3-798-762-24 (1) Digital Video Camera Recorder Operation Manual Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly, and retain it for future reference. Owner’s Record The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product. Model No. DCR-VX1000 Model No. AC-V615 Serial No. Serial No.
English Welcome to digital video Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony Digital Handycam camcorder. With your Handycam, you can capture life’s precious moments with superior picture and sound quality. Your Handycam is loaded with advanced features, but at the same time it is very easy to use. You will soon be producing home video that you can enjoy for years to come. WARNING To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
Table of Contents Before You Begin Notes and Precautions 4 Checking Supplied Accessories 5 Getting Started Charging and Inserting the Battery Pack 6 Inserting a Cassette 9 Basic Operations Camera Recording 10 Hints for Better Shooting 13 Checking the Recorded Picture Connections for Playback 15 Playing Back a Tape 16 14 Advanced Operations Using Alternate Power Sources 18 Changing the Mode Settings 20 < for Camera Recording > Fader and Overlap 23 Re-recording a Picture in the Middle of a Recorded Tape
Before You Begin Notes and Precautions Note on TV Color Systems TV color systems differ from country to country. To view your recordings on a TV, you need an NTSC system based TV. Please check the list to see the TV color system of your country (p. 57). Precaution on Copyright Television programs, films, video tapes, and other materials may be copyrighted. Unauthorized recording of such materials may be contrary to the provision of the copyright laws.
Checking Supplied Accessories Check that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder. 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Before You Begin 1 9 1 Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 76) 2 NP-720/F730 Battery Pack (1) (p.6) 3 AC-V615 AC power adaptor and DK-715 connecting cord (1) (p. 6) 4 A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 15) 5 S video connecting cable (1) (p. 15) 6 Shoulder strap (1) (p. 76) 7 R6 (size AA) batteries for Remote Commander (2) (p. 77) 8 Eyecup (1) (p. 11) 9 Mini DV cassette (1) (p.
Getting Started Charging and Inserting the Battery Pack Before using your camcorder, you first need to charge and install the battery pack. To charge the battery pack, use the supplied AC power adaptor. This digital camcorder does not interface with "InfoLITHIUM" batteries. The remaining time (minutes) indication does not appear when using "InfoLITHIUM" batteries. Charging the Battery Pack Charge the battery pack on a flat place without vibration. (1) Connect the AC power adaptor to a wall outlet.
Removing the Battery Pack Slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow. Getting Started Notes on charging the battery pack • The POWER lamp will remain lit for a while even if the battery pack is removed and the power cord is unplugged after charging the battery pack. This is normal. • If the POWER lamp does not light, disconnect the AC power cord. After about one minute, reconnect the AC power cord again.
Charging and Inserting the Battery Pack To Remove the Battery Pack Slide the RELEASE knob leftward. RELEASE Note on battery pack You cannot use NP-520/500H/F750 battery pack.
Inserting a Cassette and * Getting Started You can use mini DV cassette with logo* only. Make sure that a power source is inserted. (1) Slide EJECT. The cassette compartment automatically lifts up and opens. (2) Insert a cassette (supplied) with the window facing out. (3) Press the outside of the cassette compartment cover to close the compartment. The cassette compartment automatically retracts.
Basic Operations Camera Recording Make sure that a power source and a cassette are inserted. You can hear the beep sound, indicated with in the illustrations, which confirms your operation. Before you record one-time events, you may want to make a trial recording to make sure that you are using the camcorder correctly. (1) Remove the hood cap, and attach it to the grip strap. (2) While pressing the centre button on the POWER switch, set it to CAMERA. (3) Turn STANDBY up. (4) Press START/STOP.
Note on Standby mode If you leave the camcorder for 5 minutes or more with a cassette inserted in Standby mode, the camcorder goes off automatically. This prevents wearing down the battery and wearing out the tape. To resume Standby mode, turn the POWER switch to OFF once and then to CAMERA. To start recording, press START/ STOP.
Camera Recording Using the Zoom Feature Zooming is a recording technique that lets you change the size of the subject in the scene. For more professional-looking recordings, use the zoom sparingly. T side: for telephoto (subject appears closer) W side: for wide-angle (subject appears farther away) W T T T W W Zooming Speed Press the zoom button firmly for high-speed zoom. Press it softly for relatively slow zooming. Note on the focus range You can shoot a subject that is at least about 2.
