4-257-862-11(1) Interchangeable Lens Digital HD Video Camera Recorder “Handycam” Handbook Table of contents Sample images Menu Index © 2010 Sony Corporation NEX-VG10/VG10E GB
Notes on using the camcorder Click on a button at upper right on the cover and each page to jump to the corresponding page. This is convenient when searching for a function you want to use. Table of contents How to use this handbook Search for information by function. Sample images Search for information by sample images. Search for information in a listing of menu items. Menu Search for information by keyword. You can jump to the pages by clicking on the page numbers mentioned in the book.
Table of contents Table of contents Notes on using the camcorder Basic operations Sample images How to use this handbook ·····································2 Sample images······················································5 Using the operating buttons ··································8 Menu ···································································10 Menu Using functions with the buttons on the control panel Index DISP (Display Contents) ·····································14 FOCUS (
Creating a disc using a computer ························72 Creating a disc using a DVD writer/recorder ·······75 Troubleshooting···················································76 Warning messages··············································82 Sample images Troubleshooting Table of contents Connecting with other equipment Others Menu Index Using the camcorder abroad ·······························85 AVCHD format·····················································86 Memory card ··················
“This is the scene I want to capture in an image, but how can I do?” You may find the answer by going through the sample images listed here. Click the desired sample image. If you click on an image, the screen will jump to the page describing the function recommended for shooting that kind of image.
Table of contents Shooting movies as clear as still images Defocusing the background (25) Adjusting the color (21) 16 20 Focusing manually (16) In better brightness (20) Menu 21 Sample images 25 Shooting when holding the camcorder by hand 31 Preventing camera shake (32) Following a moving subject (31) Index 32 Shooting landscapes 20 41 The sky in vivid colors (20) Colored leaves (41) 41 53 Vivid green colors (41) Keeping your shot level (53) 6GB Continued r
28 In candle light (29) Holding the camera by hand (28) 36 44 Scenery with a wide range of brightness (44) 34 Light outdoors shot from a dark interior (44) Capturing the best moment (34) Index 44 Menu The same scene with different brightness (36) Sample images 29 Table of contents Shooting clear still images 7GB
Basic operations The control dial and v/V/b/B buttons allow you to use various functions of the camcorder. v/V/b/B MENU Table of contents Using the operating buttons Sample images FOCUS Menu Control dial When you turn the control dial or press the v/V/b/B buttons following the on-screen display, you can select items and settings. Your selection is determined when you press the control dial. Index The arrow means you can turn the control dial.
Table of contents The MENU and FOCUS buttons and the control dial have different roles, depending on the screen display. The assigned role (function) of each button is shown on the screen. To use the function shown at the upper right corner of the screen, press the MENU button. To use the function shown at the center, press the control dial. To use the function shown at the lower right corner of the screen, press the FOCUS button.
Using functions in the menu You can set up the basic settings for the camcorder as a whole, or execute functions such as recording, playback, or other operations. Table of contents Menu Sample images 1 Press the MENU button. v/V/b/B MENU Menu 2 Select the desired item by turning the control dial, or pressing the v/V/b/B buttons, and then press the control dial. 3 Following the instructions on the screen, select the desired item and press the control dial to make your choice.
Table of contents Camera Allows you to set focusing method, continuous shooting, self-timer, etc. AF/MF Select Selects auto focusing or manual focusing. Autofocus Area* Selects the area to be focused on. Selects the autofocus method. SteadyShot Sets camera shake compensation. Drive Mode* Selects the drive mode, such as continuous shooting, self-timer, or bracket shooting. Flash Mode* Selects the method used to fire the attached flash (sold separately).
Table of contents Playback Allows you to set playback functions. Delete Deletes images. Movie/Still Select Selects a movie or still image to play back. Image Index Selects the number of images to be displayed on the index screen. Protects images, or cancels the protection. Still Slide Show* Plays back still images automatically. Enlarge Still image* Display Contents During playback Sample images Protect Enlarges the still image. Switches the information to be displayed on the playback screen.
Memory Card Tool Formats the memory card. Recover Image DB Repairs the image database file of movies when inconsistencies are found. File Number* Selects the method used for assigning file numbers to images.
