Sony Handycam DCR-HC90E Operating Manual

Sony Handycam DCR-HC90E Operating Manual

Digital video camera recorder
Hide thumbs Also See for Handycam DCR-HC90E:
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Printed on 100% recycled paper using
VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free
vegetable oil based ink.
Printed in Japan
Digital Video Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
DCR-HC90E
© 2005 Sony Corporation
2-548-308-11 (1)
7
Getting Started
Recording/
18
Playback
34
Using the Menu
58
Dubbing/Editing
68
Using a Computer
80
Troubleshooting
102
Additional Information

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading

Summary of Contents for Sony Handycam DCR-HC90E

  • Page 1 Printed on 100% recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink. Printed in Japan Digital Video Camera Recorder Operating Guide DCR-HC90E © 2005 Sony Corporation 2-548-308-11 (1) Getting Started Recording/ Playback Using the Menu Dubbing/Editing Using a Computer...
  • Page 2: Notes On Use

    Never use the plug without the fuse cover. If you should lose the fuse cover, please contact your nearest Sony service station. FOR CUSTOMERS IN EUROPE ATTENTION The electromagnetic fields at the specific...
  • Page 3 About the Carl Zeiss lens Your camcorder is equipped with a Carl Zeiss lens, which was developed jointly by Carl Zeiss, in Germany, and Sony Corporation, and produces superior images. It adopts the MTF measurement system for video cameras and offers a quality typical of a Carl Zeiss lens.
  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Step 1: Checking supplied items ...7 Step 2: Charging the battery pack ...8 Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly ...11 Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder ...12 Step 5: Using the touch panel ...13 Changing the language setting ...13...
  • Page 5 Using the Menu Using the menu items ...34 Menu items...36 CAMERA SET menu ...38 Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (EXPOSURE/ WHITE BAL./STEADYSHOT, etc.) MEMORY SET menu...43 Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo”(QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/BURST/ALL ERASE/NEW FOLDER, etc.) PICT.APPLI.
  • Page 6 Installing the software and “First Step Guide” on a computer ...70 Viewing “First Step Guide”...74 Creating a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”)...75 Connecting an analog VCR to the computer via your camcorder (Signal convert function) ...78 Troubleshooting Troubleshooting ...80 Warning indicators and messages ...98...
  • Page 7: Step 1: Checking Supplied Items

    Step 1: Checking supplied items Make sure that you have following items supplied with your camcorder. The number in the parentheses indicates the number of that item supplied. “Memory Stick Duo” 16MB (1) (p. 16, 104) Memory Stick Duo adaptor (1) (p. 105) AC Adaptor (1) (p.
  • Page 8: Step 2: Charging The Battery Pack

    Step 2: Charging the battery pack You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (A series) (p. 106) after attaching it to your camcorder. DC plug POWER switch To the wall socket AC Adaptor Mains lead Slide the battery/“Memory Stick Duo” cover in the direction of the arrow to open it.
  • Page 9 Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack on your camcorder. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack holding both the camcorder and the DC plug. To remove the battery pack Turn off the power. Open the battery/ “Memory Stick Duo”...
  • Page 10: Charging Time

    Adaptor or battery terminal with any metallic objects. This may cause a malfunction. PRECAUTION LCD panel closed • Even if your camcorder is turned off, AC power (mains) is still supplied to it while connected to the wall socket via the AC Adaptor.
  • Page 11: Step 3: Turning The Power On And Holding Your Camcorder Firmly

    • At the time of purchase, the power will be set to turn off automatically if you leave your camcorder without any operation attempted for approximately 5 minutes, to save battery power. ([A.SHUT OFF], p. 55).
  • Page 12: Step 4: Adjusting The Lcd Panel And Viewfinder

    Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder The LCD panel Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (), then rotate it to the best angle to record or play (). DISP/BATT INFO 180 degrees (max.) 90 degrees to the camcorder 90 degrees (max.)
  • Page 13: Step 5: Using The Touch Panel

