Sony Handycam HDR-FX7 Operating Instructions Manual

Sony Handycam HDR-FX7 Operating Instructions Manual

Digital hd video camera recorder
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to frequently asked questions can be found at our
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Printed on 70% or more recycled paper
using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)
-free vegetable oil based ink.
Printed in Japan
Digital HD Video Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
HDR-FX7
© 2006 Sony Corporation
2-887-514-11(1)
Enjoying pictures with
12
high definition quality
Getting Started
16
Recording/
28
Playback
56
Using the Menu
76
Dubbing/Editing
86
Using a Computer
92
Troubleshooting
104
Additional Information
Quick Reference
119

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Summary of Contents for Sony Handycam HDR-FX7

  • Page 1 Printed on 70% or more recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) -free vegetable oil based ink. Printed in Japan Digital HD Video Camera Recorder Operating Guide HDR-FX7 © 2006 Sony Corporation 2-887-514-11(1) Enjoying pictures with high definition quality Getting Started Recording/ Playback...
  • Page 2 WARNING To reduce fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
  • Page 3: Important Safeguards

    IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS For your protection, please read these safety instructions completely before operating the appliance, and keep this manual for future reference. Carefully observe all warnings, precautions and instructions on the appliance, or the one described in the operating instructions and adhere to them.
  • Page 4: Replacement Parts

    IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS (Continued) Lightning For added protection for this set during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent damage to the set due to lightning and power-line surges.
  • Page 5: Read This First

    Owner’s Record The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product. Model No. HDR-FX7 Serial No.
  • Page 6: Notes On Use

    Read this first (Continued) the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: – Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. – Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. – Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
  • Page 7 b Note • The camcorder is not dustproof, dripproof or waterproof. See “Maintenance and precautions” (p. 111). • Before connecting your camcorder to another device with an HDMI cable, component video cable, USB or i.LINK cable, be sure to insert the connector plug the correct way, and not forcibly to avoid damaging the terminal, or cause a malfunction of your camcorder.
  • Page 8 About the Carl Zeiss lens Your camcorder is equipped with a Carl Zeiss lens, which was developed jointly by Carl Zeiss, in Germany, and Sony Corporation, and produces superior images. It adopts the MTF measurement system for video cameras and offers a quality typical of a Carl Zeiss lens.
  • Page 9: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS ...3 Read this first ...5 Enjoying pictures with high definition quality Trying out the new HDV format! ...12 Features of this camcorder ...13 Handy Functions for Recording ...14 Viewing video recorded in the HDV format! ...15 Getting Started Step 1: Checking supplied items ...16 Step 2: Attaching the lens hood with lens cover ...17...
  • Page 10 Displaying the settings in your camcorder (Status check) ... 47 Checking the remaining battery (Battery Info) ... 48 Locating a scene on a tape ... 49 Searching quickly for a desired scene (Zero set memory) ... 49 Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) ... 49 Searching for a recording start point (Index search) ...
  • Page 11 Troubleshooting Troubleshooting ...92 Warning indicators and messages ...101 Additional Information Using your camcorder abroad ...104 HDV format and recording/playback ...105 About the “Memory Stick” ...106 About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack ...108 About i.LINK ...110 Maintenance and precautions ...111 Specifications ...115 Quick Reference Identifying parts and controls ...119 Indicators for the LCD screen and viewfinder ...124...
  • Page 12: Enjoying Pictures With High Definition Quality

    Enjoying pictures with high definition quality Trying out the new HDV format! High image quality The HDV format has about 2 times the horizontal resolution of a standard TV resulting in about 4 times the amount of pixels providing high quality images. Being HDV format compliant, your camcorder is ready to shoot crystal clear, high-definition images.
  • Page 13: Features Of This Camcorder

    This camcorder is fitted with the 3-ClearVid CMOS sensor system. Superb spectroscopic characteristics and high definition are achieved by the use of three ClearVid CMOS sensors developed by Sony for high definition, enabling reproduction of digital high definition with excellent sensitivity and color reproducibility.
  • Page 14: Handy Functions For Recording

    Still image Dual Rec (p. 30) You can record 1.2M still images on the “Memory Stick Duo” during recording movie. Smooth slow recording (p. 59) Moving subjects can be shot in smooth moving slow-motion. Saving Camera profile (p. 73) Two settings profiles, including brightness, color, etc., can be saved in your camcorder. This enables you to use saved settings data to quickly reproduce suitable shooting settings.
  • Page 15: Viewing Video Recorded In The Hdv Format

    Viewing video recorded in the HDV format! Viewing on a high definition TV (p. 51) Pictures recorded in the HDV format can be played back as crisp HD (high definition) picture on a high definition TV. • For details on HDV1080i specification compliant TVs, see page 53. Viewing on a 16:9 TV/4:3 TV (p.
  • Page 16: Getting Started

