2-584-905-11 (1) Digital Video Camera Recorder Operating Guide DCR-HC21 © 2005 Sony Corporation Getting Started 9 Recording/ 18 Playback Using the Menu 31 Dubbing/Editing 48 Using a Computer 53 Troubleshooting 63 Additional Information 77
Read this first Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly, and retain it for future reference. WARNING To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. Lithium-Ion batteries are recyclable. You can help preserve our environment by returning your used rechargeable batteries to the collection and recycling location nearest you. For more information regarding recycling of rechargeable batteries, call toll free 1-800-8228837, or visit http://www.rbrc.
CAUTION You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual could void your authority to operate this equipment. Note This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
On the menu items, the LCD panel, viewfinder, and lens • A menu item that is grayed out is not available under the current recording or playback conditions. • The LCD screen and the viewfinder are manufactured using extremely highprecision technology, so over 99.99% of the pixels are operational for effective use. However, there may be some tiny black points and/or bright points (white, red, blue, or green in color) that appear constantly on the LCD screen and the viewfinder.
Table of Contents 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 Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder .....................................14 Step 5: Using the touch panel .................................................................
Remote Commander ...............................................................................28 Searching quickly for a desired scene (Zero set memory) ............................28 Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) ...........................29 Searching for a still image (Photo search) .....................................................29 Playing back still images in sequence (Photo scan) .....................................29 Playing the picture on a TV ....................
Creating a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”) ...................................60 Troubleshooting Troubleshooting .......................................................................................63 Warning indicators and messages ..........................................................74 Additional Information Using your camcorder abroad .................................................................77 Usable cassette tapes ...................................................................
Step 1: Checking supplied items Make sure that you have following items supplied with your camcorder. The number in the parentheses indicates the number of that item supplied. Shoe cover (1) Attached to the camcorder. Operating Guide (This manual) (1) AC Adaptor (1) (p. 10) Getting Started Power cord (1) (p. 10) Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 28) A button-type lithium battery is already installed. A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 30, 48) USB cable (1) (p. 53) Shoulder Strap (1) (p.
Step 2: Charging the battery pack You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (P series) (p. 79) after attaching it to your camcorder. POWER switch DC IN jack With the mark facing down DC IN jack DC plug 4 Connect the power cord to the AC Adaptor and the wall outlet. CHG (charge) lamp To the wall outlet AC Adaptor 1 Attach the battery pack by sliding it in the direction of the arrow until it clicks. The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and charging starts.
PUSH button POWER switch • All times measured under the following conditions: Top: Recording with LCD screen. Bottom: Recording with viewfinder LCD panel closed. * Typical recording time shows the time when you repeat recording start/stop, turning the power on/off and zooming. Fully discharge the battery before storing it for an extended period (p. 79).
On the AC Adaptor • Use the nearby wall outlet when using the AC Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall outlet immediately if any malfunction occurs while using your camcorder. • Do not use the AC Adaptor placed in a narrow space, such as between a wall and furniture. • Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC Adaptor or battery terminal with any metallic objects. This may cause a malfunction.
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 lamp. When using it for the first time, the CLOCK SET screen appears (p. 16). 3 Put your wrist through the Strap Belt. LENS COVER switch POWER switch 1 Slide the LENS COVER switch to Getting Started The length of the Strap Belt is adjustable. 4 Hold the camcorder as illustrated below. OPEN.
Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder The viewfinder The LCD panel Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (), then rotate it to the best angle to record or play (). You can view images using the viewfinder when you close the LCD panel to avoid wearing down the battery, etc. 180 degrees (max.) Viewfinder 2 1 90 degrees (max.) 90 degrees to the camcorder • Do not press the buttons on the LCD frame accidentally when you open or adjust the LCD panel.
Step 5: Using the touch panel You can play back recorded pictures (p. 21), or change the settings (p. 31) using the touch panel. 1 Touch . 60min STBY 0:00:00 PAGE1 PAGE2 SPOT FOCUS FOCUS SPOT METER DISP GUIDE MENU FADER END SCH EXPO– SURE DISP/BATT INFO 2 Touch [DISP GUIDE]. Getting Started Place your hand on the rear side of the LCD panel to support it. Then, touch the buttons displayed on the screen. indicator that appears on the LCD screen. Select area for guide.
