Page 1: Operating Instructions
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. DSR- Serial No.
Page 2: Declaration Of Conformity
For the Sony Service Center nearest you call 1-800-222-SONY (United States only). For the SONY Factory Service Center nearest you call 416-499-SONY (Canada only). Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion batteries.
Page 3 Never use the plug without the fuse cover. If you should lose the fuse cover, please contact your nearest Sony service station. Voor de klanten in Nederland Bij dit product zijn batterijen gelevered.
Page 4: Table Of Contents
Compatibility of DVCAM and DV formats ... 116 Usable cassettes and playback modes ... 118 Charging the vanadium-lithium battery in the camcorder ... 119 Resetting the date and time ... 120 Simple setting of clock by time difference ... 121 Tips for using the battery pack ...
Page 5: Before You Begin
TV color systems differ from country to country. To view your recordings on a TV, you need an NTSC system-based TV (DSR-PD100A). To view your recordings on a TV, you need a PAL system-based TV (DSR-PD100AP). Precaution on copyright Television programs, films, video tapes, and other materials may be copyrighted.
Page 6: Precautions On Camcorder Care
Over 99.99% are operational for effective use. • Do not let the camcorder get wet. Keep the camcorder away from rain and sea water. Letting the camcorder get wet may cause the unit to malfunction, and sometimes this malfunction cannot be repaired [a].
Page 7: Checking Supplied Accessories
0 Shoulder strap (1) (p. 143) !¡ Lens cap (1) (p. 13) !™ Lens hood (1) (p. 15) !£ Wide conversion lens (1), wide conversion lens hood (1) (p. 64) !¢ i.LINK cable (1) (DSR-PD100AP only) (p. 83) !¡ !¢...
Page 8: Getting Started
Getting started Installing and charging the battery pack Before using your camcorder, you first need to install and charge the battery pack. To charge the battery pack, use the supplied AC power adaptor. This camcorder operates only with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack.
Page 9: Charging The Battery Pack
1 hour after normal charge is completed until FULL appears in the display window. Before using the camcorder with the battery pack, unplug the AC power adaptor from the DC IN jack of the camcorder. You can also use the battery pack before it is completely charged. Notes •...
Page 10: Charging Time
NP-F960 Numbers in parentheses indicate the time when you use a normally charged battery. Battery life will be shorter if you use the camcorder in a cold environment. Approximate continuous recording time indoors. ** Approximate minutes when recording while you repeat recording start/stop, zooming and turning the power on/off.
Page 11: To Remove The Battery Pack
Installing and charging the battery pack Notes on remaining battery time indication during recording • Remaining battery time is displayed on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. However, the indication may not be displayed properly, depending on using conditions and circumstances.
Page 12: Inserting A Cassette
Inserting a cassette You can use mini DVCAM cassette with Make sure that the power source is installed. (1) While pressing the small blue button on the EJECT switch, slide it in the direction of the arrow. The cassette compartment automatically opens. (2) Insert a cassette with the window facing out.
Page 13: Basic Operations
When you use the camcorder for the first time, power on it and reset the date and time to your time before you start recording (p. 120).
Page 14: To Focus The Viewfinder Lens
Note on Standby mode If you leave the camcorder in Standby mode for 5 minutes while the cassette is inserted, the camcorder turns off automatically. This prevents wearing down the battery and wearing out the tape.
Page 15: Attaching The Lens Hood
The four corners of the screen may be eclipsed by the lens hood. If an optional lens or filter is attached When an optional lens or filter is attached to the camcorder, you cannot attach the lens hood. Detach the optional lens or filter before attaching the lens hood.
Page 16: Shooting With The Lcd Screen
Camera recording Zooming of more than 12x – digital zoom • If you set the D ZOOM function to ON in the menu system, you can perform zooming of more than 12x performed digitally. It is set to OFF at the factory. •You cannot use the digital zoom when you set PROG.
Page 17: Letting The Subject Monitor The Shot
• Close the LCD panel completely when not in use. • Do not push nor touch the LCD panel while operating the camcorder. • You may find it difficult to view the LCD screen due to glare when using the camcorder outdoors.
Page 18 Camera recording Notes on mirror mode •When you turn the LCD panel about 135 degrees to 180 degrees, the camcorder enters mirror mode. •Using the mirror mode, you can record yourself while watching yourself on the LCD screen. •The picture on the LCD screen looks like a mirror-image while recording in mirror mode.
Page 19: Self-Timer Recording
(1) Press (self-timer) to display viewfinder while the camcorder is in Standby mode. (2) Press START/STOP. Self-timer starts counting down to 10 with a beep sound. In the last two seconds of the countdown, the beep sound gets faster, then recording starts automatically at the time you set.
Page 20: Hints For Better Shooting
For hand-held shots, you will get better results by holding the camcorder according to the following suggestions: •Hold the camcorder firmly and secure it with the grip strap so that you can easily manipulate the controls with your thumb. [a] •Place your elbows against your side.
