4-447-514-12(1)
Table of contents
Digital HD Video
Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
Please also refer to :
HDR-CX220/CX220E/CX230/CX230E/CX280/CX280E/CX290/CX290E/
PJ220/PJ220E/PJ230/PJ230E
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
DANGER - TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE
OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
CAREFULLY FOLLOW THESE
INSTRUCTIONS.
Read these instructions.
Keep these instructions.
Heed all warnings.
Follow all instructions.
Do not use this apparatus near water.
Clean only with dry cloth.
Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two
blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong.
The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your
outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles,
and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the
apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury
from tip-over.
Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been
damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects
have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate
normally, or has been dropped.
If the shape of the plug does not fit the power outlet, use an attachment plug adaptor of the proper
configuration for the power outlet.
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Representative plug of power supply cord of countries/regions around the
world.
A Type
(American
Type)
B Type
BF Type
B3 Type
C Type
SE Type
O Type
(British Type) (British Type) (British Type) (CEE Type)
(CEE Type) (Ocean Type)
The representative supply voltage and plug type are described in this chart.
Depend on an area, Different type of plug and supply voltage are used.
Attention: Power cord meeting demands from each country shall be used.
For only the United States
Use a supplied power cord.
Europe
Countries/regions
Austria
Voltage
230
230
220
230
230
230
230
220
220
230
230
220
230
230
230
220
230
220
220
220
127/230
230
230
240
Frequency (Hz)
Plug type
C
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
Belgium
Czech
C
C
Denmark
Finland
France
C
C
C
Germany
Greece
C
C
Hungary
Iceland
C
C
Ireland
C/BF
C
Italy
Luxemburg
Netherlands
Norway
Poland
C
C
C
C
Portugal
Romania
Russia
Slovak
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
UK
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
BF
Asia
Countries/regions
Voltage
Frequency (Hz)
Plug type
China
220
200/220
230/240
127/230
100
50
A
BF
C
Hong Kong
India
50
50
Indonesia
Japan
50
C
50/60
60
A
Korea (rep)
Malaysia
Philippines
Singapore
Taiwan
220
240
C
50
BF
A/C
BF
A
220/230
230
60
50
110
60
GB
ꢀ
Countries/regions
Thailand
Vietnam
Voltage
220
220
Frequency (Hz)
Plug type
C/BF
A/C
50
50
Oceania
Countries/regions
Australia
New Zealand
Voltage
240
230/240
Frequency (Hz)
Plug type
O
O
50
50
North America
Countries/regions
Canada
USA
Voltage
120
120
Frequency (Hz)
Plug type
A
A
60
60
Central America
Countries/regions
Bahamas
Voltage
120/240
110
Frequency (Hz)
Plug type
60
60
60
60
60
60
60
50
60
60
60
A
A
Costa Rica
Cuba
110/220
110
A/C
A
Dominican (rep)
El Salvador
Guatemala
Honduras
Jamaica
Mexico
Nicaragua
Panama
110
A
120
A
110
A
110
A
120/127
120/240
110/220
A
A
A
South America
Countries/regions
Voltage
Frequency (Hz)
Plug type
Argentina
220
127/220
220
50
60
50
60
60
60
C/BF/O
A/C
C
A
A/C
A
Brazil
Chile
Colombia
Peru
120
220
Venezuela
120
Middle East
Countries/regions
Voltage
Frequency (Hz)
Plug type
Iran
220
50
50
50
50
50
50
C/BF
C/BF
C
Iraq
220
Israel
230
Saudi Arabia
Turkey
UAE
127/220
220
A/C/BF
C
240
C/BF
Africa
Countries/regions
Algeria
Voltage
127/220
220
Frequency (Hz)
Plug type
C
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
Congo (dem)
Egypt
C
220
C
C
C/BF
C/BF
C/BF
C/BF
C
Ethiopia
Kenya
Nigeria
South Africa
Tanzania
Tunisia
220
240
230
220/230
230
GB
220
ꢂ
Even if your camcorder is turned off, AC
power source (mains) is still supplied to
it while connected to the wall outlet (wall
socket) via the AC Adaptor.
CAUTION
Battery pack
If the battery pack is mishandled, the
battery pack can burst, cause a fire or even
chemical burns. Observe the following
cautions.
Note on the power cord (mains lead)
The power cord (mains lead) is designed
specifically for use with this camcorder
only, and should not be used with other
electrical equipment.
Do not disassemble.
Do not crush and do not expose the battery
pack to any shock or force such as hammering,
dropping or stepping on it.
For customers in the U.S.A. and CANADA
Do not short circuit and do not allow metal
objects to come into contact with the battery
terminals.
Do not expose to high temperature above 60°C
(140°F) such as in direct sunlight or in a car
parked in the sun.
Do not incinerate or dispose of in fire.
Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion
batteries.
Be sure to charge the battery pack using a
genuine Sony battery charger or a device that
can charge the battery pack.
Keep the battery pack out of the reach of small
children.
Keep the battery pack dry.
Replace only with the same or equivalent type
recommended by Sony.
RECYCLING LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES
Lithium-Ion batteries are
recyclable.
You can help preserve our
environment by returning
your used rechargeable
batteries to the collection and
recycling location nearest you.
For more information
regarding recycling of
rechargeable batteries, call
toll free
1-800-822- 8837, or visit
Dispose of used battery packs promptly as
described in the instructions.
Caution: Do not handle damaged or
leaking Lithium-Ion batteries.
Replace the battery with the specified type
only. Otherwise, fire or injury may result.
Battery pack
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired
operation.
AC Adaptor
Do not use the AC Adaptor placed in a
narrow space, such as between a wall and
furniture.
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.
This Class B digital apparatus complies
with Canadian ICES-003.
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ꢃ
For Customers in the U.S.A.
Declaration of Conformity
Trade Name: SONY
UL is an internationally recognized safety
organization.
The UL Mark on the product means it has
been UL Listed.
Model No.: HDR-CX230
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego,
CA 92127 U.S.A.
Telephone No.: 858-942-2230
If you have any questions about this
product, you may call:
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired
operation.
Sony Customer Information Center
1-800-222-SONY (7669)
The number below is for the FCC related
matters only.
Regulatory Information
Declaration of Conformity
Trade Name: SONY
Model No.: HDR-CX220
Declaration of Conformity
Trade Name: SONY
Model No.: HDR-PJ230
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego,
CA 92127 U.S.A.
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego,
CA 92127 U.S.A.
Telephone No.: 858-942-2230
Telephone No.: 858-942-2230
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired
operation.
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired
operation.
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ꢄ
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the
equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on
a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/
TV technician for help.
Declaration of Conformity
Trade Name: SONY
Model No.: HDR-CX290
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego,
CA 92127 U.S.A.
Telephone No.: 858-942-2230
The supplied interface cable must be used
with the equipment in order to comply with
the limits for a digital device pursuant to
Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired
operation.
FOR CUSTOMERS IN EUROPE
Notice for the customers in the
countries applying EU Directives
This product has been manufactured by
or on behalf of Sony Corporation, 1-7-1
Konan Minato-ku Tokyo, 108-0075 Japan.
Inquiries related to product compliance
based on European Union legislation
shall be addressed to the authorized
representative, Sony Deutschland GmbH,
Hedelfinger Strasse 61, 70327 Stuttgart,
Germany. For any service or guarantee
matters, please refer to the addresses
provided in the separate service or
guarantee documents.
CAUTION
You are cautioned that any changes or
modifications not expressly approved in
this manual could void your authority to
operate this equipment.
Note
This equipment has been tested and found
to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the
FCC Rules.
This product has been tested and found
compliant with the limits set out in the
EMC regulation for using connection cables
shorter than 3 meters (9.8 feet).
These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses, and
can radiate radio frequency energy and,
if not installed and used in accordance
with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the
user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following
measures:
Attention
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.
GB
ꢅ
will help to conserve natural resources.