Step 6: Setting the date and time Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not set the date and time, the CLOCK SET screen appears every time you turn on your camcorder. • If you do not use your camcorder for about 3 months, the built-in rechargeable battery gets discharged and the date and time settings may be cleared from the memory. In that case, charge the rechargeable battery and then set the date and time again (p. 83).
Step 7: Inserting a cassette You can use mini DV (p. 78). cassettes only • The recordable time varies depending on [REC MODE] (p. 45). 1 Slide the OPEN/EJECT To eject the cassette Proceed with the same steps as you would when inserting a cassette tape. lever and open the lid. Getting Started OPEN/EJECT lever Lid The cassette compartment automatically comes out and opens up. 2 Insert a cassette with its window facing up, then press .
Recording/Playback with ease (Easy Handycam) With this Easy Handycam operation, most of the camera settings are automatically adjusted optimally, which frees you from detailed adjustment. Since only basic functions become available and screen font size increases for easy viewing, even first time users can enjoy easy operation. Go through the procedures described in steps 1 to 7 (p. 9 to 17) before operation. Open the lens cover.
Playing back with ease 1 Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. 2 Press EASY . The message appears. Easy Handycam operation ON Recording/Playback The EASY lamp lights up in blue. 3 Start playing back. Touch , then touch A to start playback. C Stop Play/Pause toggles as you touch it Rewind/Fast forward B To cancel Easy Handycam operation Press EASY again.
Recording LENS COVER PHOTO Slide the LENS COVER switch to OPEN. POWER switch REC START/ STOP REC START/ STOP 1 Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow to turn on the CAMERA lamp. If the POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG), slide it down while pressing the green button. 2 Start recording. Movies Still images Press REC START/STOP (or ). Press and hold PHOTO lightly to check the image (), then press it fully ().
Playback 1 Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. 2 Start playing back. Touch , then touch to start playback. A C Recording/Playback B Stop Play/Pause toggles as you touch it Rewind/Fast forward • Playback automatically stops if pause is engaged for more than 3 minutes. To adjust the volume Touch [PAGE1] [VOL], then / to adjust the volume.
Functions used for recording/playback, etc. focus is about 1 cm (about 1/2 inch) for wide angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for telephoto. • You can set the [D ZOOM] in case you want to zoom to a level greater than 20 times (p. 42). 1 2 3 5 6 7 4 To record in dark places (NightShot plus) .................................... Set the NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch to ON. ( and [“NIGHTSHOT PLUS”] appear.) • The NightShot plus uses infrared light.
• A mirror-image of the subject appears on the LCD screen, but the picture will be normal when recorded. Other part names and functions To use a tripod ........................ Attach the tripod (optional: the length of the screw must be less than 5.5 mm (7/32 inches)) to the tripod receptacle using a tripod screw. • For how to adjust the volume, see page 21. REC lamp The REC lamp lights up in red during recording (p. 47). Remote sensor Point the Remote Commander (p.
Indicators displayed during recording/playback Viewing Recording 1 2 3 4 5 6 2 7 4 8 5 6 Remaining battery (approx.) Tape transport indicator Recording mode ( or ) (45) Video operation buttons (19, 21) Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or [REC] (recording)) Time code (hour: minute: second: frame)/Tape counter (hour: minute: second)/Tape photo recording (20) Recording capacity of the tape (approx.
( ) is a reference page. The indicators during recording will not be recorded. Indicator Indicators when you made changes PROGRAM AE (40) The following indicator is displayed if you change the setting during recording or playing. Upper left Upper right 60min STBY Meaning Picture effect (40) White balance (33) Wide select (42) SteadyShot off (42) 0:00:00 60min • You can use [DISP GUIDE] (p. 15) to check the function of each indicator that appears on the LCD screen.