Using functions with the buttons on the control panel Table of contents DISP (Display Contents) Using the button: 1 Press the DISP button repeatedly to select the desired mode. Using the menu: 2 Select the desired mode by turning the control dial. Sample images 1 During shooting, MENU button t [Camera] t [Display Contents]. During playback, MENU button t [Playback] t [Display Contents]. During shooting Histogram Displays the luminance distribution graphically, in addition to recording condition.
The histogram displays the luminance distribution that shows how many pixels of a particular brightness exist in the picture. Brighter image will make the entire histogram shift to the right side, and darker image to the left side. Table of contents z What is histogram A Number of pixels B Brightness Sample images Dark Bright Shows recording information. Disp. Detail Info Shows detailed recording information. No Disp. Info. Does not show recording information. Index Disp.
Selects auto focusing or manual focusing. 1 FOCUS button t desired mode. Or, MENU button t [Camera] t [AF/MF Select] t desired mode. Focuses automatically. (DMF)* After focusing automatically, make fine focus adjustment manually (Direct Manual Focus). (Manualfocus) Adjusts the focus manually. Turn the focusing ring right or left to make the subject look clearer.
Lens mount The mark shows the location of the image sensor1). When you measure the exact distance between the camcorder and the subject, refer to the position of the line. The distance from the lens contact surface to the image sensor is about 18 mm (23/32 in.). 1) The image sensor is the part of the camcorder that acts as the film. The minimum shooting distance of the supplied E18 – 200 mm zoom lens is 0.3 m (11 7/8 in.) (Wide end) – 0.5 m (19 3/4 in.) (Telephoto end). Menu 18 mm (23/32 in.
Increase the gain when recording in dim places. Select the desired gain value when you do not want the gain to be increased with the [Auto] setting. Table of contents Gain 1 In movie recording mode, GAIN button t desired setting. Or, MENU button t [Brightness/Color] t [Gain] t desired setting. (Auto) Sets the gain automatically. 0dB/3dB/6dB/9dB/ You can set a larger number, and reduce image blur in dark 12dB/15dB/18dB/ locations or of moving subjects by increasing gain.
Sets the luminous sensitivity for recording still images. 1 In still image recording mode, GAIN button t desired setting. Or, MENU button t [Brightness/Color] t [ISO] t desired setting. (ISO AUTO) Sets the ISO sensitivity automatically. You can set a faster shutter speed, and reduce image blur in dark locations or of moving subjects by increasing ISO sensitivity (select a larger number).
You can adjust the exposure in 1/3 EV steps in a range of –2.0 EV to +2.0 EV. 1 (Exposure Comp.) button t desired value. Or, MENU button t [Brightness/Color] t [Exposure Comp.] t desired value. Sample images Notes • You cannot use [Exposure Comp.] when using [Manual Exposure]. • If you shoot a subject in extremely bright or dark conditions, or when you use a flash (sold separately), you may not be able to get a satisfactory effect. Table of contents Exposure Comp.
Adjusts the color tones according to the ambient light conditions. Use this feature when the color tone of the image did not come out as you expected, or when you want to change the color tone on purpose for photographic expression. To adjust the white balance to suit a specific light source, see the explanation on each mode. AWB (Auto WB) (Daylight) The camcorder automatically detects a light source and adjusts the color tones. Sample images 1 WB (White Balance) button t desired mode.
) 1 MENU button t [Brightness/Color] t [White Balance] t desired mode. 2 As necessary, [Option] t adjust the color tone. Table of contents Preset white balance ( Adjusting it toward + turns the image reddish and adjusting it toward – turns the image bluish. 1 MENU button t [Brightness/Color] t [White Balance] t [C.Temp./ Filter]. Sample images C.Temp./Filter 2 [Option] t desired value. The higher the number, the more reddish the image, and the lower the number, the more bluish the image.
Displays multiple images at the same time. In movie recording mode: 1 Press the Table of contents Image Index (Playback) button to switch to the playback mode. In still image recording mode: 1 Press the (Playback) button to switch to the playback mode. 2 Press the (Image Index) button. Sample images 6-image index appears. You can switch to 12-image index; MENU button t [Playback] t [Image Index]. 6-image index appears. You can switch to 12-image index; MENU button t [Playback] t [Image Index].
