Sony SX20EK User Manual

treated as household waste.  
ATTENTION  
On certain batteries this symbol might  
be used in combination with a chemical  
symbol. The chemical symbols for mercury  
(Hg) or lead (Pb) are added if the battery  
contains more than 0.0005% mercury or  
0.004% lead.  
By ensuring these batteries are disposed of  
correctly, you will help prevent potentially  
negative consequences for the environment  
and human health which could otherwise  
be caused by inappropriate waste handling  
of the battery. The recycling of the materials  
will help to conserve natural resources.  
In case of products that for safety,  
performance or data integrity reasons  
require a permanent connection with an  
incorporated battery, this battery should  
be replaced by qualified service staff only.  
To ensure that the battery will be treated  
properly, hand over the product at end-of-  
life to the applicable collection point for  
the recycling of electrical and electronic  
equipment.  
For all other batteries, please view the  
section on how to remove the battery from  
the product safely. Hand the battery over  
to the applicable collection point for the  
recycling of waste batteries.  
The electromagnetic fields at the specific  
frequencies may influence the picture and  
sound of this unit.  
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.  
Disposal of Old Electrical  
& Electronic Equipment  
(Applicable in the European  
Union and other European  
countries with separate  
collection systems)  
This symbol on the product or on its  
packaging indicates that this product shall  
not be treated as household waste. Instead  
it shall be handed over to the applicable  
collection point for the recycling of  
electrical and electronic equipment.  
By ensuring this product is disposed of  
correctly, you will help prevent potential  
negative consequences for the environment  
and human health, which could otherwise  
be caused by inappropriate waste handling  
of this product. The recycling of materials  
will help to conserve natural resources.  
For more detailed information about  
recycling of this product, please contact  
your local Civic Office, your household  
waste disposal service or the shop where  
you purchased the product.  
For more detailed information about  
recycling of this product or battery, please  
contact your local Civic Office, your  
household waste disposal service or the  
shop where you purchased the product.  
Notice for customers in the United  
Kingdom  
A moulded plug complying with BS 1363 is  
fitted to this equipment for your safety and  
convenience.  
Disposal of waste batteries  
(applicable in the European  
Union and other European  
countries with separate  
collection systems)  
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 BS 1362, (i.e., marked with an or  
mark) must be used.  
This symbol on the battery or on the  
packaging indicates that the battery  
provided with this product shall not be  
If the plug supplied with this equipment has  
GB  
3
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 screen  
Supplied items  
The numbers in ( ) are the supplied  
quantity.  
Battery pack  
AC Adaptor (1)  
Power cord (Mains lead) (1)  
A/V connecting cable (1)  
USB cable (1)   
Rechargeable battery pack NP-FV30 (1)  
CD-ROM “Handycam” Application  
The camcorder is not dustproofed, dripproofed  
or waterproofed. See “Precautions” (p. 59).  
Software (1)  
Menu items, LCD panel, and lens  
“PMB” (software, including “PMB Help”)  
“Handycam” Handbook (PDF)  
A menu item that is grayed out is not available  
under the current recording or playback  
conditions.  
“Operating Guide” (This manual) (1)  
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.  
For DCR-SX20EK only*  
Memory card (4GB)**  
* Confirm the model name on the packing box.  
** When measuring media capacity, 1 GB equals  
1 billion bytes, a portion of which is used  
for system management and/or application  
files. The capacity that a user can use is  
approximately 3.83 GB.  
See page 18 for the memory card you can use  
with this camcorder.  
Using the camcorder  
Black points  
White, red, blue or green points  
Exposing the LCD screen or the lens to direct  
sunlight for long periods of time may cause  
malfunctions.  
Do not hold the camcorder by the following  
parts, and also do not hold the camcorder by  
the jack covers.  
Do not aim at the sun. Doing so might cause  
your camcorder to malfunction. Take images  
of the sun only in low light conditions, such as  
at dusk.  
GB  
4
 
About changing the language setting  
Notes on battery pack/AC Adaptor  
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. 15).  
Be sure to remove the battery pack or the AC  
Adaptor after turning off the camcorder.  
Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the  
camcorder, holding both the camcorder and the  
DC plug.  
Recording  
Note on the camcorder/battery pack  
temperature  
When you use a memory card with your  
camcorder for the first time, formatting the  
memory card with your camcorder (p. 51) is  
recommended for stable operation.  
All data recorded on the memory card will  
be deleted when it is formatted, and cannot  
be recovered. Save important data to your  
computer, etc., beforehand.  
Before starting to record, test the recording  
function to make sure that the image and sound  
are recorded without any problems.  
Compensation for the contents of recordings  
cannot be provided, even if recording or  
playback is not possible due to a malfunction of  
the camcorder, storage media, etc.  
When the temperature of the camcorder  
or battery pack becomes extremely high or  
extremely low, you may not be able to record  
or play back on the camcorder, due to the  
protection features of the camcorder being  
activated in such situations. In this case, an  
indicator appears on the LCD screen.  
When the camcorder is connected to a  
computer or accessories  
Do not try to format the recording media of the  
camcorder using a computer. If you do so, your  
camcorder may not operate correctly.  
TV color systems differ depending on the  
country/region. 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 copyright laws.  
When connecting your camcorder to another  
device with a cable, be sure to insert the  
connector plug in the correct way. Pushing the  
plug forcibly into the terminal will damage the  
terminal and may result in a malfunction of  
your camcorder.  
If you cannot record/play back images,  
perform [MEDIA FORMAT]  
Note on playback  
Images recorded on your camcorder may not  
play correctly on other devices.  
Conversely, images recorded on other devices  
may not play correctly on this camcorder.  
Movies recorded on SD memory cards  
cannot be played on A/V equipment of other  
manufacturers.  
If you repeat recording/deleting images for  
a long time, fragmentation of data occurs on  
the recording media. Images cannot be saved  
or recorded. In such a case, save your images  
on some type of external media first, and then  
perform [MEDIA FORMAT] by selecting  
(MENU) [Show others] [MEDIA  
FORMAT] (under  
category) the desired medium (DCR-SR15E/  
[MANAGE MEDIA]  
Save all your recorded image data  
To prevent your image data from being lost,  
save all your recorded images on external media  
periodically. It is recommended that you save  
the image data on a disc such as a DVD-R using  
your computer. Also, you can save your image  
data using a VCR or a DVD/HDD recorder,  
etc. (p. 42).  
SR20E) [YES] [YES]   
.
Notes on optional accessories  
We recommend using genuine Sony accessories.  
Availability of such products is subject to  
country/region.  
GB  
5
Eject the memory card when the access lamp  
(p. 18) is lit or flashing  
Remove the battery pack or AC Adaptor from  
the camcorder, or subject the camcorder to  
shock or vibration when the POWER lamp  
(p. 13) or the access lamp (p. 18) are lit or  
flashing  
When using a shoulder belt (sold separately), do  
not crash the camcorder against an object.  
Do not use your camcorder in very loud areas  
(DCR-SR15E/SR20E).  
About images, illustrations, and screen  
displays of this manual  
The example images used in this manual for  
illustration purposes are captured using a  
digital still camera, and therefore may appear  
different from images and screen indicators that  
actually appear on your camcorder. And, the  
illustrations of your camcorder and its screen  
indication are exaggerated or simplified for  
understandability.  
In this manual, the internal hard disk (DCR-  
SR15E/SR20E) of your camcorder and memory  
card are called “recording media.”  
On the drop sensor (DCR-SR15E/SR20E)  
To protect the internal hard disk from shock  
by dropping, the camcorder has a drop sensor  
function. When a drop occurs, or under a non-  
gravity condition, the block noise made when  
this function is activated by the camcorder may  
also be recorded. If the drop sensor catches a  
drop repeatedly, recording/playback may be  
stopped.  
Design and specifications of your camcorder  
and accessories are subject to change without  
notice.  
Confirm the model name of your  
camcorder  
The model name is shown in this manual when  
there is a difference in specification between  
models. Confirm the model name on the  
bottom of your camcorder.  
Note on using the camcorder at high  
altitudes (DCR-SR15E/SR20E)  
Do not turn on the camcorder in a low-pressure  
area, where the altitude is more than 5,000  
meters (16,000 feet). Doing so may damage the  
internal hard disk drive of your camcorder.  
The main differences in specification of this  
series are as follows.  
Recording Capacity USB  
media  
of internal jack  
recording  
media  
DCR-  
Internal  
hard  
disk +  
memory  
card  
80 GB  
Output  
SR15E  
only  
DCR-  
SR20E  
Input/  
output  
DCR-  
SX15E  
Memory  
card  
Output  
only  
DCR-  
SX20E  
Input/  
output  
Notes on use  
Do not do any of the following, otherwise, the  
recording media may be damaged, recorded  
images may be impossible to play back or may  
be lost, or other malfunctions could occur.  
GB  
6
 
Operation flow  
Getting started (p. 10)  
Prepare the power source and recording media.  
Recording movies and photos (p. 20)  
Recording movies p. 21  
Changing the recording mode  
Expected recording time (MEDIA INFO)  
Shooting photos p. 23  
Playing movies and photos  
Playback on the camcorder p. 25  
Playing images on a TV p. 28  
Saving images  
Saving movies and photos with a computer p. 32  
Saving movies and photos in external media p. 39  
Saving images with a DVD writer/recorder p. 42  
Deleting movies and photos (p. 30)  
If you delete the image data that has been saved on your computer  
or a disc, you can record new images on the free media space  
again.  
GB  
7
 
Table of contents  
GB  
8
 
GB  
9
Getting started  
Step 1: Charging the battery pack  
DCR-SR15E/SR20E  
DC IN jack  
Battery pack  
CHG (charge) lamp  
Power cord  
(Mains lead)  
DC plug  
AC Adaptor  
To the wall outlet  
(wall socket)  
DCR-SX15E/SX20E  
CHG (charge) lamp  
Battery pack  
DC IN jack  
Power cord  
(Mains lead)  
DC plug  
AC Adaptor  
To the wall outlet  
(wall socket)  
You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (V series) after attaching it to your  
camcorder.  
1G0B  
           
Notes  
You cannot attach any “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack other than the V series to your camcorder.  
Turn off your camcorder by closing the LCD screen.  
1
Attach the battery pack by sliding it in the direction of the arrow until it  
clicks.  
2
Connect the AC Adaptor and the power cord (mains lead) to your  
camcorder and the wall outlet (wall socket).  
Align the mark on the DC plug with that on the DC IN jack.  
The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and charging starts. The CHG (charge) lamp turns off  
when the battery pack is fully charged.  
3
When the battery is charged, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN  
jack of your camcorder.  
4
Tips  
See page 57 on recording and playing time.  
When your camcorder is on, you can check the approximate amount of remaining battery power with the  
remaining battery indicator at the upper left on the LCD screen.  
Charging time  
Approximate time (min.) required when you fully charge a fully discharged battery pack.  
Battery pack  
Charging time  
NP-FV30 (supplied) 115  
NP-FV50  
NP-FV70  
NP-FV100  
155  
195  
390  
Times measured with the camcorder at 25 C (77 °F).  
10 C to 30 C (50 °F to 86 °F) is recommended.  
GB  
11  
 
