3-288-518-12(1) Enjoying Your Camcorder 8 Getting Started 14 Digital HD Video Camera Recorder Handycam Handbook HDR-TG1 © 2008 Sony Corporation Recording/Playback 22 Editing 45 Utilizing Media 57 Customizing Your Camcorder 60 Troubleshooting 79 Additional Information 89 Quick Reference 99
Read this before operating your camcorder Before operating the unit, please read this Handbook thoroughly, and retain it for future reference. Notes on use • • On “Handycam Handbook” (this book) The operations and handling of your camcorder are explained. Refer also to “Operating Guide” (the separate volume). • • Handling the images recorded on your camcorder on a computer Refer to “PMB Guide” stored on the supplied CD-ROM.
• If you close the LCD panel when your camcorder is connected to other devices with the USB cable, the recorded images may be lost. • When connecting your camcorder to another device with a cable, be sure to insert the connector plug in the correct way. Pushing the plug forcibly into the terminal will damage the terminal and may result in a malfunction of your camcorder. • Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the Handycam Station holding both the Handycam Station and the DC plug.
On playing back recorded images on other devices • Your camcorder is compatible with MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 High Profile for HD (high definition) image quality recording.
Table of Contents Read this before operating your camcorder ...................................2 Subject examples and solutions .....7 Enjoying Your Camcorder Operation flow ................................8 “ HOME” and “ OPTION” - Taking advantage of two types of menus .......................................11 Getting Started Step 1: Checking supplied items ...14 Step 2: Charging the battery pack ...................................................
MOVIE SETTINGS ....................... 62 (Items for recording movies) PHOTO SETTINGS ..................... 66 (Items for recording still images) VIEW IMAGES SET ..................... 67 (Items to customize the display) SOUND/DISP SET ....................... 68 (Items to adjust the sound and the screen) OUTPUT SETTINGS ................... 69 (Items for when connecting other devices) CLOCK/ LANG ......................... 70 (Items to set clock and language) GENERAL SET ............................
Subject examples and solutions Checking your golf swing B SMTH SLW REC ........................30 Capturing still images during movie recording B Dual Rec ....................................29 Flowers in closeup B PORTRAIT .................................76 B FOCUS .......................................74 B TELE MACRO.............................74 Focusing on the dog on the left side of the screen B FOCUS .......................................74 B SPOT FOCUS .............................
Enjoying Your Camcorder Operation flow B Get ready (p. 14). • On the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” you can use with your camcorder, see page 2. • Your camcorder turns on when you open the LCD panel (p. 18). B Record using your camcorder (p. 26). x Recording with HD (high definition) image quality • Your camcorder is compatible with AVCHD format “1920 × 1080/60i” (p. 92), which provides highly-detailed, beautiful images. x Using QUICK ON by opening/closing the LCD panel (p.
Enjoying Your Camcorder B Play back the images from the Memory Stick slot of AVCHD format compatible devices. You can play images saved on a “Memory Stick PRO Duo” inserted into the Memory Stick slot of AVCHD format compatible devices, such as a PLAYSTATION®3*1 or VAIO*2. *1 The PLAYSTATION®3 may not be available in some countries/ regions.
Expected recording time of movies The recording time depends on the capacity of “Memory Stick PRO Duo” and recording mode (p. 62).
“ HOME” and “ OPTION” - Taking advantage of two types of menus “ HOME MENU” - the starting point for operations with your camcorder Enjoying Your Camcorder (HELP) Displays a description of the item (p. 12) Category B Categories and items of the HOME MENU (CAMERA) category Item Item Page MOVIE* 27 PHOTO* 27 SMTH SLW REC 30 Page TV CONNECT Guide* (MANAGE MEDIA) category Item Page / (VIEW IMAGES) category Item VISUAL INDEX* SET* MEDIA INFO 57 58 Page MEDIA FORMAT* 58 31 REPAIR IMG.
Using the HOME MENU 1 Open the LCD panel to turn on 4 Touch the desired item. Example: [EDIT] your camcorder. 5 Follow the guide on the screen for further operation. To hide the HOME MENU screen 2 Touch Touch . (HOME). B When you want to know something about the function of each item on the HOME MENU - HELP 1 Touch (HOME). The HOME MENU appears. (HOME) 3 Touch the desired category. Example: (OTHERS) category 2 Touch (HELP). The bottom of the orange.
3 Touch the item you want to learn more about. To apply the option, touch [YES], otherwise, touch [NO]. Enjoying Your Camcorder When you touch an item, its explanation appears on the screen. To deactivate the HELP Touch (HELP) again in step 2. Using the OPTION MENU Just a touch on the screen during shooting or playback displays the functions available at that moment. You will find it easy to make various settings. See page 72 for further details.
Getting Started Step 1: Checking supplied items Make sure that you have the following items supplied with your camcorder. The number in the parentheses indicates the number of that item supplied. USB cable (long) (1)/ USB cable (short) (1) (p. 53, 55) “Memory Stick PRO Duo” 4 GB (1) (p. 21) AC Adaptor (1) (p. 15) Power cord (Mains lead) (1) (p. 15) Dedicated USB Terminal Adaptor (1)/ USB adaptor cap (1) (p.
