Sony HVR-Z7U Operating Manual
  1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. Sony Manuals
  4. Camcorder
  5. HVR-Z7U
  6. Operating manual
Sony HVR-Z7U Operating Manual

Sony HVR-Z7U Operating Manual

Digital hd video camera recorder
Hide thumbs Also See for HVR-Z7U:
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

Download this manual
http://www.sony.net/
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
Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly,
and retain it for future reference
HVR-Z7U/Z7N
© 2008 Sony Corporation
3-280-847-11(1)

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading

Related Manuals for Sony HVR-Z7U

Summary of Contents for Sony HVR-Z7U

  • Page 1 Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly, and retain it for future reference http://www.sony.net/ HVR-Z7U/Z7N Printed on 70% or more recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) -free vegetable oil based ink. © 2008 Sony Corporation Printed in Japan...

  • Page 2: Read This First

    (This size can be used with your Your camcorder is capable of recording in camcorder.) HDV, DVCAM and DV formats. When recording in HDV/DV format, Sony recommends that you use mini DV cassettes. When recording in DVCAM format, Sony “Memory Stick”...
  • Page 3 Using the camcorder About menu items, LCD panel, viewfinder, and lens • Do not hold the camcorder by the following part. • A menu item that is grayed out is not available under the current recording or playback conditions. • The LCD screen and the viewfinder are manufactured using extremely high- precision technology, so over 99.99% of the pixels are operational for effective...
  • Page 4 Your camcorder is equipped with a Carl recording conditions. This phenomenon Zeiss lens, which was developed jointly by may be notable in displays having high Carl Zeiss, in Germany, and Sony motion resolution. Corporation, and produces superior images. It adopts the MTF measurement system for...

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Read this first ...................2 Getting Started Step 1: Checking supplied items ..............8 Step 2: Attaching the supplied items ............10 Step 3: Charging the battery pack ............14 Step 4: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder properly ..17 Step 5: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder ........18 Step 6: Setting the date and time ............20 Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo”...
  • Page 6 Table of Contents (Continued) Playing the picture on a TV ..............57 Using the Menu Using the menu items ............63 Menu items .................... 65 (CAMERA SET) menu ..............68 Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (GAIN SETUP/ BACK LIGHT/STEADYSHOT, etc.) (AUDIO SET) menu ...............
  • Page 7 Additional Information Using your camcorder abroad ..............114 Maintenance and precautions ..............115 HDV format and recording/playback ..........115 Compatibility of the DVCAM/DV formats........... 116 About the “Memory Stick” ..............118 About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack ..........119 About i.LINK..................120 About x.v. Color ................121 About handling of your camcorder ...........

  • Page 8: Getting Started

    Getting Started Step 1: Checking supplied items Make sure that you have following items Large eyecup (1) (p. 19) 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.
  • Page 9 Connecting cord (DK-415) (1) (p. 16) Test chart for flange focal length adjustment (1) (p. 10) CD-ROM “Manuals for Digital HD Video Camera Recorder” (1) Operating Guide (This manual) (1)

  • Page 10: Step 2: Attaching The Supplied Items

    Mounting the Carl Zeiss lens z Tips 1 Push the lens locking lever C up and • When you attach a non-Carl Zeiss lens, Sony remove the lens or the lens mount cap recommends that you adjust the black balance from the lens mount.
  • Page 11 4 Select [YES] with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial E. 5 Turn the zoom ring D to the telephoto position. 6 Turn the focus ring C until the subject comes in focus, then press the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial E. MANUAL SERVO 7 Turn the zoom ring D to the wide angle ZOOM...
  • Page 12 Step 2: Attaching the supplied items (Continued) The channel to be used differs Attaching the supplied depending on the relationship between microphone the REC CH SELECT switch positions and the input jacks. See the table below. REC CH SELECT Channel to Input jack switch position be used...
  • Page 13 pressing the PUSH (lens hood release) b Notes button. • You cannot use the HDV/DV jack when the Memory Recording Unit is attached to your z Tips camcorder. • If you attach or remove a 72mm (2 7/8 in.) PL To remove the Memory Recording filter or MC protector, remove the lens hood with lens cover.

  • Page 14: Step 3: Charging The Battery Pack

    Step 3: Charging the battery pack After charging the battery You can charge the "InfoLITHIUM" battery pack (L series) with the All segments of the battery mark ( supplied AC Adaptor/Charger. appear in the display window when the normal charge of the battery is completed. b Notes You can fully charge the battery pack if you continue charging the battery pack after the...
  • Page 15 To remove the battery pack Recording in the HDV format Continuous Typical Slide the POWER switch to OFF. Push the Battery pack recording recording BATT RELEASE (battery release) button time time* and remove the battery pack. NP-F570 (supplied) NP-F770 NP-F970 Recording in the DVCAM (DV) format Continuous Typical...
  • Page 16 1 Connect the power cord to the AC Info only). Adaptor/Charger. • Sony recommends that you use an NP-F970 battery pack when you use your camcorder with 2 Connect the power cord to the wall the Memory Recording Unit or a video light outlet.

  • Page 17: 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, set the POWER switch to the respective positions. Hold the camcorder properly. When you use your camcorder for the first time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p.

