Sony HVR-A1E Operating Manual
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Sony HVR-A1E Operating Manual

Digital hd video camera recorder
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See also: Service Manual
2-639-668-11 (1)
Digital HD Video
Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly,
and retain it for future reference.
HVR-A1E/A1P
© 2005 Sony Corporation

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Summary of Contents for Sony HVR-A1E

  • Page 1 2-639-668-11 (1) Digital HD Video Camera Recorder Operating Guide Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly, and retain it for future reference. HVR-A1E/A1P © 2005 Sony Corporation...

  • Page 2: Read This First

    For more detailed information HVR-A1E only about recycling of this product, please contact your local Sony office or visit Sony Europe’s web This product with the CE marking complies with site for business customers: both the EMC Directive (89/336/EEC) and Low http://www.sonybiz.net/environment...

  • Page 3: Notes On Use

    De batterij mag alleen vervangen worden “Memory Stick Duo” (Size used with this unit) door vakbekwaam servicepersoneel. Gooi de batterij niet weg maar lever deze in als klein chemisch afval (KCA). Lever het apparaat aan het einde van de “Memory Stick” (You cannot use it in your camcorder.) levensduur in voor recycling, de batterij zal dan op correcte wijze verwerkt worden.
  • Page 4 Read this first (Continued) On using the camcorder On the menu items, LCD panel, viewfinder, and lens • Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts. • A menu item that is grayed out is not available under the current recording or playback conditions.
  • Page 5 About the Carl Zeiss lens Your camcorder is equipped with a Carl Zeiss lens, which was developed jointly by Carl Zeiss, in Germany, and Sony Corporation, and produces superior images. It adopts the MTF measurement system for video cameras and offers a quality typical of a Carl Zeiss lens.

  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Note on the icons used in this manual : Features available for the HDV format only. : Features available for the DVCAM format only. Features available for the DV SP format only. Read this first ....................2 Getting Started Step 1: Checking supplied items ...............9 Step 2: Charging the battery pack ............10 Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly ...13...
  • Page 7 To initialize the settings Other part names and functions Indicators displayed during recording/playback........28 Searching for the starting point ...............31 Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording (END SEARCH) ......................31 Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review)......31 Remote Commander ................32 Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) ......32 Connecting to a TV for viewing..............33...
  • Page 8 Jacks to connect external devices............76 Using a computer Connecting to a computer ...............77 Copying still images to a computer ............77 Copying movies on a tape to the computer ..........80 Troubleshooting Troubleshooting ..................82 Warning indicators and messages ............97 Additional Information Using your camcorder abroad ...............101 HDV format and recording/playback............102 Compatibility of the DVCAM/DV formats ..........104 About the “Memory Stick”..............106...

  • Page 9: Step 1: Checking Supplied Items

    Step 1: Checking supplied items Make sure that you have following items A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 33, 68) supplied with your camcorder. The number in the parentheses indicates the number of that item supplied. “Memory Stick Duo” 16MB (1) (p. 17, 106) Component video cable (1) (p.

  • Page 10: Step 2: Charging The Battery Pack

    Step 2: Charging the battery pack You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (M series) (p. 108) after Slide the POWER switch up to attaching it to your camcorder. OFF (CHG) . (The default setting.) POWER switch DC IN jack DC plug CHG (charge) lamp To the wall socket...
  • Page 11 Charging time Connect the mains lead to the AC Approximate time (min.) required when Adaptor and the wall socket. you fully charge a fully discharged battery pack. The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and charging starts. Battery pack Charging time NP-FM50 (supplied) NP-QM71D The CHG (charge) lamp turns off...

  • Page 12: Playing Time

    AC Adaptor is connected to the DC IN jack of your camcorder, even when the mains lead is disconnected from the wall socket. • Use the supplied or optional Sony “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (M series). You cannot use the battery pack NP-FM30 with your camcorder.

  • Page 13: Step 3: Turning The Power On And Holding Your Camcorder Firmly

    Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly To record or play back, slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the respective Hold the camcorder correctly. lamp. When using it for the first time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 16). POWER switch Ensure a good grip, then fasten...

  • Page 14: Step 4: Adjusting The Lcd Panel And Viewfinder

    Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder To turn off the LCD backlight to make The LCD panel the battery last longer Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the Press and hold DISPLAY/BATT INFO for camcorder (), then rotate it to the best a few seconds until appears.

