Sony HANDYCAM HDR XR500VE User Manual

4-131-475-11(1)  
Table of contents  
Getting started  
Recording  
Playback  
Saving movies and photos 23  
HDR-XR500E/XR500VE/  
XR520E/XR520VE  
with a computer  
Saving images with a DVD 34  
writer/ recorder  
Digital HD Video Camera Recorder  
Operating Guide  
Making good use of your 38  
camcorder  
Additional information  
2009 Sony Corporation  
relevant provisions of the Directive 1999/5/  
EC. For details, please access the following  
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.  
Notice for the customers in the  
countries applying EU Directives  
(HDR-XR500E/XR520E)  
The manufacturer of this product is Sony  
Corporation, 1-7-1 Konan Minato-ku  
Tokyo, 108-0075 Japan. The Authorized  
Representative for EMC and product safety  
is Sony Deutschland GmbH, Hedelfinger  
Strasse 61, 70327 Stuttgart, Germany. For  
any service or guarantee matters please  
refer to the addresses given in separate  
service or guarantee documents.  
Applicable Accessories: Wireless Remote  
Commander  
Disposal of waste batteries  
(applicable in the European  
Union and other European  
countries with separate  
collection systems)  
ATTENTION  
The electromagnetic fields at the specific  
frequencies may influence the picture and  
sound of this unit.  
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).  
This symbol on the battery or on the  
packaging indicates that the battery  
provided with this product shall not be  
treated as household waste.  
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.  
Notice  
If static electricity or electromagnetism  
causes data transfer to discontinue midway  
(fail), restart the application or disconnect  
and connect the 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  
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  
3
household waste disposal service or the  
shop where you purchased the product.  
CAUTION  
You are cautioned that any changes or  
modifications not expressly approved in  
this manual could void your authority to  
operate this equipment.  
For customers in the U.S.A.  
If you have any questions about this  
product, you may call:  
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.  
Sony Customer Information Center 1-800-  
222-SONY (7669).  
The number below is for the FCC related  
matters only.  
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:  
Regulatory Information  
Declaration of Conformity  
Trade Name: SONY  
Model No.: HDR-XR520E  
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.  
Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego,  
CA 92127 U.S.A.  
Telephone number: 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.  
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
Increase the separation between the  
equipment and receiver.  
Declaration of Conformity  
Trade Name: SONY  
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.  
Model No.: HDR-XR500E  
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.  
Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego,  
CA 92127 U.S.A.  
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.  
Telephone number: 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.  
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  
4
media may be damaged, recorded images may  
be lost or other malfunctions could occur.  
ejecting the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media  
removing the battery pack or AC Adaptor  
from the camcorder  
received, including interference that may  
cause undesired operation.  
Supplied items  
Do not apply shock or vibration to the  
camcorder. The camcorder may not be able to  
record or play movies and photos.  
Do not use the camcorder in very loud areas.  
The camcorder may not be able to record or  
play movies and photos.  
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.  
Do not close the LCD screen when the  
camcorder is connected to another device with  
the USB cable. Your recorded images may be  
lost.  
The numbers in ( ) are the supplied  
quantity.  
AC Adaptor (1)  
Power cord (Mains lead) (1)  
Component A/V cable (1)   
A/V connecting cable (1)   
USB cable (1)   
Wireless Remote Commander (1)  
A button-type lithium battery is already  
installed. Remove the insulation sheet before  
using the Wireless Remote Commander.  
Insulation sheet  
Even if the camcorder is turned off, the GPS  
function is working as long as the GPS switch  
is set to ON. Make sure that the GPS switch is  
set to OFF during take off and landing of an  
airplane (HDR-XR500VE/XR520VE).  
To protect the internal hard disk from shock  
by dropping, the camcorder has 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.  
Rechargeable battery pack NP-FH60 (1)  
CD-ROM “Handycam Application  
Software” (1)  
“PMB” (software, including “PMB Guide”)  
“Handycam Handbook” (PDF)  
“Operating Guide” (This manual) (1)  
When the temperature of the camcorder  
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, a message appears on the LCD screen  
or in the viewfinder (p. 50).  
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  
hard disk drive of the camcorder.  
See page 40 for the “Memory Stick” media you  
can use with this camcorder.  
Notes on use  
Using the camcorder  
The camcorder is not dustproofed, dripproofed  
or waterproofed. See “Precautions” (p. 51).  
Do not do any of the following when the  
(Movie)/ (Photo) mode lamps (p. 12) or the  
ACCESS lamps (p. 10), the access lamp (p. 41)  
are lit or flashing. Otherwise, the recording  
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] (p. 38).  
The viewfinder and the LCD screen are  
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.  
Devices which are not compatible with the  
AVCHD format  
Discs recorded with high definition  
image quality (HD)  
This camcorder captures high definition footage  
in the AVCHD format. DVD media containing  
AVCHD footage should not be used with DVD  
based players or recorders, as the DVD player/  
recorder may fail to eject the media and may  
erase its contents without warning. DVD media  
containing AVCHD footage may be played on  
a compatible Blu-ray Discplayer/recorder or  
other compatible device.  
On recording  
About language setting  
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 PAL system-based TV.  
Television programs, films, video tapes,  
and other materials may be copyrighted.  
Unauthorized recording of such materials may  
be contrary to the copyright laws.  
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 (p. 13).  
About this manual  
The images of the LCD screen used in this  
manual for illustration purposes are captured  
using a digital still camera, and therefore may  
appear different from the actual images of the  
LCD screen.  
In this Operating Guide, the hard disk of the  
camcorder and “Memory Stick PRO Duo”  
media are called “recording media.”  
To prevent your image data from being lost,  
save all your recorded images on external media  
periodically. It is recommended that you save  
the image data on a disc such as DVD-R using  
your computer. Also, you can save your image  
data using a VCR, or a DVD/HDD recorder.  
In this Operating Guide, both “Memory Stick  
PRO Duo” media and “Memory Stick PRO-HG  
Duo” media are referred as “Memory Stick PRO  
Duo” media.  
You will find the “Handycam Handbook” (PDF)  
on the supplied CD-ROM (p. 48).  
The screenshots are from Windows Vista. The  
scenes may vary depending on the operating  
system of the computer.  
On playing back recorded images on  
other devices  
The camcorder is compatible with MPEG-4  
AVC/H.264 High Profile for high definition  
image quality (HD) recording. Therefore, you  
cannot play back images recorded with high  
definition image quality (HD) on the camcorder  
with the following devices;  
Other AVCHD format compatible devices  
which are not compatible with High Profile  
Operation flow  
Recording movies and photos (p. 14)  
In the default settings, movies are recorded with high definition  
image quality (HD) on the internal hard disk.  
In the default settings, photos are recorded on the internal hard  
disk.  
You can change the recording media selected, and the image  
quality of movies (p. 40, 44).  
Playing movies and photos (p. 18)  
Playing movies and photos on your camcorder (p. 18)  
Playing movies and photos on a connected TV (p. 21)  
Saving movies and photos on a disc  
Saving movies and photos with a computer (p. 23)  
You can create a disc with either high definition image quality  
(HD) or standard definition image quality (SD) from high  
definition image quality (HD) movies imported to the computer.  
See page 26 on the characteristics of each type of disc.  
Creating a disc with a DVD writer or a recorder (p. 34)  
Deleting movies and photos (p. 38)  
You can free recording space by deleting movies and photos that  
you have saved on other media, from the internal hard disk.  
 
Table of contents  
8
 
9
Getting started  
Step 1: Charging the battery pack  
Battery pack  
DC IN jack  
DC plug  
ACCESS lamp  
(hard disk)  
Power cord (mains lead)  
AC Adaptor  
/CHG lamp  
To the wall outlet (wall socket)  
You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (H series) after attaching it to your  
camcorder.  
You cannot attach any “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack other than the H series to your camcorder.  
Turn off your camcorder by retracting the viewfinder and closing the LCD  
screen.  
1
2
3
Attach the battery pack by sliding it in the direction of the arrow until it  
clicks.  
Connect the AC Adaptor and the power cord (mains lead) to your  
camcorder and the wall outlet (wall socket).  
Align the mark on the DC plug with that on the DC IN jack.  
The /CHG lamp lights up and charging starts. The /CHG lamp turns off when the  
battery pack is fully charged.  
When the battery is charged, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN  
jack of your camcorder.  
4
10  
         
See page 55 on charging, 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.  
To remove the battery pack  
Retract the viewfinder and 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.”  
Notes on the battery pack and the AC Adaptor  
When you remove the battery pack or disconnect the AC Adaptor, retract the viewfinder and close the  
LCD screen, then make sure that the  
access lamp(p. 41) are turned off.  
(Movie) lamp/ (Photo) lamp (p. 12)/ACCESS lamps (p. 10)/  
Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC Adaptor or battery terminal with any metallic objects. This  
may cause a malfunction.  
In the default setting, the power turns off automatically if you leave your camcorder without any  
operation for approximately 5 minutes, to save battery power ([A.SHUT OFF]).  
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.  
Do not use an electronic voltage transformer.  
11  
       
Step 2: Turning the power on, and setting the  
date and time  
Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.  
1
Your camcorder is turned on.  
To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is open, press POWER.  
POWER  
(Movie): To record movies  
(Photo): To record photos  
Select the desired geographical area with  
/
, then touch [NEXT].  
2
3
Touch the button on the  
LCD screen.  
To set the date and time again, touch  
(HOME)   
(SETTINGS) [CLOCK/ LANG]   
[CLOCK SET]. When an item is not on the screen, touch  
/
until the item appears.  
Set [SUMMERTIME], date and time, then touch  
.
The clock starts.  
If you set [SUMMERTIME] to [ON], the clock advances 1 hour.  
The date and time does not appear during recording, but they are automatically recorded on the  
recording media, and can be displayed during playback. To display the date and time, touch (HOME)  
(SETTINGS) [VIEW IMAGES SET] [DATA CODE] [DATE/TIME]   
.
You can turn off the operation beeps by touching  
SET] [BEEP] [OFF]   
(HOME)   
(SETTINGS) [SOUND/DISP  
.
12  
             
