Sony Handycam NEX-VG20E Handbook
Sony Handycam NEX-VG20E Handbook

Sony Handycam NEX-VG20E Handbook

16.1 megapixel exmor™ aps hd cmos, 5.1 sound, 25/50p, 7.5cm (3.0”) touchscreen, hdmi®. body only
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"Handycam" Handbook
NEX-VG20E/VG20EH
GB
2011 Sony Corporation
4-291-376-11(1)

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Summary of Contents for Sony Handycam NEX-VG20E

  • Page 1 Click “Handycam” Handbook NEX-VG20E/VG20EH 2011 Sony Corporation 4-291-376-11(1) ...
  • Page 2: Using The "Handycam" Handbook

    Using the “Handycam” Handbook You will find information on using your camcorder to its fullest in this “Handycam” Handbook. Read the “Handycam” Handbook in addition to the Operating Guide (a separate volume). Information on using your camcorder connected to a computer will be also found in the Operating Guide and the “PMB Help”...
  • Page 3: Read This First

    Read this first Using the camcorder Do not hold the camcorder by the following  parts, and also do not hold the camcorder by the jack covers. Viewfinder LCD Screen Lens (NEX-VG0EH) Lens hood (NEX-VG0EH) Built-in microphone The camcorder is not dustproofed, dripproofed ...
  • Page 4: Notes On Optional Accessories

    [Format] by touching  [Setup]  [ [Format]  Notes on optional accessories We recommend using genuine Sony accessories.  Genuine Sony accessories may not be available  in some countries/regions. REC Mode] About this manual, illustrations and ] or...
  • Page 5: Notes On Use

    In this manual, the DVD disc recorded with  high definition image quality (HD) is called AVCHD recording disc. Design and specifications of your camcorder  and accessories are subject to change without notice. Notes on use Do not do any of the following. Otherwise, ...
  • Page 6: Features Of This Unit

    Interchangeable lens system The camcorder employs the E-mount system for interchangeable lenses developed by Sony. The E-mount lens supplied with the NEX- VG20EH has an optical camera-shake compensation mechanism (Active mode), and can also zoom up to 11 times.
  • Page 7: Search Image

    Search image Shooting movies as clear as still images Defocusing the background (46) Focusing manually (41) Shooting like film image (80) Shooting when holding the camcorder by hand Preventing camera shake (76) Shooting in low angle (45) Adjusting the color (72) In better brightness (73) Following a moving subject (75)
  • Page 8 Recording the sound clearly Recording the surround sound (44) Shooting landscapes The sky in vivid colors (73) Shooting clear still images The same scene with different brightness (75) Recording the loud noise naturally (78) Keeping your shot level (78) Capturing the best moment (75)
  • Page 9: Table Of Contents

    Table of contents Using the “Handycam” Handbook..............2 Searching for information quickly.
  • Page 10 Playing back images in the external media device on the camcorder..63 Creating a high definition image quality (HD) disc with such as a Sony DVD writer, etc..................... 64...
  • Page 11 Customizing your camcorder Using menus..................67 Operating menus..
  • Page 12: Getting Started

    Getting Started Step 1: Checking supplied items Make sure that you have following items supplied with your camcorder. The numbers in ( ) are the supplied quantity. All models This camcorder (1)  Body cap (attached to camcorder NEX-  VG20E;...
  • Page 13: Nex-Vg20Eh

    CD-ROM “Handycam” Application  Software (1) “PMB” (Software, including “PMB Help”)  Image Data Converter (RAW development  software) “Handycam” Handbook (PDF)  Operating Guide (1)  NEX-VG20EH Zoom lens (E 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS)  (attached to the camcorder) (1) (p. 18) Lens hood (1) (p.
  • Page 14: Step 2: Attaching The Supplied Accessories

    Attaching the Wind Screen Use the Wind Screen when you want to reduce the wind noise recorded by the microphone. Attach the Wind Screen with the Sony logo facing down. Attaching the battery cover Attach the battery cover after attaching the battery pack.
  • Page 15: Step 3: Charging The Battery Pack