  • Page 15: Step 5: Using The Touch Panel

    Step 5: Using the touch panel You can play back recorded pictures (p. Simple display 23), or change the settings (p. 38) using the touch panel. Place your hand on the rear side of the LCD panel to support it. Then, touch the buttons displayed on the screen.

  • Page 16: Step 6: Setting The Date And Time

    Step 6: Setting the date and time Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not Select [CLOCK SET] with set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET] then touch screen appears every time you turn on your camcorder or change the POWER switch CLOCK SET position.

  • Page 17: Step 7: Inserting A Tape Or A "Memory Stick Duo

    Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” Cassette tape Close the lid. See 102 for details of usable cassettes and prevention of accidental erasure. To eject the cassette • The recordable time varies depending on REC MODE] (p. 57). Open the lid following the same procedure as described in step and remove the...
  • Page 18 Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” (Continued) To eject a “Memory Stick Duo” Lightly push the “Memory Stick Duo” in once. • When the access lamp is lit or flashing, your camcorder is reading/writing data. Do not shake or knock your camcorder, turn the power off, eject the “Memory Stick Duo,”...

  • Page 19: Step 8: Installing The Supplied Microphone And Hood With Lens Cover

    Step 8: Installing the supplied microphone and hood with lens cover Installing the supplied Attach the XLR adaptor  to the microphone accessory shoe on the camcorder and tighten the screw of the XLR Install the supplied XLR adaptor and microphone.
  • Page 20 Step 8: Installing the supplied microphone and hood with lens cover (Continued) When detaching the XLR adaptor Select the channel with the REC Unplug the connector plug of the XLR CH SELECT switch. adaptor from the Active Interface Shoe beforehand. Detach the XLR adaptor after Used channels according to the position having loosened the screw of the XLR of the REC CH SELECT switch are as...
  • Page 21 To open and close the lens cover Move the lens cover lever up and down to open or close the lens cover. Move the lens cover lever to OPEN to open the lens cover, and move the lever to CLOSE to close the lens cover.

  • Page 22: Recording

    Recording PHOTO Open the lens cover. POWER switch REC START/  REC START/STOP  STOP Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the respective lamp to select a recording medium. Movies on tape: The CAMERA-TAPE If the POWER lamp lights up.

  • Page 23: Playback

    Playback Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Start playing back. Movies Still images Touch , then touch Touch The most recently recorded image is start playback. displayed. P-MENU  Stop ...

  • Page 24: Functions Used For Recording/Playback, Etc

    Functions used for recording/playback, etc. • You cannot change the zoom speed with the  zoom buttons on the LCD frame. • The minimum distance required between your camcorder and the subject to get a sharp focus is about 1 cm (about 1/2 in.) for wide angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 ft.) for telephoto.
  • Page 25 To adjust the focus manually.. • The NightShot and Super NightShot function use infrared light. Therefore, do not cover the Set the FOCUS/ZOOM switch  to   infrared port with your fingers or other objects and remove the supplied lens hood with ...

  • Page 26: To Use A Tripod

    Functions used for recording/playback, etc. (Continued) • A mirror-image of the subject appears on the LCD screen, but the picture will be normal when recorded. To use a tripod ...... Attach the tripod (optional: the length of the screw must be less than 5.5 mm (7/32 in.) to the tripod receptacle ...

  • Page 27: To Initialize The Settings

    To initialize the settings .....  To adjust the movie volume .. Move the EXPOSURE/VOL lever  up Press RESET  to initialize all the or down to adjust the volume. Move the settings, including the setting of the date lever up to increase the volume and move it and time.

  • Page 28: Indicators Displayed During Recording/Playback

    Indicators displayed during recording/playback Recording movies Recording still images In the CAMERA-TAPE mode 60min 60min FINE 1920  Recording folder (52)  Recording format ( ) (57)  Image size (50)  Remaining battery (approx.)  Quality ([FINE] or [STD]) (49) ...
  • Page 29 ( ) is a reference page. The indicators during recording will not be recorded. Viewing movies Viewing still images qg 9 qh qj MEMORY PLAY wd wf  Tape transport indicator  Data file name  Video operation buttons (23) ...
  • Page 30 Indicators displayed during recording/playback (Continued) Indicators when you made i.LINK connection (33, changes 70, 71) Slide show (52) You can check the [DISP GUIDE] (p. 62) LCD backlight off (14) to check the function of each indicator that appears on the LCD screen. Center Upper left Upper right...