Page 21 When attaching a non-Sony tripod, make sure that the length of the tripod screw is less than 6.5 mm (9/32 inch). Otherwise, you cannot attach the tripod securely and the screw may damage the camcorder.
Page 22: Checking The Recorded Picture
(Rec Review). Hold down the – side of EDITSEARCH until the camcorder goes back to the scene you want. The last recorded portion is played back. To go forward, hold down the + side (Edit Search).
Page 23: Playing Back A Tape
(5) Press · to start playback. Adjust the volume using VOLUME +/– and the brightness of the LCD screen using LCD BRIGHT +/–. You can also monitor the picture on a TV screen, after connecting the camcorder to a TV or VCR. LCD BRIGHT VOLUME To stop playback, press π.
Page 24: Various Playback Modes
Note on DV-formatted tapes You can play back DV-formatted tapes on this camcorder if the tape is recorded in SP mode. “SP” appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder during playback. You cannot play back DV-formatted tapes recorded in LP mode.
Page 25: Searching For The End Of The Picture
Searching for the end of the picture You can go to the end of the recorded portion after you record and play back the tape. The tape starts rewinding or fast-forwarding and the last about 5 seconds of the recorded portion plays back.
Page 26: Advanced Operations
Advanced operations Using alternative power sources You can choose any of the following power sources for your camcorder: battery pack, and house current (mains). Choose the appropriate power source depending on where you want to use your camcorder. Place Power source...
Page 27: Using The House Current
The set is not disconnected from the AC power source (house current/mains) as long as it is connected to the power cord (mains lead), even if the set itself has been turned off. Note Keep the AC power adaptor away from the camcorder if the picture is disturbed.
Page 28: Changing The Mode Settings
You can change some of the mode settings programed at the factory to further enjoy the features and functions of the camcorder. Just turn the control dial to select the menu items displayed on the LCD screen. You can make selections in the following order: the menu display n icons n items n mode settings.
Page 29: Selecting The Mode Setting Of Each Item
• Select ON to record still/moving pictures with all the pixels. Items for the D ZOOM <OFF/ON> • Select OFF not to use the digital zoom. The camcorder goes back to 12x optical zoom. • Select ON to activate digital zooming. 16:9WIDE <OFF/ON>...
Page 30 Select this item to adjust the balance between the stereo 1 and stereo 2 by turning the control dial. NTSC PB <ON PAL TV/NTSC 4.43> (DSR-PD100AP only) •Normally select ON PAL TV. •Select NTSC 4.43 when playing back a tape recorded in the NTSC color system. When you...
Page 31 Changing the mode settings PHOTO SAVE Select this item to duplicate still pictures. See page 100 for details. Items for the CM SEARCH <ON/OFF> • Select ON to search using cassette memory. • Select OFF to search without using cassette memory. TITLEERASE Erase the title you have superimposed.
Page 32 When recording a close subject When REC LAMP is set to ON, the red camera recording lamp on the front of the camcorder may reflect on the subject if it is close. In this case, we recommend you set REC LAMP to OFF.
Page 33: Photo Recording
The picture on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder whenever you press PHOTO will be recorded. You cannot check the recorded picture by pressing PHOTO lightly. After the moving picture is recorded as a still picture for about seven seconds, the camcorder will go back to Standby mode.
Page 34: Printing The Still Picture
Photo recording Printing the still picture You can print a still picture by using the video printer (not supplied). Connect the video printer using the S video connecting cable (not supplied). Refer to the operating instruction of the video printer as well. Video printer VIDEO S VIDEO Ç...
Page 35: Shooting With All The Pixels - Prog. Scan
The normal TV broadcast divides the screen into two fields and displays them in turns every 1/60 of a second (DSR-PD100A) or 1/50 of a second (DSR-PD100AP). Thus, the actual image displayed in an instant covers only half of the apparent image area. Displaying the whole image simultaneously on a full screen is called Progressive mode.
Page 36: Using The Fader Function
When fading out, the picture gradually changes from color to black and white. When fading in [a] (1) While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press FADER until the desired indicator flashes. (2) Press START/STOP to start recording. The fade indicator stops flashing.
Page 37 When the OVERLAP indicator appears The camcorder automatically memorizes the image recorded on a tape. As the image is being memorized, the OVERLAP indicator flashes fast, and the playback picture is displayed. At this stage, the picture may not be recorded clearly, depending on the tape...
Page 38: Shooting With Backlighting
Shooting with backlighting When you shoot a subject with the light source behind the subject or a subject with a light background, use the BACK LIGHT function. Press BACK LIGHT. The c indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. [a] Subject is too dark because of backlight.
Page 39: Using The Wide Mode Function
Using the wide mode function You can record a 16:9 wide picture to watch on the 16:9 wide-screen TV (16:9WIDE). The picture with black bands at the top and the bottom on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder [a] is normal. The picture on a normal TV [b] is horizontally compressed. You can watch the picture of normal images on a wide-screen TV [c].