In case of products that for safety,
Disposal of Old Electrical
& Electronic Equipment
(Applicable in the European
Union and other European
countries with separate
collection systems)
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.
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 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.
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
Disposal of waste batteries
(applicable in the European
Union and other European
countries with separate
collection systems)
A moulded plug complying with BS 1363 is
fitted to this equipment for your safety and
convenience.
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.
If the plug supplied with this equipment has
a detachable fuse cover, be sure to attach
the fuse cover after you change the fuse.
Never use the plug without the fuse cover.
If you should lose the fuse cover, please
contact your nearest Sony service station.
This symbol on the battery or on the
packaging indicates that the battery
provided with this product shall not be
treated as household waste.
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
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ꢆ
removing the battery pack or AC Adaptor
(models with an AC Adaptor) from the
camcorder, or applying mechanical shock
or vibration to the camcorder when the
or flashing
When the camcorder is connected to other
devices through a USB connection and the
power of the camcorder is turned on, do not
close the LCD panel. The image data that has
been recorded may be lost.
For information on your camcorder model,
see the following page:
About language setting
The on-screen displays in each local language
are used for illustrating the operating
procedures. Change the screen language before
using the camcorder if necessary.
Use the camcorder in accordance with local
regulations.
Select
[Setup] [ General
Settings] [Language Setting] a desired
language.
LCD Panel
On recording
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.
Before starting to record, test the recording
function to make sure the image and sound are
recorded without any problems.
Compensation for the contents of recordings
cannot be provided, even if recording or
playback is not possible due to a malfunction of
the camcorder, recording media, etc.
TV color systems differ depending on the
country/region. To view your recordings on
a TV, you need a TV that supports the signal
format for your camcorder. For details on the
signal format, refer to “How to use this manual”
(p. 12).
Television programs, films, video tapes,
and other materials may be copyrighted.
Unauthorized recording of such materials may
be contrary to the copyright laws.
Black points
White, red, blue or green points
About this manual, illustrations and
on-screen displays
Notes on use
Do not do any of the following. If any of those
are done, the recording media may be damaged,
recorded images may be impossible to play back
or may be lost, or other malfunctions could
occur.
ejecting the memory card when the access
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.
1G0B
Design and specifications of your camcorder
and accessories are subject to change without
notice.
and then press the center of the
selector to complete the selection.
In this manual, the internal memory (models
with internal memory) of the camcorder and
the memory card are called “recording media.”
In this manual, the DVD disc recorded with
high definition image quality (HD) is called
AVCHD recording disc.
Illustrations and screen images in this manual
are based on HDR-PJ230E unless otherwise
specified.
Supplied Items
The numbers in ( ) indicate the supplied
quantity.
Learning more about the
camcorder (“Handycam”User
Guide)
Camcorder (1)
HDMI cable (1)
“Handycam” User Guide is an on-line
manual. Refer to it for in-depth instructions
on the many functions of the camcorder.
USB connection support cable (1)
The USB connection support cable is
designed for use with this camcorder only.
Use this cable when the Built-in USB Cable of
the camcorder is too short for connection.
Access the Sony support page.
1
Rechargeable battery pack NP-FVꢁ0 (1)
Select your country or region.
“Operating Guide”(This manual) (1)
2
Only for HDR-CX280/CX280E/CX290/
CX290E/PJ220/PJ220E/PJ230/PJ230E
Search for the model name
of your camcorder within the
support page.
3
AC Adaptor (1)
Power cord (Mains lead) (1)
Check the model name on the bottom of
your camcorder.
Notes
The “PlayMemories Home” software and
“PlayMemories Home Help Guide” can be
downloaded from the Sony website (p. 32).
Selecting items on the LCD
screen
Move the multi-selector towards
GB
///to select the desired item,
11
How to use this manual
In this manual, the differences in the specifications for each model are described
together.
If you find the description “Models with ...” like below, confirm in this chapter whether the
description applies to your camcorder.
(Models with a projector)
(Models with the NTSC color system)
To confirm the model name of your camcorder
See the bottom of your camcorder.
Model name (HDR-xxx)
Differences in functions
Recording media
Internal
USB
connection
Model name
Signal format
SteadyShot
memory +
Memory card
Memory card
HDR-CX220/
PJ220
NTSC
Input/Output
Electronic
HDR-CX220E/
PJ220E
HDR-CX230/
PJ230
HDR-CX230E/
PJ230E
PAL
NTSC
PAL
Output only
Input/Output
Output only
Electronic
Electronic
Electronic
HDR-CX280
HDR-CX280E
HDR-CX290
HDR-CX290E
NTSC
PAL
Input/Output
Output only
Input/Output
Output only
Optical
Optical
Optical
Optical
NTSC
PAL
1GꢀB
Differences in equipment
Illustration used in this manual are based on HDR-PJ230E.
Model name
Projector
HDR-CX220/CX220E/CX230/CX230E/CX280/
CX280E/CX290/CX290E
HDR-PJ220/PJ220E/PJ230/PJ230E
Differences in supplied items
Model name
AC Adaptor
Power Cord (Mains lead)
HDR-CX220/CX220E/CX230/CX230E
HDR-CX280/CX280E/CX290/CX290E/
PJ220/PJ220E/PJ230/PJ230E
Notes
For the following items, the descriptions are explained with the model name.
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1ꢁ
Table of contents
Read this first.. . . . . . . . . . . ................................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.......................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Selecting items on the LCD screen............................ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Supplied Items.................................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
How to use this manual................................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Differences in functions......................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Differences in equipment....................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Differences in supplied items.................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Parts and controls.. . . . . . .................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Charging the battery pack............................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Attaching/Removing the battery pack....................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Adaptor).. . . . . . . . ................................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Charging the battery using your computer................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Setting.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Preparing your camcorder...................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Inserting a memory card ...................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Recording.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Zooming.. . . . . . . . ................................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Playback.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Playing images on a TV.................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Using the built-in projector (Models with a projector)............. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Playing images on a computer......................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Software for Mac.................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Preparing a computer (Windows)...................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Checking the computer system............................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Starting the “PlayMemories Home”software........................ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
1GꢇB
Creating a standard definition image quality (STD) disc with a recorder.. . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
(Models with an AC Adaptor).......................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Using menus.. . . . . . . . . . .................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Menu lists.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Troubleshooting.. . . . . ................................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Self-diagnosis display/Warning indicators......................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
About handling of your camcorder.................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Specifications.. . . . . . . . . .................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Screen indicators.. . . . . ................................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Index.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
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1ꢂ
Parts and controls
Figures in ( ) are reference pages.
LCD screen (21)
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.
Multi selector (11)
(View Images) button
PROJECTOR FOCUS lever (29)
Projector lens (29)
HDR-CX220/CX220E/CX230/CX230E/
CX280/CX280E/CX290/CX290E
Lens (Carl Zeiss lens)
LENS COVER switch
Built-in microphones
HDR-PJ220/PJ220E/PJ230/PJ230E
HDR-PJ220/PJ220E/PJ230/PJ230E
Speaker
PROJECTOR button (29)
1GꢃB
To fasten the grip belt
Power zoom lever (25)
PHOTO button (24)
POWER/CHG (charge) lamp (19)
Battery pack (18)
START/STOP button (24)
Multi/Micro USB Terminal
Supports Micro USB compatible devices.
Grip belt
Built-in USB Cable (19)
Memory card access lamp (22)
While the lamp is lit or flashing, the
camcorder is reading or writing data.
Tripod receptacle
Attach a tripod (sold separately: the length of
the screw must be less than 5.5 mm (7/32 in.)).
Depending on the specifications of the tripod,
your camcorder may not attach in the proper
direction.
Memory card slot (22)
BATT (battery) release lever (18)
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1ꢄ
Getting started
Charging the battery pack
For information on your camcorder model, see the following page:
Attaching/Removing the battery pack
Close the LCD screen and attach the
battery pack.