To turn off the power  
Close the LCD screen. The (Movie) lamp flashes several seconds, then the camcorder is  
turned off.  
POWER  
You can turn off your camcorder also by pressing POWER.  
If the viewfinder is pulled out, retract the viewfinder as shown in the illustration below.  
Changing the language setting  
You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language.  
Touch (HOME)   
(SETTINGS) [CLOCK/ LANG] [ LANGUAGE SET]  
the desired language   
.
On turning the camcorder on or off using the LCD screen or the viewfinder  
The power of the camcorder is turned on or off depending on the status of the LCD screen or  
the viewfinder.  
Status  
Viewfinder  
Power of the  
camcorder  
LCD screen  
Open  
Retracted  
Pulled out  
Retracted  
Pulled out  
On  
On  
Off  
On  
Closed  
13  
     
Recording  
Recording  
Recording movies  
In the default setting, movies are recorded with  
high definition image quality (HD) on the hard disk  
(p. 40, 44).  
Fasten the grip belt.  
Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.  
Your camcorder is turned on.  
To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is already open, press POWER.  
Press START/STOP to start recording.  
Zoom lever  
Wide  
Telephoto  
[STBY] [REC]  
To stop recording, press START/STOP again.  
Move the power zoom lever slightly for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom.  
If you close the LCD screen during recording, the camcorder stops recording.  
See page 55 on the recordable time of movies.  
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.  
You can change the recording media and image quality (p. 40, 44).  
14  
             
You can change the recording mode of movies (p. 44).  
[ STEADYSHOT] is set to [ACTIVE] 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 (). If you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees to the lens side (), you can record  
movies/photos in mirror mode.  
90 degrees (max.)  
90 degrees to the camcorder  
180 degrees (max.)  
When you make recording by only using the viewfinder, pull out the viewfinder and close the LCD panel  
(), then adjust the angle to your preference (). If the indicators on the viewfinder appear blurred,  
adjust the focus with the viewfinder lens adjustment lever located beneath the viewfinder.  
In the default setting, a photo is recorded automatically when the camcorder detects the smile of a person  
during movie recording ([SMILE SHUTTER]). An orange frame appears around a face targeted for  
possible smile detection shot. You can change the setting in the menu.  
You can increase the zooming level by using the digital zoom. Set the zooming level by touching  
(HOME)   
(SETTINGS) [MOVIE SETTINGS] [DIGITAL ZOOM] the desired setting  
.
When viewing movies on an x.v.Color-compliant TV, record movies with the x.v.Color function. Touch  
(HOME) (SETTINGS) [MOVIE SETTINGS] [X.V.COLOR] [ON]   
. Some settings may be required on a TV to view the movies. Refer to the instruction manuals of  
the TV.  
Shooting photos  
In the default setting, photos are recorded on the hard disk (p. 40).  
Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.  
Your camcorder is turned on.  
To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is already open, press POWER.  
1ꢀ  
         
Press MODE to turn on the (Photo) lamp.  
The aspect ratio of the screen becomes 4:3.  
Press PHOTO lightly to adjust the focus, then press it fully.  
Zoom lever  
Wide  
Telephoto  
Flashes Lights up  
When  
disappears, the photo is recorded.  
Move the power zoom lever slightly for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom.  
You can check the recordable number of photos on the LCD screen (p. 58).  
To change the image size, touch (HOME) (SETTINGS) [PHOTO SETTINGS]   
IMAGE SIZE] a desired setting   
[
.
You can record photos during movie recording by pressing PHOTO. The image file size is 8.3M when  
recording high definition image quality (HD) movies.  
Your camcorder flashes automatically when there is insufficient ambient light. The flash does not work  
during movie recording. You can change how your camcorder flashes by touching  
(SETTINGS) [PHOTO SETTINGS] [FLASH MODE] a desired setting   
(HOME)   
.
You cannot record photos while  
is displayed.  
1ꢁ  
       
Recording and playing movies and photos easily (Easy Handycam  
operation)  
Simply press EASY.  
To cancel Easy Handycam operation, press EASY again after you finish recording, or menu  
operations. During Easy Handycam operation, you can set basic options, such as changing  
the image size or deleting images, among the setting and adjustment items. Other items are  
set automatically.  
When Easy Handycam operation is started, nearly all menu settings are reset to the default settings  
automatically. (Some menu items retain the settings that were made before Easy Handycam  
operation.)  
appears during Easy Handycam operation mode.  
Acquiring recording location information using the GPS (HDR-XR500VE/  
XR520VE)  
When you set the GPS switch to ON,  
appears on the LCD screen, and your camcorder  
acquires the location information from the GPS satellites. Acquiring the location information  
enables you to use functions such as the Map Index.  
The indicator changes according to the strength of GPS signal reception.  
Make sure that the GPS switch is set to OFF during take off and landing of an airplane.  
Built-in map is powered by companies as follows; Map of Japan by ZENRIN CO., LTD., other areas  
by NAVTEQ.  
1ꢂ  
     
Playback  
Playback.on.the.camcorder  
In the default setting, movies and photos on the internal hard disk are played (p. 40).  
Playing movies  
Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.  
Your camcorder is turned on.  
To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is already open, press POWER.  
Press (VIEW IMAGES).  
The VISUAL INDEX screen appears after some seconds.  
You can display the VISUAL INDEX screen by pressing  
(VIEW IMAGES) on the LCD screen  
as well.  
Touch the  
(or  
) tab a desired movie .  
To the HIGHLIGHT  
PLAYBACK screen  
To the screen to select  
the index type  
To the list of recording  
dates  
Previous  
Next  
To return to recording  
mode  
/  
appears on the movie/photo that was played or recorded most recently. Touch the image to  
continue playing from the scene.  
18  
         
Your camcorder starts playing the selected movie.  
Previous  
Volume  
Next  
OPTION MENU  
To fast-forward  
To stop  
To fast-reverse  
To pause/play  
When playback from the selected movie reaches the last movie, the screen returns to the VISUAL  
INDEX screen.  
Touch  
As you repeat touching  
about 10 times about 30 times  
/
during pause to play back movies slowly.  
during playback, movies are played as fast as about 5 times   
about 60 times.  
/
You can turn on or off the on-screen display by pressing DISP located on the panel behind the LCD  
panel.  
The recording date, time, and shooting conditions are recorded automatically during recording.  
This information are not displayed during recording, but you can display it during playback by  
touching  
desired setting  
Protected demonstration movie has been provided on your camcorder when you buy it.  
(HOME)   
(SETTINGS)   
[
VIEW IMAGES SET]   
[
DATA CODE]   
a
.
To adjust the sound volume of movies  
While playing back movies, touch  
adjust with  
/
.
You can adjust the sound volume from the OPTION MENU (p. 42).  
Viewing photos  
Touch (Photo) a desired photo on the VISUAL INDEX screen.  
Displays the Map Index  
screen (p. 43) (HDR-  
XR500VE/XR520VE)  
19  
     
Your camcorder displays the selected photo.  
Previous  
To start/stop slide show  
Next  
To the VISUAL INDEX  
screen  
You can zoom in the photo by moving the zoom lever while viewing photos (PB ZOOM). If you touch a  
point in the PB ZOOM frame, the point comes to the center in the frame.  
When viewing photos recorded on a “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media,  
(playback folder) appears  
on the screen.  
20  
   
Playing images on a TV  
Connection methods and the image quality (high definition (HD) or standard definition  
(SD)) played on the TV screen differ depending on what type of TV is connected, and the  
connectors used. You can connect your camcorder to the TV easily following the instructions  
of [TV CONNECT Guide].  
Connecting a TV using [TV CONNECT Guide]  
Switch the input on the TV to the connected jack.  
Refer to the instruction manuals of the TV.  
Turn on your camcorder, and touch (HOME)   
CONNECT Guide] on the LCD screen.  
(OTHERS) [TV  
When an item is not on the screen, touch  
/
until the item appears.  
Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the power source (p. 11).  
Connect your camcorder and TV referring to [TV CONNECT Guide].  
Select the TV type.  
High Definition TV  
16:9 or 4:3 TV  
TV CONNECT Guide  
Connectors on your camcorder  
Input connectors on  
the TV  
A/V Remote Connector  
HDMI OUT (mini) jack  
When the A/V connecting cable is used to output movies, movies are output with standard  
definition image quality (SD).  
Play back movies and photos on your camcorder (p. 18).  
21  
     
Make the required output settings on your camcorder.  
To connect a high definition TV via component video jacks:  
(HOME)   
(SETTINGS) [OUTPUT SETTINGS] [COMPONENT] [1080i/576i]  
To connect a non-high-definition TV via component video jacks:  
(HOME)   
(SETTINGS) [OUTPUT SETTINGS] [COMPONENT] [576i]   
To connect a 4:3 TV:  
(HOME)   
(SETTINGS) [OUTPUT SETTINGS] [TV TYPE] [4:3]   
To activate “BRAVIASync:  
(HOME)   
(SETTINGS) [GENERAL SET] [CTRL FOR HDMI] [ON]   
On “PhotoTV HD”  
This camcorder is compatible with the “PhotoTV HD” standard. “PhotoTV HD” allows for  
highly-detailed, photo-like depiction of subtle textures and colors. By connecting Sonys  
PhotoTV HD-compatible devices using an HDMI cable (sold separately)* or the component  
A/V cable (supplied)**, a whole new world of photos can be enjoyed in breathtaking full HD  
quality.  
* The TV will automatically switch to the appropriate mode when displaying photos.  
**Setup of the TV will be necessary. Please refer to the instruction manual of your PhotoTV HD-  
compatible TV for details.  
22  
     