To remove the battery pack  
Close the LCD screen. Slide the BATT (battery) release lever () and remove the battery  
pack ().  
To use a wall outlet (wall socket) as a power source  
Make the same connections as “Step 1: Charging the battery pack.” Even if the battery pack is  
attached, the battery pack is not discharged.  
Charging the battery pack abroad  
You can charge the battery pack in any countries/regions using the AC Adaptor supplied with  
your camcorder within the AC 100 V - 240 V, 50 Hz/60 Hz range.  
Notes  
Do not use an electronic voltage transformer.  
Notes on the battery pack  
When you remove the battery pack or disconnect the AC Adaptor, close the LCD screen and make sure  
that the POWER lamp (p. 13), the access lamp (p. 18) are turned off.  
The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during charging under the following conditions:  
The battery pack is not attached correctly.  
The battery pack is damaged.  
The temperature of the battery pack is low.  
Remove the battery pack from your camcorder and put it in a warm place.  
The temperature of the battery pack is high.  
Remove the battery pack from your camcorder and put it in a cool place.  
In the default setting, the power turns off automatically if you leave your camcorder without any  
operation for about 5 minutes, to save battery power ([A.SHUT OFF]).  
Notes on the AC Adaptor  
Use the nearby wall outlet (wall socket) when using the AC Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from  
the wall outlet (wall socket) immediately if any malfunction occurs while using your camcorder.  
Do not use the AC Adaptor placed in a narrow space, such as between a wall and furniture.  
Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC Adaptor or battery terminal with any metallic objects. This  
may cause a malfunction.  
1G2B  
       
Step 2: Turning the power on, and setting the  
date and time  
Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.  
1
Your camcorder turns on.  
POWER lamp  
Select the desired geographical area by selecting  
/
with /of the  
2
multi-selector, keep pressing the center of the multi-selector until the  
desired geographical area is turned on a light.  
Multi-selector  
See page 15 for the detail of the using the multi-selector.  
To set the date and time again, operate the multi-selector to select  
(MENU) [Show  
others] [CLOCK/ LANG] (under  
item is not on the screen, select  
[GENERAL SET] category) [CLOCK SET]. When an  
until the item appears.  
/
Select [NEXT] with of the multi-selector, then press the center of the  
multi-selector.  
3
4
Select setting of [SUMMERTIME] with /of the multi-selector, and press  
the center of the multi-selector.  
GB  
13  
     
If you set [SUMMERTIME] to [ON], the clock advances 1 hour.  
Select [NEXT] with of the multi-selector, then press the center of the  
multi-selector.  
5
6
Set the date and time by repeating the procedure bellow.  
Highlight the desired item with /of the multi-selector.  
Select the setting value with /of the multi selector, and press the center of the  
multi-selector.  
Select [NEXT]   
of the multi-selector.  
with of the multi-selector, then press the center  
7
The clock starts.  
Notes  
The date and time do not appear during recording, but they are automatically recorded on the recording  
media, and can be displayed during playback. To display the date and time, select (MENU)   
[Show others] [PLAYBACK SET] (under  
TIME]   
You can turn off the operation beeps by selecting  
[PLAYBACK] category) [DATA CODE] [DATE/  
.
(MENU) [Show others] [SOUND/DISP  
SET] (under  
[GENERAL SET] category) [BEEP] [OFF]   
.
To turn off the power  
Close the LCD screen. The POWER lamp flashes for a few seconds and the power is turned  
off.  
1G4B  
 
Using the Multi-selector  
Multi-selector  
Select a button by placing an orange frame over it using ///of the multi-selector.  
Press the center of the multi-selector to confirm your selection.  
Changing the language setting  
You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language.  
Select  
(MENU) [Show others] [CLOCK/ LANG] (under [GENERAL SET]  
category) [ LANGUAGE SET] a desired language   
.
GB  
15  
     
Step 3: Preparing the recording media  
The recording media that can be used differs depending on your camcorder. The following  
icons are displayed on the screen of your camcorder.  
DCR-SX15E/SX20E:  
Memory card  
DCR-SR15E/SR20E:  
*
Internal hard disk  
Memory card  
* In the default setting, both movies and photos are recorded on this recording media. You can perform  
recording, playback and editing operations on the selected medium.  
Multi-selector  
Select with ///and press the button in the center of the multi-selector to confirm your selection.  
Tips  
See page 57 for the recordable time of movies.  
See page 58 for the number of recordable photos.  
Selecting the recording media for movies (DCR-SR15E/SR20E)  
Select  
(MENU) [Show others] [MEDIA SETTINGS] (under  
[MANAGE MEDIA] category) [MOVIE MEDIA SET].  
The [MOVIE MEDIA SET] screen appears.  
Select the desired recording media.  
Select [YES]   
.
The recording medium is changed.  
1G6B  
     
Selecting the recording media for photos (DCR-SR15E/SR20E)  
Select  
(MENU) [Show others] [MEDIA SETTINGS] (under  
[MANAGE MEDIA] category) [PHOTO MEDIA SET].  
The [PHOTO MEDIA SET] screen appears.  
Select the desired recording media.  
Select [YES]   
.
The recording medium is changed.  
To check the recording media settings  
When recording in movie recording mode or photo recording mode, the recording media  
icon is displayed in the top right corner of the screen.  
Recording media icon  
The icon displayed on the LCD screen varies depending on the camcorder you use.  
Inserting a memory card  
Notes  
Set the recording medium to [MEMORY CARD] to record movies and/or photos on memory card  
(DCR-SR15E/SR20E).  
Types of memory card that can be used with your camcorder  
Only “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media, “Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo” media, SD memory cards (Class  
2 or faster), SDHC memory cards (Class 2 or faster) and SDXC memory cards (Class 2 or faster) can be  
used with this camcorder. Operation with all memory cards is not assured.  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media of up to 32 GB and SD memory cards of up to 64 GB have been tested  
and proven to operate with your camcorder.  
For recording movies on “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media, it is recommended that you use “Memory  
Stick PRO Duo” media of 512 MB or larger.  
In this manual, “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media and “Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo” media are called  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media and SD memory cards, SDHC memory cards and SDXC memory cards  
are called SD memory cards.  
Notes  
MultiMediaCard cannot be used.  
Images recorded on SDXC memory cards cannot be played back or imported on non-exFAT*-compatible  
computers, AV components, etc., connected to this camcorder by USB cable. Check that the connected devices  
are compatible with exFAT beforehand. If you connect a device that is not compatible with exFAT, the screen  
for initialization may appear. Never execute initialization, otherwise all recorded contents will be lost.  
* exFAT is the file system used in SDXC memory cards.  
GB  
17  
     
Size of memory cards that can be used with your camcorder  
Only “Memory Stick Duo” media that is about a half the size of the standard “Memory Stick” media, and  
standard-sized SD memory cards can be used.  
Do not attach a label, etc., to a memory card or memory card adaptor. Doing so may cause a malfunction.  
Open the cover, orient the memory card’s notched corner as shown in the  
illustration, and insert into the memory card slot until it clicks.  
Close the cover after inserting the memory card.  
Access lamp  
Note direction of notched corner.  
The [Create a new Image Database File.] screen may appear if you insert a new memory  
card. In that case, select [YES]. If you record only photos on the memory card, select  
[NO].  
Confirm the direction of the memory card. If you forcibly insert the memory card in the wrong  
direction, the memory card, memory card slot, or image data may be damaged.  
Notes  
If [Failed to create a new Image Database File. It may be possible that there is not enough free space.]  
is displayed, initialize the memory card by selecting  
(MENU) [Show others] [MEDIA  
FORMAT] (under  
[YES] [YES]   
[MANAGE MEDIA] category) [MEMORY CARD] (DCR-SR15E/SR20E)   
.
To eject the memory card  
Open the cover and lightly push the memory card in once.  
Do not open the cover during recording.  
When inserting or ejecting the memory card, be careful so that the memory card does not pop out and  
drop.  
1G8B  
     
Dubbing or copying movies and photos from the internal recording media  
to memory card (DCR-SR15E/SR20E)  
Select  
(MENU) [Show others] [MOVIE DUB]/[PHOTO COPY] (under  
[EDIT] category), then follow the displays on the screen.  
GB  
19  
 
Recording/Playback  
Recording  
In the default setting, movies are recorded on the following recording media.  
DCR-SX15E/SX20E: Memory card  
DCR-SR15E/SR20E: Internal hard disk  
Tips  
See page 16 on changing the recording media (DCR-SR15E/SR20E).  
To open the lens cover  
Slide the LENS COVER switch to open.  
Tips  
When you finish recording or when you play back images, close the lens cover.  
Fasten the grip belt.  
1
DCR-SR15E/SR20E  
DCR-SX15E/SX20E  
2G0B  
       
Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.  
2
Your camcorder turns on.  
You can switch recording modes by pressing MODE. Press MODE until the desired mode icon  
appears.  
MODE button  
(Movie): When  
recording a movie  
Recording movies  
Press START/STOP to start recording.  
START/STOP button  
[STBY] [REC]  
To stop recording, press START/STOP again.  
GB  
21  
       
The icons and indicators on the LCD panel will be displayed for about 3 seconds, then disappear after  
turning on your camcorder or switching the recording (movie/photo)/playback modes. To display the  
icons and indicators again, press the multi-selector.  
about 3sec  
after  
Notes  
If you close the LCD screen while recording movies, the camcorder stops recording.  
The maximum continuous recordable time of movies is about 13 hours.  
When a movie file exceeds 2 GB, the next movie file is created automatically.  
It will take several seconds until you can start recording after you turn on the camcorder. You cannot  
operate your camcorder during this time.  
The following states will be indicated if data is still being written onto the recording media after recording  
has finished. During this time, do not apply shock or vibration to the camcorder, or remove the battery or  
AC Adaptor.  
Access lamp (p. 18) is lit or flashing  
The media icon in the upper right of the LCD screen is flashing  
Tips  
When a face is detected, a white frame appears and the image quality around the face is optimized  
automatically ([FACE DETECTION]).  
You can capture photos from recorded movies (DCR-SR15E/SR20E/SX20E).  
See page 57 on the recordable time of movies.  
You can check the recordable time, estimated remaining capacity, etc., by selecting  
[Show others] [MEDIA INFO] (under [MANAGE MEDIA] category).  
(MENU)   
The LCD screen of your camcorder can display recording images across the entire screen (full pixel  
display). However, this may cause slight trimming of the top, bottom, right and left edges of images when  
played back on a TV which is not compatible with full pixel display. In this case, set [GUIDEFRAME] to  
[ON], and record images using the outer frame displayed on the screen as a guide.  
[ STEADYSHOT] is set to [ON] in the default setting.  
To adjust the angle of the LCD panel, first open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (), and  
then adjust the angle ().  
90 degrees (max.)  
90 degrees to  
the camcorder  
180 degrees (max.)  
2G2B  
Data code during recording  
The recording date, time and condition are recorded automatically on the recording media.  
They are not displayed during recording. However, you can check them as [DATA CODE]  
during playback. To display them, select  
(MENU) [Show others] [PLAYBACK  
SET] (under  
[PLAYBACK] category) a desired setting   
.
Shooting photos  
In the default setting, photos are recorded on the following recording media.  
DCR-SX15E/SX20E: Memory card  
DCR-SR15E/SR20E: Internal hard disk  
Tips  
See page 16 on changing the recording media (DCR-SR15E/SR20E).  
Press MODE until the (Photo) icon appears.  
The LCD screen display switches for photo recording mode, and the screen aspect ratio  
becomes 4:3.  
(Photo): When  
shooting a photo  
GB  
23  
   