    Getting Started Step 1: Checking supplied items Make sure that you have following items supplied with your camcorder. The number in the parentheses indicates the number of that item supplied. • The cassette tape and “Memory Stick Duo” are not included. See page 26, 105 and 106 for compatible cassettes and “Memory Stick Duo”...
  • Page 17: Step 2: Attaching The Lens Hood With Lens Cover

    Step 2: Attaching the lens hood with lens cover Lens hood fixing screw Align the marks on the lens hood to those on the camcorder, and turn the lens hood in the direction of the arrow. Tighten the lens hood fixing screw.
  • Page 18: Step 3: Charging The Battery Pack

    Step 3: Charging the battery pack You can charge the battery by attaching the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (L series) to your camcorder. b Note • You cannot use batteries other than the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (L series) (p. 108). DC plug DC IN jack AC Adaptor Power cord...
  • Page 19 After charging the battery The CHARGE lamp turns off when the battery is fully charged. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack. z Tip • You can check the remaining battery with Battery info (p. 48). To remove the battery pack Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
  • Page 20: Playing Time

    Step 3: Charging the battery pack (Continued) Playing time Approximate time (min.) available when you use a fully charged battery pack. HDV format pictures LCD panel Battery pack opened* NP-F570 (supplied) NP-F770 NP-F970 DV format pictures LCD panel Battery pack opened* NP-F570 (supplied)
  • Page 21: Step 4:Turning The Power On And Holding Your Camcorder Properly

    Step 4: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder properly To record or play back, slide the POWER switch to the respective direction. When using it for the first time, [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 24). POWER switch While pressing the green button, set the POWER switch.
  • Page 22: Step 5: Adjusting The Lcd Panel And Viewfinder

    Step 5: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder The LCD panel Open the LCD panel while pressing the OPEN button 90 degrees to the camcorder (1), then rotate it to the best angle to record or play (2). OPEN button 190 degrees to the camcorder 2180 degrees (max.)
  • Page 23 When the picture in the viewfinder is hard to see If you cannot see the picture in the viewfinder clearly under bright circumstances, use the supplied large eyecup. To attach the large eyecup, stretch it slightly and align it with the eyecup groove in the viewfinder.
  • Page 24: Step 6: Setting The Date And Time

    Step 6: Setting the date and time Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not set the date and time, [CLOCK SET] screen appears every time you turn on your camcorder or change the POWER switch position.
  • Page 25 z Tip • The date and time do not appear during recording, but they are automatically recorded on the tape, and can be displayed during playback ([DATA CODE] (p. 67)). Changing the language setting You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language.
  • Page 26: Step 7: Inserting A Tape Or A "Memory Stick Duo

    Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” Cassette tape You can use mini DV (p. 105). Slide and hold the EJECT lever in the direction of the arrow and open the lid. OPEN/EJECT lever The cassette compartment automatically comes out and opens up.
  • Page 27 Insert the “Memory Stick Duo” into the “Memory Stick Duo” slot in the right direction until it clicks. Access lamp b Note • If you insert the “Memory Stick Duo” into the slot in the wrong direction, the “Memory Stick Duo,” the “Memory Stick Duo” slot, or image data may be damaged.
  • Page 28: Recording/Playback

    Recording/Playback Recording REC START/STOP button B PHOTO/EXPANDED FOCUS button Rec lamp This camcorder records movies on tape and still images on “Memory Stick Duo”. The procedure for recording movies is below. • This camcorder can record movies in either HDV or DV format. The factory setting is HDV format ([REC FORMAT] p.
  • Page 29 Press the REC START/STOP button A (or B). 410min [STBY] t [REC] The Rec lamp lights up during recording. To stop the movie recording, press the REC START/STOP button again. z Tips • When recording in HDV format, the aspect ratio is fixed to 16:9. When recording in DV format, you can switch the aspect ratio to 4:3 ([DV WIDE REC] p.
  • Page 30 Recording (Continued) To record still images Press the PHOTO/EXPANDED FOCUS button. The image is recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Recording is complete when movie recording. z Tips • When you are not recording a movie, you will hear the shutter click. •...
  • Page 31: Playback

    Playback Zoom lever POWER switch SEL/PUSH EXEC dial You can play back movies as follows. While pressing the green button, set the POWER switch to VCR. Start playing back. (rewind) to go to the point you want to view, then press N (play) to start Press playback.
  • Page 32 Playback (Continued) To search for a scene while viewing a movie Press M/m during playback (Picture Search). To view during fast forward press and hold M and to view during rewind press and hold m (Skip Scan). b Note • Reverse picture search/skip scan is not possible with tapes recorded in HDV format. To adjust the volume Adjust using the VOLUME/MEMORY button.
  • Page 33: Changing The Settings Of Your Camcorder Recordings

    Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings Adjusting the zoom Move the power zoom lever C slightly for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom. Wide view: (Wide angle) Close view: (Telephoto) z Tips • The minimum distance required between your camcorder and the subject for focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for telephoto.
  • Page 34: Adjusting The Focus Manually

    Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings (Continued) Adjusting the focus manually You can adjust the focus manually for different recording conditions. Use this function in the following cases. – To record a subject behind a window covered with raindrops. –...
  • Page 35: Adjusting The Exposure/Iris

    z Tip • The focal distance information (for when it is dark and hard to adjust the focus) appears for about 3 seconds in the following cases. (It will not be displayed correctly if you are using a conversion lens (optional)). –...
  • Page 36 Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings (Continued) z Tips • The range of focus, an important effect of the aperture, is called the depth of field. The depth of field gets shallower as the aperture is opened, and deeper as the aperture is closed. Use the aperture creatively to obtain the desired effect in your photography.
  • Page 37 flashes during standby mode, set the ND FILTER switch F to 1 to turn on the indicator. If flashes, set the ND FILTER switch to 2 to turn on the indicator. If flashes, set the ND FILTER switch to OFF to turn off the indicator.
  • Page 38: Adjusting To Natural Color (White Balance)

    Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings (Continued) 3 Adjust the shutter speed by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial D. You can set a shutter speed between 1/4 second and 1/10000 second. The selected shutter speed appears on the screen. For example, if you select 1/100 second, [100] appears.
  • Page 39: Customizing The Picture Quality (Picture Profile)

    The display changes. (OUTDOOR) t n (INDOOR) Indicator Shooting conditions • White balance values adjusted for light (MEMORY A) sources can be stored in memory A and (MEMORY B) memory B. Follow the steps below • Recording a sunset/ sunrise, just after Outdoor) sunset, just before sunrise, neon signs, or...
  • Page 40 Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings (Continued) Picture profile number (setting Recording condition name) Appropriate setting to :PORTRAIT record people Appropriate setting to :CINEMA record film-like pictures Appropriate setting to :SUNSET record sunset Appropriate setting to :MONOTONE record monotone pictures You can assign your own :------ setting...
  • Page 41 Item Adjustment [PROFILE To name the set picture NAME] profiles [PP1] through [PP6] (p. 39) [COPY] To copy a picture profile setting to other picture profiles [RESET] To restore the default setting of the picture profile 6 Repeat steps 4 and 5 to adjust other items.
  • Page 42: Assigning The Functions To The Assign Buttons

    Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings (Continued) To reset the picture profile settings You can reset the picture profile settings by each picture profile number. You cannot reset all picture profile settings at once. 1 Press the PICTURE PROFILE button 2 Select the picture profile by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial A, then press the dial.
  • Page 43: Focusing On A Distant Subject (Focus Infinity)

    ASSIGN button 1-3 ASSIGN button 4-6 Press the MENU button A. Select the (OTHERS) t [ASSIGN BTN] by the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial B. Select the number of the ASSIGN button (ASSIGN 1-6, [SHOT TRANS]) you want to assign the function by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial B, then press the dial.
  • Page 44: Recording An Index Signal

    Assigning the functions to the ASSIGN buttons (Continued) Recording an index signal If you make an index for a scene, you can easily search for the scene later (p. 50). The index function will make it easier to check the transition of recording or edit your pictures using index signals.
  • Page 45: Using The Shot Transition

    Press the ASSIGN button to which [END SEARCH] is assigned. The last scene of the most recent recording is played back for about 5 seconds, and the camcorder enters the standby mode at the point where the last recording has finished. b Note •...
  • Page 46 Assigning the functions to the ASSIGN buttons (Continued) Check the stored settings 1 Press the ASSIGN button 1 repeatedly to bring up the SHOT TRANSITION CHECK screen. 1 2 0 STBY SHOT TRANS 2 Press the ASSIGN button 2 to check the SHOT-A.
  • Page 47: Changing/Checking The Settings In Your Camcorder

    Changing/checking the settings in your camcorder Changing the screen You can turn on and off the display of the time code, tape counter, and other information on the screen. Press the DISPLAY/BATT INFO button C. The screen indicators turn on (displayed) and off (undisplayed) as you press the button.
  • Page 48: Checking The Remaining Battery (Battery Info)

    Changing/checking the settings in your camcorder (Continued) Checking the remaining battery (Battery Info) Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG), then press the DISPLAY/BATT INFO button C. The approximate recordable time in the selected format and battery information appear for about 7 seconds. You can view the battery information for up to 20 seconds by pressing the button again while the information is displayed.
  • Page 49: Locating A Scene On A Tape

    Locating a scene on a tape b Note • See page 123 for details on how to use the Remote Commander. Searching quickly for a desired scene (Zero set memory) During playback, press ZERO SET MEMORY 4 at a point you want to locate later on.
  • Page 50: Searching For A Recording Start Point (Index Search)