Hints for Better Shooting For hand-held shots, you’ll get better results holding the camcorder according to the following suggestions: [a] [b] Basic Operations • Hold the camcorder firmly and secure it with the grip strap so that you can easily manipulate the controls with your thumb [a]. • Place your right elbow against your side. • Place your left hand under the camcorder to support it. • Keep your fingers away from the built-in microphone. • Place your eye firmly against the viewfinder eyecup.
Checking the Recorded Picture The editsearch function is used to view the recorded picture for a moment during recording. Using EDITSEARCH, you can review the last recorded scene or check the recorded picture in the viewfinder. (1) While pressing the centre button on the POWER switch, turn it to CAMERA. (2) Turn STANDBY up. (3) Press the – (Œ) side of EDITSEARCH momentarily; the last few seconds of the recorded portion plays back (Rec Review).
Connections for Playback You can use this camcorder as a VCR by connecting it to your TV for playback. It is recommended to use the house current as the power source (p. 18). Connecting Directly to a TV Connect the camcorder to your TV by using the supplied A/V connecting cable. Set the TV/VCR selector to VCR on the TV. To get higher quality pictures in DV format, connect the camcorder to your TV using the S video cable.
Playing Back a Tape You can monitor the playback picture in the viewfinder. You can also watch it on a TV screen, after connecting the camcorder to a TV or VCR (p. 15). You can control playback using the supplied Remote Commander (p. 76). (1) While pressing the center button on the POWER switch, turn it to VTR. (2) Insert the recorded tape with the window facing out. (3) Press 0 to rewind the tape. (4) Press ·. Playback starts. 3 1 REW F OF R CA POWER A ER M VT 4 PLAY To stop playback, press π.
To view the picture frame by frame Press > during playback pause mode. Press < in reverse direction during playback pause mode. To view the picture in reverse direction Press < during playback. Notes on playback • The sound is muted in the various playback modes. • The previous scene may appear like mosaic noise during slow playback or playback pause. This is not a malfunction. Basic Operations To display the indicators Press DISPLAY (p. 76).
Advanced Operations Using Alternate Power Sources You can choose any of the following power sources for your camcorder: battery pack (p.6), house current, and 12/24 V car battery. Choose the appropriate power source depending on where you want to use your camcorder.
WARNING AC power cord must only be changed at qualified service shop. Precautions • The set is not disconnected from the AC power source as long as it is connected to the wall outlet, even if the set itself has been turned off. • To prevent accident from a short circuit, do not come into contact with the terminal inside the shutter at the rear of the camcorder. Notes on the POWER lamp • The POWER lamp will remain lit for a while even if the unit is unplugged after use. This is normal.
Changing the Mode Settings You can change the mode settings in the menu system to further enjoy the features and function of the camcorder. (1) Slide OPEN and open the battery cover. (2) Press MENU to display the menu in the viewfinder. (3) Press V or v to select the desired item, then press EXECUTE. (4) Press V or v to select the desired mode, then press EXECUTE. If you want to change the other modes, repeat steps 3 and 4. (5) Press MENU to erase the menu display.
HEADPHONE • Normally select LOW. • Select MID to slightly raise the volume of the headphone. • Select HIGH to raise the volume of the headphone. BEEP • Normally select ON. • Select OFF to turn the beep sound off. EVF MODE • Select this item and change the level of the indicator by pressing > or . to adjust the color intensity and brightness of the picture in the viewfinder. CLOCK SET • Select this item to reset the date or time. See page 60.
Changing the Mode Settings Items in VTR Mode only A MIX BAL • Select this item and change the level of the indicator by pressing > or . to adjust the volume balance between audio mode ST1 and ST2. SEARCH • Normally select C MEMORY to activate cassette memory search function. • Select OFF otherwise. In this case, the recorded picture is searched without cassette memory function. When DIGITAL MODE is set to OVERLAP You cannot set D ZOOM to ON.
Fader and Overlap You can fade in or out to give your recording a professional appearance. When fading in, the picture gradually fades in from black while the sound increases. When fading out, the picture gradually fades to black while the sound decreases. With the overlap function, the picture gradually fades in over a still picture of the last scene recorded. Using the Fader and Overlap Function When Fading in [a] (1) While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press FADER/OVERLAP.
Fader and Overlap When using Overlap (1) Slide OPEN and open the battery cover. (2) Set DIGITAL MODE on the rear of battery cover to OVERLAP. (3) Press FADER/OVERLAP repeatedly until “OVERLAP” appears in the viewfinder. The stored last scene overlaps the scene being shot. (4) Press START/STOP to start recording. The scene being shot gradually fades in over the still picture of the last recorded scene.