Page 40: Enjoying Picture Effect
Enjoying picture effect Selecting picture effect You can make pictures like those of television with the Picture Effect function. NEG. ART [a] The color of the picture is reversed. SEPIA The picture is sepia. B&W The picture is monochrome (black and white). SOLARIZE [b] The light intensity is clearer, and the picture looks like an illustration.
Page 41: Using Picture Effect Function
Press PICTURE EFFECT so that the indicator disappears. Notes on the picture effect •When you turn the power off, the camcorder returns automatically to normal mode. •You cannot select SLIM and STRETCH when you set PROG. SCAN to ON. •While using the picture effect function, you cannot select the old movie function with DIGITAL EFFECT.
Page 42: Recording With Various Effects - Digital Effect
You can record the picture which leaves an incidental image, such as a trail. OLD MOVIE You can record the picture such as an old movie. The camcorder automatically sets the wide mode to 16:9WIDE, picture effect to SEPIA, and the appropriate shutter speed.
Page 43 Recording with various effects – digital effect To cancel digital effects Press DIGITAL EFFECT so that the indicator disappears. Notes on digital effect • You cannot use the following functions while using the digital effect. – Functions using the FADER button –...
Page 44: Shooting With Manual Adjustment
•Bright subject and dark background •To record the darkness faithfully (1) Set AUTO LOCK selector to the center (auto lock release) position while the camcorder is in Standby mode. (2) Press EXPOSURE. The exposure indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.
Page 45: Adjusting The Shutter Speed
(2) Press SHUTTER SPEED. The shutter speed indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. (3) Turn the control dial to select the desired speed. The available shutter speed ranges from 1/4 to 1/10000 (DSR-PD100A) or from 1/3 to 1/10000 (DSR-PD100AP). AUTO LOCK...
Page 46: Adjusting The White Balance
(1) Set AUTO LOCK selector to the center (auto lock release) position while the camcorder is in Standby mode. (2) Press WHT BAL. The white balance indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.
Page 47 • When you move from indoors to outdoors, or vice versa, or detach the battery for replacement while shooting in automatic white balance mode or set the POWER switch to CAMERA, point the camcorder at a white subject for about 10 seconds before you start recording.
Page 48 Shooting with manual adjustment Adjusting recording level You can adjust the recording sound level. Use headphones to monitor the sound when you adjust. (1) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA. (2) Press MENU to display the menu. (3) Turn the control dial to select (4) Turn the control dial to select MIC LEVEL, then press the dial.
Page 49: Using The Nd Filter
Shooting with manual adjustment Using the ND filter Using the ND filter (corresponds to 16% of the quantity of light), you can record a picture clearly, preventing the picture from going out of focus under bright conditions. When ND ON flashes on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder The ND filter is necessary.
Page 50: Shooting With The Zebra Pattern
Shooting with manual adjustment Shooting with the zebra pattern You can set the camcorder to display a zebra pattern (diagonal stripes) in the portion of the picture on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder with a subject whose brightness exceeds a certain level.
Page 51: Releasing The Steady Shot Function
Shooting with manual adjustment Releasing the Steady Shot function When the Steady Shot function is working, the camcorder compensates for camera-shake. You can release the Steady Shot function when you do not need to use it. The appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. Do not use the Steady Shot function when shooting a stationary object with a tripod.
Page 52: Adjusting Ae Shift
Shooting with manual adjustment Adjusting AE shift (1) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA. (2) Press MENU to display the menu. (3) Turn the control dial to select (4) Turn the control dial to select AE SHIFT, then press the dial. (5) Turn the control dial to adjust brightness, then press the dial.
Page 53 Shooting with manual adjustment Adjusting gain shift (1) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA. (2) Press MENU to display the menu. (3) Turn the control dial to select (4) Turn the control dial to select GAIN SHIFT, then press the dial. (5) Turn the control dial to select –3dB, then press the dial.
Page 54: Using The Program Ae Function
For recording a subject in insufficient light. Subject becomes bright. Notes on focus setting •In the Sports lesson mode, you cannot take close-ups because the camcorder is set to focus only on subjects in the middle to far distance. •In the Sunset & Moon mode, the camcorder is set to focus only on distant subjects.
Page 55: Using The Program Ae Function
Turn the control dial to select the desired shutter speed. As you turn the dial, shutter speed changes between 1/60 and 1/10000 (DSR-PD100A) or 1/50 and 1/10000 (DSR-PD100AP). For a faster shutter speed, select a smaller value indicator on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.
Page 56 Using the PROGRAM AE function About the depth of field The depth of field is the in-focus range, measured from the distance behind a subject to the distance in front. The depth of field can vary with the iris (F value) and the focal length. Lowering the F value (large iris) reduces the depth of field.
Page 57: Focusing Manually
Focusing manually When to use manual focus In the following cases you should obtain better results by adjusting the focus manually. • Insufficient light [a] • Subjects with little contrast — walls, sky, etc. [b] • Too much brightness behind the subject [c] •...
