Sony Handycam HDR-CX550 Operating Manual
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Sony Handycam HDR-CX550 Operating Manual

Digital hd video camera recorder
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See also: Service Manual , Owner's Manual
HDR-CX550/CX550V/
XR550/XR550V
Digital HD Video Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
Guía de operaciones
2010 Sony Corporation
4-170-538-11(1)
US
ES

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Summary of Contents for Sony Handycam HDR-CX550

  • Page 1 4-170-538-11(1) HDR-CX550/CX550V/ XR550/XR550V Digital HD Video Camera Recorder Operating Guide Guía de operaciones 2010 Sony Corporation...
  • Page 2 Record the serial number operating and maintenance in the space provided below. Refer to these (servicing) instructions in numbers whenever you call upon your Sony the literature accompanying dealer regarding this product. the appliance. Model No. HDR- Serial No.

  • Page 3: Important Safety Instructions

    IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS. DANGER - TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, CAREFULLY FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS. Read these instructions. Keep these instructions. Heed all warnings. Follow all instructions. Do not use this apparatus near water. Clean only with dry cloth.
  • Page 4 Representative plug of power supply cord of countries/regions around the world. A Type B Type BF Type B3 Type C Type SE Type O Type (American (British Type) (British Type) (British Type) (CEE Type) (CEE Type) (Ocean Type) Type) The representative supply voltage and plug type are described in this chart. Depend on an area, Different type of plug and supply voltage are used.
  • Page 5 Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type Vietnam Oceania Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type Australia New Zealand 230/240 North America Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type Canada Central America Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type Bahamas 120/240 Costa Rica Cuba 110/220 Dominican (rep) El Salvador...

  • Page 6: Read This First

    Be sure to charge the battery pack using a rechargeable batteries, call toll genuine Sony battery charger or a device that free 1-800-822- 8837, or visit can charge the battery pack. http://www.rbrc.org/ Keep the battery pack out of the reach of small Caution: Do not handle children.
  • Page 7 If you have any questions about this This equipment has been tested and found product, you may call: to comply with the limits for a Class B Sony Customer Information Center 1-800- digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the 222-SONY (7669). FCC Rules.

  • Page 8: Supplied Items

    For the State of California , USA only Viewfinder Perchlorate Material – special handling, may apply, www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/ perchlorate LCD Screen Perchlorate Material: Lithium battery contains perchlorate. Supplied items The numbers in ( ) are the supplied Battery pack quantity. ÿ AC Adaptor (1) ÿ...

  • Page 9: About Language Setting

    Notes on playing back 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; Black points Other AVCHD format compatible devices White, red, blue or green points...
  • Page 10 Be sure to remove the battery pack or the AC We recommend using genuine Sony accessories. Adaptor after turning off the camcorder. Genuine Sony accessories may not be available Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the in some countries/regions. camcorder, holding both the camcorder and the About this manual, illustrations and DC plug.
  • Page 11 Notes on use Do not do any of the following. Otherwise, the recording media may be damaged, recorded images may be impossible to play back or may be lost, or other malfunctions could occur. ejecting the memory card when the access lamp (p.

  • Page 12: Operation Flow

    Operation flow Getting started (p. 15) Prepare the power source and memory card. Recording movies and photos (p. 24) Recording movies C p. 25 ¼ Changing the recording mode ¼ Expected recording time(MEDIA INFO) Shooting photos C p. 27 Playing movies and photos Playback on the camcorder C p.

  • Page 13: Table Of Contents

    Table of contents IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ............3 Read this first .
  • Page 14 Saving images with an external device Saving images in external media (DIRECT COPY) ......... . . 49 Creating a disc with a DVD writer, recorder .

  • Page 15: Getting Started

    Getting started Step 1: Charging the battery pack HDR-CX550/CX550V Battery pack /CHG (flash/charge) lamp DC IN jack DC plug Power cord (Mains lead) Adaptor To the wall outlet (wall socket) HDR-XR550/XR550V Battery pack /CHG (flash/charge) lamp DC IN jack DC plug...
  • Page 16 You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (V series) after attaching it to your camcorder. ¦ Notes You cannot attach any “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack other than the V series to your camcorder. Turn off your camcorder by closing the LCD screen after replacing the viewfinder.

  • Page 17: Charging The Battery Pack Abroad

    To use a wall outlet (wall socket) as a power source Make the same connections as “Step 1: Charging the battery pack. ” Even if the battery pack is attached, the battery pack is not discharged. Notes on the battery pack When you remove the battery pack or disconnect the AC Adaptor, replace the viewfinder, close the LCD screen and make sure that the (Movie)/...

  • Page 18: Step 2: Turning The Power On, And Setting The Date And Time

    Step 2: Turning the power on, and setting the date and time Open the LCD screen of your camcorder. Your camcorder is turned on and the lens cover is opened. To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is open, press POWER. MODE lamp POWER button Select the desired geographical area with...
  • Page 19 ¦ Notes 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 (MENU) ‚ [Show others] ‚ [PLAYBACK SET] (under [PLAYBACK] category) ‚...

  • Page 20: Changing The Language Setting

    Changing the language setting You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language. (MENU) ‚ [Show others] ‚ [CLOCK/ Touch LANG] (under [GENERAL SET] category) ‚ [ LANGUAGE SET] ‚ a desired language ‚ ‚ ‚...

  • Page 21: Step 3: Preparing The Recording Media

    Step 3: Preparing the recording media The recording media that can be used differs depending on your camcorder. The following icons are displayed on the screen of your camcorder. HDR-CX550/CX550V Memory Internal memory card HDR-XR550/XR550V Internal hard Memory disk card In the default setting, both movies and photos are recorded on this recording media.

  • Page 22: To Check The Recording Media Settings

    Touch [YES] ‚ The recording medium is changed. To check the recording media settings In either movie recording mode or photo recording mode, the media icon of the selected recording media is displayed at the top right corner of the screen. Recording media icon The icon displayed may vary depending on your model.

  • Page 23: To Memory Card

    Open the cover, and insert the memory card with the nothched edge in the direction as illustrated until it clicks. Close the cover after inserting the memory card. Note direction of notched corner. Access lamp The [Create a new Image Database File.] screen may appear if you insert a new memory card.

  • Page 24: Recording/Playback

    Recording/Playback Recording In the default setting, movies are recorded with high definition image quality (HD) on the following media. HDR-CX550/CX550V: Internal memory HDR-XR550/XR550V: Internal hard disk Tips ¼ To change the recording media, see page 21. Fasten the grip belt.
  • Page 25 Recording movies Press START/STOP to start recording. You can start recording also by touching in the bottom left of LCD screen. START/STOP button [STBY] ‚ [REC] To stop recording, press START/STOP again. You can stop recording also by touching in the bottom left of LCD screen. The icons and indicators on the LCD panel will be displayed for about 3 seconds, then disappear after turning on your camcorder or switching the recording (movie/photo)/playback modes.
  • Page 26 The following states will be indicated if data is still being written onto the recording media after recording has finished. During this time, do not apply shock or vibration to the camcorder, or remove the battery or AC Adaptor. Access lamp (p. 23) is lit or flashing The media icon in the upper right of the LCD screen is flashing ¼...
  • Page 27 ‚ [DATA CODE] ‚ a desired setting ‚ ‚ ‚ Shooting photos In the default setting, photos are recorded on the following recording media. HDR-CX550/CX550V: Internal memory HDR-XR550/XR550V: Internal hard disk Tips ¼ To change the recording media, see page 21.

  • Page 28: Acquiring Location Information Using The Gps (Hdr-Cx550V/Xr550V)

    Tips ¼ You can check the recordable number of photos on the LCD (p. 75). (MENU) ‚ [Show others] ‚ [ To change the image size, touch IMAGE SIZE] (under [PHOTO SETTINGS] category) ‚ a desired setting ‚ ‚ You cannot record photos while is displayed.