Re-recording a Picture in the Middle of a Recorded Tape You can re-record a scene in the middle of a recorded tape by setting the starting [a] and ending [b] points. The previously recorded portion will be erased. 1 START/ STOP LOCK [b] [a] STANDBY PHOTO STANDBY 2 3 EDITSEARCH ZERO SET MEMORY 4 EDITSEARCH 5 START/ STOP LOCK STANDBY PHOTO STANDBY To change the end point Press ZERO SET MEMORY so that “ZERO SET MEMORY” disappears. Repeat steps 2 to 4.
Re-recording a Picture in the Middle of a Recorded Tape Notes on editsearch • The picture may be distorted at the end of the inserted portion when it is played back. • Zero set memory may not function when there is a blank portion between pictures on a tape. • You can re-record without using the zero set memory. Skip steps 2 and 3. Press START/STOP to stop recording. To use the insert recording repeatedly Start from step 1 each time.
Photo Recording You can record a still picture like a photograph for about seven seconds. This mode is useful when you want to enjoy a picture such as a photograph or when you print a picture using a video printer. Shutter speed is automatically adjusted up to 1/1000 depending on the exposure. (1) Set the standby switch to PHOTO STANDBY. (2) Keep pressing PHOTO lightly until a still picture appears in the viewfinder.
Interval Recording You can make a time-lapse recording by setting the camcorder to automatically record and standby sequentially. You can achieve an excellent recording for flowering, emergence, etc., with this function. (1) Slide OPEN and open the battery cover while the camcorder is in Standby mode. Press MENU to display the menu in the viewfinder. (2) Press > or . to select INT REC, then press EXECUTE. (3) Press > or . to select ON, then press EXECUTE. (4) Press > or .
Cut Recording You can make a recording with a stop-motion animated effect using cut recording. To create this effect, alternately move the subject a little and make a cut recording. Secure the camcorder and use the Remote Commander for effective cut recording. (1) Slide OPEN and open the battery cover while the camcorder is in Standby mode. Press MENU to display the menu in the viewfinder. (2) Press V or v to select FRAME REC, then press EXECUTE. (3) Press V or v to select ON, then press EXECUTE.
Self-timer Recording You can make a recording with the self-timer when the SELFTIMER mode is set to ON (2SEC or 10SEC) in the menu system. This mode is useful when you want to make a recording at yourself. in the viewfinder while the camcorder is in Standby mode. (1) Press SELF TIMER to display (2) Press START/STOP. Self-timer starts counting down with a beep sound, then recording starts automatically at the time you set.
Selecting Automatic Mode and Manual Adjustment You can select three types of adjustment mode for exposure, shutter speed, white balance, focus, and recording level. • Automatic Mode: offers you worry-free operation under most shooting conditions. Normally use this mode. Set HOLD/AUTO LOCK selector to AUTO LOCK. • PROGRAM AE Mode: offers you three PROGRAM AE modes to fit the shooting situation. Set HOLD/AUTO LOCK selector to center (auto lock release) position.
Focusing Manually To activate auto focusing, very bright condition and proper contrast are required. Use manual focus according to the conditions. You can focus manually even if the HOLD/AUTO LOCK selector is set to AUTO LOCK (Automatic Mode). When to Use Manual Focus In the following cases you should obtain better results by adjusting the focus manually. [a] • • • • • • [b] [c] [d] Insufficient light [a] Subjects with little contrast — walls, sky, etc.
When or appears appears, or turn it counterclockwise when Turn focus ring clockwise when viewfinder. If you cannot get in focus, turn in the reverse direction. When When appears in the appears, focus is at infinity. appears, subject is too close. Notes on indicator • It does not appear when you select a slow shutter speed (while DIGITAL MODE switch is set to ZOOM). • It disappears if you do not turn the focus ring for 1.5 seconds.
Using the PROGRAM AE Function Select one of the three PROGRAM AE modes, then go to each step. (1) Set HOLD/AUTO LOCK selector to the center (auto lock release) position. (2) Press PROGRAM AE repeatedly to select the desired mode. The mode changes: AEA (Priority to iris) → AES (Priority to shutter speed) → Å (Twilight) → No indication (Manual), cyclically in the viewfinder.
