Sony DCM-M1 Operating Instructions Manual
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Sony DCM-M1 Operating Instructions Manual

Sony DCM-M1 Operating Instructions Manual

Minidisc av recorder
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Download this manual See also: Service Manual
MiniDisc
AV Recorder

Operating Instructions

Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly,
and retain it for future reference.
Owner's Record
This recorder's model number is located on the bottom of the unit
and serial number is located on the inside the disc lid. The AC
power adaptor/charger's 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. DCM-M1
Serial No.
DCM-M1
©2000 Sony Corporation
3-866-152-12 (2)
Model No. AC-VQ800
Serial No.

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Summary of Contents for Sony DCM-M1

  • Page 1: Operating Instructions

    The AC power adaptor/charger’s 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. DCM-M1 Serial No.

  • Page 2: Usable Minidiscs

    Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony MiniDisc AV Recorder. With your MiniDisc AV Recorder, you can capture life’s precious moments with superior picture and sound quality. Your MiniDisc AV Recorder 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: Declaration Of Conformity

    If you have any questions about this product, you may call: Sony Direct Response Center 1-(800)-222-7669 or write to: Sony Direct Response Center 12451 Gateway Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33913 Declaration of Conformity Trade Name: SONY Model No.: DCM-M1 Responsible Party:Sony Electronics Inc.

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Table of contents What you can do with your camcorder ... 5 Checking supplied accessories ... 7 Getting Started Using this manual ... 8 Step 1 Preparing the power supply ... 10 Step 2 Inserting an MD DATA2 disc ... 16 Step 3 Using the touch panel ...

  • Page 5: What You Can Do With Your Camcorder

    What you can do with your camcorder Your camcorder can record in the MD DATA2 disc: •Moving pictures (movies) as long as 10 minutes in SP mode or 20 minutes in LP mode •Still pictures (photos) of up to 4,500 shots •Audio of up to 260 minutes.
  • Page 6 What you can do with your camcorder Various functions available with MiniDisc Digital video edit functions (p. 58) Draw on the picture (p. 78). Long audio recording including three photos - Interview recording (p. 36) AUDIO STBY PHOTO 0001 Check the picture just after recording (p.

  • Page 7: Checking Supplied Accessories

    Checking supplied accessories Make sure that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder. 1 AC-VQ800 AC adaptor/charger (1) (p. 10, 15) 2 AC power cord (1) (p. 10, 15) 3 MMD-650A MD DATA2 disc (1) (p. 16) 4 ZK-ET1 connecting cord (1) (p. 15) 5 NP-F550 battery pack (1) (p.

  • Page 8: Getting Started

    Using this manual As you read through this manual, the buttons and settings on your camcorder are shown in capital letters. For example, “set the POWER switch to CAMERA.” When you carry out an operation, you will hear a beep to indicate that the operation is being carried out.

  • Page 9: Precautions On Camcorder Care

    When using on the AC adaptor/charger, disconnect the AC adaptor/charger from a wall outlet. Then contact your nearest Sony dealer. Contents of the recording cannot be compensated if recording or playback is not made due to a...

  • Page 10: Step 1 Preparing The Power Supply

    Step 1 Preparing the power supply Charging the battery pack Use the battery pack after charging it for your camcorder. Your camcorder operates only with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (L series). If you want to use the camcorder right away indoors, use on the AC adaptor/charger (p. 15). (1) Set the mode change switch to “CHARGE.”...

  • Page 11: Charging Time

    Step 1 Preparing the power supply Notes •When the mode change switch is set to VTR/CAMERA during charging, charging stops. •If the CHARGE lamp does not light or flash, check that the battery pack is correctly attached to the AC adaptor/charger. If it is not attached it will not be charged. •When you install the battery pack, be sure to not hit it to the terminal of the AC adaptor/charger.

  • Page 12: Playing Time

    Step 1 Preparing the power supply Playing time MD DATA2 disc Battery pack NP-F550 (supplied) Audio MD Battery pack NP-F550 (supplied) •Approximate minutes when you use a fully charged battery •Numbers in parentheses indicate the time using a normally charged battery. •The battery life will be shorter if you use your camcorder in a cold environment.
  • Page 13 Step 1 Preparing the power supply What is ”InfoLITHIUM?” The “InfoLITHIUM” is a lithium ion battery pack which can exchange data with compatible electronic equipment about its battery consumption. Sony recommends that you use the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack with electronic equipment having the mark.

  • Page 14: Installing The Battery Pack

    Step 1 Preparing the power supply Installing the battery pack Install the battery pack to use your camcorder outdoors. (1) Slide OPEN (BATT) down to open the battery compartment lid. (2) With the V mark pointing down, insert the battery pack until it clicks. (3) Shut the lid.

  • Page 15: Connecting To A Wall Outlet

    AC adaptor/charger itself has been turned off. Using a car battery Use Sony DC adaptor/charger DC-VQ800 (not supplied) or car battery adaptor DCC-L50 (not supplied). VTR/CAMERA CHARGE...