Saving movies and photos with a computer  
Preparing a computer  
(Windows)  
Software  
DirectX 9.0c or later  
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  
(This product is based on DirectX  
technology. It is necessary to have DirectX  
installed)  
Memory  
For Windows XP: 512 MB or more (1 GB or  
more is recommended.)  
However, 256 MB or more is sufficient for  
processing only the movies with standard  
definition image quality (SD).  
CD-ROM beforehand.  
For Windows Vista: 1 GB or more  
Hard disk  
Do not format the hard disk of your camcorder  
from a computer. Your camcorder may not  
operate correctly.  
Disk volume required for installation:  
Approximately 500 MB (10 GB or more may  
be necessary when creating AVCHD format  
discs. 50 GB maximum may be necessary  
when creating Blu-ray discs.)  
This camcorder captures high definition footage  
in the AVCHD format. Using the enclosed  
PC software, high definition footage can be  
copied onto DVD media. However, DVD media  
containing AVCHD footage should not be used  
with DVD based players or recorders, as the  
DVD player/recorder may fail to eject the media  
and may erase its contents without warning.  
Display  
Minimum 1,024 × 768 dots  
Others  
USB port (this must be provided as standard,  
Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0 compatible)), Blu-  
ray disc/DVD burner (CD-ROM drive is  
necessary for installation)  
Either NTFS or exFAT file system is  
recommended as the hard disk file system.  
Step 1 Checking the computer  
system  
OS*1  
Operation with all computer environments is  
not assured.  
Microsoft Windows XP SP3*2/Windows Vista  
SP1*3  
CPU  
*1 Standard installation is required. Operation is  
not assured if the OS has been upgraded or in a  
multi-boot environment.  
Intel Pentium 4 2.8 GHz or faster (Intel  
Pentium 4 3.6 GHz or faster, Intel Pentium D  
2.8 GHz or faster, Intel Core Duo 1.66 GHz or  
faster, or Intel Core 2 Duo 1.66 GHz or faster  
is recommended.)  
*2 64-bit editions and Starter (Edition) are not  
supported.  
*3 Starter (Edition) is not supported.  
However, Intel Pentium III 1 GHz or faster is  
sufficient for the following operations:  
Importing the movies and photos to the  
computer  
When using a Macintosh  
The supplied software “PMB” is not  
supported by Macintosh computers.  
To process photos using a Macintosh  
computer connected to your camcorder,  
see the following website.  
One Touch Disc Burn  
Creating an Blu-ray disc/AVCHD format  
disc/DVD-video (Intel Pentium 4, 2.8 GHz  
or faster, is required when creating a DVD  
video by converting high definition image  
quality (HD) to standard definition image  
quality (SD).)  
ms/us/  
Copying a disc  
23  
       
Step 2 Installing the supplied  
software “PMB”  
Click [Install].  
Install “PMB” before connecting your  
camcorder to a computer.  
If a version of “PMB” supplied with another  
device has already been installed on the  
computer, check the version. (The version  
number is displayed by clicking [Help] - [About  
PMB].) Compare the version number of the  
supplied CD-ROM with that of the previously  
installed “PMB,” check to ensure that the  
versions have been installed in order, from the  
lower to the higher. If the version number of  
the previously installed “PMB” is higher than  
that of the “PMB” of your camcorder, uninstall  
“PMB” from the computer and then re-install  
it in order, from lower to higher. If you install a  
higher version of “PMB” first, some functions  
may not work correctly.  
Select the language for the  
application to be installed, then  
click [Next].  
Turn on your camcorder, then  
connect the camcorder to the  
computer using the supplied USB  
cable.  
See page 48 on the “Handycam Handbook.”  
Confirm that your camcorder is  
not connected to the computer.  
Turn on the computer.  
Log on as an Administrator for  
installation.  
Close all applications running on the  
computer before installing the software.  
The [USB SELECT] screen appears on  
the camcorder screen automatically.  
Touch [ USB CONNECT] on the  
camcorder screen.  
Place the supplied CD-ROM in  
If the [USB SELECT] screen does  
the disc drive of your computer.  
not appear, touch  
(HOME)   
The installation screen appears.  
If the screen does not appear, click  
[Start] [Computer] (in Windows  
XP, [My Computer]), then double-click  
[SONYPICTUTIL (E:)] (CD-ROM).  
(OTHERS) [USB CONNECT].  
24  
   
To disconnect your camcorder from the  
computer  
Click [Continue].  
Click the icon at the bottom  
right of the desktop of the  
Confirm the license agreement,  
and if you accept the terms,  
change to click [Next]  
[Install] on the computer  
screen.  
computer [Safely remove USB  
Mass Storage Device].  
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.  
Touch [END] [YES] on the  
camcorder screen.  
Restart the computer if required to  
complete the installation.  
Disconnect the USB cable.  
When the installation is completed,  
following icons will appear.  
You can create a Blu-ray disc by using a  
computer with a Blu-ray disc burner. Install the  
BD Add-on Software for “PMB” (p. 31).  
Other icons may appear.  
No icon may appear depending on the  
installation procedure.  
The Handycam Handbook is not installed  
in this procedure (p. 48).  
2ꢀ  
Selecting the method for creating a disc  
(computer)  
Several methods for creating a high definition image quality (HD) disc or a standard  
definition image quality (SD) disc from high definition image quality (HD) movies or  
photos recorded on your camcorder are described here. Select the method that suits your  
disc player.  
Player  
Choosing a method and disc type  
Blu-ray disc playback  
Importing movies and photos to a  
computer (Easy PC Back-up) (p. 29)  
devices (a Blu-ray disc player,  
PLAYSTATION3, etc.)  
Creating a Blu-ray disc* with high  
definition image quality (HD) (p. 31)  
HD  
AVCHD format playback devices  
(a Sony Blu-ray disc player,  
PLAYSTATION3, etc.)  
Creating a disc with one touch (One Touch  
Disc Burn) (p. 28)  
Importing movies and photos to a  
computer (Easy PC Back-up) (p. 29)  
HD  
Creating a AVCHD format disc with high  
definition image quality (HD) (p. 30)  
Ordinary DVD playback devices  
(a DVD player, a computer that  
can play DVDs, etc.)  
Importing movies and photos to a  
computer (Easy PC Back-up) (p. 29)  
SD  
Creating a standard definition image  
quality (SD) disc (p. 32)  
* To create a Blu-ray disc, the BD Add-on Software for “PMB” must be installed (p. 31).  
Characteristics of each type of disc  
Using a Blu-ray disc enables you to record high definition image quality (HD) movies of a longer  
duration than DVD discs.  
HD  
High definition image quality (HD) movie can be recorded on DVD media, such as DVD-R discs,  
and a high definition image quality (HD) disc is created.  
SD  
Standard definition image quality (SD) movie converted from high definition image quality (HD)  
movie can be recorded on DVD media, such as DVD-R discs, and a standard image quality (SD)  
disc is created.  
2ꢁ  
     
Discs you can use with “PMB”  
You can use 12 cm discs of following type with “PMB.” For Blu-ray disc, see page 31.  
Disc type  
Features  
DVD-R/DVD+R/DVD+R DL  
Unrewritable  
DVD-RW/DVD+RW  
Rewritable  
Always maintain your PLAYSTATION3 to use the latest version of the PLAYSTATION3 system  
software.  
The PLAYSTATION3 may not be available in some countries/regions.  
2ꢂ  
 
Creating a disc with  
one touch  
(One Touch Disc Burn)  
You can save movies and photos on a  
disc by simply pressing the  
(DISC  
BURN) button on your camcorder. Movies  
and photos recorded on your camcorder  
that have not yet been saved with One  
Touch Disc Burn can be saved on a disc  
automatically. Movies and photos are saved  
on a disc with their recorded image quality.  
High definition image quality (HD) movies  
(the default setting) will make a high definition  
image quality (HD) disc. You cannot play a high  
definition image quality (HD) disc on DVD  
players.  
Creating a Blu-ray disc is not available with One  
Touch Disc Burn.  
To create a standard definition image quality  
(SD) disc from high definition image quality  
(HD) movies, import movies to a computer first  
(p. 29), and then create a standard definition  
image quality (SD) disc (p. 32).  
Do not close the LCD screen when the  
camcorder is connected to another device  
with the USB cable. Your recorded images  
may be lost.  
3
4
Press the  
(DISC BURN) button.  
Follow the instructions on the  
computer screen.  
Install “PMB” beforehand (p. 24), however, do  
not start “PMB.”  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  
socket) using the AC Adaptor supplied for this  
operation (p. 11).  
With the  
(DISC BURN) button, you  
can save movies and photos recorded on the  
internal hard disk only.  
1
Turn on your computer, and place  
an empty disc on the DVD drive.  
See page 26 for the type of discs you can  
use.  
Movies and photos are not saved on the  
computer when you perform One Touch Disc  
Burn.  
If any other software than “PMB” starts  
automatically, shut it down.  
2
Turn on your camcorder, and  
connect it to the computer using  
the USB cable.  
28  
   
Importing movies and  
photos to a computer  
(Easy PC Back-up)  
3
On the computer screen, click  
[Easy PC Back-up] [Import].  
Movies and photos recorded on your  
camcorder that have not yet been saved  
with Easy PC Back-up can be imported  
to a computer automatically. Turn on the  
computer beforehand.  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  
socket) using the AC Adaptor supplied for this  
operation (p. 11).  
1
Turn on your camcorder, and  
connect it to the computer using  
the USB cable.  
Movies and photos are imported to  
your computer.  
When the operation is completed, the  
“PMB” screen appears.  
When the operation is completed, a screen  
to indicate that movies are being analyzed  
may appear. It may take a long time to  
analyze movies. In the meantime, you can  
operate “PMB.”  
The [USB SELECT] screen appears on  
the camcorder screen.  
Do not close the LCD screen when the  
camcorder is connected to another device  
with the USB cable. Your recorded images  
may be lost.  
You can create either high definition image  
quality (HD) discs (Blu-ray disc/AVCHD  
format disc) (p. 30) or standard definition  
image quality (SD) discs (p. 32) from imported  
high definition image quality (HD) movies.  
See PMB Guide on importing selected movies  
and photos (p. 30).  
You can export high definition image quality  
(HD) movies from your computer to your  
camcorder. On the “PMB” screen, click  
[Manipulate] [Export to] [Handycam  
(Hard Disk Drive)]/[Handycam (Memory  
Stick)]. See PMB Guide for details (p. 30).  
2
Touch [ USB CONNECT] to  
import images from the internal  
hard disk, or [ USB CONNECT]  
to import images from a  
“Memory Stick PRO Duomedia.  
Changing the destination drive  
or folder for movies and photos  
On the [Handycam Utility] screen in  
step 3 above, click [Easy PC Back-up]   
[Change]. On the screen displayed, you  
can select the drive or folder where the  
images are to be saved.  
The [Handycam Utility] window  
appears on the computer screen.  
29  
   