  • Page 31: Searching For The Starting Point

    Searching for the starting point Make sure that the CAMERA-TAPE lamp Reviewing the most recently lights up (p. 22). recorded scenes (Rec review) Searching for the last scene of the You can view about 2 seconds of the scene most recent recording (END SEARCH) recorded just before you stopped the tape.

  • Page 32: Remote Commander

    Remote Commander Remove the insulation sheet before using • Aim the Remote Commander towards the remote sensor to operate your camcorder (p. the Remote Commander. 27). Insulation sheet • To change the battery, see page 113. Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) You can locate the point where the recording date changes.

  • Page 33: Connecting To A Tv For Viewing

    Connecting to a TV for viewing Connection methods and image quality will differ depending on what TV to be connected and connectors used. Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the power source (p. 10). See page 36 for “Notes on Connection” and refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected.
  • Page 34 Connecting to a TV for viewing (Continued) : Signal flow Camcorder Menu Setting Type Cable (STANDARD SET) i.LINK cable (optional) [VCR HDV/DV]  [AUTO] (p. 57) [i.LINK CONV]  [OFF] (p.61) Component video cable (supplied) (Green) Y (Blue) P (STANDARD SET) (Red) P [VCR HDV/DV] ...
  • Page 35 : Signal flow Camcorder Menu Setting Type Cable Component video cable (supplied) (Green) Y (Blue) P (STANDARD SET) (Red) P [VCR HDV/DV]  [AUTO] (p. 57) [COMPONENT]* A/V connecting cable (supplied) (p. 60) [DOWN CONVERT]* (Red) (p. 61) (White) (Yellow) Do not connect the S video plug and the video plug (yellow).
  • Page 36 Connecting to a TV for viewing (Continued) Notes on Connection Type Notes • Requires HDV1080i specification connectors. Consult your TV manufacturer for details. See page 103 for a list of supported devices. The TV needs to be set so that it recognizes that the camcorder is connected. Refer to the •...

  • Page 38: Using The Menu Items

    Using the menu items Follow the instructions below to use each of the menu items listed after this page. Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the respective lamp. CAMERA-TAPE lamp: settings on a tape CAMERA- MEMORY lamp: settings on a “Memory Stick Duo” PLAY/EDIT lamp: settings for viewing/editing Touch the LCD screen to select the menu item.
  • Page 39  Select the desired item. • You can also touch the item directly to select it.  Customize the item. After finishing the settings, touch (close) to hide the menu screen.  If you decide not to change the setting, touch to return to the previous screen.

  • Page 40: Menu Items

    Menu items • The menu items available for the operation () differ depending on where the lit lamp for the POWER switch is positioned. Position of lamp: TAPE MEMORY PLAY/EDIT CAMERA SET menu (p. 43) –   PROGRAM AE –...
  • Page 41 Position of lamp: TAPE MEMORY PLAY/EDIT PICT.APPLI. menu (p. 52) – –  FADER – –  SLIDE SHOW –   D. EFFECT –   PICT. EFFECT – –  INT.REC-STL – –  SHOT TRANS – – ...
  • Page 42 Menu items (Continued) Position of lamp: TAPE MEMORY PLAY/EDIT    BEEP    DISP OUTPUT    MENU ROTATE – –  CALIBRATION – –  DATE REC – –  QUICK REC    ASSIGN BTN TIME/LANGU.

  • Page 43: Camera Set Menu

    CAMERA SET menu Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (SPOT METER/WHITE SUNSET&MOON**( ) BAL./STEADYSHOT, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when Select to maintain the atmosphere of the items are selected. situations such as sunsets, general night See page 38 for details on selecting views or fireworks.
  • Page 44 CAMERA SET menu (Continued) – Indoors EXPOSURE – At party scenes or studios where the You can fix the brightness of a picture lighting conditions change quickly manually. When recording indoors on – Under the video lamps of those at a studio, a clear day, for instance, you can avoid or under sodium lamps or incandescent-like backlight shadows on people next to the...
  • Page 45 SHARPNESS AE SHIFT You can adjust the sharpness of the image When the [EXPOSURE] (p. 44) is set outline with appears when to [AUTO], you can adjust the exposure the sharpness is anything other than the using (dark)/ (bright). and the default setting.
  • Page 46 CAMERA SET menu (Continued) CINEFRAME25 SPOT FOCUS Pictures are recorded with a cinema-like You can select and adjust the focal point to atmosphere. This produces a smoother aim it at a subject not located in the center feeling. of the screen. •...
  • Page 47 [NS LIGHT], which emits infrared light (invisible), to [ON] (the default setting). Trigger the flash (optional) regardless of the brightness of the surroundings. The • Do not cover the infrared port with your fingers flash goes off prematurely to reduce the or other objects.
  • Page 48 CAMERA SET menu (Continued) • If [PEAKING] is set while [ZEBRA] is in use, DIGITAL ZOOM [ZEBRA] is canceled. You can select the maximum zoom level in case you want to zoom to a level greater HISTOGRAM than 10 × (the default setting) while When you set [HISTOGRAM] to [ON], recording on a tape.

