Sony HVR-Z1E Operating Instructions Manual

Digital hd video camera recorder
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2-514-607-13(1)
Digital HD Video
Camera Recorder
Operating Instructions
Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly,
and retain it for future reference.
HVR-Z1E/Z1P
© 2005 Sony Corporation

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Summary of Contents for Sony HVR-Z1E

  • Page 1 2-514-607-13(1) Digital HD Video Camera Recorder Operating Instructions Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly, and retain it for future reference. HVR-Z1E/Z1P © 2005 Sony Corporation...
  • Page 2: Read This First

    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 HVR-Z1E only...
  • Page 3: Notes On Use

    The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural resources. For more detailed information about recycling of this product, please contact your local Sony office or visit Sony Europe’s web site for business customers: http://www.sonybiz.net/environment...
  • Page 4 • To ensure a good grip, fasten the grip belt as shown in the following illustration. • You can change the language to be used for screen display on your camcorder (p. 19). • Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts. Viewfinder LCD panel Battery pack...
  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Read this first ... 2 Quick Start Guide Recording movies ... 8 Getting started Step 1: Checking supplied items... 10 Step 2: Charging the battery pack... 11 Using an outside power source ... 14 Step 3: Turning the power on... 15 Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder...
  • Page 6 Customizing the picture quality – PICTURE PROFILE ... 35 Customizing the sound... 38 Adjusting the audio recording level – Microphone volume level ... 38 Connecting external audio sources ... 39 Selecting the recording channel ... 40 Recording a picture using various features... 41 Developing scenes smoothly –...
  • Page 7 – Signal conversion function ...105 Troubleshooting Troubleshooting ...107 Warning indicators and messages ...112 Additional Information Using your camcorder abroad ...114 HDV format and recording/playback 115 Compatibility of the DVCAM and DV formats ...117 About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack ...118 About i.LINK ...120 Maintenance and precautions ...121...
  • Page 8: Quick Start Guide

    Quick Start Guide Recording movies Attach the charged battery pack to the camcorder. To charge the battery, see page 11. Press the battery pack and slide it down. Battery Pack Insert a cassette into the camcorder. Slide the OPEN/ EJECT...
  • Page 9: Start Recording While Checking The Subject On The Lcd Screen

    Start recording while checking the subject on the LCD screen. The date and time is not set up in the default setting. To set the date and time, see page 17. The pictures are recorded in the HDV format in the default setting. To record in the DVCAM or DV format, see page 21.
  • Page 10: Getting Started

    • If you attach an optical filter (optional) or so, remove the lens hood. Getting started Large eyecup (1) To attach it to your camcorder, see page 16. Wireless Remote Commander (1) A/V connecting cable (1) Component video cable (1) Shoe adaptor (1) To attach it to your camcorder, see page 131.
  • Page 11: Step 2: Charging The Battery Pack

    To insert the batteries in the Remote Commander, see page 132. Cleaning cassette (1) Shoulder strap (1) To attach it to your camcorder, see page 127. Operating Instructions (This manual) (1) Step 2: Charging the battery pack You can charge the battery by attaching the “InfoLITHIUM”...
  • Page 12 Remove the battery pack from the AC Adaptor/ charger. To attach the battery pack to the camcorder Press the battery pack and slide it down. To remove the battery pack Set the POWER switch to OFF.
  • Page 13: Recording Time

    After charging these battery packs, make a trial recording with them before an actual recording to see the recording time. The recording time varies Typical depending on the environment where the camcorder is used. Press DISPLAY/BATT INFO to display the recording recording time on the screen.
  • Page 14: Using An Outside Power Source

    You can use the AC Adaptor/charger as the power source when you do not want the battery to run out. PRECAUTION Even if your camcorder is turned off, AC power (house current) is still supplied to it while connected to the wall socket via the AC Adaptor/charger.
  • Page 15: Step 3: Turning The Power On

    You need to set the POWER switch to the respective power mode to record or play back pictures. When using this camcorder for the first time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 17). While pressing the green button, set the POWER switch.
  • Page 16: Adjusting The Viewfinder

    [LCD BL LEVEL] on the [LCD/VF SET] menu • When you use your camcorder in bright conditions using the battery pack, set the LCD BACKLIGHT switch to OFF ( appears). This position saves battery power.
  • Page 17: Step 5: Setting The Date And Time

    Note • 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 (p.
  • Page 18: Step 6: Inserting A Cassette Tape

    Getting started Step 6: Inserting a cassette tape For the information about the type of cassette you can use with your camcorder, and details on these cassettes (such as write-protection, etc.), see page 115. b Note • Do not force the cassette into the compartment. This may cause a malfunction of your camcorder.
  • Page 19: Step 7: Setting The Screen Language