Align the indentation on the camcorder and
projection on the battery pack, then slide the
battery pack upwards.
To remove the battery pack, close the LCD
screen, then slide the BATT (battery) release
lever and remove the battery pack.
Battery pack
1GꢅB
Charging the battery using the AC Adaptor (Models with an AC Adaptor)
Connect the AC Adaptor () and the
power cord (mains lead) () to your
camcorder and the wall outlet (wall
socket).
The POWER/CHG (charge) lamp turns orange.
The POWER/CHG (charge) lamp turns off
when the battery pack is fully charged.
To the wall outlet
(wall socket)
DC plug
Align the mark on the DC
plug with that on the DC IN jack
POWER/CHG
(charge) lamp
DC IN jack
Charging the battery using your computer
Connect the camcorder to a running
computer using the Built-in USB
Cable.
The POWER/CHG (charge) lamp turns orange.
The POWER/CHG (charge) lamp turns off
when the battery is fully charged.
Use the USB connection support cable when the
Built-in USB Cable is too short for connection.
To the wall outlet
Built-in USB Cable
(wall socket)
GB
1ꢆ
To charge the battery using an AC-UD10 USB charger/AC Adaptor (sold
separately)
You can charge the battery by connecting the Built-in USB Cable to a wall outlet (wall socket)
using an AC-UD10 USB charger/AC Adaptor (sold separately). You cannot use a Sony CP-
AH2R, CP-AL, or AC-UP100 portable power supply device (sold separately) to charge the
camcorder.
Notes
In the default setting, the power turns off automatically if you leave your camcorder without any
operation for about 2 minutes, to save battery power ([Power Save], p. 39).
Charging time
Approximate time (min.) required when you fully charge a fully discharged NP-FV30 battery
pack (supplied).
When using the AC Adaptor (models with an AC Adaptor): 115 min.
When using your computer connected with the Built-in USB Cable*: 150 min.
The charging times shown above are measured when charging the camcorder at a room
temperature of 25 °C (77 °F). It is recommended that you charge the battery in a temperature
range of 10 °C to 30 °C (50 °F to 86 °F).
* The charging times are measured without using the USB connection support cable.
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Setting
For information on your camcorder model, see the following page:
Preparing your camcorder
Open the LCD screen of your
camcorder and turn the power
on.
1
To turn off the power, close the LCD
screen.
Select the desired language, the
geographical area, and the time
using the multi-selector.
2
To turn off the beep sound
Select
[Setup] [ General Settings] [Beep] [Off].
Notes
The recording date and time 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
[Setup] [
Playback Settings] [Data Code] [Date/Time].
Changing the recording media (Models with internal memory)
In the default setting, movies and photos are recorded on the internal memory. You can
change the recording media to a memory card.
Select
[Setup] [
Media Settings] [Media Select] the desired medium.
GB
ꢀ1
Inserting a memory card
Open the cover, and insert the memory card
until it clicks.
Access lamp
To eject the memory card, lightly push the
memory card in once.
Insert the card with the notched corner in
the direction as illustrated.
Notes
To ensure stable operation of the memory card, it is recommended to format the memory card with your
camcorder before the first use (p. 38). Formatting the memory card will erase all the data stored on it and
the data will be irrecoverable. Save your important data on your PC, etc.
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.
When inserting or ejecting the memory card, be careful so that the memory card does not pop out and
drop.
Types of memory card you can use with your camcorder
SD Speed
Class
Capacity
(operation
verified)
Described in this
manual
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media (Mark2)
“Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo” media
“Memory Stick XC-HG Duo” media
SD memory card
SDHC memory card
SDXC memory card
Up to 32 GB
Up to 64 GB
“Memory Stick PRO
Duo” media
—
Class 4 or
faster
Up to 64 GB
SD card
Operation with all memory cards is not assured.
Notes
A MultiMediaCard cannot be used with this camcorder.
Movies recorded on “Memory Stick XC-HG Duo” media and SDXC memory cards cannot be imported
to or played back on computers or AV devices not supporting the exFAT* file system by connecting the
camcorder to these devices with the USB cable. Confirm in advance that the connecting equipment is
supporting the exFAT system. If you connect an equipment not supporting the exFAT system and the
ꢀGꢀB
format screen appears, do not perform the format. All the data recorded will be lost.
* The exFAT is a file system that is used for the “Memory Stick XC-HG Duo” media and SDXC memory
cards.
GB
ꢀꢁ
Recording/Playback
Recording
For information on your camcorder model, see the following page:
Open the lens cover.
1
Open the LCD screen and select
[MODE] the desired shooting
2
mode.
Movie:
Photo:
Movie:
Press START/STOP.
3
You can record photos during movie
recording by pressing PHOTO (Dual
Capture).
Photo:
Press PHOTO.
To display items on the LCD screen
Items on the LCD screen disappear if you do not operate the camcorder for a few seconds
after you turn the camcorder on or switch between the movie recording and photo shooting
modes.
You can display the icons and indicators by pressing the multi-selector if they are not shown.
STBY
STBY
2h 25m
00:00:00
>9999
14h 48m
60i
:
16 9
L
8.9M
MODE
AUTO
ꢀGꢇB
Notes
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.
The media icon in the upper right of the LCD screen is flashing
Zooming
Move the power zoom lever to
magnify or reduce the size of the
image.
W (Wide angle): Wider range of view
T (Telephoto): Close view
In the default setting, you can magnify images up
to the following:
27 times optical zoom (models with electronic
SteadyShot)
50 times extended zoom (models with optical
SteadyShot)
Move the power zoom lever slightly for a slower
zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom.
To magnify images further (Extended Zoom) (Models with electronic
SteadyShot)
Set [
You can magnify images up to 32 times the original size by extending the wide angle.
To select the suitable setting automatically for the recording situation
(Intelligent Auto)
Select
[On]
on the recording screen of movies or photos, then point your camcorder
at the subject and record it.
GB
ꢀꢂ
Playback
For information on your camcorder model, see the following page:
You can search for recorded images by date and time of recording (Event View).
Open the LCD screen and press
1
the
button on the camcorder
to enter the playback mode.
You can enter the playback mode by
selecting
on the LCD screen.
Select
/
to move the desired
2
event to the center () and then
select it ().
The camcorder displays recorded images as
an event automatically, based on the date
and time.
Select the image.
3
4
The camcorder plays from the selected
image to the last image in the event.
Select the appropriate buttons
on the LCD screen for various
playback operations.
Volume
Delete
Context
Stop
Previous/Next
/
/
/
Fast-reverse/fast-forward
Play/Pause
Start/stop slide show
Some buttons described above may not appear, depending on the image being played back.
ꢀGꢃB
As you repeat selecting
10 times about 30 times about 60 times.
Select during pause to play movies slowly.
/
during playback, movies are played as fast as about 5 times about
/
To repeat Slideshow, select
button.
[Slideshow Set] when
is selected with the Switch Image Type
Notes
To prevent your image data from being lost, save all your recorded images on external media periodically.
(p. 35)
In the default setting, a protected demonstration movie is pre-recorded (HDR-PJ230/PJ230E).
To play back images with other devices
You may not be able to play back with other devices images that were recorded on your camcorder
normally. Also, you may not be able to play back images recorded on other devices with your camcorder.
Standard definition image quality (STD) movies recorded on SD memory cards cannot be played on AV
equipment of other manufacturers.
To delete images
Select on the playback screen of movies or photos.
GB
ꢀꢄ
Playing images on a
TV
For information on your camcorder model,
see the following page:
Play a movie or a photo on the
camcorder (p. 26).
3
Notes
Connection methods and the image quality
viewed on the TV screen differ depending
on what type of TV is connected, and the
connectors used.
Refer to the instruction manuals of the TV as
well.
You should use the AC Adaptor as the power
source (models with an AC Adaptor) (p. 19).
If the TV does not have the HDMI input
jack, use an AV Cable (sold separately) for
connection.
