayed in blue.  
– Playback pictures do not move.  
– Playback pictures do not appear or the sound  
breaks off.  
– [Dirty video head. Use a cleaning  
cassette.] appears on the screen during  
recording.  
– [Dirty video head. Use a cleaning  
cassette.] appears on the screen during  
playback.  
103  
Continued   
Maintenance and precautions  
(continued)  
• The video head suffers from wear after long  
use. If you cannot obtain a clear image even  
after using a cleaning cassette, it might be  
because the video head is worn. Please contact  
your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony  
service facility to have the video head replaced.  
Touch  
[MENU]   
(STANDARD SET) [CALIBRATION]  
.
CALIBRATION  
Touch the "x"  
1/3  
LCD screen  
• Do not exert excessive pressure on the LCD  
screen, as it may cause damage.  
CANCEL  
• 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.  
Touch the “×” displayed on the screen with  
the corner of the “Memory Stick Duo” or  
the like.  
The position of the “×” changes.  
Touch [CANCEL] to cancel.  
To clean the LCD screen  
If fingerprints or dust make the LCD screen  
dirty, it is recommended you use a soft  
cloth to clean it. When you use the LCD  
Cleaning Kit (optional), do not apply the  
cleaning liquid directly to the LCD screen.  
Use cleaning paper moistened with the  
liquid.  
If you did not press the right spot, start  
from step again.  
You cannot calibrate the LCD screen if it is  
rotated.  
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 and  
insecticide.  
– Handling with above substances on your  
hands.  
On adjustment of the LCD screen  
(CALIBRATION)  
The buttons on the touch panel may not  
work correctly. If this happens, follow the  
procedure below. It is recommended you  
connect your camcorder to the wall socket  
using the supplied AC Adaptor during the  
operation.  
Slide the POWER switch down to turn on  
the PLAY/EDIT lamp.  
– Leaving the casing in contact with rubber or  
vinyl objects for a long period of time.  
Keeping the AC Adaptor connected,  
disconnect the Handycam Station and all  
other cables from your camcorder, then  
eject the cassette and “Memory Stick Duo”  
from your camcorder.  
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.  
104  
• To prevent mold, periodically clean the lens as  
described above. It is recommended that you  
operate your camcorder about once a month to  
keep it in optimum state for a long time.  
WARNING  
Battery may explode if mistreated. Do not  
recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire.  
Caution  
To charge the pre-installed  
rechargeable battery  
Danger of explosion if battery is  
incorrectly replaced. Replace only with  
the same or equivalent type recommended  
by the manufacturer.  
Your camcorder has a pre-installed  
rechargeable battery to retain the date,  
time, and other settings even when the  
POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG).  
The pre-installed rechargeable battery  
is always charged while you are using  
your camcorder but it will get discharged  
gradually if you do not use your camcorder.  
The rechargeable battery will be fully  
discharged in about 2 months if you do  
not use your camcorder at all. 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.  
Discard used batteries according to the  
manufacturer’s instructions.  
• A button-type lithium battery (CR2025) is used  
in the Remote Commander. Do not use batteries  
other than the CR2025.  
• When the lithium battery becomes weak, the  
operating distance of the Remote Commander  
may shorten, or the 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.  
Procedures  
Connect your camcorder to a wall  
socket using the supplied AC Adaptor or  
Handycam Station, and leave it with the  
POWER switch set to OFF (CHG) for more  
than 24 hours.  
To change the battery of the 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  
Remote Commander until it clicks.  
Tab  
105  
Specifications  
additional information such as your camcorder’s  
setting information at the time of recording.  
System  
Video recording 2 rotary heads, Helical  
system  
scanning system  
Input/Output connectors  
For DCR-PC55E:  
Still image  
recording system  
Exif Ver. 2.2*  
Audio/Video  
input/output  
10-pin connector  
Audio recording Rotary heads, PCM system  
Input/output auto switch  
Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75  
(ohms), unbalanced  
system  
Quantization: 12 bits (Fs 32  
kHz, stereo 1, stereo 2), 16 bits  
(Fs 48 kHz, stereo)  
Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p,  
75 (ohms), unbalanced  
Chrominance signal: 0.3 Vp-p,  
75 (ohms), unbalanced  
Audio signal: 327 mV (at  
output impedance more than  
47 k(kilohms)), Input  
impedance more than 47 kΩ  
(kilohms), Output impedance  
with less than 2.2 kΩ  
Video signal  
PAL color, CCIR standards  
Usable cassette Mini DV cassette with the  
mark printed  
Tape speed  
SP: Approx. 18.81 mm/s  
LP: Approx. 12.56 mm/s  
Recording/  
playback time  
SP: 60 min (using a DVM60  
cassette)  
LP: 90 min (using a DVM60  
cassette)  
(kilohms)  
Fast forward/  
rewind time  
Approx. 2 min 40 s  
(using a DVM60 cassette and  
rechargeable battery pack)  
Approx. 1 min 45 s (using  
a DVM60 cassette and AC  
Adaptor)  
For DCR-PC53E:  
Audio/Video  
Output  
10-pin connector  
Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω  
(ohms), unbalanced  
Image device  
3 mm (1/6 type) CCD (Charge  
Coupled Device)  
Gross: Approx. 800 000 pixels  
Effective (still): Approx. 400  
000 pixels  
Effective (movie): Approx.  