Starting PMB (Picture  
Creating a high  
definition image  
quality (HD) disc  
You can create a high definition image  
quality (HD) disc by putting together high  
definition image quality (HD) movies  
previously imported to your computer  
Motion Browser)  
Double-click the “PMB” short-cut icon on  
the computer screen.  
(p. 29).  
In this section, the procedure for recording a  
high definition image quality (HD) movie on a  
DVD disc (p. 26) is explained.  
You can play a high definition image quality  
(HD) disc on AVCHD format playback devices,  
such as a Sony Blu-ray disc player and a  
PLAYSTATION3. You cannot play the disc on  
ordinary DVD players (p. 26).  
If the icon is not displayed on the computer  
screen, click [Start] [All Programs]   
[Sony Picture Utility] [PMB] to start “PMB.”  
You can view, edit, or create discs of movies  
and photos using “PMB.”  
Reading “PMB Guide”  
1
2
3
Turn on your computer, and place  
an empty disc on the DVD drive.  
See page 27 for the type of discs you can  
use.  
If any other software than “PMB” starts  
automatically, shut it down.  
Refer to the PMB Guide for details of the  
“PMB.” Double-click the PMB Guide short-  
cut icon on the computer screen to open  
the PMB Guide.  
Double-click the “PMBshort-cut  
icon on the computer screen to  
start “PMB.”  
You may start “PMB” also by clicking  
[Start] [All Programs] [Sony  
Picture Utility] [PMB].  
If the icon is not displayed on the computer  
screen, click [Start] [All Programs]   
[Sony Picture Utility] [Help] [PMB  
Guide]. You can also open the PMB Guide from  
[Help] of “PMB.”  
Click [Folders] or [Calendar] on  
the left side in the window, and  
select the folder or date, then  
select the high definition image  
quality (HD) movies.  
High definition image quality (HD)  
movies are marked with  
.
You cannot save photos on a disc.  
To select plural movies, hold the Ctrl key  
down and click thumbnails.  
30  
     
Creating a Blu-ray disc  
4
5
At the top of the window, click  
[Manipulate] [AVCHD (HD)  
Creation].  
You can create a Blu-ray disc with a high  
definition image quality (HD) movie  
previously imported to a computer  
(p. 29).  
To create a Blu-ray disc, the BD Add-on  
Software for “PMB” must be installed.  
Click [BD Add-on Software] on the  
installation screen of “PMB,” and install  
this plug-in according to the on-screen  
instructions.  
Connect your computer to the internet  
when you install [BD Add-on Software].  
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.  
Follow the instructions on the  
screen to create a disc.  
It may take a long time to create a disc.  
Place an empty Blu-ray disc in the disc  
drive, and click [Manipulate] [Blu-  
ray Disc (HD) Creation] in step 4 of  
(HD) disc” (p. 30). Other procedures  
are the same as that for creating a high  
definition image quality (HD) disc.  
Your computer must support the creation of  
Blu-ray discs.  
BD-R (unrewritable) and BD-RE  
(rewritable) media are available for creating  
Blu-ray discs. You cannot add contents to  
either type of disc after creating the disc.  
Playing a high definition image  
quality (HD) disc on a computer  
You can play back high definition image  
quality (HD) discs using “Player for  
AVCHD” that is installed together with  
“PMB.”  
To start “Player for AVCHD,” Click  
[Start] [All Programs] [Sony  
Picture Utility] [Player for AVCHD].  
See the “Player for AVCHD” help on the  
operation.  
Movies may not be played smoothly  
depending on the computer environment.  
31  
   
Creating a standard  
definition image  
quality (SD) disc that  
can be played on  
4
5
At the top of the window, click  
[Manipulate] [DVD-Video (SD)  
Creation].  
ordinary DVD players  
You can create a standard definition image  
quality (SD) disc by selecting movies  
and photos previously imported to your  
The window used to select movies and  
photos appears.  
To add movies and photos to the  
previously selected ones, select the movies  
and photos in the main window and drag  
and drop onto the window for selecting  
movies and photos.  
computer (p. 29).  
You may select high definition image quality  
(HD) movies as sources. However, image  
quality is converted from high definition  
(HD) to standard definition (SD). It will take a  
longer time for converting the image quality of  
the movies than it took to actually record the  
movies.  
1
2
3
Turn on your computer, and place  
an empty disc on the DVD drive.  
See page 27 for the type of discs you can  
use.  
If any other software than “PMB” starts  
automatically, shut it down.  
Follow the instructions on the  
screen to create a disc.  
It may take a long time to create a disc.  
Double-click the “PMBshort-cut  
icon on the computer screen to  
start “PMB.”  
You may start “PMB” also by clicking  
[Start] [All Programs] [Sony  
Picture Utility] [PMB].  
Copying a disc  
You can copy a recorded disc to another  
disc using “Video Disc Copier.”  
You can also copy a disc by converting  
high definition image quality (HD)  
movies to standard definition image  
quality (SD) movies.  
Click [Start] [All Programs] [Sony  
Picture Utility] [Video Disc Copier]  
to start the software. See the “Video Disc  
Click [Folders] or [Calendar] on  
the left side in the window, and  
select the folder or date, then  
select the movies and photos.  
High definition image quality (HD)  
Copier” help on the operation.  
You cannot copy to a Blu-ray disc.  
movies are marked with  
.
To select plural movies and photos, hold  
the Ctrl key down and click thumbnails.  
32  
   
Editing movies  
You can cut out only necessary parts  
from a movie and save it as another file.  
Using “PMB,” select the movie you  
want to edit, then click [Manipulate]  
[Video Trimming] on the menu to  
display the Video Trimming window. See  
the PMB Guide on the operation (p. 30).  
Capturing photos from a movie  
You can save a frame of a movie as a  
photo file.  
On the movie playback window of  
“PMB,” click  
to display [Save Frame]  
windows. See the PMB Guide on the  
operation (p. 30).  
33  
 
Saving images with a DVD writer, recorder  
Selecting the method for creating a disc (DVD  
writer/recorder)  
Several methods for creating a high definition image quality (HD) disc or a standard  
definition image quality (SD) disc from high definition image quality (HD) movies or  
photos recorded on your camcorder are described here. Select the method that suits your  
disc player.  
Prepare a DVD disc such as a DVD-R, for creating a disc.  
See page 31 to create a Blu-ray disc.  
Player  
Choosing a method and disc type  
AVCHD format playback devices  
(a Sony Blu-ray disc player,  
PLAYSTATION3, etc.)  
HD  
Creating a high definition image quality  
(HD) disc with a DVD writer, etc. (USB cable  
connection) (p. 35)  
Ordinary DVD playback devices  
(a DVD player, a computer that  
can play DVDs, etc.)  
SD  
Creating a standard definition image  
quality (SD) disc with a disc recorder, etc.  
(A/V connecting cable connection) (p. 36)  
Always maintain your PLAYSTATION3 to use the latest version of the PLAYSTATION3 system  
software.  
The PLAYSTATION3 may not be available in some countries/regions.  
34  
     
Creating a high  
definition image  
quality (HD) disc with a  
DVD writer, etc.  
3
Record movies on the connected  
device.  
For details, refer to the instruction  
manuals supplied with the device to be  
connected.  
(USB cable connection)  
You can save high definition image quality  
(HD) movies on a disc by connecting  
your camcorder to disc creation devices,  
such as a Sony DVD writer, with the USB  
cable. Refer also to the instruction manuals  
supplied with the devices to be connected.  
The method used to create a disc by  
4
5
After the operation is completed,  
touch [END] [YES] on the  
camcorder screen.  
connecting your camcorder to a Sony DVD  
Disconnect the USB cable.  
writer with the USB cable is described here.  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  
socket) using the AC Adaptor supplied for this  
operation (p. 11).  
The high definition image quality (HD) disc  
that you created should not be used in DVD  
players/recorders. Because DVD players/  
recorders are not compatible with the AVCHD  
format, DVD players/recorders may fail to eject  
the disc.  
1
Turn on your camcorder, and  
connect a DVD writer, etc. to the  
(USB) jack of your camcorder  
with the USB cable (supplied).  
Sony DVD writer may not be available in some  
countries/regions.  
The [USB SELECT] screen appears on  
the camcorder screen.  
2
Touch [ USB CONNECT] when  
movies are recorded on the  
internal hard disk, or [ USB  
CONNECT] when movies are  
recorded on a “Memory Stick PRO  
Duomedia on the camcorder  
screen.  
3ꢀ  
   
Creating a standard  
definition image  
quality (SD) disc with a  
recorder, etc.  
(A/V connecting cable  
connection)  
A/V Remote  
Connector  
You can dub images played back on your  
camcorder on a disc or video cassette,  
by connecting your camcorder to a disc  
recorder or a Sony DVD writer, etc. with  
the A/V connecting cable. Connect the  
device in either way of or . Refer  
also to the instruction manuals supplied  
with the devices to be connected. Select the  
recording media that contains movies you  
want to dub before starting the operation  
Input  
S VIDEO  
VIDEO  
(Yellow)  
(White)  
AUDIO  
(Red)  
(p. 40).  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  
socket) using the AC Adaptor supplied for this  
operation (p. 11).  
(Yellow)  
High definition image quality (HD) movies  
will be dubbed with standard definition image  
quality (SD).  
Signal flow  
A/V connecting cable (supplied)  
Your camcorder is equipped with A/V  
Remote Connector (p. 60). Connect the  
A/V connecting cable to your camcorder.  
A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (sold  
separately)  
1
2
Insert the recording media in the  
recording device.  
If your recording device has an input  
selector, set it to the input mode.  
When connecting to another device  
via the S VIDEO jack, by using an A/V  
connecting cable with an S VIDEO cable  
(sold separately), higher quality images can  
be produced than with an A/V connecting  
cable. Connect the white and red plug  
(left/right audio) and the S VIDEO plug  
(S VIDEO channel) of the A/V connecting  
cable with an S VIDEO cable. If you  
connect the S VIDEO plug only, you will  
hear no sound. The yellow plug (video)  
connection is not necessary.  
Connect your camcorder to the  
recording device (a disc recorder,  
etc.) with the A/V connecting  
cable (supplied) or an A/V  
connecting cable with S VIDEO  
(sold separately).  
Connect your camcorder to the input jacks  
of the recording device.  
3ꢁ  
   