Step 2: Charging the battery pack POWER button /CHG (charge) lamp Battery pack Getting Started QUICK ON lamp Power cord (Mains lead) DC IN jack DC plug AC Adaptor You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack NP-FH50 (p. 93) after attaching it to your camcorder. b Notes • You cannot attach any “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack other than NP-FH50 to your camcorder. 1 Connect the AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack on the Handycam Station. Be sure that the v mark on the DC plug is facing up.
b Notes • You cannot charge the battery pack while the QUICK ON lamp is flashing. When the QUICK ON lamp is flashing, press POWER to turn off your camcorder. Make sure the QUICK ON lamp is not flashing before charging the battery pack. • When inserting the camcorder into the Handycam Station, close the DC IN jack cover. • Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack holding both the Handycam Station and the DC plug.
Available running time for the battery pack Make the same connections as you do when charging the battery pack. The battery pack will not lose its charge in this case. Charging time: Approximate time (min.) required when you fully charge a completely exhausted battery pack. Recording/Playback time: Approximate time (min.) available when you use a fully charged battery pack. “HD” stands for high definition image quality, and “SD” stands for standard image quality.
On the charging/recording/playback time • Times measured when using the camcorder at 25 °C (77 °F) (10 °C to 30 °C (50 °F to 86 °F) is recommended). • The recording and playback time will be shorter when you use your camcorder in low temperatures. • The recording and playback time will be shorter depending on the conditions under which you use your camcorder. On the AC Adaptor • Use the nearby wall outlet (wall socket) when using the AC Adaptor.
Step 4: Setting the date and time To turn off the LCD backlight to make the battery last longer Lens cover Getting Started Press and hold DISP/BATT INFO for a few seconds until appears. This setting is practical when you use your camcorder in bright conditions or you want to save battery power. The recorded image will not be affected by the setting. To turn on the LCD backlight, press and hold DISP/ BATT INFO for a few seconds until disappears.
3 Touch (HOME) t (SETTINGS) t [CLOCK/ LANG] t [CLOCK SET]. The [CLOCK SET] screen appears. 9 Make sure that the clock is correctly set, then touch . The clock starts. You can set any year up to the year 2037. For midnight, set it to 12:00 AM. For midday, set it to 12:00 PM. z Tips 4 Select the desired geographical area with [NEXT]. / , then touch 5 Set [DST SET] or [SUMMERTIME], then touch [NEXT]. 6 Set [Y] (year) with / .
Step 5: Inserting a “Memory Stick PRO Duo” See page 2 on the “Memory Stick” you can use with your camcorder. 3 Touch [YES]. z Tips • See following pages on the recordable time of movies and recordable number of still images. – Movies (p. 10) – Still images (p. 66) Duo.” 1 Open the battery/Memory Stick Duo cover. 2 Insert the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” all the way in until it clicks. 3 Close the battery/Memory Stick Duo cover. Access lamp 2 Open the LCD panel and turn on the (Movie) lamp.
Recording/Playback Recording and playback with ease (Easy Handycam operation) Easy Handycam operation makes nearly all settings automatic so that you can perform recording or playback operation without detailed settings. It also makes the screen font size larger for easy viewing. Recording movies 1 Open the LCD panel to turn on the lamp. Recording still images 1 Open the LCD panel. (Movie) 2 Slide the (Movie)/ (Still) select switch F in the direction of the arrow until the (Still) lamp lights up.
b Notes • If you close the LCD panel during recording, the recording will be stopped. z Tips • During Easy Handycam operation, faces are detected with frames ([FACE DETECTION], p. 65). Playing back recorded movies/still images 1 Open the LCD panel to turn on your camcorder. 2 Touch (VIEW IMAGES) B. Appears with the image on each of the tab that was lastly played back/ recorded (B for the still image) HOME MENU Searches for images by date (p.
3 Start playback. Movies: Touch the or tab, and then touch the desired movie to play back. Toggles Play or Pause as you touch Return (to the VISUAL INDEX screen) Beginning of the movie/previous movie Next movie The recording date/time* Stop (go to the VISUAL INDEX screen) Reverse/ Forward * The setting of [DATA CODE] is fixed to [DATE/TIME] (p. 67). z Tips • When playback from the selected movie reaches the last movie, the screen returns to the VISUAL INDEX screen.
To cancel Easy Handycam operation Press EASY E again. from the LCD screen. disappears Menu settings during Easy Handycam operation Touch (HOME) A to display the menu items available for setup changes (p. 11, 60). b Notes Invalid functions during Easy Handycam operation Recording/Playback • Most of the menu items automatically return to the default settings. The settings of some menu items are fixed. For details, see page 79. • You cannot use the (OPTION) MENU.
Recording Lens cover Opens automatically when the power is switched on. START/STOP B (Movie) lamp (Still) lamp (HOME) A (Movie)/ (Still) select switch C PHOTO D b Notes • If the access lamp is lit or flashing after recording is finished, it means data is still being written onto the “Memory Stick PRO Duo.” Do not apply shock or vibration to your camcorder, and do not remove the battery or AC Adaptor. • When a movie file exceeds 2 GB, the next movie file is created automatically.
Recording movies Recording still images 1 Open the LCD panel to turn on the 1 Open the LCD panel. (Movie) lamp. 2 Slide the (Movie)/ (Still) select switch C in the direction of the arrow until the (Still) lamp lights up. 2 Press START/STOP B. the focus A (a beep sounds), then press it fully B (a shutter click sounds). [STBY] t [REC] To stop recording, press START/STOP B again. Recording/Playback 3 Press PHOTO D lightly to adjust Flashing bLights up appears beside .