  • Page 49: Memory Set Menu

    MEMORY SET menu Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo” (BURST/QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/ALL ERASE/  OFF NEW FOLDER, etc.) Select this when the conversion lens (optional) is not used. The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when WIDE CONV.( ) the items are selected.
  • Page 50 [FINE] is on top, and [STANDARD] is on the 1970 bottom. 256MB 1400 • When using the “Memory Stick Duo” made by 3550 Sony Corporation. The number of recordable pictures varies depending on the recording 512MB 2850 environment. 1000 1300...
  • Page 51 Approximate image size of a picture FORMAT (kB) “Memory Stick Duo” has been formatted at the factory, and does not require 4:3 picture formatting. 1920 × 1440 × 1080 × 640 × 1440 1080 To execute formatting, touch [YES] twice 1380 ...

  • Page 52: Pict.appli. Menu

    PICT.APPLI. menu MEMORY SET menu (Continued) Special effects on pictures or additional functions on recording/playback (SLIDE REC FOLDER (Recording folder) SHOW/PICT. EFFECT, etc.) Select the folder to be used for recording The default settings are marked with  . with , then touch The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected.
  • Page 53  Touch [PB FOLDER].   Touch  Select [ALL FILES ( )] or [CURRNT appears. FOLDER ( )], then touch If you select [CURRNT FOLDER ( To cancel [D. EFFECT], touch [OFF] in all the images in the current playback step ...
  • Page 54 PICT.APPLI. menu (Continued) SEPIA INT.REC-STL Pictures appear in sepia. (Interval photo recording) B&W You can record still images on the Pictures appear in black and white. “Memory Stick Duo” at a selected interval. This function is useful to observe the SOLARIZE movement of clouds or the changes in daylight, etc.
  • Page 55  START TIMER EXEC Set the timer to start the shot transition. Touch [NEXT] [EXEC-A] or [EXEC-  B] and the recording setting changes to  OFF the registered one. Touch [BACK] to The timer is not used. register again or touch [END] to finish the operation.

  • Page 56: Edit/Play Menu

    EDIT/PLAY menu Settings for editing or playing back in various modes (VAR.SPD PB/END • Pictures in the HDV format may appear SEARCH, etc.) distorted during: – Picture search The default settings are marked with  . – Reverse playback The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected.

  • Page 57: Standard Set Menu

    STANDARD SET menu Settings while recording on a tape or other basic settings (REC MODE/MULTI-SOUND/ • When [AUTO] is selected and the signal LCD/VF SET/DISP OUTPUT, etc.) switches between HDV and DVCAM (DV) formats, the picture and sound disappear The default settings are marked with  . temporarily.
  • Page 58 STANDARD SET menu (Continued) playback picture may be distorted or the time • does not appear when the DVCAM standard code may not be continued properly between is met (p. 104). the scenes.  AUDIO MIX  WIDE SELECT You can monitor the sound recorded on You can select the picture size for the TV to the tape using another device with audio be connected.
  • Page 59 XLR SET Deactivate this function. You can select this setting when using an extension microphone. MIC LEVEL  AU.CH1 LEVEL You can adjust the recording sound level manually.  AUTO Adjust the recording CH1 level  AUTO automatically. Adjust the recording sound level automatically.
  • Page 60 STANDARD SET menu (Continued)  VF POWER LCD/VF SET  AUTO The recorded picture will not be affected by this operation. The picture is not displayed in viewfinder when the LCD panel is open.  LCD BRIGHT You can adjust the brightness of the LCD The picture is displayed in viewfinder screen.
  • Page 61 On a 4:3 TV • Video signals cannot be output via the HDV/DV Interface (i.LINK) jack when compatible with [i.LINK CONV] is set to [ON (HDVDV)] 16:9 wide mode On a 16:9 wide TV and [576p/576i] is selected during component video output.
  • Page 62 STANDARD SET menu (Continued) 10-hour increments. DISP GUIDE THREADING You can easily check the meaning of each Displays the total number of tape indicator that appears on the LCD screen. unthreading operations in 10-operation increments. TC/UB SET Select area for guide. The time code of this camcorder can be DISP GUIDE preset.
  • Page 63 written on this camera, however, they are not connection, the user-bits are copied, however, displayed during dubbing. they are not regenerated.  TC RUN MARKER SET You can set how the time code advances mode. You can select the type of marker to be displayed on the screen.
  • Page 64 STANDARD SET menu (Continued) • Screen indicators are not output from the analog 60min 00:00:00:00 jacks when a marker is displayed. • You can display all markers together by selecting [ON]. AUTO F1. 8 COLOR BAR You can display the color bar or record it ...
  • Page 65 • Even though the date/time indication on the REC LAMP screen is affected by the signal of zebra or The camera recording lamp will not light peaking, it is recorded without influenced by zebra or peaking. up during recording when you set this to [OFF].