  • Page 18: Step 5: Adjusting The Lcd Panel And Viewfinder

    Step 5: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder The LCD panel The viewfinder Open the LCD panel 180 degrees (1), then Viewfinder lens rotate it to the best angle to record or play adjustment lever back (2). Move it until the picture becomes clear.
  • Page 19 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 20: Step 6: Setting The Date And Time

    Step 6: Setting the date and time Set the date and time when using your camcorder for the first time. If you do not Select (OTHERS) by turning set the date and time, [CLOCK SET] screen the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then appears every time you turn on your press the dial.
  • Page 21 z Tips • The date and time are automatically recorded on the tape, and can be displayed during playback (DATA CODE button, p. 53). Changing the language setting You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language. Select the screen language in [LANGUAGE] (p.

  • Page 22: Step 7: Inserting A Tape Or A "Memory Stick Duo

    Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” b Notes Cassette tape • Do not push the portion marked {DO NOT PUSH} while the cassette See page 115 for details on tapes including compartment is sliding in. Doing so may which tapes can be used and how to protect cause a malfunction.
  • Page 23 Insert the “Memory Stick Duo” into the Memory Stick Duo slot in the right direction until it clicks. Access lamp b Notes • 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 24: Recording/Playback

    Recording/Playback Recording Recording lamp REC START/ STOP button B Recording lamp Lens hood POWER switch REC START/STOP button A Your camcorder records movies on tape and still images on “Memory Stick Duo.” Do the following steps to record movies. • This camcorder can record movies in HDV or DVCAM (DV) format. The factory setting is HDV format ([REC FORMAT] p.
  • Page 25 Press the REC START/STOP button A (or B). zREC 00:04:50:04 60min [STBY] t [REC] The recording 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 DVCAM (DV) format, you can switch the aspect ratio to 4:3 ([DV WIDE REC] p.
  • Page 26 • You cannot store a still image under the b Notes following conditions: • Specifications are for Sony “Memory Stick – When the shutter speed is slower than 1/60 Duo.” The actual number of recordable pictures – While using the fader can vary depending on the recording –...

  • Page 27: Changing The Settings Of Your Camcorder Recordings

    Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings • When you set [FOCUS MACRO] to [OFF] or Adjusting the zoom the focus ring to the mode A position (p. 28), you cannot focus on a subject within 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) regardless of the zoom position (p.

  • Page 28: Adjusting The Focus Manually

    Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings (Continued) Adjusting the focus manually Adjusting focus manually in mode A In mode A, you can manually adjust focus without automatic adjustment functions. ZEBRA AE SHIFT REC REVIEW ASSIGN 1-6 Set the focus ring to the mode A position buttons and focus manually using the focus scale on ASSIGN...
  • Page 29 adjustment, set the focus ring to mode B. You • The center of the screen is magnified by about cannot use the automatic adjustment functions 1.5 times when [SCAN TYPE] in [HDV in mode A. PROGRE.] or [DV PROGRE.] of the (IN/ OUT REC) menu is set to [24], [24A], or [30].

  • Page 30: Adjusting The Exposure

    Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings (Continued) z Tips Adjusting the exposure • The F value becomes close to F2.0 as the zoom position changes from W to T even when you open the aperture by setting the F value lower than F2.0, such as F1.6.
  • Page 31 z Tips range of 1/4 second through 1/10000 second or the extended clear scan • While recording a bright subject, diffraction may occur if you close the aperture further down, resulting in a fuzzy focus (this is a The denominator of the set shutter speed common phenomenon with video cameras).

  • Page 32: Adjusting To Natural Color (White Balance)

    Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings (Continued) WB TEMP], which you have selected in Adjusting to natural color (White [WB PRESET] of the (CAMERA balance) SET) menu. Indicator Shooting conditions • White balance values adjusted for light (Memory A) sources can be stored in memory A and (Memory B)

  • Page 33: Adjusting The Black Balance

    the dial to set the temperature. You can also set the color temperature from the menu ([WB Select [BLK BALANCE] in the TEMP SET] p. 69). (CAMERA SET) menu with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. To save the adjusted white balance value in memory A or B 1 Set the white balance memory switch to Select [YES] with the SEL/PUSH...
  • Page 34 Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings (Continued) You can customize the picture quality by adjusting picture profile items such as Select a picture profile number [GAMMA] and [DETAIL]. with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial A. Connect your camcorder to a TV or You can record with the settings of the monitor, and adjust the picture quality selected picture profile.
  • Page 35 BLACK LEVEL To set the black level. Item Description and settings [MASTER BLACK] Sets the master black level. -15 to +15 [BLACK R] Sets the black level of Rch. [MASTER BLACK] + [BLACK R] is the black level of Rch. -15 to +15 [BLACK G] Sets the black level of Gch.
  • Page 36 Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings (Continued) KNEE To set knee point and slope for video signal compression to reduce over-highlighting by limiting signals in high contrast area of the subject to the dynamic range of your camcorder. Item Description and settings [MODE] Selects a mode either automatic or manual.
  • Page 37 COLOR DEPTH To set the color depth for each color phase. This function is more effective for deep colors and less effective for light colors. The color looks deeper as you decrease the setting value to more negative side, and lighter as you increase the value to more positive side.
  • Page 38 Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings (Continued) COLOR CORRCT (Continued) Item Description and settings [MEM1 COLOR] Sets colors stored in Memory 1. [PHASE] : Sets color phase. 0 (purple) t 8 (red) t 16 (yellow) t 24 (green) t 31 (blue) [RANGE] : Sets color phase range.
  • Page 39 DETAIL To set items for the detail. Item Description and settings [LEVEL] Sets the detail level. -7 to +7 [MANUAL SET] [ON/OFF] : Turns on and off the manual detail adjustment. [ON] : Enables the manual detail adjustment (automatic optimization will not be performed). [OFF] : Disables the manual detail adjustment.
  • Page 40 Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings (Continued) SKINTONE DTL To adjust the detail of skintone areas to reduce wrinkles. Item Description and settings [ON/OFF] Suppresses details in skin-tone areas to reduce wrinkles. Select [ON] when you want to use this function. You can also select other areas. [LEVEL] Sets the adjustment level.