Zooming You can magnify images up to 10 times the original size with the power zoom lever. Recording sound with more presence (5.1ch surround recording) Dolby Digital 5.1ch surround sound can be recorded with the Built-in microphone. You can enjoy realistic sound when playing the movie on devices that support 5.1ch surround sound. Built-in microphone Wider range of view: (Wide angle) Dolby Digital 5.1 Creator, 5.1ch surround sound 1 Glossary (p.
Starting shooting quickly (QUICK ON) QUICK ON lamp b Notes • Do not eject the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” before movie recording is finished and the still images are completely stored on the “Memory Stick PRO Duo.” • You cannot use the flash during Dual Rec. • may appear when the capacity of the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” is not enough or when you record still images continuously. You cannot record still images while is displayed.
Recording the fast action in slow-motion (SMTH SLW REC) Fast moving subjects and actions, which cannot be captured under the ordinary shooting conditions, can be shot in smooth moving slow-motion for about 3 seconds. This is useful to shoot fast actions such as a golf or tennis swing. 1 Touch (HOME) t t [SMTH SLW REC]. (CAMERA) 2 Press START/STOP. A 3-second movie (approx.) is recorded as a 12 second-slow-motion-movie. [Recording···] disappears, when recording is finished.
Recording/Playback Playback Lens cover Closes when the INDEX screen appears. (HOME) A Power zoom lever C Recording/Playback (VIEW IMAGES) B b Notes • If you close the LCD panel while the index screen is displayed or while playing back the images, the camcorder turns off. 1 Open the LCD panel to turn on your camcorder. 2 Touch (VIEW IMAGES) B. The VISUAL INDEX screen appears on the LCD screen (It may take some time to display the thumbnails).
:Goes to the Film Roll Index screen (p. 34). :Goes to the Face Index screen (p. 34). :Displays movies with HD (high definition) image quality.* :Displays still images. appears when you select the movie with SD (standard definition) image quality in / SET] (p. 57). 1 2 3 4 * [ z Tips • The number of the images on the VISUAL INDEX screen can be changed 6 y 12 by moving the power zoom lever C. To fix this number, touch (HOME) A t (SETTINGS) t [VIEW IMAGES SET] t [ DISPLAY] (p. 68). 3 Start playing back.
Viewing still images Touch the tab, then select the desired still image to play back. Return (to the VISUAL INDEX screen) Slide show (p. 36) Goes to the VISUAL INDEX screen (OPTION) Previous/Next Touch (OPTION) t tab t [VOLUME], then adjust the volume with / z Tips • You can switch the playback mode by touching [VISUAL INDEX]. (HOME) A t (VIEW IMAGES) t .
Searching for desired scene by pinpoint (Film Roll Index) Searching for desired scene by face (Face Index) Movies can be divided by a set time and the first scene of each division is displayed on the index screen. You can start playing back a movie from the selected thumbnail. The face images detected during movie recording are displayed on the index screen. You can play back the movie from the selected face image. 1 Turn on the camcorder, and touch 1 Turn on the camcorder, and touch (VIEW IMAGES).
z Tips z Tips • You can display the [Face Index] screen by touching (HOME) t (VIEW IMAGES) t [ INDEX]. • On the [Film Roll Index]/[Face Index] screen, you can use the Date Index function by following the steps 3 to 4. Searching for desired images by date (Date Index) You can search for desired movies by date efficiently. Using PB zoom You can magnify still images from about 1.1 to 5 times the original size. Magnification can be adjusted with the power zoom lever.
Playing back a series of still images (Slide show) Touch on the still image playback screen. The slide show begins from the selected still image. Touch to stop the slide show. To restart, touch again. b Notes • You cannot operate playback zoom during slide show. z Tips • You can also play back the slide show by touching (OPTION) t tab t [SLIDE SHOW] on the VISUAL INDEX screen. • You can set continuous slide show playback by touching (OPTION) t tab t [SLIDE SHOW SET].
Playing the image on a TV Connection methods and quality of the image viewed on the TV screen differ depending on what type of TV is connected, and the connectors used. Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the power source (p. 15). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the device to be connected. b Notes A/V Remote Connector Open the jack cover. Recording/Playback • When recording, set [X.V.COLOR] to [ON] to play back on an x.v.Color-compliant TV (p. 63).
Selecting the most advantageous connection - [TV CONNECT Guide] Your camcorder will advise you of the most advantageous way of connecting your TV. 1 Turn on your camcorder, and touch (HOME) t (OTHERS) t [TV CONNECT Guide]. If the item is not on the screen, touch / to change the page. 2 Touch the answer to the question displayed on the screen. Meanwhile, you can make the relevant connection between your camcorder and the TV.
Connecting to a high definition TV Images recorded with HD (high definition) image quality are played back with HD (high definition) image quality. Images recorded with SD (standard definition) image quality are played back with SD (standard definition) image quality. t (p. 40) Cable TV Recording/Playback t (p. 39) : Signal flow Type Camcorder Component A/V cable (supplied) (Green) Y HOME MENU setting (SETTINGS) t [OUTPUT SETTINGS] t [COMPONENT] t [1080i/480i] (p.
: Signal flow Type Camcorder Cable TV HOME MENU setting HDMI cable (optional) • Use an HDMI cable with the HDMI logo. • Use an HDMI mini Connector on one end (for the camcorder), and a plug suitable for connection to your TV on the other end. • Images are not output from the HDMI OUT jack of your camcorder, if copyright protection signals are recorded in the images. • Some TVs may not function correctly (e.g., no sound or image) with this connection.