When movies are recorded with standard
definition image quality (STD), they are played
back in standard definition image quality (STD)
even on a high definition TV.
When you play back standard definition image
quality (STD) movies on a 4:3 TV that is not
High
definition
Standard
definition
Yellow
White
compatible with the 16:9 signal, set [
Wide
Mode] to [4:3] to record movies with 4:3 aspect
ratio.
If you connect your camcorder to the TV using
more than one type of cable to output images,
HDMI output takes priority.
Red
AV Cable
HDMI
Cable
(sold
separately)
(supplied)
On “Photo TV HD”
This camcorder is compatible with the
“Photo TV HD” standard. “Photo TV
HD” allows for highly-detailed, photo-like
depiction of subtle textures and colors.
By connecting Sony’s Photo TV HD-
compatible devices using an HDMI cable*,
a whole new world of photos can be
enjoyed in breathtaking HD quality.
* The TV will automatically switch to the
appropriate mode when displaying photos.
Signal flow
Switch the input on the TV to the
connected jack.
1
2
Connect the camcorder to a TV.
ꢀGꢅB
Using the built-in
projector (Models with a
projector)
Adjust the focus of the projected
image using the PROJECTOR
FOCUS lever.
3
4
For information on your camcorder model,
see the following page:
You can use a flat surface such as a wall as
a screen to view recorded images using the
built-in projector.
Move the selection frame using
the power zoom lever, then press
PHOTO.
Zoom lever
Face the projector lens towards a
surface, such as a wall, and then
press PROJECTOR.
1
PHOTO button
You can also use the multi-selector for the
operations above while projecting images.
To turn off the projector, press
PROJECTOR.
When the operating guide
screen appears, select [Project].
2
Notes
The LCD screen turns off while projecting
images.
Be careful of the following operations or
situations while using the projector.
Make sure not to project images towards the
eyes.
Make sure not to touch the projector lens.
The LCD screen and the projector lens
become hot while in use.
Using the projector shortens battery
life (using the supplied AC Adaptor is
recommended).
This screen appears the first time you use
the built-in projector after the camcorder
is turned on.
The following operations are unavailable while
you are using the projector.
Output of Highlight Playback to a device such
as a TV
GB
ꢀꢆ
Operation of the camcorder with the LCD
screen closed
Several other functions
When the projected images contain a lot of
black, faint color unevenness may appear. This
is caused by light reflection in the projector lens
and is not a malfunction.
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Saving movies and photos with a computer
Playing images on a computer
The “PlayMemories Home” software allows you to import movies and still images to your
computer to use them in a variety of ways.
What you can do with “PlayMemories Home”software (Windows)
View images in
a calendar
Upload to online services
Import images from
the camcorder
Create a disc
Share images in
“PlayMemories Online”
“PlayMemories Home” can be downloaded from the following URL.
Notes
An Internet connection is required to install “PlayMemories Home.”
An Internet connection is required to use “PlayMemories Online” and other online services. The services
may not be available in some countries/regions.
Software for Mac
The “PlayMemories Home” software is not supported with Mac computers. To import images
from the camcorder to your Mac and play them, use the appropriate software on your Mac.
For details, visit the following URL.
GB
ꢁ1
Preparing a computer
(Windows)
Installing the “PlayMemories
Home”software in your
computer
Checking the computer system
OS*1
Microsoft Windows XP SP3*2/Windows Vista
SP2*3/Windows 7 SP1/Windows 8
Access the following download
1
CPU*4
site using an Internet browser on
your computer, then click [Install]
[Run].
Intel Core Duo 1.66 GHz or faster, or Intel
Core 2 Duo 1.66 GHz or faster (Intel Core
2 Duo 2.26 GHz or faster is required when
processing FX or FH movies, and Intel Core
2 Duo 2.40 GHz or faster is required when
processing PS movies.)
Install according to the on-screen
instructions.
2
Memory
Windows XP: 512 MB or more (1 GB or
more is recommended)
When the on-screen instructions
prompting you to connect the camcorder
to a computer appear, connect the
camcorder to your computer with the
built-in USB Cable.
Windows Vista/ Windows 7/Windows 8:
1 GB or more
Hard disk
Disk volume required for installation:
Approximately 500 MB
Display
Minimum 1,024 × 768 dots
*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.
Built-in USB Cable
*3 Starter (Edition) is not supported.
*4 Faster processor is recommended.
When the installation completes,
“PlayMemories Home” starts up.
Notes
Operation with all computer environments is
not assured.
Notes on installation
If the “PlayMemories Home” software is
already installed on your computer, connect the
camcorder to your computer. Functions that
can be used with this camcorder will then be
available.
If the “PMB (Picture Motion Browser)”
software is installed on your computer, it will
be overwritten by the “PlayMemories Home”
software. In this case, you cannot use some
ꢁGꢀB
Starting the
“PlayMemories
Home”software
functions that were available with “PMB” with
this “PlayMemories Home” software.
Double-click the “PlayMemories
Home”icon on the computer
screen.
1
To disconnect your camcorder from
the computer
1
Click the
icon at the bottom right of
the desktop of the computer [Safely
remove USB Mass Storage Device].
When using Windows 8, select the
“PlayMemories Home” icon from the start
screen.
2
3
Select
screen.
[Yes] on the camcorder
Disconnect the USB cable.
Double-click the “PlayMemories
2
Home Help Guide”short-cut
icon on the computer screen to
see how to use “PlayMemories
Home.”
If you are using Windows 7 or Windows 8, click
, then click
.
Notes
When you access the camcorder from the
computer, use the “PlayMemories Home”
software. Operation is not guaranteed if you
operate the data using software other than
the “PlayMemories Home” software or you
directly manipulate files and the folders from
a computer.
Images cannot be saved to some discs
depending on the configuration selected in
[
REC Mode]. Movies recorded in [60p
Quality ](models with the NTSC color
system) / [50p Quality ](models with the
When using Windows 8, select
[PlayMemories Home Help Guide] from
the help menu of “PlayMemories Home.”
If the icon is not displayed on the
computer screen, click [Start] [All
Programs] [PlayMemories Home]
the desired item.
For details on “PlayMemories Home,”
select (“PlayMemories Home Help
Guide”) on the software or visit the
“PlayMemories Home” support page
(http://www.sony.co.jp/pmh-se/).
PAL color system) or [Highest Quality
mode can only be saved to a Blu-ray disc.
You cannot create a disc with movies recorded
in [ MP4] mode.
The camcorder automatically divides an image
file that exceeds 2 GB and saves the parts as
separate files. All image files may be shown as
separate files on a computer, however, the files
will be handled properly by the import function
and the playback function of the camcorder or
the “PlayMemories Home” software.
]
GB
ꢁꢁ
Saving images on an external media device
Creating a standard
definition image
quality (STD) disc
with a recorder
For information on your camcorder model,
see the following page:
Connect your camcorder to a disc recorder
with an AV Cable (sold separately). You
can copy images played back on your
camcorder on a disc or video cassette.
AV Cable
(sold separately)
Notes
You should connect your camcorder to the wall
outlet (wall socket) using the AC Adaptor when
performing this operation (models with an AC
Adaptor) (p. 19).
Red
White
Yellow
Refer to the instruction manual supplied with
the device connected.
You cannot copy images to recorders connected
with an HDMI cable.
Since copying is performed via analog data
transfer, the image quality may deteriorate.
High definition image quality (HD) movies
will be copied with standard definition image
quality (STD).
When you connect a monaural device, connect
the yellow plug of an AV Cable (sold separately)
to the video input jack, and the white (left
channel) or the red (right channel) plug to the
audio input jack on the device.
Signal flow
Connect your camcorder to the input jacks
of the recording device.
Start playback on your
camcorder, and record it on the
recording device.
3
Insert the recording medium
in the recording device (a disc
recorder, etc.).
When dubbing is finished, stop
the recording device, and then
your camcorder.
1
4
If your recording device has an input
selector, set it to the input mode.