  • Page 29: Adjusting For Shooting Conditions

    Adjusting for shooting conditions How to use the MANUAL dial Recording in dark places Press MANUAL to switch to manual (NightShot) operation mode, and rotate the dial to When you press NIGHTSHOT, appears, make the adjustment. Pressing MANUAL and you can record images even in total switches the operation mode between darkness.

  • Page 30: Playback On The Camcorder

    Playback on the camcorder In the default setting, movies and photos that are recorded on the following recording media are played. HDR-CX550/CX550V: Internal memory HDR-XR550/XR550V: Internal hard disk Tips ¼ To change the recording media, see page 21. Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.

  • Page 31: Playing Movies

    : Displays movies recorded on the previous/next date. : Displays the previous/next movie. Returns to the recording screen. is displayed when is touched. appears when the standard definition image quality (STD) movie is selected with [ SET]. You can scroll the display by touching and dragging õ...
  • Page 32 To adjust the sound volume of movies ‚ adjust with ‚ While playing back movies, touch You can also adjust the sound volume by using in the OPTION MENU. Viewing photos Your camcorder displays the selected photo. To start/stop slide Previous show Next...

  • Page 33: Playing Images On A Tv

    Playing images on a TV Connection methods and the image If you touch [HINT], you can see tips for the connection or change the settings of quality (high definition (HD) or standard your camcorder. definition (STD)) viewed on the TV screen differ depending on what type of TV is connected, and the connectors used.
  • Page 34 Types of connection cables between When connecting to your TV via a VCR your camcorder and TV Connect your camcorder to the LINE IN input on the VCR using the A/V connecting cable. Set Connecting to a high definition TV the input selector on the VCR to LINE (VIDEO Component A/V Cable (supplied) 1, VIDEO 2, etc.).
  • Page 35 This camcorder is compatible with the “Photo TV HD” standard. “Photo TV HD” allows for highly-detailed, photo-like depiction of subtle textures and colors. By connecting Sony’s Photo TV HD- compatible devices using an HDMI cable or the component A/V cable , a whole new world of photos can be enjoyed in breathtaking full HD quality.

  • Page 36: Making Good Use Of Your Camcorder

    Making good use of your camcorder Deleting movies and photos You can free media space by deleting Touch and display the mark movies and photos from recording media. on the movies or photos to be deleted. ¦ Notes You cannot restore images once they are deleted.
  • Page 37 Touch to select the recording date of the desired movies/photos, then touch Touch the image on the LCD screen to confirm the image. Touch to return to the previous screen. Touch [YES] ‚ ‚...

  • Page 38: Saving Movies And Photos With A Computer

    Saving movies and photos with a computer Preparing a computer (Windows) You can perform following operations using Intel Core Duo 1.66 GHz or faster, or Intel “PMB (Picture Motion Browser). ” Core 2 Duo 1.66 GHz or faster (Intel Core Importing images to a computer 2 Duo 2.26 GHz or faster is required when processing HD FX/HD FH movies)

  • Page 39: When Using A Macintosh

    To process photos using a Macintosh computer connected to your camcorder, Click [Install]. see the following website. http://guide.d-imaging.sony.co.jp/mac/ ms/us/ Step 2 Installing the supplied software “PMB” Install “PMB” before connecting your Select the country or region.
  • Page 40 “PMB” or other software, or to open screen to make the computer web sites. recognize your camcorder. Other icons may appear. No icon may appear depending on the HDR-CX550/CX550V : [ installation procedure. CONNECT] (internal memory) HDR-XR550/XR550V: [ CONNECT] (internal hard disk) ¦...

  • Page 41: Starting Pmb (Picture Motion Browser)

    Starting PMB (Picture Motion Browser) To disconnect your camcorder from the Double-click the “PMB” short-cut icon on computer the computer screen. Click the icon at the bottom right of the desktop of the computer ‚ [Safely remove USB Mass Storage Device]. ¦...

  • Page 42: Selecting The Method For Creating A Disc (Computer)

    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 PlayStation 3. You cannot play the disc on ordinary DVD players. Standard definition image quality (STD) 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 (STD) disc is created.
  • Page 43 Discs you can use with “PMB” You can use 12 cm discs of following type with “PMB. ” For Blu-ray disc, see page 47. Disc type Features DVD-R/DVD+R/DVD+R DL Unrewritable DVD-RW/DVD+RW Rewritable ¦ Notes Always maintain your PlayStation 3 to use the latest version of the PlayStation 3 system software. The PlayStation 3 may not be available in some countries/regions.

  • Page 44: Creating A Disc With One Touch (One Touch Disc Burn)

    Creating a disc with one touch (One Touch Disc Burn) Movies and photos recorded on your Turn on your camcorder, then camcorder that have not yet been saved connect the camcorder to the with One Touch Disc Burn function can computer using the supplied USB be saved on a disc automatically.

  • Page 45: Importing Movies And Photos To A Computer

    Importing movies and photos to a computer Movies and photos recorded on your Click [Import]. camcorder can be imported to a computer. Turn on the computer beforehand. Refer to “PMB Help” (p. 41) for details. ¦ Notes Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p.

  • Page 46: Creating An Avchd Disc

    Creating an AVCHD disc You can create an AVCHD disc by putting together high definition image quality (HD) movies previously imported to your computer (p. 45). In this section, the procedure for recording a high definition image quality (HD) movie on a DVD disc is explained.

  • Page 47: Creating A Blu-Ray Disc

    Creating a standard definition image quality (STD) disc Creating a Blu-ray disc that can be played on You can create a Blu-ray disc with a high ordinary DVD players definition image quality (HD) movie previously imported to a computer You can create a standard definition image (p.

  • Page 48: Copying A Disc

    Editing movies At the top of the window, click ‚ [Create DVD-Video Format You can cut out only necessary parts from a movie and save it as another file. Discs (STD)]. Double-click the movie to be edited on The window used to select movies “PMB, ”...

  • Page 49: Saving Images With An External Device

    For details on available external media, go to the Movies and photos in the internal Sony support website in your country/region. recording media of the camcorder that have not yet been saved on to external Connect the AC Adaptor and the media can be saved.
  • Page 50 To save desired movies and photos After the operation is completed, ¦ Notes touch on the camcorder You cannot copy or search photos by date which screen. are recorded on the memory card. Touch [Play without copying.] in step 5 above.

  • Page 51: Creating A Disc With A Dvd Writer, Recorder

    The Date Index and Map Index (HDR-CX550V/ XR550V) of photos cannot be displayed. Player If your camcorder does not recognize the Sony Blu-ray disc player external media, try the following operations. PlayStation 3, etc. Reconnect the USB Adaptor Cable to your...
  • Page 52 Creating a disc with the dedicated Ordinary DVD device DVD writer, DVDirect Express Player DVD player You can create a disc or play back the Computer that can play DVDs, etc. images on a created disc by using the dedicated DVD writer, DVDirect Express (sold separately).
  • Page 53 To customize a disc with DISC BURN Insert an unused disc into the OPTION DVD writer, and close the disc Perform this operation in the following tray. cases: When dubbing a desired image The [DISC BURN] screen appears on When creating multiple copies of the same the camcorder screen.
  • Page 54 To play back a disc on the DVD writer ‚ [YES] on the camcorder Touch screen. To create another disc of the same contents, insert a new disc and touch [CREATE SAME DISC]. After the operation is completed, touch [EXIT] ‚ [END] on the camcorder screen.