    Close the lid. Step 7: Setting the screen language You can select the language to be used on the LCD screen. Turn on your camcorder. Open the LCD panel and adjust the angle. Press MENU. Select the turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.
  • Page 20 Select the desired language by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. Press MENU to hide the menu screen. z Tip • Your camcorder offers [ENG [SIMP]] (simplified English) for when you cannot find your native tongue among the options. Getting started...
  • Page 21: Recording

    (IN/OUT REC) menu, set [REC FORMAT] to [DV], and [ REC MODE] to [DVCAM] (p. 72). When the menu screen is turned off, appears on the LCD screen, the DVCAM format lamp lights up, and your camcorder is set to recording standby. Recording...
  • Page 22: Remaining Battery

    Note • Before changing the battery pack, set the POWER switch to OFF. • When the camcorder is left in recording standby for more than about 3 minutes, your camcorder exits the recording standby mode (the drum stops rotating) to prevent tape wear and battery loss.
  • Page 23: Usable Cassettes

    1 cm (approx. 1/2 inch)* 80 cm (approx. 2 5/8 feet)* * The minimum distance required between your camcorder and the subject to get a sharp focus with that side of the lever. Set the ZOOM switch to LEVER/ REMOTE.
  • Page 24 z Tip • You can display the zoomed position with a number or a bar display. Select [BAR] or [NUMBER] in [ZOOM DISPLAY] on the (p. 81). The zoom position is displayed with a bar display in the default setting. Using the handle zoom You can adjust the zoom speed with the handle zoom switch when using the handle zoom lever.
  • Page 25: Recording In Mirror Mode

    You can also utilize this function when recording yourself, or to keep the attention of small children attracted to the camcorder while you record them. Up to about 100 degrees Open the LCD panel 180 degrees, then rotate it towards the subject until it clicks.
  • Page 26: Adjusting The Exposure

    To turn off the display of the recording setup information Press STATUS CHECK. b Note • Information of the picture profile setup does not appear when it is set to [OFF]. Recording Adjusting the exposure The exposure is adjusted automatically in the default setting.
  • Page 27: Recording The Subject Lit By Strong Light - Spotlight

    b Note • The back light function is canceled when you press the ASSIGN button assigned to SPOTLIGHT. • You cannot use the back light function if 2 or more items out of iris, gain, and shutter speed are adjusted manually.
  • Page 28 B is flashing. • If A or B does not change from flashing to lit steadily, your camcorder is unable to set up the white balance. In this case, use the preset or automatic white balance. To use the preset white balance...
  • Page 29: Recording Using Manual Adjustments

    Recording using manual adjustments You can manually adjust the iris, gain, etc. according to the brightness of the recording scene or in order to obtain desired effects. Adjust the iris, gain, shutter speed, and white balance after setting the AUTO LOCK switch to the center position to release the auto lock mode.
  • Page 30: Adjusting The Gain

    To restore automatic adjustment Press IRIS, or set the AUTO LOCK switch to AUTO LOCK. b Note • If you set the AUTO LOCK switch to AUTO LOCK, other manually adjusted items (gain, shutter speed, white balance) also become temporarily automatic.
  • Page 31: Adjusting The Shutter Speed

    Tip • It is difficult to focus automatically at a lower shutter speed. Manual focusing with your camcorder attached to a tripod is recommended. • The picture may flicker or change colors under fluorescent lamps, sodium lamps, or mercury lamps.
  • Page 32: Displaying The Zebra Pattern To Adjust The Brightness

    If [ND1] flashes Set the ND FILTER switch to 1 to turn on [ND1]. If [ND2] flashes Set the ND FILTER switch to 2 to turn on [ND2]. If [ND OFF] flashes Set the ND FILTER switch to OFF to turn off the indicator.
  • Page 33: Adjusting The Focus

    Select the desired level by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. Select a value from [70] to [100] or [100+]. If you select [70], the zebra pattern appears at the part of 70±5 % of the brilliance signal.
  • Page 34 During recording or in the standby mode, set the FOCUS switch to MAN (manual). appears. Rotate the focus ring and adjust the focus. changes to when the focus cannot be adjusted any farther. changes to when the focus cannot be adjusted any closer.
  • Page 35: Enhancing The Outline To Focus - Peaking