While exposure is adjusted by the camcorder automatically, you can set shooting functions such as Gain/ISO sensitivity, Creative Style, White Balance. Table of contents Program Auto 1 Press the control dial and select [Program Auto]. Or, MENU button t [Shoot Mode] t [Program Auto]. 2 Set the shooting functions to your desired settings. Sample images 3 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject.
Table of contents Aperture Priority Blurs or sharpens things in front of and beyond the subject. 1 Press the control dial and select [Aperture Priority]. Or, MENU button t [Shoot Mode] t [Aperture Priority]. Aperture (F-number) • Smaller F-value: The subject is in focus, but things in front of and beyond the subject is blurred. • Larger F-value: The subject and its foreground and background are all in focus. Sample images 2 Turn the control dial and select a desired value.
Allows you to manually adjust and fix the shutter speed. You can make a moving subject look still or emphasize the movement of a moving subject by adjusting the shutter speed. 2 Turn the control dial and select a desired value. Shutter speed Sample images 1 Press the control dial and select [Shutter Priority]. Or, MENU button t [Shoot Mode] t [Shutter Priority]. Table of contents Shutter Priority 3 Adjust the focus and shoot the subject.
You can shoot with the desired exposure setting by adjusting both the shutter speed and aperture. Table of contents Manual Exposure 1 Press the control dial and select [Manual Exposure]. Or, MENU button t [Shoot Mode] t [Manual Exposure]. Sample images 2 Press the V botton repeatedly to select shutter speed or aperture. Shutter speed and aperture adjustment screens appear alternately. Shutter speed Menu Aperture (F-value) 3 Turn the control dial to select the desired value.
Shoots night scenes with less noise and blur without using a tripod. This item is available in still image recording mode only. appears on the screen. 2 Shoot with the PHOTO button. Sample images 1 Press the control dial and select [Hand-held Twilight]. Or, MENU button t [Shoot Mode] t [Hand-held Twilight]. Table of contents Hand-held Twilight A burst of shots are taken, and image processing is applied to reduce subject blur, camera shake, and noise.
This is suitable for indoor shots without using a flash (sold separately), to reduce the subject blur. This item is available in still image recording mode only. Table of contents Anti Motion Blur 1 Press the control dial and select [Anti Motion Blur]. Or, MENU button t [Shoot Mode] t [Anti Motion Blur]. The camcorder combines 6 shots at high sensitivity into 1 still image, so camera shake is reduced while preventing noise. Sample images appears on the screen. 2 Shoot with the PHOTO button.
Selects the focusing area. Use this function when it is difficult to get the proper focus in auto focus mode. Table of contents Autofocus Area 1 MENU button t [Camera] t [Autofocus Area] t desired mode. The camcorder determines which of the 25 AF areas is used for focusing. When you press the PHOTO button halfway down in still image recording mode, a green frame is displayed around the area that is in focus. (Center) The camcorder uses the AF area located in the center area exclusively.
Selects the focus method when the PHOTO button is pressed. This item is available in still image recording mode only. Table of contents Autofocus Mode 1 MENU button t [Camera] t [Autofocus Mode] t desired mode. The camcorder focuses and the focus is locked when you press the PHOTO button halfway down. Use this when the subject is motionless. AF) (Continuous The camcorder continues to focus while the PHOTO button is pressed and held halfway down. Use this when the subject is in motion.
Sets whether or not you use the SteadyShot function of the lens. 1 MENU button t [Camera] t [SteadyShot] t desired setting. Uses SteadyShot with more powerful effect. Standard Uses SteadyShot. Off Does not use SteadyShot. This setting is recommended when you use a tripod.
You can set the drive mode, such as continuous, self-timer, or bracket shooting. This item is available in still image recording mode only. Table of contents Drive Mode 1 MENU button t [Camera] t [Drive Mode] t desired mode. Shoots 1 still image. Normal shooting mode. (Continuous Adv.) Shoots images continuously at high speed while you press and hold down the PHOTO button (page 34). Focus and brightness settings of the first shot are used for the following shots. (Self-timer) (Bracket: Cont.
Shoots images continuously while you press and hold down the PHOTO button. 1 MENU button t [Camera] t [Drive Mode] t [Continuous Adv.]. Table of contents Continuous Adv. Notes Sample images • You cannot use [Continuous Adv.] with the following functions. – [Hand-held Twilight] – [Anti Motion Blur] – [Auto HDR] • Focus and brightness settings of the first shot are used for the following shots.