Searching for the starting point Make sure that the CAMERA lamp lights up. Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording (END SEARCH) [END SCH] (END SEARCH) will not work once you eject the cassette after you have recorded on the tape. 2 Select (CAMERA SET) with , then touch [EXEC]. / 3 Select [EDITSEARCH] with / , then touch [EXEC]. 4 Select [ON] with touch [EXEC] Touch [PAGE1], then touch [END SCH].
touch [EXEC] 5 Touch . . 60min EDIT STBY 0:00:00 FN Recording/Playback The last few seconds of the most recently recorded scene are played back. Then, your camcorder is set to the standby.
Remote Commander Remove the insulation sheet before using the Remote Commander. Insulation sheet 23). • To change the battery, see page 84. Searching quickly for a desired scene (Zero set memory) 6 1 7 2 8 1 During playback, press ZERO SET MEMORY at a point you want to locate later on. The tape counter is reset to “0:00:00” and appears on the screen. 60min 0:00:00 3 4 FN 5 9 If the tape counter is not displayed, press DISPLAY . 2 Press STOP when you want to stop playback. PHOTO* (p.
Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) You can locate the point where the recording date changes. 1 Slide the POWER switch down repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/ EDIT lamp. 2 Press SEARCH M. to select 3 Press (previous)/(next) 2 Press SEARCH M. to select [PHOTO SEARCH]. 3 Press (previous)/(next) to select a photo. Each time you press or , your camcorder searches for the still image before or after the current point on the tape.
Playing the picture on a TV Use any of the connection as shown in the following illustration. Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 11). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. A/V OUT jack 1 (Yellow) (White) (Red) IN VCRs or TVs : Signal flow A/V connecting cable (supplied) Connect to the input jack of the other device.
Using the menu items Follow the instructions below to use each of the items listed after this page. 1 Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the respective lamp. [CAMERA] lamp: settings for recording on a tape [PLAY/EDIT] lamp: settings for viewing/editing 2 Touch the LCD screen to select the item. Unavailable items will be grayed out. For details of the button items, see page 32. Touch . Touch the desired page. Touch the desired button.
Operation button items Available operation buttons vary depending on the position of the lamp and the display (PAGE). The default settings are marked with . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. The available functions during Easy Handycam operation are marked with *. See page 31 for details on selecting button items. When the CAMERA lamp lights up [PAGE1] Keep touching (focusing on close subjects)/ (focusing on distant subjects) until correct focus is achieved.
FADER You can add the following effects to currently recording pictures. Select the desired effect. Press REC START/STOP. The fader indicator stops flashing and disappears when the fade is complete. To cancel the operation, touch [ OFF]. 5 Touch the LCD screen while checking the display in the viewfinder. [EXPOSURE], etc. are displayed. 6 Touch the button you want to set. [EXPOSURE] : Adjust with / , and touch . [FADER] : Touch it repeatedly to select a desired effect. : The LCD screen lights up.
OUTDOOR ( ) The white balance is set to be appropriate for shooting outdoors or under daylight fluorescent light. INDOOR () The white balance is set to the brightness of warm white fluorescent lamps. ONE PUSH ( ) The white balance will be adjusted according to the ambient light. Touch [ONE PUSH]. Frame a white object such as a piece of paper, to fill the screen under the same lighting conditions as you will shoot the subject. Touch . flashes quickly.
[PAGE2] BURN VCD DATA CODE* Displays information recorded automatically (data code) during recording. OFF Data code is not displayed. DATE/TIME [PAGE3] Displays the date and time. V SPD PLAY (Various speed playback) CAM DATA (below) Displays camera setting data. 60min You can play back in various modes while viewing movies. 0:00:00:00 1 Touch the following buttons during 3 playback.
• You will not hear the recorded sound. You may see mosaic-like images of the previously played picture. A DUB CTRL (Audio dubbing) See page 50. REC CTRL (Recording control) See page 50.
Using the Menu 37
Menu items Position of lamp: CAMERA PLAY/EDIT PROGRAM AE × P EFFECT FLASH MODE FLASH LVL AUTO SHTR × × × MANUAL SET menu (p. 40) CAMERA SET menu (p. 42) D ZOOM WIDE SEL STEADYSHOT EDITSEARCH N.S.LIGHT × × × × × VCR SET menu (p. 43) × × LCD B.L. LCD COLOR VF B.L. WIDE DISP REC MODE AUDIO MODE × CLOCK SET* USB STREAM × HiFi SOUND AUDIO MIX LCD/VF SET menu (p. 44) TAPE SET menu (p.
