Sony DCR-HC32 Operating Manual
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Sony DCR-HC32 Operating Manual

Handycam digital video camera recorder
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See also: Service Manual
Printed on 100% recycled paper using
VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free
vegetable oil based ink.
Printed in Japan
Digital Video Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
DCR-HC32/HC42
© 2005 Sony Corporation

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Summary of Contents for Sony DCR-HC32

  • Page 1 Digital Video Camera Recorder Operating Guide DCR-HC32/HC42 Printed on 100% recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink. © 2005 Sony Corporation Printed in Japan...

  • Page 2: Battery Pack

    Read this first Before operating the unit, please read this For customers in the U.S.A. and manual thoroughly, and retain it for future CANADA reference. RECYCLING LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES WARNING Lithium-Ion batteries are recyclable. You can help preserve To prevent fire or shock hazard, our environment by returning do not expose the unit to rain or your used rechargeable batteries...

  • Page 3: Regulatory Information

    Operation is subject to the following two provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever conditions: you call your Sony dealer regarding this product. (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any Model No. DCR-HC interference received, including interference that Serial No.
  • Page 4 Notes on use Your camcorder is supplied with two kinds of operations guides. – “Operating Guide” (This manual) – “First Step Guide” for using the supplied software (stored on the supplied CD- ROM) On the types of recording media you can use in your camcorder •...
  • Page 5 About the Carl Zeiss lens Your camcorder is equipped with a Carl Zeiss lens, which was developed jointly by Carl Zeiss, in Germany, and Sony Corporation, and produces superior images. It adopts the MTF* measurement system for video cameras and offers a quality typical of a Carl Zeiss lens.

  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Getting Started Step 1: Checking supplied items ...............9 Step 2: Charging the battery pack............10 Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly ...14 Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder ........15 Step 5: Using the touch panel ..............16 Changing the language setting ..............16 Checking the screen indicators (Display guide) ...........16 Step 6: Setting the date and time ............17...
  • Page 7 Searching for the starting point ...............31 Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording (END SEARCH) ....................31 Searching manually (EDIT SEARCH).............31 Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review)......31 Remote Commander ................32 Searching quickly for a desired scene (Zero set memory)......32 Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) ......33 Playing the picture on a TV ..............34 Using the Menu...
  • Page 8 Deleting recorded pictures from the “Memory Stick Duo”......65 Marking images on the “Memory Stick Duo” with specific information (Image protection/Print mark) ............66 Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer)......67 Jacks to connect external devices............69 Using a Computer Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on your computer ....70 Installing the software and “First Step Guide”...

  • Page 9: Step 1: Checking Supplied Items

    Make sure that you have following items Rechargeable battery pack (1) (p. 10, supplied with your camcorder. 109) The number in the parentheses indicates the NP-FP30 (DCR-HC32) number of that item supplied. NP-FP50 (DCR-HC42) CD-ROM “Picture Package Ver.1.5” (1) AC Adaptor (1) (p. 10) (p.

  • Page 10: Step 2: Charging The Battery Pack

    Step 2: Charging the battery pack You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (P series) (p. 109) after attaching it to your camcorder.
  • Page 11 To remove your camcorder from the Handycam Station The CHG (charge) lamp turns off when the battery is fully charged. Turn off the power, then remove the Disconnect the AC Adaptor from camcorder from the Handycam Station holding both your camcorder and the the DC IN jack.

  • Page 12: Charging Time

    NP-FP90 Battery pack Charging time NP-FP30 (supplied with DCR-HC32) • All times measured under the following NP-FP50 (supplied conditions: with DCR-HC42) Top: When the LCD backlight turns on. Middle: When the LCD backlight turns off.
  • Page 13 On the battery pack • Before changing the battery pack, slide the POWER switch up to OFF (CHG). • The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during charging, or the battery information (p. 26) will not be correctly displayed under the following conditions.

  • Page 14: Step 3: Turning The Power On And Holding Your Camcorder Firmly

    Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly To record or play back, slide the POWER • When you slide the POWER switch to turn switch repeatedly to turn on the respective on the CAMERA-TAPE or CAMERA- MEMORY lamp, the current date and time lamp.