  • Page 16: Step 2 Inserting An Md Data2 Disc

    Step 2 Inserting an MD DATA2 disc Use an MD DATA2 disc. You cannot record on other types of MDs. Lift the bOPEN protrusion and open the LCD panel until it stops. (2) Slide DISC EJECT on the bottom in the direction of the arrow and open the lid manually.
  • Page 17 Step 2 Inserting an MD DATA2 disc To prevent accidental erasure Slide open the tab at the side of the disc (so the tab is concealed). Rear of the disc...

  • Page 18: Step 3 Using The Touch Panel

    Step 3 Using the touch panel You operate your camcorder by selecting the items on the index display or menu on the LCD screen. Select the tracks or menu items by touching with the input pen or a finger, or using the control dial.
  • Page 19 Step 3 Using the touch panel (3) Set the POWER switch to PLAY/EDIT while pressing the small green button. The index display appears. If nothing is recorded in the disc, no index image will be displayed. (4) Touch SET UP on the left of the screen. (5) Touch BEEP.

  • Page 20: Using The Shortcut Menu

    Step 3 Using the touch panel If the LCD screen is dirty •Do not use the input pen when the LCD screen is dirty or dusty. Doing so may damage the LCD screen. •If the LCD screen is dirty, turn the POWER switch to “OFF” first and then wipe the LCD screen lightly with a soft dry cloth.

  • Page 21: Using The Control Dial

    Step 3 Using the touch panel Using the control dial Turn the control dial up or down to select an item, and press it to confirm. The control dial rotates up or down endlessly. Example: turning on the digital zoom function (1) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA while pressing the small green button.

  • Page 22: Recording - Basics

    — Recording – Basics — Recording a picture Your camcorder automatically focuses for you. (1) Install the power source and insert a disc. See “Step 1” and “Step 2” for more information (p. 10 to p. 17). (2) Fasten the grip strap firmly. (3) Remove the lens cap and pull the lens cap string to fix it.
  • Page 23 Recording a picture Note on the date and time The clock is set to New York or Panama time at the factory. You can reset the clock (p. 89). If you want to record longer Select the LP (long play) recording mode in the menu (p. 26). The available recording time becomes twice the SP (standard play) mode;...

  • Page 24: After Recording

    Recording a picture After recording (1) Set the POWER switch to OFF. (2) Eject the disc. (3) Remove the battery pack. If you remove the battery before ejecting the disc Since the disc lid is locked in the CAMERA and INTERVIEW mode, you cannot open the disc lid without the battery.

  • Page 25: Adjusting The Lcd Screen

    Recording a picture Adjusting the LCD screen (1) Pull the bOPEN protrusion and open the LCD panel. (2) Adjust the angle. To close the LCD panel, set it vertically and swing it into the camcorder body. Note When using the LCD screen except in the mirror mode, the viewfinder automatically turns off.

  • Page 26: Adjusting The Viewfinder

    Recording a picture Adjusting the viewfinder When you record pictures with the LCD panel closed, check the picture with the viewfinder. Adjust the viewfinder lens to your eyesight so that the indicators in the viewfinder come into sharp focus. (1) Move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever. Recording time One MD DATA2 disc can record: Track type...

  • Page 27: Using The Zoom Feature

    Recording a picture Using the zoom feature (1) Move the power zoom lever a little for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom. Using the zoom function sparingly results in better-looking recordings. “T” side:for telephoto (subject appears closer) “W”...
  • Page 28 Recording a picture Recording while showing the picture on the LCD screen You can record a person while showing himself/herself on the LCD screen. You can also record yourself if you place your camcorder in a stable position. The supplied Remote Commander will make it easy to record yourself.

  • Page 29: Checking The Recorded Picture

    Checking the recorded picture You can view the picture just after you have recorded with the POWER switch kept to CAMERA. You can erase the track or unnecessary portion of the track. AUDIO REC Viewing the last recorded track (1) During recording standby, press u. The last picture you recorded will be played repeatedly.

  • Page 30: Playback - Basics

    Playing the disc You can monitor the playback picture on the LCD screen. If you close the LCD panel, you can monitor the playback picture in the viewfinder. When you monitor the picture on the LCD screen, tilt your camcorder to its stable position.

  • Page 31: Index Display

    Playing a disc When you open/close the LCD panel Make sure that the LCD panel is set vertically. Note on playback It may take a few seconds to start playback depending on the track. To change the playing time of a photo Set STILL PLAYBACK TIME in the menu (p.

  • Page 32: Playing A Disc

    Playing a disc To control using the buttons on the camcorder or Remote Commander When the name of the buttons of the camcorder differs from the buttons of the Remote Commander, those of the Remote Commander are shown in parenthesis. To play •Select the desired track, then press u (N).

  • Page 33: Adjusting The Volume

    Playing a disc Adjusting the volume (1) Press either of the two buttons on VOL. To set AVLS Set AVLS to ON in the menu (p. 93). To listen using headphones Connect the headphones (not supplied) to the i jack on the front. Adjust the volume using the VOL buttons.
  • Page 34 Playing a disc Turning on or off the information display (1) Press DSPL when the index display is on. The track type icons disappear from the LCD screen. DSPL To make the track data appear, press DSPL again. If you press DSPL during playback The track data appears.