Available menu items () vary depending on the position of the lamp. * These functions are available during Easy Handycam operation. Position of lamp: CAMERA PLAY/EDIT WORLD TIME BEEP* A.SHUT OFF COMMANDER DISP OUT REC LAMP × OTHERS menu (p.
MANUAL SET menu – PROGRAM AE/P EFFECT, etc. The default settings are marked with . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 31 for details on selecting menu items. appearing dark in strong light or reflected light, such as at a beach in midsummer or on a ski slope. SUNSETMOON**( ) PROGRAM AE You can record pictures effectively in various situations with the PROGRAM AE function. AUTO Select to automatically record pictures effectively without the [PROGRAM AE] function.
• The setting returns to [NORMAL] when you disconnect the power source from your camcorder for more than 5 minutes. Pictures appear as an illustration with strong contrast. PASTEL AUTO SHTR (Auto shutter) Automatically activates the electronic shutter to adjust the shutter speed when recording in bright conditions if you set it to ON (the default setting). Pictures appear as a pale pastel drawing.* MOSAIC Using the Menu Pictures appear mosaic-patterned.* * Available during recording only.
CAMERA SET menu – D ZOOM/WIDE SEL/STEADYSHOT, etc. The default settings are marked with . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 31 for details on selecting menu items. When viewed on the LCD screen/viewfinder with [16:9 WIDE ( )] selected. When viewed on a 16:9 wide screen TV* D ZOOM (Digital zoom) You can select the maximum zoom level in case you want to zoom to a level greater than 20 × (the default setting) while recording on a tape.
VCR SET menu – HiFi SOUND/AUDIO MIX • The maximum shooting distance using [N.S.LIGHT] is about 3 m (10 feet). If you record subjects in dark places, such as night scenes or in moonlight, set [N.S.LIGHT] to [OFF]. You can make the image color deeper this way. The default settings are marked with . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 31 for details on selecting menu items.
LCD/VF SET menu – LCD B.L./LCD COLOR/VF B.L., etc. The default settings are marked with . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 31 for details on selecting menu items. LCD B.L. (LCD back light) You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen’s backlight. BRT NORMAL Standard brightness. BRIGHT Brightens the LCD screen. • When you connect your camcorder to outside power sources, [BRIGHT] is automatically selected for the setting.
TAPE SET menu – REC MODE/AUDIO MODE/REMAIN The default settings are marked with . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 31 for details on selecting menu items. REC MODE (Recording mode) SP () Records in the SP (Standard Play) mode on a cassette. – CLOCK SET/USB STREAM/LANGUAGE, etc. The default settings are marked with . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 31 for details on selecting menu items. CLOCK SET See page 16.
OTHERS menu – WORLD TIME/BEEP, etc. – When a cassette is inserted. – When the POWER switch is set to other than CAMERA. – When NIGHTSHOT PLUS is set to ON. The default settings are marked with . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 31 for details on selecting menu items. WORLD TIME When using your camcorder abroad, you can set the time difference by touching / , the clock will be adjusted in accordance with the time difference.
• The setting returns to [ON] when you have the power source disconnected from your camcorder for more than 5 minutes. DISP OUT (Display output) LCD Shows displays such as the time code on the LCD screen and in the viewfinder. V-OUT/LCD Shows displays such as the time code on the TV screen, LCD screen, and in the viewfinder. REC LAMP (Recording lamp) Using the Menu The camera recording lamp will not light up during recording when you set this to [OFF]. (The default setting is [ON].
Connecting to a VCR or TV Use any of the connection as shown in the following illustration. Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 11). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. A/V OUT jack 1 (Yellow) (White) (Red) VCRs or TVs 2 DV Interface To i. LINK (IEEE1394) jack i.