  • Page 66: Time/Langu. Menu

     LANGUAGE You can select the language to be used on If the desired menu item is not the LCD screen. displayed, touch For HVR-A1E: 60min 00:00:00:00 You can select from German, Greek, STBY Select the category. English, Simplified English, Spanish,...
  • Page 67 Deleting a menu item Arranging the order of menu items displayed on Personal Menu Touch [P-MENU SET UP]  Touch [P-MENU SET UP]  [DELETE].  [SORT].  If the desired menu item is not If the desired menu item is not displayed, touch displayed, touch 60min...

  • Page 68: Dubbing To Another Device Such As A Vcr, Dvd Recorder, Etc

    Dubbing to another device such as a VCR, DVD recorder, etc. Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the power source (p. 10). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. Connecting to external devices The connection method and the image quality will differ depending on the video equipment and the connectors used.
  • Page 69 When [VCR HDV/DV] is set to [AUTO] and the signal switches between HDV and DVCAM (DV), the • picture and sound disappear temporarily. When the recorder is an HVR-A1E/A1P, set [VCR HDV/DV] also on the recording device to [AUTO] (p. • 57).

  • Page 70: Dubbing To Another Device

    Dubbing to another device such as a VCR, DVD recorder, etc. (Continued) • The following cannot be output via the Dubbing to another device HDV/DV interface (i.LINK) jack: – Indicators – Pictures edited with [PICT. EFFECT] (p. 53) Prepare your camcorder for or [D.

  • Page 71: Recording Pictures From A Vcr

    Recording pictures from a You can record pictures from a VCR on Recording movies a tape. You can record a scene as a still image on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Be sure to insert a cassette or a “Memory Slide the POWER switch down to Stick Duo”...

  • Page 72: Dubbing Pictures From A Tape To A "Memory Stick Duo

    Dubbing pictures from a Recording pictures from a VCR (Continued) tape to a “Memory Stick Duo” Touch [REC START] at the point you want to start recording. You can record still images on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Make sure you have a recorded tape and a “Memory Stick Duo”...

  • Page 73: Deleting Recorded Pictures From The "Memory Stick Duo

    Deleting recorded pictures Marking images on the from the “Memory Stick “Memory Stick Duo” with Duo” specific information (Image protection/Print mark) When you are using a “Memory Stick Slide the POWER switch down to Duo” with the write-protect tab, make sure turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.

  • Page 74: Printing Recorded Images (Pictbridge Compliant Printer)

    Printing recorded images Marking images on the “Memory Stick Duo” with specific information (Image (PictBridge compliant printer) protection/Print mark) (Continued) You can print out pictures using a Selecting still images for PictBridge compliant printer without printing (Print mark) connecting the camcorder to a computer. The DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) standard is used to select images for Connect your camcorder to the AC Adaptor...
  • Page 75 • We cannot guarantee the operation of models • If you print a still image recorded with a 16:9 that are not PictBridge compatible. ratio, left and right ends of the image may be cut off. • Some printer models may not support the Printing date printing function.

  • Page 76: Jacks To Connect External Devices

    Jacks to connect external devices • The Active Interface Shoe has a safety device for fixing the installed accessory securely. To connect an accessory, press down and push it to the end, and then tighten the screw. To remove an accessory, loosen the screw, and then press down and pull out the accessory.

  • Page 77: Connecting To A Computer

    Connecting to a Copying still images computer to a computer System requirements When connecting your camcorder to the computer, you can operate the followings: For Windows users • OS: Windows 2000 Professional/Windows Copy the still images on a “Memory Millennium Edition/Windows XP Home Stick Duo”...
  • Page 78 Copying still images to a computer (Continued) Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. to USB jack  [MENU]  Touch (STANDARD SET)  [USB SELECT]  [MEMORY STICK]  USB cable (supplied) Connect the USB cable (supplied) to the USB jack on your camcorder.