3
4
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.  
Since dubbing is performed via analog data  
transfer, the image quality may deteriorate.  
You cannot dub images to recorders connected  
with an HDMI cable.  
To hide the screen indicators (such as a  
counter, etc.) on the screen of the monitor  
device connected, touch  
(HOME)   
(SETTINGS) [OUTPUT SETTINGS]  
[DISP OUTPUT] [LCD PANEL] (the  
default setting)   
To record the date/time or camera settings data,  
touch (HOME) (SETTINGS)   
[VIEW IMAGES SET] [DATA CODE] a  
.
desired setting   
In addidion touch  
.
(HOME)   
(SETTINGS) [OUTPUT SETTINGS]   
[DISP OUTPUT] [V-OUT/PANEL]   
.
When the screen size of display devices  
(TV, etc.) is 4:3, touch (HOME)   
(SETTINGS) [OUTPUT SETTINGS]   
[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.  
Sony DVD writer may not be available in some  
countries/regions.  
3ꢂ  
Making good use of your camcorder  
Deleting movies and  
photos  
Formatting the recording media  
You can free media space by deleting  
movies and photos from recording media.  
Select the recording medium that contains  
the movies and photos you want to delete  
before starting the operation (p. 40).  
Formatting deletes all the movies and  
photos to recover recordable free space.  
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  
socket) using the AC Adaptor supplied for this  
operation (p. 11).  
To avoid the loss of important images, you  
should save them (p. 26, 34) before formatting  
the recording media.  
1
2
Touch (HOME)   
[DELETE].  
(OTHERS)  
Touch  
( )   
HOME  
To delete movies, touch  
(MANAGE MEDIA) [MEDIA  
FORMAT].  
[
[
DELETE] [  
DELETE].  
DELETE] or  
To delete photos, touch [ DELETE]   
DELETE].  
Touch the recording media to be  
formatted ([HDD] or [MEMORY  
STICK]).  
[
3
Touch and display the mark  
on the movies or photos to be  
deleted.  
Touch [  
] [ ]   
YES YES  
.
While [Executing…] is displayed, do not  
operate the POWER switch or other buttons,  
disconnect the AC Adaptor, or eject the  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media from your  
camcorder. (The ACCESS/access lamp is lit or  
flashing while formatting the medium.)  
Protected movies and photos will also be  
deleted.  
4
Touch  
[YES]   
.
To delete all movies at one time  
In step 2, touch [ DELETE] [  
DELETE  
ALL]/[  
DELETE ALL] [YES] [YES]  
.
To delete all photos at one time  
In step 2, touch [ DELETE] [ DELETE  
ALL] [YES] [YES]   
.
38  
       
Coping with shooting  
conditions  
Many settings and adjustment options are  
available on the menu (p. 42).  
Adjusting focus, etc., manually  
(MANUAL dial)  
It is convenient to make manual  
Recording in dark places (LOW  
LUX/NIGHTSHOT)  
adjustments using the MANUAL dial, by  
assigning a menu item ([FOCUS] in the  
default setting) to the MANUAL dial.  
When you want to record images in  
dim light, set the STD/LOW LUX/  
NIGHTSHOT switch to LOW LUX.  
appears, and images will be recorded  
brighter than if you do not use LOW LUX.  
When you set the STD/LOW LUX/  
NIGHTSHOT switch to NIGHTSHOT,  
appears, and you can record images even in  
total darkness.  
MANUAL  
MANUAL dial  
Set the STD/LOW LUX/NIGHTSHOT  
switch to STD when recording in normal  
ambient light.  
Using NIGHTSHOT in bright places will cause  
a malfunction of your camcorder.  
How to use the MANUAL dial  
Press MANUAL to switch to manual  
operation mode, and rotate the dial to  
make the adjustment. Pressing MANUAL  
switches the operation mode between  
manual and automatic.  
HDR-XR500E/XR520E  
To assign a menu item  
Press and hold MANUAL for a few seconds  
to display the [DIAL SETTING] screen.  
Rotate the MANUAL dial to assign an item.  
You can assign [FOCUS], [EXPOSURE],  
[AE SHIFT], or [WB SHIFT].  
HDR-XR500VE/XR520VE  
Using a tripod  
Attach the 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.)).  
Tripod receptacle  
39  
       
Changing the  
recording medium  
You can select the internal hard disk or  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media as the  
recording, playback, or editing medium on  
your camcorder. Select the medium to be  
used for movies and photos separately. In  
the default setting, both movies and photos  
are recorded on the hard disk.  
Touch the desired recording  
medium.  
Touch [YES]   
.
The recording medium is changed.  
Hard disk  
To check the recording media  
settings  
Movies  
Photos  
“Memory Stick” media  
Light up the (Movie) lamp to check  
the recording medium used for movies,  
or the (Photo) lamp for photos. The  
media icon is displayed at the top right  
corner of the screen.  
You can do recording, playback, and editing  
operations on the selected medium.  
See page 55 for the recordable time of movies.  
Selecting the recording media for  
movies  
Touch (HOME)   
(MANAGE MEDIA) [MOVIE  
MEDIA SET].  
: Internal hard disk  
: “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media  
The [MOVIE MEDIA SET] screen  
appears.  
Inserting a “Memory Stick PRO  
Duomedia  
Set the recording medium to [MEMORY  
STICK] to record movies and/or photos on a  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media (p. 40).  
Touch the desired medium.  
Touch [YES]   
.
Types of “Memory Stickmedia you can  
use with your camcorder  
The recording medium is changed.  
For recording movies, it is recommended that  
you use the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media of  
1 GB or larger marked with:  
Selecting the media for photos  
(“Memory Stick  
PRO Duo” media)*  
Touch (HOME)   
(MANAGE MEDIA) [PHOTO  
MEDIA SET].  
(“Memory Stick  
PRO-HG Duo” media)  
* Marked with Mark2 or not, either can  
be used.  
The [PHOTO MEDIA SET] screen  
appears.  
40  
           
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media of up to 16 GB  
is confirmed to work with this camcorder.  
To eject the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”  
media  
Open the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media  
cover and lightly push the “Memory Stick  
PRO Duo” media in once.  
Do not open the “Memory Stick Duo” media  
cover during recording.  
When inserting or ejecting the “Memory  
Stick PRO Duo” media, be careful so that the  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media does not pop  
out and drop.  
Open the “Memory Stick Duo”  
media cover, and insert the  
“Memory Stick PRO Duomedia  
into the “Memory Stick Duo”  
media slot until it clicks.  
If you force the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”  
media into the slot in the wrong direction,  
the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media, the  
“Memory Stick Duo” media slot, or image  
data may be damaged.  
Close the “Memory Stick Duo” media  
cover after inserting the “Memory Stick  
PRO Duo” media.  
Dubbing or copying movies and  
photos from the internal hard  
disk to a “Memory Stick PRO  
Duomedia  
Touch (HOME)   
(OTHERS)  
[MOVIE DUB]/[PHOTO COPY],  
then follow the displays on the screen.  
Access lamp  
(“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media)  
The [Create a new Image Database  
File.] screen appears when you insert a  
new “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media.  
Touch [YES].  
To record only photos on a “Memory Stick  
PRO Duo” media, touch [NO].  
If [Failed to create a new Image Database File.  
It may be possible that there is not enough  
free space.] is displayed in step 2, format the  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media (p. 38).  
41  
     
Customizing your  
camcorder with menus  
Menu items are described in more details with  
color photos in the “Handycam Handbook”  
(p. 48).  
Using the HELP function  
To see the descriptions on the HOME  
MENU, touch  
MENU screen. (The bottom of  
(HELP) on the HOME  
turns  
Using the HOME MENU  
orange.) Then, touch the menu item you  
want to know about.  
When you press the (HOME) button, the  
HOME MENU appears. You can change the  
settings of your camcorder.  
Using the OPTION MENU  
(HOME)  
The OPTION MENU appears just like  
the pop-up window that appears when you  
right-click the mouse on a computer. The  
menu items you can change in the context  
appears.  
(HOME) button  
Touch the desired category   
the menu item to be changed.  
(OPTION)  
Menu item  
Touch the desired tab  
the  
item to change the setting.  
Category  
Menu item  
Follow the instruction on the  
screen.  
After completing the setting,  
touch  
.
Tab  
When the item is not on the screen, touch  
/
.
After completing the setting,  
touch  
To return to the previous screen, touch  
.
.
To hide the HOME MENU screen, touch  
.
You cannot select the grayed items or  
settings.  
When the item you want is not on the screen,  
touch another tab. (There may be no tab.)  
You cannot use the OPTION MENU during  
Easy Handycam operation.  
42  
       
List of the HOME MENU  
(CAMERA) category  
MOVIE ......................................... p. 14  
PHOTO ........................................ p. 15  
SMTH SLW REC......................... Records fast moving subjects in slow-motion.  
(VIEW IMAGES) category  
VISUAL INDEX........................... p. 18  
MAP* ...................................... Displays the Map Index for searching for movies and photos by recording  
location.  
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.  
(OTHERS) category  
DELETE  
DELETE....................... p. 38  
DELETE ....................... p. 38  
YOUR LOCATION*.............. Displays the current location on a map.  
PHOTO CAPTURE .................... Captures photos from desired scenes of movies.  
MOVIE DUB  
DUB/  
DUB................. p. 41  
PHOTO COPY  
COPY by select ............... p. 41  
COPY by date.................. p. 41  
EDIT  
DELETE........................ p. 38  
DELETE ........................ p. 38  
PROTECT..................... Sets the protection to avoid deleting movies.  
PROTECT..................... Sets the protection to avoid deleting photos.  
DIVIDE ......................... Divides movies.  
PLAYLIST EDIT  
ADD/  
ADD........ Adds movies in a playlist.  
ADD by date/  
ADD by date............ Adds movies recorded on a same day at one time in a playlist.  
ERASE/  
ERASE......................... Erases movies from a playlist.  
ERASE ALL/  
ERASE ALL................. Erases all movies from a playlist.  
MOVE/  
MOVE.......................... Changes the order of movies in a playlist.  
43  
     
USB CONNECT  
USB CONNECT.......... Connects the internal hard disk via USB.  
USB CONNECT.......... Connects the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media via USB.  
DISC BURN....................... p. 28  
DOWNLOAD MUSIC ..... Download music files that can be played with HIGHLIGHT PLAYBACK.  
TV CONNECT Guide ............... p. 21  
MUSIC TOOL  
DOWNLOAD MUSIC ..... Download music files that can be played with HIGHLIGHT PLAYBACK.  
EMPTY MUSIC................. Deletes music files.  
BATTERY INFO.......................... Displays the battery information.  
(MANAGE MEDIA) category  
MOVIE MEDIA SET .................. p. 40  
PHOTO MEDIA SET ................. p. 40  
MEDIA INFO.............................. Displays information on the recording media, such as free space.  
MEDIA FORMAT....................... p. 38  
REPAIR IMG.DB F...................... p. 50  
(SETTINGS) category  
MOVIE SETTINGS  
/
SET.................... Sets image quality for recording, playback, or editing movies.  
REC MODE........................ Sets the mode to record movies. When recording fast moving subject, a  
high image quality, such as [FH], is recommended.  
AUDIO MODE.................. Sets the recording sound format (5.1ch surround./2ch stereo).  
AE SHIFT ........................... Adjusts the exposure.  
WB SHIFT.......................... Adjusts the white balance.  
NIGHTSHOT LIGHT........ Emits infrared light when using NIGHTSHOT.  
WIDE SELECT................... Sets the horizontal to vertical ratio when recording movies with standard  
definition image quality (SD).  
DIGITAL ZOOM............... p. 15  
STEADYSHOT ............ p. 15  
X.V.COLOR........................ p. 15  
GUIDEFRAME.................. Displays the frame to make sure the subject is horizontal or vertical.  
REMAINING SET ....... Sets how the remaining recording time of the media is to be displayed.  
FLASH MODE .................. Sets how the flash is activated.  
FLASH LEVEL................... Sets the brightness of flash.  
REDEYE REDUC .............. Prevents redeye when shooting with flash.  
DIAL SETTING ................. Assigns a function to the MANUAL dial (p. 39).  
CONVERSION LENS....... Optimizes the SteadyShot function and focus according to the attached  
lens.  
AUTO BACK LIGHT......... Adjusts the exposure for backlit subjects automatically.  
PHOTO SETTINGS  
IMAGE SIZE ................ Sets the photo size.  
FILE NO. ............................ Sets how to assign the file number.  
44  
     