Dubbing to other recording devices You can copy the picture played back on your camcorder to other recording devices (such as VCRs). 1 Connect your VCR to your camcorder as a recording device. See page 48 for details of connecting. • When using an A/V connecting cable, connect to the input jack of the other device. the screen display dubbed with pictures. • To record the date/time and camera settings data by using the A/V connecting cable, display them on the screen (p. 35).
Recording pictures from a VCR Dubbing sound to a recorded tape You can record pictures from a VCR on a tape. Insert a cassette for recording in your camcorder beforehand. You can add sound to a tape already recorded in the 12-bit mode (p. 45) without erasing the original sound. Internal microphone 1 Connect your VCR to your camcorder. Use an i.LINK cable to connect. See page 48 for details of connecting. • The indicator appears when you connect your camcorder and other devices via an i.LINK cable.
3 Touch [PAGE3] [A DUB CTRL] [AUDIO DUB]. appears 60min A DUB CTRL recorded audio (p. 21). [PAGE1] [MENU]. Select (VCR SET), then touch / to select [AUDIO MIX], then touch [EXEC]. Touch VCR SET HiFi SOUND AUDIO MIX 0:00:00:00 ST1 ST2 EXEC RET. RET. AUDIO DUB Touch 4 Touch (play) and start playing back the audio you want to record at the same time. 5 Touch (stop) when you want to stop recording. • The original sound (ST1) is output at the default setting.
Jacks to connect external devices Camcorder 1 2 3 4 5 Bottom 6 Accessory shoe • Remove the shoe cover when you use an accessory. • The accessory 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. (USB) jack (p. 53) DV Interface jack (p. 48, 60) A/V (audio/video) OUT jack (p.
Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on your computer When you install the Picture Package software on a Windows computer from the supplied CD-ROM, you can enjoy the following operations by connecting your camcorder to your computer. • Software and features available for Macintosh computers differ from those available for Windows computers. For details, refer to chapter 6 of “First Step Guide” on CD-ROM. For “First Step Guide,” see the next section.
About “First Step Guide” “First Step Guide” is an instruction manual you can refer to on your computer. This “First Step Guide” describes basic operations, from initial hookup of your camcorder and computer and making settings, to general operation the first time you use the software stored on the CDROM (supplied). After installing the CDROM, reading “Installing the software and “First Step Guide” on a computer” (p. 55), start the “First Step Guide,” then follow the instructions.
Display: Minimum 1 024 × 768 dots, 32 000 colors (This product will not operate correctly at less than 1 024 × 768 dots or 256 colors.) Application: QuickTime 4 or later (QuickTime 5 recommended) Other: Disc drive • When you connect your camcorder to a Macintosh computer using a USB cable, you cannot copy pictures recorded on a tape to the computer. To copy recordings from a tape, connect your camcorder to the computer with an i.LINK cable and use the standard software in the OS.
* Drive names (such as (E:)) may vary depending on the computer. 4 Click [Install]. 8 Select where to save the software, then click [Next]. Depending on the OS on the computer, a message appears notifying you that “First Step Guide” cannot be installed automatically with the InstallShield Wizard. In such a case, manually copy “First Step Guide” to your computer according to the message instructions. 5 Select the language for the application to be installed, then click [Next]. 6 Click [Next].
11 Click [Next] to install the “First Step Guide.” 14 Make sure [Yes, I want to restart 12 Click [Next], then follow the my computer now.] is checked, then click [Finish]. on-screen instructions to install ImageMixer VCD2. DirectX(R)] screen is displayed, follow the steps below to install DirectX 9.0c. If not, skip to step 14. Using a Computer 13 If the [Installing Microsoft (R) The computer turns off once, then starts up again automatically (Restart).
1 Confirm that your camcorder is not connected to the computer. 2 Turn on the computer. Close all applications running on the computer before installing the software. 3 Place the CD-ROM in the disc drive of your computer. 4 Double-click CD-ROM icon. 5 Copy [FirstStepGuide.pdf], stored in the desired language in the [FirstStepGuide] folder, to your computer. 6 Then, install ImageMixer VCD2. 7 Copy [IMXINST.SIT] in the [MAC] folder of the CD-ROM to a folder of your choice. 8 Double-click [IMXINST.