    Step 5: Using the touch panel You can play back recorded pictures (p. 21), or change the settings (p. 34) using the touch panel. Place your hand on the rear side of the LCD panel to support it. Then, touch the buttons displayed on the screen.
  • Page 14: Step 6: Setting The Date And Time

    POWER switch position. • If you do not use your camcorder for about 3 months, the built-in rechargeable battery gets discharged and the date and time settings may be cleared from the memory. In that case, charge the rechargeable battery and then set the date and time again (p.
  • Page 15: Step 7: Inserting A Tape Or A "Memory Stick Duo

    Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” Cassette tape You can use mini DV cassettes only (p. 103). • The recordable time varies depending on [REC MODE] (p. 51). Slide and hold the OPEN/ EJECT lever in the direction of the arrow and open the lid.
  • Page 16 • When the access lamp is lit or flashing, your camcorder is reading/writing data. Do not shake or knock your camcorder, turn the power off, eject the “Memory Stick Duo,” or remove the battery pack. Otherwise, image data may be damaged.
  • Page 17: Step 8: Selecting The Aspect Ratio (16:9 Or 4:3) Of The Recording Picture

    Step 8: Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3) of the recording picture By recording in the 16:9 (wide) mode, you can enjoy wide-angle, high-resolution pictures. • If you intend to view pictures on a wide TV, recording in the 16:9 (wide) mode is recommended.
  • Page 18: Recording/Playback With Ease (Easy Handycam)

    Recording/Playback with ease (Easy Handycam) With this Easy Handycam operation, most of the camera settings are automatically adjusted optimally, which frees you from detailed adjustment. Since only basic functions become available and screen font size increases for easy viewing, even first time users can enjoy easy operation.
  • Page 19: Playing Back With Ease

    Playing back with ease Slide the POWER switch  in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Press EASY . The EASY lights up in blue. EASY Start playing back. Movies Touch , then touch start playback.
  • Page 20: Recording

    Recording Lens cover Opens in accordance with the setting of the POWER switch. REC START/  STOP Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the respective lamp to select a recording medium. To record on a tape, light up the CAMERA-TAPE lamp.
  • Page 21: Playback

    Playback Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Start playing back. Movies On a Tape: Touch , then touch start playback.  Stop  Play/Pause toggles as you touch it ...
  • Page 22: Functions Used For Recording/Playback, Etc

    LCD frame. • The minimum distance required between your camcorder and the subject to get a sharp focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for telephoto.
  • Page 23: To Adjust The Exposure For Backlit Subjects

    (Flexible spot meter) ...  See [SPOT METER] on page 38. To record in mirror mode ...  Open the LCD panel  90 degrees to the camcorder ( ), then rotate it 180 degrees  to the lens side ( ...
  • Page 24: Recording/Playback

    The REC lamp lights up in red during recording (p. 54). Remote sensor  Point the Remote Commander (p. 30) towards the remote sensor to operate your camcorder. Internal stereo microphone  When an external microphone is connected, the audio input from the external microphone takes precedence...
  • Page 26: Indicators Displayed During Recording/Playback

    Indicators displayed during recording/playback Recording movies On a tape  Remaining battery (approx.) Recording mode ( or ) (51)   Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or [REC] (recording))  Time code (hour: minute: second: frame)/Tape counter (hour: minute: second)  Recording capacity of the tape (approx.) (54) ...
  • Page 27  Tape transport indicator  Video operation buttons (21) When there is a “Memory Stick Duo” inserted in the camcorder, changes to (“Memory Stick Duo” playback) if a tape is not used for playback. On a “Memory Stick Duo” 0:00:00 ...
  • Page 28 Indicators displayed during recording/playback (continued) Indicators when you made changes You can check the [DISP GUIDE] (p. 13) to check the function of each indicator that appears on the LCD screen. Upper left Bottom Upper left Indicator Meaning EXT SUR MIC (52) 4CH MIC REC recording (52) AUDIO MODE (51)
  • Page 29: Searching For The Starting Point