    Locating a scene on a tape (Continued) Press . (previous)/> (next) 2 on the Remote Commander to select a recording date. You can select the previous or the next date of the present point on the tape. Playback starts automatically from the point where the date changes.
  • Page 51: Playing The Picture On A Tv

    Playing the picture on a TV Connection methods and image quality differ depending on what type of TV is connected and connectors used. Use the supplied AC Adaptor to obtain AC power (p. 18). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the device to be connected. Selecting the connection method according to your TV type and connectors High definition TV HD (high definition) image quality*...
  • Page 52 Playing the picture on a TV (Continued) Jacks on your camcorder Open the jack cover and connect the cable. Connecting to a high definition TV Type Camcorder Component video cable (supplied) A/V connecting cable (supplied) b Note • An A/V connecting cable is also needed to output audio signals. Connect the white and red plugs of the A/ V connecting cable to the audio input jack of your TV.
  • Page 53 Type Camcorder HDMI cable (optional) b Notes • Use an HDMI cable with the HDMI logo. • Pictures in the DV format are not output from the HDMI OUT jack, if copyright protection signals are recorded in the pictures. • DV format pictures input to the camcorder via i.LINK cable (p. 76) cannot be output. •...
  • Page 54 Playing the picture on a TV (Continued) Connecting to a 16:9 (wide) or 4:3 TV To set the aspect ratio according to the connected TV (16:9/4:3) Change [TV TYPE] setting to match your TV (p. 70). b Note • When you play back a tape recorded in the DV format on a 4:3 TV not compatible with the 16:9 signal, set [DV WIDE REC] to [OFF] on your camcorder when recording a picture (p.
  • Page 55 Type Camcorder A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (optional) b Notes • When connecting only an S VIDEO plug (S VIDEO channel), audio signals are not output. To output audio signals, connect the white and red plugs of the A/V connecting cable with an S VIDEO cable to the audio input jack of your TV.
  • Page 56: Using The Menu

    Using the Menu Using the menu items You can change various settings or make detailed adjustments using the menu items displayed on the screen. MENU button SEL/PUSH EXEC dial While pressing the green button, set the POWER switch. Press the MENU button to display the menu index screen.
  • Page 57: Menu Items

    Menu items Available menu items (z) vary depending on the POWER switch position. (CAMERA SET) menu (p. 59) EXPOSURE/IRIS SMTH SLW REC CNTRST ENHCR STEADYSHOT COLOR BAR AF ASSIST AE SHIFT AE RESPONSE AGC LIMIT AT IRIS LMT AWB SENS FLCKR REDUCE HANDLE ZOOM SHOT TRANS...
  • Page 58 Menu items (Continued) (IN/OUT REC) menu (p. 69) REC FORMAT VCR HDV/DV DV REC MODE DV WIDE REC COMPONENT i.LINK CONV TV TYPE (MEMORY SET) menu (p. 71) QUALITY ALL ERASE FORMAT FILE NO. NEW FOLDER REC FOLDER PB FOLDER (OTHERS) (p.
  • Page 59: (Camera Set) Menu

    (CAMERA SET) menu Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (EXPOSURE/IRIS/ STEADYSHOT/BACK LIGHT, etc.) The default settings are marked with B. The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 56 for details on selecting menu items.
  • Page 60 WIDE CONV. Select when a wide conversion lens (optional) is attached. This mode is the most effective with Sony VCL-HG0862 wide conversion lens. (CAMERA SET) by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC COLOR BAR ON/OFF You can display the color bar or record it on the tape by setting to [ON].
  • Page 61 AE SHIFT You can adjust the exposure between -7 (dark) and +7 (bright) using the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. and the setting value appear when [AE SHIFT] is set to anything other than the default setting. b Note • If you adjust all of the iris, gain, shutter speed manually, you cannot obtain the effect of [AE SHIFT].
  • Page 62 Press the MENU button t select the dial. SHOT TRANS Select this setting to set the transition time and curve. See page 45 for details on using the shot transition function. TRANS TIME Select transition time ([3.5 sec] to [15.0 sec] seconds, the default setting is [4 sec]).
  • Page 63 • You cannot use the back light function if 2 or more items out of iris, gain, and shutter speed are adjusted manually. • The setting returns to [OFF] when you set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) for more than 12 hours.
  • Page 64: (Audio Set) Menu

    (AUDIO SET) menu Settings for the audio recording (AUDIO REC LV/DV AU. MODE, etc.) The default settings are marked with B. The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 56 for details on selecting menu items. Press the MENU button t select the (AUDIO SET) by turning the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial.
  • Page 65: (Display Set) Menu

    b Notes • You cannot adjust the balance of the sound recorded on a tape in the 16-bit DV audio mode. • The setting automatically returns to the default setting when you set the POWER switch OFF (CHG) for more than 12 hours. (DISPLAY SET) menu Display settings of the display and the...
  • Page 66 Press the MENU button t select the EXEC dial. This item is useful when you adjust exposure. You can adjust EXPOSURE/ IRIS while checking [HISTOGRAM] window (p. 35). [HISTOGRAM] will not be recorded on a tape or “Memory Stick Duo.” Darker Brighter Brightness...
  • Page 67: Data Code, Etc.)