400 000 pixels  
Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p,  
75 (ohms), unbalanced  
Chrominance signal: 0.3 Vp-p,  
75 (ohms), unbalanced  
Audio signal: 327 mV (at  
output impedance more than  
47 k(kilohms))  
Lens  
Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar  
10 × (Optical), 120 × (Digital)  
f=2.3 - 23 mm (3/32 ~ 29/32  
in.)  
Output impedance with less  
than 2.2 k(kilohms)  
Focal length  
When converted to a 35 mm  
still camera  
44 ~ 440 mm (1 3/4 ~ 17  
3/8 in.)  
LCD screen  
Picture  
7.4 cm (3 type)  
F1.7 ~ 2.2  
Total dot number 123 200 (560 × 220)  
Color temperature [AUTO], [ONE PUSH],  
[INDOOR] (3 200 K),  
[OUTDOOR] (5 800 K)  
General  
Power  
Minimum  
illumination  
5 lx (lux) (F 1.7)  
DC 7.2 V (battery pack)  
DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor)  
requirements  
Average power  
consumption  
2.9 W  
* “Exif” is a file format for still images,  
established by the JEITA (Japan Electronics  
and Information Technology Industries  
Association). Files in this format can have  
(when using the battery pack)  
Operating  
temperature  
0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104  
°F)  
Storage  
temperature  
-20 °C to + 60 °C (-4 °F to +  
140 °F)  
106  
Dimensions  
(approx.)  
45 × 99 × 72 mm (1 13/16 × 4  
× 2 7/8 in.) (w/h/d)  
AC Adaptor AC-L200  
Power  
AC 100 - 240 V, 50/60 Hz  
Mass (approx.)  
290 g (10 oz) main unit only  
360 g (12 oz) including the  
NP-FA50 rechargeable battery  
pack and DVM60 cassette.  
requirements  
Current  
consumption  
0.35 - 0.18 A  
18 W  
Power  
Supplied  
accessories  
See page 7.  
consumption  
Output voltage  
DC 8.4 V*  
Operating  
temperature  
0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104  
°F)  
Handycam Station  
DCRA-C131 (DCR-PC55E)  
Storage  
temperature  
-20 °C to + 60 °C (-4 °F to +  
140 °F)  
Audio/Video  
input/output  
10-pin connector  
Dimensions  
(approx.)  
48 × 29 × 81 mm (1 15/16 × 1  
13/16 × 3 1/4 in.)  
(w/h/d) excluding the  
projecting parts  
Input/output auto switch  
Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75  
(ohms), unbalanced  
Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p,  
75 (ohms), unbalanced  
Chrominance signal: 0.3 Vp-p,  
75 (ohms), unbalanced  
Audio signal: 327 mV (at  
output impedance more than  
47 k(kilohms)), Input  
impedance more than 47 kΩ  
(kilohms), Output impedance  
with less than 2.2 kΩ  
Mass (approx.)  
170 g (6.0 oz) excluding the  
power cord  
* See the label on the AC Adaptor for other  
specifications.  
Rechargeable battery pack (NP-FA50)  
Maximum output DC 8.4 V  
voltage  
(kilohms)  
USB jack  
DV jack  
mini-B  
Output voltage  
Capacity  
DC 7.2 V  
4-pin connector, S100  
4.9 wh (680 mAh)  
Dimensions  
(approx.)  
47.2 × 6.8 × 75.5 mm  
(1 7/8 × 9/32 × 3 in.) (w/h/d)  
Handycam Station  
Mass (approx.)  