: Signal flow Type Camcorder Cable TV Component A/V cable (supplied) (Green) Y HOME MENU setting (SETTINGS) t [OUTPUT SETTINGS] t [COMPONENT] t [480i] (p. 70) (Blue) PB/CB (Red) PR/CR (White) (Red) (SETTINGS) t [OUTPUT SETTINGS] t [TV TYPE] t [16:9]/ [4:3]* (p. 69) A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (optional) (SETTINGS) t [OUTPUT SETTINGS] t [TV TYPE] t [16:9]/ [4:3]* (p. 69) Recording/Playback • If you connect only component video, audio signals are not output.
When your TV is monaural (When your TV has only one audio input jack) Connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable to the video input jack and connect the white (left channel) or red (right channel) plug to the audio input jack of your TV or VCR. Using “BRAVIA” Sync You can do the playback operation with the remote commander of your TV by connecting your camcorder to a “BRAVIA” Sync compatible TV with the HDMI cable.
b Notes • To set your camcorder, touch (HOME) t (SETTINGS) t [GENERAL SET] t [CTRL FOR HDMI] t [ON] (the default setting). • Also set your TV. Refer to the instruction manual of the TV for details. z Tips • If you turn off the TV, your camcorder is turned off simultaneously.
Saving images Recorded images are stored on the “Memory Stick PRO Duo.” Due to the limited capacity of the “Memory Stick PRO Duo,” make sure that you save the image data to some type of external media such as a DVD-R or a computer. You can save the images recorded on the camcorder as described below. Saving images using a computer By using “Picture Motion Browser” on the supplied CD-ROM, you can save the images recorded on the “Memory Stick PRO Duo.
Editing (OTHERS) category This category enables you to edit the images on the “Memory Stick PRO Duo.” Also, you can enjoy your camcorder by connecting to other devices. TV CONNECT Guide Your camcorder helps you select the appropriate connection for your device (p. 38). (OTHERS) category b Notes • If you close the LCD panel while editing images or while the USB cable is connected with other devices, the camcorder turns off. Editing Item list DELETE You can delete images on the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” (p.
Deleting images You can delete images recorded on the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” using your camcorder. 4 Touch the movie to be deleted. b Notes • You cannot restore images once they are deleted. • Do not remove the battery pack or the AC Adaptor, or eject “Memory Stick PRO Duo” from your camcorder while deleting the images. It may damage the media. • When write-protection is set to the images in the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” by another device, you cannot delete the images.
Capturing a still image from a movie b Notes • If the deleted movie is included in the Playlist (p. 49), the movie added to the Playlist is deleted also from the Playlist. Deleting still images 1 Touch (HOME) t (OTHERS) t [PHOTO CAPTURE]. 1 Touch (HOME) t (OTHERS) t [DELETE]. 2 Touch [ You can save a selected frame from a recorded movie as a still image. Select the image quality of the movies to be captured before the operation (p. 57). The [PHOTO CAPTURE] screen appears.
Dividing a movie b Notes • The image size is fixed depending on the image quality of the movie: –[ 2.1M] with HD (high definition) image quality –[ 0.2M] in 16:9 (wide) with SD (standard definition) image quality – [VGA (0.3M)] in 4:3 with SD (standard definition) image quality • The “Memory Stick PRO Duo” should have enough free space. • The recording date and time of captured still images is the same as the recording date and time of the movies.
Creating the Playlist • Do not remove the battery pack or the AC Adaptor, or eject the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” from your camcorder while dividing the movie. It may damage the “Memory Stick PRO Duo.” • If you divide the original movie, the movie added to the Playlist will also be divided. • A slight difference may occur from the point where you touch and the actual dividing point, as your camcorder selects the dividing point based on about half-second increments.
To add all the movies recorded on the same day at one time 1 In step 2, touch [ ADD by date]/ [ ADD by date]. The recording dates of movies are displayed on the screen. Playing the Playlist Select the image quality of the movie you want to create, play, or edit a Playlist before the operation (p. 57). 1 Touch (HOME) t (VIEW IMAGES) t [PLAYLIST]. The Playlist screen appears. 2 Touch / to select the recording date of the desired movie. 3 Touch while the selected recording date is highlighted.
Press and hold the movie on the LCD screen to confirm the movie. Touch screen. 4 Touch to return to the previous t [YES] t . z Tips • The original scenes are not changed even if you erase the scenes from the Playlist. To change the order within the Playlist 1 Touch (HOME) t t [PLAYLIST EDIT]. 2 Touch [ MOVE]/[ (OTHERS) MOVE]. 3 Select the movie to be moved. Editing The selected movie is marked with . Press and hold the movie on the LCD screen to confirm the movie. Touch screen.
Dubbing to other devices Connecting with the A/V connecting cable You can dub images played back on your camcorder to other recording devices, such as VCRs or DVD/HDD recorders. Connect the device in either of the following ways. Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 15). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected.
b Notes • You cannot dub to recorders connected with an HDMI cable. • To hide the screen indicators (such as a counter, etc.) on the screen of the monitor device connected, touch (HOME) t (SETTINGS) t [OUTPUT SETTINGS] t [DISP OUTPUT] t [LCD PANEL] (the default setting) on the HOME MENU (p. 70). To record the date/time and camera settings data, display them on the screen (p. 67).