    • The items displayed by setting [CAM DATA DSP] to [ON] are different from the items that will be displayed when [DATA CODE] is set to [CAMERA DATA] (p. 67). AU.LVL DISP (Audio level display) Since the default setting is [ON], audio level meter is displayed.
  • Page 68: Disp Output

    Press the MENU button t select the EXEC dial. HDV1080 F1.7 6 dB AUTO A SteadyShot off B Exposure is displayed when shooting with automatic adjustment of iris/gain/ shutter speed, and when shooting with manual adjustment. C Iris is displayed in the iris value display area when you manually set the iris value to the maximum.
  • Page 69: (In/Out Rec) Menu

    (IN/OUT REC) menu Recording settings, input and output settings (VCR HDV/DV/DV REC MODE/ DV WIDE REC/ TV TYPE, etc.) The default settings are marked with B. The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 56 for details on selecting menu items.
  • Page 70 Press the MENU button t select the dial. LP (LP) Increases the recording time to 1.5 times the SP mode (Long Play). b Notes • If you record in the LP mode, a mosaic-like noise may appear or sound may be interrupted when you play back the tape on other camcorders or VCRs.
  • Page 71: (Memory Set) Menu

    Select to view your pictures on a 4:3 standard TV. HDV/DV (16:9) DV (4:3) format format pictures pictures b Notes • This is not effective for the i.LINK output. • When you connect your camcorder to a TV compatible with the ID-1 system or via an S VIDEO jack for playing back the tape, set [TV TYPE] to [16:9].
  • Page 72 0.2M] in DV format (16:9) and [VGA (0.3M)] in DV format (4:3). b Note • The specifications are for the “Memory Stick Duo” made by Sony Corporation. The number of recordable pictures varies depending on the recording environment. Approximate data size of a picture (kB) ´...
  • Page 73: (Others) Menu

    NEW FOLDER When you select [YES], you can create a new folder (102MSDCF to 999MSDCF) on a “Memory Stick Duo.” When a folder is full (a maximum of 9,999 images are stored), a new folder is automatically created. b Notes •...
  • Page 74 Press the MENU button t select the 3 Change the profile name by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. z Tip • The method of inputting the name is the same as the method of setting the name of the picture profile (p. 41). 4 Select [OK] by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.
  • Page 75 PB ZOOM (Playback zoom) When you set [PB ZOOM] to [ON], you can enlarge movie images about 1.1 to 5 times (still images about 1.5 to 5 times). (The default setting is [OFF]). You can adjust the magnification with the zoom lever.
  • Page 76: Dubbing/Editing

    Dubbing/Editing Dubbing to VCR, DVD/HDD device, etc. Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 18). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. Connecting to external devices The connection method and the image quality will differ depending on the VCR, DVD/HDD device and the connectors used.
  • Page 77 Jacks on your camcorder Open the jack cover and connect the cable. Using an i.LINK cable (optional) The dubbed format (HDV/DV) differs depending on the recording format or the format supported by the VCR/DVD device. See the table below for selecting the appropriate settings, and perform necessary menu setting.
  • Page 78 Dubbing to VCR, DVD/HDD device, etc. (Continued) b Notes • When [VCR HDV/DV] is set to [AUTO], and the signal switches between HDV and DV formats, the picture and sound are interrupted temporarily. • When the recorder is HDR-FX7, set [VCR HDV/DV] to [AUTO] (p.
  • Page 79: Recording Pictures From A Vcr

    • When dubbing to a DVD recorder from your camcorder in DV format through an i.LINK cable, you may not operate your camcorder on your DVD recorder even its instruction manual says you can. If you can set the input mode to DV on your DVD recorder and can input/output pictures, follow the steps in “Dubbing to another device.”...
  • Page 80 Recording pictures from a VCR (Continued) HDV1080i compatible device t HD quality To i.LINK connector : Signal flow * An i.LINK jack which is compatible with HDV1080i specification is required. Recording movies AV device with i.LINK jack t SD quality i.LINK cable (optional) HDV/DV...
  • Page 81: Recording Still Images

    Start playing the cassette on your VCR. The picture played on the VCR appears on the LCD screen of your camcorder. Press (PAUSE) again at the point you want to start recording. Press x (STOP) to stop recording. b Notes •...
  • Page 82: Copying Movies From Tape To "Memory Stick Duo" As Still Images

