Sony CCD-TR78 Operation Manual  (primary manual) Operation Manual

Sony CCD-TR78 Operation Manual (primary manual) Operation Manual

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Video Camera
Recorder
CCD-TR78/TR88/TR98
Operation Manual
Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly,
and retain it for future reference.
Owner's Record
The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record
the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these
numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this
product.
Model No. CCD-
Serial No.
1996 by Sony Corporation
CCD-TR78/TR88/TR98 3-810-917-13.E
3-810-917-13 (1)
h
Model No. AC-
Serial No.
CCD-TR98

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Table of Contents
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Summary of Contents for Sony CCD-TR78 Operation Manual (primary manual)

  • Page 1 Owner’s Record The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product. Model No. CCD- Serial No.
  • Page 2 Welcome to video h Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony Handycam camcorder. With your Handycam, you can capture life’s precious moments with superior picture and sound quality. Your Handycam is loaded with advanced features, but at the same time it is very easy to use. You will soon be producing home video that you can enjoy for years to come.
  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Before You Begin Using This Manual 4 Checking Supplied Accessories 5 Getting Started Charging and Installing the Battery Pack 6 Inserting a Cassette 9 Basic Operations Camera Recording 10 Using the Zoom Feature 13 Hints for Better Shooting 14 Checking the Recorded Picture 15 Connections for Playback 16 Playing Back a Tape 17...
  • Page 4: Before You Begin

    Before You Begin Using This Manual The instructions in this manual are for the three models listed below. Before you start reading this manual and operating the unit, check your model number by looking at the bottom of your camcorder. The CCD-TR98 is the model used for illustration purposes.
  • Page 5: Checking Supplied Accessories

    Checking Supplied Accessories Check that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder. 1 NP-33 Battery Pack (1) (p. 6) 2 A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 16) 3 Shoulder strap (1) (p. 51) 4 AC-V15/V16/V16A AC power adaptor (1) (p. 6, 19) 5 CR2025 Lithium Battery (1) (p.
  • Page 6: Getting Started

    Getting Started Charging and Installing the Battery Pack Before using your camcorder, you first need to charge and install the battery pack. To charge the battery pack, use the supplied AC power adaptor. Charging the Battery Pack Charge the battery pack on a flat place without vibration. (1) Connect the AC power adaptor to the wall outlet.
  • Page 7 Battery Life Recording time with the built-in light on is indicated in parentheses. CCD-TR78 NP-33 NP-98/ Battery pack (supplied) Typical recording time* 45 (25) 170 (85) Continuous recording time** 85 (45) 300 (150) CCD-TR88 NP-33 NP-98/ Battery pack (supplied) Typical recording time* 45 (25) 155 (80) Continuous recording time**...
  • Page 8 Charging and Installing the Battery Pack Installing the Battery Pack (1) Insert the top of the battery pack into the top of the battery mounting surface. (2) Push the battery pack so that it attaches firmly. To Remove the Battery Pack Slide BATT, and then pull the lower part of the battery pack.
  • Page 9: Inserting A Cassette

    Inserting a Cassette Make sure that a power source is installed. (1) While pressing the small blue button, slide EJECT in the direction of the arrow. The cassette compartment automatically opens. (2) Insert a cassette (not supplied) with the window facing out. (3) Press the PUSH mark on the cassette compartment to close it.
  • Page 10: Basic Operations

    Basic Operations Camera Recording Make sure that a power source and a cassette is inserted. When you use the camcorder for the first time, power on it and reset the date and time to your time (p. 33) before you start recording. When you reset the date and time, the date is automatically recorded for 10 seconds after you start recording (AUTO DATE feature).
  • Page 11 Note on Standby mode If you leave the camcorder for 5 minutes or more with a cassette inserted in Standby mode, the camcorder goes off automatically. This prevents wearing down the battery and wearing out the tape. To resume Standby mode, turn STANDBY down once and turn it up again. To start recording, press START/STOP.
  • Page 12 Camera Recording Note on recording When you record from the beginning of the tape, run the tape for about 15 seconds before actual recording. This prevents the camcorder from missing any start-up scenes when you play back the tape. Notes on recording mode •...
  • Page 13: Using The Zoom Feature

    Using the Zoom Feature Zooming is a recording technique that lets you change the size of the subject in the scene. For more professional-looking recordings, use the zoom sparingly. T side: for telephoto (subject appears closer) W side: for wide-angle (subject appears farther away) Zooming Speed Turn the power zoom lever fully for a high-speed zoom.
  • Page 14: Hints For Better Shooting