  • Page 15: Step 4: Adjusting The Lcd Panel And Viewfinder

    Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder The LCD panel Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (), then rotate it to the best angle to record or play (). DISP/BATT INFO...

  • Page 16: Step 5: Using The Touch Panel

    Step 5: Using the touch panel You can play back recorded pictures (p. 23), or change the settings (p. 36) using the Touch touch panel. Touch [MENU] during Easy Handycam operation. Place your hand on the rear side of 60min 0:00:00 DISP the LCD panel to support it.

  • Page 17: Step 6: Setting The Date And Time

    Step 6: Setting the date and time Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears every time you turn on your camcorder or change the POWER switch position.

  • Page 18: Step 7: Inserting A Tape Or A "Memory Stick Duo

    Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” when inserting a cassette tape. Cassette tape You can use mini DV cassettes only “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 106). • The recordable time varies depending on [REC You can use only a “Memory Stick MODE] (p.

  • Page 19: Step 8: Selecting The Aspect Ratio (16:9 Or 4:3) Of The Recording Picture (Dcr-Hc42)

    Step 8: Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3) of the recording picture (DCR-HC42) By recording in the 16:9 (wide) mode, Recording a moving picture or still you can enjoy wide-angle, high-resolution image on the “Memory Stick Duo” pictures. • If you intend to view pictures on a wide ...

  • Page 20: Recording/Playback With Ease (Easy Handycam)

    Open the lens cover. optimally, which frees you from detailed adjustment. DCR-HC32: Since only basic functions become available and screen font size increases for easy viewing, even first time users can enjoy easy operation.

  • Page 21: Playing Back With Ease

    Playing back with ease Slide the POWER switch  in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Press EASY . Easy Handycam The EASY lights up in blue. operation Start playing back. Movies Still images Touch , then touch Touch...

  • Page 22: Recording

    Recording...

  • Page 23: Playback

    Playback Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Start playing back. Movies Still images On a Tape: Touch The most recently recorded image is Touch , then touch displayed. start playback. ...

  • Page 24: Functions Used For Recording/Playback, Etc

    Functions used for recording/playback, etc. For DCR-HC42:...

  • Page 25: To Adjust The Exposure For Backlit Subjects

    To adjust the exposure for backlit Playback subjects ........  To adjust the exposure for backlit subjects, To play back the images in sequence press BACK LIGHT  to display  . To ........... cancel the back light function, press BACK See [SLIDE SHOW] on page 49.

  • Page 28: Indicators Displayed During Recording/Playback

    Indicators displayed during recording/playback Recording movies Recording still images On a tape 60min FINE 1152 P-MENU  Remaining battery (approx.)  Recording folder (47) Recording mode ( or ) (53)   Image size (22 , 45)  Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or ...
  • Page 29 ( ) is a reference page. The indicators during recording will not be recorded. Viewing movies Viewing still images On a tape qg 9 qh qj 1152 MEMORY PLAY wd wf  Tape transport indicator  Data file name  Video operation buttons (23) ...
  • Page 30 Indicators displayed during ( ) is a reference page. recording/playback (continued) Center Indicators when you made changes Indicator Meaning NightShot plus (24) You can use [DISP GUIDE] (p. 16) to check the function of each indicator that Super NightShot plus (43) appears on the LCD screen.

  • Page 31: Searching For The Starting Point

    Searching for the starting point Make sure that the CAMERA-TAPE lamp Searching manually (EDIT lights up. SEARCH) Searching for the last scene of the You can search for the start point to start most recent recording (END SEARCH) the next recording while viewing the pictures on the screen.

  • Page 32: Remote Commander

    Remote Commander Remove the insulation sheet before using • To change the battery, see page 114. the Remote Commander. Searching quickly for a desired Insulation sheet scene (Zero set memory) During playback, press ZERO  SET MEMORY at a point you want to locate later on.

  • Page 33: Searching For A Scene By Date Of Recording (Date Search)

    Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) You can locate the point where the recording date changes. Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.  Press SEARCH M.  Press (previous)/ (next)  ...