  • Page 41: Adjusting The Volume

    To name the picture profile settings 4 Select the number of the picture profile that you want to copy to with the SEL/ You can name picture profile1 through 6. PUSH EXEC dial A. 1 Press the PICTURE PROFILE button 5 Select [YES] with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial A.
  • Page 42 Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings (Continued) Set the AUDIO LEVEL switch (CH1/CH2) A of the channel to be adjusted to MAN. appears on the screen. Turn the AUDIO LEVEL dial B to adjust the volume during recording or standby. To restore automatic adjustment Set the AUDIO LEVEL switch (CH1/CH2) the manually adjusted channel to AUTO.

  • Page 43: Assigning The Functions To The Assign Buttons

    Assigning the functions to the ASSIGN buttons • TC RESET (p. 86) Some functions need to be assigned to the ASSIGN buttons for use. You can assign a • TC COUNTUP (p. 86) single function to any one of the ASSIGN 1 •...

  • Page 44: Recording An Index Signal

    Assigning the functions to the ASSIGN buttons (Continued) Recording an index signal Select the ASSIGN button to which you want to assign a If you record a scene with an index signal, function with the SEL/PUSH you can easily find that scene during playback (p.

  • Page 45: Reviewing The Most Recently Recorded Scenes (Rec Review)

    • End search will not work correctly if a blank Reviewing the most recently section exists between recorded sections on the tape. recorded scenes (Rec review) You can view about 2 seconds of the scene Playing back the most recently recorded just before you stopped the tape.

  • Page 46: Using The Shot Transition

    [SHOT-B]: To start Sony recommends that you use a tripod to transition to the SHOT-B avoid image blurring. when the recording is You can set the following items in [SHOT started.
  • Page 47 Press the SHOT TRANSITION/ FOCUS MARKING button C again to bring up the shot transition check screen. The CHECK lamp turns on. Press the A button to check SHOT-A, or the B button to check SHOT-B. The image will be displayed with the settings stored in the selected SHOT.
  • Page 48 Using the Shot transition (Continued) • If you press the following buttons during the shot transition operation, the operation will be canceled: – PICTURE PROFILE – MENU – STATUS CHECK – EXPANDED FOCUS • You can also make a transition from the SHOT- A to the SHOT-B or from the SHOT-B to the SHOT-A.

  • Page 49: Marking Focal Point On The Screen (Focus Marking)

    Marking focal point on the screen (Focus marking) You can mark a focal point, at which you button for marking a focal point at set a subject in focus, on the LCD screen position B. prior to the recording. You can use this When you press the A button, and A function during the manual focus.

  • Page 50: Playback

    Playback VOLUME/MEMORY button PLAY button TC/U-BIT DATA CODE MEMORY/PLAY button MEMORY/INDEX button SEL/PUSH EXEC dial MEMORY/DELETE button You can play back movies as follows: Slide the POWER switch to VCR while pressing the green button. Slide the POWER switch while pressing the green button.
  • Page 51 • You cannot play back movies recorded in HDV format on DVCAM (DV) format video cameras or mini DV players. • You can play back a DV format tape on your camcorder only when its contents are recorded in the SP mode.
  • Page 52 Playback (Continued) b Notes • Still images cannot be restored once you delete them. • You cannot delete still images when the “Memory Stick Duo” is write-protected (p. 118) or the still image is protected (p. 103). z Tips • To delete a still image in the index, move B to the still image using the VOLUME/MEMORY button, then do steps 2 and 3.

  • Page 53: Changing/Checking The Settings In Your Camcorder

    Changing/checking the settings in your camcorder • When you assign [DISPLAY] of [ASSIGN BTN] to an ASSIGN button, you can use the ASSIGN button to change the screen. Displaying recording data (Data TC/U-BIT DATA CODE code) You can display information, including date, time and camera data, automatically stored during recording on the screen during playback.

  • Page 54: Displaying The Settings In Your Camcorder (Status Check)

    Changing/checking the settings in your camcorder (Continued) C Iris appears in the iris value display Press the STATUS CHECK button area during playback of the movie recorded with the iris manually adjusted to its maximum value. D Gain Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial D E Shutter speed until a desired display shows up on the screen.

  • Page 55: Locating A Scene On A Tape

    Locating a scene on a tape To cancel the operation Press the STOP button C on the Remote Commander. b Notes • Each day of recording must be longer than 2 minutes. Your camcorder may not detect the date if the recording of that date is short. •...
  • Page 56 Changing/checking the settings in your camcorder (Continued) To cancel the operation Press the STOP button C on the Remote Commander. b Notes • Recording between indexes must be longer than 2 minutes. Your camcorder may not detect the date if the recording between the indexes is short.