This item is available in still image recording mode only. 1 MENU button t [Camera] t [Drive Mode] t [Self-timer]. Table of contents Self-timer 2 [Option] t desired mode. Sets the 10-second delay self-timer. When you press the PHOTO button, the audio signal sounds until the shutter operates. (Self-timer: 2 Sec) Sets the 2-second delay self-timer. This reduces the camera shake caused by pressing the PHOTO button.
Shoots 3 images while automatically shifting the exposure from base, to darker, then to lighter. Press and hold down the PHOTO button until the bracket recording is completed. You can select an image that suits your intention, after recording. This item is available in still image recording mode only. Table of contents Bracket: Cont. Sample images 1 MENU button t [Camera] t [Drive Mode] t [Bracket: Cont.]. 2 [Option] t desired mode.
In a dark location, using a flash (sold separately) allows you to shoot the subject brightly, and it also helps to prevent camera shake. When shooting into the sun, you can use a flash to shoot a bright image of the backlit subject. This item is available in still image recording mode only. Table of contents Flash Mode 1 Attach a flash. (Fill-flash) Sample images 2 MENU button t [Camera] t [Flash Mode] t desired mode. 3 Turn on the power of the flash when using the flash.
Sets the recording mode of movies. 1 MENU button t [Rec Mode/Image Size] t [Rec Mode] t desired mode. Mode Average bit-rate 1920 × 1080 24 Mbps (max.) FH 17M 1920 × 1080 17 Mbps HQ 9M 1440 × 1080 9 Mbps Sample images Image size FX 24M Table of contents Rec Mode Note Menu • You cannot create an AVCHD disc from a movie recorded with [FX 24M] mode. Save a movie recorded with [FX 24M] mode onto a Blu-ray Disc (page 73).
The image size determines the size of the image file that is recorded when you record a still image. The larger the image size, the more detail will be reproduced when the image is printed on large-format paper. The smaller the image size, the more images can be recorded. Image size when [Aspect Ratio] is 3:2 Usage guidelines 4592 × 3056 pixels For prints up to A3+ size (M: 7.4M) 3344 × 2224 pixels For prints up to A4 size (S: 3.
Sets the aspect ratio of still images. 1 MENU button t [Rec Mode/Image Size] t [Aspect Ratio] t desired mode. Standard aspect ratio. Suitable for prints. 16:9 For viewing on a high-definition TV.
Allows you to select the desired image processing. You can adjust exposure (shutter speed and aperture) as you like with [Creative Style]. Table of contents Creative Style 1 MENU button t [Brightness/Color] t [Creative Style] t desired mode. 2 When you want to adjust contrast, saturation, or sharpness, [Option] t desired setting. (Vivid) The saturation and contrast are heightened for shooting striking images of colorful scenes and subjects such as flowers, spring greenery, blue sky, or ocean views.
Selects the metering mode that sets which part of the subject to measure to determine the exposure. This item is available in still image recording mode only. Table of contents Metering Mode 1 MENU button t [Brightness/Color] t [Metering Mode] t desired mode. (Center) Measures the average brightness of the entire screen, while emphasizing the central area of the screen (Center-weighted metering). (Spot) Measures only the central area (Spot metering).
Adjusts the light amount of flash (sold separately) in 1/3 EV steps in a range of –2.0 EV to +2.0 EV. Flash compensation changes the amount of flash light only. Exposure compensation changes the amount of flash light along with the change of the shutter speed and aperture. Selecting higher values (+ side) makes the flash level higher and images brighter. Selecting lower values (– side) makes the flash level lower and images darker.
Table of contents DRO/Auto HDR Corrects the brightness or contrast. This item is available in still image recording mode only. 1 MENU button t [Brightness/Color] t [DRO/Auto HDR] t desired mode. Does not use [DRO/Auto HDR]. By dividing the image into small areas, the camcorder analyzes the contrast of light and shadow between the subject and the background, producing the image with the optimal brightness and gradation.