    You can view about 2 seconds of the scene recorded just before you stopped the tape. Touch  60min STBY 0:00:00 EDIT The last 2 seconds (approx.) of the most recently recorded scene are played back. Then, your camcorder is set to the standby. (to go...
  • Page 30: Remote Commander

    Memory playback) (p. 21) * These buttons do not work during Easy Handycam operation. • Aim the Remote Commander towards the remote sensor to operate your camcorder (p. 24). • To change the battery, see page 111. Searching quickly for a desired...
  • Page 31: Searching For A Scene By Date Of Recording (Date Search)

    To cancel the operation Press ZERO SET MEMORY  Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) You can locate the point where the recording date changes. Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. ...
  • Page 32: Playing The Picture On A Tv

    Playing the picture on a TV Connect your camcorder to the wall socket using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 8). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. A/V jack : Signal flow A/V connecting cable (supplied) ...
  • Page 33 • When you play back a picture recorded in 16:9 aspect ratio on a 4:3 TV not compatible with the 16:9 signal, set [TV TYPE] to [4:3]. When your TV is monaural (When your TV has only one audio input jack) Connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable to the video input jack and connect the white (left channel) or the...
  • Page 34: Using The Menu Items

    Using the menu items Follow the instructions below to use each of the menu items listed after this page. Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the respective lamp. [CAMERA-TAPE] lamp: [CAMERA-MEMORY] lamp: Duo” [PLAY/EDIT] lamp: settings for viewing/editing Touch the LCD screen to select the menu item.
  • Page 35 After finishing the settings, touch (close) to hide the menu screen.  If you decide not to change the setting, touch to return to the previous screen.
  • Page 36: Menu Items

    Menu items CAMERA SET menu PROGRAM AE SPOT METER EXPOSURE WHITE BAL. SHARPNESS AUTO SHUTTER AE SHIFT SPOT FOCUS FOCUS TELE MACRO FLASH SET SUPER NS NS LIGHT COLOR SLOW S ZEBRA SELF-TIMER DIGITAL ZOOM STEADYSHOT PROGRES.REC MEMORY SET menu STILL SET MOVIE SET ALL ERASE*...
  • Page 37 Available menu items (  ) vary depending on the position of the lamp. *These functions are available during Easy Handycam operation. PRINT EDIT/PLAY menu VAR. SPD PB REC CTRL AUD DUB CTRL REC MOVIE BURN DVD BURN VCD END SEARCH STANDARD SET menu REC MODE AUDIO MODE...
  • Page 38: Camera Set Menu

    CAMERA SET menu Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (EXPOSURE/WHITE BAL./STEADYSHOT, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 34 for details on selecting menu items.
  • Page 39 [AUTO] is selected, or you bring your camcorder outdoors from inside the house while using fixed exposure, select [AUTO] and aim your camcorder at a nearby white object for about 10 seconds for better color balance adjustment. • Redo the [ONE PUSH] procedure if you change...
  • Page 40 W (wide angle), then adjust the focus. • The minimum distance required between your camcorder and the subject to get a sharp focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for telephoto.
  • Page 41 (optional) if it is attached. • Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 40) when it is hard to focus automatically. • The shutter speed of your camcorder changes depending on the brightness. The motion of the picture may slow down at this time.
  • Page 42 CAMERA SET menu (continued)  OFF The zebra pattern is not displayed. The zebra pattern appears at a screen brightness level of about 70 IRE. The zebra pattern appears at a screen brightness level of about 100 IRE or higher. •...
  • Page 43: Memory Set Menu

    MEMORY SET menu Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo” (QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/BURST/ALL ERASE/ NEW FOLDER, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 34 for details on selecting menu items.
  • Page 44 Bottom: [STANDARD] is selected for image quality. • When using the “Memory Stick Duo” made by Sony Corporation. The number of recordable pictures varies depending on the recording environment. • The image size of a 4:3 picture is as follows.
  • Page 45 Touch [YES]  • You cannot delete the created folders using your camcorder. You will have to format the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 45), or delete them using your computer. • The number of recordable pictures on a “Memory Stick Duo”...
  • Page 46: Pict.appli. Menu