  • Page 34: Playing The Picture On A Tv

    Playing the picture on a TV Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 10). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. A/V jack (Yellow) (White) (Red) VCRs or TVs : Signal flow...
  • Page 35 On some 4:3 TVs, the still image recorded in • 4:3 aspect ratio may not appear in full screen. This is not a malfunction. When you play back a picture recorded in 16:9 • aspect ratio on a 4:3 TV not compatible with the 16:9 signal, set [TV TYPE] to [4:3].

  • Page 36: Using The Menu Items

    Using the menu items Follow the instructions below to use each of the menu items listed after this page. Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the respective lamp. [CAMERA-TAPE] lamp: settings on a tape [CAMERA-MEMORY] lamp: settings on a “Memory Stick Duo”...
  • Page 37 After finishing the settings, touch (close) to hide the menu screen.  If you decide not to change the setting, touch to return to the previous screen.

  • Page 38: Menu Items

    Menu items DCR-HC32 DCR-HC42 Position of lamp: TAPE MEMORY PLAY/EDIT CAMERA SET menu (p. 40) ×   PROGRAM AE ×   SPOT METER ×   EXPOSURE ×   WHITE BAL. × ×  AUTO SHUTTER ×...
  • Page 39 Available menu items (  ) vary depending on the position of the lamp. *These functions are available during Easy Handycam operation. Position of lamp: TAPE MEMORY PLAY/EDIT...

  • Page 40: Camera Set Menu

    CAMERA SET menu Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (EXPOSURE/WHITE on a ski slope. BAL./STEADYSHOT, etc.) SUNSET&MOON**( ) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 36 for details on selecting Select to maintain the atmosphere of menu items.
  • Page 41  Frame a white object such as a piece of EXPOSURE paper, to fill the screen under the same You can fix the brightness of a picture lighting conditions as you will shoot manually. When recording indoors on the subject. a clear day, for instance, you can avoid ...
  • Page 42 SPOT FOCUS You can select and adjust the focal point to aim it at a subject not located in the center of the screen.
  • Page 43 AUTO (DCR-HC42) default setting). Flashes automatically to reduce the red- • Do not cover the infrared port with your fingers eye phenomenon. or other objects. If the flash is not capable of preventing the red- • • The maximum shooting distance using [NS eye phenomenon, you can select only [ON] or LIGHT] is about 3 m (10 feet).

  • Page 45: Memory Set Menu

    MEMORY SET menu Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo” (QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/BURST/ALL ERASE/ STANDARD ( NEW FOLDER, etc.) Records still images at the standard image quality level. The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when ...
  • Page 46 05:41:20 • When using the “Memory Stick Duo” made by 02:50:40 11:22:40 Sony Corporation. The number of recordable pictures varies depending on the recording • When using the “Memory Stick Duo” made by environment. Sony Corporation. The recordable time varies •...
  • Page 47 ALL ERASE FILE NO. Deletes all the pictures on a “Memory Stick  SERIES Duo” without image protection, or in the Assigns file numbers in sequence even if selected folder. the “Memory Stick Duo” is replaced with another one. The file number is reset when ...

  • Page 48: Pict.appli. Menu

    PICT.APPLI. menu Special effects on pictures or additional functions on recording/playback (PICT. EFFECT/SLIDE SHOW/INT.REC-STL, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 36 for details on selecting menu items.
  • Page 49 SLIDE SHOW Effect Items to adjust FLASH The interval of frame- Plays back the images stored on a by-frame playback. “Memory Stick Duo,” or in a folder in sequence (slide show). LUMI. KEY The color scheme of the area in the still ...
  • Page 50 SLOW SHUTTR (slow shutter) The shutter speed is slowed down. Suitable for shooting a subject more clearly in a dark place. • Adjust the focus manually using a tripod since adjusting the focus automatically is hard when [SLOW SHUTTR] is selected. ([FOCUS], p. OLD MOVIE Adds an old movie effect with a sepia hue to pictures.
  • Page 51 To interrupt, touch [REC STOP] in step . DEMO MODE To resume, touch [REC START]. The default setting is [ON], allowing you To cancel, touch [REC STOP], then [END]. to view the demonstration in about 10 • When your camcorder has shot several frames, minutes, after you have removed both a it records them on the tape, after performing cassette and a “Memory Stick Duo”...