  • Page 55: Camcorder Screen

    AC Adaptor for this the camcorder screen. operation (p. 17). If the [USB SELECT] screen does not Sony DVD writer may not be available in some (MENU) ‚ [Show appear, touch countries/regions. others] ‚ [USB CONNECT] (under Always maintain the firmware of the Sony [OTHERS] category).
  • Page 56 Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall (Red) socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this (Yellow) operation (p. 17). Sony DVD writer may not be available in some countries/regions. Signal flow High definition image quality (HD) movies will be dubbed with standard definition image quality (STD).

  • Page 57: Your Camcorder

    To record the date/time, coordinates (HDR- CX550V/XR550V), or camera settings data, Connect your camcorder to the (MENU) ‚ [Show others] ‚ touch recording device (a disc recorder, [PLAYBACK SET] (under [PLAYBACK] etc.) with the A/V connecting category) ‚ [DATA CODE] ‚ a desired cable (supplied) or an A/V setting ‚...

  • Page 58: Customizing Your Camcorder

    Customizing your camcorder Using menus Using the menus, you can perform useful functions and change various settings. If you make good use of menu operations, you can enjoy using your camcorder. The camcorder has various menu items under each of eight menu categories. MANUAL SETTINGS (Items to adjust for scene condition) ‚...
  • Page 59 ¦ Notes You may not be able to set some menu items, depending on the recording or playback conditions. Grayed out menu items or settings are not available. ¼ Tips Depending on the menu items being changed, your camcorder switches between playback mode and recording mode (movie/photo).
  • Page 60 Using the OPTION MENU The OPTION MENU appears just like the pop-up window that appears when you right-click the mouse on a computer. When is displayed at bottom-right of the screen, you can use the OPTION MENU. You touch , and the menu items you can change in the context appear.
  • Page 61 Menu lists (MANUAL SETTINGS) category SCENE SELECTION ....Selects an appropriate recording setting according to the type of scene, such as night view or beach. FADER ........Fades scenes in or out. WHITE BAL......... Adjusts the color balance to the brightness of the recording environment. SPOT MTR/FCS ......
  • Page 62 X.V.COLOR ....Records wider range of colors. WIDE SELECT ..... Sets the horizontal to vertical ratio when recording movies with standard definition image quality (STD). (PHOTO SETTINGS) category SELF-TIMER ......Sets the self-timer when your camcorder is in photo recording mode. IMAGE SIZE ......
  • Page 63 DUB ALL/ DUB ALL ....Dubs all saved movies in a playlist. PHOTO COPY COPY by select ....Selects photos and copy. COPY by date ....Copies all photos of a specified date. PLAYLIST EDIT ADD/ ADD ..Adds movies in a playlist. ADD by date/ ADD by date ...
  • Page 64 HDMI cable (sold separately). DROP SENSOR* ..... Activates or deactivates the drop sensor. REC LAMP ......Sets REC LAMP to light up or not. REMOTE CTRL ....Sets whether the Wireless Remote Commander is to be used or not. HDR-CX550V/XR550V HDR-CX550/CX550V HDR-XR550/XR550V...

  • Page 65: Getting Detailed Information From The "Handycam" Handbook

    Getting detailed information from the “Handycam” Handbook To view the “Handycam” Handbook, double-click the short-cut icon on the The “Handycam” Handbook is a user guide computer screen. designed to be read on a computer screen. The “Handycam” Handbook is intended to be read when you want to know more about operating your camcorder.

  • Page 66: Additional Information

    Pressing START/STOP or PHOTO does not media in order to investigate the problem. record images. However, your Sony dealer will neither copy Press MODE to turn on the (Movie) or nor retain your data.
  • Page 67 If the problem persists even after you a cool place. have tried to fix a couple of times, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. In this case, when you The temperature of your camcorder is low.

  • Page 68: Precautions

    If any solid object or liquid gets inside the may not be able to record nor play back casing, unplug your camcorder and have it checked by a Sony dealer before operating it images. any further. Avoid rough handling, disassembling, modifying, physical shock, or impact such The recording media is full.

  • Page 69: About Care And Storage Of The Lens

    If the battery electrolytic liquid has leaked: About care and storage of the lens Consult your local authorized Sony service facility. Wipe the surface of the lens clean with a soft Wash off any liquid that may have contacted...

  • Page 70: Specifications

    Effective (photo, 4:3): Remote Commander may not function Approx. 6 000 000 pixels properly. In this case, replace the battery with Lens: G lens a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Use of another (Optical) * , 14 * , 120 (Digital) battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.
  • Page 71 (w/h/d) including the projecting parts 0 lx (lux) (NIGHTSHOT is set to on) 143 mm (2 7/8 × 3 × 5 3/4 in.) (w/ The unique pixel array of Sony’s ClearVid h/d) including the projecting parts, and the and the image processing system...
  • Page 72 Expected charging and running time High definition image quality (HD) in h (hour) and m for the supplied battery pack (in (minute) minute) Recording time Recording mode HDR-CX550/CX550V HDR-CX550 HDR-CX550V Image quality [HD FX] 6 h 5 m Charging time...
  • Page 73 Internal hard disk On charging/recording/playback time Measured when using the camcorder at 25 C High definition image quality (HD) in h (hour) and m (77 °F) (10 C to 30 C (50 °F to 86 °F) is (minute) recommended) Recording time The recording and playback time will be Recording mode shorter in low temperatures, or depending...
  • Page 74 Sony Corporation. “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony Corporation. “x.v.Color” is a trademark of Sony Corporation. “BIONZ” is a trademark of Sony Corporation. “BRAVIA” is a trademark of Sony Corporation. “DVDirect” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

  • Page 75: Quick Reference

    Quick reference Screen indicators Upper right Upper left Center Upper right Indicator Meaning Recording image quality (HD/STD) and recording mode (FX/FH/HQ/LP) Recording/playback/ editing media Counter (hour:minute: 0:00:00 second) Estimated recording Bottom [00min] remaining time Upper left FADER Indicator Meaning Approximate number of 9999 MENU button 9999...

  • Page 76: Parts And Controls

    Parts and controls Figures in ( ) are reference pages. Indicator Meaning Ž INTELLIGENT AUTO HDR-CX550/CX550V OPTION button VIEW IMAGES button Slide show button YOUR LOCATION button Data file name 101-0005  Protected image Index button Indicators and their positions are approximate and may differ from what you actually see.
  • Page 77 Built-in microphone Flash HDR-CX550/CX550V Lens (G lens) MIC (PLUG IN POWER) jack ­ (headphones) jack Remote sensor/Infrared port Camera recording lamp (64) The camera recording lamp lights up in red during recording. The lamp flashes when the remaining recording media capacity or battery power is low.
  • Page 78 Power zoom lever /CHG (flash/charge) lamp (15) HDR-CX550/CX550V START/STOP button (25) Grip belt (24) Hook for a shoulder belt Tripod receptacle (29) Memory card slot (23) Memory card Access lamp (23) While the lamp is lit or flashing, the camcorder is reading or writing data.

  • Page 79: Index

    Index A/V connecting cable...34, 56 Image quality .......61 Recording ........24 AVCHD........42 Install ..........39 Recording and playback time ...72 Recording media......21 Repair ...........66 Battery pack .........15 LANGUAGE SET .......20 RESET ..........77 Blu-ray disc ........47 Macintosh ........39 Saving images in external Capturing photos from Maintenance ........68 media ..........49 a movie .........48...
  • Page 80 Puede encontrar más información sobre este producto y respuestas a las preguntas más frecuentes en nuestro sitio Web de atención al cliente. http://www.sony.net/ Printed on 70% or more recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink. Impreso en papel reciclado en un 70% o más utilizando tinta hecha con aceite vegetal exento de compuesto orgánico volátil (COV).
  • Page 81 4-170-534-11(1) Table of contents Getting started Recording/Playback Making good use of your camcorder Saving images with an external device HDR-CX550/CX550V/ Customizing your XR550/XR550V camcorder Additional information Digital HD Video Camera Recorder “Handycam” Handbook Quick reference 2010 Sony Corporation...
  • Page 82 Read this first Battery pack Supplied items The numbers in ( ) are the supplied quantity. ÿ AC Adaptor (1) ÿ Power cord (Mains lead) (1) ÿ Component A/V cable (1) The camcorder is not dustproofed, dripproofed ÿ A/V connecting cable (1) or waterproofed.
  • Page 83 Do not aim at the sun. Doing so might cause You may not be able to play back normally your camcorder to malfunction. Take images images recorded on your camcorder with other of the sun only in low light conditions, such as devices.