Press PHOTO lightly to adjust the focus, then press it fully.  
Flashes Lights up  
When  
disappears, the photo is recorded.  
Tips  
See page 58 on the recordable number of photos.  
To change the image size, select  
[PHOTO SETTINGS] category) a desired setting   
You can check the recordable number of photos on the LCD screen (p. 63).  
(MENU) [Show others] [ IMAGE SIZE] (under  
.
2G4B  
 
Playback  
on the camcorder  
In the default setting, movies and photos that are recorded on the following recording media  
are played.  
DCR-SX15E/SX20E: Memory card  
DCR-SR15E/SR20E: Internal hard disk  
Tips  
See page 16 on changing the recording media (DCR-SR15E/SR20E).  
Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.  
1
2
Your camcorder turns on.  
Press  
(VIEW IMAGES).  
The VISUAL INDEX screen appears after some seconds.  
Select the (Movie) () a desired movie () to play back a movie.  
Select the (Photo) () a desired photo () to view a photo.  
3
Movies are displayed and sorted by recording date.  
To MENU screen  
/
/
: Displays movies recorded on the previous/next date.  
: Displays the previous/next movie.  
Returns to the recording screen.  
GB  
25  
     
appears with the movie or photo that was most recently played or recorded. If you select the  
movie or photo with , you can continue playback from the previous time. (appears on the  
photo recorded on a memory card.)  
Playing movies  
Your camcorder starts playing the selected movie.  
Volume adjustment  
Previous  
Next  
OPTION  
To stop  
To fast-forward  
To pause/play  
To fast-reverse  
Tips  
When playback from the selected movie reaches the last movie, the screen returns to the VISUAL INDEX  
screen.  
Select  
As you repeat selecting  
/
during pause to play back movies slowly.  
during playback, movies are played as fast as about 5 times   
/
about 10 times about 30 times about 60 times.  
You can display the VISUAL INDEX by selecting  
(MENU) [Show others] [VISUAL  
INDEX] (under  
[PLAYBACK] category).  
The recording date, time, and shooting conditions are recorded automatically during recording. This  
information is not displayed during recording, but you can display it during playback by selecting  
(MENU) [Show others] [PLAYBACK SET] (under  
CODE] a desired setting   
[PLAYBACK] category) [DATA  
.
To adjust the sound volume of movies  
While playing back movies, select adjust with  
/
.
You can also adjust the sound volume by using  
/
in the OPTION MENU.  
2G6B  
   
Viewing photos  
Your camcorder displays the selected photo.  
Previous  
To start/stop slide show  
Next  
OPTION  
To the VISUAL  
INDEX screen  
Tips  
When viewing photos recorded on a memory card,  
(playback folder) appears on the screen.  
GB  
27  
Playing images on a TV  
Connect your camcorder to the input jack of a TV or VCR using the A/V connecting cable  
(supplied). Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall socket) using the supplied AC  
Adaptor for this operation (p. 12). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the  
devices to be connected.  
TVs  
VCRs  
(Red)  
AUDIO  
(White)  
IN  
VIDEO  
(Yellow)  
Signal flow  
A/V OUT jack  
Set the input selector of the TV to the input your camcorder will be  
connected to.  
For details, refer to the instruction manuals supplied with the TV.  
Connect your camcorder to a TV with the A/V connecting cable (supplied).  
Connect your camcorder to the input jack of the TV.  
Play back movies and photos on your camcorder (p. 25).  
To set the aspect ratio according to the connected TV (16:9/4:3)  
Select  
(MENU) [Show others] [OUTPUT SETTINGS] (under [GENERAL  
SET] category) [TV TYPE] [16:9] or [4:3]   
.
When connecting to your TV via a VCR  
Connect your camcorder to the LINE IN input on the VCR using the A/V connecting cable.  
Set the input selector on the VCR to LINE (VIDEO 1, VIDEO 2, etc.).  
2G8B  
   
When your TV is monaural (When 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 red (right channel) plug to the audio input jack of your TV or VCR.  
If your TV/VCR has a 21-pin adaptor (EUROCONNECTOR)  
Use a 21-pin adaptor (sold separately) to view playback pictures.  
TV/VCR  
Notes  
When you set [TV TYPE] to [4:3], the image quality may deteriorate. Also, when the recorded images  
aspect ratio switches between 16:9 (wide) and 4:3, the image may jitter.  
On some 4:3 TVs, the photos recorded in 4:3 aspect ratio may not be displayed full screen. This is not a  
malfunction.  
When you play back an image recorded in 16:9 (wide) aspect ratio on a 4:3 TV not compatible with the  
16:9 (wide) signal, set [TV TYPE] to [4:3].  
Tips  
To check information (counter, etc.) on the screen of the monitor, select  
others] [OUTPUT SETTINGS] (under [GENERAL SET] category) [DISP OUTPUT] [V-  
OUT/PANEL]   
(MENU) [Show  
.
GB  
29  
Making good use of your camcorder  
Deleting movies and  
photos  
You can free media space by deleting  
movies and photos from recording media.  
2
3
To delete movies, select  
DELETE] [ DELETE].  
[
To delete photos, select [ DELETE]   
DELETE].  
[
Select and display the mark  
on the movies or photos to be  
deleted.  
Notes  
You cannot restore images once they are  
deleted. Save important movies and photos in  
advance.  
Do not remove the battery pack or the AC  
Adaptor from your camcorder while deleting  
the images. It may damage the recording media.  
Do not eject memory card while deleting  
images from the memory card.  
Press LIGHT when a thumbnail is selected  
to confirm the image. Select  
return to the previous screen.  
to  
You cannot delete protected movies and photos.  
Undo the protection of the movies and photos  
to delete them, before you try to delete them.  
If the deleted movie is included in the Playlist,  
the movie added to the Playlist is deleted also  
from the Playlist.  
4
Select  
[YES]   
.
To delete all movies/photos at one time  
In step 2, select [ DELETE]   
Tips  
[
DELETE ALL] [YES] [YES]   
You can delete an image on the playback screen  
from  
OPTION MENU.  
.
To delete all images recorded in the recording  
media, and recover all the recordable space of  
the media, format the media.  
To delete all photos at one time, select  
DELETE] [ DELETE ALL] [YES]  
[YES]   
[
.
Reduced-size images which enable you to view  
many images at the same time on an index  
screen are called “thumbnails.”  
To delete all the movies/photos  
recorded on the same day at one time  
Notes  
1
Select  
(MENU) [Show  
You cannot delete photos on memory card by  
recording date.  
others] [DELETE] (under  
[EDIT] category).  
3G0B  
     
In step 2, select [ DELETE]   
[
DELETE by date].  
To delete all photos on the same day at one  
time, select [ DELETE] [ DELETE  
by date].  
Select  
date of the desired movies/photos, then  
select  
/
to select the recording  
.
Press LIGHT when thumbnail is selected  
to confirm the image. Select  
return to the previous screen.  
to  
Select [YES]   
.
GB  
31  
Saving movies and photos with a computer  
Preparing a computer  
(Windows)  
Others  
USB port (this must be provided as standard,  
You can perform following operations using  
“PMB (Picture Motion Browser).”  
Importing images to a computer  
Viewing and editing imported images  
Creating a disc  
Uploading movies and photos to websites  
To save movies and photos using a  
computer, install “PMB” from the supplied  
CD-ROM beforehand.  
Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0 compatible)), DVD  
burner (CD-ROM drive is necessary for  
installation)  
*1 Standard installation is required. Operation is  
not assured if the OS has been upgraded or in a  
multi-boot environment.  
*2 64-bit editions and Starter (Edition) are not  
supported. Windows Image Mastering API  
(IMAPI) Ver.2.0 or newer is required to use disc  
creation function, etc.  
*3 Starter (Edition) is not supported.  
*4 Faster processor is recommended.  
Notes  
Do not format the media of your camcorder  
from a computer. Your camcorder may not  
operate correctly.  
You can create discs using 12 cm discs of  
following type with “PMB.”  
Notes  
Operation with all computer environments is  
not assured.  
DVD-R/DVD+R/DVD+R DL: Unrewritable  
DVD-RW/DVD+RW: Rewritable  
When using a Macintosh  
The supplied software “PMB” is not  
supported by Macintosh computers. To  
import the movies and photos to the  
computer, please contact Apple Inc..  
Step 1 Checking the computer  
system  
OS*1  
Microsoft Windows XP SP3*2/Windows Vista  
SP2*3/Windows 7  
Step 2 Installing the supplied  
software “PMB”  
CPU*4  
Intel Pentium III 1 GHz or faster  
Application  
Install “PMB” before connecting your  
camcorder to a computer.  
DirectX 9.0c or later (This product is based  
on DirectX technology. It is necessary to have  
DirectX installed.)  
Notes  
If a version of “PMB” under 5.0.00 has been  
installed on your computer, you can start all  
applications from “PMB Launcher” by installing  
“PMB” from the supplied CD-ROM. Double-  
click the “PMB Launcher” short-cut icon on the  
computer screen to start “PMB Launcher.”  
If a version of “PMB” under 5.0.00 has been  
installed on your computer, you may be unable  
to use some functions of those “PMB.  
Memory  
256 MB or more  
Other system requirements for OS should  
be met.  
Hard disk  
Disk volume required for installation:  
Approximately 500 MB (5 GB or more may  
be necessary when creating DVD discs.)  
Display  
Minimum 1,024 dots × 768 dots  
3G2B  
         
Confirm that your camcorder is  
not connected to the computer.  
Turn on your camcorder, then  
connect the camcorder to the  
computer using the supplied USB  
cable.  
Turn on the computer.  
Log on as an Administrator for  
installation.  
Close all applications running on the  
computer before installing the software.  
Place the supplied CD-ROM in the  
disc drive of your computer.  
The [USB SELECT] screen appears on  
the camcorder screen automatically.  
The installation screen appears.  
If the screen does not appear, click  
[Start] [Computer] (in Windows  
XP, [My Computer]), then double-click  
[SONYPMB (E:)] (CD-ROM)*.  
* Drive names (such as (E:)) may vary  
depending on the computer.  
Select the one of the media types  
displayed on the screen to make  
the computer recognize your  
camcorder.  
[
USB CONNECT]: Internal hard  
disk (DCR-SR15E/SR20E)  
Click [Install].  
[
USB CONNECT]: Memory card  
The displayed recording media differ  
depending on the model.  
If the [USB SELECT] screen does not  
appear, select  
(MENU) [Show  
others] [USB CONNECT] (under  
[OTHERS] category).  
Click [Continue] on the computer  
screen.  
Select the country or region.  
Select the language for the  
application to be installed, then  
proceed to the next screen.  
Follow the on-screen instructions  
to install the software.  
Depending on the computer, you may  
need to install third party software. If  
the installation screen appears, follow  
the instructions to install the required  
software.  
Restart the computer if required to  
complete the installation.  
Read the terms of the license  
agreement carefully. If you agree  
to the terms, change to , and  
then click [Next] [Install].  
GB  
33  
 