1 Set the camcorder onto the Handycam Station or attach the Dedicated USB Terminal Adaptor to the camcorder securely, then turn on your camcorder. 2 Connect the (USB) jack of the Handycam Station or the Dedicated USB Terminal Adaptor and a DVD writer, etc., with the supplied USB cable (p. 102). [USB SELECT] appears on the screen. 3 Touch [ USB CONNECT]. 4 Operate the device to be connected, and start recording. For details, refer to the instruction manuals supplied with the device to be connected.
Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer) You can print out still images using a PictBridge compliant printer, without connecting the camcorder to a computer. Connect your camcorder to the AC Adaptor to obtain power from the wall outlet (wall socket) (p. 15). Turn on the printer. Insert the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” containing the still images you want to print into your camcorder.
• Refer also to the instruction manual of the printer to be used. • Do not attempt the following operations when is on the screen. The operations may not be performed properly.
Utilizing Media (MANAGE MEDIA) category Setting the image quality This category enables you to use the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” for various purposes. You can select the image quality for recording/playback/editing on your camcorder. In the default setting, the image quality is set to HD (high definition). z Tips (MANAGE MEDIA) category Item list / SET You can select the image quality for movies (p. 57). • You can perform recording/playback/editing operations for the selected image quality.
Checking the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” information You can check the remaining recordable time for each [REC MODE] (p. 62), and the approximate free and used space of the “Memory Stick PRO Duo.” b Notes • During Easy Handycam operation, you cannot check the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” information. Cancel Easy Handycam operation (p. 22). 1 Turn the (Movie) lamp on. 2 Touch (HOME) t (MANAGE MEDIA) t [MEDIA INFO]. The remaining recordable time for each recording mode is displayed.
Repairing the image database file • Do not attempt the following operations when [Executing...] is on the screen: – Close the LCD panel – Operate the (Movie)/ (Still) select switch or buttons – Eject the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” • While [MEDIA FORMAT] is activated, do not disconnect the AC Adaptor. This function checks the management information and the consistency of movies/ still images in the “Memory Stick PRO Duo,” and repairs any inconsistencies found. 1 Touch (HOME) t (MANAGE MEDIA) t [REPAIR IMG.
Customizing Your Camcorder What you can do with the (SETTINGS) category of the HOME MENU You can change the recording functions and the operating settings for your convenience. Using the HOME MENU 3 Touch the desired setup item. If the item is not on the screen, touch / to change the page. 1 Open the LCD panel to turn on your camcorder, then touch (HOME). (HOME) 4 Touch the desired item. If the item is not on the screen, touch / to change the page. 5 Change the setting, then touch .
List of the (SETTINGS) category items MOVIE SETTINGS (p. 62) SOUND/DISP SET** (p. 68) Items Page VOLUME* 68 BEEP* 68 Items Page LCD BRIGHT 68 REC MODE 62 LCD BL LEVEL 69 AUDIO MODE 62 LCD COLOR 69 WIDE SELECT 62 DIGITAL ZOOM 63 STEADYSHOT 63 Items Page AUTO SLW SHUTTR 63 TV TYPE 69 X.V.COLOR 63 DISP OUTPUT 70 GUIDEFRAME 63 COMPONENT 70 ZEBRA 63 REMAINING SET 64 OUTPUT SETTINGS (p. 69) CLOCK/ LANG (p.
MOVIE SETTINGS (Items for recording movies) B SD SP ( ) Records in standard quality mode. (SD 6M (SP)). SD LP ( ) Increases the recording time (Long Play). (SD 3M (LP)) Touch 1, then 2. If the item is not on the screen, touch to change the page. / How to set (HOME MENU) t page 60 (OPTION MENU) t page 72 The default settings are marked with B.
b Notes • Set [TV TYPE] correctly according to the TV connected for playback (p. 69). DIGITAL ZOOM You can select the maximum zoom level in case you want to zoom to a level greater than 10 × during recording. Note that the image quality decreases when you use the digital zoom. The right side of the bar shows the digital zooming factor. The zooming zone appears when you select the zooming level. When recording, set to [ON] to capture wider range of colors.
100 b Notes The zebra pattern appears at a screen brightness level of about 100 IRE or higher. • The images recorded with HD (high definition) image quality can be played back only on AVCHD format compatible devices. • [SUB-T DATE] cannot be set for SD (standard definition) image quality. b Notes • Portions of the screen where brightness is about 100 IRE or above may appear overexposed. z Tips • IRE represents the unit of images brightness amplitude.
REDEYE REDUC INDEX SET You can set this function when you record still images using the built-in flash. When you set [REDEYE REDUC] to [ON], then set [FLASH MODE] to [AUTO] or [ON], appears. You can prevent redeye by activating the pre-flash before the flash flashes. b Notes • The redeye reduction may not produce the desired effect due to individual differences and other conditions. The default setting is [ON], allowing you to search for faces automatically and to display the [Face Index] screen (p. 34).
PHOTO SETTINGS (Items for recording still images) Capacity of the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” and the number of recordable images (Unit: number of images)* When the Touch 1, then 2. If the item is not on the screen, touch to change the page. 4.0M 2304 × 1728 / How to set (HOME MENU) t page 60 (OPTION MENU) t page 72 The default settings are marked with B. IMAGE SIZE B 4.0M ( (Still) lamp lights up: ) Records still images clearly (2,304 × 1,728).