  • Page 84: Notes On Optional Accessories

    [YES] The model with * is equipped with GPS. Notes on optional accessories We recommend using genuine Sony accessories. Genuine Sony accessories may not be available in some countries/regions. About this manual, illustrations and on-screen displays The example images used in this manual for...
  • Page 85 Notes on use Do not do any of the following. Otherwise, the recording media may be damaged, recorded images may be impossible to play back or may be lost, or other malfunctions could occur. ejecting the memory card when the access lamp (p.
  • Page 86 Operation flow Getting started (p. 12) Prepare the power source and memory card. Recording movies and photos (p. 21) Recording movies C p. 22 ¼ Changing the recording mode (p. 28) ¼ Expected recording time (MEDIA INFO, p. 85) Shooting photos C p. 24 Playing movies and photos Playback on the camcorder C p.

  • Page 87: Advice For Successful Recording

    Advice for successful recording To get good results in recording Stabilizing your camcorder When you hold the camcorder, keep your upper body upright, and hold your arms close to your body. The SteadyShot function is effective against camera-shake, however, it is essential that you not move the camcorder. Zooming smoothly Zoom in and out slowly and smoothly.

  • Page 88: Useful Recording Techniques

    Useful recording techniques Capturing images beautifully without Focusing on the child on the left side of troublesome setting the screen INTELLIGENT AUTO(26) Prioritizing the subject(28) SPOT FOCUS(73) Capturing photos during movie Recording in a dimly-lit room recording Dual Rec(30) NightShot(30) Smile Shutter (29) LOW LUX(77) Capturing fireworks, or a sunset in all...
  • Page 89 Table of contents Read this first ..................2 Notes on use .
  • Page 90 Playing images on a TV ................41 Connecting a TV using [TV CONNECT Guide] .
  • Page 91 Menu lists ................... 69 MANUAL SETTINGS .

  • Page 92: Getting Started

    Getting started Step 1: Charging the battery pack HDR-CX550/CX550V Battery pack /CHG (flash/charge) lamp DC IN jack DC plug Power cord (Mains lead) Adaptor To the wall outlet (wall socket) HDR-XR550/XR550V Battery pack /CHG (flash/charge) lamp DC IN jack DC plug...
  • Page 93 You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (V series) after attaching it to your camcorder. ¦ Notes You cannot attach any “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack other than the V series to your camcorder. Turn off your camcorder by closing the LCD screen after replacing the viewfinder.
  • Page 94 To remove the battery pack Close the LCD screen. Slide the BATT (battery) release lever ( ) and remove the battery pack ( To use a wall outlet (wall socket) as a power source Make the same connections as “Step 1: Charging the battery pack. ” Even if the battery pack is attached, the battery pack is not discharged.

  • Page 95: Step 2: Turning The Power On, And Setting The Date And Time

    Step 2: Turning the power on, and setting the date and time Open the LCD screen of your camcorder. Your camcorder is turned on and the lens cover is opened. To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is open, press POWER. MODE lamp POWER button Select the desired geographical area with...
  • Page 96 ¦ Notes 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 (MENU) ‚ [Show others] ‚ [PLAYBACK SET] (under [PLAYBACK] category) ‚...

  • Page 97: Changing The Language Setting

    Changing the language setting You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language. (MENU) ‚ [Show others] ‚ [CLOCK/ Touch LANG] (under [GENERAL SET] category) ‚ [ LANGUAGE SET] ‚ a desired language ‚ ‚ ‚...

  • Page 98: Step 3: Preparing The Recording Media

    Step 3: Preparing the recording media The recording media that can be used differs depending on your camcorder. The following icons are displayed on the screen of your camcorder. HDR-CX550/CX550V Memory Internal memory card HDR-XR550/XR550V Internal hard Memory disk card In the default setting, both movies and photos are recorded on this recording media.

  • Page 99: Inserting A Memory Card

    Touch [YES] ‚ The recording medium is changed. To check the recording media settings In either movie recording mode or photo recording mode, the media icon of the selected recording media is displayed at the top right corner of the screen. Recording media icon The icon displayed may vary depending on your model.
  • Page 100 Open the cover, and insert the memory card with the nothched edge in the direction as illustrated until it clicks. Close the cover after inserting the memory card. Note direction of notched corner. Access lamp The [Create a new Image Database File.] screen may appear if you insert a new memory card.

  • Page 101: Recording/Playback

    Recording/Playback Recording In the default setting, movies are recorded with high definition image quality (HD) on the following media. HDR-CX550/CX550V: Internal memory HDR-XR550/XR550V: Internal hard disk Tips ¼ To change the recording media, see page 18. Fasten the grip belt.

  • Page 102: Recording Movies

    Recording movies Press START/STOP to start recording. You can start recording also by touching in the bottom left of LCD screen. START/STOP button [STBY] ‚ [REC] To stop recording, press START/STOP again. You can stop recording also by touching in the bottom left of LCD screen. The icons and indicators on the LCD panel will be displayed for about 3 seconds, then disappear after turning on your camcorder or switching the recording (movie/photo)/playback modes.
  • Page 103 The following states will be indicated if data is still being written onto the recording media after recording has finished. During this time, do not apply shock or vibration to the camcorder, or remove the battery or AC Adaptor. Access lamp (p. 20) is lit or flashing The media icon in the upper right of the LCD screen is flashing ¼...

  • Page 104: Shooting Photos

    ‚ [DATA CODE] ‚ a desired setting ‚ ‚ ‚ Shooting photos In the default setting, photos are recorded on the following recording media. HDR-CX550/CX550V: Internal memory HDR-XR550/XR550V: Internal hard disk Tips ¼ To change the recording media, see page 18.
  • Page 105 Tips ¼ See page 105 on the recordable number of photos. (MENU) ‚ [Show others] ‚ [ To change the image size, touch IMAGE SIZE] (under [PHOTO SETTINGS] category) ‚ a desired setting ‚ ‚ You cannot record photos while is displayed.

  • Page 106: Useful Functions For Recording Movies And Photos

    In the default setting, INTELLIGENT AUTO is set to ON. Wider range of view Close view (Wide angle) (Telephoto) HDR-CX550/CX550V HDR-XR550/XR550V Move the power zoom lever slightly for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom. Face detection ¦...

  • Page 107: Selecting High Definition Image Quality (Hd)

    Scene detection [TELE MACRO] Ž (Backlight), STEADYSHOT] (Landscape), STEADYSHOT] (Twilight), (Spotlight), (Low light), [AUTO BACK LIGHT] (Macro) [LOW LUX] The camcorder selects the most effective [FACE DETECTION] setting automatically, depending on the [SMILE PRIORITY] scene. Camera-shake detection ¦ Notes Above settings are reset to the default settings (Walk), (Tripod) when INTELLIGENT AUTO is set to ON.

  • Page 108: Selecting The Recording Mode

    Tips Tips ¼ ¼ You can record, play, or edit movies in the Movies are recorded with AVCHD 1920 selected image quality only. To record, play, or 1080/60i format when the FX or FH mode edit movies in another image quality, change of the high definition image quality (HD) is this setting.

