Sony Handycam DCR-DVD101 Operating Instructions Manual
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Sony Handycam DCR-DVD101 Operating Instructions Manual

Digital video camera recorder
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Operating Instructions
16
Charging the Installed Battery Pack
Table of Contents
Digital
Video Camera
Recorder

Operating Instructions

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. DCR-DVD
Serial No.
DCR-DVD101/DVD201
©2004 Sony Corporation
3-089-913-12 (1)
Model No. AC-
Serial No.
TM
SERIES

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  Summary of Contents for Sony Handycam DCR-DVD101

  • Page 1: Digital Video Camera

    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. DCR-DVD Serial No.

  • Page 2: Declaration Of Conformity

    Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony Handycam. 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 Declaration of Conformity Trade Name: SONY Model No.: DCR-DVD201 Responsible Party:Sony Electronics Inc. Address: 16450 W. Bernardo Dr, San Diego, CA 92127 U.S.A. Telephone No.: 858-942-2230 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the...

  • Page 4: What You Can Do With Your Dvd Handycam

    Read this first What you can do with your DVD Handycam Your DVD Handycam uses DVD-R and DVD-RW as a recording media. You can enjoy your DVD Handycam in ways that are new and different from those of a tape media-based camcorder. Read the next few pages to find out how. You can find a scene quickly using a Visual Index display.
  • Page 5 DVD Handycam to your computer. You can edit and copy a disc easily on your computer using the supplied ImageMixer Ver.1.5 for Sony DVD Handycam software. It also enables you to produce your own original DVD disc.

  • Page 6: What Is The Difference Between Dvd-R And Dvd-Rw

    What is the difference between DVD-R and DVD-RW? Two types of discs are available and they are different in the following ways. Which disc can I use? 8cm DVD-Rs and 8cm DVD-RWs are available. 8cm DVD-R You can use the following discs: •...
  • Page 7 VR mode: A disc can be edited on DVD Handycam but the players are limited. DVD-R/RW discs recorded by Sony DVD Handycam camcorders are designed to be compatible with and may be played back on home DVD players, computer DVD drives and PlayStation 2 video game consoles.*...

  • Page 8: How To Prepare And Use Your Dvd Handycam

    How to prepare and use your DVD Handycam Preparing Shooting Playing back Continued on the right page. Prepare a new disc. • You can start recording promptly with a DVD-R. • You need to format a DVD-RW before recording. Formatting is also required when using a once recorded DVD-RW again.
  • Page 9 Editing Finalizing You may not be able to record additional material, edit, or format a disc after finalizing it, depending on the kind of the disc used. DVD-R (VIDEO mode) DVD-RW (VIDEO mode) DVD-RW (VR mode) *1 Unfinalizing is required. *2 Unfinalizing is not required.

  • Page 10: Table Of Contents

    Table of contents Read this first What you can do with your DVD Handycam ... 4 What is the difference between DVD-R and DVD-RW? ... 6 How to prepare and use your DVD Handycam ... 8 Getting Started Using this manual ... 12 Checking the supplied accessories ...
  • Page 11 Using a disc in VR mode (DVD-RWs only) Selecting the playing order on your camcorder – Playlist ... 76 Registering movies or still images in the Playlist ... 76 Converting all the still images on a disc to a movie file –...

  • Page 12: Getting Started

    Using this manual The instructions in this manual are for the two models listed in the table below. Before you start reading this manual and operating your camcorder, check the model number by looking at the bottom of your camcorder. The DCR-DVD201 is the model used for illustration purposes.
  • Page 13 Using this manual Camcorder care LCD display/viewfinder The LCD display and the viewfinder are manufactured using extremely high- precision technology, so over 99.99 % of the pixels are operational for effective use. However, there may be some tiny black points and/or bright points (white, red, blue or green in color) that appear constantly on the LCD display and the viewfinder.

  • Page 14: Checking The Supplied Accessories

    Checking the supplied accessories Make sure that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder. 1 Wireless Remote Commander (1) (page 142) 2 AC-L15A/L15B AC adaptor (1), Power cord (1) (page 16) 3 NP-FM50 rechargeable battery pack (1) (page 15) 4 A/V connecting cable (1) 5 Shoulder strap (1) 6 Lens cap (1) (page 28)

  • Page 15: Step 1 Preparing The Power Source

    Step 1 Preparing the power source Installing/removing the battery pack To install the battery pack, slide it in and up in the direction of the arrow until it clicks. To remove the battery pack Slide the battery pack in the direction of arrow while pressing the battery release button.

  • Page 16: Charging The Installed Battery Pack

    Step 1 Preparing the power source Charging the installed battery pack Your camcorder operates only with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (M series). See page 130 for more information on the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. Power cord Make sure that the battery pack is installed on the camcorder. Open the DC IN jack cover, then connect the AC adaptor supplied with your camcorder to the DC IN jack on your camcorder with the plug’s v mark facing Connect the power cord to the AC adaptor.
  • Page 17 Step 1 Preparing the power source Charging time (full charge)* Battery pack NP-FM50 (supplied) NP-QM71/QM71D NP-QM91/QM91D Recording time with the viewfinder* Battery pack NP-FM50 (supplied) NP-QM71/QM71D NP-QM91/QM91D Recording time with the LCD display* LCD BACKLIGHT is set to ON Battery pack NP-FM50 (supplied) NP-QM71/QM71D NP-QM91/QM91D...

  • Page 18: Showing The Remaining Battery Time - Battery Info

    Step 1 Preparing the power source Showing the remaining battery time – BATTERY INFO Open the LCD screen. Press DISPLAY/BATT INFO. The remaining battery time appears for a while on the LCD display. During charging Notes •BATTERY INFO does not appear when the power of the camcorder is ON. •The remaining battery time may not be indicated in the following cases: –...