  • Page 79: Disconnecting The Usb Cable

    Disconnecting the USB cable (supplied) For Windows users If [USB CONNECT] appears on the LCD screen, follow the procedure below to disconnect the USB cable.  Click the [Unplug or eject hardware] icon on the task tray.  Click this icon. ...

  • Page 80: Copying Movies On A Tape To The Computer

    Copying movies on a Copying still images to a computer (Continued) tape to the computer For Macintosh users Connect your camcorder to the computer with an i.LINK cable (optional).  Close down all applications running on the The computer needs to be provided with computer.
  • Page 81 Notes on connecting to the computer Copied format Recorded • Connect the i.LINK cable (optional) to the Menu setting* to the format computer first, then to your camcorder. computer Connecting in the opposite order may cause static electricity to build up, resulting in a [VCR HDV/DV] malfunction of your camcorder.

  • Page 82: Troubleshooting

    The CHG (charge) lamp flashes while the battery pack is being charged. • Attach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly (p. 10). If the problem persists, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall socket and contact your Sony dealer. The battery pack may be damaged.
  • Page 83 The remaining battery time indicator does not indicate the correct time. • The temperature of the environment is too high or too low, or the battery pack has not been charged enough. This is not a malfunction. • Fully charge the battery again. If the problem persists, replace the battery pack with a new one.

  • Page 84: Cassette Tapes

    Troubleshooting (Continued) • Set [VF POWER] of [LCD/VF SET] to [ON] to display the picture in the viewfinder regardless of whether the LCD panel is open or closed (p. 60). Cassette tapes The cassette cannot be ejected from the compartment. •...
  • Page 85 You cannot format the “Memory Stick Duo.” • Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo.” (p. 106) Image protection cannot be applied. • Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo.” (p. 106) •...
  • Page 86 Troubleshooting (Continued) • Format the “Memory Stick Duo” on your camcorder or insert another “Memory Stick Duo.” (p. 51) • You cannot record movies with this unit on the “Memory Stick Duo.” • When the POWER switch is set to CAMERA-TAPE, you cannot record still images on the “Memory Stick Duo”...

  • Page 87: Adjusting The Image During Recording

    END SEARCH does not work correctly. • There is a blank section in the beginning or middle of the tape. This is not a malfunction. Adjusting the image during recording Refer also to “Menu” (p. 91). The TELE MACRO button does not function. •...
  • Page 88 Troubleshooting (Continued) rapidly might crooked depending on the recording conditions. The color of the picture is not correctly displayed. • Deactivate the NightShot function (p. 24). The picture appears too dark on the screen, and the subject does not appear on the screen.
  • Page 89 Image data stored on a “Memory Stick Duo” cannot be played back. • You cannot see movies recorded with other camcorder on the “Memory Stick Duo.” • Image data cannot be played back if you have modified files or folders, or have edited the data on a computer.
  • Page 90 Troubleshooting (Continued) “---” is displayed on the screen. • The tape you are playing was recorded without setting the date and time. • A blank section on the tape is being played. • The data code on a tape with a scratch or noise cannot be read. Noises appear and is displayed on the screen.

  • Page 91: Menu Items Are Grayed Out

    Remote Commander The supplied Remote Commander does not function. • Set [REMOTE CTRL] to [ON] (p. 64). • Remove any obstructions between the Remote Commander and the remote sensor. • Point the remote sensor away from strong light sources such as direct sunlight or overhead lighting.
  • Page 92 Troubleshooting (Continued) [WHITE BAL.] does not function. • You cannot use [WHITE BAL.] together with: – NightShot – [COLOR BAR] – When the AUTO LOCK switch is set to ON (p. 25) You cannot adjust [SHARPNESS]. • You cannot adjust [SHARPNESS] with [COLOR BAR]. [SHUTTR SPEED] cannot be adjusted manually.
  • Page 93 [HISTOGRAM] is not displayed. • [HISTOGRAM] is not displayed in the following. – While using expanded focus – While using [DATE REC] • indicator appears and [HISTOGRAM] is not displayed in the following. – While using [DIGITAL ZOOM] – While using [D.EFFECT] –...
  • Page 94 Troubleshooting (Continued) You cannot use [SHOT TRANS]. • You cannot use [SHOT TRANS] together with: – NightShot – [COLOR BAR] Dubbing/Editing/Connecting to other devices Pictures from connected devices are not displayed on the LCD screen or the viewfinder. • Set [DISP OUTPUT] to [LCD PANEL] (p. 65). •...