  • Page 109: Capturing Smiles Automatically (Smile Shutter)

    Touch the face you want to record as priority. ¦ Notes Smiles may not be detected depending on recording conditions, subject conditions, and the setting of your camcorder. When [ REC MODE] is set to [HD FX], you cannot use the Smile Shutter function. ¼...

  • Page 110: Recording High Quality Photos During Movie Recording (Dual Rec)

    To enjoy the 5.1ch surround sound of the Recording in dark places movies recorded with high definition image (NightShot) quality (HD) in 5.1ch sound, you need an AVCHD format device compatible with 5.1ch When you press NIGHTSHOT, appears, surround. and you can record images even in total When you connect your camcorder with an darkness.

  • Page 111: Recording In Mirror Mode

    Recording in mirror mode Press MANUAL to activate the manual adjustment mode. Pressing MANUAL switches the setting mode between automatic and manual. Rotate the MANUAL dial to adjust the focus. Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder ( ), then rotate it 180 degrees to the lens side ( Items you can assign to the MANUAL...
  • Page 112 ¦ Notes Manual settings will be retained even if you change the assigned item of the MANUAL dial. However, if you set [EXPOSURE] after setting [AE SHIFT] manually, [EXPOSURE] will override [AE SHIFT]. If you set either one of [EXPOSURE], [IRIS], or [SHUTTER SPEED], the settings of other 2 items are canceled.
  • Page 113 Playback on the camcorder In the default setting, movies and photos that are recorded on the following recording media are played. HDR-CX550/CX550V: Internal memory HDR-XR550/XR550V: Internal hard disk Tips ¼ To change the recording media, see page 18. Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.
  • Page 114 : Displays movies recorded on the previous/next date. : Displays the previous/next movie. Returns to the recording screen. is displayed when is touched. appears when the standard definition image quality (STD) movie is selected with [ SET] (p. 27). You can scroll the display by touching and dragging õ...
  • Page 115 To adjust the sound volume of movies ‚ adjust with ‚ While playing back movies, touch You can also adjust the sound volume by using in the OPTION MENU. Viewing photos Your camcorder displays the selected photo. To start/stop slide Previous show Next...

  • Page 116: Useful Functions For Playing Movies And Photos

    Useful functions for playing movies and photos Tips ¼ You can also display Date Index by touching (MENU) ‚ [Show others] ‚ [VIEW Searching for desired images by IMAGES] (under [PLAYBACK] category) ‚ [DATE INDEX]. date (Date Index) On the Film Roll Index/Face Index screen, you You can search for desired images by date can display the Date Index by touching the date in the upper right corner of the screen.

  • Page 117: Searching For Desired Scene By Face (Face Index)

    ¦ Tips Notes ¼ You can also display the Film Roll Index by Faces may not be detected depending on (MENU) ‚ [Show others] ‚ touching recording conditions. [VIEW IMAGES] (under [PLAYBACK] Example: People wearing glasses or hats, or who category) ‚...
  • Page 118 To stop Highlight Playback If you change the settings for Highlight Playback, Highlight Playback scenes are To pause, touch re-selected. To stop, touch If you change [MUSIC] after you select [THEME], the music will be selected To change the settings for Highlight automatically for the theme from next time.

  • Page 119: Using Pb Zoom With Photos

    Magnification can be adjusted with the [EDIT] category) ‚ [ERASE ALL] (under power zoom lever. ‚ [YES] ‚ [YES] ‚ ‚ HDR-CX550/ HDR-XR550/ You can erase also by touching CX550V XR550V (OPTION) during Highlight Scenario Playback or on the scenario selection screen.

  • Page 120: Playing Back A Series Of Photos (Slide Show)

    Adjust the magnification with W (Wide angle)/T (Telephoto). To cancel, touch Playing back a series of photos (Slide show) Touch on the photo playback screen. The slide show begins from the selected photo. To stop the slide show Touch To restart the slide show Touch again.

  • Page 121: Playing Images On A Tv

    Playing images on a TV Connection methods and the image If you touch [HINT], you can see tips for the connection or change the settings of quality (high definition (HD) or standard your camcorder. definition (STD)) viewed on the TV screen differ depending on what type of TV is connected, and the connectors used.
  • Page 122 Types of connection cables between When connecting to your TV via a VCR your camcorder and TV Connect your camcorder to the LINE IN input on the VCR using the A/V connecting cable. Set Connecting to a high definition TV the input selector on the VCR to LINE (VIDEO Component A/V Cable (supplied) 1, VIDEO 2, etc.).

  • Page 123: Using "Bravia" Sync

    When you connect with A/V down/left/right/enter buttons of the remote connecting cable with S VIDEO commander of your TV. When the S VIDEO plug (S VIDEO channel) ¦ Notes is connected, audio signals are not output. To There may be some operations you cannot do output audio signals, connect the white and red with the remote commander.

  • Page 124: Making Good Use Of Your Camcorder

    Making good use of your camcorder Deleting movies and photos You can free media space by deleting Touch and display the mark movies and photos from recording media. on the movies or photos to be deleted. ¦ Notes You cannot restore images once they are deleted.

  • Page 125: Protecting Recorded Movies And Photos (Protect)

    Protecting recorded movies and photos (Protect) Touch to select the recording Protect movies and photos to avoid deleting date of the desired movies/photos, then them by mistake. touch Touch the image on the LCD screen to Tips ¼ confirm the image. Touch to return You can protect movies and photos on the to the previous screen.

  • Page 126: Dividing A Movie

    Dividing a movie To protect all the movies and photos recorded on the same day at one time (MENU) ‚ [Show Touch others] ‚ [ DIVIDE] (under ¦ Notes [EDIT] category). You cannot select [ PRT. by date] for still images recorded on the memory card.

  • Page 127: Capturing A Photo From A Movie

    Capturing a photo from a movie Do not remove the battery pack or the AC Adaptor from your camcorder while dividing (MENU) ‚ [Show Touch the movie. It may damage the recording media. others] ‚ [PHOTO CAPTURE] Also, do not eject the memory card while (under [EDIT] category).

  • Page 128: Dubbing/Copying Movies And Photos From The Internal Recording Media

    Dubbing/copying movies and photos from the internal recording media to ‚ Touch memory card ¦ Notes Dubbing movies The image size is fixed depending on the image quality of the movie: You can dub movies recorded on the 2.1M] with high definition image quality internal recording media of your camcorder (HD) to memory card.

  • Page 129: Copying Photos

    ‚ [YES] ‚ Touch the type of dubbing. Touch ‚ [DUB by select]: To select movies and [DUB by date]: To dub all movies of a specified date Tips ¼ DUB ALL]: To dub the high To check the dubbed movies after dubbing is finished, select [MEMORY CARD] on [MOVIE definition image quality (HD) Playlist MEDIA SET] and play them back (p.

  • Page 130: Using The Playlist Of Movies

    Using the Playlist of movies The Playlist is a list showing thumbnails of Select the photo to be copied. the movies that you have selected. The original movies are not changed even [COPY by select]: Touch the photo to if you edit or erase the movies added to the be copied, and mark with .

  • Page 131: Playing The Playlist

    To add all the movies recorded on the Playing the Playlist same day at one time (MENU) ‚ [Show In step 2, touch [ ADD by date]/ Touch others] ‚ [PLAYLIST] (under ADD by date]. The recording dates of movies are [PLAYBACK] category).

  • Page 132: Using The Gps Function (Hdr-Cx550V/Xr550V)

    Using the GPS function (HDR-CX550V/XR550V) ‚ [YES] ‚ ‚ What is GPS? Touch The GPS (Global Positioning System) is a system that calculates geographical location Tips ¼ from highly accurate US space satellites. Even if you erase a movie from a Playlist, the This system allows you to pinpoint your original movie is not deleted.