When you focus in telephoto You cannot choose F1.6. About the depth of field The depth of field is the in-focus range, measured from the distance behind a subject to the distance in front. The depth of field can vary with the exposure (iris) value and the focal length. Lowering the F value (large iris) reduces the depth of field. Raising the F value (smaller iris) provides a larger depth of field.
Using the PROGRAM AE Function To select the best shutter speed Example Shutter speed • A golf swing or tennis match in fine weather (to view the hit ball clearly in still picture mode, set to 1/1000 to 1/10000) 1/500 to 1/1000 • A landscape shot from a moving car 1/125 to 1/500 • A moving roller coaster on an overcast day • An athletic scene, marathon, etc.
To lock the PROGRAM AE mode and manual settings Set HOLD/AUTO LOCK selector to HOLD. The EXPOSURE, SHUTTER SPEED, WHT BAL, REC LEVEL, PROGRAM AE buttons, and CONTROL, EXPOSURE dials do not function. CK HOLD AUTO LO About the previous settings The lithium battery must be installed to temporarily save manual settings if you detach the battery. The settings are saved for five minutes.
Adjusting the Exposure Adjust the exposure manually under the following cases. [b] [a] [a] Turn the exposure dial to + when: • The background is too bright (backlighting) • Insufficient light: most of the picture is dark [b] Turn the exposure dial to – when: • The subject is bright and the background is dark • You want to record the darkness faithfully Adjusting the Exposure (1) Set HOLD/AUTO LOCK selector to the center (auto lock release) position while the camcorder is in Standby mode.
CK HOLD AUTO LO To return to automatic mode Set HOLD/AUTO LOCK selector to AUTO LOCK. To change the setting Repeat steps 1 to 4. To cancel the setting Press the EXPOSURE button again after step 2. The EXPOSURE indicator disappears from the viewfinder. The automatic exposure mode is resumed. Notes on exposure level • When you select an exposure level that is too high, the picture may be distorted. • To select –3dB, select CUSTOM and set GAINSHIFT to –3dB in the menu system.
Adjusting the Shutter Speed (1) Set HOLD/AUTO LOCK selector to the center (auto lock release) position while the camcorder is in Standby mode. (2) Press PROGRAM AE repeatedly until AEA, AES, or Å disappears from the display. (3) Press SHUTTER SPEED. The speed is locked at the value which was selected automatically at that time. As you press SHUTTER SPEED the speed changes 1/100 and 1/1000. (4) Turn CONTROL dial to select the desired speed. As you turn the dial, speed changes: 1/4 ↔ 1/8 ↔ 1/15 ↔ 1/30 ↔ ...
Using the ND Filter Using the ND filter (correspond to one-tenth the quantity of light), you can record a picture clearly, preventing the picture from going out of focus under bright conditions. When ND ON flashes in the viewfinder [a] Set ND FILTER to ON. When ND OFF flashes in the viewfinder [b] Set ND FILTER to OFF.
Using with the Zebra Pattern You can set the camcorder to display a zebra pattern (diagonal stripes) in the portion of the picture in the viewfinder with a subject whose brightness exceeds a certain level. The portion of the picture where zebra pattern appears is an area of high brightness and overexposure. You can check the picture level of a subject by displaying the zebra pattern. Use the zebra pattern as a guide for adjusting the exposure (iris) and shutter speed so that you can get the desired picture.
Adjusting the White Balance White balance adjustment makes white subjects look white and allows more natural color balance for camera recording. Normally white balance is automatically adjusted. You can obtain better results by adjusting the white balance manually when lighting conditions change quickly or when recording outdoors: e.g., neon signs, fireworks. Selecting the Appropriate Mode Select the appropriate white balance mode under the following conditions.
Adjusting the White Balance Locking the white balance setting (One-push white balance mode) When you set the white balance to one-push white balance mode, the setting is locked and maintained even if lighting conditions change, and saved for one hour after power sources such as the battery are detached if the lithium battery is inserted. You can achieve recording with natural colors without being affected by ambient light. (1) Set HOLD/AUTO LOCK selector to the center (auto lock release) position.
Notes on the ∑ indicator in the viewfinder • The state of the indicator shows as follows: Slow flashing: White balance is not adjusted. Fast flashing: White balance is being adjusted after pressing the ∑ button. Lights up: White balance has been adjusted. • When the ∑ indicator remains flashing even if you press the ∑ button, shoot in automatic white balance mode. Press WHT BAL until no indicator appears in the viewfinder or set HOLD/AUTO LOCK selector to AUTO LOCK.