    Step 3: Charging the battery pack Battery pack CHG (charge) lamp You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (V series) after attaching it to your camcorder.  Notes You cannot attach any “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack other than the V series to your camcorder. ...
  • Page 16: Charging Time

    When the battery is charged, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack of your camcorder. Charging time Approximate time (min.) required when you fully charge a fully discharged battery pack. Battery pack NP-FV70 (supplied) NP-FV100 The charging times shown in the table above are measured when charging the camcorder at a ...
  • Page 17 Notes on the battery pack When you remove the battery pack or disconnect the AC Adaptor, turn the camcorder off and make sure  that the (Movie)/ (Photo) lamps (p. 31), the access lamp (p. 28) are turned off. The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during charging under the following conditions: ...
  • Page 18: Step 4: Attaching The Lens

    Step 4: Attaching the lens This manual explains how to attach a lens using the E 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS lens that comes with NEX-VG20EH (the lens is attached to the camcorder at the time of purchase). If you use another lens, refer to the instruction manual supplied with that lens. Zoom lock switch Zoom ring Hood index...
  • Page 19  Mount the lens by aligning the mounting indexes (white) on the lens and the camcorder body. While pushing the lens lightly toward the camcorder body, turn the lens clockwise until it clicks into the locked position. Be sure to put the lens on straight. ...
  • Page 20: Removing The Lens

    Removing the lens  While pressing the lens release button all the way in, turn the lens counterclockwise until it stops. When you remove the lens, make sure that you hold both of the lens and the camcorder body.  Lens release button ...
  • Page 21 Hold the camcorder’s face downward to prevent the dust from resettling in the camcorder.  Do not apply a mechanical shock to the camcorder during cleaning.  If you cannot clean the image sensor by the above procedure, consult your Sony dealer or local authorized  Sony service facility.
  • Page 22 With LA-EA1, autofocus speed with an A-mount lens attached will be slower compared to an E-mount lens. (When an A-mount lens is attached, the autofocus speed will be about 2 seconds to 7 seconds, when shooting under Sony measurement condition. The speed may vary depending on the subject, ambient light, etc.) ...
  • Page 23: Step 5: Turning The Power On, And Setting The Date And Time

    Step 5: Turning the power on, and setting the date and time Slide the POWER switch to ON while pressing the green button. Select the desired language, then touch [Next]. Touch the button on the LCD screen Select the desired geographical area with To set the date and time again, touch ...
  • Page 24: Changing The Language Setting

    Set [Summer Time], then touch [Next]. If you set [Summer Time] to [On], the clock advances 1 hour.  Select the date format, then touch [Next]. Select the date and time, touch [Next]  The clock starts.  Notes The date and time does not appear during recording, but they are automatically recorded on the memory ...
  • Page 25: Step 6: Making Setting Adjustments Before Recording

    Step 6: Making setting adjustments before recording The LCD panel Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (), and then adjust the angle ().  Max. 90 degrees  Max. 180 degrees Tips  Images are displayed on the viewfinder or the LCD screen. ...
  • Page 26: The Viewfinder

    Tips  In the default setting, the screen display changes to the simple display after about 4 seconds ([Display  Setting], p. 86). The display changes to the detailed display when you touch anywhere on the screen except the buttons on the LCD screen so that you can use items. The viewfinder When you record while viewing through the viewfinder, close the LCD panel, or press FINDER/LCD (p.
  • Page 27 If the image is not clear in the viewfinder If you cannot see the picture in the viewfinder clearly under bright circumstances, use the supplied large eyecup. To attach the large eyecup, stretch it slightly and align it with the eyecup groove in the viewfinder.
  • Page 28: Step 7: Inserting A Memory Card