  • Page 133: Setting The Gps Function

    The GPS switch is set to ON in the default Setting the GPS function setting. Movies and photos will be recorded with location information. When your Set the GPS switch to ON ( appears on camcorder cannot acquire the location the LCD screen).

  • Page 134: Acquiring The Current Location Information

    shows the default setting location or a location Acquiring the current location acquired previously. information If you hold a certain point, the map keeps scrolling. You can display the current location on a You can also display the current location by map.

  • Page 135: Displaying The Coordinate Information (Coordinates)

    Tips the thumbnail of the movie or photo without ¼ location information. You can also display the Map Index by touching (MENU) ‚ [Show others] ‚ [VIEW IMAGES] (under [PLAYBACK] category) Touch the image marker where ‚ [ MAP]. you recorded the movies and You can also search for the thumbnail of photos to be played back.

  • Page 136: Adjusting The Clock And The Area Automatically

    Adjusting the clock and the area automatically (AUTO CLOCK ADJ/ AUTO AREA ADJ) Your camcorder can maintain accurate time and compensate for time difference automatically, by acquiring time and location information from GPS. (MENU) ‚ [Show Touch others] ‚ [CLOCK/ LANG] (under [GENERAL SET]...

  • Page 137: Saving Images With An External Device

    For details on available external media, go to the Movies and photos in the internal Sony support website in your country/region. recording media of the camcorder that have not yet been saved on to external Connect the AC Adaptor and the media can be saved.
  • Page 138 To save desired movies and photos After the operation is completed, ¦ Notes touch on the camcorder You cannot copy or search photos by date which screen. are recorded on the memory card. Touch [Play without copying.] in step 5 above.

  • Page 139: Creating A Disc With A Dvd Writer, Recorder

    ¦ Notes The Date Index and Map Index (HDR- Player CX550V/XR550V) of photos cannot be Sony Blu-ray disc player displayed. PlayStation 3, etc. If your camcorder does not recognize the external media, try the following operations. Reconnect the USB Adaptor Cable to your...

  • Page 140: Creating A Disc With The Dedicated Dvd Writer, Dvdirect Express

    Creating a disc with the dedicated Ordinary DVD device DVD writer, DVDirect Express Player DVD player You can create a disc or play back the Computer that can play DVDs, etc. images on a created disc by using the dedicated DVD writer, DVDirect Express (sold separately).
  • Page 141 To customize a disc with DISC BURN Insert an unused disc into the OPTION DVD writer, and close the disc Perform this operation in the following tray. cases: When dubbing a desired image The [DISC BURN] screen appears on When creating multiple copies of the same the camcorder screen.
  • Page 142 To play back a disc on the DVD writer ‚ [YES] on the camcorder Touch screen. To create another disc of the same contents, insert a new disc and touch [CREATE SAME DISC]. After the operation is completed, touch [EXIT] ‚ [END] on the camcorder screen.
  • Page 143 Touch the recording media that socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this contains the images on the operation (p. 14). camcorder screen. Sony DVD writer may not be available in some countries/regions. USB CONNECT]: Internal Always maintain the firmware of the Sony memory DVDirect (DVD writer) to its latest version.

  • Page 144: Creating A Standard Definition Image Quality (Std) Disc

    Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this (Red) (Yellow) operation (p. 14). Sony DVD writer may not be available in some countries/regions. High definition image quality (HD) movies Signal flow will be dubbed with standard definition image quality (STD).
  • Page 145 cable (supplied) or an A/V When the screen size of display devices (TV, (MENU) ‚ [Show etc.) is 4:3, touch connecting cable with S VIDEO others] ‚ [OUTPUT SETTINGS] (under (sold separately). [GENERAL SET] category) ‚ [TV TYPE] ‚ [4:3] ‚ ‚...

  • Page 146: Customizing Your Camcorder

    Customizing your camcorder Using menus Using the menus, you can perform useful functions and change various settings. If you make good use of menu operations, you can enjoy using your camcorder. The camcorder has various menu items under each of eight menu categories. MANUAL SETTINGS (Items to adjust for scene condition) ‚...

  • Page 147: Using My Menu

    ¦ Notes You may not be able to set some menu items, depending on the recording or playback conditions. Grayed out menu items or settings are not available. ¼ Tips Depending on the menu items being changed, your camcorder switches between playback mode and recording mode (movie/photo).

  • Page 148: Using The

    Using the OPTION MENU The OPTION MENU appears just like the pop-up window that appears when you right-click the mouse on a computer. When is displayed at bottom-right of the screen, you can use the OPTION MENU. You touch , and the menu items you can change in the context appear.

  • Page 149: Menu Lists

    Menu lists (MANUAL SETTINGS) category (PHOTO SETTINGS) category SCENE SELECTION SELF-TIMER FADER IMAGE SIZE WHITE BAL. STEADYSHOT SPOT MTR/FCS FLASH MODE SPOT METER FLASH LEVEL SPOT FOCUS REDEYE REDUC EXPOSURE FILE NO. FOCUS TELE MACRO (PLAYBACK) category AE SHIFT VISUAL INDEX WB SHIFT VIEW IMAGES GOLF SHOT...
  • Page 150 MEDIA SETTINGS LANGUAGE SET MOVIE MEDIA SET POWER SETTINGS PHOTO MEDIA SET A.SHUT OFF MEDIA INFO OTHER SETTINGS MEDIA FORMAT DEMO MODE INT. MEMORY* CALIBRATION HDD* CTRL FOR HDMI MEMORY CARD DROP SENSOR* REC LAMP REMOTE CTRL HDR-CX550V/XR550V HDR-CX550/CX550V HDR-XR550/XR550V...

  • Page 151: Manual Settings (Items To Adjust For Scene Condition)

    MANUAL SETTINGS (Items to adjust for scene PORTRAIT (Soft portrait) condition) Brings out the subject such as people or flowers while See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation. creating a soft background. The default settings are marked with Ô. SPOTLIGHT**( ) SCENE SELECTION Prevents people’s faces from...
  • Page 152 WHITE FADER INDOOR (°) Fades in/out with the white effect. The white balance is appropriately adjusted for the following recording conditions: Indoors At party scenes or studios where the lighting conditions change quickly Under video lamps in a studio, or under sodium lamps or incandescent-like color BLACK FADER lamps...
  • Page 153 from inside the house, or vice versa, you need touch [AUTO]. to redo the [ONE PUSH] procedure to readjust ¦ Notes the white balance. [EXPOSURE] is automatically set to [MANUAL]. SPOT MTR/FCS (Spot meter/ focus) SPOT FOCUS You can adjust the brightness and focus You can select and adjust the focal point to for the selected subject simultaneously.
  • Page 154 FOCUS TELE MACRO You can adjust the focus manually. You can This is useful to shoot small subjects, such select this function also when you want to as flowers or insects. You can blur out focus on a certain subject intentionally. backgrounds and the subject stands out clearer.
  • Page 155 ¦ Notes You can also adjust manually by using the MANUAL dial (p. 31). The size of photos becomes 1,920 1,080. You cannot record sound. WB SHIFT (White Balance Shift) Image quality is not as good as that of normal recording.