    Copying movies from tape to “Memory Stick Duo” as still images You can record still images on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Be sure to insert a recorded tape and a “Memory Stick Duo” in your camcorder, and set [PHOTO/EXP.FOCUS] to [PHOTO] (the default setting) (p. 74) beforehand.
  • Page 83: Printing Recorded Images (Pictbridge Compliant Printer)

    b Note • Pictures cannot be deleted when a “Memory Stick Duo” with the write-protect tab is set to the write-protect position (p. 107), or when the selected picture is protected (p. 94). z Tips • To delete images from the index screen, use the VOLUME/MEMORY button to move the B mark to the images you want to and perform steps 3 and 4.
  • Page 84 Printing recorded images One of the images stored on the “Memory Stick Duo” will be displayed. Printing Select the image you want to print with the VOLUME/MEMORY button. Set the number of copies you want to print if necessary. If you do not want to set the number, go to step 3 (the number will be automatically set to 1).
  • Page 85 z Tip • PictBridge is an industry standard established by the Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA). You can print still images without using a computer by connecting a printer directly to a digital video camera or digital still camera, regardless of model or manufacturer.
  • Page 86: Using A Computer

    Using a Computer Connecting to a computer When connecting your camcorder to a computer, the following operations are available: Copying the still images on a “Memory Stick Duo” to the computer t p. 86 Copying the movie on a tape in the HDV format to the computer t p.
  • Page 87 To USB jack USB cable (supplied) To USB jack • Do not connect your camcorder to the computer at this point. • The computer may not recognize the camcorder if you connect them with the USB cable before turning on your camcorder. •...
  • Page 88 Copying still images to a computer (Continued) A Folder containing image files recorded by other camcorders without the folder creation function (for playback only). B Folder containing image files recorded by your camcorder when no new folders have been created, only [101MSDCF] is displayed.
  • Page 89: Copying Movies On A Tape To A Computer

    b Notes • If you are using Mac OS X, turn off the computer before disconnecting the USB cable and ejecting the “Memory Stick Duo.” • Do not disconnect the USB cable while the access lamp is lit. • Make sure to disconnect the USB cable before turning off your camcorder.
  • Page 90 Copying movies on a tape to a computer (Continued) Format for Recorded copying to format the computer * See page 56 for menu settings. z Tips • To copy HDV format images as they are without changing their format, an HDV compatible environment is required.
  • Page 91 movie if the video compression format is MPEG2. When copying the movie in the HDV format from the computer to your camcorder Set [VCR HDV/DV] to [HDV] and [i.LINK CONV] to [OFF] (p. 69, 70). b Note • To copy an HDV format movie edited on a computer back onto a tape in HDV format is possible so long as your editing software supports copying HDV movies onto tape.
  • Page 92: Troubleshooting

    The CHARGE lamp flashes while the battery pack is being charged. • Attach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly (p. 18). If the problem persists, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall outlet and contact your Sony dealer. The battery pack may be damaged.
  • Page 93 The battery pack discharges too quickly. • Ambient temperature is too high or low, or the battery pack has not been charged enough. This is not a malfunction. • Fully charge the battery again. If the problem persists, the battery may be worn-out. Replace it with a new one (p.
  • Page 94 Troubleshooting (Continued) The cassette is noisier during rewinding or fast-forwarding. • When using the AC Adaptor, rewind/fast forward speed increases (compared with battery operation) and therefore increases noise. This is not a malfunction. You cannot delete pictures or format the “Memory Stick Duo.” •...
  • Page 95 The shutter sound is not heard when you record a still image. • Set [BEEP] to [ON] (p. 75). • There is no shutter sound while during movie shooting. End search does not work. • Do not eject the cassette after recording (p. 44). •...
  • Page 96 Troubleshooting (Continued) The subjects passing by the frame very fast appear crooked. • This is called the focal plane phenomenon. This is not a malfunction. Because of the way that the image device (CMOS sensor) reads out image signals, the subjects passing by the frame rapidly might appear crooked depending on the recording conditions.
  • Page 97 The movies freeze for a while, or the sound breaks off. • This occurs if the tape or video head is dirty (p. 112). • Use the Sony mini DV cassette. “---” is displayed on the screen. • The tape you are playing was recorded without setting the date and time.
  • Page 98 Troubleshooting (Continued) New sound added to a recorded tape on another camcorder is not heard. • Adjust [DV AUDIO MIX] from [ST1] (original sound) side until the sound is heard appropriately (p. 64). appears on the LCD screen. • This appears when you play back a tape recorded on other recording devices using a 4ch microphone (4CH MIC REC).
  • Page 99 Black zone appears at top and bottom of a 4:3 TV screen. • This happens when viewing a picture recorded in the 16:9 (wide) mode on a 4:3 TV. This is not a malfunction. Dubbing/Editing/Connecting to other devices Pictures from connected devices cannot be zoomed. •...
  • Page 100 Troubleshooting (Continued) Connecting to a computer The computer does not recognize your camcorder. • Disconnect the cable from the computer and camcorder, then connect it again securely. • Disconnect USB devices other than the keyboard, the mouse, and the camcorder from the (USB) jack on the computer.
  • Page 101: Warning Indicators And Messages