    PICT.APPLI. menu Special effects on pictures or additional functions on recording/playback (PICT. EFFECT/SLIDE SHOW/SMTH INT.REC/INT. REC-STL, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 34 for details on selecting menu items.
  • Page 47  Select [ALL FILES ( )] or [CURRENT FOLDER ( )], then touch If you select [CURRENT FOLDER ( all the images in the current playback folder selected in [PB FOLDER] (p. 45) are played back in sequence.  Touch [REPEAT]. ...
  • Page 48 The digital effect function is suspended while • using zoom with [DELAY MOTION] selected. It is recommended that you mount your • camcorder on a tripod when you select [DELAY MOTION]. You cannot select 16:9/4:3 as the aspect ratio • for [OLD MOVIE].
  • Page 49 SMTH INT.REC (Smooth interval tape recording) Your camcorder will shoot 1 frame of the picture at a selected interval and keep them in memory until it has stored several frames. This function is useful to observe the movement of clouds or the changes of daylight.
  • Page 50: Edit/Play Menu

    REC MOVIE (Recording control) See page 61. BURN DVD When your camcorder is connected to a Sony VAIO series personal computer, you can easily burn the picture recorded on the (frame) tape on a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”) using this command.
  • Page 51: Standard Set Menu

    Plays back with sub sound or the right channel sound. • You can play back, but cannot record a dual sound track cassette on your camcorder. • The setting returns to [STEREO] when you have the power source disconnected from your camcorder for more than 5 minutes.
  • Page 52 • For creating a 5.1ch surround sound compliant DVD, you need software and a device that supports this function. In the case of Sony products, a VAIO series personal computer pre- installed with “Click to DVD” (Ver.2.0 or later) supports this function.
  • Page 53  NORMAL Standard brightness. BRIGHT Brightens the viewfinder screen. • When you connect your camcorder to outside power sources, [BRIGHT] is automatically selected for the setting. • When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is reduced by about 10 percent during recording.
  • Page 54 REMOTE CTRL (Remote control) The default setting is [ON], allowing you to use the Remote Commander (p. 30). • Set to [OFF] to prevent your camcorder from responding to a command sent by another VCR remote control unit. • The setting returns to [ON] when you have the power source disconnected from your camcorder for more than 5 minutes.
  • Page 55: Time/Langu. Menu

    5 minutes. NEVER The camcorder is not automatically turned off. • When you connect your camcorder to a wall socket, [A.SHUT OFF] is automatically set to [NEVER]. CALIBRATION See page 110.
  • Page 56: Customizing Personal Menu

    Customizing Personal Menu You can add desired menu items to Personal Menu, and customize Personal Menu settings for each POWER switch position. This is convenient if you add frequently used menu items to Personal Menu. Adding a menu item You can add up to 28 menu items for each POWER switch position.
  • Page 57 Arranging the order of menu items displayed on Personal Menu Touch [P-MENU SET UP]  [SORT].  If the desired menu item is not displayed, touch Touch the menu item you want to move. Touch to move the menu item to the desired place. Touch To sort more items, repeat steps 2 to 4.
  • Page 58: Connecting To A Vcr Or Tv

    Connecting to a VCR or TV Connect your camcorder to the wall socket using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 8). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. A/V jack To DV Interface : Signal flow...
  • Page 59: Dubbing To Another Device Such As A Vcr, Dvd Recorder, Etc

    – Indicators – [PICT. EFFECT] (p. 48), [D. EFFECT] (p. 47) or PB zoom (p. 23). – Titles that are recorded on other camcorder. • To record the date/time and camera settings data when connected by the A/V connecting cable (supplied), display them on the screen (p.
  • Page 60: Recording Pictures From A Vcr Or Tv