  • Page 95: Connecting To A Computer

    Still pictures cannot be dubbed from a tape to a “Memory Stick Duo.” • You cannot record or a distorted picture may be recorded if the tape has been used repeatedly for recording. You cannot input pictures. • You cannot input pictures while [DISP OUTPUT] is set to [V-OUT/PANEL] (p. 65). •...
  • Page 96 Troubleshooting (Continued) • The computer does not recognize the “Memory Stick Duo” during camcorder operations such as tape playback or editing. Finish camcorder operations before connecting the camcorder to the computer. You cannot copy video and still images to the computer. •...

  • Page 97: Warning Indicators And Messages

    Some symptoms you can fix by yourself.  (Battery level warning) If the problem persists even after you have tried a couple of times, contact your Sony • The battery pack is nearly used up. dealer or local authorized Sony service •...
  • Page 98 Warning indicators and messages (Continued) Fast flashing: Description of warning • The tape has run out.* messages  (Eject cassette warning)* If messages appear on the screen, follow the instructions. Slow flashing:  Battery • The write-protect tab on the cassette is set to lock (p.
  • Page 99  “Memory Stick Duo” No file. • No file is recorded or there is no readable file on the “Memory Stick Insert a Memory Stick (p. 17). Duo.” Reinsert the Memory Stick. Memory Stick folders are full. • Reinsert the “Memory Stick Duo” a •...
  • Page 100 Warning indicators and messages (Continued)  Flash Charging… Cannot record still images. • You are trying to record a still image while charging the flash (optional)  Others Cannot record due to copyright protection (p. 102). Change to correct tape format. •...

  • Page 101: Using Your Camcorder Abroad

    Using your camcorder abroad Power supply Viewing DVCAM (DV) format pictures You can use your camcorder in any countries/regions using the AC Adaptor You need the TV with the AUDIO/VIDEO supplied with your camcorder within the input jack. AC 100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz range. Simple setting of the clock by time On TV color systems difference...

  • Page 102: Hdv Format And Recording/Playback

    HDV format and recording/playback Copyright signal Your camcorder is capable of recording in HDV/DVCAM/DV formats.  When you play back It is recommended to use a cassette with If the cassette you play back on your mark to record in the HDV/ camcorder contains copyright signals, you DVCAM/DV format.
  • Page 103 See the table below for the main To prevent accidental erasure 2004/05 models. Slide the write-protect tab on the cassette to set it to SAVE. Sony TV models KDL-L42MRX1, KLV-L42MRX1, KDL-L32MRX1, KLV-L32MRX1, KLV-L32M1, KLV-L32M1, KDE-P42MRX1, KE-P42MRX1, KDE-P42XS1, KE-P42XS1, KDE-P37XS1, KE-P37XS1, KE-P42M1,...

  • Page 104: Compatibility Of The Dvcam/Dv Formats

    Compatibility of the DVCAM/DV formats The DVCAM format was developed as a Mini DVCAM and mini DV cassettes more reliable and higher-end format than The recording format of the picture is the consumer DV format. Explained here defined according to the recorder’s format are the differences, compatibility, and as described below.
  • Page 105 Compatibility on editing using DV Limitations on editing jacks You may find the following limitations when editing a tape produced by dubbing When this camcorder is connected to other or editing using the HDV/DV Interface digital video equipment using an i.LINK (i.LINK) jack: cable, the recording format of edited tapes is defined according to the source tape and...

  • Page 106: About The "Memory Stick

    About the “Memory Stick” A “Memory Stick” is a compact, portable the combination of the “Memory Stick” and IC recording medium with a data capacity “Memory Stick” compliant product you use. that exceeds the capacity of a floppy disk. On a “Memory Stick Duo” with a You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo,”...
  • Page 107  conform to the universal standard. (These On a location for use models are not sold in some regions.) Do not use or keep the “Memory Stick • If you cannot use a “Memory Stick Duo” Duo” in the following locations. that has been used with another device, •...

  • Page 108: About The "Infolithium" Battery Pack

    About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack QM71D/QM91D (optional). • Frequent use of the LCD screen or a frequent playback, fast forward or rewind operation This unit is compatible with an wears out the battery pack faster. “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (M series). We recommend using a large capacity battery Your camcorder operates only with an pack: NP-QM71D/QM91D (optional).