    Step 7: Inserting a memory card Note the direction of notched corner. Open the cover, and insert the memory card with the notched edge in the direction as illustrated until it clicks. The [Preparing image database file. Please wait.] screen appears if you insert a new memory card.
  • Page 29 Types of memory card you can use with your camcorder “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media (Mark2) “Memory Stick PRO- HG Duo” media SD memory card SDHC memory card SDXC memory card Operation with all memory cards is not assured.  “Memory Stick PRO Duo”...
  • Page 30: Recording/Playback

    Recording/Playback Recording In the default setting, movies are recorded with high definition image quality (HD). Fasten the grip belt. To remove the lens cap, push the sliders on both sides of the cap. Slide the POWER switch to ON while pressing the green button. Your camcorder is turned on.
  • Page 31: Recording Movies

    Recording movies (Movie): When recording a movie (Photo): When recording a photo MODE button  Press MODE to turn on the  Press START/STOP to start recording. The recording lamp lights up during recording (p. 112). To stop recording, press START/STOP again. ...
  • Page 32: Shooting Photos

    The LCD screen of your camcorder can display recording images across the entire screen (full pixel  display). However, this may cause slight trimming of the top, bottom, right and left edges of images when played back on a TV which is not compatible with full pixel display. In this case, set [Guide Frame] to [On] (p.
  • Page 33 To change the image size, touch  desired setting  You cannot record photos while  (MENU)  [Image Quality/Size]  [ is displayed. Image Size]  a...
  • Page 34: Playback On The Camcorder

    Playback. on.the.camcorder Tips  The camcorder displays recorded images as an event automatically based on the date and time.  Slide the POWER switch to ON while pressing the green button. Your camcorder is turned on. Press (View Images). The Event View screen appears after some seconds. Touch to select the desired event ().
  • Page 35 Touch an image you want to view. Touch  to select the image type to be displayed in the index from [ (movies only), [ PHOTO] (photos only), or [ photos mixed).  To go back to the Event View screen ...
  • Page 36: Operating The Camcorder While Playing A Movie

    Operating the camcorder while playing a movie You can use the functions shown in the figure below while the camcorder is playing a movie. The figure below will be displayed when you select [ setting) or [ MOVIE] by touching the Switch Image Type button on the Event Index screen.
  • Page 37: Viewing Photos

    Viewing photos You can use the functions shown in the figure below while you are viewing photos. The figure below will be displayed when you select [ button on the Event Index screen. Delete Context Previous Tips   [Slideshow Set]. To repeat Slideshow, touch ...
  • Page 38: Playing Images On A Tv

    Playing images on a TV Connection methods and the image quality (high definition (HD) or standard definition (STD)) viewed on the TV screen differ depending on what type of TV is connected, and the connectors used. You can watch images on your TV screen even while they are being recorded.
  • Page 39 Component A/V Cable (supplied) (Green) Y (Blue)P (Red)P A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (sold separately) (Yellow) A/V connecting cable (supplied) When you connect with component A/V cable If you connect only component video plugs,  audio signals are not output. Connect the white and red plugs to output audio signals.
  • Page 40: Using "Bravia" Sync

    If your TV/VCR has a 21-pin adaptor (EUROCONNECTOR) Use a 21-pin adaptor (sold separately) to view playback pictures. Tips  If you connect your camcorder to the TV using  more than one type of cable to output images, the order of priority of the TV input jacks is as follows: HDMI ...
  • Page 41: Advanced Operations

    Advanced operations Useful functions for recording movies and photos Zooming If the lens has a zoom ring, you can adjust the magnification by turning it to the right or left. Zoom ring  Notes Do not grab or apply a strong force to the lens ...
  • Page 42: Using The Expanded Focus

    to the image sensor is about 18 mm (23/32 in.). The image sensor is the part of the camcorder that acts as the film. If the subject is closer than the minimum  shooting distance ** of the attached lens, the focus cannot be confirmed.
  • Page 43: Selecting The Recording Mode

    Selecting the recording mode You can switch the recording mode to select the movie quality when recording high definition image quality (HD) movies ([Standard ] is the default setting). The recording time of the memory card is changed depending on the recording mode. (MENU) ...
  • Page 44: Using The Tracking Focus Function