  • Page 52: Edit/Play Menu

     Touch the following buttons during When your camcorder is connected to a playback. Sony VAIO series personal computer, you can easily burn the picture recorded on the Touch tape on a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to change the DVD”) using this command.

  • Page 53: Standard Set Menu

    STANDARD SET menu Settings while recording on a tape or other basic settings (REC MODE/MULTI-SOUND/ LCD/VF SET/DISP OUTPUT/USB, etc.) Plays back with main sound or the left channel sound. The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected.
  • Page 54 (optional). • When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is reduced by about 10 percent during recording.  TV TYPE For DCR-HC32: (DCR-HC42) WIDE DISP You can select how a picture appears on the See page 34. viewfinder and LCD screen when [WIDE SELECT] is set to [16:9 WIDE].
  • Page 55 • Camera setting data does not appear when USB-PLY/EDT (USB-Play/Edit) movies on a “Memory Stick Duo” are played Select this when you view pictures stored back. in your camcorder on your computer (p. • The exposure adjustment value (0EV), a shutter speed, and the aperture value appear when still 70), or when you connect your camcorder images on a “Memory Stick Duo”...

  • Page 56: Time/Langu. Menu

    STANDARD SET menu TIME/LANGU. menu (continued) (CLOCK SET/WORLD TIME/LANGUAGE) BEEP See page 36 for details on selecting menu items.  ON A melody sounds when you start/stop CLOCK SET recording, or operate the touch panel. See page 17. Cancels the melody. WORLD TIME When using your camcorder abroad, you DISP OUTPUT...

  • Page 57: Customizing Personal Menu

    Customizing Personal Menu You can add desired menu items to Deleting a menu item Personal Menu, and customize Personal Menu settings for each POWER switch position. This is convenient if you add frequently used menu items to Personal Touch [P-MENU SET UP] ...
  • Page 58 Arranging the order of menu items displayed on Personal Menu Touch [P-MENU SET UP]  [SORT].  If the desired menu item is not displayed, touch Touch the menu item you want to move. Touch to move the menu item to the desired place. Touch To sort more items, repeat steps 2 to 4.

  • Page 59: Connecting To A Vcr Or Tv

    Connecting to a VCR or TV Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 10). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. A/V jack (Yellow) (White) (Red) VCRs or TVs To i.LINK...

  • Page 60: Dubbing To Other Recording Devices

    Dubbing to other recording devices You can copy the picture played back on 49) or PB zoom (p. 25). your camcorder to other recording devices – Titles that are recorded on other camcorder. (such as VCRs). • To record the date/time and camera settings data, display them on the screen (p.

  • Page 61: Recording Pictures From A Vcr Or Tv

    Recording pictures from a VCR or TV You can record pictures or TV programs from a VCR or TV on a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo.” You can also record a scene as a still image on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Be sure to insert a cassette or a “Memory Stick Duo”...

  • Page 62: Dubbing Pictures From A Tape To A "Memory Stick Duo

    Dubbing pictures from a tape to a “Memory Stick Duo” You can record movies or still images on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Make sure you have a recorded tape and a “Memory Stick Duo” inserted into your camcorder. Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.

  • Page 63: Dubbing Sound To A Recorded Tape

    Dubbing sound to a recorded tape You can add sound to a tape already recorded in the 12-bit mode (p. 53) without erasing the original sound. Connecting...

  • Page 64: Recording Sound

    Dubbing sound to a recorded tape (continued) viewfinder. Recording sound • For DCR-HC42: When you attach an external microphone Insert a recorded cassette into your (optional) to the Active Interface Shoe, camcorder beforehand. you can check the picture and the sound by connecting your camcorder to a TV using the A/V connecting cable.

  • Page 65: Deleting Recorded Pictures From The "Memory Stick Duo

    • You can only record additional audio over a tape recorded on your camcorder. The sound may deteriorate when you dub audio on a tape Touch recorded on other camcorders (including other DCR-HC32/HC42 camcorders). 60min 60min 2 / 10 1152 101–0001...