  • Page 109: About I.link

    Interfaces, refer to the operating instructions of the device to be connected. • 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 110: Maintenance And Precautions

    Before casing, unplug your camcorder and have it connecting to other devices, be sure to checked by a Sony dealer before operating it confirm whether the device is compatible any further. with an HDV/DVCAM (DV) device or not.

  • Page 111: Moisture Condensation

    The indicator will not appear when • If the following problem occurs, clean the video the moisture condenses on the lens. heads for 10 seconds with the Sony DVM- 12CLD cleaning cassette (optional).  If moisture condensation has occurred –...

  • Page 112: Rechargeable Battery

    Maintenance and precautions (Continued) your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony Touch [CANCEL] to cancel. service facility to have the video head replaced. The position of the “×” changes. If you did LCD screen not press the right spot, start from step ...

  • Page 113: Specifications

    Remote Commander black and white) may shorten, or the Remote Commander may not function properly. In this case, replace the battery with a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion. Continued ...
  • Page 114 Specifications (Continued) Output connectors Image device 5.9 mm (1/3 type) CMOS sensor Audio/Video 10-pin connector Gross: Approx. 2 969 000 Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω output pixels (ohms), unbalanced Effective (movie, 4:3): Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 1 486 000 pixels 75 Ω...
  • Page 115 General Dimensions 56 × 31 × 100 mm (2 1/4 × (approx.) 1 1/4 × 4 in.) Peak inrush Hot switching inrush current, (w/h/d) excluding the current measured in accordance with projecting parts European standard EN55103- Mass (approx.) 190 g (6.7 oz) main unit only 1: 5 A (230 V) Power DC 7.2 V (battery pack)

  • Page 116: Identifying Parts And Controls

    Identifying parts and controls Power zoom lever (24)  PHOTO button (22)  CAMERA-TAPE, CAMERA-MEMORY,  PLAY/EDIT mode lamps (13) POWER switch (13)  “Memory Stick Duo” slot (17)  Access lamp (17, 106)  Active Interface Shoe (76)  Accessory shoe (19) ...
  • Page 117 Microphone (19)  AUTO LOCK switch (25)  XLR adaptor (19)  Battery pack (10)  Lens cover lever (20)  DC IN jack (76)  Lens hood with lens cover (9, 20)  Zoom buttons (24)  REC START/STOP button (22) ...
  • Page 118 Identifying parts and controls (Continued) REC CH INPUT INPUT +48V +48V SELECT LEVEL LEVEL CH1•CH2 LINE LINE INPUT1 INPUT2 Internal stereo microphone (27)  INPUT1 connector (19)  Zoom ring/focus ring (24, 25)  Grip belt (13)  Holes for the lens hood ...

  • Page 119: Index

    Index Numeric BLACK STRTCH ....46 DC plug........ 10 BURST......... 49 Delete pictures ..... 73 1080i/576i ......60 Button-type lithium battery DIGITAL ZOOM... 48, 87 12-bit ........102 ..........113 DISPLAY/BATT INFO button 16-bit ........102 B&W ........54 ..........15 21-pin adaptor ......
  • Page 120 Index (Continued) FLASH SET......46 Indicators......30 Focus ......25, 87 Indicators display ....28 Macintosh....77, 79, 80 FOCUS/ZOOM switch INDOOR ......44 Mains lead......10 ........24, 25 “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack Maintenance....... 110 Focus ring......25 ..........108 Manual focus......
  • Page 121 Playback....... 23 RESET button ...... 27 Frame ......56 Reversal Playback ....56 NEG.ART......53 Reverse ......56 Review button ...... 28 NEW FOLDER....51 Slow ......56 NightShot ......24 Playback frame by frame ..56 NORMAL ......49 Playing time ......
  • Page 122 Index (Continued) System requirements.... 77 Volume ......... 23 S VIDEO jack ....33, 68 V-OUT/PANEL....65 Tape...... See Cassette Warning indicators ....97 Tape counter......28 Warning messages....97 Tape playback select button WB SHIFT (White Balance ..........29 Shift) ........46 TC/UB SET......
  • Page 123 • Macintosh and Mac OS are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc in the U.S. and other countries. • HDV and the HDV logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation and Victor Company of Japan, Ltd. • Pentium is a trademark or registered trademark of Intel Corporation.
  • Page 124 Printed on 100% recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink. Printed in Japan...

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