Widens the range (gradations) so that you can record from bright parts to dark parts in correct brightness (Auto High Dynamic Range). An image with proper exposure and an overlaid image are recorded. Table of contents Auto HDR 1 MENU button t [Brightness/Color] t [DRO/Auto HDR] t [Auto HDR]. 2 [Option] t desired value. Corrects the exposure difference automatically. 1.0 EV – 6.0 EV Sets the exposure difference, based on the contrast of the subject. Select the optimal level between 1.0 EV (weak) and 6.
Allows you to select unwanted images for deletion. 1 MENU button t [Playback] t [Delete] t desired mode. Deletes the selected movies. Press the control dial to confirm [Select] and [OK]. Multiple Still Images Deletes the selected still images. Press the control dial to confirm [Select] and [OK]. Sample images Multiple Movies Table of contents Delete Note • You can select up to 100 images.
Selects movies or still images to play back. 1 MENU button t [Playback] t [Movie/Still Select] t desired mode. Displays the movie. Still Displays the still image. Note • You cannot display movies and still images on the same index screen. Sample images Movie Table of contents Movie/Still Select z Switching between the movie and the still image Menu You can switch the image type on the image index easily. Select (movie) or (still image) on the left of the screen.
Selects the number of images to be displayed on the index. 1 MENU button t [Playback] t [Image Index] t desired mode. Displays 6 images. 12 Images Displays 12 images. Menu z Switching between the movie and the still image Sample images 6 Images Table of contents Image Index You can switch the image type on the image index easily. Select (movie) or (still image) on the left of the screen. You cannot display movie and still image on the same index screen.
Protects recorded images against accidental erasure. The mark is displayed for registered images. Table of contents Protect 1 MENU button t [Playback] t [Protect] t desired mode. Applies or cancels the protection of the selected movies. Press the control dial to confirm [Select] and [OK]. Cancel All Movies Cancels the protection of all movies. Multiple Still Images Applies or cancels the protection of the selected still images. Press the control dial to confirm [Select] and [OK].
Plays back still images automatically. 1 MENU button t [Playback] t [Still Slide Show] t desired mode t [OK]. Table of contents Still Slide Show Repeat Plays back images in a continuous loop. Off After all the images have been played back, the slide show ends. Interval 1 Sec Sample images On Sets the display interval of images. 3 Sec 10 Sec 30 Sec Menu 5 Sec Note • You cannot pause the slide show. To stop the slide show, press the control dial.
You can check the focus by enlarging a portion of the still image on the screen. 1 MENU button t [Playback] t [ Enlarge Still image]. Table of contents Enlarge Still image 2 Adjust the scaling by turning the control dial. 3 Select the portion you want to enlarge by pressing the v/V/b/B button. Note • You cannot enlarge the movies. Sample images 4 To cancel the operation, press [Exit]. z Scaling range The scaling range depends on the image size. Scaling range L Approx. ×1.1 – ×13 M Approx. ×1.
Sets whether or not you record the sound during movie recording. 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [Movie Audio Rec] t desired setting. On Records sound. Off Does not record sound. Sample images Note • When [Off] is selected, the camcorder does not record sound from either the built-in microphone or an external microphone (sold separately).
Sets whether the grid line is displayed or not. The grid line will help you to adjust the composition of images. Table of contents Grid Line 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [Grid Line] t desired setting. Displays the grid line. Off Does not display the grid line.
Sets whether or not the recording can be started when no lens is attached. 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [Shoot w/o Lens] t desired setting. Allows you to use non-Sony E-mount lenses and mount adaptors. Disable Recording starts only when a lens is attached.
A flash (sold separately) strobes 2 or more times before shooting to reduce the red-eye phenomenon. This item is available in still image recording mode only. Table of contents Red Eye Reduction 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [Red Eye Reduction] t desired setting. A flash always strobes to reduce the red-eye phenomenon. Off Does not use Red Eye Reduction.
You can check the recorded image right after the shooting. This item is available in still image recording mode only. Table of contents Auto Review 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [Auto Review] t desired setting. Displays for 2 seconds. Off Does not display.
Adjusts the sound volume of movies in 16 steps. You can check the sound that is actually recorded using headphones, etc. Table of contents Volume Settings 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [Volume Settings] t desired value. Or, press MENU while recording or playing back movies t desired value. Sample images Note • This adjustment does not change the volume of the actual recorded sound.