Adjusting the Recording Sound You can adjust the recording sound level. Use headphones to monitor the sound when you adjust. To adjust the recording sound automatically Set HOLD/AUTO LOCK selector to AUTO LOCK. CK HOLD AUTO LO To adjust the recording sound manually (1) Set HOLD/AUTO LOCK selector to the center position. (2) Press REC LEVEL to display ” in the viewfinder. (3) Turn CONTROL dial to adjust the sound level, so that the PEAK indicator does not light up.
Notes on the adjustment • The sound level setting is retained as long as the power is on and for about five minutes after the power turns off. After that the level is set to 7.5, the factory setting. • If you change the shutter speed or you press PROGRAM AE button, ” disappears from the viewfinder and you cannot adjust the sound level. To adjust, press REC LEVEL again to display ” in the viewfinder.
Releasing the Steady Shot Function When you shoot, the Ó indicator appears in the viewfinder. This indicates that the Steady Shot function is working and the camcorder compensates for camera-shake. (1) Slide OPEN and open the battery cover. (2) Set STEADY SHOT to OFF so that the Ó indicator disappears. STEADY SHOT ON OFF To activate the Steady Shot function again Set STEADY SHOT to ON to display the Ó indicator.
Presetting the Adjustment for Picture Quality You can preset the camcorder to record the picture with the desired picture quality. When presetting, adjust the picture by shooting a subject and checking the picture displayed on a TV using the menu system. (1) Slide OPEN and open the battery cover while the camcorder is in Standby mode. (2) Press MENU to display the menu in the viewfinder. (3) Press > or . to select CUSTOM, then press EXECUTE. The custom mode menu appears. (4) Press .
Presetting the Adjustment for Picture Quality To record without the preset setting 1 2 3 4 Press MENU while the camcorder is in Standby mode. Press > or . to select CUSTOM, then press EXECUTE. Press . to select SET, then press EXECUTE. Press > to select OFF, then press EXECUTE. [CP] goes off in the viewfinder. To return to the standard setting 1 2 3 4 Press MENU while the camcorder is in Standby mode. Press > or . to select CUSTOM, then press EXECUTE. Press . to select SET, then press EXECUTE. Press .
Searching the Recorded Picture When you use a cassette memory-mounted mini DV cassette which can store the recorded date or time, etc., you can search the recorded picture with the date or time using the Remote Commander (Cassette memory search). You can also search the photo-recorded pictures only, or the recorded picture in the backward and forward direction from the present position without cassette memory.
Searching the Recorded Picture Searching the recorded picture without using cassette memory (1) Turn the POWER switch to VTR. (2) Slide OPEN and open the battery cover. (3) Press MENU to display the menu in the viewfinder. (4) Set the SEARCH to OFF in the menu system. (5) Press MENU to erase the menu display. (6) Press SEARCH SELECT on the Remote Commander to select date search (search with the date) or photo search (search the photo-recorded pictures only).
Checking the Information for the Recorded Picture You can display the recorded date and time or the various settings in the viewfinder while playing back the tape. Press DATA CODE on the Remote Commander while playing back. Each time you press the button, the indicator changes: recorded date and time → various settings → No indication, cyclically in the viewfinder. Press DATA CODE again to erase the display.
Editing onto Another Tape You can create your own video program by editing with any other DV, mini DV, h 8 mm, H Hi8, j VHS, k S-VHS, VHSC, K S-VHSC, l Betamax, or ¬ ED Beta VCR that has video/audio inputs. You can edit with little deterioration of picture and sound quality when using the DV connecting cable. Before Editing Connect the camcorder to the VCR using the supplied A/V connecting cable (page 15) or the DV connecting cable (not supplied). Use this camcorder as a player.
Starting Editing (1) Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) into the recording VCR. Then insert your recorded tape into the camcorder. (2) Play back the recorded tape on the camcorder until you locate the point where you want to start editing. Then set the camcorder to playback pause mode. (3) Set the recording VCR to recording pause mode. (4) Press P on the camcorder and VCR simultaneously to start editing. To Edit More Scenes Repeat steps 2 to 4.
Replacing Recording on a Tape You can insert a new picture, sound, recording date/time, camera information, etc., from a VCR onto your originally recorded tape by specifying and ending points. Connection is the same as in "Using the DV connecting cable" on page 54. Refer to the instruction manual of the connected equipment also. (1) Turn the POWER switch to VTR. (2) Search for the start point to be inserted on the VCR, then set the VCR to playback pause mode.