    Connect your camcorder to a TV or monitor, and adjust the picture quality while observing the picture on the TV or monitor screen. At the default setting, [PP1] through [PP6] are registered with picture quality settings for the following recording conditions.
  • Page 36 In the standby mode, press PICTURE PROFILE. Select a picture profile number by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. [PP1] through [PP6] are available. Select [SETTING] by turning the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. Select an item to be adjusted by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.
  • Page 37 Item Adjustment [CINEMA- [OFF]: Normal recording TONE γ] [TYPE1]: A better tone scale than the standard video gamma reproduces natural intermediate colors between a skin color and neutral colors. A skin color will look lively when recorded with this setting. Further, the reproduction of extremely precise description of highlighted parts provides...
  • Page 38: Customizing The Sound

    If you decide not to reset the picture profile, select [NO]. Press PICTURE PROFILE. b Note • If you select [TYPE3] in [SKINTONE DTL], the effect may also be applied to a color that is not a skin color. • When [SKINTONE DTL] is set to [OFF], [SKINTONE LVL] setting will not be effective, and the edge of the part of skin color will be enhanced at the highest level.
  • Page 39: Connecting External Audio Sources

    Connect an external microphone and/or audio device to the INPUT1/INPUT2 connectors. To attach an external microphone Only a Sony microphone of 21 mm in diameter (ECM-678) can be attached. Loosen the microphone holder screw, and open the cover. Place the microphone in the microphone holder, close the cover, and tighten the screw.
  • Page 40: Selecting The Recording Channel

    To connect the cable of the microphone or audio device Align the pins of the plug to the INPUT1 or INPUT2 connectors, and connect them securely. XLR connector (male) Selecting the recording channel The following settings are required to record the audio source connected to the INPUT1 or INPUT2 connector.
  • Page 41: Recording A Picture Using Various Features

    • It is recommended that you set [MIC NR] to [OFF] (p. 66) when: – you use the microphone at a distance from the camcorder. – you set [XLR CH SEL] to [CH1], and input sound only from the INPUT1 connector.
  • Page 42 Step 1: Store the settings Press STORE/CHECK/EXEC repeatedly to turn on the STORE lamp. Adjust the desired items manually. To adjust the camera setup items such as iris manually, set the AUTO LOCK switch to the center position to release the auto lock mode.
  • Page 43: Revising A Specific Color -Color Correction

    To cancel the operation Press STORE/CHECK/EXEC repeatedly until the STORE/CHECK/EXEC lamps are all turned off. Revising a specific color –Color Correction You can select and revise up to 2 specific colors (2 palettes) of objects, such as leaves and sky, that will be recorded in your favorite color tone.
  • Page 44 Adjust the color tone. Increasing [R] makes the selected color reddish, and decreasing [R] makes it less reddish (as cyan increases). Increasing [B] makes the selected color blueish, and decreasing [B] makes it less blueish (as yellow increases). No adjustment will be made at 0. Select [OK] by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.
  • Page 45: Fading In And Out Of A Scene- Fader

    Fading in and out of a scene – FADER You can add the following effects to currently recording pictures. Assign the FADER function to one of the ASSIGN buttons in advance. See page 87 for details on how to assign a function. ASSIGN 1 –...
  • Page 46: Recording On A Device Connected Via An I.link Cable - External Rec Control

    Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected.
  • Page 47 – EXPANDED FOCUS – [ALLSCAN MODE] z Tip • To replace the tape on this camcorder while keeping the connected device in the recording mode, continue shooting until it stops automatically at the end of tape. Then replace the tape.
  • Page 48: Reviewing The Most Recently Recorded Scenes - Rec Review

    ASSIGN 1 – 6 In the standby mode, press the ASSIGN button assigned to the Rec Review function. The last few seconds of the most recently recorded scene are played back. Then, your camcorder is set to the standby mode. Recording...
  • Page 49: Playback

    Playback Viewing movies Make sure you have a recorded cassette inserted into your camcorder. Some of the operations are possible using the Remote Commander. When you want to play back recordings on your TV, see page 53. When playing back the tape, select the (IN/OUT REC) menu, [VCR HDV/DV], then [AUTO] (the default setting).
  • Page 50: Playing Back In Various Modes

    DVCAM (DV) format or mini-DVCAM (DV) players. • DV format tapes are played back on your camcorder only if they are recorded in the SP mode ( appears on the screen). Tapes recorded in the LP mode are not played back.
  • Page 51: Various Playback Functions

    Various playback functions You can locate the end of the last recording, or display the date of recording and camera settings data. Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording – END SEARCH This function is handy when you have played back the tape, for example, but want to start recording right after the most recently recorded scene.
  • Page 52: Displaying The Date/Time And Camera Settings Data - Data Code

    Set the POWER switch to VCR. Press DATA CODE on the camcorder or Remote Commander during playback or playback pause. Each time you press the button, the...
  • Page 53: Playing The Picture On A Tv