Connect the camcorder to the computer  
during the installation.  
To disconnect your camcorder from the  
computer  
When the installation is completed,  
following icons will appear.  
Remove the CD-ROM from your  
computer.  
Click the  
icon at the bottom right of the  
desktop of the computer [Safely remove  
USB Mass Storage Device].  
Select [END] [YES] on the camcorder  
screen.  
Disconnect the USB cable.  
: Starts “PMB.”  
: Displays “PMB Help.”  
: Displays “PMB Launcher.” “PMB  
Launcher” enables you to start “PMB”  
or other software, or to open web sites.  
Other icons may appear.  
No icon may appear depending on the  
installation procedure.  
Notes  
Access from the computer using the supplied  
software “PMB.” Do not modify the files or  
folders on the camcorder from the computer.  
The image files may be destroyed or may not be  
played back.  
When importing a long movie or edited image,  
use the supplied software “PMB.” If you use any  
other software, images may not be imported  
properly.  
Notes  
To create discs or use other functions on  
Windows XP, Image Mastering API v2.0 for  
Windows XP should be installed. If Image  
Mastering API v2.0 for Windows XP has not  
been installed yet, select it from required  
programs on the installation screen and install  
it following the procedures displayed. (The  
computer must be connected to the internet  
for the installation.) You may install Image  
Mastering API v2.0 for Windows XP in  
response to the message displayed when you try  
to start those functions.  
Operation is not guaranteed, if you perform the  
above operation.  
When you delete image files, follow the steps  
on page 30. Do not delete the image files on the  
camcorder directly from the computer.  
Do not copy the files on the recording  
media from the computer. Operation is not  
guaranteed.  
3G4B  
Starting PMB (Picture  
Motion Browser)  
Creating a disc with  
one touch  
(One Touch Disc Burn)  
Double-click the “PMB” short-cut icon on  
the computer screen.  
Movies and photos recorded on your  
camcorder that have not yet been saved  
with One Touch Disc Burn function can be  
saved on a disc automatically.  
Install “PMB” beforehand (p. 32), however, do  
not start “PMB.”  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  
socket) using the AC Adaptor supplied for this  
operation (p. 12).  
With One Touch Disc Burn function on your  
camcorder, you can save movies and photos  
recorded on the internal recording media only  
(DCR-SR15E/SR20E).  
Notes  
If the icon is not displayed on the computer  
screen, click [Start] [All Programs] [  
PMB] to start “PMB.”  
You can view, edit, or create discs of movies  
and photos using “PMB.”  
1
2
Turn on your computer, and place  
an unused disc on the DVD drive.  
See page 32 for the type of discs you can  
use.  
If any other software than “PMB” starts  
automatically, shut it down.  
Reading “PMB Help”  
For details on how to use “PMB,” read the  
“PMB Help.” Double-click the “PMB Help”  
short-cut icon on the computer screen to  
open the “PMB Help.”  
Turn on your camcorder, then  
connect the camcorder to the  
computer using the supplied USB  
cable.  
Notes  
If the icon is not displayed on the computer  
screen, click [Start] [All Programs]   
[PMB] [PMB Help]. You can also open the  
“PMB Help” from [Help] of “PMB.”  
GB  
35  
       
Importing movies and  
photos to a computer  
Movies and photos recorded on your  
camcorder can be imported to a computer.  
Turn on the computer beforehand.  
3
4
Select [DISC BURN].  
Notes  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  
socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this  
operation (p. 12).  
1
Turn on your camcorder, then  
connect the camcorder to the  
computer using the supplied USB  
cable.  
Follow the instructions on the  
computer screen.  
Notes  
Movies and photos are not saved on the  
computer when you perform One Touch Disc  
Burn.  
The [USB SELECT] screen appears on  
the camcorder screen.  
2
Select the recording media that  
contains the images you want to  
save on the camcorder screen.  
[
USB CONNECT]: Internal hard  
disk  
[
USB CONNECT]: Memory card  
The displayed recording media differ  
depending on the model.  
If the [USB SELECT] screen does not  
appear, select  
(MENU) [Show  
others] [USB CONNECT] (under  
[OTHERS] category).  
The [Import] window appears on the  
computer screen.  
3G6B  
   
Creating a disc  
You can create a disc by selecting movies  
previously imported to your computer  
3
Click [Import].  
Refer to “PMB Help” (p. 35) for details.  
1
Turn on your computer, and place  
an unused disc on the DVD drive.  
See page 32 for the type of discs you can  
use.  
If any other software than “PMB” starts  
automatically, shut it down.  
2
3
Start “PMB(p. 35).  
Movies and photos are imported to  
your computer.  
When the operation is completed, the  
“PMB” screen appears.  
Click [Calendar] or [Index] on  
the left side in the window, and  
select the folder or date, then  
select the movies.  
To select plural movies, hold the Ctrl key  
down and click thumbnails.  
4
At the top of the window, click  
[Create DVD-Video Format  
Discs (STD)].  
The window used to select movies  
appears.  
To add movies to the previously selected  
ones, select the movies in the main  
window and drag and drop onto the  
window for selecting movies.  
GB  
37  
 
Capturing photos from a movie  
You can save a frame of a movie as a  
photo file.  
5
Follow the instructions on the  
screen to create a disc.  
It may take a long time to create a disc.  
Double-click the movie to be edited on  
“PMB,” then click [Show Edit Palette]  
on the right side of the screen [Save  
Frame]. See “PMB Help” (p. 35) for  
details.  
Copying a disc  
You can copy a recorded disc to another  
disc using “Video Disc Copier.”  
Click [Start] [All Programs]   
[PMB] [PMB Launcher] [Disc  
creation] [Video Disc Copier] to start  
the software. See “Video Disc Copier”  
help on the operation.  
Editing movies  
You can cut out only necessary parts  
from a movie and save it as another file.  
Double-click the movie to be edited on  
“PMB,” then click [Show Edit Palette]  
on the right side of the screen [Trim  
Video], or select the [Manipulate] menu  
[Edit] [Trim Video]. See “PMB  
Help” (p. 35) for details.  
3G8B  
 
Saving images with an external device  
Saving images in  
external media  
Tips  
You can also import images recorded on  
external media using the supplied software  
“PMB.”  
(DIRECT COPY)  
You can save movies and photos on external  
media (USB storage device), such as an  
external hard disk drive. You can also play  
1
Connect the AC Adaptor and the  
power cord (mains lead) to the  
DC IN jack of your camcorder and  
the wall outlet (wall socket).  
back images on the camcorder or another  
playback device.  
2
If the external media has the AC  
power cable, connect it to the  
wall outlet (wall socket).  
Notes  
For this operation, you need the USB Adaptor  
Cable VMC-UAM1 (sold separately).  
The USB Adaptor Cable VMC-UAM1 may not  
be available in some countries/regions.  
You cannot use the following devices as an  
external media.  
media with a capacity exceeding 2 TB  
ordinary disc drive such as CD or DVD drive  
media connected via USB hub  
3
4
Connect the USB Adaptor Cable  
to the external media.  
Connect the USB Adaptor Cable  
to the (USB) jack of your  
camcorder.  
media with built-in USB hub  
card reader  
You may not be able to use external media with  
a code function.  
When the [Create a new Image  
Database File.] screen appears, select  
[YES].  
FAT file system is available for your camcorder.  
If the external media was formatted to NTFS  
file system, etc., format the external media on  
your camcorder before use. The format screen  
appears when the external media is connected  
to your camcorder. The format screen may  
appear even in the case of media utilizing the  
FAT file system.  
USB Adaptor Cable  
(sold separately)  
Operation is not assured with every connectable  
device.  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  
socket) using the supplied AC adaptor (p. 12).  
Refer to the instruction manual supplied with  
the external media.  
Refer to the Sony support page for your  
country/region for details on external media  
that can be used.  
GB  
39  
       
To save desired movies and photos  
5
6
Select [Copy.] on the camcorder  
screen.  
You can also save images recorded on  
memory cards.  
DCR-SR15E/SR20E:  
Notes  
Movies and photos in the internal  
recording media of the camcorder that  
have not yet been saved on to external  
media can be saved.  
DCR-SX15E/SX20E:  
Movies and photos that have not yet  
been saved on to external media can  
You cannot search or copy photos recorded on  
memory card by recording date.  
Select [Play without copying.] in step 5  
above.  
The VISUAL INDEX screen of the  
external media is displayed.  
Select  
(MENU) [Show others]  
be saved.  
[MOVIE DUB] (when selecting  
movies)/[PHOTO COPY] (when  
selecting photos).  
Follow the on-screen instructions to  
select the recording media (DCR-  
SR15E/SR20E) and image selection  
methods.  
This screen will appear only when there  
are newly recorded images.  
After the operation is completed,  
select  
on the camcorder  
screen.  
When you selected [DUB by select],  
select the image to be saved.  
Notes  
appears.  
The number of scenes you can save on the  
external media are as follows.  
Movies: 9,999 movies  
Photos: 9,999 frames × 899 folders  
The number of scenes may be smaller  
depending on the type of images recorded.  
When you selected [DUB by date], select  
the date of the images to be dubbed with  
/
, then select  
and go  
to step .  
When connecting an external media  
The images saved in the external media  
are displayed on the LCD screen. The  
movie display and photo display buttons  
on the VISUAL INDEX screen change as  
illustrated below.  
Remaining external media capacity  
Press LIGHT when thumbnail is selected  
to confirm the image. Select  
return to the previous screen.  
to  
By selecting date, you can search for  
images by date.  
Select  
[YES]   
on the  
camcorder screen.  
You can make menu settings of the external  
media such as deleting images. Select  
(MENU) [Show others] on the  
VISUAL INDEX screen.  
4G0B  
To play back images in the external  
media on the camcorder  
Select [Play without copying.] in step 5  
above.  
The VISUAL INDEX screen of the  
external media is displayed.  
Play back the image (p. 25).  
You can also view images on a TV  
connected to your camcorder (p. 28).  
Notes  
The Date Index of photos cannot be displayed.  
If your camcorder does not recognize the  
external media, try the following operations.  
Reconnect the USB Adaptor Cable to your  
camcorder  
If the external media has the AC power cable,  
connect it to the wall outlet (wall socket)  
To finish the external media connection  
Select  
screen of the external media.  
Disconnect the USB Adaptor Cable.  
on the VISUAL INDEX  
GB  
41  
Creating a disc with a  
DVD writer, recorder  
Creating a disc with the dedicated  
DVD writer, DVDirect Express  
Turn on your camcorder, and  
connect the DVD writer to the   
(USB) jack of your camcorder with  
the USB cable of the DVD writer.  
You can create a disc or play back the  
images on a created disc by using the  
dedicated DVD writer, DVDirect Express  
(sold separately).  
Refer also to the instruction manual  
supplied with the DVD writer.  
Insert an unused disc into the  
DVD writer, and close the disc  
tray.  
Notes  
The [DISC BURN] screen appears on  
the screen.  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  
socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this  
operation (p. 12).  
Only unused discs of the following types can  
be used:  
Press  
(DISC BURN) on the DVD  
writer.  
12cm DVD-R  
12cm DVD+R  
Movies recorded on internal recording  
media and not yet saved on any other  
discs will be recorded to the disc  
(DCR-SR15E/SR20E).  
The device does not support two-layered discs.  
DVDirect Express is referred to as “DVD  
writer” in this section.  
Movies not yet saved on any other discs  
will be recorded to the disc (DCR-  
SX15E/SX20E).  
Connect the AC Adaptor and the  
power cord (mains lead) to the  
DC IN jack of your camcorder  
and the wall outlet (wall socket)  
Repeat steps 3 and 4 when the  
total memory size of movies to  
be burnt exceeds that of the disc.  
Select  
[END] [EJECT  
DISC] on the screen.  
Remove the disc after the operation is  
completed.  
4G2B  
     