    Be sure to insert a cassette or a “Memory Stick Duo” for recording in your camcorder beforehand. • Your camcorder can only record from a PAL source. For example, French video or TV programs (SECAM) cannot be recorded correctly. See page 102 for details on TV color systems.
  • Page 61: Dubbing Pictures From A Tape To A "Memory Stick Duo

    You can record movies or still images on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Make sure you have a recorded tape and a “Memory Stick Duo” inserted into your camcorder. Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Search and record the scene you want to record.
  • Page 62: Dubbing Sound To A Recorded Tape

     A/V jack mode (p. 51). – When the tape has been recorded in the LP mode. – When your camcorder is connected via an i.LINK cable. – When the tape is recorded in 4CH MIC REC mode. – When the tape has been recorded in a TV color system other than that of your camcorder.
  • Page 63: Recording Sound

    • When you attach an external microphone (optional) to the Active Interface Shoe, you can check the picture and the sound by connecting your camcorder to a TV or other device using the A/V connecting cable. However, sound you are recording is not output from your camcorder.
  • Page 64: Deleting Recorded Pictures From The "Memory Stick Duo

    Deleting recorded pictures from the “Memory Stick Duo” Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Touch 60min 60min 2016 101–0001 101–0001 MEMORY PLAY MEMORY PLAY Select a picture you want to delete with • To delete all pictures at once, select [ALL ERASE] (p.
  • Page 65: Printing Recorded Images (Pictbridge Compliant Printer)

    • To cancel Print mark, touch the image again to cancel Print mark in step 3. • Do not mark images on your camcorder if the “Memory Stick Duo” already has some images with the Print mark put on using other devices.
  • Page 66 The operations may not be performed properly. – Operating the POWER switch. – Disconnecting the USB cable from your camcorder or the printer. – Removing the “Memory Stick Duo” from your camcorder. • If the printer stops working, disconnect the USB cable and restart the operation from the beginning.
  • Page 67: Jacks To Connect External Devices

    flash, or a microphone. The accessory can be turned on or off as you operate the POWER switch on your camcorder. Refer to the operating instructions supplied with your accessory for details. • When you connect an accessory, open the shoe cover.
  • Page 68: Before Referring To The "First Step Guide" On Your Computer

    Windows computers. For details, refer to chapter 6 of “First Step Guide” on CD-ROM. For “First Step Guide”, see the next section. • There are 2 ways to connect your camcorder to a computer. – USB cable This method is good for copying video and sound recorded on a tape to the computer, copying files from a “Memory Stick Duo”...
  • Page 69: System Requirements

    This “First Step Guide” describes basic operations, from initial hookup of your camcorder and computer and making settings, to general operation the first time you use the software stored on the CD- ROM (supplied). After installing the CD- ROM, reading “Installing the software and...
  • Page 70: Installing The Software And "First Step Guide" On A Computer

    Others: USB port (This must be provided as standard) • When you connect your camcorder to a Macintosh computer using a USB cable, you cannot copy pictures recorded on a tape to the computer.
  • Page 71  Double-click [My Computer].  Double-click [PICTUREPACKAGE] (Disc drive).* * Drive names (such as (E:)) may vary depending on the computer. Click [Install]. Depending on the OS on the computer, a message appears notifying you that “First Step Guide” cannot be installed automatically with the InstallShield Wizard.
  • Page 72 Installing the software and “First Step Guide” on a computer (continued) Select the language for “First Step Guide” to be installed, then click [Next]. Depending on the computer, this screen may not be displayed. In such a case, skip to step 12. Click [Next] to install the “First Step Guide”.
  • Page 73 • If you have any questions about Picture Package, contact information is listed on page Installing on a Macintosh computer Confirm that your camcorder is not connected to the computer. Turn on the computer. Close all applications running on the computer before installing the software.
  • Page 74: Viewing "First Step Guide

    Music Contents without obtaining authorization or approval of the respective owners thereof. License of Picture Package by Sony Corporation would not be construed as conferring to you by implication, estoppel or otherwise, any license or right to use the Music...
  • Page 75: Creating A Dvd (Direct Access To "Click To Dvd")