    When attaching a non-Sony tripod, make sure the tripod screw is shorter than 9/32 inch (6.5 mm). Otherwise, the screw may damage the inner parts of the camcorder.
  • Page 15: Checking The Recorded Picture

    Checking the Recorded Picture Using EDITSEARCH, you can review the last recorded scene or check the recorded picture in the viewfinder. (1) While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, slide it to CAMERA. (2) Turn STANDBY up. (3) Press EDITSEARCH.
  • Page 16: Connections For Playback

    Connections for Playback You can use this camcorder as a VCR by connecting it to your TV for playback. It is recommended to use the house current as the power source (p. 19). If a VCR is connected to a TV Open the jack cover and connect the camcorder to LINE IN on the VCR by using the supplied A/V connecting cable.
  • Page 17: Playing Back A Tape

    Playing Back a Tape You can monitor the playback picture in the viewfinder. You can also monitor on the TV screen, after connecting the camcorder to the TV/VCR (p. 16). You can control playback using the supplied Remote Commander. (1) While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, slide it to PLAYER. (2) Insert the recorded tape with the window facing out.
  • Page 18 Playing Back a Tape Various Playback Modes To view a still picture (playback pause) Press P during playback. To resume playback, press P or (. To locate a scene (Picture Search) Keep pressing 0 or ) during playback. To resume normal playback, release the button. To monitor the high-speed picture during fastforward or rewind (Skip Scan) Keep pressing 0 while rewinding or ) while advancing the tape.
  • Page 19: Advanced Operations

    In the car 12 V or 24 V car battery This mark indicates that this product is a genuine accessory for Sony video product. When purchasing Sony video products, Sony recommends that you purchase accessories with this “GENUINE VIDEO ACCESSORIES” mark.
  • Page 20: Battery Life

    Using Alternative Power Sources WARNING AC power cord must only be changed at qualified service shop. PRECAUTIONS The set is not disconnected from the AC power source (mains) as long as it is connected to the wall outlet, even if the set itself has been turned off. Notes on the POWER lamp •The POWER lamp will remain lit for a while even if the unit is unplugged after use.
  • Page 21: Recording With The Date Or Time

    To remove the battery case The battery case is removed in the same way as the battery pack (p. 8). When you replace the batteries, be sure to remove the battery case from the camcorder to prevent malfunction. Using a Car Battery Use the DCP-77 DC pack (not supplied).
  • Page 22: Using The Built-In Light

    Using the Built-in Light You can use the built-in light to suit your shooting situation. The recommended distance between the subject and camcorder is about 5 feet (1.5 meters). While the camcorder is in Standby mode, slide LIGHT to ON. The built-in light turns on. Turn STANDBY down to turn off.
  • Page 23: Replacing The Bulb

    (4) Attach the bulb housing turning it clockwise, then replace the built-in light unit. CAUTION • When replacing the bulb, use only the Sony XB-3D halogen lamp (not supplied) to reduce the risk of fire. • To prevent possible burn hazard, disconnect the power source before replacing and do not touch the bulb until the bulb becomes cool enough to handle (for about 30 minutes or more).
  • Page 24: Using The Program Ae Function

    Using the PROGRAM AE Function You can select from three PROGRAM AE (Auto Exposure) modes to suit your shooting situation. When you use PROGRAM AE, you can capture high-speed action or night views. Selecting the Best Mode Select the best mode by using the following examples. å...
  • Page 25: Shooting With Backlighting

    Shooting with Backlighting When you shoot a subject with the light source behind the subject or a subject with a light background, use the BACK LIGHT. Press BACK LIGHT. The c indicator appears inside the viewfinder. [a] Subject is too dark because of backlight. [b] Subject becomes bright with backlight compensation.
  • Page 26: Selecting The Start/Stop Mode

    Selecting the START/STOP Mode Your camcorder has two modes besides normal start/stop mode. These modes enable you to take a series of quick shots resulting in a lively video. (1) Set START/STOP MODE to the desired mode. : Recording starts when you press START/STOP, and stops when you press it again (normal mode).
  • Page 27: Superimposing A Title

    Superimposing a Title You can select from nine preset titles to superimpose it on the picture during recording. Each time you press TITLE, the preset titles appear one by one. To Superimpose from the Beginning (1) Slide the POWER switch to CAMERA. (2) Turn STANDBY up.
  • Page 28: Using The Steady Shot Function (Ccd-Tr88/Tr98 Only)