To play back a disc on the DVD writer  
Select  
on the screen, then  
disconnect the USB cable.  
To customize a disc with DISC BURN  
OPTION  
Perform this operation in the following  
cases:  
Connect the AC Adaptor and the power  
cord (mains lead) to the DC IN jack of  
your camcorder and the wall outlet (wall  
socket) (p. 12).  
Turn on your camcorder, and connect  
the DVD writer to the (USB) jack of  
your camcorder with the USB cable of  
When dubbing a desired image  
When creating multiple copies of the same  
disc  
When dubbing images in the memory card  
(DCR-SR15E/SR20E)  
Select [DISC BURN OPTION] on the  
screen in step 4.  
Select the recording media containing  
the movie(s) you want to save (DCR-  
SR15E/SR20E).  
Select the movie you want to burn on  
the disc.  
the DVD writer.  
You can play back movies on the TV  
screen by connecting the camcorder to a  
TV (p. 28).  
Insert a created disc into the DVD  
writer.  
appears.  
The movies on the disc appear as  
VISUAL INDEX on the screen.  
Press the play button on the DVD writer.  
You can also operate by the screen.  
Select [END] [EJECT DISC] on the  
screen and remove the disc after the  
operation is completed.  
Remaining Disc capacity  
Press LIGHT when thumbnail is selected  
to confirm the image. Select  
return to the previous screen.  
to  
Select  
and disconnect the USB  
cable.  
By selecting date, you can search for  
images by date.  
Notes  
Do not do any of the following when creating  
a disc.  
Turn off the camcorder  
Disconnect the USB cable or the AC adaptor  
Subject the camcorder to mechanical shock  
or vibration  
Eject the memory card from the camcorder  
Play the created disc to make sure dubbing was  
performed correctly before deleting the movies  
on your camcorder.  
Select  
screen.  
[YES] on the camcorder  
To create another disc of the same  
contents, insert a new disc and select  
[CREATE SAME DISC].  
After the operation is completed, select  
[EXIT] [END] on the camcorder  
screen.  
Disconnect the USB cable from your  
camcorder.  
If [Failed.] or [DISC BURN failed.] appears on  
GB  
43  
the screen, insert another disc into the DVD  
writer and perform the DISC BURN operation  
again.  
Connect the AC Adaptor and the  
power cord (mains lead) to the  
DC IN jack of your camcorder  
and the wall outlet (wall socket)  
Tips  
If the total memory size of movies to be burnt  
by the DISC BURN operation exceeds that of  
the disc, disc creation stops when the limit is  
reached. The last movie on the disc may be  
cut off.  
Disc creation time to dub movies to the limit  
of the disc is about 20 minutes to 60 minutes.  
It may take more time depending on the  
recording mode or the number of scenes.  
If you cannot play back created discs on any  
DVD player, connect the camcorder to the  
DVD writer, and then play back.  
Turn on your camcorder, and  
connect a DVD writer, etc. to the  
(USB) jack of your camcorder  
with the USB cable (supplied).  
Creating a disc with a DVD writer,  
etc., other than DVDirect Express  
You can save movies on a disc by  
connecting your camcorder to disc creation  
devices, such as a Sony DVD writer other  
than DVDirect Express, with the USB  
cable. Refer also to the instruction manuals  
supplied with the devices to be connected.  
The [USB SELECT] screen appears on  
Notes  
the camcorder screen.  
If the [USB SELECT] screen does not  
Sony DVD writer may not be available in some  
countries/regions.  
appear, select  
others] [USB CONNECT] (under  
[OTHERS] category).  
(MENU) [Show  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  
socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this  
operation (p. 12).  
Select the recording media that  
contains the images on the  
camcorder screen.  
[
USB CONNECT]: Internal hard  
disk  
[
USB CONNECT]: Memory card  
The displayed recording media differ  
depending on the model.  
4G4B  
 
A/V OUT jack  
Record movies on the connected  
device.  
For details, refer to the instruction  
manuals supplied with the device to be  
connected.  
After the operation is completed,  
select [END] [YES] on the  
camcorder screen.  
Input  
VIDEO  
Disconnect the USB cable.  
(Yellow)  
(White)  
AUDIO  
(Red)  
Creating a disc with a recorder, etc.  
You can dub images played back on your  
camcorder on a disc or video cassette,  
by connecting your camcorder to a disc  
recorder, a Sony DVD writer, etc., other  
than DVDirect Express, with the A/V  
connecting cable (supplied). Refer also to  
the instruction manuals supplied with the  
devices to be connected.  
Signal flow  
Insert the recording media in the  
recording device.  
If your recording device has an input  
Notes  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  
socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this  
operation (p. 12).  
Sony DVD writer may not be available in some  
countries/regions.  
selector, set it to the input mode.  
Connect your camcorder to the  
recording device (a disc recorder,  
etc.) with the A/V connecting  
cable (supplied).  
Connect your camcorder to the input jacks  
of the recording device.  
GB  
45  
 
Start playback on your  
camcorder, and record it on the  
recording device.  
Refer to the instruction manuals supplied  
with your recording device for details.  
When dubbing is finished, stop  
the recording device, and then  
your camcorder.  
Notes  
Since dubbing is performed via analog data  
transfer, the image quality may deteriorate.  
To hide the screen indicators (such as a counter,  
etc.) on the screen of the monitor device  
connected, select  
(MENU) [Show  
others] [OUTPUT SETTINGS] (under  
[GENERAL SET] category) [DISP  
OUTPUT] [LCD PANEL] (the default  
setting)   
To record the date/time or camera settings data,  
select (MENU) [Show others]   
[PLAYBACK SET] (under [PLAYBACK]  
category) [DATA CODE] a desired  
.
setting   
addition, select  
. In  
(MENU) [Show  
others] [OUTPUT SETTINGS] (under  
[GENERAL SET] category) [DISP  
OUTPUT] [V-OUT/PANEL]   
.
When the screen size of display devices (TV,  
etc.) is 4:3, select (MENU) [Show  
others] [OUTPUT SETTINGS] (under  
[GENERAL SET] category) [TV TYPE]  
[4:3]   
.
When you connect a monaural device, connect  
the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable  
to the video input jack, and the white (left  
channel) or the red (right channel) plug to the  
audio input jack on the device.  
4G6B  
Customizing your camcorder  
Using menus  
Using the menus, you can perform useful functions and change various settings. If you make  
good use of menu operations, you can enjoy using your camcorder.  
The camcorder has various menu items under each of eight menu categories.  
MANUAL SETTINGS (Items to adjust for scene condition) p. 50  
SHOOTING SET (Items for customized shooting) p. 50  
PHOTO SETTINGS (Items for recording photos) p. 50  
PLAYBACK (Items for playback) p. 50  
EDIT (Items for editing) p. 51  
OTHERS (Items for other settings) p. 51  
MANAGE MEDIA (Items for recording media) p. 51  
GENERAL SET (Other setup items) p. 52  
Operating menus  
Multi-selector  
Select with ///and press the center of the multi-selector to confirm your selection.  
An orange frame appears on the selected item.  
: To finish setting the menu.  
/
/
: The menu list moves from category to category.  
: The menu list moves through 4 items at once.  
: To return to the MY MENU.  
GB  
47  
   
Select  
.
Select [Show others] on the MY MENU screen.  
See the next page for details on MY MENU.  
Select the menu item to be changed.  
After changing the setting, select  
.
To finish setting the menu, select  
.
To return to the previous menu screen, select  
.
may not be displayed depending on the menu item.  
Notes  
You may not be able to set some menu items, depending on the recording or playback conditions.  
Grayed out menu items or settings are not available.  
Tips  
Depending on the menu items being changed, your camcorder switches between playback mode and  
recording mode (movie/photo).  
Using MY MENU  
You can use the menu items more easily by registering the menu items you use most often on  
MY MENU. You can register 6 menu items on each MY MENU of the MOVIE, PHOTO, and  
PLAYBACK.  
Example: deleting [FOCUS] and registering [ FADER]  
Select  
.
Select [MY MENU SETTING].  
Select [MOVIE].  
Select [FOCUS].  
Select  
Select [ FADER] (under  
When MY MENU is displayed, select  
.
[MANUAL SETTINGS] category).  
.
4G8B  
Repeat the same steps above to register menu items on MY MENU, and enjoy using your  
“Handycam.”  
Tips  
When an external storage device is connected, the exclusive MY MENU appears.  
Using the OPTION MENU  
The OPTION MENU appears just like the pop-up window that appears when you right-click  
the mouse on a computer. When  
the OPTION MENU. You select  
appear.  
is displayed at bottom-right of the screen, you can use  
, and the menu items you can change in the context  
Menu item  
Tab  
Select  
(OPTION).  
Select the desired tab the item to change the setting.  
After completing the setting, select  
.
Notes  
Grayed out menu items or settings are not available.  
When the item you want is not on the screen, select another tab. (There may be no tab.)  
The tabs and items that appear on the screen depend on the recording/playback status of your camcorder  
at the time.  
GB  
49  
 