    Using the Tracking focus function If you touch the subject you want to track on the LCD screen, the camcorder tracks that subject and records a movie. When you touch a face A double-lined frame appears around the face and the camcorder adjusts the focus, color and exposure automatically.
  • Page 45: Recording In Mirror Mode

    Recording in mirror mode Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (), then rotate it 180 degrees to the lens side (). Tips  A mirror-image of the subject appears on the  LCD screen, but the image will be normal when recorded.
  • Page 46: Adjusting Manually

    Adjusting manually Controlling the image settings manually with the MANUAL dial Use the MANUAL dial  on the camcorder for a variety of manual adjustments. Adjusting the IRIS Steps to configure IRIS priority exposure are described here. Press PROGRAM AE  to set the ...
  • Page 47: Adjusting The Shutter Speed

    Adjusting the Shutter Speed Steps to configure Shutter Speed priority exposure are described here. Press PROGRAM AE  to set the  IRIS, Gain (ISO), Shutter Speed and Exposure to [Auto]. Press SHUTTER SPEED  to set  the mode to manual. Pressing SHUTTER SPEED ...
  • Page 48: Advanced Manual Operation

    To return to automatic adjustment mode Press MANUAL once again. to the values of [IRIS], [Shutter Speed] and [Gain (ISO)], and highlighting is canceled. Items you can assign to the MANUAL [Exposure]  [Gain(ISO)]  Movie mode: Gain  Photo mode: ...
  • Page 49 [Exposure] manual ( ) When using [Exposure], [Spot Meter], etc., any of the IRIS, Shutter Speed, and Gain (ISO) which are currently set to auto ( ) is switched to manual ( ). The brightness is adjusted based on the value set in [Exposure], [Spot Meter], etc.
  • Page 50: Making Good Use Of Your Camcorder

    Making good use of your camcorder Deleting movies and photos You can free media space by deleting movies and photos from memory card.  Notes You cannot restore images once they are  deleted. Save important movies and photos in advance.
  • Page 51: Protecting Recorded Movies And Photos (Protect)

    Protecting recorded movies and photos (Protect) Protect movies and photos to avoid deleting them by mistake.  will be displayed on the protected images.  Press (View Images) button (p. 34). (MENU)  [Edit/  Touch Copy]  [Protect].  To select and protect movies, touch [Multiple Images] ...
  • Page 52: Capturing A Photo From A Movie

     Touch to adjust the dividing point with more precision. Returns to the beginning of the selected movie   Touch  Notes You cannot restore movies once they are  divided. You cannot divide protected movie. Undo the  protection of the movie to divide it, before you try to divide it (p.
  • Page 53: Saving Movies And Photos With A Computer

    To create a Blu-ray disc, the BD Add-on Software for “PMB” must be installed (p. 58). Choosing a method    Player Blu-ray disc playback devices (a Sony Blu-ray disc player, PlayStation  3, etc.) AVCHD format playback devices (a Sony Blu-ray disc player, PlayStation ...
  • Page 54 Discs you can use with “PMB” You can use 12 cm discs of following type with “PMB. ” For Blu-ray disc, see page 58. Disc type DVD-R/DVD+R/DVD+R DL DVD-RW/DVD+RW  Notes Always maintain your PlayStation  The PlayStation 3 may not be available in some countries/regions. ...
  • Page 55: Creating A Disc With One Touch (Disc Burn)

    Creating a disc with one touch (Disc Burn) Movies and photos recorded on your camcorder that have not yet been saved with Disc Burn function can be saved on a disc automatically. Movies and photos are saved on a disc with their recorded image quality.
  • Page 56: Importing Movies And Photos To A Computer

    Importing movies and photos to a computer Movies and photos recorded on your camcorder can be imported to a computer. Turn on the computer beforehand.  Notes Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p.
  • Page 57: Saving Images On A Disc