Page 58: Adjusting Focus Manually
Focusing manually Adjusting focus manually When focusing manually, first focus in telephoto before recording, and then reset the shot length. (1) Slide FOCUS down to MANUAL. The f indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. (2) Turn the focus ring to focus on the subject. To focus in infinity Slide FOCUS to INFINITY.
Page 59: Interval Recording
Interval recording You can make a time-lapse recording by setting the camcorder to automatically record and standby sequentially. You can achieve an excellent recording for flowering, emergence, etc., with this function. (1) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA. (2) Press MENU to display the menu.
Page 60 Interval recording To cancel the interval recording •Set INT.REC to OFF in the menu system. •Set the POWER switch to OFF, VTR or MEMORY. To stop the interval recording momentarily and perform normal recording Press START/STOP. You can perform the normal recording only once. To cancel the normal recording, press START/STOP again.
Page 61: Cut Recording
You can make a recording with a stop-motion animated effect using cut recording. To create this effect, alternately move the subject a little and make a cut recording. We recommend you to use a tripod, and to operate the camcorder using the Remote Commander in steps 7 and 8.
Page 62 Cut recording To cancel the cut recording •Set FRAME REC to OFF in the menu system. •Set the POWER switch to OFF, VTR, or MEMORY. Notes on cut recording •The last recorded cut is longer than other cuts. •The proper remaining tape time is not indicated if you use this function continuously.
Page 63: Connecting The External Microphone With The Xlr Connector
When using the ECM-670 external microphone (not supplied), attach the CAC-12 microphone holder (not supplied) and supplied XLR adaptor. (1) Attach the XLR adaptor to the accessory shoe on the camcorder and tighten the screw of the XLR adaptor. (2) Attach the microphone holder with the supplied screws.
Page 64: Attaching The Supplied Wide Conversion Lens
Attaching the supplied wide conversion lens Hold the camcorder with its lens pointing upward. Align the groove on the wide conversion lens with the protruding part on the camcorder lens, then turn the ring in the direction of the arrow.
Page 65: Superimposing A Title
Superimposing a title If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can superimpose the titles while recording or after recording. When you play back the tape, the title is displayed for five seconds from the point where you superimposed it. You can select from eight preset titles and two original (CUSTOM TITLE) to superimpose over the picture.
Page 66 Superimposing a title Notes on superimposing a title •If you have not given any custom title, “– – – – ...” appears on the display. •The FADER function works while the title is displayed, however, the title does not fade. •If you display the menu or title menu while superimposing a title, the title is not recorded while the menu or title menu is being displayed.
Page 67: Erasing A Title
Superimposing a title Erasing a title (1) Press MENU to display the menu. (2) Turn the control dial to select (3) Turn the control dial to select TITLEERASE, then press the dial. (4) Turn the control dial to select the title you want to erase, then press the dial. (5) Make sure the title is the one you want to erase, then press the control dial again.
Page 68: Making A Custom Title
Making a custom title If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can make up to two titles and store them in the camcorder. We recommend you to set the POWER switch to VTR or eject the cassette before you begin.
Page 69 In step 3, select CUSTOM1 or CUSTOM2, depending on which title you want to edit, then change the title. If you take 5 minutes or longer to enter characters while a cassette is in the camcorder The power goes off automatically. Characters you have entered remain. Set the POWER switch to OFF once, then to CAMERA, then proceed from step 1.
Page 70: Labeling A Cassette
Labeling a cassette If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can label a cassette. The label can consist of up to 10 characters and is stored in cassette memory. When you insert the labeled cassette and turn the power on, the label is displayed on the LCD screen, in the viewfinder, or on the TV screen.
Page 71 Labeling a cassette To erase a character In step 6 turn the control dial to select [ M ], then press the dial. The last character is erased. To change the label you have made Insert the cassette to change the label, and operate in the same way to make a new label. If the mark appears in step 5 The cassette memory is full.
Page 72: Watching On A Tv Screen
If your VCR or TV is a monaural type Connect only the white plug for audio on both the camcorder and the VCR or the TV. If you connect the white plug, the sound is L (left) signal. If you connect the red plug, the sound is R (right) signal.
Page 73: Viewing The Picture With The Picture Effect
Viewing the picture with the picture effect You can play back recorded images with the picture effect. The available picture effects are NEG. ART, SEPIA, B&W and SOLARIZE. During playback, press PICTURE EFFECT. See page 40 for details on the picture effect. N E G .
Page 74: Viewing The Picture With The Digital Effect
Viewing the picture with the digital effect You can play back recorded images with the digital effect. The available digital effects are STILL, FLASH, LUMI. and TRAIL. (1) During playback, press DIGITAL EFFECT. (2) Turn the control dial to select the desired digital effect mode. (3) Press the control dial.
Page 75: Searching The Boundaries Of Recorded Tape With Date - Date Search
• The interval of the boundaries between the dates needs more than two minutes. The camcorder may not search if the beginning of the recorded date is too close to the next one. • The black cursor on the screen indicates the date that was selected previously.