50 g (1.8 oz)  
DCRA-C132 (DCR-PC53E)  
Operating  
temperature  
0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104  
°F)  
Audio/Video  
Output  
10-pin connector  
Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω  
(ohms), unbalanced  
Type  
Lithium ion  
Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p,  
75 (ohms), unbalanced  
Chrominance signal: 0.3 Vp-p,  
75 (ohms), unbalanced  
Audio signal: 327 mV (at  
output impedance more than  
47 k(kilohms)), Output  
impedance with less than  
2.2 k(kilohms)  
Design and specifications are subject to change  
without notice.  
Types of differences  
DCR  
A/V jack  
DV Interface  
PC55E  
IN/OUT  
PC53E  
OUT  
IN/OUT  
OUT  
USB jack  
DV jack  
mini-B  
4-pin connector, S100  
107  
Index  
CAMERA SET menu .......... 38  
Cassette .......................... 16, 97  
Insert/Eject.................... 16  
D. EFFECT  
(Digital effect)................ 45, 85  
Numeric  
21-pin adaptor.................. 7, 33  
E
CD-ROM.............................. 64  
Charging the battery............... 8  
Battery pack.................... 8  
A
EASY button........................ 18  
Easy Handycam ................... 18  
EDIT SEARCH.................... 29  
END SEARCH............... 29, 47  
A/V connecting cable  
.................................. 32, 54, 74  
Pre-installed rechargeable  
battery ......................... 105  
A/V DV OUT....................... 49  
A/V jack................... 32, 54, 74  
Access lamp ......................... 16  
Active Interface Shoe........... 63  
AC Adaptor ............................ 7  
Charging time....................... 10  
CHG (charge) lamp................ 9  
Click to DVD ....................... 71  
CLOCK SET.................. 15, 51  
END SEARCH/EDIT  
SEARCH/Rec review display  
switch button........................ 26  
ERASE  
Adjusting exposure for back  
light ...................................... 81  
ALL ERASE................. 43  
Pictures ......................... 60  
EXPOSURE................... 39, 84  
EXT SUR MIC .................... 48  
EDIT/PLAY menu ............... 47  
COLOR SLOW S  
(Color Slow Shutter)...... 41, 85  
ALL ERASE........................ 43  
AUDIO MIX.................. 48, 59  
AUDIO MODE.................... 48  
Compression format............. 98  
Computer.............................. 66  
Connect  
AUD DUB CTRL  
(Audio dubbing)................... 47  
Computer ...................... 64  
TV........................... 32, 54  
Copyright ............................. 70  
F
AUTO SHUTTER................ 40  
FADER........................... 44, 85  
FILE NO. (File number) ...... 43  
FINE..................................... 42  
First Step Guide ............. 64, 70  
Fixing the exposure.............. 22  
FLASH LEVEL ............. 41, 81  
FLASH MODE.................... 41  
FLASH (Flash motion) ........ 45  
FLASH SET......................... 41  
FOCUS........................... 40, 81  
Folder  
A.SHUT OFF  
(Auto shut off)...................... 51  
D
B
DATA CODE ....................... 49  
Date search........................... 31  
DATE/TIME......................... 50  
DC IN jack............................. 8  
DC plug.................................. 8  
Delete picture....................... 60  
DEMO MODE............... 46, 76  
DIGITAL ZOOM........... 41, 81  
BACK LIGHT................ 22, 81  
Battery  
Battery pack.................... 7  
BATT INFO  
(Battery info) ................ 24  
Remaining battery......... 24  
BEACH&SKI....................... 38  
BEEP.................................... 50  
BLACK FADER .................. 44  
BURN DVD......................... 47  
BURN VCD ......................... 47  
NEW FOLDER............. 44  
Direct Access to “Click to  
DVD” .......... See Click to DVD  
PB FOLDER  
(Playback folder) .......... 44  
Display guide ....................... 14  
Display indicators ................ 26  
DISP/BATT INFO button .... 24  
DISP OUTPUT.................... 50  
DOT FADER........................ 45  
Double speed Playback........ 47  
Dubbing................................ 55  
DV Interface................... 54, 71  
REC FOLDER  
(Recording folder) ........ 44  
Button-type lithium battery  
............................................ 105  
FORMAT ....................... 43, 98  
Frame-by-frame playback.... 47  
Full charge ............................. 9  
B&W.................................... 46  
C
G
Calibration.......................... 104  
Getting started............ 7, 66, 70  
CAMERA DATA ................. 50  
108  
LCD BRIGHT...................... 48  
LCD COLOR....................... 49  
LCD panel............................ 13  
LCD BL LEVEL .......... 49  
TIME/LANGU. menu  
...................................... 51  
H
Handycam Station.................. 8  
Help...................................... 65  
Holding the camcorder......... 12  
Using the menu............. 34  
MENU ROTATE.................. 51  
Mirror mode......................... 22  
Moisture condensation....... 103  
MONOTONE....................... 44  
MOSAIC.............................. 46  