AE SHIFT ........................... Adjusts the exposure.  
WB SHIFT.......................... Adjusts the white balance.  
NIGHTSHOT LIGHT........ Emits infrared light when using NIGHTSHOT.  
STEADYSHOT............ Sets the SteadyShot function when recording photos.  
GUIDEFRAME.................. Displays the frame to make sure the subject is horizontal or vertical  
position.  
FLASH MODE .................. Sets how the flash is activated.  
FLASH LEVEL................... Sets the brightness of flash.  
REDEYE REDUC .............. Prevents redeye when shooting with flash.  
DIAL SETTING ................. Assigns a function to the MANUAL dial (p. 39).  
CONVERSION LENS....... Optimizes the SteadyShot function and the focus according to the  
attached lens.  
AUTO BACK LIGHT......... Adjusts the exposure for backlit subjects automatically.  
FACE FUNC. SET  
FACE DET. SETTING....... Changes the [FACE DETECTION] and [FRAME SETTING] setting.  
SMILE SHUTTER ............. Changes the [DETECTION SET], [SMILE SENSITIVITY], [SMILE  
PRIORITY] and [FRAME SETTING] setting.  
VIEW IMAGES SET  
SET.................... Sets image quality for recording, playback, or editing movies.  
DATA CODE...................... Displays the detailed recording data during playback.  
SOUND/DISP SET  
/
VOLUME............................ p. 19  
BEEP ................................... p. 12  
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.  
OUTPUT SETTINGS  
TV TYPE............................. p. 22  
DISP OUTPUT.................. Sets whether the on-screen displays appears on the TV screen or not.  
COMPONENT .................. p. 22  
HDMI RESOLUTION....... Sets the output image resolution when connecting your camcoder to a TV  
with an HDMI cable.  
CLOCK/ LANG  
CLOCK SET ....................... p. 12  
AREA SET.......................... p. 12  
AUTO CLOCK ADJ*........ Sets whether the camcorder adjusts the clock automatically by acquiring  
the time from GPS or not.  
AUTO AREA ADJ*........... Sets whether the camcorder compensates for a time differences  
automatically by acquiring the current location information from GPS or  
not.  
SUMMERTIME................. p. 12  
LANGUAGE SET......... p. 13  
4ꢀ  
GENERAL SET  
DEMO MODE................... Sets whether the demonstration appears or not.  
REC LAMP......................... Sets the recording lamp to light up or not.  
CALIBRATION.................. Calibrates the touch panel.  
A.SHUT OFF..................... Changes the [A.SHUT OFF] setting (p. 11).  
REMOTE CTRL................. Sets whether the Wireless Remote Commander is to be used or not.  
DROP SENSOR................ p. 5  
CTRL FOR HDMI ............. p. 22  
[SOUND/DISP SET] is changed to [SOUND SETTINGS] during Easy Handycam operation.  
* HDR-XR500VE/XR520VE  
4ꢁ  
 
List of the OPTION MENU  
Following items are available on the OPTION MENU only.  
tab  
SPOT MTR/FCS................ Adjusts the brightness and focus for the selected subject simultaneously.  
SPOT METER.................... Adjusts the brightness of images to a subject you touch on the screen.  
SPOT FOCUS.................... Focuses on a subject you touch the screen.  
TELE MACRO ................... Shoots a subject in focus with the background out of focus.  
EXPOSURE........................ Adjusts the brightness of movies and photos.  
FOCUS............................... Focuses manually.  
SCENE SELECTION......... Selects an appropriate recording setting according to the type of scene,  
such as night view or beach.  
WHITE BAL....................... Adjusts the white balance.  
tab  
FADER................................ Fades scenes in or out.  
tab  
BLT-IN ZOOM MIC.......... Records movies with directional sound as you zoom in or out.  
MICREF LEVEL................. Sets the microphone level.  
SELF-TIMER...................... Used during photo recording.  
TIMING .............................. Sets the timing to be used to start recording for [SMTH SLW REC].  
The tab depends on the situation / no tab  
SLIDE SHOW.................... Plays a series of photos.  
SLIDE SHOW SET............ Sets the repetition option for the slide show.  
4ꢂ  
   
Getting detailed  
information from  
the “Handycam  
Handbook”  
The “Handycam Handbook” is a users  
guide designed to be read on a computer  
screen. The functions of your camcorder  
are described, some of them with color  
photos. The “Handycam Handbook” is  
intended to be read when you want to know  
more about operating your camcorder.  
4
Click [Exit] [Exit], then  
remove the CD-ROM from your  
computer.  
To view the “Handycam Handbook,”  
double-click the short-cut icon on the  
computer screen.  
1
2
To install the “Handycam  
Handbookon 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.”  
Refer to the “PMB Guide” for details on the  
supplied software “PMB” (p. 30).  
On the installation screen  
displayed, click [Handycam  
Handbook].  
3
Select the desired language  
and the model name of your  
camcorder, then click [Handycam  
Handbook (PDF)].  
The model name of your camcorder is  
printed on its bottom surface.  
48  
   
Additional information  
Troubleshooting  
leave it for a while in a cool place.  
If you run into any problems using your  
camcorder, use the following table to  
troubleshoot the problem. If the problem  
persists, disconnect the power source and  
contact your Sony dealer.  
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.  
Notes before sending your camcorder for repair  
Your camcorder may be required to initialize or  
change the current hard disk of your camcorder,  
depending on the problem. In the event of this,  
the data stored on the hard disk will be deleted.  
Be sure to save the data on the internal hard  
disk on other media (backup) before sending  
your camcorder for repair (p. 26, 34). We will  
not compensate you for any loss of hard disk  
data.  
During repair, we may check a minimum  
amount of data stored on the hard disk in order  
to investigate the problem. However, your Sony  
dealer will neither copy nor retain your data.  
See the Handycam Handbook (p. 48) for details  
on the symptoms of your camcorder, and “PMB  
Guide” (p. 30) on connecting your camcorder  
to a computer.  
The 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. 11).  
Turn on the power again.  
Charge the battery pack (p. 10).  
Pressing START/STOP or PHOTO does not  
record images.  
Press MODE to turn on the  
(Movie) or  
(Photo) lamp (p. 12).  
Your camcorder is recording the image you  
have just shot on the recording media. You  
cannot make new recording during this  
period.  
The power does not turn on.  
The recording media is full. Delete  
unnecessary images (p. 38).  
Attach a charged battery pack to the  
camcorder (p. 10).  
Total number of movie scenes or photos  
exceeds the recordable capacity of your  
camcorder. Delete unnecessary images (p. 38).  
Connect the plug of the AC Adaptor to the  
wall outlet (wall socket) (p. 11).  
The camcorder does not operate even  
when the power is set to on.  
The recording stops.  
The temperature of your camcorder is  
extremely high/low. Turn off your camcorder  
and leave it for a while in a cool/warm place.  
It takes a few seconds for your camcorder to  
be ready to shoot after the power is turned on.  
This is not a malfunction.  
Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall  
outlet (wall socket) or remove the battery  
pack, then reconnect it after about 1 minute. If  
your camcorder still does not work, press the  
RESET button (p. 60) using a pointed object:  
(If you press the RESET button, all settings,  
including the clock setting, are reset.)  
”PMBcannot be installed.  
Check the computer environment or  
installation procedure required to install  
“PMB” (p. 23).  
”PMBdoes not work correctly.  
The temperature of your camcorder is  
extremely high. Turn off the camcorder and  
Quit “PMB” and restart your computer.  
49  
   
The camcorder is not recognized by the  
computer.  
The hard disk of your camcorder is full. Delete  
unnecessary images on the hard disk (p. 38).  
An error may have occurred with the hard  
disk drive in your camcorder.  
Disconnect devices from the USB jack of the  
computer other than the keyboard, mouse,  
and your camcorder.  
Disconnect the USB cable from the computer  
and your camcorder, and restart the computer,  
then connect the computer and your  
camcorder again in the proper order.  
Battery power is low.  
Self-diagnosis display/Warning  
indicators  
The temperature of your camcorder is getting  
high. Turn off your camcorder and leave it in  
a cool place.  
If indicators appear on the LCD screen or  
in the viewfinder, check the following.  
If the problem persists even after you  
have tried to fix a couple of times, contact  
your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony  
service facility.  
The temperature of your camcorder is low.  
Make the camcorder warm.  
No “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media is  
inserted (p. 40).  
When the indicator flashes, there is not  
enough free space for recording images. Delete  
unnecessary images (p. 38), or format the  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media (p. 38) after  
storing the images on other media.  
C:04:  
The battery pack is not an “InfoLITHIUM”  
battery pack (H series). Use an  
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (H series)  
(p. 10).  
Connect the DC plug of the AC Adaptor to the  
DC IN jack of your camcorder securely (p. 10).  
The Image Database File is damaged. Check  
the Image Database File by touching  
C:13:/ C:32:  
(HOME)   
(MANAGE MEDIA)   
[REPAIR IMG.DB F.] recording media.  
Remove the power source. Reconnect it and  
operate your camcorder again.  
E:20:/ E:31:/ E:61:/ E:62:  
/ E:91:/ E:94:/ E:95:/  
E:96:  
The “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media is  
damaged. Format the “Memory Stick PRO  
Duo” media with your camcorder (p. 38).  
Your camcorder need to be repaired. Contact  
your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony  
service facility. Inform them of the 5-digit  
code, which starts from “E.”  
An incompatible “Memory Stick Duo” media  
is inserted (p. 40).  
101-0001  
When the indicator flashes slowly, the file is  
damaged or unreadable.  
ꢀ0  
     