    Using the STEADY SHOT Function — CCD-TR88/TR98 only You can use the Steady Shot to compensate for camera-shake. Do not use the Steady Shot when shooting a stationary object with a tripod. Using the STEADY SHOT Function Slide STEADY SHOT to ON. To Release the Steady Shot Slide STEADY SHOT to OFF.
  • Page 29: Changing The Mode Settings

    Changing the Mode Settings You can change the mode settings to further enjoy the features and functions. (1) Slide the cover to the left. You will find the mode switches. (2) Set the mode switches to the desired mode. (3) Close the cover. Selecting the Mode Setting of Each Item ZOOM <x24/x12>...
  • Page 30: Editing Onto Another Tape

    Editing onto Another Tape You can create your own video program by editing with any other h 8 mm, H Hi8, j VHS, k S-VHS, VHSC, K S-VHSC, l Betamax or ¬ ED Betamax VCR that has video/ audio inputs. After connecting the camcorder to the VCR, (1) Slide the POWER switch to PLAYER.
  • Page 31: Additional Information

    5 seconds when you set the POWER switch to CAMERA. In this case, replace the battery with a Sony CR2025 or Duracell DL-2025 lithium battery. Use of any other battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.
  • Page 32 Changing the Lithium Battery in the Camcorder Changing the Lithium Battery When replacing the lithium battery, keep the battery pack or other power source attached. Otherwise, you will need to reset the date and time. (1) Slide the cover and align the mark of the cover to that of the body. Press down the cover. (2) Push the battery in once and pull it out from the holder.
  • Page 33: Resetting The Date And Time

    Resetting the Date and Time Reset the date and time using the DATE(+) and TIME(NEXT) buttons. (1) Slide the POWER switch to CAMERA. (2) Turn STANDBY up. (3) Press DATE(+) and TIME(NEXT) simultaneously until the year indicator flashes in the viewfinder.
  • Page 34: Playback Modes

    Playback Modes The playback mode is selected automatically according to the recording system (SP/LP mode) in which the tape was recorded. Note on AFM HiFi stereo When you play back a tape, the sound will be in monaural if: • You record the tape using this camcorder, then play it back on an AFM HiFi monaural video recoeder/player.
  • Page 35: Battery Pack

    Charging Temperature You should charge batteries at temperatures from 50°F to 86°F (from 10°C to 30°C). Lower temperatures require a longer charging time. Sony Batteries are Recommended Use of non-Sony batteries may damage your Handycam camcorder. CCD-TR78/TR88/TR98 3-810-917-13.E...
  • Page 36 Tips for Using the Battery Pack Notes on Charging A Brand-new Battery A brand-new battery pack is not charged. Before using the battery pack, charge it completely. After Long Storage Recharge the battery pack after a long period of storage. If the battery pack is charged fully but not used for a long time (about 1 year), it becomes discharged.
  • Page 37 Notes on the Battery Case • Use only with alkaline batteries. You cannot use the battery case with manganese batteries or size AA rechargeable NiCd batteries. • Battery life is remarkably shorter in a cold environment (lower than 50°F/10°C). • Keep the metal part clean. If it gets dirty, wipe it with a soft cloth. •...
  • Page 38: Maintenance Information And Precautions

    Maintenance Information and Precautions Moisture Condensation If the camcorder is brought directly from a cold place to a warm place, moisture may condense inside the camcorder, on the surface of the tape, or on the lens. In this condition, the tape may stick to the head drum and be damaged or the unit may not operate correctly.
  • Page 39: Video Head Cleaning

    [a] Slightly contaminated [b] Critically contaminated If this happens, clean the video heads with the Sony V8-25CLH cleaning cassette (not supplied). After checking the picture, if it is still “noisy”, repeat the cleaning. (Do not repeat cleaning more than 5 times in one session.)
  • Page 40 Maintenance Information and Precautions Removing Dust from inside the Viewfinder — CCD-TR78/TR88 only (1) Remove the screw with a screwdriver (not supplied). Then, while sliding the RELEASE knob, turn the eyecup in the direction of the arrow and pull it out. (2) Clean the surface with a commercially available blower.
  • Page 41 • Should any solid object or liquid fall into the casing, unplug the camcorder and have it checked by your nearest Sony dealer before operating it any further. • Avoid rough handling or mechanical shock. Be particularly careful of the lens.
  • Page 42: Using Your Camcorder Abroad

    – Dusty or dirty – Very humid – Vibrating If any difficulty should arise, unplug the unit and contact your nearest Sony dealer. Using Your Camcorder Abroad Each country has its own electricity and TV color systems. Before using your camcorder abroad,...
  • Page 43: Trouble Check