  • Page 35: Viewing The Recording On Tv

    Viewing the recording on TV Connect your camcorder to your TV or VCR with the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder to watch the playback picture on the TV screen. You can operate the video control buttons in the same way as when you monitor playback pictures on the LCD screen.

  • Page 36: Advanced Recording Operations

    Recording audio including photo While you are recording mainly audio in an MD DATA2 disc, you can record up to three photos. Those photos make one track together with the audio. Interview recording is possible only with the MD DATA2 discs. You can record up to 4 hours and 20 minutes in a disc.
  • Page 37 Recording audio including photo - Interview recording If you record from audio equipment such as a CD player Connect the audio equipment to the LINE IN jack of the connecting cord installed in your camcorder using an audio connecting cable (not supplied). Playback and erasing You cannot play back or erase in the INTERVIEW mode.

  • Page 38: Self-Timer Recording

    Self-timer recording You can make a recording with the self-timer. This mode is useful when you want to record yourself. The Remote Commander will make recording easier. (1) Press MENU in the standby mode. (2) Turn the control dial to select (3) Turn the control dial to select SELF TIMER, and press the dial.
  • Page 39 Self-timer recording To set the waiting and recording time You can select the waiting time from 5, 10, and 15 seconds. You can select the recording time of movie from 5, 10, 20, 30 and 60 seconds. (1) On the self-timer screen, turn the control dial to select DETAIL, and press the dial. (2) Turn the control dial to select the desired time, and press the dial to confirm.

  • Page 40: Shooting Backlit Subjects (Back Light)

    Shooting backlit subjects (BACK LIGHT) When you shoot a subject with the light source behind the subject or a subject with a light background, use the backlight function. (1) Press BACK LIGHT in the recording or standby mode. The . indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

  • Page 41: Using The Program Ae Function

    Using the PROGRAM AE function You can select PROGRAM AE (Auto Exposure) mode to suit your specific shooting requirements. Spotlight mode This mode prevents people’s faces, for example, from appearing excessively white when shooting subjects lit by strong light in the theater. Soft portrait mode This mode brings out the subject while creating a soft background for subjects such as people or flowers.
  • Page 42 Using the PROGRAM AE function (1) Press MENU in the recording or standby mode. (2) Turn the control dial to select (3) Turn the control dial to select PROGRAM AE, and press the dial. RETURN SELF TIMER PROGRAM AE D ZOOM STEADYSHOT WHT BAL AUTO SHTR...

  • Page 43: Focusing Manually

    Focusing manually You can gain better results by manually adjusting the focus in the following cases: •The autofocus mode is not effective when shooting – subjects through glass coated with water droplets – horizontal stripes – subjects with little contrast with backgrounds such as walls and sky •When you want to change the focus from a subject in the foreground to a subject in the background •Shooting a stationary subject when using a tripod...

  • Page 44: Adjusting The Exposure Manually

    Adjusting the exposure manually You can manually adjust and set the exposure. Adjust the exposure manually in the following cases: •The subject is backlit •Bright subject and dark background •To record dark pictures (e.g. night scenes) faithfully (1) In the standby or recording mode, press EXPOSURE. The exposure indicator appears.

  • Page 45: Releasing The Steadyshot Function

    Releasing the STEADYSHOT function The STEADYSHOT function compensates for camera-shake. You can release the STEADYSHOT function when you do not need it. Do not use the STEADYSHOT function when shooting a stationary object using a tripod to obtain more natural picture.

  • Page 46: Adjusting The White Balance Manually

    Adjusting the white balance manually You can manually adjust and set the white balance. This adjustment makes white subjects look white and allows more natural color balance. Normally white balance is automatically adjusted. (1) Press MENU in the recording or standby mode. (2) Turn the control dial to select (3) Turn the control dial to select WHT BAL, and press the dial.

  • Page 47: Advanced Playback Operations

    — Advanced Playback Operations — Displaying two pictures – A desired scene can be displayed in a small picture-in-picture screen during playback. You can display the image in picture-in-picture screen with the playback picture side by side in the same size. Picture-in-picture (1) On the index display, touch (2) Touch ON.
  • Page 48 Displaying two pictures – Picture-in-picture Comparing two pictures – 2-picture display You can display the picture-in-picture image together with another image not only from the same disc but also from other discs. (1) Play back the track you want to compare with the picture-in-picture image. (2) Touch the picture-in-picture screen.

  • Page 49: Displaying Nine Consecutive Scenes - 9 Frame Sequence

    Displaying nine consecutive scenes – 9 FRAME SEQUENCE You can view a part of a movie as nine still pictures on the screen. This function is useful when you want to look at a fast-moving subject, such as a golf swing, in detail. 9 FRAME SEQUENCE function displays consecutive scenes of every 0.2 second.
  • Page 50 Displaying nine consecutive scenes – 9 FRAME SEQUENCE To enlarge one of the pictures to entire screen (1) Touch the desired picture. If you press BACK, the previous frame appears. If you touch FORWARD, the next frame appears. To return to the 9 FRAME SEQUENCE screen, touch CLOSE. To return to the index display (1) Touch CLOSE.