    Green Blue • In case of this connection, the TV needs to be set so that it recognizes that the camcorder is connected. Refer to the operating manual supplied with the TV for the details. To connect the TV using the component video cable •...
  • Page 54 Tip • If you connect your camcorder to your TV using more than one type of cables to output the pictures via analog jacks, the output signals have priority in the following order:...
  • Page 55: Viewing The Picture On A 16:9 Tv Or A 4:3 Tv

    Viewing the picture on a 16:9 TV or a 4:3 TV Component video cable (supplied) Signal flow Connect your camcorder and your TV or VCR using either cables described below. To connect the TV using the component video cable This connection is recommended when your TV has COMPONENT VIDEO jacks.
  • Page 56: Locating A Scene On A Tape For Playback

    [DV WIDE REC], then [OFF] before recording (p. 73). When your TV is connected to a VCR Connect your camcorder to the LINE IN input on the VCR using the A/V connecting cable. Set the input selector on the VCR to LINE.
  • Page 57: Searching For A Recording Start Point - Index Search

    Press STOP on the Remote Commander. b Note • If 1 day’s recording is less than 2 minutes, your camcorder may not accurately find the index point. • The Index search will not function correctly when there is a blank section between recorded sections on the tape.
  • Page 58: Using The Menu

    MENU Select the desired item by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. The available menu items vary depending on the power mode of your camcorder. Unavailable items will be grayed out. 1 2 0 POWER switch MENU...
  • Page 59: Using The (Camera Set) Menu

    Press MENU to hide the menu screen. setting is selected. The settings you can adjust vary depending on the power mode of your camcorder. The screen shows the items you can operate at the moment. Unavailable items will be grayed out.
  • Page 60: Shot Trans

    SHOT TRANS Select this setting to set the transition duration, time, and start timer. See page 41 for details on using the shot transition function. Note • Before setting [SHOT TRANS], turn off all of the STORE/CHECK/EXEC lamps by pressing the button repeatedly (p. 41). TRANS TIME Select the time that takes to make a transition from the current setting to the selected setting.
  • Page 61: Stdyshot Typ

    Select when a wide conversion lens (optional) is attached. This mode is the most effective with Sony VCL-HG0872 wide conversion lens. [WHITE], [RED], [YELLOW] are available for the outline color. It is set to [WHITE] in the default setting.
  • Page 62: Af Assist

    AF ASSIST GOFF AE RESPONSE Select the speed used to adjust the exposure automatically in accordance with the brightness of the subject. [FAST], [MIDDLE], and [SLOW] are available. It is set to [FAST] in the default setting. MARKER GOFF Note •...
  • Page 63: Handle Zoom

    FLCKR REDUCE Note • You cannot select this item when [50i/60i SEL] on the It is always set to [OFF]. HANDLE ZOOM Select this item to set the zoom speed of position H and L of the handle zoom switch (p. 24). Select [H] or [L] by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.
  • Page 64: Frame Rec

    FRAME REC You can record pictures with a stop-motion animated effect by alternately recording a few frames and then moving the subject a little. Operate your camcorder using the Remote Commander to prevent camera shake. GOFF ON ( * A picture consists of 5 frames when [50i/60i SEL] is set to 50i, and 6 frames when it is set to 60i.
  • Page 65: Audio Mix

    “Selecting menu items” (p. 58). The default settings are marked with G. The indicators in parentheses appear when the AUDIO MONI You can check the sound from headphones or the camcorder speaker by selecting either of them. GCH1,CH2 CH1+CH2...
  • Page 66: Audio Mode

    AUDIO MODE GFS32K ( FS48K ( Note • You can add sound only on a tape recorded in Fs32K mode in DVCAM format. You cannot add sound on a tape recorded in Fs48K mode. • [FS48K] is selected automatically in the HDV format. AUDIO LOCK GUNLOCK MODE Select to record the sampling clock for audio and video separately.
  • Page 67: Int Mic Set

    INT MIC SET You can set the wind noise reduction and the sensitivity for the external microphone. INT MIC SENS GNORMAL HIGH INT MIC WIND GOFF AUTO XLR SET XLR CH SEL You can select the input signal from an external microphone, and the channel to be recorded.
  • Page 68: Input1 Level

    INPUT1 LEVEL Select the input signal from the INPUT1 connector, either from a microphone or an audio device. GMIC LINE INPUT1 TRIM You can select the level of input signal from the INPUT1 connector. This setting is effective only when [INPUT1 LEVEL] is set to [MIC]. -18 dB, -12 dB, -6 dB, 0 dB, +6 dB, +12 dB are available.
  • Page 69: Using The (Lcd/Vf Set) Menu