Additional Information Using Your Camcorder Abroad Each country has its own electricity and TV color systems. Before using your camcorder abroad, check the following points: Power Sources You can use your camcorder in any country with the supplied AC power adaptor within 100 V to 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz. Use a commercially available AC plug adaptor, if necessary, depending on the design of the wall outlet.
Replacing the Lithium Battery in the Camcorder Your camcorder is supplied with the lithium battery installed. When the battery becomes weak or dead, I indicator flashes in the viewfinder for about 5 seconds when you set the POWER switch to CAMERA. In this case, replace the battery with the Sony CR2025 or Duracell DL-2025 lithium battery. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion. The lithium battery installed at the factory may not last 1 year.
Replacing the Lithium Battery When replacing the lithium battery, keep the battery pack or other power source attached. Otherwise, you will need to reset the date and time. (1) Slide OPEN and open the battery cover. (2) Push the battery down once and pull it out from the holder. (3) Install the lithium battery with the positive (+) side facing out. Close the battery cover.
Resetting the Date and Time You can reset the date or time in the menu system. (1) Slide OPEN and open the battery cover. (2) Press MENU to display the menu in the viewfinder. (3) Select CLOCK SET, then press EXECUTE. (4) Press V or v to adjust the year, and then press EXECUTE. (5) Using V, v and EXECUTE as step 4, adjust the month, day, hour and minutes. Note that when you hold down V or v the indications in the menu display advance faster. (6) Press MENU to erase the menu display.
Video Cassettes Usable Cassettes You can use the mini DV cassette only. You cannot use any other h 8 mm, H Hi8, j VHS, k SVHS, VHSC, K S-VHSC , l Betamax or ¬ ED Beta cassette. Copyright Signal When You Play Back Using this camcorder, you cannot play back a tape that has recorded a copyright control signals for copyright protection of software. “COPY INHIBIT” appears on the TV or in the viewfinder if you try to play back such a tape.
Video Cassettes Notes on the mini DV cassette Gold-plated connector of the mini DV cassette If the gold-plated connector of the mini DV cassette gets dirty or dust sticks to the connector, the camcorder may malfunction when using the cassette memory functions, such as cassette memory search. Clean the connector with the swab once every ten times you eject a cassette. [a] To prevent accidental erasure Slide out the protect tab on the cassette so that the red portion is visible.
Tips for Using the Battery Pack This section shows you how you can get the most out of your battery pack. Preparing the Battery Pack Always Carry Additional Batteries Have sufficient battery pack power to do 2 to 3 times as much recording as you have planned. Battery Life is Shorter in Cold Environment Battery efficiency is decreased and the battery will be used up more quickly if you are recording in cold environment.
Tips for Using the Battery Pack The Battery Heats Up During charging or recording, the battery pack heats up. This is caused by energy that has been generated and a chemical change that has occurred inside the battery pack. This is not cause for concern. Battery Care • Remove the battery pack from the camcorder after using the battery pack, and keep it in a cool place.
Maintenance Information and Precautions Moisture Condensation If the camcorder is brought directly from a cold place to a warm place, moisture may condense inside the camcorder, on the surface of the tape, or on the lens. If this happens, the tape may stick to the head drum and be damaged or the camcorder may not operate correctly. To prevent possible damage under these circumstances, the camcorder is furnished with moisture sensors. However, take the following precautions.
Maintenance Information and Precautions Removing Dust from Inside the Viewfinder (1) While holding down the hook, slide the eyecup in the direction of the arrow and remove it out. (2) Clean the surface with a commercially available blower. 1 2 To reattach the eyecup Do step 1 above sliding the eyecup in the reverse direction of the arrow. Video Head Cleaning To ensure normal recording and clear pictures, clean the video heads often.
Precautions Camcorder Operation • Operate the camcorder using 7.2 V (battery pack), or 8.4 V (AC power adaptor). • For DC or AC operation, use only the accessories recommended in this manual. • Should any solid object or liquid fall into the casing, unplug the camcorder and have it checked by your nearest Sony dealer before operating it any further. • Avoid rough handling or mechanical shock. Be particularly careful of the lens. • Keep the POWER switch set to OFF when not using the camera.
Trouble Check If you run into any problem using the camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. Camcorder Power Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions The power is not on. • Insert the battery pack. (p. 7) • The battery is dead. m Use a charged battery pack. (p. 6) • Connect the AC power adaptor to a wall outlet. (p. 18) The power goes off. • While being operated in CAMERA mode, the camcorder has been in the Standby mode for more than 5 minutes.