  • Page 156: Shooting Set (Items For Customized Shooting)

    SHOOTING SET (Items for customized To change the setting shooting) Touch (OPTION), then select the See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation. setting you want to change. The default settings are marked with Ô. [TIMING] Select the recording start point after START/STOP is pressed.
  • Page 157 [OFF], you cannot also set [FLASH MODE] STEADYSHOT (p. 81). You can compensate for camera shake. LOW LUX Set [ STEADYSHOT] to [OFF] ( when using a tripod (sold separately), then You can record bright color images, even in the image becomes natural. dim light.
  • Page 158 is a limit to the number of faces that can be the setting of your camcorder. recorded in Face Index. To play back from the When [DUAL CAPTURE] is selected, Face Index, see page 37. appears on the screen in movie recording standby, and changes into when movie...
  • Page 159 AUTO BACK LIGHT LOW ( ) Records ambient sound faithfully. Select Your camcorder adjusts the exposure for [LOW] when you want to record an exciting backlit subjects automatically. and powerful sound in a concert hall, etc. Ô ON (This setting is not suitable for recording Adjusts the exposure for backlit subjects conversations.) automatically.

  • Page 160: Photo Settings (Items For Recording Photos)

    PHOTO SETTINGS (Items for recording photos) ON ( See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation. Records in x.v.Color. The default settings are marked with Ô. ¦ Notes SELF-TIMER Set [ X.V.COLOR] to [ON] when the recorded movie will be played back on an Press PHOTO to start the count down.
  • Page 161 than [OFF], you cannot also set [FLASH STEADYSHOT MODE]. The built-in flash is not flashed in movie You can compensate for camera shake. recording mode. Set [ STEADYSHOT] to [OFF] ( when using a tripod (sold separately), then FLASH LEVEL the image becomes natural.

  • Page 162: Playback (Items For Playback)

    PLAYBACK (Items for playback) FILE NO. (File number) See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation. You can select the way to assign file number VISUAL INDEX of photos. See page 33. Ô SERIES Assigns file numbers of photos in sequence. VIEW IMAGES The file number becomes larger each time you record a photo.
  • Page 163 Aperture value Ô OFF Exposure Data code is not displayed. Flash DATE/TIME COORDINATES (HDR-CX550V/XR550V) Displays the date and time. See page 55. CAMERA DATA Displays camera setting data. Tips ¼ COORDINATES The data code is displayed on the TV screen if you connect your camcorder to a TV.

  • Page 164: Edit (Items For Editing)

    EDIT OTHERS (Items for other settings) (Items for editing) See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation. See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation. The default settings are marked with Ô. DELETE YOUR LOCATION (HDR- See page 44. CX550V/XR550V) SCENARIO ERASE See page 52.

  • Page 165: Manage Media (Items For Recording Media)

    The actual performing time for deleting data is operation (p. 14). as follows; To avoid the loss of important images, you HDR-CX550/CX550V: about 6 minutes should save them before formatting the HDR-XR550/XR550V: about 120 minutes recording media. If you stop performing [EMPTY] while Protected movies and photos will also be [Executing…] appears, be sure to complete the...

  • Page 166: General Set (Other Setup Items)

    GENERAL SET (Other setup items) REPAIR IMG.DB F. See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation. The default settings are marked with Ô. See page 96, 101. SOUND/DISP SET VOLUME You can adjust the volume of playback sound by touching BEEP Ô...
  • Page 167 to the camcorder body, the setting becomes OUTPUT SETTINGS [NORMAL] automatically. ¼ Tips TV TYPE This adjustment does not affect the recorded You need to convert the signal depending images in any way. on the TV connected when playing back LCD COLOR movies and photos.
  • Page 168 STD CONTENTS COMPONENT Set the output image resolution recorded with Select [COMPONENT] when connecting standard definition image quality (STD). your camcorder to a TV with the Ô AUTO component input jack. Normal setting (outputs the signal according 480i to the TV automatically). Select this when connecting your 480p camcorder to a TV with the component...
  • Page 169 AUTO AREA ADJ (Auto area OTHER SETTINGS adjustment) (HDR-CX550V/XR550V) See page 56. DEMO MODE When your camcorder is connected to a DST SET/SUMMERTIME wall outlet (wall socket), a demonstration You can change this setting without movie appear about 10 minutes after you stopping the clock.
  • Page 170 DROP SENSOR (HDR-XR550/XR550V) REC LAMP (Recording lamp) Your camcorder detects that it is dropping, You can make the camera recording lamp and protects the internal hard disk. on the front of your camcorder not to turn Ô ON Activates the drop sensor. When it is detected Ô...

  • Page 171: Additional Information

    The temperature of your camcorder is media in order to investigate the problem. extremely high. Turn off your camcorder and However, your Sony dealer will neither copy leave it for a while in a cool place. nor retain your data.
  • Page 172 Remove any obstructions between the disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall Wireless Remote Commander and the remote outlet (wall socket) and contact your Sony sensor. dealer. The battery pack may be damaged. Point the remote sensor away from strong light sources such as direct sunlight or overhead lighting.
  • Page 173 The remaining battery time indicator does The image in the viewfinder is not clear. not indicate the correct time. Move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever The ambient temperature is too high or too until the image appears clearly (p. 23). low.
  • Page 174 cannot make new recording during this Even if auto flash or (Auto redeye period. reduction) is selected, you cannot use the The recording media is full. Delete flash with: unnecessary images (p. 44). NightShot Total number of movie scenes or photos [IRIS] or [SHUTTER SPEED] that is assigned exceeds the recordable capacity of your to the MANUAL dial...
  • Page 175 The horizontal to vertical ratio of the Horizontal stripes appear on the images. movie (16:9 (wide)/4:3) cannot be This occurs when recording images under a changed. fluorescent lamp, sodium lamp, or mercury The horizontal to vertical ratio of high lamp. This is not a malfunction. definition image quality (HD) movies is 16:9 Black bands appear when you record a TV (wide).
  • Page 176 Change the sound to 2ch when creating a disc Photos cannot be played back. using the supplied software “PMB. ” Photos cannot be played back if you have This happens when sound recorded in 5.1ch modified files or folders, or have edited the surround is converted to 2ch (normal stereo data on a computer.
  • Page 177 Playlist. Erase unnecessary movies from the The image appears distorted on the 4:3 Playlist (p. 51). You cannot add photos in the Playlist. This happens when viewing an image A movie cannot be divided. recorded in the 16:9 (wide) mode on a 4:3 TV. Set [TV TYPE] correctly (p.
  • Page 178 If the problem persists even after you have tried to fix a couple of times, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. In this case, when you contact them, give them all the numbers of...
  • Page 179 (High temperature warning) Slow flashing The temperature of your camcorder is getting higher. Turn off your camcorder and leave it for a while in a cool place. C:(or E:) ÿÿ:ÿÿ (Self-diagnosis display) Fast flashing The temperature of your camcorder is C:04: ÿÿ...

  • Page 180: Recording Media

    When [ REC MODE] is set to [HD FX], you (Warning indicator pertaining to cannot record photos while recording movies. incompatible memory card) Incompatible memory card is inserted (p. 19). (Warning indicator pertaining to smile shutter)  (Warning indicator pertaining to The smile shutter cannot be used with the the write-protect of the memory card) current setting of the camcorder.
  • Page 181 The Image Database File is damaged. Do Buffer overflow you want to create a new file? You cannot record because the drop sensor HD movie management information is senses a drop of the camcorder repeatedly. damaged. Create new information? If you are at risk of dropping the camcorder The management file is damaged.
  • Page 182 This memory card may not be able to record or play images correctly. Use a memory card recommended for your camcorder (p. 19). Do not eject the memory card during writing. Data may be damaged. Reinsert the memory card, and follow the instructions on the LCD screen.

  • Page 183: Recording Time Of Movies/Number Of Recordable Photos

    Approximate time available when you use a use your camcorder. fully charged battery pack. Playing time Approximate time available when you use a HDR-CX550/CX550V fully charged battery pack. (unit: minute) Battery pack Continuous Typical recording...