    GNORMAL BRIGHT Note • When you connect your camcorder to outside power sources, [BRIGHT] is automatically selected for this setting. point. If it is distorted at the input point, adjust the sound using the INPUT TRIM function. If it is distorted at the recording point, lower the total volume level manually.
  • Page 70: Vf B.light

    You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder. The recorded picture will not be affected by this setting. GNORMAL BRIGHT Note • When you connect your camcorder to outside power sources, [BRIGHT] is automatically selected for this setting. VF COLOR VF POWER GAUTO Note •...
  • Page 71: Using The (In/Out Rec) Menu

    VCR HDV/DV Select the playback signal. Normally select [AUTO]. When the camcorder is connected to another device using an i.LINK cable, select the signal to be input/output from the recorded or played back. GAUTO Note •...
  • Page 72: Rec Format

    – at [HDV], an HDV signal is converted to an audio-unlocked DV signal; a DV signal is not output. – at [DV], a DV signal is output as it is; an HDV signal is not output. • An HDV signal cannot be converted to a DVCAM signal. REC FORMAT Selects a recording format when the POWER switch is set at CAMERA.
  • Page 73: Dv Wide Rec

    DV WIDE REC You can display pictures recorded in the DVCAM (DV) format on the entire TV screen by setting this item at the time of recording. Refer to the operating instructions supplied with your TV as well. OFF ( EXT REC CTRL See page 46 for details.
  • Page 74: I.link Conv

    • See [VCR HDV/DV] for information about an input signal via an i.LINK connection. Using the Menu Select when connecting your camcorder to a TV that is compatible with 576i. Select when connecting your camcorder to a TV that is compatible with 576p.
  • Page 75: Down Convert

    • Disconnect the i.LINK cable before setting [i.LINK CONV]. Otherwise, the connected video device may not be able to recognize the video signal from this camcorder. DOWN CONVERT Select the picture format to be output when you play back the tape recorded in the HDV specification.
  • Page 76: A/V C Dv Out

    A/V c DV OUT You can connect a digital device and an analog device to your camcorder and convert the signal transmitted from the connected devices to the appropriate signal on your camcorder. GOFF ON ( Using the Menu Select when you are not using the Signal conversion function.
  • Page 77: Using The (Tc/Ub Set) Menu

    Time code value advances only while recording. Select this when making the time code continuous at backspace editing. Time code value advances freely regardless of the camcorder’s current operation mode. Select this when adjusting the discrepancy between time code value and real time.
  • Page 78: Ub Time Rec

    TC MAKE GREGENERATE Select to make the time code continuous at backspace editing. PRESET UB TIME REC GOFF Using the Menu Regardless of the [TC RUN] setting, the running mode is automatically set to [REC RUN]. Select when you do not want to make the time code continuous at backspace editing.
  • Page 79: Using The (Others) Menu

    Traditional-Chinese. QUICK REC When the camcorder is left in recording standby for more than about 3 minutes, your camcorder exits the recording standby mode (the drum stops rotating) to prevent tape wear and battery loss. Since the power does not turn off, you can restart recording by pressing REC START/STOP again.
  • Page 80: Format Lamp

    Select this when you do not want to miss a recording chance. Select to play a melody when you start/stop recording, or when an unusual condition occurs on your camcorder. Select to sound a beep instead of the melody. Select to cancel the melody and the beep sound.
  • Page 81: Zoom Display

    GAUTO DISP OUTPUT GLCD PANEL V-OUT/PANEL Note • You cannot input a signal to your camcorder if you press DISPLAY/BATT INFO or the ASSIGN button assigned to the DISPLAY function while [V-OUT/PANEL] is selected. ZOOM DISPLAY GBAR NUMBER Select to rotate counter clockwise when looked at from the lens side to close the iris and decrease the light volume.
  • Page 82: Exp. Focus

    EXP. FOCUS GAUTO OFF MANUAL OFF HOURS METER The cumulative operation time of your camcorder will be displayed with the total hours of operation, drum rotation, tape running, or the total number of tape unthreading operations. OPERATION DRUM RUN TAPE RUN...
  • Page 83: I/60I Sel

    50i/60i SEL You can switch the system, 1080/50i (PAL system) or 1080/60i (NTSC system), used by your camcorder to record. It is set to 50i in the default setting. Select [YES] by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.
  • Page 84: Customizing Personal Menu