  • Page 19: Step 2 Turning On The Power

    Step 2 Turning on the power Press the POWER button for a few seconds. Your camcorder turns on and the POWER/ CHG lamp lights up in green. When you turn on your camcorder for the first time, the CLOCK SET display appears. To turn the power off Press the POWER button for a few seconds again.

  • Page 20: Step 3 Adjusting The Lcd Screen And The Viewfinder

    Step 3 Adjusting the LCD screen and the viewfinder Adjusting the angle and the brightness of the LCD screen Adjust the brightness and the angle of the LCD screen properly in your sight. LCD BACKLIGHT button Open the LCD screen. Adjust the direction of the LCD screen to the desired position.
  • Page 21 Step 3 Adjusting the LCD screen and the viewfinder Use the multi-selector to select [LCD BRIGHT]. LCD / VF SET LCD BRIGHT [ SETUP ] : END Use the multi-selector to adjust the brightness of the LCD display. : Get Darker : Get Brighter The LCD screen brightness is adjusted.

  • Page 22: Adjusting The Viewfinder

    Step 3 Adjusting the LCD screen and the viewfinder Adjusting the viewfinder When recording pictures with the LCD screen closed, check the picture with the viewfinder. Adjust the viewfinder lens to accommodate your eyesight so that the image in the viewfinder comes into sharp focus. Viewfinder lens adjustment dial Extend the viewfinder.

  • Page 23: Step 4 Setting The Date And Time

    Step 4 Setting the date and time Set the date and time when you use your camcorder for the first time. Set the geographical area, then daylight savings time([DST]), the year, the month, the day, the hour and the minute, in that order. If you do not set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET] display appears whenever you turn on your camcorder or change the mode dial.
  • Page 24 Step 4 Setting the date and time Use the multi-selector to set daylight savings time ([DST]) to [ON], if necessary. Use the multi-selector to set the year. Set the month, day, hour and minute with the same procedure as in step 5, and then press the button in the center.

  • Page 25: Simple Setting Of The Clock Using A Time Difference

    Step 4 Setting the date and time Simple setting of the clock using a time difference You can easily set the clock to the local time by setting the area. In the SETUP display use the multi-selector to select World time difference 2 3 4 6 8 10 12 13 14 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 29 30 31 Area Time-zone...

  • Page 26: Step 5 Preparing A Disc For Recording

    Step 5 Preparing a disc for recording A new DVD-R or DVD-RW is required for recording. You cannot overwrite or delete data recorded on a DVD-R, but you can delete data and record again with a DVD-RW. The preparation procedure is different depending on the type of disc you use. Notes •When you insert or remove a disc, move the grip belt to the bottom of the camcorder so as not to obstruct the operation with your hand, etc..
  • Page 27 Step 5 Preparing a disc for recording Close the disc cover. Your camcorder starts recognizing the inserted disc. With a DVD-R, you can start recording immediately after [DISC ACCESS] disappears on the LCD display. The FORMAT display appears when you insert a DVD-RW. Proceed to step 6. FORMAT REC FORMAT EXECUTE...

  • Page 28: Shooting Movies/Still Images

    Before shooting Note To shoot movies/still images correctly, note the following: – Hold your camcorder correctly. – Do not shock or vibrate your camcorder during shooting. – Do not scratch, put the fingerprint on, or get the disc dirty. To hold your camcorder Hold your camcorder with your fingers inserted through the grip belt.

  • Page 29: Shooting Movies

    Shooting movies Perform “Getting Started” from step 1 to 5 beforehand (page 15). The following operation is common with VIDEO mode and VR mode. Remove the lens cap by pressing both knobs on the sides of the cap. Install the battery pack or connect the AC adaptor (page 15). Open the LCD screen.
  • Page 30 Shooting movies Press START/STOP (z). Your camcorder starts recording. [REC] appears on the LCD display. The camera recording lamp located on the front of your camcorder lights up. To stop recording, press START/STOP again. You can operate start/stop with the REC START/STOP button on the LCD screen. This is useful when you shoot movies from a low angle.
  • Page 31 Shooting movies Indicators displayed in the recording mode These indicators are not recorded on discs. Remaining battery time (page 18) Recording mode (page 32) STBY/REC 40min 0:00:01 [30min] VIDEO JAN 1 2004 11:23:45 Date and time The date and time are displayed about 5 seconds after the power is turned on.

  • Page 32: Selecting The Recording Mode

    Shooting movies Selecting the recording mode Your camcorder records in the HQ (high quality) mode, SP (standard play) mode, and the LP (long play) mode. Your camcorder is set to SP mode as the default setting. Set the mode dial to Press SETUP.

  • Page 33: Using The Zoom Feature

    Shooting movies Using the zoom feature Move the power zoom lever a little for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom. Using the zoom sparingly results in better-looking recordings. W: For wide-angle (subject appears farther away) T : For telephoto (subject appears closer) * The minimum distance required between your camcoder and the subject to get a sharp focus in that position of the lever.

  • Page 34: Shooting With The Subject Checking The Image - Mirror Mode

    Shooting movies Shooting with the subject checking the image – Mirror mode The picture on the LCD display is a mirror-image. However, the picture will be normal when recorded. 180° 90° Open and rotate the LCD screen 180 degrees as shown above. indicator appears in the viewfinder and on the LCD display.

  • Page 35: Shooting Still Images

    Shooting still images Perform “Getting Started” from step 1 to 5 beforehand (page 15). The following operation is common with VIDEO mode and VR mode. You can record still images and movies on the same disc. Remove the lens cap by pressing both knobs on the sides of the cap. Install the battery pack or connect the AC adaptor (page 15).
  • Page 36 Shooting still images Press and hold PHOTO down lightly, then check out the image. When the AE/AF lock indicator (z) stops flashing and remains on, your camcorder is ready for shooting. The brightness of the image and focus are adjusted, are targeted for the middle of the image, and are set. Press PHOTO all the way down.
  • Page 37 Shooting still images Notes •When the mode dial is set to – 16:9 Wide mode – Digital zoom – SteadyShot – Super NightShot plus – Color Slow Shutter – Fader – Picture effect – Digital effect – The Sports lesson feature of [PROGRAM AE] (The indicator flashes.) •When the ACCESS lamp lights on, data is being recorded on the disc.