Copying date and time information: [Data
Code] (p. 38)
Using 4:3 screen size display device: [TV Type]
(p. 38)
Connect your camcorder to the
recording device with an AV
Cable (sold separately).
2
ꢁGꢇB
Saving images on
an external media
device with high
definition (HD) image
quality (Models with an
AC Adaptor)
Connect your camcorder and
the external media device using
the USB Adaptor Cable (sold
separately).
1
For information on your camcorder model,
see the following page:
USB Adaptor Cable
VMC-UAM2
(sold separately)
You can save movies and photos on an
external media device (USB storage
devices), such as an external hard disk
drive. The following functions will be
available after you have saved your images
on an external media device.
You can connect your camcorder and the
external media device, and then play back
images stored on the external media device.
You can connect your computer and the
external media device and import images to
your computer using the “PlayMemories Home”
software (p. 33).
Select [Copy.] on the camcorder
screen.
2
Notes
For this operation, you need the USB Adaptor
Cable VMC-UAM2 (sold separately).
Connect the AC Adaptor and the power
cord (mains lead) to the DC IN jack of your
camcorder and the wall outlet (wall socket).
Refer to the instruction manual supplied with
the external media device.
Movies and photos that are stored on the
recording media, and that have not yet
been saved on to external media device
can be saved on the connected media
device at this time.
This operation is available only when
there are newly recorded images in your
camcorder.
To disconnect the external media device,
select
while the camcorder is in the
playback standby mode (either Event View
or Event Index is displayed).
GB
ꢁꢂ
Customizing your camcorder
Using menus
The camcorder has various menu items
under each of 6 menu categories.
To find a menu item quickly
The [Camera/Mic] and [Setup] menus have
sub-categories. Select the sub-category icon
so that the LCD screen displays the list of
menus in the sub-category selected.
Shooting Mode
Camera/Mic
Image Quality/Size
Playback Function
Edit/Copy
Setup
Select
.
Sub-category icons
1
2
3
When you cannot select a menu item
Grayed out menu items or settings are not
available.
When you select the grayed out menu item,
your camcorder displays the reason why
you cannot select the menu item or the
instruction of under which condition you
can set the menu item.
Select a category.
MENU
Shooting Mode
Camera/Mic
Image Quality/Size
Playback Function
Edit/Copy
Setup
Select your desired menu item.
Shooting Mode
STBY
Movie
Photo
Edit/Copy
Delete
Protect
Copy
Scrolls the
menu items
up or down
Direct Copy
Notes
Select
to finish setting the menu or to
return to the previous menu screen.
ꢁGꢃB
Menu lists
Shooting Mode
Movie .......................................... Records movies.
Photo........................................... Shoots photos.
Camera/Mic
Manual Settings
White Balance................. Adjusts the color balance to the recording environment.
Exposure........................... Adjusts the brightness of movies and photos. If you select [Manual], adjust
the brightness (exposure) using
/
.
Focus.................................. Adjusts the focus manually. If you select [Manual], select
to adjust
the focus for a nearby subject and
subject.
to adjust the focus for a distant
Low Lux............................. Records bright color images in the dim.
Camera Settings
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.
Self-Timer................. Sets the self-timer when your camcorder is in photo recording mode.
Tele Macro........................ Focuses on the subject with its background blurred.
SteadyShot.............. Sets the SteadyShot function when recording movies.
SteadyShot*1........... Sets the SteadyShot function when shooting photos.
Digital Zoom................... Sets the maximum zoom level of the digital zoom.
Auto Back Light.............. Adjusts the exposure for backlit subjects automatically.
Face
Face Detection............... Automatically detects faces.
Smile Shutter.................. Automatically takes a shot whenever a smile is detected.
Smile Sensitivity ............ Sets the smile detection sensitivity for the Smile Shutter function.
Microphone
Blt-in Zoom Mic ............. Records movies with vivid sound appropriate to the zoom position.
Wind Noise Reduct....... Reduces the wind noise recorded from the built-in microphone.
Micref Level..................... Sets the microphone level for recording.
Shooting Assist
My Button........................ Assigns functions to My Buttons.
Grid Line........................... Displays grid lines as a guide to make sure the subject is horizontal or
vertical.
Display Setting............... Sets the duration that icons or indicators are displayed on the LCD screen.
Image Quality/Size
REC Mode .......................... Sets the mode to record movies.
Frame Rate ........................ Sets the frame rate to record movies.
/
/
Setting.... Sets the image quality for recording movies.
Wide Mode........................ Sets the horizontal to vertical ratio when recording movies with standard
definition image quality (STD).
GB
ꢁꢄ
x.v.Color.............................. Records a wider range of colors. Set this item when you watch images with
a TV which is compliant with x.v.Color.
Image Size......................... Sets the photo size.
Playback Function
Event View................................. Starts playing images from the Event View display.
Highlight Movie ...................... Starts playing Highlight Playback scenes or Highlight Scenarios saved with
standard definition image quality (STD).
Scenario............................... Starts playing the scenarios that were saved by Highlight Playback.
Edit/Copy
Delete.......................................... Deletes movies or photos.
Protect ........................................ Protects movies or photos to avoid deleting.
Copy*2 ......................................... Copies images.
Direct Copy ............................... Copies images stored in the camcorder to some type of external media
device.
Setup
Media Settings
Media Info........................ Displays information on the recording media.
Format............................... Deletes and formats all data on the recording media.
File Number..................... Sets how to assign the file number to photos.
Playback Settings
Data Code........................ Displays information that was recorded automatically at the time of
recording.
Volume.............................. Adjusts the volume of playback sound.
Download Music*3 ........ Downloads your favorite music files from the computer to your camcorder
(while the camcorder is connected to the computer) that can be played
with the Highlight Playback scenes.
Empty Music*3 ................ Deletes all music files.
Connection
HDMI Resolution ........... Selects the output image resolution when connecting your camcorder to a
TV with the HDMI cable.
CTRL FOR HDMI ............. Sets whether or not the TV’s Remote Commander is to be used when
the camcorder is connected to a “BRAVIA” Sync compatible TV with the
HDMI cable.
USB Connect................... Select this item when no instructions appear on the LCD screen when you
connect your camcorder to an external device via USB.
USB Connect Setting ... Sets the connection mode when the camcorder is connected to a computer
or a USB device.
USB LUN Setting............ Sets the camcorder to improve the compatibility of a USB connection by
restricting some USB functions.
ꢁGꢅB
General Settings
Beep................................... Sets whether the camcorder sounds operation beeps or not.
LCD Brightness .............. Adjusts the brightness of the LCD screen.
Battery Info...................... Displays the approximate remaining battery time.
Power Save...................... Sets the LCD screen and the power so that they turn off automatically.
Initialize ............................ Initializes all the settings to the default settings.
Demo Mode.................... Sets playback of the demonstration movie about the functions of the
camcorder.
Clock Settings
Date & Time Setting ..... Sets the date and time.
1
2
3
*
*
*
HDR-CX280/CX280E/CX290/CX290E
HDR-CX230/CX230E/CX290/CX290E/PJ230/PJ230E
HDR-CX220/CX230/CX280/CX290/PJ220/PJ230
GB
ꢁꢆ
Others/Index
Troubleshooting
For information on your camcorder model,
see the following page:
The power does not turn on.
Attach a charged battery pack to the
camcorder (p. 18).
The plug of the AC Adaptor (models with an
AC Adaptor) has been disconnected from the
wall outlet (wall socket). Connect it to the
wall outlet (wall socket) (p. 19).
If you run into any problems using your
camcorder, follow the steps below.
inspect your camcorder.
The camcorder does not operate even
when the power is set to on.
It takes a few seconds for your camcorder to
be ready to shoot after the power is turned on.
This is not a malfunction.
Disconnect the AC Adaptor (models with an
AC Adaptor) from the wall outlet (wall socket)
or remove the battery pack, then reconnect it
after about 1 minute.