Viewing “First Step Guide” Displaying “First Step Guide” For inquires about this software Starting up on a Windows computer Pixela User Support Center Viewing with Microsoft Internet Explorer Ver.6.0 or later is recommended. Double-click the icon on the desktop. Pixela Home Page Windows: http://www.ppackage.com/ Macintosh: http://www.ImageMixer.com/ – North America (Los Angeles) Telephone: +1-213-341-0163 – Europe (U.K.
Creating a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”) You can create DVDs when you connect your camcorder to a Sony VAIO series computer* that supports “Click to DVD” via an i.LINK cable (optional). The picture is automatically copied and written to a DVD. The following procedures describe how to create a DVD from a picture recorded on a tape. For system and operation requirements, visit the following URL: – Europe http://www.vaio-link.com/ – USA http://www.ita.sel.sony.
to create a DVD. WRITING: The picture is being written onto the DVD. 3 Insert a recorded cassette into your camcorder. 4 Connect your camcorder to a computer via an i.LINK cable (optional) (p. 52, 60). • When you connect your camcorder to a computer, make sure you insert the connector in the correct direction. If you insert the connector forcibly, it may be damaged, and causes a malfunction of your camcorder. • For details, see “First Step Guide.
DVD Automatic Mode Launcher” for details. – When there is a blank portion of 10 seconds or longer on the tape. – When the data of the tape contains a date before the recording date of the later images. – When normal and wide size pictures are recorded on the same tape.
Troubleshooting If you run into any problems using your camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. If the problem persists, remove the power source and contact your Sony dealer. Overall operations/Easy Handycam The power does not turn on. • The battery pack is discharged, running low, or not attached to the camcorder. • Attach a charged battery pack to the camcorder. • Use the AC Adaptor to connect to a wall outlet (p. 10).
• Attach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly (p. 10). • No power is supplied from the wall outlet. (p. 10). • The battery charge is completed (p. 10). The CHG (charge) lamp flashes while the battery pack is being charged. • Attach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly. If the problem persists, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall outlet and contact your Sony dealer. The battery pack may be damaged.
An unknown indicator appears on the screen. • Refer to the indicator list (p. 74). The picture remains on the LCD screen. • This occurs if you disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall outlet or remove the battery pack without turning off the power first. This is not a malfunction. The buttons do not appear on the touch panel. • Touch the LCD screen lightly. • Press DISP/BATT INFO on your camcorder (or DISPLAY on the Remote Commander) (p. 15).
Recording Refer also to “Adjusting the image during recording” (p. 66). The tape does not start when you press REC START/STOP. • Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the CAMERA lamp (p. 18, 20). • The tape has reached the end. Rewind it, or insert a new cassette. • Set the write-protect tab to REC or insert a new cassette (p. 78). • The 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. 82).
[STEADYSHOT] does not function. • Set [STEADYSHOT] to [ON] (p. 42). The BACK LIGHT function does not function. • The BACK LIGHT function is canceled when you set [EXPOSURE] to [MANUAL] (p. 33) or select [SPOT METER] (p. 32). • The BACK LIGHT function does not work during Easy Handycam operation. A vertical band appears when recording candlelight or electric light in the dark. • This occurs when the contrast between the subject and the background is too high. This is not a malfunction.
No sound or only a low sound is heard. • Set [HiFi SOUND] to [STEREO] (p. 43). • Turn up the volume (p. 21). • Adjust [AUDIO MIX] from the [ST2] (additional sound) side until the sound is heard appropriately (p. 51). • When you are using an S VIDEO plug, make sure the red and white plugs of the A/V connecting cable are connected as well (p. 30). The sound breaks off. • Clean the head using the cleaning cassette (optional) (p. 82). “---” is displayed on the screen.
Menu Menu items are grayed out. • You cannot select grayed items in the current recording/playback situation. You cannot use [SPOT METER]. • You cannot use [SPOT METER] together with NightShot plus. • If you set [PROGRAM AE], [SPOT METER] is automatically set to [ AUTO]. You cannot use [EXPOSURE]. • You cannot use [EXPOSURE] together with NightShot plus. You cannot use [WHT BAL]. • You cannot use [WHT BAL] when you use NightShot plus. You cannot use [SPOT FOCUS].