  • Page 57: 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/Charger to obtain AC power (p. 14). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the device to be connected. Jacks on your camcorder Open the jack cover and connect the cable.
  • Page 58 Playing the picture on a TV (Continued) : Signal flow, ( ): Reference pages Type Camcorder Cable Menu Setting (IN/OUT REC) [VCR HDV/DV] t Component video cable [AUTO] (82) (supplied) [VIDEO OUT] t (Green) Y [COMPONENT] t (Blue) P [1080i/480i] (84) (Red) P A/V connecting cable (supplied)
  • Page 59 : Signal flow, ( ): Reference pages Type Camcorder Cable Menu Setting (IN/OUT REC) [VCR HDV/DV] t i.LINK cable (optional) [AUTO] (82) [i.LINK SET] t [HDV t DV CONV] t [OFF] (85) b Notes • Your TV needs to have an i.LINK jack compatible with HDV1080i. For details, confirm the specifications of your TV.
  • Page 60 Playing the picture on a TV (Continued) Connecting to a 16:9 (wide) or 4:3 TV A movie recorded in HD quality is converted and played back in SD quality. A movie recorded in SD quality is played back in SD quality. COMPONENT IN S VIDEO VIDEO/AUDIO...
  • Page 61 : Signal flow, ( ): Reference pages Type Camcorder Cable Menu Setting (IN/OUT REC) [VCR HDV/DV] Component video cable t[AUTO] (82) (supplied) (Green) Y [VIDEO OUT] t[COMPONENT] (Blue) P t[1080i/480i] (84) (Red) P [VIDEO OUT] t[DOWN CONVERT] A/V connecting cable t[SQUEEZE]/ (White) (supplied)
  • Page 62 Playing the picture on a TV (Continued) : Signal flow, ( ): Reference pages Type Camcorder Cable Menu Setting (IN/OUT REC) [VCR HDV/DV] t A/V connecting cable with [AUTO] (82) S VIDEO (optional) [VIDEO OUT] t [DOWN CONVERT] t [SQUEEZE]/[LETTER (White) BOX]/[EDGE CROP]* (84)

  • Page 63: Using The Menu

    Using the Menu Using the menu items You can change various settings or make detailed adjustments using the menu items Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial displayed on the screen. until the icon of the desired menu is highlighted, then press the dial to select the menu.
  • Page 64 Using the menu items (Continued) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial until the desired setting is highlighted or to bring up the desired setting, then press the dial to confirm the setting. S T B Y 00:00:28:10 BEEP MENU : END Press the MENU button to hide the menu screen.

  • Page 65: Menu Items

    Menu items Available menu items (z) vary depending on the POWER switch position. Position of POWER switch: CAMERA (CAMERA SET) menu (p. 68) GAIN SETUP – SMOOTH GAIN – HYPER GAIN – AGC LIMIT – BLK BALANCE – WB PRESET –...
  • Page 66 Menu items (Continued) Position of POWER switch: CAMERA (DISPLAY SET) menu (p. 78) ZEBRA – HISTOGRAM – PEAKING – MARKER – CAM LEVELING – EXP.FOCUS TYPE – CAM DATA DSP – AU.LVL DISP – ZOOM DISPLAY – FOCUS DISP – SHUTTER DISP –...
  • Page 67 Position of POWER switch: CAMERA (TC/UB SET) menu (p. 86) TC PRESET TC COUNTUP UB PRESET TC FORMAT TC RUN TC MAKE TC LINK – UB TIME REC UB-DATE/TC-TIME (MEMORY SET) menu (p. 88) ALL ERASE – FORMAT FILE NO. NEW FOLDER REC FOLDER PB FOLDER...

  • Page 68: (Camera Set) Menu

    (CAMERA SET) menu Settings to adjust your camcorder to the HYPER GAIN recording conditions (GAIN SETUP/BACK LIGHT/STEADYSHOT, etc.) When you set this function to [ON] ), you can increase the gain to its limit. The default setting is [OFF]. The default settings are marked with B. The indicators in parentheses appear when b Notes the items are selected.
  • Page 69 WB TEMP SET AE SHIFT You can set the color temperature between You can set an offset value to adjust the 2300K and 15000K in 100K steps when automatic exposure adjustment value you set [WB PRESET] to [MANU WB between [-7] (dark) and [+7] (bright) with TEMP].
  • Page 70 Press the MENU button t select the (CAMERA SET) with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. [HDV1080i]: [HDV PROGRE.] t [REC Example: TYPE 4 TYPE] t [SCAN TYPE] 16:9 [DV]: [DV PROGRE.] t [SCAN TYPE] SCAN TYPE Frequency range 59.94 Hz to 199.8 Hz 29.97 Hz to 199.8 Hz 24, 24A* 23.98 Hz to 199.8 Hz...
  • Page 71 b Notes SPOTLIGHT • This function is effective only when the focus ring is set to the mode B position (p. 28). When you set this function to [ON] ( you can prevent overexposure of light FOCUS MACRO during recording of a subject under strong light, such as a stage.
  • Page 72 Press the MENU button t select the (CAMERA SET) with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. 2 Press the REC START/STOP button. The fader indicator stops flashing and disappears when the fading is complete. To cancel before starting the operation, [START TRIGGR]* select [OFF] in step 1.
  • Page 73 1 Select [ON/OFF] t [ON] with the SEL/ DV FRAME REC PUSH EXEC dial. 2 Perform the following step if you are You can record stop motion (or frame-by- changing the recording time from the frame) animation movies. That type of default setting of [0.5sec].
  • Page 74 Press the MENU button t select the (CAMERA SET) with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. TYPE S.TRANS/F.MARK Selects a type of the color bars. You can select a function to be assigned to the SHOT TRANSITION/FOCUS MARKING button. B SHOT TRANSITION Select to assign the shot transition function to the button.