    Saving images on a disc You can select movies that have been imported to a computer and save them on a disc. Turn on your computer, and place an unused disc on the DVD drive. See page 53 for the type of discs you can ...
  • Page 58 Creating a Blu-ray disc You can create a Blu-ray disc with a high definition image quality (HD) movie previously imported to a computer (p. 56). To create a Blu-ray disc, the BD Add-on Software for “PMB” must be installed. Click [BD Add-on Software] on the installation screen of “PMB, ”...
  • Page 59: Saving Images With An External Device

    Saving images with an external device Selecting a method for saving images with an external device You can save high definition image quality (HD) movies using an external device. Select the method to be used according to the device. External devices External media device Saving images on an external media device with high...
  • Page 60: The Devices On Which The Created Disc Can Be Played Back

    The devices on which the created disc can be played back DVD disc with high definition image quality (HD) AVCHD format playback devices, such as a Sony Blu-ray disc player or a PlayStation DVD disc with standard definition image quality (STD) Ordinary DVD playback devices, such as a DVD player.
  • Page 61: Saving Images On An External Media Device

     satisfying requirements for operating. For details on available external media devices,  go to the Sony support website in your country/region. Connect the AC Adaptor and the power cord (mains lead) to the DC IN jack of your camcorder and the wall outlet (wall socket).
  • Page 62: Saving Desired Movies And Photos

    Connect the external media device to the camcorder and touch [Copy.] on the camcorder screen. Movies and photos that are stored in the memory card and that have not yet been saved on external media device can be saved on the connected media device at this time.
  • Page 63: Playing Back Images In The External Media Device On The Camcorder

     When you selected [Multiple Images], touch the image to be saved. appears. Press and hold the image down on the  LCD screen to confirm the image. Touch to return to the previous screen. If you select [All In Event], select the event ...
  • Page 64: Etc

    Notes Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 16). Sony DVD writer may not be available in some  countries/regions. Your camcorder is not compatible with  DVDirect Express.
  • Page 65: Creating A Standard Definition Image Quality (Std) Disc With A Recorder, Etc

    Notes Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall  socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 16). Sony DVD writer may not be available in some  countries/regions. High definition image quality (HD) movies  will be copied with standard definition image quality (STD).
  • Page 66: Your Camcorder

    Connect your camcorder to the recording device (a disc recorder, etc.) with the A/V connecting cable  (supplied) or an A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO  (sold separately). Connect your camcorder to the input jacks  of the recording device. Start playback on your camcorder, and record it on the recording device.
  • Page 67: Customizing Your Camcorder

    Customizing your camcorder Using menus You can enjoy using your camcorder more by making good use of menu operations. The camcorder has various menu items under each of 6 menu categories. Shooting Mode (Items for selecting a shooting mode)  p. 72 Camera/Mic (Items for customized shooting) ...
  • Page 68: Menu Lists

    Menu lists Shooting Mode Movie Photo Camera/Mic Manual Settings) White Balance Spot Meter/Fcs Spot Meter Spot Focus Exposure Gain AE Shift White Balance Shift Camera Settings) Cinematone Self-Timer Drive Mode AF Mode SteadyShot SteadyShot Auto Back Light MANUAL Button Face) Face Detection Records movies.
  • Page 69 Flash) Flash Flash Level Red Eye Reduction Microphone) Wind Noise Reduct. Audio Mode Audio Rec Level Shooting Assist) Guide Frame Zebra Peaking Histogram Camera Data Display Audio Level Display AF Micro Adjustment Image Quality/Size REC Mode Frame Rate Setting Wide Mode Image Size RAW/JPEG Playback Function...
  • Page 70 Setup Media Settings) Media Info Format Repair Img. DB F. File Number Playback Settings) Data Code Volume Connection) TV Type Component Output HDMI Resolution CTRL FOR HDMI USB Connect USB Connect Setting Disc Burn General Settings) Beep LCD Brightness VF Brightness Display Setting REC Lamp Shooting w/o Lens...
  • Page 71 Calibration Battery Info Version Clock Settings) Date & Time Setting Date & Time Format Summer Time Date & Time Area Setting Adjusts the touch panel. Displays the battery information. Displays the version of your camcorder and lens. Sets the [Date & Time], [Summer Time], or [Date &...
  • Page 72: Shooting Mode (Items For Selecting A Shooting Mode)