Operation Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions D ZOOM mode in the menu system cannot be set to ON. • Set the DIGITAL MODE to ZOOM. (p. 22) The overlap function does not active. • Set the DIGITAL MODE to OVERLAP. (p. 24) Sound level meter does not activate while recording. • Insert a cassette. (p. 9) Picture/Sound Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions The image on the viewfinder screen is not clear. • Adjust the viewfinder lens. (p.
Trouble Check AC Power Adaptor Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions The POWER lamp does not light. • Disconnect the AC power cord. After about one minute, try again. (p.18) The CHARGE lamp flashes. • See the following chart. When the CHARGE Lamp Flashes Check through the following chart. Remove the battery pack from the AC power adaptor. Then attach the same battery pack again. 4 4 Please contact your nearest Sony dealer in connection with the product with the problem.
Specifications Video Camera Recorder System S video output 4-pin mini DIN Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75Ω, unbalanced, sync negative Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vpp, 75Ω, unbalanced Video output RCA pin-jack, 1 Vp-p, 75Ω, unbalanced, sync negative Audio output RCA pin-jacks (2: stereo L and R) 327 mV, (at load impedance 47 kΩ) impedance less than 2.2 kΩ RFU DC OUT Special mini-jack, DC 5 V Headphones jack Stereomini-jack (ø 3.5 mm) LANC control jack Stereomini-mini-jack (ø 2.5 mm) MIC jack Stereomini-jack, 0.
Identifying the Parts Camcorder 1 2 3 4 !¡ !™ 8 !£ !¢ !∞ !§ !¶ 9 !• 5 6 7 1 Remote sensor (p. 79) 2 CP CHECK button (p. 49) 3 EDITSEARCH buttons (p. 14) 4 RELEASE knob (p. 8) 5 POWER switch (p. 10) 6 HOLD/AUTO LOCK selector (p. 31) 7 CONTROL dial (p. 34) 8 OPEN knob (p. 7) 9 ZERO SET MEMORY button (p. 25) 0 Viewfinder lens adjustment ring (p. 11) !¡ Hooks for shoulder strap (p. 76) !™ STEADY SHOT switch (p. 48) !£ Menu operation buttons (p. 20) !¢ Lithium battery cover (p.
!ª @™ @º @¡ @£ @¢ @∞ @§ !ª Accessory shoe @º Display window (p. 81) @¡ EJECT switch (p. 9) @™ Zoom button (p. 12) @£ REC LEVEL (recording level) button (p. 46) @¢ WHT BAL (white balance) button (p. 43) @∞ SHUTTER SPEED button (p. 40) @§ PROGRAM AE button (p.
Identifying the Parts @¶ @• @ª #º #¡ #£ #¢ #∞ #§ #¶ #™ #• #ª @¶ Carrying handle @• Microphone @ª Camera recording lamp #º Remote sensor (p. 79) #¡ Hooks for shoulder strap (p. 76) #™ Lens hood You can attatch a wide teleconversion lens (not supplied) by removing the lens hood. To remove the lens hood for attachment of the wide teleconversion lens, etc., loosen the lens hood fixing screw, and unscrew the lens hood counterclockwise. #£ REC START/STOP button for low-position recording (p.
$∞ $º $¡ $§ $™ $£ $¶ $• $ª %º $¢ %¡ %™ $º Camera recording lamp $¡ PHOTO button (p. 27) $™ lLANC control jack l stands for Local Application Control Bus System. The l control jack is used for controlling the tape transport of video equipment and peripherals connected to it. This jack has the same function as the jack indicated as CONTROL L or REMOTE. $£ 2 (headphones) jack (p. 16) $¢ PEAK lamp $∞ MIC (PLUG IN POWER) jack Connect an external microphone (not supplied).
Identifying the Parts Attaching the shoulder strap Attach the supplied shoulder strap to the hooks for the shoulder strap (!¡ and #¡ on page 72and 74). 1 2 3 Remote Commander 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 !º !¡ 1 Transmitter Point toward the remote sensor to control the camcorder after turning on the POWER switch on the camcorder. 2 PRINT button (p. 27) 3 PHOTO button (p. 27) 4 ZERO SET MEMORY button (p. 25) 5 DATA CODE button (p. 53) 6 DISPLAY button (p. 17) 7 VTR4/ID/HOLD selector (p.