    Customizing Personal Menu The available items vary depending on the power mode of your camcorder. Unavailable items will be grayed out. You can add frequently used menu items to Personal Menu, or sort them in the order you like (customizing). You can customize the Personal Menu for each power mode of your camcorder.
  • Page 85 : END Select a menu item by turning the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. The available items vary depending on the power mode of the camcorder. Only the available items are displayed. 1 2 0 STBY 0 0 : 0 0 : 0 0 : 0 0...
  • Page 86 Arranging the order of menus displayed on Personal Menu – Sort You can sort the menus added to Personal Menu in the desired order. Press P-MENU. 1 2 0 STBY 0 0 : 0 0 : 0 0 : 0 0 P–MENU SHOT TRANS ASS I GN BTN...
  • Page 87: Assigning The Functions

    Select [RESET] by turning the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. 1 2 0 STBY 0 0 : 0 0 : 0 0 : 0 0 RESET I n i t i a l i z e CAMERA m o d e ' s P–MENU s e t t i n g ? P–MENU : END...
  • Page 88 Select the (OTHERS) menu by turning SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. Select [ASSIGN BTN] by turning SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. Select the number of the ASSIGN button you want to assign the function by turning SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.
  • Page 89 [ALLSCAN MODE]. During the simple allscan display, a black frame appears around the screen. Press the button again to restore the previous screen mode. b Note • When this function is activated, pictures are output in the interlace letter box format from the COMPONENT OUTPUT and i.LINK jacks except for the HDV signals.
  • Page 90: Dubbing/Editing

    • When [VCR HDV/DV] is set to [AUTO] and the signal switches between HDV and DV, the picture and sound disappear temporarily. • When the recorder is an HVR-Z1E/Z1P, set [VCR HDV/DV] on the [AUTO] on the recording HVR-Z1E/Z1P (p. 94).
  • Page 91 • If you change the settings of [VCR HDV/DV] and [i.LINK CONV] with the i.LINK cable connected, the video device may not be able to recognize the video signal from the camcorder at the time of dubbing. • If [HDVtDV CONV] is set to [OFF] in [i.LINK...
  • Page 92 To dub to an AV device Connect your camcorder to a VCR using the A/ V connecting cable (supplied). AUDIO/VIDEO jack Signal flow * When there is an S video jack on the device to be connected, connect an S video cable (optional) to that jack instead of using the yellow video plug of the A/V connecting cable (supplied).
  • Page 93 Note • When you use an i.LINK cable, the recorded picture becomes rough when a picture is paused on your camcorder while recording it to a VCR. • Pictures recorded in the HDV format are not output from the HDV/DV jack during playback pause or in playback modes other than normal playback.
  • Page 94: Recording Pictures From A Vcr Or Tv

    (p. 115). Dubbing/Editing b Note • Your camcorder can only record from a PAL source. For example, French video or TV programs (SECAM) cannot be recorded correctly. See page 114 for details on TV color systems.
  • Page 95 You can record and edit pictures or TV programs from a VCR or TV. Use your camcorder as a recorder and connect it to a VCR using the A/V connecting cable (supplied). You can connect a DVCAM (DV) compatible device also using an i.LINK cable (optional).
  • Page 96 Recording movies Insert a cassette for recording in your camcorder before the following operations. Connect your TV or VCR to your camcorder as a playback device (p. 94, 95). If you are recording from a VCR, insert a cassette. Set the POWER switch to VCR.
  • Page 97: Connecting To A Computer

    Connecting to a computer To use your camcorder by connecting it to a computer using an i.LINK cable, the computer must have an i.LINK interface, and application software to read video signals must be installed on the computer. Refer to the manual supplied with the application software for the system requirements of the computer.
  • Page 98 • You cannot import pictures recorded in the DVCAM (DV) format in the HDV format. To import pictures from the computer to your camcorder In the HDV format Set [VCR HDV/DV] to [HDV] (p. 71) and [HDVtDV CONV] to [OFF] in [i.LINK CONV] (p.
  • Page 99: Dubbing Sound To A Recorded Tape

    Dubbing sound to a recorded tape Preparing for audio dubbing INPUT1/INPUT2 PHANTOM switch Internal microphone Signal flow Input audio in one of the following ways. • Using the internal microphone (no connection required). • Connecting a microphone or an audio device (optional) to the INPUT1/INPUT2 connectors.
  • Page 100: Audio Dubbing

    – On blank sections of the tape. – When the write-protect tab of the cassette is set to SAVE. – 50i/60i setting on the camcorder is different from that of the tape. • When you use an external microphone (optional) to...
  • Page 101 • You can only record additional audio on a tape recorded on your camcorder. The sound may deteriorate when you dub audio on a tape recorded on other camcorders (including other HVR-Z1E/ Z1P camcorders). z Tip • You can adjust the recording volume of additional audio manually.
  • Page 102: Setting Time Values