    • You can only use an i.LINK cable for this operation. You cannot use a USB cable. * Note that you need a Sony VAIO computer equipped with a DVD drive that can be used to write DVDs. You also need the computer with “Click to DVD...
  • Page 76: Your Camcorder

    Connect your camcorder to a computer via an i.LINK cable (optional) (p. 75). • When you connect your camcorder to a computer, make sure you insert the connector in the correct direction. If you insert the connector forcibly, it may be damaged, and causes a malfunction of your camcorder.
  • Page 77 • When [CONVERTING] or [WRITING] is displayed on the screen, capturing of pictures has already finished. Even if you disconnect the i.LINK cable or turn off the camcorder at this stage, DVD creation will continue on your computer. • When any of the following occurs, copying of the picture is canceled.
  • Page 78: Connecting An Analog Vcr To The Computer Via Your Camcorder (Signal Convert Function)

    VCR to a digital signal and transfer it to a digital device, such as a computer, via your camcorder. Software that can record the video signal must be installed on your computer beforehand.
  • Page 79: Your Computer

    • When you are using a USB cable or an i.LINK cable to connect your camcorder to a computer, make sure you insert the connectors in the correct direction. If you insert the connectors forcibly, they may be damaged, and cause a malfunction of your camcorder.
  • Page 80: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting If you run into any problems using your camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. If the problem persists, remove the power source and contact your Sony dealer. Overall operations/Easy Handycam The power does not turn on.
  • Page 81 The CHG (charge) lamp flashes while the battery pack is being charged. • Attach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly. If the problem persists, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall socket and contact your Sony dealer. The battery pack may be damaged.
  • Page 82: Cassette Tapes

    LCD screen/viewfinder An unknown picture appears on the LCD screen or viewfinder. • The camcorder is in [DEMO MODE] (p. 49). Touch the LCD screen or insert a cassette or a “Memory Stick Duo” to cancel [DEMO MODE]. An unknown indicator appears on the screen.
  • Page 83: Memory Stick Duo

    • Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the CAMERA-MEMORY or PLAY/EDIT lamp (p. 11). • Insert a “Memory Stick Duo” into your camcorder (p. 16). • If you use a “Memory Stick Duo” formatted on a computer, format it on your camcorder (p. 104). Pictures cannot be deleted.
  • Page 84 • Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo.” (p. 104) • The capacity is full. Delete unnecessary pictures recorded on the “Memory Stick Duo.” (p. • Format the “Memory Stick Duo” on your camcorder or insert another “Memory Stick Duo.” (p. 45) •...
  • Page 85 • The video head may be dirty. Use a cleaning cassette (optional). • Try again from the beginning. • Use a Sony mini DV cassette. (Auto redeye reduction) is selected, you cannot use the internal Continued ...
  • Page 86 Troubleshooting (continued) Adjusting the image during recording Refer also to “Menu” (p. 89). The auto focus does not function. • Set [FOCUS] to [AUTO] (p. 40). • The recording conditions are not suitable for auto focus. Adjust the focus manually (p. 40). [STEADYSHOT] does not function.
  • Page 87 The picture appears too dark on the screen, and the subject does not appear on the screen. • The LCD backlight is turned off. Press and hold DISP/BATT INFO for a few seconds to turn on the backlight (p. 12). Flickering or changes in color occurs.
  • Page 88 • The data code on a tape with a scratch or noise cannot be read. Noises appear and • The tape was recorded in a TV color system other than that of your camcorder (PAL). This is not a malfunction (p. 102).
  • Page 89 Remote Commander The supplied Remote Commander does not function. • Set [REMOTE CTRL] to [ON] (p. 54). • Remove any obstructions between the Remote Commander and the remote sensor. • Point the remote sensor away from strong light sources such as direct sunlight or overhead lighting.
  • Page 90 Troubleshooting (continued) You cannot use [WHITE BAL.]. • You cannot use [WHITE BAL.] when you use NightShot or [SUPER NS]. You cannot adjust [SHARPNESS]. • You cannot adjust [SHARPNESS] with [CINEMA EFECT] of [D. EFFECT]. You cannot use [SPOT FOCUS]. •...
  • Page 91 • Set [DISP OUTPUT] to [LCD PANEL] (p. 55). • You cannot input a signal to your camcorder if you press DISP/BATT INFO while [DISP OUTPUT] is set to [V-OUT/PANEL] (p. 55). Pictures from connected devices cannot be zoomed.
  • Page 92: Connecting To A Computer