  • Page 51: Playing Back Repeatedly

    Playing back repeatedly You can play one track, all tracks in a disc or a portion of a movie (A-B repeat) repeatedly. Repeating a track (1) On the index display, touch (2) Touch SINGLE REPEAT. PLAYBACK RETURN PICTURE IN PICTURE 9 FRAME SEQUENCE NORMAL PLAY MODE...
  • Page 52 Playing back repeatedly (4) Play the track to be repeated. A of AB flashes. (5) Press the control dial at the point to start repeating. Starting point (A) is set and B flashes. (6) Press the control dial at the point to finish repeating. Finishing point (B) is set.

  • Page 53: Playing Back In Random Order - Shuffle

    Playing back in random order – You can play the tracks in random order. (1) On the index display, touch (2) Touch SHUFFLE. PLAYBACK RETURN PICTURE IN PICTURE 9 FRAME SEQUENCE NORMAL PLAY MODE ALL REPEAT SORT SINGLE REPEAT JUMP A–B REPEAT STILL PLAYBACK TIME SHUFFLE...

  • Page 54: Scanning The Top Of Tracks - Intro Scan

    Scanning the top of tracks – You can play the first 3 seconds of all tracks. Photo, memo and title tracks are also played for 3 seconds. Movies shorter than 3 seconds are played for the recorded time. (1) On the index display, touch (2) Touch INTRO SCAN.

  • Page 55: Sorting The Tracks

    Sorting the tracks You can sort the tracks so that you can locate or play the desired tracks first. (1) On the index display, touch PLAYBACK RETURN PICTURE IN PICTURE 9 FRAME SEQUENCE PLAY MODE SORT JUMP STILL PLAYBACK TIME PRESET TRANSITION (2) Touch the desired way of sorting.

  • Page 56: Jumping To The Desired Track

    Jumping to the desired track You can jump to the tracks directly by the title or track name. This function is useful to locate a track when many tracks are recorded in the disc. (1) On the index display, touch The list of title and track names appears.

  • Page 57: Setting The Playing Time Of Still Picture Tracks

    Setting the playing time of still picture tracks You can select the playing time of still picture tracks such as photo, memo and title from about 1, 3, 5 and 10 seconds. The playing time is set to about 3 seconds as the default setting.

  • Page 58: Editing

    Checking the disc information You can check the track numbers, remaining time, etc. Contents display DISC INFORMATION NAME CONTENTS REMAIN TRACKS TRACKS TRACKS Displaying the disc information (1) Touch The disc information display appears. 0001 7.4.1999 2:58 (2) To check the remaining time or tracks, touch REMAIN. (3) To close the disc information display, touch CLOSE.

  • Page 59: Checking The Track Information

    Checking the track information You can check the type, recorded date, data rate, etc., of each track. Track information display TRACK INFORMATION 0000 01:23 12.24.1999 1:30 MARK 8.00 PROTECT DATA RATE Displaying the track information (1) Touch EDIT. Scroll the menu by touching v or V, or by turning the control dial. (2) Touch TRACK INFO.
  • Page 60 Checking the track information Labelling the track You can label a track using up to 100 characters. (1) Touch the track name box on the track information display. (2) Input characters (p. 80). Note You can record up to 100 characters in one track, and 5000 characters in one disc. You cannot label the track if: •the disc is protected.

  • Page 61: Protecting A Track

    Checking the track information Protecting a track Protect important tracks to prevent them from being erased by mistake. (1) Touch the PROTECT box in the track information display to indicate - icon will be displayed on the protected tracks. TRACK INFORMATION 0002 01:23 12.24.1999 1:30...

  • Page 62: Changing The Index Image

    Changing the index image The first scene becomes the index image for movie tracks. You can change the index image to a desired scene from the movie. (1) Touch Scroll the menu by touching v or V, or by turning the control dial. (2) Touch INDEX IMAGE CHANGE.
  • Page 63 Changing the index image To change the index image during playback or playback pause (1) Press INDEX CHANGE on the Remote Commander at the scene you want to make into the index image. The confirmation message appears. (2) Select YES using B /b , then press ENTER. After the PLEASE WAIT message, which appears while the change is written in the disc, the camcorder resumes playback.

  • Page 64: Moving Tracks

    Moving tracks You can move one track at a time, or several tracks together to the desired position in the disc. (1) Touch (2) Touch MOVE. TRACK MOVE appears at the top of the screen. RETURN MOVE COPY TRIM ERASE DIVIDE (3) Touch the desired track.

  • Page 65: Erasing Tracks

    Erasing tracks You can erase one track at a time, or several tracks together. Since the erased tracks cannot be restored, make sure that you can really erase the track. Erasing one track (1) Touch EDIT. (2) Touch ERASE, then SINGLE. TRACK ERASE appears at the top of the screen.
  • Page 66 Erasing tracks You can use the ERASE button Select the track to be erased and press ERASE. To cancel erasing Touch CANCEL. To erase other tracks Touch CONTINUE in step 5. Note on the remaining disc capacity The remaining disc capacity may not increase even if you erase tracks. Erasing several tracks together (1) Touch (2) Touch ERASE, then SELECT.