  • Page 66: Marking Images On The "Memory Stick Duo" With Specific Information

    Marking images on the “Memory Stick Duo” with specific information (Image protection/Print mark) When you are using a “Memory Stick Duo” with the write-protect tab, make sure the write-protect tab on the “Memory Stick Duo” is not set to the write-protect position (p.

  • Page 67: Printing Recorded Images (Pictbridge Compliant Printer)

    Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer) You can print out pictures using a One of the images stored on the PictBridge compliant printer without “Memory Stick Duo” will be displayed. connecting the camcorder to a computer. • We cannot guarantee the operation of models Connect the supplied AC Adaptor to a wall that are not PictBridge compatible.

  • Page 68: Printing Recorded Images

    Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer) (continued) – Removing the “Memory Stick Duo” from your camcorder. • If the printer stops working, disconnect the USB cable and restart the operation from the beginning. • For DCR-HC42: If you print a still image recorded with a 16:9 ratio, left and right ends of the image may be cut off.

  • Page 69: Jacks To Connect External Devices

    Jacks to connect external devices Camcorder For DCR-HC32: Accessory shoe • Remove the shoe cover when you use an accessory. • The Active Interface Shoe and the accessory shoe have a safety device for fixing the installed accessory securely. To connect an accessory, press down and push it to the end, and then tighten the screw.

  • Page 70: Before Referring To The "First Step Guide" On Your Computer

    Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on your computer When you install the Picture Package still images from pictures saved on your software on a Windows computer from computer and easily create a short original the supplied CD-ROM, you can enjoy the video or slide show with added music and following operations by connecting your visual styles.

  • Page 71: System Requirements

    Application: DirectX 9.0c or later (This About “First Step Guide” product is based on DirectX technology. It is necessary to have DirectX “First Step Guide” is an instruction manual installed.) you can refer to on your computer. Windows Media Player 7.0 or later This “First Step Guide”...

  • Page 72: Installing The Software And "First Step Guide" On A Computer

    Installing the software and Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on your computer “First Step Guide” on a (continued) computer Others: USB port (This must be provided as standard), disc drive You need to install the software etc., with ...
  • Page 73 (Disc drive).* Read [License Agreement], check * Drive names (such as (E:)) may vary depending on the computer. [I accept the terms of the license agreement] when you agree, then click [Next]. Click [Install]. Depending on the OS on the computer, Select where to save the a message appears notifying you that “First Step Guide”...
  • Page 74 Installing the software and “First Step Guide” on a computer (continued) Select the language for “First If the [Installing Microsoft (R) Step Guide” to be installed, then DirectX(R)] screen is displayed, click [Next]. follow the steps below to install DirectX 9.0c. If not, skip to step Depending on the computer, this screen may not be displayed.
  • Page 75 The computer turns off once, then starts up again automatically (Restart). The Copy [FirstStepGuide.pdf], stored short-cut icons for [Picture Package in the desired language in the Menu] and [Picture Package Menu [FirstStepGuide] folder, to your destination Folder] (and “First Step computer.

  • Page 76: Viewing "First Step Guide

    Guide” is not installed automatically. the respective owners thereof. License Starting up on a Macintosh computer of Picture Package by Sony Corporation would not be construed as conferring to Double-click “FirstStepGuide.pdf”. you by implication, estoppel or otherwise, any license or right to use the Music Contents.

  • Page 77: Creating A Dvd (Direct Access To "Click To Dvd")

    Creating a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”) You can create DVDs when you connect your camcorder to a Sony VAIO series computer* that supports “Click to DVD” via an i.LINK cable (optional). The picture is automatically copied and written to a DVD.
  • Page 78 Creating a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”) (continued) Turn on the computer. Touch [EXEC] on the screen of your camcorder. Quit all applications running with an i.LINK. 60min 0:00:00:00 BURN DVD START CREATE DVD? Prepare the power source for your camcorder, then slide the EXEC CANCEL...
  • Page 79 To cancel the operation Touch [CANCEL] on the LCD screen on your camcorder. • You cannot cancel the operation after [Finalizing DVD.] is displayed on the LCD screen of your camcorder. • Do not disconnect the i.LINK cable or set the POWER switch to another mode on your camcorder until the picture is completely copied to the computer.