    Trouble Check If you run into any problem using the camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. Should the difficulty persist, disconnect the power source and contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. Camcorder Power...
  • Page 44 Adjust the viewfinder lens. (p.11) too high. m The camcorder is not malfunctioning. Change locations. m Clean the heads using the Sony V8-25CLH cleaning cassette. (p.39) m Set it to ON. (p.29) m Remove the obstacle. m Insert the battery with the correct polarity. (p.52) m Insert new ones.
  • Page 45 The problem is with the AC power adaptor. Please contact your nearest Sony dealer in connection with the product with the problem. If you use a battery pack which you have just bought or which has been left unused for a long time, the CHARGE lamp may flash at the first charging.
  • Page 46: Specifications

    Specifications Input and Output connectors Video Camera Recorder Video output System Video recording system Phono jack, 1 Vp-p, 75 unbalanced Two rotary heads, Helical Audio output scanning, FM system Phono jack, 327 mV, (at load Audio recording system Rotary heads, FM system impedance 47 k ), impedance Video signal less than 2.2 k...
  • Page 47: Np-C65

    AC-V15 : 7.5V, 1.6A AC-V16/V16A: 7.5 V, 1.8 A Battery charge terminal 10 V, 1.1 A in charge mode Applicable battery Sony battery pack Ni-Cd type (6V) : NP-33 (800 mAh) (supplied), NP-60D (1350 mAh), NP-C65 (1500 mAh), NP-66 (1400 mAh),...
  • Page 48: Identifying The Parts

    Identifying the Parts 1 POWER switch (p. 10, 17) 2 TIME(NEXT) button (p. 21, 33) 3 DATE(+) button (p. 21, 33) 4 COUNTER RESET button (p. 12) 5 TITLE button (p. 27) 6 STEADY SHOT mode switch (p. 28) CCD-TR88/TR98 only 7 Eyecup (p.
  • Page 49 CCD-TR88 !£ Power zoom lever (p. 13) !¢ EJECT knob (p. 9) !∞ Viewfinder adjustment ring (p. 11) CCD-TR78/TR88 only !§ Eyecup release knob (p. 40) CCD-TR78/TR88 only !¶ Hooks for shoulder strap (p. 51) !• START/STOP button (p. 10) !ª...
  • Page 50 Identifying the Parts @ª Tape transport buttons (p. 17, 18) p STOP 0 REW (rewind) ( PLAY (playback) ) FF (fast forward) P PAUSE These buttons will function in PLAYER mode. #º EDITSEARCH button (p. 15) #¡ Built-in light (p. 22) #™...
  • Page 51 Attaching the shoulder strap Attach the supplied shoulder strap to the hooks for the shoulder strap (!¶ on page 49). Remote Commander The buttons that have the same name on the Remote Commander and on the camcorder function identically. 1 Transmitter Point toward the remote sensor to control the camcorder after turning on the POWER switch on the camcorder.
  • Page 52 Identifying the Parts Preparing the Remote Commander To use the Remote Commander, you must insert two size AA (R6) batteries. Use the supplied size AA (R6) batteries. Identifying the Parts (1) Remove the battery cover from the Remote Commander. (2) Insert both of the size AA (R6) batteries with correct polarity. (3) Put the battery cover back onto the Remote Commander.
  • Page 53 • This camcorder works at commander mode VTR 2. The commander modes (1, 2, and 3) are used to distinguish this camcorder from other Sony VCRs to avoid remote control misoperation. If you use another Sony VCR at commander mode VTR 2, we recommend you change the commander mode or cover the remote sensor of the VCR with black paper.
  • Page 54 Identifying the Parts Operation Indicators The indicators appear in CAMERA mode only. 1 Power zoom indicator (p. 13) 2 Backlight indicator (p. 25) 3 Warning indicator (p. 55) 4 Lithium battery indicator (p. 31) 5 Recording lamp/battery lamp (p. 10) 6 Recording in LP mode (p.
  • Page 55: Warning Indicators

    7 The video heads may be contaminated (p. 39). 8 Some other trouble has occurred. Disconnect the power source and contact your Sony dealer or local authorized facility. 9 The lithium battery is weak or the lithium battery is not installed (p. 31).
  • Page 56: Index

    Power sources ... 19 DEMO ... 53 Power zoom ... 13 Digital zoom ... 13 PROGRAM AE ... 24 Sony Corporation Printed in Japan Q, R REC MODE ... 29 Rec. Review ... 15 Remote control jack (LANC) ... 48 Rewind ...

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