  • Page 67: Initializing The Disc

    Erasing tracks Erasing all tracks in the disc All tracks except the protected tracks will be erased. (1) Touch EDIT. (2) Touch ERASE, then ALL . The confirmation message appears. EDIT RETURN MOVE COPY TRIM RETURN ERASE SINGLE DIVIDE SELECT (3) Touch YES.

  • Page 68: Copying Tracks

    Copying tracks You can copy one track at a time, or several tracks together in the same disc. (1) Touch (2) Touch COPY. TRACK COPY appears at the top of the screen. RETURN MOVE COPY TRIM ERASE DIVIDE (3) Touch the desired track. (4) Touch the position (between the tracks) where you want to copy the track.
  • Page 69 Copying tracks To not erase a track by mistake Copy the track and use the copy for editing. To cancel copying Touch CANCEL. To copy other tracks Touch CONTINUE in step 5.

  • Page 70: Dividing Tracks

    Dividing tracks You can divide movie tracks at the desired position. Track 1 Track 1 (1) Touch (2) Touch DIVIDE, then DIVIDE. TRACK DIVIDE appears at the top of the screen. RETURN MOVE COPY TRIM ERASE DIVIDE (3) Touch the desired track. The selected track is played back repeatedly.
  • Page 71 Dividing tracks You cannot divide the track if: •the track is shorter than about 2 seconds. •the disc is protected. •the track is protected. Note on the dividing position The dividing position is automatically adjusted so that both tracks become at least 0.5 second long.

  • Page 72: Trimming Unnecessary Scenes

    Trimming unnecessary scenes You can trim the unnecessary scenes at the beginning and the end of a movie. Since the trimmed scenes cannot be restored, make sure that you really do not want the scenes. (1) Touch (2) Touch TRIM. TRACK TRIM appears at the top of the screen.
  • Page 73 Trimming unnecessary scenes To operate the menu You can use the control dial. To cancel trimming Touch CANCEL. You cannot trim the track if: •the track is shorter than about 2 seconds. •the disc is protected. •the track is protected. Note on the trimming position The trimming position is automatically adjusted so that trimmed track becomes at least 0.5 second long.

  • Page 74: Grouping The Tracks

    Grouping the tracks You can group the tracks lined up in succession on the index display. Only the first track of the group appears on the index display. This is convenient to move or copy tracks quickly, or to save the index display space when there are many tracks. icon appears on the group track on the index display.
  • Page 75 Grouping the tracks A group track can be included in the group You can include a group track when making another group. If you release grouping of the tracks, all tracks are released and become individual tracks. To group other tracks Touch CONTINUE in step 5.

  • Page 76: Making A Photo Track From A Movie

    Making a photo track from a movie You can make a new photo track of a desired scene in a movie. Movie (1) Touch Scroll the menu by touching v or V, or by turning the control dial. (2) Touch STILL FRAME CAPTURE. STILL FRAME CAPTURE appears at the top of the screen.
  • Page 77 Making a photo track from a movie Note on effects Drawing, scene transition and picture effects which have been set on the original movie are not applied to this photo track. To adjust the scene position You can use the control dial. Turn the control dial to adjust the position and press the dial to confirm.

  • Page 78: Drawing/Effect

    Drawing on the picture You can draw directly on the movie or photo tracks (ADD LAYER), or on a black screen which makes a new memo track (INSERT TRACK). The drawing can be erased (ERASE). The drawn track has the screen.
  • Page 79 Drawing on the picture To continue drawing on other tracks Touch CONTINUE in step 5. Drawing on a black screen (memo track) You can write up to 24 characters. (1) Touch DRAWING/EFFECT. (2) Touch DRAWING, then INSERT TRACK. DRAWING/EFFECT RETURN DRAWING RETURN TITLE...

  • Page 80: Keyboard Display

    Drawing on the picture Using the illustration tool Illustration tool Touch the desired tool and draw on the LCD screen using the input pen. To draw a line To draw a frame To draw a ring To erase (First touch this eraser icon, then touch where you want to erase on the LCD screen.) Stamp icon (Touch this...
  • Page 81 Drawing on the picture Erasing the drawings Note that the drawings and paintings cannot be restored after being erased. The pictures are not erased by erasing the drawings. (1) Touch DRAWING/EFFECT. (2) Touch DRAWING, then ERASE. PAINT REMOVE appears at the top of the screen. If you want to cancel erasing, touch CANCEL.

  • Page 82: Inserting A Title Track

    Inserting a title track You can use the title track to locate the tracks, or to categorize the tracks. A title track made on the TITLE INSERT display can be quickly located by sorting or jumping for playback. A title track makes one track. The title track has the (1) Touch (2) Touch TITLE.