  • Page 75: (Audio Set) Menu

    (AUDIO SET) menu Settings for the audio recording (DV AU.MODE/XLR SET, etc.) FLANGE BACK The default settings are marked with B. You can select a mode for the flange focal The indicators in parentheses appear when length adjustment. The flange focal length the items are selected.
  • Page 76 (p. 41). microphone (ECM-XM1). • Set [INPUT TRIM] to [12dB] for the optional INPUT1 MIC NR microphone (Sony ECM-NV1). Reduces noise from the microphone. • The INPUT TRIM function adjusts the input level from an external microphone. When using B ON a highly sensitive microphone or recording loud Reduces noise from the microphone.
  • Page 77 CH3,CH4 • When recording loud sound, the sound may be distorted at either the input point or the Outputs only the sound dubbed in CH3 and recording point. If it is distorted at the input CH4. point, adjust the sound using the INPUT TRIM function.

  • Page 78: (Display Set) Menu

    (DISPLAY SET) menu Display settings of the display and the B OFF viewfinder (MARKER/VF B.LIGHT/DISP Does not display a histogram. OUTPUT, etc.) NORMAL Displays a histogram. The default settings are marked with B. ADVANCE The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected.
  • Page 79 z Tips b Notes • You can focus more easily using this • You cannot display markers on an external device connected to your camcorder via an function in combination with the analog jack. expanded focus function (p. 29). • You cannot display markers when you set [DATE REC] to [ON].
  • Page 80 Press the MENU button t select the (DISPLAY SET) with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. CAM DATA DSP (Camera data ZOOM DISPLAY display) B BAR When you set this function to [ON], you Displays a bar that indicates the zoom can constantly display the iris, shutter speed position.
  • Page 81 z Tips b Notes • Shutter speed slower than 360° are displayed in • When you connect your camcorder to outside multiples of 360°, such as 360° × 2. power sources, [BRIGHT] is automatically selected for the setting. • When you select [BRIGHT], the recordable LCD BRIGHT time with the battery is slightly reduced.

  • Page 82: (In/Out Rec) Menu

    (IN/OUT REC) Press the MENU button t select the menu (DISPLAY SET) with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. Recording settings, input and output settings (REC FORMAT/HDV PROGRE./ rewound to the beginning. It is displayed VIDEO OUT/EXT REC CTRL, etc.) when you start playback or recording. The default settings are marked with B.
  • Page 83 SCAN TYPE signals to or from the external device via HDV/DV (i.LINK) jack for You can select a scan type for recording in recording or playback. HDV format. HDV ( B 60 Plays back only HDV format sections of a Records by the interlace scan.
  • Page 84 Press the MENU button t select the (IN/OUT REC) with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. OFF ( DV PROGRE. Records a movie in an aspect ratio that matches the full screen of a 4:3 TV. SCAN TYPE You can select a scan type for recording in b Notes DVCAM/DV format.
  • Page 85 EDGE CROP b Notes Outputs the central portion of the original • When you view a movie recorded in the DVCAM (DV) format with [DV WIDE REC] image by cropping its right and left edges. set to [ON] on a standard 4:3 TV, images of the b Notes movie may appear vertically compressed.

  • Page 86: (Tc/Ub Set) Menu

    (TC/UB SET) menu Press the MENU button t select the (IN/OUT REC) with the SEL/PUSH (TC PRESET/UB PRESET/TC LINK, etc.) EXEC dial. The default settings are marked with B. b Notes The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. •...
  • Page 87 2 Select [PRESET] with the SEL/PUSH Select this setting to record the time code EXEC dial. continuous from the last time code of the previous recording. 3 Select the first 2 digits with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. FREE RUN 4 Set other digits by repeating step 3. Advances the time code regardless of 5 Select [OK] with the SEL/PUSH EXEC operation of your camcorder.

  • Page 88: (Memory Set) Menu

    (MEMORY SET) Press the MENU button t select the (TC/UB SET) with the SEL/PUSH EXEC menu dial. Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo” (ALL ERASE/FORMAT, etc.) from your camcorders when synchronization is completed. You can record with the synchronized time codes The default settings are marked with B.
  • Page 89 FORMAT REC FOLDER (Recording folder) You do not need to format the Memory You can select a folder in which you want “ Stick Duo” since it is already formatted at to store still images. the factory. If you want to format the Select the folder with the SEL/PUSH Memory Stick Duo,”...