Menu lists  
(MANUAL SETTINGS) category  
SCENE SELECTION .................. Selects an appropriate recording setting according to the type of scene,  
such as night view or beach.  
FADER.................................... Fades scenes in or out.  
WHITE BAL................................. Adjusts the color balance to the brightness of the recording environment.  
EXPOSURE ................................. Adjusts the brightness of movies and photos.  
FOCUS......................................... Focuses manually.  
TELE MACRO............................. Shoots a subject in focus with, the background out of focus.  
(SHOOTING SET) category  
REC MODE........................... Sets the mode to record movies. When recording fast moving subject, a  
high image quality is recommended.  
GUIDEFRAME............................ Displays the frame to make sure the subject is horizontal or vertical.  
STEADYSHOT...................... Sets the SteadyShot function when recording movies.  
AUTO SLW SHUTTR ................ Adjusts the shutter speed automatically.  
FACE DETECTION .................... Adjusts the image quality of the face(s) automatically.  
AUDIO REC SET  
BLT-IN ZOOM MIC.......... Records movies with vivid sound appropriate to the zoom position.  
MICREF LEVEL................. Sets the microphone level.  
OTHER REC SET  
DIGITAL ZOOM......... Sets the maximum zoom level of the digital zoom that exceeds the zoom  
level of the optical zoom.  
WIDE SELECT............. Sets the horizontal to vertical ratio when recording movies.  
(PHOTO SETTINGS) category  
SELF-TIMER.......................... Sets the self-timer when your camcorder is in photo recording mode.  
IMAGE SIZE.......................... Sets the photo size.  
FILE NO. ...................................... Sets how to assign the file number.  
(PLAYBACK) category  
VISUAL INDEX........................... Displays recording images as thumbnails (p. 25).  
VIEW IMAGES  
DATE INDEX..................... Enables searching for desired images by date.  
FILM ROLL.................. Displays and plays the scenes by a certain interval.  
FACE.............................. Displays and plays the face scenes.  
PLAYLIST..................................... Displays and plays the playlist of movies.  
PLAYBACK SET  
DATA CODE...................... Displays the detailed recording data during playback.  
5G0B  
             
(EDIT) category  
DELETE  
DELETE........................ Deletes movies.  
DELETE ........................ Deletes photos.  
PROTECT  
PROTECT..................... Protects movies to avoid deleting.  
PROTECT..................... Protects photos to avoid deleting.  
DIVIDE................................... Divides movies.  
PHOTO CAPTURE*1 *2............. Captures photos from desired scenes of movies.  
MOVIE DUB*1  
DUB by select ................. Selects movies and dub.  
DUB by date.................... Dubs all movies of a specified date.  
DUB ALL....................... Dubs all saved movies in a playlist.  
PHOTO COPY*1  
COPY by select ............... Selects photos and copy.  
COPY by date.................. Copies all photos of a specified date.  
PLAYLIST EDIT  
ADD.............................. Adds movies in a playlist.  
ADD by date.............. Adds movies recorded on a same day at one time in a playlist.  
ERASE ........................... Erases movies from a playlist.  
ERASE ALL................... Erases all movies from a playlist.  
MOVE............................ Changes the order of movies in a playlist.  
(OTHERS) category  
USB CONNECT  
USB CONNECT*1....... Connects the internal hard disk via USB.  
USB CONNECT.......... Connects the memory card via USB.  
DISC BURN....................... Allows you to save images onto discs (p. 35, 42).  
BATTERY INFO.......................... Displays the battery information.  
(MANAGE MEDIA) category  
MEDIA SETTINGS*1  
MOVIE MEDIA SET......... Sets the media for recording movies (p. 16).  
PHOTO MEDIA SET........ Sets the media for recording photos (p. 17).  
MEDIA INFO.............................. Displays information on the recording media, such as free space.  
MEDIA FORMAT  
HDD*1 ................................ Deletes all data on the internal hard disk.  
MEMORY CARD.............. Deletes all data on the memory card.  
REPAIR IMG.DB F.  
HDD*1 ................................ Repairs the image database file on the internal hard disk (p. 56).  
MEMORY CARD.............. Repairs the image database file on the memory card (p. 56).  
GB  
51  
           
(GENERAL SET) category  
SOUND/DISP SET  
VOLUME............................ Adjusts the volume of playback sound (p. 26).  
BEEP ................................... Sets whether the camcorder sounds operation beeps or not.  
LCD BRIGHT..................... Adjusts the brightness of the LCD screen.  
LCD BL LEVEL.................. Adjusts the backlight of the LCD screen.  
LCD COLOR...................... Adjusts the color intensity of the LCD screen.  
DISPLAY SET.................... Sets the duration that icons or indicators are displayed on the LCD screen.  
OUTPUT SETTINGS  
TV TYPE............................. Converts the signal depending on the TV connected (p. 28).  
DISP OUTPUT.................. Sets whether the on-screen displays appears on the TV screen or not.  
CLOCK/ LANG  
CLOCK SET ....................... Sets the date and time (p. 13).  
AREA SET.......................... Adjusts for a time difference without stopping the clock (p. 13).  
SUMMERTIME................. Sets the summertime (p. 13).  
LANGUAGE SET......... Sets the display language (p. 15).  
POWER SETTINGS  
A.SHUT OFF..................... Changes the [A.SHUT OFF] setting (p. 11).  
OTHER SETTINGS  
DEMO MODE................... Sets whether the demonstration appears or not.  
DROP SENSOR*1............. Activates or deactivates the drop sensor.  
1
2
*
*
DCR-SR15E/SR20E  
DCR-SX20E  
5G2B  
   
Getting detailed  
information from the  
“HandycamHandbook  
The “Handycam” Handbook is a user guide  
designed to be read on a computer screen.  
The “Handycam” Handbook is intended to  
be read when you want to know more about  
operating your camcorder.  
To view the “Handycam” Handbook,  
double-click the short-cut icon on the  
computer screen.  
1
2
To install the “Handycam”  
Handbook on a Windows  
computer, place the supplied  
CD-ROM in the disc drive of your  
computer.  
When using a Macintosh, open the [Handbook]  
– [GB] folder in the CD-ROM, then copy  
[Handbook.pdf].  
You need Adobe Reader to read “Handycam”  
Handbook. If it is not installed on your  
computer, you can download it from the Adobe  
Systems web page:  
Refer to “PMB Help” for details on the supplied  
software “PMB” (p. 35).  
On the installation screen  
displayed, click [Handbook].  
3
Select the desired language  
and the model name of your  
camcorder, then click [Install].  
Install by following the  
instructions on the screen.  
The model name of your camcorder is  
printed on its bottom surface.  
GB  
53  
   
Additional information  
Troubleshooting  
If you run into any problems using your  
camcorder, follow the steps below.  
The camcorder does not operate even  
when the power is set to on.  
Check the list (p. 54 to 56), and  
It takes a few seconds for your camcorder to  
be ready to shoot after the power is turned on.  
This is not a malfunction.  
inspect your camcorder.  
Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall  
outlet (wall socket) or remove the battery  
pack, then reconnect it after about 1 minute.  
If your camcorder still does not work, press  
RESET (p. 64, 65) using a pointed object. (If  
you press RESET, all settings, including the  
clock setting, are reset.)  
The temperature of your camcorder is  
extremely high. Turn off the camcorder and  
leave it for a while in a cool place.  
The temperature of your camcorder is  
extremely low. Leave the camcorder with the  
power turned on. If you still cannot operate  
your camcorder, turn off the camcorder and  
take it to a warm place. Leave the camcorder  
there for a while, then turn on the camcorder.  
Remove the power source, attach  
the power source again after about 1  
minute, and turn the camcorder on.  
Press RESET (p. 64, 65) using a  
pointed object, and turn the  
camcorder on.  
If you press RESET, all settings,  
including the clock setting, are reset.  
Contact your Sony dealer or local  
authorized Sony service facility.  
Your camcorder may be required to initialize or  
change the current internal recording media of  
your camcorder, depending on the problem. In  
the event of this, the data stored on the internal  
recording media will be deleted. Be sure to  
save the data on the internal recording media  
on other media (backup) before sending your  
camcorder for repair. We will not compensate  
you for any loss of internal recording media  
data.  
During repair, we may check a minimum  
amount of data stored on the internal recording  
media in order to investigate the problem.  
However, your Sony dealer will neither copy  
nor retain your data.  
Your camcorder gets warm.  
Your camcorder may become warm during  
operation. This is not a malfunction.  
The power abruptly turns off.  
Use the AC Adaptor (p. 12).  
Turn on the power again.  
Charge the battery pack (p. 10).  
Pressing START/STOP or PHOTO does not  
record images.  
Press MODE to display the  
(Photo) icons.  
(Movie) or  
See the “Handycam” Handbook (p. 53) for  
details on the symptoms of your camcorder,  
and “PMB Help” (p. 35) on connecting your  
camcorder to a computer.  
Your camcorder is recording the image you  
have just shot on the recording media. You  
cannot make any new recordings during this  
period.  
The recording media is full. Delete  
unnecessary images (p. 30).  
Total number of movie scenes or photos has  
exceeded the recordable capacity of your  
camcorder (p. 57, 58). Delete unnecessary  
images (p. 30).  
The power does not turn on.  
Attach a charged battery pack to the  
camcorder (p. 10).  
Connect the plug of the AC Adaptor to the  
wall outlet (wall socket) (p. 12).  
5G4B  
       
The recording stops.  
C:06:  
The temperature of your camcorder is  
extremely high/low. Turn off your camcorder  
and leave it for a while in a cool/warm place.  
The battery pack temperature is high. Change  
the battery pack or place it in a cool place.  
C:13: / C:32:  
“PMBcannot be installed.  
Remove the power source. Reconnect it and  
operate your camcorder again.  
Check the computer environment or  
installation procedure required to install  
“PMB” (p. 32).  
E::  
Follow the steps from to on page 54.  
“PMBdoes not work correctly.  
Quit “PMB” and restart your computer.  
The indicator flashes when the internal hard  
disk of your camcorder becomes full. Delete  
unnecessary images (p. 30), or format the  
internal hard disk (p. 51) after storing the  
images on other media..  
An error may have occurred with the internal  
hard disk of your camcorder.  
The camcorder is not recognized by the  
computer.  
Disconnect devices from the USB jack of the  
computer other than the keyboard, mouse,  
and your camcorder.  
Disconnect the USB cable from the computer  
and your camcorder, and restart the computer,  
then connect the computer and your  
camcorder again in an orderly manner.  
Battery power is low.  
Self-diagnosis display/Warning  
indicators  
The battery pack temperature is high. Change  
the battery pack or place it in a cool place.  
If indicators appear on the LCD screen,  
check the following.  
If the problem persists even after you  
have tried to fix a couple of times, contact  
your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony  
service facility. In this case, when you  
contact them, give them all the numbers of  
the error code beginning with C or E.  
The temperature of your camcorder is getting  
high. Turn off your camcorder and leave it in  
a cool place.  
The temperature of your camcorder is low.  
Make the camcorder warm.  
C:04:  
The battery pack is not an “InfoLITHIUM”  
battery pack V series. Use an “InfoLITHIUM”  
battery pack (V series) (p. 10).  
Connect the DC plug of the AC Adaptor to  
your camcorder securely (p. 10).  
No memory card is inserted (p. 17).  
The indicator flashes when the memory card  
becomes full. Delete unnecessary images  
(p. 30), or format the memory card (p. 51)  
after storing the images on other media.  
GB  
55  
 
The Image Database File is damaged. Check  
the data base file by selecting (MENU)  
[Show others] [REPAIR IMG.DB F.]  
(under [MANAGE MEDIA] category)   
the recording medium (DCR-SR15E/SR20E).  
The memory card is damaged. Format the  
memory card with your camcorder (p. 51).  
Incompatible memory card is inserted (p. 18).  
Access to the memory card was restricted on  
another device.  
The camcorder is unsteady. Hold the camcorder  
steady with both hands. However, note that  
the camera-shake warning indicator does not  
disappear.  
The drop sensor function is activated. You  
may not be able to record nor play back  
images.  
5G6B  
   