  • Page 38: Selecting The Still Image Quality And Size

    Shooting still images Selecting the still image quality and size To select the still image quality You can select the image quality from [FINE] or [STANDARD] for still image recording. The default setting is [FINE]. Set the mode dial to Press SETUP.
  • Page 39 Shooting still images To select the still image size (DCR-DVD201 only) You can select either of 2 image sizes, 1152 864 or 640 480. The default setting is 1152 864. Set the mode dial to Press SETUP. MANUAL SET PROGRAM AE FLASH MODE FLASH LVL WHT BAL...
  • Page 40 Shooting still images Number of still images recordable on a disc Your camcorder compresses image data in JPEG format (extension .jpg). Default image data file name is as following: •100-0001: This file name appears on the LCD display of your camcorder. •DSC00001.jpg: This file name appears on the display of your personal computer.

  • Page 41: Shooting Images Continuously (Burst, Dcr-Dvd201 Only)

    Shooting still images Shooting images continuously (BURST, DCR-DVD201 only) You can record still images continuously by setting [BURST]. NORMAL Your camcorder shoots up to 4 still images in 1152 864 size or 12 still images in 640 480 size at about 0.6 sec intervals. EXP BRKTG (Exposure bracketing) Your camcorder automatically shoots 3 images at about 0.6 sec intervals at different exposures.
  • Page 42 Shooting still images Use the multi-selector to select [BURST]. Use the multi-selector to select [NORMAL] or [EXP BRKTG]. Press SETUP. The SETUP display disappears from the LCD display. Press PHOTO all the way down. Images are recorded continuously as the settings specified above. In the [NORMAL] settings, images are recorded continuously to the maximum number while pressing PHOTO.

  • Page 43: Adjusting The Exposure

    Adjusting the exposure Adjusting the exposure for 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. BACK LIGHT button Set the mode dial to (Movie) or (Still).
  • Page 44 Adjusting the exposure Use the multi-selector to adjust the brightness shown as below. –: Get darker +: Get brighter To return to the automatic exposure Press EXPOSURE again. Notes •When you adjust the exposure manually, the following functions do not work: –...

  • Page 45: Shooting In The Dark - Nightshot Plus, Etc

    Shooting in the dark – NightShot plus, etc. The functions using infrared rays, such as NightShot plus and Super NightShot plus, or Color Slow Shutter are useful when you shoot a subject at night or in a dark place. NightShot plus and Super NightShot plus enable you to shoot bright movies, and Color Slow Shutter enables you to shoot movies in realistic color.

  • Page 46: Using The Nightshot Light

    Shooting in the dark – NightShot plus, etc. Using the NightShot Light The picture will be clearer with the NightShot Light on. NightShot Light rays are infrared and so are invisible. The maximum shooting distance using the NightShot Light is about 3 m (10 feet).

  • Page 47: Self-Timer Recording

    Self-timer recording On shooting movies Set the mode dial to (Movie). Press SETUP. Use the multi-selector to select (CAMERA SET). Use the multi-selector to select [SELFTIMER]. CAMERA SET SELFTIMER D ZOOM 16 : 9WIDE STEADYSHOT N. S. LIGHT RETURN [ SETUP ] : END Use the multi-selector to select [ON].

  • Page 48: Shooting For The Wide-Screen Tv - 16:9 Wide Mode

    Shooting for the wide-screen TV – 16:9 Wide mode You can record a 16:9 Wide picture to watch on a 16:9 wide-screen TV (16:9WIDE). Black bands appear on the LCD display during recording in 16:9 Wide mode [a]. The picture during playback on a normal TV [b] or on a wide-screen TV [c] is compressed in the longwise direction.
  • Page 49 Shooting for the wide-screen TV – 16:9 Wide mode Notes •You cannot select [OLD MOVIE] (page 54) during recording in the 16:9 Wide mode. •When you select VIDEO mode, setting the recording mode to [LP] cancels the 16:9 Wide mode. •You cannot change a movie recorded in the 16:9 Wide mode to the normal aspect.

  • Page 50: Adjusting The White Balance Manually

    Adjusting the white balance manually Normally white balance is adjusted automatically. Adjust manually in the following cases: •When shooting in a place that the light condition changes often such as a party hall. •When shooting a night scene and a neon sign.

  • Page 51: Shooting Techniques To Match Your Circumstances - Program Ae

    Shooting techniques to match your circumstances – PROGRAM AE SPOTLIGHT* This effect prevents people’s faces, for example, from appearing excessively white when shooting subjects lit by strong light. PORTRAIT (soft portrait) This effect brings out the subject while creating a soft background for subjects such as people or flowers.

  • Page 52: Focusing Manually

    Focusing manually You can adjust the focus manually according to the recording conditions. Use this function in the following cases. – To record a subject behind a window covered with raindrops. – To record horizontal stripes. – To record a subject with little contrast between the subject and its background.

  • Page 53: Shooting With Special Effects

    Shooting with special effects Using fader (for movies only) You can fade in or out to give your movie a more professional appearance. STBY FADER OVERLAP* WIPE* STBY * Fade in only FADER button Set the mode dial to When fading in In the standby mode, press the FADER button until the desired fader indicator appears.