!º Tape transport buttons (p. 16) 0REW (rewind), ·PLAY (playback), )FF (fast-forward), πSTOP, '/7 (frame-by-frame), PPAUSE, &SLOW (slow speed playback), x2 (double speed playback) !¡ SEARCH SELECT/≠/± buttons (p. 51) Preparing the Remote Commander To use the Remote Commander, you must insert two size AA (R6) batteries. Use the supplied size AA (R6) batteries. (1) Remove the battery cover from the Remote Commander. (2) Insert both of the size AA (R6) batteries with correct polarity.
Identifying the Parts About the ID of the Remote Commander You can avoid misoperation from other remote commanders by setting the VTR4/ID/HOLD selector to ID. Use the supplied Remote Commander when you set the selector to ID. When you use the Remote Commander for the first time, register the ID following the procedure below. Once you register the ID, you do not need to do again. (1) Slide OPEN and open the battery cover. (2) Press MENU to display the menu in the viewfinder. (3) Press > or .
Remote Control Direction Aim the Remote Commander to the remote sensor. The operative range of the Remote Commander is about 5 m indoors. Depending on the angle, Remote Commander may not activate the camcorder. Remote sensor Notes on the Remote Commander • Keep the remote sensor away from strong light sources such as direct sunlight or illumination. Otherwise, the remote control may not be effective. • Be sure that there is no obstacle between the remote sensor and the Remote Commander.
Identifying the Parts In the Viewfinder 1 !º 2 !¡ !™ 3 ND ON T 1000 F2 . 8 0 dB 4 FADER 5 6 7 CP 16BIT PHOTO C MEMORY W 8 !£ !¢ !∞ !§ 7.5 0:13:46 9 1 Focus indicator (p. 32) 2 ND filter indicator (p. 41) 3 White balance indicator (p. 44) 4 Zoom indicator (p. 12) 5 PROGRAM AE mode/fading indicators (p. 23, 34) 6 Warning indicator (p. 82) 7 Audio recording level indicator (p. 46) 8 Steady shot indicator (p. 48) 9 Time code (p. 11) !º Recording/battery indicator !¡ Custom presetting (p.
In the Display Window 2 3 MEMORY v §{ 4 5 6 7 ˇ 1 ı tAS AMPM 88.88dB 8 9 88.888 !º † 88 min ∑ 18. e !¡ !™ 1 Time code (p. 11) 2 MEMORY indicator (p. 25) Same as ZERO SET MEMORY indicator in the viewfinder. 3 Warning indicators (p. 82) 4 Remaining battery indicator (p. 63) 5 Lights up while cassette is inserted 6 Remaining tape indicator 7 Audio recording level indicator (p. 46) 8 PROGRAM AE mode indicator (p.
Warning Indicators If indicators flash in the viewfinder, or a caution lamp on the camcorder flashes, check the following: : You can hear the beep sound when the BEEP is set to ON. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 !º 9 C MEMORY 4.7 1995 1 Battery Remaining Slow flashing: The battery is weak. Fast flashing: The battery is dead. 2 The tape is near the end. 3 The tape has run out. 4 No tape has been inserted. 5 The tab on the tape is out (red). (p. 9) 6 Moisture condensation has occurred. (p.
Glossary Audio mode (p. 22, p. 61) There are two modes on DV format: • 12-bit mode which records two stereo sounds such as stereo 1 and stereo 2 • 16-bit mode which records a stereo sound This camcorder records sound in stereo 1 in 12-bit mode only, but can play back a tape recorded in both modes. Cassette memory (p.
Glossary Shutter speed (p. 40) The amount of time the shutter is open. The faster the shutter speed is the less blurring occurs even if shooting a moving subject. This camcorder adjusts shutter speed automatically depending on the speed of the subject, or it can be adjusted manually (selectable). Standby Mode (p. 10) The camcorder is ready to start recording, recording standby mode. To set standby mode, turn STANDBY up. Time code (p.
Additional Information 85
Additional Information 87
Index A,B AC power adaptor ...................... 6 Adjusting the sound ................ 46 Adjusting viewfinder .............. 11 A/V connecting cable .............. 15 Battery pack ................................. 6 Beep sound ................................. 10 Brightness ................................... 49 C Camera recording ..................... 10 Cassette memory ....................... 51 Charging battery ......................... 6 Cleaning video heads .............. 66 Clock set .............