  • Page 90: (Others) Menu

    (OTHERS) menu Settings while recording on a tape or other basic settings (QUICK REC/BEEP, etc.) Duo” or [CAMERA] to save it in your camcorder. The default settings are marked with B. 3 Select [ ] or an existing NEW FILE The indicators in parentheses appear when profile name with the SEL/PUSH the items are selected.
  • Page 91 1 Select [COPY] with the SEL/PUSH PB ZOOM (Playback zoom) EXEC dial. When you set this function to [ON], you 2 Select the camera profile that you want can enlarge movie images about 1.1 to 5 to copy with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. times (still images about 1.5 to 5 times) 3 Select [MEMORY STICK] or with the handle zoom lever.
  • Page 92 Press the MENU button t select the (OTHERS) with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. DATE REC REMOTE CTRL (Remote control) B OFF When you set this function to [ON], you can use the supplied Remote Commander Does not superimpose the date and time on (p.

  • Page 93: 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. 14). 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 94 Dubbing to VCR, DVD/HDD device, etc. (Continued) : Signal flow Camcorder Cable External device AV device with audio/video A/V connecting cable jacks* (supplied) (Yellow) t SD quality* (White) (Red) Pictures recorded in the DVCAM (DV) format are dubbed in the SD (standard definition) quality, regardless of the connection.
  • Page 95 • When the recorder is HVR-Z7U/Z7N, set [VCR HDV/DV] to [AUTO] (p. 82). • When the player and the recorder are both HDV1080i compatible devices such as HVR-Z7U/Z7N and connected with the i.LINK cable, after pausing or stopping and then resuming the recording, the images will be a bit choppy or rough at that point.
  • Page 96 Dubbing to VCR, DVD/HDD device, etc. (Continued) b Notes Dubbing to another device • The following cannot be output via the HDV/ DV interface (i.LINK): – Indicators Prepare your camcorder for – Titles that are recorded on other camcorders playback. •...

  • Page 97: Recording Pictures From A Vcr

    Recording pictures from a VCR You can record pictures from a VCR on a HDV1080i AV device with tape. You can record a scene as a still image compatible device i.LINK jack on a “Memory Stick Duo.” You can record pictures in the HDV format by connecting an HDV1080i specification compatible device.
  • Page 98 Recording pictures from a VCR (Continued) b Notes Connect your VCR as a player to • You cannot record TV programs from the HDV/DV interface (i.LINK). your camcorder. • User bits are not recorded when dubbing from a When an i.LINK cable is connected, the DVCAM (DV) device via an i.LINK cable.

  • Page 99: Copying Movies On A Tape To A Computer

    Copying movies on a tape to a computer Connect your camcorder to the computer Start playing the cassette. with an i.LINK cable. The computer needs to have an i.LINK The pictures on the VCR appear on the connector and be installed with editing screen of your camcorder.
  • Page 100 Copying movies on a tape to a computer (Continued) Step:1 Connect an i.LINK cable Format for Recorded copying to Menu setting* format the computer [VCR HDV/DV] t [HDV] [i.LINK SET] t [HDV t DV CONV] t [OFF] [VCR HDV/DV] HDV/DV interface (i.LINK) t [HDV] DVCAM...
  • Page 101 When copying the movie in the Step:2 Copying the movies DVCAM (DV) format from the Use the supplied AC Adaptor/Charger to computer to your camcorder obtain AC power (p. 14). Set [VCR HDV/DV] to [DV] (p. 82). 1 Prepare editing software (not provided). 2 Turn on your computer.

  • Page 102: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting 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. • Power sources/LCD screen/Remote Commander···p. 102 • Cassette tapes/“Memory Stick Duo”···p. 103 •...
  • Page 103 The picture in the viewfinder is not clear. • Move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever until the picture appears clearly (p. 18). The picture in the viewfinder has disappeared. • If you change [VF POWERMODE] to [AUTO], the finder light remains off while the LCD panel is open (p.
  • Page 104 Troubleshooting (Continued) Recording The recording does not start when you press the REC START/STOP button. • Slide the POWER switch to CAMERA (p. 24). • The tape has reached the end. Rewind it, or insert a new cassette. • Set the write-protect tab of the cassette to REC or insert a new cassette (p. 115). •...
  • Page 105 End search or last scene review does not work. • Do not eject the cassette after recording (p. 45). • There is nothing recorded on the cassette. • There is a blank section between recorded sections of the tape. This is not a malfunction. Auto focus does not function.
  • Page 106 Troubleshooting (Continued) Cannot use Situation [TC LINK] Your camcorder is not connected to an external device via an i.LINK cable. [TC COUNTUP] [TC MAKE] is set to [REGENERATE]. [UB-DATE/TC-TIME] [TC MAKE] is set to [REGENERATE]. [TC RUN] is set to [REC RUN]. [UB TIME REC] is set to [ON].
  • Page 107 Horizontal stripes appear on the image. • This occurs when recording pictures under a fluorescent lamp, sodium lamp, or mercury lamp. This is not a malfunction. This can be improved by changing the shutter speed (p. 31). Black bands appear when you record a TV screen or computer screen. •...
  • Page 108 The movies freeze for a while, or the sound breaks off. • This occurs if the tape or video head is dirty (p. 123). • Use the Sony mini DV cassette tape. “---” is displayed on the screen. • The tape you are playing back was recorded without setting the date and time.
  • Page 109 Connecting to TV You cannot view the picture on the TV connected with the i.LINK cable. • You cannot view the picture in the HD (high definition) quality on the TV if an i.LINK jack of the TV is not compatible with the HDV1080i specification (p. 57). Refer to the instruction manuals supplied with your TV.
  • Page 110 Troubleshooting (Continued) Dubbing/Editing/Connecting to other devices Pictures from connected devices cannot be zoomed. • You cannot zoom pictures from connected devices on your camcorder. Time code and other information appear on the display of the connected device. • Set [DISP OUTPUT] to [LCD PANEL] while connected with an A/V connecting cable (p.
  • Page 111 Your computer freezes. • Set [VCR HDV/DV] correctly according to the connected device (p. 82). • Disconnect the cable from your computer and camcorder. Reboot your computer, and connect your computer and camcorder following the steps in the correct order (p. 100).