  • Page 54: Using Special Effects - Picture Effect/Digital Effect

    Shooting with special effects Using special effects – Picture effect/Digital effect You can digitally process movies to obtain special effects like those in films or on TV. Picture effect SEPIA: The picture appears in sepia. B&W: The picture appears in monochrome (black-and-white).

  • Page 55: Checking/Deleting The Last Scene

    Checking/Deleting the last scene Checking the last scene – Review You can check the last recorded scene quickly. REVIEW PLAY REVIEW button Set the mode dial to (Movie) or (Still). Press REVIEW The playback of the latest scene starts. To return to recording Press REVIEW again.

  • Page 56: Viewing The Recordings

    Playing a disc on your camcorder Choosing and viewing a recording – Visual Index The recorded scenes are displayed as a list in the Visual Index display. You can find the desired scene quickly using this convenient index. If you close the LCD screen, you can monitor the playback picture in the viewfinder.
  • Page 57 Playing a disc on your camcorder Select the (Movie) tab or the to the kind of scene you want to play back. The thumbnail list screen appears. Use the multi-selector to select the desired scenes. When you select a movie, playback starts and continues until the last scene of the movie.

  • Page 58: Various Playback Modes

    Playing a disc on your camcorder Various playback modes Movies The sound is muted in the various playback modes. To pause playback (view a still image) Press X during playback. To resume normal playback, press X again. To advance the scene Press >...

  • Page 59: Displaying The Indicators During Playback - Display

    Playing a disc on your camcorder Displaying the indicators during playback – Display Press DISPLAY/BATT INFO on your camcorder, or press DISPLAY on your Remote Commander. The indicators switch on or off as you press the button. DISPLAY button To display date/time and various settings Your camcorder automatically records not only images on the disc but also the recording data (date/time and various settings when recorded) (Data code).
  • Page 60 Playing a disc on your camcorder Various settings (movie) 40min 0002 AUTO 100 AWB F1 . 8 [a] SteadyShot OFF [b] Exposure [c] White balance [d] Gain [e] Shutter speed [f] Aperture value Tips • When you use data code during playback, bars (--- -- ----) appear if: –...

  • Page 61: Magnifying Recorded Images - Pb Zoom (Playback Zoom)

    Playing a disc on your camcorder Magnifying recorded images – PB ZOOM (Playback zoom) In the playback, playback pause or review, move the power zoom lever. You can choose the magnification from approx. 1.1 to 5 . W : Decreases the zoom ratio. T : Increases the zoom ratio.

  • Page 62: Playing Still Images Automatically - Slide Show

    Playing a disc on your camcorder Playing still images automatically – Slide Show You can see the automatic playback of all the still images recorded on the disc. Set the mode dial to Press SETUP. Use the multi-selector to select Use the multi-selector to select [SLIDE SHOW].

  • Page 63: Viewing Recordings On Tv

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

  • Page 64: Finalizing A Disc For Other Players

    Finalizing a disc You have to finalize the disc before you can play a recorded disc on other players. Finalizing makes the recorded disc DVD-Video compatible, and you can play the disc on equipments such as DVD players. Note that you cannot record additional materials on finalized discs in VIDEO mode. But you can record on a disc again if you unfinalize the disc when you use DVD-RWs.
  • Page 65 Finalizing a disc When still images are included on a disc recorded in VIDEO mode, use the multi-selector to select [PHOTOMOVIE], then select [CREATE]. Proceed to step 5 in VR mode. To play back still images on players such as DVD players, still images must be converted to a MPEG format.
  • Page 66 Finalizing a disc Notes •A Photomovie created in this section is used to view still images on other players. You cannot view the Photomovie on your camcorder in VIDEO mode. Use the slide show feature to play back still images in sequence on your camcorder (page 62). •If you set [PHOTOMOVIE] to [CREATE] during finalizing, it may take some time for finalizing.

  • Page 67: Changing The Disc Title

    Finalizing a disc Changing the disc title By pressing the SETUP button, you can make a title on each disc. As the default, the date when the disc was first used is added as a disc title. To change a disc title on the finalize display, select [DISC TITLE] with the multi-selector and start from step 4 on this page.
  • Page 68 Finalizing a disc Use the multi-selector to select [SET]. The disc title is set and the display returns to the SETUP display. Press SETUP. The SETUP display disappears from the LCD display. To cancel editing the disc title In any step from 4 to 5, use the multi-selector to select [ESC]. Note When you change a disc title already set by other devices, the 21st and subsequent characters are deleted.

  • Page 69: Playing Back A Disc On A Dvd Player, Etc

    Finalizing a disc Playing back a disc on a DVD player, etc. To play back a disc recorded in VIDEO mode You can play back a finalized disc recorded in VIDEO mode on players that can play back DVD-Rs or DVD-RWs. When the disc is finalized in VIDEO mode, a menu display is provided similar to the Visual Index display.

  • Page 70: Playing Back A Disc On A Computer With A Dvd Drive Installed

    Finalizing a disc Playing back a disc on a computer with a DVD drive installed The display and the operation may vary depending on the operating system of your computer. To play back movies Turn on your computer. Insert the finalized disc to the DVD drive of your computer. A DVD playback application starts and the movie is played back.
  • Page 71 Finalizing a disc Structures and file names of movies and still images Movies and still images are stored in the following folders on the disc. Movies: VIDEO_TS folder (on VIDEO mode) DVD_RTAV folder (on VR mode) Still images: DCIM\100MSDCF folder Windows XP display Notes •Use the DVD drive compatible with 8 cm discs.

  • Page 72: Recording On A Finalized Disc - Unfinalizing (Video Mode Dvd-Rws Only)

    Recording on a finalized disc – Unfinalizing You can record on finalized DVD-RWs by unfinalizing them. This operation is valid in VIDEO mode only. You do not have to unfinalize a VR mode disc. Insert a finalized DVD-RW into your camcorder beforehand. Press SETUP.