  • Page 184: Expected Recording Time Of Movies

    Expected recording time of movies m (minute) Recording mode Recording time Internal memory HDR-XR550 HDR-XR550V HDR-CX550/CX550V [STD HQ] 59 h 40 m 59 h 20 m High definition image quality (HD) in h (hour) and m (5.1ch) (minute) [STD HQ]...

  • Page 185: Expected Number Of Recordable Photos

    (10) (10) card may vary depending on the recording conditions. (25) (25) ¦ Notes The unique pixel array of Sony’s ClearVid and (50) (50) the image processing system (BIONZ) allow still image resolution equivalent to the sizes (100) (105) described.
  • Page 186 LP: Approx. 5Mbps (average) 1,440 1,080 pixels/16:9 Standard definition image quality (STD): HQ: Approx. 9Mbps (average) 720 pixels/16:9, 4:3 The photo recording pixels and the aspect ratio. Photo recording mode: 4,000 3,000 dots/4:3 4,000 2,250 dots/16:9 2,880 2,160 dots/4:3 1,600 1,200 dots/4:3 480 dots/4:3 Dual recording:...

  • Page 187: Using Your Camcorder Abroad

    Using your camcorder abroad Power supply On TV color systems You can use your camcorder in any Your camcorder is a NTSC-system-based countries/regions using the AC Adaptor camcorder. If you want to view the playback supplied with your camcorder within the image on a TV, it must be a NTSC-system- AC 100 V to 240 V, 50 Hz/60 Hz range.
  • Page 188 Setting to the local time You can easily set the clock to the local time by setting a time difference when using your (MENU) ‚ [Show others] ‚ [CLOCK/ camcorder abroad. Touch LANG] (under [GENERAL SET] category) ‚ [AREA SET] and [DST SET]/[SUMMERTIME] (p. 88). HDR-CX550V/XR550V When [AUTO CLOCK ADJ] and [AUTO AREA ADJ] are set to [ON], the clock is set to the local time automatically by the GPS function (p.

  • Page 189: Maintenance And Precautions

    Audio signal: Dolby Digital 2ch/5.1ch location by triangulating radio signals from Recording media: GPS satellites. Avoid using the camcorder HDR-CX550/CX550V: Internal memory, in places where radio signals are blocked or memory card reflected, such as a shadowy place surrounded by buildings or trees, etc. Use the camcorder in HDR-XR550/XR550V: Internal hard disk, open sky environments.
  • Page 190 On the restriction of use of GPS on an You may not be able to record location information at locations or in situations where airplane radio signals from the GPS satellites do not During take off and landing of an airplane, reach the camcorder as follows.

  • Page 191: About The "Memory Stick" Media

    Croatia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and About the “Memory Stick” media Slovenia © EuroGeographics “Memory Stick” media are a compact, France portable IC recording medium with a large source: Géoroute® IGN France & BD Carto® data capacity. IGN France You can use only “Memory Stick Duo” Germany media, which are about the half size of Die Grundlagendaten wurden mit...

  • Page 192: About The "Infolithium" Battery Pack

    media near magnets or magnetic fields in the correct direction. If inserted in the wrong It is recommended that you make a back-up of direction, the device may be damaged. important data on the hard disk of a computer. Do not insert “Memory Stick Duo” media Do not attach a label or the like on “Memory adaptor without “Memory Stick PRO Duo”...
  • Page 193 The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack calculates the recordings before making the actual recording. power consumption according to the operating Do not expose the battery pack to water. The conditions of your camcorder, and displays the battery pack is not water resistant. remaining battery time in minutes.

  • Page 194: About X.v.color

    Be particularly careful of the lens. standard proposed by Sony, and is a trademark Keep the LCD screen closed when you are not of Sony.
  • Page 195 You bring your camcorder from an air conditioned car or room into a hot place outside. You use your camcorder after a squall or a shower. You use your camcorder in a hot and humid place. Touch “ ” displayed on the screen with the How to prevent moisture condensation corner of memory card or the like 3 times.

  • Page 196: Rechargeable Battery

    Corporation. will not be affected as long as you are not “x.v.Color” is a trademark of Sony Corporation. recording the date. “BIONZ” is a trademark of Sony Corporation. “BRAVIA” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
  • Page 197 SDHC logo is a trademark. Notes on the License ANY USE OF THIS PRODUCT OTHER THAN CONSUMER PERSONAL USE IN ANY MultiMediaCard is a trademark of MANNER THAT COMPLIES WITH THE MultiMediaCard Association. MPEG-2 STANDARD FOR ENCODING VIDEO INFORMATION FOR PACKAGED MEDIA All other product names mentioned herein may IS EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED WITHOUT A be the trademarks or registered trademarks of...
  • Page 198 URL to download it. When downloading the source code, select DCR-SX43 as the model for your camcorder. http://www.sony.net/Products/Linux/ We would prefer you do not contact us about the contents of source code. Read “license2.pdf ” in the “License” folder on the CD-ROM.

  • Page 199: Quick Reference

    Quick reference Screen indicators Upper right Upper left Center Upper right Indicator Meaning Recording image quality (HD/STD) and recording mode (FX/FH/HQ/LP) (28) Recording/playback/ editing media (18) Counter (hour:minute: 0:00:00 second) (34) Bottom Estimated recording [00min] Upper left remaining time (22) Indicator Meaning FADER (71)

  • Page 200: Parts And Controls

    Parts and controls Figures in ( ) are reference pages. Indicator Meaning IRIS (31) CONVERSION LENS (77) HDR-CX550/CX550V INTELLIGENT AUTO Ž (26) OPTION button (68) VIEW IMAGES button (33) Slide show button (40) YOUR LOCATION button (54) Data file name (35) 101-0005 ...
  • Page 201 You cannot use an external flash (sold operations. separately) and the built-in flash at the same time. When an external microphone (sold HDR-CX550/CX550V separately) is connected, it takes precedence over the built-in microphone (p. 29). Built-in microphone (29) Flash Lens (G lens) MIC (PLUG IN POWER) jack ­...
  • Page 202 GPS switch (HDR-CX550V/XR550V) (53) Speaker MODE button (21) (Movie)/ (Photo) lamps (21) (USB) jack (60, 63) HDMI OUT jack (41) HDR-CX550/CX550V Eyecup Viewfinder (23) Viewfinder lens adjustment lever (23) Battery pack (12) A/V Remote Connector (41) DC IN jack (12)

  • Page 203: Wireless Remote Commander

    î Ô è /ENTER buttons When you press any of these buttons, the Wireless Remote Commander orange frame appears on the LCD screen. Select a desired button or an item with î Ô è , then press ENTER to enter. ¦...

  • Page 204: Remote Commander

    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.

  • Page 205: Index

    Index Symbols Creating a disc ......59 CTRL FOR HDMI ......90 1080i/480i ........88 GENERAL SET ......86 16:9 ..........87 GOLF SHOT .......75 4:3 ..........87 GPS ..........52 DATA CODE ......16 480i ..........88 GUIDEFRAME......76 DATE/TIME........16 5.1ch surround recording ..29 Date Index ........36 DELETE ........44 HD/STD SET ......27 DEMO MODE ......89 A.SHUT OFF ......89...
  • Page 206 Menus ........66, 69 MICREF LEVEL ......78 REC LAMP ........90 TELE MACRO ......74 Mirror mode .......31 REC MODE .........28 Telephoto ........26 Moisture condensation ....114 Recording ........21 Thumbnail ........44 MOVIE DUB ......48 Recording and playback Tripod.........122 MOVIE MEDIA SET ....18 time ..........103 Troubleshooting ......91 Recording media......18 Movies ........22, 34...
  • Page 207 Additional information on this product and answers to frequently asked questions can be found at our Customer Support Website. http://www.sony.net/...

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