Page 76: Searching For The Date Without Using Cassette Memory
(6) When the current position is [b], press = to search towards [a] or press + to search towards [c]. Each time you press = or +, the camcorder searches for the previous or next date. Playback starts automatically when date changed.
Page 77: Searching The Boundaries Of Recorded Tape With Title - Title Search
• You cannot superimpose or search a title, if you use a cassette tape without cassette memory. • The camcorder may not search, if a tape has a blank portion in the between of the recorded portions. , then press the dial.
Page 78: Searching For A Photo - Photo Search/Photo Scan
Searching for a photo – photo search/photo scan You can search for the recorded still picture – Photo Search function. There are two modes in Photo Search: •Using cassette memory, you can select the recorded date which is displayed on the LCD screen.
Page 79 (6) Press = or + to select the photo for playback. Each time you press = or +, the camcorder searches for the previous or next scene. Playback starts from the photo automatically. P H O T O S E A R C H...
Page 80 Searching for a photo – photo search/photo scan Scanning photo – photo scan You can use this function whether the tape has cassette memory or not. (1) Set the POWER switch to VTR. (2) Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly until the photo scan indicator displayed on the LCD screen.
Page 81: Displaying Recording Data - Data Code Function
When bars (-- -- --) appear • A blank portion of the tape is being played back. • The tape was recorded by a camcorder without having date and time set. • The tape is unreadable due to tape damage or noise.
Page 82: Editing Onto Another Tape
(DV connecting cable). Before editing Connect the camcorder to the VCR using the supplied A/V connecting cable or the VMC- IL4415/IL4435/2DV/4DV i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable). Using the A/V connecting cable [a] or S video connecting cable (not supplied) [b] Set the input selector on the VCR to LINE.
Page 83: Starting Editing
And when you play back the picture using the other video equipment, the picture may jitter. •You can also use the camcorder as a recorder with this connection. In this case “DV IN” indicator appears on the screen.
Page 84: Editing Partially On A Mini Dvcam Tape - Dv Synchro-Editing
You cannot duplicate titles, display indicators or the contents of cassette memory. The connection is the same as on page 83. (1) Insert a recorded tape into the camcorder and insert a blank tape into the DVCAM product. (2) Set the POWER switch of the camcorder to VTR.
Page 85 •You cannot set DV EDITING IN or OUT on a blank portion of the tape. Errors in duplicating If you connect this camcorder to Sony equipment with DV jack, the range of errors is within +/– 5 frames. The range may become wider in the following conditions.
Page 86: Recording From A Vcr Or Tv
If you connect the white plug, the sound is L (left) signal. If you connect the red plug, the sound is R (right) signal. If you are going to connect the camcorder using the S video cable (not supplied) [a], you do not need to connect the yellow (video) plug of the A/V connecting cable [b] .
Page 87: Audio Dubbing
Audio dubbing You can record an audio sound to add to the original sound on a tape by connecting audio equipment or a microphone. If you connect the audio equipment, you can add sound to your recorded tape by specifying the starting and ending points. The original sound will not be erased.
Page 88: Dubbing With The Audio/Video Jack
(1) Insert your recorded tape into the camcorder. (2) Set the POWER switch to VTR. (3) On the camcorder, locate the point where the recording should begin by pressing 0 or ). Then press P to set it to playback pause mode.
Page 89 • When an external microphone is not connected, the recording will be made through the built-in microphone of the camcorder. • If you add a new sound on a tape recorded with another camcorder (including DSR- PD100A/PD100AP), the sound quality may become worse.
Page 90: Memory Card Slot Operations
•Do not remove the “Memory Stick” while reading or writing data. •Recorded data may be lost or damaged in the following situations: – When you remove the “Memory Stick” or PC card adaptor or turn off the camcorder while reading or writing data.
Page 91 Use TYPE II PC cards that conform to ATA specification of PC card standard. Format the PC card with this camcorder before use. Once you format the PC card, you can store data of up to 64 MB in it.
Page 92 Using the memory card slot – introduction Inserting a “Memory Stick” into PC card adaptor Insert a “Memory Stick” with its connector side facing down. Before inserting, check that the write protect switch is not set to LOCK position for recording a still picture.
Page 93 Using the memory card slot – introduction When the PC card adaptor or PC card does not come out Remove the battery before ejecting the PC card adaptor/PC card. Connecting the PC card/parallel port adaptor (not supplied) with your computer To display images recorded on the “Memory Stick”...
Page 94: Setting Image Quality
MENU Setting image quality Setting SUPER FINE (SFN) This is the highest image quality in this camcorder. The number of still FINE (FIN) STANDARD (STD) This is the standard image quality. The image is compressed to about , then press the dial.
Page 95 Using the memory card slot – introduction The difference in image quality mode A recorded image is compressed in JPEG format before stored into memory. The memory capacity allotted to each image varies depending on the selected quality mode. Details are shown in the table below.
Page 96 Using the memory card slot – introduction Formatting (initializing) a “Memory Stick” or a PC card (1) When you format a “Memory Stick,” insert a PC card adaptor (with a “Memory Stick” inside) into the memory card slot. When you format a PC card, insert the card into the memory card slot.