Disconnect the power source, attach
the power source again after about
1 minute, and turn the camcorder
on.
Select
[Setup]
Your camcorder gets warm.
[
General Settings] [Initialize].
If you select [Initialize], all settings,
including the clock setting, are reset.
Your camcorder may become warm during
operation. This is not a malfunction.
The power abruptly turns off.
Contact your Sony dealer or local
Use the AC Adaptor (models with an AC
Adaptor) (p. 19).
authorized Sony service facility.
In the default setting, the camcorder turns
itself off when no operations are performed for
on the power again.
You may need to initialize or change the
current internal memory (models with internal
memory) of your camcorder depending on the
problem. If you do so, the data stored on the
internal memory will be deleted. Be sure to
save the data on the internal memory on other
media (backup) before sending your camcorder
for repair. We will not compensate you for any
loss of internal memory data.
Pressing START/STOP or PHOTO does not
record images.
The playback screen is displayed. Stop the
During repair, we may check a minimum
amount of data stored on the internal memory
in order to investigate the problem. However,
your Sony dealer will neither copy nor retain
your data.
details on the symptoms of your camcorder, and
connecting your camcorder to a computer.
playback, and select
[Shooting
Mode] [ Movie] or [ Photo].
Your camcorder is recording the image you
have just shot on the recording media. You
cannot make new recording during this
period.
The recording media is full. Delete
unnecessary images (p. 27).
ꢇG0B
Self-diagnosis
display/Warning
indicators
For information on your camcorder model,
see the following page:
Total number of movie scenes or photos
exceeds the recordable capacity of your
camcorder. Delete unnecessary images (p. 27).
“PlayMemories Home”cannot be installed.
An Internet connection is required to install
“PlayMemories Home.”
Check the computer environment or
installation procedure required to install
“PlayMemories Home.”
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.
You may hear a melody when some
warning indicators appear on the screen.
“PlayMemories Home”does not work
correctly.
Quit “PlayMemories Home” and restart your
computer.
The camcorder is not recognized by the
computer.
Disconnect all USB devices from the USB jack
of your computer except the keyboard, mouse,
and your camcorder.
Disconnect the Built-in USB Cable from the
computer, and restart the computer, then
connect the computer and your camcorder
again in the correct order.
When both the Built-in USB Cable and the
USB jack of the camcorder are connected
to the external devices at the same time,
disconnect the one that is not connected to a
computer.
C:04:
The battery pack is not an “InfoLITHIUM”
battery pack (V series). Use an
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (V series)
(p. 18).
Connect the DC plug of the AC Adaptor
(models with an AC Adaptor) to the DC IN
jack of your camcorder securely (p. 19).
C:06:
The battery pack temperature is high. Change
the battery pack or place it in a cool place.
C:13:/ C:32:
Remove the power source. Reconnect it and
operate your camcorder again.
E::
The battery pack is nearly used up.
GB
ꢇ1
About handling of
your camcorder
For information on your camcorder model,
see the following page:
The battery pack temperature is high. Change
the battery pack or place it in a cool place.
When the indicator flashes, there are not
enough free spaces for recording images.
the memory card after storing the images on
other media (p. 38).
On use and care
The camcorder is not dustproofed, dripproofed
or waterproofed.
Do not hold the camcorder by the following
parts, and also do not hold the camcorder by
the jack covers.
The image data base file may be damaged.
Check the data base file by selecting
[Setup] [ Media Settings] [Repair
LCD screen
Battery pack
Img. DB F.] the recording medium (models
with internal memory).
The memory card is damaged.
Format the memory card with your camcorder
(p. 38).
Built-in USB Cable
The memory card is write-protected.
Access to the memory card was restricted on
another device.
Do not aim the camcorder 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.
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.
The camcorder is unsteady, so camera-shake
easily occurs. Hold the camcorder steady with
both hands and record the image. However,
note that the camera-shake warning indicator
does not disappear.
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.
The recording medium is full.
Photos cannot be recorded during processing.
Wait for a while, then record.
ꢇGꢀB
Near tuner devices such as TVs or radio.
Noise may occur.
On a sandy beach or anywhere dusty. If
sand or dust gets in your camcorder, it may
malfunction. Sometimes this malfunction
cannot be repaired.
Near windows or outdoors, where the LCD
screen, or the lens may be exposed to direct
sunlight. This damages the LCD screen.
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.
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.
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.
Note on the camcorder/battery pack
temperature
When the temperature of the camcorder
or battery pack becomes extremely high or
extremely low, you may not be able to record
or play back on the camcorder, due to the
protection features of the camcorder being
activated in such situations. In this case, an
indicator appears on the LCD screen.
Avoid rough handling, disassembling,
modifying, physical shock, or impact such
as hammering, dropping or stepping on the
product. Be particularly careful with the lens.
Keep the LCD screen closed when you are not
using your camcorder.
Notes on charging through the USB
cable
Do not operate your camcorder with it wrapped
in an object such as a towel.
When disconnecting the power cord (mains
lead), pull it by the plug and not the cord
(models with an AC Adaptor).
Do not damage the power cord (mains lead)
such as by placing anything heavy on it (models
with an AC Adaptor).
Do not use a deformed or damaged battery
pack.
Charging may not be possible with all
computers.
If you connect the camcorder to a laptop
computer that is not connected to a power
source, the battery of the laptop computer will
continue to use up its charge. Do not leave the
camcorder connected to a computer in this
manner.
Charging with a personally assembled
computer, with a converted computer, or
through a USB hub are not guaranteed.
The camcorder may not function correctly
depending on the USB device which is used
with the computer.
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.
GB
ꢇꢁ
When the camcorder is connected to
a computer or accessories
LCD screen
Do not apply excessive pressure on the LCD
screen, as it may cause uneven color and other
damage.
If your camcorder is used in a cold place, a
residual image may appear on the LCD screen.
This is not a malfunction.
While using your camcorder, the back of
the LCD screen may heat up. This is not a
malfunction.
Do not try to format the recording media of the
camcorder with a computer. If you do so, your
camcorder may not operate correctly.
When connecting the camcorder to another
device with communication cables, be sure to
insert the connector plug in the correct way.
Pushing the plug forcibly into the terminal
will damage the terminal and may result in a
malfunction of the camcorder.
When the camcorder is connected to other
devices through a USB connection and the
power of the camcorder is turned on, do not
close the LCD panel. The image data that has
been recorded may be lost.
To clean the casing and the projector
lens (Models with a projector)
Wipe the casing and the lens gently with a
soft cloth such as a cleaning cloth or eyeglass
cleaning cloth.
If the casing and the projector lens is very dirty,
clean the camcorder casing and the lens with
a soft cloth lightly moistened with water, and
then wipe the casing and the projector lens with
a dry soft cloth.
Notes on optional accessories
We recommend using genuine Sony accessories.
Genuine Sony accessories may not be available
in some countries/regions.
Avoid the following so as not to deform the
casing, damage the finish or scratch the lens:
Using chemicals such as thinner, benzine,
alcohol, chemical cloths, insect repellent,
insecticide and sunscreen
Handling the camcorder with the above
substances on your hands
On handling the LCD screen
If you leave fingerprints, hand cream, etc. on
the LCD screen, the coating of the LCD screen
will come off easily. Wipe those off as soon as
possible.
If you wipe the LCD screen strongly with a
tissue, etc., the coating of the LCD screen may
be scratched.
Leaving the camcorder in contact with rubber
or vinyl objects for a long period of time
If the LCD screen becomes dirty with
fingerprints or dust, it is recommended that you
gently remove those from the screen then clean
it with a soft cloth, etc.
About care and storage of the lens
Wipe the surface of the lens clean with a soft
cloth in the following instances:
When there are fingerprints on the lens
surface
In hot or humid locations
When the lens is exposed to salty air such as
at the seaside
Store in a well-ventilated location subject to
little dirt or dust.
To prevent mold, periodically clean and store
the lens as described above.