  • Page 112: Warning Indicators And Messages

    • The battery pack is nearly used up. persists even after you have tried a couple • Depending on the operating, of times, contact your Sony dealer or local environment, or battery conditions, E authorized Sony service facility. may flash, even if there are approximately 5 to 10 minutes remaining.
  • Page 113 Warning messagess If messages appear on the screen, follow the instructions.

  • Page 114: Additional Information

    Additional Information Using your camcorder abroad Power supply Viewing HDV format pictures recorded in HDV format You can use your camcorder in any country/region using the AC Adaptor/ You need an HDV1080i compatible TV (or Charger supplied with your camcorder monitor) with a component jack and within the AC 100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz AUDIO/VIDEO input jack or an HDMI...

  • Page 115: Maintenance And Precautions

    Maintenance and precautions Copyright signal HDV format and recording/ When you play back playback If the cassette you play back on your Your camcorder is capable of recording in camcorder contains copyright signals, you HDV/DVCAM/DV formats. cannot copy it to a tape in another video It is recommended to use a cassette with the camera connected to your camcorder.

  • Page 116: Compatibility Of The Dvcam/Dv Formats

    Maintenance and precautions (Continued) To prevent accidental erasure On Sony HDV1080i compliant TVs Slide the write-protect tab on the cassette to set it to SAVE. An HDV format compatible TV with the component input jack is required to view playback pictures recorded in the HDV format.
  • Page 117 Mini DVCAM and mini DV cassettes Compatibility on editing using DV jacks The recording format of the picture is defined according to the recorder’s format When this camcorder is connected to other as described below. digital video equipment using an i.LINK cable, the recording format of edited tapes Recorder’s Cassette’s...

  • Page 118: About The "Memory Stick

    Maintenance and precautions (Continued) b Notes Photographic Experts Group) format. The file extension is “.JPG.” • If you use tapes as in 1) to 3) above for editing, • A “Memory Stick Duo” formatted by a the functions may be limited regardless of the computer (Windows OS/Mac OS) does not have format of players and recorders.

  • Page 119: About The "Infolithium" Battery Pack

    – Places with extremely high humidity or conform to the universal standard. (These subject to corrosive gases. models are not sold in some regions.) • If you cannot use a “Memory Stick Duo” that On the Memory Stick Duo adaptor has been used with another device, format it •...

  • Page 120: About I.link

    Maintenance and precautions (Continued) About storage of the battery pack battery pack outside of this temperature range, you may not be able to charge it efficiently. • If the battery pack is not used for a long time, fully charge the battery pack and use it up on To use the battery pack effectively your camcorder once a year to maintain proper •...

  • Page 121: About X.v.color

    • i.LINK is a more familiar term for the IEEE 1394 data transport bus proposed by Sony, and b Notes is a trademark approved by many corporations. • When connecting a device with an i.LINK •...
  • Page 122 If moisture condensation has occurred casing, unplug your camcorder and have it None of the functions except cassette checked by a Sony dealer before operating it ejection will work. Eject the cassette, turn any further. off your camcorder, and leave it for about •...
  • Page 123 (optional), the video heads If this freezing point is created while may be worn out. Please contact your Sony playing back, you can solve this problem dealer or local authorized Sony service facility and see the pictures by rewinding after to have the video heads replaced.
  • Page 124 Maintenance and precautions (Continued) Removing dust from inside the – Handling with above substances on your hands. viewfinder – Leaving the casing in contact with rubber or vinyl objects for a long period of time. About care and storage of the lens Remove the eye piece of the viewfinder.

  • Page 125: Specifications

    Specifications System Fast forward/rewind time Approx. 2 min 40 s (using a PHDVM- Video recording system (HDV) 63DM cassette and rechargeable 2 rotary heads, Helical scanning system battery pack) Video recording system (DVCAM (DV)) Approx. 1 min 45 s (using a PHDVM- 2 rotary heads, Helical scanning system 63DM cassette and AC Adaptor) Still image recording system...
  • Page 126 Total dot number **Still image resolution is obtained by the 921 600 (1 920 × 480) unique pixel array of Sony’s ClearVid General CMOS Sensor and image processing system (new Enhanced Imaging Power requirements Processor).
  • Page 127 Rechargeable battery pack NP-F570 Dimensions (approx.) 176 × 199 × 439 mm Maximum output voltage (6 15/16 × 7 13/16 × 17 9/32 in.) DC 8.4 V (w/h/d) Output voltage including the projecting parts DC 7.2 V 176 × 199 × 439 mm Capacity (6 15/16 ×...
  • Page 128 • Macintosh and Mac OS are registered trademarks of Apple 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 129: Quick Reference