    Setting time values Your camcorder uses 2 types of time values: time code values and user bits. Setting the time code value Set the POWER switch to VCR or CAMERA. Press MENU. Select the (TC/UB SET) menu by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.
  • Page 103 Setting FREE RUN advance the time code freely regardless of the camcorder’s current operation mode. The time code starts running once this setting is selected. Press MENU to hide the menu screen. To cancel the time code setting Select [CANCEL] in step 5 in step 6, or press TC RESET on the Remote Commander.
  • Page 104: Switching The Time Value

    Select [PRESET] by turning the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. Select the first 2 digits by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. Repeat step 6 to set up the other digits. Select [OK] by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.
  • Page 105: Connecting An Analog Vcr To The

    (OTHERS) menu, [DISP OUTPUT], then [LCD PANEL] (the default setting) (p. 81). (supplied), and a digital device such as a computer to your camcorder using an i.LINK cable (optional). Your camcorder converts the analog video signal from the VCR to a digital signal and transmits it to the computer to be dubbed.
  • Page 106 Dubbing/Editing b Note • Your camcorder may not be able to output the signal to the computer correctly depending on the video signal input to your camcorder. • You cannot import pictures that have been recorded using a copyright protection signal to a computer via your camcorder.
  • Page 107: Troubleshooting

    RESET button, all settings including the clock setting (except the Personal Menu and Picture Profile settings) are reset. • This is because some lens functions on the camcorder use a linear mechanism. This is not a malfunction. cSet [REMOTE CTRL] on the (OTHERS) menu to [ON] (p.
  • Page 108: Cassette Tapes

    (battery pack or AC Adaptor/charger) is connected correctly (p. 11). cRemove the battery pack from the camcorder, then attach it again (p. 11). cAttach a charged battery pack to the camcorder (p. 11). cMoisture condensation is starting in your camcorder (p. 121).
  • Page 109 REC or insert a new cassette (p. 115). cThe tape is stuck to the drum due to moisture condensation. Remove the cassette and leave your camcorder for at least 1 hour, then re-insert the cassette (p. 121).
  • Page 110 Playback Symptom Cannot play back. Cannot play back in reverse direction. cReverse playback is not possible with the tape recorded in the HDV Horizontal lines appear on the picture. The displayed pictures are not clear or do not appear. Fine patterns flicker, diagonal lines look jagged.
  • Page 111 • On the (OTHERS) menu, change the [50i/60i SEL] setting to 60i and playback the tape (p. 83). devices using a 4-channel microphone. This camcorder does not comply with the 4-channel microphone recording standard. Cause and/or Corrective Actions cSet [DISP OUTPUT] to [LCD PANEL] on the (p.
  • Page 112: Warning Indicators And Messages

    Troubleshooting Cause and/or Corrective Actions Some symptoms can be fixed by yourself. If the problem persists even after you tried a couple of times, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. C:04:ss cA battery pack that is not an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is being used.
  • Page 113: Warning Messages

    Warning messages If messages appear on the screen, check the following. See the page in parentheses for details. Subjects Indications Battery Use the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. Battery level is low. Old battery. Use a new one. Z Re-attach the power source. % Z Moisture condensation.
  • Page 114: Additional Information

    Additional Information Using your camcorder abroad Power supply You can use your camcorder in any country/ regions using the AC Adaptor/charger supplied with your camcorder within AC 100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz. On TV color systems Your camcorder is a PAL system-based camcorder.
  • Page 115: Hdv Format And Recording/Playback

    HDV compatible TV or computer. Playback • Your camcorder can play back pictures in the DVCAM (DV) format and HDV1080i specification. • Your camcorder can play back a picture...
  • Page 116 • Your camcorder is not compatible with the Cassette Memory function. trademarks. HDV and are trademarks of Sony Corporation and Victor Company of Japan Ltd. Additional Information All other product names mentioned herein may be the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
  • Page 117: Compatibility Of The Dvcam And Dv Formats

    Recorder’s format DVCAM • This camcorder complies with the DVCAM format. Though mini DV cassettes can be used for recording, we recommend you use mini DVCAM cassettes to get the most out of the high reliability of the DVCAM format.
  • Page 118: About The "Infolithium" Battery Pack

    In that case, do one of the following to use the battery pack for a longer time. – Put the battery pack in a pocket to warm it up, and insert it in your camcorder right before you start taking shots.
  • Page 119 Please buy a new battery pack. • The battery life varies depending on how it is stored and the operating conditions and environment for each battery pack. “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony Corporation. Additional Information...
  • Page 120: About I.link

    Tip • 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 121: Maintenance And Precautions