Page 97 “Memory Stick”s with your personal computer, check the following: – “Memory Stick”s formatted by Windows OS computers do not have a guaranteed compatibility with this camcorder. If you intend to use them with this camcorder, format them again using this camcorder.
Page 98: Recording An Image From A Mini Dvcam Tape As A Still Image
This camcorder can read moving picture data recorded on a mini DVCAM tape and record it as a still image on a “Memory Stick” or a PC card. The unit can also take in moving picture data through the input connector and record it as a still image on a “Memory Stick”...
Page 99: Recording A Still Image From Other Equipment
Recording an image from a mini DVCAM tape as a still image Recording a still image from a mini DVCAM tape right after turning on the power Saving the data may take a little more time than usual. This is not a malfunction. Sound recorded on a mini DVCAM tape You cannot record the audio from a mini DVCAM tape.
Page 100: Copying Still Images From A Mini Dvcam Tape - Photo Save
Copying still images from a mini DVCAM tape – photo save Using the search function, you can automatically take in only the still images from mini DVCAM tapes and record them on a “Memory Stick” or a PC card in sequence. Before operation •Insert a recorded mini DVCAM tape and rewind the tape.
Page 101 Copying still images from a mini DVCAM tape – photo save When the access lamp is flashing Never shake or strike the unit. As well do not turn the power off, eject a PC card adaptor/PC card or remove the battery pack. Otherwise, the image data breakdown may occur. To record all the images recorded on the mini DVCAM tape Rewind the tape all the way and start copying.
Page 102: Recording Still Images On "Memory Stick"S Or Pc Cards - Memory Photo Recording
You can neither turn off the power nor press PHOTO. When you press the PHOTO button on the Remote Commander The camcorder immediately records the image that is on the screen when you press the button. When using a video light (not supplied) or similar equipment mounted on the intelligent accessory shoe Recording an image on a “Memory Stick”...
Page 103: Recording Images Continuously
Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s or PC cards – memory photo recording Recording images continuously You can shoot continuously by selecting one of two modes described below. Continuous mode [a] You can record from 2 to 4 pictures continuously. Multi screen mode [b] You can record 9 still pictures continuously on a single page.
Page 104 Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s or PC cards – memory photo recording (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the lock knob is set to the right (unlock) position. (2) Press MENU to display the menu. (3) Turn the control dial to select (4) Turn the control dial to select CONTINUOUS, then press the dial.
Page 105: Viewing A Still Picture - Memory Photo Playback
To play back recorded images on a TV screen • Connect this camcorder to the TV with the supplied A/V connecting cable before operation. • When operating memory photo playback on a TV or the LCD screen, the image quality may appear to have deteriorated.
Page 106 Viewing a still picture – memory photo playback Screen indicators during still image playback M V C 0 0 0 0 6 Data file name Playing back 6 recorded images at a time (index screen) You can play back 6 recorded images at a time. This function is especially useful when searching for a particular image.
Page 107 Those image data cannot be displayed on the index screen. Viewing the recorded images using a personal computer The image data recorded with this camcorder is compressed in the JPEG format. If your personal computer has an application software that allows you to see JPEG images, you can see images recorded on a “Memory Stick”...
Page 108: Preventing Accidental Erasure - Protect
Preventing accidental erasure – PROTECT To prevent accidental erasure of important images, you can protect selected images. Before operation Insert the PC card adaptor (with a “Memory Stick” inside) or a PC card to the unit. (1) Display the image you want to protect. (2) Press MENU to display the menu.
Page 109: Deleting Images
Deleting images Deleting selected image Before operation Insert the PC card adaptor (with a “Memory Stick” inside) or a PC card to the unit. (1) Display the image you want to erase. (2) Press MEMORY DELETE. “DELETE?” appears on the LCD screen. (3) Press MEMORY DELETE again.
Page 110 Deleting images Erasing all the images You can delete all the unprotected images in a “Memory Stick” or PC card. Before operation Insert the PC card adaptor (with a “Memory Stick” inside) or a PC card to the unit. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the lock knob is set to the right (unlock) position.
Page 111 Deleting images To cancel deleting all the images on the “Memory Stick” or PC card Select RETURN in step 4, then press the control dial. While “DELETING” appears Do not turn the POWER switch or press any buttons.
Page 112: Copying The Image Recorded With The Memory Card Slot To Mini Dvcam Tapes
Copying the image recorded with the memory card slot to mini DVCAM tapes You can copy still images or titles recorded with the memory card slot and record them to a mini DVCAM tape. Before operation •Insert a mini DVCAM tape for recording. •Insert the PC card adaptor (with a “Memory Stick”...
Page 113 Copying the image recorded with the memory card slot to mini DVCAM tapes Note on the index screen You cannot record the index screen. If you press the EDITSEARCH buttons during pause mode Memory playback stops. If you press the DISPLAY button in Standby or Recording mode You can see memory playback and the file name indicators in addition to the indicators pertinent to mini DVCAM tapes, such as the time code indicator.