MOSAIC FADER ................ 44  
Movie  
LCD BRIGHT .............. 48  
LCD COLOR................ 49  
I
LCD screen .......................... 13  
LCD SET ............................. 48  
Lens cover............................ 20  
Lid........................................ 16  
Lithium battery................... 105  
LP (Long Play)..................... 48  
Icon ...... See Display indicators  
Image delete button.............. 27  
Image protection .................. 60  
Image quality  
(QUALITY) ......................... 42  
Movie format ................ 98  
REC MODE  
(Recording mode)......... 48  
Image size  
(IMAGE SIZE) .................... 42  
LUMI. KEY  
(Luminance key) .................. 45  
MOVIE SET ........................ 43  
MPEG .................................. 98  
MPEG MOVIE EX .............. 20  
MULTI-SOUND.................. 48  
Movie............................ 43  
Still image..................... 42  
M
Index screen ......................... 21  
Macintosh....................... 66, 69  
Mains lead.............................. 7  
Maintenance....................... 102  
Main sound........................... 48  
MEMORY SET menu.......... 42  
“Memory Stick................... 98  
“Memory Stick Duo........... 16  
FORMAT...................... 43  
Index screen display button  
.............................................. 27  
N
INDOOR.............................. 39  
NEG.ART............................. 46  
NEW FOLDER.................... 44  
NTSC ................................... 96  
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack  
............................................ 100  
Initialize (Reset)................... 24  
Install.................................... 66  
Insulation sheet .................... 30  
Internal microphone............. 24  
Number of recordable pictures  
.............................................. 42  
Insert/Eject.................... 16  
O
INT.REC-STL  
(Interval photo recording).... 46  
Number of recordable  
pictures.......................... 42  
OLD MOVIE ....................... 45  
ONE PUSH.......................... 39  
OPEN/EJECT lever.............. 16  
i.LINK................................ 101  
i.LINK cable ............ 54, 71, 74  
Recordable time............ 43  
Write-protect tab........... 98  
Operation confirmation beep  
Memory Stick Duo adaptor  
J
..................................See BEEP  
.......................................... 7, 99  
OUTDOOR.......................... 39  
OVERLAP ........................... 45  
“Memory Stick Duo” slot .... 16  
Menu .................................... 34  
CAMERA SET menu... 38  
EDIT/PLAY menu........ 47  
Jack ...................................... 63  
JPEG .................................... 98  
P
L
MEMORY SET menu  
...................................... 42  
PAL ................................ 83, 96  
Label .................................... 97  
LANDSCAPE...................... 38  
LANGUAGE........................ 51  
LCD backlight................ 13, 78  
PASTEL ............................... 46  
Menu items ................... 36  
Personal Menu .............. 52  
PICT.APPLI. menu....... 44  
PB FOLDER  
(Playback folder).................. 44  
PB zoom............................... 23  
LCD BL LEVEL  
(LCD back light).................. 49  
STANDARD SET menu  
...................................... 48  
109  
Continued   
Index (continued)  
Personal Menu ............... 34, 52  
Add ............................... 52  
Arrange the order.......... 52  
Customize..................... 52  
Delete............................ 52  
Reset ............................. 53  
Personal Menu button .......... 26  
PHOTO button ............... 20, 30  
PictBridge ............................ 61  
Picture Package.................... 66  
Picture Search ...................... 21  
REC FOLDER  
(Recording folder)................ 44  
STANDARD ........................ 42  
STANDARD SET menu ...... 48  
STD-USB............................. 49  
STEADYSHOT.............. 42, 81  
STILL................................... 45  
Still image  
REC LAMP.......................... 50  
REC lamp  
(Recording lamp) ................. 24  
REC MODE  
(Recording mode) ................ 48  
Image size..................... 42  
Quality .......................... 42  
Still image format......... 98  
STILL SET........................... 42  
Sub sound............................. 48  
SUNSET&MOON............... 38  
System requirement ............. 65  
S VIDEO cable............... 32, 54  
S VIDEO jack ................ 32, 54  
Rec review............................ 29  
REC START/STOP.............. 20  
REMAINING....................... 50  
Remaining battery................ 26  
Remote Commander ............ 30  
PICT.APPLI. menu  
(Picture Application menu)  
.............................................. 44  
REMOTE CTRL  
(Remote control).................. 50  
Remote sensor...................... 24  
RESET button ...................... 24  
Reversal Playback................ 47  
Review button ...................... 26  