  • Page 73: Unfinalizing (Video Mode Dvd-Rws Only)

    Recording on a finalized disc – Unfinalizing (VIDEO mode DVD-RWs only) Notes •Make sure that the power of your camcorder is supplied from a wall outlet using the AC adaptor. •If you disconnect the AC adaptor while unfinalizing a disc, the disc may not be unfinalized correctly and it cannot be used to record additional material.

  • Page 74: Recording Again On A Used Disc - Formatting (Dvd-Rws Only)

    Recording again on a used disc – Formatting (DVD-RWs only) You can format recorded DVD-RWs and make them new discs. Note that formatting erases all the data recorded on the disc. Insert a recorded DVD-RW into your camcorder beforehand. Press SETUP. Use the multi-selector to select Use the multi-selector to select [FORMAT].
  • Page 75 Recording again on a used disc – Formatting (DVD-RWs only) Press SETUP when the [COMPLETED] appears on the LCD display. The FORMAT display disappears from the LCD display. The disc is formatted and you can record on the disc again. To cancel formatting Press SETUP in any step from 2 to 6.

  • Page 76: Using A Disc In Vr Mode (Dvd-Rws Only)

    — Using a disc in VR mode (DVD-RWs only) — Selecting the playing order on your camcorder – Playlist You can edit the Playlist on your DVD-RWs recorded in VR mode. The Playlist is a list used to change the playback order of scenes to suit your own preference. The original scenes do not have any change even though you edit or delete the scenes in the Playlist.
  • Page 77 Selecting the playing order on your camcorder – Playlist Use the multi-selector to select [SEL.ITEM]. EDIT SEL. ITEM ERASE MOVE DIVIDE RETURN Use the multi-selector to select [ADD]. EDIT SEL. ITEM ERASE MOVE DIVIDE RETURN Use the multi-selector to select [ images).
  • Page 78 Selecting the playing order on your camcorder – Playlist Use the multi-selector to select [EXEC.]. The selected movies or still images are registered in the Playlist. When a still image is added to a Playlist, it is converted and registered as a new movie in the movie folder.

  • Page 79: Converting All The Still Images On A Disc To A Movie File - Photomovie

    Selecting the playing order on your camcorder – Playlist Converting all the still images on a disc to a movie file – Photomovie Saving still images to a single movie provides following merits: – You can save the remaining space for the Playlist on the disc. –...

  • Page 80: Erasing Unnecessary Scenes From The Playlist

    Selecting the playing order on your camcorder – Playlist Erasing unnecessary scenes from the Playlist Erasing unnecessary scenes from the Playlist does not affect the actual recorded data on the disc. Insert a Playlist-registered DVD-RW into your camcorder. Set the mode dial to Press EDIT.
  • Page 81 Selecting the playing order on your camcorder – Playlist Use the multi-selector to select the scene to be erased. The selected scene is marked with Repeat this step to erase multiple scenes. EDIT EXEC. Pressing N starts playback of the selected scene. Press x to return to the display to select other scenes.

  • Page 82: Changing The Order Within The Playlist

    Selecting the playing order on your camcorder – Playlist Changing the order within the Playlist Insert a Playlist-registered DVD-RW into your camcorder. Set the mode dial to Press EDIT. The display to select editing object appears. Use the multi-selector to select [EDIT PLAYLIST]. The Playlist edit display appears.
  • Page 83 Selecting the playing order on your camcorder – Playlist Use the multi-selector to select the scene to be moved. The selected scene is marked with Repeat this step if you want to move multiple scenes. EDIT EXEC. Pressing N starts playback of the selected scene. Press x to return to the display to select other scenes.

  • Page 84: Dividing A Movie Within The Playlist

    Selecting the playing order on your camcorder – Playlist Dividing a movie within the Playlist You can divide a movie into two scenes. Dividing movies into scenes within the Playlist does not affect the actual recorded data on the disc. Insert a Playlist-registered DVD-RW into your camcorder.
  • Page 85 Selecting the playing order on your camcorder – Playlist Use the multi-selector to select the scene to be divided. The playback of the selected scene starts. DIVIDE EXEC. ] : RETURN Press the button in the center of the multi-selector at the point at which you want to divide the movie into scenes.

  • Page 86: Playing The Playlist

    Selecting the playing order on your camcorder – Playlist Playing the Playlist Insert a Playlist-registered DVD-RW into your camcorder. Set the mode dial to The Visual Index display appears. Use the multi-selector to select A thumbnail list of the scenes registered to the Playlist appears. Press N.

  • Page 87: Editing The Original Data

    Editing the original data Original data stand for the actual recorded movies and still images data on the disc. You can edit the original data of DVD-RW recorded in VR mode. Editing the original data affects the actual recorded data. Dividing a movie Note that this operation actually divides the original recorded data on the disc.
  • Page 88 Editing the original data Use the multi-selector to select the scene to be divided. The playback of the selected movie starts. Press the center of the multi-selector at the point at which you want to divide the movie into scenes. The movie pauses.

  • Page 89: Deleting Movies/Still Images

    Editing the original data Deleting movies/still images Note that this operation actually deletes recorded data from the disc. Insert a recorded DVD-RW into your camcorder. Notes •When you delete movies, the movies registered to the Playlist are also deleted. •Deleting scenes may not provide enough space to record movies or still images additionally.
  • Page 90 Editing the original data Use the multi-selector to select [SELECT]. A thumbnail list of the movies or still images recorded on the disc appears. Use the multi-selector to select a scene. The selected scene is marked with Repeat this step to select multiple movies or still images. Pressing N starts playback of the selected scene.

  • Page 91: - Viewing/Duplicating Discs/Editing The Recordings On Your Computer

    — Viewing/duplicating discs/editing the recordings on your computer — Connecting your camcorder to your computer – Introduction A USB driver and application software installation is required to connect your camcorder to your computer. The USB driver along with the application software required for editing scenes can be found on the CD-ROM supplied with your computer.You can enjoy the following with...