Page 114: Playing Back Images In A Continuous Loop - Slide Show
Select the desired image using MEMORY +/– buttons before step 2. To view the recorded images on TV Connect this camcorder to a TV with the supplied A/V connecting cable before operation. , then press the dial. M E M O R Y S E T...
Page 115 Playing back images in a continuous loop – SLIDE SHOW Note on the slide show You cannot make copy of the slide show on a mini DVCAM tape. If you change the “Memory Stick” or PC card during operation The slide show does not operate. If you change the “Memory Stick” or PC card, be sure to follow the steps again from the beginning.
Page 116: Additional Information
Recorder’s format DVCAM This digital camcorder complies with DVCAM format. Though mini DV cassettes can be used for recording, we recommend you to use mini DVCAM cassettes to get the most out of high reliability of DVCAM format. The recording time of mini DV cassettes is 2/3 shorter than that indicated on the mini DV cassettes.
Page 117 Compatibility on editing using DV connectors When this digital camcorder is connected to other mini DVCAM or mini DV video equipment using DV connectors, the recording format of edited tapes is defined according to recorder’s format as described below. Source tape Player’s format...
Page 118: Usable Cassettes And Playback Modes
We recommend you to use the tape with cassette memory. The IC memory is mounted on this type of mini DVCAM cassette. This camcorder can read and write data such as dates of recording or titles, etc. to this memory. The functions using the cassette memory require successive signals recorded on the tape.
Page 119: Charging The Vanadium-Lithium Battery In The Camcorder
It will be completely discharged in about a year if you do not use the camcorder at all. Even if the vanadium-lithium battery is not charged, it will not affect the camcorder operation. To retain the date and time, etc., charge the battery if the battery is discharged.
Page 120: Resetting The Date And Time
The date and time are set at the factory. Set the time according to the local time in your country. If you do not use the camcorder for about a year, the date and time settings may be released (bars may appear) because the vanadium-lithium battery installed in the camcorder will have been discharged.
Page 121: Simple Setting Of Clock By Time Difference
1999 2000 2001 ... Note on the time indicator The internal clock of this camcorder operates on a 12-hour cycle (DSR-PD100A) or on a 24- hour cycle (DSR-PD100AP). • 12:00 AM stands for midnight. • 12:00 PM stands for noon.
Page 122: Tips For Using The Battery Pack
Battery pack care •Remove the battery pack from the camcorder after using it, and keep it in a cool place. When the battery pack is installed to the camcorder, a small amount of current flows to the camcorder even if the POWER switch is set to OFF.
Page 123 Tips for using the battery pack The life of the battery pack If the battery indicator flashes rapidly just after turning on the camcorder with a fully charged battery pack, the battery pack should be replaced with a new fully charged one.
Page 124 (or normal charged condition are different when you actually use the camcorder, the remaining battery time is not same as the continuous recording time in the operating instruction.
Page 125: Maintenance Information And Precautions
LCD screen or in the viewfinder. If [a] or [b] happens, clean the video heads with the Sony PDVM-12CL cleaning cassette (not supplied). Check the picture and if the above problem persists, repeat the cleaning. (Do...
Page 126 Do not use any type of solvent which may damage the finish. •Do not let sand get into the camcorder. When you use the camcorder on a sandy beach or in a dusty place, protect it from the sand or dust. Sand or dust may cause the unit to...
Page 127 •If you touch the liquid, wash it off with water. •If the liquid get into your eyes, wash your eyes with a lot of water and then consult a doctor. If any difficulty should arise, unplug the unit and contact your nearest Sony dealer.
Page 128: Using Your Camcorder Abroad
DSR-PD100A is an NTSC system-based camcorder. If you want to view the playback picture on a TV, it must be an NTSC system-based TV. DSR-PD100AP is a PAL system-based camcorder. If you want to view the playback picture on a TV, it must be a PAL system-based TV.
Page 129: Trouble Check
Trouble check If you run into any problem using the camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. Should the difficulty persist, disconnect the power source and contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. Camcorder Power Symptom The power cannot be turned on.
Page 130 Trouble check Operation Symptom The end search function does not work correctly. The tape does not move when a tape transport button is pressed. No sound or only a low sound is heard when playing back a tape. The new sound added to the recorded tape is not heard.
Page 131 The camcorder is not malfunctioning. m Change locations. • The video heads may be dirty. m Clean the heads using the Sony PDVM-12CL (not supplied) cleaning cassette. (p. 125) • The video heads may be dirty. m Clean the heads using the Sony PDVM-12CL (not supplied) cleaning cassette.
Page 132 • Remove the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable), and connect it again. • If the power of the camcorder is on for a long time, it becomes warm, which is not malfunction. • COMMANDER is set to OFF in the menu system.
Page 133 Set the selector to DV input position. If you use another DVCAM camcorder, set the power switch to VTR. • The camcorder is connected to DVCAM equipment of other than Sony. m Operate normal editing. • Setting program on a blank portion of the tape is attempted.