PICT. EFFECT  
(Picture effect)...................... 46  
Pixela user support center .... 70  
Playback............................... 21  
Double speed ................ 47  
Frame............................ 47  
Reverse ......................... 47  
Slow.............................. 47  
Playing time ......................... 10  
PORTRAIT (Soft portrait)... 38  
POWER switch .................... 12  
T
Tape...................... See Cassette  
S
Tape counter......................... 26  
Searching for the starting point  
.............................................. 29  
Tape playback select button  
.............................................. 27  
Self-diagnosis display.......... 92  
SELF-TIMER ...................... 41  
SEPIA .................................. 46  
Setting the date and time...... 15  
Signal convert function ........ 74  
Skip Scan ............................. 21  
SLIDE SHOW PLUS........... 22  
Slow Playback...................... 47  
Telephoto.............................. 22  
TELE MACRO .................... 40  
TIME/LANGU. menu.......... 51  
Time code............................. 26  
Touch panel.......................... 14  
Trademark.......................... 115  
TRAIL.................................. 45  
Transmitter........................... 30  
Tripod................................... 22  
TV .................................. 32, 54  
TV color systems ................. 96  
Previous/Next image button  
.............................................. 27  
Print...................................... 61  
Print mark............................. 61  
PROGRAM AE.............. 38, 84  
P.MENU.... See Personal Menu  
SLOW SHUTTR  
(Slow shutter)....................... 45  
Software............................... 66  
SOLARIZE .......................... 46  
SP (Standard Play)............... 48  
Speaker................................. 24  
Specifications..................... 106  
SPORTS (Sports lesson) ...... 38  
SPOTLIGHT........................ 38  
SPOT FOCUS................ 40, 84  
R
Rechargeable battery pack  
................................See Battery  
U
Recording............................. 20  
Recording capacity............... 26  
Cassette......................... 26  
USB jack.............................. 63  
USB Streaming  
USB-CAMERA............ 49  
Memory Stick ............... 26  
USB-PLY/EDT (USB-  
Play Edit)...................... 49  
Recording time............... 10, 43  
SPOT METER  
(Flexible spot meter)...... 39, 84  
REC CTRL  
(Recording control).............. 56  
Using abroad........................ 96  
110  
V
VAR.SPD PB  
(Various speed playback)..... 47  
Video head ......................... 103  
VIDEO INPUT .................... 49  
Video operation buttons ....... 27  
Volume ................................. 21  
W
Wall socket............................. 8  
Warning indicators............... 92  
Warning messages................ 92  
WHITE BAL.  
(White balance).................... 39  
WHITE FADER................... 44  
Wide angle ........................... 22  
WIDE SELECT ................... 42  
Windows ........................ 65, 66  
WIPE.................................... 45  
WORLD TIME .................... 51  
Wrist strap.............................. 7  
Write-protect tab............ 97, 98  
Z
Zero set memory .................. 30  
ZERO SET MEMORY button  
.............................................. 30  
Zoom.................................... 22  
Zoom lever ........................... 22  
111  
• QuickTime and the QuickTime logo are  
trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.  
• Roxio is a registered trademark of Roxio, Inc.  
• Toast is a trademark of Roxio, Inc.  
• Windows Media Player is a trademark of  
Microsoft Corporation.  
• Macromedia and Macromedia Flash Player  
are trademarks or registered trademarks of  
Macromedia, Inc. in the United States and/or  
other countries.  
On trademarks  
• “Memory Stick,” “  
Duo,” “  
PRO Duo,” “  
“MagicGate,” “  
“MagicGate Memory Stick” and “MagicGate  
Memory Stick Duo” are trademarks or  
registered trademarks of Sony Corporation.  
• “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony  
Corporation.  
,” “Memory Stick  
,” “Memory Stick  
,”  
,”  
• Pentium is a trademark or registered trademark  
of Intel Corporation.  
• i.LINK and are trademarks of Sony  
Corporation.  
• Picture Package is a trademark of Sony  
Corporation.  
All other product names mentioned herein may  
be the trademarks or registered trademarks of  
their respective companies. Furthermore, TM and  
®” are not mentioned in each case in this manual.  
is a trademark.  
• Microsoft, Windows, and Windows Media are  
trademarks or registered trademarks of U.S.  
Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and other  
countries.  
• iMac, iBook, Macintosh, Mac OS, PowerBook  
and PowerMac are trademarks of Apple  
Computer, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other  
countries.  
• eMac is trademark of Apple Computer, Inc.  

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