  • Page 83: Switching The Tracks With Special Effects

    Switching the tracks with special effects You can switch the tracks with special effects such as fading in/out. These effects can be applied to the movie and photo tracks only, and are recorded in the disc. Effects to be applied to the beginning and end of a track •Fade (in/out) The picture fades in from black, and fades out to black.
  • Page 84 Switching the tracks with special effects (6) Touch PREVIEW. The last 5 seconds of the track before the selected track, the selected track itself and the first 5 seconds of the next track will be played back with the selected effects.
  • Page 85 Switching the tracks with special effects Playing back all the tracks with fade or hold effect If you set the PRESET TRANSITION to FADE or HOLD, your camcorder always plays back discs with fade or hold effect. This setting is not recorded in the disc. (1) Touch PLAYBACK on the index display, then touch PRESET TRANSITION.

  • Page 86: Applying The Picture Effect To The Tracks

    Applying the picture effect to the tracks You can make movie and photo tracks into sepia, black-and-white, mosaic, or slow- motion play by digital processing. You can also set the slow-motion play to a track in addition to other effects. The picture effect setting is recorded in the disc. (1) Touch (2) Touch PICTURE EFFECT.

  • Page 87: Customizing Your Camcorder

    — Customizing Your Camcorder — Adjusting the brightness and color of the LCD screen (1) In the CAMERA, PLAY/EDIT or INTERVIEW mode, press MENU. (2) Touch SET UP. Camera/Interview mode SET UP STBY RETURN REC MODE LCD BRIGHT LCD COLOR VF BRIGHT CLOCK SET (3) To adjust the brightness, touch LCD BRIGHT.

  • Page 88: Adjusting The Brightness Of The Viewfinder

    Adjusting the brightness of the viewfinder (1) In the CAMERA, PLAY/EDIT or INTERVIEW mode, press MENU. (2) Turn the control dial to select Camera/Interview mode SET UP RETURN REC MODE LCD BRIGHT LCD COLOR VF BRIGHT CLOCK SET (3) Turn the conforl dial to select VF BRIGHT and press the dial. The bar indicator appears.

  • Page 89: Resetting The Date And Time

    Resetting the date and time The default clock setting is set to New York or Panama time. If you do not use your camcorder for about four months, the date and time settings may be released (bars may appear) because the vanadium-lithium battery installed in your camcorder will have been discharged.
  • Page 90 Resetting the date and time The year changes as follows: 1999 ˜ 2000 N · · · · n 2098 If you do not set the date and time “--.--.-- --:--” is recorded in the disc. Note on the time indicator The internal clock of your camcorder operates on a 12-hour cycle.

  • Page 91: Changing The Menu Settings

    Changing the menu settings To change the settings in the menu, touch the desired item on the LCD screen. The default settings can be partially changed. First, display the main menu, select the icon, the menu item and then the mode. (1) In the CAMERA, PLAY/EDIT or INTERVIEW mode, press MENU.
  • Page 92 Changing the menu settings Menu in the CAMERA and INTERVIEW mode Icon/item Mode SELF TIMER* PROGRAM AE D ZOOM z OFF STEADYSHOT z ON WHT BAL AUTO SHTR z ON ANTI WIND z OFF NOISE REC MODE* z SP (8Mbps) LCD BRIGHT LCD COLOR VF BRIGHT...
  • Page 93 Changing the menu settings Icon/item Mode AVLS z OFF BEEP z ON REC LAMP z ON COMMANDER z ON PICTURE IN z OFF PICTURE* NORMAL AUTO DATE z OFF TITLE 10sec. TRACK* z OFF START/STOP* z NORMAL ANTI GROUND * You cannot select the item in the INTERVIEW mode. Notes on “10sec.
  • Page 94 Changing the menu settings Menu in the PLAY/EDIT mode Icon/item Mode PICTURE IN z OFF PICTURE 9 FRAME SEQUENCE PLAY MODE SORT JUMP STILL PLAYBACK TIME z OFF PRESET TRANSITION MOVE COPY TRIM ERASE DIVIDE GROUP STILL FRAME CAPTURE INDEX IMAGE CHANGE TRACK INFO...
  • Page 95 Changing the menu settings Icon/item Mode BEEP z ON COMMANDER z ON – CONNECT SET UP RESET – DISC FORMAT – If you select SET UP RESET The confirmation message will appear. To reset, select YES. The index screen will appear after a while.

  • Page 96: Using With Other Equipment

    Dubbing on a tape Connect your camcorder to the VCR using the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder. Set the input selector on the VCR to LINE, if available. (1) Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) into the VCR, and insert the recorded disc into your camcorder.

  • Page 97: Printing The Still Picture

    Printing the still picture You can print a photo by using the video printer (not supplied). Connect the video printer using the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder. Connect it to the AUDIO/VIDEO jack and connect the yellow plug of the cable to the video input of the video printer.

  • Page 98: Listening To An Audio Md

    Listening to an audio MD Your camcorder can play an audio MD. You can enjoy better sound if you use headphones (not supplied). (1) Insert the audio MD. (2) Set the POWER switch to PLAY/EDIT. The operation screen for audio MDs appears. (3) Touch the desired title or track.

  • Page 99: Various Ways Of Playback

    Listening to an audio MD Various ways of playback pause playback go to the next track go back to the top of the current track fast-forward fast-reverse stop playback turn up the volume turn down the volume To fast-forward or fast-reverse at high speed Keep pressing .