Sets whether or not the beep sounds. 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [Beep] t desired setting. The beep sounds when the subject comes into focus, during countdown of the self-timer, etc. Off Turns off the beep.
Selects the language to be used in the menu items, warnings and messages. 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [ Language] t desired language.
Sets the date and time again. 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [Date/Time Setup]. Table of contents Date/Time Setup 2 Set the date, time, etc. Selects [ON] or [OFF]. Date Format Selects the date and time display format. Sample images Daylight Svg. Note Menu • The camcorder does not have a feature for superimposing dates on still images. By using “PMB” in the CD-ROM (supplied), you can print or save still images with the date.
Sets the area where you are using the camcorder. This allows you to set the local area when you use the camcorder abroad. Table of contents Area Setting 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [Area Setting] t desired setting. 2 Press the b/B buttons to select an area.
You can make the camcorder switch to power save mode. Opening/closing the LCD panel, etc. returns the camcorder to the shooting mode. Table of contents Power Save 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [Power Save] t desired setting. Switches to power save mode after about 5 minutes. Off Does not switch to power save mode. Notes Sample images 5 Min • Turn off the camcorder when you do not use it for a long time.
Sets the brightness of the LCD monitor in 5 steps between –2 and +2. 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [LCD Brightness] t desired value. Table of contents LCD Brightness Note • You can adjust [LCD Brightness] only when the LCD monitor is turned on.
Sets the brightness of the viewfinder in 3 steps between –1 and +1. 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [Viewfinder Bright.] t desired value. Table of contents Viewfinder Bright. Note • You can adjust [Viewfinder Bright.] only when the viewfinder is turned on.
Allows you to clean the image sensor. 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [Cleaning Mode] t [OK]. Table of contents Cleaning Mode The message “After cleaning, turn camera off. Continue?” appears. 2 Confirm [OK]. The anti-dust is activated automatically. 4 Use a blower to clean the image sensor surface and the surrounding area. Sample images 3 Turn off the camcorder and detach the lens. 5 Attach the lens.
Displays the version of your camcorder and lens. Confirm the version when a firmware update is released. Table of contents Version 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [Version]. Note Sample images • An update can be performed only when the battery level is (3 remaining battery icons) or more. We recommend that you use a sufficient battery or the AC Adaptor.
Sets whether or not to display the movie for the demonstration, when there is only one movie on the memory card. Select [Off] when you do not want to see the demonstration. Table of contents Demo Mode 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [Demo Mode] t desired setting. If there is only one movie on the memory card, the demonstration begins automatically when the camcorder is not operated for about 1 minute. Off Does not show the demonstration.
Initializes the setting to the default setting. Even if you activate [Reset Default], the images are retained. Table of contents Reset Default 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [Reset Default] t [OK]. Notes Sample images • Be sure not to turn off the camcorder while resetting. • The settings of [Date/Time Setup] and [Area Setting] are not reset.
Formats the memory card. When you use a memory card with this camcorder for the first time, it is recommended to format the memory card using the camcorder for stable performance of the memory card before shooting. Note that formatting permanently erases all data on the memory card, and is unrecoverable. Save precious data on a computer, etc. Notes • Formatting permanently erases all data including even protected images. • During the format, the access lamp lights up.
When inconsistencies are found in the image database file of movies, caused by processing movies on computers, etc., movies will not be recorded or played back. If this happens, the camcorder repairs the file. Table of contents Recover Image DB 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [Recover Image DB] t [OK]. Note • Use a sufficiently charged battery. Low battery power during repairing can cause damage to data. Sample images The [Recover Image DB] screen is displayed, and the camcorder repairs the file.
Selects the method for assigning file numbers to still images. 1 MENU button t [Setup] t [File Number] t desired setting. Does not reset numbers of still image files, and assigns numbers to files in sequence until the number reaches “9999.” Reset Resets numbers of still image files in the following cases and assigns numbers to files from “0001.” When the recording folder contains a file, a number incremented one higher than the largest number is assigned. • When all the images in the folder are deleted.
Connecting with other equipment Selecting the method for creating your desired type of disc Table of contents Creating a disc using a computer Select the method that best suits your disc player. See “PMB Help” for details on creating a disc using “PMB.” Player Blu-ray Disc playback devices (Blu-ray Disc player, PlayStation®3, etc.