Precautions  
On use and care  
Do not use or store the camcorder and  
accessories in the following locations:  
Anywhere extremely hot, cold or humid.  
Never leave them exposed to temperatures  
above 60 C (140 °F), such as under direct  
sunlight, near heaters or in a car parked in  
the sun. They may malfunction or become  
deformed.  
Access to the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media  
was restricted on another device.  
There is something wrong with the flash.  
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.  
On a sandy beach or anywhere dusty. If  
sand or dust gets in your camcorder, it may  
malfunction. Sometimes this malfunction  
cannot be repaired.  
Near windows or outdoors, where the LCD  
screen, the viewfinder or the lens may be  
exposed to direct sunlight. This damages the  
inside of the LCD screen or the viewfinder.  
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.  
The amount of light is not sufficient. Use the  
flash.  
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.  
The recording media is full. Delete unnecessary  
images (p. 38).  
Photos cannot be recorded during processing.  
Wait for a while, then record.  
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.  
Do not wrap your camcorder with a towel, for  
example, and operate it. Doing so might cause  
heat to build up inside.  
When disconnecting the power cord (mains  
lead), pull it by the plug and not the cord (lead).  
ꢀ1  
   
Do not damage the power cord (mains lead)  
such as by placing anything heavy on it.  
Do not use a deformed or damaged battery  
pack.  
Avoid the following to avoid damage to the  
finish:  
Using chemicals such as thinner, benzine,  
alcohol, chemical cloths, repellent, insecticide  
and sunscreen  
Keep metal contacts clean.  
Keep the Wireless Remote Commander and  
button-type battery out of children’s reach. If  
the battery is accidentally swallowed, consult a  
doctor immediately.  
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  
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.  
About care and storage of the lens  
Wipe the surface of the lens clean with a soft  
cloth in the following instances:  
When there are fingerprints on the lens  
surface  
In hot or humid locations  
When the lens is exposed to salty air such as  
at the seaside  
Store in a well-ventilated location subject to  
little dirt or dust.  
To prevent mold, periodically clean the lens as  
described above.  
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 charging the pre-installed  
rechargeable battery  
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.  
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.  
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.  
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.  
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.  
ꢀ2  
When the lithium battery becomes weak, the  
operating distance of the Wireless Remote  
Commander may shorten, or the Wireless  
Remote Commander may not function  
properly. In this case, replace the battery with  
a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Use of another  
battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.  
Note on disposal/transfer of the  
camcorder  
Even if you perform [MEDIA FORMAT] or  
formatting the hard disk of the camcorder,  
you may not delete data from the hard disk  
completely. When you transfer the camcorder, it  
is recommended that you perform [ EMPTY]  
“Handycam Handbook”” (p. 48).) to prevent the  
recovery of your data. Also, when you dispose  
of the camcorder, it is recommended that you  
destroy the actual body of the camcorder.  
Note on disposal/transfer of the  
“Memory Stick PRO Duomedia  
Even if you delete data in the “Memory Stick PRO  
Duo” media or format the “Memory Stick PRO  
Duo” media on your camcorder or a computer,  
you may not delete data from the “Memory Stick  
PRO Duo” media completely. When you give the  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media to somebody, it  
is recommended that you delete data completely  
using data deletion software on a computer. Also,  
when you dispose of the “Memory Stick PRO  
Duo” media, it is recommended that you destroy  
the actual body of the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”  
media.  
To change the battery of the Wireless  
Remote Commander  
While pressing on the tab, inset your fingernail  
into the slit to pull out the battery case.  
Place a new battery with the + side facing up.  
Insert the battery case back into the Wireless  
Remote Commander until it clicks.  
Tab  
WARNING  
Battery may explode if mistreated. Do not  
recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire.  
ꢀ3  
 
Specifications  
System  
Input/Output connectors  
Video signal: PAL color, CCIR standards  
A/V Remote Connector: Component/video and  
HDTV 1080/50i specification  
audio output jack  
Video recording format:  
HD: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 AVCHD format  
compatible  
HDMI OUT jack: HDMI mini connector  
USB jack: mini-B  
Headphone jack: Stereo minijack (3.5 mm)  
MIC input jack: Stereo minijack (3.5 mm)  
SD: MPEG2-PS  
Audio: Dolby Digital 2ch/5.1ch  
Dolby Digital 5.1 Creator  
LCD screen  
Image: 8.0 cm (3.2 type, aspect ratio 16:9)  
Total dot number: 921 600 (1 920 480)  
Photo file format: DCF Ver.2.0 compatible  
Exif Ver.2.21 compatible  
MPF Baseline compatible  
General  
Recording medium:  
Hard disk: HDR-XR500E/XR500VE: 120 GB  
HDR-XR520E/XR520VE: 240 GB  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media  
When measuring media capacity, 1 GB equals  
1 billion bytes, a portion of which is used for  
data management.  
Power requirements: DC 6.8 V/7.2 V (battery  
pack) DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor)  
Average power consumption:  
During camera recording using the  
viewfinder with normal brightness:  
Hard disk: HD:4.3 W SD: 3.5 W  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media: HD:4.3 W  
SD: 3.4 W  
Viewfinder: Electric viewfinder: color  
Image device: 6.3 mm (1/2.88 type) CMOS sensor  
Recording pixels (photo, 4:3):  
Max. 12.0 mega (4 000 3 000) pixels*  
Gross: Approx. 6 631 000 pixels  
Effective (movie, 16:9):  
During camera recording using the LCD with  
normal brightness:  
Hard disk: HD:4.6 W SD: 3.6 W  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media: HD:4.5 W  
SD: 3.6 W  
Approx. 4 150 000 pixels  
Effective (photo, 16:9):  
Operating temperature: 0 C to 40 C (32 °F to  
Approx. 4 500 000 pixels  
104 °F)  
Effective (photo, 4:3):  
Storage temperature: –20 C to + 60 C (-4 °F to  
Approx. 6 000 000 pixels  
+ 140 °F)  
Lens: Sony G Lens  
Dimensions (approx.): 71 75 134 mm (2 7/8   
3 5 3/8 in.) (w/h/d) including the projecting  
parts  
12 (Optical), 24 , 150 (Digital)  
Filter diameter: 37 mm (1 1/2 in.)  
F1.8 ~ 3.4  
71 75 137 mm (2 7/8 3 5 1/2 in.) (w/  
h/d) including the projecting parts, and the  
supplied rechargeable battery pack attached  
Focal length:  
f=5.5 ~ 66.0 mm (7/32 ~ 2 5/8 in.)  
When converted to a 35 mm still camera  
For movies: 43 ~ 516 mm (1 3/4 ~ 20 3/8 in.)  
(16:9)  
Mass (approx.):  
HDR-XR500E: 490 g (1 lb 1 oz) main unit  
only  
For photos: 38 ~ 456 mm (1 1/2 ~ 18 in.) (4:3)  
570 g (1 lb 4 oz) including the supplied  
rechargeable battery pack  
HDR-XR500VE/XR520E: 500 g (1 lb 1 oz)  
main unit only  
Color temperature: [AUTO], [ONE PUSH],  
[INDOOR] (3 200 K), [OUTDOOR] (5 800  
K)  
Minimum illumination: 11 lx (lux) (STD, Shutter  
speed 1/50 sec) 3 lx (lux) (LOW LUX, Shutter  
speed 1/25 sec) 0 lx (lux) (during NightShot  
function)  
580 g (1 lb 4 oz) including the supplied  
rechargeable battery pack  
HDR-XR520VE: 510 g (1 lb 1 oz) main unit  
only  
590 g (1 lb 4 oz) including the supplied  
rechargeable battery pack  
*
The unique pixel array of Sony’s ClearVid  
and the image processing system  
(BIONZ) allow still image resolution  
equivalent to the sizes described.  
ꢀ4  
 
High definition image quality (HD)/Standard  
definition image quality (SD)  
Recording condition: Recording mode [SP],  
LCD backlight [ON]  
Typical recording time shows the time when  
you repeat recording start/stop, turning the  
power on/off and zooming.  
AC Adaptor AC-L200C/AC-L200D  
Power requirements: AC 100 V - 240 V,  
50 Hz/60 Hz  
Current consumption: 0.35 A - 0.18 A  
Power consumption: 18 W  
Output voltage: DC 8.4 V*  
Operating temperature: 0 C to 40 C (32 °F to  
104 °F)  
Expected recording time of movies in  
the internal hard disk  
Storage temperature: –20 C to + 60 C (-4 °F to  
+ 140 °F)  
Dimensions (approx.): 48 29 81 mm (1 15/16  
1 3/16 3 1/4 in.) (w/h/d) excluding the  
projecting parts  
To set the recording mode, touch  
(HOME)  
(SETTINGS) [MOVIE SETTINGS]  
[REC MODE]. In the default setting, the  
recording mode is [HD SP] (p. 44).  
Mass (approx.): 170 g (6.0 oz) excluding the  
power cord (mains lead)  
High definition image quality (HD) in h (hour) m  
(minute)  
* See the label on the AC Adaptor for other  
specifications.  
Recording time  
Recording mode  
Rechargeable battery pack NP-FH60  
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  
Capacity: 7.2 Wh (1 000 mAh)  
Type: Li-ion  
HDR-XR500E  
14 h 30 m  
29 h 40 m  
36 h 0 m  
HDR-XR520E  
29 h 20 m  
59 h 40 m  
72 h 20 m  
[HD FH]  
[HD HQ]  
[HD SP]  
[HD LP]  
48 h 10 m  
50 h 30 m  
96 h 30 m  
(5.1 ch)*  
[HD LP]  
101 h 20 m  
Design and specifications of your camcorder and  
accessories are subject to change without notice.  
Manufactured under license from Dolby  
Laboratories.  
(2 ch)*  
Recording time  
Recording mode  
HDR-XR500VE  
14 h 30 m  
29 h 30 m  
35 h 50 m  
HDR-XR520VE  
29 h 10 m  
59 h 20 m  
72 h 10 m  
[HD FH]  
[HD HQ]  
[HD SP]  
Expected charging and running time  
for the supplied battery pack (minute)  
“Memory Stick PRO  
Hard disk  
[HD LP]  
47 h 50 m  
50 h 10 m  
96 h 10 m  
101 h 0 m  
Duo”media  
(5.1 ch)*  
Recording media  
HD  
SD  
HD  
SD  
[HD LP]  
(2 ch)*  
Charging time  
(full charge)  
135  
Continuous  
90  
115  
90  
115  
recording time  
Typical recording  
time  
45  
55  
45  
55  
Playback time  
150  
150  
150  
150  
Recording and playback time is approximate  
time available using a fully charged battery  
pack.  
ꢀꢀ  
     