  • Page 100: Viewing On The Computer Display

    Viewing on the computer display Your camcorder is capable of sending the movies or photos recorded in the MD DATA2 disc to a World Wide Web (WWW) homepage. You can view the pictures using the browser software such as Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator by connecting the 10BASE-T terminal of the connecting cord to a computer.
  • Page 101 Viewing on the computer display Step 1 Setting the address for your camcorder Set the camcorder’s address so that you can access your camcorder from the computer. You do not need to reset the address as long as the computer is used under same environment.

  • Page 102: Step 2 Connecting The Camcorder To The Computer

    Viewing on the computer display Net mask Changes in the order of 255 - 254 - 252 - 248 - 240 - 224 - 192 - 128 - 0 - 255. Using the DHCP server of the network You can set the address automatically. Touch AUTO in step 3 and proceed to step 5. Step 2 Connecting the camcorder to the computer Use a commercially available cross cable.

  • Page 103: Viewing The Pictures

    Viewing on the computer display Viewing the pictures A browser software such as Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator is required to view the pictures on the computer. (1) Turn on the computer. (2) Insert the recorded MD DATA2 disc in the camcorder. (3) Set the POWER switch to PLAY/EDIT.
  • Page 104 Viewing on the computer display Homepage of your camcorder 1 You can customize the index image of the movie on the index display. Picture size: 624 x 380, 304 x 240, 144 x 120 Number of frames per second: 30 , 15, 5, 2, 1 2 Track number 3 Title track 4 Click the index image, another window will open.

  • Page 105: Additional Information

    Handling •If any solid object or liquid gets inside the casing, unplug your camcorder and have it checked by a Sony dealer before operating it any further. •Avoid rough handling or mechanical shock. Be particularly careful of the lens. •Do not touch the lens in the disc compartment. If the lens becomes dirty, playback may not be performed or pictures may dropout.
  • Page 106 Precautions and maintenance information Note on moisture condensation Moisture may condense when you bring your camcorder from a cold place into a warm place (or vice versa) or when you use your camcorder in a hot place as follows: •You bring your camcorder from a ski slope into a warm place. •You bring your camcorder from an air-conditioned car or room into a hot place outside.

  • Page 107: Battery Pack

    The supplied Remote Commander operates only this camcorder and cannot operate other model. It is not possible to operate this camcorder with a Remote Commander supplied with other model. If any problem occurs, unplug your camcorder and contact your nearest Sony dealer.

  • Page 108: Lcd Screen

    Precautions and maintenance information Maintenance Camcorder Clean the camcorder body with a dry soft cloth, or a soft cloth lightly moistened with a mild detergent solution. Do not use any type of solvent which may damage the finish. Lens Clean the lens with a commercially available blower. LCD screen If fingerprints or dust make the LCD screen dirty, we recommend using a LCD Cleaning Cloth (not supplied) to clean the LCD screen.

  • Page 109: Usable Minidiscs

    Premastered MDs are played like regular CDs. “MD DATA” and “MD DATA2” are registered trademarks of Sony Corporation. MD VIEW is a registered trademark of Sony Corporation for MD DATA2 discs. Usable MDs with your camcorder •For recording and playing audio and picture: MD DATA2 •For playing audio only: Audio MD...
  • Page 110 Usable MiniDiscs System limitations of the MD The recording system in your camcorder is radically different from those used in cassette and DAT decks and the system has limitations as described below. Note, however, that these limitations are due to the inherent nature of the MD recording system itself and not to mechanical causes.

  • Page 111: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting If you run into any problem using your camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. If the problem persists, disconnect the power source and contact your Sony dealer. Camcorder Recording Symptom Recording or interview recording is not possible.
  • Page 112 Troubleshooting Symptom Picture appears too bright, and the subject does not appear on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. The beep or click of the shutter does not sound. The picture on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder turns off. It takes time for the picture to appear on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder when the POWER...
  • Page 113 Troubleshooting Recording/playback/editing Symptom The camcorder does not operate when the POWER switch is set to CAMERA, PLAY/EDIT, or INTERVIEW. The picture does not appear in the viewfinder. The battery pack is quickly discharged. The disc lid does not open. Recording does not start again. The battery remaining indicator does not indicate the correct time.
  • Page 114 Troubleshooting Others Symptom The Remote Commander supplied with the camcorder does not work. Wrong item is selected when you touch the LCD screen. The camcorder does not turn on. The camcorder does not operate. “DISC ERROR”/nothing but blue screen/“MEMORY OVER” is displayed.
  • Page 115 •If the CHARGE lamp lights up, no longer flashes, and turns off when charging time has passed, the first battery pack seems to be malfunctioning. Consult your nearest Sony dealer. Cause and/or Corrective Actions • Internal error. c Disconnect the power source once, and connect it again.

  • Page 116: Warning Indicators And Messages

    Warning indicators and messages If indicators and messages appear on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder, check the following: See the page in parentheses for more information. Warning indicators The battery is dead or nearly dead Flashing: •The battery is nearly dead. Fast flashing: •The battery is dead.
  • Page 117 Warning indicators and messages Warning messages Warning messages appear on the LCD screen with the respective warning indicators. Main warning messages are listed below. •CHANGE THE BATTERY (p. 10) •THIS BATTERY IS OLD PLEASE CHANGE •FOR “InfoLITHIUM” BATTERY ONLY (p. 10) •DISC IS FULL •INSERT A DISC (p.