    Sometimes this malfunction cannot be repaired. • If any solid object or liquid gets inside the casing, unplug your camcorder and have it checked by a Sony dealer before operating it any further. • Avoid rough handling, disassembling, modifying, or mechanical shock. Be particularly careful of the lens.
  • Page 122 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 Additional Information service facility to have the video head replaced.
  • Page 123 POWER switch is set to OFF. The pre- installed battery is always charged while you are using your camcorder but it will get discharged gradually if you do not use your camcorder. The battery will be fully discharged in about 3 months if you do not use your camcorder at all.
  • Page 124: Specification

    Specification System Video recording system (HDV) 2 rotary heads, Helical scanning system Video recording system (DVCAM (DV)) 2 rotary heads, Helical scanning system Audio recording system (HDV) Rotary heads, MPEG-1 Audio Layer2 Quantization: 16 bits (Fs 48 kHz, stereo) Transfer rate: 384 kbps Audio recording system (DVCAM (DV)) Rotary heads, PCM system Quantization: 12 bits (Fs 32 kHz, stereo 1,...
  • Page 125 General Peak inrush current Hot switching inrush current, measured in accordance with European standard EN55103-1: 7 A (230 V) Power requirements DC 7.2 V (battery pack) Average power consumption (when using the battery pack, and external microphones) During camera recording using the viewfinder with normal brightness: HDV recording 8.0 W at 60 Hz operation* DVCAM (DV) recording 7.6 W at 60 Hz...
  • Page 126: Quick Reference

    Quick Reference Identifying parts and controls Camcorder A SHOT TRANSITION operation buttons (p. 41) B Eyecup (p. 16) C Viewfinder release lever (p. 123) D Rear remote sensor E Rear camera recording lamp (p. 21) F BATT RELEASE (battery release) button (p.
  • Page 127 * The GAIN, ASSIGN 2/5 buttons have a raised tactile dot. Use it to identify the location of the buttons. To attach the shoulder strap Attach the shoulder strap supplied with your camcorder to the hooks for the shoulder strap. Quick Reference ,continued...
  • Page 128 A LCD screen (p. 3, 15) B IRIS dial (p. 29) C RESET button If you press RESET, all settings including the clock setting (except the Personal Menu and Picture Profile settings) return to the default. D VOLUME –/+ buttons* (p. 49) E DATA CODE button (p.
  • Page 129 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 a quality as fine as a Carl Zeiss lens.
  • Page 130 5.5 mm (7/32 inch). Otherwise, you cannot attach the tripod securely, and the screw may damage your camcorder. D INPUT1 connector (XLR) (p. 39, 99) E INPUT2 connector (XLR) (p. 39, 99) F Microphone holder (p. 39) G AUDIO/VIDEO jack (p.
  • Page 131 Hood fixing screw To attach the lens hood Align the marks on the lens hood to those on the camcorder, and turn the lens hood in the opposite direction of the arrow in the figure above. Tighten the lens hood fixing screw.
  • Page 132: Remote Commander

    E Video control buttons (Rewind, Playback, Fast-forward, Pause, Stop, Frame, Slow, ×2) (p. 49) F Transmitter After turning on your camcorder, point towards the remote sensor to control your camcorder. G REC START/STOP button (p. 21) H DATA CODE button (p. 52) I Power zoom button (p.
  • Page 133: Indicators For The Lcd Screen And Viewfinder

    Indicators for the LCD screen and viewfinder Following indicators will appear on the LCD screen and viewfinder to indicate the state of your camcorder. Example: Indicators in the CAMERA mode Time code/user bit (p. 22)/Tape counter (p. 51)/Self-diagnosis (p. 112)
  • Page 134: Index

    Index Numerics 21-pin adaptor ... 56, 94 50i/60i SEL ... 83 A/V connecting cable ... 54, 55, 92, 95, 99, 105 AC Adaptor/charger ... 14 AE RESPONSE ... 62 AE SHIFT ... 36 AF ASSIST ... 62 AGC LIMIT ... 36 ALLSCAN MODE...
  • Page 135 LCD screen ...3 Lens hood...131 LETTER BOX ...75 Low-angle recording...22 Manual focus...33 MARKER ...62 MARKER SEL ...62 Menu AUDIO SET...65 CAMERA SET...59 IN/OUT REC ...71 LCD/VF SET ...69 OTHERS ...79 Selecting items ...58 TC/UB SET ...77 Menu letter size (LETTER SIZE) ...81 MIC NR ...66 MIC SELECT ...66...
  • Page 136 ZEBRA LEVEL ... 32 Zebra pattern ... 32 Zoom ... 23 ZOOM DISPLAY ... 81 Zoom ring... 24 Printed on 70% or more recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)- free vegetable oil based ink. Printed in Japan...

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