    Some symptoms you can fix by yourself. If the problem persists even after you have tried a couple of times, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. C: (or E:) ss:ss (Self-diagnosis...
  • Page 102: Moisture Condensation

    Warning indicators and messages (Continued) Fast flashing: • The tape has run out.* Z (Eject cassette warning)* Slow flashing: • The write-protect tab on the cassette is set to lock (p. 105). Fast flashing: • Moisture condensation has occurred (p. 111). •...
  • Page 103: Pictbridge Compliant Printer

    Cannot record still images on Memory Stick. • You cannot record still images in the following cases: – When the shutter speed is 1/60 or less – While using [FADER] – While using [SMTH SLW REC] – While checking or executing shot transition x PictBridge compliant printer Check the connected device.
  • Page 104: Additional Information

    Additional Information Using your camcorder abroad Power supply You can use your camcorder in any country/region using the AC Adaptor supplied with your camcorder within the AC 100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz range. Use a commercially available AC plug adaptor [a], if necessary, depending on the design of the wall outlet [b].
  • Page 105: Hdv Format And Recording/Playback

    HDV format and recording/playback Your camcorder is capable of recording in both HDV and DV formats. You can use mini DV format cassettes only. Use a cassette with the Your camcorder is not compatible with cassettes with Cassette Memory. What is the HDV format? The HDV format is a video format developed to record and play back digital high definition (HD) video signals on a DV...
  • Page 106: About The "Memory Stick

    If the gold-plated connector on the cassette is dirty or dusty, the remaining tape indicator may not show correctly. Gold-plated connector On Sony HDV1080i compliant TVs An HDV format compatible TV with the component input jack is required to view playback pictures recorded in the HDV format.
  • Page 107 • Data read/write speed may vary depending on the combination of the “Memory Stick” and “Memory Stick” compliant product you use. On a “Memory Stick Duo” with a write-protect tab You can prevent accidental erasure of images when you slide the write-protect tab on the “Memory Stick Duo”...
  • Page 108: About The "Infolithium" Battery Pack

    About the “Memory Stick” (Continued) On image data compatibility • Image data files recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” by your camcorder conform to the “Design rule for Camera File system” universal standard established by the JEITA (Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association).
  • Page 109 – Use a large capacity battery pack: NP-F770/ F970 (optional). • Frequent use of the LCD screen or a frequent playback, fast forward or rewind operation wears out the battery pack faster. We recommend using a large capacity battery pack: NP-F770/F970. •...
  • Page 110: About I.link

    • i.LINK is a more familiar term for the IEEE 1394 data transport bus proposed by Sony, and is a trademark approved by many corporations. • IEEE 1394 is an international standard standardized by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
  • Page 111: Maintenance And Precautions

    • 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.
  • Page 112 Such a freezing point cannot be recovered if it was created while recording. To prevent such a problem, use the Sony mini DV cassette. • If the following problem occurs, clean the video heads for 10 seconds with the Sony DVM- 12CLD cleaning cassette (optional).
  • Page 113 To clean the LCD screen If fingerprints or dust make the LCD screen dirty, it is recommended you use a soft cloth to clean it. When you use the LCD Cleaning Kit (optional), do not apply the cleaning liquid directly to the LCD screen. Use cleaning paper moistened with the liquid.
  • Page 114 Maintenance and precautions (Continued) Removing dust from inside the viewfinder Remove the viewfinder. While sliding the viewfinder release lever to the left 1, remove the viewfinder 2. Remove dust from inside the viewfinder and the part shown below with a blower. Attach the viewfinder following the reverse procedure of step 1.
  • Page 115: Specifications

    Industries Association). Files in this format can have additional information such as your camcorder’s setting information at the time of recording. The unique pixel array of Sony's ClearVid CMOS Sensor and image processing system (new Enhanced Imaging Processor) allows for still...
  • Page 116 Specifications (Continued) of the image sensor's effective pixel count. The focal length figures are actual figures resulting from wide angle pixel read out. Output connectors AUDIO/VIDEO output 10-pin connector Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vp-p, 75 Ω...
  • Page 117 AC Adaptor AC-L15A Power requirements AC 100 - 240 V, 50/60 Hz Current consumption 0.35 - 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) Storage temperature -20 °C to + 60 °C (-4 °F to + 140 °F) Dimensions (approx.) 56 ×...
  • Page 118 • Macintosh and Mac OS are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc in the U.S. and other countries. • HDV and the HDV logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation and Victor Company of Japan, Ltd. • HDMI, HDMI logo, and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC.
  • Page 119: Quick Reference