  • Page 92: Installing The Usb Driver

    Connecting your camcorder to your computer – Introduction Installing the USB driver Start the following operation before connecting the USB cable to your computer. Install the USB driver to control your camcorder from your computer. If you are using Windows 2000 Professional or Windows XP Home Edition/Professional Log on as administrator.

  • Page 93: Installing Software

    Connecting your camcorder to your computer – Introduction Installing software Install the ImageMixer Ver.1.5 for Sony DVD Handycam (hereinafter referred to as ImageMixer) software that manages movies and still images transferred from your camcorder on your computer, and the WINASPI software that manages writing data on CD-Rs/CD-RWs.

  • Page 94: Connecting Your Camcorder To The Computer

    (Play/Edit). (USB) port of the Make sure that [Sony DVD Handycam] is selected as the best match and click [Next]. Click [Sony DVD Handycam] if it is not selected. [Completing the Found New Hardware USB port Wizard] dialog box appears.
  • Page 95 [System]. [System Properties] window appears. Click [Hardware] tab. Click [Device Manager]. [Device Manager] window appears. Make sure that [SONY DDX-A1010 USB Device] appears in [DVD/CD-ROM drives], [Generic volume] in [Storage volumes], and [USB Mass Storage Device] in [Universal Serial Bus controllers] respectively.
  • Page 96 Click [System]. [System Properties] window appears. Click [Hardware] tab. Click [Device Manager]. [Device Manager] window appears. Make sure that [SONY DDX-A1010 USB Device] appears in [DVD/CD-ROM drives], [Generic volume] in [Storage volumes], and [USB Mass Storage Device] in [Universal Serial Bus controllers] respectively.
  • Page 97 Panel]. Click [System]. [System Properties] window appears. Click [Device Manager]. [Device Manager] window appears. Make sure that [SONY DDX-A1010] appears in [CDROM], [Sony DVD Handycam] in [Storage device], and [USB Mass Storage Device] in [Universal Serial Bus controllers] respectively. When all the devices appear, the USB driver is installed correctly.

  • Page 98: Consulting The On-Line Help

    Connecting your camcorder to your computer – Introduction If you cannot install the USB driver The USB driver has been registered incorrectly as your computer was connected to your camcorder before the installation of the USB driver was completed. Perform the following procedure to install the USB driver correctly.

  • Page 99: Viewing Scenes Recorded On Your Computer

    (USB) port of the computer using the USB cable supplied with your camcorder. Double-click [ImageMixer Ver.1.5 for Sony DVD Handycam] icon on the Windows desktop. Or, click [Start] t [Programs] ([All Programs] in Windows XP) t [PIXELA] t [ImageMixer] t [PIXELA ImageMixer Ver.1.5 for Sony DVD...
  • Page 100 Viewing scenes recorded on your computer Double-click the scene to view from the thumbnails. The selected scene is temporarily copied to your computer and is displayed in the preview window. To return to the thumbnails list, click below right of the window. To save the scene on your computer Click the thumbnail of the scene to save.

  • Page 101: Making A Disc Copy - Disc Duplicating

    Making a disc copy – Disc Duplicating Making a disc copy You can make a copy of a finalized disc. Turn on your computer and allow Windows to load. Connect the AC adaptor to your camcorder. Set the mode dial to (Play/Edit).

  • Page 102: Editing And Saving Scenes

    Editing and saving scenes Editing movies You can combine multiple scenes into a single scene. Click on the title window. The window switches to the [Movie Editing Environment] and thumbnails appear. Drag and drop the thumbnails on the storyboard in the order you want to edit them.

  • Page 103: Creating An Original Disc

    Creating an original disc You can edit the scenes registered to the album and make an original DVD. Making a menu A menu is required to play a disc recorded on your camcorder on a DVD player. Click on the title window. The [Layout mode] window appears.

  • Page 104: Editing The Contents

    Creating an original disc When you want to change the disc title shown on the menu, click the Change the settings such as the name and the font. When you create a DVD on the DVD drive installed with your computer, you can change the “Disc Type”...

  • Page 105: Recording On A Disc

    Creating an original disc Recording on a disc Check the menu and view the contents on a preview window, then record the contents on a disc. Click on the left of the window. The [Writing mode] window appears. Click the button on the panel) box on the upper left of the window, and preview the contents.

  • Page 106: Connecting Your Camcorder To A Tv And A Vcr

    — Connecting your camcorder to a TV and a VCR — Dubbing a disc to a tape You can dub movies recorded in a disc using a VCR connected to your camcorder, using your camcorder as a player. Connecting your camcorder to a VCR Connect your camcorder to the VCR using the A/V connecting cable supplied with your...

  • Page 107: Dubbing To A Tape

    Dubbing a disc to a tape Dubbing to a tape Before operation •Set [DISPLAY] in (OTHERS) to [LCD] in the SETUP display (the default setting is [LCD]). •Press the following buttons to make the indicators disappear so that they will not be superimposed on the edited tape: –...

  • Page 108: Dubbing A Tv Program Or Video Tape Onto A Disc

    Dubbing a TV program or video tape onto a disc You can record a disc from another VCR or a TV program. Use your camcorder as a recorder. Connecting your camcorder to a TV or a VCR Connect your camcorder to the TV/VCR using the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder.

  • Page 109: Dubbing Onto A Disc

    Dubbing a TV program or video tape onto a disc Dubbing onto a disc Prepare the TV/VCR. If you are recording a tape from the VCR, insert a recorded tape into the VCR. Set the mode dial to (Play/Edit) on your camcorder.