VIEW IMAGES SET (Items to customize the display) GUIDEFRAME See page 63. ZEBRA See page 63. FLASH MODE See page 64. FLASH LEVEL Touch 1, then 2. If the item is not on the screen, touch to change the page. / How to set (HOME MENU) t page 60 (OPTION MENU) t page 72 See page 64. The default settings are marked with B. REDEYE REDUC DATA CODE See page 65. FACE DETECTION B OFF Data code is not displayed. DATE/TIME Displays the date and time. CAMERA DATA (below) Displays camera setting data.
SOUND/DISP SET (Items to adjust the sound and the screen) CAMERA DATA Movie Touch 1, then 2. If the item is not on the screen, touch to change the page. Still image / How to set (HOME MENU) t page 60 (OPTION MENU) t page 72 The default settings are marked with B. C SteadyShot off D Brightness E White balance F Gain G Shutter speed H Aperture value I Exposure z Tips • appears for an image recorded using a flash. • The data code is displayed on the TV screen if you connect your camcorder to a TV.
OUTPUT SETTINGS (Items for when connecting other devices) LCD BL LEVEL You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen’s backlight. B NORMAL Standard brightness. BRIGHT Brightens the LCD screen. b Notes • When you connect your camcorder to outside power sources, [BRIGHT] is automatically selected for the setting. • When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is slightly reduced during recording.
CLOCK/ LANG (Items to set clock and language) • When you connect your camcorder to a TV compatible with the ID-1/ID-2 system, set [TV TYPE] to [16:9]. The TV switches to full mode automatically. Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with your TV. DISP OUTPUT B LCD PANEL Shows displays such as the time code on the LCD screen. V-OUT/PANEL Shows displays such as the time code on the TV screen and the LCD screen.
GENERAL SET (Other setup items) A.SHUT OFF (Auto shut off) B 5 min Touch 1, then 2. If the item is not on the screen, touch to change the page. The camcorder is automatically turned off when you do not operate your camcorder for more than approximately 5 minutes. / How to set (HOME MENU) t page 60 (OPTION MENU) t page 72 NEVER The camcorder is not automatically turned off. b Notes • When you connect your camcorder to a wall outlet (wall socket), [A.SHUT OFF] is automatically set to [NEVER].
Activating functions using the The OPTION MENU appears just like the pop-up window that appears when you right-click the mouse on a computer. Various available functions are displayed. Using the OPTION MENU 1 While using your camcorder, touch (OPTION) on the screen. (OPTION) Tab 2 Touch the desired item. If you cannot find the desired item, touch another tab to change the page. If you cannot find the item anywhere, the function does not work under the current situation.
Recording items on the OPTION MENU Viewing items on the OPTION MENU Items Items * Page tab * Page tab – 74 DELETE a 46 SPOT FOCUS – 74 DELETE by date a 46 TELE MACRO – 74 DELETE ALL a 46 EXPOSURE – 75 SPOT METER – 75 tab SCENE SELECTION – 75 DIVIDE a 48 WHITE BAL. – 76 ERASE ALL a 50 COLOR SLOW SHTR – 77 MOVE a 51 FADER – 77 -- (The tab depends on the situation/No tab) D.
Functions set in the Items you can set only on the OPTION MENU will be described below. The default settings are marked with B. FOCUS OPTION MENU SPOT FOCUS You can select and adjust the focal point to aim it at a subject not located at the center of the screen. You can adjust the focus manually. You can select this function also when you want to focus on a certain subject intentionally. 1 Touch [MANUAL]. 9 appears.
EXPOSURE SCENE SELECTION You can fix the brightness of a picture manually. Adjust the brightness when the subject is too bright or too dark. You can record images effectively in various situations. B AUTO Select to automatically record images effectively without the [SCENE SELECTION] function. TWILIGHT* ( 1 Touch [MANUAL]. appears. 2 Adjust the exposure by touching . 3 Touch . ) Select to maintain the darkening atmosphere of the distant surroundings in twilight scenes.
LANDSCAPE*( ) Select to shoot distant subjects clearly. This setting also prevents your camcorder from focusing on glass or metal mesh in windows that comes in between the camcorder and the subject. • If you set [SCENE SELECTION], [WHITE BAL.] setting is canceled. WHITE BAL. (White balance) You can adjust the color balance to the recording environment. B AUTO PORTRAIT (Soft portrait) ( ) Select to bring out the subject such as people or flowers while creating a soft background.
b Notes • Set [WHITE BAL.] to [AUTO] or adjust the color in [ONE PUSH] under white or cool white fluorescent lamps. • When you select [ONE PUSH], keep framing white objects while is flashing quickly. • flashes slowly if [ONE PUSH] could not be set. • When [ONE PUSH] was selected, if keeps flashing after touching , set [WHITE BAL.] to [AUTO]. • If you set [WHITE BAL.], [SCENE SELECTION] is set to [AUTO].
PASTEL Images appear as a pale pastel drawing. BLT-IN ZOOM MIC (Builtin zoom microphone) When you set [BLT-IN ZOOM MIC] to [ON] ( ), you can record a movie with directional sound as you move the power zoom lever (The default setting is [OFF]). MICREF LEVEL (Microphone reference level) You can select the microphone level for recording sound. Select [LOW] when you want to record exciting and powerful sound in a concert hall, etc.