  • Page 80: Connecting An Analog Vcr To The Computer Via Your Camcorder (Signal Convert Function)

    Connecting an analog VCR to the computer via your camcorder (Signal convert function) Using the A/V connecting cable and an i.LINK cable (optional), you can convert an analog signal output from an analog device such as a VCR to a digital signal and transfer it to a digital device, such as a computer, via your camcorder.

  • Page 81: Your Computer

    Start playback on the analog video unit. Start capturing procedures on your computer. Regarding operation, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the software or the on-line help. After capturing images and sound, stop capturing procedures on your computer, and stop playback on the analog video unit.

  • Page 82: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting If you run into any problems using your camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. If the problem persists, remove the power source and contact your Sony dealer. Overall operations/Easy Handycam The power does not turn on.
  • Page 83 The CHG (charge) lamp flashes while the battery pack is being charged. • Attach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly. If the problem persists, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall outlet and contact your Sony dealer. The battery pack may be damaged.
  • Page 84 Troubleshooting (continued) LCD screen/viewfinder A rippling effect appears on the LCD screen when you touch it. • This is not a malfunction. Do not press hard on the LCD screen. An unknown picture appears on the LCD screen or viewfinder. •...

  • Page 85: Cassette Tapes

    Cassette tapes The cassette cannot be ejected from the compartment. • Make sure the power source (battery pack or AC Adaptor) is connected correctly (p. 10). • Remove the battery pack from the camcorder, then attach it again (p. 11). •...
  • Page 86 Troubleshooting (continued) Image protection cannot be applied. • Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 107). • Perform the operation again on the index screen (p. 66). You cannot mark pictures for print. • Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 107). •...
  • Page 87 65). • Format the “Memory Stick Duo” on your camcorder or insert another “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 47). • For DCR-HC32: You cannot record still images on the “Memory Stick Duo” using [WIDE SELECT] mode (p. 44). • For DCR-HC42: When [SMTH INT.REC] is activated, still images cannot be recorded on a “Memory Stick...
  • Page 88 (DCR-HC42) • The video head may be dirty. Use a cleaning cassette (optional). • Try again from the beginning. • Use a Sony mini DV cassette. Adjusting the image during recording Refer also to “Menu” (p. 91).
  • Page 89 The picture appears too bright on the screen, and the subject does not appear on the screen. • Deactivate the NightShot plus function (p. 24). • Cancel the BACK LIGHT function (p. 25). The picture appears too dark on the screen, and the subject does not appear on the screen.
  • Page 90 Troubleshooting (continued) Horizontal lines appear on the picture. The displayed pictures are not clear or do not appear. • Clean the head using the cleaning cassette (optional) (p. 112). No sound or only a low sound is heard. • Set [MULTI-SOUND] to [STEREO] (p. 53). •...
  • Page 91 Remote Commander The supplied Remote Commander does not function. • Set [REMOTE CTRL] to [ON] (p. 55). • Remove any obstructions between the Remote Commander and the remote sensor. • Point the remote sensor away from strong light sources such as direct sunlight or overhead lighting.
  • Page 92 • You cannot use [D. EFFECT] together with: – [SUPER NSPLUS] – [COLOR SLOW S] – [FADER] • You cannot use [SLOW SHUTTR], and [OLD MOVIE] together with [PROGRAM AE] (except [AUTO]). • You cannot use [OLD MOVIE] together with: – [WIDE SELECT] (DCR-HC32) – [PICT. EFFECT]...
  • Page 93 Dubbing/Editing/Connecting to other devices Pictures output from the camcorder do not appear on the screen of the connected device. • When attaching the camcorder to the Handycam Station, close the DC IN jack cover, and then fully insert the camcorder into the Handycam Station in the correct direction securely (p.