ꢇGꢇB
On charging the pre-installed
rechargeable battery
Note on disposal/transfer the
ownership of the camcorder (Models
with internal memory)
Your camcorder has a pre-installed
rechargeable battery to retain the date,
time, and other settings even when the
LCD screen is closed. The pre-installed
rechargeable battery is always charged
while your camcorder is connected to
the wall outlet (wall socket) via the AC
Adaptor (models with an 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. Charge the pre-installed
rechargeable battery before you start using
your camcorder.
Even if you delete all movies and still
images, or perform [Format] (p. 38),
data on the internal memory may not be
completely erased. It is recommended that
you select
[Setup] [
Media
Settings] [Format] [Empty] to
prevent the recovery of your data.
However, even if the pre-installed
rechargeable battery is not charged, the
camcorder operation other than date
recording will not be affected.
How to charge the pre-installed
rechargeable battery
Connect your camcorder to a wall outlet
(wall socket) using the AC Adaptor (models
with an AC Adaptor) or attach the fully
charged battery pack, and leave it with the
LCD screen closed for more than 24 hours.
GB
ꢇꢂ
Specifications
Approx. 2 290 000 pixels (HDR-CX280/
CX280E/CX290/CX290E)
Effective (photo, 16:9):
System
Signal format:
NTSC color, EIA standards (HDR-CX220/
CX230/CX280/CX290/PJ220/PJ230)
PAL color, CCIR standards (HDR-CX220E/
CX230E/CX280E/CX290E/PJ220E/PJ230E)
HD TV
Approx. 2 290 000 pixels
Effective (photo, 4:3):
Approx. 1 710 000 pixels
Lens:
Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar Lens
Movie recording format:
AVCHD (AVCHD format Ver.2.0
compatible):
HDR-CX220/CX220E/CX230/CX230E/
PJ220/PJ220E/PJ230/PJ230E:
27× (Optical)*5, 32× (Extended, while
recording movies)*4, 320× (Digital)
HDR-CX280/CX280E/CX290/CX290E:
27× (Optical)*4, 50× (Extended, while
recording movies)*5, 320× (Digital)
F1.9 ~ F4.0
Video: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264
Audio: Dolby Digital 2ch Dolby Digital Stereo
Creator*1
MPEG-2 PS:
Video: MPEG-2 (Video)
Audio: Dolby Digital 2ch Dolby Digital Stereo
Creator*1
Focal length:
f= 2.1 mm ~ 57.0 mm (3/32 in. ~ 2 1/4 in.)
When converted to a 35 mm still camera
For movies*4:
MP4:
Video: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264
Audio: MPEG-4 AAC-LC 2ch
29.8 mm ~ 953.6 mm (1 3/16 in. ~ 37 5/8 in.)
(16:9) (HDR-CX220/CX220E/CX230/
CX230E/PJ220/PJ220E/PJ230/PJ230E)
29.8 mm ~ 804 mm (1 3/16 in. ~ 31 3/4 in.)
(16:9) (HDR-CX280/CX280E/CX290/
CX290E)
1
*
Manufactured under license from Dolby
Laboratories.
Photo file format:
DCF Ver.2.0 Compatible
Exif Ver.2.3 Compatible
MPF Baseline Compatible
For photos: 29.8 mm ~ 804 mm (1 3/16 in. ~
31 3/4 in.) (16:9)
Recording media (Movie/Photo):
Internal memory
Color temperature: [Auto], [One Push], [Indoor],
HDR-CX230/CX230E/CX290/CX290E/
PJ230/PJ230E: 8GB
[Outdoor]
Minimum illumination:
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
SD card (Class 4 or faster)
6 lx (lux) (in default setting, shutter speed
1/30 second (HDR-CX220/CX230/CX280/
CX290/PJ220/PJ230) or 1/25 second (HDR-
CX220E/CX230E/CX280E/CX290E/PJ220E/
PJ230E))
The capacity that a user can use
HDR-CX230/CX230E/CX290/CX290E:
Approx. 7.75 GB*6
HDR-PJ230/PJ230E: Approx. 7.75 GB*2
3 lx (lux) ([Low Lux] is set to [On], shutter
speed 1/30 second (HDR-CX220/CX230/
CX280/CX290/PJ220/PJ230) or 1/25 second
(HDR-CX220E/CX230E/CX280E/CX290E/
6
*
1 GB equals 1 billion bytes, a portion of
which is used for system management
and/or application files.
1 GB equals 1 billion bytes, a portion of
which is used for system management
and/or application files. Only pre-
installed demonstration movie may be
deleted.
2
*
PJ220E/PJ230E))
3
*
The unique image processing system
of Sony’s BIONZ allows still image
resolution equivalent to the sizes
described.
4
5
Image device:
3.1 mm (1/5.8 type) CMOS Sensor
*
[
SteadyShot] is set to [Standard] or
[Off].
SteadyShot] is set to [Active].
Recording pixels (photo, 16:9):
Max. 8.9 mega (3 984 2 240) pixels*3
Gross: Approx. 2 390 000 pixels
Effective (movie, 16:9)*4:
*
[
Input/Output connectors
HDMI OUT jack: HDMI micro connector
USB jack: Type A (Built-in USB)
Multi/Micro USB Terminal*
Approx. 2 150 000 pixels (HDR-CX220/
CX220E/CX230/CX230E/PJ220/PJ220E/
PJ230/PJ230E)
*
Supports Micro USB compatible devices.
ꢇGꢃB
USB connection is only for output (HDR-
CX220E/CX230E/CX280E/CX290E/PJ220E/
PJ230E).
58 mm 57 mm 125 mm (2 3/8 in.
2 1/4 in. 5 in.) (w/h/d) including
the projecting parts, and the supplied
rechargeable battery pack attached
LCD screen
Mass (approx.)
Picture: 6.7 cm (2.7 type, aspect ratio 16:9)
Total number of pixels:
230 400 (960 240)
HDR-CX220/CX220E/CX230/CX230E:
178 g (6.3 oz) main unit only
222 g (7.8 oz) including the supplied
rechargeable battery pack
Projector (HDR-PJ220/PJ220E/PJ230/
PJ230E)
Projection type: DLP
Light source: LED (R/G/B)
Focus: Manual
Throw Distance: 0.5 m (1.6 feet) or over
Contrast ratio: 1500:1
HDR-CX280/CX280E/CX290/CX290E:
180 g (6.3 oz) main unit only
224 g (7.9 oz) including the supplied
rechargeable battery pack
HDR-PJ220/PJ220E/PJ230/PJ230E:
210 g (7.4 oz) main unit only
254 g (9.0 oz) including the supplied
rechargeable battery pack
Resolution (output): nHD (640 360)
AC Adaptor AC-L200C/AC-L200D (HDR-
CX280/CX280E/CX290/CX290E/PJ220/
PJ220E/PJ230/PJ230E)
Continuous projection time (when using the
supplied battery pack):
Approx. 50 min.
Power requirements: AC 100 V - 240 V,
General
50 Hz/60 Hz
Power requirements: DC 6.8 V/7.2 V (battery
pack) DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor (HDR-CX280/
CX280E/CX290/CX290E/PJ220/PJ220E/
PJ230/PJ230E))
Current consumption: 0.35 A - 0.18 A
Power consumption: 18 W
Output voltage: DC 8.4 V
Output current: 1.7 A
USB Charging: DC 5 V 500 mA/1.5 A
Operating temperature: 0 C to 40 C (32 °F to
104 °F)
Average power consumption:
During camera recording using LCD screen
at normal brightness:
Storage temperature: ‒20 C to +60 C (‒4 °F to
+140 °F)
HDR-CX220/CX220E/CX230/CX230E
HD: 2.1 W MP4: 1.9 W STD: 2.0 W
HDR-CX280/CX280E/CX290/CX290E/
PJ220/PJ220E/PJ230/PJ230E
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
HD: 2.2 W MP4: 2.0 W STD: 2.1 W
Mass (approx.): 150 g (5.3 oz) excluding the
Operating temperature: 0 C to 40 C (32 °F to
104 °F)
power cord (mains lead)
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
Storage temperature: ‒20 C to +60 C (‒4 °F to
+140 °F)
Dimensions (approx.):
HDR-CX220/CX220E/CX230/CX230E/
CX280/CX280E/CX290/CX290E:
52.5 mm 57 mm 117 mm (2 1/8 in.