You can create a Blu-ray Disc from AVCHD format movies imported to a computer using the supplied software “PMB.” To creating a Blu-ray Disc, you must install [BD Add-on Software]. Click [BD Add-on Software] on the installation screen of “PMB,” and install this plug-in according to the on-screen instructions. 2 Start “PMB.” 3 Click [Calendar] or [Index] to the left of the screen, and select the date or folder of the high definition image quality (HD) movies you want to write.
You can play back an AVCHD disc using “Player for AVCHD” that is installed together with “PMB.” To start the software, click on [Start] t [All Programs] t [PMB] t [PMB Launcher] t [View] t [Player for AVCHD]. For detailed operations, see the Help for “Player for AVCHD.” Table of contents z Playing an AVCHD disc on a computer • Movies may not be played smoothly depending on the computer environment.
You can create an AVCHD disc using a DVD writer/recorder (excluding DVDirect Express), and play it on AVCHD format playback devices (Sony Blu-ray Disc player, PlayStation®3, etc.) A DVD recorded with high definition image quality (HD) is called an “AVCHD disc” in this manual. Always maintain your PlayStation®3 to use the latest version of the PlayStation®3 system software. The PlayStation®3 may not be available in some countries/regions.
Troubleshooting Table of contents Troubleshooting If you experience trouble with the camcorder, try the following solutions. 1 Check the items on pages 76 to 81. Sample images 2 Remove the battery pack, wait for about 1 minute, reattach the battery pack, then turn on the power. 3 Reset the settings (page 68). Menu 4 Consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. Battery pack and power The battery pack cannot be attached. • You cannot use NP-FV30/FV50.
Recording Table of contents • If the CHARGE lamp is flashing slowly (about 1.5-second intervals) The ambient temperature is outside the suitable range for charging the battery pack. Charge the battery pack under the suitable temperatures between 10 °C and 30 °C (50 °F and 86 °F). Nothing is displayed on the viewfinder or the LCD monitor when the power is turned on. Sample images • If you do not operate the camcorder for 5 minutes or more, the camcorder turns to power save mode.
Table of contents • You cannot use a flash with the following recording mode: – [Bracket: Cont.] – [Hand-held Twilight] – [Anti Motion Blur] – Movie recording Fuzzy white circular spots appear on images shot using a flash. • Particles (dust, pollen, etc.) in the air reflected the flash light and appeared on the image. This is not a malfunction. • If the subject is beyond the flash range (the distance that the flash can reach), the pictures will be dark because the flash light does not reach the subject.
The subjects passing by the frame very fast appear crooked. Table of contents • This is called the focal plane phenomenon. This is not a malfunction. Because of the way that the image device (CMOS sensor) reads out image signals, the subjects passing by the frame rapidly might appear crooked depending on the recording conditions. Sound is not recorded correctly. • You cannot switch between the built-in microphone and an external microphone (sold separately) while recording movies.
• You are playing back the movie directly from the memory card. Import the movie to your computer using “PMB” and play it back. • The image and sound may be interrupted, depending on the performance of the computer used. Table of contents The image and sound are interrupted by noise when viewing a movie on a computer. After making a USB connection, “PMB” does not start automatically. • Make the USB connection after the computer is turned on.
The setting is reset without the resetting operation. The camcorder does not work properly. “--E-” is indicated on the screen. Sample images • Turn off the camcorder. Remove the battery pack and attach it again. If the camcorder is hot, remove the battery pack, and allow it to cool down before trying this corrective procedure. • If the AC Adaptor is used, disconnect the power cord. Connect the power cord and turn on the camcorder again.
Table of contents Warning messages If the following messages appear, follow the instructions below. Incompatible battery. Use correct model. • An incompatible battery pack is being used. Set Area/Date/Time. Sample images • Set the date and time. If you have not used the camcorder for a long time, charge the internal rechargeable battery. Power insufficient • You tried to clean the image sensor (Cleaning Mode) when the battery level is insufficient. Charge the battery pack or use the AC Adaptor.