  • Page 110: Customizing Your Camcorder

    Changing the SETUP display You can change the default settings by selecting the options in the SETUP display with the multi-selector. Select the item in the following order: SETUP display t icon t menu item t option Menu items are displayed as the following icons.

  • Page 111: Selecting The Option Of Each Item

    Changing the SETUP display Selecting the option of each item Menu items differ depending on the position of the mode dial. The display shows only the items that are currently in effect or that you can operate at the moment. z is the default setting.
  • Page 112 Changing the SETUP display Icon/Item CAMERA SET SELFTIMER D ZOOM 16:9WIDE STEADYSHOT BURST* QUALITY IMAGESIZE* N.S.LIGHT * DCR-DVD201 only Notes On SteadyShot •SteadyShot will not correct excessive camera shake. •Attachment of a conversion lens (optional) may influence SteadyShot. If you cancel SteadyShot, the SteadyShot off indicator excessive compensation for camera-shake.
  • Page 113 Changing the SETUP display Icon/Item Option LCD/VF SET LCD BRIGHT — LCD B.L. z BRT NORMAL BRIGHT LCD COLOR — VF B.L. z BRT NORMAL BRIGHT Notes On LCD B.L. and VF B.L. •When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is reduced a little during recording. •When you use power supplies other than the battery pack, [BRIGHT] is automatically selected.
  • Page 114 Changing the SETUP display Icon/Item VIDEO SET HiFi SOUND VIDEO INPUT Icon/Item Option DISC SET REC MODE z SP FORMAT* FINALIZE UNFINALIZE* DISC TITLE FILE NO. z SERIES DVD-RWs only VIDEO mode only Option Meaning z STEREO To play back a stereo disc or dual sound track disc with main and sub sound.
  • Page 115 Changing the SETUP display Icon/Item Option SETUP MENU CLOCK SET — A. SHUT OFF z 5 min NEVER LTR SIZE z NORMAL USB SPEED z AUTO FULL-SPEED DEMO MODE z ON Notes On DEMO MODE •You cannot select [DEMO MODE] when a disc is inserted in your camcorder. •When NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch is set to ON, the [“NIGHTSHOT PLUS”] indicator appears on the LCD display and you cannot select [DEMO MODE] in the SETUP display.
  • Page 116 Changing the SETUP display Icon/Item Option OTHERS DATA CODE z DATE/CAM (operation on the Remote Commander) DATE AREA SET — DST SET z OFF BEEP z MELODY NORMAL COMMANDER z ON DISPLAY z LCD V-OUT/LCD REC LAMP z ON Meaning To change the display in the order of the date and time t the camera data t the display each time pressing DATA CODE (page 59).
  • Page 117 Changing the SETUP display Icon/Item Option OTHERS REMAIN z AUTO Notes •If you press DISPLAY/BATT INFO with [DISPLAY] set to [V-OUT/LCD] in the SETUP display, the picture from a TV or VCR will not appear on the LCD display even when your camcorder is connected to outputs on the TV or VCR.

  • Page 118: Troubleshooting

    If you run into problems using your camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. If the problem persists, disconnect the power source and contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. If “C:ss:ss” appears on the LCD display, the self-diagnosis display function is working. See page 125.
  • Page 119 • Something is wrong with the battery pack. c If the symptom persists, disconnect the plug from the wall outlet as soon as possible to cut off the power, and contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.

  • Page 120: About The Disc

    Types of trouble and corrective action About the disc Symptom Remaining disc space indicator is not displayed. The disc cannot be ejected. The disc cannot be recorded additionally on other devices. About the LCD display or the viewfinder Symptom An unknown picture is displayed on the LCD display.

  • Page 121: During Recording

    Types of trouble and corrective action During recording Symptom Pressing START/STOP or PHOTO does not record movies/still images. The power goes off. SteadyShot does not work. Autofocus does not work. A vertical band appears when you shoot a subject such as lights or a candle flame against a dark background.
  • Page 122 Types of trouble and corrective action Symptom The picture flickers and the color changes incorrectly. The picture is recorded in incorrect or unnatural colors. The picture appears too bright, and the subject does not appear on the LCD display. The click of the shutter does not sound.
  • Page 123 Types of trouble and corrective action During playback of a disc on other players Symptom Can not be played back or the disc can not be recognized. The picture is distorted. Playback freezes for an instant between the scenes. Playback does not move to the previous scene when you press During editing Symptom...
  • Page 124 Types of trouble and corrective action Others Symptom The disc title cannot be changed. Still images cannot be converted to a movie. The picture from a TV or VCR does not appear even when your camcorder is connected to output on the TV or VCR.

  • Page 125: Self-Diagnosis Display

    E:62:ss E:93:ss E:94:ss If you are unable to rectify the problem even if you try the suggested corrective actions a few times, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. LCD display or viewfinder Self-diagnosis display • C:ss:ss You can service your camcorder yourself.

  • Page 126: Warning Indicators

    Warning indicators If indicators appear on the LCD display or in the viewfinder, check the following: See the page in parentheses “( )” for more information. 100-0001 Warning indicator referring to a file Slow flashing: •The file is corrupted. •The file is unreadable on your camcorder. C:21:00 Self-diagnosis display (page 125) Warning indicator referring to the disc Slow flashing:...

  • Page 127: Warning Messages

    Warning messages Message FOR “InfoLITHIUM” BATTERY ONLY CANNOT OPEN TRY LATER* CANNOT OPEN TRY LATER* REC. DISABLE* CAPACITY FULL FOR MOVIE* SCENE NUMBER FULL* Z DISC FULL* PLAYBACK PROHIBITED* EDIT DISABLE* DISC IS ALREADY FINALIZED* FINALIZED DISC, USE ANOTHER DISC* NEED TO UNFINALIZE* CLOSE DISC COVER NO DISC...
  • Page 128 Warning messages Message DISC PROTECTED* COPY INHIBIT* DISC ERROR* FORMAT ERROR* ACCESS ERROR* NOW CHARGING* You hear the beep sound when the message appears. If the data is not recorded correctly, your camcorder automatically recovers data when turn on the power. Cause and/or Corrective Actions •...