    Quick Reference Identifying parts and controls The numbers in ( ) are reference pages. A Zoom lever (33) B Viewfinder (22) C Viewfinder lens adjustment lever (22) D Viewfinder release lever (114) E Remote sensor (back) (123) F Rec lamp (back) (28) The rec lamp flashes if the remaining tape or battery is low.
  • Page 120 Identifying parts and controls (Continued) A Hook for the shoulder strap (121) B EXPOSURE/IRIS button (35) C EXPOSURE/IRIS dial (35) D PUSH AUTO FOCUS button (34) E ND FILTER switch (36) F ASSIGN buttons (1/2/3)*(42) G AUTO LOCK switch (36) H GAIN button (37) I SHUTTER SPEED button (37) J WHT BAL (white balance) button (38)
  • Page 121 A BATT RELEASE (battery release) button (19) B Hook for the shoulder strap (121) OPEN/EJECT lever (26) D Grip belt (21) E Handle zoom switch (H/L/OFF) (33) F Handle zoom button (33) G REC START/STOP button (28) H MIC jack When a microphone is connected, it is dominantly used for sound recording over the internal microphone.
  • Page 122 Identifying parts and controls (Continued) A LCD screen (22) B Video control buttons (REW, PLAY*, FF, PAUSE, STOP, SLOW, REC) (31) C ZEBRA switch (37) D MEMORY/DELETE button (82) E MEMORY/INDEX button (32) F MEMORY/PLAY button (32) G DISPLAY/BATT INFO button (47, 48) H VOLUME/MEMORY button* (32) I RESET button If you press the RESET button, all...
  • Page 123: Remote Commander

    Remote Commander may shorten, or the Remote Commander may not function properly. In this case, replace the battery with a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.
  • Page 124: Indicators For The Lcd Screen And Viewfinder

    Indicators for the LCD screen and viewfinder The numbers in ( ) are reference pages. The indicators will not be recorded on the tape during recording. Recording movies HDV1080i A Recording format ( (69) Recording mode (SP or LP) is also displayed in the DV format.
  • Page 125: Viewing Movies

    Viewing movies 0:08:12:17 HDV1080i K Tape transport indicator Recording mode (SP or LP) appears when a tape recorded in the DV format is played back. Viewing still images 101-0011 L Data file name M Picture number/Total number of recorded pictures in the current playback folder N Playback folder (73) O Previous/Next folder icon...
  • Page 126 Indicators for the LCD screen and viewfinder (Continued) Indicators when you made changes Upper left Bottom Upper left Indicator Meaning Recording format (69) SP LP DV REC MODE (69)* DV WIDE REC (70)* QUICK REC (75)** DV FRAME REC (62)* ND filter (36) Upper right Indicator...
  • Page 127: Index

    Index Numeric 1080i/480i ...70 12BIT...64 16BIT...64 16:9 (wide) or 4:3 TV ...51 3-ClearVid CMOS sensor system ...13 480i ...70 AC Adaptor...18 Access lamp ...27 AE RESPONSE ...61 AE SHIFT...36, 61 AF ASSIST...60 AGC LIMIT...61 ALL ERASE...72 ALL FILES...72 ASSIGN BTN ...74 ASSIGN buttons ...42 AT IRIS LMT ...61 AUDIO REC LV ...64...
  • Page 128 Index (Continued) Focus ring ...34 Folder NEW FOLDER ...73 PB FOLDER (Playback folder)...73 REC FOLDER (Recording folder)...73 FORMAT ...72 Gain ...37 GAIN button...37 Grip belt...21 GUIDEFRAME...66 HANDLE ZOOM...61 Handle zoom...33 HD (high definition) image quality...51 HDMI cable ...53 HDMI jack...119 HDMI OUT jack ...52 HDV ...69 HDV format...12, 104...
  • Page 129 (Playback folder) ...73 PB ZOOM (Playback zoom) ...75 PEAKING...65 PHOTO/EXPANDED FOCUS button ...28 PHOTO/EXP.FOCUS ...74 PictBridge ...74, 83 PictBridge PRINT...74 Picture profile ...39 PICTURE PROFILE button ...39 Picture search...31 PLAY button...31 Playback...31 Playing time ...20 PORTRAIT...39 Power cord ...18 POWER switch ...21 Pre-installed rechargeable battery ...113 Print ...83...
  • Page 130 Index (Continued) White balance ...38 WHITE FADER ...63 WHT BAL button...38 Wide angle...33 WIDE CONV..60 Windows...86 WORLD TIME...74 Write-protect tab...105, 107 Zebra...37 ZEBRA switch ...37 Zero set memory...49 ZERO SET MEMORY button...49 Zoom ...33 Zoom lever ...33 Zoom ring ...33...

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