    Shooting Mode (Items for selecting a shooting mode) See “Using menus” (p. 67) on the operation. The default settings are marked with . Movie You can record movies. Photo You can shoot photos. Camera/Mic (Items for customized shooting) See “Using menus” (p. 67) on the operation. The default settings are marked with .
  • Page 73  Notes Set [White Balance] to [Auto] or adjust the  color in [One Push] under white or cool white fluorescent lamps. When you select [One Push], keep framing  white objects. While the camcorder is recording a movie,  is grayed out and [One Push] cannot be set.
  • Page 74  Auto Adjusts automatically depending on the image being recorded. Manual Adjusts manually. Touch to adjust the brightness. To adjust the exposure automatically, touch [Auto]. Tips  You can also adjust manually by using the  MANUAL dial (p. 46). Gain You can adjust the gain manually when you do not want to use the AGC (automatic...
  • Page 75 Tips  You can adjust the automatic exposure level to  brighter or darker when [Exposure] is set to [Auto]. Touch if the subject is white or the  backlight is bright, or touch is black or the light is dim. You can also adjust manually by using the ...
  • Page 76 This item is available in still image recording mode only.  Single-shot ( The camcorder focuses and the focus is locked when you press PHOTO halfway down. Use this when the subject is motionless. Continuous ( The camcorder continues to focus while PHOTO is pressed and held halfway down.
  • Page 77 There are certain flash units that you cannot use  with Red Eye Reduction. For the compatibility of a particular flash unit, consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. Tips ...
  • Page 78  Off Disables wind noise reduction. On ( Enables wind noise reduction. Audio Mode You can change the recording sound format. 5.1ch Surround ( Records sound in 5.1ch surround.  2ch Stereo ( Records sound in 2ch stereo. Audio Rec Level You can adjust the volume when recording.
  • Page 79 Level You can select a peaking sensitivity from [High], [Middle] and [Low]. The default setting is [Middle].  Notes The outlines of the recorded images to the  media are not enhanced. Tips  You can focus more easily using this function in ...
  • Page 80: Image Quality/Size (Items For Setting Up Image Quality Or Size)

    If you perform AF fine adjustment with a lens  of other manufacturers, the adjustment values of Sony, Minolta, and Konica Minolta lenses may be affected. Do not use this function with any lens of other manufacturers. You cannot individually perform AF fine ...
  • Page 81 Setting See page 42. Wide Mode When recording standard definition image quality (STD) movies, you can select the horizontal to vertical ratio according to the TV connected. Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with your TV.  16:9 WIDE Records movies to the full screen on a 16:9 (wide) TV screen.
  • Page 82: Edit/Copy (Items For Editing)

    Edit/Copy (Items for editing) See “Using menus” (p. 67) on the operation. Delete See page 50. Protect See page 51. Copy See page 62. Direct Copy See page 63. Setup (Other setup items) See “Using menus” (p. 67) on the operation. The default settings are marked with .
  • Page 83 Repair Img. DB F. See page 92, 95. File Number You can select the way to assign file number of photos.  Series Assigns file numbers of photos in sequence. The file number becomes larger each time you record a photo. Even if the memory card is replaced with another one, the file number is assigned in sequence.
  • Page 84 and photos are played back as following illustrations.  16:9 Select this to view your movies on a 16:9 (wide) TV. The recorded movies and photos are played back as shown below. Movies and photos Movies and photos recorded in 16:9 recorded in 4:3 mode (wide) mode Select this to view your movies and photos on...
  • Page 85 the TV’s Remote Commander at the TV (p. 40).  On Operates your camcorder using the TV’s Remote Commander. Does not operate your camcorder using the TV’s Remote Commander. USB Connect Select this item when [USB Select] does not appear on the LCD screen by connecting the camcorder to a computer with the USB cable.
  • Page 86  Disable Recording starts only when a lens is attached. Enable Allows you to use non-Sony E-mount lenses and mount adaptors. Remote Ctrl (Remote control)  On Select this when you use the supplied Wireless Remote Commander (p.
  • Page 87 Battery Info You can check the estimated remaining capacity of the battery. Touch in upper left on the screen. Version You can see the version of the lens and your camcorder. You can use this function when the firmware update of your camcorder was released.
  • Page 88: Additional Information