Troubleshooting Troubleshooting If you run into any problems using your camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. If the problem persists, disconnect the power source and contact your Sony dealer. • Overall operations/Easy Handycam operation................................................79 • Batteries/Power sources ........................80 • LCD screen............................................80 • “Memory Stick PRO Duo”....................81 • Recording ..........................
– [FLASH MODE] –[ INDEX SET] –[ IMAGE SIZE] – [FILE NO.] –[ DISPLAY] – [VOLUME] – [BEEP] – [TV TYPE] – [COMPONENT] – [CLOCK SET] – [AREA SET] – [DST SET]/[SUMMERTIME] –[ LANGUAGE SET] – [DEMO MODE] – [CTRL FOR HDMI] Your camcorder gets warm. • This is because the power has been turned on for a long time. This is not a malfunction. Batteries/Power sources The power abruptly turns off.
The buttons on the touch panel do not work correctly or do not work at all. • Adjust the touch panel ([CALIBRATION], p. 96). “Memory Stick PRO Duo” You cannot operate functions using the “Memory Stick PRO Duo.” • If you use a “Memory Stick PRO Duo” formatted on a computer, format it again on your camcorder (p. 58). You cannot delete images stored on or format the “Memory Stick PRO Duo.” • The maximum number of images that you can delete at one time is 100.
The actual recording time for movie is less than the expected approximate recording time of the “Memory Stick PRO Duo.” • Depending on the recording conditions, the time available for recording may be shorter, for example when recording a fast moving object, etc. (p. 10, 64). There is a time difference between the point where you press START/ STOP and the point that the recorded movie starts/stops.
Playing back images An image cannot be found for playback. • Select the image quality of a movie you want to play back by touching (HOME) t (MANAGE MEDIA) t [ / SET] (p. 57). Images cannot be played back. • Images cannot be played back if you have modified files or folders, or have edited the data on a computer. (The file name flashes in the case of still images.) This is not a malfunction (p. 93). • Images recorded on other devices may not be played back. This is not a malfunction (p. 93).
Viewing on the TV You cannot view the image or hear the sound on the TV. • When you are using the component A/V cable, set [COMPONENT] according to the requirements of the connected device (p. 70). • When you are using the component video plug, make sure the red and white plugs of the A/V connecting cable are connected (p. 39, 41). • Images are not output from the HDMI OUT jack, if copyright protection signals are recorded in the images.
Cannot use Because of following settings [WIDE SELECT] [OLD MOVIE] [SMTH SLW REC], [FOCUS], [SPOT FOCUS], [EXPOSURE], [SPOT METER], [COLOR SLOW SHTR], [D.EFFECT], [PICT.EFFECT], [WHITE BAL.], [DIGITAL ZOOM], [TWILIGHT]/ [TWILIGHT PORT.
Warning indicators and messages Self-diagnosis display/Warning indicators If indicators appear on the LCD screen, check the following. You can fix some symptoms 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:04:00 E (Battery level warning) Slow flashing • The battery pack is nearly used up.
(Warning indicator pertaining to incompatible “Memory Stick PRO Duo”)* • An incompatible “Memory Stick PRO Duo” is inserted (p. 92). Description of warning messages If messages appear on the screen, follow the instructions. x “Memory Stick PRO Duo” - (Warning indicator pertaining to the write-protect of the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”)* • Access to the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” was restricted on another device. (Warning indicator pertaining to the flash) Fast flashing* • There is something wrong with the flash.
The Image Database File is damaged. Do you want to create a new file? HD movie management information is damaged. Create new information? • The image management file is damaged. When you touch [YES], a new image management file is created. The old recorded images on the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” cannot be played back (Image files are not damaged). If you perform [REPAIR IMG.DB F.] after creating new information, playing back the old recorded images may become possible.
Additional Information Using your camcorder abroad Power supply On TV color systems 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 (wall socket) [b]. Your camcorder is an NTSC-system-based camcorder.
Setting to the local time You can easily set the clock to the local time by setting a time difference when using your camcorder abroad. Touch (HOME) t (SETTINGS) t [CLOCK/ LANG] t [AREA SET] and [DST SET] or [SUMMERTIME] (p. 70). World time difference Area setting Time-zone differences Area setting Lisbon, London +11:00 Solomon Is.
Files/folder structure on the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” The file/folder structure is shown below. You do not usually need to acknowledge the file/ folder structure, when recording/playing back images on the camcorder. To enjoy still images or movies by connecting to a computer, see “PMB Guide” on the supplied CD-ROM, then use the supplied application. A Image management files When you delete the files, you cannot record/play back the images correctly.
Maintenance and precautions About the AVCHD format What is the AVCHD format? The AVCHD format is a high definition digital video camera format used to record an HD (high definition) signal of either the 1080i specification*1 or the 720p specification*2, using efficient data compression coding technology. The MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 format is adopted to compress video data, and the Dolby Digital or Linear PCM system is used to compress audio data. The MPEG-4 AVC/H.
• • • • • • • • • • • x On the Memory Stick Duo adaptor • When inserting a “Memory Stick PRO Duo” into a Memory Stick Duo adaptor, make sure the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” is inserted facing in the correct direction, then insert it all the way in. Note that improper use may cause a malfunction. Also, if you force the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” into the Memory Stick Duo adaptor in the wrong direction, it may be damaged.
your camcorder, and displays the remaining battery time in minutes. The battery pack NP-FH50 supplied with HDR-TG1 is compatible with “ActiFORCE.” “ActiFORCE” is a new generation power system. Battery capacity, boost charge, and the speed and accuracy of battery time remaining calculations have been improved when compared with current “InfoLITHIUM” P-series batteries. To charge the battery pack • Be sure to charge the battery pack before you start using your camcorder.