    The computer does not recognize your camcorder. • Disconnect the cable from the computer and camcorder, then connect it again securely. • Disconnect USB devices other than the keyboard, the mouse, and the camcorder from the computer. • Disconnect the cable from the computer and camcorder, restart the computer, then connect them again correctly.
  • Page 93 Finish any camcorder operations before connecting the camcorder to the computer. The “Memory Stick” icon ([Removable Disk] or [Sony Memory Stick]) does not appear on the computer screen. • Insert a “Memory Stick Duo” into your camcorder.
  • Page 94 – [USB Composite Device] in the [Universal Serial Bus Controller] folder For copying and viewing pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” – [? Sony Handycam] or [? Sony DSC] with a “?” mark in the [Other devices] folder 5 When the [Confirm Device Removal] screen appears, click [OK].
  • Page 95 For copying and viewing pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” – [? Sony Handycam] or [? Sony DSC] with a “?” mark in the [Other devices] folder 5 When the [Confirm Device Removal] screen appears, click [OK]. 6 Turn off the power of your camcorder, disconnect the USB cable, then restart the computer.
  • Page 96 2 Double-click the icon for the newly recognized drive [Removable Disk (F:)] (For Windows XP, [Sony Memory Stick]). It may take some time until the drive is recognized. If the computer does not recognize it, the USB driver may be installed incorrectly.
  • Page 97 • For compatible drives, visit the following URL: http://www.ppackage.com/ [USB streaming... This function is not available.] appears on the screen of your camcorder. • Start recording or playing back pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” after USB Streaming is finished.
  • Page 98: Warning Indicators And Messages

    Some symptoms you can fix by yourself. If the problem persists even after you have tried a couple of times, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. C:(or E:) : (Self-diagnosis display) C:04:...
  • Page 99 • The amount of lights is not sufficient, so camera-shake easily occurs. Use the flash. • The camcorder is unsteady, so camera-shake easily occurs. Hold the camcorder steady with both hands and shoot the image. However, note that the camera-shake warning indicator does not disappear.
  • Page 100 • Insert a writable “Memory Stick Duo.” Incompatible type of Memory Stick. • A type of “Memory Stick Duo” incompatible with your camcorder is inserted (p. 104). This Memory Stick is not formatted correctly. • Check the format, then format the “Memory Stick Duo”...
  • Page 101 Your camcorder cannot play back this • format. Play back the tape with the equipment that recorded it. HDV recorded tape. Cannot add audio. • Your camcorder does not allow you to add audio on a section of a tape recorded in HDV format.
  • Page 102: Using Your Camcorder Abroad

    Using your camcorder abroad Power supply You can use your camcorder in any countries/regions using the AC Adaptor supplied with your camcorder within the AC 100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz range. On TV color systems Your camcorder is a PAL system-based camcorder.
  • Page 103: Usable Cassette Tapes

    Your camcorder does not record copyright control signals on the tape when it records. Notes on use  When not using your camcorder for a long time Remove the cassette and store it.  To prevent accidental erasure Slide the write-protect tab on the cassette to set it to SAVE.
  • Page 104: About The "Memory Stick