  • Page 94: Connecting To A Computer

    Troubleshooting (continued) You cannot input pictures. • You cannot input pictures while [DISP OUTPUT] is set to [V-OUT/PANEL] (p. 56). • You cannot input pictures if you press the DISP/BATT INFO button. The picture appears distorted or dark. • A/V connecting cables are connected to both your camcorder and the Handycam Station. Disconnect one of the A/V connecting cables.
  • Page 95 Finish any camcorder operations before connecting the camcorder to the computer. The “Memory Stick Duo” icon ([Removable Disk] or [Sony Memory Stick]) does not appear on the computer screen. • Insert a “Memory Stick Duo” into your camcorder.
  • Page 96 – [USB Composite Device] in the [Universal Serial Bus Controller] folder For copying and viewing pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” – [? Sony Handycam] or [? Sony DSC] with a “?” mark in the [Other devices] folder 5 When the [Confirm Device Removal] screen appears, click [OK].
  • Page 97 – [USB Device] in the [Other devices] folder For copying and viewing pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” – [? Sony Handycam] or [? Sony DSC] with a “?” mark in the [Other devices] folder 6 When the [Confirm Device Removal] screen appears, click [OK].
  • Page 98 2 Double-click the icon for the newly recognized drive [Removable Disk (F:)] (For Windows XP, [Sony Memory Stick]). It may take some time until the drive is recognized. If the computer does not recognize it, the USB driver may be installed incorrectly.
  • Page 99 [USB streaming... This function is not available.] appears on the screen of your camcorder. • Start recording or playing back pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” after USB Streaming is finished. “First Step Guide” is not displayed correctly. • Follow the procedure below and refer to “First Step Guide” (FirstStepGuide.pdf). 1 Place the supplied CD-ROM in the disc drive of your computer.

  • Page 100: Warning Indicators And Messages

    Some symptoms you can fix by yourself.  (Battery level warning) If the problem persists even after you have tried a couple of times, contact your Sony • The battery pack is nearly used up. dealer or local authorized Sony service •...
  • Page 101  (Warning indicators pertaining to (Warning indicator pertaining to camera-shake warning) the tape) • The amount of lights is not sufficient, Slow flashing: so camera-shake easily occurs. Use the • There is less than 5 minutes remaining flash. on the tape. •...
  • Page 102 Warning indicators and messages (continued)  Cassette/Tape Cannot record. The Memory Stick is full.  Insert a cassette (p. 18). • Delete unnecessary images (p. 65).  The Memory Stick is locked.  Reinsert the cassette. Check the tab (p. 107). •...
  • Page 103  PictBridge compliant printer Not recorded in 12-bit audio. Cannot add audio (p. 63). Check the connected device. Cannot add audio on the blank • Switch off the printer and switch it on portion of a tape (p. 63). again, then disconnect the USB cable and reconnect it.
  • Page 104 Warning indicators and messages (continued) Disconnect one AV cable. • A/V connecting cables are connected to both the camcorder and the Handycam Station. Disconnect one of them. • When the A/V connecting cable is connected only to your camcorder, your camcorder is not attached to the Handycam Station correctly.

  • Page 105: Using Your Camcorder Abroad

    Using your camcorder abroad Power supply Simple setting of the clock by time difference You can use your camcorder in any countries/regions using the AC Adaptor You can easily set the clock to the local supplied with your camcorder within the time by setting a time difference when AC 100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz range.

  • Page 106: Usable Cassette Tapes

    Usable cassette tapes You can use mini DV format cassettes only. Use a cassette with the mark. is a trademark. Your camcorder is not compatible with REC: The cassette can be cassettes with Cassette Memory. recorded. SAVE SAVE: The cassette cannot To prevent a blank section from being be recorded (write-protected).

  • Page 107: About The "Memory Stick

    About the “Memory Stick” A “Memory Stick” is a compact, portable – MOV00001: This file name appears on the IC recording medium with a data capacity screen on your camcorder. that exceeds the capacity of a floppy disk. – MOV00001.MPG: This file name appears on the display of a computer.
  • Page 108 About the “Memory Stick” (continued) On image data compatibility • Do not let the “Memory Stick Duo” get wet. • Be careful to keep “Memory Stick Duo” media • Image data files recorded on a “Memory out of the reach of small children. There is Stick Duo”...