     Press RESET (p. 111) using a pointed object, and turn the camcorder on. If you press RESET, all settings, including the clock setting, are reset.  Contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. Overall operations/Wireless Remote ...
  • Page 89: Batteries/Power Sources

     correctly (p. 15). If the problem persists, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall outlet (wall socket) and contact your Sony dealer. The battery pack may be damaged. The remaining battery time indicator does not indicate the correct time.
  • Page 90: Memory Card

    The image in the viewfinder is not clear. Move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever  until the image appears clearly (p. 26). Red, blue or green flickering in the viewfinder. You may see colors (red, blue, green)  shimmering in the viewfinder when you move your line of sight.
  • Page 91 press START/STOP and the actual point that recording movie starts/stops. This is not a malfunction. Photo shooting is slow. The noise reduction function is working. This  is not a malfunction. The horizontal to vertical ratio of the movie (16:9 (wide)/4:3) cannot be changed.
  • Page 92: Playback

    Sound is not recorded correctly. If you disconnect an external microphone, etc.  during recording movies, sound may not be recorded correctly. Connect the microphone again in the same  way as when you start recording movies. No sound will be recorded if Audio Rec Level ...
  • Page 93: Playback On The Tv

    Playback on the TV Neither image nor sound is played on the connected TV. When you are using the component A/V  cable, set [Component] according to the requirements of the connected device (p. 84). When you are using the component video ...
  • Page 94: Self-Diagnosis Display/Warning Indicators

    If the problem persists even after you have tried to fix a couple of times, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. In this case, when you contact them, give them all the numbers of the error code beginning with C or E.
  • Page 95: Recording Media

    (Warning indicator pertaining to camera-shake warning) The camcorder is unsteady, so camera-shake  easily occurs. Hold the camcorder steady with both hands and record the image. However, note that the camera-shake warning indicator does not disappear. (Warning indicator pertaining to photo recording) The memory card is full.
  • Page 96 If the message appears frequently, check whether the contacts of the lens and camcorder are clean or not. When attaching a non-Sony E-mount lens or  mount adaptor, set [Shooting w/o Lens] to [Enable].
  • Page 97: Recording Time Of Movies/Number Of Recordable Photos

    2 GB (25) When [Audio Mode] is set to 2ch (p. 78).   Notes When using Sony memory card.  The recordable time may vary depending on the  recording and subject conditions and [ Mode] and [ The number in ( ) is the minimum recordable ...
  • Page 98: Expected Number Of Recordable Photos

    32 GB 4800 1750 When [ Image Size] is set to [  When using Sony memory card.  The selected image size is effective when the  (Photo) lamp is lit. The number of recordable photos of memory ...
  • Page 99: 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 Hz/60 Hz range. Viewing high definition image quality (HD) movies In countries/regions where 1080/50i is supported, you can view the movies with the same high definition image quality...
  • Page 100 Setting to the local time You can easily set the clock to the local time by setting a time difference when using your camcorder abroad. Touch Time Setting]  [Summer Time] and  [Area Setting] (p. 87). World time difference Time-zone Area setting differences...
  • Page 101: Maintenance And Precautions

    Maintenance and precautions About the AVCHD format What is the AVCHD format? The AVCHD format is a high definition digital video camera format used to record a high definition (HD) signal using efficient data compression coding technology. The MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 format is adopted to compress video data, and the Dolby Digital or Linear PCM system is used to compress audio data.
  • Page 102: About The "Infolithium" Battery Pack