    *2*3 damaged image data will not be made. • If you eject the “Memory Stick Duo,” turn the power off on your camcorder, or remove the battery pack for replacement while your camcorder is reading or writing image files on the “Memory Stick Duo” (while the access lamp is lit or flashing).
  • Page 105 JEITA (Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association). • On your camcorder, you cannot play back still images recorded on other devices (DCR- TRV900E or DSC-D700/D770) that do not conform to the universal standard. (These models are not sold in some regions.)
  • Page 106: About The "Infolithium" Battery Pack

    To store the battery pack, remove it from your camcorder and put it in a dry, cool place. • To discharge the battery pack on your camcorder completely, set [A.SHUT OFF]...
  • Page 107: About I.link

    • i.LINK is a more familiar term for the IEEE 1394 data transport bus proposed by Sony, and is a trademark approved by many corporations. • IEEE 1394 is an international standard standardized by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
  • Page 108: Maintenance And Precautions

    DV Interface, see page 58. This unit can also be connected to other i.LINK (DV Interface) compatible devices made by Sony (e.g. a VAIO series personal computer) as well as to video devices. Before connecting this unit to your computer, make sure that application software supported by this unit is already installed on your computer.
  • Page 109: Moisture Condensation

    • If the following problem occurs, clean the video heads for 10 seconds with the Sony DVM- 12CLD cleaning cassette (optional). – Mosaic-pattern noise appears on the playback picture or the screen is displayed in blue.
  • Page 110 If you cannot obtain a clear image even after using a cleaning cassette, it might be because the video head is worn. Please contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility to have the video head replaced. LCD screen •...
  • Page 111: Rechargeable Battery

    Remote Commander may shorten, or the Remote Commander may not function properly. In this case, replace the battery with a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.
  • Page 112: Using The Strap Belt As A Wrist Strap

    Using the Strap Belt as a wrist strap This is useful for carrying your camcorder. Open the hook and loop fastener of the hand pad  and remove it from the ring . Hand pad Move the hand pad fully to the right , then close the hook and...
  • Page 113: Specifications

    JEITA (Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association). Files in this format can have additional information such as your camcorder’s setting information at the time of recording. In 16:9 mode, the focal length figures are actual figures resulting from wide angle pixel read- out.
  • Page 114 Specifications (continued) Average power During camera recording using consumption the viewfinder 2.8 W (when using the battery pack) During camera recording using the LCD 3.1 W (when using the battery pack) Operating 0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104 temperature °F) Storage...
  • Page 115: Index

    Index Numeric 4CH audio check ... See AUDIO MIX 4CH MIC REC recording ... 22, 52 A/V connecting cable ... 32, 58, 62, 78 A/VDV OUT ... 53 A/V jack ... 32, 58, 62, 78 Access lamp ... 16 Active Interface Shoe... 67 AC Adaptor ...
  • Page 116 Full charge ... 9 Getting started... 7, 70, 74 GUIDEFRAME ... 54 Hand pad ... 112 Help... 69 Holding the camcorder... 11 Icon ... See Display indicators Image delete button... 27 Image protection ... 64 Image quality (QUALITY) ... 43 Image size (IMAGE SIZE) ...
  • Page 117 NIGHTSHOT switch ... 22 NORMAL ... 43 NS LIGHT (NightShot Light)... 41 NTSC ... 102 Number of recordable pictures ... 43 OLD MOVIE ... 48 ONE PUSH ... 39 OPEN/EJECT lever... 15 Operation confirmation beep ...See BEEP OUTDOOR ... 39 OVERLAP ...
  • Page 118 Index (continued) Strap Belt ... 112 Sub sound... 51 SUNSET&MOON ... 38 SUPER NS (Super NightShot) ... 41 System requirement ... 69 S VIDEO cable... 32, 58 S VIDEO jack ... 32, 58 Tape... See Cassette Tape counter... 26 Tape playback select button ...
  • Page 119 Sony Corporation. • “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony Corporation. • i.LINK and are trademarks of Sony Corporation. • Picture Package is a trademark of Sony Corporation. • is a trademark. • Microsoft, Windows, and Windows Media are trademarks or registered trademarks of U.S.

Table of Contents