About handling of your camcorder On use and care x When not using your camcorder for a long time • Periodically turn it on and let it run such as by playing back or recording images for about 3 minutes. • Use up the battery pack completely before storing it. Moisture condensation If your camcorder is brought directly from a cold place to a warm place, moisture may condense inside your camcorder. This may cause a malfunction to your camcorder.
x How to prevent moisture condensation When you bring your camcorder from a cold place into a warm place, put your camcorder in a plastic bag and seal it tightly. Remove the bag when the air temperature inside the plastic bag has reached the ambient temperature (after about 1 hour). 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.
On charging the pre-installed rechargeable battery Your camcorder has a pre-installed rechargeable battery to retain the date, time, and other settings even when your camcorder turned off. The pre-installed rechargeable battery is always charged while your camcorder is connected to the wall outlet (wall socket) via the AC Adaptor or while the battery pack is attached. The rechargeable battery will be fully discharged in about 3 months if you do not use your camcorder at all.
Notes on the License On GNU GPL/LGPL applied software ANY USE OF THIS PRODUCT OTHER THAN CONSUMER PERSONAL USE IN ANY MANNER THAT COMPLIES WITH THE MPEG-2 STANDARD FOR ENCODING VIDEO INFORMATION FOR PACKAGED MEDIA IS EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED WITHOUT A LICENSE UNDER APPLICABLE PATENTS IN THE MPEG-2 PATENT PORTFOLIO, WHICH LICENSE IS AVAILABLE FROM MPEG LA, L.L.C., 250 STEELE STREET, SUITE 300, DENVER, COLORADO 80206.
Quick Reference Identifying parts and controls The numbers in ( ) are reference pages. A QUICK ON lamp (29) B /CHG (charge) lamp (15) C LCD screen/touch panel (18) D DISP/BATT INFO button (17, 19) E EASY button (22) F (Movie)/ (Still) mode lamps (Movie)/ (Still) select switch (19) G (19) I Power zoom lever (28, 35) J RESET button Initializes all the settings, including the setting of the date and time.
A PHOTO button (27) A Flash (64) B Memory Stick Duo slot (21) B Lens (Carl Zeiss Lens) (4) C Access lamp (21) C Speaker Playback sounds come out from the speaker. For how to adjust the volume, see page 33.
A Hook for wrist strap Attach the strap and place your hand through the loop to prevent the camcorder from damage by being dropped. B Tripod receptacle Attach the tripod (optional) to the tripod receptacle using a tripod screw (optional: the length of the screw must be less than 5.5 mm (7/32 in.)). • Depending on when or where you use the camcorder, attach the Dedicated USB Terminal Adaptor to either the long or the short cable. • Attach the USB adaptor cap on the USB cable when carrying it in bags, etc.
Handycam Station A (DISC BURN) button (44) B Interface connector Connect to the interface connector on your camcorder when you attach your camcorder to the Handycam Station.
Indicators displayed during recording/playback Recording movies A HOME button (12) B Remaining battery (approx.) (17) C Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or [REC] (recording)) D Recording quality (HD/SD) (57) and recording mode (FH/HQ/SP/LP) (62) E Media F Counter (hour/minute/second) G Recording remaining time Recording still images H OPTION button (13) I FACE DETECTION (65) J VIEW IMAGES button (31) K Face Index set (65) L 5.
Indicators when you made changes Upper right Indicator Fader (77) Following indicators appear during recording/playback to indicate the settings of your camcorder.
Glossary x 5.1ch surround sound x MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 A system that plays back sound on 6 speakers, 3 at the front (left, right and center) and 2 at the rear (right and left) with an additional low-pass subwoofer counted as a 0.1 channel for frequencies of 120 Hz or lower. The latest image coding format standardized jointly by two international standardization organizations, the ISO-IEC and the ITU-T, in 2003. Compared with the conventional MPEG2 format, MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 has more than twice the efficiency.
Index Numeric 1080i/480i.............................70 16:9.......................................69 2ch STEREO ........................62 480i.......................................70 4:3.........................................69 Charging time ...................... 17 CLOCK SET........................ 19 CLOCK/LANG.................... 70 COLOR SLOW SHTR (Color Slow Shutter) ................. 77, 84 COMPONENT..................... 70 5.1ch SURROUND ..............62 Component A/V cable .................
SETTINGS category .....60 “Memory Stick” ............... 2, 92 PictBridge .............................55 SOUND/DISP SET .......68 Memory Stick Duo adaptor .......................................... 2, 93 PICT.EFFECT (Picture effect) ........................................77, 84 HQ ........................................62 “Memory Stick PRO Duo” .......................................... 2, 92 Playback .........................23, 31 I “Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo” ..................................
SEPIA...................................77 SETTINGS ...........................60 SETTINGS category ............60 Sleep mode ...........................29 Slide show ............................36 SLIDE SHOW SET..............36 SMTH SLW REC.................30 V VBR ............................. 10, 105 VIEW IMAGES SET........... 67 Viewing pictures on a TV.... 37 VISUAL INDEX ........... 23, 31 VOLUME ............................ 68 Volume adjustment .............. 33 SNOW ...............................
Additional information on this product and answers to frequently asked questions can be found at our Customer Support Website. http://www.sony.