2 1/4 in. 4 5/8 in.) (w/h/d) including the
projecting parts
Capacity
Typical: 3.6 Wh (500 mAh)
Minimum: 3.6 Wh (500 mAh)
52.5 mm 57 mm 125 mm (2 1/8 in.
2 1/4 in. 5 in.) (w/h/d) including
the projecting parts, and the supplied
rechargeable battery pack attached
HDR-PJ220/PJ220E/PJ230/PJ230E:
58 mm 57 mm 117 mm (2 3/8 in.
2 1/4 in. 4 5/8 in.) (w/h/d) including the
projecting parts
Type: Li-ion
Design and specifications of your camcorder and
accessories are subject to change without notice.
GB
47
The maximum recording time of movies and
number of photos that can be recorded, are
displayed on the screen (p.50).
Expected running times for the supplied
battery pack (in minutes)
These tables show the approximate available
running times when you use a fully charged
battery pack.
The recordable time may vary depending on
the recording and subject conditions, [
Mode].
REC
HDR-CX220/CX220E/CX230/CX230E
HDR-
CX220/
CX220E
On trademarks
“Handycam” and
HDR-CX230/CX230E
Recording media
are
registered trademarks of Sony Corporation.
“AVCHD,” “AVCHD Progressive,” “AVCHD”
logotype and “AVCHD Progressive” logotype
are trademarks of Panasonic Corporation and
Sony Corporation.
Internal memory
Memory card
Continuous
95
95
recording time
Typical
recording time
Playing time
45
45
“Memory Stick,” “
,” “Memory Stick Duo,”
,” “Memory Stick PRO
,” “Memory
“
145
145
Duo,” “
Stick PRO-HG Duo,” “
HDR-CX280/CX280E/CX290/CX290E/PJ220/
PJ220E/PJ230/PJ230E
,” “Memory Stick XC-HG Duo,” “
,” “MagicGate,” “
HDR-
,” “MagicGate Memory
Stick” and “MagicGate Memory Stick Duo” are
trademarks or registered trademarks of Sony
Corporation.
“InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony
Corporation.
“x.v.Color” and “x.v.Colour” are trademarks of
Sony Corporation.
CX280/
CX280E/
PJ220/
HDR-CX290/CX290E/PJ230/
PJ230E
Recording media
PJ220E
Internal memory
Memory card
Continuous
recording time
Typical
recording time
90
90
“BIONZ” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
“BRAVIA” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
Blu-ray Discand Blu-rayare trademarks
of the Blu-ray Disc Association.
Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks
of Dolby Laboratories.
The terms HDMI and HDMI High-Definition
Multimedia Interface, and the HDMI Logo are
trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI
Licensing LLC in the United States and other
countries.
Microsoft, Windows, Windows Vista, and
DirectX are either registered trademarks or
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the
United States and/or other countries.
Mac and Mac OS are registered trademarks of
Apple Inc. in the U.S. and other countries.
Intel, Intel Core, and Pentium are trademarks
or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation
or its subsidiaries in the United States and other
countries.
45
45
Playing time
135
135
Each recording time is measured when the
camcorder is recording high definition image
quality (HD) movies with [
to [Standard ].
Typical recording time shows the time when
you repeat recording start/stop, switching the
movie or photo mode, and zooming.
REC Mode] set
When using a Sony memory card.
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, depending on the conditions under
which you use your camcorder, such as when
use your camcorder in low temperatures.
ꢇGꢅB
Screen indicators
“ ” and “PlayStation” are registered
trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment
Inc.
The following indicators appear when you
change the settings.
SDXC logo is a trademark of SD-3C, LLC.
MultiMediaCard is a trademark of
MultiMediaCard Association.
Center
Left
Right
Facebook and the “f” logo are trademarks or
registered trademarks of Facebook, Inc.
YouTube and the YouTube logo are trademarks
or registered trademarks of Google Inc.
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.
Bottom
Left
Add further enjoyment with your PlayStation 3
by downloading the application for PlayStation 3
from PlayStation Store (where available.)
Indicator
Meaning
MENU button (36)
Self-timer recording (37)
Wide Mode (37)
The application for PlayStation 3 requires
PlayStation Network account and application
download.
Accessible in areas where the PlayStation Store is
available.
[Face Detection] set to
[Off] (37)
[Smile Shutter] set to [Off]
Manual focus (37)
Scene Selection (37)
White Balance (37)
SteadyShot off (37)
Destination (39)
Intelligent Auto (face
detection/scene detection/
camera-shake detection)
Center
Indicator
Meaning
Slideshow Set
Warning (41)
Playback mode (26)
GB
ꢇꢆ
Right
Indicator
Meaning
Recording image quality
(HD/MP4/STD), frame
rate (60p/50p/60i/50i),
recording mode (PS/FX/
FH/HQ/LP) and movie
Remaining battery
Recording/playback/
editing media (21)
Counter (hour:minute:
second)
Estimated remaining
recording time
60i
720
60min
0:00:00
00min
Approximate number of
recordable photos and
photo size (38)
9999
8.9M
Playback folder
100/112
Current playing movie or
photo/Number of total
recorded movies or photos
Connection to the external
media device (34)
Bottom
Indicator
Meaning
[Micref Level] low (37)
[Wind Noise Reduct.] (37)
Blt-in Zoom Mic (37)
Low Lux (37)
Exposure (37)
Intelligent Auto (25)
Data file name
Protect (38)
101-0005
Indicators and their positions are approximate
and may differ from what you actually see.
Some indicators may not appear, depending on
your camcorder model.
ꢂG0B
Index
Install............................................32
A
T
Attaching/Removing the battery
pack ..............................................18
AVCHD recording disc..............11
Tripod...........................................17
Troubleshooting..........................40
TV.................................................28
L
Language......................................10
LCD screen..................................24
B
U
Battery pack.................................18
Beep..............................................21
USB...............................................19
USB Adaptor Cable ....................35
USB connection support
cable..............................................11
M
Media select.................................21
Memory card...............................22
C
W
Care ..............................................42
Charging the battery pack using
your computer.............................19
Charging the battery using the
AC adaptor ..................................19
“Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo”
media............................................22
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
(Mark2)........................................22
“Memory Stick XC-HG Duo”
media............................................22
Warning indicators.....................41
Wind noise ..................................37
Windows......................................32
Z
Menu lists ....................................37
Menus...........................................36
Computer.....................................32
Creating discs..............................34
Zoom............................................25
N
D
Notes on handling of your
camcorder....................................42
Data Code....................................21
Date/Time....................................21
Display items on the LCD
screen ...........................................24
P
Parts and controls.......................16
Playback.......................................26
PlayMemories Home..... 11, 31, 32
Dual Capture...............................24
E
PlayMemories Home Help
Event View...................................26
External media device................35
Guide......................................11, 33
Projector ......................................29
R
F
Recording ....................................24
Recording and playback time ...48
Recording media.........................21
Repair...........................................40
Full charge ...................................20
G
Grip belt.......................................17
S
H
Saving images on an external
media device................................35
“Handycam” User Guide ...........11
HDMI Cable................................28
Screen indicators ........................49
SD card.........................................22
Self-diagnosis display.................41
Setting ..........................................21
Specifications ..............................46
Starting PlayMemories Home...33
Supplied Items.............................11
How to operate the
You will find the menu lists
I
Initial setup..................................21
GB
ꢂ1
Additional information on this product and
answers to frequently asked questions can be
found at our Customer Support Website.
2013 Sony Corporation
Printed in China
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