  • Page 118: Specifications

    Specifications Camcorder System System MiniDisc digital AV system Video signal NTSC color, EIA standards Viewfinder Electric viewfinder (color) Image device 1/4 inch CCD (Charge Coupled Device) Approx. 680,000 pixels (Effective: Approx. 340,000 pixels) Lens Combined power zoom lens Filter diameter 30 mm. 10 (Optical), 40 (Digital) Focal length 3.3 - 33 mm...

  • Page 119: Recommended Accessories

    Specifications AC adaptor/ charger AC-VQ800 Power requirements 100 - 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz Power consumption 25 W Charge mode: 35 VA (100 V AC), 50 VA (240 V AC) Operating mode: 40 VA (100 V AC), 50 VA (240 V AC) Output voltage DC OUT: 8.4 V, 2.0 A in operating mode...

  • Page 120: Using Your Camcorder Abroad

    Using your camcorder abroad You can use your camcorder in any country or area with the AC adaptor/charger supplied with your camcorder within 100 V to 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz. Use a commercially available AC plug adaptor [a], if necessary, depending on the design of the wall outlet [b].

  • Page 121: Quick Reference

    3 Disc lid (p. 16) 4 LCD screen/touch panel (p. 18, 25) 5 Input pen (p. 18) This mark indicates that this product is a genuine accessory for Sony video products. When purchasing Sony video products, Sony recommends that you purchase accessories with this “GENUINE VIDEO ACCESSORIES”...
  • Page 122 Identifying the parts and controls qf Power zoom lever (p. 27) qg PHOTO button (p. 22, 36) qh Eyecup qj POWER switch (p. 22, 30, 36) qk START/STOP button (p. 22) ql ERASE button (p. 29, 33) w; Hooks for shoulder belt (p. 121) Attaching the supplied tripod attachment (1) Hook the tripod attachment to the rear of the camcorder.
  • Page 123 Identifying the parts and controls wk REMOTE jack Connects the remote control cable of a tripod or video flash (not supplied). wl i (headphones) jack e; Grip strap (p. 22) ea DISC EJECT lever (p. 16) es Tripod receptacle Make sure that the length of the tripod screw is less than 1/4 inch (7.5 mm).
  • Page 124 Identifying the parts and controls How to affix the ferrite cores The camcorder is supplied with ferrite cores. Use them to cables as shown in the diagrams below. You must affix the ferrite cores to comply with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.

  • Page 125: Remote Commander

    Identifying the parts and controls Remote Commander The buttons that have the same name on the Remote Commander as on your camcorder function identically to the buttons on your camcorder. 1 ERASE button (p. 29, 33) 2 INDEX CHANGE button (p. 63) 3 MENU button (p.

  • Page 126: Operation Indicators

    Identifying the parts and controls Operation indicators CAMERA/INTERVIEW mode 1 Standby/Recording indicator (p. 22)/ Recording mode indicator (p. 26) 2 Remaining battery time indicator (p. 14) 3 Zoom indicator (p. 27) 4 Self-timer indicator (p. 38) 5 SteadyShot OFF indicator (p. 45) 6 Warning indicators (p.
  • Page 127 Identifying the parts and controls PLAY/EDIT mode 1 Protect icon (p. 61) 2 Picture-in-picture indicator (p. 47) 3 Mark icon (p. 60) 4 Menu icons (p. 91) 5 Photo icon (p. 31) 6 Track data (p. 59) Track number, recorded date, track name, recording time, track type 7 Play mode indicator (p.
  • Page 128 Identifying the parts and controls AC adaptor/charger 1 Terminal shutter (p. 10) 2 DC OUT connector (p. 15) 3 CHARGE lamp (p. 10) 4 Mode change switch (p. 10, 15) 5 DISPLAY CHANGE button (p. 12) 6 Display window 7 “InfoLITHIUM” indicator 8 WARNING indicator VTR/CAMERA WARNING...

  • Page 129: Connecting Cord

    Identifying the parts and controls Connecting cord 1 10BASE-T connecting jack (p. 102) 2 LINE IN jack (p. 23)

  • Page 130: Quick Function Guide

    Quick Function Guide Functions to adjust exposure (in the recording mode) •In dark environments such as sunset, fireworks, or general night views •Shooting backlit subjects •In spotlight, such as at the theater or a formal event •In strong light or reflected light, such as at a beach in midsummer or on a ski slope •To fix the exposure to the desired level Functions to give images more impact (in the recording mode)

  • Page 131: Index

    Index AC adaptor/charger ... 10, 15 Adjusting viewfinder ... 26 Anti Ground recording ... 93 Auto date ... 93 Auto Shutter ... 92 A/V connecting cable ... 35 Back Light ... 40 Battery pack ... 10, 14 Beep ... 93, 95 Brightness adjustment LCD screen ...
  • Page 132 MD DISCAM Homepage http://www.sony.com/mddiscam Sony Corporation Printed in Japan...

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