Connecting to a computer The computer does not recognize your camcorder. • Disconnect the cable from the computer and camcorder, then connect it again securely. • Disconnect USB devices other than the keyboard, the mouse, and the camcorder from the computer. • Disconnect the cable from the computer and camcorder, restart the computer, then connect them again correctly. An error message appears when you place the supplied CD-ROM in your computer.
5 6 7 8 – [USB Device] in the [Other devices] folder – [USB Composite Device] in the [Universal Serial Bus Controller] folder When the [Confirm Device Removal] screen appears, click [OK]. Turn off the power of your camcorder, disconnect the USB cable, then restart the computer. Place the supplied CD-ROM in the disc drive of your computer. Follow the steps below and try to install the USB driver again. 1 Double-click [My Computer]. 2 Right-click [PICTUREPACKAGE] (Disc drive)*.
For Windows XP Log on as Administrator. 1 Check that your camcorder is connected to a computer. 2 Click [Start]. 3 Right-click [My Computer], then click [Properties]. The [System Properties] screen appears. 4 Click and choose the [Hardware] tab [Device Manager] [View] [Devices by type]. 5 If the devices below are already installed, right-click them, then click [Uninstall] to delete them.
2 Adjust the slider in the (-) direction on [Select video quality]. 3 Follow the on-screen instructions, click [Next], then click [Done]. Picture Package does not function correctly. • Close Picture Package, then restart the computer. An error message appears while operating Picture Package. • Close Picture Package first, then slide the POWER switch on your camcorder to turn on another lamp.
Warning indicators and messages Self-diagnosis display/Warning indicators If indicators appear on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder, check the following. Some symptoms you can fix by yourself. If the problem persists even after you have tried a couple of times, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. C:(or E:) : (Self-diagnosis display) C:04: • The battery pack is not an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. Use an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (p. 79).
* You hear a melody when the warning indicators appear on the screen (p. 46). Description of warning messages If messages appear on the screen, follow the instructions. Battery The tape has reached the end. • Rewind or change the tape. Flash Charging… Cannot record still images. • You are trying to record a still image while charging the flash (optional). Use the “ InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. (p. 79) Others Battery level is low. Cannot record due to copyright protection. (p.
• You cannot start the Easy Handycam settings while the USB cable is connected. Disconnect the USB cable from your camcorder first. USB invalid during Easy Handycam • You cannot connect the USB cable during Easy Handycam. Touch . HDV recorded tape. Cannot playback. • Your camcorder cannot play back this format. Play back the tape with the equipment that recorded it. HDV recorded tape. Cannot add audio. • 76 Your camcorder does not allow you to add audio on a section of a tape recorded in HDV format.
Using your camcorder abroad Power supply You can use your camcorder in any countries/regions using the AC Adaptor supplied with your camcorder within the AC 100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz range. Use a commercially available AC plug adaptor [a], if necessary, depending on the design of the wall outlet [b]. AC-L25A/L25B [a] Simple setting of the clock by time difference You can easily set the clock to the local time by setting a time difference when using your camcorder abroad.
Usable cassette tapes You can use mini DV format cassettes only. Use a cassette with the mark. is a trademark. Your camcorder is not compatible with cassettes with Cassette Memory. To prevent a blank section from being made on the tape Go to the end of the recorded section using END SEARCH (p. 26) before you begin the next recording in the following cases: • You have played back the tape. • You have used EDIT SEARCH. Copyright signal REC: The cassette can be recorded.
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack This unit is compatible with an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (P series). Your camcorder operates only with an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. “InfoLITHIUM” P series battery packs have the mark. What is an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack? An “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is a lithium-ion battery pack that has functions for communicating information related to operating conditions between your camcorder and an optional AC Adaptor/ charger.
About i.LINK About battery life • The battery life is limited. Battery capacity drops little by little as you use it more and more, and as time passes. When the available battery time is shortened considerably, a probable cause is that the battery pack has reached the end of its life. 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. The DV Interface on this unit is an i.LINKcompliant DV Interface.