On charging/recording/playback time  
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 in low temperatures, or depending  
on the conditions under which you use your  
camcorder.  
Standard definition image quality (SD) in h (hour) m  
(minute)  
Recording time  
Recording mode  
HDR-XR500E  
29 h 40 m  
43 h 50 m  
HDR-XR520E  
59 h 40 m  
88 h 10 m  
[SD HQ]  
[SD SP]  
[SD LP]  
84 h 10 m  
91 h 50 m  
169 h 0 m  
(5.1 ch)*  
[SD LP]  
184 h 20 m  
(2 ch)*  
Recording time  
Recording mode  
HDR-XR500VE  
29 h 30 m  
43 h 40 m  
HDR-XR520VE  
59 h 20 m  
87 h 50 m  
[SD HQ]  
[SD SP]  
[SD LP]  
83 h 40 m  
91 h 20 m  
168 h 20 m  
183 h 50 m  
(5.1 ch)*  
[SD LP]  
(2 ch)*  
Example of expected recording time  
of movies in a “Memory Stick PRO Duo”  
media  
For 4 GB capacity in minute  
Recording  
mode  
High definition (HD) Standard definition (SD)  
[FH]  
[HQ]  
[SP]  
25 (25)  
55 (35)  
65 (45)  
--  
55 (50)  
80 (50)  
[LP]  
90 (70)  
95 (70)  
160 (105)  
170 (110)  
(5.1 ch)*  
[LP]  
(2 ch)*  
* You can change the recording sound format  
with [AUDIO MODE] (p. 44).  
The number in ( ) is the minimum recordable  
time.  
A Sony “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media is  
used.  
The recording time will vary depending on the  
recording conditions and the type of “Memory  
Stick” media used.  
ꢀꢁ  
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.  
On trademarks  
“Handycam” and  
are  
registered trademarks of Sony Corporation.  
AVCHD” and AVCHD” logotype are  
trademarks of Panasonic Corporation and Sony  
Corporation.  
“Memory Stick,” “  
,” “Memory Stick Duo,” “  
,” “Memory Stick PRO Duo,”  
,” “Memory Stick  
,”  
PRO-HG Duo,” “  
“MagicGate,” “  
,” “MagicGate  
Memory Stick” and “MagicGate Memory Stick  
Duo” are trademarks or registered trademarks  
of Sony Corporation.  
“InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony  
Corporation.  
“x.v.Colour” is a trademark of Sony  
Corporation.  
“BIONZ” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.  
“BRAVIAis a trademark of Sony Corporation.  
“Blu-ray Disc” and the logo are trademarks.  
Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks  
of Dolby Laboratories.  
HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition  
Multimedia Interface are trademarks or  
registered trademarks of HDMI Licencing LLC.  
Microsoft, Windows, Windows Media,  
Windows Vista, and DirectX are either  
registered trademarks or trademarks of  
Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/  
or other countries.  
Macintosh and Mac OS are registered  
trademarks of Apple Inc. in the U.S. and other  
countries.  
Intel, Intel Core, and Pentium are trademarks  
or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation  
or its subsidiaries in the United States and other  
countries.  
“PLAYSTATION” is a registered trademark of  
Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.  
Adobe, the Adobe logo, and Adobe Acrobat  
are either registered trademarks or trademarks  
of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United  
States and/or other countries.  
“NAVTEQ” and “NAVTEQ MAPS” logo are  
trademarks of NAVTEQ in the U.S. and other  
countries.  
ꢀꢂ  
Screen indicators  
Upper left  
Center  
Upper right  
Upper right  
Indicator  
Meaning  
Recording quality (HD/  
SD) and recording mode  
(FH/HQ/SP/LP)  
/
Recording/playback media  
Counter (hour:minute:  
seond)  
0:00:00  
Bottom  
Expected recording  
remaining time  
FADER  
LCD backlight off  
Drop sensor off  
Drop sensor activated  
Approximate number of  
recordable photos and  
recording media  
[00min]  
Upper left  
Indicator  
Meaning  
HOME button  
AUDIO MODE  
Self-timer recording  
GPS tracking status  
Current location  
9999  
9999  
Flash, REDEYE REDUC  
Playback folder  
Current playing movie or  
photo/Number of total  
recorded movies or photos  
BLT-IN ZOOM MIC  
MICREF LEVEL low  
WIDE SELECT  
100/112  
Remaining battery  
Return button  
60 min  
Bottom  
Indicator  
Meaning  
FACE DETECTION  
Smile detection set  
LOW LUX  
Center  
Indicator  
Meaning  
[STBY]/[REC]  
Recording status  
Manual focus  
Photo size  
SCENE SELECTION  
Slide show set  
NightShot  
White balance  
SteadyShot off  
Warning  
SPOT MTR/FCS/  
EXPOSURE/SPOT  
METER  
Playback mode  
AE SHIFT  
WB SHIFT  
TELE MACRO  
X.V.COLOR  
ꢀ8  
   
Indicator  
Meaning  
Protected image  
CONVERSION LENS  
OPTION button  
VIEW IMAGES button  
Slide show button  
Data file name  
101-0005  
VISUAL INDEX button  
Indicators and their positions are approximate  
and may differ from what you actually see.  
ꢀ9  
Parts and controls  
Figures in ( ) are reference pages.  
LCD screen/Touch panel (12)  
(HOME) button (42)  
Zoom buttons (14, 16, 20)  
START/STOP button (14)  
Built-in microphone  
Active Interface Shoe  
The Active Interface Shoe supplies power to  
optional accessories such as a video light, a  
flash, or a microphone. The accessory can be  
turned on or off as you operate the POWER  
switch on your camcorder.  
Speaker  
(VIEW IMAGES) button (18)  
POWER button (13)  
A/V Remote Connector (21, 36)  
(USB) jack (24, 28, 29, 35)  
HDMI OUT (mini) jack (21)  
Remote sensor/Infrared port  
Lens (Sony G Lens)  
RESET button  
Press RESET to initialize all the settings  
including the clock setting.  
DISP (display) button (19)  
Flash (16)  
To turn off the backlight of the LCD screen,  
press and hold DISP down. To turn it on, press  
and hold DISP down again.  
Camera recording lamp (46)  
The camera recording lamp lights up in red  
during recording. The lamp flashes when the  
remaining recording media capacity or battery  
power is low.  
EASY button (17)  
GPS switch (HDR-XR500VE/XR520VE)  
(17)  
MANUAL dial (39)  
Access lamp (“Memory Stick PRO Duo”  
media) (41)  
MANUAL button (39)  
While the lamp is lit or flashing, the  
camcorder is reading or writing data.  
ꢁ0  
     
“Memory Stick Duomedia slot (40)  
Battery pack (10)  
MIC (PLUG IN POWER) jack  
When an external microphone (optional) is  
connected, it takes precedence over the built-  
in microphone.  
(DISC BURN) button (28)  
STD/LOW LUX/NIGHTSHOT switch (39)  
Grip belt (14)  
Hook for a shoulder belt  
Tripod receptacle (39)  
BATT (battery) release lever (11)  
Eyecup  
Viewfinder  
Viewfinder lens adjustment lever  
(Movie)/ (Photo) lamps (12)  
ACCESS lamp (Hard disk) (10)  
While the lamp is lit or flashing, the  
camcorder is reading or writing data.  
/CHG lamp (10)  
START/STOP button (14)  
DC IN jack (10)  
Power zoom lever (14, 16, 20)  
PHOTO button (16)  
MODE button (15)  
(headphones) jack  
ꢁ1  
Specifications ..............................54  
Supplied items...............................5  
I
Index  
Image quality...............................40  
Install............................................24  
T
A
Tripod...........................................39  
Troubleshooting..........................49  
Turning the power on ................12  
TV.................................................21  
TV CONNECT Guide...............21  
L
Active Interface Shoe .................60  
AVCHD..................................26, 34  
A/V connecting cable.................36  
Language......................................13  
LOW LUX....................................39  
M
B
Macintosh....................................23  
MANUAL dial.............................39  
“Memory Stick”...........................40  
“Memory Stick PRO Duo”.........40  
Menu ............................................42  
Movies....................................14, 18  
Battery..........................................10  
Blu-ray disc..................................31  
U
USB.........................................23, 35  
Using a wall outlet (wall socket)  
as a power source........................11  
C
Capturing photos from  
a movie.........................................33  
V
Care ..............................................51  
Charging the battery abroad.....11  
Charging the battery pack.........10  
Computer.....................................23  
Computer system........................23  
Copy.............................................41  
Copying a disc.............................32  
Creating a disc ......................26, 34  
Creating a high definition image  
quality (HD) disc........................30  
Creating a standard definition  
image quality (SD) disc..............32  
VISUAL INDEX .........................18  
Volume.........................................19  
N
NightShot.....................................39  
W
O
Warning indicators.....................50  
Windows......................................23  
Wireless Remote Commander  
battery ..........................................53  
One Touch Disc Burn ................28  
Operation beeps..........................12  
Operation flow..............................7  
OPTION MENU ..................42, 47  
Z
P
Zoom............................... 14, 16, 20  
Parts and controls.......................60  
Photos ....................................15, 19  
Playback.......................................18  
D
Delete ...........................................38  
Destination drive or folder........29  
Disc recorder...............................36  
Dubbing.......................................41  
DVD writer..................................35  
Playing a high definition image  
quality (HD) disc........................31  
PMB (Picture Motion  
Browser).................................23, 24  
PMB Guide..................................30  
Precautions..................................51  
E
R
Easy Handycam operation ........17  
Easy PC Back-up ........................29  
Editing movies ............................33  
Recording ....................................14  
Recording and playback time ...55  
Recording media.........................40  
Repair...........................................49  
RESET..........................................60  
F
Format..........................................38  
S
H
Screen indicators ........................58  
Self-diagnosis display.................50  
Setting the date and time...........12  
Software .......................................24  
Handycam Handbook................48  
HELP function............................42  
HOME MENU......................42, 43  
You will find the menu lists  
on pages 43 to 47.  
ꢁ2  
 
Additional information on this product and  
answers to frequently asked questions can  
be found at our Customer Support Website.  
Printed on 70% or more recycled  
paper using VOC (Volatile Organic  
Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink.  
Printed in Japan  

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