  • Page 129: Additional Information

    We recommend you to use the Sony discs which is confirmed compatibility with your camcorder. To play back the scenes recorded on the discs other than Sony discs is not guaranteed. Refer to page 6 about the recommended discs. Notes on use •Hold the disc by its edge while supporting...

  • Page 130: About The "Infolithium" Battery Pack

    About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack This unit is compatible with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (M series). Your camcorder operates only with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. “InfoLITHIUM” M series battery packs have the mark. What is the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack? The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is a lithium- ion battery pack that has functions for communicating information related to operating conditions between the battery pack...

  • Page 131: Using Your Camcorder Abroad

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

  • Page 132: Maintenance Information And Precautions

    •If any solid object or liquid gets inside the casing, unplug your camcorder and have it checked by a Sony dealer before operating it flicker for any further. five seconds •Avoid rough handling or mechanical shock.
  • Page 133 Maintenance information and precautions •Near a AM receivers and video equipment. Noise may occur. •In sandy or dusty places Sand or dust may cause your camcorder to malfunction, and sometimes this malfunction cannot be repaired. •Avoid exposing the viewfinder and the LCD screen to direct sunlight The internal mechanisms of the viewfinder and the LCD display may be damaged.
  • Page 134 Maintenance information and precautions AC adaptor •Unplug the unit from the wall outlet when you are not using it for a long time. To disconnect the power cord, pull it out by the plug. Never pull the power cord itself. •Do not operate the unit with a damaged cord or if the unit has been dropped or damaged.

  • Page 135: Specifications

    Specifications Video camera recorder System Video recording format DVD-Video DVD-VR (DVD-RW only) Audio recording system 2ch Dolby* Digital Video signal NTSC color, EIA standards Usable discs 8 cm DVD-R and DVD-RW Video compression format MPEG2/JPEG (Still images) Recording/playback time HQ: Approx. 20 minutes SP: Approx.
  • Page 136 Specifications AC adaptor AC-L15A/L15B Power requirements 100 – 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz Current consumption 0.35 – 0.18 A Power consumption 18 W Output voltage DC OUT: 8.4 V, 1.5 A in the operating mode Operating temperature 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F) Storage temperature –20°C to + 60°C (–4°F to + 140°F) Dimensions (approx.)

  • Page 137: Parts And Controls/Index

    Your camcorder is equipped with a Carl Zeiss lens which can reproduce fine images. The lens for your camcorder was developed jointly by Carl Zeiss, in Germany, and Sony Corporation. It adopts the MTF* measurement system for video cameras and offers the same quality as a Carl Zeiss lens.
  • Page 138 Identifying parts and controls q; Mode dial (page 19) qa POWER/CHG lamp (page 16) qs REMOTE jack Use to connect to optional accessories. qd Viewfinder lens adjustment dial (page qf POWER button (page 19) qg BATT (battery) release button (page qh DC IN jack (page 16) qj Lens cap (page 28) qk Tripod receptacle...
  • Page 139 Identifying parts and controls ql Intelligent accessory shoe w; Shoe cover wa Lens ws Remote sensor/Infrared ray emitter wd MIC (PLUG IN POWER) jack Connect an external microphone (optional). This jack also accepts a “plug-in-power” microphone. When an external microphone is connected, it is preferred for an audio input source.
  • Page 140 Identifying parts and controls e; Power zoom lever (page 33) ea PHOTO button (page 35) es SUPER NS PLUS/COLOR SLOW S button (page 45) ed ACCESS lamp (page 26) Attaching the shoulder strap Attach the shoulder strap supplied with your camcorder to the hooks for the shoulder strap.
  • Page 141 Identifying parts and controls ek VOL buttons (page 56) el z REC buttons (page 109) r; Speaker ra > NEXT (next) button (page 58) rs . PREV (previous) button (page 58) rd RESET button rf N PLAY (playback)/REVIEW (pages 55, 56) rg FADER button (page 53) rh FOCUS button (page 52) rj EXPOSURE button (page 43)
  • Page 142 Identifying 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 DATA CODE button (page 59) 2 PHOTO button (page 35) SCAN/ (page 58) 4 .
  • Page 143 •Your camcorder works in the DVD 2 Commander mode. Commander modes 1, 2 and 3 are used to distinguish your camcorder from other Sony DVD players to avoid erroneous remote control operation. If you use another Sony DVD player in the DVD 2 Commander mode, it is recommended that you change the Commander mode of the DVD player or cover the sensor of the DVD player with black paper.

  • Page 144: Operation Indicators

    Identifying parts and controls Operation indicators LCD display and viewfinder On shooting 1 Recording mode (pages 32, 114), Image size (page 39, 112) 2 Remaining battery time (page 18) 3 Zoom (page 33), Exposure (page 43) 4 FADER (page 53), 16:9WIDE (page 48), Effect (page 54) 5 White balance (page 50) 6 SteadyShot off (page 112)

  • Page 145: Index

    Index A, B AC adaptor ... 16 Adjusting viewfinder ... 22 A/V connecting cable ... 14, 63 BACK LIGHT ... 43 BATTERY INFO ... 18 Battery pack ... 15,130 BEACH & SKI ... 51 Beep ... 26, 47, 116 BURST ... 41 B &...
  • Page 146 • DVD-VIDEO, DVD-RW, and the DVD-R logo are trademarks. • InfoLITHIUM is a trademark of Sony Corporation. • PlayStation is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. • Microsoft and Windows are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
  • Page 148 Printed on 100% recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink. Printed in Japan...

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