Maintenance and precautions The baud rate is listed under “Specifications” in the operating instructions of each piece of equipment. It is also indicated near the i.LINK interface on some devices. The maximum baud rate for a device that does not have any indication (such as this unit) is “S100.” The baud rate may differ from the indicated value when the unit is connected to a device with a different maximum baud rate.
battery out of children's reach. If the battery is accidentally swallowed, consult a doctor immediately. • 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 plenty of water and consult a doctor. When not using your camcorder for a long time • Occasionally turn it on and let it run such as by playing back tapes for about 3 minutes.
LCD screen • Do not exert excessive pressure on the LCD screen, as it may cause damage. • If your camcorder is used in a cold place, a residual image may appear on the LCD screen. This is not a malfunction. • While using your camcorder, the back of the LCD screen may heat up. This is not a malfunction. To clean the LCD screen If fingerprints or dust make the LCD screen dirty, it is recommended you use a soft cloth to clean it.
Using the Strap Belt as a wrist strap be affected as long as you are not recording the date. This is useful for carrying your camcorder. Procedures 1 Open the hook and loop fastener Connect your camcorder to a wall outlet using the supplied AC Adaptor, and leave it with the POWER switch set to OFF (CHG) for more than 24 hours. of the hand pad () and remove it from the ring ().
Attaching the Shoulder Strap Specifications You can attach the Shoulder Strap to the hook for the Shoulder Strap. System Video recording system Audio recording system *1 Additional Information 2 rotary heads, Helical scanning system Rotary heads, PCM system Quantization: 12 bits (Fs 32 kHz, stereo 1, stereo 2), 16 bits (Fs 48 kHz, stereo) Video signal NTSC color, EIA standards Usable cassette Mini DV cassette with the mark printed Tape speed SP: Approx. 18.81 mm/s LP: Approx. 12.
Input/Output connectors AC Adaptor AC-L25A/L25B Audio/Video output Power requirements Current consumption Power consumption Output voltage Operating temperature Storage temperature Dimensions (approx.) USB jack LANC jack DV input/output 10-pin connector Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75Ω (ohms), unbalanced Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75Ω (ohms), unbalanced Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vp-p, 75Ω (ohms), unbalanced Audio signal: 327 mV (at output impedance more than 47 kΩ (kilohms)), Output impedance with less than 2.
Index A CLOCK SET ........................ 16 FN (Function) button ..... 24, 31 A/V connecting cable .................................. 30, 48, 52 COMMANDER ................... 46 FOCUS........................... 32, 66 Computer.............................. 55 Frame-by-frame playback .... 35 Connect Full charge ........................... 10 Accessory shoe..................... 52 AC Adaptor ............................ 9 Computer ...................... 53 AUDIO MIX ........................
LCD BRT (LCD bright) ....... 34 LCD COLOR ....................... 44 LCD panel ............................ 14 LCD B.L. (LCD back light) ........... 44 LCD BRT (LCD bright) ...................................... 34 LCD COLOR ................ 44 LCD screen .......................... 15 LCD screen back light ... 14, 34 LENS COVER ..................... 20 Lid ........................................ 17 Lithium battery..................... 84 LP (Long Play)..................... 45 M N R NEG.ART.............
SPOTLIGHT ........................ 40 Viewfinder ............................ 14 SPOT FOCUS ................ 32, 69 Brightness ..................... 44 SPOT METER (Flexible spot meter) ...... 32, 69 Viewfinder lens adjustment lever ...................................... 14 Starting point........................ 26 Volume ................................. 21 STEADYSHOT .............. 42, 67 V SPD PLAY (Various speed playback) ..... 35 STEREO .............................. 43 Strap Belt ..............
On trademarks • “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony Corporation. • i.LINK and are trademarks of Sony Corporation. • Picture Package is a trademark of Sony Corporation. • is a trademark. • Microsoft, Windows, and Windows Media are trademarks or registered trademarks of U.S. Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and other countries. • iMac, iBook, Macintosh, Mac OS, PowerBook and PowerMac are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc in the U.S. and other countries. • eMac is trademark of Apple Computer, Inc.
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