    Quick Reference Identifying parts and controls The numbers in ( ) are reference pages. A Accessory shoe mount (129) G Grip belt (17) B Microphone holder (12) H Microphone (12) C Microphone fixing clamper (12) I Accessory shoe adaptor (130) D Zoom lever (27) J Lens hood with lens cover (12) E EXPANDED FOCUS/L2 button (43)
  • Page 130 Identifying parts and controls (Continued) To mount the accessory shoe adaptor Mount the accessory shoe adaptor on the accessory shoe mount as illustrated. To remove the accessory shoe adaptor Do the reverse procedure to mounting the accessory shoe adaptor to remove it.
  • Page 131 67 8 A Front remote sensor (92) R White balance memory switch (32) B Front recording lamp (92) S Gain switch (31) The recording lamp flashes if the * The ASSIGN 2 button, ASSIGN 5 button/AE remaining tape or battery is low. SHIFT button and WHT BAL button have raised tactile dots for your convenience in C ND filter (30)
  • Page 132 Identifying parts and controls (Continued) K PUSH (lens hood release) button (12) HDV/DV jack (57) B COMPONENT OUT jack (57) L Cable holder (12) C A/V OUT jack (57) M Memory Stick Duo slot (22) D LANC N Access lamp (22) jack The LANC control jack is used for...
  • Page 133 1 2 3 4 CHECK STORE EXEC SHOT TRANSITION/FOCUS MARKING A Hook for shoulder strap (133) To attach the shoulder strap B Handle zoom lever (27) Attach the shoulder strap (optional) to the hooks for the shoulder strap. C REC START/STOP button (24) D Handle zoom switch (27) E Rear remote sensor (92) F Rear recording lamp (92)
  • Page 134 Identifying parts and controls (Continued) TC/U-BIT DATA CODE 1 2 3 4 MANUAL SERVO ZOOM A Lens cover lever (13) J Video control buttons (STOP/REW/ PLAY/FF/PAUSE/REC/SLOW) (50) B Focus ring (28) K VOLUME/MEMORY button (50) C Zoom ring (27) L MEMORY/DELETE button (50) D Iris ring (30) M MEMORY/INDEX button (50) E ZOOM switch (27)
  • Page 135 Remote Commander may Playback, Fast-forward, Pause, Stop, not function properly. In this case, replace the battery with a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Slow) (50) Use of another battery may present a risk of fire F ZERO SET MEMORY or explosion.

  • Page 136: 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 Recording still images 00:04:50:04 1.2M HDV1080i A Recording format ( G Recording folder (89) ) (82) H Image size (26) B Remaining battery (approx.)
  • Page 137 Viewing movies Viewing still images qs qd 00:04:50:04 1.2M 101-0011 MEMORY PLAY HDV1080i J Tape transport indicator K Data file name Recording mode (DVCAM or DV SP) L Picture number/Total number of appears when a tape recorded in the DVCAM recorded pictures in the current or DV SP format is played back.
  • Page 138 Indicators for the LCD screen and viewfinder (Continued) Center Indicators when you made changes Indicator Meaning Warning (112) Upper left Upper right 00:00:00:00 Bottom Indicator Meaning HISTOGRAM (78) CAM LEVELING Center Bottom (79) DV AU.MODE (DV Upper left Audio mode) (75)* Manual volume Indicator Meaning...

  • Page 139: Index

    Index A/V OUT jack ...... 58 COLOR CORRCT (Color Correct).........37 A button ........46 COLOR DEPTH....37 Access lamp ......23 COLOR LEVEL ....36 B button........ 46 Accessory shoe ....129 COLOR MODE....36 BACK LIGHT....70, 105 Accessory shoe adaptor ..130 COLOR PHASE ....36 BAR ........
  • Page 140 Index (Continued) DV REC MODE FREE RUN ......87 INPUT1 jack ....12, 41 (Recording mode)....84 FS32K ........75 INPUT1 MIC NR ....76 DV SP........84 FS48K ........75 INPUT1 switch..... 41 DV WIDE CONV ....85 INPUT1 TRIM ..... 76 DV WIDE REC ....84 INPUT1 WIND ....76 DVCAM .......84 Gain........
  • Page 141 Using the menu ..... 63 LCD BL LEVEL ..81, 105 Picture Search .......51 LCD BRIGHT ......81 MENU button....... 20 PLAY button ......50 LCD COLOR......81 Menu items......65 Playing time......15 Lens ........10 Microphone ....10, 12 Pre-installed rechargeable battery .........124 Lens cover lever....13 Microphone fixing clamper ..........
  • Page 142 Index (Continued) REMAINING .......81 STEADYSHOT ... 71, 105 VF COLOR ......81 Remaining battery ....54 STOP........86 VF POWER MODE .....81 Remote Commander...135 Supplied items......8 Video control buttons ..133 REMOTE CTRL (Remote SYNCHRONOUS ....85 Video head......123 control) .........92 S.TRANS/F.MARK.....
  • Page 143 Zoom ring ......27 ZOOM switch .......27 ZOOM TRANS ....46...

This manual is also suitable for:

Hvr-z7n

Table of Contents