Cannot recognize lens. Attach it properly. Table of contents • The lens is not attached properly, or the lens is not attached. If the message appears when a lens is attached, reattach the lens. If the message appears frequently, check whether the contacts of the lens and camcorder are clean or not. • When attaching a non-Sony E-mount lens or mount adaptor, set [Shoot w/o Lens] to [Enable] (page 54). No images • There is no image on the memory card.
No images selected. Cannot create more folders. • The folder with a name beginning with “999” exists on the memory card. You cannot create any folders if this is the case. Table of contents • You attempted to delete without specifying images.
Others You can use the battery charger (supplied), and the AC Adaptor (supplied) in any country or region where the power supply is within AC 100 V to 240 V, 50 Hz/60 Hz. Table of contents Using the camcorder abroad Note • Do not use an electronic transformer (travel converter), as this may cause a malfunction. To view movies recorded on the camcorder on a TV, you must use a TV (or monitor) equipped with an HDMI connector and an HDMI cable (sold separately).
Sample images The AVCHD format is a high definition digital video camera format used to record a high definition (HD) signal of either the 1080i specification1) or the 720p specification2) 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.
You can use following memory cards with this camcorder: “Memory Stick PRO Duo” (Mark2) media, “Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo” media, SD memory card, SDHC memory card, and SDXC memory card of Class 4 or more. However, proper operation cannot be guaranteed for all memory cards. You cannot use a MultiMedia Card. “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media of up to 32 GB and SD card of up to 64 GB are confirmed to work with this camcorder.
The types of “Memory Stick” media that can be used with the camcorder are listed in the table below. However, proper operation cannot be guaranteed for all “Memory Stick” media functions. “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media1)2)3) Available with your camcorder “Memory Stick Duo” media Unavailable with your camcorder “Memory Stick” media and “Memory Stick PRO” media Unavailable with your camcorder Menu This is equipped with MagicGate function.
Your camcorder operates only with V series battery packs. You cannot use any other battery packs. You cannot use NP-FV30/FV50, even though they are V series. Table of contents Battery pack On charging the battery pack Effective use of the battery pack Menu • Battery performance decreases in low temperature surroundings. So in cold places, the operational time of the battery pack is shorter.
Sample images Menu Index • Only NP-FV series type battery packs (and no others) can be charged in the battery charger (supplied). Batteries other than the specified kind may leak, overheat, or explode if you attempt to charge them, posing a risk of injury from electrocution and burns. • Remove the charged battery pack from the battery charger. If you leave the charged battery pack in the charger, battery life may be shortened.
Using the Mount Adaptor LA-EA1 (sold separately), you can attach an A-mount lens to your camcorder. For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the Mount Adaptor. Table of contents Mount Adaptor Sample images Menu Notes Index • When an A-mount lens is attached, you cannot use the auto focus function. You may not be able to use certain A-mount lenses.
Cleaning the camcorder Table of contents Cleaning • Do not touch the inside of the camcorder, such as lens contacts. Blow away dust from inside the mount using a commercially available blower*. For details on cleaning the image sensor, see page 65. Index • Do not use a cleaning solution containing organic solvents, such as thinner, or benzine. • When cleaning the lens surface, remove dust using a commercially available blower.
Index A DRO/Auto HDR .................................................44 AF/MF Select ..................................................... 16 E Anti Motion Blur ............................................... 29 Aperture ............................................................. 25 Aperture Priority ................................................ 25 Aspect Ratio ....................................................... 40 Auto HDR ..........................................................
Menu .................................................................. 10 Volume Settings .................................................57 Camera ......................................................... 11 W Playback ....................................................... 12 Warning messages ..............................................82 Rec Mode/Image Size .................................. 11 White Balance ....................................................
Notes on the License Sample images Menu THIS PRODUCT IS LICENSED UNDER THE AVC PATENT PORTFOLIO LICENSE FOR THE PERSONAL AND NON-COMMERCIAL USE OF A CONSUMER TO (i) ENCODE VIDEO IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE AVC STANDARD (“AVC VIDEO”) AND/OR (ii) DECODE AVC VIDEO THAT WAS ENCODED BY A CONSUMER ENGAGED IN A PERSONAL AND NON-COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY AND/OR WAS OBTAINED FROM A VIDEO PROVIDER LICENSED TO PROVIDE AVC VIDEO. NO LICENSE IS GRANTED OR SHALL BE IMPLIED FOR ANY OTHER USE.