Recording time of  
movies/number of  
recordable photos  
Playing time  
Approximate time available when you use a  
fully charged battery pack.  
Expected time of recording and  
playback with each battery pack  
DCR-SR15E/SR20E  
Recording time  
(unit: minute)  
Approximate time available when you use a  
fully charged battery pack.  
Battery pack  
NP-FV30  
(supplied)  
NP-FV50  
NP-FV70  
NP-FV100  
125  
DCR-SR15E/SR20E  
240  
490  
980  
(unit: minute)  
Battery pack  
Continuous  
recording time  
Typical recording  
time  
DCR-SX15E/SX20E  
NP-FV30  
(supplied)  
95  
45  
(unit: minute)  
145  
NP-FV50  
NP-FV70  
NP-FV100  
180  
375  
745  
85  
180  
355  
Battery pack  
NP-FV30  
(supplied)  
NP-FV50  
NP-FV70  
NP-FV100  
280  
565  
1120  
DCR-SX15E/SX20E  
(unit: minute)  
Typical recording  
time  
Battery pack  
Continuous  
recording time  
NP-FV30  
(supplied)  
NP-FV50  
NP-FV70  
NP-FV100  
105  
50  
Expected recording time of movies  
Internal hard disk  
200  
415  
830  
95  
195  
395  
DCR-SR15E/SR20E  
(unit: minute)  
Each recording time is measured when the  
REC MODE] is set to SP.  
Recording mode  
[HQ]  
Recording time  
1220  
[
Typical recording time shows the time when  
you repeat recording start/stop, switching the  
movie or photo mode, and zooming.  
Times measured when using the camcorder at  
25 C (77 °F). 10 C to 30 C (50 °F to 86 °F) is  
recommended.  
The recording and playback time will be  
shorter when you use your camcorder in low  
temperatures.  
[SP]  
1750  
[LP]  
3660  
Tips  
You can record movies of a maximum of 9,999  
scenes.  
The maximum continuous recording time of  
movies is approximately 13 hours.  
Your camcorder uses the VBR (Variable Bit  
Rate) format to automatically adjust image  
quality to suit the recording scene. This  
The recording and playback time will be shorter  
depending on the conditions under which you  
use your camcorder.  
GB  
57  
     
technology causes fluctuations in the recording  
time of the media. Movies containing quickly  
moving and complex images are recorded at  
a higher bit-rate, and this reduces the overall  
recording time.  
Memory card  
VGA(0.3M)  
512MB  
1GB  
2GB  
4GB  
8GB  
2800  
5700  
Memory card  
11500  
23000  
47000  
95000  
185000  
(unit: minute)  
HQ  
SP  
LP  
512MB  
1GB  
6
9
20  
16GB  
32GB  
(5)  
(5)  
(10)  
10  
(10)  
20  
(10)  
40  
(25)  
The indicated number of recordable photos on  
a memory card is based on the maximum image  
size of your camcorder. The actual number  
of recordable photos is displayed on the LCD  
screen during recording (p. 63).  
The maximum number of recordable photos  
on a memory card may vary depending on the  
recording conditions.  
2GB  
25  
(25)  
40  
(25)  
85  
(55)  
4GB  
55  
(50)  
80  
(50)  
175  
(110)  
8GB  
115  
(105)  
170  
(105)  
355  
(230)  
16GB  
32GB  
235  
340  
715  
(210)  
(210)  
(465)  
Tips  
475  
(425)  
685  
(425)  
1435  
(930)  
You can also use memory card with a capacity  
of under 512 MB for recording photos.  
The following list shows the average bit-rate, the  
recording pixels, and the aspect ratio of each  
movie recording mode.  
Notes  
The recordable time may vary depending on  
the recording and subject conditions, [ REC  
MODE] (p. 50).  
The number in ( ) is the minimum recordable  
time.  
HQ: Approx. 9Mbps 720 pixels ×  
576 pixels/16:9, 4:3  
SP: Approx. 6Mbps 720 pixels ×  
576 pixels/16:9, 4:3  
LP: Approx. 3Mbps 720 pixels ×  
576 pixels/16:9, 4:3  
The photo recording pixels and the aspect ratio.  
Photo recording mode:  
Expected number of recordable  
photos  
640 dots × 480 dots/4:3  
640 dots × 360 dots/16:9  
Capturing a photo from a movie:  
640 dots × 360 dots/16:9  
Internal recording media (DCR-SR15E/  
SR20E)  
You can record the maximum 9,999 photos.  
640 dots × 480 dots/4:3  
5G8B  
 
Precautions  
On use and care  
such as by placing anything heavy on it.  
Do not use a deformed or damaged battery  
pack.  
Do not use or store the camcorder and  
accessories in the following locations:  
Anywhere extremely hot, cold or humid.  
Never leave them exposed to temperatures  
above 60 C (140 °F), such as under direct  
sunlight, near heaters or in a car parked in  
the sun. They may malfunction or become  
deformed.  
Near strong magnetic fields or mechanical  
vibration. The camcorder may malfunction.  
Near strong radio waves or radiation. The  
camcorder may not be able to record properly.  
Near AM receivers and video equipment.  
Noise may occur.  
Keep metal contacts clean.  
If the battery electrolytic liquid has leaked:  
Consult your local authorized Sony service  
facility.  
Wash off any liquid that may have contacted  
your skin.  
If any liquid gets in your eyes, wash with  
plenty of water and consult a doctor.  
When not using your camcorder for a  
long time  
To keep your camcorder in optimum state for a  
long time, turn it on and let it run by recording  
and playing back images about once a month.  
Use up the battery pack completely before  
storing it.  
On a sandy beach or anywhere dusty. If  
sand or dust gets in your camcorder, it may  
malfunction. Sometimes this malfunction  
cannot be repaired.  
Near windows or outdoors, where the LCD  
screen or the lens may be exposed to direct  
sunlight. This damages the inside of the LCD  
screen.  
Operate your camcorder on DC 6.8 V/7.2 V  
(battery pack) or DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor).  
For DC or AC operation, use the accessories  
recommended in these operating instructions.  
Do not let your camcorder get wet, for example,  
from rain or sea water. If your camcorder  
gets wet, it may malfunction. Sometimes this  
malfunction cannot be repaired.  
LCD screen  
Do not exert excessive pressure on the LCD  
screen, as it may cause damage.  
If your camcorder is used in a cold place, a  
residual image may appear on the LCD screen.  
This is not a malfunction.  
While using your camcorder, the back of  
the LCD screen may heat up. This is not a  
malfunction.  
To clean the LCD screen  
If fingerprints or dust make the LCD screen  
dirty, it is recommended that you use a soft  
cloth to clean it. When you use the LCD  
Cleaning Kit (sold separately), do not apply the  
cleaning liquid directly to the LCD screen. Use  
cleaning paper moistened with the liquid.  
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 camcorder turning off when you are  
not using your camcorder.  
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:  
Do not wrap your camcorder with a towel, for  
example, and operate it. Doing so might cause  
heat to build up inside.  
Using chemicals such as thinner, benzine,  
alcohol, chemical cloths, repellent, insecticide  
and sunscreen  
When disconnecting the power cord (mains  
lead), pull it by the plug and not the cord (lead).  
Do not damage the power cord (mains lead)  
GB  
59  
   
Handling the camcorder with above  
substances on your hands  
Leaving the casing in contact with rubber or  
vinyl objects for a long period of time  
“Handycam” Handbook” on page 53.) to prevent  
the recovery of your data. Also, when you dispose  
of the camcorder, it is recommended that you  
destroy the actual body of the camcorder.  
About care and storage of the lens  
Note on disposal/transfer of memory  
card  
Wipe the surface of the lens clean with a soft  
cloth in the following instances:  
When there are fingerprints on the lens  
surface  
In hot or humid locations  
When the lens is exposed to salty air such as  
at the seaside  
Store in a well-ventilated location subject to  
little dirt or dust.  
To prevent mold, periodically clean the lens as  
described above.  
Even if you delete data in the memory card or  
format the memory card on your camcorder or  
a computer, you may not delete data from the  
memory card completely. When you give the  
memory card to somebody, it is recommended  
that you delete data completely using data  
deletion software on a computer. Also, when you  
dispose of the memory card, it is recommended  
that you destroy the actual body of the memory  
card.  
On charging the pre-installed  
rechargeable battery  
Your camcorder has a pre-installed rechargeable  
battery to retain the date, time, and other settings  
even when the camcorder is turned off. The pre-  
installed rechargeable battery is always charged  
while your camcorder is connected to the wall  
outlet (wall socket) via the AC Adaptor or while  
the battery pack is attached. The rechargeable  
battery will be fully discharged in about 3 months  
if you do not use your camcorder at all. Use  
your camcorder after charging the pre-installed  
rechargeable battery. 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.  
Procedures  
Connect your camcorder to a wall outlet (wall  
socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor, and leave  
it with the LCD screen closed for more than 24  
hours.  
Note on disposal/transfer of the  
camcorder (DCR-SR15E/SR20E)  
Even if you delete all movies and still images, or  
perform [MEDIA FORMAT], data on the internal  
recording media may not be completely erased.  
When you transfer the camcorder, it is  
recommended that you perform [EMPTY]  
6G0B  
Specifications  
System  
LCD screen  
Picture: 6.7 cm (2.7 type, aspect ratio 16:9)  
Total number of pixels: 230 400 (960 240)  
Signal format: PAL color, CCIR standards  
Movie recording format:  
Video: MPEG-2 PS  
General  
Audio recording system:  
Dolby Digital 2ch  
Power requirements: DC 6.8 V/7.2 V (battery  
pack) DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor)  
Dolby Digital Stereo Creator  
Average power consumption: During camera  
recording, using LCD screen at normal  
brightness:  
Photo file format  
: DCF Ver.2.0 Compatible  
: Exif Ver.2.21 Compatible  
: MPF Baseline Compatible  
DCR-SR15E/SR20E: 2.1 W  
DCR-SX15E/SX20E: 1.9 W  
Recording media (Movie/Photo)  
Operating temperature: 0 C to 40 C (32 °F to  
Internal hard disk  
104 °F)  
DCR-SR15E/SR20E: 80 GB  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media  
SD memory card (Class 2 or faster)  
Storage temperature: –20 C to + 60 C (-4 °F to  
+140 °F)  
Dimensions (approx.)  
When measuring media capacity, 1 GB equals  
1 billion bytes, a portion of which is used for  
system management and/or application files.  
The capacity that a user can use is below.  
DCR-SR15E/SR20E: Approx. 79.3 GB  
DCR-SR15E/SR20E  
59 mm × 65 mm × 113 mm (2 3/8 in. ×  
2 5/8 in. × 4 1/2 in.) (w/h/d) including the  
projecting parts  
59 mm × 65 mm × 124 mm (2 3/8 in.  
× 2 5/8 in. × 5 in.) (w/h/d) including  
the projecting parts, and the supplied  
rechargeable battery pack attached  
DCR-SX15E/SX20E  
Image device  
2.25 mm (1/8 type) CCD (Charge Coupled  
Device)  
Gross: Approx. 800 000 pixels  
Effective (Movie, 16:9): Approx. 490 000  
pixels  
54 mm × 55 mm × 113 mm (2 1/4 in. ×  
2 1/4 in. × 4 1/2 in.) (w/h/d) including the  
projecting parts  
54 mm × 55 mm × 124 mm (2 1/4 in.  
× 2 1/4 in. × 5 in.) (w/h/d) including  
the projecting parts, and the supplied  
rechargeable battery pack attached  
Effective (Photo, 16:9): Approx. 310 000 pixels  
Effective (Photo, 4:3): Approx. 410 000 pixels  
Lens  
50 (Optical), 1 800 (Digital)  
F1.8 ~ F4.7  
Focal length:  
Mass (approx.)  
f=1.8 mm ~ 90 mm (3/32 in. ~ 4 3/8 in.)  
When converted to a 35 mm still camera  
For movies: 39 mm ~ 1 950 mm (1 9/16 in. ~  
76 7/8 in.) (16:9)  
For photos: 44 mm ~ 2 200 mm (1 3/4 in. ~  
86 5/8 in.) (4:3)  
DCR-SR15E/SR20E:  
270 g (9 oz) main unit only  
310 g (10 oz) including the supplied  
rechargeable battery pack  
DCR-SX15E/SX20E:  
190 g (6 oz) main unit only  
240 g (8 oz) including the supplied  
rechargeable battery pack and memory card  
Color temperature: [AUTO], [ONE PUSH],  
[INDOOR] (3 200 K), [OUTDOOR]  
(5 800 K)  
AC Adaptor AC-L200C/AC-L200D  
Minimum illumination  
Power requirements: AC 100 V - 240 V,  
3 lx (lux) ([AUTO SLW SHUTTR] is set to [ON],  
50 Hz/60 Hz  
shutter speed 1/25 second)  
Current consumption: 0.35 A - 0.18 A  
Power consumption: 18 W  
Output voltage: DC 8.4 V*  
Input/Output connectors  
A/V OUT jack: Video/audio output jack  
USB jack: mini-AB  
Operating temperature: 0 C to 40 C (32 °F to  
104 °F)  
(DCR-SR15E/SX15E: output only)  
Storage temperature: –20 C to + 60 C (-4 °F to  
+140 °F)  
GB  
61  
 