  • Page 109: About The "Infolithium" Battery Pack

    About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack This unit is compatible with an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (P series). Your camcorder operates only with an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. “InfoLITHIUM” P series battery packs have the...

  • Page 110: About I.link

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

  • Page 111: Maintenance And Precautions

    • Operate your camcorder on DC 7.2 V (battery i.LINK (DV Interface) compatible devices pack) or DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor). made by Sony (e.g. a VAIO series personal • For DC or AC operation, use the accessories computer) as well as to video devices.

  • Page 112: Moisture Condensation

    The indicator will not appear when • If the following problem occurs, clean the video the moisture condenses on the lens. heads for 10 seconds with the Sony DVM- 12CLD cleaning cassette (optional).  If moisture condensation has occurred –...
  • Page 113 Please contact The position of the “×” changes. your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony Touch [CANCEL] to cancel. service facility to have the video head replaced. If you did not press the right spot, start LCD screen ...

  • Page 114: Rechargeable Battery

    In this case, replace the  Procedures battery with a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Connect your camcorder to a wall outlet Use of another battery may present a risk of fire using the supplied AC Adaptor or the or explosion.

  • Page 115: Using The Strap Belt As A Wrist Strap

    Using the Strap Belt Attaching the as a wrist strap Shoulder Strap This is useful for carrying your camcorder. You can attach the Shoulder Strap to the hook for the Shoulder Strap. Open the hook and loop fastener of the hand pad  and remove it from the ring .

  • Page 116: Specifications

    (using a DVM60 cassette) 16:9 mode: 43.6 ~ 523.2 mm Viewfinder Electric viewfinder (1 3/4 - 20 5/8 in.) DCR-HC32: black and white Color temperature [AUTO], [ONE PUSH], DCR-HC42: color [INDOOR] (3 200 K), Image device DCR-HC32: [OUTDOOR] (5 800 K)

  • Page 117: Lcd Screen

    Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, (approx.) 3 5/8 × 4 1/2 in.) (w/h/d) 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced Mass (approx.) DCR-HC32: Chrominance signal: 400 g (14 oz) main unit only 0.286 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms), 460 g (1 lb) including the unbalanced...
  • Page 118 Mass (approx.) 190 g (6.7 oz) excluding the power cord * See the label on the AC Adaptor for other specifications. Rechargeable battery pack NP-FP30 (DCR-HC32) Maximum output DC 8.4 V voltage Output voltage DC 7.2 V Capacity 3.6 wh (500 mAh)

  • Page 119: Index

    Index Double speed Playback ..52 Dubbing........ 60 A/V connecting cable Calibration......113 DV Interface....59, 77 ......34, 59, 63, 80 CAMERA DATA ....55 D. EFFECT (Digital effect) A/V DV OUT....... 54 CAMERA SET menu ..40 ........49, 92 A/V jack .....
  • Page 120 Index (continued) FORMAT ..... 47, 107 “Memory Stick Duo” slot ..18 Frame-by-frame playback..52 Menu ........36 Jack ........69 Full charge ......11 CAMERA SET menu ... 40 JPEG ........107 EDIT/PLAY menu ..52 MEMORY SET menu ........
  • Page 121 Previous/Next image button Setting the date and time..17 ..........29 Shoulder Strap....115 OLD MOVIE ....50, 92 Print........67 Signal convert function ..80 ONE PUSH ......41 Print mark......66 Skip Scan ......23 OPEN/EJECT lever....18 PROGRAM AE....
  • Page 122 Index (continued) Tape...... See Cassette Wall outlet ......10 Tape counter......28 Warning indicators ..... 100 Tape playback select button Warning messages....100 ..........29 WHITE BAL. (White balance) Telephoto......24 ........41, 91 TELE MACRO ....42 WHITE FADER....48 TIME/LANGU.
  • Page 123 • Pentium is a trademark or registered trademark • i.LINK and are trademarks of Sony of Intel Corporation. Corporation. • Picture Package is a trademark of Sony All other product names mentioned herein may Corporation. be the trademarks or registered trademarks of •...

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