Page 134: Self-Diagnosis Function
C:04:ππ C:21:ππ C:22:ππ C:31:ππ C:32:ππ E:61:ππ E:62:ππ If you are unable to resolve the problem, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. LCD screen/viewfinder Self-diagnosis display •C:ππ:ππ •E:ππ:ππ Cause and/or corrective actions • The battery other than “InfoLITHIUM” is used.
Page 135: Specifications
Rotary heads, PCM system Quantization: Fs 32kHz (12bits, stereo 1, stereo 2), Fs 48kHz (16bits, stereo) Video signal DSR-PD100A: NTSC color, EIA standards DSR-PD100AP: PAL color, CCIR standards Usable cassette Mini DVCAM cassette with logo printed Tape speed DSR-PD100A: Approx.
Page 136: Identifying The Parts
Identifying the parts 1 EDITSEARCH buttons (p. 22) 2 BACK LIGHT button (p. 38) 3 FADER button (p. 36) 4 ND FILTER button (p. 49) 5 AUTO LOCK selector (p. 44) 6 OPEN switch (p. 16, 23) 7 Control dial (p. 28) 8 Viewfinder lens adjustment lever (p.
Page 137 Identifying the parts !§ !¶ !• !ª !§ Tape transport buttons (p. 23) π STOP (stop) 0 REW (rewind) · PLAY (playback) ) FF (fast-forward) P PAUSE (pause) r REC (record) !¶ Focus ring (p. 58) !• Remote sensor (p. 143) !ª...
Page 138 Identifying the parts @§ @¶ @• @ª #º #¡ @§ LCD Screen (p. 16) @¶ LCD BRIGHT buttons (p. 16, 23) @• VOLUME buttons (p. 23) @ª RESET button (p. 133) #º DATA CODE button (p. 81) #¡ Speaker #™ START/STOP button (p. 13) #£...
Page 139 Identifying the parts $§ $¶ $• $§ Access lamp (p. 92) $¶ DC IN jack (p. 9) $• Hooks for shoulder strap (p. 143) $ª Intelligent accessory shoe %º EJECT switch (p. 12) %¡ PUSH button (p. 12) Note on the intelligent accessory shoe Supplies power to optional accessories such as a video light or microphone.
Page 140 This jack has the same function as the jack indicated as CONTROL L or REMOTE. %§ DV IN/OUT jack (p. 83) This “i.LINK” mark is a trademark of Sony Corporation and indicates that this product is in agreement with IEEE 1394-1995 specifications and their revisions.
Page 141 Identifying the parts PC card adaptor and “Memory Stick” 1 Connector (p. 90) 2 Eject button (p. 92) 3 “Memory Stick” slot (p. 90) 4 Terminal (p. 90) 5 Write-protect switch (p. 90) 6 Label space (p. 90)
Page 142: Remote Commander
Identifying the parts Remote Commander The buttons that have the same name on the Remote Commander as on the camcorder function identically. 1 PHOTO button (p. 33) 2 DISPLAY button (p. 23) 3 Memory control buttons (p. 106) 4 SEARCH MODE button (p. 75, 77, 78) 5 Tape transport buttons (p.
Page 143: Attaching The Shoulder Strap
Sony VCRs to avoid remote control misoperation. If you use another Sony VCR in commander mode VTR 2, we recommend you change the commander mode or cover the remote sensor of the VCR with black paper.
Page 144: Operation Indicators
Identifying the parts Operation indicators !¡ !™ !£ !¢ !∞ 1 Cassette memory indicator (p. 118) 2 Remaining battery indicator (p. 122) 3 Zoom indicator (p. 15) /Exposure indicator (p. 45)/ Data file name indicator (p. 91) 4 Digital effect indicator (p. 43) 5 PROG.SCAN indicator (p.
Page 145 Identifying the parts Display window 1 Remaining time in minutes indicator (p. 9) / Tape counter (p. 14) / Memory counter (p. 106) / Time code indicator (p. 14) 2 FULL charge indicator (p. 9) 3 Remaining battery indicator (p. 9, 122)
Page 146: Warning Indicators
Charge the vanadium- lithium battery. (p. 119) 9 Some other trouble has occurred. Use the self-diagnosis function (p. 134). If the display does not disappear, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. C : 21: 10...
Page 147 Warning indicators !º !£ 0 The battery is not the “InfoLITHIUM” type. !¡ The tape has no cassette memory. (p. 5) !™ The file cannot be read properly. !£ The image data file is protected. The flashing is slow. !¢ The tape has no memory left or cannot use the memory.
Page 148: Index
Image quality mode ... 94 INDEX (Multiple) display ... 106 “InfoLITHIUM” ... 123 Lens hood ... 15 LCD BRIGHT ... 16, 23 Sony Corporation Printed in Japan M, N Manual adjustment ... 44 Manual focus ... 57 Memory card ... 90 Memory card slot ...

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