Dimensions (approx.): 48 mm 29 mm 81 mm  
(1 15/16 in. × 1 3/16 in. × 3 1/4 in.) (w/h/d)  
excluding the projecting parts  
On trademarks  
“Handycam” and  
are  
registered trademarks of Sony Corporation.  
Mass (approx.): 170 g (6.0 oz) excluding the  
“Memory Stick,” “  
,” “Memory Stick Duo,”  
,” “Memory Stick PRO  
,“Memory  
power cord (mains lead)  
Duo,” “  
* See the label on the AC Adaptor for other  
specifications.  
Stick PRO-HG Duo,”  
,” “Memory Stick  
Rechargeable battery pack NP-FV30  
Maximum output voltage: DC 8.4 V  
Output voltage: DC 7.2 V  
Maximum charge voltage: DC 8.4 V  
Maximum charge current: 2.12 A  
Micro,” “MagicGate,” “  
,”  
“MagicGate Memory Stick” and  
“MagicGate Memory Stick Duo” are trademarks  
or registered trademarks of Sony Corporation.  
“InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony  
Corporation.  
Capacity  
“DVDirect” is a trademark of Sony  
Corporation.  
Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks  
of Dolby Laboratories.  
typical: 3.6 Wh (500 mAh)  
minimum: 3.6 Wh (500 mAh)  
Type: Li-ion  
Microsoft, Windows, Windows Vista, and  
DirectX are either registered trademarks or  
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the  
United States and/or other countries.  
Macintosh and Mac OS are registered  
trademarks of Apple Inc. in the U.S. and other  
countries.  
Design and specifications of your camcorder and  
accessories are subject to change without notice.  
Manufactured under license from Dolby  
Laboratories.  
Intel, Intel Core, and Pentium are trademarks  
or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation  
or its subsidiaries in the United States and other  
countries.  
Adobe, the Adobe logo, and Adobe Acrobat  
are either registered trademarks or trademarks  
of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United  
States and/or other countries.  
SDXC and SDHC logo are trademarks of SD-  
3C, LLC.  
MultiMediaCard is a trademark of  
MultiMediaCard Association.  
All other product names mentioned herein may  
be the trademarks or registered trademarks of  
their respective companies. Furthermore, and  
are not mentioned in each case in this manual.  
6G2B  
Quick reference  
Screen indicators  
Indicator  
Meaning  
Upper left  
Center  
Upper right  
Estimated recording  
remaining time  
[00min]  
FADER  
Drop sensor off  
Drop sensor activated  
Approximate number of  
recordable photos and  
recording media  
Playback folder of  
memory card  
9999  
9999  
Bottom  
Upper left  
Indicator  
Meaning  
Current playing movie or  
photo/Number of total  
recorded movies or photos  
MENU button  
100/112  
Self-timer recording  
MICREF LEVEL low  
WIDE SELECT  
Bottom  
BLT-IN ZOOM MIC  
Remaining battery  
Recording folder of  
memory card  
Indicator  
Meaning  
60 min  
[FACE DETECTION] set  
to [OFF]  
Manual focus  
VIDEO LIGHT  
Return button  
SCENE SELECTION  
White balance  
SteadyShot off  
Center  
Indicator  
Meaning  
[STBY]/[REC]  
Recording status  
Photo size  
Slide show set  
EXPOSURE  
TELE MACRO  
Backlight  
OPTION button  
Warning  
Playback mode  
VIEW IMAGES button  
Slide show button  
Data file name  
Upper right  
Indicator  
101-0005  
Meaning  
Protected image  
Index button  
Movie mode/photo mode  
Recording mode (HQ/  
SP/LP)  
Recording/playback/  
editing media  
Counter (hour:minute:  
second)  
Indicators and their positions are approximate  
and may differ from what you actually see.  
Some indicators may not appear, depending on  
your camcorder model.  
0:00:00  
GB  
63  
     
Parts and controls  
Figures in ( ) are reference pages.  
DCR-SR15E/SR20E  
LCD screen  
If you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees, you  
can close the LCD panel with the LCD screen  
facing out. This is convenient during playback  
operations.  
LIGHT button  
Press to light up the LIGHT.  
Lens  
Multi-selector (15)  
LENS COVER switch  
Built-in microphone  
LED VIDEO LIGHT  
(VIEW IMAGES) button (25)  
DCR-SR15E/SR20E  
DCR-SX15E/SX20E  
Speaker  
DCR-SR15E: output only  
Lens  
LENS COVER switch  
Built-in microphone  
LED VIDEO LIGHT  
MODE button (21)  
(Backlight) button  
RESET button  
Press RESET using a pointed object.  
Press RESET to initialize all the settings  
including the clock setting.  
6G4B  
   
DCR-SX15E/SX20E  
DCR-SR15E/SR20E  
Speaker  
DCR-SX15E: output only  
MODE button (21)  
(Backlight) button  
RESET button  
Press RESET using a pointed object.  
Press RESET to initialize all the settings  
including the clock setting.  
Power zoom lever  
PHOTO button (24)  
POWER lamp  
START/STOP button (21)  
Hook for a shoulder belt  
Access lamp (memory card) (17)  
While the lamp is lit or flashing, the  
camcorder is reading or writing data.  
BATT (battery) release lever (12)  
Tripod receptacle  
Attach a tripod (sold separately) to the  
tripod receptacle using a tripod screw (sold  
separately: the length of the screw must be less  
than 5.5 mm (7/32 in.)).  
Memory card slot (17)  
GB  
65  
   
DCR-SX15E/SX20E  
Power zoom lever  
PHOTO button (24)  
POWER lamp  
START/STOP button (21)  
Access lamp (memory card) (17)  
While the lamp is lit or flashing, the  
camcorder is reading or writing data.  
BATT (battery) release lever (12)  
Tripod receptacle  
Attach a tripod (sold separately) to the  
tripod receptacle using a tripod screw (sold  
separately: the length of the screw must be less  
than 5.5 mm (7/32 in.)).  
Memory card slot (17)  
6G6B  
 
Index  
Screen indicators ........................63  
Self-diagnosis display.................55  
Setting the date and time...........13  
Software .......................................32  
Specifications ..............................61  
Supplied items...............................4  
Symbols  
L
16:9 ...............................................28  
4:3 .................................................28  
LANGUAGE SET.......................15  
M
A
Macintosh....................................32  
Maintenance................................59  
MEDIA SETTINGS....................16  
Memory card...............................17  
“Memory Stick” media...............18  
“Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo”  
media............................................18  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media  
.......................................................17  
Menus.....................................47, 50  
MOVIE MEDIA SET .................16  
Movies....................................21, 25  
MY MENU..................................47  
MY MENU SETTING...............47  
A/V connecting cable...........28, 45  
Altitude ..........................................6  
T
B
Thumbnail...................................30  
Tripod...........................................66  
Troubleshooting..........................54  
Turning the power on ................13  
TV.................................................28  
TV TYPE.....................................28  
Battery pack.................................10  
C
Capturing photos from a movie  
.......................................................38  
Care ..............................................59  
Charging the battery pack.........10  
Charging the battery pack abroad  
.......................................................12  
CLOCK SET................................13  
Computer.....................................32  
Computer system........................32  
Copy.............................................19  
Copying a disc.............................38  
Creating a disc ......................37, 42  
U
USB cable...............................42, 44  
USB CONNECT...................42, 44  
V
O
VBR ..............................................57  
VIEW IMAGES ..........................25  
VISUAL INDEX .........................25  
Volume.........................................26  
One Touch Disc Burn ................35  
Operation beeps..........................14  
Operation flow..............................7  
OPTION MENU ........................49  
D
W
P
DATA CODE ..............................14  
DATE/TIME................................14  
DELETE.......................................30  
Disc recorder...............................45  
Dubbing.......................................19  
DVDirect Express.......................42  
DVD writer............................42, 44  
Wall outlet (wall socket)............10  
Warning indicators.....................55  
Windows......................................32  
PHOTO MEDIA SET ................17  
Photos ....................................23, 25  
Playback.......................................25  
PMB (Picture Motion Browser)  
.................................................32, 35  
PMB Help....................................35  
Power on......................................13  
Precautions..................................59  
Z
Zoom............................................65  
E
Editing movies ............................38  
External media............................39  
R
Recording ....................................21  
Recording media.........................16  
Recording time of movies/  
number of recordable photos....57  
F
Fully charged...............................10  
Repair...........................................54  
RESET..........................................65  
H
You will find the menu lists  
“Handycam” Handbook.............53  
S
I
Saving images in external media  
.......................................................39  
Install............................................32  
Internal hard disk .......................16  
GB  
67  
 
Additional information on this product and  
answers to frequently asked questions can  
be found at our Customer Support Website.  
Printed in China  

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