    On image data compatibility Image data files recorded on memory card by  your camcorder conform to the “Design rule for Camera File system” universal standard established by the JEITA (Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association). On your camcorder, you cannot play back ...
  • Page 103: About Handling Of Your Camcorder

    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. (MENU) Avoid rough handling, disassembling, ...
  • Page 104: Moisture Condensation

     pack. Keep metal contacts clean.  If the battery electrolytic liquid has leaked:  Consult your local authorized Sony service  facility. Wash off any liquid that may have contacted  your skin. If any liquid gets in your eyes, wash with ...
  • Page 105 On handling the casing If the casing is soiled, clean the camcorder body  with a soft cloth lightly moistened with water, and then wipe the casing with a dry soft cloth. Avoid the following to avoid damage to the ...
  • Page 106 Memory Stick” and “MagicGate Memory Stick Duo” are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sony Corporation. “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony  Corporation. “BRAVIA” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.  “DVDirect” is a trademark of Sony  Corporation. Blu-ray Disc...
  • Page 107 URL to download it. When downloading the source code, select NEX-VG20 as the model for your camcorder. http://www.sony.net/Products/Linux/ We would prefer you do not contact us about the contents of source code. Read “license2.pdf ” in the “License” folder on the CD-ROM.
  • Page 108: Quick Reference

    Quick reference Screen indicators Center Left Right Bottom Left Indicator Meaning MENU button (67) Self-timer recording (75) Wide Mode (81) [Face Detection] set to [Off] (76) Manual focus (41)  Focus Mode (75) White Balance (72)  SteadyShot off (76) White Balance Shift (75) Zebra (78) / Peaking (78)
  • Page 109 Indicator Meaning IRIS (46) 12 dB Gain (74) ISO 200 ISO (74) 4000 Shutter Speed (47) Slide show button Data file name (37) 101-0005 Protected image (51)  Flash (77) Flash Level (77) Red Eye Reduction (77) Indicators and their positions are approximate ...
  • Page 110: Parts And Controls

    0.7 EV]. There are certain Sony flashes or functions that cannot be used with your camcorder. For the compatibility of a particular flash unit, visit the Sony web site in your area, or consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.
  • Page 111  Microphone (44)  Hook for shoulder strap  MANUAL button (46)  MANUAL dial (46)  LCD screen/Touch panel (23, 45) If you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees, you can close the LCD panel with the LCD screen facing out.
  • Page 112  DC IN jack (15)   (headphones) jack Use stereo minijack headphones.  A/V Remote Connector (38) This terminal is to interface your camcorder to another device. You can output still images, movies and sound to a connected TV, or control your camcorder when it is mounted on a remote control video tripod.
  • Page 113: Wireless Remote Commander

    Wireless Remote Commander  DATA CODE button (83) Displays the date and time or camera setting data of the recorded images when you press this button during playback.  PHOTO button (32) The on-screen image when you press this button will be recorded as a still image. ...
  • Page 114: Remote Commander

    Wireless Remote Commander may shorten, or the Wireless 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 115: Index

    Index Symbols 1080i/576i ...84 1080p/576p ...84 5.1ch surround recording ...44 576i ...84 A. Shut Off ...86 A/V connecting cable...39, 65 Abroad ...99 AE Shift ...74 AF Micro Adjustment ...80 AF Mode ...75 Area Setting ...87 Audio Level Display ...79 Audio Mode ...78 Audio Rec Level ...78 Auto Back Light ...76 AVCHD...53...
  • Page 116 Precautions ...101 PROGRAM AE ...46 Protect ...51 PS ...43 RAW/JPEG ...81 REC Lamp ...86 Rec Mode ...43 Recording ...30 Recording and playback time ...97 Recording media...28 Recording time of movies/ number of recordable photos ...97 Red Eye Reduction ...77 Remote Ctrl ... 86, 113 Repair Img.DB F.
  • Page 117 Additional information on this product and answers to frequently asked questions can be found at our Customer Support Website. http://www.sony.net/...

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